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BILTMORE NEWS UPDATES
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Welcome to the Belleview Biltmore Updates. I,
Diane Hein, send these out depending on events. This keeps Biltmore supporters, the news media, preservation
organizations and others updated on what is going in regards to preserving this glorious Victorian hotel. If you would like to be on our mailing
list click: Email Me Diane Hein,
President of Save the Biltmore Preservationists. Allow
24 to 48 hours to be put on the Belleview Biltmore Mailing List.
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Save the Biltmore
Update/Newsletter --
Sunday January 15, 2012
Hello Biltmore
Supporters, News Media and
Others,
Dear Biltmore Supporter, News
Media and Others:
This Biltmore Update was
originally sent out in plain
text to make sure that everyone
receives it rather than taking
the chance where some web
hosting services may reject my
Update with jpgs in them. If you
did NOT receive my last Biltmore
Update of January 6, PLEASE
PLEASE BE SURE to add email@savethebiltmore.com
to your contact list to receive
them in the future. You may find
my last Update at http://savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreUpdates.htm.
We have a brand NEW ONE- MINUTE
EMAIL campaign email to send out
below, so ANYONE in the area or
outside the area or around the
world should send it today!
After today I will send out my
Update in regular format with
jpgs and our logo.
No matter what you hear or saw
anywhere, the news or your
friends, the BELLEVIEW BILTMORE
CAN STILL BE SAVED AND
RENOVATED!
While a demolition permit
application has been taken out
by KAWA on January 6, 2012,
Belleair commissioners still
have the right to ENFORCE THEIR
OWN HISTORIC PRESERVATION
ORDINANCE which they passed in
2005. They STILL have the right
to REJECT the demolition permit.
We urge them to do so when the
vote comes before them perhaps
in April of this year. What was
the purpose anyway of passing
this law only to have them not
enforce it when the hotel
changes ownership!!! It's absurd
to think that when economic
times get a little tough, that
they will not enforce THEIR OWN
LAW THEY PASSED! They, we and
the commmunity worked tirelessly
back in 2005 and onward to
ensure the saving of the
Biltmore way beyond 2012! We
realize that Belleair is losing
tax dollars with the hotel being
closed, however, Belleair
officials have the RIGHT to
collect the fines that are being
levied DAILY on the current
hotel owner...why are they NOT
doing this until a buyer is
found?
Months ago KAWA took down the
BelleviewBiltmore.com web site's
information about the hotel, and
their web site now only displays
information on the golf course!
KAWA could have advertised that
the Biltmore was for sale on
their own Belleview Biltmore web
site, and yet they did not, thus
failing to take advantage of
selling the hotel AT ALL
OPPORTUNITIES.
IMPORTANT BELLEAR MEETING IN
BELLEAR THIS TUESDAY: Please
attend the Belleair town hall
meeting at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday
January 17 at 901 Ponce de Leon
Blvd, Belleair, Florida and
encourage Belleair town
officials to DENY the demolition
permit. Belleair officials will
be discussing the Bltmore and
its future at this meeting, so
it important that you voice your
opinion! There is a time limit
of three minutes to speak so
voice your opinion THIS WEEK at
this VERY important meeting!
THANK YOU! A big thank you to
the news media, Tampa Bay Times
(formerly the St. Petersburg
Times) Belleair Bee, WFTS ABC
Action TV news, CBS WTSP TV
news, Jack Harris at WFLA970
a.m. radio for helping us
publicize our campaign to Save
the Biltmore. We received many
new supporters as a result. We
hope the news media continues to
help us not only in articles,
radio and TV spots, but to show
via interviews that the Biltmore
is still viable and can be
renovated. Just because the roof
needs replacing does not mean
the entire structure can not be
saved! Roofs on buildings and
homes are replaced ALL the time
without ever demolishing them.
Rusting metal railings can be
replaced and chipped paint on
windows and doors can all be
sanded and repainted or
replaced. I feel the public
needs to know that these repairs
and renovations are highly
doable no matter what they see
on TV other print media!!
The current owner and past owner
did NOT take care of the hotel
but the renovations are still
very much possible. Plus
Belleair officials have NOT
enforced the code to keep the
hotel in good condition so this
is why many things need to be
repaired. The hotel is a FAR FAR
cry from "demolition by
neglect." When the public sees a
few chipped paint pieces, or
fraying tarps, they MUST be
aware that these are all repairs
are possible. We hope the media
lets the public know that these
repairs can be done by the next
hotel owner. THE BILTMORE IS
STILL ECONOMICALLY FEASIBLE NO
MATTER WHAT YOU HEAR OR READ!
Whether townhomes can even be
successfully sold by KAWA
Capital is very unpredictable
and could take a decade for them
to be sold. Meanwhile the hotel
could reopen and bring in the
needed tax dollars for Belleair.
Also a big thank you to Belleair
resident Karmen Hayes for
helping me do some of the live
interviews since I am not able
to do all of them. There are
many other supporters helping
the cause with distributing
flyers, the ONE-MINUTE EMAIL
CAMPAIGN, letters to the editor
and giving us ideas, and I thank
you all very much!
MATT CUMMINGS: This is the man
who KAWA hired to find investors
to buy the Biltmore this year.
Why they hired him I have NOT
one clue since I have spoken to
him on the phone a number of
times, and he has been extremely
negative about the Biltmore! How
he could expect to sell the
hotel with such negativity I
have no idea. He also could very
well stand to make more money in
the long run selling townhomes
than selling the Biltmore. The
Tampa Bay Times did an expose on
him and here are clips from
Lorri Helfand's article below.
Biltmore rep's historic
preservation ability questioned
By Lorri Helfand, Tampa Bay
Times Staff Writer
Sunday, November 13, 2011
BELLEAIR — Matthew Cummings said
he had hoped to be the "guy on
the white horse" who saved the
115-year-old Belleview Biltmore.
Whether he had the ability to
save the hotel in the first
place is debatable. Last week,
after he was questioned about
his background, Cummings
admitted he has no experience
with historic preservation
projects.
The Times also discovered that
some information Cummings
provided about his career and
his education is, at best,
misleading, and, at worst,
inaccurate. Some of the projects
he called "historic renovations"
merely involved construction on
old buildings or new additions.
Initially, Cummings became
defensive when asked what
historically significant
structures he had restored to
national preservation standards.
"What has that got to do with
anything?" said Cummings, 62,
who has a small ownership
interest in the Biltmore. (3% my
comments) "I'm not telling
people anything about historic
structures; I'm telling them
whether a hotel of that size is
feasible on that site."
Other items about Cummings'
claims and background raise
questions:
• He told residents about two
companies he was involved in,
but failed to mention that
neither was registered with the
state Division of Corporations.
• He gave misleading information
about renovation work he said he
managed at art museums at
Harvard University, and created
a false impression that he went
to graduate school there.
• He admitted to a long battle
with the Internal Revenue
Service, which led to liens
filed against him totaling more
than $76,000 for seven tax
years. He said he settled with
the IRS and just owes about
$20,800 now.
Over the past few decades,
Cummings has lived mostly in
Florida and Massachusetts. The
Dunedin resident said he started
his career digging ditches for
his grandfather's construction
company and worked in
construction management and
consulting jobs. He came to
Pinellas County in 1978 and
stayed almost a decade. He came
back to Florida for a while in
the 1990s and has lived off and
on in the state since then.
Newspapers have mentioned his
involvement in a few
high-profile projects. In the
early 1990s, he served as a
consultant for Charlie Daniels
Western World, a planned
amusement park in Pasco County
that never was developed. And in
the mid-1990s, he worked as a
project manager for a
construction company in charge
of renovating Lincoln Road, a
multi-block pedestrian mall in
Miami Beach. His current boss,
Raphael Ades, whose office is on
Lincoln Road, learned about
Cummings because of that
project.
Last month, Cummings hosted
three public presentations at
the Belleview Biltmore Golf
Club, where he hyped his
background and promoted
construction of Queen Anne-style
townhomes on the Biltmore
property.
He said he hoped to save a small
portion of the old hotel and
turn it into a museum. And he
passed out fliers for a
"company," he said he formed
called the Museum Team. He later
said the entity isn't registered
with the state because it's not
really a company, but an
offshoot of his consulting
business, Klecker Cummings LLC,
which isn't registered either.
Cummings said he began the
registration process Wednesday.
He also told residents he
managed renovations at two
Harvard museums, the Fogg Museum
of Art and the Peabody Museum of
Archaeology and Ethnology.
Similar claims were made in the
flier and on his business
website, where one caption read,
"Interior and exterior of the
Fogg Museum of Art at Harvard
University … construction
managed by Matt Cummings." He
told a reporter he did the
projects in the 1980s when he
was going to Harvard.
After Cummings was told museum
officials have no record of
renovations at that time, he
said the renovations were not
structural, but involved
"interior renovations." He later
said the work might have been
done in the 1970s.
On his business website,
Cummings mentions his
educational background, saying
he "is a graduate of the Real
Estate Development and Analysis
program at Harvard University's
Graduate School of Design." He
was never admitted to the
graduate school, but took a
six-week, noncredit class,
Fundamentals of Real Estate
Investment Analysis, through the
university's executive education
program.
Cummings also told residents he
did a renovation of Bay Pines VA
Hospital in Pinellas. His
website shows a picture with a
caption saying the hospital was
"fully renovated" by him. He
told a reporter he did that
project around 1978 for Sainer
Constructors. When the Times
told him that it found
information indicating that
contract involved only new
construction, he said, "Yeah,
but it had to look like the old
building."
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ONE-MINUTE EMAIL CAMPAIGN: We
encourage everyone both IN AND
OUT OF BELLEAIR to write the
current owners of the Biltmore
and urge them to continue to
seek investors or a hotelier who
is committed to saving the
Belleview Biltmore.
Write your own email or feel
free to use the sample copy
below, THREE SHORT PARAGRAPHS.
Just ONE minute of your time
could go a long way in helping
to save the White Queen of the
Gulf.
KAWA Capital: Daniel Ades,
Raphael Ades and Alexandre
Saverin, Simply copy and paste
the eaddresses below to your
email program and then either
write your own email or copy and
paste the enclosed email and
SEND IMMEDIATELY!
We have included Belleair
officials email addresses also
so they may receive a copy also:
Mayor Gary Katica, Commissioners
Stephen Fowler, Tom Shelly,
Kevin Piccarreto and Michael
Wilkinson and Town Manager,
Micah Maxwell
daniel@kawacapital.com,rapho_ades@yahoo.com,alex@kawacapital.com,
gkatica@townofbelleair.net,
sfowler@townofbelleair.net,
tshelly@townofbelleair.net,
kpiccarreto@townofbelleair.net,
mwilkinson@townofbelleair.net,
mimaxwel@tampabay.rr.com
KAWA Capital
Dear Mr. Ades and Mr. Ades,
Both the National Trust for
Historic Preservation and the
Florida Trust for Historic
Preservation are lending their
support for saving the Belleview
Biltmore Hotel. It would be a
permanent black mark on your
company's legacy if you were to
demolish one of the most
important historic icons in the
town of Belleair and Pinellas
County to make way for yet
another condominium development.
Certainly, a huge public outcry
will ensue.
I urge you to continue to try
and find investors who are
committed to restoring the hotel
to its original glory.
Restoration of the hotel is
unquestionably the highest and
best use of the property. In the
long run it will be in the best
interest of all. Pinellas County
does NOT need another unsold
townhouse development. It could
take a decade to sell the ones
we already have, meanwhile the
White Queen of the Gulf would be
gone forever, as would your
firm's reputation.
To have kept the hotel on the
market for only one year during
the toughest economic times in
recent history is no
justification for you to
demolish it. I encourage you to
use your firm's expertise to
find creative ways to work with
investors who are committed to
saving this priceless landmark.
Thank you for your
consideration.
Sincerely,
------
FACEBOOK: Join us at Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-the-Biltmore-Preservationists/180572012028756
SAVE THE BILTMORE FLYER: I want
to thank everyone who has
written me and said they are
putting up flyers around the
area, libraries, retail stores,
at work, restaurants etc. The
more you can do this, or hand to
your neighbors and friends, the
better. The meeting is this
Tuesday, January 17 at 7:30 so
time is running short but we
still have time to get more
people to make comments for the
commissioners and mayor this
Tuesday. No matter where you
live in the area, hang and
distribute, we have supporters
from all over the area!
http://savethebiltmore.com/SAVETHEBILTMOREFLYERJanuary2012.htm
FINAL THOUGHTS: Please attend
the Belleair town hall meeting
at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday January 17
and encourage Belleair town
officials to deny the demolition
permit and continue to save the
Belleview Biltmore. And email
KAWA CAPITAL and Belleair
officials in our one-minute
email campaign. We are counting
on you to help us. 901 Ponce de
Leon Blvd, Belleair, FL. Google
has a map for directions. Save
the White Queen of the Gulf...a
damsel in distress needing your
help!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore
Preservationists
http://www.savethebiltmore.com
Again, if you did NOT receive my
last Biltmore Update of January
6, PLEASE PLEASE BE SURE to add
email@savethebiltmore.com to
your contact list to receive
them in the future
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Biltmore Update, January 5, 2012
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Save the Biltmore
Update/Newsletter --
January 5, 2012
Hello Biltmore
Supporters, News Media and
Others,
URGENT, URGENT, URGENT!
BELLEAIR TOWN MEETING: Tuesday
January 17, 2011. 7:30 p.m. Belleair town officials will be
discussing the fate of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel. It is EXTREMELY
important that you contact all your friends and to attend this meeting to speak
out and show your support to SAVE THE BILTMORE!. KAWA will be submitting a
demolition permit shortly, possibly in January, and it is imperative that Belleair officials KNOW
at THIS meeting
that you continue to want the Biltmore saved.
They need to know you want them
to DENY the demolition permit!
The
Belleair town hall is at 901
Ponce de Leon Blvd, Belleair, FL
Unfortunately KAWA has
absolutely no interest in
restoring the hotel themselves
and is currently trying to sell
it since they bought it.
Currently KAWA has plans to
build 180 townhomes after
demolishing the Biltmore.
There is a long legal process
including rescinding the 2005
preservation ordinance that
would have to take place for
this to happen, BUT the
important fact is that Belleair
officials need to know citizens
STILL want the Biltmore saved.
If you
know of any investors,
developers, hoteliers or real
estate companies to contact to
purchase the hotel OR if you
know of investors who might be
willing to help other investors
in the renovation process, let
me know as soon as possible! We
have spent a lot of time writing
to possible investors, but we
need YOUR help also again at
this time to help save the
Biltmore since the current
owners unfortunately have NO
interest in renovating this
magnificent hotel!
Please, please contact any
realtor in your area or email
them from the web and let them
know the Biltmore is in urgent
need of a buyer. Mention
our web site
www.savethebiltmore.com so
they can contact us.
Our goal would be
to help put together a team of
investors to save the hotel in
case one buyer does not have
sufficient investors for its
renovation in these challenging
economic times.
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For those of you in the
news media, write an
article about the plight
of the Biltmore or talk
about it on radio or
TV and that it needs
investors, someone may
step forward to purchase
or invest in the hotel.
Mention our web site
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore
for contact info.
There are historic
hotels which have
escaped the wrecking
ball: the Del Coronado
in California, the Wes
Baden in Indiana, the
Royal Hawaiian in
Hawaii, Wentworth by the
Sea in New Hampshire,
the Biltmore Hotel in
Miami and the Don Cesar,
the Casa Monica, the
Vinoy and the Lakeside
Inn, the last five
hotels all saved in
Florida. If you know
more that were saved,
please write me at
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com. They
were saved through a
combination of
preservation
organizations or someone
bought them with
preservation in
mind. They are true
inspirational stories
for potential
preservation buyers!
ONE MINUTE EMAIL
CAMPAIGN:
For those of you who are
unable to attend this
VERY important meeting,
I urge you to write
Belleair officials an
email encouraging them
to deny the demolition
permit and to continue
to save the Biltmore as
a hotel. Feel free
to write your own
thoughts or you may copy
this email below and
send it to them.
It will only take one
minute!
WE NEED YOUR
SUPPORT!
Simply copy and paste
the eaddresses below to
your email program and
then either write your
own email or copy and
paste the enclosed email
and SEND IMMEDIATELY!
Mayor Gary Katica,
Commissioners Stephen
Fowler, Tom Shelly,
Kevin Piccarreto and
Michael Wilkinson and
Town Manager, Micah
Maxwell
gkatica@townofbelleair.net,sfowler@townofbelleair.net,
tshelly@townofbelleair.net,kpiccarreto@townofbelleair.net,
mwilkinson@townofbelleair.net,mimaxwel@tampabay.rr.com
Sample copy and paste
this email to send or
write your own:
Honorable Mayor Katica
and Belleair
Commissioners:
I urge you to continue
to save your historic
Victorian Belleview
Biltmore Hotel for my
generation and future
generations to enjoy.
The historic 2005
preservation ordinance
was passed by Belleair
officials to protect
this iconic structure
against demolition by
neglect and developers
who want to destroy it
for their own personal
monetary gain. I
hope you deny any
demolition permit that
is proposed to you this
year or any time in the
future. Citizens
placed their trust in
you to follow through
with and enforce your
own ordinance to save
The White Queen of the
Gulf now and forever.
Sincerely,
ENGLAND'S STAND ON
HISTORIC PRESERVATION:
Here is an email from
Biltmore supporter David
Radford from as they say
"across the pond" in
England where
PRESERVATION IS KING! "I
didn't realize that the
Belleview Biltmore was
the oldest used wooden
structure! If that was
in England, it would be
a listed building and no
one would be able to
touch it. Any building
of any historical value
over here gets a graded
listing as to how
important is. For
example if something is
a grade 2 listed
building - you may as
well forget it! We even
put preservation orders
on trees! The National
Trust owns half of
England!!! All the
major historical houses
are owned by the
National Trust, and they
own hundreds and
hundreds of square mile
of gardens and forest
and national
conservation land. If
National Trust owns a
piece of land, the
chances of you getting
building permission on
it are remote! Even
local councils have
areas they call "Green
Belt" and if you own
some green belt land
then you can't do
anything with it apart
from farm or keep it as
pasture land." David
Radford
As a side note, the
former King of England,
(the Duke of Windsor)
and England's Prime
Minister Lady Margaret
Thatcher have stayed at
the Biltmore! So let's
take a lesson from our
mother country who
believes in historic
preservation.
Join us at Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-the-Biltmore-Preservationists/180572012028756
SAVE THE BILTMORE
FLYER: Please
print out this flyer
from the link below and
give to ten of your
friends and family and
urge them to attend this
meeting. Hang it
up around your
community. Show
your support and attend
this meeting to Save the
Biltmore.
Urge Belleair
officials to DENY the
demolition permit! Numbers count!
This is the last chance
for you to Save the
Biltmore. BE
THERE!
SAVE
THE BILTMORE FLYER
FINAL THOUGHTS:
What
path lies ahead for
the "White Queen of
the Gulf?" She
still rises high in
Belleair. She was
critical to the
history and
development of
Pinellas
County. She helped
us in World War
II. She is beloved
by people all over
the country who have
written me. 400
citizens in Belleair
signed petitions to
stop condo
development
there. 500 citizens
stormed the Belleair
May 2005 meeting to
try to save it.
And yet she still
needs your support
and love.
We
hope that Belleair
officials value the
2005 historic
preservation
ordinance through
the easy times as
well as the tough
economic times like now.
It was designed to
protect the White
Queen of the Gulf
against demolition
by neglect and
against greedy
developers to make
money off this
historic beautiful
icon.
Please attend the
Belleair town hall
meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday January 17
and encourage
Belleair town
officials to deny
the demolition
permit.
Or email them. We are counting on
you to help us.
901 Ponce de Leon
Blvd, Belleair, FL.
Google has a map for
directions.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the
Biltmore
Preservationists
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
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Biltmore Update, Saturday July 9, 2011
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Save the Biltmore
Update/Newsletter --
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Hello Biltmore
Supporters, News Media and
Others,
RECENT BELLEVIEW BILTMORE NEWS
SINCE LAST UPDATE:
Much has happened since my last
Biltmore Update and my apologies
for the delay in this
newsletter. However, due to
some severe medical challenges
of my own, but worse, the recent
long illness and death of my
wonderful, loving husband, Ed
Jameson, (our nonprofit vice
president,) it has been an
extremely challenging year for
me to keep up with my Biltmore
newsletters and our web site.
However I have been active with
the Biltmore in other ways, as
you will read below. The
Biltmore is unfortunately in
jeopardy so be sure to read this
entire Update!
THANK YOU CLEARWATER GAZETTE!
I would like to offer a very big
and warm THANK YOU to the
Clearwater Gazette newspaper
editor Sandy Pollick, for
publishing a wonderful memorial
tribute written by Renee Burrell
about my late husband Ed Jameson
(we were together for 34
years). My husband was vice
president of our nonprofit
organization Save the Biltmore
Preservationists since 2005 and
dedicated years to the saving of
the hotel.
http://clearwatergazette.com/20110120/A4_gif.html
This link to their article may
only work if "cut and paste it"
so I will give the text here:
Biltmore
Preservationist
Ed Jameson
Remembered
January
20, 2011
By Renee
Burrell
CLEARWATER
- Edward
Lee
Jameson
(age
65), a
Clearwater
resident,
who
tirelessly promoted
preservation
of the
Belleview
Biltmore
Hotel in
Belleair,
passed
away
December
8, 2010.
Jameson
suffered
from
complications
following
surgery
to
remove a
benign
brain
tumor
for
several
months
before
his
death.
The
death
was
announced
by
Jameson's
wife and
partner
of 34
years,
Diane
Hein,
with
whom he
co-founded
Save the
Biltmore
Preservationists.
Says
Hein,
"Ed was
a
fascinating,
articulate,
analytical
and
loving
man who
contributed
so much
to
historic
preservation
in
Pinellas
County."
Jameson
was
known
locally
as the
Vice
President
of Save
the
Biltmore
Preservationists
and was
a
familiar
sight at
Belleair
town
meetings
where
for six
years he
followed
the
actions
taken
concerning
the
hotel
and
spoke on
behalf
of so
many
other
members
of the
community
concerned
that the
property
would be
developed
into a
colony
of even
more
condominiums.
In
particular,
Jameson
and his
group
advocated
to
ensure
that all
four
wings of
the
landmark
hotel
would be
preserved
for
future
generations.
Jameson's
efforts
were
instrumental
in
helping
to pass
an
amendment
to the
town of
Belleair's
preservation
ordinance
in which
the
interior
of the
hotel
would be
preserved
historically.
Hein
said
Jameson
strongly
felt
that the
Biltmore
was the
most
important
historical
structure
within
Pinellas
County
and
indeed
contributed
much to
the
county's
very
development.
"He
always
had
faith
that the
people
of
Pinellas
County,
Belleair
and
their
elected
officials
would do
their
best to
preserve
the
hotel."
A
military
veteran,
Jameson
served
proudly
in the
United
States
Air
Force in
Great
Britain
as a
weather
researcher.
Once
discharged,
he
attained
a
Bachelor
of
Science
in
Business
from
Eckerd
College
and went
on to
form a
career
in
information
technology,
retiring
as a
systems
analyst
from
Pinellas
County
Government.
A
memorial
service
was held
at Bay
Pines
Veterans
cemetery
for
Jameson
who is
survived
by wife
Diane,
brother
George
(Faith)
and two
nephews.
(end of
article)
Side note:
Ed
colorfully
once told
this about
the Biltmore
to Harlan
Weikle
reporter for
the Belleair
Bee: "The
attic area
was akin to
the bowels
of a ship at
sea, the
crew's
living
quarters,
only turned
upside
down."
Ed used to
walk the
long two
miles of
corridor at
the Biltmore
during his
lunch hours
when he
worked
downtown
before he
retired. He
loved the
hotel beyond
words. We
strongly
feel that
one reason
that the
Biltmore is
still
standing is
because of
Ed, who
introduced
the hotel to
me his wife,
Diane Hein,
President of
Save the
Biltmore
Preservationists
who put up
this web
site in
2004. With
the help of
much
community
support who
contacted
this web
site when
the St.
Petersburg
Times
mentioned
it, the
Biltmore was
saved from
demolition
back in
2007.
There were
HUNDREDS of
people
involved in
the saving
of the
Biltmore at
that time,
including
the support
of Belleair
officials,
and we are
truly
grateful for
their help.
I personally
feel along
with other
medical
professionals
I spoke with
after Ed
died, that a
series of
horrible
errors were
made that
were
responsible
for the
death of my
husband in a
medical
facility.
He also
received
deplorable
care at
top-rated
hospitals in
our Tampa
Bay area
with delays
and neglect
over a
period of
months
including
bed sores!
If you ever
feel that a
medication
is given in
error after
you have
researched
it in the
Physician's
Desk
Reference or
on the
Internet; if
your loved
one is in
the hospital
or other
facility or
at home,
immediately
contact the
pharmacy
department
to see if
they concur
so they can
contact the
physician
who ordered
it to
hopefully
rescind it
if they also
feel it was
given in
error. One
final note
to help your
loved ones
in time of
illness,
take ANY
infection
seriously
and of the
utmost
urgency
whether it
be a large
infection
like
pneumonia or
a small one
like a tooth
abscess or
bladder
infection,
whether at
home, in a
hospital or
a nursing
home. It
is extremely
important
the
physician
determine
IMMEDIATELY
what kind of
infection
has occurred
so
antibiotics
may be
prescribed
right away.
Infections,
small or
large, can
easily turn
to sepsis (a
VERY serious
blood
infection)
which can
quickly lead
to death if
antibiotics
are not
given as
soon as
possible.
For every
one-hour
delay in
antibiotics
with sepsis
the risk of
death
increases by
7%! I hope
that this
information
about my
husband's senseless
and tragic
death will
save a loved
one of yours
from a
similar
horrible
fate.
EVENTS ABOUT THE BELLEVIEW
BILTMORE IN THE PAST YEAR
There have been many newspaper
articles regarding the status of
the Biltmore during the past
year, so for local readers, you
will already know current
events. For those outside the
area, the former owner Latitude
Manage Real Estate (formerly
Legg Mason) who had $100 million
renovation plans back in 2007,
defaulted on their mortgage due
to the economic recession. In
December 2010, they sold the
hotel to Daniel and Raphael Ades
of
KAWA Capital, Miami, Florida:
the three properties, the
Biltmore, the golf course and
the Cabana Club sold for only $8
million. Legg Mason bought it
for $30.3 million in 2007.
There was an effort on the part
of an assisted living group to
buy the Biltmore for their own
purpose, after KAWA bought the
hotel and properties, but
fortunately Belleair town
officials turned this down!
Unfortunately KAWA has
absolutely no interest in
restoring the hotel themselves
and is currently trying to sell
it since they bought it. The
price listed is $14 million to
include the Biltmore, the golf
course and the Cabana Club on
Sand Key. $8 million for the
hotel, $4 million for the golf
course and $4 million for the
Cabana Club. The current owner
says that the "seller may be
available for a portion of the
purchase price if significant
collateral and guarantees are
posted."
The Biltmore roof which was
damaged during the hurricane
season of 2004 has not been
repaired since Latitude
Management owned it. Daily
fines levied by the town of
Belleair are being accrued by
KAWA which amount to over
$147,000! KAWA has NOT paid the
fees OR restored the damaged
roof, I am sorry to report!
So currently the Biltmore is for
sale again and therefore if you
know of any investors,
developers, hoteliers or real
estate companies to contact to
purchase the hotel OR if you
know of investors who might be
willing to help other investors
in the renovation process, let
me know as soon as possible! We
have spent a lot of time writing
to possible investors, but we
need YOUR help also again at
this time to help save the
Biltmore since the current
owners unfortunately have NO
interest in renovating this
magnificent hotel!
FEASIBILITY STUDY: Recently the
Town of Belleair, with the
cooperation of the current
owner, represented by Matt
Cummings of Dunedin, decided to
commission a feasibility study
by StoneCreek Partners. The
study should be completed by the
end of August or September.
This report is designed to help
determine the viability of the
hotel whether parts or all of it
should remain a hotel or whether
it should be demolished and
converted to condos, shopping
centers etc., the latter an
absolutely outrageous solution
for this priceless historic
building!
We hope that this feasibility
study will demonstrate that the
Biltmore can be saved as a
destination historic resort and
remain the famous icon of
Belleair and Pinellas County.
Considering that some investors
I know personally who I have
toured the hotel feel it can be
saved is encouraging news it can
be saved.
INVESTORS WANTED: The Biltmore
needs investors to help with
renovation costs which have been
estimated to be $60 million to
$80 million minus around 20%
historic tax credits. The
former architect who Latitude
Management hired, Richard
Heisenbottle, is willing to work
with any buyer explaining these
tax credits. Again, just
contact me on this if you are an
investor who would like to buy
the Biltmore or invest in the
renovation. Our goal would be
to help put together a team of
investors to save the hotel in
case one buyer does not have
sufficient investors for its
renovation in these challenging
economic times.
