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TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE FRONT
18 Editor’s Letter
19 News in Brief Short takes — because time is money.
26 Why I Built It Tropic Air Rescue’s founder reveals what drove him to launch a helicopter service that’s changing how emergencies are answered.
32 Tech Talk
From points to crypto, Gen Z is reshaping loyalty programs and redefining value for the next economy.
THE MIDDLE
34 COVER STORY
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Ergle and Memorial Healthcare System are rewriting the future of oncology—bringing breakthroughs and renewed hope to patients who once had none.
42 SERENO RISING
With Integra Investments at the helm, Sereno is reshaping Fort Lauderdale’s skyline and fueling the city’s next wave of waterfront growth.
48 WATERWAY BOOM
How waterfront expansion is driving jobs, tourism, and local investment.
THE BACK
54 THE DOCK EXPERTS
The Dock Experts aren’t just building docks, they’re revitalizing our seascape with smart, sustainable marine design.
ON THE COVER
Dr. Alejandra Ergle is a Breast Medical Oncologist at Memorial Healthcare System in South Florida.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Gary Press
MANAGING DIRECTOR Kim Sarni
GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF Jessica Graves
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melanie Geronemus Smit
ART DIRECTOR
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Will Reeves, Jesse Scott
ADVERTISING MARKET MANAGERS
Ben Hamilton, Steve Lederman, Michelle Simon
EVENTS Leia Bosco
OPERATIONS MANAGER Monica St. Omer
SUNDIAL LIFESTYLE PARTNERS
Andy Hill and Greg Babij
SFBW HEADQUARTERS
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New Chapters
n South Florida, things move fast. Markets shift, industries evolve, and breakthroughs unfold right in our backyard. As the new Group Editor for Lifestyle Media Group, I couldn’t be more excited to step into this role at a moment when there is so much to tell, share, and celebrate.
This October, we turn our focus to Breast Cancer Awareness Month—and to the extraordinary work happening at Memorial Healthcare System. On our cover, you’ll meet Dr. Alejandra Ergle, a physician transforming the field of breast oncology and giving patients hope where there once was none. Her story is a reminder that progress isn’t just measured in headlines or statistics—it’s measured in lives changed.
But innovation in South Florida doesn’t stop at medicine. In these pages, you’ll also find stories of transformation across industries: in the skies with Tropic Air Rescue, in the digital economy through crypto rewards, and on the water, where the region’s yachting industry has surged into a $36 billion powerhouse—just as the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show returns.
That mix of business and lifestyle is what excites me most about SFBW. It’s not only about what’s happening, but why it ma ers—to our leaders, our neighbors, and our community.
I’m honored to begin this new chapter with you. My hope is that as you turn these pages, you’ll discover insights that inform, stories that inspire, and a renewed appreciation for the extraordinary place we call home. Most of all, I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it.
Jessica Graves Editor-in-Chief, South Florida Business and Wealth
ASuperyachtLikeNoOther: Lürssen’s Project Cosmos
WITH A GLASS-DOMED STUDY, SWEEPING DECKS, AND FUEL-CELL POWER, LUXURY REDEFINES ITSELF AT SEA.
In a world where size and style often dominate the conversation, German shipyard Lürssen has raised the bar on what a superyacht can represent. The launch of Project Cosmos—a 114.2-meter vessel unveiled at the company’s Rendsburg yard— marks not only a design triumph but a forward-looking milestone for the industry.
Timed with Lürssen’s 150th anniversary, Cosmos is the first yacht from the shipyard to feature methanol-powered fuel-cell propulsion. This breakthrough allows the vessel to operate emission-free at anchor for up to 15 days or cruise 1,000 nautical miles at slow speed without burning conventional fuel. For an industry under increasing scrutiny about its environmental footprint, the innovation is as strategic as it is symbolic.
Yet, Cosmos is no sacrifice of luxury for sustainability. Designed by acclaimed industrial designer Marc Newson, the yacht’s aesthetic is both sculptural and serene. A glass-domed private study with a sky terrace crowns the vessel, offering uninterrupted 360-degree views—a feat of custom glass engineering that embodies both ambition and indulgence. Guests are treated to a foredeck observation lounge tucked beneath the helipad, a sweeping aft deck with pool and Jacuzzi, and seamless social spaces that flow with understated grandeur. With six decks, an interior volume of 6,300 GT, and a beam of 18 meters, Cosmos is not merely another addition to the world’s fleet of mega yachts. It is a statement about where the industry is heading: toward a future where luxury and responsibility are no longer at odds but intertwined.
Apple Branches Out
WITH BOLD NEW HARDWARE AND THE LATEST “APPLE INTELLIGENCE,” THE TECH GIANT PLANTS THE SEEDS OF ITS NEXT ERA.
When Apple unveiled its latest innovations at a September 9 special event, the tagline—‘Awe dropping’—immediately sparked intrigue, with its heat-map Apple logo hinting at bold design cues and possibly even new cooling technology.
The headliner proved to be the iPhone 17 lineup, including the much-anticipated iPhone 17 Air, a super-thin model positioned to replace the Plus. Pro models impressed with upgraded cameras and striking new colors, including a vibrant orange drawn from the invite artwork.
Apple’s wearables also shared the spotlight. The Apple Watch Series 11 debuted with faster performance
Fannie Mae’s Power Shift Puts South Florida Housing on Edge
and expanded health tracking, while the rugged Ultra 3 slimmed its bezels for a brighter, more immersive display. AirPods Pro 3 arrived with health sensors, a sleeker case, and even live translation capabilities.
On the software front, Apple announced launch dates for iOS 26, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, watchOS, and visionOS—platforms delivering the next wave of ‘Apple Intelligence’ across devices. For South Florida executives and tech-savvy consumers, the timing couldn’t be better.
With competitors like Samsung pushing the limits, Apple’s September showcase wasn’t just a product reveal—it was a statement of dominance heading into the critical holiday season. And with these devices hitting shelves this fall, the race to upgrade is officially underway.
FROM DEI CUTS TO PRIVATIZATION, THE MORTGAGE GIANT’S CHANGES HIT CLOSE TO HOME.
