Academic Oasis—Empowering the Future, One
Child at a Time
At Academic Oasis, we nurture curious minds and kind hearts. Through personalized teaching and hands-on learning, we empower every child to grow with confidence and resilience. Discover an inclusive environment where strengths are celebrated, challenges spark growth, and every student thrives at their own pace.
Start Their Success Journey Today! Scan the Code! academicoasis.net | 386-256-7430 | Bacademicoasis.net | 1089 W Granada Blvd, Suite 4, Ormond
Investments
Investing can mean different things to different people. When we first learn about investing it is typically with marketable securities, like stocks and bonds. Later, we learn about inflation and see the value in items like gold and other precious metals that help us hedge against inflation. Original artwork is another type of investing, where we can appreciate it for what it is, while it hopefully increases in value. Investing can also be looked at from a standpoint of self-actualization, such as investing in starting a business so that you can build the community and create an income you can live on today, then either pass it on as a legacy to your children or sell at some point in the future for a profit. There is also the concept of investing in peace of mind.
This month we have a discussion with Tim Kuzma and get some insights about investing in securities and learn from Dan Morris about Tax-Free Wealth strategies. We also get some insights about investing in Art. SCORE shows us how we don’t have to go alone when we start a business and invest in our future. Finally, we spoke with our friends at Volusia-Memorial about planning ahead to give our loved one’s peace of mind when we pass. While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are made with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results.
THOMAS JOHN (TJ) FILLEY, PUBLISHER
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Thomas John (TJ) Filley tj.filley@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Oksana Zingman Filley oksana.filley@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tiffany Joubert tiffany.joubert@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT
Jade Faber jade.faber@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Melissa Frankel
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Christophe Hanckowiak
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
1: Charlene and Kurt Greer celebrate Charlene's birthday at HT's Sand Bar & Bistro. 2: Pitbull rocks the house at Daytona 500! 3: Carmen Ruiz brings her new fur baby Don Juaquin to work at Fast Signs. 4: Provision Packs honors Brittani Preschel and her company D2 2025 Partner of the Year. 5: Casey Williams gears up for bike week! 6: Sunrise bank raises money for Live Like Cameron! 7: Emma Clark, Andy Clark,Cindy Evans and Spencer Alevisatos attend the Mardi Gras for Peabody Foundation
As we age, the delicate skin around our eyes and face begins to show signs of wear—fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, and sagging. Daytona MedSpa, offers the revolutionary NeoGen PSR Technology to restore and rejuvenate your eye area and face, leaving you refreshed and youthful—all without surgery.
Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing: smooth, wrinkle-free skin around your eyes; lifted, youthful eyelids; bright, refreshed eyes free from dark circles; vanished puffiness and under-eye bags; and radiant skin that glows with confidence. Reclaim your youthful glow today!
Mayce “the NeoGen expert at Daytona Medspa” has taken my face, and hands back about 10 years with the Neogen PSR treatment. My hyperpigmentation is gone, my wrinkles around my lips and eyes are smooth and my overall skin condition is much improved. I’m completely happy with the results and the continued improvement! If you are looking for non-invasive rejuvenation treatments for face and body, I highly recommend Daytona Medspa and the NeoGen Treatment!
— Rebecca Lane
Sara Chrisman Founder of Daytona Medspa
Leadership That Knows Your Community
At Sunrise Bank, Janet Marks and Jim Hester lead with purpose and a deep connection to Ormond Beach. Janet, Vice President and Market Manager, is dedicated to building lasting relationships, helping families and businesses feel secure and supported. From fostering local partnerships to serving as a trusted advisor, her work reflects a true commitment to the community.
Jim, Market President, has spent decades enabling local businesses to grow and thrive. With his guidance, countless entrepreneurs have turned their goals into reality, contributing to a stronger local economy.
Together, Janet and Jim embody the heart of Sunrise Bank—a trusted partner dedicated to your success and the future of Ormond Beach.
Visit Sunrise Bank and experience the di erence of community-driven banking.
