Lakewood, FL August 2024

Edge Therapies

Helping Children Grow in Learning

ARTS + CULTURE

OUR READER’S PET ALPACAS

EDUCATION

KID’S SUMMER CAMP RECAP

LOCAL SERVICES

NEW LOCAL ANIMAL RESCUE FACILITY

Welcome to Lakewood Ranch Oral & Facial Surgery

The only authentic privately-owned oral and maxillofacial surgery or dental practice that is accredited-ready office-based surgery center in the greater Sarasota, FL area. Allow us to free you of your concerns within the comforts of a state-of-the-art facility where our surgical and non-surgical services can be provided within a range of simple local or regional anesthesia to general anesthesia, so that you

and

What a Year it's been in Lakewood Ranch

It's been one year since our inaugural issue hit mailboxes and I can't believe all we have accomplished over the past year. This dream wouldn't have been possible without each and every advertising partner who has helped grow this publication into what it is today. I am so incredibly proud of what my team and I have accomplished this year throughout the pages of this issue you will see the amazing women who are highlighted in the 1 Year of Lakewood City Lifestyle feature. We truly were all brought together for a higher purpose, and I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity each month to impact our community through the stories of what makes Lakewood Ranch, FL such an incredible community. Lastly, thank you to all of our readers who have also been instrumental in providing words of encouragement and rooting us on month after month.

Oh August, summer break is coming to an end and the back-to-school rush is nearing, so it's the perfect time to put focus on Kids & Pets.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment, and we are happy to highlight the best of Lakewood Ranch kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

From Edge Therapies to Discovery Point to Nate's Honor Animal Rescue, we highlight some of the best in the Lakewood Ranch area. I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we did carefully crafting each page for you.

Cheers to another year!

JESSI NEITZEL, PUBLISHER @LAKEWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Jessi Neitzel | jessi.neitzel@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Brooke Bezet | brooke.bezet@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Tatyana Vovkulin | tatyana.vovkulin@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Olive Grey Photography

kelsey@olivegreyphotography.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Michelle Parnell

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Roohi Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Do you have company this summer? Our Murphy beds make having a multi-use room a must! Check out this design in the picture above, you wouldn’t even have any idea there was a bed there! Stop in and see Pete or Jamie in the store and they will design something special just for your space.

Open Now!

From California Glam to Florida Shine, Sculpting Beauty Coast to Coast

California board-certified plastic surgeon, Richard Lee, MD, has moved his practice to serve the needs of the greater Sarasota area! With over 20 years of experience and a proven track record of safety and excellence, Dr. Lee is committed to provide top notch care for his patients. At the Lee Institute of Plastic Surgery, genuine patient care is our highest priority while offering the latest advancements and techniques in plastic surgery that have a proven track record of safety and effectiveness. Our practice encompasses all aspects of cosmetic surgery – from facial procedures to rejuvenate your appearance and correct deviations, to breast and body enhancements and makeovers.

AUGUST 2024

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The Humane Society of Lakewood Ranch provides a safe haven for companion animals until adoption. 2: The Mall at University Town Center hosted a Moana-themed luau for hundreds of Disney fans. 3: Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club’s summer camp beats summer boredom. 4: Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club’s summer camp shapes the next generation of golf players. 5: Foam Gator bringing excitement and fun to families in Lakewood Ranch community. 6: Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County provided free lessons with Sunshine Swimming this summer. 7: Improving family lives through therapeutic horseback riding: Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy.

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Fire Truck Adventure

The Fantastic Fire Department is launching the Fire Truck Adventure for kids in Sarasota/Tampa Bay! America’s #1 birthday party experience arrives in Florida, featuring a real fire truck, games, and age-appropriate activities. Perfect for all ages and occasions, it promises excitement and joy.

Grand Opening of Lee Institute of Plastic Surgery

The grand opening of the Lee Institute of Plastic Surgery was a huge success! Attendees learned about their advanced techniques and commitment to exceptional patient care. Dr. Richard K. Lee, a board-certified plastic surgeon, introduced their wide range of procedures. Thanks to everyone who joined them to celebrate!

