DONALD M. SOFFER
Visionary Developer, Philanthropist, and Family Patriarch, Passes Away at 92
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Max Orland is a South Florida-based sports and hospitality professional, speaker, and advocate for disability inclusion. He has worked at The Masters, U.S. Open, and with organizations like the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, and Shell Bay Club. Featured in Met Golfer magazine and Private Club Radio, Max inspires others with his story of resilience, growth, and persistence in the face of adversity. When he’s not working or speaking, he’s building community and mentoring others to break barriers and achieve their goals.
Prodigy Max Orland
Jay Shapiro with Max Orland Matteo’s Hallandale Beach 7-8-2025
DONALD M. SOFFER, VISIONARY DEVELOPER, PHILANTHROPIST,
AND FAMILY PATRIARCH,
PASSES AWAY AT 92
Donald M Soffer, the founder of Aventura, visionary behind some of South Florida's most iconic developments, patriarch, philanthropist, and entrepreneur, died peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Aventura, Florida He was 92
Born on September 20, 1932, in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, Don inherited a tireless work ethic forged in steel towns and family businesses, teaching him the values of discipline, determination, and loyalty He attended Brandeis University on a football scholarship, graduating in 1954 with a degree in economics
Though he was presented with the opportunity to pursue a professional football career for the San Francisco 49ers, he chose instead to serve in the United States Army's 101st Airborne Division, today known as the "Screaming Eagles "
Recognizing the need for thriving suburban communities to support veterans and their families, Don returned home to work alongside his father Harry, and quickly established himself as a young developer with vision Their firm played a pivotal role in shaping Pittsburgh's postwar landscape, with early developments such as South Hills Village and One Oxford Centre helping to transform the region. Among his most notable early achievements was the Monroeville Mall a 1.1 million-square-foot retail destination that became both a commercial success and a cultural landmark.
Don then shifted his gaze away from Pittsburgh commercial retail to South Florida, where he would vacation to golf, boat, and swim in the ocean
Donald M. Soffer.
(PRNewsfoto/The Family of Donald M. Soffer)
In the late 1960s, Don made the boldest move of his young career, leading the purchase of 785 acres of overlooked swampland north of Miami. Land his father Harry identified, where others saw only marsh, Don saw opportunity He famously sketched his plans for the luxury community he would ultimately name Aventura on the back of a cocktail napkin Through Turnberry Associates, the company he founded to realize that vision, Don master-planned a city centered around a golf course, positioning high-rise residences to overlook the greens and foster a sense of community
The transformation from swampland to a planned city required multiple levels of government approval and Don met with heavy resistance from controlled growth advocates and environmental activists Through a friend, Don had a five-minute meeting with then Florida Governor Claude Roy Kirk in Tallahassee. As Don often told the story, he convinced Governor Kirk that the idea to employ 4,000 people in a $100 million construction project – one that would create a modern city where 100,000 people would visit daily – was actually Kirk's own. That way, Kirk could pitch it to his cabinet and take full credit. That salesmanship sealed the deal. In 1969, Metro-Dade County approved Don's ambitious 23,900 condominium unit master plan.
Aventura became a hub for a growing community that evolved to include numerous luxury towers with almost 25,000 residences, private clubs, tennis courts, marinas, and vibrant entertainment and social spaces Don's eye for marketing was as sharp as his eye for design; by hosting pro-celebrity tennis and golf tournaments that attracted numerous stars of the era, he generated buzz and built demand for luxury condos in a market many believed couldn't support them
In 1983, Don secured the first Macy's outside of New York with the opening of the Aventura Mall, which is now recognized today as one of the most successful malls in the country The mall's success was enhanced by Don's intuitive understanding of the zeitgeist and innovative approach to multilevel design, including a two-story parking facility that provided easier access to both levels
Don lived and breathed the community he created A passionate outdoorsman who loved fishing, boating, and camping with his children, he wanted his family – and everyone who called Aventura home – to feel connected to nature, to their neighbors, and to a sense of place Today, Aventura stands as one of the most desirable and successful communities in South Florida and a lasting reflection of Don Soffer's vision, heart, and belief in what a place could become When the city incorporated in 1995, it proudly adopted the name Don had chosen: Aventura
Don's laughter, sharp wit, and distinctive style were as renowned as his business achievements He had a gift for making everyone feel valued, especially his family, whom he considered his greatest achievement Don is survived by his wife, Michele King Soffer; sister, Rita; children, Marsha, Jackie, Jeffrey, Brooke, Rock, and Abigail; grandchildren, Izak, Max, Lauren, Harrison, Madison, Benjamin, Summer, Jacob, Logan, Katie, Oliver, April, and Charlotte; and great-granddaughter, Maya; and his dogs Roadie, Bowie, Ida and Flakey. He was predeceased by his daughter Jill. Don instilled in them the values he lived by: work hard, think long-term, show up, and treat people well who are loyal to you.