386.676.2222
- Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm
- Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm www.sunrise.bank
Investing in Tomorrow
The Power of Starting Early and Building Wealth Wisely
Even small investments made in early adulthood can grow into significant wealth over time, thanks to the power of compounding. However, if you didn’t start early, the next best time to start is now. Timothy Kuzma, a financial advisor at Edward Jones in Daytona Beach, has dedicated his career to guiding individuals and families toward financial security. Tim’s investment philosophy is simple but powerful: it’s all about the individual. “A good investment for one person may not be a good investment for another,” he explains.
Whether you’re a young couple just starting out, a mid-career professional looking to expand your portfolio, or someone planning for retirement, his approach is to tailor financial strategies to fit each client’s unique goals and risk tolerance. Traditional investments—such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds—play a critical role in wealth-building, but they are often misunderstood in terms of risk and return. Tim takes the time to understand the client’s personal situation and long-term aspirations, he helps create diversified portfolios that strike the right balance between risk and reward. “If you’re only focused on one or two investments, your entire financial strategy could be in jeopardy,” he warns.
While newer financial tools can offer opportunities, Tim stresses that no single investment is a guaranteed path to wealth. “It’s not about the investment itself; it’s about whether that investment aligns with the client’s goals,” he emphasizes. Diversification remains essential, and traditional investments continue to provide stability in an
ARTICLE BY MELISSA FRANKEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
ever-changing economic landscape. Whether you’re starting small in your 20s or catching up in later years, the act of investing can make all the difference. The key is consistency. Even modest contributions to a well-managed portfolio can lead to substantial growth over time.
Even small investments in your 20s can grow exponentially over time thanks to compounding interest. Waiting 10–15 years to begin can mean missing out on significant growth. But if you didn’t start early, don’t worry—the next best time to start is now. Smart investing is about taking staying consistent.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
BEYOND the CANVAS
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
THE EMOTIONAL AND FINANCIAL INVESTMENT IN ART
The art scene is vibrant in Volusia, it thrives, enriched by passionate artists, collectors, and enthusiasts who understand that art is more than a visual experience— it’s an investment in the soul.
One such individual is Grace Senior Morandi, an artist hailing from Barranquilla, Colombia, whose life and home are testaments to the profound impact of art. But Grace’s experience isn’t unique. Across the globe, collectors and creators alike are finding that the value of art extends far beyond its price tag. It is an investment that enriches lives, nurtures culture, and creates legacies.
THE EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL VALUE OF ART
Grace emphasizes that investing in art transcends monetary considerations. “Art is food for your soul,” she explains. “It makes your heart happy when you see the colors.” Art, in this sense, serves as more than just decoration—it becomes part of the fabric of daily life. Each piece in her collection serves as a daily source of joy and inspiration, reminding her of the diverse cultures and emotions encapsulated within the artworks. “When I look at my collection,” Grace says, “I don’t just see paint on canvas; I see history, culture, and emotions that speak to me in ways words cannot.”
Grace Senior Morandi- Painter
“...ART CAN PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN estate planning . INCORPORATING ARTWORKS INTO TRUSTS OR WILLS ENSURES THAT YOUR COLLECTION IS preserved AND PASSED DOWN THROUGH generations , MAINTAINING ITS EMOTIONAL AND FINANCIAL VALUE...”
Grace believes in layering her painting.
Grace has looked through the windows of art around the world, studing in South America, Europe, U.S. and Mexico.
Grace says artists see the world differently, when you add pieces like this to your home you begin to see art differently.
Grace takes note of what give's art value; layers, quality of materials and history of the artist.
Grace shares photos of her travels and studies around the world- this is Santorini
This emotional connection is something that every art collector can relate to. Art has the power to evoke memories, create moods, and even transform the energy of a room. It allows us to connect to a time, a place, or a feeling that may be otherwise lost. The paintings, sculptures, and photographs on the walls of our homes are more than just objects; they are windows into the artist’s soul.