Raining Berries at UTC

Raining Berries Sarasota is conveniently located next to LA Fitness and Louis Pappas at University Town Center. Their selection of plant-based and protein-packed options, clean ingredients, and beautiful ambiance make them the perfect spot for gym-goers, families, professionals, and everyone in between. Be sure to check them out on your next visit to UTC!

Your Trusted Real Estate Experts

For all things real estate in Sarasota and Manatee counties, look no further than the elite team of professionals at Sarasota Gulf Coast Homes. Laura and Matt Rode founded the Sarasota Gulf Coast Homes team with Keller Williams in 2018, 4 years after beginning their real estate career in the Sarasota area. Known for their market expertise, this distinguished group is dedicated to delivering excellence and consistently aiming to exceed expectations in every aspect of their service.

At Sarasota Gulf Coast Homes, the mission is clear: to provide unparalleled guidance and support through one of life’s most significant investments—the purchase or sale of a home. Understanding the gravity of these decisions, the team is committed to making the process seamless, helping clients navigate the complex contractual, financial, and emotional aspects with ease.

Their dedication to superior service and expertise is evident in their rapid rise within Keller Williams, becoming one of the top teams in the entire North Florida region. Sarasota Gulf Coast Homes boasts impressive credentials, including being ranked in the top 1.5% of real estate teams in America, earning the title of Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialists, and achieving over $500 million in sales volume with more than 950 units sold.

This full-service team is at the forefront of modernizing the real estate experience, utilizing innovative approaches to buying and selling properties. As local knowledge brokers, they provide clients with invaluable insights and a personalized touch, ensuring every real estate transaction is as smooth and successful as possible.

Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home or sell your property at the best price, trust Sarasota Gulf Coast Homes to guide you through the process with expertise, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

EDGE THERAPIES

Transformative Language and Occupational Therapy for Children

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVE GREY PHOTOGRAPHY

Jillian Pendergast, speech pathologist and owner of Edge Therapies, an occupational and speech therapy private practice, shares three strategies parents can use at home to increase language development in their children.

1. Repeat, repeat, repeat: Toddlers learn from repetition. Don't hesitate to read the same books, sing the same songs, or name objects repeatedly.

2. Build on what they are saying: Expand on whatever your child says. For example, if they say "ball," add one or two more words and say things like "kick ball," "fast ball," or "orange ball."

3. Comment, don't question: Asking your child many questions, such as "What is this?" can pressure them. Instead, when playing with your child, comment on what they are doing and what is happening.

Edge Therapies uses a play-based, child-led approach which helps improve engagement and overall progress through completely individualized therapy sessions. After a comprehensive language evaluation, the team can determine the nature of the language disorder. They treat late talkers, receptive/expressive language disorders, and gestalt language processing.

Edge Therapies is a team of three women who are speech pathologists and occupational therapists. Jillian is trained in alternative augmentative devices, such as using an iPad to communicate with special needs children.

Parents often choose to continue with Edge Therapies even after their children hit developmental milestones. Edge Therapies also helps kids excel further, particularly in areas like reading comprehension. One of the team’s favorite activities is preparing children for kindergarten.

The team at Edge Therapies is passionate about reading comprehension. Research suggests children who develop strong early literacy skills are more likely to succeed academically, exhibit higher self-confidence, and engage actively in learning experiences. Jillian is trained in the Orton-Gillingham reading program, which is designed to help treat dyslexia.

Jillian worked full-time in the school system until November 2021. She observed that masks in schools due to COVID-19 negatively impacted children's speech and social development. Learning literacy was particularly challenging because children couldn't see letter pronunciation and mouth movements. Students who were in kindergarten during the pandemic are now in third grade and still face the repercussions. Third grade is pivotal in education, with standardized

tests gaining importance. Fortunately, Jillian and her team are helping these children catch up after those challenging years.

Occupational therapy at Edge Therapies focuses on helping children develop the skills they need to thrive in their daily activities, such as play, school, and self-care tasks.

