Kids and Pets Issue

Fusion Academy personalizes the entire educational experience for students in grades 6-12. With a customized mix of one-to-one, group, and self-paced instruction, students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for their limitless future. Students are also paired with a success coach to discover and set goals for themselves. We’re a fully accredited school and offer both full-time and part-time enrollment for middle and high school.
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C h o o s e F o l s o m i s a c o l l a b o r a t i v e o r g a n i z a t i o n d e d i c a t e d t o p r o m o t i n g e c o n o m i c g r o w t h , b u s i n e s s d e v e l o p m e n t , a n d c o m m u n i t y
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Happy summer!
I love August, especially because it symbolizes summer ending and fall, my favorite time of year, just around the corner. August tends to be a month of transition with end of summer vacations and preparing kids for the new school year. This year is bitter-sweet for me as all three of my boys will be in college. My twins, Ryan and Dylan, graduated from Vista del Lago High School and my oldest, Tyler, will be transitioning from Folsom Lake College over to Sacramento State. I'm extremely proud of all three of them but, it does, indeed, go too fast.
In our kids and pets issue, we will learn about different types of heroes, from coaches who help shape the lives of our youth to famous pets that are heroes for the comfort they bring to kids, first responders and the community. The companionship from pets can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. This month, we are featuring a few really special pets that you might just recognize, as they are pretty famous around town.
For these final "dog days" of summer, take more sunset walks with your pets and enjoy the extra time with your kids that summer provides. Enjoy the read!
PUBLISHER
Tiffany Bellingrath tiffany.bellingrath@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lisa Wolf | lisa.wolf@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mackenzie McKinney, Offset Marketing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amber Shoop Felts, Shoop's Photography, Douglas Barrett Photography
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Congratulations to Miss Jenny’s class of 2023! Miss Jenny’s Sprout Academy just celebrated ten graduates who are moving on to their next school adventure. Miss Jenny’s Sprout Academy nurtures kids through every childhood transition with hands-on learning. The academy is now enrolling for Fall 2023 and accepting children 2-4 years old. Enroll today.
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Experience a home away from home where your dogs will be cherished, secure, and surrounded by love. With routine, gentle guidance, and unconditional affection, Hillary’s House Dog Boarding and Daycare makes each day special for your furry companions. Trust Hillary’s House to earn those happy tails, one at a time!
Outside of their one-to-one classes, students have ample social opportunities to make friends and interact with their peers. Our Homework Café is where they finish their coursework, but when they’ve done that, they’re able to socialize in the Social Homework Café space. Students can join clubs, go on field trips, and attend events for their enrichment. Our Director of Homework Café plans and facilitates activities around social-emotional learning themes so students get a well-rounded experience.
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In sunny California, summer beckons us to embrace the outdoors. Enhance your home's space by adding an outdoor kitchen, bringing the joy of cooking and entertaining outside. Outdoor cabinet companies, like Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, offer durable and elegant cabinetry options, specifically designed to withstand the elements. This investment in your outdoor space provides ample room for hosting guests and the pleasure of entertaining outside. Experience years of cherished memories as you elevate your home's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Discover the freedom and enjoyment of an outdoor kitchen in California's beautiful weather, where the possibilities for outdoor living are endless.
In a world where heroes come in many forms, school sports coaches have a unique opportunity to shape the lives of students on and off the field. From being role models in the sport to being teachers in new skills, these coaches have a great impact on today’s youth.
Defensive Coach for Sacramento State Football, Cherokee Valeria, says high school coaches are responsible for building the players they see at the university level. “High school coaches provide the foundation of character, responsibility, and work ethic to their players at an early age. This foundation allows college coaches to mold a teenager into a future adult that will impact society in a positive manner once he has graduated and is transitioning into the work force,” said Valeria.
From high school to the university level, coaches embody the epitome of role models. They exemplify the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork, inspiring their students to dream big and reach for the stars. These coaches lead by example, showing young athletes what it takes to succeed both as individuals and as part of a team. Beyond the sidelines and locker rooms, these coaches bridge the gap between schools and communities. They
understand the profound impact sports can have on fostering unity, so they actively engage with parents, alumni, and local businesses. Whether it's organizing fundraisers, volunteering for community events, or simply being a friendly face in the neighborhood, coaches bring people together.
