BRAVA July August 2025

Capital City Dogs

Meet Some of the City’s Cutest Pups

ROOTED IN OUR community

A vibrant community is a beautiful thing. Together, we have the power to shape a bright future for Dane County. Let’s do our part to ensure a better tomorrow for our local businesses, nonprofits, schools, and neighborhoods.

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Tucked-away

MONEY SMARTS

BY KIM SPONEM

There seem to be so many ways to get scammed lately. How can I identify a scam to make sure I'm protecting myself?

Unfortunately, scammers are still out there trying their best to trick you out of your money and information. The good news is that there are proactive ways you can protect yourself, including knowing how to recognize a scam and practicing good cyber security habits.

To get your money fast, scammers love to create a sense of urgency and cause an emotional reaction so you do what they want, such as saying “Your granddaughter’s been arrested and law enforcement needs her bail money right away to release her. I’m here to help you take care of this quickly.” That’s MUST. Yep, you read that right. M — money, U — urgency, S — scare, T — trust.

If you think a scammer contacted you, it’s OK to hang up the phone or say let me call you back. Take a minute to clear your thoughts. Scammers will want to keep you on the phone because they don’t want you to have time to think. Most importantly, if you’re suspicious of the call or message, don’t trust the contact information they give you. Look it up yourself.

By now, we’ve all seen the fun ‘get to know me’ questionnaires on social media asking where you grew up, what your first car was or what your high school mascot was. Avoid these. These types of questions are often used in multi-factor authentication to verify your identity — so don’t give away the answers to your security questions. Always be mindful of the information you’re posting. The more information you share online, the easier it is for scammers to learn about you.

There are some proactive steps you can take to protect yourself online. Think of it as cyber hygiene.

• Use strong and different passwords. Add numbers and special characters. Worried you might not remember all of those complicated passwords? Research and use a reputable password manager. And similar to passwords, make sure you’re using different usernames.

• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an additional layer of protection, sending you a code or a notification, often through your email or text, to use to verify your identity. Make sure to set up MFA on your financial accounts, email and social media.

• Know what you’re clicking on. Scammers are savvy and love to trick us. Make sure you know what you’re clicking on. When you search for something, the paid/sponsored results that pop up first might not be what they really say they are. Hover over and check the URL before clicking on it.

• Freeze your credit and set up alerts. If you’re not actively trying to get new credit, freeze your credit at all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). This doesn’t affect your credit score. You’ll need to remove the freeze before applying for credit, but it’s quick and easy to do. Don’t forget about your kids’ credit either. You can also set up alerts with the credit bureaus so lending companies do additional verification before extending credit. And you should review your credit report at least once a year from each bureau.

• Sign up for free informed delivery from the U.S. Postal Service. Know what’s coming in your mail. You get an email showing scans of everything heading to your mailbox. If something doesn’t arrive, this helps you know if it’s stolen or lost.

• Use a hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi. Use your phone as a hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi, especially when traveling. Scammers could make up a Wi-Fi account with the same name to trick you, so make sure you pay attention to which network you log into.

Visit our website at SummitCreditUnion.com/scams for more tips, and to learn about common scams and how you can report fraud.

Kim Sponem is CEO and President, since 2002, of Summit Credit Union, a $7.5 billion, member-owned financial cooperative with more than 266,700 members. Kim has a passion for empowering people to improve their financial well-being for a richer life.

Ask Kim your money questions at MoneySmarts@SummitCreditUnion.com.

OUR BEST PET PALS

Back in early March, we put out a call to readers for our first-ever Capital City Dogs photo essay. We asked you to submit a few photos, then answer a few questions on our website survey about why your pup should be featured in BRAVA. And the response was overwhelming! After all, who doesn’t think their pup is the cutest? Our team loved combing through each reader’s answers and oohing and aahing over the photos of the adorable canines. It was a tough decision, but we narrowed down the group to a selection of dogs — from small up to large — with interesting backstories.

One special guy that deserves a shout-out is Kevin, a mixed-breed pup shown on P. 35. Kevin is a UW Health Caring Canine that visits the American Family Children’s Hospital. Caring Canine program volunteers provide bedside visits to hospital patients. Owner Missy Dickson notes: “[Kevin] has a calming energy and wise golden eyes that help people feel welcome, that he understands whatever you’re going through and that everything is going to be OK.” Thanks for all that you do, Kevin! Besides these notable canines, this entire issue is devoted to pets. Want to give a shout-out to your favorite pet pal in your home’s décor? Check out pages 21 and 25. Itching to take a hike

WE’D LOVE TO SEE YOU Registration is open for our Women in Business celebration on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at the Park Hotel. Scan the QR code to learn more about this fabulous event and RSVP.

Thanks to our fantastic pet photographers in this issue:

to capture the best shots of all of these special animals!

or go camping with your dog? Our gear roundup on P. 11 shows what you may want to pick up. On P. 42, local author Danielle St. Louis (who wrote “A Dog Lover’s Guide to Hiking Wisconsin’s State Parks”) shares five state parks to visit within an hour of Madison, plus key tips for hiking with your dog.

There’s much more, including where to eat with your dog (P. 48); a visit to Sun Prairie’s cat café, The Cat’s Brew (P. 50); and our guide detailing nonprofit and affordable-care veterinary clinics in the city (P. 46).

You also love knowing what to do around town and where to eat. “The Wanderer’s Guidebook to Madison” (P. 54) has a “hidden gems” theme. Stop by an off-the-eaten path restaurant (P. 55), a tucked-away nature nook (P. 59), follow some cool customized itineraries (P. 61) or choose your own adventure in a nearby city or charming village (P. 64).

I hope that you’re having an adventurous, fulfilling summer!

Shayna Mace Editorial Director @shaynamace

NOMINATE AN AMAZING WOMAN

Our Women to Watch nomination period is open! Who do you know that has standout plans for 2026? Tell us about them at bravamagazine.com/w2w.

PHOTO - WORTHY

Shalicia Johnson, Hillary Schave and Shanna Wolf. They all worked hard

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CONTRIBUTORS

Shelby Deering, Shalicia Johnson, Danielle Letenyei, Nikki Kallio, Kevin Revolinski, Hillary Schave, Katrina Simyab, Danielle St. Louis, Jessica Steinhoff, Hywania Thompson, Katie Vaughn, Amanda Wegner, Shanna Wolf

BRAVA Magazine is a publication of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Gary E. Nei, Chairman, William Turner, President. This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. ©2025

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BRAVA (ISSN 1934-4317) JULY/AUGUST 2025, Volume 26, Number 04, is published bimonthly (six times a year) by Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Periodicals postage paid at 3902 Milwaukee St., Madison, WI 53714 and additional offices. Postmaster send address changes to: BRAVA Magazine, 951 Kimball Ln., Ste. 122, Verona, WI 53593-1786.

TRAIL TALES

This adventure-ready gear is perfect for an active pup.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND STYLING BY SHANNA WOLF

Top: RC Pets waterproof collar, starting at $26 , bad dog frida ; “A Dog Lover’s Guide to Hiking Wisconsin’s State Parks” by Danielle St. Louis, $20 , A Room of One’s Own ; Wondercide Cedar Flea and Tick Control, $14 , Emma Ko’s Kill-a-Bites, $12.50 , and Aromadog Tick Twister, $7 , all from bad dog frida Middle: OllyBottle dog water bottle, $14 , and Goldpaw Sun Shield T-shirt * , $32-$38 , both from Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz ; Wilderdog evergreen cooling bandana, $20 , bad dog frida Bottom: Bocce’s Campfire S’mores treats, $8 , Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz ; 36“x28“ Olive sleeping bag, $64 , wilderdog.com ; Yeti Boomer seafoam stainless steel four-cup water bowl, $40 , Ace Hardware

Goldpaw’s Sun Shield T-shirt is modeled by Chance, whose summer bucket list includes hiking at Devil’s Lake State Park and backyard bonfires. He’s adoptable through Albert’s Dog Lounge (albertsdoglounge.org).

A STEP BACK IN TIME

BY SHELBY DEERING

It’s not often that you come across a place in Madison that feels as if it’s in the heart of Los Angeles’ Laurel Canyon neighborhood, but when you walk into Arbor House, you may half expect Joni Mitchell to suddenly appear around the corner.

Drenched in warm neutrals and showcasing vintage finds like pottery, books, macramé and clothing, Atwood Avenue’s Arbor House is a bohemian dream come true. Owned by Eleanor Boersma, the shop opened in fall 2024.

“There is an ode to the ’60s without being kitsch,” Boersma explains.

The name is drawn from the idea of “a treehouse for grown-ups, a special clubhouse for us to play and work in and share with our community,” she says.

Boersma stocks the shop with freshly found goods almost daily, adding, “I feel like a modern-day treasure hunter. I sift through a lot of junk to find the gems.”   Boersma is no stranger to purveying vintage wares. She’s been selling bygone treasures since she was 18, when she started selling vintage clothing to Chicago boutiques. Then she opened an Etsy shop, and two years ago, she began selling at Madison’s Atomic Antiques.

Her shop is also stocked with fellow vintage sellers’ relics.

