LMS offers an authentic Montessori program from early childhood through high school, adhering to principles and scientific methods for your child’s development.
The elementary learning environment (grades 1-6) fosters independence and focus through individual or small group work, natural lighting, soft colors, and organized, accessible materials. New students quickly adapt to Montessori’s hands-on, interest-driven teaching. The classroom is a vibrant, happy community where students explore, create, and reflect, with teachers offering support and introducing new material as needed. Clear expectations are balanced with openended opportunities, promoting both comfort and inspiration for learning.
Our Secondary Montessori program serves 7th - 10th grade with expansion of grade levels each year.
We integrate rigorous academics with purposeful work, preparing students to become selfconfident, contributing adults. Our approach addresses adolescents’ physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and independence. Beyond challenging their intellect, compassion, diplomacy and collaboration are developed through personally experiencing human and nature interdependence. Students also learn business and entrepreneurship skills through hands-on participation in real economic activity provided by Laniakea’s micro-economy program.
We are accepting 3 new students to join our Secondary program. Students must have a strong work ethic with a positive behavior record.
April - The Investment Issue
Investment. By definition, it’s the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources toward something with the hope of a worthwhile return. But in practice, it’s so much more. Whether it’s our community, relationships, finances, or personal growth, the things we invest in shape our futures and the lives of those around us.
We can invest in our community by supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations. Volunteering and mentoring are powerful ways to contribute to future generations. On a broader scale, participating in public surveys and staying informed about city planning are investments in the places we call home.
Financial investments help us build security and achieve long-term goals, while personal investments—spending quality time with loved ones or fostering deeper connections—bring immeasurable rewards to both ourselves and the people we care about.
In this issue, we bring to you many different ways of investing shared by local experts in our community – investing in our homes, insurance, gold and silver, ourselves, our bodies, our health, non-profits, real estate, our businesses, and our families.
Every investment we make is an act of hope and commitment. As you read this issue, we hope you’ll feel inspired to invest in the people, places, and dreams that matter most to you. We hope you’ll find some great takeaways that are helpful for you.
Elizabeth Mueller | elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Tyler Laborde | TJosephLaborde@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dawn Smith, MD, Absolute Wellness and Weightloss, Clover and Cloud Bounce Co., Marlene Morales, Touching Hearts at Home, Christina Ramos, Aura
Senior Placement Solutions, Deborah Johnson, Kaelyn Schmidt, Kaelyn Schmidt Design, Blue Moon Photography, Elder Options, ANCHOR, Jamie Stevens, Sunkissed Properties Florida, Shakespeare Animal Fund, Jennifer Webb, MyWonderMail, Katherine Osman, Pinspiration Gainesville, Forest Meadows Funeral Home, Peter Moloney, Jamie Mousa, Schackow and Mercadante, P.A., Terri Bork, Abacus Gal, Tristan Ford Frower, Govind and Sons Fine Jewelry, Gopal Ghosh, Tyler Laborde, Naps Happen Photography, The Hippodrome Theatre, Cabi Style with Leza, Leza Mueller, Arashi Yama Sushi, Looking Good Suits, Corey Amira, Corey Amira Custom Homes, Dr. Jason Rosenberg, Michelle McElroy, MM Design & Decor, Anthony Verdi, Atlas Roofing Corporation, Dr. Laura W. McChesney, Momentum Rehab & Chiropractic, Suzanne Porath, Gainesville Picture Framers, Lisa Lothian, Edwin Duque, GreatFlorida Insurance of Gainesville, Sweet Serendipity Photography, Community Weatherization Coalition, Katie Greenshaw, Christina Miller, Millhopper Montessori School.