Fannie Mae, the government-backed mortgage giant with more than $4.3 trillion in assets, is in the middle of a sweeping leadership shake-up that could carry real consequences for South Florida’s housing market. Since Bill Pulte assumed leadership of the Federal Housing Finance Agency in March—quickly naming himself chairman of Fannie Mae’s board—the agency has seen a string of high-level departures. Four senior women executives, including the heads of compliance, human resources, diversity and inclusion, and multifamily operations, have left the company. Three women were also removed from the board. Just a year ago, women held two-thirds of senior roles at Fannie Mae; today, that number has fallen to less than half.
Equally telling is the agency’s elimination of its chief diversity and inclusion role and the closure of its ESG
group, moves that mirror the Trump administration’s broader rollback of DEI initiatives. For an institution that touches trillions in housing finance, these are not just cosmetic changes. They signal a cultural and governance shift at a time when the White House is openly considering privatizing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, possibly through a $30 billion IPO or even a merger of the two agencies.
The timing is significant. South Florida’s economy is deeply tied to the availability of mortgage liquidity and multifamily lending, both of which Fannie Mae helps provide. Any change in direction— whether in lending priorities, costs, or oversight—could ripple quickly through the luxury condo market, Broward’s workforce housing developments, and Palm Beach’s investment community. In a region defined by growth and diversity, the question is not whether these changes will matter, but how soon their impact will be felt.
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Stormy Skies for Spirit Airlines
FINANCIAL TURBULENCE COULD RESHAPE FARES, ROUTES, AND TOURISM ACROSS KEY U.S. MARKETS.
Spirit Airlines is once again navigating turbulence. In late August, the Dania Beach–based ultra-low-cost carrier filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, its second restructuring in less than a year. The move underscores how deeply financial pressures have weighed on the airline despite a prior reorganization earlier in 2025.
Court filings list billions in assets and liabilities, with the U.S. Treasury among Spirit’s largest unsecured creditors, joined by Knoxville-based Charles Tombras Advertising and Lufthansa Technik. The carrier says its common stock will be delisted and cancelled as part of the process. Meanwhile, weakening demand for leisure travel, rising labor and financing costs, and grounded Airbus jets tied to Pra & Whitney engine recalls have fueled losses in the hundreds of millions this year.
The ripple effects could be significant. Spirit is one of the nation’s largest budget carriers and has long kept fares competitive across many markets. A reduced presence could mean fewer routes and higher ticket prices, especially in regions dependent on tourism. In South Florida, the Caribbean, and other leisure hubs, even small shifts in airlift capacity can reshape hotel bookings, seasonal travel, and local economies.
For now, Spirit insists it will keep flying as it restructures. Whether the airline successfully emerges—or whether this turbulence signals a larger reshaping of the low-cost travel landscape— remains one of the most closely watched questions in U.S. aviation.
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WHY I BUILT IT
A seasoned law enforcement officer and helicopter pilot, Marinello has dedicated decades to high-pressure missions.
Anthony Marinello Tropic Air Rescue
How one veteran pilot turned a Bahamas-bound aviation business into the region’s first helicopter air ambulance service.
■ BY JESSE SCOTT
FOR
MOSTpeople, retirement means slowing down. For Anthony Marinello, it meant flying straight into the biggest professional challenge of his life and building a company that is rewriting the playbook for emergency medical response in The Bahamas and South Florida.
A 28-year veteran of the New Jersey State Police and 21-year helicopter pilot, Marinello was no stranger to high-pressure rescues. He had logged thousands of hours in the air, served as chief pilot for the Newark Police Department, and even held titles as township councilman, deputy mayor, and mayor in his New Jersey hometown. But by 2021, he started looking for a venture of his own.
That search led him to a small aviation company flying passengers and cargo between Fort Lauderdale and The Bahamas. The business was steady, but an incident with a passenger in distress changed everything.
“One of my pilots called and said he had a passenger who he thought was having a stroke. He was afraid to put him on the
airplane and did not know what to do,” Marinello tells SFBW. “So, I started calling every air ambulance company I could find. Most said they were too busy, or it would take days to get there. That is when I realized there was no helicopter air ambulance service in The Bahamas. It had never been done.”
Two years, countless approvals, and a fleet overhaul later, Tropic Air Rescue was born.
Headquartered at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, the company operates with FAA helicopter air ambulance certification and specializes in rapid-response medical evacuation across Florida and The Bahamas. The service is membership-based, covering individuals, families, and marine vessels, and is built to deploy within minutes, not days.
The difference is speed. Fixed-wing air ambulances, the traditional standard, often require patients to be brought to airports and can take eight to 36 hours to arrive. Tropic Air Rescue’s Sikorsky S-76 helicopters launch directly to the scene, staffed with certified trauma paramedics, nurses, and pilots. “We are on standby 24/7 with crews ready to go,” Marinello says. “We can have a patient back in the U.S. within a couple of hours.”
personally moved 143 of them.
Since launching, the company has completed roughly 50 rescues in its first year, and some have been extraordinary. The first call came from a U.S. congressman seeking help for 10 people trapped during the civil war in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Marinello and his team flew a complex multi-stop route from Fort Lauderdale to Haiti, evacuated the group, and brought them to safety in the Dominican Republic. The mission made global headlines and earned him the 2024 Sikorsky Rescue Award. Weeks later, Florida officials asked him to assist in evacuating 700 Americans from Haiti. His crews
The company’s reach covers more than 700 Bahamian islands, most without hospitals. “There are only three hospitals in the entire Bahamas, two on one island and one on another,” Marinello says. “On the rest, you might have a nurse or a firstaid station. If you are seriously injured, you need to be evacuated. We are the only ones who can do it immediately.”
Memberships start at $1,000 a year for individuals, with marine coverage priced per foot of vessel. The model allows the company to operate without government subsidies and ensures members pay nothing at the time of rescue.
The calls they get are rarely routine. Shark bites, boating accidents, golf cart crashes, and medical emergencies aboard yachts and cruise ships are all in a day’s work. Some rescues end with grateful phone calls and heartfelt le ers from families. “I have had parents call and say, ‘We never felt so helpless. Thank God you were there,’” Marinello says. “Those moments stick with you.”