A generous and humble philanthropist, Don supported causes that reflected his values – education, healthcare, faith, and community. A proud Brandeis alumnus, he was steadfast in his support for future students at the university He was a major supporter of the University of Miami and Mount Sinai Medical Center, and helped launch the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center in honor of his parents, Ida and Harry His legacy lives on through institutions like the Don Soffer Aventura High School and the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center Don also focused his philanthropic efforts internationally, helping to build a home and strengthen the community at the New Hope orphanage in Haiti His support extended to organizations including City of Hope, Best Buddies, Breast Cancer Initiative, and the Humane Society of Greater Miami
Don received the Simon Wiesenthal Center Humanitarian Award in 2024 Brandeis University gave him an honorary doctorate in 2023, the Alumni Achievement Award in 2019, and he was inducted into the Brandeis Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009 The Don Soffer Aventura High School, a tuition-free charter school, was named after Soffer in 2019 in tribute to his legacy in the local community.
Donald Soffer built more than landmark destinations during his lifetime; he built a legacy defined by vision, generosity, and impact. He will be forever remembered by the communities he created, the lives he touched, and his family which continues to build on the foundation he laid.
To honor Don's lifelong commitment to giving back, those who wish to continue his legacy of philanthropy may do so by making a contribution in his memory Donations may benefit either the Humane Society of Greater Miami or New Hope 4 Haiti and can be made by following this LINK (https://linktr ee/DonaldMSoffer)
Jay Shapiro to Produce “Buddy Jacobson The Movie” on the life of the Legendary Horse Trainer and NYC Playboy
Publisher Jay Shapiro has announced the production of a new film chronicling the controversial life of Buddy Jacobson—once the most successful racehorse trainer in the United States and a flamboyant figure in 1970s Manhattan nightlife. Shapiro’s connection to the story is personal. His mother, Dawn Eve, was one of Buddy Jacobson’s fashion models in New York during the height of Jacobson’s modeling agency years At one point, Dawn was even offered the lead supporting role in Taxi Driver alongside Robert De Niro. Recently, in a twist of fate, Shapiro took a maternal DNA test and discovered that famed racing mogul Jeffrey Gural is a close cousin match. Shapiro was stunned to learn that Gural was once a business associate of Jacobson’s in the horse racing world
Further deepening the synchronicity, Shapiro had a chance encounter with Robert, a long-time friend of Jacobson and a respected executive in the racing industry, at Matteo’s Trattoria in Hallandale Beach “It was more than coincidence—it felt like a calling,” said Shapiro “Meeting Robert and finding out about Jeffrey Gural being family solidified my decision to bring Buddy’s story to the screen.”
The action / drama / mafia film will explore Jacobson’s meteoric rise from Brooklyn stable boy to real estate millionaire and modeling agent, his notorious 1980 trial for the murder of John Tupper, and his daring escape from the Brooklyn House of Detention events that captivated national headlines and shook the city’s elite It will also probe the controversial conviction, alleged prosecutorial suppression of evidence, and the prison interviews where Jacobson, battling cancer, proclaimed his innocence until his last breath. Shapiro’s vision is not to glorify or vilify Jacobson, but to portray him as the complex, driven, and charismatic figure he was—flawed, brilliant, and unforgettable “This isn’t just true crime,” Shapiro explains. “It’s about the American dream, ego, love, betrayal, and the thin line between genius and madness.”
