Daytona, FL May 2026

Vibrant & Vital: Celebrating the Women of Daytona

There is something truly special about taking a moment to recognize the women who make our world more vibrant. Whether they are mothers, colleagues, or friends, these women are often the silent forces shaping our community.

In this Ladies Issue, we explore the "juggling act" of modern life through the eyes of Five Women You Need to Know. From Dr. Janet Kavandi, who traveled 13 million miles in space, to local pillars like Janet Marks and Kim Short, these leaders remind us that success is built on a foundation of curiosity and a strong support system. Their stories show that while our paths look different—whether in a NASA flight deck, a community bank, or a local dealership—the common thread is a commitment to excellence and a "never give up" attitude.

We also feature the incredible Nika Hosseini and Nancy Lohman, whose strategic advocacy and visionary philanthropy have quite literally shaped the landscape of Daytona. They prove that a small group of committed citizens can, indeed, change the world.

However, being a market leader also means being an advocate for one’s own well-being. This month, we recognize Women’s Health Month by sharing Stephanie Parcus’s courageous journey with endometrial cancer. Her story, paired with insights from Dr. Matthew Anderson, is a vital reminder to listen to your body and prioritize self-advocacy. Early detection is the key to survival, and we hope this feature empowers you to put your health first.

As you flip through these pages, I hope you feel inspired by the "movers and shakers" in our backyard. Take a moment this month to call a woman who has made a difference in your life. It is a simple but powerful way to brighten someone’s day.

Here’s to celebrating the women who make Daytona so much more meaningful. Happy Mother’s Day!

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Thomas John (TJ) Filley tj.filley@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Oksana Zingman Filley

oksana.filley@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Deb Lovett

deb.lovett@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Greg Hunter, Nicole Campon, Deb Lovett, Dr. Janet Kavandi, NASA, Janet Marks, Lunar StudioStephen Holvik, Nancy Lohman, Stephanie Parcus, AdventHealth Daytona Beach, Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, Daytona Beach Symphony Society

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

THOMAS JOHN (TJ) FILLEY, PUBLISHER @DAYTONACITYLIFESTYLE

Unique Computers to Fit Your Lifestyle

INSURANCE CLAIM EXPERTS

Sterling Scott Founder & President

inside the issue

city scene

1: Bill and Cara Elder (George and Martha Washington) celebrate America's 250th with Susan Demorsky (DAR) 2: Ormond Beach Chamber President/CEO Debbie Cotton and VCS Superintenent Dr. Carmen Balgobin at W2W Luncheon 3: Ormond Beach Chamber's W2W Luncheon at Oceanside Country Club 4: Patty Tropea, Debbie Cotton, Dr. Balgobin, Jessica Gion, Cameron Lechota of Ormond Beach's Chamber 5: Amy Valcik, Roy Young, Carole Valcik, Betsy Rider at Halifax Urban Ministries' Empty

6:

Support Elevated Women’s and Children’s Care in Daytona Beach

Home means everything to her. And she shouldn’t have to go far to find the highest-quality care for herself and her family. Your gift to the AdventHealth Daytona Beach Foundation stays local, expanding advanced women’s and children’s care right here at home.

To make a tax-deductible donation, scan the QR code or call 386-231-5102.

business monthly

Former Patient Donates to AdventHealth Daytona Beach's Teddy Bear Campaign

Arthur L. Loeffler of Outsourced CFO Advisors and his business partner, Tammy, recently presented a $6,000 donation to the AdventHealth Daytona Beach Foundation's board for the Teddy Bear Campaign, which provides teddy bears to all children who are admitted to the hospital or visit the OR. The check represents a yearlong gift to keep the stock of teddy bears from running too low, especially during the holidays.

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to read more

Volusia County Public Library's America 250 Reading Challenge

The library is taking part in the Read Across America challenge which encourages children AND adults to read a book from each of the 50 states by December 31, 2026. Simply log the title in Beanstack and earn a limited-edition coffee mug! Mugs available while supplies last. Sign up at volusialibrary.beanstack.org and click on "Celebrate America 250: Read Across America."

