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The Kids & Pets Issue
This issue means a lot to me. Children are the heartbeats of our families. They are the resounding WHY in the motivation of much of what we do. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents and caregivers, we 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.
Our dog, Zeus, has been with my children through some of the toughest situations they have had to endure. His unconditional love and affection have been a constant source of comfort when they needed it most.
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.
There is another reason why this issue means so much to me. We are officially ONE YEAR OLD!!!! One year bringing you all of the great stories about our city and the amazing residents and business owners that make New Port Richey and surrounding area so amazing!
Here’s to our future, our little ones, the pets who make everything better and many more years of New Port Richey City Lifestyle!
1: Publisher Amy Walters celebrates at Havana Nights with her son Peyton Walters. 2 – 5: Hub Life Charities Inc. threw a stellar golf tournament at Cypress Run Golf Club to raise money for Pasco Animal Services. 6: Saucy Queen and Atlas are ready to dig in at the Crying Tiger Tasting event.
Networking fun at the New Port Richey City Lifestyle monthly mixer at Brix 33.
This year ELCPH celebrates its 20th anniversary focused on supporting high quality early childhood education.
ARTICLE BY AMY WALTERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADINE B.
PHOTOGRAPHY/EARLY LEARNING COALITION
THE EARLY LEARNING COALITION ENSURES EVERY CHILD GETS THE BEST START TO THEIR EDUCATION.
A SMART START
One of the most memorable days for a parent is when their little one starts their journey into their first day of Pre-K or kindergarten. For parents, knowing their child is ready to start school can be overwhelming. Preparing for school actually starts
The Early Learning Coalition was officially designated as a nonprofit in 2005, one of 30 such organizations in the state of Florida. It now serves nearly 10,000 children daily in Pasco and Hernando Counties through the voluntary pre-kindergarten program
“EVERY CHILD DESERVES THE CHANCE TO START ON EQUAL FOOTING.”
years before a child steps into a classroom. Studies show that 85-90% of brain development happens between birth and age four. Parents do all they can at home to help develop and support the emotional growth of their child. For many working parents, where both parents are employed full time and raising growing children, uncertainty arises if they are doing all they can to prepare.
Steve Knobl, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, has witnessed this truth unfold in classrooms, campuses, and communities over a career spanning more than three decades. From first-grade teacher to high school principal to College Campus President, and the past decade back at the beginning with work in the birth to kindergarten space. He witnesses the same pattern repeatedly—young people arriving at each new stage unprepared, not because they lacked intelligence or potential, but because many never get the right start.
and the school readiness subsidized program. But the Coalition’s impact goes far beyond these numbers. Its efforts reach into homes, classrooms, and neighborhoods, equipping not just children but parents, teachers, and caregivers with the tools and confidence they need to help young learners thrive.
“Our focus is threefold,” said Knobl. “We support children and families, we support our providers, and we connect with the community.” That support often starts with small things that can make a big difference—resources like books, parenting workshops, teacher training and coaching, and simple strategies to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities. Through the START initiative, which launched during the early months of the COVID19 pandemic, the Coalition began offering virtual parenting cohorts that bring together groups of families for guided sessions focused on
child development, communication, and home learning strategies. In many cases, multiple generations of a family attend together, even across state lines. “We’ve had grandparents in Georgia log in to join their daughters in Pasco County. It creates this shared experience and reinforces that parenting doesn’t have to be isolating or scary,” explained Knobl.
Literacy is a particularly urgent area of focus. In some low-income areas, studies have shown there may be as few as two or three age-appropriate books in a child’s home. To help close that gap, the Coalition creates and distributes free book bundles at events and community gatherings. “It may seem small, but it matters,” shared Knobl. “Songs, rhymes, reading together—these are the foundations of learning and children should be enjoying the exploration and process of learning.”
The Coalition also provides professional development and classroom support for more than 300 early learning programs in the two counties. When a child isn’t meeting expected milestones, the organization’s developmental services team steps in to observe, offer strategies, and work with teachers and families to identify the best path forward. Many of the educators in these classrooms are young themselves, so the Coalition provides free training and materials to help them build the skills needed to guide young children through critical early years.
“IT MAY SEEM SMALL, BUT IT MATTERS.”
