EXPLORE LIFE + CULTURE AN OASIS OF DISCOVERYDISCOVERY COVE
Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community.
Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most.
What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
We live in a world that values productivity and efficiency, where every moment seems to be mapped out and planned. I’ll admit, I fall into this mindset sometimes too, thinking that the only worthwhile activities are those that can be measured, calculated, and optimized. But the truth is, a life that is too structured is missing something vital— space for exploration.
We need room for discovery, for trying new things, for being a beginner. Sometimes, it’s in those unplanned moments where connections are made, memories are created, and trust is built. I love exploring our world. And while I enjoy the planning as much as the travel, some of my best experiences have come from carving out time to wander. Restaurants I never would have found. People I never would have met. Places I never would have seen. All experienced because I allowed the opportunity to discover without expectations.
In recent months, I’ve been reflecting on how my family spends our time together. We’ve realized that our happiest moments often come when we step away from screens and routines. Our “adventures” don’t always involve grand trips—they could be as simple as playing a board game on the patio, trying out a new trail, or exploring a new part of town to find a quirky little café.
This issue is all about giving yourself permission to explore—whether it’s a spontaneous trip, a new hobby, or simply making time for those unstructured moments with the people you love.
Let’s make space for the unexpected and the unexplored, and remember that it’s often in these moments that the richest connections are formed.
Happy exploring!
JOANN CHANG, MANAGING EDITOR @NEWPORTRICHEYCITYLIFESTYLE
2026
PUBLISHER
Amy Walters | amy.walters@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
JoAnn Chang | joann.chang@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Michelle Numann | michelle.numann@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
JoAnn Chang, Amy Walters, Michelle Numann
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
JoAnn Chang, Discovery Cove, West Pasco Historical Society, Magical Memories Photography
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
1 – 7: New Port Richey City Lifestyle hosted EmpowerUp 2026 - the women’s empowerment event of the season. Women came together for a day of networking, shopping and giving back to the community.
8 – 14: New Port Richey City Lifestyle hosted EmpowerUp 2026 - the women’s empowerment event of the season. Women came together for a day of networking, shopping and giving back to the community.
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ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOANN CHANG/DISCOVERY COVE
When you live in paradise, a place others dream of visiting, it’s all too easy to overlook some of the best our state has to offer. When it’s a short drive away, putting it off for another day or when family visits next year becomes second nature. It’s understandable. The demands of regular life become the priority. But it’s important to set aside time to reconnect with friends and family and explore the state we call home.
At the top of your list should be one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, Discovery Cove, part of United Parks & Resorts and right across the street from SeaWorld in Orlando. While its sister park gets most of the attention, those that set aside a day to explore what it has to offer are very pleasantly surprised. “Truly, there is nothing like it. It’s not a theme park. The best way to describe it is, if you’ve ever been on a cruise, it’s like that one day you’re on a private island. We are the only all-inclusive day resort in Florida,” explained Crystal O’Hea, Vice President of Marketing for Discovery Cove Orlando.
And it truly is all-inclusive. The experience includes breakfast, lunch and unlimited snacks and drinks all day. The wetsuits and snorkel equipment at The Grand Reef, a 1-million-gallon saltwater habitat, are also included. They even include the animal-safe sun block, towel service, lockers for your belongings while you explore, and fully equipped showers and changing rooms to clean up at the end of the day. “We really pride ourselves on this carefree experience. You show up with a bag and what you want to change into before you leave, and everything else is taken care of,” O’Hea explained.
You notice the differences before you even arrive. You don’t buy tickets – you make a reservation. Because in a sea of crowded theme parks, one thing Discovery Cove offers is exclusivity. Attendance is limited for both the benefit of the guests as well as the many animals that call Discovery Cove home. The end result is something truly special.
From the moment you arrive along the winding path through lush landscaping, to check-in at the main entrance and stroll into your paradise for the day, you are immersed in a slice of tropical luxury.