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
business monthly
Grand Reopening: Spring Into Wellness
Absolute Wellness and Weightloss is pleased to announce our relocation to 3600 NW 43rd Street, Suite D4. Join us April 9th from 3–7 PM for a Grand Reopening celebration. Tour the new space, enjoy light refreshments, and experience our clinically informed approach to metabolic health, sustainable weight loss, and whole-body wellness. To RSVP, call 352-327-8228. Learn more at absolutewellnessandweightloss.com
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Luxury Bounce Houses: An Investment in Photo-Worthy Family Celebrations
Clover and Cloud Bounce Co. is a boutique event rental company in Gainesville specializing in luxury bounce houses and soft play for family celebrations. Founded by husband-and-wife team Marlene and Edgar Morales, the brand was designed for parents who intentionally invest in creating beautiful memories. With clean, neutral designs that photograph effortlessly and thoughtful, reliable service, Clover and Cloud creates joy-filled experiences that allow families to be present while children enjoy playful, unforgettable moments together.
Investing in Home Care: Supporting Seniors, Families, and Our Community
As our community grows and ages, supporting seniors’ independence, dignity, and quality of life is essential. Professional home care is a meaningful investment in safety, stability, and peace of mind. Home care allows older adults to remain at home with personalized support, often improving outcomes and reducing hospitalizations. Touching Hearts at Home provides experienced caregivers, thoughtful matching, and consistent oversight. Locally owned for 15 years, they help seniors age safely. Call 352-225-3727 with confidence today.
Photography by Dawn Smith, MD
Photography by Marlene Morales
Photography by Christina Ramos
Welcome Aura Senior Placement Solutions to Gainesville City Lifestyle!
Aura Senior Placement Solutions helps families navigate senior living and care decisions with clarity and confidence. Founded by senior care advocate Deborah Johnson, Aura offers personalized guidance through every stage of the aging continuum from planning ahead to finding the right care at the right time. With a compassionate, educational approach and strong industry knowledge, Aura helps families make thoughtful, informed decisions without pressure.
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Shop Our Curated Design Boards Online Now
You can now shop directly through our website! Purchase items straight from our curated design boards with ease. Visit kaelynschmidtdesign.com and click the “Shop” tab at the top of the page to explore and bring your favorite pieces home.
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Elder Options launches ANCHOR program supporting older adults and caregivers.
Elder Options recently launched ANCHOR, a new private-pay geriatric care management program supporting older adults and caregivers. ANCHOR helps individuals and families navigate resources, coordinate support, and manage everyday life as needs change. The program was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting led by Elder Options CEO Katina Mustipher, joined by members of the Elder Options Board of Directors, Advisory Board, and community members. For additional information feel free to reach out to Debbie Sahay at 352-663-9166 or on our website at https://anchorncf.com/.
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Photography by Deborah Johnson
Photography by Blue Moon Photography
Photography by Elder Options
Jamie Stevens: A Trusted Local Leader in Florida Real Estate
Jamie Stevens, broker-owner of Sunkissed Properties of Florida, is known for combining market expertise with a genuine, customer-first approach. Serving North Central Florida, Jamie and her team specialize in guiding buyers and sellers through informed, confident real estate decisions. Her deep local knowledge, strong negotiation skills, and hands-on service set her apart. Customers appreciate her clear communication, strategic insight, and dedication to delivering results, making Jamie a trusted go-to resource for real estate success. Jamie@SunkissedPropertiesFL.com
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A Gainesville Maker Brings Storybook Magic Back to the Mail
Brindlewick is a handcrafted storybook mail experience created in Gainesville by local maker and storyteller Katherine Fleck Osman. Designed, cut, engraved, and assembled in her studio, each mailing invites children into a slow-building world of imagination through letters from Brindlewick the Forest Wizard. With wooden Lore Books, wax-sealed envelopes, and thoughtful details made by hand, Brindlewick celebrates local creativity, intentional making, and the quiet magic of stories shared at home. Learn more at MyWonderMail.com
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Photography by Jamie Stevens
Photography by Katherine Osman
Freeze Away Your Freeze Away Your Unwanted Fat with Unwanted Fat with
CoolSculpting® is a noninvasive, FDA-approved treatment which safely targets & permanently reduces fat cells in the body throughcryolipolysis, or fat freezing.
