AQUA Pinecrest October 2025 by Wainscot Media

AQUA PINECREST

BUILDING A LEGACY

Spencer Morris

COMMUNITY IN ACTION

Girls on the Walk

REIMAGINED DINING

At Old Cutler Inn

Create Where

THE MOST EXQUISITE Expression of Home

Nestled along the tree-lined streets of Coral Gables, Ponce Park presents an intimate collection of 58 residences, ranging from two to five bedrooms. Each home is thoughtfully designed and curated by the renowned Meyer Davis, blending contemporary luxury with old world charm.

SDEFINING SUCCESS

SOME PEOPLE HAVE what it takes to turn their achievements into an even greater success. It’s about looking at your life and wondering if you’re satisfied where you are, or if you have the potential to be something more. If I had to give this issue a theme, it would be: Why settle? Why build what’s already been built when you can go even higher? There’s a decent amount of risk taken when you think this way, but there’s also a huge reward on the other side.

That’s what I learned from Spencer Morris of the Allen Morris Company. If you are into Miami real estate, then you know that there is no Brickell without this developer. Morris, president since 2022, has some big plans for Coral Gables and Coconut Grove, and he’s partnered with some of the best architects and designers to pull it off. They’ll build some of most expensive condos in the area, and for good reason. Every detail, from the front door to the faucet, is of the highest quality. Our team got to walk through the sales gallery—a showroom that mimics the real condos that will be built—and we were absolutely stunned by its luxurious, spacious feel. It didn’t feel like a condo at all, but a real home. Though we had a great photographer on deck, the setting made every single shot beautiful by default. Sometimes, success comes naturally. I spoke

with two hard-working women about their business, where the revenue is community rather than cash. Girls on the Walk had a huge impact on me, partially because of their sheer size, but also because they have focused on what makes them successful and haven’t gotten distracted by outside motivations. Lucia Di Tore and Monica Villegas’ walking club has drawn hundreds of women and big names like Sephora and Lululemon. They’ve capitalized on their collective marketing career history to draw them in. Plus, it’s just good fun. Walking with them through Dadeland Mall on a Saturday morning, laughing and talking, was a joyful experience that I think everyone should have at least once. One thing that came across clearly was that they had no ulterior motive beyond community building. Besides these wonderful stories, we have coverage of more changemakers: Brightline Florida CEO Patrick Goddard and the owners of the new restaurant Old Cutler Inn. This is the issue where we redefine success.

Morgan C. Mullings Editor

Advertising Director Daisy Abreu daisy.abreu@wainscotmedia.com

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Editor

Morgan C. Mullings

Columnists

Gerry Barker

Rochelle B. Weinstein Suzan McDowell

Photographer VA Moments

aquapinecrest.com

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO Mark Dowden

SVP, Group Publisher

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

AQUA Pinecrest magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Pinecrest and surrounding areas of South Florida, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

PHOTOGRAPH BY YVETTE MULLINGS

Miami’s Cultural Pulse

BROADWAY IN MIAMI

The Wiz

Clue & Juliet

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

The Notebook

The Book of Mormon

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Juan Diego Flórez in Recital

The Philadelphia Orchestra

Academy of St Martin in the Fields

With Joshua Bell

JAZZ ROOTS

Kind of Blue: Celebrating the Music of Miles Davis

An Evening With Samara Joy

Malcolm X Jazz Suite

An Evening With Sheila E. Emmet Cohen’s “Live From Emmet’s Place”

THEATER UP CLOSE

The Mother

The Inheritance, Part 1

How to Break in a Glove

Merrily We Roll Along

Moses

LIVE AT KNIGHT

Twilight in Concert

The Magnetic Fields – 69 Love

Songs 25th Anniversary Tour 2025

Hasan Hates Ronny | Ronny Hates

Hasan

Lea Salonga: Stage, Screen & Everything in Between

A Conversation With Kamala Harris

Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert

Il Divo by Candlelight

Pink Martini

Lisa Loeb & Joan Osborne

RENT in Concert

Natalia Lafourcade - Cancionera Tour

Belle and Sebastian

DANCE AT ARSHT

Rennie Harris Puremovement

American Street Dance Theater –NUTTIN’ BUT A WORD

ALIVE – Siudy Flamenco 25th

Anniversary Celebration

Peter London Global Dance Company: THE ONENESS

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance

Flamenco Festival XVII: Sara Baras

FAMILY FUN LIVE

Disney’s Moana Live-to-Film Concert

The Amazing Max 360 ALLSTARS

Dinosaur World Live

LIVE ON THE PLAZA

Miami-based musicians and national acts in concert under the stars

AND MORE

Celia Sinfónica

Andrea Bocelli in Concert for the Holidays | Kaseya Center

Mostly Baroque

The Cleveland Orchestra in Miami

Florida Grand Opera

Miami City Ballet

Miami Symphony Orchestra

New World Symphony

Nu Deco Ensemble

GERRY BARKER

Gerry’s two passions are writing and travel. Atlantaborn and Texas-raised, he left an award-winning media career to see the world. Today, he maintains a website, North Palm Beach Life, and works as a freelance travel writer. Follow his adventures every month in Wanderlust

SUZAN MCDOWELL

Suzan’s marketing agency, Circle of One Marketing, which she founded 23 years ago, has grown itself into a formidable and influential brand in South Florida. The agency’s work is mainly done in the multicultural space for a variety of clients and industries.

ROCHELLE B. WEINSTEIN

Rochelle B. Weinstein is the USA Today bestselling author of multiple contemporary fiction novels, most recently We Are Made of Stars Her work has been featured in People, Deadline, Entertainment Weekly, Country Living, Woman’s Day, Woman’s World, First for Women, Kveller, Totally Booked with Zibby, Book Bub, and more. Rochelle is a frequent speaker and workshop instructor. A former entertainment industry executive and NBC-6 Miami book correspondent, Rochelle splits her time between South Florida and the mountains of North Carolina. And in super exciting news, her novel What You Do To Me was recently optioned for a feature film.

