EDUCATION CORNER: WHEN PASSIONS MEETS NEED, MUSIC HAPPENS
LOCAL SERVICES
PET FRIENDLY: SCHOOL'S IN FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
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Planning, Paws, and the Joy of Fresh Starts
Can we talk about August for a minute? While everyone else is trying to squeeze the last drops out of summer, I'm over here getting ridiculously excited about backto-school season. I know, I know—I'm that person. But hear me out!
I was definitely one of those kids who lived for the planning phase. You'd find me sprawled across my bedroom floor with a stack of magazines, making detailed lists and circling everything I absolutely "needed" for the new school year. The clothes? Essential. The latest "Trapper Keeper"? Absolutely! There was something so satisfying about starting a new school year and what was to come!
That same planning-obsessed energy is exactly what inspired this month's theme: kids and pets. Because let's be honest—Fall is just like starting the new year. It’s a time for setting school year goals and doing things better or differently than last year. My kids are now out of the house and off the payroll - but I still look forward to this time of year.
This month, we're diving into all the wonderful chaos that comes with kids and pets. Have you heard about Tiffany Copley and her Central Ohio Muttessori School? She's basically revolutionizing dog training by using the same gentle methods we use with kids. Her story totally proves that our pets deserve just as much thoughtful attention as we give to our children's growth and happiness.
We've also got some seriously fun ideas brewing—like how to throw the ultimate DIY dog birthday party (yes, your pup needs a party!) and outdoor games that'll get your family off their devices and actually talking to each other again. Plus, Julie Chambers shares some incredible insights about how music lessons do way more than just teach kids to play instruments—they're building confidence, community, and character all at once.
And because we love giving back, we're sharing this sweet "Birthday in a Box" idea that'll literally make someone's day. Sometimes the best luxuries are the ones we share with others, right?
Just like I used to plan every detail of my school year with way too much enthusiasm, this issue is all about helping you create those special moments that bring your whole family together—including the four-legged members who probably get more attention than the rest of us anyway.
Here's to embracing the beautiful, messy, joy-filled adventure of family life, muddy paws and all.
Talk soon,
LISA FEDERICO, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Lisa Federico | lisa.federico@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Madison Moroi | madison.moroi@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Dawn Zeoli | dawn.zeoli@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Brice Bunner | bunnerb@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brice Bunner, Courtney Stone Smith, Madison Moroi
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Emerald Creative Content, Holly Hildreth
Photography, Madison Moroi
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 Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Heather, Grace, and Adam enjoy a family outing to Worthington Candle Works 2: Worthington residents line up to purchase street signs at the city's Service & Engineering Department 3: Locals gather to discuss the city's future at June's Worthington Together Launch 4: Jessica Brugger and Lisa Federico pose with attendees at Dwell Well's Summer of Style event 5: Fiber Artist Celeste Malvar-Stewart and workshop attendees feed alpacas at MAC’s Farm to Fashion event 6: Worthington locals gather to see Hat Trick perform at Concerts on the Green. 7: Oliver takes a break in the summer sun in Worthington.
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HAYLEY ESTEP
ASHLEY LABAKI
business monthly
The Buckeye Lady Celebrates Third Anniversary
For three years, The Buckeye Lady has tantalized taste buds and added new spins to familiar flavors at 4493 N. High Street. Owner Alicia Hindman started selling her homemade confections during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the woman-owned business continues to flourish today. Not only do they offer traditional and stuffed buckeyes, they also donate part of the proceeds from each sale towards helping homeless Columbus-area dogs. Congratulations to everyone at The Buckeye Lady!
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New Skills for Pups in Puppy Kindergarten
Every dog can benefit from learning a thing or two, and The Central Ohio Muttessori School's Puppy Kindergarten is the perfect place for your little guy or gal to learn the skills they need to grow into well-mannered dogs! Enrollment is currently open for this 6-class program, which specializes in teaching socialization, problem-solving and basic obedience to pooches under 16 weeks of age. Interested? Get more information at ohiomuttschool.com.