No Downtime No Surgery or Incisions No Exercise
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We take pride in being the first ever aesthetic center in Gainesville, Florida to purchase CoolSculpting® & become certified. With over 10,000 treatments performed since 2011, we are your first choice for CoolSculpting® providers!
Are you a candidate? Schedule a free consultation to find out!
RIVERS EXPEDITIONS OCEANS
Celebrating 25+ years of sell Viking™ locally
CERTIFIED MASTER VIKING CRUISE SPECIALIST ™
45+ years as Gainesville ‘s Luxury Travel Agency
“My team & I are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week”
Every Travel Advisor is a Certified Master Viking Cruise Specialist™
by our
on
Forest Meadows Funeral Home & Cemeteries
Under New Ownership
“This isn’t just a trip of a lifetime… it is THE Trip of a Lifetime!”
Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt amid the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Explore the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars. Visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Skim the waters of the Nile by traditional felucca. Enjoy the fragrances of Aswan’s spice market. Join our expert Egyptologists on a 12 day cruisetour through Egypt on board our modern Nile ships, owned
Forest Meadows Funeral Home & Cemeteries is proud to serve Gainesville families with world- class care, thoughtful service, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Under new ownership and management, our dedicated team delivers compassionate guidance and professional support at every step. From meaningful ceremonies at our Tribute Center to services at our funeral home and brand-new, stateof-the-art crematory, we ensure every family receives dignified, high-quality care close to home.
Photography by Peter Moloney
When the Other Driver Has Nothing
If you drive in Florida, you’ve probably had that moment of white-knuckle frustration— someone cuts you off, blows a red light, or stares at their phone instead of the road.
Here’s the hard truth: Florida roads are full of drivers who carry little or no insurance at all. Florida does not require drivers to carry bodily injury insurance and statistics show that 1 in 4 drivers is uninsured. This means the person who seriously injures you may have no insurance money, or assets, with which to compensate you. And if that happens, the consequences fall squarely on you—your body, your family, your finances.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage exists for that exact nightmare scenario. It protects you when the at-fault driver can’t or won’t. Without UM coverage, you could be left paying out of pocket for medical bills, missing paychecks, and long-term care—all because someone else made a reckless choice.
Many people assume their basic insurance is enough. It isn’t. Florida’s required Personal Injury Protection (PIP) only covers a portion of your medical bills and does nothing for pain, suffering, or long-term disability. UM coverage fills that gap. It can help pay for ongoing treatment, compensate you for lost income, and acknowledge the real human cost of an injury—not just the receipts.
UM coverage is also your lifeline in hit-and-run crashes. If the driver disappears, so does their insurance. UM coverage may be the only reason you’re not left completely alone to deal with the aftermath.
One of the most powerful aspects of UM coverage is that it follows you. Whether you’re driving, riding with a friend, walking through a parking lot, or biking with your kids, UM coverage can still protect you if a vehicle hits you.
The cost of UM coverage is usually small compared to what it protects. The cost of not having it can be life-altering.
You insure your car because it matters. Insuring yourself matters more. In Florida, Uninsured Motorist coverage isn’t just another line on your policy—it’s peace of mind, protection, and a smart investment in your future.
Call Schackow and Mercadante, P.A. for a free policy review at 352-371-3000.
Florida roads are risky enough; Uninsured Motorist coverage fills a dangerous gap in your protection
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE MOUSA
The Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce is pleased to congratulate our Diplomat of the Year
Ro b Pettie!
Rob became a Diplomat June 2024. He supports the Chamber with dedication and consistency! Rob currently serves as Multimedia Marketing Consultant for Gray Media and has attended and served at over a dozen Chamber events this year alone! His love for Gainesville shines through!
Thank you for all you do for our Chamber and our community, Rob!
Chamb e r Eng age me n t : Our Diplo m at s!
Check out the benefits of Chamber membership here!
Chamber Diplomats are local professionals who volunteer to help us foster a welcoming environment for those who attend our events, as well as help us better connect with the community at large. These ambassadors represent the Chamber as an extension of our staff, as well as their organizations in the community. Diplomats are one of the many ways our Chamber and the Greater Gainesville community come together to support local business and our members!