Marinello’s ambitions extend beyond The Bahamas. Once the company’s footprint is firmly established, he plans to expand down the Caribbean chain, creating a network of helicopters and airplanes to offer seamless medical evacuation from island to hospital.
It is a capital- and logistics-intensive vision, but Marinello’s track record suggests he is comfortable navigating complex missions. “When you are injured and far from care, this is the most efficient way to get back to the United States,” he says.
For now, his team of 48—including pilots, paramedics, nurses, and doctors— remains focused on readiness. The helicopter parked outside Jet Runway Café at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport serves as a constant reminder of the mission. It also serves as a billboard for a simple message: in the right hands, minutes can mean survival. And Marinello has spent a career making every second count.
tropicairrescue.com
Tropic Air Rescue’s Sikorsky S-76 is staffed with trauma paramedics and nurses.
TECH TALK
■ BY WILL REEVES
Loyalty is Broken
GEN Z
consumers aren’t chasing points or airline miles — they want Bitcoin. The shift is upending how businesses think about loyalty, and it’s happening fastest in markets like South Florida. To break down what this means, we spoke with Will Reeves, founder and CEO of Fold and a longtime innovator in digital payments.
Why is Gen Z abandoning traditional rewards, and what does that mean for businesses?
Traditional rewards programs aren’t broken because they’re old; they’re broken because they don’t deliver real value.
Gen Z grew up digital with real-time payments, mobile wallets, and assets that live outside traditional systems. They’re not going to jump through hoops to redeem points that expire, can’t be transferred, and don’t grow in value. They’re looking for something they can move, trade, save, or spend freely. Bitcoin checks every one of those boxes. Nearly half of Gen Z say they would be more likely to join a loyalty program if it offered crypto. That tells you everything.
Most traditional rewards programs are built around restriction, rules that keep value trapped inside a system. That’s not loyalty. That’s a leash. What we’re seeing now is a shift toward rewards that respect the customer. For businesses still relying on old-school programs, this is either a turning point or a slow fade.
We didn’t only swap points for Bitcoin; we reimagined the experience around something customers actually care about holding onto. The result? Not just stronger engagement, but real trust.
How should South Florida brands rethink rewards in this new era?
The most important thing to understand is that rewards have shifted from perks to assets. We’ve seen over 600,000 of our users earn more than $70 million in Bitcoin by simply going about their day. That’s real value, and it changes how people engage with a brand. When rewards become something you want to hold on to, not burn off, loyalty stops being a gimmick and starts becoming a real relationship.
For brands in South Florida, there’s a major opportunity here. This is a region built on hospitality, lifestyle, and crossborder commerce—it’s the perfect environment where forward-thinking rewards can thrive. Whether you’re running a boutique hotel or a consumer tech startup, the question isn’t whether to explore Bitcoin rewards, but how fast you can test and deploy them.
You don’t need to overhaul your business overnight. Start small. Pilot a crypto rewards program. Educate your team. Partner with platforms that already have the infrastructure in place. And most importantly, stop thinking of rewards as a cost; start viewing them as an investment in long-term customer value.
Major brands are already moving. Starbucks, AMC, and others are integrating crypto into their ecosystems. The shift is underway. Now is the time for South Florida businesses to lead, not lag.
How can South Florida businesses stand out with Bitcoin rewards?
South Florida is one of the most dynamic markets in the
Gen Z isn’t chasing points or miles—they want Bitcoin. And businesses that don’t adapt risk being left behind.
country—it’s global, it’s lifestyle-driven, and it’s already ahead of the curve when it comes to digital finance. For businesses here, Bitcoin rewards can become a way to connect with a new generation of high-value, cryptofluent customers who care about upside and access.
Luxury hotels, for example, can offer Bitcoin back on bookings as a way to create long-term engagement. Retailers can turn everyday purchases into digital assets, giving customers a reason to return that goes beyond discounts. And fintechs already in the space can use Bitcoin rewards to differentiate themselves by offering more value.
The beauty of Bitcoin rewards is that they’re flexible and carry a sense of ownership. That’s powerful in a region like South Florida, where brand loyalty often comes down to who’s offering the best experience.
What lessons can CEOs take from your approach to building through uncertainty?
The biggest lesson is to build for utility, not noise. Fold launched just before a global pandemic, scaled through multiple crypto cycles, and kept our focus on solving a real problem—how to make Bitcoin useful in everyday life. We didn’t chase hype coins or pivot every time the
WE DIDN’T HAVE THE LUXURY OF CHASING TRENDS AND EXPERIMENTING WITH UNNECESSARY FEATURES. WE HAD TO STAY FOCUSED ON BUILDING SOMETHING USEFUL, BUILDING IT WELL, AND MAKING SURE PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHY IT MATTERS. “
market shifted. We stayed commi ed to building tools people could actually use.
Whether you’re building in luxury, banking, or hospitality, if your product solves a real problem and respects the user, you’ll stay relevant—no ma er how the market moves.
Launching right before the pandemic and a wave of crypto volatility forced us to get very clear on what actually ma ers. We didn’t have the luxury of chasing trends and experimenting with unnecessary features. We had to stay focused on building something useful, building it well, and making sure people understand why it ma ers.
We doubled down on core functionality, Bitcoin rewards, and invested heavily in education. Most of our users came from traditional banking and needed to trust us before they trusted the asset. That meant keeping the experience simple and the messaging honest.
The partnerships we formed early on gave us stability when the market was anything but stable. We leaned into compliance, not away from it. And we made peace with the idea that we were playing the long game, even when the short-term was chaotic.
How have past roles shaped your approach—and what do you make of banks now entering Bitcoin rewards?
Google taught me the importance of building for scale without losing sight of the user. At Thesis, I was deep in the weeds of payment innovation, working with Bitcoin infrastructure when it was still early. Both experiences gave me a unique lens when it came time to build Fold.
We took that mindset and built Fold to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the future of money. That’s why we focused on infrastructure first and kept the product simple enough for anyone to use, even if they’ve never interacted with crypto before.
The move into Bitcoin or crypto rewards doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing leap. Start by integrating with platforms that already have the compliance and infrastructure in place. Run a pilot with a specific customer segment. You’ll learn fast and limit your exposure. The ones that win long-term won’t necessarily be the first to market—they’ll be the ones that move with intention and build around actual customer needs.