While the work is grounded in educational best practices, the mission is straightforward: ensure every child in Pasco and Hernando has a fair chance. “We want children walking into kindergarten feeling confident, engaged, and prepared to learn and grow,” said Knobl. “It shouldn’t matter what zip code they live in. Every child deserves the chance to start on equal footing.”
Awareness remains one of the Coalition’s biggest challenges. Many families new to the area don’t know that free and low-cost early childhood programs are available. Others aren’t sure where to start. That’s where the community can help. “Just share that we’re here,” explained Knobl. “Share our website, social media channels, tell a friend about us, let families know there’s support available—because everything we offer is free, and everything we do is helping children grow to their potential.” To learn more, explore resources, or find out how to get involved, visit www.elcph.org
SAFE & SOUND
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PET RESORT FOR YOUR FURRY COMPANION.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NAOMI WIPERT
Going on vacation should be exciting, but for many pet parents, the thought of leaving their furry companions behind brings more stress than ease. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended trip, concerns about a pet’s well-being — Will they be safe? Will they feel abandoned? — can linger in the back of every traveler’s mind.
Pet owners today have access to numerous options which guarantee both safety and genuine care for their animals. Pet resorts have become a better choice than traditional kennels for people who treat their pets as family members, as they provide both comfort and personalized attention, along with activities. “They want to know their pets are safe, healthy, and having fun,” said Christina Holtz, owner of Bay Paws Pet Resort. “That’s why the cameras are so important. Pet parents can log in anytime to check on their dogs.” Christina’s understanding of both pets and people is rooted in personal experience. As a former attorney balancing long hours with caring for her dachshund, Wrigley, she experienced firsthand the peace of mind that came with high-quality daycare.
To ease your worry when you are away, many pet daycares and boarding facilities offer tools such as live camera access, mobile app updates, and real-time messaging. These features enable pet parents to check in during the day, monitor their pets’ well-being, and stay connected — offering a layer of transparency that helps everyone feel more at ease.
CONTINUED >
That transparency often goes hand in hand with personalization—especially for pets with unique needs. Some boarding facilities exist to serve outgoing social dogs, but other facilities recognize that group environments may not be suitable for every animal. Dogs and cats with anxiety require environments that offer quiet spaces and individualized care, as well as customized enrichment activities tailored to their comfort needs.
Continuing the pet’s regular diet helps decrease their stress levels and creates a better transition experience during their time away from home. In addition, familiar home items, such as blankets and toys, help the pets feel comfortable.
The selection of pet daycare facilities should focus primarily on physical and mental stimulation. For example, some resorts offer multiple potty breaks, group daycare, agility equipment, puzzle toys, or water play — depending on each dog’s temperament and preferences. “Social dogs can run around in the yards all day, while others might do puzzle toys or agility equipment,” she said. Some pets require a little extra support to feel comfortable in a new environment, which is why patience and personalized care are essential at
any boarding facility. Christina shared a story about a pair of nervous dachshunds who initially struggled during their evaluation at her own facility. “I sat with them in their room to help them get comfortable,” she recalled. “A few weeks later, they were thriving — like the queens of the yard.” With the right approach, even shy or anxious pets can adjust and enjoy their stay.
“Social dogs can run around in the yards all day, while others might do puzzle toys or agility equipment”
— Christina Holtz
When evaluating a pet resort or boarding facility, safety, communication, structure, and comfort should be key considerations — especially in areas with extreme weather. Quality facilities often manage the climate carefully, limit outdoor time during peak heat, and provide features such as shaded yards, misters, and flexible indoor-outdoor access. Staffing hours can also vary, but having trained caregivers on site for extended hours adds peace of mind.
If you’re unsure what to expect, many facilities welcome tours during business hours. Seeing the environment firsthand can help you decide whether a pet resort is the right fit for your furry companion.
To learn more about the benefits of a pet resort or plan a visit for your fur baby, visit www. baypaws.com .
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from the heart
Student athlete ECG screenings can save lives.
When you look at Gavin Hughes, you see a typical teenage boy ready to tackle his senior year of high school. But there is far more to his story. If it wasn’t for an ECG six years ago, his story would be extremely different today.
Jillian Michaels, Gavin’s mother, knows just how lucky she is. “He was in a routine well visit. Every year, the doctor heard a murmur. Those are pretty normal. They grow out of them,” she shared. But as Gavin got older, the doctor suggested a cardiology visit as a precaution. As a busy single mom, finding the time was a challenge. Her mom had a feeling it was important and offered to take him for the extra screening.