Shop Local, Love Local, Live Local
BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY, ONE SMALL BUSINESS AT A TIME
Clover and Cloud: Investing in Photo-Worthy Family Celebrations
Clover and Cloud / Invest in luxury experiences / neutral bounce houses / photo-worthy / delivery & setup / cloverandcloudbounce.com
Jacqueline Valdez Studio: Wellness & Dance
Jacqueline Valdez Studio / Tailored Pilates, Ballroom Dance, and Adult Ballet sessions for athletes, seniors, and dancers. Move with strength, shine with grace. / @jacquelinevaldezstudio / Call (352) 256-2054
Cabi Style with Leza: Cabi Spring 26
Cabi Style with Leza / Cabi Spring 26 / Invest in clothes that support your life, not just your closet. / https://cabi.cabionline.com/ elizabethmueller / Call (352) 359-6023
Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge: Creative and Fresh Sushi
Arashi Yama Sushi & Hibachi Lounge / Try some of the best and most creative sushi with the freshest and finest ingredients! / www.arashiyamagainesville.com / Call (352) 505-6000
The Hippodrome Theater: Flex Passes
The Hippodrome Theater / Gift unforgettable moments: Live theater or cinema with Hippodrome Theatre’s flex passes and gift cards / thehipp.org / Call (352) 375-4477
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.
INVEST Beyond SALES VOLUME
ARTICLE BY TERRI BORK ABACUS GAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISTAN FORD FROWER
For many business owners, investment decisions are triggered by one signal: sales. More revenue suggests momentum, safety, and readiness for the next step. But sales, on their own, are a misleading place to invest confidence.
Revenue is easy to celebrate. Profit is harder to face.
When businesses invest based solely on sales growth, they often scale the wrong things. More staff to support unprofitable work. More marketing to feed low-margin offers. More complexity layered onto fragile systems. The result is a larger business that is not necessarily a stronger one.
Profit is where investment becomes strategic. It reveals which sales actually deserve more resources and which ones quietly erode capacity. It guides smarter pricing decisions, cleaner service models, and more sustainable growth paths.
Investing in profit clarity changes how owners decide their next move. It slows impulse. It sharpens focus. It protects optionality.
The goal is not fewer sales. It is better ones. Because when business owners invest in understanding how money truly moves through their business, growth stops being a gamble and starts becoming intentional.
Terri Bork Abacus Gal
GOLD. SILVER. LEGACY. WEALTH.
ARTICLE BY GOPAL GHOSH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER LABORDE: NAPS HAPPEN PHOTOGRAPHY
As Gopal, son of Govind and second generation of Govind and Sons Fine Jewelry, I’ve spent my life working with gold and silver, and I can confidently say they are more than beautiful metals — they are enduring investments. For thousands of years, civilizations have trusted gold and silver to store wealth, preserve value, and provide security during uncertain times. Trends change. Markets rise and fall. But precious metals have always held their ground.
Gold has long been considered a global standard of wealth. It is finite, universally recognized, and consistently in demand. Silver, often more accessible, carries both intrinsic value and strong industrial demand, making it equally compelling. Together, they offer balance — stability with growth potential.
What makes gold and silver especially powerful is that they are tangible. You can see them. Hold them. Pass them down. Unlike paper assets, they are not dependent on a company’s performance or a digital platform’s existence.
At Govind and Sons Fine Jewelry, we believe fine jewelry should be worn, enjoyed, and treasured — but it should also be smart. Investing in gold and silver is not just about today. It’s about building a legacy for tomorrow.
Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL
An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.
Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
for the exclusive reveal and more with Tim Tebow unfiltered.
the first time ever, Tim shares the inspiration behind a project he’s been holding close to his heart.
Redefining MVP
FEATURING TIM TEBOW
GAINESVILLE Custom HOMES Designed FOR Long-Term INVESTMENT
Corey Amira Custom Homes combines thoughtful design and quality construction to strengthen your investment.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY COREY AMIRA:
OWNER
COREY AMIRA CUSTOM HOMES
Building a custom home isn’t just about getting your dream home — it’s about making a smart investment that pays off down the road. When you focus on quality from the beginning, you’re setting your home up for stronger resale value and long-term equity growth.