Casting and production dates will be announced later this year.
Reinventing Life and Purpose in South Florida
By Max Orland
Imagine packing up your life, leaving behind the familiar, and stepping into the unknown, not because it’s easy, but because you believe in a vision for your future. That’s exactly what I did last November when I moved to Florida. I wasn’t just looking for a change of scenery; I was seeking purpose, independence, and the chance to build something meaningful
At 38, I’ve learned that life doesn’t come with a roadmap As a neurodivergent adult, I’ve faced barriers others don’t always see. But I’ve also discovered that with passion, persistence, and a growth mindset, those barriers don’t have to define you. Instead, they can fuel you.
This move wasn’t just about geography; it was about reinvention. After years of moving seasonally for work, I chose to plant roots in South Florida. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve found strength in consistency and the courage to step outside my comfort zone.
The Power of Community and Connection
One of the first things I did after moving was seek out a sense of community. My Jewish faith has always grounded me, and attending Shabbat services and connecting with local congregations gave me a sense of belonging It reminded me that even in a new place, shared values and traditions can open doors I also started volunteering for the Special Olympics, an organization close to my heart Giving back has always been a cornerstone of my life. Whether advocating for inclusion, supporting athletes, or mentoring others with disabilities, I’ve found purpose in helping others see what’s possible when you don’t let challenges hold you back.
Every day, I push myself to meet someone new, to network, to stay visible. That’s how opportunities grow. Platforms like LinkedIn have become powerful tools for me, not just to showcase my experience but to build meaningful relationships that change the trajectory of my career.
A Career Built on Passion and Persistence
My professional journey has taken me to some of the most iconic venues in sports From working golf and tennis operations at Shell Bay Club to being part of the staff at Winged Foot, Maidstone, Tiburón, and Ibis, I’ve learned what it takes to deliver world-class hospitality and unforgettable experiences Earlier this year, I had the honor of working the Masters Tournament in Augusta, a career milestone I’ll never forget. And in 2024, I was profiled in Met Golfer magazine for the second time, in an article titled “Everyone’s Game”, which highlighted how I overcame speech and language challenges to build a successful career in the golf industry.
My passion for sports extends beyond golf. I’ve worked in fan services and operations for the Red Sox, Phillies, and Mets, even celebrating a World Series win with the Red Sox. As a court attendant at the U.S. Open, I had the unforgettable experience of serving on center court during Serena Williams and Roger Federer matches, proof that persistence and preparation can put you at the center of greatness.
Lessons in Resilience
For neurodivergent adults like me, the road to success can feel like an uphill climb. I’ve been told I’m overqualified, or that my role doesn’t quite “fit.” But I’ve learned that rejection is just redirection. Each setback has strengthened my determination to create a life where I’m not just surviving but thriving.
The key? A willingness to take chances, believe in myself, and step into the unknown. I’ve learned to view challenges as opportunities for growth I train regularly, rise early to watch the sunrise, and approach each day with the mindset that the right connection, the right conversation, could change everything
Paying It Forward
Today, I use my platform to inspire others. I’ve spoken to clubs, companies, and schools about the power of inclusion, resilience, and believing in your potential. Highlights include presentations for the Troon General Manager Retreat, Club Management Association of America, and Major League Baseball’s celebration of the ADA Anniversary.
My dream is to one day host a gala or event to raise awareness and support for neurodivergent individuals in sports and hospitality. Everyone deserves a chance to show what they’re capable of and to feel like they belong.
The Takeaway
My journey has taught me that success isn’t about avoiding failure it’s about showing up every day with the courage to try again. It’s about staying consistent, nurturing relationships, and daring to dream big, even when the odds are stacked against you.
To anyone reading this who feels like the door won’t open: keep knocking. Sometimes all it takes is one connection, one opportunity, to change everything.
As I continue to build my life in South Florida, I’m reminded daily that persistence and passion can create extraordinary outcomes My mission is simple: break barriers, inspire others, and prove that with hard work and heart, anything is possible
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