August: Celebrating Kids and Pets
August is here, and we’re celebrating two of the most joyful aspects of our lives: kids and pets. This month’s theme is all about cherishing these beloved family members and the happiness they bring to our lives.
In this issue, we have our regular style column from Styleelyst, offering fantastic fashion tips to keep your kids looking stylish all summer long. You won’t want to miss Ashley’s expert advice on the latest trends and must-have pieces.
We are also thrilled to feature a heartwarming story about kids from the King School doing incredible things on a global scale. These young changemakers are making a difference in the world, and we’re proud to share their inspiring journeys with you.
For those of you staying local this summer, we have curated picks from local real estate expert Jessica Watt’s for enjoying the best of what Northern Westchester has to offer. From fun outdoor activities to hidden gems, our guide will help you make the most of the season right here in our beautiful town.
As always, we love seeing your summer adventures and special moments. Be sure to tag us in your favorite summer memories on social media. Your photos and stories bring our community closer together and remind us of all the wonderful experiences we share.
Thank you for being a part of the Upper Westchester Lifestyle family. We hope this issue brings you joy, inspiration, and plenty of ideas for enjoying the rest of your summer with your kids and pets.
Our publication services the communities of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappaqua, Katonah, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge and Valhalla.
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Dana Cifone | dana.cifone@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Sarah Bamford
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Malosh, Brien Adams, Bevy Rutledge
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Learn how to start your own publication at
RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL
Restoration, Cleaning & Reconstruction
+ Mold Damage
As industry leaders in Restoration, Reconstruction and Cleaning– our vision is to continue providing strategic Consumer & Business Solutions while upholding our commitment to exemplary customer service and white glove workmanship. We work alongside our insurance partners as well as in the private sector to handle claims and home improvement projects. With our exclusive use of cutting-edge equipment and technology, our fully certified staff is capable of handling projects of any magnitude or complexity. (914) 787-9559 office@rainbowwestchester.com www.RBWWestchester.com
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 - 14: The Blossoming Business Garden Soirée, in June, themed “A String that Ties Us Together”. This event encapsulated the essence of connection, community, and collaboration. Held in a stunning garden and poolside oasis at a private residence in New Canaan. Guests shopped and experienced the best of Fairfield County fashion and lifestyle brands.
Photography by Bevy Rutledge
15 -28: The Westchester Land Trust (WLT) uses funds to provide clean water, protect historical farms, create local preserves, and grow food through community gardens that goes back to those in need. This year at their annual benefit, Growing Our Future, awards were given to the Ryder Family, Annie Farrell and Mike Sudej. Jessica Watts and Jennifer Wege co chaired the event with Martha Stewart as the Honorary Chair. The event raised over $430K which will be used to carry on the mission of WLT
Photography by Brien Adams
business monthly
Registration for Fall 2024 at The Pulse
The Pulse's Fall 2024 registration is open! Offering classes in all styles of dance, for all levels and all ages, The Pulse offers a wide array of opportunities for the competitive dancer. The dancer who wishes to belong to a charity-driven performance company, and the dancer who just wants to have fun!
Introducing the Everyone Loves The Weekend cocktail
Kat Jamieson launches her clothing brand Everyone Loves The Weekend! As a local New Canaan resident, she teamed up with her favorite restaurant Elm, and created a delicious, summery cocktail. Chef Luke Venner helped bring this pina colada with a lime twist drink to life. The result is incredible - and it's available at Elm all summer long!
Use code ELM15 to get 15% off Kat's clothing line Everyone Loves The Weekend!
Now Open in Greenwich: The Cubhouse
Welcome to The Cubhouse, where you can shop, play and learn in a beautiful space that is developmentally enriching. The Cubhouse has been designed for families with children aged 0-5, and strives to be sustainable, non-toxic and earth-friendly. The Cubhouse offers a variety of classes: baby & kids yoga, language enrichment and socialization classes, tummy time and milestone classes, art sensory classes and more! They are also available for birthday parties and special pop-up events!
