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Kids & Pets
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, 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.
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.
Here’s to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better.
Cheers!
CHELSEY JUAREZ, PUBLISHER @PARKVIEWCITYMAG
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
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Angela Broockerd I angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
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Proverbs 3:5-6
Restoring Commercial Real Estate Value
Rolling Suds, the nation’s leading power washing franchise, dedicates its services to revitalizing and enhancing the value of commercial real estate properties.
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Minette Marcial Joins Winter Park Chamber Team
The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Minette Marcial as Senior Director of Programs. Marcial brings enthusiasm and a strong commitment to building meaningful connections and developing innovative initiatives that will benefit both Chamber members and the broader community. She is honored to join the Chamber in this leadership role and looks forward to making a positive impact.
Photography by Hughes Fioretti Photography
JUDY’S pet rescue
A HEART IN SANFORD, A PAW IN WINTER PARK
Central Florida’s pet-loving community knows the warmth found in wagging tails, and few organizations embody that spirit better than Pet Rescue by Judy , a dedicated no -kill haven in nearby Sanford. Founded in 1992 by Judy Sarullo—a former New Yorker with a big heart—the rescue spent two decades moving from one temporary site to another. In 2010, an anonymous donor gifted the land where the rescue now stands, and after a decade of tireless fundraising, spay-and-neuter clinics, and adoption events, Judy and her team launched a permanent center on Laurel Avenue last October.
With a mission beyond finding homes for animals, the rescue focuses on holistic care: every cat and dog that comes through their doors receives medical attention, vaccines, and behavioral support if needed. Their three-pronged approach— animal care, public education, and accessible wellness clinics— makes them true advocates for the voiceless. They’ve built a strong presence at local weekend events—like Puppy Fridays and Yappy Hours—and regularly host adoption expositions at Winter Park Village, Woof Gang Bakery, and even Celery City Craft in Sanford.
ARTICLE BY ALLSTON MCEWAN
For Winter Park residents, Pet Rescue by Judy is more than a shelter—it’s a trusted partner. Their knowledgeable staff and volunteers walk prospective adopters through matching personality, lifestyle, and needs, ensuring long-term success. Adoption ranges from $100–$350 for dogs and $75–$150 for cats, and include essential follow-ups, microchipping, and spay/neuter procedures.
But rescue is a community affair. Judy’s team hosts fundraisers like “Save the Tails,” painting nights, and yard sales—most recently raising funds to maintain their spay/neuter clinic and expanded kennel space. Their aim? To rescue more animals and to prevent suffering before it begins through outreach and education.
Inside the shelter, days begin early with feedings, walks, and cleanings—many done by a small army of dedicated volunteers. High-energy dogs are matched with enrichment activities while shy animals are given quiet time and socialization. Volunteer opportunities abound, from dog walking and cat cuddling to helping at events or fostering at home.
Their track record is clear: in 2013 alone, they found homes for more than 2,300 pets—and hundreds more each year since. The fact they are no-kill reinforces their promise: every life matters, regardless of age, breed, or health.
Winter Park’s animal lovers can support their mission by attending local adoption events, volunteering, donating, or simply liking and sharing their posts. Every saved life begins with awareness— and this community cares.
Every tail wag tells a story. Pet Rescue by Judy offers second chances and forever homes—powered by love, compassion, and a community that believes every life, no matter how small, is worth saving.
THINKERS OF TOMORROW
A preschool shaping confident, curious, and capable young minds
ARTICLE BY ISABELLA DETRICK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOUNG INNOVATORS ACADEMY MARKETING TEAM
At the Young Innovators Academy in Winter Park, preschoolers engage in inquiry-based learning that emphasizes collaboration and curiosity. The school’s approach encourages students to ask questions, explore different ideas, and develop critical thinking skills.
“We saw a need for a model that prepares children not just academically, but for the future.”
— Marnie Forestieri
Founded by educators and researchers interested in exploring alternative approaches to childhood education, their curriculum correlates with the latest trends and research in early childhood development. They utilize interactive, challengebased activities designed to imitate real-world learning experiences. The children are taught how to solve problems, ask meaningful questions, and create practical solutions.
Teachers at the school focus heavily on inquirybased learning, encouraging the kids to work and play with each other, supporting collaboration and social development. The teachers instill teamwork skills, empathy, and leadership by facilitating communication and problem-solving through interactive student-led projects, which are designed to explore different learning styles.
This learning model encourages students to actively engage with the material and to make choices in how they engage with the classroom material. From team-based challenges to classroom “jobs”, the students participate in daily activities with real responsibilities, allowing them to learn how to collaborate with others, lead, and think critically in a supportive environment.