DEMOLITION BY NEGLECT: The
Biltmore has been stripped of
all its furniture since 2009
when it was sold off, and
recently all the carpet has been
stripped to avoid mold and
fungus buildup. KAWA refuses to
repair the leaky roof or
renovate it as I wrote above,
the hotel is closed and empty
and there is minimal security
for this beautiful hotel. We
are very concerned that if
repairs are not made soon,
"demolition by neglect" will
take place. Belleair
passed a historic preservation
ordinance in 2005, with the help
of preservation attorney Nancy
Stroud, and this is supposed to
stop this process; and yet the
damaged roof continues to be
unrepaired! Obviously fining
KAWA is NOT working!! Therefore
we urgently need YOU, our strong
and staunch Biltmore supporters
to contact developers or real
estate investors in your area or
outside the area, contact the
news media wherever you live to
help with the purchase and thus
save the Biltmore...once again!
"Sec. 5b. Owner required
to make repairs;
assessment of costs.
"Upon a finding by the
Mayor that an historic
landmark or a
contributing building or
structure within a
historic district or
within a proposed
historic district is
threatened by demolition
by neglect, the Mayor
may do either of the
following:
"(1) Require the owner
to repair all conditions
contributing to
demolition by neglect;
or
"(2) If the owner does
not make repairs within
a reasonable period of
time, the Mayor or his
agents may enter the
property and make
repairs which are
necessary to prevent
demolition by neglect.
The costs of these
repairs shall be charged
to the owner, and may be
levied by the District
of Columbia as a special
assessment against the
property. The Mayor or
his agents may enter the
property to enforce the
provisions of this
section upon obtaining
an order from the
Superior Court of the
District of Columbia.".
BILTMORE FUTURE? What
lies ahead for the future White
Queen of the Gulf depends on
many factors: the feasibility
study, Belleair town officials,
the current owner, us, investors
and YOU our dedicated
supporters. My loving husband
Ed Jameson and former nonprofit
vice president died of delays
and neglect after months of
being in the hands of trained
professionals. Will the
Biltmore suffer the same fate?
Will the hotel die a slow death
with demolition by neglect or
months of delays in the roof
repair by the KAWA investors?
Belleair Commissioner Steve
Fowler was quoted in the St.
Petersburg Times in regards to
the recent hotel owners: "You
didn't inherit that mess, you
purchased it with your eyes wide
open."
Here are the email addresses
of KAWA's owners/directors,
please write them and ask or
better yet DEMAND that they
repair the Biltmore roof!
In October 2010, Ades said
his group was primarily
interested in the golf
course and had plans to
upgrade the 136-acre golf
course. These investors
bought the property at
a reduced price and their
only interest is to
"flip" the hotel for a
larger profit or worse yet
continue with "demolition by
neglect" to make even more
money off the land should it
be demolished. They claim
that they do not know if the
Biltmore is worth saving
because of the damaged roof
and yet an assisted living
facility was quite willing
to buy the Biltmore, damaged
roof and all! Can you see
their twisted logic!? This
is an absolute disgrace what
these "flippers" are doing
to the Biltmore.
(Daniel Ades, Raphael Ades
and Alexandre Saverin)
And of course will
Belleair town officials hold
on long enough for an
investor to be found even
though they are losing tax
dollars now that their
precious hotel is closed?
We hope yes!
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We desperately
need YOUR help to find
an investor to buy the
hotel and more investors
to renovate it. Let us
know immediately if you
are interested in either
purchasing the hotel or
helping a buyer invest
in its renovations.
Spread the word to
everyone you know that
the hotel needs
investors to either buy
it or invest in the
renovations.
For those of you in the
news media, write an
article about the plight
of the Biltmore or talk
about it on radio or
TV and that it needs
investors, someone may
step forward to purchase
or invest in the hotel.
Mention our web site
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore
for contact info.
Someone out
there will fall in the
love with the hotel as
we all have and want to
save it.
FINAL
THOUGHTS
Below are some
exerts of my late
husband’s Ed
Jameson’s articulate
and passionate
speeches at Belleair
town hall meetings,
from 2005 to 2009
before he became
ill. He wanted me
to continue on with
my efforts to save
the Biltmore should
something happen to
him, so I will do my
best to carry on
without him.
Ed Jameson: "We
do NOT want to
see taxidermy
performed on the
Biltmore!
"We do not want
anyone to gut
the north and
south wings of
the Biltmore
under the guise
of remodeling.
This would
destroy the
historical
significance of
the north and
south wings for
future
generations. We
want to see all
the guest rooms
retain their
historical
character. No
one would ever
consider gutting
the wings of the
White House and
call that
preservation!
The Biltmore is
a true
historical
treasure for the
entire bay area
and should be
maintained as a
true hotel. The
Biltmore is not
like a trophy
that someone can
gut and mount on
a wall!
"We all know Disney
World as a fantasy
experience. We all
know the difference
between walking in
Disney World and
walking the two
miles of historic
corridors at the
Victorian Belleview
Biltmore. Fiction is
written into a
Disney World walk.
History is written
into a Biltmore
walk.
"Once historical
objects are
radically changed
they lose their
historical
significance.
Remember no
generation truly
owns historical
objects. All of us
are only caretakers
for future
generations to enjoy
history.
"The average citizen
would never have
been allowed to keep
tarps on their roof
for almost a year.
Recently I saw some
Biltmore roof tarps
coming down. I
however did not see
roofing repair crews
working on the roof.
The town has the
authority to enforce
codes. Potent
enforcement tools
such as fines and
liens already exist
to insure everyone
abides by town
codes.
"It is obvious that
demolition by
neglect has been
going on for years
with the Biltmore
Hotel. Articles
concerning the fire
control system and
the roof illustrate
this point. All of
these issues could
have been fixed.
Other hoteliers have
stated after looking
at the Biltmore that
when historical
hotels are kept up,
they are easy to
maintain.
"For example, the
Del Coronado Hotel
in California is a
large Victorian
wooden structure.
They maintained
their wooden
structure. That
state landmark
became a popular
destination. Wood
once properly sealed
and protected can
last thousands of
years. Historic
property owners
often attempt to use
what is referred to
as 'Demolition by
Neglect' to
circumvent historic
preservation.
"Do NOT let Pinellas
County’s history
become pirated or
pillaged.
"Do NOT deny future
generations their
heritage!"
Edward
Lee Jameson
1945-2010
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the
Biltmore
Preservationists
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
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Biltmore Update, Friday, June 25, 2010
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Biltmore Update/Newsletter
-- June 25, 2010
Hello Biltmore Supporters,
News Media and Others,
RECENT BELLEVIEW BILTMORE NEWS
SINCE LAST UPDATE:
As
previously mentioned in prior
Biltmore Updates, there were two
lawsuits filed in order to stop
the Biltmore renovations.
Fortunately they have been
resolved in the hotel's favor so
this is wonderful news. Belleair
officials recently approved a
one year's extension for the
renovations to be started. The
hotel owners are currently
seeking investors so they can
start the renovations however.
For complete detailed
media coverage of the above,
read the media articles from the
Belleair Bee, the Clearwater
Gazette, the St. Petersburg
Times and the Tampa Tribune at:
http://savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreNewspapersAndPublications.htm
WE ACQUIRE VINTAGE BILTMORE
CHEST AND MIRROR
 Our
nonprofit organization, Save the
Biltmore Preservationists, is
pleased to announce that we
received a donation of "Old
Hickory" vintage furniture that
was in the Belleview Biltmore
Hotel from around the 1920’s to
the 1930’s. The chest and mirror
and other Biltmore furniture
were sold and removed when the
hotel became a World War II
barracks for military personnel.
We
received the vintage furniture
from Clearwater resident Dell
Valentine Kelleher whose
grandmother owned it after it
was removed from the hotel.
Information on her and her
family are at the end of this
Update.
Here is the history behind the furniture. In the
19th century Bill Richard made and sold hickory chairs in the Town Square in
Martinsville, Indiana. "Old Hickory" furniture (honoring President Jackson) came
into being in a church in 1892. In 1898, a full line of furniture products was
shipped to homes and resorts. There were multiple makers/owners of "Old Hickory"
over time. Early Arts & Crafts mission furniture makers may have received many
of their concepts while visiting the Martinsville "Old Hickory" production. The
earlier woods used were hickory while later woods were oak, chestnut and pine.
One of the most popular variations is rustic log style. Many homes, resorts and
national park lodges use both old and new variations of "Old Hickory" furniture.
A few owners of "Old Hickory" include Old Faithful Inn, Grove Park Inn, Camp
David, the Disney Rainforest Cafe, and celebrities Dolly Parton, Robert Redford,
Barbra Streisand, and Oprah Winfrey.
The Belleview Biltmore hickory chest of drawers has an
early mark (later variations had bronze and paper tags) and is an example of
historic Mission/Arts and Crafts style furniture. Hickory is the heaviest and
hardest of all American hardwoods, and it was used by the American Arts and
Crafts movement, Amish furniture makers, pioneer wagon wheels and on the Wright
brothers’ Flying Machine. The vintage furniture is a heavy, well built, solid
wood, utilitarian chest of drawers with hand cut half-blind dovetails and solid
glue joints. The finish is worn, with some small chips and various
board-to-board glued edges have separated. The chest and mirror could be
restored, but then it would lose the wear and tear history of life at the
Biltmore. A woodworker experienced with hickory wood could duplicate this basic
design.
Our vintage Biltmore chest has four drawers with carved,
hickory nut knobs and the 31" x 25" mirror has horizontal sections (rails) with
hickory nut incised carvings. The frame (carcass) has horizontal and vertical
routed moldings, 43" vertical sections (stiles), 38" horizontal sections (rails)
and is 20" in depth. The top-drawer front has opposing "rustic" style V shaped
routings cut into the front face and measures 30x18x7". The next drawer measures
30x18x8" and the two bottom drawers measure 30x18x9". The piece is signed "Old
Hickory, Martinsville, Ind. Dusty Acorn." The date is unknown but could be
in the 1920's or 1930's but is before World War II. The entire package measures
20x38x43" and weighs approximately 150 pounds. Some early records of the first "Old
Hickory" furniture were unfortunately destroyed when the original furniture
company burned down. The chest and mirror are currently being kept in safe
storage for future Biltmore preservation efforts.
This is the Old Hickory logo behind the mirror and
the chest.
One of the hickory nut knobs on the chest.
One of the hickory decorations on the mirror.
The side detail of the chest
The detailed front decoration on the chest
Here is more information from
Ms. Dell Valentine Kelleher: "My
grandmother Dell Valentine was a
very connected (socialite) here
in Clearwater. I am a fourth
generation Clearwater native.
One of her very dear friends was
Billy Burke a golf pro, and I
think he played with Babe Ruth
on the Resort course at times.
Also she was a great friend of
Jim Smith who was another golf
pro in the area at the time.
Plus she was on the board of or
one of the founders of every
committee they had going back
then. I really don't know how
she ended up with the furniture
but it was in the back bedroom
of her house for as long as I
can remember as a child . She
had the set of twin beds and the
dresser/mirror and maybe night
stand but I happened to salvage
the dresser when I needed one
when I moved out of my parents'
house. My grandfather Wilson
"Rudy" Valentine was the founder
and president of First Federal
Savings and Loan downtown. My
great -grandfather George Eichelburger was a builder, and he built some of the homes down
in Harbor Oaks near the hospital. My grandmother graduated from
Clearwater High School in the first graduating class on '38, Mom
graduated in '58 and I in '78."
OUR RECENT NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
We
want to thank the Belleair Bee
and the Clearwater
Gazette newspapers for their
press coverage of our acquiring the vintage chest and mirror from Clearwater
resident, Dell Valentine Kelleher.
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Biltmore Update, Monday December 21, 2009
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Biltmore Update/Newsletter
-- Monday, December 21, 2009
Hello Biltmore Supporters,
News Media and Others,
OUR BILTMORE TREE VISITED BY
SANTA CLAUS!
We were very happy that Santa
Claus visited and posed next to our Save the Biltmore Christmas tree at the
Festival of Trees held at
Westfield/Countryside Mall in
November. Extra cookies and milk
for him this Christmas! A
special thank you to Wayne Barnett from
Texas, aka Santa. The event was
sponsored by UPARC. We met many
wonderful supporters of the
Biltmore Hotel at the festival
as well as many who loved and
bid on our hand-crafted tree so it was a very
gratifying experience for us.
RECENT NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
We
want to thank the Clearwater
Gazette for featuring the above photo
of our 2009
Victorian Christmas ornament
tree with Santa Claus standing
next to it on the front cover of their
newspaper in the December 3, 2009
issue.
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/
A CLOSE-UP OF
OUR BILTMORE ORNAMENT
During the tree festival I had
more time to take a better
close-up photo of one of our
hand-crafted ornaments. The
photos below show how we printed
the image of the Biltmore charm on gold photo paper
from the charm photo below. Then
the paper charm was cut out with
a scalloped paper punch and
glued to the
center of the ornament.
VINTAGE PHOTOS OF THE BILTMORE
At
this time of year, the Christmas
season is a wonderful time for
fond memories of our past. So I
hope you enjoy some vintage
photos from the
historical past of the Biltmore.
Some of them are from vintage
postcards.
Afternoon tea at the
Biltmore, around the 1930's.
Two views of the hotel
above and below when the hotel roof was
red.
This view is of the east/west
wing, part of the Carriage Room can be
seen.
A vintage view from the
golf course, the roof was later changed
from red to its current green.
2010 BILTMORE
CALENDAR
Be sure to order our one page
beautiful 2010
Biltmore calendar today!
It measures 8.5 inches by 11. We'll also include a magnet on
the back to make it easy to post
on your refrigerator or other
metal cabinet. Just click on the
photo below to order yours in
time for next year.
Only $4.95 plus s/h.
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Save the Biltmore
Preservationists
30617 U.S. 19 North #420
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
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Biltmore Update Saturday,
November 21, 2009
Hello Biltmore
supporters, news media and others:
OUR SAVE THE
BILTMORE PRESERVATIONIST CHRISTMAS TREE
Our nonprofit organization Save the Biltmore Preservationists has created a
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Christmas tree for the upcoming 2009 Festival of Trees
in Clearwater starting THIS Sunday, November 22 at the newly renovated
Westfield/Countryside Shopping Mall, Countryside, U.S. 19 between Main Street
#580 and Countryside Blvd. This is our second entry for the tree show. We won
second place last year for our division. UPARC Foundation, Inc. sponsors the
tree show, and more than 100 beautifully decorated trees from local artists,
businesses and community leaders will be displayed for UPARC’s 25th silver
anniversary event.
Our
seven foot Save the Biltmore Preservationist Christmas tree combines the old
with the new. The Belleview Biltmore Hotel opened during the Victorian era in
1897 and a popular Christmas decoration at that time was the beautiful
cone-shaped ornament, the cornucopia. Vintage homemade cornucopias were
constructed from paper, paper scrap, cotton, scraps of cloth, yarn, tinsel,
ribbon and filled with any assortment of candy, nuts or other holiday
decorations. Some had crepe-paper closures, while others were left open at the
top like our ornaments are.
For our Save the Biltmore hand-crafted cornucopias, we added decorations of pine
cones, silver and gold leaves, miniature craft pearls, apples, pears, gold and
silver-coated nuts, foil, ribbon, flowers and other Christmas decorations. Half
of our ornaments are adorned in the center with a representation of our
nonprofit’s Belleview Biltmore 14 karat gold jewelry charm to represent the
"charm of the Belleview Biltmore." The top of our tree has larger gold printed
images of our charm in a circular fashion, decorated to match the cornucopias,
and you can see the distinctive chimney stacks on the hotel. It took us
approximately 65 hours to make and decorate the cornucopias and tree topper.
Our 14 karat gold Belleview Biltmore jewelry charm which we based half of our
cornucopias and tree topper on.
Enclosed are a few photos of our hand-crafted Victorian cornucopia ornaments. On
each side of the ornaments we placed craft pearls and purple gems. Each
cornucopia measures 5 inches in length, 3.5 inches in width at the top and 8
inches in length if you include the gold ornament hanger. If you are unable to
view the ornament and tree photos, click this link to view them:
http://savethebiltmore.com/FestivalofTrees2009.htm
Ornament with gold leaves,
craft apple, gold berries
Ornament with snow-capped pine cone, gold balls and red rose
Ornament with red berries, gold ball, gold leaves
Ornament with gold apple, red rose, gold berries, craft pearls
48 assorted hand-crafted cornucopias, all a bit different!
Our tree topper showing the charm of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel
Our beautiful 2009 Biltmore
Christmas tree located at Westfield/Countryside Mall
As mentioned
above, each of our cornucopias is decorated a little differently so no two are
alike! We carefully hand-crafted each ornament with a variety of festive
decorations for your holiday pleasure so we hope you enjoy each unique ornament
and our tree. Our Save the Biltmore Preservationist tree is located on the first
floor by Sears near the Santa Claus station.
The public may attend the Premier Gala Night event for $75 per person Sunday
night November 22 at the mall to purchase a decorated tree. Patrons will have
the opportunity to enjoy fine food, refreshments and entertainment as they
search for that perfect holiday tree to purchase for home or office. Hours of
this Sunday night’s gala event will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enter at the
entrance near TooJay's Restaurant. There will be both live and silent auctions.
16 caterers will provide delightful culinary food and tastings. A Swarovski
crystal tree will be at Macy’s sponsored by Bijoux, and entertainment will be
provided throughout the mall. Ann Kelly from The New Magic radio station 94.9 FM
will also be there. This is only a one night event to purchase trees on a first
come first serve basis, so be sure to be there!
Our Save the Biltmore Preservationist tree will be for sale this year at their
show. We are offering a FREE $50 Save the Biltmore Copper Membership to anyone
who buys our tree this Sunday night so be sure to attend Sunday’s event if you
want to be the first one to buy our tree! Just remember to contact us via email
if you buy the tree so we can send you your membership. To purchase tickets for
the Premier Gala Night please contact the UPARC Foundation office at
727-797-8712. All proceeds from tree sales go to UPARC.
Starting Monday November 23 at the Westfield/Countryside Mall, you may buy
raffle tickets to win a decorated tree that was not sold at Sunday’s gala event.
Raffle tickets are $5 each or five for $20, cash, check or credit card accepted
Volunteers are still welcome and needed for the Premier Gala Night as well as
during the tree show at the mall for the five "tree pods" of which there will be
a variety of beautifully decorated trees. For more information or to volunteer,
please contact the UPARC Foundation office at 727-797-8712.
We hope you make the time to attend this wonderful Festival of Trees and start
celebrating this wonderful holiday season. The hours of the entire festival are
Sunday, November 22, 2009 through Sunday November 29, 2009. Our Save the
Biltmore Preservationist tree "A Victorian Christmas at the Biltmore" will be
displayed at the mall during these dates even if someone does buy it on the gala
night. Be sure to see it!
OTHER BELLEVIEW BILTMORE NEWS
Latitude Management has now closed the hotel for future renovation plans. The
lawsuit that certain parties had filed against the town of Belleair regarding
the Biltmore renovation plans was resolved, and Belleair succeeded in winning
it. There is one other pending lawsuit involving future plans by the hotel owner
over on Sand Key. In other recent news, the hotel owner is being fined $250 a
day as the roof was not repaired or replaced by November of this year.
Belleair’s code board voted 5-2 on to institute the fine, and it will continue
until the roof is repaired.
For all
the recent news in full detail, please go to the newspaper link below as there
are many detailed articles by the Belleair Bee, the Clearwater Beacon,
Clearwater Gazette, Sand Key Sun, St. Petersburg Times and Tampa Bay
Online/Tampa Tribune.
http://savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreNewspapersAndPublications.htm
BACK TO THE FUTURE PARTY, MAY 31, 2009
UPARC sponsored a successful and fun "Back to the Future Party" at the Belleview
Biltmore Sunday, May 31 for the closing of the hotel this year. Click on the
newspaper link and scroll down to view some photos from the party. I’ll
certainly miss going to the Biltmore this coming holiday season at Thanksgiving
and Christmas where I have spent many enjoyable years at the hotel during this
festive time of the year. But we all look forward to its reopening in the
future.
RECENT RADIO AND TV INTERVIEWS
We want to thank radio personality Jack Harris with 970 WFLA A.M. for recently
interviewing our vice president Ed Jameson regarding the fining of the hotel
owner for the Biltmore roof not being repaired or replaced. A thank you to TV
Fox News reporter Alcides Segui for interviewing Ed regarding the temporary
closing of the Biltmore for renovations.
CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY GIFT
IDEAS
Make someone’s holiday special this year with some wonderful gifts from our
online gift shop. We have our beautiful gold and silver Biltmore charms which
can be used both as a necklace or key chain. How about a fun gift of a dozen
Biltmore cookies to a special supporter, they are baked fresh and delicious! We
offer five different memberships to fit your budget starting with our Copper
Membership at just $50. Our Biltmore T-shirt is a great stocking stuffer. Local
artist Tony Blue has eight limited edition (150 maximum) giclée prints on canvas
for his Belleview Biltmore art series such as "The White Queen of the Gulf" and
"Gardenias on the Veranda." Just go to
http://savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm and order your
gift today for your family or friends.
To order a membership click here:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMemberships.htm
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Be the first person to purchase our beautiful Victorian Christmas tree this
coming Sunday at Westfield/Countryside Mall! Your home, office or retail store
will reflect the vintage era of the magnificent Belleview Biltmore Hotel as it
sparkles and lights up the room. We look forward to giving a FREE Copper
Membership to the recipient!
Happy Thanksgiving to all and thank YOU for your continued support!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore
Preservationists
http://www.savethebiltmore.com
P.S. Be sure to view our
Biltmore Christmas tree starting Sunday, November 22 for a full week at
Westfield/Countryside Mall!
Biltmore Update Thursday, May 7, 2009
Dear Biltmore Supporter, News Media and Others:
"BACK TO THE FUTURE" PARTY SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2009
On June 1, 2009 the Belleview
Biltmore will close for renovations for approximately three
years. To celebrate the resort's amazing history, from its
origin when it was built in 1897, to the present, and to the
future, when it will reopen in 2012, UPARC, a local nonprofit
organization, will hold the last party at the venerable historic
Biltmore. The party "Back to the Future" will be on Sunday, May
31, 2009 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. A variety of rooms in the
hotel will be set up to represent different eras so you can
mingle from place to place. Guests may also tour the
hotel. The dress is casual but you may also dress up in
costume. Cuisine from past eras will also be served, and you
will be able to dance to a variety of live music. The event
co-chairs are Chris Daily and May Lynne Hawkins, and the
honorary chairs are Karen Crown and Diane and Dean Gobo. UPARC
is an organization that serves individuals with developmental
disability. Individual tickets are $100. Patron level tickets,
which include a listing in the event program, are $150. Tickets
for the Chinese Auction also are available in advance for $20/8.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For tickets,
call Elisa Fredericks at UPARC at 799-3330, ext. 7451. For
Belleview Biltmore information, call Mark Boyer at 373-3762.
RECENT NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
To read all the newspaper articles since my last Biltmore update
click on:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreNewspapersAndPublications.htm
The ongoing court case is continuing, but a decision is expected
within the month. All the details regarding the court case is
at the above newspaper link.
HISTORIC BELLEVIEW BILTMORE FIRE ENGINE
Our vice president Ed Jameson
recently met Mr. Doug Negretti who is working hard to get
donations to restore the original historic Belleview Biltmore
fire engine. The fire engine is a 1917 America La France
"pumper type fire truck." If you have information or any
sources that could help to restore the fire engine or any
historical information on the fire department using this truck,
please reply back to this email. If you would like to help Mr.
Negretti raise money or give donations to help restore the fire
engine, please contact him at Heritage Village 11909 125th
Street N. Largo, FL 33774 The web link is: http://www.pinellascounty.org/heritage/ Their
phone number is: (727) 582-2123
Doug Negretti and to his right is the historic
Biltmore fire engine
POWERPOINT PRESENTATION OF THE
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL
To view a beautiful PowerPoint
presentation of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel with historic
photos and renditions of the proposed renovations click here:
http://belleviewbiltmore.com/restoration.shtml
BILTMORE PHOTOS
If you have any old/historic photos of the Biltmore and/or of
your family at the hotel, please send them to us, and we will
post them. We are especially looking for photos of the interior
of the hotel before World War II before all the furniture was
removed when the Biltmore housed the military.
MOTHER'S DAY BUFFET AT THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE
Treat your mother to a scrumptious buffet THIS SUNDAY, May 10
with seating from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Adults are $39.95 and
children under 13 are $17.00. (727) 373-3768 or (727) 373-3000
http://belleviewbiltmore.com/MothersDayFlier2009.pdf
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND AT THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE
There will be three days of festivities to commemorate those who
fought for our country so click here for more information:
http://belleviewbiltmore.com/MemorialDayWeekend.pdf
"THE FINAL FINAL TOURNAMENT" AT THE BELLEVIEW
BILTMORE
During the weekend of May 29, there are member and nonmember
packages for those who enjoy golf. Click here for all the
information: http://media.dhweb.com/belleview/FINALFINAL_SalesSheet_fixed.pdf
FATHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS
1. BILTMORE KEY CHAIN
Remember dad on Father's Day
this year on Sunday June 21 with a handy and beautiful Biltmore
key chain.
Click on this link and scroll down a bit to order
it:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm#Charm
Sterling Silver on Key Chain: $80.00
(Please note, the sterling silver representation of the Biltmore
is about 1 inch in diameter and the ring is stainless steel
metal)
Gold over Sterling on Key Chain $100.00
The sterling silver or gold over silver representation of the
Biltmore may be added to any key chain as it comes with a bail.
2. SAVE THE
BILTMORE PRESERVATIONIST MEMBERSHIPS
Give dad a membership to our nonprofit
organization so we can continue to promote the Belleview
Biltmore Hotel. There are five different levels to choose from,
Copper, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum with many gift choices
for each level. Your dad will be pleased with his membership!
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMemberships.htm
Main Page
COPPER MEMBERSHIP--DONATION OF $50
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMembershipCopper.htm
BRONZE MEMBERSHIP--DONATION OF $100
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMembershipBronze.htm
SILVER MEMBERSHIP--DONATION OF $250
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMembershipSilver.htm
GOLD MEMBERSHIP--DONATION OF $500
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMembershipGold.htm
PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP--DONATION OF $1,000 OR MORE
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMembershipPlatinum.htm
3. BILTMORE COOKIES
Give your dad a box of delicious Biltmore
cookies! Only $35.00 for a dozen in an attractive gift box.
You may also put your any of your own photos on the cookies if
you wish. When ordering you can email us your favorite jpg
photo to put on the cookies. So make your dad smile through
snack time with some yummy cookies!
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm#Biltmore_Cookies!
FINAL THOUGHTS
Happy Mother's Day to all the
mothers on this mailing list! If you live in the area, be sure
to take your mother to the Biltmore for a lovely buffet this
Sunday. Then be sure to come back to the May 31 "Back to the
Future" party at the Belleview Biltmore Hotel and enjoy a
memorable evening before the hotel closes for the next three
years for its magnificent renovations. It will be a night to
remember and treasure forever!
Sincerely,
Diane S. Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/
Belleview
Biltmore Update Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Hello Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others:
CLEARWATER FESTIVAL OF TREES AND OUR WINNING TREE!
Our nonprofit organization Save the
Biltmore Preservationists, created a Belleview Biltmore Hotel
holiday Christmas tree for the 2008 Festival of Trees in
Clearwater. This was our first entry. The Biltmore tree won a
second place red ribbon in the seven-foot tree division for
hand-crafted ornaments so we are very excited for this award!
The tree has 55 ornaments on it with photos depicting the
historic journey of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel from 1896 when
it was built to the 2012 proposed renovations by the new owner
Legg Mason Real Estate Investors.
The Biltmore tree took us about 60 hours to complete including
the unique, hand-crafted tree topper gazebo that illuminates
three historic views of the hotel. Next to the tree are displays
of other Biltmore memorabilia, antique photos, furniture, a
history of the hotel and some vintage apparel from different
eras, which add to the theme of the tree. If your email does not
allow the enclosed photo to be viewed, click here to see the
tree and the matching display:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/FestivalofTrees2008.htm
The Festival of Trees is located at the
Harborview Center, Cleveland Street, Clearwater, FL. The show
runs from TODAY Wednesday, November 26 through Sunday, November
30, 2008. UPARC Foundation, Inc. sponsors the show, and more
than 100 beautifully decorated trees from local artists,
businesses and community leaders are displayed along with craft
items available for purchase. It's a fun show so be sure to
attend!
Tickets are only $8 per person. We hope you make the time
to attend this wonderful Festival of Trees to sparkle your
holiday season and see our winning tree. We recommend going
during the day if possible because there is more light available
to view the trees and ornaments.
The hours of the festival are:
Wednesday, November 26, 2008 TODAY!!
Noon - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday November 27, 2008 - Thanksgiving Day
2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday November 28, 2008
10:00 am - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
10:00 am - 9:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Noon - 5:00 p.m.
