Kids & Pets
ISSUE
SPORTS + RECREATION WHERE MOVEMENT BEGINS
EDUCATION
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES GROOMED FOR GREATNESS
EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES
LEARN. PLAY. GROW. LASTING MEMORY + UNFORGETTABLE BIRTHDAY
Kids & Pets
This August, there’s no better time to celebrate the joy and energy that kids and pets bring to our lives. This issue highlights the incredible ways local families and their furry friends are growing, learning, and having fun right here in Middleton!
Our first story introduces KEVA Sports Center, where early movement and play set the foundation for lifelong confidence. Growing up in Middleton, I have fond memories of attending sports camps at KEVA. KEVA has crafted programs like My First Sports and Lil’ Kickers to help kids develop coordination, teamwork, and social skills in a supportive and fun environment. It’s where young athletes take their first steps toward a healthy, active lifestyle.
We also sit down with renowned dog groomer Lis Johnston, owner of Serenity Pet Spa. From expert grooming to a welcoming atmosphere that feels like family, Serenity offers a place where pets and their owners experience top-notch care. With their third location recently opening in Middleton, it’s the perfect time to treat your furry friends to some pampering.
The Learning Experience Academy of Early Education brings early childhood education to life with bright, playful classrooms and enriching programs for toddlers. We explore a typical day for the Preppers, the curious 2½ to 3-year-olds whose days are filled with music, movement, storytelling, and hands-on learning: building skills that prepare them for a bright future.
Finally, if you’re planning a birthday bash, our guide to local party venues has you covered. From STEM-inspired celebrations at Stellar Tech Girls to splashfilled fun at Harbor Athletic Club, to active indoor play at PlayN Wisconsin, and all-in-one excitement with bowling and laser tag at Spare Time, these spots promise unforgettable memories for kids and parents alike.
We hope this issue inspires you to embrace the energy of our youngest community members, whether they have two legs or four, and to discover the many ways Middleton supports families and pets through play, learning, and connection.
COLE SPITLER, PUBLISHER @MIDDLETONCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Cole Spitler | cole.spitler@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jill Heilman | jill.heilman@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Alexis Venter | alexis.venter@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Karen Redfield, Jill Heilman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ashley Hicks, Lexia Frank for Studio Soma, Jill Heilman
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
*Through the month of August
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 2 East Mifflin Street Suite 900 Madison, WI 53703 608.283.2719 fa.ml.com/andrew-b-charles
Pierce,
&
N.A., Member FDIC and MLPF&S are wholly
and
Corporation.
and
city scene
1: Rise-A-Thon, a fundraiser biathlon, hosted at Fortify Fitness Collective, organized by the Middleton Friendship Initiative 2: Red &
presenting Badger Honor Flight with check for $3000 at fundraiser 3: The Learning Experience Middleton Ribbon Cutting 4: 115th Fighter Wing Cares Program Annual Fundraiser at Red & White Winebar 5: Greg Gard at BS and Bourbon with Mike Heller 6: Luxury Tier Tasting at the Hellers 7: The Greywolf Foundation and TQ Diamonds Cycle for Stroke teams at Cyclenation
White Winebar
RED & WHITE WINEBAR
RED & WHITE WINEBAR
RED & WHITE WINEBAR
RED & WHITE WINEBAR
KIM QUIGLEY
KIM QUIGLEY
KIM QUIGLEY
KIM QUIGLEY
LOOKING TO SMOOTH, TIGHTEN, & REFRESH YOUR SKIN— WITHOUT SURGERY?
Morpheus8 RF Microneedling at WHOW Aesthetics is your modern-day fountain of youth.
This advanced treatment combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen, improve texture, and firm skin for a more youthful appearance. It’s ideal for areas like the lower face, neck, jawline, and under-eyes.
Despite comments that Morpheus8 may cause aging or unexpected fat loss, the reality is quite the opposite. When performed by trained professionals, Morpheus8 is precisely controlled to target the correct skin depth—stimulating collagen where needed and preserving natural facial volume. Contouring is only achieved where intentionally desired.