Photography by Mt. Holly Studio
KING STUDENTS WITH GLOBAL IMPACT
ARTICLE BY LAURIE A. GUZDA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY COHEN
The campus of King School is more akin to a college than a high school. Apparently, so is the curriculum.
Five years ago, students Nic Perez and James Hilton approached Nick DeFelice, Chair of the Science Department at King with a proposal… Can we implement the creation of a vivarium to breed a critically endangered species of frog, the Oophaga lehmanni?
The red-banded dart frog is endemic to a small section of rainforest in the Anchicaya Valley of western Columbia. King partners with the Calle Zoo in Columbia.
They are the boots on the ground. The goal is to provide prominent zoos globally with offspring to continue to foster populations as well as an educational resource.
Andres Posso-Terranova is a professor of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. In his 2020 study explains, “They benefit the ecosystem as a healthy addition to the genetic diversity of the tropical rainforest. Genetic variation ensures stronger, more disease-resistant populations, both animals and plants. That's why it's important to preserve these frogs."
The Frog Project – A Conservation Effort that Educates, Empowers, Connects. Students, teachers and community come together in a most unique and satisfying way.
Poison frogs are highly sought after on the international black market and collectors love them for their amazing variation in colors and patterns. Each frog is worth up to $2,000, which prompts local impoverished people to sell them to traffickers. But the Colombian government is campaigning with locals to offer alternative income sources that could stop the trafficking.
King School, Mr DeFelice and these amazing students are not just learning science. They are making a difference while developing confidence, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Duncan Baird, the current student lead on the project, wants people to know that “Nature is NOT a hobby. We’re not doing this because we want to, we’re doing it because we have to.”
So what does this teach students at King School?
It’s about the environment, giving back and student empowerment. It’s inspirational and an awareness for detail. For some students, it’s a connection to other students, which is helpful when you’re new to the school. It’s unique. It’s a joint effort from the top down. It reflects King School’s philosophy to empower students through education, teamwork, confidence and pride in their accomplishments. It’s truly a project of awesome impact. You can watch the video of the construction of the vivarium on the King School website. And, if that wasn’t daunting enough, how about this - they breed their own flies to feed to the frogs.
THE STYLE LIST BY @STYLEELYST
SUMMER ESSENTIALS: WOMEN & KIDS
With summer in full swing, the focus shifts towards effortless style and playful pieces. This month, I've got my eye on some key trends for women and the coolest finds for the kiddos. Dive in and discover your new summer favorites!
DANRIE | AN EXPERTLY-EDITED CHILDREN'S BOUTIQUE
Featuring the Lison Paris India One Piece Swimsuit in Aqua Floral, $84 and Lison Paris Lea Caftan in Pink, $86. Sun, sand, and stunning style – the India One-Piece Swimsuit is your perfect beach companion. This captivating swimsuit boasts playful ruffle details that add a touch of whimsy, while the delightful pink and blue floral pattern guarantees you’ll turn heads. Pro Tip: For an optimal fit, I recommend sizing up.
Swoon-worthy from the first glance, the Lea Caftan isn’t just a cover-up, it’s a feeling. Crafted in a blush pink that flatters every skin tone, it boasts playful tassel accents and cascading ruffles for a touch of whimsical romance.
shopdanrie.com | @shopdanrie
PLAYFUL
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY CANNON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY @STYLEELYST/ASHLEY CANNON & BRAND IMAGERY
WAYB | CHAMPIONING FAMILY TRAVEL AND MAKING IT EASIER.