Occupational therapists work with children who may have challenges related to sensory processing, fine motor skills, coordination, attention, and social interactions. Through personalized interventions, including play-based activities and exercises, occupational therapists help children build confidence and independence in their abilities, ultimately promoting their overall development and success.

Edge Therapies partners with several daycares, including Doodle Bugs, Baby Fox, Primrose, and Kiddie Academy, as well as with preschools. Home visits are also popular among parents as they save driving time.

WANT TO START THERAPY SERVICES FOR YOUR CHILD?

FILL OUT THE FORM OR CONTACT US DIRECTLY AND WE WILL RESPOND BACK WITHIN 24-48 HOURS.

PHONE: 727-900-5799

EMAIL: HELLO@EDGETHERAPIESFL.COM

As you enter La Chíc Bohème, you will be swept away by our Signature Scent, elevated acoustics, and beautiful design features throughout. Our spa rituals are rooted in their deep connection to our natural environment, drawing from the curative properties of the ocean, and land around us.

Each treatment room has been designed to create a space for guests’ individual transformation, body, mind and spirit. Pocket doors can be opened between our treatment rooms to easily accommodate couples or small groups and our stunning wet room has the perfect ambiance for our luxury body treatments, while our beauty lounge with its vintage inspired lash beds will send you into a peaceful slumber during your lash appointments.

In our Day Spa, our Signature Facials, Body Treatments and Massage Rituals are sure to impress! Premium skincare products combine with the latest technology to bring you the best of both worlds, designed with both relaxation and results in mind. Guests of our Day Spa will also enjoy access to our cozy Himalayan salt room with infrared sauna as they decompress prior to their treatment.

For those of you seeking permanent makeup or cosmetic procedures, our experienced permanent cosmetics artists are second to none! In our Med Spa, we combine the best wellness and beauty treatments using the industry’s latest technology and procedures for optimal results. Experience the rejuvenating effects of microneedling, the volumizing benefits of dermal fillers, and the wrinklesmoothing power of injectables. All delivered with personalized care and attention to detail in a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

Be sure to take advantage of some retail therapy in our style house, fully equipped with the latest premium fashion and luxury beauty products. With an emphasis on quality and style, La Chíc.

Founder & CEO Holly Sharpe

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Signature Spa Membership Benefits:

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Earn A $50 Credit For Every New Member You Refer To La Chíc Bohème For Signature - Membership | To Ensure An Intimate, Exclusive Experience, Membership Application & Approval Is Required | Our Signature Membership Requires A Six Month Commitment And A $50 Initiation Fee

Get exclusive access to Member Pricing, Special Events, Memberonly Promotions, and personalized services designed to elevate your experience. Enjoy consistent self-care, stress relief, and improved well-being while connecting with a like-minded community.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROOHI PHOTOGRAPHY

Twelve Oaks Summer Camp Discovery Point

A COMMUNITY-CENTRIC ADVENTURE FOR KIDS

Discovery Point Twelve Oaks summer camp is a deeply involved community camp, hosting around 35 students each summer. This past summer, the camp ran from May 28 to Aug. 8, operating five days a week from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with earlier and extended hours available. An executive chef provides all meals for the campers. The School Age Summer Camp caters to children aged 6 to 12, while the Jr. Summer Camp is for VPK ages.

Dr. Roger Clough, the owner of the school, assures parents, “It’s a busy camp; the kids are not just sitting at the school.” Each day brings new activities and multiple field trips throughout the summer. Some of the exciting field trips include Movie Days at the cinema, Jump/Inflatable Day, a Bradenton Marauders baseball game, Big Cat Sanctuary, Manatee Village Historical Park, local libraries in Manatee County, Waterside and Tom Bennett parks, Arts Ablaze in Downtown Lakewood Ranch, Mote Aquarium, and Sky Zone, and Putt Putt. These outings provide diverse experiences that entertain and educate the campers.