FREE SANTA AND SLEIGH WALLPAPER
Here is another FREE wallpaper for your computer for the
holiday season. It was taken at the Belleview Biltmore last year
of Santa Claus and his sleigh at the hotel. Download it in
seconds, the link shows how. And be sure to tell others about
this free wallpaper and when people ask where you got it, be
sure to tell them about the beautiful Biltmore, its amenities
and where to get the free download!
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/WallpaperSantaAndSleigh.htm
THANKSGIVING:
It has been exactly four years since I launched
SaveTheBiltmore.com back in 2004 so now is the season to be very
thankful that the hotel was saved from demolition and is still
proudly standing. Also a very warm thank you to all of you who
worked so very hard to save the hotel. We wish everyone a
thankful and food-filled day tomorrow!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
http://www.savethebiltmore.com
P.S. Remember Christmas and Hanukkah are coming soon so check
out our online store or memberships for a wonderful gift for
family or friends.
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMemberships.htm
Belleview
Biltmore Update Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Hello Biltmore
Supporters, News Media and Others:
RECENT NEWS:
Since my last Biltmore Update, most unfortunately three men from
Belleair have filed a lawsuit against some of the proposed
renovation plans which were passed by Belleair officials earlier
this year in May 2008 as reported in recent newspaper articles.
The three men are Fred Thomas, who founded a chain of pool
supply stores called Pinch-A-Penny, Scott Spencer of Spencer
International Investments and Bob Swinehart. Until this lawsuit
is resolved which could take a year's time, the new renovations
can not proceed.
In September 2008
the Clearwater Community Development board voted to allow Legg
Mason Real Estate Investors, new owners of the Belleview
Biltmore, to redevelop the Cabana Club restaurant on Sand Key,
replacing it with a six-floor beachfront hotel. Unfortunately a
group called Save Our Neighborhood has filed an appeal of the
Community Development Board's approval. The appeal will now go
to a hearing officer and then to a panel of judges, and it could
take more than a year to resolve.
If you personally
know any of the above parties involved in delaying the
renovations of the Biltmore, we hope you talk to them and
convince them to withdraw their complaints so the construction
may begin on time for the hotel.
BERNIE
POWELL:
Bernard F. Powell, an icon, pioneer, devoted owner of the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel for 46 years and philanthropist of
Morton Plant Mease, died at his home in Belleair Shore on Aug.
21, 2008. He was 96.
PRESIDENTIAL
CANDIDATE STAYED AT THE BILTMORE!
Presidential candidate Barack Obama stayed for a few
at the Belleview Biltmore during his visit to this area in
September and rally in Dunedin so we are happy he chose the
hotel!
HALLOWEEN AT
THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE:
The following information is from a flyer from the Belleview
Biltmore: "Join us for a night of ghostly encounters interlaced
with the history of our Grand Hotel. Follow along with the
Orlando Ghost Tours team of paranormal investigation experts on
an interesting journey inside the Belleview Biltmore Resort.
The package includes room accommodations, Dinner for two in the
Palm Grill and Ghost Tour for two. The tour starts at 9 p.m.
and lasts approximately 3 hours. Not recommended for children.
12 and under. Available October 31 and November 1, 2008 1
night package inclusive price for 2 guests: $239.00
727-373-3000
FREE HALLOWEEN DESKTOP WALLPAPERS:
Enclosed are FOUR FREE festive and fun
Biltmore Halloween desktop wallpapers for your computer this
week! One for each day this week including Halloween so change
them every day! All the photos were taken at the Biltmore this
weekend so visit the hotel to see them in person. The
wallpapers are also available at
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com via a link there or at
http://savethebiltmore.com/Wallpapers.htm Tell your
friends so they can download them too.
If you have never downloaded desktop wallpapers, I hope you
give them a try, they are so MUCH FUN!
It only takes seconds!Click on the links below to see the photos
LARGE size and to download them.
NEW BILTMORE CHARM DESIGN!
We have another Biltmore charm design which is very elegant.
Order yours today to get it for a friend, loved one or
yourself! Christmas and Hanukkah are coming soon so now is the
time to order. This new design is made of beautiful
rhodium-plated sterling silver slightly larger than the original
charm. You may also order it in gold over silver. So if you are
looking for a charm that is a little more elegant or if you wish
to hang it slightly lower on your chest with a 24-inch chain,
this is perfect!
Price $150.00 rhodium-plated sterling silver. New chains are
available online also.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
We are very sorry to report that the Biltmore
renovations are being contested. It has been a long struggle
for many people to save the Biltmore from immediate
demolition. Many people who love the Biltmore were delighted
that the new owner wanted to invest time, money and effort to
restore this beautiful Victorian hotel.. Now all of us are
disappointed that the renovation plans are being jeopardized by
JUST A FEW PEOPLE. Again, talk to
these individuals if you know them and convince them to stop
their complaints.
We hope you enjoy this coming holiday season so start the fun
by downloading the FREE Halloween wallpapers and of course book
a reservation or meal at the Belleview Biltmore at
http://www.belleviewbiltmore.com/ 727-373-3000
And of course VOTE this Tuesday, November 4 no matter who you
want to win!!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
PS We want to thank
everyone who joined as a member of Save the Biltmore
Preservationists last year and supported the Biltmore, and
we hope you join us again this year. To renew your membership
click below. If you are not currently a member, please join
us! Memberships also make a great holiday gift. Thank you.
Friday May 23, 2008
Hello Biltmore
Supporters, News Media and Others:
A FINAL VICTORY!
The final Belleview
Biltmore renovation plans proposed by owner Legg Mason were
unanimously passed (with some minor changes) by Belleair town
officials Tuesday, May 20th! It was a VERY long and grueling
meeting that lasted approximately seven hours until 2:30 a.m.!
Unfortunately as I wrote last Saturday, there were many naysayers
who again showed up at the meeting to tear apart the renovation
plans. It was an extremely heated meeting with insults thrown and
the crowd booing or cheering depending on what was said. However in
the end, the Biltmore was ultimately saved despite so many
ridiculous and many miniscule objections!
The project will
include replacing the Japanese pagoda-like entrance to more of its
original Victorian look, a new East wing separate hotel will be
three stories instead of four but extended by 30 feet wide and there
will be more meeting, convention and ballroom space in the original
structure. There will be a new pool side cafe, a new spa
and the underground parking spaces will allow extensive beautiful
green space. Joseph Penner of Legg Mason is the Managing Director
of the project, R. J. Heisenbottle is the architect, Ron Harn the
Construction Manager, (Skanska) and Martin Smith
is Managing Director of the Biltmore.
A beautiful
reflecting pool with cabanas showing the original East wing of the
Biltmore. A new poolside cafe will be built at the other end.
Rendition by H. J. Heisenbottle, architect
THANK YOU'S:
I want to
personally thank St. Petersburg resident and staunch Biltmore
supporter Jeff Francis for coming up to show his support at this
meeting. Jeff was one of the very first people to write me back
in April 2005. I emailed him last week and asked him to
participate in support of the renovation, and he drove up. He
was extremely helpful in getting community support back in 2005
with big ideas and an even bigger enthusiasm. So we are very
grateful for his help in our efforts to save the Biltmore.
Also I want to
thank Ed Jameson our Vice President for his intense
ongoing efforts from the start and his recent drive to Belleair
to speak in support of the renovation plans. Another big thank
you to Doug Mann our Secretary/Treasurer for his ardent
support and consult through many the high and low points of our
effort to save the Biltmore.
A warm
thank you to Sam Casella whose research, contributions
and speaking helped the effort. His recent speech in
support of the renovation plans was very helpful to the
cause.
A special
thank you to St. Petersburg resident Bill Stokes who wrote
an email to Belleair town officials in support of the
renovation plans and has been very involved in saving the
Biltmore right from the start also.
We appreciate
Jack Harris, Tedd Webb and Sharon Taylor speaking with our
V.P. Ed Jameson on the morning of the meeting on WFLA 970
a.m. radio to get supporters out and also local TV NBC news
Channel 8 for mentioning the meeting ahead of time. And to
anyone else who promoted or attended the meeting that I am
unaware of, we thank you!
This was a
community effort, and it is impossible to list everyone in the
same update concerning the renovation plans as there were some
180 to 200 people at the meeting!. Many people outside of
Belleair and residents living within Belleair participated to
help save the Biltmore over the past few years and also attended
Tuesday night's meeting. Once again we thank you for
your efforts to save this great Victorian hotel.
In the end
Belleair officials made this all possible so we sincerely thank
them, also the new Legg Mason owners whose long-term vision and
renovation plans should ensure that the Biltmore lives on for
another 115 years and a thank you to G. Michael Harris for
finding the new owner Legg Mason.
BILTMORE
T-SHIRT:
Order your beautiful
Biltmore T-shirt today!
PINELLAS COUNTY
VIDEO:
Remember to watch the
Pinellas County video if you have not already seen it! It was a
great honor for us to be asked to participate in it.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The soul of Belleair
and Pinellas County history has been saved....victory
is sweet! This Victorian treasure belongs to everyone. So enjoy
it by booking a reservation or dinner reservation today at the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
Biltmore Update Saturday May 17, 2008
IMPORTANT!! PLEASE READ!!!
Dear Biltmore Supporter, News Media and Others:
It has been a very exciting week because Belleair's
Planning and Zoning Board have passed Legg Mason's wonderful renovation
plans for the Belleview Biltmore Resort and Spa! There were however a
few compromises made with the plans. This coming Tuesday the plans will
be presented for a FINAL vote
by Belleair officials: the mayor and four commissioners. The meeting is
at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday May 20 at the Belleair town hall. We STRONGLY
urge you to attend if you live in this area to support the passing of
these renovation plans.
Unfortunately, there have been some people/groups who strongly opposed
some of the renovation plans at Monday night's SIX hour meeting; so I
urge you to come this Tuesday and show your support so the Biltmore may
be fully restored. PLEASE ATTEND!!
The Biltmore will not be
fully saved until the renovation plans are approved by Belleair
officials this Tuesday night!
Here is a map to Belleair's town hall. 901 Ponce de
Leon Blvd.
We encourage everyone to speak in support of the
Biltmore. People will be heard in the following order:
1. People of standing - (those who received public notices; ie. those
people whose property is immediately affected by the development)
2. Belleair residents
3. Time permitting, the General Public - the general public will only
be able to make comments and not cross-examine the applicant. You may
speak for THREE minutes or less. No more.
Anyone who wishes to speak must sign in with the Town Clerk
BEFORE THE MEETING. You will have to
get there early because as soon as the meeting
starts the Town Clerk will stop signing people in at 7:30 p.m. Of
course, anyone can attend and hear the public hearing.
If you plan on speaking I would recommend you
come at 7:00 p.m. to make sure you have time to park and sign in!!
Below is the link from this week's Belleair Bee
newspaper about the meeting this past Monday night May
12. Approximately 200 people attended, many with complaints about the
proposed Biltmore renovation plans. This is a very detailed article so
please click the link to read it all and what has been proposed and the
disputes from this past Monday night.
Plans for Biltmore clear major hurdle by Harlan Weikle
OTHER NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:
Below is a list of other articles over the past few
months, most recent date first, in regards to the changes and
variances requested by Legg Mason. Click on them to find out all the
specific changes Legg Mason proposes.
Hotel Owners Legg Mason to Hear From and Address
Town Board and Council Regarding Variances
by Renee Burrell
This is the beautiful rendition by architect R. J.
Heisenbottle overlooking the future swimming pool at the Biltmore.
Biltmore owners to present site
plan
BILTMORE PHOTOS:
If you have any old/historic photos of the Biltmore
and/or of your family at the hotel, please send them to us and we will
post them. We are especially looking for photos of the interior of the
hotel before World War II before all the furniture was removed when the
Biltmore housed the military.
PINELLAS COUNTY VIDEO AND
INTERVIEW AT THE BILTMORE:
On January 24, 2008 there was an excellent video
produced and broadcast by Pinellas County, Florida which includes
interior photos of the Biltmore, a synopsis of the efforts to save
the Biltmore since 2004, clips of Florida Governor Charlie Crist who
visited the hotel October 2007, Legg Mason's Managing Director
Joseph Penner, Biltmore Managing Director and Vice President Martin
Smith, Biltmore executive assistant and tour guide Sharon Delahanty
and interviews with Pinellas County Commissioner Karen Seel,
Belleair town Commissioner Stephanie Oddo, our group's Save the
Biltmore Preservationist Vice President Ed Jameson, Marcia Crawley
Director of Department of Communications, Pinellas County, Mike
Moore Producer Progressive Pinellas and beautiful renderings of the
future Biltmore renovation plans. The interview was held at the
Belleview Biltmore in regards to historic preservation in Pinellas
County. Pinellas County is working towards establishing a historic
preservation ordinance to help save other historic buildings in the
county. The Biltmore saga and threat of demolition helped create a
strong interest towards passing a Pinellas County historic
preservation ordinance. Had Pinellas County had a preservation
ordinance in place when the Biltmore was under threat of
demolition, the hotel would have been much easier to save! There are
approximately 10,000 historic structures in Pinellas County. Click
this link, and it will link you to the video page. It is 15 minutes
in length. We hope you make the time to watch it, it is excellent!
BILTMORE PAINTING BY MISAO ADACHI
A few years ago our vice president Ed Jameson and I were at a local art
show and met a St. Petersburg artist Misao Adachi and his wife for the
first time. Mr. Adachi had two beautiful artistic renditions for sale
of the historic Vinoy and Don Cesar Hotels both located in Pinellas
County, Florida. We gave him one of our Save the Biltmore bookmarks
and suggested he visit and paint the Belleview Biltmore Hotel. He said
he would take a look at the hotel. A year later Ed and I came across
Mr. Adachi's booth again at another art show. To our surprise and
delight there was a large, beautifully framed and matted painting of the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel for sale! It was meticuously detailed and full
of vibrant color. Mr. Adachi was kind enough to put the name of the
nonprofit organization Save the Biltmore Preservationists on the back of
his Biltmore prints so anyone buying one of his pieces would know
about our grass-roots organization and our web site to save the
Victorian hotel.
Here is information about the artist. Misao Adachi
was born in Miyagi Prefecture in Northern Japan and grew up and studied
painting in Tokyo. His formal training as a painter was completed
during ten years of apprenticeships with two Japanese Masters of the
kanban tradition. The learning process was slow and demanding, but such
training nurtured the patience needed for the intricate details
characteristic of Misao's work today - paintings that represent both
this traditional training and his living experience in the States.
Kanban are hand-painted posters or billboards used to advertise movies,
variety shows and the like, and Misao's training was conducted in a
purely traditional manner. The majority of Misao paintings are in
acrylics and oils, although he also works with watercolors. His
objective in life-like paintings of people, animals, flowers, trees, and
the like is not to create reproductions of his subjects, but to capture
the essence of their being. Misao's own cultural background has taught
him that every natural being has a 'spirit' and his work manifests an
inherent desire to give expression to the universality of these
'spirits.' After traveling back and forth between Japan and the States
and working as a commercial artist and illustrator in both countries
during the past twenty years, Misao and his family recently relocated in
St. Petersburg, Florida where his studio is located. His American wife
teaches Japanese to college level students.
8 by 10 inch print $55.00
11 by 14 inches $75.00
13 x 19 inches $95.00
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The Biltmore needs your continued support so come to
Belleair this Tuesday night EARLY at 7
p.m. and speak up for the wonderful
renovation plans for the hotel so the White Queen of the Gulf may be
restored to her former glory. We need your help so that the renovation
plans will be passed.
Here is a wonderful quote by Hugh Howard, "The Future
Requires a Past," sent to me by Biltmore supporter Ellen Raymond about
the importance of saving historic buildings. I hope you send it to
everyone you know!
"I have come to believe that it is the role of
...preservationists...to enable us to glimpse other times within the
context of our modern world. It is their insistence on the importance
of the physical presence of the past, of its artifacts and architecture,
that preserve something of that past. The preservationists provide us
with a range of snapshots of the past, which bring us to some
understanding and appreciation of earlier eras. I believe the value of
that must not be underestimated. After all, our ability to appreciate
history as the passage of time helps make us human."
Sincerely,
P.S.
Remember!
Attend this Tuesday night's meeting in Belleair at 7:00 p.m. if you plan
on speaking or at 7:30 p.m. if you don't plan on speaking and show your
support for the Biltmore renovation plans. Click here to watch the
Biltmore video!
Biltmore Update, Wednesday January 23, 2008
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others:
THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE IS GOING GREEN!
Many exciting events have happened at the
Biltmore in the past few months including a news conference with Florida
Governor Charlie Crist in November 2007! It was held at the Biltmore and also
included new owner Legg Mason Real Estate's managing director Joseph Penner and
John Hildreth from National Trust. Speaking from the stairs of the hotel's
original porch entrance, Mr. Penner announced plans for seeking the U.S. Green
Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
certification for the 110 year old Biltmore. Governor Crist applauded these new
green building plans: “What you’re doing, Joe, is exactly the right thing,”
Crist told Joe Penner, LMREI’s managing director, “preserving the Biltmore for
future generations to enjoy.” "My focus is on Florida,” Crist said. “The
Belleview Biltmore is a fixture in this community and its preservation is
crucial to our cultural legacy. It’s our duty to take care of national historic
sites.” Today is an important day for one of Florida's most historic sites…The
Belleview Biltmore is a fixture in this community and its preservation is
crucial to our culture and historical industries. I commend Legg Mason's concern
for the environment and commitment to restoring the resort in a way that will
help preserve Florida's beautiful natural environment."
The above quote is from the Belleair Bee from the
article "Crist gives thumbs up to Biltmore Plans" by
Chary Southmayd Wednesday, November 21, 2007:
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/112107_bee-01.txt For full
article.
In above photo, Governor Charlie Crist, left, chats with
Joe Penner, managing director of Legg Mason Real Estate Investors
BILTMORE TIE TACK/LAPEL PIN:
Our nonprofit organization Save the Biltmore Preservationists presented Governor
Crist with a sterling silver Biltmore tie tack/lapel pin as a thank you gift for
his coming to the Biltmore in November. You may also order this tie tack/lapel
pin in sterling silver or gold at
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm#Tie%20Tack/Pin It
may also be used as a lady's pin. This is the actual size of the lapel pin.
OTHER RECENT NEWS ARTICLES:
Wooden icon breathes new green life
By Rita Farlow St. Petersburg Times November 20, 2007
For full article click:
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sptimes/access/1385742161.html?dids=1385742161:1385742161&FMT=FT&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=Nov+20%2C+2007&author=RITA+FARLOW&pub=St.+Petersburg+Times&edition=&startpage=1&desc=WOODEN+ICON+BREATHES+NEW+GREEN+LIFE
"LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design. The designation is supplied by the U.S. Green Building Council for
buildings that meet a lengthy set of environmentally responsible standards.
"We're here today to set the stage for the future, and I can tell you it's a
grand vision. This resort will be reborn as a modern energy-efficient, LEED-certified,
green building while retaining all of its historical significance and its
grandeur," said Joe Penner, managing director for Legg Mason." Penner outlined
some of the ways his team - including Heisenbottle Architects of Coral Gables -
will seek certification.
"The existing electrical, heating and cooling systems will
be replaced with updated, energy-efficient versions. Salvageable materials will
be reused. And current asphalt parking lots will be replaced with an underground
garage to create more green space. Building "green" makes sense, Penner said.
Although construction and materials can be more expensive up front, decreased
operating costs mean savings in the long run.
"John Hildreth, director of the southern office of the
National Trust for Historic Preservation, lauded preservation efforts that focus
on environmental sustainability."We believe that the greenest building is the
one that already exists," Hildreth said. "We believe, as well, that traditional
preservation practices are compatible with environmentally sound building
principals." In 2005, the Biltmore was placed on the organization's list of 11
most endangered historic places. Hildreth said he hopes to return someday to
see the resort atop a different list: the National Trust's Dozen Distinctive
Destinations, which honors unique communities committed to preservation."
Hoteliers Offer Another Reason to Support the Biltmore
By Renee Burrell
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20071129/biltmore.html
Clearwater Gazette, November 29, 2007
"The U.S. Green Building Council is a nonprofit
coalition of building industry leaders headquartered in Washington D.C. Upon
certification, the resort can be designated by the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection as a "green lodging". The LEED Green Building Rating
System is the accepted national standard that promotes building design and
construction practices that reduce negative environmental impacts. LEED can be
granted for attaining different levels--Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.
The level of certification depends upon the number of credits a building or
renovation project garners in five green design categories including,
sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and
resources and indoor environmental quality."
In above photo from left to right, John Hildreth of National Trust, Florida
Governor Charlie Crist, Legg Mason managing director Joseph Penner
FORMAL APPLICATION APPLIED FOR THE
REDEVELOPMENT PLANS:In December, Legg Mason
Real Estate filed a formal application for the new renovation plans for the
historic Belleview Biltmore Hotel site so we are very pleased to see this next
step. I was asked for a comment for this article so thank you to reporter
Carrie Henderson. To read an excellent synopsis of the last three years to save
the Biltmore and the exciting new redevelopment plans read:http://www.tampabaysun.com/TBS_Jan_10_08-LOW-RES.pdf
Tampa Bay Sun Newspaper January 10, 2008
Redevelopment Plan Filed for the Belleview Biltmore
By Carrie Henderson
Renovation and restoration plans to return the Biltmore to its former glory days
include:
A new landscaped grand entrance to the main hotel
A fully restored 256-room main hotel structure with 5 ballrooms, meeting rooms,
restaurants and retail shops
A new, but architecturally consistent, 174-room annex hotel adjacent to the main
hotel structure
Three restored Victorian cottages
A new one-story spa facility with underground parking
Elegantly landscaped grounds and the elimination of surface parking through the
construction of underground parking
Removal of the existing "pagoda" structure at the current front entrance to the
main hotel
A refurbished clubhouse, improved landscaping and parking at the Pelican Golf
Club
PINELLAS COUNTY PRESERVATION TASK FORCE
MEETING:
Pinellas County Commissioner Karen Seel, chair.
Preservation Task Force sees Biltmore plans
By HARLAN WEIKLE
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/011608_bee-01.txt
Belleair Bee January 16, 2008
"BELLEAIR – Architect Richard Heisenbottle presented plans
for the restoration of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel to the county’s Preservation
Task Force on Jan. 9. Using a slide presentation, Heisenbottle detailed the
major components of the restoration project, which is estimated to cost $100
million. Notably, some of the most dramatic changes to the historic resort will
be the ones that aren’t seen: service tunnels, loading docks and underground
parking for nearly 700 cars, which will open space surrounding the resort to new
use such as event lawns for receptions, outdoor weddings or simple romantic
strolls through Victorian gardens.
"Two levels of underground parking will be 20 feet below a sod- and
shrub-covered expanse of lawn dotted by containerized trees. The entire
structure will be covered with a foot of soil and a drainage system. Like “Alice
in Wonderland, cars will disappear down a rabbit hole; a bit of, “Disney magic”
as Heisenbottle called it.
"Another “Disneyesque” aspect of the project will include lots of tunnels, which
the architect says is a necessary component of any world class resort. Service
tunnels will lead from the new two-story central prep kitchen to smaller
kitchens serving the several dining venues envisioned for the project.
Out-of-sight, out-of-mind, these tunnels, some of which already exist, will rise
by elevator directly into the smaller kitchens.
"Likewise, the exterior service areas, which now wrap
unceremoniously around the perimeter of the hotel, are to be replaced by a
single, modern service area replete with loading docks and mechanical
facilities, all of which will be hidden behind 6-to-8 foot landscaped garden
walls.
"The ballrooms, too, will receive special treatment. The Tiffany and Candlelight
ballrooms will be restored to their original grace and the Starlight Ballroom
will have its original window walls revealed; walls, which are now covered by
interior secondary walls.
"A new architecturally sensitive hotel annex will add additional rooms needed to
accommodate conventions, and a new one story spa will rise over underground
parking space. Facing the west side of the hotel this structure almost
“residential” in character Heisenbottle said, “will not interfere with anyone’s
view,” referring to the neighboring condominium buildings bordering the site.
2007 BILTMORE GINGERBREAD HOUSE AWARD!
Chef Etienne and Chef Hueppi of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel created a holiday
gingerbread house for the Festival of Trees in Clearwater in November 2007 and
won a first place ribbon! It took 16 man-hours to complete, and it was a
popular stop at the show with children posing in front of it for their parents
to photograph them. And of course the fragrant ginger aroma brought many
people over to this edible house! The chefs have won a first place award twice
in the past four years.
For a larger photo of the gingerbread house click:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/Belleview%20Biltmore%20Hotel%20Gingerbread%20House%20Festival%20of%20Trees%202007.htm
INTERVIEW WITH JACK HARRIS:
We want to thank radio personality Jack Harris of Tampa Bay radio
station WFLA 970 A.M for inviting us to speak with him in November. Our vice
president Ed Jameson was interviewed.
VINTAGE PHOTOS:
We want to thank new Biltmore supporter Jim Pysz for his 1943 photos of his
father Chester Pysz, when he was stationed at the Biltmore. Mr. Pysz (from
Michigan) was at the Belleview Biltmore in World War II when the hotel housed
military service people where they trained. The hotel was closed to tourism at
that time. All the windows were painted black in order to prevent it from being
seen at night. Mr. Pysz served in the United States Air Force and was a radio
operator/gunner on a B-26 bomber 320th bomb group - 441 squadron (62 combat
missions)
To view two other photos from 1943 click:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BiltmorePhotos_Broad_Band.htm and keep
scrolling down the page. They are in black and white. We are always looking
for vintage historic photos of the Biltmore especially of the
INTERIOR of the hotel before World War II. If you have any, please
forward them to me, and I can post them to our Biltmore web site. Unfortunately
all the antique furniture was sold when the troops were stationed there, so it
would be wonderful to have any old photos of the interior of the hotel before
this was done.
2008 BILTMORE CALENDAR:
A one page 8.5 x 11 inch 2008 Biltmore calendar is available at our online
store.
CHARM HER WITH A BILTMORE CHARM!
Valentine's Day is only a few weeks away so a
Biltmore charm in 14 K gold or sterling silver (nontarnishing) is the perfect
gift for your favorite Valentine. For a Valentine for him, we have a sterling
or gold tie tack/lapel pin as indicated in the photo at the top of this page.
Either gift is a beautiful way to keep the glow of the Biltmore out in public!
This is the actual size of the gold and silver charm.
The charm may also be used as a keychain!
Or give your special Valentine a membership to help us
continue promoting the Biltmore.
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMemberships.htm The actual
size of the certificate which includes the member's name is 8.5 by 11 inches.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
The Biltmore is moving forward into a wonderful new era of
renovations in 2009 that will eventually restore her to her glory reminiscent of
the 1940's and yet she is also going green. So this will be a wonderful time for
the hotel to combine the old with the new. Schedule your next meeting,
wedding, conference or vacation at the Belleview Biltmore to ensure her walk
continues at a steady pace into an exciting new future.
http://www.BelleviewBiltmore.com
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Dedicated to saving all four wings of the hotel since 2004
Biltmore Hotel Update Thursday, November 1, 2007
Dear Biltmore Supporters, New
Media and Others,
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE
HOTEL RENOVATION PLANS
The new renovation plans by new Belleview Biltmore hotel
owner Legg Mason Real Estate Investors' was presented to Belleair town
officials and the public on Wednesday, September 19, 2007. LMREI CEO
Joseph Penner and architect R. J. Heisenbottle did the presentation.
The plans are outstanding and will restore the White Queen of the Gulf!
There are many articles below describing the new plans. I have included
some information from each article, but if you want to read the
restoration plans in more detail, then just click on the links. Here
are the two beautiful rendered drawings for the new front entrance and
and reflecting pool with cabanas by R. J.
Heisenbottle Architects.
Belleview Biltmore to shine once more
BY HARLAN WEIKLE Click link for jpg rendering of the new
entryway of the Biltmore
BELLEAIR – Promising a new roof
first and $100 million later a five-star hotel, Legg Mason Real Estate
Investors’ Joseph Penner Sept. 19 presented his firm’s plans for
restoration of the historic Belleview Biltmore Resort.
A standing room only crowd at Town
Hall started gathering early for what was to be their first look at
Coral Gables architect Richard Heisenbottle’s vision for the restoration
of the fabled hotel. A new 10,000 square foot ballroom, larger rooms –
some with cathedral ceilings – tucked below the famous gabled green roof
and the addition of retail shops including a bakery, ice cream shop and
high-end jeweler are just a few of the many details Heisenbottle
highlighted. The audience, clearly responding favorably, fell captive to
the imagery of landscaped event lawns and a new “grand drive” along a
palm tree lined boulevard leading to the new entrance of what he said
would be once again a “destination hotel.”
The much maligned pagoda entrance
erected by previous Japanese owners will be first to go, he said to
cheers from the crowd. At the Beach Club property on Sand Key, a
swimming pool and two restaurants will go to provide for a new “57-unit
boutique hotel” with cabanas on the beach, which Heisenbottle assured
will still be run by the Biltmore. The existing resort spa will be
demolished and a new spa with a parking garage below will replace it,
where the tennis courts are now situated.