Impact-rated windows and doors for new construction and retrofit projects. From permitting to final installation, we deliver secure, efficient, and design-forward solutions that meet Florida’s highest standards.

Divorce Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

Preparation is your best asset during tough times.

IT’S THAT TIME of year again. Yards and doorways get filled with spooky decorations. Abandoned shops in strip malls turn into costume stores. Pretty soon, the streets will be filled with the cutest little ghouls and goblins you’ve ever seen.

Maybe it’s because my little ones aren’t so little, and maybe it’s because some of the yard decorations I see border more on “playfully tacky” than frightful, but Halloween doesn’t seem that scary to me anymore. But there is something out there right now that has a lot of people scared right now…

DIVORCE

While I’d actually prefer that most people work through it and stay together, the reality is that’s not always possible. But divorce doesn’t have to be scary. Like the bumps in the dark of haunted houses, most of the “monsters” I’ve seen in over 20 years of practicing family law have been shadows— the ones cast by uncertainty and the unknown, not facts. But we can turn on the light with preparation.

BEING READY TO DIVORCE

“You’ll regret the decisions you make in fear,” is something my clients will often hear me say. And it’s because that happens at both ends of the extreme—people make rash choices that hurt their case, while others just stay stuck in a bad relationship. Neither is beneficial for their future.

That’s why at our firm we do our best to make sure our clients are as ready as possible. That means they’re emotionally

equipped, financially organized, legally aware, and practically prepared.

Being emotionally equipped is being ready to face the fear, frustration, anger and impatience that often comes in a divorce. And it’s having the emotional support systems to do so.

Financial readiness is about more than legal fees. It’s about preparing your budget and having a clear idea of future income and expenses to avoid financial “jump scares.”

While you hire us for our legal expertise, you can be aware of how Florida law works in matters of divorce. It’s typically not what you see on TV (but my YouTube Channel can definitely help).

And being practically prepared means you know how you’ll handle things like living arrangements, and child timesharing during the divorce.

PICKING A PATH

Another aspect of divorce that scares a lot of people is a court battle. They’re afraid of the conflict, and having all their dirty laundry aired out in court. Sometimes, that’s the only way. But there are other alternatives.

If conflict and disagreement isn’t a fear, it may be possible to do an uncontested divorce, where we draft the agreement and file it in court. Many times, you don’t even have to show up.

And even if there are things you don’t agree on, it may be possible to go through the collaborative divorce process. You still have a specially trained attorney representing your best interests, but

both sides agree to handle negotiations out of court with neutral third parties, like counselors, mediators, and financial advisors.

The biggest thing to fear is going it alone. While it is possible to “DIY” your divorce, I can’t tell you how many times we’ve had to help “fix” agreements that people didn’t understand and couldn’t uphold. And one of the scariest things of all? Some things you settle in a divorce can’t be undone. The right guide makes all the difference.

FACING THE BIGGEST FEAR OF ALL

People don’t just wake up one day and say, “I think it’s time to get divorced.” There’s always a back story. And when it’s all coming to a head in a divorce, years of misunderstanding one another can spill over in bitter resentment.

Seemingly small issues can turn into big ones because one side, or both, just can’t comprehend why the other side wants something the way they do. And the fear of having to deal with that can be paralyzing. But you don’t have to understand their perspective to understand they’re not “the enemy.”

You just learn to accept their values are different than yours … and probably always have been. That doesn’t mean you give in. Not at all. But it does mean you can give grace and not project the worst possible interpretation of their actions.

Divorce is always difficult. Even the uncontested ones. But with the right preparation, the right path, and the right attitude, it’s nothing to be scared of.

Tracking a Brighter Future

Brightline Florida CEO Patrick Goddard takes us through all the destinations, perks, and developments of the burgeoning rail service.

BY GERRY BARKER

The Brightline MiamiCentral has changed the landscape of the area, bringing easy access to high-speed transit that never existed before.

FEW PROJECTS have impacted how Floridians travel more than Brightline. Beginning in 2012, when Fortress Investment Group announced the “All Aboard Florida” effort to build the only privately owned and operated intercity passenger rail service in the country, Brightline has changed the way we go from Miami all the way to Orlando.

Officially launched in 2018, Brightline has station stops in Miami, Aventura, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and in 2023, started serving Orlando. More stations are in the planning stages, including a West Coast expansion, where Brightline West will go from Southern California to Las Vegas.

Overseeing this multi-billion-dollar enterprise is Patrick Goddard, Chief Executive Officer of Brightline Florida. Originally from Ireland, he has degrees in business and hospitality from Trinity College Dublin and Technological University Dublin, with extensive experience in the hotel and hospitality sectors.

Goddard has been recognized by Orlando Magazine as one of the “50 Most Powerful People in Orlando,” and included among South Florida Business Journal’s “Power Leaders 250” and Florida Trend’s “500 Most Influential Leaders.” Goddard also serves on the boards of the Miami Downtown Development Authority and the FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee.

Goddard shares how Brightline has impacted how we get around and what might be coming next in this interview with AQUA Pinecrest:

As Brightline Florida CEO, you’ve watched Brightline grow and expand under your leadership. What has guiding Brightline meant to you, both personally and professionally?

Brightline has catalyzed and reintroduced the conversation of what travel should look like in America and has given people a reason to believe that passenger rail is a big part of that equation. Watching this discussion begin in South Florida first has been especially rewarding. Watching South Florida friends, neighbors, and business colleagues make Brightline a part of their lives continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

Brightline started as an alternative to driving I-95. Can you share how ridership has grown since Brightline made its debut in South Florida, and the overall impact on how people commute here?