At this point, the difference between innovation and survival doesn’t really ma er. Whether banks are offering Bitcoin rewards out of strategic vision or just trying not to get left behind, the outcome is the same: Bitcoin is no longer optional.
Why are crypto rewards a smart entry point for South Florida fintech?
that offer sticky, value-driven use cases, like crypto rewards, NFT-linked memberships, and blockchain-integrated payment systems.
Will Bitcoin rewards become standard across industries?
Absolutely. Palazzo Versace Dubai, The Chedi Anderma , and even Burger King and Subway are already experimenting with Bitcoin payments. Travala’s partnership with Trivago lets travelers book millions of properties using crypto. And if you can pay with Bitcoin, why not get Bitcoin rewards? This isn’t fringe anymore. In South Florida, where high-value transactions and international clientele are the norm, Bitcoin rewards will be expected.
What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a legacy South Florida brand?
REWARDING CONSUMERS WITH CRYPTO IS ONE OF THE SMARTEST ON-RAMPS INTO THIS SPACE. UNLIKE RUNNING A FULL EXCHANGE OR LAUNCHING
A NEW TOKEN, REWARDS DON’T REQUIRE MASSIVE
Rewarding consumers with crypto is one of the smartest on-ramps into this space. Unlike running a full exchange or launching a new token, rewards don’t require massive regulatory overhead. You’re not asking customers to trade or speculate; you’re le ing them passively earn something with real value, just by spending as they normally would.
Loyalty today means giving your customers something that holds real value. Not perks with fine print. We’ve learned that when people earn Bitcoin—something they actually own, and doesn’t expire or lose value the moment they walk away—it builds a deeper kind of trust. The shift we’re seeing is away from loyalty programs that trap customers in, and toward rewards that give them the freedom to walk away with something real. Ironically, that freedom is what keeps them coming back.
REGULATORY OVERHEAD.
That’s why Bitcoin rewards are resonating with younger, higher-value consumers. Offering rewards in Bitcoin signals that you understand where your customers are headed. From a business perspective, it’s simple—you get engagement, you get retention, and you get a future-proof loyalty strategy.
What trends should investors be watching in consumer finance and crypto?
The next wave of crypto adoption will be driven by realworld utility. Investors are shifting their focus from speculative projects to consumer-facing platforms that create everyday value and have clear paths to revenue and growth.
In Q1 2025 alone, over $4.9 billion was deployed across 446 Web3 deals, with a major shift toward gaming, digital loyalty, and real-world asset tokenization. VCs like Andreessen Horowitz and Coinbase Ventures are leaning into platforms
What excites you most about the future of consumer finance?
That we’re finally moving away from financial systems that are closed by design. For the first time, everyday consumers are demanding financial tools that give them real ownership and freedom. That’s exciting.
Bitcoin is a big part of that transformation. It’s open, portable, and doesn’t care where you’re from or how big your bank is.
Whether you’re in South Florida or anywhere else, I’d lean into that shift.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Bitcoin Reward You’re Most Proud of Earning: Honestly, it’s never about the biggest purchase. It’s when I get to earn Bitcoin from everyday spending—groceries, gas, rent. That’s what makes it real.
Biggest Financial Lesson as a Founder: Don’t chase hype. Build something useful. If it solves a real problem, it survives the cycles.
Miami or Silicon Valley – Where’s the Real Fintech Future?
Miami’s got the energy and openness. Silicon Valley still has the infrastructure. But if you’re building for the next generation of finance, I’d bet on Miami.
BREAKING BARRIERS IN BREAST ONCOLOGY AT MEMORIAL
How Dr. Alejandra Ergle turns cutting-edge treatments into stories of hope
■ BY JESSICA GRAVES
hen Dr. Alejandra Ergle sits down with a new patient, she knows the word “cancer” carries enormous weight. It can be devastating, confusing, and overwhelming. Her first instinct is not just medical but deeply human: to acknowledge the difficulty out loud and then help reframe the diagnosis with perspective and hope. “If you are strong enough to walk into our clinic, no ma er what the stage, the cancer is treatable,” she tells them. For many women, even those facing Stage 4 breast cancer, that clarity offers immediate relief.
“Many go on to live their lives and find normalcy while on treatment,” she explains. That blend of honesty and optimism defines her leadership as a breast medical oncologist at Memorial Healthcare System.
what kept me there was the combination of robust training and the quality of life Gainesville offers,” she recalls. “I was also able to pursue my aspirations in global health through UF, and ultimately I stayed for residency after meeting my now husband there.”
Ergle’s journey began in Venezuela, where she grew up with firsthand awareness of how lack of access to care shapes families. Those early impressions never left her, and they fuel her commitment today to serving patients from every background. Her academic path unfolded entirely at the University of Florida, where she completed her undergraduate degree, medical training, internship, and residency.
“I was drawn first by UF’s reputation nationwide, but
Before medicine, Ergle was a high school teacher, a role that sharpened her love for relationships and education. That experience, she says, helped her see that the most rewarding work comes from mutual influence—the ability to learn from others as much as to guide them. It was during an oncology rotation in residency that everything clicked. She saw how oncologists built longterm relationships with patients, supported them through some of life’s hardest challenges, and used their expertise to educate. That combination
convinced her that oncology was her calling.
Breast cancer care came later, a natural extension of her focus on enduring connections. “I could not only guide patients through diagnosis and treatment but also empathize with the psychological challenges of survivorship—and celebrate their remission together,” she says. “Part of my job is helping patients navigate toward their new normal and find joy in life again.”
In her day-to-day practice, those moments of hope are as powerful as the science itself. She recalls how
aggressive subtypes such as triple negative or HER2-positive breast cancers can present with urgency, requiring immediate chemotherapy. Yet they are also among the most responsive. “For those who reach surgery and achieve an excellent response after chemotherapy, I get to tell them how well they’ve done and what that means for long-term survival. With ongoing advances, I get to deliver that kind of good news more often.”
Advances in treatment—antibody drug conjugates, immunotherapies, and the rise of precision medicine— are reshaping outcomes. “It’s an exciting era,” she says. “We’re seeing more targeted therapies that lower toxicity while improving survival. What began in metastatic disease is now extending to early-stage cancer, which means we can reach long-term remission and cure rates in more patients.” Research on circulating tumor DNA, which can guide decisions about additional therapy, is another area that gives her optimism.
