30 years of baking in faith: How Fort Myers bagel shop owners are rewarded for their risk

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

When Mark and Tara Lukasik decided to open a bagel shop in 1995, they had no way of knowing if it would be a success.

"It was absolutely terrifying because we'd never been inside, we'd never done this business," said Mark Lukasik.

Despite a lack of experience and an abundance of fear, Mark Lukasik quit his corporate job. The family went all in.

"We are passionate. We're passionate about it," said Mark Lukasik.

On Day 1, Mark and Tara Lukasik had no idea if they would have any customers.

Yet, through hurricanes and economic slumps, and with a growing family, their shop is still standing, three decades later.

Their favorite employee, their daughter, Lauren, is now a partner in the business.

"This will be here for another 30 years or 40 years," said Lauren.

This family proves that no matter the obstacles on our plate, in having the courage to take a risk, life meets us with reward.

"It's what it's about," said Mark Lukasik.

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