Lakewood, FL August 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Kids & Pets Issue

EXPERT WISDOM TEETH CARE

From consultation to surgery in as little as two weeks—if desired.

INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED:

Dr. Austin L. Lyman

- Privately owned and operated local family practice with Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

- The most up-to-date digitally guided immediate smile solution. - Hospital level surgical suites with general anesthesia and evidenced based advanced technology in pain management and relief.

Book Now – Limited Summer spots available www.lakewoodranchofs.com

info@lakewoodranchofs.com (941) 212-2328 7170 University Pkwy, Sarasota, FL

Her Health Gynecology is a boutique, physician-owned gynecology practice offering thoughtful, relationship-based care for women at every stage of life. We are independent and fully cashpay, which allows us to provide longer visits, direct access to your doctor, and personalized treatment without the limitations of insurance-based care. Our services range from annual exams and hormone optimization to in-office procedures and gynecologic surgery— all delivered in a calm, unhurried setting that prioritizes your comfort and autonomy.

Whether you choose a single visit or ongoing care, Her Health is built to meet you where you are. We offer a la carte pricing, concierge memberships, and annual exam packages to make expert gynecology accessible without compromising quality. From complex hormone concerns to same-day visits for urgent needs, you can expect evidence-based medicine, transparent pricing, and a deep commitment to patient-centered care.

Spectacular

18 karat white gold diamond ring

5 Fancy Yellow Pear Shaped Diamonds 1 carat each GIA

Surrounding the yellow diamonds are approximately 3 carats total weight round brilliant cut diamonds F-G color VS clarity

Call for price

Paws, Play, and Pure Joy

This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future—they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.

As parents and caregivers, you put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them, and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us—they bring joy, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives.

But we also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.

At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth—they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love.

I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to step into the Editor role of this amazing publication. I enjoy connecting with this community and learning more about what makes Lakewood Ranch special. I hope you enjoy this journey of discovery as well.

Here’s to our future, the children, and the pets who make everything better.

Cheers!

LISA MICHEL, EDITOR @LAKEWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2025

PUBLISHER

Jessi Neitzel | jessi.neitzel@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Michelle Numann | michelle.numann@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lisa Michel | lisa.michel@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Sean Averso | Sean.Averso@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lisa Michel, Michelle Parnell, Jillian Pendergast

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Photo Guru SRQ, MarinoProduxions, Kristen Jensen Productions, Jessi Neitzel, Lisa Michel, Jerry and Michelle Chambless, Barbara Banks, Canines For Heroes, Moments Unleashed by Sherri Krams Photography, Jessica Ryherd, Preston Higdon, Tricia Bolds, Matt Wacek, Michael Folcarelli

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Proverbs 3:5-6

Developing Successful Children

AUGUST 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

KRISTEN JENSEN PRODUCTIONS

MICHAEL FOLCARELLI

LISA MICHEL

PRESTON HIGDON

MATT WACEK

JESSI NEITZEL

TRICIA BOLDS

1: Kilo repping for the Tampa Bay Bucs! 2: Behind the Scenes of the photoshoot for Doberman Roofing with their dog, Luther. 3: This is Whiskey helping out at Gulf Coast Custom Designs. 4: Molly Higdon and her kids enjoying sunset. 5: Bixley and Lucky napping in the sun. 6: Lauren from LEGS and her friends. 7: Jessi and her boys at the beach.

Serving Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte Counties

AWARD-WINNING POOL INSTALLATION & POOL REMODELING SERVICES

Bringing the very best version of your outdoor space to reality. From new pool builds to pool remodeling and pool resurfacing, we’re proud to be Sarasota’s #1 pool builder. Browse our website for inspiration and we will help you design your outdoor space!

FAMILY-OWNED FOR OVER 40 YEARS www.sparklingkleenpools.com 5654 Lawton Dr, Sarasota, FL | 941-927-7133 VB

Edge Therapies Has the Solution – Now Enrolling for Our NEW Literacy Programs

Pre-Foundational Reading Program (Ages 4–6)

This program helps your child:

✔ Develop strong listening and sound awareness skills

✔ Understand how words are made up of sounds and syllables

✔ Build early confidence with rhythm, rhyme, and spoken language

Word Reading Program (Grades 1–3)

Designed for children who may be guessing at words, struggling to sound them out, or avoiding reading altogether.