Memorial is also looking ahead at the promise of T-cell–based therapies, which train the immune system to recognize and a ack cancer cells. While already approved for some blood cancers, these treatments are still being studied in solid tumors such as breast cancer. Clinical trials at Memorial give local patients access to them now.
Much of what makes Ergle’s work possible is Memorial Healthcare System’s multidisciplinary structure. At the Memorial Breast Cancer Center, specialized surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and radiation experts work together with weekly tumor boards and constant communication. “Our team works in unison,” Ergle says. “Whether informally in clinic or formally through conferences, we’re
always coordinating to give patients the best path forward.”
That team approach extends well beyond physicians. Every new patient completes a screening questionnaire that flags potential needs, from genetics counseling to nutrition support. Patient advocates walk through the infusion center, connecting with patients in real time. Social workers help eliminate socioeconomic barriers, while partnerships with the Pink Angels Foundation provide funds for patients with specific needs. Memorial also operates a High Risk Program for patients with elevated likelihood of breast cancer, ensuring prevention and early detection strategies are built into care.
The breadth of supportive services is unmatched in South Florida. Patients can access genetics, psychology, integrative medicine and acupuncture, palliative care, nutrition, image recovery, spiritual care, survivorship programs, and multiple support groups—all coordinated within the same system. For Ergle, that integration ensures patients never feel like they’re navigating cancer alone.
Memorial’s scale as one of the nation’s largest public healthcare systems adds another dimension.
Patients from every socioeconomic status, including uninsured individuals, can access the same cu ing-edge treatments, including clinical trials. “It’s one of my favorite parts of Memorial,” Ergle says. “We can offer the most recent advancements to every single patient.”
That access is backed by Memorial’s investment in research and education. The system supports physicians’ a endance at national oncology conferences and fosters partnerships that bring trials
FOR THOSE WHO REACH SURGERY AND ACHIEVE AN EXCELLENT RESPONSE AFTER CHEMOTHERAPY, I GET TO TELL THEM HOW WELL THEY’VE DONE AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR LONG-TERM SURVIVAL. WITH ONGOING ADVANCES, I GET TO DELIVER THAT KIND OF GOOD NEWS MORE OFTEN.”
ABOVE: A patient receives infusion therapy at Memorial’s Breast Cancer Center, where comfort and compassionate care go hand in hand.
directly to South Florida. At the same time, the Graduate Medical Education program, including Hematology-Oncology fellowships, ensures the next generation is trained in both science and humanity. “Teaching our fellows is an investment in the future of our community,” Ergle says. “Many stay here to practice, strengthening the care we provide.”
Ergle’s philosophy was also shaped by her international outreach work in Ecuador, Haiti, and India. Those trips reinforced her commitment to education, prevention, and sustainability in healthcare delivery. “I learned how to make diagnostic decisions with limited resources and how to focus on educating patients so prevention and early detection could make a lasting difference,” she explains. Those lessons influence her South Florida practice, where she emphasizes cost-value balance and shared decisionmaking. “I don’t believe in paternalistic recommendations. I want patients to feel empowered and understand the reasoning behind every choice we make together.”
I DON’T BELIEVE IN PATERNALISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS. I WANT PATIENTS TO FEEL EMPOWERED AND UNDERSTAND THE REASONING BEHIND EVERY CHOICE WE MAKE TOGETHER.”
As Associate Program Director of the fellowship program, Ergle highlights not only the importance of staying academically engaged but also the need to preserve empathy and human connection. “Fortunately, trainees in oncology are inherently compassionate people. I try to teach them how to hold onto
that compassion while navigating the operational realities of medicine.”
Teaching fellows how to balance innovation with efficiency, she adds, ensures they can focus fully on the patient in front of them.
Her own resilience is fueled by the very people she serves. Patients’ resilience, she says, becomes her daily inspiration. “They remind me of what really ma ers— time with loved ones, making memories. Their perspective fuels how I live my own life, too. People often ask how we carry on despite the emotional challenges of oncology, but you can’t help but see the silver lining of a carpe diem mentality.”
That same perspective guides her personal life. With two young children and a third on the way, family time is non-negotiable. She and her husband stay active through biking, running, and weight training, and though traveling with toddlers is no small feat, they embrace it. “Each captured moment and memory makes it worthwhile,” she says. For Ergle, oncology is not simply about delivering treatments. It’s about forging relationships, celebrating resilience, and helping patients reclaim their lives after diagnosis. It’s about bringing the precision of modern science together with the timeless power of empathy. And in South Florida’s dynamic healthcare landscape, it’s about ensuring that innovation is accessible to all who need it.
Sereno, Fort Lauderdale
Where culture & coastline intersect
■ BY JESSICA GRAVES
n a city where high-rise condos compete for skyline dominance and rooftop pools blur together in shades of aquamarine, Sereno Fort Lauderdale is be ing on something different. Yes, it has the requisite glass-and-marble glam, the Technogym-stacked fitness center, and a rooftop pool designed for Insta-worthy photos. The project comes from Miami-based Integra Investments, a developer with more than 3,000 residences delivered across South Florida and a portfolio that stretches from marinas to mixed-use towers. Known for marrying design ambition with a knack for anticipating how people actually want to live, Integra has helped shape some of the region’s most transformative projects. Sereno is its latest venture—a Fort Lauderdale address that pairs modern wellness with the city’s cultural and coastal roots. That cultural piece comes courtesy of a one-year membership to the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, complete with orchids and winding paths. It’s a reminder that while Fort Lauderdale is famous for boating, nightlife, and brunches that linger long past noon, its heritage runs just as deep. The estate, built in 1920, feels like stepping into a time capsule where art, history, and nature exist in a delicate truce. Sereno’s Orchid Level Membership gives residents unlimited access for two adults and their children, along with guided tours and special privileges. Picture this: after your morning Pilates class on Sereno’s yoga lawn, you stroll down to Bonnet House for a docent-led
walk among the orchids—or simply wander through shaded paths for a moment of quiet.