Featuring the Pico™ Portable Car Seat in Jet Black , $380. The Pico™ is a game-changer for on-the-go families. Ditch the bulky traditional car seat and embrace the freedom of the Pico, the revolutionary car seat designed with portability in mind. This clever contraption folds down to a compact size, making it a breeze to transport whether you’re dashing through airports, hopping in rideshares, or buckling your little one in for a quick errand. Weighing in at a mere 8 pounds, The Pico™ is a lifesaver for busy parents who are constantly on the move. But don’t be fooled by its lightweight designThe Pico™ meets all U.S. safety standards for both car and airplane use, ensuring your child stays secure wherever your travels take you.
wayb.com | @hellowayb
LAGOS | BOLDLY UNIQUE JEWELRY MEETS CLASSIC DESIGN
Featuring the Three Station Round Mother of Pearl Necklace, $2,000.For a touch of understated luxury, consider a necklace featuring three luminous rounds of mother-of-pearl. These glowing orbs are elegantly framed with caviar beading crafted from 18K gold, adding a touch of texture and warmth to the piece. This necklace is perfect for elevating your everyday look or adding a touch of sophistication to a special occasion outfit.
lagos.com | @lagos_jewelry
FRANNE GOLDE | LOOK GOOD, FEEL GOOD. CHIC ESSENTIALS DESIGNED IN LA.
Featuring the Crepe Gauze Bias Skirt in Ivory, $170and the Crepe Gauze Long Cami in Ivory, $160.Indulge in pure luxury with this top and skirt combo crafted from exquisite crepe gauze. This dreamlike fabric is not only impossibly lightweight and breathable, but it’s also meticulously woven to ensure it becomes a cherished staple in your wardrobe for summers to come.
Wrinkle-resistant? Check. All-day comfort? Absolutely. Travel-friendly versatility? You bet. This top effortlessly transitions from day to night, making it the perfect companion for any warm-weather adventure.
frannegold.com | @frannegold
Featuring the Banwood Trike in Cream, $195. Looking for a stylish and comfortable first ride for your tot? The Banwood Trike, with its plush seat, vegan leather accents, and wicker basket, is a charming choice. Available in six colors, this tricycle is perfect for balance training and motor skill development. Plus, its removable push bar offers little ones the security they need to build confidence for pedaling on their own.
maisonette.com | @maisonetteworld
PAOLA SIGHINOLFI | CONTEMPORARY
JEWELRY WITH COLOMBIAN ITALIAN SOUL.
Featuring the Tribal Earrings, $341. Elevate your wardrobe with these exquisite, handcrafted earrings made in Barcelona. Textured 18kt gold-plated pewter embodies the meticulous attention to detail that defines true artistry. Timeless elegance and refined charm will imbue your ensemble with an air of effortless sophistication.
paolasighinolfi.com | @paolasighinolfi_
CUYANA | LIVE FEWER, BETTER. EVERY DAY.
Featuring the Mini Zipper Pouch in Daffodil, $88.Ditch the drab! This mini leather pouch in a sunny buttery yellow hue is the pop of color your outfit craves. The perfect petite partner for your everyday bag, it’s crafted from luxurious Italian pebbled leather that’s both posh and practical. Don’t let its size fool you – the surprisingly roomy interior swallows your makeup essentials and other bits and bobs with ease. It’s the little luxury that makes a big statement. Add gold foil monogram for an additional $15.
cuyana.com | @cuyana
To see my fashion, beauty and lifestyle selects on the daily, be sure to head to styleelyst.com and follow me on social @styleelyst | Psst. keep your eyes peeled for The Style List in the 2024 issues of both Greenwich and Darien Lifestyle Magazines. In addition to being a style columnist, Ashley Cannon is a fashion/lifestyle influencer (@styleelyst/styleelyst.com), mother and marketing specialist. She resides in Fairfield County, CT with her husband, daughter and yellow lab.
SOPHISTICATED
PREPPY KITCHEN WITH JOHN KANELL
Courtesy of John Kanell
AND HOW YOU CAN GET YOUR KIDS TO HAVE FUN IN THE KITCHEN!
ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA
BY DAVID MALOSH
INSPIRATION AND BACKGROUND:
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START PREPPY KITCHEN, AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE CULINARY WORLD?
I’m a mom-taught chef who started out as a middle school math and science teacher. When my husband and I wanted to start a family, I knew I would want to be home more, and he encouraged me to pivot to my other passion, food, and teach people how to cook. Thus, Preppy Kitchen was born.
PHOTOGRAPHY
CAN YOU SHARE A BIT ABOUT YOUR CULINARY JOURNEY AND ANY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES THAT SHAPED YOUR CAREER?
I really just think of myself as a teacher. I never would have imagined that I would have a cookbook, let alone two, when I was a math and science teacher worrying about tomorrow’s lesson plans. The most memorable moments have come from meeting people who use my recipes and watch my videos, and listening to the amazing stories they share. Food is really a place where we can come together.
NEW COOKBOOK:
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE THIS NEW COOKBOOK SPECIFICALLY FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES?
Life has gotten exponentially busier as my sons George and Lachlan have gotten older, and I still want to make delicious food for my family but in less time (and with no added stress). My new book is filled with just that- quick and easy recipes, so no matter how little time you have, you can still make an amazing meal. I streamlined the recipes so there are fewer ingredients where possible and gave tips for using all our favorite time-saving appliances, from air fryers to slow cookers.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE THEME OF THE COOKBOOK AND WHAT SETS IT APART FROM OTHER COOKBOOKS?
Aside from all my recipes being tested over and over until they are foolproof, this book really focuses on delivering a variety of delicious recipes that are quick, easy, and full of timesaving tips, including how to use your air fryer, slow cooker, and instant pot where possible. Almost every recipe has ingredient variations given, so you can try using different flavors and proteins based on what you already have in your pantry, fridge, or freezer. Plus, the baking recipes are super adaptable– choose if you want to make the chocolate cake as a layer cake or sheet cake, or try it as cupcakes next time. I want you to come back to the book again and again, using all of my tips, hacks, and guidance to make the recipes your own.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RECIPES FROM THE NEW COOKBOOK AND WHY?
It’s very hard to choose a favorite but the Cheesy Turkey Meatballs with Pasta is a family favorite we all love. It’s a dish inspired by one my mom made for me growing up. It’s comforting and nostalgic, and just all-around delicious.
COOKING WITH KIDS:
WHY DO YOU THINK IT’S IMPORTANT FOR KIDS TO LEARN HOW TO COOK?
Cooking is a great life skill to have. It really sets you free and allows you to make food you enjoy and feed people you love. Cooking is also one of the few things we still do that’s tactile, and requires our attention. We are not on screens, but instead we are focused and together. It’s really a meditative moment where parents can bond with children in a unique way.
WHAT ARE SOME TIPS YOU HAVE FOR PARENTS WHO WANT TO INVOLVE THEIR CHILDREN IN COOKING?
Just get them in the kitchen and find ways for them to help. Even if it’s as simple as stirring together the ingredients you already measured out and put in the bowl.
Watching their excitement when they see how that runny batter turned into big fluffy muffins in the oven, and knowing they had a part in that is pretty magical.
ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC RECIPES IN THE COOKBOOK THAT ARE PARTICULARLY KID-FRIENDLY OR EASY FOR YOUNG CHEFS TO TRY?
Since the book is “super-easy” nearly every recipe would work with kids. The build-your-own cookie cupcakes would be a really fun place to start since little ones can choose their favorite cookie to incorporate into the batter and frosting. There are also two recipes in the book that my kids love to cook all the time– George’s Pancakes and Waffles and Lachlan’s Favorite Banana Bread.
PERSONAL TOUCHES:
DO YOU HAVE ANY PERSONAL ANECDOTES OR STORIES RELATED TO THE RECIPES IN THE COOKBOOK?