With minimal downtime and long-lasting results, Morpheus8 is a trusted choice for patients seeking non-surgical skin rejuvenation.
Book your consultation today at WHOW Aesthetics and restore your glow— naturally, safely, and confidently.
(715) 741-9469
www.whowaesthetics.com
7780 Elmwood Ave, STE. 120, Middleton, WI
business monthly
Hydralive Therapy: Madison’s New Wellness Destination
Locally owned by Mitchell & Katelyn Erickson and Brandon & Cassie Mortensen, Hydralive Therapy Madison is your go-to for modern wellness. The franchise, located at 601 Junction Road, Suite 3, offers IV hydration therapy, Cryotherapy, NAD+ treatments, and Hormone Optimization—all in a relaxing environment. Whether you’re recovering, recharging, or optimizing performance, their team is here to help you feel your best. Come chill, drip, and thrive with them—right here in the heart of Madison! Scan
Fine Art Classes for All Ages in Waunakee!
Find your creative spark this summer by joining one of the fun and informative classes for all ages and skill levels! Lyon Road Art Academy’s August classes include Kids Watercolor and Drawing classes, Adult Painting classes, Little Ones’ Artsy Story time, and amazing Watercolor, Acrylic, and Printmaking workshops. And don’t forget to visit their weekend open studio—Maker’s Space! Register and find more information at lra-academy.com!
Carrington Lawn & Landscape Transforms Playground at Early Learning Center
Carrington Lawn & Landscape, through its Carrington Cares initiative, partnered with the Middleton School District’s Early Learning Center to create an accessible and engaging playground. The project included a sensory walkway, fresh sod, and a paver pad for an outdoor art easel. This donation of time, talent, and materials underscores Carrington’s belief that landscapes can profoundly impact lives and foster a sense of belonging within the community. The project highlights their commitment to community-driven landscaping.
Photography by Carrington Lawn and Landscape
Photography by Lyon Road Art Academy
Photography by Hydralive Therapy
WHERE MOVEMENT BEGINS KEVA SPORTS CENTER
HELPING YOUNG PLAYERS DISCOVER THE FUN OF SPORTS WHILE LEARNING SKILLS THAT LAST A LIFETIME
Owner Eric Fritz grew up in a multisport household where an active lifestyle was the norm, and movement was ingrained in his membrane. He learned how competition must balance camaraderie, how confidence stemmed from the foundation of a strong skill-set, and how the right coach and a supportive
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY JILL HEILMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HICKS
environment can influence a person’s growth, both on and off the field. That perspective became second nature, a mindset shaped by motion, eager to build strong foundations for others.
The idea of KEVA originated while Eric was at Monona Grove High School, tasked to create a business plan for a class project. Eric specced plans for an indoor soccer center, plans that stuck with him and his family, and led to his dad opening a facility on the East side of Madison during Eric’s last year of college. Eric jumped into operations like an attacker
going after a corner kick: headfirst. He’ll tell you he “learned how to do everything wrong” in those first few years, but the truth is, it gave him a full view of what sports facilities need to be sustainable, and allowed him to learn how to read the community to understand their needs. When an opportunity came along to buy property “out in the boonies” of Middleton, Eric saw the potential and filled the position to help set this undeveloped part of the city off on the right foot. Forward-thinking visionary or a risk-taking dreamer, Eric was ready
“THE
COMMUNITY
SHAPES KEVA AS MUCH AS KEVA SHAPES THE COMMUNITY.”
to put himself on the line for what he believed in. With the mind of an athlete, he read the field and took the shot.
In September 1999, Eric began writing his KEVA Sports Center legacy, most likely with the Michael Jordan mantra, “don’t be afraid to fail, be afraid not to try,” on repeat in his ear because he was, and still is, ready to adapt and form a new game plan. From their first season to their current, KEVA has grown immensely. Shaped by community input, the skillset of their staff, and partnerships with neighboring businesses. That same thoughtful growth mindset is what continues to guide new
programs today, especially those designed to support the youngest athletes in their very first steps onto the field.