This program helps your child:

✔ Master decoding skills with Orton-Gillingham-based instruction

✔ Learn to recognize and apply phonics rules in real words

✔ Build reading fluency and confidence in every session

Urban Air Lakewood Ranch

This year-round indoor amusement park, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park arrives in Lakewood Ranch. With new adventures behind every corner, they are an indoor playground for the entire family. Celebrate with kids’ birthday parties or spend a day of fun with the family and see why this is more than just a trampoline park. Urban Air Trampoline Park has been voted BEST Gym In America for Kids by Shape Magazine.

Photography: Urban Air Adventure Park

6901 Professional Pkway E, Sarasota, FL 34240 6 week long reading programs

Limited spots available

The Pickleball Club at Lakewood Ranch

Enjoy indoor professional-grade courts, meticulously maintained to exceed the standards of the most demanding player. Experience a climate-controlled paradise, offering year-round comfort in any season. The facility offers indirect LED lighting throughout the Club and 26’ ceilings with acoustically paneled walls for sound mitigation. There are multi-layered courts with permanent nets, pro shop and cafe. Basketball and volleyball courts along with a wellness and recovery room are scheduled to be completed.

ELEVATE YOUR

Beauty & Wellness

Reveal your best self with expert care at ZENA Aesthetics & Wellness. We offer advanced aesthetic treatments including Botox, fillers, microneedling, and HydraFacials, along with physician-led, personalized programs for weight loss and hormone replacement therapy to support long-term wellness.

Book your consultation today.

www.ZENAmedspa.com info@zenamedspa.com | 941-749-0741 | V@zenamedspa

Photography: The Pickleball Club at Lakewood Ranch

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.

Sarasota Premier Aesthetics

Now serving Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota with a new location at 3920 Bee Ridge Rd, Bldg E, Suite A, Sarasota. Expert providers specialize in injectables, advanced laser treatments, skin tightening, microneedling, medical facials & regenerative aesthetics to help you achieve a bright, youthful, natural look you will absolutely love. They offer concierge-level personalized care to ensure you receive precisely the best treatments to deliver the exceptional results you desire.

Photography: Sarasota Premier Aesthetics

6 month Platinum Concierge Membership

Dr. Rachel Smith is an experienced medical provider who will take all the guess work out of your journey. You can’t afford to be slowed down by low energy or excess weight: she is here to help you stay on top of your game!

Program includes:

Sustainable Weight Loss

Evidence-Based Tools in Your Tool Kit

Support and Accountability Every Step of The Way

Scan to view a testimonial from our website

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Pet Boarding Facility

Fox Creek Pet Ranch foxcreekpetranch.com | 941.524.2772

Pet Paradise Lakewood Ranch petparadise.com/lakewood-ranch.htm | 941.209.1021

Woofdorf Astoria of Lakewood Ranch woofdorflakewoodranch.com | 941.225.2664

Bayside Pet Resort at Lakewood Ranch baysidepetresort.com/locations/lakewood-ranch-location | 941.755.3047

Four Paws Doggie Day Camp fourpawsdoggiedaycamp.com | 941.504.6278

Kid’s Activity

Myakka Elephant Ranch myakkaelephantranch.org | 941.702.0220

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature bishopscience.org | 941.746.4131

Dakin Dairy Farms dakindairyfarms.com | 941.322.2802

Lake Manatee State Park floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/lake-manatee-state-park | 941.741.3028

Big Cat Habitat bigcathabitat.org | 941.371.6377

In 2025 Molly was voted one of “Sarasota’s Top 12 Realtors” by SRQ Magazine. Molly has earned the elite designation of being a Keller Williams Luxury Qualified Agent. The Keller Williams Luxury Division is entirely focused on bringing the best results to the highest level of clientele and their luxury properties. With $85M+ of real estate sold Molly proudly represents a wide variety of properties at varying price points across the gulf coast of Florida.

DEVELOPING SUCCESSFUL children

Learn more about the educational initiatives offered through The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTO GURU SRQ

The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County focuses on preparing children for starting school and ensuring that they read on grade level through numerous resources, services, and programs. Currently, the ELC serves over 7,000 children in Manatee County in addition to the countless thousands helped since its founding in 1999.

“I really love the fact that we can help change children's lives,” shares Darrell King, the organization’s CEO. “It’s very rewarding that we can play a part in developing these kids’ futures and giving them the best chance of success.”