“The historic Bonnet House offers residents not only a peaceful escape into nature but also a window into Fort Lauderdale’s rich cultural heritage,” says Patrick Shavloske, CEO of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. It’s a natural fit: a modern development that connects its residents back to the roots of the city.
Of course, heritage is only half the story. This is Fort Lauderdale, after all, and no lifestyle is complete without sand between your toes.
Sereno’s second signature perk taps into the city’s most valuable asset:
Designed by 1508 London, the vision for Sereno was to craft a sanctuary that captures the essence of refined coastal living.
the beach itself.
By partnering with Boucher Brothers, the hospitality pros who’ve perfected beachfront service from Miami to the Keys, Sereno ensures that residents don’t just plop down a towel and hope for the best. Instead, they arrive to find a reserved stretch of sand, complete with two dedicated lounge chairs per residence. Forget lugging umbrellas or ba ling tourists for a spot near the shoreline—Sereno residents get their own private corner of paradise, curated and managed down to the last SPF spritz.
For Integra Principal Victor Ballestas, that’s the whole point. “We’re creating more than just exceptional residences at Sereno – we’re crafting a comprehensive lifestyle that extends well beyond our property lines,” he says.
And when the sun sets and the beach chairs fold, Sereno still has plenty more to offer. If its off-property partnerships speak to culture and coastline, its on-property amenities double down on wellness. Residents can sweat, plunge, steam, stretch, and socialize without ever leaving the building. The rooftop wellness deck looks like something lifted straight from a luxury retreat brochure: private pickleball courts (because nothing says South Florida status symbol like owning your dink game), cold plunges for the brave, infrared saunas for the sore, and a yoga lawn that practically demands sunrise salutes. For downtime, there’s a resort-style pool and sun deck, a Family Lounge
and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Above: Pickleball Courts and Pool Decks offer 360-degree views.
(translation: a way to survive summer with kids in tow), and even a pet spa.
It all adds up to something that feels refreshingly different. Luxury condo marketing has become a bit of a Mad Lib in South Florida: insert “rooftop infinity pool,” “concierge services,” and “panoramic views” on repeat. Sereno breaks the mold by tying its identity to experiences you can’t replicate with another lap lane or valet app. A membership to Bonnet House feels like joining a secret club, a connection to Fort Lauderdale’s roots.
The Boucher Brothers perk ensures beach days are as seamless as the rest of the Sereno lifestyle.
It’s a clever marriage of culture and convenience—one that makes Sereno less about square footage and more about lifestyle footprint.
Scheduled for completion in 2028, the 76-residence development is still a few years away from its official debut. But when it does open its doors, Sereno will offer something more enduring than amenities: a chance to live in Fort Lauderdale with both history and horizon at your fingertips.
serenoftl.com
Left: Residences with semi-private elevator access offer openconcept floor plans
ANCHORINGTHE BLUE ECONOMY:
How The Dock Experts Are Shaping South Florida’s Waterfront Future
■ BY JESSICA GRAVES
Fort Lauderdale’s canals may sparkle in real estate brochures, but for those who live and work on the water, they’ve become a fragile frontier. Rising tides are spilling over seawalls built half a century ago, “sunny-day” flooding is backing up streets and storm drains, and homeowners and businesses alike are being told their waterfront infrastructure no longer meets code. For a region where boating, tourism, and real estate drive billions into the economy each year, the issue isn’t politics—it’s protection. The question is no longer whether change is happening, but how fast we can adapt to keep South Florida’s Blue Economy afloat.
The Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of marine and waterway resources to drive economic growth while protecting the environment. In Florida, it is not an abstract concept but a tangible force. Ocean-related activity sustains roughly 909,000 jobs and contributes $96 billion in gross state product annually, according to Florida Atlantic University’s Ocean Economy report. That accounts for more than six percent of the state’s entire economy. The health of Florida’s waterways is directly tied to livelihoods, property values, and recreation, making investment in resilient infrastructure both a community priority and an economic necessity.
This page: The Dock Experts arrive at a marina to reinforce South Florida’s waterfront. Opposite page: Hands-on COO Michael Cox with his crew.
That is where The Dock Experts have anchored their mission. Founded in 2018 by CEO John Piotrowski, the company has evolved beyond craftsmanship to become a trusted advisor and leader in marine construction across South Florida. Piotrowski’s philosophy—built on consistency, innovation, and mentorship— empowers his team to bring their best to every project. COO Michael Cox complements this vision with a boots-on-the-ground approach. Known for working alongside crews in the field, Cox believes progress comes from small, steady improvements, whether in
strategy or construction. Together, they’ve created a culture that values technical precision, customer service, and economic resilience. The Dock Experts’ service offerings are extensive. They design and build seawalls, docks, pilings, boat lifts, retaining walls, and perform concrete repairs, often incorporating advanced materials such as composite decking and customized piling systems. Their projects come with a seven-year workmanship warranty and a pricematch guarantee, and they commit to finishing jobs—including permi ing—within six months or less. In a region where outdated
infrastructure is already failing, that kind of speed is not just good customer service; it keeps homes, marinas, and businesses out of prolonged risk. What truly sets The Dock Experts apart is their ability to operate at the intersection of construction and compliance. Across South Florida, new regulations are reshaping waterfront responsibilities. Seawalls built decades ago no longer meet modern standards. In Broward and Palm Beach counties, new or substantially repaired tidal flood barriers must now reach a minimum of five feet NAVD88 by 2050. NAVD88—the North American Vertical Datum of 1988—is the standardized baseline used across the country to measure elevation. In practical terms, it ensures everyone, from engineers to homeowners, is working from the same “zero point.”
There is a temporary allowance: seawalls permi ed before 2035 may be built at four feet NAVD88, but they must be designed to rise to five feet by mid-century. These requirements apply broadly, covering residential homeowners, commercial developers, and marinas. Enforcement has teeth. Property owners are responsible for keeping their barriers in good repair, and if tidal waters flow through or over a defective seawall, citations follow.
Owners have 60 days to show progress and one year to comply, or face fines and forced reconstruction. For many, this evolving landscape is daunting— but it also creates opportunity for companies like The Dock Experts to guide adaptation.