That day changed Gavin’s life forever. An appointment with the pediatric cardiologists at St. Joseph’s in Tampa and a round of tests discovered Gavin has a heart disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). A genetic condition where the heart muscle thickens, restricting blood flow. It was such an extreme case that without detection, he could have experienced a sudden event on the field. Instead of heading to soccer practice, from that day on, he could never play competitive soccer again. A month later, Gavin was in surgery to have an ICD/pacemaker implanted.
ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGICAL MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY
While Gavin’s case is extreme, he’s not alone. According to the American Heart Association, it’s estimated at least 40,000 children are affected by congenital cardiovascular defects each year in the US. While sports-related Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is rare, it’s a risk for young athletes. Thankfully, a quick non-invasive screening can identify issues before it’s too late.
An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is a simple test measuring the electrical activity in the heart. It reveals abnormalities in heart rhythm that could signal problems. These screenings are so valuable the state of Florida recently passed The Second Chance Act, requiring all high school athletes to receive electrocardiogram screening before participating in school sports. That law went into effect on July 1, 2025.
After Gavin’s diagnosis, Jillian immediately went into research mode. If Gavin had an ECG before starting competitive soccer,
they could have learned about his condition sooner. She quickly discovered Who We Play For, a nonprofit dedicated to offering affordable heart screenings for student athletes. As owner of Innovative Studios in Trinity, Jillian is surrounded by student athletes. Now more aware of what to look for, she was seeing signs in her dancers that brought concern. She reached out to Who We Play for and they offered free ECG screenings to the dancers at her studio. Luckily, all her dancers received clean scans. She now plans to offer the scans annually. “It takes three minutes. It takes longer to put the electrodes on your body than it does to run the test.”
Gavin will be managing his condition for the rest of his life, but it doesn’t keep him completely on the sidelines. While he needs to be more careful than other kids his age, you can find him kicking the soccer ball or playing pickleball with his friends. He’s discovered new passions like gaming and watching endurance racing. What it has done is made him an advocate for others. He’s committed to giving back to other student athletes by joining Who We Play For in college, offering ECG tests and sharing his story to help other kids live long and healthy lives.
You can find free screenings in your area, or sign up to host screenings at your student athlete program location, by reaching out to Who We Play For at whoweplayfor.org
The Silver Lining
ARTICLE BY JOANN CHANG
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGICAL
MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY
Children in the foster care system face many challenges. Even with a team of support - from loving foster parents to case workers and other officials – they have battles to fight and hills to climb. Today, there’s a new friend in their corner when the storm clouds surround them. Their silver lining is Polar, Hero To A Child’s Facility Dog, the first Courthouse Facility Dog serving Florida’s 6th Judicial Circuit.
Hero To A Child was founded in 1989. Its original purpose was simply to provide holiday gifts and meals to kids in the child welfare system. “It expanded
POLAR PROVIDES COMFORT AND SUPPORT TO CHILDREN IN
THE CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM.
“THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING YOU CAN DO. YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A FOSTER PARENT TO CHANGE THE LIFE OF A FOSTER CHILD.”
from gifts to basic needs, educational items, tutoring support, participation in extracurriculars, all kinds of other activities outside of just holiday gifts,” shared Erin AuthierLohr, Executive Director of Hero To A Child. Their team comes in to help fill the needs that the state funding of foster care can’t stretch to cover. They have programs that help cover children’s needs, Guardian ad Litem support, resource closets as well as their annual holiday program and more.
In November 2024, they officially started a new program – one that’s been over two years in the making. “I learned about the courthouse facility dogs program and the amazing benefit courthouse dogs bring to kids that are in these really difficult places. I reached out to Canine Companions to learn about the process,” explained Authier-Lohr. Canine Companions Inc. leads the service dog industry. The dog Authier-Lohr was hoping to bring to Hero To A Child would be a donation from Canine Companions and they had to prove their program was worthy of such a generous donation. That’s when Tammie McQueeney joined the team as an admin – and future dog handler.