THE ARTIST’S PERSPECTIVE: SEEING BEYOND THE ORDINARY
Artists, according to Grace, perceive the world through a unique lens. “We don’t see life the way the average person does,” she notes. This distinctive perspective allows artists to infuse their work with depth and emotion, inviting viewers to engage with art on a profound level. For an artist like Grace, the world becomes a series of compositions, colors, and textures waiting to be explored and captured.
For collectors, this unique way of seeing the world provides insight into the artist’s vision. The complexity of each piece reveals a story—a moment in time, a burst of creativity, or even a reflection of society. Grace’s artistic style has been shaped by various teachers from around the globe, each imparting lessons that underscore the importance of investing in art. Through these experiences, she has learned that art not only appreciates in value but also enriches one’s understanding of different cultures and techniques.
STARTING YOUR ART COLLECTION: RESEARCH AND LEGACY
Embarking on the journey of art collection involves more than acquiring aesthetically pleasing pieces; it’s about building a legacy. Grace recommends conducting thorough research on artists who capture your interest. Understanding an artist’s background, technique, and the context of their work can deepen your appreciation and inform your investment decisions.
“Investing in art is a commitment,” Grace explains. “It’s about supporting the artist’s journey and the cultural value their
“...I SEE HISTORY, culture , AND EMOTIONS THAT speak TO ME IN WAYS WORDS CANNOT.” - GRACE SAYS ABOUT HER ART
COLLECTION
work brings to the world.” Whether it’s discovering emerging artists or acquiring works from established masters, research is key to ensuring that your collection remains meaningful and valuable.
Moreover, art can play a significant role in estate planning. Incorporating artworks into trusts or wills ensures that your collection is preserved and passed down through generations, maintaining its emotional and financial value. Art is a gift that can transcend time, providing future generations with not only cultural heritage but also a connection to their ancestors’ passions and values.
FACTORS THAT ENHANCE THE VALUE OF ART
Understanding what makes a piece of art valuable is crucial for any collector. Grace highlights several key factors that contribute to an artwork’s worth:
• Time and Effort: The dedication an artist invests in creating a piece adds to its worth. “Every brushstroke, every detail, is part of the journey,” Grace explains. The more time and effort an artist puts into their work, the more valuable it becomes.
Grace believes that artwork is food for the soul
This painting is Grace's inturpretation of the bus that runs in her home town of Barranquilla, Columbia. The people riding put their chareshed items on top.
• Quality of Materials: High-quality canvases, paints, and other materials ensure the artwork’s longevity and appeal. Art made with superior materials retains its vibrancy and can endure the test of time.
• Technique and Layers: The complexity of techniques and the application of multiple layers contribute to the depth and richness of the artwork. This multi-dimensional approach often makes a piece more visually stimulating and adds to its appeal for collectors.For those new to art collection, Grace advises selecting pieces that resonate personally. “Look for pieces that call to you and stand out,” she encourages, emphasizing the importance of personal connection over potential financial gain. Collecting art should not only be about the potential return on investment but also about finding pieces that align with your own aesthetic and emotional values.
ART IN VOLUSIA: A COMMUNITY PASSION
Volusia boasts a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries, festivals, and events celebrating artistic expression. The city’s commitment to the arts is evident in institutions like the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, which houses the world’s largest collection of Florida art, featuring a rotating selection of 2,600 oil and watercolor paintings.
In 2024, philanthropists Cici and Hyatt Brown made an extraordinary contribution to Daytona Beach’s cultural tapestry with a $150 million endowment to the Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS). This transformative gift will fund the creation of a magnificent 60,000-squarefoot space, further elevating Daytona’s place as a beacon of artistic expression. The Browns’ visionary support reflects how art has the power to transcend the personal, sparking growth and fostering a shared sense of community, while expanding the city’s cultural footprint beyond Florida’s borders.
Local venues such as the Starry Night Gallery on Beach Street and The Hub on Canal in New Smyrna Beach serve as vital platforms for artists, including Grace, to showcase and sell their work. These spaces foster a sense of community and make art accessible to both residents and visitors alike. Through these exhibitions, local artists gain valuable exposure, while art enthusiasts are invited to connect with the creators and discover the stories woven into each piece.