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Sheriff and Police Chief Speak at Daytona Regional Chamber Event

A packed house attended a presentation from Volusia County Sheriff Chitwood and Daytona Beach Police Chief Young at the chamber. Chief Young introduced ZeroEyes, a new innovation that helps alert police when weapons are drawn in areas monitored by the technology. "When you work in government, you can tend to see things only through the government lens," Chitwood said. "Being out amongst the business community gives us a better feel of the whole region."

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It’s built in conversations. Across desks. Over time.

At Sunrise Bank, Laura Chavez-Salazar and Janet Marks work with customers across Volusia County to navigate the financial decisions that shape their lives.

Beyond the branch, they stay actively involved in the community, supporting organizations like Family Renew Community and the Pregnancy Crisis Center, helping local nonprofits raise funds, and bringing financial education to families throughout the county.

Because trust grows where relationships come first.

Ormond Beach

299

Lobby Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm Drive Thru Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

Decorate Your Space With a DIY Floral Design

Spring: the days grow longer, weather turns warmer, and the earth’s greenery starts to make its reappearance. During this time, flowers shoot up from the ground in a ballet of colors and movement. Walking outside becomes a cherished moment to breathe the fresh air and immerse yourself in lush surroundings. Being inside your home turns dreary and dull, everything that thrives is now outside, but this can easily be remedied. Why not bring some life inside? Make a spring floral bouquet to lighten up your space. Flowers add color and character to any room that needs a little lift, and our step-by-step guide will inspire you to create something grand.

Supplies:

• Flowers of your choice

• Scissors

• Twine or floral tape

• Ribbon (optional)

• Decorative paper (optional)

• Bouquet sleeve (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: When creating a beautiful floral arrangement, the first thing to do is decide on a color scheme and prepare the flowers.  Have fun deciding what colors you want to play with. Perhaps go pastel for spring or match the hues to other decor items in your house. Once you have picked your flowers, you need to do a little prep work. First, remove extra leaves and damaged petals from the stems. Then make a fresh diagonal cut to the bottom of all the flowers. This allows each bloom to soak up as much water as they need.

Step 2: Now it’s arranging time — think focal and filler. The best way to start the arranging process is by choosing your most interesting or favorite flowers — this will be your focal point. Hold the focal flower(s) upright and add your supporting blooms around it. Make sure to turn the bouquet as you build so that the design is as desired. Once this is complete, add your filler flowers to finalize the look. Filler options include baby’s breath, ivy, fern, eucalyptus and more.

Step 3: Let’s get ready to tie. Once you’ve arranged your bouquet, tie all the stems together using twine or floral tape. If using twine, we recommend securing it in a small bow in case you would like to rearrange at any given time. Floral tape is easy to move on and off for this purpose as well.

Step 4: Add the finishing touches. At this point, you are almost done with your bouquet and all that’s left is embellishments. There are so many ways to further adorn your creation: one way we love is to wrap it in fun decorative paper or put it in a special sleeve made just for flowers. If this idea isn’t for you, we recommend going to Pinterest for inspiration. Just remember, whatever way you choose to decorate your bouquet, you will end with a personalized piece made with love and care.

ARTICLE BY DEB LOVETT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DR. JANET KAVANDI, NASA, JANET MARKS, LUNAR STUDIO - STEPHEN HOLVIK, NICOLE CAMPON, GREG HUNTER, NANCY LOHMAN

FIVE

Women You Need to KNOW

“EACH ARE WOMEN WHO HAVE COMBINED CAREER AND FAMILY WHILE AT THE SAME TIME ACKNOWLEDGE IN THEIR UNIQUE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT IT’S OKAY TO HAVE IT ALL, OR A CAREER, OR A FAMILY. “

The five women we’re profiling this month are each contributing to our community and the world in a myriad number of ways. Each are women who have combined career and family while at the same time acknowledge in their unique circumstances that it’s okay to have it all, or a career, or a family. To a person, they recognize the importance of having a great partner and support systems to make the juggling work, and yes - it’s worth it.

CELEBRATING THE WOMEN SHAPING OUR COMMUNITY AND WORLD

“THE SKY’S THE LIMIT”

Mission Specialist Janet Kavandi, Ph.D., pauses on the 217-foot level of Launch Complex 39A after the completion of Terminal Countdown Test - Courtesy of NASA

OUR FIVE DAYTONA WOMEN

Whether an astronaut, banker, connector, lawyer, philanthropist, student, or domestic CEO, women are always finessing a balancing act of family, relationships, and endeavors that bring richer meaning to their lives.