All their hard work came to fruition when they got the call that puppies were available and their opportunity might have arrived. “She trained with several dogs, because there’s not a guarantee that you leave with a dog. They have to find the right dog that can do the job, and that pairs well with the handler,” explained Authier-Lohr. The team was ecstatic when they learned Polar would be joining the team. After two weeks of training, Polar and McQueeny were licenced and ready to build their program. Polar’s goal is to offer calm, comfort, and emotional support to children whether it be during a court appearance, medical exam, forensic interview or other need.
CONTINUED >
On office days, you’ll find Polar greeting guests at the resource center. Two days a week, they head to Pasco Kids First, a children’s advocacy center. “We hang out in the waiting room, play with the kids while they’re waiting, and make them feel comfortable. Sometimes we color, sometimes we play ball, he’s learning to play games where he can bowl and do things like that. It’s just engaging him with the kids,” said McQueeny.
“Every once in a while, they will have a specific case or request. She had one that had been there for two months, going to therapy regularly and would never engage in the conversation or in therapy, and was very angry,” explained Authier-Lohr. “It was immediate. She engaged with the dog, and we just hung out and talked about dogs she knew. He just opens up conversations. And then her therapist came out, we continued to just talk about dogs, and they went back for their session. Her therapist told me that was the breakthrough moment for her, and she just opened up,” added McQueeny.
“There was another one that really sticks with me,” shared McQueeny. “It was just me, Polar, and this little six-year-old in the lobby. He was very engaged with me and learning about the dog. We just sat on the floor and pet the dog. There was a woman I had never seen before, and she was just watching us.
It turns out this little boy who was so quiet and content with the dog was five minutes ago, threatening everybody in the building. He was just full of rage and anger, and he didn’t want to talk to anybody. She was just amazed at the turnaround that this little boy had within five minutes with this dog.”
Soon, Polar will start making appearances in the courthouse. “We just got the green light. We’re paired with Judge Westine in Pasco, and she is allowing him to practice being in the witness stand,” said McQueeny.
Those who want to support the amazing impact the Hero To A Child team is having on children in the foster care system have many options available. “There’s always something you can do. You don’t have to be a foster parent to change the life of a foster child. You could be a volunteer. You could be a donor. Share on social media. Adopt a kid at Christmas. Invite us to your churches or your community organizations to share about foster care,” shared Authier-Lohr. “Anybody that has a heart to change a life can get involved in foster care, and I would encourage them to do so. It has changed my life dramatically.”
To learn more about Polar, Hero To A Child or how you can help be the silver lining for kids in the child welfare system visit herotoachild.org .
A Glimmer of Hope
Making Magic One Dress (or Tux) at a Time
High school students spend years anticipating their prom and homecoming events. Students who lack access to formal clothing often find their prom dreams impossible to achieve. Marjorie’s Hope has changed that with the Cinderella & Prince Charming Project, where students come in and pick out prom or homecoming attire, including shoes and even makeup or a haircut if needed.
Danett Fahr, a longtime volunteer and one of the project’s coordinators, has seen firsthand the impact of this mission. Originally launched as the Cinderella Project, the initiative expanded in 2020 under Marjorie’s Hope to include formalwear for young men as well. The change was driven by a simple but powerful idea: all students deserve to feel celebrated.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE
NUMANN PHOTOGRAPHY
BY DANETT FAHR & NICOLE SLUCHER
“We see kids who come in and say, ‘It’s my senior year, and I’ve never been to a dance before,’” Fahr says. “That hurts our heart.”
Their mission goes beyond the clothing. Each student is paired with a “fairy godmother,” a volunteer who guides them through the process of finding the perfect attire for their special day, from selecting styles to trying on formalwear for the first time.
The experience is often emotional — for both the students and the volunteers. Fahr recalls a moment when a student unknowingly selected a dress donated from her own daughter’s closet. The dress, once worn to her high school prom, fit the teen girl perfectly. “She had no idea it was a Sherri Hill dress,” Fahr shares. “And the shoes? A pair of donated Jimmy Choos in her exact size. It was like the universe aligned for her that day.”
The program is thoughtfully structured to provide teens with a truly boutique experience. Students try on dresses or suits in small groups, pose on lit stages in front of mirrors, and take photos of each option before narrowing it down to their favorite one. Afterward, they sign a chalkboard wall in the shop, adding their name to a growing visual representation of lives touched.