One of the biggest advantages of building custom is control over materials. Instead of standard-grade finishes, you can choose higher quality materials that last longer and look better over time. Solid wood cabinetry, premium flooring, durable exterior materials, and well-built structural components don’t just feel better — they hold up better. That durability means fewer repairs, lower maintenance costs, and a home that still looks impressive years later.
Timeless design plays just as big of a role. Trends come and go, but clean lines, functional layouts, natural light, and classic finishes never fall out of style. Designing with longevity in mind keeps your home relevant in the market, which is exactly what future buyers are looking for. A well-thought-out floor plan and cohesive design can significantly increase perceived value.
Corey Amira Custom Homes builds with this long-term perspective at the forefront. By combining high-quality craftsmanship with timeless architectural choices, they create homes that not only feel elevated today but remain competitive tomorrow.
For homeowners building in Gainesville and Ocala, choosing a custom home built with quality materials and enduring design is more than a lifestyle decision — it’s a strategic investment in one of Florida’s growing and desirable markets.
An Investment That Supports You
How daily choices shape energy, confidence, and long-term health over time.
When we talk about investing, most people think about money. But there is another investment that can have enormous returns for your quality of life. It is the way we care for our bodies. This investment influences how we feel now and how we function years down the road.
Your health shows up in everyday life. It influences how much energy you have when you wake up, how well you handle stress, and how clearly you think. It affects how your clothes fit and how confident you feel moving through your day. This is often how your body shows you whether it is getting what it needs.
Health can be slow to change and is built through small habits practiced consistently over time. The meals you choose most days. How much you move. Whether sleep and recovery are treated as priorities or pushed aside. These choices may feel small at the moment, but over time they add up and shape how your body functions, adapts, and feels.
Modern life does not make this easy. Many people sit more, rush meals, sleep less, and expect their bodies to keep up without support. Over time, this can result in low energy, weight changes, disrupted sleep, or simply feeling worn down and less resilient.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY DAWN SMITH, MD
The good news is that improvement does not require extreme changes. Planning meals ahead can reduce stress and support metabolic balance. Adding movement throughout the day, whether walking, stretching, or strength training, helps build strength and resilience. Prioritizing sleep and managing stress supports balance. The most meaningful improvements come from proactively supporting your health rather than waiting until you feel run down or off track. Energy and confidence improve. Showing up for yourself becomes easier.
You live in your body every day. Where you invest your time and attention now determines how much enjoyment and support you experience today and in the years ahead.
https://www.absolutewellnessandweightloss.com/
Dawn Smith, MD
The Silhouette Reset: Investing In You
A CONSIDERED SURGICAL APPROACH TO IMPLANT REMOVAL AND NATURAL RECONSTRUCTION
ARTICLE BY DR. JASON ROSENBERG, MD, FACS
Investing is often associated with portfolios, real estate, or long-term financial planning. Increasingly, however, women are redefining what it means to invest—placing value on health, authenticity, and long-term wellbeing. For many, this shift includes the decision to remove breast implants, whether due to evolving personal preferences or concerns related to breast implant illness.
The Silhouette Reset is a comprehensive surgical approach developed by Dr. Jason Rosenberg, designed for women seeking breast implant removal with thoughtful, natural reconstruction. Rather than focusing solely on explantation, the procedure emphasizes restoration—using a patient’s own tissue, advanced lifting techniques, and precise contouring to reestablish balance and proportion.
Implant removal presents unique considerations, including skin laxity, volume changes, and altered breast architecture. The Silhouette Reset addresses these challenges through meticulous surgical planning and tissue redistribution, creating results that feel refined, proportional, and enduring. When appropriate, complementary body contouring further enhances the overall silhouette.