Piotrowski underscores the stakes: “If we fail to adapt, property damage from flooding and storms will escalate, marine-dependent industries like yachting, shipping, and tourism will suffer, and waterfront property values will be affected. Most of our seawalls in South Florida are over 50 years old and beyond their useful life. By installing innovative, code-compliant seawalls, climate-resilient docks, and reliable lift systems, we protect more than individual homes—we safeguard thousands of jobs in marine trades, tourism, hospitality, and real estate.”
That dual role—builder and advisor— has become central to The Dock Experts’ identity. Their team works directly with the Army Corps of Engineers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and local Marine Advisory Boards to ensure projects align with long-term resilience plans. “We work hand-in-hand during permi ing, inspections, and compliance reviews to meet environmental standards, and collaborate with counties to ensure
“
MOST OF OUR SEAWALLS IN SOUTH FLORIDA ARE OVER 50 YEARS OLD AND BEYOND THEIR USEFUL LIFE. BY INSTALLING INNOVATIVE, CODECOMPLIANT SEAWALLS, CLIMATERESILIENT DOCKS, AND RELIABLE LIFT SYSTEMS, WE PROTECT MORE THAN INDIVIDUAL HOMES—WE SAFEGUARD THOUSANDS OF JOBS IN MARINE TRADES, TOURISM, HOSPITALITY, AND REAL ESTATE.”
On the job: precision work on a marina dock ensures long-lasting performance.
projects align with resilience plans,” Cox explains. “These partnerships help streamline approvals and give clients confidence that their projects are not only code-compliant but also future-proof.”
Their stewardship extends to education and conservation. The Dock Experts partner with local universities to share data, serve on advisory boards, and collaborate on research that bridges classroom theory with real-world application. “This partnership helps build a pipeline of skilled talent and contributes to research on improved materials, techniques, and resilience strategies,” says Piotrowski. They also support nonprofits such as the Coastal Conservation Association, MIASF, and FMCA, championing mangrove
The Blue Economy is not an abstraction for Piotrowski and Cox— it’s their daily reality. “Supporting the Blue Economy for us in South Florida means leveraging our waterfront and marine resources responsibly to drive economic growth while protecting the environment,” Piotrowski says.
“The health of our waterways is directly tied to jobs, real estate, and recreation. If we don’t prioritize durability and environmental protection, we risk undermining the very economy that keeps South Florida thriving.”
Looking ahead, they see the NAVD88 regulations as both a challenge and a catalyst. “The regulation update puts time pressure on an existing issue and will drive a spike in demand for seawall upgrades,” Cox says. “Increased visibility will hold a magnifying glass to existing industry standards and drive demand for innovation in design, permi ing, and construction.”
replanting, oyster rehabilitation, and erosion control. Cox notes, “Natural systems and built systems work best cooperatively. Mangroves, oyster reefs, and erosion control solutions reduce wave energy, improve water quality, and provide habitat—all of which enhance the performance of engineered solutions like seawalls.”
Sometimes these partnerships even influence project designs. Conservation partners have encouraged The Dock Experts to integrate living shoreline elements, from mangrove planters to oyster farming components, into their work. “We are looking at seawall designs that are both structurally sound but also require minimal environmental disturbance to install,” Cox says. “That’s stewardship in action.”
For The Dock Experts, success is measured in more than projects completed. “Success means property values remain strong, waterways stay clean, and industries like boating, tourism, and marine trades continue to flourish,” Piotrowski says. “It’s not one measure, but the stability of the entire system.”
That balance of builder, problemsolver, and steward is what defines
The Dock Experts’ role in South Florida’s future. They measure achievement not only in the linear feet of seawalls or the square footage of decking, but in the resilience of the region’s economy and the strength of the waterways that sustain it. In doing so, Piotrowski and Cox demonstrate that leadership in marine construction is about more than meeting deadlines. It is about ensuring that South Florida’s greatest asset—its water—remains both a lifestyle and a livelihood for decades to come. dockexperts.com
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high-skill employment. F3 Marina, the fastest automated dry-stack marina in the world, reflects the industry’s shift toward advanced technology.
This maritime strength extends beyond luxury vessels. Institutions like the Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center and FAU Harbor Branch lead research in coral restoration, stormwater management, and sustainability, positioning Fort Lauderdale as a hub for marine science and environmental innovation.
Morejon notes that the city’s growth is intentionally tied to public access. Nearly every major waterfront development—from the $2 billion Bahia Mar and St. Regis Residences to the billion-dollar Pier Sixty-Six reimagination—includes park space, promenades, and other public amenities. “It’s commercial real estate, public space improvements, and the global yachting industry all feeding into one another,” she says.
For local developers, the water is more than an amenity; it’s a true brand identity. “Fort Lauderdale is widely recognized as one of the yachting capitals of the world, and that distinction is a key driver behind the rapid growth of its luxury real estate market,” says Miki Naftali, chairman and CEO of Naftali Group. “The architecture of Viceroy Residences Fort Lauderdale is directly inspired by the sophistication of the yachting lifestyle.”
A Lifestyle Anchored in Access
Water shapes daily life here. Half of Fort Lauderdale’s residents live near it, whether along the New River, the Intracoastal, or one of the city’s many canals. Eleven Water Taxi stops link neighborhoods, cultural a ractions, and dining hubs, and paddleboarders and gondolas share space with megayachts in the working yet recreational waterways. Neighborhoods like Las Olas Isles, Rio Vista, and Victoria Park combine walkability with waterfront views. With $3 billion in annual waterfront property sales, proximity to water consistently drives value.
This connection fuels business decisions, too. “As a South Florida native, I’ve always understood how deeply connected people feel to the water,” says Ryan Shear, managing partner at PMG. “That’s why we’ve strategically positioned both Sage Intracoastal Residences and Society Las Olas along the waterfront. It’s not just about the views; it’s about offering residents real access to culture, natural beauty, and community.”
Public investment is matching private ambition. A $300 million public space renaissance is underway, including a reimagined Huizenga Park, the world’s first pickleball stadium complex at Snyder Park (The Fort), and expanded green spaces along the waterfront. Environmental resilience, from seawall upgrades to living shoreline projects, is built into both public and private planning. Morejon says predictability is key. “There’s been a century of
BY
master planning that dictates how we grow along the water—from preserving views and light to ensuring setbacks and public spaces. That certainty benefits developers and residents alike.”