KEVA’s My First Sports program is where the groundwork begins. Designed for children aged 2-6, this early introduction to movement focuses on curiosity-based play as they experience an array of sports for the first time.
With the support of the fun-loving staff or a parent by their side, the safe environment welcomes these young children to gain confidence as they develop their coordination skills. Positive reinforcement when cooperating and
sharing enhances social skills, so when they’re ready, they can join the next level, prepared to be a teammate.
KEVA’s newest endeavor is the formation of a Little Kickers program, backed by the expertise and guidance of a national franchise. Similar to their My First Sports program, this soccer-specific program utilizes child development theories to establish well-rounded athletes by incorporating lessons on teamwork, emotional regulation, social awareness, and cognitive growth. Oftentimes, we drill the skill, but that’s only part of the game. By also teaching them how to take turns, bounce back from a mistake, or celebrate a teammate’s success, they’re able to develop a mental and physical game as sound as the ref’s whistle.
As we grow, KEVA grows with us. It is the home base, the start and end game. Where teammates turn into lifelong friends, where kids become coaches, or where fly fishermen can practice casting in the off-season. It is adaptable, resilient, and curious, actively supporting healthy habits and building positive structure to carry through our lives. It is community.
Tailored Just For
Collin Trainor, DDS
Austin Wessell, DDS
LEARN. PLAY. GROW.
Early Education with Heart and Purpose at The Learning Experience
ARTICLE BY KAREN REDFIELD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEXIA FRANK FOR STUDIO
SOMA
THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE (TLE), ACADEMY OF EARLY EDUCATION
TLE recently opened in Middleton and is designed for children from six weeks to five years old. Each room is a different, happy, colorful space with materials that encourage play, learning, and the creation of community. Maureen Nkwenti, TLE Administrator, brings her international experience, curiosity about learning and development, and “passion for molding little minds.” This article focuses on a typical day for the Prepper age group, 2½ - 3 years.
8:30 - 8:50 AM – CIRCLE TIME
Finger plays, songs, and welcome activities foster communication skills and social-emotional development. Circle Time is repeated from 3:20-3:40, with goodbye songs. Some of the age-appropriate milestones Preppers should reach this year are consistently following simple, two-step directions, becoming familiar with routines, and understanding the flow of the day.
10:15 - 10:30 AM – LANGUAGE SKILLS / LIBRARY / STORYTELLING
Children meet Phoebe Phonics, the friendly llama, to enjoy puppets, games, and books. Spanish and Mandarin words are incorporated into lessons. Children find it easy to relate to the animals, including Gibby Gibbon, who helps with sign language lessons, and Pablo Pigcasso, who helps with art.
10:30 - 11:00 AM – PLAYGROUND TIME
As children play, they will strengthen gross motor skills, coordination, and balance using toys and the playground equipment. Following outside play, they will eat lunch, take time for rest to reenergize their bodies, and also enjoy an afternoon snack.
3:00 - 3:20 PM – L.E.A.P. INTERACTIVE (LEARNING EXPERIENCE ACADEMIC PROGRAM)
Techni-Cal, the giraffe, will help engage children with hands-on technology, interactive, theme-based lessons, real-time videos, and workbook connections. L.E.A.P. Interactive is the current practice in Early Childhood Education and meets nationwide standards. All curriculum and enrichment programs at TLE are offered with no additional charge.
5:30 - 5:45 PM – MUSIC AND MOVEMENT
Bubbles, the TLE mascot, and his friends lead the children in rhythmic movement, singing, listening, dancing, and social interaction to end the day with positive, creative, group-based movement. Bongo Bear is also a musical addition to this period.
a lasting memory starts with an unforgettable birthday
FROM ROCKETS TO YOGA, AND SLIDES TO LASERS— CELEBRATE YOUR KID, THEIR WAY.
ARTICLE BY JILL
HEILMAN
| PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Stellar Tech Girls
Following a career as an aerospace engineer that included launching rockets at SpaceX and working with astronauts at NASA, Marina Bloomer wanted to bring more gender diversity to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) industries, as she often found herself to be the only woman in the room. Marina wanted to instill confidence in kids from a young age, so she turned learning into something relatable and fun, providing a space where they can experience lasting inspiration. “We see uncertainty disappear as
relationships form, with girls bonding over a shared love of science.”