For women who have experienced weight loss, pregnancy, or years since augmentation, this approach represents a long-term investment—one that prioritizes comfort, confidence, and natural aesthetics over trends or temporary solutions. The goal is not to recreate a former version of the body, but to thoughtfully restore harmony as it exists today.
At its core, the Silhouette Reset reflects a modern philosophy of aesthetic surgery: measured, intentional, and deeply personal. It is an investment not only in appearance, but in living comfortably and confidently—now and for years to come.
Restoring beauty… naturally.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER LABORDE: NAPS HAPPEN PHOTOGRAPHY
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE MCELROY: MM DESIGN & DECOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER LABORDE: NAPS HAPPEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Invest in Elevated Home Living
EXPERIENCE DISTINCTIVE DESIGN, ARTISAN DETAILS, AND REFINED FINISHES THAT TRANSFORM YOUR HOME INTO A SOPHISTICATED GATHERING SPACE—AN INVESTMENT IN AESTHETICS, COMFORT, AND FUNCTIONALITY.
Investing in your home is more than selecting beautiful finishes — it’s shaping how you live every day. Interior design brings intention to every detail, ensuring your spaces function effortlessly while reflecting your personal style. For luxury homeowners, thoughtful design enhances comfort, improves flow, and protects long-term value. When craftsmanship meets vision, your home becomes a refined gathering place and a meaningful investment in aesthetics, lifestyle, and legacy. MM Design and Decor
ROOFING, valuable investment.
Investing in your roof protects your home, enhances efficiency and delivers long-term peace of mind.
ARTICLE BY ANTHONY VERDI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ATLAS ROOFING CORPORATION
Maintaining your roof is essential for lasting performance and protection. Regular maintenance and proactive repairs help prevent costly damage and extend your roof’s lifespan. Choosing a licensed, reputable and well-established local roofing contractor contributes significantly to the success of your roof. For dependable inspections, year-round maintenance agreements, and a wide range of roofing services, trust Atlantic Roofing and Exteriors, your reliable local roofing expert.
Life’s Most Important Investment
TREATING YOUR HEALTH
LIKE A STOCK PORTFOLIO PAYS BIG DIVIDENDS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
DR. LAURA W. MCCHESNEY, CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN
People gladly invest in stocks, trusting small, consistent deposits to compound into real wealth. Your health works the same, only the stakes are higher. Daily training, wellness care, smart nutrition, and stress control act like diversified assets, building power, mobility, and longevity. Skip deposits and volatility hitsfast: pain, injury, burnout, and declining performance. Yet people still say, “It’s too expensive” or “I don’t have time.” Start early and compounding shows up as energy, clarity, and resilience. Unlike markets, health pays dividends today and for decades. Treat your body like your highest-value portfolio. Discipline, patience, and consistency drive returns. Health is the real retirement plan. https://www.rehabandchiropractic.com/
INVESTING IN MEMORIES
Preserving the Moments that Matter with Custom Picture Framing
At Gainesville Picture Framers we understand custom framing as an investment- both literally and emotionally. Every day we are entrusted with preserving, protecting, and celebrating the art and artifacts that mean the most to our clients.
On a technical level, this entails using acid-free materials, UV protection, and conservation mounting methods that are non-invasive and reversible. Without proper protection, over time artwork gets damaged, fades, or is
simply put into a tube in a closet to be forgotten until the next clean.
On a practical level, we frame what we cherish, whether artwork, family photos, diplomas, love letters, jerseys, and any sort of memorabilia with professional, emotional, or decorative significance worth preserving and sharing. We help you honor these items with a place on the wall, creating memories to be passed down for generations to come.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZANNE
PORATH
Investing in Real Estate
A Wealth-Building Move (Even in Today’s Market)
If you’ve been watching the market and wondering, “Is now really the time to invest?” you’re not alone. The truth is, real estate has always rewarded people who think long-term. A home (or investment property) isn’t just a purchase; it’s an asset that can grow with you, protect you from rent increases, and build wealth through equity over time. Here’s the encouraging part: financing is still very workable. As of January 29, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is about 6.10% (with 15-year fixed averaging 5.49%).