Biltmore design captivates audience
By HARLAN WEIKLE Click link for jpg rendering of the new
pool area for the Biltmore
Armed with richly illustrated
renderings and detailed plan views, some of which project architect
Richard Heisenbottle admitted were still works
in progress just the evening before, the team headed by LMREI CEO Joseph
Penner, treated a standing room only crowd to their first look at the
group’s vision for the historic resort. The restoration project, will
cost an estimated $100 million according to Penner, who told the
audience the plan is to restore the Biltmore to its former glory
reminiscent of the 1940s era.
http://tbo.com/video/xml/MGBXR99NS6F.html VIDEO!
September 19, 2007 Please wait up to 25 seconds before the video
downloads. NBC TV Channel 8 local Tampa Bay news by Peter Bernard.
The representative of Legg Mason Real Estate Investors Joseph Penner,
the architect Richard Heisenbottle, as well as our vice
president Ed Jameson of Save the Biltmore
Preservationists are all interviewed in this VIDEO segment!
So be sure to click on this link!!
ST. PETERSBURG TIMES
(our vice president of our nonprofit organization Ed Jameson
was also interviewed for this article) Date: Sep 21, 2007
GRAND HOTEL, GRAND PLAN
Author: TERRI BRYCE REEVES; LORRI
HELFAND
"We're preserving a legacy for
future generations," said Joe Penner, managing director for Legg Mason
Real Estate Investors of Los Angeles. Legg Mason paid nearly
$30.3-million for the landmark in June. Penner predicted the restored
hotel will one day be a five-star resort, "one we can all be proud of."
The ballrooms, dining room and pub
would receive major renovations. The total number of resort rooms would
go from about 244 today to about 435. Some rooms, small by today's
standards, would be combined. One key aspect of the project is parking.
The "asphalt will go away," he said. Instead, motorists will enter
through a rabbit-hole-like entrance where a valet will drive their cars
to one of two underground motor courts. A one-story garage with 74
spaces will go under where tennis courts exist today. The other
subsurface spaces will be two levels, with 600 parking spots. Those will
be built under the current parking lot. With the surface parking gone,
there will be more green space, trees and walking trails, he said.
Heisenbottle described a "grand
entrance" with palm and shade trees, fountains and a Victorian-style
porte-cochere. The lobby will be a "soaring three stories" and built in
traditional Victorian style. The golf clubhouse will also get a
makeover with a new porte- cochere, locker rooms, bathrooms, kitchens,
bar and grill room. Nearby, a 7,000-square-foot banquet room will be
built to overlook the lake and fountain.
The golf course will see more
trees and landscaping, he said. Since it was renovated about three years
ago, Heisenbottle said he didn't anticipate any interruption in tee
times during construction.
Also proposed is a new five-story
hotel annex that will contain 160 rooms. It's slated to go in the
location of the original dormitory building that was torn down years
ago. "It will be very similar in style to the original hotel," he
said. A 10,000-square-foot ballroom will be built in the location of
the current spa. A new swimming pool, flanked with cabanas, will take
the place of the old one on the south side of the property. There will
be a new poolside grill and bar. Nearby will be a large event lawn with
a wedding gazebo.
There will be a new tennis area
with two courts built atop the underground garage on the east side of
the property. The existing courts will be replaced with an
18,000-square-foot, two-story health spa overlooking the Intracoastal
Waterway. The three cottages will be renovated and the new green
shingle roof "will be fixed forever," Heisenbottle said.
The Cabana Club, the resort's
beach club on Sand Key, will be demolished and in its place will be an
eight-story hotel with 57 units, a new pool and a dozen or so cabanas.
The second floor may contain a seafood restaurant overlooking the Gulf
of Mexico. Plans call for a boat to shuttle guests back and forth across
the Intracoastal Waterway. Heisenbottle's presentation drew plenty of
applause.
Ed Jameson, vice president of
Save the Biltmore Preservationists, applauded the
developer's plans, but worried about closing the hotel for up to two
years during renovations. "Hotels and other vacant property can be more
vulnerable to damage from fire, gas, water, electrical, hurricanes and
vandalism during renovations," he said. He suggested either the town or
Legg Mason provide 24-hour, round-the-clock security for the property.
(READERS PLEASE NOTE!
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel will be open for some 18 months before any
major renovation plans begin!! It will NOT close until May 2009. So
rest assured you may STILL make reservations for vacations, meetings,
conferences, weddings for many months!
http://www.BelleviewBiltmore.com
Click above link for TWO LARGE jpg
renderings of the new designs for the Biltmore, pool area and new
entrance Clearwater Gazette September 27,
2007
Belleair Commission Views
Plans For Restoring Historic Treasure
by Anne McKay Garris
Joseph Penner, managing director
of Legg Mason, shared his company's vision of creating a true historic
renovation. "We envision," he said, "that this will be a resort and
convention center which can compete nationally." But it will be much
more. While restoring the facade and ambiance of the historic hotel, the
company plans to make it an environmentally friendly property. They will
not only place all of the parking underground, they will operate the
hotel in keeping with the best environmental practices using energy
efficient methods approved by the environmental organization, Leaves.
Richard Heisenbottle, a Coral
Gables architect whose firm specializes in historical restoration, is
the architect for the project. He described some of the major changes
contemplated. "We choose difficult projects," he said. "They are so
much fun." The four Victorian style "cottages" on the campus will be
restored and used for meeting spaces or rentals, "Maybe a wedding party
would like to rent one of them for the week-end," said Heisenbottle.
Also retained and restored will be the popular Tiffany Room and the
downstairs pub. A five star dining room will be added.
TV Bay News 9
Laurie Davison and CBS channel 10/12 also did
interviews about Legg Mason's renovation plans and with our vice
president Ed Jameson, but did NOT have any online articles to read or
view but we thank them for their coverage.
FOX 13 TV NEWS
Our vice president Ed Jameson was also
interviewed for the TV segment the video clip is not available online.
They did show a jpg photo of the drawing for the renovations on TV
September 19, 2007
"We believe that we have designed
a project which honors Belleair's past, and which will make the
community extremely proud," said Joseph Penner, with Legg Mason, the
group that designed the project.
Belleview Biltmore Buyers Vow
$100 Million Facelift
The restoration will be
environmentally friendly and in keeping with federal preservation
standards, said Joseph Penner, managing director of Legg Mason Real
Estate Investors of Los Angeles, which bought the resort in June for
more than $30 million.
http://www.pinellascounty.org/inside_pinellas.htm
Thanks to Kay Norred of our local Pinellas County TV station for
interviewing our vice president Ed
Jameson at the Biltmore entrance in regards to the new
renovation plans. Click the link and then click on: Inside Pinellas
streaming video. The Biltmore segment is about five minutes into the
show.
And last but not least, thanks to
Jack Harris radio host of 970 WFLA for announcing ahead of time the
meeting in Belleair for the renovation plans.
CELEBRITY ELLEN DEGENERES
Thanks to Biltmore supporter and Clearwater Gazette reporter
Renee Burrell for telling me about this! Celebrity and TV talk show
hostess Ellen DeGeneres is sponsoring a contest in which she is on the
hunt for America's best hometown! Will it be Belleair's where the famous
and now saved Belleview Biltmore Hotel is!? You can help Ellen choose
Yes to Belleair by voting online at
http://ellen.aol.com/profile/fl/belleair/claim+to+fame/largest+occupied+wooden+structure/
Just vote "yes" near the photo where it says "I like this profile" You
can help Belleair and its Victorian Belleview Biltmore become famous and
bring in tourists long into the future!
If you are up for a night of
top-shelf dining and dancing, head over to the Cabana Grill on Sand Key.
(Readers, the Cabana Grill is part of the Biltmore Hotel) You may have
heard about French Chef Alain's menu there, but did you know about the
live music and dancing? A musical duo comprised of vocalist Carol
Mitchell, who many remember from the Clearwater Beach Hotel, and
talented musician Eric Enfield, who sings and
plays keyboards, guitar, and drums, make up "Two for the Show". Mitchell
and Enfield play a variety of pop, blues, jazz and R & B standards
nightly from 7-11 p.m.
HOLIDAYS AT THE BILTMORE
There are many very festive days and nights planned for the upcoming
holiday season! Be sure to click on the links and participate or stay
at the Belleview Biltmore for any or all of them!
OUR ONLINE GIFT STORE:
Be sure to order your gold or silver charm of the Belleview
Biltmore Hotel at our beautiful and extensive Online Gift Shop:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
We also offer Biltmore T-shirts and watercolor prints. The Christmas
and Hanukkah holiday season is only two months away, so shop early for
friends and family!
NEW FUND RAISING IDEA!
We are now offering a brand new and exciting option for fund
raising to help us promote the Biltmore! YOU can just send us a jpg file
of your family, pets, children, club or favorite vacation photo, and WE
will put it on a T-shirt, tote bag OR a sugar cookie! You may also put
text on them too like a person's name! You may order one T-shirt or tote
bag at a time or as many as you want with your OWN
photo!! We have a minimum order of one dozen sugar cookies with YOUR
own family, pet, club or vacation photo. The cookies have edible icing
that will show your photo beautifully. See our online store for more
ordering information and sample pictures of how to put your own family
photos on T-shirts, tote bags and our edible photo sugar cookies.
BILTMORE ROOF:
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Belleview Biltmore to close May 2009
By HARLAN
WEIKLE
"After some brief confusion
regarding the target completion date, the board voted unanimously to
amend their previous compliance order and grant Legg Mason until Nov. 1,
2009 to bring the roof up to code with the proviso that the construction
management team returns Nov. 1, 2008 with a progress report." Click
link above to read full article.
NEW BILTMORE SUPPORTERS:
We welcome all new Biltmore supporters to my mailing
list and especially Albert Sorrie, all the way from Greenock, Scotland!
Mr. Sorrie has stayed at the Biltmore and wrote us that he and his
family had a lovely time.
CLOSING COMMENTS
The White Queen of the Gulf has an
exciting future ahead for her with these beautiful new renovation
plans. Beautiful dreams do come true when people and persistence work
together.
Sincerely,
Biltmore Update, Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Hello Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others,
Just a quick reminder that tonight is the very exciting
presentation by Legg Mason Real Estate
Investors for the renovation of the beautiful historic and
Victorian Belleview Biltmore Hotel
into a 4 or 5 star hotel!
Bring your family, friends and neighbors!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
Biltmore Update, Sunday, September 16, 2007
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others:
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL RENOVATION PLANS TO BE
UNVEILED THIS WEEK!
Wonderful news! Legg Mason Real Estate Investors
will be coming to Belleair THIS coming Wednesday, September 19 at 7:30 to
present their renovation plans for the Belleview Biltmore Hotel. Tom
Reynolds, attorney for Legg Mason, stated at a Belleair September 5, 2007
meeting that an approximate $100 million renovation is planned! "We know the
Biltmore has been an integral piece of the community's history and we look
forward to working with the city on a plan that preserves it for future
generations," said Joseph Penner, managing director
of Legg Mason Real Estate Investors,
http://www.sptimes.com/2007/06/06/Northpinellas/New_owner_to_save_hot.shtml
Quote from article by Lorri Helfand of the
St. Petersburg Times June 11,
2007. We hope you can come to this most exciting night to hear all the
details!
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:
For two other newspaper articles since my
last Biltmore Update click here:
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20070823/belleair.html
Clearwater Gazette August 23, 2007
Town Council Moves to Protect Green Space, Promises to Work With Hotel
Owners
By Renee Burrell
OUR ONLINE GIFT SHOP:
Be sure to order your gold or silver charm of the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel at our beautiful and extensive
Online Gift Shop:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm We also offer
Biltmore T-shirts and watercolor prints. The Christmas and Hanukkah holiday
season is only a few months away, so shop early for friends and family!
PINELLAS COUNTY HISTORIC TASK FORCE MEETING:
The Board of County Commissioners in Pinellas County adopted the creation of
the Historic Preservation Task Force to review, analyze and facilitate the
implementation of preservation policies for historically significant
structure, neighborhoods, districts and improvements throughout the County.
The next meeting is: September 20th, 2007
2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Pinellas County Courthouse
4th floor Conference Room
Clearwater
Phone-- 727.464.3278
FLORIDA HOMETOWN DEMOCRACY:
If you live in Florida, be sure to visit this web site called: Florida
Hometown Democracy:
http://www.floridahometowndemocracy.com/
This statement is from their web site and they have petitions available to
print out and sign: "A grass-roots, non-partisan group who recognize that
putting the people in charge of the places where they live is key to a
sustainable future of our state! The Florida Hometown Democracy Amendment
seeks to take this faith in the people and make the current land use system
more accountable by giving the power over certain land use changes
(comprehensive plan amendments) to the voters."
http://www.floridahometowndemocracy.com/documents/FHD_Petition2-Final.pdf
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL AND WEB SITE:
Established in 1897, the Belleview Biltmore bestows Southern hospitality and
unparalleled elegance on all those who come in contact with her. The
Belleview provides Victorian accommodations, a world-class golf club,
soothing spa, a dazzling beach club and legendary customer services. A true
Queen of the Gulf, the Belleview Biltmore makes every day an unforgettable
feast for the senses. For more information and to book a reservation,
wedding, meeting etc., please call (800) 237-8947, or log onto
http://www.BelleviewBiltmore.com.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
This week will be a most exciting one as the White Queen of the Gulf is
about to be transformed into a 4 or 5 star hotel in the future by Legg Mason
Real Estate Investors. Come share the excitement this Wednesday evening at
7:30 p.m. and see what plans are in store for this magnificent historic
hotel...now that it is saved!
Sincerely,
Save the Biltmore Preservationist Membership Photos,
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others:
As I wrote in my last Biltmore Update today, enclosed are
the photos of our newly designed Biltmore T-shirt, tote bag, sterling silver
and gold charm items for our nonprofit organization Save the Biltmore
Preservationists. They are part of just some of the gifts that you will
receive when you become a member of our organization. We offer Copper $50,
Bronze $100, Silver $250, Gold $500 and Platinum $1,000
Copper $50,
Bronze $100,
Silver $250,
Gold $500 or
Platinum $1000.
There are many other gifts you may choose from when you
become a member. To view the main membership page which shows photos of all
the various gift selections and a photo of both the blue and sepia parchment
certificate, click this link and become a member today!
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreMemberships.htm
Please note that most nonprofit organizations do NOT give
gifts or certificates when you join them, so our memberships are very
special.
Your membership donation will help us continue to do
the work to help preserve it forever. Become a proud patron member
today!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, a nonprofit
organization
Attachments: Biltmore membership and online shop items
Biltmore Update, Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media and
Others:
A very warm thank you to all those who wrote to
congratulate and thank my nonprofit organization and me for our work to
bring community awareness to the Biltmore and for help in saving this
magnificent Victorian hotel from demolition. I received such a wonderful
response from so many of you so thank you very much; it was very
heartwarming to hear from so many of you. As I last wrote in June, your
help and support have been invaluable to me personally and to us.
A special thanks to Bay News 9 who interviewed us after
the final sale of the hotel. To read the interview click:
As reported in my last Biltmore Update, Legg Mason Real
Estate Investors is the purchaser of the Biltmore. The closing was
Wednesday, June 20th. Joseph Penner of Legg Mason will be coming back to
Belleair sometime in mid September to present more formal plans.
In the meantime be sure to visit the Belleview Biltmore
Hotel for any one of their spectacular brunches or spend a day or week at
the Biltmore. The Belleview Biltmore is planning many wonderful and
exciting Labor Day activities
for THREE days starting Friday, August 31 through Sunday
September 2, 2007. They are having a
Pre-party on Friday with a seafood buffet, Saturday a Luau Party with a Luau
Buffet and Sunday a Pool Party with a BBQ Buffet. Click their link to
read for times, more details and prices along with their detailed menus: http://www.belleviewbiltmore.com/laborday.html
NEW!! MEMBERSHIPS FOR OUR ORGANIZATION: SAVE THE
BILTMORE PRESERVATIONISTS
This is a long time dream come true for me, to offer
memberships to our devoted Biltmore supporters to continue our work to help
the Biltmore stand tall for another 110 years! We are very proud to
announce these memberships at this time. So now you can join our nonprofit
organization and become a member. Your donation gift will help us continue
to preserve and promote
the beautiful Victorian, 1897 Belleview
Biltmore Hotel, "The White Queen of the Gulf," Belleair, Florida. We will
use your membership donations to promote the Biltmore for tourism,
conventions, meetings, wedding etc. thereby helping to insure its
preservation into the future.
You may choose from a
Copper,
Bronze,
Silver,
Gold or
Platinum Membership. With
your one-year membership, you will receive a beautiful parchment
certificate with your name, (choice of blue or sepia to match your decor to
hang it in your home, office, store), a fold-over cover with gold
embellishment and four die-cut corner slots to hold the certificate in
place, perfect to stand on a table or desk. Your name will be proudly
presented on the certificate as a major patron. Actual size of the
certificate is: 8.5 by 11 inches. You will be proud to display or hang it
showing your support by being a member of our nonprofit organization, Save
the Biltmore Preservationists.
Also there are many choices of gifts for your
donation ranging from a watercolor or photo print of the Biltmore, a
Biltmore T-shirt, a Biltmore tote bag, silver or gold charm or keychain, tie
clasp, tie tack, lapel pin, cufflinks, lady's pin (use two of them for
earrings) mouse pad, email newsletter, "Florida's Grand Hotels from The
Gilded Age" (Florida) (Images of America) book by author R. Wayne Ayers, or
"The Architecture of Leisure: The Florida Resort Hotels of Henry Flagler and
Henry Plant," book by Susan Braden.
Please note that most nonprofit organizations do NOT give
gifts or certificates when you join them, so our memberships are very
special.
To view the main membership page which shows photos of all
the various gift selections and a photo of the blue and sepia parchment
certificate click:
SILVER MEMBERSHIP--DONATION OF $ 250
For each $250 Silver Membership there are THREE different gift options.
Choose your one-year membership from below:
GOLD MEMBERSHIPS--DONATION OF $500
Each $500 gold membership includes choice
of THREE different gift options. Choose your one-year membership from below:
If you know someone who loves the Biltmore, give a Save
the Biltmore Preservationist memberships gift to him or her!
BILTMORE T-SHIRTS AND TOTE BAGS:
One great way you can help promote the Biltmore and
preserve its future is by wearing our new Biltmore T-shirt or carrying our
Biltmore tote bag. They both say:
Belleview Biltmore Hotel
Built 1897 -
Saved 2007
Many people often wrote me asking how they can help us, so
now is your chance to promote the Biltmore and be a proud owner of this NEW
T-shirt or tote bag. It is a wonderful way for you to talk about the hotel
and also to promote it to your friends and family. You can be a walking
advertisement for this Victorian hotel that is now saved! The T-shirt is
offered in two designs, a photo I personally took of the Biltmore or
Biltmore artwork by Janice James. You can help us promote the Biltmore!
PINELLAS COUNTY TASK FORCE MEETING:
The Historic Preservation Task Force for Pinellas County
is hosting a workshop to review the progress of the program and review a
Draft Ordinance that would establish a Historic Preservation Program for the
County. The current Draft Ordinance is available for review on Pinellas
County's Internet page, under Historic Preservation. The public is welcome
to attend this meeting and provide comment on the program. Two workshops
are being held at the following locations and dates:
August 22, 2007, (today at 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.!) Dunedin and
August 29 Pinellas Park City. Click here for addresses and times:
http://www.pinellascounty.org/historic/pdf/Announcement.pdf For further
information please contact Commissioner Karen Seel, at (727) 464-3337 or the
Pinellas County Planning Dept. at (727) 464-8200
JPG ATTACHMENTS
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
Become a member of our nonprofit organization Save the
Biltmore Preservationists and continue to do YOUR part to preserve and
promote this charming historic hotel that you and we love so well. Yes the
hard work is over with to save the Biltmore from demolition, but its future
also partially depends on people like you to promote the hotel and
participate in its future. Your membership donation will help us continue
to do the work to help preserve it forever. Become a proud patron member
today!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, a nonprofit
organization
Save the Biltmore Update, Friday June 22, 2007
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media
and Others:
VICTORY! THE
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE RESORT AND SPA IS SAVED FROM DEMOLITION!
The battles are over, the war is won...VICTORY!
What a victory for me, our nonprofit organization, preservationists everywhere,
the town of Belleair, Pinellas County, the State of Florida, the community, the
country, the world and everyone involved in helping to save the Biltmore! What
is so very special is that ALL FOUR WINGS
of the hotel will be saved which I have been fighting very hard to save since I
launched my Save the Biltmore web in 2004! My goal was very
unlike another "preservationist" who in 2005 originally wanted
to tear down two historical wings, the north and south to "save" it. So saving
ALL FOUR WINGS is a dream come true for me and a real
victory!
As reported in my last Save the Biltmore Update, Legg Mason Real
Estate Investors is the purchaser. The closing was Wednesday, June
20th.
This is a huge victory for our community and your support is so greatly
appreciated. For everyone who supported this cause, you helped save a big part
of the history of the Town of Belleair and Pinellas County. I and my nonprofit
organization are very grateful for your help, your best wishes and your hard
work and support. I know many of you have participated at various levels to help
save the Biltmore, sending emails of support and ideas for my Save the Biltmore
Message Board, writing Belleair officials, purchasing items from our online
store, wearing our Save the Biltmore T-shirt, carrying our tote bags, attending
commission meetings, giving speeches, suggesting investors to contact to
purchase the hotel and the list goes on! So a very very warm thank you for all
the support I have received from you to help win this war and become victorious.
A special thank you to my two current directors on our nonprofit board,
Ed Jameson, our organization's vice president and
Doug Mann, our secretary treasurer who supported saving all
four wings and the reason my nonprofit organization was born! They worked many
long hours to help save the Biltmore the past few years. Another special thank
you to Barbara Arnold Walters who was with my group for
a long time and also helped support and worked toward saving all four wings.
Also a special thank you to Linda Helm and
Ginny Vass.
I know there were so many of you who contributed time and or emails to the cause
so PLEASE know that I appreciate each and everyone. I certainly appreciate all
the emails you have sent to me over the past three years. This victory was NOT
one person's work to save the Biltmore, it was a great combination of many
peoples' efforts to save this wonderful hotel. Many many people were responsible
for saving the Biltmore thus far, it was a community effort, and of course I am
grateful to the St. Petersburg Times and
Lorri Helfand and Aaron Sharockman who on
April 12, 2005 mentioned my Save the Biltmore web site at which time dozens of
people wrote me the first few days of that posting to help try to save the
Biltmore. Where would we and the Biltmore be today had they not mentioned my web
site to gather so many people together for what seemed an impossible mission!???
The written news media besides the Times has been following this story closely
since 2004, especially the Belleair Bee, the Clearwater Gazette and
the Tampa Tribune. Many local television and radio stations and
magazines have also carried the long story of the saving of the Biltmore since
2004, They have interviewed us also, so we are thankful for all this media
coverage and helping our organization bring the message to the public about the
importance of saving this beautiful Victorian hotel. To view this HUGE list of
publications click:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreNewspapersAndPublications.htm
Of course a special thank you to Belleair officials who upon the recommendation
of Belleair resident and former commissioner Sam Casella
hired preservation attorney Nancy Stroud to write a
historic preservation ordinance. It has been extremely gratifying to me that
Belleair commissioners supported saving the Biltmore and
passed this historic preservation ordinance in the fall of 2005.
ABOUT THE SALE AND WHAT WILL BE DONE TO THE HOTEL IN THE FUTURE:
Here are some recent quotes from the local news media about the sale and future
of the hotel and Legg Mason's plans for it.
Belleview Biltmore Sale Finalized By CHARY
SOUTHMAYD Belleair Bee Friday, June 22, 2007
http://www.tbnweekly.com/pubs/belleair_bee/content_articles/062107_bee-07.txt
for complete article
“The fee simple transfer was completed ... Thank goodness,” said
Richard Wilhelm, president and CEO of TRUST Hotels and
Resorts, the firm managing the Biltmore, who was closely involved in
the process from beginning to end. “I’m delighted Legg Mason
has acquired it, and everyone in the community I’ve talked to is looking forward
to its future for another hundred years.”
The purchase price was not announced. “We have engaged numerous consultants and
historic preservation experts in order to develop a restoration and
rehabilitation plan for the property,” said Joseph Penner,
managing director of LMREI, in a June 4 press release.
“This is a very large project, so we want it to be well thought out,” Penner
later added during a phone interview from his California office
“We have fought long and hard to save all four wings (of the hotel) since I
launched my Web site in 2004, so having succeeded in that goal is very
gratifying,” said Diane Hein, founder of www.SaveTheBiltmore.com.
“The reality of its being saved is certainly a joyous occasion for all, and I
thank the community for their support during for the past few years.”
The Biltmore remains open for what management hopes will be a busy summer
season."
Biltmore Dodges Wrecking Ball The St. Petersburg Times
Wednesday, June 21, 2007
"Officials and others close to the deal say Legg Mason plans to restore the 110
year old Biltmore, removing the unpopular pagoda entrance, redoing the pool and
adding underground parking. The resort is on the National Register of Historic
Places.
Belleview Biltmore Property Sold By c.j.
pollick Clearwater Gazette Thursday, June 21, 2007http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20070621/biltmore.html
As of Wednesday the 20th of June, 2007, the Belleview Biltmore Hotel and related
properties (Belleview Biltmore Golf Club and Beach Cabana Club) were sold by
Honeywell Pension Fund to Legg-Mason Corp. Purchase price was not disclosed.
Martin Smith will remain as General Manager of the Belleview
Biltmore Hotel (and Cabana Club) while Chuck Eade
remains General Manager of the Belleview Biltmore Golf Club. GF Management Group
of Philadelphia will oversee management of the hotel assets.
"Commissioners get Biltmore look-see" by
Harlan Weikle Belleair Bee June 21, 2007
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/062107_bee-02.txt Click the link
to read it in completion
Commissioner Karla Rettstatt had a meeting Tuesday with
Joseph Penner, LMREI managing director, during which,
she said, “I saw preliminary plans for the renovation, however there was no
schedule discussed. The owners want to make a presentation of the plans to the
public soon.”
Asked after the meeting for details of the plans she had been shown, Rettstatt
said that the building would remain intact.
“They are not taking anything down, except the pagoda is gone,” she said,
referring to the often criticized discontinuous architectural style of the steel
and glass structure erected over the hotel’s entrance by previous owners.
Rettstatt said she saw renderings of the pool area, which were beautiful.
She added that it was apparent they intend to restore the hotel, in Belleview
Biltmore grand style, replete with signature green roof."
NOTE: Readers it has been reported that in addition to the above,
Legg Mason will save the three Victorian cottages, add a convention
center and move the spa.
Editorial by CHARY SOUTHMAYD
Editor of the Belleair Bee June 14, 2007
http://www.tbnweekly.com/editorial/viewpoints/content_articles/061207_vpt-01.txt
Click link above for full editorial
"Honor the Grand Dame
"Unique, historic, romantic, endangered.
"The Biltmore exudes romance, with its lush grounds complete with the treasured
heart tree on the south lawn near the one-time carriage entrance where countless
couples have vowed to love, honor and cherish. Weddings remain big business at
the Biltmore. A window view on the main floor allows visitors to watch fabulous
wedding cakes being created. You can feel the anticipation of love’s promise in
the air.
"Go by and visit, enjoy Sunday brunch, relax and sip a beverage out on the
veranda. To save the Biltmore is to honor what is worth keeping. We take pride
in her past and hope that when once again fabulous, the community will embrace
the Biltmore as an integral part of our future."
NEW WATERCOLOR DESIGN BILTMORE T-SHIRTS AND TOTE BAG AVAILABLE
TODAY!
We are offering NEW watercolor design T-shirts, tote bags AND prints
by renowned artist Janice James.
This beautifully designed rendition of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel, Belleair,
Florida was designed by former St. Petersburg artist, Janice James,
whose specialty is Florida architecture, from small quaint beach houses to
historic landmarks, landscapes, seascapes and private homes done in the
traditional manner. Limited edition prints have been made of several landmarks
in St. Petersburg and Tampa including not only the Biltmore but the Vinoy and
the Don Cesar Hotels in St. Petersburg.. She now is retired in Sun City, Florida
with her husband of 55 years. She has three daughters and one granddaughter.
Mrs. James has been painting since the age of nine and has
studied at the Ringling Art School in Sarasota, Florida and the University of
Miami on an art scholarship. She became a commercial artist designing layouts
and illustrating fashions for newspaper advertising. She is a Signature member
of the Florida Watercolor Society. Her paintings have won recognition, which
includes: Best of Show and first prizes in Miami, St. Petersburg and Sarasota.
We sincerely thank Mrs. James for letting us use her beautiful watercolor to
help us to continue to promote and preserve the Biltmore.
We also have NEW T-shirts and tote bags with the PHOTO of the Biltmore on them.