“I love having it be a collective ... and supporting small businesses,” she notes.

With 1960s acoustic tunes wafting in the background, shopping at Arbor House feels a bit like you’ve traveled back in time.

“Arbor House feels warm and inviting to me, and that’s my goal when decorating. No sterility of design — there should be a human touch involved,” says Boersma.

2334 Atwood Ave., @arborhouse_madison

Shelby Deering is a freelance lifestyle writer living in Madison.

Back to School, Mindfully

UnityPoint Health – Meriter shares tips on how to nurture your child’s mental health for the upcoming school year.

Assummer fades and the school bells start to ring, it’s easy to focus on the academic checklist — supplies, schedules and homework prep. But mental health is just as crucial to your child’s success. Here are some expert-backed tips to help your family build a mentally healthy foundation for the school year ahead.

Foster Positive Conversations About School

One of the most effective ways to help your child feel prepared is to talk openly about school. Encourage them to share their feelings — both excitement and anxiety. Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions about returning to school.

Ask open-ended questions like, “What are you looking forward to about school this year?” or, “What’s something you’re feeling a little worried about?” These questions allow your child to express themselves without feeling pressured.

Monitor for Warning Signs of Mental Health Concerns

While most children will experience some degree of anxiety or stress as they return to school, there are specific warning signs parents should look for. If your child is

struggling emotionally, they might show changes in behavior or mood, such as:

• Frequent complaints of physical symptoms (like stomachaches or headaches) without a clear cause

• Increased irritability or sadness

• Changes in sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling asleep or frequent nightmares

• Withdrawal from social activities or a loss of interest in things they once enjoyed

• Difficulty concentrating or a drop in academic performance

If you notice these changes, it’s important to have a conversation with your child’s school counselor and consider seeking the guidance of a mental health professional.

Normalize Conversations About Mental Health

Let your child know it’s OK to ask for help when they feel overwhelmed, sad or different.

Use age-appropriate language when

discussing mental health. For younger children, you might say, “Sometimes our brains need a little help just like our bodies do when we’re sick.” For older children, you might discuss mental health in terms of “stress” and “coping skills” or explain that it’s OK to speak with a counselor if they feel stuck.

Encourage Self-Care and Healthy Habits

Helping your child develop healthy coping strategies can reduce anxiety and promote emotional resilience. Teach them about and encourage them to try deep breathing, journaling or physical activity to manage stress. A healthy balance of school, play, rest and connection with family can go a long way in supporting your child’s mental health throughout the school year.

If you notice that your child’s anxiety, mood changes or other mental health concerns persist or worsen as they return to school, it’s important to seek professional support.

The UnityPoint Health – Meriter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Program offers specialized care tailored to help children and teens navigate emotional challenges.

If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, speak with your primary care provider to explore referral options.

LIVING THEIR BEST DOGGONE LIVES

Lindsey Decker built her dream business focused on care and enrichment for pups.

BY JESSICA STEINHOFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNA WOLF

Dogs bring us so much joy and, according to Lindsey Decker, we owe it to our pups to return the joyful favor to them.

Decker does this herself through DogMa, her business that offers homebased boarding and off-leash hiking adventures called SNIFFari Adventures for Dane County pups.

As a kid, Decker brought home lost dogs that were roaming the neighborhood. “I wasn’t sure anyone was looking out for them,” she says.

This led to volunteering at organizations like Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services in Madison, and Ma, Paws, & Me Pet Rescue in Watertown.

“I started out fostering and doing marketing. That drove my passion for working with dogs full time,” she says. Decker worked in the corporate world for years, leading marketing efforts for the specialty cheese industry, Covance and more. When a friend began traveling abroad for business, Decker cared for her canine companion. She saw how Decker lit up around her dog, then lost that spark when she went to

Lindsey Decker and pup clients on a SNIFFari Adventure

her day job.

“My friend was like, ‘You could be getting paid to do this,’” Decker says, “so I decided to give it a try.”

Decker began offering services through Rover, an Uber-like app for pet sitting and dog walking. People who knew her from rescues spread the word and soon dozens of requests were coming daily. Eventually, she felt

named her venture DogMa and asked friends from the rescue community to help. From there, she built a network of contractors who could offer a range of services, including staying in pet owners’ homes and welcoming pets into their own homes. Today 40 to 60 people serve in this role at any given time and DogMa has a client list of more than 10,000 Madison-area pets.

“This team lets us match each furry family member with someone who can give them an experience that’s closest to what they get at home,” Decker says.

DogMa became Decker’s day job in 2016, four years after starting it as a side hustle. She might not have taken the leap if her former employer hadn’t pushed her out the door.

“Everyone needs to get fired at least once,” she says with a laugh. “Before that, I didn’t trust myself enough to do DogMa full time.”

Decker was a single mom back then, so financial stability was a top priority. This motivated her to find new sources of revenue, such as helping dogs pose for wedding photos. In 2023, her business hit a milestone: $1 million earned. Now, it’s closing in on $2 million.

that Rover was no longer a fit — and she decided to strike off on her own.

“I knew I could build a better model to serve the companion animals in our community. That’s how DogMa was born. Neighbors, friends and families that adopted dogs I’d fostered, they all became my clients,” she explains.

Pretty soon, Decker had more requests than she could handle. She

Helping homeless dogs is still Decker’s raison d’etre. She’s vice president of Albert’s Dog Lounge, a rescue for elderly pups, and has fostered more than 2,000 dogs in the past 15 years.

“To be a foster, you just need to commit to providing time, love and space for a dog,” she says. “Even if you only do it for a summer, it can save a dog’s life.”

Jessica Steinhoff is a Madison-area mom, writer and mental health professional.

Q&A with LOURE Aesthetics & Wellness ® in Waunakee Optimizing Hormone Health for Women

Nikki Grossen of LOURE Aesthetics & Wellness® is passionate about helping women foster their health and confidence during perimenopause and menopause. Here, Grossen talks about common questions patients have about hormones and their integral role in our health.

What do our hormones do, and how do they influence both our physical and mental health?

I treat perimenopausal and postmenopausal females, low testosterone in men and sluggish thyroids. At LOURE Aesthetics & Wellness®, I only offer bioidentical hormones, including bioidentical estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and thyroid hormone.

My passion is helping women with their health and confidence during perimenopause and menopause.

— Nikki Grossen PA-C, MSCP

1001 Arboretum Drive Suite 139, Waunakee Dr. 608.886.0022

loureaesthetics@yahoo.com

We have hormone receptors in our gut, brain, heart, blood vessels, breasts, bones, liver, uterus, ovaries, testes and more, which turn on key functions for cognition (focus, motivation, anxiety), blood pressure, bone strength, menstrual cycle regulation, sexual desire, improved insulin sensitivity, increased metabolism, vaginal elasticity and moisture, and much more. When our hormone levels decline, these organs and tissues don’t function as effectively, and this can have a great impact on our physical, immune, gut and mental health.

How do I know if my hormones are out of balance?

Some common hormonal imbalance symptoms include: brain fog, forgetfulness, irregular menstrual cycles, lower libido, less energy, more irritability and impatience, sleep disruption, increased anxiety, midsection weight gain, more difficulty losing weight and gaining muscle (even if you’re doing all the right things), hair loss, hot flashes, worsening PMS, painful intercourse and so on.

Some of these symptoms overlap with other disorders, so it’s imperative that you visit your primary care provider regularly to ensure these symptoms are not due to other unrelated health issues.

What types of hormone therapies do you offer to clients?

I believe hormone pellet delivery is superior due to its ease of use. Hormone pellets (which are tiny, compressed implants about the size of a grain of rice) are placed into the upper buttock tissue and deliver a timed release of hormones to the body. I place the pellets in the office and the patient does not need to return for three to five months.

Is hormone therapy safe, and how do you monitor patient progress with treatments at Loure?

Bioidentical hormone therapy is safe if the patient is treated appropriately for their needs. I monitor patients with lab work several times per year and during regular follow-up visits. I have worked the majority of my 15-year career as a board-certified physician associate in women’s health, and I’ve seen the amazing changes hormones have made in my patients’ lives.

They have their libido and energy back, intercourse is pleasurable again, their mood gets better, muscle tone improves, lab numbers are optimized, their sleep is more restorative and they have less anxiety — just to name a few benefits.

Nikki Grossen

PET PATIENTS

What to know about pet insurance.

BY AMANDA WEGNER

People don’t just love their pets — they consider them family.

“Culturally, the way we see our pets has changed,” says Maria Keppel, DVM, and owner of McFarland Animal Hospital. “Most pet parents, when asked, state that their pets are considered family members.”

And, because they cherish their pets, an increasing number of people are willing to support their pet’s health by purchasing pet insurance.

“Pet insurance is quickly growing in popularity, but it’s still relatively uncommon in the U.S.,” says Dr. Keppel. “Right now, we see a few patients with pet insurance a week, but that is a significant change from 10 to 15 years ago, when we would only see an insured patient once every few months.”

Keppel suspects this number will grow in the coming years, and industry analysts predict the same. She adds that most of her insured patients have Millennial or Gen Z pet parents.

