The 100 most powerful people in South Florida

South Florida CEO, Jan, 2004

Jose Concepcion

President/CEO, Ocean Bank

As leader of one of South Florida's top locally-based banks, he's funded real estate developments that have changed the face of the area. His personal belief in a concept--such as Terremark's NAP of the Americas, or Peebles Atlantic Development's Royal Palm Crown Plaza hotel--can mean the difference between success and failure.

James Cummings

Chairman/CEO, James A. Cummings

This well-connected builder is big with public works projects in Broward County, including its airport garage, K-12 schools and buildings on the campuses of FAU and Broward Community College. Also a key player in non-profit circles, he donated at-cost services for the Broward Center for the Homeless.

Carlos de la Cruz Sr.

Chairman, Eagle Brands

Philanthropist, art patron, and, until recently, chairman of the University of Miami's board of trustees and an important corporate leader. He co-runs the Hispanic power group Mesa Redonda.

Michael and Gil Dezer

Founder and President, Trump/Dezer Development

The Kings of Sunny Isles, their influence has spread by virtue of the high number of Latin American and out-of-state buyers their towers on the ocean have attracted. Big enough cojones to attract Donald Trump as a partner.

Manny Diaz

Mayor, Miami-Dade County

The Mayor of South Florida's largest metropolis, his deft work since taking office has jump-started a renaissance of new development in Miami's downtown. Besides bringing business-like management to the city, he is highly visible, seemingly everywhere at once.

Peter Dolara

Senior Vice President, Miami, the Caribbean & Latin America, American Airlines

As the man in charge at MIA's dominant airline, he employs more than 9,000 in the region. In spite of pressures from Latin American economies and a worldwide travel downturn, in 2003 he increased the number of flights from the airport to its highest number ever.

E. Llwyd Ecclestone, Jr.

President, PGA National Resort and Spa

One of Palm Beach's leading developers--the PGA resort complex in Palm Beach Gardens is his--this Republican has his hands in political issues from water management to development rights. His endorsement is almost mandatory for GOP political success in Palm Beach.

Emilio and Gloria Estefan

CEO and Music Diva, Estefan Enterprises

The music industry is alive and kicking in South Florida, and a significant chunk of its talent comes here to work with the Estefans. In addition to Gloria's stellar career, Emilio has worked with such stars as Shakira, Arturo Sandoval, Carlos Vives and Thalia. His role expanded beyond Latin talent when he was named president of artist development worldwide for Sony Music Entertainment.

Richard Fain

Chairman/CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises

After 15 years at the helm of South Florida's No. 2 cruise company, his influence is quiet but vast. Fully 14 of his cruise ships dock in Port of Miami or Port Everglades. A big United Way donor.

Alfonso and Jose "Pepe" Fanjul, Jr.

Chairman/CEO and President/COO, Flo-Sun, Florida Crystals

In many ways, they are the epitome of "big sugar," with huge agricultural holdings in Palm Beach. Savvy businessmen and politicians, the Fanjuls are each active in one of the major political parties. They also own the fabled Casa De Campo resort in the Dominican Republic. With Everglades restoration and FTAA negotiations potentially impacting their holdings, they have further upped their local involvement.