Some people have requested a photo vs artwork, so we are offering both now! The
photo used on these T-shirts and tote bags is from the front of my web page
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
So order your new T-shirt or tote bag or Mrs. James'
beautiful Biltmore watercolor print: 8 by 10 inch $55, or 11 by 14 inch $75, 13
by 19 inch $95 today! To see the new design and print by this renowned
watercolorist and order it click here:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm How lovely her
artwork will look hanging in your home, office, studio, library or retail
location since the Biltmore is now saved! The T-shirt and tote bags are only
$14.95 plus a small shipping charge.
We also have Tony Blue's Biltmore artwork series such as
"Gardenias on the Veranda" so be sure to look at his beautiful work also at our
online store.
THE FUTURE FOR OUR ORGANIZATION AND THE BILTMORE:
Many people have written me in the past few weeks as to what direction our
nonprofit organization will take now that the Biltmore is saved. Our future
plans are to PROMOTE the Biltmore to the community,
around the country and around the world to bring more awareness, tourism,
meetings and conventions to the Biltmore. I will be keeping my
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com web site up permanently, and our online
store is open 24 hours a day! We will use those monies collected from our online
store to help promote and preserve the hotel in the future. So you can help us
continue this promotion just as you have helped us in the past. Tell everyone
the story of the Biltmore and shop at our online store. We have no financial
connection with the new ownership group, and we wish them much success of
course! Our sole purpose is to insure the perpetual care, promotion and
preservation of the structure itself.
In about two weeks I'll be announcing something entirely new
that our nonprofit organization will be offering so be sure to keep reading my
Biltmore Updates!
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
I have been looking forward to this day after three long, hard years of: sending
and receiving thousands of emails from supporters, time looking for
investors/hoteliers to buy the Biltmore, hours updating and adding to my Save
the Biltmore web site, starting a nonprofit organization and the list goes on
and on the tasks my nonprofit organization and I have done to help save the
Biltmore! So this week is one of the happiest occasions of my life. My nonprofit
organization and I are most excited to launch the next phase of continuing to
promote and preserve the Biltmore! History is now saved as well as a beautiful
hotel, "The White Queen of the Gulf."
In saving the golden treasures of the past, we bank on enriching the present and
the future.
So....
The battles are over
The war is won
The Biltmore is saved
Pop the cork
Pour the champagne and
CELEBRATE!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
Click to see the NEW HEADING of my web page! It's grand!
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Note: NEW links on the home page are up now to reflect the saving of the
Biltmore. If you ever want to go back to the original web page from the year
2004 to 2007 before the sale click:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreHotelOriginalPage.htm This
link is accessible from the new home page also.
Save the Biltmore Update, Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Dear Biltmore Supporter, News Media and Others:
There is wonderful and exciting news to report.....at last! Four local
newspapers, the St. Petersburg Times, the Belleair Bee, the Clearwater
Gazette and the Tampa Tribune have reported that there will be a sale of the
Belleview Biltmore Resort and Spa to Legg Mason Real Estate Investors, (Los
Angeles) by the end of this June! More information will be given at that
time in one of my Updates after the sale goes through, but they are
promising historic restoration and preservation and plan on making the
Biltmore a 4 to 5 star hotel! This of course is a dream come true for me,
my nonprofit organization and many preservationists to save ALL FOUR WINGS
OF the hotel from demolition and restore it!
FIRST FRIDAYS (Info from the web site of the Belleview Biltmore)
First Fridays at the Biltmore
Complimentary wine (wines change every month) and cheese tasting every FIRST
FRIDAY of the month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. No reservations required.
Drawing for dinner for two at CGB or the Palm Grill or a Palm Grill brunch.
For more information about the Belleview Biltmore or First Fridays call
727-373-3000.
EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT (Info from the web site of the Belleview Biltmore)
Historic Ghost Tours
Tours: 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. During the course of the tour, the hotel will
tell you its many amazing stories and experience real parapsychology, the
science pertaining to the investigation of the paranormal phenomena. Prices
are $25.00 for adults, $20.00 for military personnel, members of law
enforcement, senior citizens, and college students, and $15.00 for children
ages 7-12. Children under the age of 7 are welcome and free of charge. For
groups of 10 or more you receive a $5.00 per person discount making the
individual price $20.00. For further information on tours, please call our
Paranormal Investigative Specialists at (800) 237-8947 or (727) 373-3000
Below is information from the Belleview Biltmore Marketing Manager Rob
Richute from the oldest date to the newest date of his press releases. Mr.
Richute is doing a wonderful job of creating new activities and promotions
for the hotel so be sure to read through all of them and participate in one
or more of the events. There is something for EVERYONE in this list
including many upcoming Fourth of July celebrations so come to the Biltmore!
Feb 26, 2007
INTRODUCING THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE’S NEW LOBBY BAR MENU & NEW HAPPY HOUR
SPECIALS
CLEARWATER, FL – Combining intimacy and an old-fashioned luxury appearance,
the Lobby Bar at the Belleview Biltmore is available to all visitors of the
resort and serves quality national and international wines, spirits, and
beers, as well as non-alcoholic drinks and a variety of tasty treats. The
Lobby Bar introduced a new menu and happy hour specials.
The new food menu and the bar’s happy hour specials have been created to
better suit the needs of its guests. The following specials apply:
Monday: Sushi Bar .50 cents a piece, Sauvignon Blanc $4.00 a glass.
Tuesday: Fish Tacos $1.50 each, Coronas $2.50 each.
Wednesday: BBQ Ribs 3 for $2.00, Domestic Draft Beer $2.00 each.
Thursday: Sliders 3 for $4.00, Well Drinks $3.00 each.
Friday: Fish Fry $4.00, Chardonnay $4.00 a glass.
Happy hour is Monday through Friday between the hours of 4 p.m. to 7
p.m. One can also enjoy great eats from the new Lobby Bar menu like Hotel
favorites, the flame broiled angus beef Tiffany Burger and The Starlight
Grouper Sandwich.
March 15, 2007
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE ACES TENNIS COURT REJUVENATION
CLEARWATER, FL – The tennis courts at the Belleview Biltmore have received a
facelift. Thanks to the help of the Belleview Biltmore’s new Tennis Pro
Stephen Phillips, the clay courts at the Biltmore have been newly
refurbished with 22.4 tons of red clay, returning the 4 courts to their
original exquisiteness. In addition to the refurbished grounds, the
facilities are being updated with new screens and landscaping. A complete
remodeling of the tennis shop will follow these improvements.
The resort plans on offering a plethora of new membership options, clinics
for all age and skill levels. Leagues are beginning to form now and a
junior summer camp is scheduled to begin this summer.
Most of the improvements can be credited to the Biltmore’s new Tennis Pro
Stephen Phillips. Phillips was a former touring pro for nine years and has
a vast history in the sport. Some of his accomplishments include holding
the NCAA school singles record at Division I University of Rhode Island, he
is also a former tennis coach at Brown University, was the hitting partner
of Ivan Lendl a former #1 ranked player, he also taught Jill Craybas, a top
50 pro for the last 10 years.
For more information on the Belleview Biltmore Tennis facilities call
727-373-3000 or call Stephen Phillips at 727-520-6397.
April 27, 2007
THE BABE’S POKER NIGHT AT THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE
CLEARWATER, FL – The historic Belleview Biltmore Resort located in
Clearwater is pairing up with TreasureChestPoker.com to offer its guests and
local Clearwater residents a chance to play free poker in the hotel’s newly
rejuvenated St. Andrew’s Pub.
Beginning May 3rd and continuing every Thursday, Treasure Chest Poker will
host two poker tournaments a night starting at 7 p. m. & 10 p.m. The
tournaments are free to play, and players at the Pub will have a chance to
qualify for the Florida Poker Championship. Players will also be collecting
points while playing. Points accumulate to win great prizes like a monthly
prize from Treasure Chest Poker that includes a trip for two to Las Vegas.
For years rumors have circulated Clearwater’s Belleview Biltmore Resort that
characters like Babe Ruth and Al Capone used to frequent St. Andrew’s
Pub. Throughout the years the pub has also been known as the Bimini Room
and Dutch Room and was a favorite hang out spot for the Biltmore’s
neighbors. In recent years the Pub has been only open on weekends and
special occasions until now. Beginning the first week of May, St. Andrew’s
Pub will be open Tuesday through Saturday with specials and activities
happening every night. The Pub will be open from 3 p.m. until 2 a.m. and
will offer a variety of beverages. Food can also be ordered through the
Palm Grill.
For more information about joining a league with Treasure Chest Poker go to
http://www.TreasureChestPoker.com
May 3, 2007
NURSE NIGHT SPECIAL BEGINNING MAY 9TH AT THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE’S
REJUVINATED ST. ANDREW’S PUB, CLEARWATER, FL –
The historic Belleview Biltmore Resort will offer a special night at St.
Andrew’s Pub solely dedicated to those in the medical field. Beginning
Wednesday, May 9th and continuing on a weekly basis, Wednesdays will be
known as “Nurses Night” at St. Andrew’s Pub.
When asked about the addition of Nurses night F&B Director Dennis Beaton
commented “We would like to cater to the enormous work force at Morton Plant
Mease Hospital and several nursing homes in our general area.” The Pub
plans on offering a complimentary glass of house wine to patrons with a
valid medical ID. The pub will also be showing medical related television
shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scrubs,” “ER,” and “House.” “We will have a
collection of medical dramas on hand as well as our regular cable
programming at the request of our guests,” said Beaton.
May 7, 2007
INTRODUCING BELLEVIEW BILTMORE UNIVERSITY
CLEARWATER, FL – The Belleview Biltmore has been host to many events and
special occasions over its 110-year history. After being a ballroom dancing
venue, a movie set, and even an occupied military base, now the Biltmore can
be associated with an educational institute. Beginning on Wednesday, May 16
the Biltmore will offer an “Introduction to Hospitality Management” course.
The Belleview Biltmore is proud to offer hospitality professionals and
students interested in the hospitality field the opportunity to advance
their education. Students will have the opportunity to learn from the
perspective of some of the best senior managers in the industry including
companies like Walt Disney World, Carnival Cruise Lines, Starwood Hotels and
Resorts, TRUST Hotels and Tampa International Airport.
Classes begin May 16th and end on August 29th running from 5:00 PM until
7:00 PM. All classes will be located the Belleview Biltmore Resort in
Clearwater. The hotel has said they will gladly offer this course at an
additional time frame (morning or early afternoon) to meet increased demand
and accommodate alternate schedules. Participants will receive a BBU logo
T-shirt and a framed certificate upon successful course
completion. Students may also apply for college credit.
To sign up for future classes or for more information call 727-373-3000 and
ask for the Human Resources department.
May 30, 2007
CLEARWATER'S WEEK LONG JULY 4TH CELEBRATION AT THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE
CLEARWATER, FL - Clearwater's July 4th celebration is a week-long event at
the Belleview Biltmore Resort. The historic resort invites guests and the
public to attend its week-long festivities that include activities for all
ages, friends and families. Events are focused around the resort's
waterfall-pool and include special holiday menus, live music, all day drink
specials, special seafood and BBQ buffets, even poker nights and a festive
night of Karaoke in the St. Andrew's Pub.
No Clearwater Independence Day is complete without fireworks, and the resort
offers great views of the firework displays. Guests and the public are
invited to watch the fireworks, starting at dusk, from the resort's dock or
from its Beach Club on Sand Key, where more special events are held at the
Cabana Grill & Sunset Bar.
"The week-long celebration allows us all to get together to honor the great
events that founded this country. Recall and honor its defenders and renew
our understanding of the how blessed we are to be free," said Martin Smith,
Managing Director and VP. " The Beach Club on Sand Key is an ideal location
to view the city's spectacular displays without the overwhelming crowds. We
look forward to making our pool terrace, beach and facilities available to
our neighbors."
Every year the resort's events continue to expand. Rob Richute, Marketing
Manger noted that "Each year we try to improve on what people really enjoy
from prior years and add new items to make this holiday week event more
fun." he noted. " This year we have expanded to a seven day event, adding
some new items such as karaoke night, poker tournament and special menus at
pool side. It really is a week with something for everyone, all ages." To
find out more you can view the full schedule at contact the resort's
holiday hotline at (727) 373-3768
This year's events are all planned around pool parties at the hotel's
waterfall pool area. Some of the scheduled events will include:
Friday, June 29th ~ GET READY POOL PARTY Holiday menus, Live DJ, drink
specials, complimentary Hors D'oeuvres and a Victorian Seafood Buffet.
Saturday, June 30th ~ ANNUAL POOL PARTY! Holiday Menus, Live DJ, Drink
Specials, and the resort's famous "Victorian Prime Rib Buffet"
Wednesday, July 4th ~ POOL PARTY & FIREWORKS. Yahoo! Holiday Menus, Live DJ,
drink specials and FIREWORKS! Watch the fireworks at sundown from the
resort's docks or on the beach at the Cabana Grill & Bar or Sunset Bar, Sand
Key
Thursday, July 5th ~ POOL & POKER! Drink specials, Live DJ and FREE Texas
Hold'em Poker Tournament
Friday, July 6th ~ POOL, SEAFOOD & KARAOKE Drink specials, Live DJ, Seafood
Buffet and karaoke at St. Andrew's Pub
Saturday, July 7th ~ THE POOL TURNS INTO MARGARITAVILLE! Margarita specials,
Live DJ ~ 4:00 to 8 P.M. Prime Rib Buffet and Ghost Tours.
For reservations at the Belleview Biltmore, please call (727) 373-3768 or
visit
http://www.BelleviewBiltmore.com
June 6, 2007
SINGLES NIGHT AT THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE’S REJUVINATED ST. ANDREW’S PUB
CLEARWATER, FL – The historic Belleview Biltmore Resort will offer a special
night at St. Andrew’s Pub solely dedicated to those living the “single”
life. Beginning Tuesday, June 12th and continuing on a weekly basis,
Tuesdays and Saturdays will be known as “Singles Night” at St. Andrew’s
Pub. The Pub is also open from 3 p.m. until 2 a.m and will offer a variety
of beverages.
As you can see from Mr. Richute's announcements above, there is always
plenty to do at the Belleview Biltmore Hotel! Book a room now for a
vacation or come to one of the events listed above. The Biltmore is a
wonderful place to have fun, relax and be with family or friends or a
romantic getaway. What will make the Biltmore a success in the long run is
PEOPLE! Lots of them!
From our nonprofit online store, order a silver or gold Biltmore charm or
some beautiful artwork TODAY. We want to expand community awareness of this
beautiful hotel so you can help us promote and preserve the Biltmore by
ordering items on our online store. http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
I launched my Save the Biltmore web site in 2004 when I first learned of the
Biltmore's possible demolition. So it has been a long hard road to saving
the Biltmore, but this is all behind us now with the sale going through this
month.
There is an exciting road ahead for this beautiful Victorian hotel. YOU can
help us preserve it for future generations by going there, shopping online
at our store, or telling everyone you know about it!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, a nonprofit organization
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Save the
Biltmore Update Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Dear Save
the Biltmore Supporter, News Media and Others:
There is no new news to report regarding the sale of the Belleview Biltmore
Hotel, the contract is still pending with Legg Mason Real Estate Investors
and the current hotel owner.
The
following information is from Rob Richute, Marketing manager for the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel,
BELLEVIEW
BILTMORE TO OFFER TENNIS CAMP
CLEARWATER, FL –
The Belleview Biltmore will be bringing life to their newly renovated tennis
courts, by inviting kids to come out and play this summer.
The
Belleview Biltmore’s new Tennis Summer Camp is designed to stimulate and
challenge children of all levels, age groups, and abilities. The new Tennis
Pro Stephen Phillips will use drills, games, and instructional teaching aids
to incorporate fun and training into their summer plans.
The camp
will begin May 21st
and run through August 17th.
The day will start around 9:00 am and end at 3:00 pm. It’s just $200 a week
or $40 day. Your child will also have a chance to play volleyball, soccer,
or go swimming in the Biltmore’s huge outdoor pool, and if the weather is
unpleasant, they will enjoy a movie alongside their new friends. The summer
camp will also provide complimentary boxed lunches to campers. These box
lunches will include a sandwich, fruit, chips, cookies, and a drink.
For more information on the
Belleview Biltmore Tennis facilities call 727-373-3000 or call Stephen
Phillips at 727-520-6397.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media and
Others:
For those of you who live outside the area and
have not heard yet, there is wonderful news about Biltmore!
Two local newspapers, The St. Petersburg Times and
the Belleair Bee have reported that there is a contract to purchase
the Biltmore with Legg Mason Real Estate Investors Inc., Los
Angeles, California.
"Executives with Legg Mason Real Estate Investors
would not disclose the proposed purchase price or the closing date,
but said in a written statement they had a contract to buy the
resort and intend to preserve the 110-year-old hotel." St.
Petersburg Times article by Rita Farlow, March 9, 2007.
Harlan Weikle of the Belleair Bee reported on
March 15 in his article that Legg Mason's "Number one goal is to
devise an economically feasible plan to rehabilitate and restore
this landmark property.”
The following information is from Rob Richute, Marketing Manager of
the Belleview Biltmore Hotel:
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE TO SELL EASTER BUNNY COTTAGES
CLEARWATER, FL - This Easter, the historic Belleview Biltmore’s
pastry shop is decorated with Easter bunny cottages designed by
award winning pastry chef Nomeda Baronas.
The edible gingerbread houses will be for sale at
the resort beginning March 30h for $25 a house.
The Biltmore’s Easter Buffet takes place Sunday,
April 8th from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m Followed by an Easter egg hunt at
12:30. 1:30 & 2:30. Cost for the feast is $39.95 for adults and
$17.95 for children (12 and under). Price includes tax and
gratuities. Children under 3 eat free. Seating will be on the hour
every hour with the first seating at 11 a.m. and the last at 3 p.m.
To make your Easter Buffet reservations, please
call 1-800-237-8947. For reservations at the Belleview Biltmore,
please call (727) 373-3000 or visit http://www.BelleviewBiltmore.com.
Established in 1897, the Belleview Biltmore bestows Southern
hospitality and unparalleled elegance on all those who come in
contact with her. The Belleview provides Victorian accommodations, a
world-class golf club, soothing spa, a dazzling beach club and
legendary customer services. A true Queen of the Gulf, the Belleview
Biltmore makes every day an unforgettable feast for the sense. For
more information please call (800) 237-8947, or log onto
http://www.BelleviewBiltmore.com.
Sterling silver: $ 75.00
Gold over sterling: $100.00
14 Karat Gold: $400.00
14 Karat Rose Gold: $450.00
Happy Easter everyone!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Save the Biltmore Update, Saturday, January
13, 2007
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporter, News Media
and Others:
A BILTMORE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel is celebrating
its 110th birthday TOMORROW, Monday, January 15th, 2007! Be
there to join in the festivities!
Here is the information from Martin Smith,
V.P. and Managing Manager of the Biltmore:
Who? The Belleview Biltmore Resort Beach
Club, Golf Club & Spa
What? 110th Birthday Bash, free entrance,
complimentary hor'dourves and wine, door prizes and more!
When? Monday, January 15th 2007, 6 p.m. - 8
p.m.
Where? In the hotel's Tiffany Ballroom
Why? To celebrate 110 years of excellence!
Belleview Biltmore
25 Belleview Blvd.
Clearwater, FL 33756
727-373-3000
RECENT NEWS ARTICLES ON THE BILTMORE:
To read an article about the Biltmore in our
local Tampa Tribune by reporter Carlos Moncado, dated January 3,
2007 click the link below:
"Belleair's Proud Empress Soldiers On
Belleair's Proud Empress Soldiers On"
The fountains still splash and the guests
still enjoy all the amenities of the Belleview Biltmore Resort &
Spa in spite of the cloud of possible demolition looming over
the hotel.
If you live in the Tampa Bay area, be sure to
pick up a copy of the Tampa Bay Magazine, there was a three-page
article about the Biltmore, its history, owners and its current
status.
Happy New Year everyone and celebrate the
Biltmore's birthday tomorrow at this beautiful, historic
Victorian hotel!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
December 7, 2006
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporter, News Media and
Other:
Some email programs do not accept jpg.
attachments so I am sending this Save the Biltmore Shopping
Update as a separate email instead of including it in last
week's Update. We have a wonderful online shopping store where
you can purchase beautiful gifts via a credit card, PayPal or
you may mail in a check. Here are some of the wonderful items
that will make your holiday shopping easy, quick and fun!
1. ARTWORK OF LOCAL ARTIST, TONY BLUE
Local artist,Tony Blue is giving 20% of the proceeds for the
sale of his beautiful Belleview Biltmore Hotel art series to our
Save the Biltmore Preservationists nonprofit fund. Limited
edition (150 maximum) giclée prints on canvas come stretched,
signed and numbered, mixed media and ready to frame. Each one is
numbered, marked and signed by the artist. To see larger photo,
click on each photo below. Shipping costs will be refunded if
you pick up the print locally or if you prefer, Tony will
deliver your print for just $10 if you live in Pinellas County.
You may pay online via credit card or
PayPal after you click the "Add to Cart" button.
"The White Queen of the Gulf" (26 x 16
inches - $225) #6
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_6_TheWhiteQueenoftheGulf.htm
"Gardenias On The Veranda" (30 x 20
inches - $300) #7
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_7_GardeniasOnTheVeranda.htm
"Enchanted Lady" (18 x 28 inches -
$255) # 1
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_1_EnchantedLady.htm
"Victorian Charm " (18 x 28 inches -
$255) # 2
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_2_VictorianCharm.htm
"Gabled Treasure" (30 x 20 inches -
$300) #3
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_3_GabledTreasure.htm
"Window Peek a Boo" (20 x 30 inches -
$300) # 4
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_4_WindowPeekABoo.htm
"Biltmore Waltz" (26 x 18 inches -
$250) #5
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_5_BiltmoreWaltz.htm
"Southern Escape" (20 x 30 inches -
$300) #8
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmore_8_SouthernEscape.htm
2. FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY
Click the links below to see a few of the fine art photography
prints available. For $25 you will receive an 8 by 10 print and
for $55 you will receive a matted and framed print. The latter
perfect to wrap and give to someone or yourself! Please note
that the frame is natural wood color, NOT black and white as on
the enclosed jpg. ALL proceeds will go to our nonprofit
organization, Save the Biltmore Preservationists.
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/NaturesCanopy.htm
(The jpg of this photo is enclosed) Nature Landscape
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/MorningAtTheDocks.htm
St. Petersburg Marina and Boats
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/PathSerenity.htm
Nature Landscape, Clearwater
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/SunsetSplendor.htm
Clearwater Beach Sunset
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/MiddaySiesta.htm
Nature/Beach Landscape, Crystal Beach, Florida
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/GoldenGlow.htm
Beautiful Golden Daisy
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/ElegantLady.htm
Still Life with Swan and Rose
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/RedBeauty.htm
Still Life with American Red Beauty Rose
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/ReflectionsOfPeace.htm
Nature Landscape (photographed in Largo, Florida)
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreHotel.htm
Belleview Biltmore Hotel, Belleair, Florida
Please note there are a total of 19 fine art prints available!
Click here to see all:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
3. THE "CHARM OF THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL"
Look no more for a wonderful Christmas, holiday or birthday
gift! Click on the link
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm to
see our beautiful charm available to all now for months.
The charm of the Belleview Biltmore hotel
is preserved for you forever in sterling silver, gold over
sterling or 14 karat gold or 14 karat rose gold.
Add this wonderful gold or silver charm to
your charm bracelet or wear it on a chain or cord as a pendant.
This beautiful and stunning Belleview Biltmore Hotel charm is
perfect to give as a gift any time of the year and especially
now this holiday season. KK Smith, Clearwater’s jeweler for
over 50 years is painstakingly custom-creating each piece and is
donating a portion of each of our online sales to our
preservation efforts for the hotel. Enjoy being part of saving
the Biltmore forever by owning this delightful charm. See the
attached jpg.
Sterling silver: $75.00
Gold over sterling: $100.00
14 Karat Gold: $400.00
14 Karat Rose Gold: $450.00
4. Save the Biltmore Calendar (Year at a glance, 8.5 by 11
inches, standard letter size) 4.95 each
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOLIDAY INFORMATION:
Click here to visit the Belleview Biltmore's website
http://www.belleviewbiltmore.com and make a reservation to
stay there this holiday season or make a reservation for your
holiday office party there or New Year's Eve. Below is
important holiday info from the Belleview Biltmore Hotel's
Martin Smith, V.P. and Managing Manager:
Brunch with Santa - ONLY TWO DATES LEFT:
DECEMBER 10TH & 17TH
Enjoy an enchanting Sunday brunch at the
Belleview Biltmore's in-house restaurant the Palm Grill. Bring
your camera because there will be a special guest. Old St. Nick
will be present for children to share their hearts desire with.
Make sure you bring a camera to take pictures of these special
moments.
Brunch is served from 10:30 am until 2:00
pm
Adults: $21.95 - Children (12 and under):
$12.95
ONLY TWO DATES LEFT: DECEMBER 10TH & 17TH
Reservations are strongly recommended
Call now: 727-373-3714
Traditional Holiday Buffet on Christmas Day
Join us for our annual holiday buffet on
December 25th. The meal will be a magnificent buffet with three
carving stations including Honey Baked Ham, Carved Slow-Roasted
Turkey & Slow Roasted Prime Rib. There will also be an ice glow
station, salad station, imported and domestic cheeses plus a hot
display featuring Executive Chef Etienne Jehl's Shrimp Bisque,
stuffed pork loin, herb crusted stuffing with apples and much
more.
Christmas Day, December 25
11:00 am - 3:00 pm
First seating at 11am, last seating at 3pm.
Seating on the hour
Adult: $39.95 - Children (under 12) $17.95
Prices include Tax & Gratuity
Children under 3 will receive a complimentary meal
We hope to see you at the Belleview
Biltmore for our holiday celebration! While your here don't
forget to pick up one of Pastry Chef Nomeda Baronas award
winning Gingerbread houses for $25 available at the hotel.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
Help us to continue to Save the Biltmore by shopping online and
make your holiday gifts a pleasure to buy! You may also make
your purchases via check, the address is on the online store.
Again my wishes to everyone for a happy holiday season and thank
you for your support.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, a nonprofit
organization
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Enclosures: Four jpgs from our online store If your email did
not received these jpgs click here to view them:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
November 27, 2006
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporter, News Media and Other:
SAVE THE BILTMORE HOTEL NEWS:
Since my last Save the Biltmore Update, there has been NO new news
to report on any important Biltmore developments in regards to its
sale or demolition. The hotel owner was granted by Belleair
officials an INDEFINITE CONTINUANCE on their demolition and
redevelopment permit application for the Biltmore. We are hoping
that the hotel owner will soon sell the hotel so the Biltmore may be
saved forever.
THE "CHARM OF THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL"
Look no more for a wonderful Christmas, holiday or birthday gift!
Click on the link
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm to see
our beautiful charm available to all now for months.
The charm of the Belleview Biltmore hotel is
preserved for you forever in sterling silver, gold over sterling or
14 karat gold or 14 karat rose gold.
Add this wonderful gold or silver charm to your
charm bracelet or wear it on a chain or cord as a pendant. This
beautiful and stunning Belleview Biltmore Hotel charm is perfect to
give as a gift any time of the year and especially now this holiday
season. KK Smith, Clearwater’s jeweler for over 50 years is
painstakingly custom-creating each piece and is donating a portion
of each of our online sales to our preservation efforts for the
hotel. Enjoy being part of saving the Biltmore forever by owning
this delightful charm.
Sterling silver: $ 75.00
Gold over sterling: $ 100.00
14 Karat Gold: $ 400.00
14 Karat Rose Gold $ 450.00
NEWS MEDIA ARTICLES ON THE CHARM:
To read articles on the story of our Biltmore jewelry charm, click
any of these links below. We thank these news media for their great
coverage of the charm.
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/070606_bee-03.txt
Belleair Bee newspaper
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20060622/charm.html
Clearwater Gazette newspaper
http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=33528
Tampa Bay 10 News TV
CABANA CLUB OF THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL:
The Cabana Club Restaurant is over on Sand Key, overlooking the Gulf
of Mexico. It is part of the Biltmore Hotel (Clearwater, Florida)
For fabulous dining and spectacular sunset dining be sure to visit
there soon. They opened up the Cabana Bar, the first and only bar on
Sand Key, on November 1, 2006. The bar area is on the upper
terrace, and there is free parking and complimentary shuttle
transportation through Sand Key. Live entertainment will be
scheduled every day. The Sunset Grill is located at 1590 Gulf
Boulevard, (between mile markers 20 & 21). For more information call
the Cabana Grill & Bar at 727-595-1807. Thanks to Barbara Arnold
Walters, director on our nonprofit organization, for sending me this
info.
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL'S WEB SITE:
Click here to visit the Belleview Biltmore's website
http://www.belleviewbiltmore.com and make a reservation to stay
there this holiday season or make a reservation for your holiday
office party there or New Year's Eve.
OTHER HISTORIC PRESERVATION NEWS: DUNEDIN, FLORIDA
In last week's St. Petersburg Times newspaper, there was an article
about the historic Fenway Hotel in Dunedin and how the commissioners
voted 4-1 to continue to save it. This is wonderful news for our
local community and for historic hotel preservation. Here is the
link for the full story:
http://www.sptimes.com/2006/11/18/Northpinellas/Lawyer_allowed_to_res.shtml
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
It is holiday time of the year, such a special time for many of us.