So many of the recipes are personal because they are variations of things I grew up with, like My Grandfather’s Cioppino and the Oatmeal Lace Cookies. Nana’s Vegetable Soup is one my mom will make when she comes to visit the farm in the summer and picks whatever abundant vegetables are out in the garden to make this vibrant and easy dinner. The Cream Cheese and Caraway Stuffed Salmon is a mashup of a few dishes I’ve loved for a while. The Perfect Vanilla Cupcakes are the most requested recipe from my friends. I’ll bring a big
“ONCE KIDS HAVE THE BASICS DOWN, YOU CAN GIVE THEM SPACE TO BE CREATIVE.”
batch to most of the parties I get invited to, so I was very excited to include the recipe in the book.
ARE THERE ANY FAMILY RECIPES OR TRADITIONS INCLUDED IN THE COOKBOOK?
So many recipes in this book are from my family. The Butter-Basted Sea Bass Fillets with Citrus Salsa is a recipe we enjoy throughout the summer when the grill is out, and we are eating al fresco. The Olive Oil
Cake with Whipped Mascarpone is the cake I regularly make for myself on my birthday (it’s that good).
HEALTHY
EATING:
HOW DO YOU BALANCE MAKING RECIPES THAT ARE BOTH DELICIOUS AND HEALTHY FOR KIDS?
My biggest advice– don’t skimp on the veggies! A lot of times, unhealthy eating comes down to us not wanting to use our
valuable time or energy for a couple of extra steps (like making a salad to have a side of veggies), so we look for shortcuts. My new book is full of shortcuts, including a pantry of convenience chapter that shows you how to get set up for success and have tons of dressings, dry mixes, and the rest on hand so you can minimize extra time spent in the moment. You can quickly bring some wellsalted water to a boil and blanch the veggies you have on hand in 3 to 4 minutes, then use that same water to make a batch of pasta. Top it with the homemade Pesto-by-the-Batch you made last month and stashed in the freezer, and just like that, your meal is ready!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PARENTS WHO ARE TRYING TO GET THEIR KIDS TO EAT MORE VEGETABLES OR TRY NEW FOODS?
In our house, the rule is you have to try it. If you don’t like it, that’s fine, but you won’t know until you have some.
FUN AND CREATIVITY:
HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE CREATIVITY IN THE KITCHEN WHEN COOKING WITH KIDS?
Once kids have the basics down, you can give them space to be creative. This could be choosing the spices in a pasta sauce, toppings on a pizza, or decoration scheme for a cake. It’s just important to give them support as needed while not taking over the project. Things never have to be perfect.
DO YOU HAVE ANY FUN COOKING ACTIVITIES OR CHALLENGES THAT FAMILIES CAN DO TOGETHER?
I would encourage families to try a weekend meal they can make together. Pizzas are a great place to start. You can make the dough from scratch, make the sauce, and do the assembling. Once you’re all confident in the kitchen, you can move to weeknight meals where the pace is less leisurely.
BEHIND THE SCENES:
CAN YOU SHARE ANY BEHIND-THE-SCENES STORIES FROM THE PROCESS OF CREATING THIS COOKBOOK?
As my twin boys Lachlan and George have gotten older, life just gets busier but I still want to make delicious meals. As I tested recipes my main focus was how can this be more easy, flexible, and fast so it was a really fun challenge for myself.
WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF WRITING THIS COOKBOOK, AND WHAT WAS THE MOST REWARDING?
The most challenging part was choosing the recipes, I had so many requests on the last book tour that I kept in mind, plus a ton of recipes I had been dreaming up for the book over the last couple of years. There are, however, only so many you can include in one book! The most rewarding part was tasting the finished dishes at the end of development when they had been refined to work easily and taste delicious!
FUTURE PROJECTS:
DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS OR PLANS THAT YOU CAN SHARE WITH OUR READERS?