Brightline currently moves close to 300,000 guests per month, and ridership continues to grow. We provide a safe alternative to the awful traffic of I-95, the Florida Turnpike, and

avoid the hassle involved in taking a short flight. Guests are making Brightline a part of their lives, traveling whether it be a weekend getaway to the parks or a cruise, a business meeting, attending one of the many sports or entertainment events in the state, or even a daily commute to work.

The traditional lines that separate business and leisure travel are dissolving— which impacts the hospitality industry in a good way. “Bleisure” is a trend that is expected to become a multi-billiondollar sub-industry within the existing travel market. More than half of business travelers extend their business trips into personal trips multiple times each year. It isn’t just commuting; it is connecting across communities. Brightline makes this option even easier.

Historically, high-speed mass transit has had a difficult time gaining a foothold in this country. Why do you think that is, and how has Brightline succeeded in changing that mindset?

Brightline has put our guests first since day one, designing the train sets and each station. From the signature citrus scents in the stations to the high-speed Starlink to keep guests connected while traveling, we put the guest experience first. I have a hotel background, like many of our teammates, and we have always been driven to be a hospitality company that is in the train business. We understand that it’s not enough to just provide the commodity of transportation, but it must also offer a first-class experience.

Adding Orlando was the realization of a longtime Brightline goal. Has it met your expectations, and how has it impacted Brightline’s overall operations?

Completing construction and delivering Orlando service was always the goal. Brightline is intercity rail, connecting city pairs too far to drive and too close to fly. We have now connected the state’s most visited regions. With the FIFA World Cup around the corner and so many exciting reasons to ride Brightline between Orlando and South Florida, we are just getting started.

Brightline is heavily invested in promoting public safety and developing public safety messaging and programs. What rail safety programs are currently in place and what else can be done in that regard?

Brightline has introduced one of the safest forms of transportation in the state of Florida and is moving millions of people out of their cars, off dangerous roadways, and onto our trains. We have been a leader in the industry on safety initiatives related to education, enforcement, and engineering. Brightline has invested hundreds of millions into modernizing the tracks and crossing systems, and that work continues. Safety is a team effort, and we are considered a leader in this space, and we work collaboratively with federal, state, and local governments to amplify that commitment.

MiamiCentral station serves as a nexus for transportation, urban living, and restaurants. How do you view its role in both Brightline’s and downtown Miami’s future?

I am so proud of how MiamiCentral is transforming the neighborhood. Most recently with the opening of Central Fare, our food collective. Downtown Miami has been a food desert for decades and now we have introduced some of the most talented chef-driven concepts to the neighborhood— all under one roof. MiamiCentral’s development with 800 plus residential units, 300,000 square feet of office space, and 130,000 square feet of retail, has catalyzed significant growth on the western edge of downtown Miami.

Brightline ticket prices fluctuate by time of day and day of week. How are prices determined, and how often do they change?

Brightline pricing is dynamic and always based on demand. We offer both Premium and Smart classes of service and are always offering special ticket options from promotions to frequent rider passes to encourage guests to take the train. Our Brightline Rewards program, introduced earlier this year, offers savings and specials, and I encourage everyone to sign up today.

Incorporating “last mile” options like Uber and shuttle services to the airports and ports is a smart idea. Does Brightline offer similar services in Orlando to the amusement parks?

With Brightline Orlando Station presented by Orlando Health located within the Orlando International Airport, transportation to many attractions is already in place. This airport has been getting people to theme parks for as long as the parks have operated; there are wellestablished transportation options, including hotel and resort shuttles, rental cars, and rideshare, etc.

Looking down the track, so to speak, what’s the outlook for expanding Brightline service to Tampa and Florida’s Space Coast? Is service to Jacksonville also a possibility?

Right now, our focus is continuing to grow ridership between Central and South Florida. We are working with the cities of Stuart and Cocoa Beach for new stations, and we also continue to collaborate with local government in central Florida on our phased expansion to Tampa. We hope to have more to share on this soon.

MiamiCentral Station offers residential space, office space and retail, including Central Fare, the new restaurant space.

Community in Motion

The Girls on the Walk club is taking over Miami— and now they’re heating up in Dadeland Mall.

BY MORGAN C. MULLINGS

WWHEN YOU SEE 400 women in workout gear walking the streets of Miami, you might think it’s a parade or a protest. In reality, it’s Girls on the Walk. This community of women, founded by Lucia Di Tore and Monica Villegas, combines exercise, networking, and brand activation into one fun event. Di Tore and Villegas met at a similar event in Brickell; there are many walking clubs that aim to connect communities that want to meet outside of the usual bars and clubs. After talking nonstop about their shared interests and similar work in marketing, they decided they wanted to help people meet in a similar way.

“Being remote after the pandemic and everything, it kind of made it hard for friendships and true connection, and then through walks is where I started connecting with people,” Villegas tells us in a joint interview.

CULTIVATING FRIENDSHIPS

There’s no agenda beyond genuine friendships across ages and backgrounds. Because they attract such a large group of women, Girls on the Walk was turning heads on Aug. 30 at Dadeland Mall, where they partnered with several stores

to start a stamp scavenger hunt that had attendees getting their steps in.

Miami is a city of extremes, and that can be intimidating for newcomers. Neither of the women are from Florida—Di Tore is from Paraguay and works as a pilates instructor, Villegas is a social media marketer from Colombia, and most recently Chicago—so it was important that they create a space that is welcoming. In a city that prides itself on exclusive experiences, here comes a party that everyone is invited to.

“We were both very lonely. It’s really hard being here with no friends. These walks help us find each other. So many people moved to Miami, so many people are lonely like us,” says Di Tore. “It’s a really wholesome community that wants to meet other girls.”

Whether taking a nature walk through Coconut Grove or stepping into Edgewater to take in ocean views, Girls on the Walk is all smiles and chatter for miles. Since 2022, they’ve been turning heads.