DR. JANET KAVANDI

NASA ASTRONAUT (RET.)

Dr. Janet Kavandi has achieved what many of us can’t even imagine. A soft-spoken chemist with an undeniable curiosity, she has flown on three space missions and spent over 33 days in space, traveling more than 13 million miles in 535 orbits around Earth. That’s an orbit every 90 minutes and a sunrise or sunset every 45.

Being an astronaut doesn’t end when you fly your last mission, though. Living in space is hard on the body. Each astronaut becomes part of a lifelong longitudinal study to help us prepare to live elsewhere in the universe.

“I gladly give back as a retired astronaut,” said Janet. “NASA trained me as a T-38 pilot, taught me to fly high-performance aircraft, chose me to be flight engineer for the space shuttle, and allowed me the opportunity to conduct experiments in space. My dream of becoming an astronaut has given me more than I thought possible, including running flight crew operations and eventually a whole NASA center.”

DL: ARE YOU A DAYTONA ORIGINAL?

JK: No, I grew up on a farm in Missouri.

DL: HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE AN ASTRONAUT?

JK: Yes! My dad and I would look up at the stars and talk about what it might be like up there. It was the 1960’s and we were fascinated with the space program. When the first women were selected as shuttle astronauts, I researched their biographies to study what I needed to do to become an astronaut.

DL: WHO WAS THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?

JK: My high school chemistry teacher was very demanding but she made chemistry interesting. She encouraged girls to be heard and I really liked her for that.

DL: IF YOU COULD INVITE ONLY FOUR PEOPLE TO YOUR DINNER PARTY WHO WOULD THEY BE?

JK: Albert Einstein to explore his big brain thinking. I would also love to talk to Amelia Earhart. Madame Curie would also be on my list as would Abraham Lincoln who persevered through very, very challenging times.

DL: WHICH TALENT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HAVE?

JK: A good golf swing – I’m trying!

DL: FIVE WORDS YOU’D USE TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF?

JK: Dedicated, focused, curious, stubborn, and since I’m from Missouri – you have to “Show Me.”

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

JK: I am so fortunate to have been able to be an astronaut and also to have a family. Being a mom didn’t slow down my career, but my husband and I were very cognizant of timing and the need to plan for a family. I am very appreciative of the people who came before me who paved the way for women to be able to have both a career and family. As any mom will tell you, though, you need a great partner, strong support system, and solid backup plan to make it all work.

By far, the hardest challenge was when we lost Columbia. Three of the crew were in my same astronaut class so we were longtime friends. It was very important to me to take care of those families and ensure forensic analyses were conducted to safeguard future astronauts.

The danger of spaceflight is always present and I had to consider how much risk I should take on behalf of my family. I had already tempted fate enough with three wonderful flights. I decided it was time to give back so that the next generation could share those amazing experiences and carry on the work.

DL: DO YOU HAVE A MOTTO YOU’RE KNOWN FOR?

JK: “Never give up!”

JANET MARKS

VICE PRESIDENT &

MARKET

MANAGER, SUNRISE BANK

Janet Marks has been in the banking industry since 1989 and helps lead Sunrise Bank’s Ormond Beach branch. Since Sunrise is a Florida-based community bank with 100% local ownership, profits are reinvested into the local community – something that Janet is proud to spearhead.

“Jim Hester, Mike Opalewski, and I have worked together tirelessly to build community banks, strong teams, and invest in the neighborhoods we serve,” said Janet. Janet’s broad experience – from teller services to customer service and consumer lending, mortgage origination, fixed annuities, and life insurance – has given her a deep understanding of how to serve the community.

DL: ARE YOU A DAYTONA ORIGINAL?

JM: I’m from Massachusetts, but I’ve been here since 1989.

DL: HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A BANKER?

JM: I’ve always been drawn to finance. When I transitioned into banking, I knew I had found my path. I’ve had many roles and each has strengthened my passion for helping customers navigate their financial journeys.

DL: WHO WAS THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?

JM: My greatest influences are my parents.  My father, a cabinet maker and union carpenter, and my mother, a dedicated homemaker, taught us the value of hard work, sacrifice, and integrity. They instilled in us the importance of putting your best foot forward, taking pride in what you do, and leading with honesty, self-worth, and a strong moral character.

