Golden Hour - Lago Terrace

This #GoldenHourCLE will feature:

SCHEDULE: 5:00pm - Doors - Food & Drink Service 5:30 pm - Golden Hour TECHTALK - Presented by Weatherhead School of Management 6:30 pm - First Feature - TAYLOR LAMBORN 8:00 pm - Sunset Feature - PEOPLE IN THE DAYTIME 9:30 pm - Twilight DJ - NATE SAGGIO

Email us at omg@thatsgreyt.com to inquire about participating in GREYT CULTURE events. ALL GOLDEN HOUR EVENTS ARE RAIN OR SHINE.

GOLDEN HOUR TECHTALK presented CASE WESTERN RESERVE WEATHERHEAD SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition: The Great Business Ownership Transition

Over the next 5 to 10 years, Northeast Ohio will witness the transition of well over 10,000 businesses as baby boomer owners retire, presenting a unique moment in the region’s economic landscape. According to the Ohio Employee Ownership Center at Kent State University, more than half of Ohio's 94,000 baby boomer-owned businesses are expected to transition, with 80% lacking a formal succession plan. This creates significant opportunities for entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA), particularly in sectors ripe for technology investment. This panel will explore how aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders can capitalize on this unprecedented wave of ownership transitions. With succession challenges compounded by the pandemic, the discussion will focus on how ETA can be a vehicle for business ownership, community sustainability, social equity, and innovation. This session is a must-attend for those interested in unlocking the potential of mid-market acquisitions and driving lasting change in the region.

PANELISTS:

Scot Lowry: The Richard L. Osborne Professor of Entrepreneurship at the Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University, where he has been teaching Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA) since 2016. With over 17 years of experience as an entrepreneur, investor, and mentor, Scot is a managing partner and co-founder of PromiseONE Companies, an investment partnership focused on acquiring and building high-performance businesses with long-term growth potential. Scot’s commitment to ETA is evident through his leadership at Promise Partners, a non-profit ETA accelerator that fosters Cleveland’s mature ETA ecosystem, helping over 120 aspiring entrepreneurs transition into business ownership. Since its inception, the group has helped 67 members become owners in over 90 companies. His firm, PromiseONE, has guided 10 entrepreneurs in acquiring 14 businesses, offering a purpose-driven approach to acquisition.

Prior to founding PromiseONE, Scot was the CEO of Fathom, a digital marketing firm he acquired in 2007 getting him started as a ETA entrepreneur, that expanded significantly under his leadership. Scot is also a board member of the David L. Cooperrider Center for Appreciative Inquiry, where he leverages his expertise in leadership development, strategy, and culture shaping to inspire transformation in businesses.

Michael Fox: Michael Fox is a seasoned executive and authority in Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA), with over 20 years of experience across industries including manufacturing, software development, and corporate strategy. In 2015, he founded Zorro Capital LLC, specializing in lower middle market acquisitions and sales, offering flexible financing solutions beyond traditional equity models.

With more than a dozen successful business transactions, Michael has built a reputation as a trusted advisor, facilitating smooth ownership transitions for both business owners and entrepreneurs. He is a board member of the AMAA (Association of Mergers and Acquisitions) and a founding board member of the Northeast Ohio Exit Planning Exchange, where he champions best practices in exit planning.

Michael also invests in real estate, practices beekeeping, and advocates for regional development. He divides his time between Cleveland, Ohio and Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Phoebe Lee: Phoebe Lee is the CEO of Affinity Apparel, a minority- and woman-owned, full-service uniform and apparel company with national distribution capabilities. Under her leadership, Affinity Apparel provides state-of-the-art uniforms and superior customer service while utilizing an efficient supply chain tailored to each client’s needs. Affinity Apparel serves high-profile clients such as Charter Communications, Hawaiian Airlines, and the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, providing uniforms for over 400,000 employees annually. A lifelong entrepreneur, Phoebe founded VDP Safety & Uniforms in 2013 while living in New York City. Merging VDP with Affinity Apparel in 2015, she became the majority owner and CEO, working with investment partner Resilience Capital Partners. She oversees manufacturing in the Dominican Republic and a distribution center in Mount Sterling, Kentucky, while maintaining Cleveland as a key market. Phoebe’s expertise spans safety products and specialized uniforms designed to meet the needs of various industries, from flame-resistant, high-visibility workwear to tailored corporate attire. Raised in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Phoebe returned to Cleveland after spending nearly a decade in Atlanta and New York. Her education includes degrees from Shaker High School, Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), Clark Atlanta University, and the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). She continues to contribute to her local community as a trustee of Cuyahoga Community College, where she serves on the community affairs and workforce committee. Passionate about workforce development, she mentors students and actively participates in programs such as ACE (Architecture, Construction, and Engineering) mentoring. Phoebe’s entrepreneurial roots run deep, having grown up working in her family's business ventures. She attributes much of her success to the influence of her mother, Verna lee, a business development consultant and founder of The Candy Lady. Today, Phoebe continues the legacy of family-driven entrepreneurship through her work at Affinity and her continued dedication to empowering others in her community. Phoebe is burgeoning entrepreneur in the ETA space, driven by her passion for both fashion and business. She has been featured in national media outlets such as Good Morning America, In Style Magazine, and The Today Show, and she remains dedicated to the intersection of business, design, and impact.