Mommy & Me Music Lessons Coming to Worthington
Chambers Music Studio’s popular Mommy & Me Music Time classes will be making its way to the Worthington location. These classes not only provide valuable bonding time between grown-ups and children, they also help stimulate early brain development, jump-start creativity, and can be the start of a lifelong love of music. Classes are tailored for children up to age 4, and all caregivers are welcome. Classes for August are enrolling now at chambersmusicstudio.com
Photography by The Buckeye Lady
Photography by Holly Hildreth Photography
Photography by Chambers Music Studio
ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER
SCHOOL’S IN FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
WE TAKE A LOOK AT A SCHOOL FOR YOUR POOCH, MODELED AFTER THE MONTESSORI METHOD, THAT WILL WORK WONDERS FOR YOU AND YOUR PUP.
When it comes to our fur babies, there’s a lot to love. From the unconditional cuddles they give, to the playful moments we post on Instagram, the beauty of owning a pet is unmatched. However, we have all experienced the frustration or conflict that can come at times—sometime all the time—when our pet refuses to heed our instruction.
Holly Hildreth Photography
“I wanted to help more people have better relationships with their dogs, so having a facility and additional trainers was the logical next step.”
For Tiffany Copley, founder of Central Ohio Muttessori School (COMS), grooming pups toward internet superstars has been a way of life since she was just 16 years old. Of course it wasn’t Instagram back then. But happy owners has always been the goal. She says, “I’ve had owners hug me, crying, and thank me for saving their relationship with their dog.”
When her life took a turn in 2018, Tiffany doubled down on the 25 years of teaching she’d been doing independently and pursued her dream of teaching a new, gentler way of correcting poor pooch behavior. “My budget wasn't big enough to be called shoestring,” Tiffany recalls, “but I found a Worthington location to lease, and Central Ohio Muttessori School was officially born.”
Muttessori is a play on the word Montessori , because Tiffany’s school follows that model of instruction. “It’s a science-based method,” She explains, “that uses reward-based reinforcement, rather than punishment, for misbehavior. This doesn't mean we allow unwanted behaviors, but we address them in ways like redirection, management, and prevention while we build wanted behaviors.”
Accepting all breeds and every type of dog, COMS has a series of courses designed to fit every pet owner’s lifestyle. From day school to private lessons, and even an on-staff Certified Behavior Consultant, they do it all. But the real takeaway is what comes from the lessons.
We asked Tiffany about a typical day’s events: “In day school, dogs get group play, individual training sessions, and nap times. Training covers everything from basic manners to confidence building and advanced
CONTINUED >
Holly Hildreth Photography
skills, to doggie arts and crafts.” She adds, “Owners say their dogs come home even more tired than after regular doggie day care!”
Choosing the Montessori method for a puppy school was more than just a means to a clever name. At COMS, instruction serves as a pathway to understanding your pooch better. “We want people to leave with a deeper understanding of their dog,” Tiffany says, “and the skills to teach their dog on their own.”
How this is done is baked into the school’s staff. Each person embodies the philosophy. “Like Montessori,” Tiffany says, “we use a whole-being approach by taking into account the dogs needs and emotional state.” And with everyone there putting the dog’s needs first, without yielding to negative behavior, the change starts day one. “I've helped dogs go from terrified to happy”
Of course, the change isn’t just for your dog. “Because our style of training focuses on reinforcing when the dog does things we like, and de-emphasizes the unwanted behaviors, it can really cause a shift in how owners see their dogs.” Tiffany explains. “The relationship goes from combative to cooperative.”
This works because the positive reinforcement is backed by a team of handlers with experience promoting healthy instruction. Connecting owners to their dogs in ways that reinforce positivity and good behavior, the Columbus Ohio Muttessori School might be just what your pup needs. And for Tiffany, “Every time I see a dog or owner enjoy learning, it gives me a boost.”