In addition to the field trips, Discovery Point Twelve Oaks summer camp offers a wide range of engaging on-site activities. These include the July 4 picnic, arts and crafts, theater, Amazing Athletics Sports Play, Bricks For Kids Legos Day, and Water Day. The camp also features guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, including Australia, professional athletes, and magicians, adding unique and enriching experiences to the camp's itinerary.

CONTINUED >

Certified teachers lead the camp, supported by college students majoring in education. Staff members Leah and Julia start planning in February each year, collaborating with community businesses and partners. The curriculum meets Florida education standards and features a different theme each week, such as Amusement Park, Pirate Island, and Olympics. This thematic approach keeps the learning environment dynamic and engaging for the campers.

Dr. Roger Clough, a former school superintendent from New York with 28 years of experience, brings his passion for education to Discovery Point. He selected Discovery Point for its curriculum and the positive impact it has on children. Clough shares that his favorite part of the school is introducing new activities, cultures, and places to the students and their families, making the educational experience both broad and deep.

If you missed the summer camp fun, be sure to sign up early in March 2025, as spots fill up quickly. Campers are required to attend only two weeks of the 11-week camp. Additionally, Discovery Point offers winter break camp, spring break camp, and drop-in days on Manatee County teacher’s professional development days.

For parents looking for a summer camp that offers a balanced mix of education, recreation, and personal growth, Discovery Point Twelve Oaks is the ideal choice. With its dedicated staff, comprehensive program, and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive community, it’s no wonder that this camp is a favorite among families in Lakewood Ranch and beyond. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to give your child an unforgettable summer experience.

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ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROOHI PHOTOGRAPHY

“I dreamed of owning alpacas for years, they have the most wonderful personalities.”

-Vicki Bertsch

Meet Smokie and Sterling

Beloved Alpacas of Lakewood Ranch

In Lakewood Ranch, amidst the diverse array of pets, from dogs to horses, you might be delighted to meet Smokie and Sterling, two Huacaya alpacas cherished by Randy and Vicki Bertsch. The Bertschs adore their fluffy alpacas and go to great lengths to ensure their well-being. When they learned that the Alpaca Farms breeder had alpacas available, they eagerly prepared a nursery and pasture. Their alpacas’ quarters are adorned with photos, night lights, rugs, and large beds with stuffed animals and fans. Smokie and Sterling are sustained with hay, grass, and pellets, which are served in feeders. To beat the Florida heat, they enjoy a water feature or frolic in sprinklers. Each spring, they are sheared to reduce their wool for the summer. Vicki sends their wool to a mill on Florida’s east coast, where it is spun into yarn for her knitting and crocheting projects. Vicki makes necklaces

for them to wear as well. The alpacas even have their own special toys and play area, ensuring they are always entertained. These alpacas bring immense joy to the Bertsch family and their friends. They roam freely on the farm, accompanying the family as they tend to other animals. Vicki describes them as personable and curious, always eager to be part of the action. “They have the most wonderful personalities; these are my babies and I praise God for them,” Vicki shared. Alpacas require companionship, which is why the Bertschs have two. Smokie and Sterling delight in rolling in the sand and touching noses with the horses. Sterling, the older male, is particularly protective of Smokie. Vicki dispels myths about alpacas, clarifying that they do not smell bad or spit, traits more common in llamas. After researching both animals, she chose alpacas for their appealing characteristics.

ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Reflections of Memories Made and Impact Created

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVE GREY PHOTOGRAPHY

Jessi expressed how meaningful it was for her to contribute to local nonprofits through Lakewood City Lifestyle events. In total, we have contributed over $100,000 locally through event sponsorships and donations to organizations like Flight to the North Pole, Forty Carrots, and The Resilient Retreat. It is rewarding to her to build relationships with each partner and strengthen her ties within the community through these initiatives.

Tatyana values the team support and the opportunities that come with building relationships with our advertising partners and helping to plan events. Her favorite event was the women’s event at the Resilient Retreat in May, as it showcased the power of women rising together.

