Residential real estate icon Martha Turner thought she was going to dinner at Central Market with hubby Glenn Bauguss, but was told that they needed to make a stop at the home of Walter Bering, one of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty's leading producers.
Surprise, surprise! When the couple walked through the door of the striking mid-century modern abode, Turner was greeted with birthday cheers from more than 250 friends and associates. The celebration was in honor of her 75th, a milestone that Turner belies with her energy and enthusiasm for the real estate business which she founded 37 years ago.
In a congratulatory letter to his longtime friend, former President George H.W. Bush wrote to Turner, “My Friend, Barbara and I are now Nonagenarians, so we can tell you that being 75 doesn’t hurt one bit. We call that 'spring chicken age.' ”
Among the surprises was a proclamation from Mayor Annise Parker declaring it "Martha Turner Day" in Houston and a birthday cake in the design of a River Oaks mansion with a Martha Turner "For Sale" sign in front. Music by Marshall Maxwell and chocolates from Cacao & Cardamon were icing on this cake.
Applauding Turner for her professional success and civic leadership were guests including Sotheby's International Realty president and CEO Kathy Korte and senior veep of marketing Bradley Nelson, both in from New York headquarters for the celebration. In the mix were Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty co-president Tom Anderson, restaurateur-turned-real estate agent Gigi Huang, Jana Giammalva, Robin Conner, Marilyn Thompson, Thomas Claff, Kiki Wilson, Wade Knight, Frank Campizi and Seita Jongebloed.
Martha Turner surprised at 75th birthday celebration at home of Walter Bering, background.
