CYMBAL DEVELOPMENT’S ASI CYMBAL IS BETTING HIGH ON FORT LAUDERDALE
HOW DANIELLE AND CLAY FETTE SPARKED A REVOLUTIONARY JOURNEY TO HEALING
REAL ESTATE EXPERTS’ FORECAST FOR THE TRI-COUNTY AREA IN 2025
CBCI CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A MEMORABLE GALA
Soar above the region’s misty peaks by helicopter to behold sparkling panoramas of untold beauty. Witness a skyline of iceberg wonders from the veranda of your luxury suite. Dive below the ocean for a truly unforgettable experience on board Scenic Neptune, our state-of-the-art submarine. Be immersed in a culinary journey of world class cuisine and service. Rejuvenate and unwind at the Senses Spa – the perfect time to rest and relive a day full of unrivalled discovery.
To reserve your cruise call 833 278 0746, contact your professional travel advisor, or visit scenicusa.com.
A new chapter in Emerald Cruises' journey begins with our next-generation superyacht, Emerald Kaia. Our third innovative luxury yacht builds on the spectacular success of the first two and retains the ethos of luxury superyacht cruising.
Starting in early 2026, she will welcome you on board to sail from the coastlines of the Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas, to the Seychelles.
To reserve your cruise call 833.278.0741, contact your professional travel advisor, or visit emeraldcruises.com.
welcome to the first issue of the year. As we kick off a new chapter and I step into the role of editor-inchief, I’m excited to share our vision for the months ahead.
South Florida’s business landscape continues to thrive, and we’re here to spotlight the incredible entrepreneurs, executives and companies driving innovation, growth and positive change across our region.
This year, we’re committed to bringing you in-depth profiles of local trailblazers who are shaping the future. From seasoned leaders steering established companies to rising entrepreneurs disrupting industries, we’ll dive deep into their stories—uncovering the challenges they’ve overcome and the strategies behind their success.
Expect a mix of inspiring leadership stories and expert insights. We’ll also highlight new trends, emerging industries and the masterminds making a real impact on South Florida. That doesn’t mean we’re all work and no play—CEOs need downtime, too, so leisure-time pursuits will also be part of the mix.
We’re excited to have you along for the journey. Here’s to another year of growth, innovation and success.
Warm regards,
Lori Capullo
Lori Capullo Editor-in-Chief
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Kimberly Sarni ksarni@sfbwmag.com
GROUP EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Lori Capullo LCapullo@lmgfl.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Melanie Geronemus Smit
DIGITAL EDITOR
Sean d’Oliveira
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Carlton Caraway, Jesse Scott
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Eduardo Schneider
MARKET DIRECTORS
Michelle Simon msimon@lmgfl.com
Ben Hamilton bhamilton@lmgfl.com
MARKET MANAGER
Barry Johnson bjohnson@lmgfl.com
MARKET MANAGER
Steve Lederman slederman@lmgfl.com
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Monica St. Omer monica@lmgfl.com
EVENTS COORDINATOR
Leia Bosco leia@susanpenrod.com
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Gary Press
PARTNERS Andy Hill, and Greg Babij
3200 N FEDERAL HWY, SUITE 228 | BOCA RATON, FL 33431 | 954 601 3979 | SFBWMAG.COM
EDITORIAL CONTACT: LCAPULLO@LMGFL.COM
ADVERTISING CONTACT: KSARNI@LMGFL.COM
LMG Brands
LAS OLAS LIFESTYLE • BOCA/PARKLAND LIFESTYLE • WESTON LIFESTYLE WEST BROWARD LIFESTYLE • AVENTURA/DORAL LIFESTYLE SOUTH FLORIDA BUSINESS & WEALTH
ONE conversation can spark a young person’s curiosity. ONE experience opens doors to endless possibilities. ONE opportunity puts youth on track for career success.
At Junior Achievement of South Florida, we see the power of ONE every day. For less than the cost of your daily coffee, your monthly gift of $10 can create these transformative moments.
Visit www.jasouthflorida.org/ONEFuture
FLORIDA PANTHERS CEO MATT CALDWELL’S UNLIKELY JOURNEY FROM WEST POINT TO WALL STREET TO THE NHL
BY LORI CAPULLO
or Florida Panthers CEO Matt Caldwell, the path to leading one of the NHL’s most dynamic franchises has been anything but conventional. From the rigorous halls of West Point to the high-stakes trading floors of Goldman Sachs, Caldwell’s career trajectory has spanned vastly different worlds. Yet, it’s precisely this diversity of experience that has shaped his leadership style and informed his approach to running a hockey team that’s as much about community as it is about competition.
Growing up in New York, Caldwell was a die-hard sports fan. Hockey, basketball, baseball, and football—he followed them all. “I used to like the Rangers,” he admits, laughing at the irony that the Panthers were slated to play his childhood team that evening. But he wasn’t the kind of kid who mapped out a career in sports management. “I didn’t decide in high school that I’d go into combat, then Wall Street, then sports,” he says. Instead, his career has been about taking “baby steps” and committing fully to each chapter of his journey.