Pet insurance is somewhat similar to human health insurance: You select a plan that best fits your pet’s needs

and pay a monthly premium to maintain coverage. Then, when a pet needs medical care, the pet parent pays the vet bill first, then submits a claim to the insurance company. Importantly, the onus is on the pet parent to seek reimbursement.

“Unlike human [health] insurance, most pet insurance companies don’t bill vet clinics directly,” says Dr. Keppel. “Owners have to handle payment and claims themselves.”

One benefit of pet insurance is the predictability that comes from having a budgeted expense — the monthly premiums are always the same, meaning no surprises. At the same time, knowing what your pet policy covers is essential. Dr. Keppel says coverage varies significantly between plans and companies, but generally, higher reimbursements mean higher premiums and less out-ofpocket costs.

“Oftentimes, plans that [appear] inexpensive may not actually help when you really need them. Be sure to read the fine print!” she says. “Reliable insurance plans cover unexpected vet bills for accidents, illnesses

and emergencies, which makes having to face a large vet bill during emergencies a lot less likely.”

Perhaps the biggest benefit of pet insurance is not having to make tough decisions about your beloved pet’s health on cost alone.

“Having worked in both general practice and ER settings, I can attest that one of the most difficult things to witness as a veterinarian is an owner having to make a potentially lifealtering decision for their pet based on financial limitations,” says Dr. Keppel. “In contrast, when we’re faced with a serious medical situation and the owner says, ‘Let’s do what we need to do — I have pet insurance,’ there’s nothing more reassuring or uplifting to hear. It allows us and the pet parent to focus fully on making the best possible choices for that pet.”

Dog owner Andrea Mace echoes this. She had both a pet wellness plan and emergency insurance coverage for her pup, Moxie.

“We never think pet emergencies will happen to us, but they can. When I was suddenly faced with one, I was so relieved I didn’t have to make a decision based on cost. No one wants to be in that position — and thanks to my insurance, I wasn’t,” Mace says.

Importantly, pet insurance does come with some caveats and limitations. With some policies, premiums can increase with pet age, and some may have annual or lifetime payment limits. Additionally, most companies have waiting periods.

Finally, advises Dr. Keppel, preexisting conditions are not covered, so it’s best to get insurance when your pet is young or newly adopted.

Mindful Movement. Calm Connection. Fun

Focus.

Looking for screen time that actually helps?

Pogie the Yogie is a joyful YouTube series that blends yoga-inspired movement, mindfulness, and fun — designed to help kids (and parents) feel calmer, stronger, and more connected.

Perfect for a 5-minute reset or a meaningful daily routine.

No mats, no prep — just press play!

Watch on YouTube @PogieTheYogie youtube.com/@pogietheyogie Scan me to start!

Amanda Wegner is a local freelance writer, and communications and marketing professional.

From kitchens to basements, we bring your renovation vision to life.

PET PERFECTION

Show your furry friend some love by weaving them into your decor.

STYLING BY SHANNA WOLF

Create an artful moment by hanging these minimalist, modern prints in an entryway, home office or living room. Available in four options, these barktastic pieces showcase pups in a thoughtful, artistic lens. (And, turn the page for more fun pet-themed home accents.) Best Friend 12x12 framed artwork (clockwise from top left: Ralph, Rex, Ranger and Rover), $98 each, Nest Interior Design and anestedhome.com.

Clockwise from top left: York Wallcoverings Cat Study Animal wallpaper, $128 , and Aimee Wilder Shadowcat wallpaper, $238 , both from Anthropologie ; Thibaut Best Friend wallpaper, $150 (double roll) , Dwellings ; Dogs! playing cards, $15 , Nest Interior Design ; dachshund corkscrew and bottle stopper set, $49 , Pottery Barn ; Bistro Tile “bone-jour” pet bowl, $20 , Anthropologie ; handwoven seagrass pet storage basket, $79 , Pottery Barn ; dog and cat cookie cutters, $3 each , Sur La Table ; and “House Cat: Inspirational Interiors and the Elegant Felines Who Call Them Home” by Paul Barbera, $35 , and “Resident Dog: Incredible Homes and the Dogs That Live There” by Nicole England, $35 , Leopold’s Books Bar Caffe

Planning with Purpose

By Stephanie Forrester

Preparing for the future of a family member with a disability is important when you’re creating a family financial plan. But rather than trying to tackle and build a financial plan from scratch, I encourage families to address the process of future planning one question at a time — alongside their advisor.

Reaching Adulthood

An area that often requires careful consideration is when the family member turns 18, when they are considered an adult. They, along with their guardians, will want to choose where they live and work. Depending on the family member’s disability, some individuals must balance job income with public benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. Note there are income limits to how much someone can make in their job in order to still qualify for these basic public benefits. Additionally, housing options can vary greatly, from living independently to establishing residency in a group home.

Money Matters

Guardians should carefully consider how to give their family member access to their own money while also assisting them with budgeting and other financial tasks when needed. In addition to receiving government benefits, some families opt to help their loved one financially. This typically means creating a special needs trust or Achieving a Better Life Experience

(ABLE) account. These accounts, if funded correctly, are not counted as an asset when establishing eligibility for government programs and can provide additional funding that isn’t otherwise available to your loved one. Distributions from these accounts can be crucial for many families and should be regularly reviewed with a professional.

Future Planning

Coordinating income, benefits and financial accounts inevitably overlaps with estate planning and guardianship. Some types of disabilities require a loved one to have a guardianship established — but it doesn’t stop there. Your estate plan should align with guardianship roles as well as any estate planning documents that have been created. This may include powers of attorney, trusts, wills or even financial accounts. Collaboration among these financial planning tools will help answer any questions and ensure a clear, successful path in the future for your loved one.

Special-Needs Planning

Financial planning for a child with a disability can be a daunting task. Many families struggle with starting this process, because they don’t know where to start. Specialneeds planning can be very long and complex, but it helps to break things down into these basic questions:

• Will my child be working a part- or full-time job?

• Where does my child want/need to live when they’re an adult?

• How will my child finance their everyday needs?

• Will I need to establish guardianship?

Asking yourself these questions can quickly help establish a starting point with your advisor.

Stephanie Forrester

608.371.1528

stephanie.forrester@wealthspire.com

10 Terrace Ct., Ste. 103 Madison, WI 53718 608.416.4402 wealthspire.com

Stephanie Forrester

FETCH - FRIENDLY SPACES

Weave pets and their needs into your home’s design with these expert tips.

BY SHELBY DEERING

CABINET KENNELS

Morgan McMahon, a designer at Degnan Design-BuildRemodel, says that more clients are requesting kennels that are made to look like cabinetry or built into cabinetry. This does away with a stand-alone crate that can take up room and creates a seamless, and stylish, way “for your pet

to have a safe space and for the owner to have a continuous design,” as McMahon says.

DESIGNATED STORAGE

McMahon says that one of the most effective ways to connect your pets to your home design is to create

designated cabinetry in a kitchen or mudroom where you can store pet food, bowls and other supplies. Another handy touch that you can add nearby? McMahon suggests adding a pot filler above your pet’s water bowl to provide easy access to H2O. And don’t forget that you can add pull-out sliding shelves, bins or trays to your cabinets, things that McMahon says can create hidden pet food storage.

NATURAL RUGS

Katie Calnin, founder and principal designer of Calnin Design Studio, says that when you have a pet, natural rug materials are best. She says that wool is naturally stain-resistant, durable and protects against dust mites and allergens, for instance.

“It’s also very cozy and soft to curl up

on while providing sound absorption for those clackity paw nails,” she says. Another option is a jute rug, which also offers durability and hides tracked-in dirt.

FURNITURE FABRICS

“When considering colors for your furniture, choose a palette that is similar to your pet’s hair so that it can be camouflaged in between vacuuming and cleaning,” Calnin advises. Additionally, she recommends going with pet-friendly performance materials that are designed to guard against stains, scratches, odors and wear and tear over time.

But, with that in mind, Calnin adds, “Always remember that nothing is indestructible and should be treated right away after a stain appears.”

CHIC RETREAT

Calnin says that it is possible to choose pet furniture that’s so stylish, you won’t have to compromise your home’s overall design.

“You can now purchase very stylish beds for pets in attractive patterns and colors that are cohesive with the rest of your color palette,” she says, adding, “You can also consider customizing a cushion and integrating it inside of a low bookshelf for a cozy and designated nook.”

PET-APPROVED PLANTS

Alina Poletskova, founder and CEO of Red Square Flowers, shares her top nontoxic plant picks.

Spider Plant

Poletskova says that these plants, which pose no threat to pups or kitties, are easy plants to care for and their attractive, slender leaves will add style to any space.

African Violet

Beloved for their “beautiful, vibrant blooms” and “soft, fuzzy leaves,” as Poletskova says, these pet-friendly flowers should be placed near a window or windowsill.

Prayer Plant

Calling it “eyecatching,” Poletskova says that the leaves of this non-toxic plant fold up at night, giving it its descriptive name.

Early savers

Ben and Grace have always been diligent savers, believing in the power of hard work and early investment. Their dedication paid off when they purchased their first home at just 21 years old.

