For lifelong local Cindy Mask, retirement has brought forth a different work opportunity – becoming a business owner. 

After retiring from her career in corporate healthcare as a reimbursement professional for medical device and oncology startup companies, Mask opened Town Square Olive Oil in May 2015 on the Covington Square.

Mask, who has lived in Newton County for “virtually” all of her life, studied medical technology and laboratory sciences before entering the corporate world. However, opening Town Square Olive Oil ignited a personal hobby and passion of hers.

“Healthy cooking was and is a passion and I wanted to bring sustainable, healthy choices to our town,” Mask said. “I choose the products based on taste, packaging and of course, health benefits.”

Though its storefront opened in May 2015, Mask and her husband established their company as unincorporated in December 2014. 

For the past eight years, Town Square Olive Oil has offered a variety of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, teas, honey, jams & jellies, pasta, treats, stuffed olives, wine, beer, gift boxes, accessories and various charcuterie items to customers.

Located at 1130 Church Street, shoppers can taste nearly 65 different olive oils and balsamic vinegars from “around the world,” from Italy, Spain, Greece, Chile, Australia and more at Town Square Olive Oil. 

In addition to trying olive oils and balsamic vinegars, customers can find recipes that incorporate the various oils and vinegars sold at Town Square Olive Oil on its website, https://townsquareoliveoil.com/.

Aside from running her small business, Mask is an active member of the community. 

She is a member of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and regularly attends business roundtable meetings each month. Mask shared that after receiving an invitation to participate as part of the Downtown Development Authority, she will begin “soon.”

Masked is married to her “soulmate,” Anthony Mask, a retiree from AT&T. She has three stepsons, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Additionally, Mask has a dog with a name that reflects her store.

“My little shadow is my rescue Pekingese/Shitzu named – you guessed it, “Olive Oyl,” Mask said.

Living on Lake Varner in Covington, Mask enjoys fishing in her free time. 

What she loves most about being a resident in Newton County is the connection and camaraderie she feels in her community.

“The charm, the people, the sense of community,” Mask said. “I am so proud to be a part of ‘The Hollywood of the South.’”