At West Point, Caldwell honed the skills that would become the foundation of his leadership abilities. “The military humbles you,” he explains. “It teaches you about teamwork, grit, and how to deal with adversity. Now, any time I’m faced with a tough situation, I think about the fact that I know I’ve been through life-and-death experiences. If I got through Iraq, I can get through a five-game losing streak.”
After serving in the military, Caldwell transitioned to the financial world,
working at Goldman Sachs. It was a steep learning curve, but one that equipped him with invaluable skills. “Goldman teaches you comfort with numbers and data,” he says. “As CEO, that’s crucial. You have to know how to manage budgets, plan to invest the owner’s money, and show that things are going to be profitable. It takes financial acumen.
“Sports require a lot of grit and perseverance, the players have to train and win games, so they respect the military side, but ultimately it’s a capital-intensive business.”
Under Caldwell’s leadership, the Florida Panthers have become more than just a hockey team; they’ve become a cornerstone of South Florida’s cultural and economic life. Two of the organization’s recent projects—the revitalization of the War Memorial Auditorium and the opening of the Baptist Health IcePlex—are prime examples of this broader vision.
“Once we stabilized the team and had success on the ice, we wanted to expand our footprint,” Caldwell explains. The War Memorial Auditorium, a historic venue in Fort Lauderdale, was the perfect opportunity. “The mayor reached out to us because he knew how much we cared about veterans,” Caldwell says. The facility had fallen into disrepair, but a public-private partnership allowed the Panthers to transform it into a modern entertainment complex while preserving its historical significance.
The renovation wasn’t just about adding a couple of ice rinks. Caldwell’s vision extended to creating a community hub. The updated venue features public skating facilities, a live music venue, retail shops, and spaces for events. “It’s a mini version of what we do at the arena,” Caldwell says. “So far, we’ve heard great reviews.”
Preserving the auditorium’s historical elements was a priority. “The city wanted us to maintain the front façade and the historic wooden roof,” Caldwell notes. Military tributes, such as the Merchant Marine monument and plaques honoring Broward veterans, were also retained. “We even relocated a bronze soldier statue donated by Gold Star families to a more visible area,” he says.
The project has quickly become a centerpiece for the community. “Seeing local families come out to watch practice or skate has been so rewarding,” Caldwell says. His own daughters are already using the facility. “My youngest is only two, but we kind of throw him out there on the ice,” he jokes.
Beyond the rink, Caldwell’s tenure has been defined by a commitment to philanthropy. “Our owner always says, ‘The community owns the team; I just have the financial resources,’” Caldwell explains. That ethos has driven initiatives like the Panthers Foundation, which has donated nearly $8 million to local causes.
Each night, the Panthers honor a veteran during games. “It’s a magical mo-
PANTHERS CEO MATT CALDWELL IS CELEBRATING SEVERAL VICTORIES, INCLUDING THE TEAM’S 2024 STANLEY CUP.
ment for them and their families,” Caldwell says. The organization has also stepped up during crises, providing aid after hurricanes and supporting victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. “A lot of us are military guys, so giving back is in our DNA,” Caldwell says.
For Caldwell, one of the most gratifying aspects of his job is the immediate impact he can see. “Rarely do you work on something and later that day see the fruits of your labor,” he says. “When I show up at the arena and see it sold out, with fans cheering and families enjoying themselves, it’s so tangible and emotional.”
This stands in stark contrast to his time in finance. “You’d work on a big merger or acquisition, and then the deal would go through, and that was it,” he recalls. “Here, the excitement is so much more palpable.”
The revitalized War Memorial Auditorium featured an opening concert by Melissa Etheridge in January, a choice that heralded a new era for the venue. While
the selection was made in partnership with Live Nation, Caldwell saw it as a fitting start. “We wanted someone with a big enough name to draw attention that would work for our venue, and it worked out well,” he says.
The venue’s transformation has also had a significant economic impact. “Thousands of people pass through every day, whether they’re skating, shopping, or dining,” Caldwell notes. During playoff runs, the ripple effect extends to local hotels and restaurants, boosting the area’s economy by billions.
As the Panthers continue to thrive, Caldwell’s focus remains on building a legacy both on and off the ice. “We want to be more than just a team that wins games,” he says. “We want to be a pillar of the community.”
For Caldwell, it’s all part of the journey. From West Point to Wall Street to the NHL, he’s proven that diverse experiences can come together to create something extraordinary. “It’s about grit, teamwork,
and commitment,” he says. “Those are lessons that apply everywhere.”
OUR REACH EXTENDS WAY BEYOND OUR CAMPUS
$5B FLORIDA ECONOMIC IMPACT BY 2025
BY LORI CAPULLO
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDUARDO SCHNEIDER;
For more than three decades, Shane Strum has been a fixture in the healthcare industry, leaving an indelible mark on both the business and operational sides. From lowering the cost of prescription drugs to expanding telehealth services, Strum's career has been defined by a relentless drive to improve access to high-quality healthcare. As the president and CEO of Broward Health and interim CEO of Memorial Healthcare System (MHS), Strum is spearheading efforts to bring transformational change to South Florida's healthcare landscape.
