Greetings Bonitz Associates!
Summer is in full swing, and temperatures across our regions are soaring. Please take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the heat. Staying properly hydrated is essential, not just for your physical well-being, but also for maintaining mental clarity and making sound decisions throughout the day. Heat-related illnesses like heat stroke can set in quickly, so don't let your guard down.
As we reach the midpoint of the year, we find ourselves deep in our busiest season. The next six months are critical for how we close out this year, and for how we position ourselves heading into the next. This is a pivotal time that requires us to perform at our best, TOGETHER. At this point, every task, every decision, and every action, must be intentional and with purpose.
I have complete confidence in this team. I know we are capable of rising to the challenge. Let's stay aligned, support one another, and finish strong together, and with pride.
For those of you taking some well-deserved vacation time this summer, enjoy every moment with your family and friends. Most importantly, stay safe!
- Ron Lutwiller, CEO
Ethan joined Bonitz Concord in 2017 as a Project Manager, bringing dedication, expertise, and a strong work ethic to every project he managed. Over the years, he has become an invaluable member of our team, consistently demonstrating leadership, problem solving skills, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. In his new role as Production Manager, Ethan will lead a team of Project Managers and Installation Crews, ensuring projects are executed efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards. We are confident that his experience and drive will continue to contribute significantly to the success of our Concord team. Please join us in congratulating Ethan on this well-deserved promotion!
- Daniel Brooks Director of Operations
Susan has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to connect with clients, inspire her team, and drive results through a clear and compelling vision. Her leadership will play a vital role in the growth and success of our Raleigh sales efforts. This promotion is a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and talent.
- William Huckaby Regional Director of Sales
With 27 years of experience in flooring installation and design, Richie has held leadership roles in operations, sales, and business ownership. He’s strategic, growth-focused, and passionate about investing in people. We wish Richie much success in his new role here at Bonitz!
- Manasseh Bewry Chief Operations Officer
Golfing for the Greater Good
Raleigh, NC
Our Bonitz guys came to support the Fore the Ladies Golf Tournament - fundraising for Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Triangle. This event raised over 20k for the charity! Reps, Designers, Architects and GCs united, over 60 people came together in teams to be a part of this incredible effort that was organized by our own Susan Farrell Director of Sales.
Assistants that also held training sessions for players: Kailee Bennice Design + Project Specialist, Melanie Lopresti Project Consultant, Matt Patterson Project Consultant, William Huckaby Regional Director of Sales, Scott Cornatzer Business Development, Melissa Hemmingsen Project Consultant, & Mark Bell Project Consultant
Winston on Wheels
Winston Salem, NC
Our Winston Salem team has put in their service hours since 2022 for the Meals on Wheels charity initiative. Many local seniors face daily challenges — from difficulty leaving home to limited access to healthy meals. That’s why programs like this matter. Each weekday, seniors receive not only a hot, nutritious meal but also a warm smile and friendly visit from volunteers. These small acts of kindness make a big impact; helping seniors stay healthy, connected, and independent longer. Congrats to this Bonitz team for making someones day a little brighter!
Hope Vanhoy Project Consultant says, "The Bonitz team was proud to volunteer with Meals-on-Wheels. Supporting Senior Services by delivering meals to local seniors was a meaningful way for us to give back beyond the job site!"
Derby Day
Concord, NC
While it might not be considered a team sport, these nail biting derby dice races sure brought the team together. Project Specialist Jessica Ridenhour and her trusty horse Knuckle Noggin took home the gold. Brimming with pride, Announcer / Estimator Jeff Hawthorne tearfully hands her the trophy.
After a morning full of Derby-related events, the Charlotte office (and the break room floor) enjoyed some tasty Mint Juleps courtesy of Drink Master / Project Consultant Tim Scheessele and a nice lunch thanks to the other Charlotte office associates that helped host this fun event!!
Congrats to our runner ups!
The BeeDeez
Coming to a city near you!
This is a powerful crew! Our business development team is busy touring across the SouthEast and beyond, building industry relationships that last in an environment that thrives on face to face connections.
The BeeDeez: Karla Towe Business Development - GA/SC, Joshua Boncosky Business Development - Specialties, Scott Cornatzer Business Development - NC/VA, Nicole Lyons Business Development - Charlotte
Meet our newest BeeDeez member, Natalie!
