By Nicole Hamel
On the Scene: Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll & Pup Walk
The Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll and Pup Walk saw an impressive turnout, with families from across the community coming together for a day of fun. Attendees visited 25 participating locations, enjoying sweet samples provided by Mystic Ice Cream, Scoops on 5th and Waffles & Cream.
The event not only celebrated local businesses but also highlighted the companionship of the many dogs who joined the festivities, powered by DogTuff. From tiny pups trotting alongside their owners to larger breeds happily leading the way, the streets were filled with wagging tails, excited barks and playful energy.
Along the route, many paused for photos, pets and plenty of attention. Their enthusiasm was contagious, bringing smiles to everyone they passed.
Nicole, born and raised in Maine, is an award-winning photographer with more than 15 years of professional experience. After relocating to Kentucky, she began her career photographing military families and volunteering with several organizations, including Operation Homefront (Tennessee/Kentucky Chapter), the American Red Cross, and the Wounded Warriors Project. While living in Hawaii, Nicole worked as a historical photographer, documenting the Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam community and its surrounding areas. In 2015, Nicole settled in Florida and joined Akers Media Group as a freelance photographer.
Through dedication and consistent excellence, she advanced to Chief Photographer. Her contributions earned her MVP of the Year in 2020 and Employee of the Year in 2023, recognizing both her hard work and commitment to her craft. After eight years of working for Akers, she can now add published writer to her list of accomplishments. Outside of her professional work, Nicole enjoys spending time with her two children, Dylan and Olivia. Her interests include underwater photography, crafting, reading, gardening, traveling, and experiencing life firsthand.