That feeling of luxury surrounds you all day. The staff to guest ratio is noticeably high. Any needs are quickly dispatched. Above all, Discovery Cove offers the luxury of options. Everyone can have the experience they want. Those who want to relax in a lounge chair by the pool and simply soak in the environment will have ample locations to choose from. Those who want to be active all day meeting dolphins, swimming and snorkeling with rays and fish, exploring the free
“Truly,
there is nothing like it. It’s not a theme park. The best way to describe it is, if you’ve ever been on a cruise, it’s like that one day you’re on a private island. We are the only all-inclusive day resort in Florida.”
flight aviary or searching for otters near Monkey Island will enjoy their day jam packed of activities. “You’re not carrying your wallet around. You’re not waiting in line. You’re not racing to a showtime. It’s at your own pace,” O’Hea shared. Where Discovery Cove truly shines is in the opportunities to interact with animals. “The experience our guests receive in park is fully immersive. If you go to a zoo or an aquarium, you’re an observer of an animal’s environment. Here at Discovery Cove, you’re in the environment,” O’Hea explained. For those exploring with kids, it’s an incredible learning experience. In every environment, there are several zoological experts ready to answer questions and help everyone get more out of the experience. “You could be snorkeling and there’s an aquarist right there with you, who’s going to go under with you and point out fish and tell you where they live in the natural world, what’s special about it, what unique features they have. You leave really energized about what you’ve experienced,” O’Hea added.
Above all, what guests take away from their time at Discovery Cove is the opportunity for connection. Whether it’s a once in a lifetime animal encounter or the opportunity to slow down and connect with family over shared experiences, it’s a place to build memories that last a lifetime. In this limited-access, all-inclusive oasis, you’re not fighting crowds or racing to the next attraction. You’re free to simply be together. Discovery Cove invites you to slow down and rediscover what it feels like to truly connect, both with the natural world and with the people you love most.
If you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to turn a day trip into a true escape, Discovery Cove makes it easy to upgrade your experience. Split a private cabana with friends or family and enjoy shaded seating, a stocked fridge, and charging outlets as your VIP home base. Mark a special occasion with unforgettable addons like Flamingo Mingle, a Shark Interaction, or a behind-the-scenes Animal Trek. For a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, the Ultimate VIP and Ultimate Animal Experience packages wrap your staycation in concierge-style service and exclusive encounters. Learn more at discoverycove.com.
Take a step back in time to learn how our history impacts us today
ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WEST PASCO HISTORICAL SOCIETY
All too often, when we think of history, it’s on a larger scale. But understanding and learning our local history is just as valuable. In West Pasco, we’re extraordinarily lucky to have a wealth of historical knowledge available at our fingertips. This treasure trove is overseen by the volunteers at West
“Preserving local history so it continues on is very important, because it could be easily lost.”
Pasco Historical Society, shared with the community through their website and Rao Musunuru, M.D. Museum & Library in downtown New Port Richey.
“People walk through those doors and say I’ve lived here all my life, and I never knew this place was here,” shared Paul Herman, Digital Media Archivist of West Pasco Historical Society. Paul moved to the area in 1986 and found his way to the historical society to explore the history of his new home in Seven Springs.
“Every time I walk in, I’m still learning and probably will never stop. It’s a passion. Preserving local history so it continues on is very important, because it could be easily lost,” added Mario Caruso, President of West Pasco Historical Society. Mario was first drawn in by the museum to learn more about his new home, a love instilled by his father.
The town of New Port Richey has a fascinating history. The name itself comes from Aaron Richey, who established the first area post office at his homestead near the mouth of the Pithlachascotee River in 1884. “He owned a boat and transported goods for his store from Cedar Key and Tarpon Springs. When they asked him what the name of the place was, he said let’s just call it Port Richey,” shared Herman.
For many years, the area we know as downtown New Port Richey fell under the Port Richey name. Many tried to develop it, but it didn’t see genuine success until George Sims and his group of investors got involved. “He’s considered the father of New Port Richey, because he’s the one that made a success out of everything,” explained Herman. “He convinced a lot of his rich friends, some of them very famous, to come down here to establish summer homes.”
Many of those snowbirds were a part of the growing film industry, bringing the name “Hollywood of the East” to the town of New Port Richey. “Some of the older infrastructure we have downtown dates to then. The theater, The Hacienda, buildings like that would have never been built if it wasn’t for the wealthy people bringing their influence,” shared Caruso.
Outside of town, pioneer families like the Clarks, Hopes, Baileys, and Bakers who arrived in the late 1800s, and later in the 1900s the Mitchell and Starkey families, created citrus groves and cattle ranches that were the lifeblood of our community for generations. As our community grew, changes were imminent. Growth slowed in the downtown corridor for many years, and eventually, people sold the large groves and ranches to create the residential and commercial growth we see today in Trinity and beyond.
Today, that growth has established West Pasco as a destination in itself. While considered a bedroom community for many years, our industry has grown and created a draw of its own. “Downtown New Port Richey and other parts of West Pasco are actually thriving on their own merit now. You can easily live and work in Pasco and not have to be a commuter anymore,” shared Herman.