“Dupaco was instrumental in helping us reach our goals. They guided us through the loan process, and now we have our dream house. It’s been amazing,” they said.

CapitAl City Dogs

We sent out a call for Madison’s cutest pups and, boy, did you answer! From breeds large to small, here are some of the area’s hot diggity dogs.

EDITED BY SHAYNA MACE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHALICIA JOHNSON

taiga

Breed: Samoyed

FAMILY: Mary Hopkins-Best and Richard Best

Favorite Madison place to visit: Taiga’s favorite day is the annual UW-Madison Homecoming Parade because he gets to be in it. He rides along while his mom and dad drive a local celebrity in their convertible (shown) — but Taiga knows he’s the real celebrity.

If Taiga had a job, it would be: Chief solicitor of smiles and “awwws.”

Sponsored by:

Cooper

Breed: BullMastiff mix

FAMILY: Maggie, Nick & Izzy Conrad

Favorite Madison place to visit: He loves to walk Izzy to school in the neighborhood! He also loves going trick-or-treating, hiking and visiting family.

What we love about Cooper: He is 120 pounds and is a gentle giant! Lots of people are afraid of big dogs — but they just want love, too. It’s good to show how even big guys like him can be sweet and loving.

harry & Mango

Breed : Chihuahua (Harry) and terrier mix (Mango)

FAMILY: Kayla & Ross Kahler

If Harry and Mango had jobs, they would be: Harry would be a secret agent. You’d trust his adorable face, but his big ears would hear everything! Mango would be a super-peppy summer camp counselor keeping the fun going, but he’d be able to comfort you when you’re homesick on night one.

What we love about them: These two happy guys love exploring Madison, walking around to see friends and trying new things. They’re also big fans of BRAVA Magazine — we read every issue together!

Gill

Breed: French Bulldog FAMILY: Rebecca Gasper

Favorite Madison places to visit: Gill loves visiting any Madison park, wandering around the lake (trying to drink the lake water!) and sharing sweet treats from Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream.

If Gill had a job, it would be: A cheese critic. He knows when the cheese drawer opens and will not leave you alone until he gets a piece! He is a real Wisconsin boy.

Why we love Gill: Gill is a momma’s boy who loves cuddling while we page through BRAVA Magazine when it arrives.

Breed: Pitbull

Family: Mallory, Danny, Vaughn, Dillon & Simone

Favorite Madison place to visit: Ozzy loves long walks on the west side of Madison and playing Frisbee at Marshall Park. Prairie Moraine Dog Park (shown) is his favorite — he can explore, sniff and get all of his zoomies out there.

What we love about Ozzy: Ozzy is always smiling and is such a good ambassador for his breed. We were lucky to have the chance to adopt him through the Dane County Humane Society and are so very thankful he’s ours!

Wedel

Hondo

Breed: Labrador Retriever FAMILY: Jennifer & Brian Schmeiser

Favorite Madison place to visit: Hondo loves to go swimming in the lakes, hiking on trails, visiting dog-friendly patios and playing in the snow.

What we love about Hondo: We call him handsome Hondo — he is a good-looking dog, well-behaved and a lover. He wants to be everyone’s best friend and he is certain they all want to be his best friend, too. He brings us so much joy!

Kevin

Breed: A mix

FAMILY: Missy Dickson

Favorite Madison place to visit: The American Family Children’s Hospital, where he can hop up in bed and comfort and cuddle with inpatient kids and staff.

If Kevin had a job, it would be: Chief Barketing Officer at Wisconsin Credit Union League and Caring Canine therapy dog (see P. 44) at the American Family Children’s Hospital. He has a calming energy and wise golden eyes that help people feel welcome, that he understands whatever you’re going through and that everything is going to be OK.

“To the ones who lead with heart.

Leaving behind the familiar path of corporate clinics, these remarkable women chose to build something of their own - from the ground up. What they’ve created is more than a veterinary practice; it’s a sanctuary where animals are genuinely cared for, where empathy drives every decision, and where the well-being of their team and community comes before all else.

It’s been an honor to stand beside them, designing and building a space that reflects their courage, their care, and their commitment.

Thank you for selecting the Keller team to play a small part in bringing your dreams to life.

Dr. Alissa Leistico & Dr. Beth Poulsen, Aurora Veterinary Care

Dr. ate Washabau h &

Lakes Veterinary Clinic

Rebekah Spidle, Interior Designer

MOTLEY

Breed: Dalmatian family: Becca, Doug, Hailey, Rayah & Wyatt Hewison

Favorite Madison place to visit: Pet-friendly stores to meet people or local trails — particularly Pheasant Branch Conservancy in Middleton.

Why we love Motley: He is Mr. Personality — he has lots of silly antics and is very entertaining! He is a “unicorn” in that most people haven’t seen a real Dalmatian and that draws a lot of attention. We enjoy that he is quite active, yet still cuddly.

SIMON

Breed: Teddy bear

Family: Leslie, Brett, Kendall & Talia Riemen

Favorite Madison place to visit: He loves to drive our boat! We live on Lake Waubesa.

If Simon had a job, it would be: UPS driver — he loves people.

Why we love Simon: Everyone loves Simon. He is a fantastic greeter at our office, a smart guy and loves to snuggle.

Science, Safety and Success in Hair Restoration

While hair thinning and loss are typically natural processes in the body — closely linked to aging, genetics and hormones — autoimmunity and inflammation have been recently rising as culprits. Additionally, hair loss concerns have increased amongst younger individuals of all genders, spurring many to seek treatment and many others to provide treatment. Because of this, it is paramount that patients seek scientifically validated approaches to promote safety and success in their hair restoration endeavors. The provision of these scientifically validated approaches must be backed by appropriate education and training, given the potential for harm and permanent disfigurement.

Ads abound for “miracle cures” with seductive pricing that are being provided by teams without foundational education, having completed only a weekend course or online seminar. The risks here are of delayed diagnosis and treatment, of use of treatments that do more damage than good, destruction of trust for the medical field, and, most importantly, of frustration and loss of hope in these vulnerable patients.

Shamila Gupta Rawal, MD, a board-certified head and neck surgeon at The Rawal Institute for Hair Restoration and Aesthetic Medicine, fully understands the devastating effects of hair loss in women and men of all ages, and has decades of education and training to support the appropriate diagnosis, treatment and long-term support of her patients. As a full member and faculty of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, she stays abreast of the evolving medicine of hair loss and restoration and uses only evidence-based treatment protocols in her practice. Dr. Rawal prides herself on incorporating cuttingedge technologies, only after sufficient data and experience have accrued, to ensure her patients the greatest margin of safety and potential for success.

Each patient interaction is truly a partnership; listening to her patients in an unhurried consultation provides as much information as her examination findings. She creates a customized plan using medical and surgical modalities that suit the patient’s lifestyle and health goals to restore their beauty and self-confidence.

“Dr. Rawal was professional and engaging in listening to my concerns. She offered treatments in line with my overall health goals, along with the outcomes I could expect.” — LND, patient of Dr. Rawal

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Rawal’s approach is empowerment through education. Last year, Dr. Rawal hosted her sold-out Science and Art lecture series: small-group sessions including a deep interactive dive into the science behind prominent wellness topics, live demonstrations and on-site mini-consultations. Attendees also enjoyed engaging Q&A sessions with other patients and received promotional pricing and product samples to try at home! Dr. Rawal continues her series this year — spots are limited, so RSVP on the website (below) right away! Sessions are intentionally limited to 10 attendees to foster a safe, intimate setting.

When considering treatment for devastating issues such as hair loss, rest assured Dr. Rawal has the knowledge and skill to care for you with science, safety and success.

DR. SHAMILA RAWAL

Pawsitively Local

Meet the women behind Madison’s most beloved pet businesses, find out where to dine and hike with your pup, and get inspired by the animals (and people) doing good in our community for our four-legged friends.

Noel Johnson of bad dog frida

BY SHELBY DEERING, NIKKI KALLIO, SHAYNA MACE, DANIELLE ST. LOUIS, HYWANIA THOMPSON AND KATIE VAUGHN

Head of the Pack

From shops to daycares to training services, women lead many of the city’s pet-focused businesses. Sit, stay and read on to meet a few of them.

BY KATIE VAUGHN

DEN

Mother Mighty

When Laura Schorrak began taking her first dog to The Dog Den, she felt pulled to start helping out at the training facility. “Here and there came to be more and more,” she says, and she took over the business in 2011.

Schorrak expanded The Dog Den to two locations, and, in 2017, opened The Puppy Den to serve exclusively young pups and their unique developmental stages. At all three sites, staff use positive reinforcement to encourage dogs’ best behavior.

“We have an amazing team,” Schorrak says of her 35 employees, many of whom have worked at the company for more than a decade. “We’re very focused on continuing education and trying to do what’s best for the dogs at each turn.”

Schorrak also offers free daycare and training to dogs in foster care to teach them good behavior and ultimately make them more adoptable.

“We want to give them as much of a chance to find their next home,” she says.