Rates aren’t “cheap,” but they’re meaningfully lower than this time last year, often enough to shift a buyer from “maybe” to “manageable.” Locally, we’re also seeing signals that smart buyers and investors can find opportunity. In Alachua County, recent market data shows a median sale price around $340K with more homes selling compared to last year, meaning activity is healthy, but buyers may have more
choices and negotiating room than the frenzy years. In Gainesville, the median sale price has been reported around $285K, with sales volume ticking up year-over-year. For investors, that combination matters. Stable demand and more inventory can mean better selection and improved leverage in negotiations. For homeowners, it’s a reminder that your mortgage payment is doing more than “covering housing.” It can be converting monthly dollars into ownership. If you want to build wealth with real estate, the best plan is rarely timing the perfect moment, it’s choosing the right property, structuring strong terms, and understanding the market. That’s exactly where expert guidance pays off, and I’d love to help you make that strategic next step. With the right strategy and local insight, today’s decisions can become tomorrow’s equity, security, and long-term financial confidence for you and your family.
www.armourasphalt.com | 352-554-1347 | 309 NE 1st St. Ste #47A Gainesville, FL | amoursealcoating2@gmail.com
Why investing in quality sleep pays off in every part of life
REST DEEPER
ARTICLE BY LISA LOTHIAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER LABORDE: NAPS HAPPEN PHOTOGRAPHY
In a culture that celebrates productivity, deep sleep has become one of our most undervalued investments. Yet the return it offers—mental clarity, emotional steadiness, cellular repair, and longevity is unmatched by supplements or self-help trends. When we sleep deeply, the brain detoxifies, the nervous system recalibrates, and the body restores itself in ways we simply can’t replicate while awake.
For many people, deep sleep feels increasingly out of reach. One overlooked culprit is toxicity—both environmental and internal. Everyday exposures from food, water, air, and household products accumulate in the body, placing stress on the nervous system. When the body is overloaded, it often shows up first as restless nights or waking up feeling anything but restored. In fact, sleep disruption is often a signal, not a standalone problem.
This is where intentional tools can make a meaningful difference. One emerging option is NuCalm , a neuroscience -based app designed to guide the body into a parasympathetic, deeply restorative state. Users often describe it as a shortcut to calm— an accessible way to downshift the mind, supporting deeper
sleep cycles. While it’s not a magic fix, it can be a powerful complement to a holistic approach.
For those curious about how toxicity and other stessors may be affecting your sleep, Lisa Lothian of Natural Body Balance, Certified Toxicity & Detox Specialist, offers complimentary stress and toxicity assessments to help people understand what might be burdening their system. Additionally, she provides a free trial of NuCalm for anyone wanting to explore whether this technology can support their sleep and well-being. Additionally, Natural Body Balance offers a 15% discount on the NuCalm app if you decide to keep it.
Investing in deep sleep isn’t indulgent—it’s foundational. When we prioritize it, everything else we care about becomes easier: focus, mood, metabolism, resilience, and even the ability to show up fully for the people we love. In a month dedicated to investing, the quiet hours that shape all the others is a great place to put your focus.
For your complimentary assessments and free trial, call/text Lisa at 561-703-2747.
Lisa Lothian
Pay monthly or pay in full? Learn how paying up front can cut fees, earn discounts, lock rates, and keep more cash in your pocket.
STOP PAYING EXTRA FOR INSURANCE
You would never walk into a casino, put your rent money on red, and smile. But a lot of us do something similar with insurance by choosing the payment plan on autopilot.
When you buy home or auto insurance, you get two choices: pay installments or pay the whole term up front. If you can swing it, paying in full is an investment in yourself.
Most insurers reward it with a pay in full discount. Saving 3 to 8 percent is money you keep and redirect into your life, your business, or your next goal.
Paying up front also buys predictability. Monthly billing can add fees and create more chances to miss a payment when life gets busy. One payment clears the mental clutter.
And once your policy starts, your rate is locked for the term. If you get into a car accident tomorrow, your price does not change mid policy.