Our founders would likely be surprised by the path our community has taken over the years. And the history we’re establishing today may be just as interesting to our residents of tomorrow. “The real history needs to be told exactly the way it was, not sugar-coated or vilified into something that it wasn’t. Because it’s so much more interesting that way. And that’s our job… the Historical Society, not the fairy tale society,” explained Caruso. Regardless of the path our story takes, the West Pasco Historical Society will be there to record it all for generations to come.
Somewhere between the shoreline and the open water, everyday life starts to disappear. The schedules, the traffic, the constant noise all fade into the background, replaced by salt air, island music, and water so clear it hardly feels local. What begins as a simple boat ride quickly turns into something that feels far removed from everyday routines, even when you are still close to home.
For Captain Larry Sheehan and Sarah Bordin, owners of Island Paradise Charters LLC, those local waters offer something many people do not expect. Their shared passion is creating an experience that allows guests to truly relax, slow down, and enjoy time on
the water together. “You get away from the hustle and bustle, but it’s just a short, forty-five-minute boat ride out to a real island paradise.” One of the most popular destinations is Anclote Key Preserve State Park, a secluded island known for shells, wildlife, and water that often resembles the Caribbean. “A lot of times the water’s so pristine, it’s like you’re in the Bahamas,” he said. “People feel like they just stepped out onto a postcard picture.”
Part of the appeal is how easy the experience can be. Instead of coordinating flights and hotel reservations, local island adventures focus on simplicity. “You’re literally going to the beach,” explained Captain Larry. Guests are encouraged to bring towels, sunscreen, beach chairs, and a cooler, much like any traditional beach day. Many families spend the day swimming, shelling, or simply relaxing along the shoreline.
The atmosphere on the island tends to develop naturally once everyone settles in for the day. “We have a lot of great island beach music that we play for all of our guests,” shared Captain Larry. “We’ll break out all the beach toys.” Floating mats, beach games, and music give people an excuse to slow down, spend time together, and enjoy an afternoon that rarely feels rushed.
Food naturally becomes part of the experience as well. “Everything tastes better when you’re eating on a boat,” said Captain Larry. Meals often include barbecue chicken, pulled pork, smoked sausage, homemade island coleslaw, potato salad, and cookies, giving the day a casual waterfront feel rather than a formal excursion. It becomes less about an itinerary and more about enjoying the kind of moments people rarely slow down enough to appreciate.
The ride out to the island also passes one of the area’s most recognizable sights: the historic stilt homes off the coast of Cotee River. “There were twenty-four that were initially built in the early nineteen hundreds. They’re glorified campsites today,” Captain Larry said.
Preparation is very important for those who are new to exploring local waterways. Paying attention to tides, weather conditions, and safety equipment is important before setting out on a boat. Florida weather changes rapidly, especially in the summer, so radar apps and the right boat equipment are key for a safe trip.
Still, the overall goal is not perfection. Captain Larry believes many people overthink local adventures when the best experiences are often the simplest. “Pack a lot of fun. That’s it,” he said.
That may be the real appeal of island time. It’s not about distance. It is about slowing down long enough to feel removed from routines and distractions. For those not looking for a full beach day, Island Paradise Charters offers shorter cruises along the Cotee River, including picturesque sunset experiences. Sometimes the best escape is not found across the world, but just beyond the shoreline, waiting to remind you that paradise may have been closer than you realized all along. Visit Island Paradise Charters to book your next island getaway.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
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1 2
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
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No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
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Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
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The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
For many people, fitness begins with a goal. Maybe it’s feeling stronger, moving with less pain, improving posture, or simply gaining more energy throughout the day. For the team at Club Pilates in Odessa, goals have become something much deeper than a workout. Pilates is opening up a pathway to confidence, healing, mobility, and community.
Owner Kim Kitchen has seen firsthand how Pilates can transform lives inside her two studios. While the fitness industry is constantly changing with trends that come and go, Kim believes Pilates has remained strong for one important reason: the results are real and lasting. “Pilates has been around for over 100 years,” Kitchen explained. “The exercises Joseph Pilates originally created to rehabilitate people are still the core exercises that strengthen and empower our client’s mobility.”
That foundation is part of what makes Pilates unique. Originally developed by Joseph Pilates as a rehabilitation method, the practice has evolved into one of the most respected forms of movement and wellness in the world. Today, studios feature expanded equipment, modern class formats, and a wider understanding of the body’s needs, but the core purpose remains the same: helping people move and feel better.