Tourism, Culture, and Global Reach
FORT LAUDERDALE IS WIDELY RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE YACHTING CAPITALS OF THE WORLD, AND THAT DISTINCTION IS A KEY DRIVER BEHIND THE RAPID GROWTH OF ITS LUXURY REAL ESTATE MARKET.”
The waterways are also a magnet for tourism. Events like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show—with a $1.8 billion annual impact—Winterfest Boat Parade, and Tortuga Music Festival fill hotels, restaurants, and marinas. The city draws 22 million annual visitors, a number boosted by its 2025 MICHELIN Guide debut with MAASS and the expansion of its waterfront dining scene. Hospitality operators see the water as an irreplaceable asset.
PHOTOS
JAMES
PHOTOS BY JAMES DIX @ SUBLIME
“It’s been incredible to watch how Fort Lauderdale’s waterways have driven the city’s transformation and the success of our venues,” says Emi Guerra, co-founder of Breakwater Hospitality Group, whose concepts include The Wharf Fort Lauderdale and Mykonos. “The riverfront isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the lifeblood of our tourism.”
The cultural sector is just as water-linked. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts sits on the riverfront, while the Riverwalk connects museums, galleries, and public art spaces. And with the Florida Panthers’ $65 million investment in downtown sports infrastructure, plus back-to-back Stanley Cup parades, the city’s identity is expanding from coastal leisure to championship energy. For business leaders, this convergence of culture, tourism, and commerce is what elevates Fort Lauderdale beyond a regional player. “We’re seeing CEOs move here to raise their families and grow their companies, drawn by a lifestyle that supports both work and wellness,” says Dev Motwani, managing partner at Merrimac Ventures and chairman of the DDA. “Fort Lauderdale is no longer just a great place to live. It’s becoming a serious contender for longterm business growth and investment.”
In a time when many coastal cities wrestle with rising seas and strained infrastructure, Fort Lauderdale’s growth story is unusually optimistic. Morejon credits forward-looking building codes, infrastructure investments, and a shared recognition of the waterways’ value. “We’re ahead of the curve in building for the
future,” she says. “It’s not just about adapting to climate realities; it’s about leveraging our water assets to create opportunity.”
That opportunity spans industries. The DDA points to a growing cluster of marine-focused startups developing eco-friendly hull paints, biodegradable products from marine life, and engineering solutions like living seawalls. Partnerships with Nova Southeastern University and Florida Atlantic University strengthen the researchto-market pipeline, and state-level recognition of the blue economy is opening new funding streams.
For existing businesses, Morejon says engagement can be as simple as stewardship. “The cleanliness of our waterways often starts with individual actions. Be mindful of what goes into storm drains, get involved with marine advisory boards, and understand how public investments are being made in water quality.”
It’s a message that resonates across sectors. Whether a multinational yacht brokerage, a tech startup, or a hospitality group, Fort Lauderdale’s business community increasingly sees the waterways not as scenery but as strategy.
“Fort Lauderdale is emerging as a global contender,” says Naftali. “It’s supported by strong market fundamentals, international appeal, and a unique waterfront lifestyle you can’t replicate elsewhere.”
And as Shear puts it, “Everything that makes this city unique flows through its waterways.”
Beyond the Role
Transformational Leadership at the Levan Center of Innovation
The Alan B. Levan
| NSU Broward
Center of Innovation recently hosted Beyond the Role: A Deep Dive into Transformational Leadership, a dynamic morning of insights and inspiration as part of its Women of Vision programming. Sponsored by Kip Hunter Marketing, the event welcomed leaders, professionals, and students from across South Florida for an exploration of authentic leadership and the power of collaboration.
Caitlin Stella, CEO of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, delivered the keynote Leading with Love, emphasizing how humanity, purpose, and community can strengthen teams and organizations alike. Her message struck a chord with attendees eager to apply heart-centered leadership in their own roles.
Jonathan Harrison, Director of Learning & Organizational Development at NSU, guided participants through an interactive DISC personality assessment workshop, helping uncover individual leadership styles and strategies for stronger team dynamics.
“Beyond the Role highlighted how transformational leadership isn’t just about a title—it’s about connecting
authentically, fostering collaboration, and driving results that matter,” said Mili Orsini Peluso, Deputy Executive Director of the Levan Center of Innovation.
Attendees left with new tools, fresh perspectives, and stronger connections, reinforcing the Levan Center’s mission to inspire and empower South Florida’s leadership community. The event’s media partner was South Florida Business & Wealth Magazine.
Student, Megan Turetsky, Senior Director, External Affairs, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Kelley Morris, President, Memorial and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundations and Cicely Strickland-Ruiz, Chief Strategy Officer, United Way Broward
Megan Turetsky, Senior Director, External Affairs, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Kip Hunter, CEO, Kip Hunter Marketing; Mili Orsini Peluso, Deputy Executive Director of the Levan Center of Innovation; Caitlin Stella, CEO, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Kelley Morris, President, Memorial and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundations; Michael Burtov, Chief Innovation Officer, NSU and Executive Director of the Levan Center of Innovation
Kim Sarni, Managing Director, Lifestyle Media Group/South Florida Business & Wealth; Caitlin Stella, CEO, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Michael Burtov, Chief Innovation Officer, NSU and Executive Director of the Levan Center of Innovation
Michael Goldstein, CEO of LAN Infotech LLC.; Caitlin Stella, CEO, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital
Mili Orsini Peluso, Deputy Executive Director of the Levan Center of Innovation; Caitlin Stella, CEO, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital
Josefa Benjamin, CEO, Born on Purpose Project; Guest; Gloria Fonseca, Founder of FONSIS LLC; Dr. Elizabeth Swann, Director of Interprofessional Integration at NSU
Kim Sarni, Managing Director, Lifestyle Media Group/South Florida Business & Wealth; Stephanie Seltzer, Vice President, Regional Marketing ManagerSouth Florida, Fifth Third Bank; Mili Orsini Peluso, Deputy Executive Director of the Levan Center of Innovation; Jedidiah Quiñones, Director of Women’s Philanthropy and Annual Giving at United Way Broward
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