The ELC’s two largest programs are the School Readiness Program, which provides childcare subsidies to families, and the Volunteer Prekindergarten Program that facilitates introducing 4-year-olds to the educational environment in preparation for kindergarten. Other programs include screening and assessment for learning challenges, early intervention strategies, safety education, and teacher coaching. Additional resources included three mobile classrooms and multiple book distributions throughout the year.

As Lakewood Ranch continues to grow and families with young children move into the community, Darrell stresses that the free Volunteer Prekindergarten Program is a great opportunity for families. “There is proven data that 67% of the kids who attend the VPK are ready for kindergarten, whereas only 52% of the kids who don't attend are ready for kindergarten,” says Darrell. “That’s a 15% difference based on program attendance.”

As a nonprofit organization, the ELC benefits greatly from community involvement and financial support. “We have several volunteer programs,” explains Darrell. “One is our Reading Pals program where volunteers go and read books to children. We have 100 volunteers right now and about 125 children in that program, so we are always looking to expand.” The ELC also sponsors several fundraising events every year including a golf tournament in December and a Gala each summer.

“We keep high visibility at community events," Darrell says, "because the future of every community is making sure we nurture children and get them ready for success.”

For more information, visit elc-manatee.org and follow @ELC.Manatee on Facebook.

Left page, top: Kelly Beavers, Director of Community Educational Initiatives Bottom: (L to R) Kerry Gaylord, Chief Operations Officer; Darrell King, Chief Executive Officer; Rachel Spivey, Director of Grants and Strategic Partnerships This page, top: Josh Sisley, Facilities Specialist | Bottom: MarinoProduxions

ARTICLE BY LISA MICHEL | PHOTOGRAPHY

CHANGING LIVES AT THE RICARDO ALMEIDA BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU ACADEMY

EMPOWERING FAMILIES

BY PHOTO GURU SRQ

Brayson and Parker with Ricardo Almeida

Upon meeting Ricardo and his wife Monica, you immediately sense their passion for Jiu Jitsu, supporting families and building a community. The Ricardo Almeida Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

As a Coach, Ricardo trained two UFC Champions Frankie Edgar and Eddie Alvarez, as well as Bellator Champion Corey Anderson. All while coaching multiple Jiu Jitsu World

STUDENTS LEARN DISCIPLINE, BUILD CONFIDENCE, SELF-ESTEEM AND FOCUS

academy opened three years ago in Lakewood Ranch and is the second academy owned by the family.

Ricardo’s impressive career began as a young boy growing up in Brazil. His dad enrolled him and his brother into Jiu Jitsu classes so the boys could defend themselves on the streets of Rio de Janeiro.

In 1997, Ricardo moved from Brazil to New Jersey to be an assistant instructor at the Renzo Gracie Academy. The Ricardo Almeida Academy was created and continues to provide instruction today.

Some of Ricardo’s career achievements include competing in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championships), Pride FC, winning National Brazilian Champion, No Gi World, Pan Am Champion and two-time silver medalist at the Abu Dhabi Submission Wrestling World Championships.

Champions, including Luke Nasir who is also an instructor at the academy in Lakewood Ranch.

Ricardo is also a member of the NJ Martial Arts Hall of Fame and currently a Judge and Commissioner for the newly founded UFC BJJ - Ultimate Fighting Professional Jiu Jitsu League. Ricardo currently holds the 6th Degree Black Belt and is the highest ranked student under legendary Renzo Gracie.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art developed by the Gracie family in Brazil. It is unlike other martial arts that teach violent punches and kicks. Often called ‘The Gentle Art,' Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, focuses on taking an opponent to the ground and using leverage, technique, strategy and control instead of striking or force. The art is effective regardless of size or strength. Use of non-violent

control holds are taught which are only used as the last option against a physical assault. Techniques are designed to help you stay calm, think clearly, and act effectively to neutralize threats.

For kids, the classes create a learning environment that extends beyond the physical component. Kids learn discipline, build confidence, self-esteem and focus. Learning to deal with intimidating bullies and becoming immune to peer pressure is another benefit for boys and girls alike. The year-round schedule allows for continued learning and development. And, unlike other sports, every child participates in each class, and they can set goals to progress through the belt ranking system.

The academy provides a space for all walks of life and a wide range of ages to come together to build a healthy lifestyle, gain focus, perseverance, and confidence.

Ricardo says, “Jiu Jitsu has changed my life…and I want to be able to share the ‘Gentle Art’ with as many people as possible.”