SMALL AND

Get to know Laura Strimpel, a internationally certified professional dog trainer who owns Taproot Dog Training and North Paw, a dog daycare and boarding provider.

How did you become interested in working with animals?

When I adopted my first dog, Timbre, years ago, I started taking training classes and fell in love with how she learned! I quickly began volunteering as a trainer, was asked to be a lead trainer at a popular training company in Madison, then earned my certification and started my own training company because I wanted to improve both the human and dog learning experience.

What is your approach to dog training?  I wholeheartedly believe in a science- and choice-based approach to dog training, which is why I am certified. But I also believe there is room for honoring that

SOFetch

While spending time with a friend and her dog, Jasmine Wong found herself distracted by garish pet toys standing out in the beautiful house.

“I thought, ‘What if we made toys that looked good in a home?’” she recalls. Wong, a product manager, and her husband, Nick, a mechanical engineer, decided to try, with her focusing on design and him on durability. They started their company East Mission, named after the century-old Labrador Retriever statue that overlooks East Mission Street in Santa Barbara, where Wong and her husband lived before moving to the Madison area.

every dog is an individual and that not every dog fits into how we think all dogs will learn.

Can you tell us about North Paw?

North Paw is the only daycare in the state that is focused on smaller dogs and cats. Other daycares may have a small space or group for these pint-sized dogs, but my entire property is dedicated to their needs … I designed the entire outdoor space myself, and everything from the play equipment to the different play arenas are built with littles in mind. We are also queer-owned!

The company’s dog ball is made with a natural rubber exterior, has an embedded squeaker and infused beef flavor, and is offered in cream, dark blue and light brown colors. The Wongs sell the toys on Amazon and Etsy. They have ideas for more ball patterns and products to develop, but are happy that customers are loving the aesthetics and durability of their first ball.

“One of the things we’re most proud of since we started selling over a year ago, is having no dog completely destroy it,” Wong says.

Shop

TALK

Step into a few female-run pet stores!

At bad dog frida , a friendly neighborhood pet store that celebrated 19 years on Atwood Avenue in July, nutrition is a priority, says owner Noel Johnson, who took over for founders Sue Hunter and Carmen Alcalde in 2019. Five freezers are filled with fresh food and all staff are trained in pet nutrition; they’ve even developed recipes for filling Kong-style toys with tasty combinations. Another emphasis is enrichment, and the store brims with snuffle mats, licking mats, treat balls and puzzles. The shop also welcomes in adoptable dogs from local rescue organizations on Saturdays and collaborates on events like parkour walks with Busy Dog, a training provider.

At Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz , owner Liz Perry encourages animals and

their humans to have fun. Locations on Midvale Boulevard and Park Street keep a focus on natural and local toys, treats and food — especially those with minimal or environmentally responsible packaging — and a huge variety of collars and leashes. Perry also works with Albert’s Dog Lounge, Desert Willow Ranch & Rescue, 9 Lives Rescue Inc. and the Madison Cat Project on providing donations and bringing attention to adoptable pets.

From its first digs on the west side of Madison in 2007, Tabby & Jack’s has grown to nine locations across Dane County. Owner Michelle Lonergan focuses on healthy food and holistic services, with a large selection of fresh food, treats and supplements, and all nine stores plus a mobile option offering holistic grooming. Many of the items stocked hail from Wisconsin (like Fromm Family, Vital Essentials and Raw Dynamic pet food), and the company regularly brings in dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and more from Brown Paws Rescue, Shelter from the Storm, Latoya’s Legacy and Misfit Felines to help them find homes.

Open since 2002, MadCat now has three locations across Madison to cater specifically to cats and their caretakers. The shops often host local rescue organizations such as Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services, Misfit Felines, 9 Lives Rescue Inc. and D-Triple F Ranch and Rescue to help cats find homes. Owner Amy Cross carries a range of products to help manage cats’ stress levels, and she always suggests furniture for cats to climb, especially locally built natural wood cat trees from Cat Tree Kingdom and Paw Friendly Cat Furniture.

Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz

Five State Parks

TO EXPLORE WITH YOUR DOG WITHIN AN HOUR OF MADISON

BY DANIELLE ST. LOUIS

CROSS PLAINS STATE PARK

This free park is one of the area’s hidden gems and is a great option for a weekday adventure with your dog. If you want to get in more mileage, you can always pick up the Ice Age Trail from this park, though My dog Lucky and I never got bored of the woodland loops here.

AZTALAN STATE PARK

Delight your inner archaeologist with a visit to Aztalan State Park. This National Historic Landmark features the restored earthen mounds and stockade wall of an ancient Native American civilization. With only two miles of hiking trails, a visit to Aztalan is more about traveling back in time than logging lots of miles.

NEW GLARUS WOODS STATE PARK

New Glarus Woods State Park is an enjoyable day trip with mellow, wide trails to meander and lots of fun options for pre- or post-hike activities. Stop at the New Glarus Bakery for a few nut horns to enjoy out on the trail or stop into Paoli on your way back to Madison and enjoy lunch and a beverage at one of the spots along the Sugar River.

GOVERNOR DODGE STATE PARK

Experience the magic of the Driftless Region (the portion of Wisconsin that didn’t get steamrolled by glaciers) at this park. Hike up the sandstone bluffs on Pine Cliff Trail, be dazzled by the waterfall and meander along the stream on Stephens Falls Trail and let your dog get in some paddling at the Cox Hollow Lake dog beach. Pack a picnic and a paddleboard if you and your dog like to SUP.

MIRROR LAKE STATE PARK

Skip Devil’s Lake and go to Mirror Lake State Park instead — your dog will thank you. With its scenic bluffs, serene lake and forested trails, you and your dog can focus on being in nature instead of avoiding crowds. Add a lake adventure on to the end of your hike if your dog enjoys kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding. Bring your own watercraft or rent one on-site — no reservations are required.

Danielle St. Louis is the author of “A Dog Lover’s Guide to Hiking Wisconsin’s State Parks,” (2022, University of Wisconsin Press). Her research companions, Little Man and Lucky, crossed the rainbow bridge in 2019 and 2023.

Hiking

TIPS FOR WITH YOUR DOG

Bring your (non-flexible) leash and use it. Dogs are required to be on a leash no longer than eight feet while visiting Wisconsin’s state parks.

Bring water for your dog and provide plenty of water breaks. Wisconsin’s hot and humid summers can be particularly taxing on dogs. If your pup is showing signs of tiring or stress, call it a day.

Bring poop bags. Many parks don’t provide poop bags or have trash cans on-site. If your dog wears a backpack, you can put the used bag(s) in there. Or, put the sealed poop bag in an old, wide-mouth Nalgene water bottle so your backpack won’t pick up the poop scent.

Check humans and dogs for ticks before getting into the car. Cases of Lyme disease have tripled in Wisconsin in the last 15 years, with about 50% of ticks carrying the disease. The chance of disease transmission increases the longer a tick is on you!

Buy your annual state park pass in advance and skip the lines. Parks usually have a dedicated lane for express entry for park pass holders so you can enter more quickly.

Homegrown Goodies

Wisconsin is home to several businesses that specialize in producing high-quality food and treats for pets.

GRACIE’S DOGGIE DELIGHTS

Grace Jagler of Watertown turned her love for dogs into a business making freeze-dried pet treats. Jagler, who has Down syndrome, started Gracie’s Doggie Delights — which are a hit with pet owners.

Gracie’s Doggie Delights feature single ingredients with no additives or chemicals. They come in a variety of flavors, including chicken, beef liver and cheese. Jagler didn’t forget her feline friends — she also offers Gracie’s Kitty Treats.

Find them at bad dog frida, some veterinary offices and at graciesdoggiedelights.com

PETPHORIA

Grace Wang was inspired by her dog, Beni, to create high-quality treats for pups. She started Petphoria in 2020, selling dog treats made with human-grade ingredients with no preservatives or fillers.

“Each batch is baked with love and we work hard to ensure every treat is not only tasty, but also visually fun — because dogs deserve treats that are as cute as they are healthy,” says Wang. A portion of each purchase goes to the Beni Gives Back Program, which supports animal rescues and mental health causes.

The treats are sold at local pop-up markets, select retailers and at shoppetphoria.com

YELLOW DOG DELI

For years, Carolyn Robb-McDonald

cooked her dog’s food as an alternative to buying traditional dog food. She started Yellow Dog Deli small-batch meals made with human-grade ingredients.

“We decided other dog owners might like to have the same option for their dogs without the commitment to weekly cooking, and the research to make sure recipes are balanced and complete meals,” RobbMcDonald says.

The brand is available at Yellow Dog Deli in Evansville, Pasture & Plenty, and at select Woodman’s stores across Wisconsin and Illinois. The company also offers home delivery via yellowdogdeli.com – Hywania Thompson

Featuring keynote speaker

Darcy Luoma

Q&A

What do service and therapy dogs do, and what’s the difference between them?

Service dogs receive specialized training to assist people who have medical, neurological or psychological needs, such as mobility issues, autism or PTSD. Some service dogs are trained to provide emotional support in clinical settings. Therapy dogs can also provide emotional support, but may have less formal training.