One of the most memorable moments since then has been a walk in Miami Beach, where Girls on the Walk partnered with Time Out market. The attendees received a new swimsuit and spent the day together on the beach. They’ve gone to grab matcha at Navi, trekked to Sephora, and now they’ve walked Dadeland Mall three times. Even the Miami Dolphins have taken up a partnership with Girls on the Walk for a Sunday stroll.

“We started growing and growing to the point where bands started reaching out to us,” Villegas recalls, sharing that the

“Even after the walk was done, the girls were trying to do their own thing or still hang out. They didn’t want to leave that space that we were creating,” says Villegas. “We were like, what if we started partnering with brands that can offer them a coffee after the walk or at least a discount?”

Representatives from

stores like DICK’s House of Sport and Lululemon waited for walkers to present their pages for stamps.

brand engagement expanded their walks from Brickell to other neighborhoods.

The brands aren’t showing up by coincidence; These partnerships attract women from all walks of life and have garnered the attention of the biggest stores in the mall. Saks Fifth Avenue had three stamp stations this time, and the tables were crowded with hundreds of eager women and girls ready to grab freebies and do a little shopping. Of course, they had to start small: 10 to 30 people per event. As they grew, challenges rose with the numbers. Di Tore and Villegas have found a few solutions: Don’t walk at peak times, walk the route in advance, and avoid crosswalks and blocking traffic.

EXPANDING TO DADELAND

The Dadeland walk began at 9:30 a.m. when the mall was practically empty, and ended at 1 p.m. just as regular shoppers started to roll in. “9 a.m. seems not that early to me, but I know that it is to most people, so it caters to a

Walkers were eager to check off every store on the list, as the prize for completing the route was entry into a raffle for a $200 gift card and a Lululemon outfit.

lot of people that are like, ‘You know what, I want to be more into wellness,’” Villegas says, but adds that every type of woman has joined the community, including party girls. She and Di Tore had a hard time fitting into the nightlife culture, making them more grateful for these walks.

“There’s a lot of people that come here, they’re shy. It’s intimidating to see a massive group of girls just there, but they’re all there for the same reason, so I feel more comfortable than just going to the gym and saying hi to someone,” Di Tore explains. “This is a setting that was made specifically for that.”

There’s an air of accomplishment throughout the shopping center, an excitement that can only be had when achieving something for your health. Plus, the way the walks strengthen bonds between local Miamians and local businesses can’t be replicated. “Working with Dadeland is honestly so nice,” says Di Tore. “They’re so organized, they love doing walks with us.”

“We do the walk and then the girls still need to go to the stores and collect some stickers, and it feels like this fun, childlike [thing],” Villegas adds.

Community building can seem complicated. Getting people to show up, engage on social media, and tell their friends is an endeavor both women have dedicated their careers to. What made Girls on the Walk an easy sell is that it filled a need for a large group of people and did it in the simplest way possible. Their intentions are the foundation; doing it for the joy of connecting people and nothing else. The result is full friend groups formed on the walks, kids showing up with their moms, and locals discovering new businesses.

Di Tore says, “The reason I was able to stay [in Miami] is because I met good people.”

Villegas agrees, saying, “My friend group is basically all people I met through walks. Being able to now have a friend group, Miami feels like home now.”

Building a Legacy

President of Allen Morris Company, Spencer Morris, shares two Miami developments that leave a beautiful impression on Coral Gables and Coconut Grove.

BYMORGAN C. MULLINGS

TTHE LINEAGE OF THE Allen Morris Company is about to transform Coral Gables once again. The family company responsible for the notable Alhambra Towers and even the first regional shopping center in Florida is making big waves. In an interview with AQUA Pinecrest, Allen Morris Company President W.A. Spencer Morris details two big projects he can’t wait to fully introduce to Miami clients. Ponce Park in Coral Gables and Ziggurat in Coconut Grove will break ground later this year, bringing the best in luxury residential and office space with architecture that stuns.

BRICK BY BRICK

Company founder L. Allen Morris is known as the trailblazer who started building office space on Brickell Avenue before it was considered the business hub

it is today. His legacy now includes over 100 development projects completed to date and over $3.5 billion in its active development pipeline. Past projects include notable structures such as the first office building ever built in Brickell (1000 Brickell), Dadeland Mall, SLS Lux Brickell, and buildings in Atlanta, Sarasota, Orlando, Miami, Coral Gables, Bradenton, and St. Petersburg, besides the Alhambra Towers where the company is headquartered.

“We as a company have, over the last 67 years, gone through multiple cycles of evolution. I think an important piece of becoming president is maintaining the history and the culture of this company that my grandfather started and my father built and also charting my own unique path for the business,” the president explains. “There’s a lot of responsibility that comes with that.”

SCAN HERE

to view more photographs of Ponce Park.

Allen Morris Company is also well known for their development successes in Atlanta, where the current president worked before he moved back to Miami in 2018 and took the position in 2022. He helped build out the business in Georgia, including the Star Metals district of seven buildings, a $1.5 billion project.

“The company had a history of developing built-to-suit office buildings, shopping centers and industrial projects. When I joined the company, we began the process of pivoting our investment strategy and focusing more on best-in-class residential developments,” Morris says. Now, luxury residential represents the majority of the business.

The biological aspects of the architecture Allen Morris Company chose at Star Metals—plants and gardens interspersed with the building’s structure— are now the focal point of the Coconut Grove building Ziggurat at the intersection of Grand Avenue, Matilda Street, and Florida Avenue. The building’s contemporary floating gardens will make it a trophy edifice, something that still turns heads 100 years from now.

“It’s built into the neighborhood, and it feels like it belongs in Coconut Grove. We try to build contextually—build projects that improve upon the neighborhood that they’re in without taking away from the history and the identity of the place,” says Morris. There will be natural wood and stone in the facade, creating an organic feel to match its distinctive shape. To capture the old spirit of the neighborhood, they’ve partnered with Miami’s Oppenheim Architecture, who also worked on the Star Metals project in Atlanta and will feature gardens on every floor. The company, in partnership with the City of Miami, will also transform Fuller Street and Kirk Munroe Park into a green space to complement. Already 50% sold, the Ziggurat’s six-story office building and four-story condominium building will break ground this December.