Life is not just about winning games or scoring goals; it's about developing the skills that will carry us through the challenges we face. School coaches go beyond coaching tactics and strategies, taking on the role of mentors to their students. When Folsom resident Andrew Thompson took over as Head Football Coach at Sacramento State University in December 2022, he pointed out that he was not only there to coach football, but to make sure his students were successful in school, stating, "I look forward to continuing our program's success in graduating our student-athletes and building upon what we have accomplished on the field."
Valeria adds, “Football is a beautiful sport! It allows us to use the physical results of a game to teach our players how to navigate through life. From individual battles to a collective team effort, nothing is ever going to be perfect. No matter how hard you train, you will always have to work for success. Football allows coaches to teach the standards of what it will take to be successful in life. I would hope that as a coach, we impact our players off the field in their social life as well. Teaching them to communicate in an academic environment if they need help, being there for them when life gets rocky, and providing a stable foundation to help guide them through problems.”
Athletic coaches are more than just instructors; they are shaping lives, building bridges, and inspiring greatness within their students. Through their dedication, passion, and commitment to mentorship, these coaches create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the schools. They are the ones who ignite the spark of ambition, instilling a belief in young hearts that they can conquer any challenge.
“High school coaches provide the foundation of character, responsibility, and work ethic to their players at an early age...”
-Cherokee Valeria, Sac State Football
Neurocatalyst Center is your sanctuary for personalized therapy, now available both online and in-person. I provide transformative individual, couples, and co-parenting therapies from the comfort of your own space via telehealth, or in person at my new office in Historic Folsom. Experience ultimate privacy and the luxury of healing on your terms, as we partner to design solutions and relief tailored to your unique needs. Whether you choose remote or face-to-face sessions, experience the elite difference at Neurocatalyst Center.
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Outdoor dining for pets has become increasingly popular in recent years as more restaurants and cafes are allowing customers to bring their furry friends along with them. The trend for outdoor dining has increased, and along with it, the desire to bring “man’s best friend” out for a nice meal together.
Many pet owners consider their pets part of the family and being able to bring them along for a meal or a drink is a great way to spend quality time together. This can be especially important for people who live alone or who have busy schedules. It allows people to get out and be social while not leaving their pets home alone all day.
Lazy Dog Restaurant at Palladio has a large pet friendly outdoor area and a menu just for your dog. Your lucky pup can choose from food items like hamburger patties or chicken and rice. Dogs, in particular, benefit from being exposed to new people and environments. It helps them to become more confident and
well-behaved. By bringing their pets to outdoor dining areas, owners expose them to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells, which can help to reduce anxiety and improve their overall temperament. If you don’t think your pet is quite ready to socialize in a crowd, you can bring them through the drive-thru with you. In-N-Out offers special menu items
that dogs enjoy, for example, get your burger “protein style” (no bun), or order a “Flying Dutchman” from the secret menu: two beef patties sandwiched around two slices of cheese. A fancy name for a simple burger fit for man and pup.
Going out for morning coffee? Most Folsom coffee houses have outdoor seating
and are a popular spot for dogs and their owners to take a break after a walk. Order a Puppuccino from the barista at Starbucks; most dogs seem to love them. It’s a small Starbucks cup of whipped cream, made especially for your dog. There’s no coffee, tea, or caffeine of any kind in the cup, just straight-up whipped cream. Other local pet
friendly dining spots include Mimosa House , La Rosa Blanca , Fat Rabbit , and City Slickers
Overall, outdoor dining for pets is special for both pets and their owners. From full pet menus to a place in the shade with a cool bowl of water, your pets are probably just as happy to be with you as you are with them. Woof.
Folsom is home to a number of charities that work tirelessly to support our local community. These organizations provide a wide range of services, from food and shelter assistance to education and healthcare for low-income families. Some of the most well-known in our region are Twin Lakes Food Bank, which provides emergency food to those in need, and Hearts for Heroes (see our spotlight in the Famous Pets article about Hearts for Heroes Pet Platoon). Here are a few other charitable organizations to check out:
Warfighter Overwatch is an all-volunteer nonprofit serving veterans and first responders nationwide. Founded in Folsom and named the 2022 Nonprofit of the Year, Warfighter Overwatch’s mission is to provide free programs to help veterans and first responders heal from post-traumatic stress and to help prevent suicide. The volunteers facilitate group hiking/fishing trips and host reunions for combat units. The organization funds therapeutic k9s for police and fire departments and pays for therapy with culturally competent clinicians. WarfighterOverwatch.org
With Hands4Hope , youth in grade school through high school can make a difference in their communities! Hands4Hope offers meaningful community service projects combined with instruction and reflection, on-campus clubs, and diverse leadership opportunities. Through Hands4Hope’s programs, youth make their voices heard on issues affecting our community and take action in their own way. Join them as a participant this school year to make new friends, experience connection, and expand skills. hands4hopeyouth.org
Even in our family-friendly city, not all families have equal resources for their children. That’s where Folsom’s Hope comes in. They help fill in the gaps between school and home for children who need it. They offer caring, consistent, one-on-one attention that can have a transformative effect on the lives of struggling children. They help through mentoring, tutoring, supporting, encouraging, and nurturing at-risk students in elementary, middle, and high school. folsomshope.org
Our community is full of helping heroes that donate their time, services, and money to give back.