How are dogs selected to become a service or therapy dog?

Service dogs are often chosen for their temperament, loyalty and trainability.

Therapy dogs are canines with attitudes suitable to interacting with strangers and unfamiliar situations, they have calm demeanors and they must pass a behavioral assessment. Clinical therapy dogs have received additional specialized training.

How are these pups trained?

Some service dog organizations, like the nonprofit Wisconsin Academy for Graduate Service Dogs (WAGS), often start by placing puppies with volunteers who begin with basic skills and socialization before the dogs move on to the next phase of training with the handler.

UW Health’s Canine Health and Medical Pals (CHAMPs) dogs spend time as puppies in the hospital to get them used to noises and activity they may encounter.

How do these dogs help people?

Therapy dogs have been shown to reduce anxiety and even blood pressure. Service dogs can assist their handlers with specific tasks like opening doors or alerting them to a medical crisis.

Helping Paws

A look at the training and impact of service and therapy dogs.

BY NIKKI KALLIO

CANINE

HEALTH AND MEDICAL PALS AND CARING CANINES

UW Health operates both of these programs at the American Family Children’s Hospital. Caring Canines is made up of community volunteers and trained/evaluated pet dogs. Canine Health and Medical Pals, or CHAMPs, is the hospital’s facility dog program and includes five specially trained canines and their handlers, who are part of the hospital staff. Their first dog, Kiko, joined in 2021. The dogs help pediatric patients and their families cope with stressful medical situations.

DOGS ON CALL

This all-volunteer animal therapy organization has about 100 therapy handler and animal teams that visit nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, hospices, schools and libraries, as well as the Columbia Correctional Institution and the Dane County Regional Airport. The organization offers courses for new handlers to become a registered Pet Partner, and pets can include other animals like cats, pigs and miniature horses.

DOG TRAINING ELITE

This company’s professional service dog instruction program customizes training toward specific medical and psychological needs, including autism, PTSD, mobility support and medical alerts (such as for epileptic seizures). It also trains dogs for general pet therapy and emotional support.

GUARDIAN WHISKERS

Launched by Dr. Katarina Luther, DVM, this organization builds on the power of pet interaction to improve physical, mental and social wellbeing. The nonprofit currently operates the Book Buddies Reading Program, which gives kids the chance to practice reading to registered therapy dogs.

SSM HEALTH PET THERAPY PROGRAM

Patients at SSM Health hospitals may see volunteer pet therapy teams with dogs of all sizes. To volunteer with the program, handlers must complete a pet therapy training course and become certified through a pet therapy organization.

UW Health CHAMPs staff

UW-MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT (UWPD) THERAPY DOG PROGRAM & MADISON POLICE

DEPARTMENT’S (MPD) K9 UNIT

UWPD’s nonprofit Therapy Dog Program launched in 2023 to provide comfort during times of crisis. Its two dogs, K9 Dusty and K9 Hoagie, are specially trained to be comfortable in emergency situations where there

OLBRICH BOTANICAL GARDENS

3330 Atwood Ave.

Madison, WI 53704

608.246.4550

olbrich.org

might be loud noises, bright lights and chaotic settings. The dogs are used by community officers, as well as internally to help officers and staff cope with trauma and stress.

MPD’s K9 Unit is staffed with service dogs (like K9 Charlie, above) that help officers with narcotics detection and patrol work. UWPD has three K9 teams that assist with explosives detection, event security and human tracking.

PARTNER CONTENT

SHOP LOCAL

IMAGINATIONS ABLAZE

Kids of all ages can gather around the campfire and set their outdoor imaginations on fire! Pick a card and use the prompts to make up a story or have each person in a group contribute a small part to create a collaborative story. Gift shop proceeds directly benefit Olbrich Gardens, which is open daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

WISCONSIN ACADEMY FOR GRADUATE SERVICE DOGS

The nonprofit Wisconsin Academy for Graduate Service Dogs (WAGS) assists people to live with greater independence and improve quality of life for people with disabilities. The organization has placed more than 200 service dogs with people and also has four clinical therapy dogs supporting students in schools.

AMERICAN MADE SLEEPER SOFA

With over a dozen styles available, from transitional to modern sleeper sofas and sectionals, you’re sure to find the best centerpiece for your living room. The Comfort Sleeper redefined the custom sofa bed industry, elevating it to a new level of comfort. Shop at Rubin’s to find the best sofa bed for your living room or guest bedroom today.

RUBIN’S CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE 2300 Badger Ln., Madison

608.255.8998

670 S. Whitney Way, Madison 608.274.5575 rubinsfurniture.com

Madison Police Department officers with K9 Charlie

UW Health

WellnessWithin Reach

DANE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

BY HYWANIA THOMPSON

When it comes to pets, keeping them healthy and happy is important.

Fostering our pets’ wellbeing is also better for the community, says Lauren Brinkman, executive director of Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services.

“The theory is that, if owners can access affordable care, they are more likely to be able to keep pets in their homes, not adding them to the overcrowded shelters,” explains Brinkman.

These area nonprofit or affordable veterinary care clinics are committed to helping pet owners keep their furry friends in tip-top shape.

Dane County Humane Society (DCHS) is known for its shelter, adoption opportunities and providing a wide range of other services to animals and the community. The donor-supported nonprofit also operates a wildlife program, rehabilitating thousands of injured, sick or orphaned wild animals.

DCHS has veterinarians who provide medical care for the animals it takes in. Additionally, DCHS offers low-cost microchipping to the general public, as well as Pets for Life (PFL), a program featuring accessible veterinary services, including spay/neuter surgeries, flea and tick treatments, and more for families in the 53713 ZIP code, as well as the Allied Drive neighborhood. These areas have

a high percentage of residents who live below the poverty line and few pet stores and veterinary clinics.

MADISON CAT PROJECT

For more than 20 years, Madison Cat Project (MCP) has focused on finding homes for cats who may not be adoption candidates due to various issues. The rescue has five community cat rooms, allowing the animals to socialize and live outside of cages. It features indoor and barn home feline adoption programs as well.

Not only does MCP offer affordable surgery and routine care, it hosts The Cat Cupboard, a pet pantry to help owners who are experiencing financial hardships.

Vet clinics that put care first.

Madison Cat Project

Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services

PRECISION VETERINARY CARE

Precision Veterinary Care provides spay/neuter services, dental care and routine exams at affordable prices. Pet families can schedule an appointment on the company’s website, where it lists costs for its services. Precision offers the community-supported Spay-It-Forward fund to help offset costs for pet owners who may not be able to afford the service.

WISCARES

Wisconsin Companion Animal Resources, Education and Social Services (WisCARES) is a unique UWMadison program blending veterinary and free social services for Dane County residents experiencing homelessness and low-income individuals. The goal is to keep pets with their owners and empower them to care for their pets. Subsidized veterinary services range from basic

THREE ESSENTIAL DOG TRAINING TIPS USING POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Aimee Jarosz, owner of Dog’s Best Friend Training (dogsbestfriendtraining.com), lends her expertise.

Timing is everything Reward your pup immediately when they nail the desired behavior. A treat or enthusiastic praise given within seconds helps them make that “aha!” connection between action and reward.

surgeries to dental care, in addition to a pet pantry with food and supplies.

WisCARES also fosters and boards animals for clients who need medical care or a safe shelter when pets aren’t allowed to accompany them.

WISCONSIN COMMUNITY VETERINARY CENTER

Wisconsin Community Veterinary Center (WCVC) offers services including spay/neuter surgeries, specialized surgeries, wellness exams and dental care. It hosts outreach clinics across the state, providing low-cost and free vaccines in underserved communities.

“We believe in affordable care that doesn’t break the budget in support of our community and the pets we are able to serve,” says Jenner Erin HannaDupree, COO.

UNDERDOG PET RESCUE AND VETERINARY SERVICES

Since 2017, Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services (founded by Lauren Brinkman, a 2025 BRAVA Woman to Watch) has provided affordable veterinary care for animals in its adoption program and in the community. The organization aims to find permanent homes for companion animals. Underdog’s volunteers foster pets in their homes, assist with adoption events and much more.

Underdog also hosts monthly pop-up clinics to provide free veterinary care for pet families who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.

Keep sessions short and sweet Stick to 5- to 10-minute training sessions. Dogs learn better in quick, fun bursts rather than marathon sessions that can leave them feeling overwhelmed.

Get everyone on the same page. Make sure your whole family uses the same commands and rewards. Mixed signals can confuse your furry friend and slow their progress. When everyone's consistent, your dog will learn faster and feel more confident!

REASONS TO JOIN

The Business Forum is a dynamic group of women professionals who are dedicated to expanding their network of meaningful connections and making a difference in others’ lives.

CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS

Build relationships with inspiring women who are making an impact.

MEMBER PRICING

Get discounted access to our signature events, workshops, and luncheons.

MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Our structured mentoring program is designed to support your growth.

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Committee/Board service can strengthen skills that help elevate your career.

CURATED EXPERIENCES

Attend events in some of Madison’s most exciting spaces, with influential speakers and timely topics that matter to women.