You might say Strum's career path was inevitable. Growing up in his native South Florida in a family where both parents worked in the healthcare field—his father was a physician and his mother a nurse—Strum was immersed in medical discussions from an early age. "Our dinner table conversations were often about new techniques, the growth of hospitals, and the changing face of healthcare," he recalls. "I saw firsthand how critical hospitals are to a community. They're often invisible until you need them, but when you do, they are a vital resource."
He was particularly influenced by the nonprofit model of Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare, both of which were established by the Florida legislature to serve the community's healthcare needs. "Both organizations are integral to the community," Strum says. "Memorial has been serving the region since the early '50s, and Broward Health has a long history of being a trusted provider. We are not just healthcare systems; we are a community asset, and that is something I’ve always been passionate about."
He is hopeful that the broader healthcare landscape will continue to evolve in more ways that benefit patients. "Broward Health and Memorial are both safety-net systems, which means we care for everyone, regardless of their ability to pay," he says. "That’s a core part of our mission, and it’s something our employees take very seriously."
In September 2023, Strum took on the unprecedented challenge of becoming the interim CEO of Memorial Healthcare System while continuing to serve as president of Broward Health. Managing both roles is no small feat, but then Strum is no stranger to juggling multiple responsibilities. "It’s about managing time and staying organized," he says. "Both systems have strong teams and boards, and that makes a big difference. It’s a challenge, but I’m fortunate to have incredible support at both organizations."
His approach is systematic: a structured daily schedule, clear priorities, and a focus on listening and gathering feedback from both teams. "I make lists every day and roll over tasks if I can't get to them," Strum explains. "The key is staying in constant communication with both organizations and being responsive to the needs of the community."
Under his guidance, both systems are investing heavily in expanding access to care, especially in underserved areas. His leadership is focused on long-term growth and improving patient outcomes. "Our goal is to create a stronger healthcare experience in South Florida by fostering collaboration between the two systems, sharing best practices, and finding ways to enhance the patient journey," he says.
As healthcare constantly evolves, Strum views the changes not as challenges but as opportunities. "The biggest task is prioritizing which growth opportunities to fast-track," he says. "We have ambitious plans to build new facilities and introduce innovative solutions that will benefit our community for years to come."
He is particularly focused on addressing healthcare disparities in South Florida, particularly in maternal care. "In some parts of our community, there’s a real shortage of access to OB-GYN services," he says. "The areas of Lauderhill, Lauderdale Lakes and Oakland Park are actually considered a ‘maternity desert.’ That’s why we opened a new 5,000-square-foot facility in Lauderhill to offer prenatal care and maternity services. By bringing in three OB-GYNs
from Broward Health, we are giving women in that area the care they need, when they need it.
"Our goal is to be proactive, to provide services that prevent problems before they start," he explains. "If we can intervene early with things like prenatal care, we can avoid complications down the road, which helps both mothers and babies stay healthy and avoid expensive treatments in the NICU."
Exciting projects also on the horizon include the construction of five new freestanding emergency rooms across Broward County. Memorial Healthcare recently announced two new ERs in Pembroke Pines and Miramar, while Broward Health is moving forward with additional facilities in Holiday Park, Sunrise, and Lighthouse Point. These additions are part of a broader strategy to increase access to emergency care and make healthcare more accessible “by bringing services closer to where people live," Strum notes.
Strum is also focused on harnessing the power of technology to improve patient care. Both Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare are implementing electronic medical records systems that will allow for more seamless communication between hospitals and emergency services. "If a patient comes into our ER that’s been in an accident, for instance, we want to have their medical history at our fingertips, especially in critical situations," Strum explains. "We no longer have to wait for records to be faxed to us or call other facilities. Now, through MyChart, we can see patient information in real-time."
Memorial Healthcare System has been using this technology for over 14 years, and now Broward Health is investing $250 million to implement similar systems. "This kind of innovation is going to save lives," Strum says. "In an emergency, knowing whether a patient is allergic to a medication can make all the difference."
Strum believes that collaboration between Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare is key to strengthening the region’s healthcare ecosystem. "Both systems have incredible strengths, but there are areas where we can learn from each other," he says. "We’re looking at ways to reduce redundancies, streamline processes, and share resources."
One initiative Strum is particularly excited about is the potential for cross-credentialing physicians between the two systems. "Why not have doctors who are credentialed at both Memorial and Broward Health?” he proposes. “This will allow us to provide more comprehensive care, especially in specialties where we both have strengths."
Joint board meetings are also being held to help both organizations align their objectives and prioritize projects. "This collaborative approach is going to help us move faster and be more effective in achieving our shared mission: ensuring a healthier Broward County," Strum says.
“Many people would ask, Why do we need two systems?” he says. “But think of the brain power of two organizations like this. Working together makes us stronger, gives us great energy, there’s wonderful research being done — it’s a lot of good stuff.
"At the end of the day,” he concludes, “it's all about improving the health of our community."
At 23, Ikeba Diah was just beginning to embrace adulthood. Having recently moved from Jamaica to Florida, he was full of hopes and dreams when devastating news shattered his world: his liver was failing and he needed a liver transplant immediately. The cause was acute liver failure from regularly consuming too much acetaminophen.