I wish everyone a joyous holiday season for you, your family and
friends. Help celebrate the holiday by ordering the charm of the
Biltmore and spreading the word that the Belleview Biltmore Hotel is
a priceless historic icon.
In saving the Biltmore we are not just saving a hotel, we are
saving history!
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, a nonprofit
organization
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
Save the Biltmore Hotel Update, Thursday, June 8, 2006
Dear Belleview Biltmore Hotel Supporter, News Media
and Others,
"CHARM OF THE BELLEVIEW"
Surprise and Great News!!! The charm of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel is
being “preserved for you forever” in sterling silver, gold over sterling
or 14 karat gold. And, you may order your charm online at the Save the
Biltmore web site at: http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
KK SMITH, Clearwater’s jeweler for over 50 years, is painstakingly
custom-creating each piece and is donating a portion of each of our
online sales to our preservation efforts.
Add one of these custom-made charms to your charm
bracelet or wear as a pendant. Also perfect to give as a gift any time
of the year. Enjoy being part of saving the Biltmore forever by owning
this delightful charm.
PLEASE NOTE: Since all charms are custom made to
order, please allow 4 to 6 weeks delivery. The exact size of the charm
is 1 and 1/8 inches.
Sterling silver: $ 75.00
Gold over sterling: $ 100.00
14 Karat Gold: $400.00
To view the PHOTO of Belleview Biltmore Hotel charm and orders yours
today click:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
Also at our online store is the Belleview art of
Tony Blue so be sure to look at his work too.
THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL FEATURED IN MEN'S JOURNAL:
This information is from Biltmore supporter Linda Helm: "The Biltmore
was mentioned as being a place to stay "to embrace old Florida at the
19th century Belleview Biltmore Resort & Spa". This was in an article
about America's best beaches-- it was in the part about Clearwater
Beach. The magazine is Men's Journal (July 2006). It is a quality
magazine." Thank you Linda for this info.
BELLEAIR TOWN MEETING JUNE 20, 2006
At the town meeting coming up in Belleair, June 20, at 7:30 p.m., there
may be more continuing discussions on the Evaluation and Appraisal
Report (EAR) for the Belleair Comprehensive Plan. Donna Carlen,
Belleair town clerk, told us this morning that no final decision will be
made that evening as reported previously in Belleair's memo dated June
2. PLEASE ATTEND ON JUNE 20TH, THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT MEETING!
SPREAD THE WORD for everyone to come to this meeting and all meetings
involved discussing the Comprehensive Plan! Remember that the
Comprehensive Plan is instrumental in saving the Belleview Biltmore
Hotel so it is extremely important that the community be involved in
this important document in regards to saving the hotel and its historic
golf course. It is extremely important that NO changes be made to the
Comprehensive Plan to the detriment of the preservation of the Biltmore
and its historic golf course.
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL NEWS:
Since my last Save the Biltmore Update, there has been no new news to
report on any important Biltmore developments in regards to its sale or
demolition. In my last Save the Biltmore Update I reported the hotel
owner has been granted an INDEFINITE CONTINUANCE on their demolition and
redevelopment permit application for the Biltmore. We are hoping that
the hotel owner will soon sell the hotel so the Biltmore may be saved
forever.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
What is more charming than the Belleview Biltmore Hotel in Belleair,
Florida! It's Victorian style, heritage, history and charm are
captivating. One way to enjoy this charm is by taking a vacation at the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel this summer or spend a weekend at the hotel.
Book your reservation at
http://www.belleviewbiltmore.com. Visit the Cabana Club which is
part of the Biltmore over on Sand Key. This restaurant serves excellent
food with a beautiful view overlooking the water. Catch a glorious
Florida sunset while you dine there. Be sure to take the
Biltmore's morning historical tour. I recently met a man from Tampa who
took his wife for a romantic get away weekend, and they loved their time
there. Be part of the fun!
And of course another wonderful way to enjoy the
hotel's charm and be part of helping to save it is by owning and wearing
the new "Charm of the Belleview". Spread the word about the Biltmore
and its charm! Click now and order yours today at
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A nonprofit organization
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
Addendum to the Save the Biltmore Update, June 8,
2006
Dear Belleview Biltmore Hotel Supporter, News Media
and Others,
Please note contrary to what was recently sent by
me today, there will be NO discussions about the EAR at the June 20th
meeting in Belleair. I received this email from Belleair town clerk
Donna Carlen in response to my Save the Biltmore Update I just sent:
"Just wanted to let you know that there
will not be discussions regarding the EAR at the June 20th meeting.'
I encourage citizens in our community to attend
this meeting anyway and let your voice be heard that you want a strong
Comprehensive Plan to continue in Belleair in regards to the Biltmore
and its historic golf course. We need community support, the battle is
still ongoing, and if you wish to see this hotel stand forever, make
your voice heard at the June 20 th meeting and in future Belleair
meetings. Citizens may make comments for three minutes at Belleair
meetings. Stand up and be heard!
For those who live in Belleair and the greater
Tampa Bay area, PLEASE PLEASE email this Update to everyone you know and
tell your friends and neighbors to attend this meeting, express their
views to ENSURE a STRONG Comprehensive Plan. There still may be
further workshop dates on rewriting the Comprehensive Plan, no dates
available as of yet. If you want this legal entity to continue to stand
as is, then tell your neighbors to attend this meeting with you and
start speaking up that you want a STRONGLY worded Comprehensive Plan for
the Biltmore and the golf course!
It's up to you.
Now be sure to click and order your "Charm of the
Belleview" today!
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A nonprofit organization
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
February 15, 2006
Dear Save the Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others:
This coming Tuesday is a regular Belleair Town Commission Meeting so please
attend and speak on behalf of saving the Biltmore!
BELLEAIR TOWN COMMISSION MEETING - Regular Meeting
Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at
Time: 7:30 PM
901 Ponce De Leon Blvd
Belleair, FL 33756
Topic of Discussion: The topic of Saving the Biltmore may be brought up by
anyone.
RECENT NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
Below are the most recent news articles regarding the Belleview Biltmore
Hotel and Belleair issues.
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/011906_bee-02.txt Belleair
Bee January 19, 2006
Click on link for full article)
Time on their side
Biltmore gets indefinite extension
By BRITTANY FENSKE
BELLEAIR – After some debate at its Jan. 17 meeting, the Town Commission
agreed unanimously to grant Urdang and Associates, the owners of Belleview
Biltmore Resort and Spa, an indefinite extension to apply for major
development.
Commissioner Gary Katica said that he had contacted Town Attorney Nancy
Stroud and asked what her opinion was on the commission granting the
continuance.
She replied that the commission should grant the extension for two reasons.
“They have something cooking on the project and if we grant them the
extension it prevents them from filing a lawsuit,” she said.
The commission granted the indefinite extension, but with a follow-up from
the town staff on what appropriate decision to make.
Town Attorney David Ottinger suggested that the commission grant Urdang a
one-month extension and then place the application review back on the
agenda.
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/020906_bee-03.txt Belleair Bee
February 9, 2006
Click on link for full article
Belleair's comprehensive plan under evaluation
By BRITTANY FENSKE
BELLEAIR – Gail Easley, a planning and growth management specialist, made a
presentation at Tuesday’s Town Commission meeting on what the town must do
to complete the evaluation and appraisal report of its comprehensive plan.
Town Manager Steve Cottrell with the advice of the commission, constructed a
list of five issues that he would like to be updated and amended in the
comprehensive plan.
The first issue identified by the town is historic preservation, which
includes potential redevelopment of the Belleview Biltmore properties and
associated future land use.
The evaluation is expected to be completed by late spring.
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20060209/belleair.html February 9,
2006 Clearwater Gazette
Click on link for full article
Cottrell Tells Belleair Commission Of County Demand For Shelters
By Renee Burrell
BELLEAIR – During the town’s work session Tuesday, Steve Cottrell, the town
manager, outlined what Pinellas emergency planners are asking the cities to
do in response to the county's serious shortage of emergency public
shelters.
Addressing the commission about any changes to the comprehensive plan that
may allow for increased density and the impacts thereof, Barbara Walters
Arnold of Clearwater and a member of Save the Biltmore Preservationists
asked if the number of area hospital beds will be factored in when studying
the impacts of redevelopment.
Arnold related two incidents which revealed what appears to be presently a
possible shortage of hospital beds in the area. Arnold said her mother
needed care on a weekday last October and paramedics advised that Morton
Plant and Largo Med were full to capacity.
Arnold recalled her elderly neighbor’s more recent experience when in need
of emergency treatment and hospitalization. The neighbor was also told by
paramedics that Morton Plant was full and if brought there, would have to
expect to wait.
Mayor George Mariani pointed out that the number of hospitals per the
population is something for the state to evaluate.
Arnold asked, “If Belleair builds out and increases density, wouldn’t that
be a matter for Belleair to think about with regards to their residents?”
Mariani answered, “I think our goal is to prevent more build out.”
After the meeting Mariani furthered that position. He said, “I think the
town’s density is right just the way it is.”
OTHER PRESERVATION NEWS
There is great historical preservation news for Largo and Pinellas
County! See articles below.
http://www.tbnweekly.com/pubs/largo_leader/content_articles/020906_lle-02.txt
Click on link for full article
Largo Leader February 9, 2006
City takes next step in downtown renewal
By DAVE SHELTON
LARGO – The city took another step toward renewal of its downtown area at
its Feb. 7 commission meeting. The City Commission authorized the $775,000
purchase of the historic Hotel Largo.
The 104-year-old landmark has spent years deteriorating after once being a
luxury hotel constructed next to the city’s busiest highway and arterial
railway which raced local fruit to market.
Now it’s a low-cost hotel, whose condition has detracted from the millions
of dollars already spent in the planned downtown renewal, according to Mayor
Bob Jackson. He said the next step will be city acquisition of another
rundown building next to Hotel Largo, the Johnson Building, once known as
the Pinellas Hotel.
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sptimes/986168111.html?MAC=b8b9565e7bda497fbb8544b8929051e1&did=986168111&FMT=FT&FMTS=FT&date=Feb+12%2C+2006&author=LORRI+HELFAND&pub=St.+Petersburg+Times&printformat=&desc=Largo+to+buy+a+piece+of+its+history
Largo to buy a piece of its history; [STATE Edition] (click above link for
full article)
LORRI HELFAND. St. Petersburg Times. St. Petersburg, Fla.: Feb 12, 2006. pg.
8
The city is moving forward with its plan to buy the historic Largo Hotel,
hoping to turn the city's old hub into its new one.
"The significance of that corner is substantial," said City Manager Steve
Stanton. "That corner was downtown Largo years ago."
Almost a century ago, the corner of West Bay Drive and Seminole Boulevard
was bustling with activity with a train depot, shops and the Largo Hotel.
The hotel was built in 1908 and was once called Hotel Largo. It was built by
the owner of Largo's original feed store: F.M. Campbell.
City commissioners agreed last week to buy the hotel for $775,000, which is
$25,000 more than the city's appraisal. Owner Ronald Steiger, who could not
be reached for comment, had asked $850,000 for the property, which is
actually two parcels at 65 and 69 First Street SW. A July 31 closing is
expected.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
Awhile back I was visiting and photographing the beautiful Belleview
Biltmore Hotel in charming Belleair. One of my photographs from that day is
on the top main page of my web site
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com. I was standing in the vicinity of
the south wing, and there was a woman hotel guest on the third floor of the
hotel. She had the window open and was looking towards the infamous east
wing. I asked her why she chose to visit the Biltmore versus staying on
Clearwater Beach since so many people book their vacations on the beach.
Then she simply stated that she came to the Biltmore specifically "for the
historical experience."
So there you have it readers, this is one extremely important reason people
come to the Biltmore, to enjoy the richness of the Victorian age and feel
its glorious past both in their hotel room and in the public areas.
One question that often comes up is the rights of a property owner. Do
they have all rights to do with whatever they want with a building or land?
To me the answer is yes, but no. The current hotel owner, who has taken out
a redevelopment and demolition permit application to destroy the
Biltmore, KNEW they were buying a historical hotel years ago!
The Biltmore was on the prestigious National Register of Historic Places at
that time! And now the Belleview Biltmore is also on the prestigious
National Trust list of historical places. In my opinion, it is the hotel
owner's duty and obligation to save the hotel or sell to a
preservation-minded buyer. So it is time for the hotel owner to sell the
Biltmore to someone who will save this historical experience for thousands
of future guests who wish to enjoy and cherish our wonderful past.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
http://www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
URGENT--THERE IS NO FINAL REVIEW OF THE BILTMORE
DEMOLITION THIS TUESDAY! MORE INFO BELOW.
Belleview Biltmore Update, January 13, 2006, Friday
Dear Belleview Biltmore Hotel Supporters, News Media and Others,
THE BELLEAIR PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING, JANUARY 9:
I want to thank everyone who came out to the Planning and Zoning Board
meeting this past Monday, January 9. There was a wonderful attendance, some
60 people there. So thank you! The major redevelopment and demolition
permit application submitted by the hotel owner who still wishes to demolish
the hotel was DENIED by the Planning and Zoning Board with a vote of 7-0.
We thank these board members for denying their request for demolition of the
beautiful Biltmore Hotel.
While there is still a town commission meeting this coming
Tuesday, January 17, PLEASE PLEASE note that the final vote on the major
redevelopment and demolition permit application will NOT be taken this
week! This delay is most unfortunate and obviously well planned by the
hotel owner's attorneys! The hotel owner has filed an extension and
continuance, so I will let you know the date when the final review will be
done. We are certainly hoping that the current hotel owner sells to a
responsible buyer before then!
However, we are always looking for more volunteers to
attend Belleair town meetings on a regular basis. ANY citizen in Belleair
OR outside Belleair may attend these meetings and may speak at that on
behalf of saving the Biltmore so feel free to join us this coming week:
Tuesday January 17th at 7:30 p.m. at 901 Ponce de Leon
Blvd, Belleair, Florida Belleair Town Meeting
Board says Biltmore hotel must stay intact
Planning officials say a move to demolish the historic resort should be
denied because its preservation is written into the town's comprehensive
plan.
By LORRI HELFAND, Times Staff Writer
Published January 11, 2006
Tuesday night, the town's seven-member planning and zoning
board unanimously recommended denying Belleview Biltmore Resort Ltd.'s
application to tear down the hotel, saying its request doesn't conform with
Belleair's comprehensive plan.
Karla Rettstatt, planning board vice chairman, scolded the
owner's attorney, Christopher Smart, for not acknowledging the hotel's
prominence in the comprehensive plan.
The plan mentions the 109-year-old hotel about a dozen
times, claiming it should be preserved and protected.
About 10 residents and preservationists spoke in favor of
saving the hotel, which earned a spot on the National Register of Historic
Places in 1979.
Even if the commission approves the owner's plan to raze
the hotel, a historic preservation ordinance passed in October requires the
owner to go through more red tape to tear it down.
Board votes to deny Biltmore demolition permit
By BRITTANY FENSKE
BELLEAIR – Once a completed application for a demolition permit for the
Belleview Biltmore Resort and Spa finally was filed with the town, the next
step was consideration by the Planning and Zoning Board. Monday night the
board met and concluded that the application is not in compliance with the
town’s comprehensive plan and unanimously voted to deny it.
Gloria Burton, P&Z board chairman, said that after
reviewing the application for major development the board decided to deny it
because it conflicted with the land development code found in the
comprehensive plan.
The Town Commission, which meets next on Tuesday, Jan. 17,
was scheduled to take up whether to approve or deny the application.
However, attorneys representing Urdang and Associates have requested a
continuance for an indefinite period of time before commission
consideration.
(READERS PLEASE NOTE. The decision HAS been made to give
the attorneys this continuance!!)
If the application goes to the Historic Preservation
Board, it would decide whether or not to recommend that a certificate of
appropriateness be approved by the commission based on the application.
According to the town’s new historic preservation
ordinance, no feature of historical significance shall be demolished until a
certificate of appropriateness has been reviewed and approved.
“They’re asking to demolish the hotel, and the town of
Belleair is committed to the charter and the comprehensive plan which does
not permit any destruction of the hotel,” Burton said.
Crowd Cheers Two Bobs and a Plan
By Renee Burrell
BELLEAIR - Belleair residents and others concerned over the possible razing
of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel who attended the town's planning and zoning
meeting Monday found several reasons to burst into applause. The planning &
zoning board was charged by the town commission to make a recommendation, as
the matter is a building issue.
Before the presentations, board chairwoman Gloria Burton
reminded, "Any decision made today by planning and zoning members is only a
recommendation for the town commission."
Robert Brown, Belleair town planner said as it stands
Belleair's comprehensive plan calls for preservation of the hotel in no
uncertain terms. Brown stated that one of the plan's listed goals is to
ensure the park like and family residential atmosphere of the town, which is
contingent upon the preservation of the Belleview Biltmore Hotel. Said
Brown, "The plan calls it a grand landmark and asset."
Brown went on to explain. "We've reviewed their
application and we're in a catch 22. Section 66.171C2M requires that
historical and archaeological sites will be protected. The plan doesn't
indicate how the hotel will be protected and the application is to destroy
the hotel."
Brown said the bottom line is: "The plan to demolish the
hotel does not protect historic resources. They wish to demolish the hotel
and the town's historic preservation ordinance and comprehensive plan do not
allow for that."
Save the past for the citizens of today and future
Editor:
As a native of Pinellas County, proud graduate of Largo High School and
ardent student of history, I cannot state in stronger terms how critically
important it is that the Town of Belleair do everything in its power to save
and restore the Belleview Biltmore Hotel.
I respectfully call on the citizens of Belleair to do the
right thing and save the Belleview Biltmore Hotel. I will thank you, the
people of Florida will thank you, and your children and grandchildren will
thank you for the wise decision you made.
Mark B. Horner (Taylors, SC )
SPEECHES GIVEN BY SAVE THE BILTMORE PRESERVATIONISTS
Here are exerts from two speeches given by two of our directors, Ed Jameson
and Barbara Arnold Walters at the recent Planning and Zoning Board meeting
this past Monday. The complete speeches are on my Message Board:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BiltmoreMessageBoard.htm
1. "There are five interested parties who have contacted
our Save the Biltmore web site and expressed interest in buying the Biltmore
Hotel. We have given them information to contact the hotel owner. A sixth
party we contacted was Marcus Hotels and Resorts.
Any holding patterns or delays are detrimental to selling
this hotel to prospective buyers. It appears that the selling of this hotel
may be linked to the approval or denial of the redevelopment and demolition
permit application.
Urdang has stated in their demo permit that that they
intend to replace the Biltmore with sod. As early as 1995 according
to Sunbiz.org. Urdang filed corporation papers under the name of Allied
Biltmore, Inc. In 1997 Urdang took out another corporate filing called
Allied Belleview, Inc. Urdang’s web site urdang.com states under “Investment
Overview” that they ‘intermediate hold for 4-7 years, convert value added
properties to core and then exit.” and that they “focus on quality location
with supply constraints.” In other words they focus on locations where land
is undervalued and there is a high demand. Replacing the Biltmore with sod
definitely reduces it to core value!
It is obvious that demolition by neglect has been going on
for years with the Biltmore Hotel. Articles concerning the fire control
system and the roof illustrate this point. All of these issues could have
been fixed. Other hotelers have stated after looking at the Biltmore that
when historical hotels are kept up, they are easy to maintain.
For example, the Del Coronado Hotel in California is a
large Victorian wooden structure. They maintained their wooden structure.
That state landmark became a popular destination. Wood once properly sealed
and protected can last thousands of years."
Ed Jameson, vice president of Save the Biltmore
Preservationists
2. "First of all as a resident of Pinellas County, I would like to go on
record as saying that I am disappointed that the owners are not making their
presentation plans public at this meeting.
As a resident of Pinellas County for over 45 years, I ask
this board to advise denial of the demolition permit.
To advise denial would not be advising denying the owner
substantial and/or reasonable use of the property nor would it be denying
the owner reasonable return on their investment.
To advise approval would be advising disregard not only
for the town's comprehensive plan but disregard of the town's mission
statement as well which is to assure Belleair remains one of Florida's
premier Florida towns.
To advise approval would be to advise taking an integral
structure from the inventory of the town of Belleair, the county and the
state. It would advise removing a structure of unusual importance resulting
in an adverse impact on the town of Belleair, the county and the state.
Barbara Arnold Walters, director, Save the Biltmore
Preservationists
ONE MINUTE EMAIL CAMPAIGN--URGENT!!!
Below is a sample letter direct from National Trust
www.NationalTrust.org in which
you can copy and paste and send to Urdang and Associates, the current owner
of the Belleview Biltmore (under the name of Belleview Biltmore Resorts
Ltd.) It is imperative to write to them save the Biltmore! Add your OWN
PERSONAL comments if you wish of course or compose your own letter to them.
E. Scott Urdang, Chief Executive Officer. Be sure to send a copy to:
Vincent Sanfillippo, Senior Team member with Urdang and Associates at:
surdang@urdang.com,
vsanfilippo@urdang.com
Dear Mr. Urdang and Mr. Sanfilippo:
I am writing to urge your company to save the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel in Belleair, Florida. As owners of this valuable
and historic building you control its fate. The Belleview is a grand hotel
that has graced Belleair for 108 years. Through responsible stewardship on
your part it can continue to contribute to the
vitality of that community.
Please take whatever actions you can to preserve this building. There
are numerous alternatives and other development companies that can provide
you with a handsome return on your investment and
preserve a rare and beautiful historic building.
I urge you to work with local officials,
preservationists and the National Trust for Historic Preservation to find a
preservation alternative for the Belleview.
Thank you.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
It is most unfortunate to hear about the continuing delay tactics that the
hotel owners are trying to use to order to not save the Victorian Belleview
Biltmore Hotel. It's common knowledge that developers will use every delay
tactic in the book. But I am not going anywhere...and neither should you!
It's time to Save the Biltmore forever! The Belleview Biltmore Hotel needs
a responsible and caring owner, and we urge the current owner to immediately
sell to one of them.
PLEASE WRITE THEM IMMEDIATELY! Then send this email to
everyone you know!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A nonprofit organization
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Update, Saturday January 7,
2006
Dear Belleview Biltmore Hotel Supporters, News Media
and Others,
Attend the following Belleair town meetings below. We
urgently need your help to Save the Belleview Biltmore Hotel! The town
commissioners and town manager in Belleair have the authority to accept
or deny the redevelopment AND demolition permit application on the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel this January!
Show your support and attend all these meetings.
Numbers count!
BELLEAIR PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING
January 9, 2006, Monday
Time: 5:30 P.M.
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Belleair, Florida
BELLEAIR COMMISSION MEETING
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Time: 7:30 P.M.
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Belleair, Florida
CLICK HERE TO PRINT OUT THE SAVE THE BILTMORE FLYER
FROM WEB PAGE:
Print this flyer out and distribute to your friends
and family. Any office supply store will print 100 of these in black
and white for just around $5. Display it where you work or in stores,
offices, libraries, gas stations, museums..anywhere that people will
pass by!
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, a
nonprofit organization
Belleview Biltmore Update, Monday December 5, 2005
Dear Belleview Biltmore Hotel Supporters, News Media and others,
The wonderful news is that the Belleair preservation
ordinance passed October 26 with a 4-0 vote! We sincerely thank the
four commissioners for voting "yes" on its passage! The ordinance is
now in effect so this is great news for the Belleview Biltmore Hotel!
We also thank the local community for attending meetings and their
support and encourage them to continue helping us! The current hotel
owner is still trying to demolish it, and more information on this is
further down in this Update. I have many out of town readers, so if you
wish to keep abreast of Biltmore activities and newspaper articles in
between my Biltmore Updates, just check my web site
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com and
click on Today's Alert and also Current Newspaper Articles.
BEAUTIFUL SAVE THE BILTMORE T-SHIRTS AND SAVE THE BILTMORE TOTE BAGS ARE
IN!!
Visit our online store and order a Save the Biltmore T-shirt and or a
Save the Biltmore tote bag NOW! Our nonprofit organization wants to
continue to raise money by fund-raising to help save and preserve the
Biltmore for another 108 plus years! Help us do that by wearing a
Biltmore T-shirt and or carrying a Biltmore tote bag to encourage people
to visit the
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com web site. Your help in wearing a Save the
Biltmore T-shirt or carrying a tote bag will help gain community support
to continue our efforts and help encourage tourists to come stay at this
magnificent Victorian hotel in Belleair. Be a walking advertisement for
the hotel and show your T-shirts and totes off proudly to show your
support! We need more community help so tell your neighbors and friends
about our save the Biltmore T-shirts and tote bags.
The beautiful canvas tote bag is perfect for carrying
books, papers, gifts, letters etc. The width is 14 inches and the height
is 14.5 inches.
They make wonderful Christmas gifts!
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING, FROM NOVEMBER 8, 2005
Steve Cottrell, Belleair town manager, discussed that the Comprehensive
Plan of Belleair is being reviewed as it must be every 7 to 10 years by
law. There are proposed changes to this Comprehensive Plan that will
eventually be discussed at a workshop meeting. I will quote part of the
memo:
"Potential Major Issues: (order of importance- 1 essential; 2
important; 3 somewhat important; preliminary ranking without benefit of
P & Z board recommendations).
1. Historic Preservation (1): including, - a.
Potential redevelopment of the hotel and surrounding land (1); b.
Potential hotel golf course redevelopment and future land use issues
(1); and c. Preservation of the town's character and other historic
resources (3)."
There are three other potential major issues after
this, so for a copy of the entire memo contact Belleair Town Hall, 901
Ponce de Leon Blvd.
RECENT NEWSPAPER ARTICLES AND EDITORIALS REGARDING THE
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL
Oldest date is first back in October 25 with a Letter to the Editor
"Through the efforts of the Web site
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com,
the preservation ordinance was recently strengthened with an amendment
to help save the interior of the Biltmore.
Normally, preservation ordinances only provide
protection for the exterior of a historical building. However our
nonprofit organization, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, feels that
protecting the very historical interior of this magnificent hotel is
also very important. For anyone entering the Biltmore, walking down the
lovely east and west wings or strolling the 2 miles of corridors inside
is a rich historical experience because of the beautiful Victorian
interior. We want to thank the Town Commission and Mayor George Mariani,
who approved this amendment to further protect the interior of the
Biltmore."
Doug Mann, Tampa
(Readers note: Doug Mann is our Secretary Treasurer of our Save the
Biltmore Preservationists nonprofit organization.)
"The Town Commission on Wednesday unanimously adopted
a historic preservation ordinance to protect structures like the
Belleview Biltmore Resort & Spa, four hours after a representative of
the hotel's owners submitted an updated application to tear it down.The
ordinance will require certificates for changes to historic structures.
The town manager will have the authority to approve or deny ordinary
repairs and minor modifications. But major alterations or demolition
will require a special certificate, reviewed by the historic
preservation board at a public hearing and approved by the Town
Commission at yet another public hearing. The 4-0 vote marked the
culmination of the commission's efforts to give their town's historic
preservation policy some teeth.
"There were touchy moments, but now we have a
foundation and we just need to build onto that," said Ed Jameson, one of
a handful of leading preservationists who attended the meeting."
(Readers note: Ed Jameson is our Vice President of our nonprofit
organization Save the Biltmore Preservationists of this web site)
"Belleair . . . Town Commissioners unanimously voted
4-0 to pass the historic preservation ordinance that will protect the
town's oldest buildings Wednesday, October 26 at a special meeting that
commenced at 7:30 pm. The ordinance takes effect November 25, 2005. The
moment was met with a round of applause from the 45 or so in attendance.
Missing from the scene was Attorney Nancy Stroud, who wrote the
ordinance. After explaining Stroud's inability to travel from Miami due
to Hurricane Wilma, Commissioner Stephen Fowler, filling in for Mayor
George Mariani, said all involved with the ordinance went over it with a
fine toothed comb and he was satisfied that the council's efforts along
with public input made for the right decision. Ed Jameson and Barbra
Walters Arnold, preservationists with Save the Biltmore took the
opportunity to speak at the meeting and thanked the council for passing
the ordinance. Jameson presented the council with a binder of 100 images
cataloging the hotel's public area's interior elements. Arnold commended
the council for acting so responsibly and setting an example for the
entire nation."
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL PHOTO ALBUM TO BELLEAIR TOWN
OFFICIALS
To view the photo album which I put together which our Vice President Ed
Jameson presented to Belleair town officials in October, click:
http://www.dianehein.com/Belleview_Biltmore_Hotel_Photo_Album.htm
This is one long jpg of some 30 photos. See the beautiful Victorian
interior! This album was put together in conjunction with the amendment
to the preservation ordinance to help protect and keep the public
interior of the Biltmore with its fabulous Victorian heritage and
architecture. To see photos of the actual album itself, click:
http://www.dianehein.com/Belleview_Biltmore_Hotel_Album.htm
"BELLEAIR - The attorney representing the owners of
the Belleview Biltmore Resort and Spa has submitted demolition permit
application information that previously had been deemed insufficient.