Madison Cat Project

Off Broadway Draft House

The Biergarten at Olbrich Park

Michael's Frozen Custard

Old Sugar Distillery

Bone Appétit

These dog-friendly locales are sure to get tails wagging.

BY SHELBY DEERING

With the number of great restaurants our city has, Madisonians have a wealth of delicious dining options. And sure, you could always bring home a doggie bag for your best furry friend, but wouldn’t it be more fun to eat dinner or have a drink with your pup? If your answer is an unequivocal “yes” — here are recommendations for some of the best pet-friendly patios and eateries in town.

There are plenty of places where you can kick back with a beer while you give your pup a scratch behind the ears. Think: downtown’s Tipsy Cow, where you can sip an artisanally produced beer on the patio while your dog laps up a bowl of water; Monona’s Off Broadway Drafthouse, with its dog-friendly patio and fish fry that is perfectly paired with an accompanying brew; or Willy Street’s Mickey’s Tavern that welcomes leashed pups on the patio and serves local craft beers.

Also, people particularly enjoy coming with their pups in tow to The Biergarten at Olbrich Park , dotted with picnic tables and offering unbeatable Lake Monona views. Oh, and the craft beers aren’t too bad either.

Maybe you’re in the mood for a spot that brews its beer in house. In that case, head to the patio at Waunakee’s Octopi Brewing, known for its tasty IPAs, or Karben4 Brewing on the East Side, where dogs are always allowed on the expansive patio — and where you’ll undoubtedly sip the famous Fantasy Factory IPA. Wisconsin Brewing Company in Verona offers treats, water bowls and even dog toys available for purchase.

While a patio is plenty of fun for a pup, they can have playtime of their own at The Boneyard on the East Side. Dogs can romp and meet friends at the on-site dog park while you look on, a Summer Shandy in your hand. There are also frequent dog-inclusive live music events, plus, you can even get your little floof groomed while you’re there.

For a dog-friendly distillery where you can savor a whiskey or bourbon, look no further than downtown’s Old Sugar Distillery, where dogs can visit the bar and patio, or State Line Distillery in the Marquette neighborhood, readied with treats behind the bar and tons of dog-centric events — they’ve even been known to serve “pup-tails” to canine customers, a blend of dog-safe oat milk, peanut butter and water.

For something on the sugary side, stop by Bassett Street Brunch Club with its outdoor Fido-friendly patio and the best French toast in town, or Michael’s Frozen Custard on Atwood Avenue, where you can eat something sweet and soak up sweet moments with your pupper.

Wisconsin Brewing Company

State Line Distillery

The Purrfect Blend

Coffee and cats, anyone?

BY SHAYNA MACE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

HILLARY SCHAVE

Years ago, when Liz Brey and Heather Wipijewski met while working as vet techs for a local veterinary emergency hospital, they bonded over their mutual love of animals — more specifically, cats. The duo often met for coffee (another shared passion), where they’d discuss work — and bandied about ideas on how they could open their own business and help animals. A cat cafe was the answer.

Brey and Wipijewski visited cat cafés across Wisconsin, Minnesota and Colorado for inspiration, and Brey even spent six months working at a coffee shop to master the art of whipping up coffee drinks. Their dream came together when they found the perfect location in Sun Prairie — right next to a Mounds Pet Food Warehouse. With everything falling into place, the pair left their vet tech jobs behind and

L-R: Liz Brey and Heather Wipijewski

opened their cat cafe, The Cat’s Brew, in September 2024.

The cafe serves coffee and coffee drinks (lattes, espresso, cappuccinos) smoothies, tea and juices. Scones and cookies are sourced from Madison’s Elegant Foods, and other bakery items are available. (Brey notes they don’t serve a full menu as they don’t have a kitchen on-site.)

The main draw is the cat room, home to up to nine adoptable felines. Guests can observe the cats through large viewing windows from the café area or opt to spend time inside with them for $10 an hour — a fee that helps support their care, says Wipijewski. Visitors can read, relax or interact with the cats, but no food is allowed in the cat room — only drinks. The cat room and café area also have separate HVAC systems, Brey notes.

The felines are all from Little Orphans Animal Rescue out of Montello, and Brey and Wipijewski are proud that they’ve facilitated 46 adoptions thus far.

“Helping the cats get exposure and adoptions is wonderful,” says Brey. “We’re happy with the number of adoptions we’ve had so far, and to be able to help those cats find homes is a big part of why we’re here. Getting to know the community and get these cats homes has been [great].”

*See

• 19th Anniversary Party on July 19!

• Nail Trim Clinic

• Ask the Trainer

• Meet-N-Greet Adoptable Dogs

1

8 Subscription concerts

4 Guest conductors

2 MSO at the Movies

2 Centennial Celebration opening concerts & events

FREE Centennial Festival weekend in June 2026

Be part of the experience.

Celebrate a century of joy bringing live music to life. Your Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 25/26 subscription concert season will take place between October 2025 and May 2026 — presenting eight triple-performances featuring orchestral masterpieces — including the world premiere of EARTH: A Choral Symphony by Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer , and works by Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, Bates, Franck, Mahler, Haydn, Mussorgsky, Strauss, Brahms, Mendelssohn, Korngold, Debussy, Stravinsky, Mozart, Ortiz, Respighi, López, Rodrigo, and Sibelius! World-renowned guest soloists include Olga Kern, Christopher Taylor, Alban Gerhardt, Yefim Bronfman, Rachel Barton Pine, Emanuel Ax, Julian Rhee, Ailyn Pérez, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. Subscribers can add MSO at the Movies (Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert, Live to Film and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert ) , plus September special events (Centennial Opening Weekend), to their subscription before single tickets go on sale August 23, 2025 . Share our love of music together. You can subscribe now to 5-8 concerts ($90-$660) and save 10–25% . View our 25/26 season brochure online for complete details about your Symphony’s exciting 100th Anniversary concerts and events. Explore and subscribe: madisonsymphony.org/100

25/26 SEASON PARTNERS

WMTV 15 News, American Printing, Madison Media Partners, Madison Magazine, Madison Symphony Orchestra League, The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor’s Club, PBS Wisconsin, Wisconsin Public Radio, Wisconsin Arts Board

FRIDAY

CONCERT 6:00 PM

OVERTURE HALL

DINNER

OVERTURE LOBBY

JOHN DEMAIN

Conductor

SATURDAY

CONCERT 7:30 PM

OVERTURE HALL

AFTER-PARTY

OVERTURE CENTER

Pure Joy Opening Night Magical Tchaikovsky &

Maestro’s Dinner

Before the Symphony subscription season kicks off in October, we invite you to join us for two very special events on September 19 and 20, 2025. “Pure Joy Opening Night: Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner” will include a classical concert featuring the Madison Symphony Orchestra and guest pianist Olga Kern, conducted by John DeMain, at 6:00 p.m. in Overture Hall, followed by a cocktail reception and formal dinner in the Overture Hall Lobby on Friday, September 19. The all-Tchaikovsky program will feature his Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture, Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor , and Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3 . Combo tickets for the concert and dinner are $300 per person including premium concert seating. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100.

Soar with...

Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night

“Soar with Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night” will bring together the magic of circus arts and our orchestra in Overture Hall on Saturday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m. In Cirque goes to the Cinema, Cirque acrobats will perform original choreographed acts while the Madison Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John DeMain, performs music from famous film scores, including Harry Potter and Star Wars (John Williams), Mission Impossible (Lalo Schifrin) , The Sting (Scott Joplin), Gladiator (Hans Zimmer) , West Side Story (Leonard Bernstein) , My Heart Will Go On from Titanic (James Horner), and more! A lively after-party with food stations, DJ Terrence J, and dancing follows the concert. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100, and admission to the after-party may be purchased for an additional $50 per person.

madisonsymphony.org/ cirque

Single tickets for our Centennial Celebration events go on sale July 21, 2025 (subject to availablity).

OLGA KERN Piano

The Wanderer’s Guidebook to Madison

Explore tucked-away trails, locally loved eateries, charming nearby suburbs and thoughtfully curated summer adventures.

BY DANIELLE LETENYEI, MICHELLE MCKOY, KEVIN REVOLINSKI, SATYA RHODES-CONWAY, KATRINA SIMYAB AND SHANNA WOLF

SHANNA WOLF

Off the Eaten Path

Experience Madison’s dining and nightlife secret spots.

BY DANIELLE LETENYEI

Our city has a great food and drink scene, but with new places opening each year, it can be easy to overlook some of the city’s hidden gems those bars and eateries you may have forgotten about or never discovered. Here are a few of Madison’s spots that deserve a little extra recognition.

LAKESIDE ST. COFFEE HOUSE

Nestled in Madison’s Bay Creek neighborhood on the shore of Lake Monona Bay is this cozy spot. It can be easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there, because it’s surrounded by homes. It’s a great space to sip a cup of joe, look out at the lake and get some work done. It also has outdoor, dog-friendly seating for a neighborly vibe. On Friday nights, catch live music by local musicians.