With an incredible list of hands-on activities, the birthday girl can custom-build her party based on her interests, from artistic science to space and rocket-themed, from cosmetic chemistry to chemistry explosion-powered, making it a truly unique experience she will always remember. “Each kid is different, and it’s so fun to create something special just for them that makes them proud of their love for science and excited to share that with their friends.”
CONTINUED >
Harbor Athletic Club
Kids can be young, wild, and free at HAC! Supporting the importance of active movement, they offer endless options for gym play, and indoor/outdoor pools to splish and splash in. Parents are provided the ease of knowing their kids are in good hands, with a lifeguard to supervise the pool and the option to add on a coordinator to run agebased games in the gym. To highlight a new age of increased maturity, kids can experience their own private class in a real yoga studio or Canvas Club Boxing at a fire station!
PlayN Wisconsin
Outdoor play in an indoor way! With 12,550 square feet of the safest play systems, trampolines, basketball hoops, and more, PlayN Wisconsin brings you the best of the outdoors, without the uncertainties. With the ability to bring your own kid and adult favorite food/drinks, their celebration room becomes a place of connection, encouraging families to gather and parents to stick around, tap into their inner child on the adult-safe equipment, and create lasting memories. Life moves too fast, but PlayN Wisconsin provides a welcoming environment to stay involved in the lives of those around us.
Spare Time Entertainment
Birthdays are memories you look back on even as an adult, so why not make it a day to remember with the most fun they’ll have under one roof! With bowling, laser tag, games, and prizes, what more could a kid want?! And with food, drinks, music, lights, and tableware decor provided, what more could parents want?! A dedicated host to keep the party running smoothly leaves time for parents to witness the pure joy on the kids’ faces. Customizable options and ample space for large groups ensure the party is everything you hoped for and more.
GROOMED for greatness
Meet the Local Groomer Competing on the World Stage—and Training the Next Generation
ARTICLE BY KAREN REDFIELD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL HEILMAN
Lis Johnston, an internationally known dog groomer and the owner of Serenity Pet Spa, said she originally “fell into dog grooming.” She has loved dogs all her life, especially collies, because to her they are “the most beautiful,” and, like many great loves, Lis “never had a choice” once she showed her first collie in a competition at age 12.
Early on, Lis took a job as a dog groomer in Madison and found she had natural skill. She was never content enough to just be good at something, so she attended learning seminars, took private grooming lessons, and became part of national grooming organizations. As Lis dove into the world of dog grooming, she continued her childhood passion of showing dogs and went on to show many dogs to their championships. It is challenging to earn a Master Groomer’s Certification, which Lis has now had for a long time. It requires grooming a dog in front of a certifier who carefully evaluates how someone prepares, handles, and then grooms the dog, all within a designated time limit. The certifier pays attention to every detail of the grooming, with the highest standards of scrutiny. Lis has been named among the top 5 groomers in the country since 2020. She is also a member of Groom Team USA. The top 5 groomers on this team are selected to travel and compete internationally, which Lis referred to as the “Groomer Olympics.” They recently competed in Belgium. Though the US team didn’t win, there’s a good chance they will in the future.
Lis has also built a reputation as a sought-after trainer. With skill like hers, it’s not surprising that her name has attracted people from as far away as Florida to train under her guidance and strive to become master groomers themselves. Serenity Pet Spa employees also benefit from the passion Lis has for training. Serenity is more than a name for the spa; it is the spa’s culture. All Lis’ employees “believe in what they’re doing.” They support each other, pass on knowledge, and their dedication shows in their work. Despite working amongst three different locations, it feels like a community. Happy, knowledgeable employees result in happy dogs, and a happy dog is the one thing pet owners hope for when they drop off their beloved companions.