Brooke finds meeting local business owners and hearing their entrepreneurial stories insightful. She enjoys building connections through editorial interviews and events, highlighting that the community’s people make her job fulfilling. One memorable experience for her was the large turnout at the launch event, shortly after accepting the Editor role starting in 2024. Brooke takes pride in knowing that our magazine brings joy to readers when it arrives in their mailbox.

4. PHOTOGRAPHER, KELSEY LONG

Kelsey shares that her favorite memory of being the staff photographer so far was when she walked through the launch event with the first few covers displayed as large prints, seeing people pose for photos in front of them, and watching a beautiful community of kind and like-minded people begin to form.

5. PHOTOGRAPHER, NICOLE MAC

Nicole shares that she can still vividly recall photographing her first event for the magazine. She notes that the atmosphere was filled with joy and excitement as everyone embraced being a part of a supportive community.

6. PHOTOGRAPHER, RANA TIERNEY

Rana enjoys connecting with other amazing women as that is a huge part of who she is. The opportunity to shoot for the magazine came at the perfect time for her. She has loved meeting all the partners and connecting on a deeper level while also contributing to the growth of the magazine.

Events

Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF PETS AND PEOPLE

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROOHI PHOTOGRAPHY

What started in 2009 as simply helping her daughter with a photography project quickly became a passion for Dari Oglesby. “We contacted Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue and started volunteering and taking pictures of all their cats. Then, we just got more and more involved,” she explained. “Fast forward and I am now the executive director and my daughter graduated two weeks ago from veterinary school. It's a lifestyle and a passion that is very important to our entire family.”

Oglesby feels that her job is to make a difference in the lives of pets and people. “Not only are pets lost and in need of a person, but a lot of times, people are lost, come in looking for something, and animals fill that void in their lives,” she shared. “We also take animals into memory care facilities. We go there, put a puppy in their lap, and all of a sudden, their eyes light up and people who haven’t spoken in years will speak.”

The rescue’s unique design and colorful atmosphere fosters the feeling of a fun, safe environment for both animals and people. “When you walk into most animal shelters, you're walking down an aisle with 20 to 50 dogs on either side. They're barking, it's scary for children to go into it, and it's a sad environment,” said Oglesby. “We wanted to create a family-friendly environment to educate youth and be a happy place for people to come and change not only the lives of the pets, but also the lives of the people that enter the shelter.”

“We have four to six animals in a cottage. They become a little pack, so the animals are less stressed and it's just an easier place to visit,” she added. “It's quiet and the animals are not barking and going crazy. We have a colorful, friendly playground that is not a sad place.

We get the animals from sad places, bring them here, and provide the perfect place to bring your family to pick out a new pet.”

Currently, the rescue offers sheltering and adoption services, a donation-based food bank that provides pet food and supplies for those in need, a variety of educational opportunities, and community outreach programs. The new expansion, set to open in the spring of 2025, will provide more space and opportunities for services.

The new facility will provide additional educational space, including a hands-on learning facility for children, an expanded behavior and training facility, a community space available for events, and a full-service clinic for animals to receive vaccinations, microchips, and general care.

The rescue, which has a small paid staff, relies on community support through financial donations and volunteer hours to run successfully. Volunteers provide cat care, dog walking, take care of the kitchen and laundry duties, transport animals, and work events. Additionally, volunteers provide foster care for animals, which fills an important role in working with those who are especially young, have special needs, or are shy.

Oglesby encourages people to visit the rescue and see all they have to offer. “We’re different than any other shelter you’ve ever visited,” she said. “Stop by, schedule a tour, and come see what we’re doing.”

For more information on adopting a pet, ways to volunteer, and opportunities to contribute financially, visit nateshonoranimalrescue.org

“We get the animals from sad places, bring them here, and provide the perfect place to bring your family to pick out a new pet.”

“We wanted to create a family-friendly environment to educate youth and be a happy place for people to visit.”

Your Physician’s & Dentist’s Real Estate Concierge Karianne Rose

Karianne Rose is a highly accomplished REALTOR® specializing in serving medical professionals in Southwest Florida.