"We believe that this completes the development
(demolition) permit application and responds to the various items
identified in your November 15 correspondence as insufficiencies in the
application," writes Belleview Biltmore Resort, Ltd. attorney Roger D.
Schwenke in a Nov. 23 letter to Town Manager Steve Cottrell.
The latest revisions are being reviewed by Cottrell,
attorney Nancy Stroud and engineering consultants TBE Group.
"The next step would be to give it (permit
application) to the commission and/or the Planning and Zoning Board for
their review," said Cottrell. "It will take weeks to go through the
process." The commission could opt to also send the permit application
to the town's historic preservation board for its consideration. The
town recently enacted an historic preservation ordinance which could
prove problematic in any plan to demolish the historic Belleview
Biltmore Resort and Spa.
The Town Commission meets next on Tuesday, Dec.
6." (5:30 p.m.)
Tony Blue displays three of his eight Biltmore mixed
media art series including, from left, "Gardenias on the Veranda,"
"Victorian Charm" and "The White Queen of the Gulf."
BELLEAIR - Local artist Tony Blue has created a series
of eight beautiful, mixed media art pieces showcasing the Belleview
Biltmore Hotel. He will donate 20 percent of sales proceeds to the
nonprofit organization Save the Biltmore Preservationists.
Blue is offering the art as limited edition (150
maximum) giclée prints on canvas. They come stretched, signed by the
artist and numbered, mixed media and ready to frame. Photos of the
remaining five of the series may be found at
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com and
any or all of them may be purchased at the online store.
Save the Biltmore T-shirts, canvas Save the Biltmore
tote bags, fine art photography, bookmarks, greeting cards and other
items also are being sold online to help raise money for the hotel's
preservation."
BELLEAIR TOWN MEETINGS--DECEMBER
The topic of saving and preserving the Belleview Biltmore may be brought
up by anyone at any Belleair town meetings. Always feel free to show
your support of saving and preserving the Biltmore at these meetings for
the long-term future of the hotel! Citizens may speak for up to three
minutes to speak at any meeting. All meetings are at: 901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida 33756-1034. ANYONE may attend whether you live in
Belleair or not.
BELLEAIR TOWN COMMISSION - SPECIAL MEETING AND WORK SESSION
December 6, 2005, Tuesday
Time: 5:30 P.M.
BELLEAIR PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING
December 12, 2005, Monday
Time: 5:30 P.M.
BELLEAIR FINANCE BOARD MEETING
December 14, 2005, Wednesday
Time: 4:00 PM
BELLEAIR REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
December 20, 2005, Tuesday
Time: 7:30 PM
PRESERVATION NEWS OUTSIDE OF BELLEAIR:
It is heart warming to know other historical buildings and former hotels
in Pinellas County are being saved and preserved!
1. Train depot gets new life as museum, ROBIN STEIN.
St. Petersburg Times. St. Petersburg, Fla.: Nov 15, 2005
Tarpon Springs, Florida
2. More Fenway glory days ahead?; TERRI BRYCE REEVES.
St. Petersburg Times. Nov 6, 2006
Dunedin, Florida
"Despite this year's hurricanes and record-breaking
gas prices, Florida tourism continues to thrive, according to figures
released Wednesday by Visit Florida. The state's official tourism
marketing organization says preliminary estimates show that an estimated
21.9 million visitors came to Florida during the July-September period,
an increase of 9.3 percent over the same period last year."
THE HOLIDAY BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL
Be sure to visit the Belleview Biltmore this holiday season for a meal
or for one or more overnight stays. It is beautifully decorated for
Christmas so make this a special occasion to visit the hotel!
MAKE A DONATION
It is the time of year for special gifts and giving, so we are asking
everyone to make just a $10 donation to help us continue the work
necessary to save and preserve the Biltmore in the future. Everyone can
afford $10 to help save the Biltmore! Help secure AMERICAN history.
Click the link and give happy holiday cheer knowing your gift will help
save a historical hotel. Donations are secure, and you may donate via
PayPal OR with a credit or debit card.
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreDonations.htm for
online donations.
To donate via U.S. mail, send a check or money order to:
Save the Biltmore Preservationists
30617 U.S. Highway 19 North
# 420
Palm Harbor, Florida 34684-4410
CLOSING THOUGHTS
It has been a November to be thankful for many wonderful reasons. The
preservation ordinance went into effect in Belleair, our Florida tourism
is up, and our Save the Biltmore T-shirts and Save the Biltmore tote
bags are in! Help us continue our work to save and preserve the
Biltmore for another 108 years. Fund raising is essential for us to
continue to spread the word to the community and to the nation. Order a
T-shirt or tote bag, one of Tony Blue's lovely Biltmore series artwork
or fine art photography TODAY, and you will be part of our team to save
the Biltmore!
The heart and health of historic preservation lies in
community support.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A nonprofit organization
Happy Holidays!
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Update, Monday October 24, 2005
Dear Biltmore Hotel Supporters, News Media and Others,
BELLEAIR COMMISSION MEETING - A VOTE TO BE TAKEN ON THE PRESERVATION
ORDINANCE!!!
PLEASE ATTEND!
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Time: 7:30 P.M.
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida 33756-1034
The preservation ordinance, written by preservation attorney, Nancy Stroud,
will be presented for a vote this Wednesday, October 26. October 26 will be
a very historic day if the preservation ordinance is passed so please attend
and show your support for its adoption! If passed, then in thirty days,
the ordinance will go into effect to provide permanent and powerful legal
action to save the famous “White Queen of the Gulf” forever. Bring your
family and friends to this historic meeting!
Map:
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?searchtype=address&country=US&addtohistory=&searchtab=home&address=901+Ponce+de+Leon+blvd&city=Belleair&state=Fl&zipcode=33756
SAVE THE BILTMORE PRESERVATIONISTS TAKE FLIGHT!
For a magnificent aerial photo of Clearwater Beach and a banner to Save the
Biltmore click here:
This photo was featured on the front page of the Belleair
Bee newspaper a few weeks ago. The Belleair Bee copy under the photo said:
"Save the Biltmore Preservationists recently took their message to save the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel to the skies over Clearwater Beach. Tom Merrifield
of Ad Air Force, St. Petersburg, donated his time and banner to
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com to help
generate public support to save the Victorian hotel built in 1897." Again
our thanks to Tom Merrifield who donated his banner and flying time to save
the Biltmore!
DRISKILL HOTEL, A VICTORIAN HOTEL, AUSTIN TEXAS
Just today, I learned about this magnificent, preserved Victorian Hotel, the
Driskill, built 1886 around the same time as the Belleview Biltmore Hotel in
Belleair! Click
http://www.driskillhotel.com/ for its home page and
http://www.driskillhotel.com/photo_gallery.html for their photo page.
What a tribute to Austin, Texas for saving their state heritage with this
beautiful hotel! From their web site: "The lobby of the Driskill sets the
initial tone of comfort and elegance with three-story columns framing a
marble floor and stained-glass dome ceiling. Guests select from 188 rooms
and suites distributed between the Historic Wing - with soaring ceilings,
elaborate woodwork and balconies- and the Traditional Wing, built in 1929
and featuring art deco styling and the colors of the Texas Hill Country."
OTHER RECENT NEWSPAPER ARTICLES ON THE BILTMORE
For other recent newspaper articles on the Biltmore in the Clearwater
Gazette:
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20051013/biltmore.html
for full article by Leo Coughlin
"Hein’s group had drummed up tremendous opposition to the DeBartolo’s group
plans to demolish the hotel and build new residences. The 25-page ordinance
created by Stroud contains many elements including preservation of other
historic homes and measures to prevent an owner of any designated historic
structure from allowing the building to become decrepit through neglect."
http://www.clearwatergazette.com/20050929/biltmore.html
for full article by Leo Coughlin
"Biltmore preservation group wants no condo aspect in hotel Hein makes it
clear that her group is opposed to the total demolition of the Biltmore. She
wants complete historical preservation of the hotel. A lawyer specially
engaged for the purpose, Nancy Stroud, has formulated a preservation
ordinance that will be coming before the Belleair commission next month.
Hein points out that the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables is run as a
successful hotel that has been extensively preserved through the efforts of
a strong preservation ordinance. Other hotels in the country, she says,
that are similarly run as successful hotels while being under preservation
protection are Victorian Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island in Michigan and the
Coronado Hotel in San Diego."
ART OF TONY BLUE
Visit our online store, now open!! Click here to see the new postings of
the beautiful Belleview Biltmore Hotel series by local artist Tony Blue.
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreStore.htm Local artist,
Tony Blue is giving 20% of the proceeds for the sale of his beautiful
Belleview Biltmore Hotel art series to the Save the Biltmore
Preservationists nonprofit fund. Limited edition (150 maximum) giclée
prints on canvas come stretched, signed and numbered, mixed media and ready
to frame. Each one is numbered, marked and signed by the artist. Shipping
costs will be refunded if you pick up the print locally or if you prefer,
Tony will deliver your print for just $10 if you live in Pinellas County.
FREE FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY WITH EVERY $25 DONATION!
To help save the Biltmore and spread the word and continue the fight to
preserve the outside and inside of the Biltmore historically, donate just
$25 and receive a FREE signed 8 by 10 inch fine art nature or still life
photograph. You can donate right online now! Donate $50 and receive two
free 8 by 10 inch fine art prints. $75 and receive three 8 by 10 inch fine
art prints. If you would like your FREE signed, fine art print matted and
framed, just donate $55. I am donating 100% of the proceeds from my
collection of fine art photography to our nonprofit Save the Biltmore fund.
See
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreFREEphoto.htm for
beautiful fine art photographs from which to choose from!
SAVE THE BILTMORE AUCTION! BID NOW!!
Bid Item: A new silver plate bowl with a clear glass liner from Neiman
Marcus with all over pierced design and bright cut decoration. The base is
4" and the top diameter is 10" A beautiful item to own or to give as a
gift. Fill it with flowers or fruit or champagne punch for any festive
occasion. It comes in original box and packing.
AMENDMENT PASSED TO HELP SAVE THE INTERIOR OF THE BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL:
Thanks to the efforts of my nonprofit organization, Save the Biltmore
Preservationists, we moved forward at the Belleair workshop meeting, October
4, to request that the interior of the Biltmore be protected as well as the
exterior, a VERY important step to ensure that the historical charm that the
inside will be preserved no matter who buys the hotel. Normally
preservation ordinances only provide protection for the exterior of a
historical building. For anyone entering the Biltmore, walking down the
lovely east and west wings or strolling the two miles of corridors inside is
a rich historical experience because of the beautiful Victorian interior.
We sincerely thank the town council and Mayor Mariani who approved this
amendment to further protect the interior of the Biltmore. My director and
Vice President, Ed Jameson, will be presenting an album of photos, both he
and I took of the Biltmore Hotel interior, at the meeting Wednesday, October
26.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
It has been a very long journey since April to ensure that the magnificent
Victorian Belleview Biltmore Hotel is preserved and saved forever. Come to
the town meeting this Wednesday at 7:30, October 26 to show your support in
passing the preservation ordinance. If the ordinance is passed, this will
be a victory for Belleair, a victory for Pinellas County, a victory across
America, but most importantly a victory for the Victorian Belleview Biltmore
Hotel! Be sure to come! This will be a historic day!!
"We shape our buildings, and then our buildings shape
us." Winston Churchill.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A Nonprofit Organization
Belleview
Biltmore Hotel Update Wednesday September 21, 2005
Dear Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others,
Matters are changing rapidly minute by minute with
the status of the Biltmore Hotel so to keep abreast of all the current
information click "Today's Alert" on my web site www.SaveTheBiltmore.com.
I keep the current newspaper articles posted on there.
This was just in today's St. Petersburg Times this
morning so I want to share with you the new information since my Biltmore
Update just very late last night!!
http://www.sptimes.com/2005/09/21/Northpinellas/DeBartolo_backs_off__.shtml
DeBartolo backs off, won't buy Biltmore
A Belleair commissioner said the company was reacting
to public opposition. But the prospect of demolition still haunts the landmark.
By LORRI HELFAND, Times Staff Writer
Published September 21, 2005
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BELLEAIR - DeBartolo Development has withdrawn its
bid to buy the Belleview Biltmore Resort & Spa, the company that manages
the hotel properties confirmed Tuesday.
"The DeBartolo deal has expired and we are in negotiations
with Rory (Hiller) and various others," said Urdang & Associates' chief
investment officer, Vincent Sanfilippo.
While DeBartolo's withdrawal may spell a temporary
reprieve for the 108-year-old hotel, the landmark still faces the prospect
of being torn down.
"At this point in time, we intend to pursue a demolition
permit," Sanfilippo said.
Urdang filed an application to raze the entire hotel
in April and submitted additional application materials this month.
Sanfilippo previously told the town's historic preservation
board that the property was an "under-performing asset" and a demolition
permit would maximize development possibilities for potential buyers.
Hiller and his team, the Hiller Group, have made a
$40-million offer on the Biltmore and plan to preserve both the hotel and
its 136-acre golf course.
Town Commissioner Gary Katica said DeBartolo reacted
to the public opposition to its plan.
DeBartolo presented its vision to save just part of
the Biltmore and build 367 homes on the hotel's golf course at a town meeting
last Thursday, the day before its contract expired.
"The simple explanation is that the people of Belleair
spoke in a public forum, and they're no dummies, the DeBartolo group,"
Katica said.
DeBartolo Development's president, Ed Kobel, could
not be reached for comment Tuesday.
Town Manager Steve Cottrell would not comment on the
status of Urdang's application for a demolition permit, but two commissioners,
Katica and Bonnie Ruggles, said Tuesday that Cottrell told them that Urdang's
application was still incomplete.
Sanfilippo would not specify which parties, besides
Hiller, are negotiating with his Pennsylvania-based pension-fund management
company. He added that he did not know what the various parties' intentions
for the resort were.
"We are in various stages of negotiations with various
parties," Sanfilippo said. "Some are further along than others."
A letter faxed to Town Hall in July reveals that at
least one other company, Marcus Hotels, is interested in the purchasing
and preserving the Biltmore. J. David Merritt, senior vice president of
development for Marcus Hotels & Resorts, wrote Scott Urdang, president
of Urdang & Associates, to tell him that Marcus would like to discuss
the project further if the proposed buyer is "unable to perform."
Meanwhile, the town is looking into adopting a historic
preservation ordinance that could better protect structures like the Biltmore.
The first reading of the ordinance is scheduled for Oct. 4.
BELLEAIR REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING---TONIGHT!!
September 21, 2005, Wednesday
Time: 7:30 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida 33756-1034
Topic of Discussion - The topic of saving the Belleview
Biltmore may be brought up by anyone.
Please voice your opinion that the preservation ordinance
draft written by Nancy Stroud needs to be strengthened. More power
must be given to the historic preservation board in Belleair so the inside
of the Biltmore is protected against extensive remodeling!!
We need your support, please attend! Also please voice your
opinion that you wish the entire Belleview Biltmore Hotel is saved: the
east, west, north and south wings including the original hotel rooms!
We do NOT want hotel/condo rooms in there!
This is very important for everyone to do this at
this meeting!
This will preserve the historical relevancy of this
Victorian hotel and its beauty.
NOTE: This web site is AGAINST any or all demolition
of the Biltmore and AGAINST any condo or condo/hotel development by other
developers as has been reported in the news media!!
Map: http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?country=US&addtohistory=&formtype=address&searchtype=address&cat=&address=901%20Ponce%20De%20Leon%20Blvd&city=Belleair&state=FL&zipcode=33756%2d1034&searchtab=home
YARD SIGNS:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreYardSign.htm
Help us spread the word across Florida and pick up
a save the Biltmore yard sign. And pick one up for your neighbor too!
We only ask for a $10 donation to pay for the cost of the sign.
FREE FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY WITH EVERY $25 DONATION!
To help save the Biltmore and spread the word and
continue the fight to preserve the outside and inside of the Biltmore historically,
donate just $25 and receive a FREE signed 8 by 10 inch fine art nature
or still life photograph. You can donate right online now! Donate
$50 and receive two free 8 by 10 inch fine art prints. $75 and receive
three 8 by 10 inch fine art prints. If you would like your FREE signed,
fine art print matted and framed, just donate $55. I am donating 100% of
the proceeds from my collection of fine art photography to our nonprofit
Save the Biltmore fund. See http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreFREEphoto.htm
for beautiful fine art photographs from which to choose from!
REMINDER! SAVE THE BILTMORE MEETING THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER
25 AT 6:30 P.M.!
We are holding a Save the Biltmore meeting this coming
Sunday at 6:30 p.m. in Clearwater. We will be discussing fund raising
ideas and how to gather ideas to STOP CONDO/HOTEL development in the Biltmore!
Please note this meeting is only for people who are AGAINST putting condo/hotel
units in the Biltmore north and south wings! Our nonprofit group
Save the Biltmore Preservationists is working towards preserving not only
the outside of the Biltmore but also the inside guest rooms so they are
historically correct! Email Me for location
of meeting and directions.
If you want to join our group, come to our Sunday meeting
and help us. We will work to find ways to ensure that the magnificent
"White Queen of the Gulf" maintains its Victorian charm and appeal both
inside and out, not only for today but for 100 years from now.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A Nonprofit Organization
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Update,
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Dear Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others:
SAVE THE BILTMORE MEETING THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
AT 6:30 P.M.!
We are holding a Save the Biltmore meeting this coming
Sunday at 6:30 p.m. in Clearwater. We will be discussing fund raising
ideas and how to gather ideas to STOP CONDO/HOTEL development in the Biltmore!
Please note this meeting is only for people who are AGAINST putting condo/hotel
units in the Biltmore north and south wings! Our nonprofit group
Save the Biltmore Preservationists is working towards preserving not only
the outside of the Biltmore but also the inside guest rooms so they are
historically correct! Email Me for
location of meeting and directions.
DEBARTOLO DEVELOPMENT HAS BACKED OFF FROM BUYING THE
BILTMORE!
http://www.sptimes.com/2005/09/20/Northpinellas/Biltmore_deal_near_co.shtml
Biltmore deal near collapse, rival group says
By LORRI HELFAND, Times Staff Writer
Published September 20, 2005
"DeBartolo is abandoning a plan to buy and redevelop
the historic resort property, says a rival bidder's leader. Rory Hiller,
a local real estate consultant recruited by a group that wants to save
the hotel, said he was contacted Friday by Pennsylvania-based Urdang &
Associates, which manages the hotel property for owner Belleview Biltmore
Resort Ltd. Urdang's chief investment officer, Vincent Sanfilippo, told
him DeBartolo Development had decided to walk away from the deal, Hiller
said. The group wants to preserve the entire hotel, converting rooms in
the older, east-west portion into 83 high-end resort units, and rooms in
the north and south wings into 425 condo-hotel units. Those units would
be sold to individual owners and rented for part of the year as hotel rooms."
READERS: We here at Save the Biltmore Preservationists
are pleased that DeBartolo has backed off because their most recent plan
was to demolish the north and south wings as of their presentation to Belleair
last week. They backed off due to public pressure and lack of support by
the town officials for their plans. My www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
web site has worked tirelessly to stop the total demolition of the Biltmore
since April of this year, 2005. I actually put up this web site in
December, 2004, when I first heard the Biltmore was to be demolished.
I want to thank Biltmore supporters and Belleair citizens who attended
town meetings and or wrote letters to help save the Biltmore over the past
few months. However, my web site is AGAINST putting hotel/condo units
as being proposed by Rory Hiller who now is next in line to buy the Biltmore!
What has happened is that one developer has backed off, and another developer
has signed on to make millions of dollars with his condo/hotel units built
inside the Biltmore north and south wings to be bought by investors.
Our group is for historical PRESERVATION OF THE BILTMORE
BOTH INSIDE AND OUT! The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables/Miami, Florida
is run as a successful hotel which has been extensively preserved through
the efforts of a strong preservation ordinance giving many decisions to
their historic preservation board. The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables,
Florida does NOT have high-end condo/hotel units in their historic hotel!!!
We need a strong preservation ordinance in Belleair like they have in Coral
Gables/Miami for their historic Biltmore Hotel. The historic Victorian
Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island is run successfully with NO condo/hotel
units! The Victorian Hotel del Coronado Hotel in San Diego is successfully
run with NO condo/hotel units!
Speak out at Wednesday night meeting, September 21,
in Belleair at 7:30 p.m. that the preservation ordinance needs to give
more power to the historic preservation board. We must stop extensive
remodeling to the Biltmore and we must continue to push for historic PRESERVATION
of the INSIDE of the magnificent historic Biltmore! Our Save the
Biltmore Preservationists are going to be there on a long term basis to
educate, influence, and inspire the community regarding the responsibilities
and sensitivities involved with its preservation. This web site has contacted
and sent the St. Petersburg Times news article from today, Tuesday, September
20, to Marcus Hotels and Resorts and the philanthropic trust fund organization
for them to contact Urdang to try to purchase the hotel since DeBartolo
has backed off.
BELLEAIR REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
September 21, 2005, Wednesday
Time: 7:30 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida 33756-1034
The topic of saving the Belleview Biltmore may be
brought up by anyone. Voice your opinion that the Belleair historical preservation
board needs to have more power in making decisions on the preservation
of the Biltmore! http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adpsearchtype=address&country=US&addtohistory=&searchtab=home&address=901+Ponce+de
PINELLAS COUNTY HISTORIC TASK FORCE MEETING:
The Pinellas County Historic Task force was recently
formed because of the Biltmore needing to be saved. The
article about their first meeting was printed September 2, 2005 in TBN
Weekly.
"County board gears up to protect Pinellas history
The Historic Preservation Task Force hopes to require
developers to consider the historical significance of any buildings they
want to raze.
By LESTER R. DAILEY
PINELLAS COUNTY – The county’s new Historic Preservation
Task Force met for the first time on Aug. 24 in Clearwater."
To read the full article by TBN Weekly click:
http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/090205_pco-03.txt
PHOTO AND ARTICLE OF THIS www.SavetheBiltmore.com
WEB SITE'S EFFORTS!
See photo of this web site's efforts to save the Biltmore
in TBN Weekly at: http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/090805_bee-03.txt
Article By CHARY SOUTHMAYD, editor of the Belleair
Bee
"David Swoap, who recently moved to the area, joins
Alice Walters, a Clearwater resident since 1959, as she takes her Save
the Biltmore message to visitors at Largo’s Taylor Park. For more information
on how to get involved with Save the Biltmore Preservationists, visit www.SaveTheBiltmore.com"
COUNTY COMMISSIONER RONNIE DUNCAN'S EMAIL TO ME:
I wrote Pinellas County Commissioner Ronnie Duncan
an email in August. I had hoped the new Pinellas County Task Force
which Mr. Duncan helped create would write a letter to Belleair town officials
to endorse passing a preservation ordinance in Belleair being that the
Task Force was created in response to the possible demolition of the Biltmore.
See full St. Petersburg Times editorial on the creation of this Task Force.
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sptimes/863526511.html?MAC=91f43d5b754debb5a18faf1f8bd17405&did=863526511&FMT=FT&FMTS=FT&date=Jul+6%2C+2005&author=&%20pub=St.+Petersburg+Times&printformat=&desc=A+step+toward+historic+preservation+Series%3A+EDITORIALS
This is Commissioner Duncan's reply to meAugust 10th:
"Thanks Diane for your response. As I mentioned
in my earlier email, the first meeting of this Task Force is to occur later
in the month. The agenda for this first Task Force meeting is focused
on our mission, which is advisory to the Board of County Commissioners.
"I am not sure of how far we will get into our mission
or agenda during this meeting.
"This Task Force serves as an advisory group to the
Board of County Commissioners. They can make recommendations to the
Board for their consideration. The Task Force's purpose is not to
take positions on any projects at this point in time.
"Thank you for your continued interest in this Property."
Ronnie Duncan
rduncan@pinellascounty.org
A THANK YOU TO WUSF FOR THEIR INTERVIEW WITH US:
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wusf/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=815766
Radio interview from our public broadcasting station: Steve Newborn from
WUSF with our Save the Biltmore Preservationist vice president, Ed Jameson.
September 7, 2005
BILTMORE MEMORIES AND PHOTOS WANTED!
Biltmore supporter Renee Burrell is asking for people
for their Biltmore wedding or reception photos, personal memories of the
Biltmore, snapshots, stories etc. to put together a story for us. Please
send your information and photos to Email Me,
and I will transfer them to Renee. And a special thank you to Renee who
has been helping us so much as of late!
SAVE THE BILTMORE SUPPORT ALL THE WAY FROM FRANCE!
Here is an email I posted to the Message Board, it
is direct from Vinca, France! And I thank them for writing us and for their
support.
"My wife and I have stayed at this amazing hotel several
times. Our European friends are always awed and delighted that such a magnificent
building in the USA is still in use and still delightful. We all love the
restaurants, decor and gentility of this unique part of Floridian history.
What does Jeb Bush (or Carl Hiaassen) think about the plans to destroy
this piece of American history? Would he allow the demolition of the Art
Deco parts of Miami? Will the French Quarter of New Orleans become a part
of history. The Biltmore is in the same league." Richard Hamill,
Vinca, France
FREE FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY WITH EVERY $25 DONATION!
To help save the Biltmore and spread the word and
continue the fight to preserve the inside of the Biltmore historically,
donate just $25 and receive a FREE signed 8 by 10 inch fine art nature
or still life photograph. You can donate right online now! Donate
$50 and receive two free 8 by 10 inch fine art prints. $75 and receive
three 8 by 10 inch fine art prints. If you would like your FREE signed,
fine art print matted and framed, just donate $55. I am donating 100% of
the proceeds from my fine art photography to our nonprofit Save the Biltmore
fund. See http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreFREEphoto.htm
for beautiful fine art photographs from which to choose from!
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
I opened my web site, www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
back in December, 2004 when I first heard that DeBartolo wanted to demolish
the Biltmore. It has been a long haul to say the least to fight to save
the Biltmore! And yes the demolition has been stopped, and all four
wings of the Biltmore have been saved!! I take great pleasure in
this and great pleasure that my Save the Biltmore web site was instrumental
right from the very start in saving the Biltmore by getting people together
to win the battle!And I thank the St. Petersburg Times for mentioning my
web site back in April that started this ball rolling. And I thank my nonprofit
directors, Ed Jameson, Doug Mann and Barbara Arnold for all their wonderful
work and support since we formed Save the Biltmore Preservationists. But
we need more help to preserve the Biltmore's historical authenticity in
the future since Rory Hiller has plans to put condo/hotel units in the
north and south wings which our Save the Biltmore nonprofit group is adamantly
against!
If you want to join our group, come to our Sunday meeting
and help us. We will work to find ways to ensure that the magnificent
"White Queen of the Gulf" maintains its Victorian charm and appeal both
inside and out, not only for today but for 100 years from now.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists
A Nonprofit Organization
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL UPDATE THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER
1, 2005
Dear Belleview Biltmore Supporters, News Media and
Others,
URGENT NOTICE: BELLEAIR MEETING NEXT WEDNESDAY,
SEPTEMBER 7!!! PLEASE ATTEND!
BELLEAIR - SPECIAL MEETING - PRESERVATION ATTORNEY
NANCY STROUD ATTENDING
September 7, 2005 Wednesday
Time: 5:30 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida
Topic of Discussion - Preservation attorney, Nancy
Stroud, will be presenting her draft of the Preservation Ordinance that
will help save the Biltmore forever.
We URGENTLY need your support that the town of Belleair
will continue to push forward with a STRONG preservation ordinance.
PLEASE ATTEND!
Please voice your opinion that you wish the entire
Belleview Biltmore Hotel be saved: the east, west, north and south wings
INCLUDING the hotel guest rooms AND that you want a STRONG Preservation
Ordinance to be written and passed! This will preserve the historical relevancy
of the hotel and its beauty. This is very important for everyone
to do this at this meeting!
Map:
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?searchtype=address&country=US&addtohistory=&searchtab=home&address=901+Ponce+de+Leon+Blvd&city=Belleair&state=Fl&zipcode=
GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER? !
"After months of speculation, DeBartolo Development
representatives will make a presentation to the Town Commission on Wednesday,
Sept. 7, on what they have in mind for the Belleview Biltmore Resort and
Spa. Cottrell said Peek told him the DeBartolo group will “present
an overview of their vision for the Belleview Biltmore hotel and other
properties.” Cottrell added that Peek “implied that all of the hotel is
not salvageable, but some of it may be. “I got a call a week or so ago
from Skipper Peek with DeBartolo,” said Town Manager Steve Cottrell. “He
wanted to set up a time to meeting behind closed doors with the commissioners.
I told him you can’t do that in the state of Florida.”
Chary Southmayd, Editor of the Belleair Bee
To read the full article click: http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/090105_bee-03.txt
"After 10 months of public silence, DeBartolo Development
is poised to reveal its vision for the Belleview Biltmore for the first
time next week. While DeBartolo has said little, many have feared
the company plans to raze the resort, especially since the company's previous
partners had announced plans last year to do just that. So far, the few
clues that have emerged about DeBartolo's intentions hint at the possibility
of hundreds of townhomes and a town center on the bluff or the golf course.