The Hub on Canal stands out as a dynamic center where creativity meets social impact. Not only does it provide a stage for local talent, but it also hosts groundbreaking programs like their Arts in Medicine initiative. This program pairs artists with individuals facing health challenges, using creative expression to support healing. By offering a therapeutic outlet, Arts in Medicine fosters emotional and
Starry Night Gallery
Chalk Art at one of Volusia's many art festivals
“THE HUB TRANSCENDS TRADITIONAL ART SPACES, BLENDING WELLNESS AND creativity TO TRANSFORM LIVES AND ELEVATE
THE community.”
physical well-being, allowing art to become a source of comfort and resilience. In this way, The Hub transcends traditional art spaces, blending wellness and creativity to transform lives and elevate the community.
THE LASTING IMPACT OF ART INVESTMENT
Investing in art is a multifaceted endeavor, offering emotional fulfillment, cultural enrichment, and potential financial rewards. As Grace’s experience illustrates, art has the power to transform spaces, elevate the spirit, and create enduring legacies. Collecting art allows us to celebrate the beauty of the world, while simultaneously preserving it for future generations.
Whether you’re an aspiring collector or a seasoned connoisseur, embracing art can profoundly enhance your life and the lives of those who inherit your passion. Art is not only an investment in tangible assets; it is an investment in the soul, in culture, and in the stories that shape our world. Art transforms spaces, builds communities, and fosters connections across time and place. In a world that is constantly changing, art remains a timeless way to invest in what matters most: our emotions, our legacies, and our shared humanity.
Grace’s artwork can be found at The Hub on Canal as well as Starry Nights.
Grace's work can be found at Starry Night Gallery and The Hub on Canal
WEALTH WITH PURPOSE
Dan Morris is an Author of several books giving you the tools to help you leave your legacy
IRMAA is an additional charge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums based on an individual’s income level. Dan helps his clients with this oversight.
INVESTING IN A LASTING LEGACY
Planning for the future is about more than just numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s about leaving a lasting impact. For Dan Morris, founder of Tax-Free Wealth Group, the key to financial planning isn’t simply about growing wealth, but ensuring that wealth becomes a meaningful legacy for loved ones. His journey in financial advising is deeply personal, shaped by the experience of helping his own father navigate retirement and long-term security.
A PERSONAL MISSION: LESSONS FROM FAMILY THAT SHAPED A CAREER
Dan’s passion for legacy planning began with his father’s search for financial guidance at the
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
BY CHRISTOPHE
PHOTOGRAPHY
HANCKOWIAK
age of 61. Faced with critical decisions about Social Security, Medicare, and long-term financial security, Dan realized firsthand how complex and overwhelming these choices could be. Dan has built a career around empowering individuals to take control of their financial destinies.
TAX-SMART STRATEGIES: KEEPING MORE OF WHAT YOU’VE BUILT
One of the greatest threats to generational wealth is taxation. Dan specializes in designing strategies that allow individuals to pass down their wealth without unnecessary loss. Whether it’s through tax-smart retirement plans, trusts, or life insurance, he ensures
that families can preserve their assets and provide security for future generations.
“The biggest mistake I see is people waiting too long to plan,” Dan explains. “They don’t realize how much of their hard-earned money could be lost if they don’t take action ahead of time.”
LIFE INSURANCE: THE ULTIMATE LEGACY TOOL
One of Dan’s core messages to clients is the importance of life insurance—not as a policy, but as a powerful tool for securing a family’s financial future.
“Helping my dad through his financial decisions made me realize how crucial life insurance is—not just as protection, but as a way to
Dan's father played a vital role in helping Dan fall in love with his career. This flag is in his office in memory of him.
“THE BIGGEST MISTAKE I SEE IS PEOPLE WAITING TOO LONG TO PLAN...”
create generational wealth. It’s one of the simplest, yet most effective ways to ensure your family is taken care of.”