Ponce Park will be just a stone’s throw away in Coral Gables; and it’s meant for the kind of homeowner who may be downsizing from a large house to a condo with a homey feel. Prices will be high for these condominiums, as they’re in a prime location just across from The Plaza Coral Gables.

BREAKING GROUND

“If we’re going to build something that is at its highest expression of architecture, finish and design, it needs to be on an A-plus site,” says Morris. With 22,000 square feet of commercial space and 58 residential spaces already 35% sold, the space, designed by global design firm Meyer Davis, has already surpassed the expected response.

“It’s a different caliber of building, nothing like it has been built in Coral Gables to date, and the reception has actually exceeded our expectations.” The site also sits at the edge of the residential and commercial districts of the city, “so the residences have unobstructed views facing toward the southeast.”

Because Allen Morris Company is known for creating legacy buildings, the quality set by Alhambra Towers will be seen at Ponce Park. “When it was delivered in 2002, [Alhambra Towers] set the standard of what Mediterranean architecture in Coral

Gables could be and should be from a fit and finish standpoint,” Morris says. One of the most memorable things about Coral Gables is the European-style buildings, the stone walls, the colorful choices that make it feel like no other place in Miami.

“[Ponce Park] captures the history and the style of European elegance and raises the bar for luxury living in Coral Gables,” Morris says, “Each neighborhood and each market in Miami has its own unique identity, and it was important to us to capture the rich neoclassical design language of Coral Gables in this building.”

Even Ponce Park’s sales gallery, which is open now at 203 University Dr., captures the luxury experience. Morris says they’ve been waiting since 2011 to develop the land. “We’re really excited to deliver the final product. We view both of these as legacy projects for us, components of which we plan to own long-term,” he continues. He wants the Allen Morris Company to be involved long-term, to do right by the cities in which they develop.

Two buildings: One a living, breathing planter and the other a veritable jewel that reinterprets a historic architectural style. But it’s not without challenges. “It’s an extremely challenging business, and the people that thrive in it are the people that love it,” Morris says. “In addition to it being my job, it’s my favorite hobby.” Most of the people he works with feel the same way, despite any pressures that come with big developments. “I think the most difficult aspect of developing these legacy-quality projects is casting a bold design vision up front that feels deeply contextual to the specific neighborhood and then juggling the practical considerations of engineering, costs, placemaking, et cetera, to make sure that original vision comes to life.”

Though the buildings are important, for Morris, this has been about people from day one. He wants these developments to be recognized for years to come so the tenants, residential or otherwise, will be able to enjoy it for generations. That’s the best part— seeing people interact with these spaces in their everyday lives. Within the business, Morris says the team is extremely close, with love for their work being the uniting factor.

“If I were to do anything else, it would be exactly what I’m doing, and I think most of the people that thrive in this business feel the same way.”

A Fresh Experience

Aqua Pinecrest stopped by the Old Cutler Inn, a new and enticing neighborhood restaurant in Palmetto Bay opened by a Pinecrest native.

BY MORGAN C. MULLINGS

WALKING UP TO Old Cutler Inn is like stepping onto a large, homey front porch full of laughter and chatting families savoring the end of summer, enjoying Miami’s balmy evening breeze. Across from the iconic Deering Estate museum, the new Old Cutler Inn is sure to enjoy the fruit of its proximity to the popular historic landmark and will likely become a neighborhood favorite restaurant that attracts foodies (like me) from across South Florida.

AN INVITING AMBIANCE

The moment we entered—from the hostess to the server to the bar—I got the feeling that every member of the team understood their role but were simultaneously alert for a guest in need. The restaurant runs very smoothly, with the added transparency of an open kitchen and wood fire pits. Clearly, this team knows its rhythm. The decor is curated with a modern mix of large supple leather booths, wood-beamed

ceilings, and herringbone floors, all in neutral or warm tones, which creates a fresh setting that is both modern and cozy. Seating accommodates everything from big family gatherings to intimate two-top date nights.

And then there’s the inside-outside bar—beautifully stocked and buzzing with an easy confidence. It’s definitely a great spot for neighborhood friends to pull up and unwind with a stiff drink.

I don’t know if I’ve ever had a better cocktail than the lineup I experienced at Old Cutler Inn. I’ve sipped lemon drops in Paris, caipirinhas in Rio, Singapore slings in Singapore, and espresso martinis in Brooklyn—still, Old Cutler Inn managed to outshine them all, to my great surprise and delight. After we ordered the White Pearl masterpiece, with a unique flavor profile of Grey Goose Vodka, lychee soju, lychee liqueur, and white truffle, Leticia Alvarez, the brilliant mixologist herself, showed up. In an unforgettable touch, she placed

three tiny lychee bubbles on the rim of the glass. So cool.

Next came the La Vie En Rose cocktail crafted of Belvedere Organic Vodka, pink Belvoir, rosewater, lime, and a single perfect rose petal, over which she sprayed a mist of rose essence, elevating the experience from cocktail to art. Even cooler. Other notable exotics on their artisanal cocktail menu are Hot & High with Mezcal 400 Conejos, arbol chili, mango, and lime; and The Versailles with Plantation 3 Star Rum, guava, basil, lime, and soda—and many more exciting new concoctions to try. Old Cutler Inn isn’t just serving drinks; it’s delivering one of the most original cocktail experiences anywhere.

Drew Dorsy and Benjamin Pascarella combined their respective real estate and hospitality experience to create a restaurant dining room new to Palmetto Bay.

