A team of five New Jersey-based financial advisors who previously managed more than $2.3 billion in client assets has ...

A former Ameriprise team in New Jersey that managed more than $2.3 billion in client assets has launched Laurel Oak Wealth Management, an independent registered investment advisory firm.

“That’s laurel oak,” he concluded, pointing to a tree in front of Mount Dora City Hall. “And that’s laurel and that’s laurel, too. There’s a sweet gum and this one I believe is live oak.

The life expectancy of a laurel oak tree is about 70 years. Ask around Mount Dora, however, and many people will insist the trees were live oak, which normally live for more than 100 years.

Williams said the Valencia Road laurel oak was probably at the end of its lifespan, about 65 years, and that the decision to kill the tree was a last, but necessary, resort.

Laurel Oak will also be cheering Benaud, having bought a half share in the $280,000 ($184,383) yearling with trainer John O'Shea at Karaka in 2020.

Live oak trunks are very rough with rolling furrows, while laurel oak bark is comparatively smooth. Of course, all oak trees can be recognized by their tell-tale acorns.