Holly Hildreth Photography
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
DIY DOG
BIRTHDAY PARTY
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
DIY PARTY FAVORS FOR DOGS
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
TREAT STATION FOR OWNERS
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
HOW TO MAKE A DOG BIRTHDAY CAKE
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
UNPLUG HAVE FUN! &
ARTICLE BY PAM REID
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summertime is the best time for kids to disconnect and enjoy being outdoors.
Long, long ago, in a time before technology, children entertained themselves and played endlessly with nothing more than ... wait for it ... their imagination. They played outdoors for hours with friends, balls, jump ropes, buckets, chalk, bicycles, you name it! The level of creativity saw no limits in the minds of these children. While some families have plans for getaway vacations, there are those planning to stay home and scrambling for things their children can do. We’d like to share some ideas that don’t include technology or cost a boatload of money for that matter. The benefits of spending time outdoors and unplugged outweigh complaints about temperature or those annoying creepy crawlers. The added bonus is that many outdoor games secretly teach life skills. Technology is used only to confirm game rules.
Ready or not, it’s time to play! A day - or two or three - full of outdoor games will invoke a trip down memory lane for some adults, or a “this is great” thought for others. In either case, playing these games has tremendous benefits - young people can fully embrace human connection, get a break from the instant gratification associated with technical devices and social media, and enjoy some good wholesome, age-appropriate fun. Many adults admit they played many of their favorite childhood games well into their teen years, and still others say they relish in a good game of dodgeball or tug of war today. This list is not all-inclusive, but it certainly gets the games started!
CHILDHOOD GAMES
TUG OF WAR - contest between two teams at opposite ends of a rope; each team trying to drag the other across a center line.
SACK RACE - stand in your sack, hold on to the top of your sack and hop as fast as you can to the finish line!
FREEZE TAG - each player freezes when tagged and can be unfrozen only by a player who is not yet frozen. Game ends when all players are frozen.
RED LIGHT GREEN LIGHT - shout “green light” and all players run towards you, shout “yellow light” and they are allowed to walk, but when “red light” is shouted, they must stop and freeze. If player moves at “red light”, they go back to start line.
MUSICAL CHAIRS - walk to music around a group of chairs containing one chair fewer than number of players, and rush to sit down when music stops. The player left standing in each round is eliminated.
KICK THE CAN - find players in their hiding spots and put them in “jail”. Once a player is “jailed” the only way to be freed is for another player to beat the “IT” person to the can and kick it.
DODGEBALL - team sport in which players on two teams try to throw balls and hit opponents, while avoid being hit themselves. Consider water balloons instead of balls on a hot day.
There are more great outdoor games. Get unplugged and get outside!
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SHOPPING with Purpose & Personality
The Guidance Starts with the Parents
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STONE SMITH
Sur(real) Style
Sur(real) Style with Courtney is a soulful, personalized styling service that blends psychology, sustainability, mindfulness, and an artful approach to your style. Whether you're evolving your look or preparing for a life shift, Courtney helps you dress in alignment to achieve your style goals with confidence, intention, and an unmistakable presence.
It’s that time again—back-to-school shopping season. While it’s easy to get swept up in the rush of new trends and overflowing racks, this year, I want to challenge families to rethink their approach. As your local fashion expert, I believe one of the greatest lessons we can teach our children early on is how to build a capsule wardrobe—and yes, even kids can benefit from this intentional style strategy.
A capsule wardrobe is built on versatile staples like denim, t-shirts, button-downs, and jackets, with a few trend-driven pieces added to reflect personal flair. Instilling this concept at a young age not only promotes mindful consumption while reducing waste—it also teaches kids creativity, independence, and self-expression. Instead of decision fatigue (cue the dreaded “I have nothing to wear”), they’ll learn to mix, match, and maximize what they already have. It also gives you, as a parent, a helpful framework when shopping. You’ll save time, reduce spending, and be more strategic in curating a wardrobe that works hard for your child every single day. Style becomes less about keeping up and more about showing up with confidence and clarity.