Ricardo and Monica are both involved in the operations of the Academy and invite the community to try a complimentary introductory class.

For more information on Ricardo Almeida Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy visit ricardoalmeida.com. Also follow @RABJJAcademy on Facebook and Instagram.

From Heartbreak to Hope — Join the Movement

What began as one young woman’s tribute to her late mother and sister has grown into a movement of empowerment. In their honor, she founded The Sisterhood Project USA to provide scholarships in sports, music, and the arts for children impacted by domestic violence — turning grief into lasting change.

Now, you’re invited to be part of that change.

Pearls & Prosecco Gala: An Evening of Elegance and Impact

Celebrate compassion, resilience, and opportunity at our signature event. Enjoy live entertainment, gourmet cuisine, and powerful stories that show how your presence helps children heal and thrive.

Every ticket supports scholarships that give kids a chance to shine.

Come for the cause. Stay for the celebration. Leave inspired. Reserve your ticket today — and help light the way forward. Scan Here to Purchase Your Ticket and Get Involved Today!

Bringing Stories to Life

LOCAL TEEN NYA CHAMBLESS SHARES IMPORTANT MESSAGES IN NEW FILM “MY GUARDIAN ANGEL”

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JERRY AND MICHELLE CHAMBLESS, BARBARA BANKS

For 15-year-old Nya Chambless, crafting narratives and recording them on film has been a passion since early in her life. Nya made her first film when she was six years old and as she matured, her dad, Producer Jerry Chambless, encouraged her to take inspiration from life experiences.

Her newest film, My Guardian Angel , grew out of one of Nya’s childhood friendships. “When I was around five years old, I switched to a gifted program. I met a girl, and we immediately clicked,” she remembers. “It was like we had known each other for a long time, even though we’d only known each other for a short while. We got really close, but about five months after I met her, she passed away from inoperable neuroblastoma.”

My Guardian Angel , which premiered in April at the Sarasota Film Festival, not only tells the story of Nya’s friendship, but also focuses on several significant themes. “The experience made me look at the world in a new light and made me a bit more aware of

what was going on around me,” explains Nya. “The main things that I want people to take away from this film are acceptance and inclusion, and how one true friend can really make a difference in someone’s life.”

Through the filmmaking process and working with a cast and crew of over 20 people, Nya has learned a bit more about herself as well. “Directing and producing are my favorite parts,” says Nya. “It’s when I get to collaborate with everyone, start seeing the film take shape piece by piece, and build its overall narrative. I also really enjoyed connecting with people and businesses in the community. It’s been incredible to see how many believe in the message I’m trying to share and how supportive and generous they’ve been throughout the process.”

For more information, visit griefdialogues.com/my-guardian-angel and illumproductions.com. Also follow @MyGuardianAngelFilm on Facebook and Instagram.

9 AM - 3 PM

No Better Friend

ARTICLE BY LISA MICHEL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANINES FOR HEROES

In the quiet moments of reflection, heroes often discover their true calling. For Mark LaFlamme, a decorated veteran of the US Air Force, this calling materialized in an unexpected yet impactful way. After enduring the harrowing experiences of combat and coping with personal loss, Mark found solace and purpose in the companionship of a dog named Allie. This bond would eventually lead him to establish Canines For Heroes, a program dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders through the healing power of trained service dogs.

THE HEALING POWER OF DOGS

Cowgirl and Allie

SERVICE DOGS OFFER MORE THAN

JUST PHYSICAL ASSISTANCE; THEY PROVIDE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT, COMPANIONSHIP, AND A RENEWED SENSE OF PURPOSE.

From a young age, Mark had a strong sense of duty and patriotism. He joined the US Air Force and excelled as an Aviator and Officer. Throughout his military career, he fought in 3 combat operations: Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mark received numerous accolades for his bravery and dedication, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, 4 Air Medals, and the Meritorious Service Medal to name a few.

Mark’s experiences in combat took a toll on his physical and mental health, and he faced the devastating loss of two fellow officers and aviators. These tragic events marked a turning point in his life, compelling him to seek a new purpose and way to heal.

After retiring from the Air Force at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (O-5), Mark’s life took an unexpected turn with the arrival of Allie, a Belgian Malinois puppy. Recognizing his own struggles, Mark decided to train Allie as a service dog. The process was therapeutic, and the companionship Allie provided proved invaluable in managing his symptoms. Mark realized that other veterans and first responders could benefit from similar support.