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER: EDUCATING FUTURE GENERATIONS THROUGH WRITING
Beyond financial advising, Dan is an accomplished author, having written over 20 books on retirement planning, wealth-building, and financial strategies for small business owners and young professionals. Dan’s book Tax-Smart Retirement Income Planning serves as valuable resource for those looking to navigate the complexities of wealth management with confidence.
“Entrepreneurship is my passion, but I’m also a big believer in learning—especially through reading,” Dan says. “The more knowledge people have, the better equipped they are to take control of their financial future.”
UNDERSTANDING IRMAA: THE HIDDEN RETIREMENT COST
One critical aspect of retirement planning that many financial advisors— and even retirees—overlook is IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount). IRMAA is an additional charge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums based on an individual’s income
level. As retirees begin drawing from their savings, unexpected increases in taxable income can push them into higher IRMAA brackets, significantly reducing their retirement funds over time. Without proper planning, this overlooked cost can erode wealth faster than anticipated. Dan Morris emphasizes the importance of proactive tax strategies to minimize IRMAA’s impact, ensuring retirees keep more of their hard-earned money for the legacy they intend to leave behind.
BEYOND THE NUMBERS: SECURING A FUTURE THAT MATTERS
For Dan Morris, financial planning isn’t just about today—it’s about creating a secure, tax-efficient, and enduring legacy for generations to come.
“The most important part of my job is helping people realize their dreams,” Dan emphasizes. “It’s about giving them the tools, strategies, and confidence to build a future that truly matters.”
At Tax-Free Wealth Group, the focus isn’t just on numbers; it’s on people, families, and the future they want to build. Because investing in legacy is the greatest gift of all.
Dan is here to help all ages, and believes you are never to oung to look towards leaving your legacy.
INVESTING IN Peace of Mind
THE GIFT OF PLANNING AHEAD
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
The Volusia Memorial team is here to help you plan and have peace while doing it.
Top Right: Sal Passalaqua says the team believes in tables instead of rows of chairs to create the feeling of family and connection.
Bottom Right: This is an example of a life story. The team will work to make sure the room is everything you loved and charished.
Planning for the future is one of the most meaningful investments you can make—not just for yourself, but for your loved ones. At Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, part of Dignity Memorial, the philosophy is simple: Pre-planning your final arrangements is not about anticipating the inevitable; it’s about ensuring your wishes are honored and giving your family the greatest gift of all—peace of mind.
A LEGACY OF COMPASSION AND CARE
Sal Passalaqua, Area Manager and Funeral Director at Volusia Memorial, has dedicated his career to guiding families through life’s most delicate moments. Having grown up in his family’s funeral business in Staten Island, he gained firsthand experience in the profound impact that thoughtful funeral planning can have.
“This is not just a job—it’s a calling,” Sal shares. “Helping families create a meaningful tribute for their loved ones or plan ahead for their own arrangements is a way to provide comfort and certainty in times of loss.”
THE GIFT OF LOVE: HAVING THE LAST WORD
Sal refers to pre-planning as ‘The Gift of Love.’ “It’s your way of having the last word,” he says. “What do you want your funeral to look like? How do you want to be remembered?”
At Dignity Memorial, every detail is customized to reflect the life of the
individual. Whether you’re a Disney enthusiast, an avid cyclist, or a devoted nature lover, the team ensures that your service embodies your unique personality. From the color of the table runners to a display of personal memorabilia, your final farewell is a celebration of your life.
A THOUGHTFUL AND PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE
Walking into Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, the level of detail is immediately apparent. Unlike traditional funeral homes with rows of chairs, services here are designed for comfort and connection— guests are seated at tables, creating an intimate and supportive environment.
One small but telling detail caught our attention: a bottle of contact solution in the restroom. “When people cry, their contacts can dry out or get blurry,” Sal explains. “It’s just a small way we try to think ahead and make things easier for our guests.”
pre-arrangements are transferable—providing reassurance for those who may relocate in the future.