If you’re heading to big-box retailers to take advantage of back-to-school savings, I recommend focusing on the basics: solid tees, undergarments, socks, and everyday shoes. But when it’s time to add personality-driven pieces that help your child stand out, turn to local boutiques. Supporting small businesses not only keeps your child’s wardrobe unique, it also boosts confidence by encouraging individuality in a sea of sameness. Check out page two for our local recommendations.
With just a little intention and some encouragement, you’ll set your child up for a stylish year and help them discover who they are becoming. Remember to take advantage of Ohio’s extended tax-free shopping from Friday, August 1st through Thursday, August 14th.
CUB SHRUB
Features classic, elevated styles for young school-aged children with a high-end aesthetic for newborns up to the age of 8. Imagine unique sleeves, playful details, and on-point seasonal prints. If you appreciate a more refined, lady-like or gentleman style then this is the boutique for you.
If you like whimsical styles and imagination this boutique is worth the stop. With color-rich looks and louder prints, this will be a great option to enhance the way your preschooler or kindergartner shows up. Have a shy kiddo? Pairing bright colors will help them stand out.
CITY STYLE CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE
If playful prints, graphic tees, and a laid-back, casual vibe is your thing, this boutique shop houses an eclectic assortment for babies all the way up to tweens. If you have a broad age range with your kiddos this might be your one-stop shop for clothing.
TIGERTREE
Are your older teens looking for a laid-back, cool-person energy? If so, then you’ll want to stop in this store and start building up their style identity with some of Tigertree's unique assortments. What’s exciting about this boutique is that moms and dads will also find pieces they want, too.
PEYTON & PEPPY BOUTIQUE
A mix of feminine, fashion-forward pieces for those looking to tap into their more mature age. You’ll discover soft fabrics, a large denim assortment, and trendy pieces to incorporate. Moms and daughters don’t want to shop in the same store but this spot might be the exception.
THE LITTLE LIGHT COLLECTIVE
Gen Z is embracing second-hand shopping. This collective is ideal for those who love vintage and resale items. Interestingly enough the Y2K style is on trend this year so they might find the OG pieces here. If you know second-hand shoppers, they love a good brag find.
DOLCE VITA BABY BOUTIQUE
Midlife Women’s Health
RECIPE FOR LITTLE HANDS
ARTICLE BY MADISON MOROI
A Fun, Easy Lunch Idea That Even the Pickiest Little Eaters Will Love
ingredients: equipment
• Small cookie cutters (hearts, stars, circles—make it fun!)
• Wooden skewers
• 4 slices of your favorite sandwich bread
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter or preferred nut butter or seed butter
• 4 teaspoons favorite jelly, jam, or fruit preserves
• Fresh berries, grapes, or banana slices
directions:
Step 1. Spread the seed or nut butter on one slice of bread and the jelly, jam, or fruit preserves on the other. Press the slices together to form a sandwich.
Step 2. Use small cookie cutters—hearts, circles, stars, or your favorite shapes—to cut the sandwich into mini bites.
Step 3. Thread the mini sandwiches onto bamboo skewers, alternating with fresh berries or any favorite fruits you have on hand.
notes
• Make the sandwich first, then cut it from one edge across to reduce food waste. Parent hack: enjoy those extra PB&J edges as a tasty bonus snack for yourself!
• For lunch boxes, measure and cut the skewers to the right size before adding the mini sandwiches—perfect for fitting into a bento-style box.
Photo by Madison Moroi
When Passion Meets Need, Music Happens
HOW ONE PERSON’S MUSE MAKES FOR A MAGICAL COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE.
Enjoy our Q&A with Worthington's Chambers Music Studio owner Julie Chambers:
CL: WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO START A MUSIC STUDIO?