In 2016, Mark founded Canines For Heroes, a non-profit 501c3 organization with a mission to train and provide service dogs for veterans and first responders diagnosed with PTSD. Mark’s vision was to create a community where these heroes could find comfort and support through the unconditional love and assistance of a trained canine companion.

Service dogs offer more than just physical assistance; they provide emotional support, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose. The presence of a service dog helps to mitigate the symptoms of PTSD, allowing veterans and first responders to regain control over their lives.

For more information or to support Canines For Heroes, visit caninesforheroes.org . Contact directly at: (941) 867-8325 or email mark@caninesforheroes.org

Walker

Sandra and Mark LaFlamme with Allie

Getting Older Is Inevitable. Getting Weaker Is Not.

You can’t change your age. But you CAN build the strength to defy it.

Doug and Julie Norman are living proof. Both are regulars at 20 Minutes to Fitness, a medically based strength-training program that helps them build strength, stamina – and more – with just one 20-minute session a week.

20 Minutes to Fitness is different from traditional gyms. Here, you’ll build strength using controlled, ultraslow movements on equipment specially designed for our slow-cadence training methods. A nationally certified fitness coach remains at your side the entire time, calibrating each machine to your fitness level and encouraging you as you approach muscle peak performance.

It doesn’t take long! You’ll spend only two to three minutes on each machine. Slow-cadence training isn’t just fast, it’s also safe, reducing strain on joints and lowering the risk of injury.

SLOW AND STEADY BUILDS REAL RESULTS

Doug first discovered 20 Minutes to Fitness in 2009 when he was 51. “I liked the efficiency of the workout as well as the results it delivered,” he says.

After moving from Florida in 2011, Doug struggled to find a similar training regime. But when he returned to Florida a decade later, he picked up right where he left off at 20 Minutes to Fitness. A year or so later, his wife, Julie, joined him – and they haven’t looked back.

One of the first places Doug noticed a difference was in his golf game. “My brother-in-law pointed out that I’m hitting the ball farther than before. I credit my weight training,” he says.

Julie, meanwhile, has built muscle tone, dropped a clothing size and gained stamina. “Between helping care for my aging mom and keeping up with our kids, I need all the energy I can get,” she says.

MAKING EVERY MINUTE COUNT

The program’s convenience is a major draw. “It’s sustainable,” Julie adds. “Twenty minutes once a week—anyone can fit that in.”

Doug, now 67, and Julie, 64, have always led busy lives. Finding time for fitness is not easy. “It’s amazing what one 20-minute workout a week can do,” Doug says. “I just love that you don’t have to work out five days a week to get that.”

“While aging is unavoidable, declining muscle mass and strength don’t have to be,” explains Angela Begin, co-owner of 20 Minutes to “Fitness. “This method helps build muscle, which can help keep your body functioning at a level that feels younger than your years.”

Research supports the program’s benefits, which include increased bone density, improved balance, better energy levels and reduced joint pain. “Some clients even delay or avoid surgery by strengthening the muscles around their joints,” Begin says.

TRY IT FOR FREE 20 Minutes

to Fitness welcomes clients of all ages and fitness levels. For more information or to schedule a FREE consultation and workout, visit 20MinutesToFitness. com or call one of our three convenient Florida locations.

Doug and Julie Norman with their trainers Micah and Amber.

Unlocked

ARTICLE BY JILLIAN PENDERGAST

Specialized Reading and Handwriting Programs for Your Child

Learning Potential

Edge Therapies is thrilled to announce the launch of three expert-led small group programs designed to build strong foundations in literacy and handwriting for children ages 3–10. Starting the week of August 18th, these highly targeted programs will be offered at our brand-new office space in Waterside.

Led by licensed speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists, our programs use evidence-based approaches to help children gain the confidence and skills they need to succeed academically—and enjoy learning along the way.

The Pre-Reading Foundations Program (Ages 3–6) are designed for young learners just beginning their literacy journey, this playful, structured group lays the groundwork for future reading success through Orton-Gillingham-based activities.

The goals at this level include the following: 1) Focus on phonological awareness skills like rhyming, alliteration, sentence segmentation, and syllable clapping. 2) Dive into phonemic awareness, including identifying initial/medial/final sounds and blending and segmenting CVC words. 3) Begin letter-sound recognition and early decoding using consonants and short vowels in closed syllables.

Word Reading Program (Ages 5–10) is perfect for emerging and struggling readers, this intensive program builds word-level reading confidence using a structured, systematic Orton-Gillingham-based approach.