CELEBRATING LIFE: A PERSONALIZED APPROACH
Many people hesitate to discuss end-of-life planning, but Sal encourages families to have these conversations early. “It’s much more difficult to make these decisions when you’re caught in the moment of grief,” he explains. “But when you plan ahead, you remove that burden from your loved ones and allow them to focus on celebrating your life.”
Sal refers to pre-planning as
‘The Gift of Love.’ “It’s your way of having the last word,” he says.
FINANCIAL SECURITY THROUGH PRE-PLANNING
One of the biggest advantages of planning ahead with Dignity Memorial is the ability to lock in today’s prices. Funeral expenses can be significant, and costs tend to rise over time. By making arrangements in advance, families can ensure they are protected from inflation and unexpected financial burdens.
To make this process accessible, Dignity Memorial offers flexible payment plans, allowing families to manage costs over time. Additionally, because Dignity Memorial has locations nationwide,
Dignity Memorial provides a variety of options, from traditional burials to cremation services. Unique offerings include using cremated remains to create memorial diamonds—allowing families to keep a physical and lasting connection to their loved ones.
AN INVESTMENT IN PEACE OF MIND
While discussing final arrangements may feel overwhelming, it is ultimately an act of love and consideration. Pre-planning ensures that your wishes are honored, your family is spared difficult decisions, and your legacy is celebrated in a way that truly reflects who you are.
Investing in peace of mind today means giving your loved ones the gift of clarity, comfort, and the space to remember you without the weight of uncertainty. At Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, the commitment to compassion and personalized service makes all the difference—helping families navigate this important journey with dignity and care.
The Business of Building Dreams
Investing in Your Future with SCORE
When it comes to securing your future, few investments are as valuable as education, mentorship, and strategic planning. For entrepreneurs in Volusia and Flagler counties, SCORE offers expert guidance to turn ideas into thriving businesses. Chaired by Carlos Soldevilla, the local chapter has earned national recognition. But what makes SCORE so invaluable, and how can it help you build a successful business?
THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP
SCORE, a nonprofit with a 60-year history, was initially the “Service Core of Retired Executives.” Today, it includes both retired and active business leaders who provide no-cost, one-on-one mentoring. The VolusiaFlagler chapter alone has over 25 mentors helping business owners at every stage.
“Everyone needs a mentor—someone to guide them through challenges and help them make informed decisions,” says Carlos Soldevilla. “The best part is seeing that light bulb moment when everything clicks.”
FROM IDEA TO EXECUTION
A great idea isn’t enough—starting a business requires financial planning, realistic goals, and a clear roadmap. SCORE mentors help entrepreneurs develop business plans, financial projections, and marketing strategies.
“We start with a simple one-page business plan template,” Carlos explains. “Many people haven’t fully calculated what it will take to stay afloat, and that’s where we step in.”
Through webinars, workshops, and mentorship, SCORE helps entrepreneurs secure funding, determine break-even points, and plan for long-term success. “It can take one to three years for a business to become profitable,” Carlos notes. “Planning ahead prevents costly mistakes.”
FASTTRAC BOOTCAMP: BUILDING STRONGER BUSINESSES
One of SCORE’s most impactful programs is Kauffman FastTrac, a ten week bootcamp led by experienced mentors. Covering topics like lending, marketing, and financial planning, it prepares entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses effectively.
“At the end of the program, participants can confidently present their businesses to investors and industry professionals,” Carlos shares.
SCORE mentors meet to help establish a plan to help local businesses and their Mentees
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
THE INNOVATION CHALLENGE: TURNING VISION INTO REALITY
For those ready to level up, the Innovation Challenge—sponsored by Volusia Business Resources (VBR)— offers an exciting opportunity. This ten-week bootcamp culminates in a pitch competition where participants compete for cash prizes, including a $5,000 grand prize.
“SCORE mentors support entrepreneurs throughout the challenge, helping them refine their ideas and present their businesses in the best possible light,” Carlos explains.