Have you been to the farmer's market and seen a large pig walking down the street? Gone to grab a book from the local bookstore and been greeted by a dog? Or perhaps you happened to be at the hospital and a sweet golden doodle was cheering up the nursing staff and visiting with patients? If the answer is yes, then you are one of the lucky ones to have been witness to Folsom's very own local pet celebrities.
Winnie is a 180lb mini pig owned by photographer Amber Shoop Felts and John Felts, who live in the Historic District. John takes Winnie out Saturday mornings, meandering down to the Folsom Famer's Market where she's greeted by all her admirers, young and old alike. Winnie usually leads the walk but if she needs any encouragement or direction, John has a fully shelled walnut for Winnie to devour.
Ruby is the co-owner, manager, and greeter of Ruby's Independent Bookstore on Sutter Street. She's also a Golden Retriever. Ruby and her owner, Stacy Gould, started the bookstore in Folsom about 3 years ago. Like Winnie, Ruby has become well known around town and both animals have their image on stickers, artwork, and even a book written with them as the stars (Winnie and Ruby’s Folsom ABC Adventure , written and illustrated by Folsom local, Brian Wallace). If you look real close, you can even find Winnie's cute pig face inside the Wing Mural at Sutter and Wool Streets.
Amstel and Cinders are part of the Paw Platoon Placement Program by Hearts for Heroes , in-house therapy dogs who reside at local fire stations and hospitals. These in-training dogs proactively
provide a multitude of mental health and wellness for critical incident stress relief. They are therapy dogs on a mission for mental health for heroes. Hearts for Heroes fully funds all aspects of training the therapy dogs. "Our handlers are heroes in solidarity, volunteering their time with the peer support team as handlers for mental health and wellness to their fellow crews", says Shelley Martell, Founder and Director of Hearts for Heroes.
Amstel, a 1-year-old male poodle, is the group's first rescue from Foothill Dog Rescue in Shingle Springs. He had a hard first year of life but they could tell that this sweet poodle was special and he passed all the requirements to be in the Paw Platoon program. The First Responders will get a kind therapy dog, and Amstel will get love from them too. It's a win win.
The Paw Platoon provides therapy services to the heroes on the
frontline. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to protect the mental health and wellness of our first responders. Amstel provides emotional and mental wellness to our community and Fire/EMS crews. He is also a great companion to all of their other dogs and often is a mentor to them.
Cinders, a female golden doodle, was placed by the Paw Platoon program at Mercy Hospital of Folsom. She provides critical care to hospital staff and
those who come to visit. She is also a community support dog. Not even one year old yet, Cinders has already been awarded the official Chief Therapy Dog Dignity Health badge.
We had so much fun getting these pets together for a playdate and photoshoot on Sutter Street with Winnie's human, Amber, taking the photos. We are so fortunate to have these celebrity pets in our city.
Home styling is more than space planning and staging - the most important part of the discovery is you. It’s personal. It’s about learning what brings you joy, sourcing and coordinating the things you love, and arranging them in a way that functions beautifully, looks stylish, and, most importantly, feels like home.
When it comes to styling your home, Sandy Mahoney from Create Home, a curated home store, encourages you to keep in mind these three simple things:
“Some people don’t recognize their own favorites,” says Sandy. “We have a job to find what favorites work.” She understands that people know what they like generally but can struggle to pull those things into their home. Incorporating a client’s favorite aspects into a design, even small things like an antique clock, a gift from a family member, or a piece of art that they love, are what turns a space into a home.