With a deep understanding of your unique housing needs, Karianne is the go-to professional for healthcare practitioners in the region. As the sole Certified DRS Agent in the area, her professionalism and expertise are unparalleled. Karianne provides personalized guidance and support to ensure her clients receive exceptional service throughout their real estate journey in Southwest Florida.

KARIANNE ROSE REALTOR® | RSPS, RENE, DRS Agent

m 724.777.1518 | o 941.999.1179 karianne@lwrhome.com SL3527230

CONTACT KARIANNE OR VISIT doctorsonthemoveflorida.com FOR MORE INFORMATION

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

“Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn says that boundaries can be learned by dogs of any age.

“There’s a nasty perception along the ‘can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ line of thinking,” she says.

“While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you. Dog training isn’t just for struggling pups either. Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”

Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.

“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

DOG SOCIALIZING TIPS:

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm— those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

“While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you.”

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.

• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.

• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.

• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.

• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.

HOW

TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:

W A T C H THEM GROW

The days are long, but the years go fast. So they say with raising children. I have to agree with that sentiment. Each year as summer ends I find myself looking at my kids and reminding myself to “Watch them grow!” Both as a reminder to not miss the growth (with all the distractions and responsibilities that adult life brings) but also as reflection on how far they’ve come since the last time we turned the calendar page to August. Whether there are children in your life or not, I’m sure we can all agree that childhood is fleeting. Instead of stopping to smell the roses, I need to remind myself to “stop and watch them grow”—you can’t see it if you stare, but you’ll surely miss it if you blink! It helps me to set aside intentional time to be present with these fast little growers.

For us that looks like setting a special table to spend time sharing (or drawing) how we’ve seen them grow over the summer before jumping back into school routines. Making DIY game boards together and then having a family game night. Making snow cones for an after-dinner treat or, for a bigger wow factor, for breakfast! They will never forget that one, I promise. (Psst! my snow cones are made with fruit juice so it’s Mommy approved too!)

As August rolls in and the calendar tells us that it’s time for back-to-school shopping, the weather does not usually agree that the times are changing. I find that it’s such

a weird dance between what looks like the change of seasons when I open my calendar but not when I walk out my back door (heat wave!). On one hand, we’re still in full throttle of blazing temperatures in the Midwest and with no end in sight. At the same time, being thrown into back-to-school shopping, Meet-the-Teacher nights, resuming the regiment of packing school lunches, and if you’re a homeschool parent, all the to-do lists and lesson plans in order to launch into another school year. As we find ourselves

with one foot in summer and the other in a classroom, how do we embrace and (dare I say) celebrate this month? Instead of feeling ungrounded in the juxtaposition of August, I am inviting myself, and anyone who would join me, to embrace the opportunity to celebrate the in-between seasons that this month brings. My hope is that these ideas help spark your imagination on how to keep you cool in the heat, launch your kiddos into a new school year, and to set aside time to watch them grow.

DIY GAME BOARDS

Welcome more play into your life with this little DIY project. At our house we like to keep outdoor game boards around for short moments together as well as full blown game nights. These game boards are meant to be kept outside but could also be brought indoors as well.

Materials

• Pebbles for Checkers, 24 similar sized

• Small stones for Tic-Tac-Toe, 8 similar sized

• Acrylic paints (black, red, yellow and white)

• Paint brush

• Raw wooden boards + black paint marker

• Reclaimed wood + black acrylic paint

• Polycrylic spray

Instructions

1. Game Pieces: Paint your rocks with acrylic paint. For Tic-Tac-Toe you’ll need a total of 8 rocks, 4 of each type (here I’ve painted 4 lady bugs and 4 bumble bees). For Checkers you’ll need a total of 24 rocks, 12 of each color (here I’ve used black stones, painting half of them red).

2. Game Board: For raw wood (such as our TicTac-Toe board), use a ruler and black paint marker to create board lines. For reclaimed or treated wood, use paint. Let game pieces and game boards fully dry. Seal with a polycrylic spray for protection from heat and moisture.