Ikeba was shocked and overwhelmed by the diagnosis. The absence of his family made it even harder. His mother, still in Jamaica, was unable to obtain a travel visa to be with him, and his father had unexpectedly passed away the year before.
In October 2023, days after receiving his diagnosis, Ikeba received a lifesaving liver transplant at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital. Ikeba spent several months in the hospital, needing multiple surgeries and hemodialysis because of kidney failure. Unable to work, he faced eviction and mounting medical bills, creating stress that threatened his recovery.
Ikeba’s care coordinator arranged for him to receive assistance from Weston Hospital’s Transplant Patient Support and Education program. This lifeline provided essential financial support for bills, medications, groceries and other needs, allowing Ikeba to focus on his recovery and rebuild his life.
“Unfortunately, Ikeba’s loss of employment and financial jeopardy is common due to the prolonged illness,” says Xaralambos Zervos, DO, associate director of the Abdominal Transplant Institute at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital.
“This is where we go beyond being just healthcare providers and truly step in as any good family would when a loved one needs assistance. We are fortunate to have generous philanthropy supporters that allow us to help families get back on their feet.”
With recent funding from The Willits Foundation, the Transplant Patient Support and Education program has now assisted approximately 100 families with necessities like pre- and post-liver and kidney medications, mortgage assistance, education, food, gas and pre-transplant dental work.
“I plan to live a long life,” says Ikeba. “And I’m grateful to have the team at Cleveland Clinic in my corner.”
Cleveland Clinic in Florida made history recently with its 500th liver transplant and 300th heart transplant. Since receiving approval in 2013 from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) to perform adult liver and kidney transplants, the Transplant Center at Cleveland Clinic in Florida has continued to grow.
In 2014, the transplant center received approval to perform adult heart transplants and, in 2021, became one of the only transplant centers in South Florida to offer living donor liver transplants.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE IMPACT OF PHILANTHROPY
Your support plays a vital role in our mission to improve the health of the communities we serve. To learn more or make a gift today, visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Giving.
“What truly enamored me was Danielle’s heart. She goes above and beyond, driven by genuine care for each patient. Her passion inspires me every day.”
How
a couple’s shared passion for healing sparked a revolutionary medical journey.
BY ANGELA CARAWAY-CARLTON PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSLYNN GOMEZ
o hear Danielle and Clay Fette explain their love story feels like a plot ripped from a science-fiction movie. Danielle, an experienced wound-care nurse in the medical device industry, and Clay, an engineer and pioneer in regenerative medicine, first met in 2009 while assisting a Fort Lauderdale plastic surgeon who was treating a patient with a rare, flesh-eating disease. Gory details aside — Clay was there to educate Danielle and the doctor on how to use a wound-healing product he invented and developed, and the two became fast friends. “It caught me offguard because, for someone of his caliber, he was so grounded and compassionate, and that captivated me,” Danielle recalls. “You don’t find that every day working for a medical device company.”
DANIELLE AND CLAY FETTE
While the co-workers remained friends for a long time, eventually their shared passion for healing others drew them together romantically. “What truly enamored me was Danielle’s heart. She goes above and beyond, driven by genuine care for each patient. Her passion inspires me every day,” Clay says. Most of the couple’s conversations revolved around their frustrations with corporations who cared more about the bottom dollar than patients and the extensive red tape they had to navigate to get advanced healing products to the public. “He was the first person who really ‘got’ me on so many different levels,” Danielle says. “When I was a nurse, I saw a broken healthcare system, and I always wanted to change it, but I didn’t know how. We had visions of taking the technolo-
gy he already invented and making it better to help more people.”
The duo married in 2011, and soon after launched their own company FetTech, to create innovative products that help patients heal injuries and diseases naturally and deliver those products to patients faster than any other company could. “We vowed not to take outside funding, as to avoid the bureaucracy of answering to a board focused on the bottom line,” Clays says. The Fettes worked ‘round the clock, often hunched over the kitchen table dissecting scientific tissue samples, looking for ways to advance the wound-healing powder that Clay had initially created. “I remember my daughter going to middle school and telling people, ‘My mom and dad had body parts on the table last night,’” Danielle recalls with a laugh, explaining the reason for the tissue work. “The products used in hospitals were made from one tissue, so they were limited. We were the first to come up with a product that has multi-tissues to help the body heal quicker.”
In 2018, they achieved what most people can only dream of: FDA clearance for their first product, XCelliStem Wound Powder, which is now used in hospitals throughout the nation to treat burns, trauma, chronic wounds and surgery. “I didn’t have time to be excited. I felt an overwhelming sense of urgency to get it in hospitals,” Danielle says. Ironically, life came full circle for the Fettes: the same board-certified plastic surgeon who was with the couple the day they met — would be one of their first patients to use their wound powder. “I used the powder after my mastectomy when I had a wound on my breast that wouldn’t heal,” says Dr. Tracey Stokes of Esse Plastic Surgery. “I was shocked at how quickly it worked, saving me from more surgeries.”
Building on the powder’s success, the duo has now developed a liquid version called ReyaGel, which received FDA clearance in April 2024. While the product is approved for a variety of indications, it was
designed with aesthetics in mind — particularly for use post-laser.