Please join us in welcoming Natalie Love Stevens to the Bonitz team! She’ll be bringing her passion and experience to our Specialty Division as a Business Development professional.
With a diverse background as a manufacturer’s rep, dealer specifier, and distributor account manager, Natalie brings a well-rounded perspective and a commitment to building strong, lasting relationships grounded in honest communication. Having an extended family living within just a few miles of a two-stoplight town, she embodies the tradition and trust that make the Southeast such a special place to work and live.
2025 Bonitz Sales Meeting
Concord, NC
Our 2025 Bonitz Sales Meeting had a fantastic turnout! This important annual event brings together our sales team, leadership, and project specialists — all united in showing our vendor partners just how essential they are to the continued success of Bonitz.
Beyond that, it’s a unique opportunity to strengthen connections across the Bonitz footprint, building relationships between offices and teams that might not often get the chance to connect. Collaboration, learning, and partnership — it’s what keeps us moving forward.
The Sales Meeting isn’t just about connecting with associates and vendors — it’s about growth, learning, and taking new knowledge back into the field. Huge thanks to everyone who worked hard to make this event a success and ensured our sales team walked away with valuable tools for their everyday success.
This year, we were fortunate to hear from two incredible keynote speakers: Ron White, Memory Champion (not the tater salad guy), and Focus 3, who shared the powerful E+R=O mindset. We also had a special moment learning about Bonitz history from board member Louise Slater, daughter of former CEO and one of our founders, Bill Rogers.
Opening Address
Board Member Louise Slater, Daughter of Bill Rogers, former CEO & one of the Bonitz founders
Keynote Speaker: Focus 3
Sponsored by AHF
Focus 3 reminded us that workplace culture drives success — and why E+R=O is a game-changer not just for your career at Bonitz, but for life. Remember: You can’t control every Event, but you can control your Response, and that determines your Outcome. Get your mind right, and greatness follows!
Leadership Dinner
Sponsored by J&J Flooring
The event kicked off with a Leadership Dinner the evening before the main sessions began. Special thanks to our friends at J&J Flooring for sponsoring the evening, which was hosted at Michael Waltrip Taproom — great vibes, good conversation, burgers, and beer to set the tone for a successful week!
Vendor Tradeshow
Another successful Sales Meeting Tradeshow in the books! We had a great turnout, and our amazing vendor partners really showed up and showed out with incredible table displays. Thank you to everyone who made it a standout event!
80s Night - Sales Awards Dinner
After the Tradeshow, everyone got their groove on for 80’s Night — because there’s nothing like a themed party to take the energy up a notch! During the 80’s Dinner, we celebrated the 2024 Sales Awards. A huge congratulations to Danny Gilmour from our Charleston office, who took home Salesperson of the Year, and to our Rookie of the Year, Susan Farrell, Director of Sales from Raleigh!
👏 Cheers to all of our incredible associates who were recognized for their hard work and success over the past year. Well deserved!
Activities
Golf sponsored by USG + L&W Supply
After a night of networking with vendors and Bonitz folk alike - we moved on into a day of activities! A large chunk of the group headed off to the golf course sponsored by L&W + USG, everyone else either chose between TopGolf or Charity Meal Packing.
Speedway Dinner
Sponsored by Gerflor
That evening, we enjoyed a dinner at the Speedway Club, generously sponsored by our friends at Gerflor. The night was filled with great food, amazing views, and — of course — some exceptional karaoke talent to top it all off. A perfect way to wrap up an action-packed day!
Safety Week Celebration in Greenville
Greenville, SC
Greenville knows how to work hard and play hard! During their celebration, a few associates rolled up their sleeves and built picnic tables, with plans to donate several to local charities. It was a great day to come together — with good food, music, and plenty of sunshine right outside the office. A perfect mix of giving back and team fun!
Congrats to all of the Winners!!
We clearly have many talented young artists in the Bonitz family! The competition was fierce, for the artists who participated but did not win, make sure to try again next year during safety week!