Monthly payments feel smaller, but paying up front is how you stop paying extra for the same protection. https://gainesville.greatflorida.com/
Protect Rental Property Investments
For each eligible rental, ACEEP funds up to $15,000 in improvements.
For rental property owners looking to improve properties while limiting capital investment, ACEEP provides a structured path to meaningful upgrades that preserve long-term value.
From new appliances and windows to insulation and HVAC systems, Rebuilding Together North Central Florida and Community Weatherization Coalition manage the entire process. Estimates, contractor coordination and payment, and final verification are handled on owners’ behalf, reducing administrative burden while delivering documented upgrades.
Selina Williams, an owner of four local rental properties, enrolled those units and found that ACEEP helped
fulfill her “desire to provide tenants with a safe, beautiful, energy efficient home and environment.” She also noted that “utility bills are lower,” contributing to higher tenant satisfaction and reduced turnover. One of her rentals, pictured here, received subfloor insulation, new windows, a washer and dryer, a refrigerator, a toilet, duct sealing, weatherstripping, and a smart thermostat.
Rental property owners wanting to save on upgrades and maintenance costs, enrolling in the Alachua County Energy Efficiency Program (ACEEP) is a strategic investment! https://communityweatherization.org/ rental-program-aceep/
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
KATIE GREENSHAW
Christina Miller Owner/Head of School MillhopperMontessoriSchool , LLC
Investing in Your Child's Future
Children can begin to learn about money at an early age even though it is usually at age 18 when an individual can legally manage an account.
As soon as a child learns the basics of money they can learn to invest. Starting with the 50/30/20 rule of needs, wants, and savings is a good segway into the concept of investing. The Three-Jar System is an effective way to handle money. Have your children divide money for saving, spending and investing. You can even have a fourth jar for giving. The concept that investing money brings more money can be taught through games such as Rats to Riches and The Game of Life.
As children get older, they can use simulating opportunities such as lnvestopedia which allows for practice without any risk. Older children can also learn about growth and risk by picking a stock in a familiar company and tracking it over time.
On You Tube, Erin Talks Money has videos that are aimed at parents to
educate their children on investing. A few good ones are Kids learn Money Habits by Age 3, and How to Set Up Your Child’s Financial Life by Age 5. Recently Good Morning America has a segment on How to Invest in your child’s future and there is a You Tube for accessing that as well.
Parents can open custodial accounts for their children by way of 529 plans which offer tax-advantaged growth. Communicate to family members, such as grandparents, and let them be a part of contributing regularly or even just on birthdays because time and consistency are what it takes to build your child’s wealth.
The Trump Accounts for Newborns will provide $1000 federal deposit per child. Parents will need to fill out IRS form 4547. Children born between January 1,2025 and December 31, 2028 also qualify. Go to https://www.babylist.com to get instructions on how to apply. Millhopper Montessori School
Pavlov— Investing in the Future of Gainesville.
At Pavlov, we believe the best investments are the ones that bring people together. That’s why we’re building more than just a network in Gainesville; we’re building a community.
Up to 400 Mbps $4999 /month
Up to 1 Gbps $5999 /month
Up to 2 Gbps $7999 /month
Up to 5 Gbps $10999 /month
Up to 8 Gbps $17999 /month
Why Families Choose Pavlov:
• Built for You: reliable, high-speed fiber internet connections for every room and every device
• Community First: supporting local events and schools to keep Gainesville thriving
• Excellence Without Compromise: simple, transparent pricing, with no contracts
WHERE FIVE-STAR QUALITY ISN’T A LUXURY. IT’S OUR STANDARD.
At Govind & Sons Fine Jewelry, we believe precious metals are more than beautiful — they’re a timeless way to build and protect your wealth. Whether you’re looking to begin investing in gold and silver or expand your portfolio, we offer premium gold coins and gold bullion to help you grow with confidence. With gold and silver values rising year after year, there’s no better time to start. Have unwanted or broken jewelry? Turn it into opportunity — bring it in to trade or receive immediate cash. We’re honored to serve you and help you invest in your future today.