Kitchen believes Pilates has grown far beyond what its founder may have ever imagined. “There’s more equipment now, more
ARTICLE BY AMY WALTERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGICAL MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY
exercises, and more benefits than even Joseph Pilates knew there would be,” she shared. “Some people once thought Pilates was just a trend, but it’s here to stay because of the benefits,” shared Kitchen.
The unique quality about Pilates is that it truly is for everyone. For many, large gyms can be intimidating and overwhelming. Pilates welcomes people of all ages, fitness levels, and physical abilities. “We like to say Pilates is for everybody,” Kitchen said. “It can be younger people, older people, male, female, or people dealing with arthritis, MS, and other health conditions. There are so many benefits to gain.”
Those benefits go far beyond aesthetics. Pilates focuses on posture, balance, flexibility, mobility, strength, and especially core strength. The movements are intentional and controlled, helping participants build stability while also improving the way their bodies function in everyday life. “People leave feeling better after just one class. They feel stronger, more flexible, more energized. That’s why we encourage people to just come in and try it,” said Kitchen.
Another benefit that separates Pilates from traditional gym workouts is the personalized attention clients receive. Many large gyms often leave people to navigate equipment and workouts on their own. In a Pilates studio, the experience is different. “Our instructors walk you through a 50-minute class,” Kitchen said. “They cue you on what to do, keep you moving, and provide progressions or modifications depending on your needs.”
This support can make all the difference, especially for people recovering from injuries or surgeries. Whether managing a knee replacement, struggling with joint pain, or simply needing adjustments to movements, instructors are trained to help clients move safely and confidently. “There’s really nothing else out there like this type of equipment paired with instructor guidance,” Kitchen explained. “With the smaller studio environment and the attention from instructors, people are able to reach their goals.”
Over the years, Kitchen has witnessed countless stories of transformation inside her studios. One client
“Some people once thought Pilates was just a trend, but it’s here to stay because of the benefits.”
in her early 80s arrived with severe forward-leaning posture. After consistently attending classes for several months, her posture dramatically improved. Another client, a young woman in her twenties battling a rare cancer in her leg, experienced limited range of motion in her ankle and leg. Through Pilates, she began regaining mobility and strength. For Kitchen, those stories are the reason she continues to pour her energy into her studios every day.
A loyal member and advocate of Pilates is Nikki Vavlas. For Vavlas, Pilates became far more than a workout routine. It became part of her fight to keep moving forward through the challenges of multiple sclerosis. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and rediscovering strength in both body and mind. “There’s strength in every one of us. It just must come out,” said Vavlas. “I have found who I am, and not what MS wants me to be.”
Through every class, every movement, and every encouraging word from the surrounding community, she found something powerful waiting on the other side of fear and limitation. Today, Nikki speaks openly about how Pilates helped her regain confidence, improve her balance and coordination, and most importantly, reconnect with herself in ways she never expected.
Above all, Kim takes solace in knowing that through Pilates, she’s making a true difference to her community. “Hearing these stories and seeing the community we’ve built within our four walls is what fulfills my passion,” Kitchen shared. Perhaps her most powerful message is also the simplest. “It’s never too late to start moving,” Kitchen added. “It’s empowering to be in control of your body and your health.”
Pilates offers a strong sense of community the moment they walk through the door. Classes are supportive, encouraging, and welcoming rather than competitive. Clients are reminded that fitness is not about perfection, but about continuing to move and care for their bodies. Kim Kitchen, owner of Club Pilates, hopes people who have never tried Pilates will push past any intimidation and simply give it a chance.
For those curious about beginning their Pilates journey, the studio offers complimentary 30-minute introductory classes, giving newcomers the opportunity to experience the equipment, instructors, and atmosphere firsthand before committing. To learn more, visit www.clubpilates.com/ location/trinity.
Club Pilates 12454 State Road 54, Odessa 813-563-5353
The START Initiative is a family support program designed for families in Pasco and Hernando Counties who want to strengthen their parenting skills and better navigate today’s challenges. We understand how families care about their children’s success and well-being, and we know that parenting during these uncertain times can be stressful.
Introduction to the Circle of Security Workshop where families gain access to helpf ul tools and strategies. Build healthy connections with your children. Receive support to cope with the unique challenges of today’s world now and in the future. Make community connections with other START parents. Can participate by zoom and technology is provided if needed!
Participants receive a free copy of Raising a is based on decades of research about how relationships can be supported and streng
To register or for more information, please contact Dawn Espinoza at D.Espinoza@elcph.org.
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