My book tour is in August, and I cannot wait to get out there and meet some lovely people, sign books, and hear wonderful stories about food.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER THEMES OR TYPES OF COOKBOOKS YOU’RE INTERESTED IN EXPLORING IN THE FUTURE?
I have so many ideas, from baking focused to recipes for kids.
ADVICE AND TIPS:
WHAT ARE SOME COMMON MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN COOKING WITH KIDS, AND HOW CAN THEY AVOID THEM?
Set things up so you and the kids will have fun. This means doing some extra prep work beforehand. Forgetting to break all the steps down can make the process more stressful in the moment. I recommend having every single thing you’ll need at hand– from ingredients to tools to kitchen towels for cleaning up– at the start so you can simply focus on the recipe and enjoying the time with your kids.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE TIPS FOR PARENTS WHO WANT TO FOSTER A LOVE OF COOKING IN THEIR CHILDREN?
Get kids in the kitchen and involve them in everything they can do. A three-year-old can add spices and mix anything! A ten-year-old can stir the sauteing vegetables or bread the chicken cutlets. Giving them these age-appropriate tasks gives kids the confidence to take charge in the kitchen. We would make pizzas just about every Sunday. Eventually, the repetition really sunk in and my boys can now make the dough from scratch and have a great time!
PERSONAL FAVORITES:
WHAT IS YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE DISH TO COOK, AND WHY?
I love eclairs. They are the perfect combination of creamy, crisp, decadent but delicate, and just plain delicious. I could eat an entire batch on my own, so I only make them when I have guests on the way!
IF YOU COULD COOK A MEAL FOR ANYONE IN THE WORLD, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHAT WOULD YOU MAKE?
I would cook for my mom and, preferably, with her. Our time in the kitchen is so special to both of us. The menu would include a Greek salad, Spicy Greek Orzo (a recipe in the new book), Spanakopita, and a lemon roll cake (her favorite).
Top 5 Picks JESSICA WATTS'
“From outdoor concerts to scenic hikes and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy right here in our vibrant community.”
Make the most of the sunny days ahead with Jessica Watts' top 5 Picks for Summer in Northern Westchester. From outdoor concerts to scenic hikes and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy right here in our vibrant community.
Jessica Watts
1. Gardening with Westchester Land Trust
Food goes back to the community in need. WLT welcomes all ages and abilities to connect with each other, the environment, and their food, through exploration on the farm. Volunteers are an essential part of the program’s success. From planting seedlings in the spring to weeding, tending, and harvesting crops all summer and into the fall, volunteers make it happen! 403 Harris Rd #2408, Bedford Hills, NY. westchesterlandtrust.org
2. Hiking in Ward of Pound Ridge
Westchester County’s largest park with a large variety of well-marked trails to choose from. With its varied terrain and landscapes and miles of wooded trails, the park provides a variety of activities in all seasons. There are areas for picnicking, lean-to camping, fishing and cross-country skiing. Reservation Rd, Pound Ridge, NY. parks.westchestergov.com/ ward-pound-ridge-reservation
3. Muscoot Farm
A great place to bring kids on a summer day. There are beautiful views, plenty of picnic tables, and various animals to see. Muscoot Farm provides an educative experience for visitors through historic buildings, home to goats, sheep, cattle, horses, donkeys, and a wide variety of poultry animals, public programming, and events yearround made possible by the Friends of Muscoot Farm, a non-profit organization run entirely on donations from the public. 51 NY-100, Katonah, NY. muscootfarm.org
4. Caramoor Summer Concerts
Enjoy a Summer of Live Performance; Classical, Jazz, Roots, Dance, and more! Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts is a destination for exceptional music, captivating programs, spectacular gardens and grounds, and wonderful moments with friends and family. 149 Girdle Ridge Rd, Katonah, NY. caramoor.org
5. Carnivals
The best way to get outside and celebrate the season! There are so many festivals and fairs in Westchester County and beyond - The perfect way to spend a summer day. Armonk, South Salem, Katonah, NY.