During the pandemic, Danielle started microneedling her face and using their technology for quicker healing — that’s when it struck her that ReyaGel could also make a dramatic difference in aesthetics. “I was the first to try it on myself after an aggressive C02 laser. I was so nervous, but I was also really confident that ReyaGel would help modulate pain and help me heal faster,” Danielle reveals, adding: “I went to a black-tie event eight days later. It was incredible.” Fort Lauderdale’s Dr. Shino Bay Aguilera even published a case report in the trade magazine Modern Aesthetics, hailing the liquid form’s healing and recovery time on two patients after CO2 laser resurfacing. ReyaGel will be available to the aesthetics community in
February/March 2025. “It’s already poised to revolutionize aesthetics by minimizing downtime after cosmetic procedures, such as microneedling and laser procedures,” Clay says.
But the couple isn’t stopping there: Because of its versatility, the liquid can be used differently to treat a range of conditions, from being injected into different body parts like the brain or heart to being inhaled for lung injuries. “Wherever there is injury, our product will send a signal, and tell your body how to repair the injury,” Danielle explains. “The sky is the limit as far as what kind of research we can do. The hard part is prioritizing what to focus on first.” In the summer of 2024, FetTech joined forces with NSFPTRME and Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), the world’s lead-
ing regenerative medicine hub. “This dream partnership gives us access to cutting-edge technology, accelerating groundbreaking projects like bladder wall injections to treat incontinence. Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in regenerative medicine,” Clay says.
While the Fettes admit that they need to do better when it comes to turning off work chatter during family dinners and date nights — they also recognize that every second counts, when it comes to helping others. “Together we make the dream team, and we enhance the other person in a work environment,” Danielle says. “We’re moving as quickly as possible because when you’re suffering, you need help fast. After all, we’re all going to be patients one day.”
At Baptist Health Cancer Care in Doral, we will provide personalized cancer treatment designed around your unique needs. From advanced radiation oncology to expert medical oncology, surgical consultations and on-site infusion services to convenient on-site pharmacy and lab services, everything you need is coming soon to your community. Trust Baptist Health to offer the care and comfort you deserve — no need to travel far for excellence in cancer care.
Scan QR code to learn more.
project, “ENCORE! Building Community through the Arts” in 2011. More than $60 million was raised to upgrade the facility to a state-of-the-art performance venue primed for the future.
“Kelley was a great leader and so was Mark Nerenhausen [Broward Center’s CEO from 1998 to 2009] before him,” Sutton says. “I knew both of them very well.”
“I came in here without a mandate,” Sutton says. To put it all in context, he brings up the Broward Center’s history.
“Back in 1987, people weren’t building performing arts centers like this one. And a group of people here for a decade before had said, ‘We need culture. We’re not Miami. We need this.’ Buddy [Robert B.] Lochrie was one of them.”
Lochrie, who passed away in 2009, was the founding chairman of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation in 1985 and was instrumental in getting the required private funding to build the center and create an endowment.
“You know, they went out in the community, and they made
promises, and they fulfilled all those promises. But one thing that hasn’t happened and that they didn’t control was this area around the building, which is now going through a massive redevelopment,” Sutton says.
One of the ideas he repeats frequently during the interview, looking out at the picturesque view from the Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom, is the notion of the prime spot on which the Broward Center is positioned along the New River.
“I would just love to see us really create this area as a thriving arts and culture district,” he says. He talks about the cultural institutions near Riverwalk: the NSU Art Museum, the Museum of Discovery and Science and Esplanade Park, a frequent location for outdoor performances. “It’s just an opportunity to create,” he says.
Sutton also oversees the Broward Center’s affiliate venues, including the iconic The Parker, formerly known as the Parker Playhouse, which got a $30 million facelift completed in 2021,
spearheaded by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. Also under the Broward Center umbrella is the Rose and Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center.
When the lights are up at all four venues, 30 shows can happen in a week, says Sutton.
“You know, it’s interesting. Nationally, if you talk to people in the performing arts, it’s not Miami, it’s Broward. And people know the Broward Center because we have two of the busiest theaters in the country – the Au Rene here at the Broward Center and The Parker.”
There’s a business model that the Broward Center runs on, too, which is different than the other large performing arts center to its south, Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center, and the opposite of most other performing arts centers around the country.
“We’re not financed by government, so we have to perform like a business,” he says. Money from Broward County’s cultural division typically represents only about 1 to 2 percent of funding.
“Government funding doesn’t factor into any of our programming,” says Sutton, so when Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed funding to all arts organizations across the state in June, it had almost no impact on Broward County’s performing arts centers. “We’re a $65 million budget and we get $150,000 from the state, if we’re lucky.”
Sutton talks the numbers like the CEO of a multi-million business. “We’re about 85 percent earned revenue and about 15 percent contributed — a lot of that is from foundations and individual donors.”
He arrived at the Broward Center with a stellar reputation and his own accolades. During his six years as president and CEO of Dayton Live in Dayton, Ohio, five venues were under the Dayton Live brand, including opening the PNC Arts Annex and the Dayton Live Creative Academy, a performing arts education center. Before that, he was executive director of the Butler Arts Center at Butler University in Indianapolis; led the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center in Midland, Texas; and managed an $8.2 million renovation at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Collins, Colorado, which shut down for a year during its major overhaul.