JC: Chambers Music Studio wasn’t just from my love of music—it was a response to the problem of isolation I kept seeing in kids and families. They lacked a real, meaningful community. I believed a neighborhood music school could be a hub for creativity, connection, and leadership development.
CL: HOW HAS THIS BUSINESS DEEPENED YOUR LOVE OF MUSIC?
JC: Running the studio completely changed how I experience music. It’s no longer just a personal passion—it’s a way to build relationships, foster growth, and strengthen community. Watching our students and teachers bring music to life has deepened my love and respect for it in ways I never expected.
CL: WHAT PRACTICAL SKILLS DO STUDENTS LEARN AS THEY HONE THEIR MUSICAL ACUMEN?
JC: Music education imparts skills that extend far beyond notes and rhythms. Students develop time management through consistent practice schedules and learn to receive and apply constructive feedback. They enhance their focus, listening abilities, and emotional intelligence.
One significant skill cultivated through music is problem-solving. Musicians analyze complex pieces, identify patterns, and overcome technical challenges. This analytical approach fosters a mindset adept at tackling intricate problems—an invaluable trait for any professional field.
ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMERALD CREATIVE CONTENT
CL: IS THERE A SUCCESS STORY THAT KEEPS YOU GOING?
JC: One student I’ll always remember was incredibly shy and nervous about performing. At his first recital, he could barely make it through warm-ups—but he did it. Afterward, something shifted. He started looking forward to performances and became one of our most expressive and joyful performers. Stories like his remind me of the power of consistent encouragement and the magic of music.
CL: WHAT DOES MUSIC BRING THAT NO OTHER MEDIUM OF EXPRESSION COULD?
JC: Music is personal and universal at the same time; meeting people exactly where they are—all ages and backgrounds— inviting them into something meaningful. Unlike other mediums of expression, music unfolds in time—teaching patience, deep focus, and emotional expression all at once. At our studio, we don’t just teach a skill, we help students discover who they are through sound, rhythm, and creativity.
CL: WHAT DOES A TYPICAL SESSION LOOK LIKE FOR A BEGINNER STUDENT?
JC: Beginner students at Chambers Music Studio can expect a warm welcome, lots of encouragement, and lessons that are both playful and purposeful. Weekly sessions include movement, games, technique, improvisation, and foundational skill-building tailored to each student’s age and learning style. Over the season, they’ll have opportunities to participate in studio events, group classes, and recitals—celebrating growth in a supportive community. We meet them where they are and help them fall in love with the process.
CL: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF RUNNING THE STUDIO?
JC: The people! I love seeing the joy on a student’s face when they conquer a challenge, the pride in a parent’s eyes at a recital, and the dedication of our teachers who show up every day with heart. Music is the tool, but connection is the purpose. Building a community around creativity, growth, and leadership—that’s the part that fills me up every day.
“Through running this studio, I’ve come to see music not just as an art form, but as a powerful tool for connection, healing, and transformation.”
-Julie Chambers, Chambers Music Studio
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
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,
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
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.
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
• 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
Steps:
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!
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY QIANA KELSCH
Birthday in a Box
AN EASY AND HEARTWARMING WAY TO GIVE BACK WITH YOUR KIDS WHILE HELPING TO BRIGHTEN SOMEONE’S SPECIAL DAY
Looking for a fun, easy and creative way to help those in need celebrate their special day? Put together a Birthday in a Box! The main element is a birthday cake, and the best part is that no perishable items are needed; all you need is one can of lemon-lime soda to take the place of the oil, water and eggs.
PREP:
Collect all materials. Makes one Birthday in a Box.
• 1 Box of cake mix
• 1 Container of frosting
• 1 Can of lemon-lime soda
• 1 Disposable 9x13 aluminum baking pan with lid
• Cardstock or heavy paper, for baking directions and note (printed or handwritten)
• Party decorations of choice, including candles
STEP ONE:
Gather cake mix, container of frosting, can of lemon-lime soda, aluminum baking pan with lid and party decorations. Carefully place each item in the bottom of the baking pan, ensuring everything fits snugly.