Lis and her team ensure every dog is provided with a personality-tailored, comfortable space at the spa. They avoid crating and are free to interact with the staff and other dogs to become better accustomed to the environment before they are bathed, dried, prepped, combed, and groomed. Lis feels that the more often they visit, the more they understand that this is a place they can trust. This is also why Lis has every dog interact with multiple staff members at each visit. Her staff loves dogs as much as she does, which makes for a happy atmosphere for everyone: dogs, their owners, and the staff who take care of them. Serenity Pet Spa has been so successful that Lis foresees opening a fourth location by the end of the year. For now, we’re still celebrating the opening of her third location in Middleton this June! If you and your dog have not discovered Serenity Pet Spa yet, you owe it to your dog to check it out.
Middleton residents - Serenity Pet Spa’s Middleton location opened on June 25th, 2025, at 310 Junction Rd. Whether you’re a longtime Serenity client or new to the pack, they can’t wait to welcome you and your pups into the brand new space. Visit serenitypetspamadison.com to book your appointment today!
Priceless Memories
Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Learn Together
Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.
Retro Movie Night
Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.
Chef’s Kiss
Take the food pressure off Dad and invite local culinary experts to prepare a meal. A fun theme, based around his favorite vacation, such as Hawaiian food, will make the evening memorable. Alternatively, try a local cooking class together based on his favorite cuisine.
Blast From The Past
Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND
National Mustard Day
7477 Hubbard Ave, Middleton | 10:00 AM
National Mustard Day returns Saturday, August 2, 2025, in downtown Middleton at Hubbard Avenue & the National Mustard Museum. This free, family-friendly street festival marks the first Saturday in August with mustard tastings, brats, hot dogs, mustard ice cream, live music, games, vendors, and kids’ activities, celebrating America’s favorite condiment with zest, community spirit, and plenty of yellow flair.
AUGUST 6TH
National Night Out
Lakeview Park - 6300 Mendota Avenue, Middleton | 5:00 PM
This free, family-friendly community event is hosted by the Middleton Police Department to foster partnerships between neighbors and local law enforcement. Expect cookouts, safety demos, youth games, public-safety exhibits, and more—all in a casual park setting.
AUGUST 7TH, 14TH, AND 21ST
Old Fashioned Thursdays at Red & White Winebar
331 E Main St, Waunakee | 6:00 PM
On Thursdays, Red & White Winebar is hosting ‘Old Fashioned Thursdays’ featuring a different Local Celebrity Bartender each week. Come by for a fun night of high energy and a DJ spinning good tunes! Also, Thursday, August 21st is the Mocktail Mingle Waunakee event, featuring Mock and Co. NA Old Fashioned Sweet or Sour samples.
AUGUST 16TH
Tri 4 Schools Middleton Kids Triathlon
Bauman Aquatic Center - 2100 Bristol Street, Middleton | 8:30 AM
Young athletes take center stage at the Tri 4 Schools Kids Triathlon. Held at Bauman Aquatic Center and Middleton High School, this fun-focused event includes swimming, biking, and running for kids aged 3–14. With cheering families and a mission to support youth wellness, it’s an empowering day of movement and motivation.
AUGUST 22ND – 24TH
Good Neighbor Festival
Firemen’s Park - 7400 Lee St, Middleton
The Middleton Good Neighbor Festival returns August 22–24, 2025, at Firemen’s Park. Rooted in tradition since 1964, this free three-day celebration features two parades, a 5K run/walk, lively live music, carnival rides, family-friendly activities, and an arts & crafts fair. Hosted by local volunteers and nonprofits, it’s a true community-wide event that raises support for local causes
AUGUST 22ND – 24TH
Waunakee Cup Soccer Tournament
Ripp Park and Deleo Fields
The Waunakee Cup returns August 22–24, 2025, with youth teams across U9 to high school girls competing in a weekend soccer showcase. Matches run Friday afternoon through Sunday at Daleo Park and Ripp Park. Organized by Waunakee Area Soccer Club, it features FIFA-standard games, age-group divisions, and field marshals—celebrating sport, community, and youth development.
Beauty, Untamed
Professional polish meets personal power in every detail.