Neither Peek nor Kobel returned calls regarding their plans for the hotel.
There's mixed evidence about whether DeBartolo wants to spare elements
of the Biltmore."
Lorri Helfand, reporter for the St. Petersburg Times
To read the full article click: http://www.sptimes.com/2005/08/31/Northpinellas/Developer_to_reveal_p.shtml
REPEAT: URGENT!
It is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT for everyone in the community
to attend next week's meeting in Belleair, Wednesday, September 7 at 5:30
p.m. and voice your opinion to the Town Council and Mayor Mariani that
you want a STRONG Preservation Ordinance passed to save the Biltmore FOREVER.
FOR THOSE WHO CAN NOT ATTEND BELLEAIR TOWN MEETINGS:
If for any reason you can not attend town meetings
or if you live out of town, just send your ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to the town
council and Mayor of Belleair. A sample is below. Ask them to continue
to push forward that a STRONG preservation ordinance be passed NEXT WEDNESDAY,
September 7 to forever preserve the Biltmore. This way they will
know where you stand! Anyone may send an email to Belleair:
Biltmore friends, public officials, preservation organizations, out of
towners and the news media. So please send a ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to
have a STRONG preservation ordinance passed and to save all four historical
wings of this hotel! Of course even if you attend the meetings, feel
free to email the town of Belleair your opinion. If you have written an
email to Town Officials, NOW IS THE TIME TO SEND ANOTHER ONE! Through
my www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
web site, we have found two preservation-minded buyers who are interested
in preserving the Biltmore, a philanthropic investment trust fund and Marcus
Hotels and Resorts. Help us help save the Biltmore!
SAMPLE ONE-MINUTE EMAIL
Here is a sample ONE-MINUTE email you can simply copy
and send to the town of Belleair or write your own.
Dear Mayor Mariani and Belleair Commissioners:
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel must be preserved in its
entirety including all hotel guest rooms. It MUST remain as a true and
real hotel to ensure its historical relevancy and beauty in Belleair.
We urge you to have a STRONG preservation ordinance passed Wednesday, September
7 in order that this magnificent hotel in your town is saved forever.
This Victorian hotel is an American and architectural treasure so important
to your history, to the history of our lovely State of Florida and to our
country. The National Trust has placed the Biltmore on its list of
historic places to be saved so they recognize the importance of this wonderful
hotel. A STRONG preservation ordinance will ensure that the beautiful
Belleview Biltmore Hotel will stay as a true hotel in the future.
By saving ALL 400-guest rooms and ALL the wings, the hotel will increase
in value as time passes. As a result, the Biltmore will stand as
one of the greatest TRUE Victorian hotels in the WORLD that Belleair took
the time to save in its entirety! Then and only then will Belleair
and America continue to enjoy the hotel's Victorian history and heritage
for my generation and generations to come.
We are counting on you. Thank you.
The Town of Belleair email addresses for your ONE-MINUTE
EMAIL campaign are:
gemarianijr@cs.com,
fowlerarch@aol.com, gmkatica@highstream.net,
tshelly@tampabay.rr.com,
tmanager@tampabay.rr.com,
mimaxwel@tampabay.rr.com,
bruggles@tampabay.rr.com
George Mariani, Mayor of Belleair
Stephen Fowler, Belleair Commissioner
Gary Katica, Belleair Commissioner
Bonnie Ruggles, Belleair Commissioner
Tom Shelly, Belleair Commissioner
Steve Cottrell Town Manager of Belleair
Micah Maxwell (Assistant to the Town
Manager) Finance
Feel free to send me a copy of your email to the town
of Belleair at email me.
Diane Hein. I always enjoy knowing our supporters
better.
SIGN WAVERS NEEDED!
We need sign wavers this coming Saturday morning,
September 3, on Clearwater Beach area to help save the Biltmore!
If you are interested in participating, email me.
Our Save the Biltmore Preservationist Director, Barbara Arnold, will be
heading up the sign waving. Tom Merrifield has offered to fly a WWW.SAVETHEBILTMORE.COM
banner over Clearwater Beach this coming Saturday morning so we all thank
him for his generous offer!
FLORIDA COLLECTIBLES AND VINTAGE MEMORABILIA SHOW
Sunday, October 30, 2005 from 10:00 am to 6:00 PM
in the Tiffany Ballroom, Belleview Biltmore Hotel. Sponsored by Hula Hula
Productions Inc., and Biltmore supporter, Annette Vedsegaard-Ross.
Mark your calendar to attend this fun event at the Biltmore!
BILTMORE MEMORIES AND PHOTOS WANTED!
Biltmore supporter Renee Burrell is asking for people
for their Biltmore wedding or reception photos, personal memories
of the Biltmore, snapshots, stories etc. to put together a story for us.
Please send your information and photos to Email
and I will transfer them to Renee.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Next Wednesday September 7: an absolutely CRITICAL
day for the future of the historic Belleview Biltmore Hotel. What
path lies ahead for the "White Queen of the Gulf?" She still
rises high in Belleair. She was critical to the history and development
of Pinellas County. She helped us in World War II. She is beloved
by people all over the country who have written me. 400 citizens
in Belleair signed petitions to stop condo development there. And
yet she is still not secure!
SECURE the Biltmore's future. Attend next week's
meeting, speak up and out...SAVE HER FOREVER!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein
President, Save the Biltmore Preservationists, Inc.
A nonprofit organization
www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Email Me
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Update, Wednesday, August
17, 2005
Dear Belleview Biltmore Hotel Supporters, News Media
and Others,
GREAT NEWS!! WE HAVE TWO PRESERVATION
MINDED BUYERS FOR THE BILTMORE!
I recently posted this information on my save the
Biltmore web site: Through the efforts of this web site www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
and our new nonprofit organization of five people, Save the Biltmore Preservationists,
Inc., we have found TWO preservation-minded buyers for the Belleview Biltmore
Hotel. One buyer is a hotel, Marcus Hotels and Resorts, and the other
is an investment trust fund with philanthropic money available to purchase
the Biltmore. Marcus Hotels and Resorts have purchased other
historic hotels and have successfully marketed and restored them.
This is GREAT news for the Biltmore and the public that we have found these
two buyers! We hope that discussions with the current Biltmore hotel
owner, Urdang and Associates will prove fruitful in a successful purchase
with them and one of these preservation-minded buyers.
BELLEAIR BEE ARTICLE AUGUST 3, 2005Town
Commission talks preservation:
"BELLEAIR – Attorney Nancy Stroud has presented the
Town Commission with criteria that are necessary when writing a historic
preservation ordinance that could potentially save the Belleview Biltmore
Resort and Spa from demolition. Stroud will be back for the Tuesday, Sept.
6 meeting with a draft of the historic preservation ordinance." (To
read full article click: http://www.tbnweekly.com/content_articles/080305_bee-03.txt FOR
THOSE WHO CAN NOT ATTEND BELLEAIR TOWN
MEETINGS:
If for any reason you can not attend town meetings
or if you live out of town, just send your ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to the town
council and Mayor of Belleair. A sample is below. Ask them to continue
to push forward that a STRONG preservation ordinance be written as soon
as possible to forever preserve the Biltmore. This way they will
know where you stand! Anyone may send an email to Belleair:
Biltmore friends, public officials, preservation organizations, out of
towners and the news media. So please send a ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to
have the preservation ordinance written immediately and to save all four
historical wings of this hotel! Of course even if you attend the
meetings, feel free to email the town of Belleair your opinion.
SAMPLE
ONE-MINUTE EMAIL
Here is a sample ONE-MINUTE email you can simply copy
and send to the town of Belleair or write your own. Dear
Mayor Mariani and Belleair Commissioners: The
Belleview Biltmore Hotel must be preserved in its entirety including all
hotel guest rooms. It MUST remain as a true hotel to ensure its historical
relevancy and beauty in Belleair. We urge you to have a STRONG preservation
ordinance written and passed as soon as possible in order that this magnificent
hotel in your town is saved forever. This Victorian hotel is an American
and architectural treasure so important to your history, to the history
of our lovely State of Florida and to our country. The National Trust
has placed the Biltmore on its list of historic places to be saved so they
recognize the importance of this wonderful hotel. A STRONG preservation
ordinance will ensure that the beautiful Belleview Biltmore Hotel will
stay as a true hotel in the future. By saving ALL 400 guest rooms
and ALL the wings, the hotel will increase in value as time passes.
As a result, the Biltmore will stand as one of the greatest TRUE Victorian
hotels in the WORLD that Belleair took the time to save in its entirety!
Then and only then will Belleair and America continue to enjoy the hotel's
Victorian history and heritage for my generation and generations to come.
Your future town leaders will look back on you with pride. We
are counting on you. Thank you.
The Town of Belleair email addresses for your ONE-MINUTE
EMAIL campaign are: gemarianijr@cs.com,
fowlerarch@aol.com, gmkatica@highstream.net,
tshelly@tampabay.rr.com,
tmanager@tampabay.rr.com,
mimaxwel@tampabay.rr.com,
bruggles@tampabay.rr.com
George Mariani, Mayor of Belleair
Stephen Fowler, Belleair Commissioner
Gary Katica, Belleair Commissioner
Bonnie Ruggles, Belleair Commissioner
Tom Shelly, Belleair Commissioner
Steve Cottrell Town Manager of Belleair
Micah Maxwell (Assistant to the Town
Manager) Finance Feel free to send me
a copy of your email to the town of Belleair at Email
me.Diane Hein, President, Save the Biltmore
Preservationists, Inc. I always enjoy knowing our supporters better.
YARD SIGNS:http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreYardSign.htm
Help us spread the word across Florida and pick up
a save the Biltmore yard sign. And pick one up for your neighbor too!
We only ask for a $10 donation to pay for the cost of the sign.
MESSAGE FROM "ACROSS THE POND!"
Here is an email from Biltmore supporter David Radford
from as they say "across the pond" in England where PRESERVATION IS KING! "I
didn't realize that the Belleview Biltmore was the oldest used wooden structure!
If that was in England, it would be a listed building and no one would
be able to touch it. Any building of any historical value over here
gets a graded listing as to how important is. For example if something
is a grade 2 listed building - you may as well forget it! We even
put preservation orders on trees! The National Trust owns half of
England!!! All the major historical houses are owned by the National
Trust, and they own hundreds and hundreds of square mile of gardens and
forest and national conservation land. If National Trust owns a piece
of land, the chances of you getting building permission on it are remote!
Even local councils have areas they call "Green Belt" and if you own some
green belt land then you can't do anything with it apart from farm or keep
it as pasture land." David Radford As
a side note, the former King of England, (the Duke of Windsor) and England's
Prime Minister Lady Margaret Thatcher have stayed at the Biltmore! So
let's take a lesson from our mother country:
LET'S SAVE THE BILTMORE
WITH A STRONG PRESERVATION ORDINANCE IN BELLEAIR! SPEECHES
TO THE TOWN COUNCIL TO SAVE THE BILTMORE!
A
special thank you to Ed Jameson, Doug Mann, Barbara A. Walters who are
on my new team and nonprofit organization, Save the Biltmore Preservationists,
Inc., who gave speeches at the town council meetings this month.
I and they support saving all four wings and ALL 400 guest rooms of the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel. Another thank you to Jeff Hannie who also
gave a speech last night and previously to support saving the four wings
and guest rooms.
RADIO INTERVIEWS TO SAVE THE BILTMORE!
I want to sincerely thank Jack Harris http://www.970wfla.com/jackharris.html
and Tedd Webb http://www.teddwebb.com/
both from 970 A.M. WFLA radio, Tampa Bay area for their interview with
our Secretary/Treasurer of Save the Biltmore Preservationists, Inc., Doug
Mann last week August 11.
I also want to thank Doug Guetzloe,
from The Guetzloe Report www.guetzloe.com
WAMT AM 1190, and Ax the Tax www.axthetax.org
Orlando, Florida, for interviewing Doug Mann this morning August 17.
To hear this interview with Doug Gutzeloe click: http://mbox.savethebiltmore.com/download_attachment.php/DOUG+INTERVIEW-GUETZLOE+REPORT.mp3?msguid=4495&partbody=2&partprop=2&fname=DOUG+INTERVIEW-GUETZLOE+REPORT.mp3&folder=Inbox
It's wonderful to get support across the airways to save the Biltmore!
If your radio station, TV, newspaper or magazine wants to interview us,
please contact me at email me.
BILTMORE
BUSINESS SUPPORT WEB PAGE:
I have started a
separate web page to thank business supporters for their help in saving
the Biltmore. If you help us save the Biltmore, either via the news
media, flyers, posters, letters to the town council or interviews, I will
be more than happy to let the public know of your Biltmore support on this
page:http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreBusinessSupporters.htm
CLOSING
THOUGHTS
What lies ahead for the Biltmore? This magnificent
Victorian hotel is now 108 years young. An "aging" lady who has a
youthful spirit. She STILL continues to attract tourists from all over
America BECAUSE of her age! This great "White Queen of the Gulf"
still rises high on the bluffs of the lovely town of Belleair, Florida
with her commanding presence. Her future lies in having a STRONG
PRESERVATION ORDINANCE. Belleair leaders literally hold the life
of this precious lady in their hands. We hope they follow Great Britain's
outstanding example of preserving historical buildings.
Sincerely,
Diane Hein President,
Save the Biltmore Preservationists, Inc.
(A nonprofit
organization) www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Update,
Saturday, July 30, 2005 Dear Belleview
Biltmore Hotel Supporters, News Media and Others,
Enclosed
is the calendar of Belleair town meetings for the month of August 2005. Please
note that there is a special workshop meeting THIS COMING TUESDAY, August
2 at 5:30 p.m. Belleair preservation attorney Nancy Stroud will be
making a presentation and report to the town council. Be sure to attend
this meeting to continue encouraging the town of Belleair officials to
have Ms. Stroud write a STRONG PRESERVATION ORDINANCE as soon as possible
to ensure that the Biltmore is saved forever. We need a strong preservation
ordinance that will save the hotel guest rooms so that the Biltmore will
continue as a true hotel!
BELLEAIR CALENDAR
TOWN MEETINGS, AUGUST, 2005: BELLEAIR
TOWN COMMISSION - SPECIAL MEETING AND WORK SESSION
August 2, 2005 Tuesday
Time: 5:30 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida
Topic of Discussion - Belleair preservation attorney
Nancy Stroud will be making a presentation and report to the town council.
We URGENTLY need your support that the town of Belleair
will continue to push forward with writing a STRONG preservation ordinance.
PLEASE ATTEND! BRING ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!
Please speak at the meeting and voice your opinion
that you wish the entire Belleview Biltmore Hotel be saved: the east, west,
north and south wings INCLUDING the hotel guest rooms. This will preserve
the historical relevancy of the hotel and its beauty. This is very
important for everyone to do this at this meeting!
Map: http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adpsearchtype=address&country=US&addtohistory=&searchtab=home&address=901+Ponce+de BELLEAIR
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING
August 8, 2005, Monday
Time: 5:30 P.M.
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida
Topic of Discussion - The topic of saving the Biltmore
Hotel in its entirety may be brought up by anyone. Speak up!
BELLEAIR FINANCE BOARD MEETING
August 10 2005, Wednesday
Time: 4:00 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida
Topic of Discussion - The topic of saving the Biltmore
Hotel in its entirety may be brought up by anyone. Speak up!
BELLEAIR REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
August 16, 2005, Tuesday
Time: 7:30 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida 33756-1034
Topic of Discussion - The topic of saving the Biltmore
Hotel in its entirety may be brought up by anyone. Speak up!
TOWN OF BELLEAIR WEB SITE FOR CALENDAR AND AGENDAS:
The Town of Belleair has a web site with a calendar
of their meetings: http://belleair.govoffice.com/
Then click at bottom of their web page under: "Calendars" and then
after this "Town Meetings." If you want to find out the agenda
and what topics are to be discussed at the town meetings click "Agenda
and Minutes." If any of the links are broken in this email,
just go to www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
and click on "Calendar." FOR THOSE WHO
CAN NOT ATTEND BELLEAIR MEETINGS:
If for any reason you can not attend this Tuesday's
special workship meeting or this month's town meetings or if you live out
of town, just send your ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to the town council and Mayor
of Belleair. A sample is below. Ask them to continue to push forward
that the preservation ordinance be written as soon as possible to
forever preserve the Biltmore. This way they will know where you
stand! Anyone may send an email to Belleair: Biltmore friends,
public officials, preservation organizations, out of towners and the news
media. So please send a ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to have the preservation
ordinance written immediately and to save all four historical wings of
this hotel including ALL hotel rooms! Of course even if you attend
the meetings, feel free to email the town of Belleair your opinion. SAMPLE
EMAIL
Here is a sample ONE-MINUTE email you can simply copy
and send to the town of Belleair or write your own. Or feel free
to read it at the town council meeting this Tuesday or write your own.
Dear Mayor Mariani and Belleair Commissioners: The
Belleview Biltmore Hotel must be preserved in its entirety including all
hotel guest rooms. It MUST remain as a true hotel to ensure its historical
relevancy and beauty. We urge you to have a strong preservation ordinance
written and passed as soon as possible in order that this magnificent hotel
in your town is saved forever. This Victorian hotel is an American
treasure so important to your history, to the history of our lovely State
of Florida and to our country. The National Trust has placed the
Biltmore on its list of historic places to be saved so they recognize the
importance of this wonderful hotel. We ask that you take action TODAY
to ensure that a preservation ordinance be written IMMEDIATELY and approved
by you so that the Biltmore's future is secure for my generation and generations
to come. We are counting on you. Thank
you.
The Town of Belleair email addresses for your ONE-MINUTE
EMAIL campaign are: gemarianijr@cs.com,
fowlerarch@aol.com, gmkatica@highstream.net,
eupmeyer@ix.netcom.com,
tmanager@tampabay.rr.com,
mimaxwel@tampabay.rr.com,
bruggles@tampabay.rr.com
George Mariani, Mayor of Belleair
Stephen Fowler, Belleair Commissioner
Gary Katica, Belleair Commissioner
Bonnie Ruggles, Belleair Commissioner
Ernst Upmeyer, Belleair Commissioner
Steve Cottrell Town Manager of Belleair,
Florida where the Biltmore Hotel is located
Micah Maxwell (Assistant to the Town
Manager of Belleair, Florida) Finance
Feel free to send me a copy of your email to the town
of Belleair at email@savethebiltmore.com.
I always enjoy knowing our supporters better. I want to thank anyone
who emailed the Belleair public officials a letter a few weeks ago.
And thank you to those sending me a carbon copy of your emails. I
appreciate your time, efforts and enthusiasm. NOTE:
PLEASE keep sending in your ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to get this preservation ordinance
written and approved as soon as possible! This is SO important!
YARD SIGNS
Yard signs to save the Biltmore are still available!
Spread the word through our community! Locations are given at the web site:
http://savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreYardSign.htm
CLOSING THOUGHTS
In 1984 Eric Eisemann was instrumental in saving the
Crater Lake Lodge in Oregon from demolition. He said he had received
over 4,00 postcards and letters in support of saving this beautiful lodge!
"In a 1991 HPLO (Historic Preservation League of Oregon) newsletter, Eric
Eisemann wrote: "We must never lose sight of the fact that it is the private
citizen who is at the heart of good historic preservation." http://www.aracnet.com/~histgaz/hgv5n2.htm To
all my dedicated Belleview Biltmore supporters, 1.
YOU are the private citizens who will save and preserve the Biltmore by
your outpouring of ONE-MINUTE EMAIL letters or attendance at the Belleair
meetings to get a preservation ordinance written immediately. 2.
YOU are the private citizens who turned out on May 3 when some 400 people
voiced their opinion in that long five-hour meeting that you wanted the
Biltmore saved! 3. YOU are the private
citizens who signed some 400 petitions to STOP condo development and to
save the Biltmore in its entirety. 4.
YOU are the private citizens who wrote hundreds of letters to public officials
and to the National Trust. 5. YOU
are the private citizens who can do public good.
Sincerely, Diane
Hein, Lead Preservationist www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Belleview Biltmore Hotel Update Sunday July 17, 2005
Dear Belleview Biltmore Supporters, News Media and Others,
BELLEAIR REGULAR COMMISSION TOWN MEETING
July 19, 2005, Tuesday
Time: 7:30 PM
901 Ponce de Leon
Belleair, Florida 33756-1034
Topic of Discussion - The topic of saving the Belleview
Biltmore may be brought up by anyone.
It is VERY IMPORTANT to attend and speak to the commissioners
and Mayor that the preservation ordinance needs to be written immediately
by preservation attorney, Nancy Stroud, and passed by the town of Belleair
as soon as possible! We need your support there even if you
do not wish to speak. It is of the utmost URGENCY that this ordinance
be passed to ensure that the Biltmore is preserved. Also please
voice your opinion that you wish the entire Belleview Biltmore Hotel is
saved: the east, west, north and south wings including the original hotel
rooms! We do NOT want hotel/condo rooms in there!
This will preserve the historical relevancy of this
Victorian hotel and its beauty.
PLEASE COME AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS!
Map: http://wwwmapquest.com/maps/map.adp?searchtype=address&country=US&addtohistory=&searchtab=home&address=901+Ponce+de+Leon+Blvd&city=Belleair&state=Fl&zipcode=
FOR THOSE WHO CAN NOT ATTEND BELLEAIR MEETINGS:
If for any reason you can not attend this month's
town meeting or if you live out of town, just send your ONE-MINUTE EMAIL
to the town council and Mayor of Belleair. A sample is below. Ask
them to continue to push forward that the preservation ordinance be written
as soon as possible to forever preserve the Biltmore. This way they
will know where you stand! Anyone may send an email to Belleair:
Biltmore friends, public officials, preservation organizations, out of
towners and the news media. So please send a ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to
have the preservation ordinance written immediately and to save all four
historical wings of this hotel! Of course even if you attend the
meetings, feel free to email the town of Belleair your opinion.
SAMPLE EMAIL
Here is a sample ONE-MINUTE email you can simply copy
and send to the town of Belleair or write your own. Or feel free
to read it at the town council meeting this Tuesday or write your own.
Dear Mayor Mariani and Belleair Commissioners:
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel must be preserved in its
entirety, and we urge you to have the preservation ordinance written and
passed as soon as possible in order that this magnificent hotel in your
town be saved forever. This Victorian hotel is an American treasure
so important to your history, to the history of our lovely State of Florida
and to our country. The National Trust has placed the Biltmore on
its list of historic places to be saved so they recognize the importance
of this wonderful hotel. We ask that you take action TODAY to ensure
that this preservation ordinance be written IMMEDIATELY and approved by
you so that the Biltmore's future is secure for my generation and generations
to come. Thank you.
The Town of Belleair email addresses for your ONE-MINUTE
EMAIL campaign are:
gemarianijr@cs.com,
fowlerarch@aol.com,
gmkatica@highstream.net,
eupmeyer@ix.netcom.com,
tmanager@tampabay.rr.com,
mimaxwel@tampabay.rr.com,
bruggles@tampabay.rr.com
George Mariani, Mayor of Belleair
Stephen Fowler, Belleair Commissioner
Gary Katica, Belleair Commissioner
Bonnie Ruggles, Belleair Commissioner
Ernst Upmeyer, Belleair Commissioner
Steve Cottrell Town Manager of Belleair,
Florida where the Biltmore Hotel is located
Micah Maxwell (Assistant to the Town
Manager of Belleair, Florida) Finance
Feel free to send me a copy of your email to the town
of Belleair at email me.
I always enjoy knowing our supporters better.
A SPEECH GIVEN TO BELLEAIR COMMISSIONERS AND THE BELLEAIR
MAYOR:
This speech was given to the Town of Belleair Commissioners'
Meeting June 21, 2005 by Belleview Biltmore supporter, Jeff Hannie, so
I want to thank him for his time and his excellent thoughts.
"I am a Certified Public Accountant and a lover of history.
I know business, balance sheets, and bottom lines. But as a person,
I know there are things that you cannot put a dollar value upon:
The love between a man and a woman
The joy of seeing a baby smile
The magnificence of the Grand Canyon
The beauty of a sun coast sunset As a lover
of history, I know you cannot exist without a past. From knowing
your name, from getting home from this meeting, from knowing how to act
in life's situations; all are based on past experiences. Past experiences
make up history, and history plays a role in everyone's present.
In the Belleview Biltmore, you have a gem, a true treasure.
It should not be lost. It needs to be saved in its entirety, as a
hotel and golf resort. It does not need to have its limbs cut off,
or to be turned into some type of a condo/unit hotel hybrid. It needs
to be restored to its historical grandeur. It needs to be managed
well and marketed wisely. I had been to the hotel in the past, but
I never stayed overnight until this month. I am glad I did.
To drink in the history was wonderful. That present experience for
me, the past experience for thousands, should also be available as a future
experience for generations to come. Although
I have ideas, I don't know the exact mix of support from public, private,
foundation, grants or other sources to make this a reality. But I
do implore this commission to do all it can to make it happen with enough
people with enough will, wonderful things can be accomplished.
I would like to add a little postscript. I walked
on the porch of the Palm Cottage. That glorious house is in such
disrepair also calls for restoration. It could be put to any
number of productive uses. I want to thank
you very much for the opportunity to speak. If I were retired, my
new nonpaying full time job would be to work to save the Belleview Biltmore
in its entirety. Again, thank you very much."
SPREAD THE WORD!
Be sure to pick up a Save the Belleview Biltmore yard
sign to spread the word! A $10 donation is requested. For a
photo of the yard sign and locations to pick them up click:
http://www.savethebiltmore.com/BelleviewBiltmoreYardSign.htm
EDITORIAL FROM THE ST. PETERSBURG TIMES
http://www.sptimes.com/2005/06/20/Northpinellas/Closing_clubhouse_wil.shtml
Biltmore's loss would drain history, elegance from
area My husband and I had the pleasure of staying
for a weekend in the Belleview Biltmore and we were both enthralled with
the history and beauty of this historic site. The people in the Tampa Bay
area should be up in arms over its proposed demolition. A
visit to Europe would certainly bring home the importance of leaving such
structures in place. Many people live in homes that were built in the 1700s
and wouldn't think of destroying them. I don't have to mention the number
of palaces, cathedrals and other significant historical sites that are
visited by millions each year throughout Europe. Having physical ties to
our past is important in defining our future. The Biltmore is priceless
in its importance to your area, and in fact to this country.
I ask that each business and every civic organization
band together to aid those who are attempting to halt the destruction of
this incredible structure. If you have never
seen the Belleview Biltmore, you will not understand what you will lose.
Please take a drive to this site and sign on for a tour. Visit the museum.
Have lunch in the gorgeous dining room or on the spacious porch by the
pool. You will be changed forever. If the destruction
of this historic site is not stopped, you will lose a wonderful part of
your local color and elegance. -- Barbara and
Richard Heastings, Washington, PA [Last modified June 20, 2005, 01:35:17]
CLOSING THOUGHTS
The Biltmore needs more hope to live. YOU can
give this hope. Attend the town meeting this Tuesday and/or write
your ONE-MINUTE EMAIL to Belleair. Tell them that the preservation
ordinance MUST be written and passed immediately for a hopeful future for
the Biltmore. Hope in America is one backbone
to our greatness. The preservation ordinance will bring the needed
hope to the Belleview Biltmore Hotel to ensure its greatness in history!
Sincerely,
Diane Hein, Preservationist www.SaveTheBiltmore.com
Belleview Biltmore Update June 30, Thursday, 2005
Dear Belleview Biltmore Supporters, News Media and
Others,
LETTER FROM USAAF 1943 RECRUIT BILL SWIFT
Biltmore supporter and photographer, Darren Osgood,
has taken some beautiful black and white photos of the Biltmore, ( http://www.pbase.com/oz/belleview_biltmore
) As a result of his photos, Darren recently received an email from USAAF
recruit Bill Swift. Mr. Swift was one of the men who stayed at the
Belleview Biltmore Hotel during World War II in 1943 for basic training
when the hotel was opened up to our troops, some 3,000 of them! All
the guest room furniture and doors were removed at that time, and the military
moved into the Biltmore. Mr. Swift's photo at the time of his stay
at the Biltmore is available on the link below. What an exciting
and wonderful letter from Mr. Swift. You can just feel American history
as you read it. It is a fairly long letter but here is part of it and you
can click on the link below to read the rest of it. Please
read it in full, I was very touched and moved by his letter and hope you
are too.
"I had vivid and fond memories of the Belleview Biltmore.
Clean quarters, good food, and a well-organized facility...I thought I
was in heaven. It retained some of the vestiges of a great hotel.
I was assigned to KP duty one time at the Biltmore and was really impressed
with the size of the kitchen and the dining room. I was assigned
to a job unloading cars from the rail line, which ran under the kitchen/dining
area. Eating in the mess hall was done by shifts since there were
so many men to be served. Training movies were about as dull as you
can imagine with titles like "Care and Service of