0-2 years: Sadie Bright - Age 13 months
3-5 years: Zoey H. - Age 4
6-8 years: Emerson Rucker - Age 8
9-12 years: Zannah Richey - Age 9
13+ years: Claire Huggins - Age 13
The Progression of the Bonitz Bee through the Years
The first two Bonitz Bees came from some of our early company newsletters — and look how far he’s come!
Today, our Bonitz Bee has evolved into the Safety Bee, proudly sporting proper PPE on the jobsite. It’s a fun reminder that while styles may change, safety always stays in fashion at Bonitz!
Presidents Cup Trip
Puerto Rico
Dan Tilley Chief Sales Officer and Ron Lutwiller Chief Executive Officer decided to bring back the Presidents Cup Trip for 2025. The top 10% of our sales people were awarded this incredible opportunity for a stay with their significant other at the Conquistador Resort in Puerto Rico. This trip is a celebration of the hard work they put in daily, and is great way to build bonds with fellow leaders and associates in paradise.
BIG KAHUNA
Charleston, SC
Congratulations to Taylor Landry!
Taylor has been named our Big Kahuna for Q4! 🏆 The Big Kahuna award goes to an associate who has made a significant impact on our team by living out the Bonitz values.
Thank you, Taylor, for your dedication, hard work, and embodiment of our values. Your efforts inspire us all and drive our team to new heights.
Pictured: Dave Jaskiewicz Director of Operations + Taylor Landry Project Specialist
Running of the Leprechauns
Winston Salem, NC
Top o' the morning to you from this speedy Bonitz crew! A few folks from our Winston Salem office celebrated St. Patricks day by attending the Running of the Leprechauns 5k in Greensboro.
Leprechauns Pictured: Lars Phelps Project Consultant, Geoff Horn Project Consultant, Garrett Weddine Project Manager, Richel Sanchez Project Specialist, Alicia Salimeno Project Consultant
Bill Rogers Scholarship Winners
Every year a select group of young minds apply for this scholarship and are chosen for their academic achievements, leadership skills, community involvement, and plans for college.
A tradition started by Bonitz founder Bill Rogers, his legacy continues to live on through these talented students and the futures they are building.
Congratulations to these exceptional students!
Bonitz Raleigh Office & USG
Raleigh, NC
USG and Design + Project Specialist Kailee Bennice designed and upgraded the library and main entry space in the office that needed some serious attention! Bars + Brillance light up the library and the new Radials add the acoustics the main entry was lacking. It looks fantastic and is now functional for staff and clients!
We’re proud to see our Raleigh office and team featured in USG's latest video!
It’s a great reminder of the strong partnerships we build with our vendors and the incredible work we do together. Proud to be part of it.
Thanks to USG for sharing this snapshot of our continued teamwork!! 🙌
Snow Days in the South
Everyone in the south knows to stay off the roads when it snows! School's out and everyone had a blast in the wintry weather. Enjoy some shots from Columbia, SC and Charleston, SC.
Charleston, SC
Enjoy some photos of our Charleston team having a rare snow day at home!!
Estimator James Lang's sweet baby stayed cozy inside. Project Consultant Justin Henry's toddler seeing snow for the first time in the teddy onesie. Business Development Karla Towe joined her 3 kiddos outside for some snow tubing. Project Specialist Donna Hughes and Project Consultant Brooke Allison to the doggo's outs for some glamour shots in the snow. The last picture is of Project Consultant Blaine West's son holding a piece of Nora rubber that he used for "snowboarding"- you have to get creative when there is snow at the beach! Houses shown (not in order) - Project Consultant Danny Gilmour, Warehouse Manager Chuck Ashley, Project Conultant Brooke Allison, Business Development Karla Towe.
B-Mine Valentine ❤️
Columbia, SC
Bonitz Columbia had their children and/or grandchildren decorate small canvases for Valentine's Day 2025. It was then put together as a collage in a frame by Neal Perkins Project Consultant and hangs proudly in one of the hallways of our offices. A sweet Valentine made by all of the talented little artists we have in our Bonitz Family! Happy Valentine's Day 2025 from Bonitz Columbia!
Bass Berry Sims
Nashville, TN
This airy, modern space is a testament to what our Nashville crew can do. From concept to completion, our project consultants and project managers keep everything running smoothly—and the results speak for themselves. Bonitz did the resilient, hard tile, carpet, and hardwood flooring for this commercial property.