More than knowledge of home decoration, architecture, and style, a big part of an interior designer is simply pushing people out of their comfort zones. “Stylists get people to think about something they haven’t thought about before,” Sandy explains. “Crafting ideas between the expertise of the designer and preferences of the client produce better ideas than any single party could come up with on their own.”
Sandy laughs when pressed about styling. “I mean, we don’t cut our own hair,” she remarks. Her point here is that home stylists, like hair stylists, have a specific area of expertise. They enhance the function of space, solve challenges, and have a wealth of experience to draw from. They know how to build rooms around clients’ preferences while still creating an aesthetic space they know the client will love.
When using a neutral palette combine texture and contrast to create a softer look that feels like home.
Weaving some of everyone’s favorite things into the design process creates a connection to the space and your home.
An important aspect of designing a home for the whole family is getting input from everyone. “If each person is involved, even in a small way, it creates a different connection to your home,” says Sandy. She adds that there are a lot of ways to involve every member of the family, from letting them add to specific rooms to simply including some of their favorites around the house. “We’ve had kids come paint part of the walls in their room with their favorite color to let them feel like they’re part of the process.” However, Sandy ensures that everything comes together in the end. “Don’t worry, we always re-paint.”
Sandra Mahoney, founder of Create Home in Excelsior, MN, has been sought out by clients and followers for her artful, eclectic design and keen ability to create home collections. As a real estate broker, interior designer, and home builder, Sandy loves helping people. For years, she has helped many find and design their homes.
In a space designed by mental health professionals and hoteliers of 5-star resorts in a gated minimansion hidden in a local and secluded area surrounded by trees
- Confidential and private
- Onsite psychologist and licensed therapist
- Clinicians onsite 7 days a week
- Psychiatrist Medical Director
- Neuro and trauma trained staff
- Private rooms surrounded by trees, king-size beds
- Views of our beautiful 2 acres
- Yoga, acupuncture, and other ancillary services
- Lifetime Alumni Group Membership
- Private pay, in network with Kaiser, work with all major insurances
As a Real Estate Consultant who believes that real estate is composed of lifestyle, investment, and wealth generation, my mission is to help my clients achieve their dreams by providing expert guidance and exceptional service throughout their real estate journey.
Melissa Roybal DRE 01408139
916.993.1888
MelissaRoybalHomes.com | Folsom, Ca VB @melissaroybalhomes F @melissalovesfolsom
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A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
Historic Folsom's Twilight Concerts
ZITTEL FAMILY AMPHITHEATER | 7:30 PM
Enjoy an evening of music with friends and family under the stars. Bring low-backed chairs that sit close to the ground or picnic blankets and a light jacket for after dark. August 3 - Jax Hammer, August 10 - Tom Rigney and Flambeau, August 17 - APPLE Z, August 24 - Bear Whiskey, August 31 - Two Step.
Historic Folsom Farmer's Market - Every Saturday
HISTORIC RAILROAD TURNTABLE AND PUBLIC PLAZA IN HISTORIC FOLSOM | 8:00 AM
Start your Saturday mornings at The Folsom Farmer's Market with over 40 farmers and vendors to shop. Certified farmers' locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, freshly made baked goods, live music, and more!
Just Between Friends
FOLSOM SPORTS COMPLEX | 9:00 AM
August 4th through August 6th. At a Just Between Friends event, you can shop rows and rows of baby and children’s shoes, toys, clothing, maternity, and baby equipment at 50 to 90% off retail. Sell your items as a consignor and earn from 60 to 70% on your item sales. jbfsale.com
Historic Folsom's Annual Peach Festival
HISTORIC FOLSOM | 9:00 AM
Enjoy a day of all things peaches and taste the many peach inspired products prepared by our vendors. This event is fun for the whole family and includes Kids Zone with great games & prizes, family friendly entertainment, raffles, peach eating contest, live music, chef demonstrations, best peach dessert contest and more! historicfolsom.org
Palladio's 3rd Wednesday Concert - Big Crush
PALLADIO PIAZZA | 7:00 PM
Big Crush – High Energy Dance. Have dinner at the Palladio and head to the Piazza for some movin' and groovin' fun. 3rd Wednesdays from 7p -9p. Family friendly and always FREE to the public. Get ready to dance! No coolers please.
Thursday Night Kickback
PALLADIO PIAZZA | 7:30 PM
Thursday Night Kickback is focused on entertaining today’s 20 and 30 year olds with DJ music and a place to hang out and converse with friends. Join your friends, hang out and have a good time.
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