Though the experience is magical, it also meets a critical practical need. Many teens arrive through the foster care system or from families simply unable to afford formal wear. Some have never owned anything new before. While the program asks for a $10 donation, it’s never required.
“We’re volunteer-run,” Fahr explains. “But we do everything we can to make it feel special — from prom to graduation and beyond.”
The project has evolved to offer outfits for senior events, such as graduation or award ceremonies. “We call them our senior racks,” Fahr says, “We noticed a need. Some teens were walking across the graduation stage in jeans and dirty sneakers— not because they didn’t care, but because they didn’t have another option.”
Over the past few years, the project has grown from six borrowed racks of dresses at a local high school to a full-fledged storefront at Gulf View Square Mall. In just the past year alone, the program has helped more than 350 students during one homecoming season — and has provided over 5,400 items, including shoes, dresses, suits, and accessories, since its inception in 2020.
Every outfit, every smile, and every signature on the wall tells a story — not just of fashion but of possibility, pride, and community.
Support the Cinderella & Prince Charming Project
MONETARY DONATIONS:
Financial contributions enable the team to stretch every dollar—enabling them to keep the storefront up and running as well as purchase shoes, suits, and accessories at deep discounts at local thrift stores. Even small donations go a long way.
• Donate online: marjorieshope.com
• Sponsor a month/season: Email debi@marjorieshope.com to learn about business sponsorships
CLOTHING DONATIONS:
Fashion-forward formalwear is accepted year-round. Gently used or new dresses, suits, shoes, and accessories are always welcome.
• Preferred: Items in current styles and excellent condition
• Needed most: Men’s dress shoes, black dress pants & suits, dress shirts, and accessories
WHERE TO DONATE:
Items can be dropped off for Cinderella & Prince Charming Project at 3 locations:
• Gulf View Square Mall
9409 U.S. Hwy 19, Port Richey, FL 34668
(Drop-off hours vary; call or visit the website for seasonal hours)
From becoming a fairy godmother to helping with inventory, volunteers are always needed.
For info, visit https://marjorieshope.com/steps-to-peace/ cinderella-and-prince-charming-project-of-pasco-county/ or follow @CinderellaProjectPascoFL on social media.
AUGUST 1ST – 3RD
Shrek the Musical Jr.
Richey Suncoast Theater | 7:00 PM
Join Richey Suncoast Theater for a new theater arts initiative where talented RST Kids shine both on stage and behind the scenes! This production features performers, crew, and a young artists’ committee, all aged 18 and under. Producing Director: Jess Glass. Additional 2pm matinee on Saturday and Matinee only on Sunday. Visit www.richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information and ticket details.
AUGUST 2ND
Together We Thrive: Mama Means Business Back to School Bash
Events at New Beginnings - 18935 Michigan Lane, Land O’ Lakes | 11:00 AM
Join this free, family-friendly event offering school supplies, local vendors, and resources, all while raising funds for local schools and giving back to our community. Visit the event Facebook page for more information.
AUGUST 6TH
Skoobas Comic Relief
Ordinance One – Downtown New Port Richey | 8:00 PM
Every Wednesday, Ordinance One offers local comic talent in downtown New Port Richey! Always free on Wednesday plus open mic. Visit the event page on eventbrite.com for more information.
AUGUST 8TH
Paul Morrissey – Ice Cream vs Everything – Live Comedy
Richey Suncoast Theater | 7:00 PM
This is a show you don’t want to miss! From tearing it up on “The Late Show with David Letterman” & “The Late, Late Show” on CBS to scoring a #3 hit comedy album, Paul knows how to serve up BIG laughs with a side of charm! Visit www.richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information and ticket details.
AUGUST 19TH
Water Bath Canning 101 - Jams and Jellies
New Port Richey Library – Downtown New Port Richey | 5:30 PM
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension presents Water Bath Canning 101. At this seminar you’ll learn about water bath canning, the equipment needed, and how to make homemade jams and jellies. Visit the event page on eventbrite.com for more information.
AUGUST 23RD
Summer Game Series at the Brew Factory
Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory | 2:00 PM
Join the Advance Three Spaces Summer Board Game Series benefitting Pasco County Libraries! The event offers games, raffles, and a summer-long contest! Visit advancethreespaces.betterworld.org/events for more information and ticket details.