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”
Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.
“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
DOG
SOCIALIZING TIPS:
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.
• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.
• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.
• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.
• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.
HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Armonk Chamber Summer Concerts at the Gazebo: The Side Cars
Armonk’s Campus Brook Park | 6:00 PM
The Side Cars step to the gazebo for a Joy Ride through the 80s with tribute to The Cars and 80’s synth pop/rock. Bring your lawn chairs for this free outdoor summer concert!
AUGUST 3RD
Caramoor - Rhiannon
Giddens
Venetian Theater | 7:30 PM
Pulitzer Prize winner and MacArthur “Genius” Grant recipient Rhiannon Giddens’ lifelong mission is to lift up those whose contributions to American musical history have previously been erased. With her spectacular banjo and fiddle playing, passionate vocals, and perceptive songwriting, she embodies a boundless curiosity that explores untold stories and reclaims American musical traditions. Don't miss Giddens' Caramoor show!
AUGUST 4TH
Mount Kisco Farmers Market
Mt. Kisco Train Station, S. Moger Parking Lot | 11:00 AM
The Mt. Kisco Farmer’s Market focuses on engaging the community around local food, health and wellness, and the arts. Each week, the market features a wide variety of exciting vendors. There will be a community corner, food demonstrations, live music, kids' activities, nature walks, story time, and the “Open Mic Stage” where you can sign up to perform!
AUGUST 5TH
Sawmill River Audubon Bird Walk
Muscoot Farm | 7:00 AM
Come to the farm for an early morning bird walk with Anne Swaim of Saw Mill River Audubon. Wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars. The walk leaves from the parking lot. While this guided walk is free, registration is required at https://www.sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips
AUGUST 9TH
Chappaqua Library - Summer Concert Series
Chappaqua Library Courtyard | 7:00 PM
See Kristen Mather de Andrade, part of Chappaqua Library's Summer Concert Series! With clarinet and vocals, this versatile duo effortlessly traverses the realms of jazz, classical and Brazilian music, delivering breathtaking performances that showcase their mastery across diverse musical styles.
AUGUST 10TH
Take it or Leave it!
Bedford Hills Train Station Parking Lot | 10:00 AM
Bedford residents may drop off unwanted household items that are still in good/working condition, or pick up and repurpose some. Anyone may come take items – free! The TIOLI Shed is a wonderful way to recycle and reuse items, and reduce consumption and waste.
Want to be featured?
Mari-Lou Nania
President at Patdo Light Studio in Port Chester New York
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD @HYBRIDMEDIACOMM
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
I find all of my lighting projects rewarding and enjoyable for residential and commercial. They are all so different and range in size and complexity. It's fun to get creative and work with clients who are open to suggestions. This way I can provide my best offerings. I like making someone’s home look unique!
DO YOU HAVE ANY INDUSTRY TIPS?
I find that scale and proportion challenge clients the most. A tip I like to share with my clients to help them find the perfect diameter for a pendant or flush-mount light is to take the length of the room (round up to the nearest foot) and add it to the width of the room (also rounded up) and that’s the diameter your fixture should be in inches.
WHAT INTERIOR DESIGN OR LIGHTING EVENTS DO YOU ATTEND?
Our team attends local lighting shows such as LEDucation in NYC and our showroom designers often attend the annual show in Dallas. We also plan to attend the show in Highpoint, and I have also been to the big international show in Milan. Many of our reps host regular “lunch and learns” at Patdo to keep us in the know on their hot new products.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WORKING IN WESTCHESTER?
Westchester has so many beautiful towns, each with its own unique feel and architectural styles, so I get to explore many different aesthetics; Traditional, Mid-Century, Spanish, Colonial, Georgian, Modern, and others. Then, using my 30+ years of product knowledge and creativity, I select what is appropriate for the town, the architecture, the interior, and the specific lighting needs.