TASTY BITES

The dinner menu features wood-fired American fusion classics with so much character and a modern twist. Highlights include the crispy smoked chicken wings, wahoo fish dip, cornmeal crusted calamari, a Korean BBQ short rib, a bit too spicy vodka lumache, swordfish steak with dandelion greens and lemon-caper sauce, blackened shrimp cobb, and handcrafted oven-baked sourdough flatbreads with a choice of toppings. Get the traditional pepperoni or smoked short rib ragù for the more adventurous pizza lover. There were some correctable issues with our food, but honestly, it’s worth a few trips to get through the rest of the menu.

The true mark of any restaurant destined for greatness is exceptional service, and our server Maria did not disappoint us. Seasoned, professional, and attentive, she navigated every detail with confidence and care. It was clear she not only knew her craft but genuinely loved it and truly appreciated the value of being on a well-trained, first-class culinary team.

Old Cutler Inn fills a wide gap in Palmetto Bay, a tight-knit community nestled in a neighborhood of lush tree canopies, laid-back culture and historic charm.

The brainchild of real estate investor and developer Drew Dorsy of Bindor, along with his partner, seasoned hospitality operator and Pinecrest native Benjamin Pascarella, founder of Ciotola Restaurant Group, Old Cutler Inn is an idea whose time has come.

“Palmetto Bay has long deserved more dining options that reflect the quality and character of the community,” says Dorsy, coowner and developer. “With Old Cutler Inn, we’re not only filling a much-needed void in the local hospitality scene—we’re also contributing to the broader expansion of Miami’s culinary footprint beyond the urban core. It’s about creating destinations that

deserve further exploration.”

Delivering on the hype, Old Culter really does feel reimagined and new, comfortable and cozy, all at the same time. It brings elevated cuisine, thoughtful design, and a fresh energy to a neighborhood ready to embrace it.

Old Cutler Inn is open Sundays through Thursdays from 4 to 10 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 11 p.m. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Breakfast and lunch will be debuting soon. For more information, visit www.oldcutlerinn.com

The selection at Old Cutler Inn includes expected American classics with a twist, from pasta to fish to flatbreads.

@condesaspaces | condesaspaces.com

Casa Privée: A Leading World Center for Regenerative and Stem Cell Treatments

LEADERSHIP

WITHOUT PARALLEL

Casa Privée’s foundation of excellence is epitomized by its founder, Professor Dr. Bankole Johnson, a world-renowned physician-scientist whose credentials are unparalleled. Professor Johnson holds a medical degree (bachelor of medicine, bachelor of surgery), two doctoral degrees (doctorate in medical science and doctor of science), and a master of philosophy. He is board-certified in neurology and psychiatry, stem cell medicine, preventive medicine, disability medicine, forensic medicine, and addiction medicine.

With this rare breadth of expertise, Profesoor Johnson has elevated Casa Privée into a global epicenter of regenerative medicine, where advanced science meets compassionate care. His leadership ensures that each treatment is delivered not only with scientific rigor but also with the vision of a healer who understands the complexities of mind, body, and spirit.

A PHILOSOPHY OF HEALING

In the heart of modern medicine’s frontier stands Casa Privée—a world-renowned sanctuary where science, innovation, and healing converge. As a global leader in regenerative and stem cell treatments, Casa Privée offers bespoke therapies that may help unlock the body’s natural potential for repair, restoration, and renewal. Every program is uniquely designed to match the needs of the individual, ensuring that no two treatment plans are ever the same.

At Casa Privée, treatment is never standardized. Each client undergoes a comprehensive evaluation to ensure that protocols are formulated precisely for their

biology, condition, and wellness goals. The center’s philosophy is that true healing begins with individuality, not conformity. From stem cell applications to regenerative protein arrays, each therapeutic pathway is custom-blended, ensuring the highest standard of personalized care.

This approach is elevated by Casa Privée’s integration of cutting-edge biologics—including peptides, exosomes, and regenerative proteins—with advanced technologies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, infrared light, and the revolutionary theta chamber. By layering these modalities together, Casa Privée creates a synergistic environment in which the body may optimize healing and recovery.

Casa Privée offers a wide range of services from aesthetic to physical therapies and even mental health treatments, all at the highest quality.

AREAS OF IMPACT

While stem cell science remains an evolving field, many believe its applications could be profound. Casa Privée focuses on a spectrum of specialized areas where regenerative medicine may offer hope and possibilities:

• Hair restoration for baldness: Stem cells and regenerative biologics are tailored to rejuvenate dormant follicles, potentially promoting natural hair growth.

• Healing and recovery after cosmetic surgery: Custom therapies may accelerate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and minimize downtime.

• Pain-related disorders: Conditions such as arthritis, joint trauma, and chronic musculoskeletal pain may benefit from regenerative strategies designed to reduce discomfort and enhance mobility.

• Neurological and brain disorders: Casa Privée develops bespoke treatments for clients with brain injuries, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. For children, programs may assist in autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit disorder.

• Addiction medicine: A signature hallmark of Casa Privée is its pioneering use of regenerative products in addiction treatment. By supporting brain healing and reducing craving and relapse, this approach could represent a breakthrough in helping individuals reclaim their lives.

• Other complex disorders: Although experimental, regenerative products promise new treatments for many cancers, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic disorders, such as diabetes.

Each of these treatments reflects Casa Privée’s core mission: to blend science with compassion in ways that may transform health, longevity, and vitality.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE INNOVATION

Regenerative medicine is more than an intervention; it is a philosophy of working with the body’s own intelligence. Casa Privée integrates:

• Stem Cells: Harvested and prepared with precision, these cells may support tissue repair and regeneration.

• Protein Arrays: Complex regenerative proteins are used to influence cellular activity and accelerate recovery.

• Peptides: Targeted bioactive molecules may enhance metabolic pathways, improve repair, and restore balance.

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Immersing the body in high-pressure oxygen can increase tissue oxygenation and may speed cellular repair.