DL: IF YOU COULD INVITE ONLY FOUR PEOPLE TO YOUR DINNER PARTY WHO WOULD THEY BE?

JM: I’ve long admired George Washington –we even share the same birth date. I would want my daughter there, my best friend Lauren who we lost to Pancreatic cancer, and my Father – I miss his hugs, humor, and smile.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE?

JM: I enjoy fashion – they tease me that my middle name is fashionista.

DL: WHICH TALENT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HAVE?

JM: I’d love to be able to paint.

DL: FIVE WORDS YOU’D USE TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF?

JM: Dedicated, compassionate, hardworking, creative, and someone with integrity.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

JM: Becoming a mother has been a wonderful experience especially when I see our daughter teaching our grandchildren the same values we instilled in her as a child. It’s awesome to see past generations connecting with the present and future. I’m also proud of protecting my customers from fraud and giving back to the community. I’ve been able to help build stronger neighborhoods, prevent financial harm, and provide guidance that goes far beyond daily transactions.  Contributing to both safety and the growth of our community is truly one of my most meaningful achievements.

DL: DO YOU HAVE A MOTTO YOU’RE KNOWN FOR?

JM: “Be real – not perfect.”

KIM SHORT

MARKETING AMBASSADOR, DAYTONA TOYOTA

Kim Short is an extraordinary community connector who is always on the go. “I’ve been very lucky to work for Gib and the Dannehower family. They have trusted me to create our marketing program from scratch,” said Kim. “Nobody knew all the community programs this dealership was supporting and I am happy to let people know.”

Kim has deep roots in the community, her kids grew up here, and like many moms she volunteered with the PTA. She even became a substitute teacher, working in every one of the county’s 67 public schools. She did such a good job, the Volusia County public school system hired her to connect with businesses to help meet the schools’ needs.

“When you dedicate yourself to doing good, it’s amazing what God will put in your path. This community has been my extended family for a long time,” stated Kim while sharing that many people at the dealership are like family and have worked for the dealership for years. “This is our home, our family, and we want our friends and neighbors – and especially women – to feel comfortable coming to our dealership, spending time here, and doing business with us.”

We caught up with Kim as she was preparing to host some of the area’s most successful women for the Port Orange South Daytona Chamber’s International Women’s Day Celebration while also being shadowed by students she mentors from Chiles Academy.

DL: ARE YOU A DAYTONA ORIGINAL?

KS: I’m from Albany but my family moved to South Florida when I was young.

DL: HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE IN MARKETING?

KS: I’m playing to my strengths! Every single report card had a note that I was very talkative.

DL: WHO WAS THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?

KS: My mom. She went back to school, finished her degree, and became a teacher.

DL: IF YOU COULD INVITE ONLY FOUR PEOPLE TO YOUR DINNER PARTY WHO WOULD THEY BE?

KS: I’d go back in time to when my kids were young and have a nice family dinner.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE?

KS: My workouts. I’m a member of Club Pilates, OrangeTheory, Pilates by Design, and Journey Fitness.

DL: WHICH TALENT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HAVE?

KS: I wish I could sing. I have one Karaoke song and that’s it.

DL: FIVE WORDS YOU’D USE TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF?

KS: Outgoing, energetic, people-person, fun, and compassionate.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

KS: My kids – they are really good people.

DL: DO YOU HAVE A MOTTO YOU’RE KNOWN FOR?

KS: “Life isn’t fair. The only thing that’s fair is the Volusia County Fair and It comes to town once a year.”

NIKA HOSSEINI, ESQ.

DEPUTY GENERAL COUNSEL, ICI HOMES

ICI Homes is one of the nation’s largest privately held homebuilders and is where Nika Hosseini has continued to build a career at the intersection of law, development, and community. She advises the company on a range of legal and strategic matters while ensuring responsible growth throughout ICI Homes’ communities.

Nika is very active in the community through her role as chair of AdventHealth Daytona Beach Foundation, as a member AdventHealth Daytona Beach’s Operating Board, and as pro bono counsel to Homes Bring Hope, a program helping families achieve homeownership while addressing homelessness, unemployment, and poverty.