SNOW CONES

We adore snow cones at our house! If you’ve been to our house then we’ve probably served them to you. A shaved ice machine makes it oh-so-easy! You can purchase premade snow cone syrup flavors or make your own healthier version by using fruit juice concentrates. Simply thaw the frozen fruit juice concentrate and put the liquid into squeezy bottles for an easy way to pour over shaved ice.

Assemble

• Ice, lots of ice!

• Snow Cone Machine

• Snow Cone Cups

• Snow Cone Straws

• Snow Cone Syrups (or frozen juice concentrates, thawed)

Use a snow cone machine to shave ice into snow cone cups. Top with your favorite flavor—either store bought snow cone syrups, homemade syrups, or our favorite—fruit concentrates. Stay cool and celebrate the last days of summer heat!

AUGUST 1ST

Field Bocce

Waterside Place - 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 6:00 PM

After the cornhole game, join in for a round of field bocce at Waterside Place! No prior experience required— simply relish in good fun, sunshine, and stunning lake vistas.

AUGUST 3RD

Back to School Bash

The Mall At University Town Center 140 University Town Center Drive Sarasota FL 34243 | 10:00 AM

As Central and South Florida’s only Master Rug Cleaner™ Certified rug washing facility, we understand that not all rugs should be cleaned the same.

For over 70 years, Sarasota Carpet and Cleaning has been locally owned and operated, caring for hand-woven, hand-knotted, and machine-made rugs for our clients – your neighbors! Whether a Persian Shiraz, an antique Navajo, an art-deco Chinese, or a more modern choice plucked from the pages of your favorite website or catalog, we know that the best cleaning begins with understanding your rug’s construction and handling your rug in the safest way, prolonging the use and enjoyment of your investment.

We have the experience and expertise to understand your rug’s specific considerations with honest advice and straightforward pricing.

The Back to School Bash events are a great time for families to come out and get tons of resources for kids and families, while celebrating “Back to School.” There’s a scavenger hunt and the event is free!

AUGUST 10TH

Intro to Salsa Dance

Waterside Place - 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 4:00 PM

Join attendees under the Pavilion at Waterside Place for Intro to Dance Classes presented by instructors from Arthur Murray Dance Studio! Come and dance, sway, and vibe to the music!

Wedding, Event, and Social Media Content Creation

Events & Special Occasions | Brand & Business Social Content | User Generated Content

Are you ready to capture the magic of your brand or special moments with authenticity and originality? Look no further than Cristiana Captures! With a keen eye for the most important details and a passion for storytelling, Cristiana brings your weddings, events, and brand visions to life in a way that resonates with your target audience. Our content is designed to optimize your social media platforms with engaging short-form videos, ensuring your memories not only shine but also reach a wider audience. Our fast turnaround means you won’t have to wait long to share your personalized moments with the world. Choose Cristiana Captures and experience the difference that a touch of human artistry can make in your cherished moments.

events

CONTINUED

AUGUST 11TH

Mystical Dance Company Open House

Mystical’s Dance Company 4289 Clark Road Sarasota FL 34233 | 12:00 PM

Mystical’s Dance Company will be offering a free open house on Sunday, August 11th from 12-4pm! A chance to tour our facility, register for dance classes, meet our teachers, face painting for kids, light refreshments, and more!

AUGUST 21ST

MindTravel

Live-to-Headphones Silent Piano Concert in Sarasota Siesta Beach | 6:00 PM

Experience an extraordinary musical event on Siesta Beach. On August 21, 2024, at 6:00 PM, join renowned pianist and composer Murray Hidary for a ‘silent’ piano concert. With wireless headphones, attendees will be immersed in real-time compositions against the backdrop of a serene beach setting at sunset.

AUGUST 27TH

Sights + Sounds at Waterside Place: Manatee

Community Concert Band

Waterside Place - 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 7:00 PM

Experience the Sights + Sounds at Waterside Place with the Manatee Community Concert Band! Enjoy a delightful musical performance in the heart of the community. The band offers a wide repertoire, from standard marches to Broadway and Movie hits, timeless swing classics, pop, classical, and much more.