STEP TWO:
Print or handwrite the instructions on cardstock, letting the recipient know to replace the oil, eggs and water with the can of lemon-lime soda, following the directions on the back of the cake mix box. You can also include a birthday wish.
STEP THREE:
Once all the items are in the pan, secure the lid and tie the package with a ribbon for an added festive touch. Deliver to your favorite food pantry.
And what is a birthday celebration without decorations? Get the kids to help decide what fun party decorations to include –think candles, banners, confetti, ribbon and more.
These are great to make in batches when items are on sale at the grocery store. Stock up and make someone’s day!
1. THE ELEMENTS
Collect your essentials and special decorations
2. PUTTING IT TOGETHER
Place each element in the baking pan, including directions, and cover with the lid
3. TIME TO DELIVER
Collect your birthday cake boxes together and drop it at your favorite food pantry
ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER: Include candles; balloons; a birthday banner; noisemakers; a blank card for friends and family to sign; a small, gender-neutral gift or a gift card; birthday-themed paper plates and napkins. You don’t have to make each box the same – choose a different cake mix and frosting flavor for each box!
AUGUST 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Dublin Irish Festival
Coffman Park | 4:00 PM
It's time for the Dublin Irish Festival! Will you shop, eat, or discover your Irish ancestry at the genealogy tent? From live performances to activities for the wee ones, there's something for everyone, both Irish and Irish-at-heart. Festival runs from August 1 - 3. Tickets $25 at dublinirishfestival.org
AUGUST 3RD
Concerts on the Green: OSU Alumni Marching Band
Village Green | 7:00 PM
If you love everything Ohio State, you won't want to miss this edition of Concerts on the Green. Grab a blanket and a cool drink as you listen to members of the OSU Alumni Marching Band and enjoy an evening of family-friendly fun.
AUGUST 10TH
Worthington End-of-Summer-Fair
Historic Worthington | 1:00 PM
It's time to get your fill of all your favorite fair foods! This popular Sunday Funday in historic Worthington brings all the fun of the county fair right to our own neighborhood. Come shop local and enjoy a tasty treat along the way.
AUGUST 14TH
COSI After Dark: The Science of Ice Cream
COSI | 7:00 PM
A trip to COSI that's just for the grown-ups? COSI After Dark is a 21+ event where you can learn, play, and sip on cocktails. This month, it's all about the science of ice cream. Don't miss your opportunity to learn all about the sweet treat and taste scoops from local companies. Tickets $20 at cosi.org, $30 at the door.
AUGUST 15TH
Summer Movie Series: Moana 2
Northwest Library Backyard | 8:30 PM
Join Moana and Maui on another sea-faring adventure! When Moana hears the call of her ancestors, the duo sets off on another journey into the ocean - and the unknown. The whole family is invited for an evening of fun at Northwest Library with outdoor games and activities before the movie starts at dark.
AUGUST 25TH
Let's Dish: A Cookbook Club
Northwest Library | 7:30 PM
If you can follow a recipe, you're ready to join Worthington Libraries' All-About-Food Group. Simply pick a recipe from one of these cookbooks and come ready to share your experiences: "Coastal" by Scott Clark, "50 Pies, 50 States" by Stacey Mei Yan Fong, "The Forest Feast Road Trip" by Erin Gleeson, "Baking Across America" by B. Dylan Hollis.
Want to be featured?
Pawsitive Prepared
A kitchen as welcoming to your furry family as it is beautiful. At J.S. Brown & Co., we don’t just design stunning spaces, we plan every detail to keep your pets safe, comfortable, and stress-free during your remodel. From creating secure zones to minimizing disruption, we take the time to understand your pet’s needs and make sure the process is as smooth for them as it is for you. Because a home should work for everyone who lives there, on two legs or four.