The career trajectory to the top of the performing arts venue business started off as a hobby in college. Sutton grew up in San Francisco, then headed to the University of Utah in Salt Lake City – “a big school, 30,000 people.” He majored in political science. “I thought I was going to do law or finance. I knew a lot of people in the finance world.”
And then, he says, he started working on the college’s concert committee. “It was for the student government, and I had grown up in the arts. I sang all through high school, but I knew it was never a career, it was just something I enjoyed, being in different choirs.”
He recalls that it was the mid-1990s and as college students do, those who had committed to putting on the shows started dropping out. “We had a lot of money I could spend and as people bailed, I just kept booking artists.”
He had tenacity and he started calling people and got to know managers who were saying, ‘Hey, you have real money, and you can pay.’’’
The next thing he knew he had booked Dave Matthews of the Dave Matthews Band and Tim Reynolds, member of TR3. He started working for promoters in Salt Lake City. “I really started learning the business.” He did get his degree in political science from the university and met his now wife, Polly, there.
“She was finishing her master’s degree, and I was working there.” After being a successful concert promoter, the university hired him to do their programming. “We met in the arts.”
Polly danced with the Utah Ballet at the University of Utah School of Dance, professionally with Charleston Ballet Theatre, the Anaheim Ballet, American Folk Ballet and has been on the dance faculties at Brigham Young University and Butler University. Since the couple and their two children moved to South Florida, she is enjoying time as a Pilates instructor for Club Pilates Studios at several Broward County locations.
As he continued to be successful in the concert promoting business, Sutton says, “I never thought it was my career. It was always, well, I’ll do this for a while because it’s fun and then I’ll go do finance or get a real grown-up job.”
Then the grown-up job came – he worked for the 2002 Salt Lake Olympic and Paralympic Games and was eventually hired by the National Hockey League’s Anaheim Ducks.
Now, with Fort Lauderdale at his feet, Sutton says he’s looking decades down the road at what the Broward Center could be. “What do we need to be in the community?” And he understands some hurdles such as the private development happening downtown. “You can find common ground with private developers, and I’ve built a lot in my career, so I get where they’re coming from. But I think if we can lead in terms of continuing to tell our story better about what the experiences we offer mean to people, then developers want in on that – they want to know how they build on that.”
His vision for the Broward Center is that it’s the epicenter of a vital arts and entertainment district. “I think if we all really lean into that with streetscapes and beautification and walkability and restaurants and all the things that, well, that we don’t have right now, I think that’s exactly where we can be. But we still have to stay focused on how we continue to make it worthwhile for people to come here, to keep making the experience better and better.”
His years working in sports honed his strategy in what it takes to excel in the C-suite of a performing arts center. “It’s the same as sports. You have to put out a winning product for people to want to come, right?”
Moore Rabinowitz Law specializes in marital & family law, and all aspects of civil litigation. Co-founders Sheryl Moore and Adam Rabinowitz created a boutique law practice following their departure as partners at large Florida law firms. They, along with their associates and paralegals, proudly serve the legal needs of families and businesses throughout the state. If you want smart, tough, efficient, and strategic representation, contact them today.
One of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting impact on a nonprofit you’ve been supporting annually is to leave a legacy gift.
By Susan Nawyn, Esq., Director of Gift Planning at Cleveland Clinic in Florida
With many options available today, legacy giving can be tailored to meet your specific personal and financial goals.
Working with a gift planning professional will ensure your gift is structured to meet your goals and also used for the organization’s strategic priorities. At Cleveland Clinic, our team of gift planning experts meet with each interested donor to review a variety of giving options available that can support the area of our mission most meaningful to the donor. Our experience helps the donor optimize their financial benefits while maximizing their philanthropic impact on Cleveland Clinic’s groundbreaking research, education, innovation and patient care.
Some of the available legacy giving options that we regularly discuss during donor meetings include:
Outright gifts make an immediate impact by transferring assets, such as cash, stocks, bonds or mutual funds, directly to Cleveland Clinic. Our team is also able to assist with more complex outright gifts of real estate, artwork, life insurance policies, business interests and transfers from family foundations or donor advised funds.
Life income gifts, such as annuities and charitable remainder trusts, can benefit Cleveland Clinic in the future while providing funds for the donor and their loved ones today.
Testamentary gifts are the most common form of planned gifts. Gifts by will or trust allow the donor to use the assets during their lifetime while enabling Cleveland Clinic to plan for the future. Testamentary gifts also include designating Cleveland Clinic as the beneficiary of financial accounts, or by naming Cleveland Clinic as a beneficiary on a current or new life insurance policy or donating a paid-up policy.
To explore how your legacy can advance the future of healthcare, Susan Nawyn can be reached at nawyns@ccf.org.