The goals at this level include the following: 1) Master decoding closed syllable words with short vowels and consonant blends. 2) Expand into vowel-consonant-e syllables, r-controlled vowels, and high-frequency sight words. 3) Tackle more advanced patterns, including vowel teams and open syllables, building fluency and accuracy.

All reading programs are led by a licensed speech-language pathologist with extensive training in literacy instruction.

The Handwriting Heroes Foundations Group is led by a licensed occupational therapist. This fun and functional group supports children in developing the fine motor, visual-motor, and posture control skills needed for effective handwriting. Goals for this group include: pencil grip and hand strength, letter formation and spacing, body posture and endurance for writing tasks and multi-sensory strategies to make writing fun and approachable.

Each program runs once a week for 6 weeks, beginning the week of August 18th. Sessions are held in small group formats to ensure personalized attention and skill development.

To reserve your child’s spot, visit edgetherapies fl.com or contact us directly at 727-900-5799 or email: hello@edgetherapiesfl.com. Located at 6901 Professional Parkway E, Sarasota, FL 34240

FINDING FOREVER HOMES

The Mission Behind Every Wag and Purr

ARTICLE BY LISA MICHEL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOMENTS UNLEASHED BY SHERRI KRAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

A tree-lined driveway welcomes visitors as they arrive at the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch. The 5.6-acre campus provides open spaces for dogs to play along with multiple structures that provide homes for cats, dogs and rabbits. The sense of love and compassion for these rescues is palpable.

The organization's mission is to offer a safe environment and shelter for companion animals including medical care, vaccinations, and micro-chipping by loving and caring individuals, until they can adopt the animals into a suitable new home. The facility collaborates with other shelters and county animal services to connect animals with their forever homes. Last year, The Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch facilitated 350 adoptions.

The shelter is non-profit and operates 100% by private donations and is operated by three full-time and two part-time staff along with several volunteers.

Dani Ziegler, Shelter Director, says there are several ways the community can support this organization. Individuals and businesses may purchase items directly from the Wish Lists on Amazon.com and Chewy.com and have items delivered directly to the shelter. This allows the shelter to receive specific items that are needed. Volunteering at the shelter or making financial donations is another option. Foster homes are also needed year-round.

During hurricane season the shelter relies on 'Storm Trooper' fosters who can provide care for animals for a shorter period of time as needed. Attending a fundraising event throughout the year is also helpful.

Upcoming events include: Putts4Mutts Golf Tournament on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club and Pickle4Pets Pickleball Fundraiser on Monday, November 10, 2025. Details and registration coming soon.

Regular adoption hours are Friday, Saturday and Sundays from 11 am - 4 pm at 26920 Gopher Hill Rd, Myakka City, FL 34251.

For more information, visit: hslwr.org or call 941-361-1071 or email info@hslwr.org

Left page, top: Bessie, Dani Ziegler, Karen Gutierrez, and Mora Jordan (left to right) Bottom left: Lady Brett Bottom right: Cat Room at the shelter This page: Helen Cundiff and Waylon

GRIT AND GRACE in the Show Ring

Alexis Rissler, a Senior at Lakewood Ranch High School, is part of the Agriscience Program and National FFA Organization for Show Steers. The school provides hands-on learning in labs and outdoor facilities such as a steer barn, swine barn and pastures.

Show steers are beef cattle raised and exhibited by students as part of their agricultural education and leadership development. Steers are carefully managed, fed, and trained to be shown at fairs and livestock shows. Students demonstrate their skills in animal husbandry and presentation, with the steers ultimately being evaluated on their conformation, muscle, and overall market-ready condition.

Alexis especially enjoys ‘fitting’ the steer. This involves enhancing the animal’s appearance, so it presents well for judging. This includes grooming, clipping, and applying products to improve hair and leg structure, all while maintaining a natural look.

Her hard work and dedication paid off with the steer she named “Talk of the Town.” This steer was named ‘Grand Champion” and weighed in at approximately 1600 lbs.

Steer Showing in Lakewood Ranch

ARTICLE BY LISA MICHEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA RYHERD

WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals

There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.

Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error, they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.

Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.

The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.

It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.

Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.

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ANIMAL Crackers

Ingredients:

• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 cup oatmeal

• 4 tablespoons honey

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Steps:

• 4 tablespoons buttermilk

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.

3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.

4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.

Enjoy!

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