Kadecia Ber: Kadecia is an Entrepreneurial Director with extensive experience in enterprise sales, operations, digital advertising, and leading teams through rapid growth phases. Currently transitioning into Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA), Kadecia is in the early stages of her journey to business ownership, leveraging her 16-year tenure at Yelp, where she served in roles such as Senior Director of Sales Planning & Account Strategy and Director of Multi-Location Solutions. Throughout her career, Kadecia has excelled in developing systems and teams that solve complex business challenges. She is passionate about empowering people to drive business forward, with a proven track record in hiring, training, and building high-performing teams that consistently deliver results. Kadecia holds an Executive MBA from Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University and a Bachelor’s degree from DePaul University. As a Board Member of Promise Partners, she actively contributes to fostering the next generation of acquisition entrepreneurs. In her free time, Kadecia is committed to community engagement and creative endeavors, having founded Blend Makers, a company that makes art accessible through eco-friendly paint-by-number kits. She is a member of Cleveland’s School of Rock training in voice and guitar, and an active yogi and golfer

Kiley Smith: Kiley Smith is a proven senior lender focusing on merger and acquisition and has been successful in financing over 70 acquisitions. She has an Entrepreneurial Mindset. Skillful at gaining buy-in and collaborating amongst cross functional teams at different levels internally and externally. Focused attention on continuous improvement and brings together and mobilizes all resources required to accomplish the goal through technology, processes and most importantly people. Kiley currently serves as SVP Team Leader at CF Bank. Since 1892, CF Bank has been providing Boutique banking services to companies currently located in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis. Kiley loves living near Lake Erie and gardening. She earned a BS in Marketing, Concentration in Japanese, Bentley College and MBA, focus in Strategy and Organizational Behavior from Case Western Reserve Weatherhead.

MUSIC FEATURES:

SUNSET FEATURE: People In The Daytime

People in the Daytime is a Cleveland band that describes their music as crust-pop, a genre influenced by many other styles: Funk, Soul, Jazz, Indie, Bedroom-pop, Rock n' roll, Hip-hop, Ambient, and Electronica. The Band is currently touring the midwest United States. Hear and watch their music at peopleinthedaytime.com

FIRST FEATURE: Taylor Lamborn

Taylor Lamborn is a Cleveland-based singer/songwriter known for her powerful blend of indie rock and blues, with a soulful grit that captivates audiences. She has toured internationally as a solo artist, released several live singles and projects, and worked with local legends. Lamborn has been featured on radio stations and festivals across the U.S. and was recognized by ABC's American Idol producers in 2014 and 2015. Her emotive performances, whether acoustic or backed by a full band, showcase her dynamic vocals and thoughtful songwriting, making her a standout in Northeast Ohio’s music scene. More about Taylor at taylorlamborn.com

TWILIGHT DJ: Nate Saggio

Nate Saggio is a Cleveland-based music producer, studio engineer, and genre-defying musician with over seven years of professional experience. After years of playing various instruments from a young age, Nate developed a knack for crafting pop-inspired melodies paired with melancholic yet hopeful harmonies and continually reinvents how we experience music. Nate’s debut singles, Northern Sky, White Picket Fences, Haunt Me and All In My Head have established him as a rising force in the industry. His work as a producer and multi-instrumentalist has earned him credits on projects across like Chayla Hope, Jack Harris, Welshly Arms and more making him a sought-after collaborator. With the recent launch of his own studio, Nate is helping artists bring their creative visions to life while continuing to captivate audiences with his own innovative sound.