Her devotion to giving back started at a young age when she founded the Nika K. Hosseini Foundation and launched her first clean water project in Uganda. What began as a single solar-powered water system has grown to over 50 water projects with rainwater harvesting systems, classrooms, community gardens, beekeeping, and agricultural initiatives that help communities become self-sustaining.

DL: ARE YOU A DAYTONA ORIGINAL?

NH: Yes, I am – I was born here!

DL: HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A LAWYER?

NH: Yes! I saw that the law is a powerful tool for solving complex problems, bringing people together, and helping projects and communities move forward.

DL: WHO WAS THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?

NH: My family’s work ethic, commitment to integrity, and belief in giving back

shaped how I approach both my career and volunteer service. My husband, Pedrum Samei, is also an attorney and keeps me grounded, although we do love to debate legal matters!

DL: IF YOU COULD INVITE ONLY FOUR PEOPLE TO YOUR DINNER PARTY WHO WOULD THEY BE?

NH: I would invite Nikola Tesla for his genius and vision – he inspired bold ideas. Leonardo da Vinci for his ability to see connections in everything. Carl Jung for his insights into the human mind, and Rumi whose poetry and wisdom connect me to my heritage and the deeper meaning of life.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE?

NH: I am blessed to be able to invest in meaningful change.

DL: WHICH TALENT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HAVE?

NH: I’d like to be able to create a longevity protocol so we could live a very long time.

DL: FIVE WORDS YOU’D USE TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF?

NH: Loyal, steadfast, advocate, empathetic, and strategic.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

NH: Without question, the closeness of my family. The milestones we come together to celebrate keep us closely intertwined in a way that’s increasingly rare today.

DL: DO YOU HAVE A MOTTO YOU’RE KNOWN FOR?

NH: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” (Margaret Mead)

NANCY LOHMAN

PHILANTHROPIST

Nancy Lohman has helped shape the Daytona area through many sterling examples of community building, compassion, and capital funding that have created beautiful public spaces and buildings, improved healthcare, saved abandoned animals, re-imagined the Ormond Memorial Art Museum, and funded science and math initiatives through The Brown.

Nancy is the kind of philanthropist who gives back both financially as well as with her time and ability to bring people together. “I am very intentional even though I couldn’t have predicted becoming a funeral director, for example, but it ended up being some of the most meaningful work of my life,” she says. “I’m very approachable and I like to pitch in. I’ve been very fortunate to help build things important to my family and me.”

DL: ARE YOU A DAYTONA ORIGINAL?

NL: I got here as fast as I could! Dad was a B52 and Saber Jet F86 fighter pilot so I was born at Strategic Air Command in Lincoln, Nebraska before moving to Ohio.

DL: WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

NL: I wanted to be a florist and originally majored in floriculture.

DL: WHO WAS THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOU?

NL: By far, my husband Lowell who was so very wise and knew how to handle any situation. Also, my mom who was well-read, resourceful, resilient, witty, and could carry on a conversation on any subject –I’m told I’m very like her. She went back to college when we were young and had a wonderful career.

DL: IF YOU COULD INVITE ONLY FOUR PEOPLE TO YOUR DINNER PARTY WHO WOULD THEY BE?

NL: I would recreate the wonderful dinners with Lowell, Susan and Carl Persis, and my other really great girlfriends.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE?

NL: Roberto Coin jewelry from Tom Cook. Oh, and my handbags. I’m the “bling sheep” of my family!

DL: WHICH TALENT WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO HAVE?

NL: To sing like Julie Andrews.

DL: WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

NL: Being a fantastic wife to Lowell. We lifted each other up and had a 35-year relationship that was very loving and respectful. I’m also proud of completing the Mary McLeod Bethune statue installation. It took four years and daily determination, but I was at the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall when groups came through and went straight to her statue. We also unveiled her statue at the Riverfront Esplanade in Daytona. Lowell and I admired her so much. Her life serves as a lesson for living harmoniously with others, and that anyone can achieve their goals and move past barriers to create change.

DL: DO YOU HAVE A MOTTO YOU’RE KNOWN FOR?

NL: “When words are inadequate, ceremony and ritual are essential.”

(Dr. Alan Wolfelt)

May is Women's Health Month

THE RISE OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

Stephanie Parcus’s journey is both a testament to perseverance and a cautionary tale on going from a seemingly perfectly healthy mom to a 30-day sprint from diagnosis to surgery and treatment.