United Way of Broward County’s Women United celebrated the power of women and community at the 13th Annual Magnolia Luncheon in December at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The event drew an inspiring crowd of philanthropists, business leaders, and community advocates, all united in their commitment to advancing women and supporting community initiatives. A keynote speech was delivered by author, ESPN host and Paralympic Gold Medalist Victoria Arlen. The inaugural Susie Levan Woman of Inspiration Awards were also announced, honoring women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their communities. The 2024 recipients were TD Bank Senior Vice President Jennifer Starkey and Senior Vice President/CFO of Island TV Tamara Beliard Rodriguez.
At Nicklaus Children’s, children like Jamie—who was diagnosed with a serious heart condition following a free EKG screening—find hope in our specialized care. Jamie underwent a heart procedure that successfully repaired his heart, thanks to our dedicated team of pediatric cardiology experts. We lead with compassion and deliver extraordinary care, emphasizing why this is the place where your child matters most.
Free EKG screenings for children and teens are offered in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Martin counties.
nicklauschildrens.org/Heart
Community-Based Connections, Inc. (CBCI) commemorated its 15th anniversary with the dazzling 3rd Annual Green Blazer Awards Gala presented by Florida Blue. Over 170 guests, including community and business leaders in healthcare, education, and economic development, gathered to celebrate CBCI’s dedication to uplifting underserved communities. Guests enjoyed a lavish cocktail reception, gourmet dining, and a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting CBCI’s transformative programs. Featured speakers included Florida Blue Market Leader for Broward County Cindy Mason and Broward County Public Schools Board Chair Debbie Hixon. The evening culminated in the presentation of the prestigious Green Blazer Award to six honorees for their exceptional contributions to community vitality.
For more information or to support CBCI’s efforts, visit www. communitybasedconnections.com.
Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT), a new international equestrian beauty competition designed specifically for Arabian horses hosted a cocktail reception at the New World Center to celebrate the launch of the 2025 GCAT Season. This groundbreaking series showcases the highest level of Arabian horse sport across multiple locations, creating a “Champions League” for Arabian equestrianism. With $2.675 million in total prize money, the GCAT Americas solidifies the Global Champions Arabians Tour’s position as the most prestigious circuit in the Arabian horse world and will offi cially kick off in Miami April 25- 27, 2025, placing Miami on the map for equestrianism.
REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN BROWARD, MIAMI AND PALM BEACH PREVIEW WHAT 2025 WILL BRING.
for so many, the American Dream boils down to owning a home. Take one look at the towering, condo-dashed skylines and burgeoning residential landscapes throughout South Florida and one thing is clear: There are options aplenty for achieving that American Dream locally. These options span soaring units in amenity-rich towers, the most mega of waterside mansions, quaint tropical ramblers and anything in between.
In many ways, that dream can be easier wished for than achieved. Prices have soared in South Florida and throughout the state, to the tune of 80%, within the last five years. Mortgage rates, which dipped below 3% in 2020, have more than doubled since then. And there are certain complexities unique to Broward, Palm Beach and Miami that keep existing and prospective owners on their toes.
South Florida Business & Wealth recently sat down with a trio of local experts to reflect on the last year and garner the latest pulse on what awaits in 2025.
Before digging into each of our locales, let’s recognize the two main questions any prospective home buyer is asking here in 2025. The first is: “When are mortgage rates going down?” As of press time, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Florida was 7.08%, according to Bankrate, the highest mark since July 2024. Amid the
uptick, some local entities, like the Miami Association of Realtors, remain optimistic. A late 2024 report from the organization’s chief economist Gay Cororaton predicted the 30-year fixed mortgage rate could reach “5% by the end of 2025 as inflation continues to sustainably move toward 2%.” Amid this prediction, which is consistent with others nationally, rates are contingent on several factors ranging from a borrower’s personal credit history to national inflation.
The second big question is, “What is going on with older condo buildings?”
In 2025, buildings over 30 years old are contending with stringent legislation enacted after the 2021 Surfside collapse. Mandates include comprehensive structural inspections for buildings over 30 years old, with subsequent inspections every decade. Additionally, associations statewide must now maintain fully funded reserves to cover prospective repairs, negating a previous environment where many associations opted to waive funding. While prioritizing safety, these new measures have generally created a time and money crunch, placing financial strain on existing and new owners alike.
While the allure of eastern Broward County – from Fort Lauderdale’s “Venice of America” landscape to budding downtowns in Deerfield Beach and Oakland Park – isn’t going away anytime soon, count on things continuing to trend west in 2025. Tim Singer is a senior sales associate at Coldwell Banker based in Fort Lauderdale. In the last four years, his team has closed more than 330 sales totaling $315 million-plus. He says, “We’re starting to see amazing sales out west, in places like Davie, Southwest Ranches and
3509 NE 27TH STREET FORT LAUDERDALE
Weston. There is a lot of new construction going on out there where buyers want to raise big families, have big garages and have easy access to expressways.”
Singer adds that across Broward County, “Builders cannot build new single-family homes fast enough,” as the average price of these offerings in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, for example, has eclipsed the $1 million mark. Amid a price influx and related to the older condo dilemma, Singer says there could be an
opportunity in older buildings. He projects the price of condos in the 30-plus-year-old range will remain relatively flat over the next year, though buyers should keep an eye on looming assessments and building insurance rates, some of which have increased five-fold in the matter of a year.