ROOFTOP: Lago Terrace

The Oswald Centre, formerly known as the EY Tower, stands at the heart of Cleveland's revitalized Flats East Bank district. Golden Hour will take place from the 4th floor Lago Terrace, a scenic outdoor space offering unobstructed views of Lake Erie and the breathtaking sunsets. The Lago Terrace is part of the Lago East Bank restaurant and lounge, known for its elegant atmosphere and prime location. The expansive views from the terrace capture the essence of Cleveland’s natural beauty, with the tranquil waters of Lake Erie and the iconic sunset over the river, creating a perfect blend of urban vibrancy and serene waterfront relaxation. As part of the Oswald Centre, the terrace connects Cleveland's business community with a unique, picturesque setting. The tower, rebranded from the EY Tower after Oswald Companies became the primary tenant, symbolizes the city’s growth and transformation.

DINNER: Lago

Lago is one of Cleveland’s premier dining destinations, located in the vibrant Flats East Bank district. The restaurant, renowned for its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, is the creation of Chef Fabio Salerno and his wife Nicole Salerno, who have combined their passion for culinary excellence and hospitality to shape a unique dining experience. Chef Fabio, a Cleveland native, brings his Italian heritage and extensive culinary expertise to the table, crafting a menu that blends traditional Italian dishes with modern American flair. His innovative approach to cooking, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, has made Lago a go-to spot for food enthusiasts. Fabio’s culinary skills have been recognized across the region, making Lago a staple in the Cleveland food scene. Nicole Salerno, with her keen eye for design and exceptional hospitality, ensures that Lago not only offers remarkable food but also an unforgettable dining experience. Together, the Salernos have cultivated a venue that is both elegant and accessible, featuring the Lago Terrace—a stunning outdoor space with unobstructed views of Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River sunset.

PARTNERS & SPONSORS:

Case Western Reserve Weatherhead School of Management:

The Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University is a renowned business school that emphasizes innovative, experience-based learning to prepare future leaders for success in an evolving global economy. Known for its strong focus on management, leadership, and entrepreneurship, Weatherhead has built a reputation for academic excellence and cutting-edge research across business disciplines.

In recent years, Weatherhead has expanded its focus to include Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), reflecting the growing interest in business ownership through the acquisition of existing companies. This new focus equips students with the knowledge and tools to identify, finance, and manage acquisition opportunities, fostering a path to business ownership and long-term success. By integrating ETA into its curriculum, the school is empowering aspiring entrepreneurs to drive economic growth, particularly in mid-market businesses, and contributing to the next wave of business leaders in Cleveland and beyond.

Cleveland Foundation :

The Cleveland Foundation, established in 1914, is the world’s first community foundation and one of the largest today, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Greater Cleveland. For over a century, the foundation has been a catalyst for progress, addressing critical community needs through grants, initiatives, and partnerships that drive social, economic, and cultural development.

The Cleveland Foundation is currently focusing on initiatives to promote social equity, economic sustainability, and job creation, helping foster a new generation of entrepreneurs who can contribute to the region’s economic resilience and prosperity.

Assembly for the Arts :

Assembly for the Arts is a leading nonprofit organization in Cleveland dedicated to advancing and advocating for the city’s vibrant arts and culture sector. With a mission to unite, strengthen, and amplify the voices of artists and creative organizations, Assembly fosters collaboration and innovation across the community. By providing resources, advocacy, and a shared vision, Assembly works to ensure equitable access to the arts for all.

As part of its commitment to supporting the creative ecosystem, Assembly serves as a non-profit fiscal agent, offering administrative and financial support to arts groups like Greyt Culture. Through this partnership, Assembly empowers Greyt Culture and other organizations to focus on their artistic missions while benefiting from professional guidance and resources that enhance their impact on the community.

About Greyt Culture :

Greyt Culture is a dynamic creative community-based in Cleveland, Ohio, dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation among artists, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Founded by Thomas Fox in 2014, Greyt Culture serves as a platform that amplifies the voices of creatives, providing them with opportunities for growth, exposure, and meaningful engagement with their audiences. Greyt Culture is committed to building a supportive environment where creativity thrives. The organization produces events, media, and experiences that celebrate and elevate the role of art and entrepreneurship in society. By connecting artists and entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities, Greyt Culture encourages bold thinking, experimentation, and the transformation of ideas into reality. Greyt Culture mission is to spread curiosity, promote connectivity, and encourage creativity. Whether through art installations, performances, or educational series, Greyt Culture strives to inspire, empower, and leave a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Cleveland and beyond.

TechTalk: Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition

Buying a business as a path into entrepreneurship — financing, searching, and what it takes to run what you acquire. Presented with the Case Weatherhead School of Management.

Moderated by Michael Fox — Zorro Capital. Featuring Kiley Smith (CF Bank), Phoebe Lee (Affinity Apparel), Scot Lowry (Promise Partners), Kedecia Ber (Yelp).