“I had had trouble getting pregnant, without any identifiable cause, so we underwent IVF which was ultimately not successful. We were blessed to adopt our son and I embraced the busy life of raising a child,” says Stephanie, who splits time between Daytona Beach and Indiana. In her early 40’s, she began experiencing pronounced pain during ovulation. She mentioned her concern to her primary care physician during her annual check-up. Since she wasn’t experiencing other symptoms such as irregular cycles or abnormal bleeding, her doctor assured her she was fine and possibly experiencing perimenopausal symptoms.

Following her father’s passing in 2023, Stephanie reset to focus on her personal health and again raised concerns at her next checkup in 2024 to no avail. Feeling that something just wasn’t quite right, and now experiencing a couple of irregular cycles, Stephanie switched to a new primary care doctor that summer. By then she was bloated and not feeling well.

This time her concerns were taken seriously and her doctor ordered a CT scan which showed an inflamed ovary. She was quickly referred to a gynecologic oncologist who scheduled an exploratory procedure and possible hysterectomy.

Thirty days after the diagnosis, Stephanie underwent surgery during which endometrial cancer was discovered – a type of uterine cancer that had spread to her ovary. Thankfully, it was contained and had not spread to the lymph nodes. After recovering from surgery, she underwent six rounds of preventative chemotherapy and five weeks of radiation, with all treatment completed by May 2025.

“I’ve survived and I am so thankful for the friend who recommended I speak with the doctor who finally listened to me,” said Stephanie. “They told me most women are

ARTICLE BY DEB LOVETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE PARCUS

diagnosed with this type of cancer only after it reaches Stage IV and has spread. It underscored for me the importance of awareness and self-advocacy.”

Stephanie is now 17 months with “no evidence of disease” (NED) and is dedicated to spreading the word about being in tune with your body and noting when your “normal” experiences change.

Dr. Matthew Anderson, a board-certified gynecologic oncologist at Tampa General Hospital Cancer Center of South Florida and professor at the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine, agrees that Stephanie’s experience is not uncommon. “It’s important to see someone who specializes in diagnosing and treating endometrial cancer – a gynecologic oncologist with surgical experience. Survival rates are excellent if caught early.”

According to Dr. Anderson, the hallmark symptom that should prompt a trip to the doctor is abnormal bleeding or spotting in post-menopausal women. “Abnormal bleeding is cancer in only about 10% of cases, but it needs evaluation because if caught early, endometrial cancers can often be cured with a hysterectomy.” Hysterectomies no longer require multiple overnights in the hospital and a prolonged recovery. Many patients are able to go home the same day with minimal scarring due to laparoscopic surgery techniques.

Unfortunately, the incidence and mortality of endometrial cancer is rising due to obesity and diet. Genetic history is also a factor if you or your family have had breast or colon cancer, a condition known as Lynch syndrome.

“Whether you are peri- or post-menopause, there are certain symptoms to pay attention to: new irregular bleeding, persistent cramping, discomfort, pelvic pressure, and a feeling you are full when you shouldn’t be,” according to Dr. Anderson. “Advocate for yourself, see your doctor, and ask for a pelvic ultrasound.” Ultrasounds can be done quickly in the office and are a relatively inexpensive way to measure the uterine lining. A thickening of the lining

“Travel is my passion so planning our next adventure while I was in treatment helped me stay positive and focus on the future.”

“I’ve survived and I am so thankful for the friend who recommended I speak with the doctor who finally listened to me. Endometrial cancer has a high survival rate (95% for at least five years) if caught early.”

can indicate endometrial cancer and the need for a biopsy. Outpatient endometrial biopsies, or a hysteroscopy, are considered the gold standard for evaluating abnormal post-menopausal bleeding.

“There is no test for endometrial cancer like the PAP smear for cervical cancer,” said Dr. Anderson. “The only way to diagnose it is with a biopsy. If you have symptoms that persist or cause you concern, it’s important to see your doctor.”

To encourage women to speak up and advocate for themselves, Stephanie is sharing her story in the Don’t Be Embarrassed campaign.

“I’m so thankful that my friend encouraged me to get a second opinion,” said Stephanie. “She even knew someone who had had similar issues and recommended the gynecologic oncologist I ended up seeing. She saved my life.”