Dan Kaplan is managing partner at PMG, which is among the region’s heaviest hitters in the condo development space. The company’s most dazzling current projects include the Waldorf Astoria Miami and the One Twenty Brickell Residences, both of which are transforming the Magic City’s real estate landscape. Within the market, Kaplan says PMG has found a sweet spot and jumping-off price that is appealing to most buyers — $1 million to $2.5 million. He says “more efficient units” – meaning highly amenitized buildings appealing to the Miami lifestyle, among other aspects — are in high demand, compared to the larger-ticket properties that are moving at a “significantly slower pace.”
Kaplan sees a tale of two cities playing out in 2025 and beyond in The Magic City, bound by the fact that condo inventory is at an all-time high. He calls this the “opaqueness of the market,” meaning that nearly 80% of condo units are currently for sale within the market, the bulk of which are 30 to 40 years or older. In response, he’s keeping an eye on how new developments sell in contrast to the abundance of older units that may sit for a while given the current climate.
Few Palm Beach County agents have made as many headlines as Gary Pohrer with Douglas Elliman. Co-founder of the Exclusive Group, he’s been steadily within the top two Douglas Elliman agents nationwide in recent years, with sales nearing $2 billion since 2020.
The sweet spot timing-wise for buyers and sellers alike in Palm Beach County, he says, is the November to June timeframe. He notes, “Buyers are playing it very slowly. They’re being methodical and well thought out, versus where people would just toss a number out there in times past. They are taking their time and ensuring it’s a fair investment. I see this continuing in 2025.”
In Palm Beach, Pohrer notes there’s low inventory compared to historical averages and predicts prices to be flat, if not lower, for listings off the water. The bulk of his calls these days are related to his most expensive listings, noting an off-market listing for $130 million has been receiving
peak interest. He also says Palm Beach Gardens is a locale to watch, inclusive of The Ritz-Carlton Residences which his team is working with. He says, “Say you don’t want to go to Palm Beach and pay $9 million for a teardown. You can go to Palm Beach Gardens and get an amazing 5,000-square-foot house or condo for $4 million to $10 million.”
Pohrer closed by pointing out that there is a diversity of options here in 2025. And, indeed, taking in the unique aspects of our region, there certainly are. ♦
The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Black Tie Ball, presented by Broward Health in association with Republic National Distributing Company—brought the beauty of Africa’s Savannah Grasslands to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Guests experienced the music and unforgettable characters that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with special performances from the North American Tour of Disney’s The Lion King and the Private Stock 12-piece band. Beverages owed at the Fision Fiber Optics by Hotwire Communications Welcome Reception with exotic animals in the Out of Africa and Zebra lounges. Commodore Michael Weymouth and Belle of the Ball Stacy Ritter were honored for their community commitments and dedication to the Winterfest organization.
Running a successful law firm is all about structure. Whether you need help with growing your practice, managing clients, building a solid foundation, or preparing it for future transitions, Maria Medina with The Coaching Network is here to help. With over 15 years of experience in Marketing and Business Strategy, Certified Professional Coach Maria Medina can help you build a law firm that works for you. From streamlining operations to attracting ideal clients, she’s ready to guide you to success.
The president and owner of Cymbal Development gives the download on his penchant for developing and the upcoming Nautico District in Fort Lauderdale.
What drew you to real estate development, and Fort Lauderdale in particular?
I’m passionate about art, design, architecture, and construction. I also have a deep interest in placemaking and transforming spaces into vibrant community hubs that reflect local culture, foster social connections, and enhance the quality of urban life. Developing in Fort Lauderdale makes all the sense in the world to me, given its central location within the tri-county area. Our $1.5 billion Nautico District will break ground in 2025 and include a branded hotel, branded condominium, and a branded multifamily tower, along with two additional multifamily towers, retail, event spaces, significant restaurants, a yacht valet, and a marina.
What is the proudest moment of your career, if you can choose just one?
As a developer, owner, and general contractor, Cymbal DLT has completed two significant projects: a 341-unit gardenstyle community in Miami Gardens called Laguna Gardens, developed under the Live Local Act, and Oasis Pointe, a 301-unit waterfront community in Dania Beach. This vertical integration, with an in-house general contractor, has enabled Cymbal DLT to build more efficiently and cost-effectively while maintaining superior quality control and streamlining processes throughout the development lifecycle.
As a visionary who always hits his mark, what are your predictions for the dominant real estate trends of 2025 and the foreseeable future?
South Florida continues to solidify its position as a premier real estate investment destination, with Fort Lauderdale and Broward County emerging as focal points of demographic and economic growth. The region is experiencing sustained population expansion, driven by strong economic opportunities, attractive lifestyle factors, and ongoing migration trends from high-cost states
Share the top trait you possess that have contributed to your stunning success.
Being focused, disciplined, and never giving up.
If your life was a development project, what stage would it be in right now: foundation, building, or renovation?
Foundation – I’m building the foundation for my business, my team, and my family. This is just the beginning, and I’m focused on creating sustainable growth and meaningful opportunities.
Complete this sentence: “My next big dream is to…” Lead a more balanced life -- focused on business, family, health and friendships.