• Infrared Therapy: Harnessing deeppenetrating wavelengths of light to support circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

• Theta Chamber Technology: A unique innovation at Casa Privée, designed to synchronize the mind and body, aiding in recovery and mental wellness.

By combining these treatments, Casa Privée creates a holistic matrix that supports not only the physical body but also neurological and psychological resilience.

A GLOBAL DESTINATION FOR WELLNESS

Clients from around the world travel to Casa Privée not merely for treatment, but for transformation. Its reputation as a sanctuary of advanced care stems from its ability to combine the most sophisticated technologies with bespoke therapeutic artistry. Whether seeking renewal after illness, recovery from surgery, relief from chronic pain, or innovative support for neurological or psychiatric conditions, clients are welcomed into an environment of trust, discretion, and excellence.

BEYOND SCIENCE, BEYOND BORDERS

Regenerative medicine represents one of the most promising frontiers in health. While much remains to be discovered, the therapies at Casa Privée may help forge a future in which healing is faster, recovery is deeper, and quality of life is profoundly improved. By tailoring each protocol, harnessing leading-edge biologics, and guiding care with the wisdom of Professor Johnson, Casa Privée stands as a beacon of what medicine could become.

For those seeking more than treatment—for those seeking transformation—Casa Privée offers a vision of health that is personal, pioneering, and profoundly human.

Spooky SEASON

Jump into October with these seasonally scary books!

BY ROCHELLE B. WEINSTEIN

IT’S OCTOBER, and with that comes a fresh batch of fast-paced, spine-chilling thrillers and mysteries. This month, we have four books by five talented authors—literary god Harlan Coben teams up with everybody’s goddess Reese Witherspoon—and voila, the ultimate tricks and treats without leaving the house.

WE ARE ALL GUILTY HERE

By Karin Slaughter

Slaughter’s back with the first installment in the North Falls series, and don’t let the small-town setting fool you. This dark, gripping tale delivers a big punch when two teenage girls vanish and a tight-knit community wades through secrets and past trauma for answers. Fans of Slaughter will be hooked from the start, but the story centers on some tough subjects that might not be suitable for all readers. Take this emotionally intense and intricately crafted ride with caution and be prepared to be blown away.

TOO OLD FOR THIS

By Samantha Downing

What happens when a retired serial killer is suddenly under investigation? Does she come out of retirement for one more murder? In Downing’s latest, we meet the murderess, Lottie Jones, a fearless septuagenarian who’s shockingly likable and witty. As far as serial killers go, you won’t be able to decide if you love her or hate her. This clever and original plot sends readers on a game of cat-andmouse with Lottie grappling with modern technology—it was a lot easier for Lottie to kill in her youth (and get away with it). A fast-paced mystery with a heap of Downing’s twisted genius that begs Helen Mirren to play Lottie in the movie.

THE INTRUDER

By Freida McFadden

Strap in. Page one. You won’t move for the remainder of the day. Freida McFadden has another twisty thriller out. This one’s set in a cabin in the woods with a hurricane pounding at the door. Familiar, Florida? Casey doesn’t fear the storm; she fears the wounded girl standing outside her kitchen window holding a knife. If you love addictive suspense and twists you never saw coming, McFadden delivers in this action-packed, entertaining read.

GONE BEFORE GOODBYE

By Reese Witherspoon & Harlan Coben

Do we need an introduction? The dynamic duo has penned an unforgettable novel about a renowned Army combat surgeon trapped in a deadly conspiracy. Maggie endures a personal tragedy and loses her medical license. Desperate to make ends meet, she’s given the opportunity to perform an unconventional procedure on a high-profile, anonymous client. But the mysterious patient disappears, sending Maggie on the run for her own life. Expect lots of Coben’s plot twists with secret sauce à la Witherspoon. A suspenseful, cinematic thriller that will keep readers guessing.

Find these gems at bookshop.org or stop by our favorite indie shop Books & Books

Design With Intention

Condesa Spaces specializes in custom kitchen design, bathroom remodeling, built-ins and more with luxury touches and intentional leadership from owner Grace Conde.

BY MORGAN C. MULLINGS

How does Condesa Spaces approach kitchens, bathrooms, and closets from start to finish (for example, how a project is started, what steps do you go through with the client)?

From the moment we begin, we work hand in hand with the client. Many times, people come to us already with ideas, maybe photos they’ve saved, floor plans in hand. We listen first. Then, based on what they have we guide what cabinetry would fit best, the right countertop, the finishes. Always keeping budget, functionality, and aesthetic in balance.

We believe in trust. That means making sure our clients feel seen, heard, and certain that their priorities are our sort of “north star.” From initial sketches to final installation, we oversee every detail from sourcing to supplies to finishing touches so that when a client walks into their new kitchen, bathroom or closet, it feels like it was always meant for them.

2 What can clients expect when they come to the Miami showroom?

When you walk into our Miami showroom, expect a warm welcome. We want you to feel at home. There’s no rush. You’ll meet one-on-one with a designer, take a tour through our curated displays, samples, and materials, see textures, touch surfaces, feel what works best. We talk practicality and presentation. Our showroom isn’t just a gallery of options.

3 How do designers and contractors work together to create what the client needs?

We believe collaboration is essential. Our design and contractor teams are in communication from beginning to end. Once the plan is approved, we oversee quality, manage timelines, ensure the installers understand exactly what the vision is. We test, check, follow up. If a material or finish doesn’t deliver what was promised, we address it. Every piece—cabinetry, hardware, countertops—must align.

4 How does Condesa tailor design to each client’s taste and lifestyle?

We begin by listening; not only to what clients tell us, but what feels like home. What do they want from their space? How do they live? We ask questions: Do you cook often, entertain, work from home, love morning light, need storage for kids, for hobbies? Then we design not just for today, but for how life moves forward. We tailor layouts, finishes and materials to reflect their taste, whether playful or calm, minimal or rich. Always fitting into their routines and their personality.