Stephanie and Dr. Anderson want to encourage others to trust their instincts, have open conversations, and ask questions without fear of embarrassment – especially when it comes to changes in their bodies- so that they may receive timely and appropriate care.

Reliable and medically reviewed information is available at DontBeEmbarrassed.com

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

BERRY BRUSCHETTA

A RECIPE FROM A CUP FULL OF SASS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY TINNIN

This Berry Bruschetta is a delightful twist on the classic bruschetta that we all love. This version uses fruit, bringing a sweet element to the traditionally savory dish. With the use of fresh berries, cream cheese, delicious fruit spread, crumbled cheese, and fresh rosemary, it is the perfect addition to your next spring event. This simple, yet beautiful appetizer could be enjoyed at your next brunch, shower or Mother’s Day celebration. But let’s be honest—you don’t need an excuse to enjoy this delectable dish!

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 baguette slices

• Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)

• 4 oz cream cheese

• 1/4 cup Fruit and Honey Triple Berry Spread (or any fruit spread of your choice)

• 1/3 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/3 cup fresh blueberries

• 2 oz fruit cheese (such as Wensleydale with Autumn Fruit), crumbled

• Fresh rosemary for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Lightly brush the front and back of the baguette slices with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

3. Toast baguette slices in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until lightly toasted.

4. Once the baguette slices are cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese over each slice.

5. Add the fruit spread on top of the cream cheese.

6. Add sliced strawberries and a few blueberries, allowing the vibrant colors to pop. (A great place to find fresh fruit is our local staple, Crystal & Rich’s Produce.)

7. Crumble the fruit cheese over the top for an added layer of richness and depth.

8. Garnish with fresh Rosemary if desired.

9. Serve and enjoy!

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 1ST

First Friday Art Walk Daytona Beach

Beach Street, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 | 5:00 PM

Attention art lovers! Downtown Daytona Beach invites you to stroll along Beach Street the first Friday of each month to enjoy “ArtWalk." Brought to you by Riverfront Shops of Daytona Beach.

MAY 2ND

First Saturday Ormond Art Walk

Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 | 3:00 PM

Celebrate art and culture in downtown Ormond Beach from 3-7pm the first Saturday of the month, rain or shine. Many businesses along Granada Boulevard, including the Ormond Memorial Art Museum, have their doors open to showcase regional, national, and international artists. Courtesy of Ormond Mainstreet, the FREE AdventHealth shuttle stops at many Art Walk locations.

MAY 7TH - 10TH

Welcome to Rockville

Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 | 11:00 AM

While the line-up and start times are always subject to change, what's undisputed about Welcome to Rockville is it's a rockin' good time. Headliners at press time include Guns N' Roses, Foo Fighters, Alice Cooper, My Chemical Romance, Godsmack, Staind, The Offspring, Yellowcard, Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening. Highly recommend the VIP and Daytona Owners Club experiences. Tickets at WelcometoRockville.com.

MAY 23RD

Star Spangled Summer Concert Series

Daytona Beach Bandshell, 70 Boardwalk, Daytona Beach, FL 32118 | 7:15 PM

The free 2026 Star Spangled Summer Concert Series at the Daytona Beach Bandshell runs every Saturday night starting kicks off May 23 and runs every Saturday until September 26th. Music at 7:15PM. followed by fireworks. The series kicks off with a Police and Cars tribute from Zendatta and Touch and Go. Reserved VIP tickets available for purchase at AXS.com.

MAY 25TH

Memorial Day Remembrance Service

Rockefeller Gardens Park, 26 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach, FL | 9:00 AM

Honor our nation’s heroes at the Memorial Day Remembrance Service in Ormond Beach along the Intracoastal Waterway adjacent to The Casements. This solemn ceremony commemorates those who lost their lives in service, featuring guest speakers, patriotic music, and a moment of silence to pay tribute to the fallen. Folding chairs and blankets are recommended.

MAY 31ST

Hang 8 Dog Surfing Extravaganza

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, 918 N. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118 | 8:00 AM

Watch as four-legged athletes take on the waves while families, dog lovers, and community champions cheer them on. Presented by Daytona Dog Beach Inc. in partnership with  Volusia County Animal Services, this one-of-a-kind event features dog surfing competitions, crowd-favorite contests, a lively Surfing Village, and an after-party overlooking the ocean.