When the church bell rang next door to the school, the students quickly asked, “ Why does the bell ring?” This simple question turned into a classroom-wide exploration of time and how and why we measure it. The young students’ curiosity sparked a deep interest in clocks and timekeeping, and the systems we use to organize our days.
Their questions became a project where they had the opportunity to research, design, and build their
own time-measuring models. With help from the teachers, the students created functional clock faces, experimented with pendulums, and shared their creations with the class, explaining how time works, what they discovered, and their models.
In a different school-wide project, all the instructors and students worked together to transform each classroom into a different marine habitat. They turned the learning spaces into immersive environments with schools of fish, different ocean floor textures, and different marine creatures. This project encouraged the collaboration between students, with the guidance of the teachers, and allowed them to help each other and bring their visions to life. Families were also invited to tour each of the classrooms to see firsthand what their child created.
Projects like these at Young Innovators Academy highlight the impact of allowing students to take charge of their own learning. Many begin to ask more questions, enjoy working with others, and apply both creative and practical strategies to solve problems.
As families prepare for the new school year, establishing consistent routines, such as morning and nighttime rituals or reading together, can help ease the transition. Educators at the Academy have a podcast, Raising Innovators, that offers insights on ways to encourage children to develop a love for learning.
Staying connected to what happens in the classroom can best help parents support their child’s educational development. Activities like nature walks, visits to the Winter Park Library or the Farmer’s Market, and encouraging openended conversations are simple and easy ways to encourage everyday engagement with children.
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ADVICE FOR PARENTS FROM EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONALS
Back to School Tips
ARTICLE BY EMMA DRAUER
Dustin Sassic
Anthony Ballone
Susan Drauer
I asked a variety of education professionals to share their advice for parents as we approach back to school season.
Dr. Juliana Bloom, licensed Neuropsychologist at The Levin Center, suggests adjusting kids early to their school schedule. “Start adjusting to the daily schedule at least a week before school starts. Wake up at the time you will need to wake up for school and start to adjust going to bed at the right time to meet your child’s sleep needs.” She said that younger children need between 9 and 11 hours of sleep a night and emphasized that teenagers still need 9 hours of sleep. Never forget the importance of getting a good night’s sleep.
Dustin Sassic, Principal of Voyager K-8 School, advises prioritizing communication with the school and staying updated. “As students return to school, it can often be an anxious time for children and parents. When returning to school it is important for parents to get as much information about the expectations, routines and procedures of the school.” He shared that the best ways to stay informed about your child’s school is to subscribe to school newsletters, check their social media, and attend events. This can also help parents
soothe any potential worries that their child may have through honest communication. Sassic said that when parents are connected to the school in some way, it improves students’ confidence and success.
Dr. Anthony Ballone, teacher at Southwood Elementary, shares the importance of reading and literacy. He advises parents to utilize local resources such as the library and have their child pick out a book that interests them. “Some of my fondest memories as a child are reading with my mom.” A passion for literacy is crucial in a child’s success in education.
Susan Drauer, Speech and Language Pathologist at Voyager K-8 School, says validating your children’s feelings and keeping some semblance of a routine is key when children are dealing with big changes. “If your child will be attending a new school, find out if they give tours so your child can feel more comfortable. Share your experiences and feelings about starting a new school or even a new job. Letting them know that adults have similar worries and fears can help your child cope.” As a way of easing nerves, she suggests shopping for a new backpack or clothes with your child.
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
• 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
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EMBRACE THE MESS, STAY PATIENT, AND FOCUS ON THE FUN.
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!
Backyard Whimsy
Creating a Kid-Friendly Backyard Space
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
This adorable outdoor play space is not only easy and inexpensive to build, but it is full of charm and the perfect spot for the kids to play and lounge. The A-frame structure is easily customizable to any style and color scheme desired. Leave the wood bare, or add flare with paint or stain. An outdoor clubhouse provides a space that allows kids
to make it their own and to let their imaginations run wild spending time outdoors.
For this project, we visited our local hardware store to get all the necessary supplies we needed. The deck is an 8 x 10 decking so there is no need to cut down the length of any boards and pressure treated wood was used. First, dig holes
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18 inches down to put the footers, which is a 4 x 4 x 8 treated post, and cut those into two foot lengths. Next, pour quick set concrete in the holes. Add water, and set the posts in and let it dry. We used lag screws to attach the base 2 x 10’s to the corner posts, and then 2 x 6’s for the joists with metal hangers. Now time to put on the decking boards with exterior screws. Don’t forget to constantly check with a level. Once the decking is finished, now it is time for the fun!