What kinds of finishes, features and textures are popular right now?

Right now, we’re seeing a strong shift toward warmer, more natural finishes. Earthy tones are replacing the stark whites and cold grays of the past; think rich browns, warm taupes, and soft, muted greens. Clients are gravitating toward materials that feel organic and grounded.

We’re also noticing a return of character: Brushed metals like warm brass and nickel are replacing shiny chrome, and reeded or fluted cabinet fronts are bringing subtle movement to otherwise minimalist spaces.

Mixed materials are having a moment, pairing wood cabinetry with stone countertops, or layering textures within the same tone to add depth without overpowering. And for those wanting to be bold, deeper colors like charcoal, forest green or even navy are showing up in accent cabinetry or bathroom vanities. Overall, it’s about creating spaces that feel lived-in and layered, rather than overly polished. People want their homes to reflect comfort and personality.

What is your approach in leading the team and keeping Condesa’s service at a high quality?

I believe discipline and listening go together. I try to understand each person’s strength, what each team member does best and distribute work so talents are maximized. I set clear expectations, standards, and timelines. I also stay involved: reviewing progress, walking the job site, responding to issues, making sure the product is what we promised.

But kindness matters: I believe if people feel respected and supported, they deliver better. We hold people to high standards but also recognize that each project means more than just design or material, it means life lived, routines, memories. That pushes us to keep quality high.

What does luxury mean to you and how do you infuse it into your work?

Luxury, to me, is not about flash. It’s about adaptability, reliability, timelessness. True luxury is a space that transcends fleeting trends. A kitchen or bathroom that in five, ten, twenty years still feels beautiful, still feels like home. I infuse luxury by choosing materials and finishes that won’t age badly, that withstand time and use, by designing layouts that serve daily life (storage that works, flow that feels natural). By attention to detail, joinery, lighting, hardware, the small things most people don’t notice now, but will notice for years to come. Luxury means giving clients something they fall in love with again and again: a space where they make memories, feel joy, feel comfort. That, to me, is real luxury.

The $1 Trillion Deal That Could Redefine Corporate Pay

AL MAULINI, CFP®, CPM®, CEPA®- PRIVATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

TESLA’S BOARD HAS proposed a recordbreaking $1 trillion, 10-year pay package for Elon Musk, the largest in U.S. corporate history, structured to keep him at Tesla and tied entirely to performance. To unlock each of the 12 tranches, Musk must achieve both a market cap milestone, ranging from $2 trillion to $8.5 trillion and a demanding operational target. If he succeeds, Musk’s stake in Tesla could rise to 25%, but if he fails to deliver, he gets nothing, making the plan highly shareholder aligned. The proposal will be put to a shareholder vote on November 6, 2025, and, if fully achieved, could make Musk the world’s first trillionaire while transforming Tesla into an AI and robotics powerhouse.

The package reflects Tesla’s ambition to transition from an electric vehicle company to a leader in AI and robotics, with the board saying it “believes that Mr. Musk singularly possesses the leadership characteristics necessary to transform Tesla and realize its long-term mission at an unparalleled level.”

Tesla: “The 2025 CEO Performance Award similarly challenges Elon to again meet a series of even more aspirational goals, including operational

milestones focused on reaching Adjusted EBITDA targets (thresholds that are up to 28 times higher than the 2018 CEO Performance Award’s top Adjusted EBITDA milestone) and rolling out new or expanded product offerings (including 1 million Robotaxis in commercial operation and delivery of 1 million AI Bots), all while growing the company’s market capitalization by trillions of dollars.”

Market Cap Target Operational Milestones

1. Deliver 20 million vehicles (Tesla delivered 1.81 million in 2024).

2. Achieve 10 million active Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscriptions.

3. Produce 1 million robotaxis in commercial operation.

4. Manufacture 1 million Optimus humanoid robots.

5. Reach $400 billion in adjusted EBITDA over four consecutive quarters (Tesla’s 2024 EBITDA was $16.6 billion).

The package consists of 423.7 million Tesla shares (≈12% of stock) awarded in 12 tranches, each unlocked by both market cap milestones (increments of $500 billion starting at $2 trillion) and operational targets. Musk must hold any awarded shares for 7.5 years and remain CEO through 2035, with a special succession plan clause required for the final two tranches. If fully achieved, Musk’s stake would grow from 13% to 25%, cementing control, while Tesla’s value would rise to $8.5 trillion, making Musk the world’s first $2 trillionare plus net worth individual. The package reflects Tesla’s bet on Musk as indispensable to its transformation into an AI, robotics, energy, and mobility powerhouse and ensures he

OF CORAL GABLES

earns nothing unless both investors and operations win big.

In summary, Elon Musk’s proposed $1 trillion Tesla pay package is less about enriching him personally and more about keeping him focused on Tesla’s future as an AI and robotics leader. Unlike other mega-cap tech CEOs, Musk runs six companies, several already worth hundreds of billions, meaning he doesn’t need Tesla for wealth. Instead, the plan ensures he stays incentivized to scale Tesla to an $8.5 trillion valuation while aligning shareholder rewards with his performance. If he fails, he earns nothing; if he succeeds, both Musk and investors share historic upside, a structure echoing his 2018 plan, but on a far grander scale.

Unlocking all 12 tranches will be extremely difficult, but if there’s one thing you don’t do, it’s bet against Elon Musk. This is a merritt-based comp plan. The next 10 years at Tesla could be extremely exciting. Critical Perspective: While the board touts Musk’s “visionary leadership,” the package’s size and Musk’s competing priorities (e.g., SpaceX, X, xAI, Boring Comp, NueroLink) raise governance concerns. The Delaware rulings exposed board weaknesses, and Texas incorporation may not fully shield against similar challenges. Investors must weigh Musk’s track record against dilution and distraction risks. This should not be construed as a solicitation to Buy TSLA stock.

Thank you for reading.

Live your best life, AL Maulini