Project Overview: Bass Berry Sims Office Buildout
Project Manager: Tiffany Conway
Location: Levels 28–35
Scope: High-end interior finishes across multiple floors, including reception areas, hospitality area, elevator lobbies, corridors, café areas, and open office spaces.
Project Execution: The project faced a demanding schedule, with significant time invested to ensure its successful completion. The dedication I extended was often working 14–20 hours a day across all seven days of the week, was instrumental in overcoming challenges and delivering a high-quality finished product. The efforts not only enhanced the client's experience but also added a prestigious project to both my personal portfolio and Bonitz's project list.
400H Building
Winston-Salem, NC
The natural light flooding this space showcases a seamless blend of warmth and modern sophistication. Thoughtfully integrated wood accents add a sense of warmth and organic texture, while custom-designed metal ceiling panels introduce a sleek, contemporary contrast. Thanks to the flawless project execution from our Winston Salem team members, the end result for this client is a comfortable, balanced, and refined environment.
Project Consultant - Matt Patterson
Wood Ceilings/Walls: Armstrong WoodWorks Linear Planks in color Walnut
Metal Ceiling: Revamp Panels Custom Linear metal
OneBonitz Project - PCEC
Winston Salem, NC
OneBonitz Teamwork in action! Our Winston-Salem team delivered on this project, completing the flooring, wood ceilings & baffles, and exterior cladding with top-notch craftsmanship inside and out.
Shoutout to our partners at Rulon for their incredible wood products and partnership that helped win us this project opportunity 🤝
Brews & Bouquets - Charelston
Charleston, SC
This year Charleston had a record breaking turnout for their annual Brews & Bouquets event. Over 100 clients joined them - including architects, designers, general contractors, property managers, etc. This has grown to be one of most loved events of the year & everyone had a fabulous time!
Huge shoutout to the Charleston team that helped pull it together & attended! - Danny Gilmour Project Consultant, Grant Kessler Project Consultant, Karla Towe Business Development, Blaine West Project Consultant & Mike Davis Project Consultant (not pictured - Chuck Ashley Warehouse Manager - We couldn't have done it without him!).
Palentines
Augusta, SC
Bonitz and William Bird teamed up to host a fantastic evening at the Augusta Candle Company on 2/11! The Bonitz crew was thrilled to have over 20 talented designers join them for a night filled with networking, creativity, and fun.
Pictured: Jamie Sherwood Project Specialist, Karla Towe Business Development, Tanya Jones Regional Director of Sales, Maddie Lyons William Bird
Brews & Bouquets - Raleigh
Raleigh, NC
Valentine’s Day is all about love—but for Design + Project Specialist Kailee Bennice, that includes a love for the incredible people in our industry! Brews and Bouquets was another success, the newly upgraded Raleigh office was the perfect backdrop for a day of connecting and collaborating with talented professionals.
"Shoutout to Bonitz, Inc. for the Brews and Bouquet event—because what’s better than good conversations, great drinks, and fresh flowers? Grateful for the colleagues who inspire me and the friends who support me—because in work and in life, the right people make all the difference!"
- Jennifer Dauphinais Consigli Construction
IIDA Product Runway 2025
IIDA Product Runway 2025 was an philanthropy event to support Dress for Success where design firms teamed together with reps and dealers to create wearable fashion created from manufacturers materials. Project Consultant Melissa Hemmingsen sponsored a team and won the People's Choice Award! It was a big event and a huge success thanks to the support of Bonitz.
Kailee Bennice Design + Project Specialist: IIDA Triangle City Center Director
Stellaaaa
Charlotte, NC
If you’ve spent time at our Bonitz headquarters, chances are you’ve met Stella, the lovable Labrador retriever who belongs to Ethan Gunter, Production Manager. She’s always ready to brighten your day, wandering the office in search of treats and a few pets — no doubt, the Charlotte office mascot!
Tara Male, Executive Assistant to the CEO (pictured), who is also proudly considered a corporate mascot. Tara keeps not just the office running smoothly, but also takes care of our people. Both of our mascots have hearts of gold and are always here to support the team!