GET INVOLVED: FIND A MENTOR OR BECOME ONE
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur seeking guidance or a business leader wanting to give back, SCORE provides valuable opportunities. Mentorship is just a click away, where you can be matched with an expert in your industry.
SCORE is also looking for accomplished professionals to mentor the
next generation. “This role has changed me,” Carlos admits. “Mentoring has helped me grow, and it’s rewarding to see business owners thrive.”
INVEST IN YOURSELF, INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
SCORE is more than mentorship—it’s an investment in your dreams. With expert guidance, resources, and community partnerships, SCORE helps build sustainable businesses that strengthen the local economy.
“At the end of the day, it’s about wisdom,” Carlos says. “We want to share what we’ve learned so others don’t have to struggle. That’s what investing in your future really means.”
If you’re ready to take the next step in your business journey, visit SCORE today and start investing in your success.
Carlos Soldevilla leads the local chapter of SCORE
FastTrac Bootcamp meets reguarly on Saturdays and soon in Port Orange
APRIL 4TH
Boots and Pearls
Bending Ranch | 6:00 PM
Supporting Easterseals North East Central Florida: Boots and Pearls—the 4th annual celebration that’s become a must-attend event! This spectacular evening always sells out quickly, so don’t wait to grab your tickets. Give the gift of fun, laughter, and making memories while supporting a great cause. Secure your spot now at www.boots-n-pearls.blacktie-athon.com
APRIL 5TH
3rd Annual Autism Awareness Festival
European Villiage: 101 Palm Harbor parkway, Palm Coast, 321377 | 11:00 AM
Come out for a day full of fun & resources for the whole family!
Activities include: Raffles, Vendors, Kid Zone & Bounce House, Live Performances, Enrichment Center Tours, Live Broadcast & More!
APRIL 5TH
One Daytona Art Festival
One Daytona | 10:00 AM
ONE DAYTONA Art Festival, in partnership with Gallery500, is an award winning annual fine art festival featuring juried fine artists and non-juried craft artisans at ONE DAYTONA. The art festival is held at ONE DAYTONA and offers an opportunity for local and visiting collectors to experience culture and refinement over the course of two days.
APRIL 21ST
Jeep Beach in Boots- A Salute to our Heros
Gate 40- Daytona International Speedway | 5:00 PM
Come help us honor our heroes and all they do for us. All while kickin up some dirt, dancing and having a good time!
APRIL 22ND
Coastal Clean up- Keeping our Coasts Clean
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona | 8:00 AM
Bag distribution takes place at the Hard Rock Hotel. Work together to clean the stretch of beach and help protect our Oceans and Wildlife!
APRIL 22ND
Jeep Beach Island Time
1 Daytona Blvd, Daytona Beach, 32114 | 5:00 PM
Join us for some mix and mingling for Jeep Beach. See some custom builds as well as meet people from all over the world. Enjoy great music and food!
APRIL 23RD
Jeep Beach Neon Nights
Midway of Daytona International Speedway | 5:00 PM
Come dressed in your best neon colors to dance, make friends and share in the Joy of Jeep Beach!
APRIL 24TH
Jeep Beach Tiki party (Seperate Ticket)
918 N. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, 32118 | 7:00 PM
Join us for our very own Tiki Party! Come dressed to impress, enjoy music and dancing as we sip on island cocktails and recap all our favorite Jeep Beach stories. Make sure to purchase a separate ticket for this event go to www.JeepBeach.com
APRIL 25TH
Jeep Beach Main Event and Obstacle Course
Gate 70- Daytona International Speedway | 9:00 AM
Sponsored by Daytona Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, come check out the amazing kids activities and obstacle course. Chat with vendors from all over and join the fun of Jeep Beach Week!
APRIL 27TH
Official Watch Party and Bloody Mary Bar
Crabby's Oceanside | 6:00 AM
Who doesn't love brunch and a Bloody Mary! Wrap up Jeep Beach week and wind down at this great event ending the week.
BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
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ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