For the A frame you need a 60-degree angle at the top of the A, and a 30-degree angle at the bottom. You can run a 4 x 4 along the decking to attach the A frame to which adds a bit of height so adults can stand in it as well. Use heavy duty exterior screws to attach the A frame 2 x 4’s to the structure. The top of the A comes together and is held by exterior screws. For the roofing, we used 8-foot corrugated clear panels and screwed those into the A frame for a weather protecting cover. We left three feet uncovered so a chair and some pots with herbs and flowers could be added to the entrance. Decorate with outdoor pillows, a children’s table, outdoor rug and hanging flower pots to make it feel like a special place for kids to go. If entertaining friends, a few simple charcuterie boards are always a hit.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
PAUL VERSLUIS
Spending time outdoors and enjoying friends and family over good food and drinks is a great way to enjoy the season’s beautiful weather. From the fresh flower arrangements, produce, and herbs, this earthy spread is brimming with character and flavor. The earthy ceramic and clay vases give the perfect vessel to fill with organic cut herbs and handpicked wildflowers. We arranged a beautiful medley of Queen Anne’s lace, mint, sage, rosemary, lavender, lamb’s ear, nigella, buddleia, oregano, dill, feverfew, and geranium to name just a few of these beautiful blooms.
Al Fr es co STYLE
We love a good home-cooked menu mixed with a signature drink, so we paired our meal with a delicious craft cocktail. Buttermilk-brined fried chicken was a must for this outdoor party. A delicious peach bread pudding with salted vanilla caramel cream rounded out our meal for the perfect sweet treat. We wanted to share a few of our favorite recipes for you to try at home. Enjoy!
FARM-TO-TABLE ENTERTAINING
Buttermilk-Brined Fried Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
Dried spice mix
• 2 tablespoons white pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 5 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons cayenne
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• Palm kosher salt
Buttermilk Brine
• 4 cups buttermilk
• 1 bunch fresh sage
• 1/2 of spice mixture
Dredge
• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Whole cut up chicken or 2 bone-in breasts, 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks
To cook
• 4 cups shortening
INSTRUCTIONS:
Marinate chicken in brine for up to 24 hours. Place chicken in large Ziploc bag and pour marinade over top. Add fresh sage and store in fridge. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking rack with a sheet pan for raw chicken and one for cooked chicken. Add remaining spice mixture to flour mixture. Whisk together well. Heat shortening to 350 degrees. (Preference is cast iron Dutch oven.) Pull chicken out of buttermilk mixture and let drip. Coat firmly in flour mixture and set on raw chicken rack. Complete each piece of chicken. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Place 2 or 3 pieces of chicken in oil and cook 3-5 minutes per side. Place on cooked chicken rack. Put cooked chicken in oven to complete cooking for 15 minutes. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving!
Peach Bread Pudding
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 loaf brioche
• 5 fresh peaches
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Dice peaches into medium dice. Place peaches, white sugar, and butter in saucepan. Cook until sugar is dissolved and peaches are soft. Mix all other ingredients together. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan and add peach mixture with brioche pieces and then add milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.
El Ahumado
Spanish for “Smoky”
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces Reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce aperol
• 3/4 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 1/4 ounces luxardo cherry syrup
• 1 spritz of Mezcal
INSTRUCTIONS:
Lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter. The Mezcal adds just a hint of smoke to make a beautifully balanced, interesting cocktail.
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!
AUGUST 1ST – 9TH
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Pugh Theater
Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando, FL 32801
Enjoy this Tony Award-nominated comedy at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Drphillipscenter. org/events/tickets/2025/the-25thannual-putnam-county-spelling-bee/
AUGUST 4TH
Story Time at Leu Gardens
1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 | 10:00 AM
Enjoy a day with free admission and story time for young children in the morning from 10-11am. Leugardens. org/Events/Calendar-of-Events/FreeDay-Story-Time
AUGUST 8TH AND 9TH
41st Annual Cup-A-Thon
Crealde School of Art, 600 Saint Andrews Blvd, Winter Park, FL 3292 | 7:00 PM
Browse through hundreds of unique ceramic vessels at the Crealde School of Art’s annual event. If you buy a cup or goblet, it will be filled. Artsinorlando. com/event/41st-annual-cup-a-thon/
AUGUST 23RD
10th Annual Florida Kids and Family Expo
Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819 | 10:00 AM
Head to the Orange County Convention Center for this incredible expo featuring 200 different vendors full of amazing resources for parents, such as entertainment options and education opportunities. MyCentralFloridaFamily.com