ARGUS BARGRILLE

There are a few new bars east of the Capitol Square in downtown Madison, but one long-time staple that’s often overlooked is the Argus BarGrille. The bar, at the corner of East Main and South Webster streets, is located in what is perhaps the oldest commercial building in downtown Madison. Built around 1845, the building was once home to The Wisconsin Argus, one of Madison’s first newspapers.

During the summer, the Argus is a great place to sit outside and enjoy a cold beer or cocktail. The bar’s menu offers tasty salads, sandwiches, burgers and wraps, and several vegetarian options.

But the Argus has a secret that many people don’t know about its basement bar. The Argus Underground is a cool speakeasy-like area that can be rented out for private parties and events. Or, if you’re out late, it’s also open to the public at 10 p.m. (or at 11 p.m., if there’s a private event in the space).

LOUISIANNE’S

You don’t have to go all the way to New Orleans to get great Cajun food. Louisianne’s in Middleton has all the Cajun food you’d find in the French Quarter, including jambalaya, catfish and crawfish étouffée. Its lower-level location lends it a bit of caché and it also feels

a little hidden. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the restaurant’s bar features live jazz and New Orleans piano music, reminiscent of what you’d hear strolling down Bourbon Street.

CORDIAL

From the outside, the old Rustic Tavern on Park Street looks much the same as it has for more than 80 years red brick exterior and a classic Blatz beer sign still proudly in place. However, the inside of the bar is an entirely different story. The former dive bar, which was a hangout for third-shift workers at the surrounding hospitals, has been transformed into a classy speakeasy called Cordial.

Top, bottom: Lakeside St. Coffee House

Cordial’s motto is, “Outside’s a dive. Inside’s a vibe.” Its menu features cocktails such as an espresso martini and the Alamagoozlum, as well as mocktails, wine and craft beers. (And those who miss the old Rustic can still get a Blatz beer!) The bar recently added some charcuterie and shareable plates to its menu.

THE LAUREL TAVERN

Madisonians who are always on the lookout for the best Friday fish fry in town should check out one place that’s often overlooked The Laurel Tavern on Monroe Street. The Laurel has been serving its fish fry since around the 1930s. It’s one of a few establishments where you can get two large pieces of walleye on Fridays for under $19. And the staff keeps things moving, so you don’t usually have to wait too long to get a table.

HOT LUNCH

Stepping into Hot Lunch on East Johnson Street is like stepping back in time to the 1990s. It’s adorned with ’90s

toys and collectibles, movie posters and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles decor. A classic ’90s movie is always playing on the large-screen television behind the bar. It’s also the only place in Madison you can order a glass of Tang, the orangeflavored drink mix from back in the day. Hot Lunch’s menu includes various sandwiches, soups, chili and salads.

IT’S GOOD FOR YOU PIZZA

The North Side of Madison has seen several new bars and restaurants open over the past couple of years, and one

that’s flown under the radar is It’s Good for You Pizza. Located in a small building on Sherman Avenue, the business sells wood-fired pizzas, primarily for takeout, as the building can only accommodate about 20 diners. Friends and owners Alessandro Monachello, a former cook at Osteria Papavero, and Chris Guglielmo, a radiologist at UW Health, started making and selling pizzas together in 2016. Initially, it operated as a mobile business, then the duo sold their pizzas at the Northside Farmers’ Market. Their brickand-mortar location opened in 2022.

SUNSHINE, SMILES, AND A SECURE FUTURE — PLAN

At Krueger Hernandez & Thompson SC, we are committed to providing exceptional legal services with a personal touch. As a law firm specializing in estate planning, long-term care planning, probate, and trust administration, our mission is clear: to be the trusted partners who guide real people through life’s legal complexities. We blend our expertise with compassion to create secure, customized solutions that safeguard your future and the legacy you’ve built. At KHT, we are not just lawyers but your advocates, dedicated to ensuring your peace of mind in every stage of life.

L - R: Hot Lunch

A NATURAL ESCAPE OUTSIDE OF MADISON

Holy Wisdom Monastery in Middleton is a meditative nature preserve with restored prairie, woodlands and oak savannah. The organization also takes care of the adjacent North Mendota Wildlife Area. The vistas of Lake Mendota and Madison are lovely here, and you may spot a fox or indigo bunting. Don’t let the name scare you off — like the community itself, the grounds are open to everyone, and its website offers field guides to wildflowers and an audio guide to meditation along the trail. No dogs are allowed. 4200 Cty. Rd. M, Middleton, holywisdommonastery.org

Nature’s Nooks

Madison loves its parks, but here are a few lesser-known sweet spots you should check out.

BY KEVIN REVOLINSKI

EDNA TAYLOR

CONSERVATION PARK

The trail from the parking lot here follows a glacial drumlin through wetlands before entering a forest dominated by oak trees. A boardwalk also curves through cattails. Bonus: Aldo Leopold Nature Center abuts the west side of the park. No dogs are allowed. 802 Femrite Dr.

JENNI & KYLE PRESERVE

A model for how to make a park accessible, this 160-acre nature area features a paved trail around two troutstocked ponds with accessible fishing platforms. A 0.7-mile grassy loop runs through cattails and forest, passing along the banks of Nine Springs Creek. There are modified picnic tables, restrooms and wheelchair-friendly swings. Leashed dogs are allowed. 925 Post Rd.

OWEN CONSERVATION PARK

Just off Old Sauk Road, this park feels hidden in plain view. At its center is a prairie full of wildflowers encircled by a grassy walking path, which in turn is bordered by oak savannah and tall trees, that still affords a city skyline view. No dogs are allowed. 6021 Old Sauk Rd.

CARPENTER-RIDGEWAY PARK

The paved Starkweather Creek Path runs right through this 4-acre neighborhood park, which consists of a mixed forest with a small sports field and playground at the center. On the creek side, cedar chip trails follow the bank through a corridor of nature, and loop through forest and some wetlands. A rolling mountain bike trail network runs through the other half of the woods. Leashed dogs are allowed. 1220 Carpenter St.

Holy Wisdom Monastery Top, Bottom: Edna Taylor Conservation Park

My Perfect Summer Day in Madison

We asked three locals what their ideal Madison itinerary would entail.

SATYA RHODES-CONWAY, MADISON MAYOR

A perfect summer day in Madison starts with breakfast with my partner, Amy, at Ogden’s North Street Diner. I usually order a cup of English breakfast tea, scrambled eggs and two blueberry pancakes.

The next stop is the UW-Madison Arboretum (via Metro Transit’s B Route) for a stroll and some birdwatching. Then it’s a quick Madison BCycle ride downtown for lunch. If you haven’t tried the Magic Grain Bowl at Settle Down Tavern, I highly recommend it! Their streatery seating provides a great place to people watch.

Metro Transit’s C Route is right around the corner from Settle Down Tavern and takes us directly to A Room of One’s Own to spend an hour or so browsing the bookshelves. I always look for owner Gretchen Treu’s recommendations in sci-fi/fantasy books.

The Biergarten at Olbrich Park is just a short walk away, and is the perfect spot to check out our new books over cold beers while enjoying the lake views. As the sun sets, we’ll catch the C Route back through Schenk’s Corners, and perhaps stop for dinner at Bar Corallini, Alchemy or Tex Tubb’s Taco Palace before strolling to East Washington Avenue to catch the B Route home.

The truth is, there are many perfect summer days in Madison I hope you enjoy your version!

SHANNA WOLF, FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER

My perfect Saturday in Madison would begin by heading out with our dog, Little Lamb, to the Hilldale Farmers’ Market (dogs are welcome!) to pick out a fresh-cut bouquet and grab a cold-pressed juice. Then I’d grab my camera bag and meet up with a Madison Trust for Historic Preservation historic architecture walking tour. These tours give you a new perspective on our city’s unique neighborhoods, and I’m

looking forward to capturing some photos during the Sunset Hills and Greenbush neighborhood tours this summer.

From there I’d order the Garden Goddess sandwich for carryout from Colectivo Coffee and enjoy a lakeside picnic lunch at Wingra Park . After enjoying the lake views, I’d check out a Madison BCycle and ride the Lakeshore Path to the Memorial Union for more lake views and enjoy the summer vibe with a Rathskeller Ale.

After a ride back home, I’d regroup for dinner at Lallande, saving room to end the meal with le dessert and my favorite espresso martini, Her Architect’s Martini. The night would end with friends at Comedy on State for some laughs.

Settle Down Tavern

Colectivo Coffee

Lacy Rd.

E. Cheryl Pkwy

The Agora

Fish Hatchery Rd.

North to Hwy 12/18

McKee Rd.[PD]

MICHELLE MCKOY, CENTER DIRECTOR, BRIDGE

LAKE POINT WAUNONA

NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER

I fell in love with Madison when I moved here at the age of 10. I’ve lived other places, but love this city. Madison offers so much to do, I wish I had more time in the day!

7 A.M.: I start my morning at the Sycamore Park dog park with my pup, Max. We start every day with a few laps around the dog park.

9 A.M. Breakfast time! I head over to Cottage Cafe off of Cottage Grove Road they have the best pancakes. It’s the perfect place for families, the prices are great and the food is homey.

11 A.M. Time to work off the pancakes and head over to Picnic Point for a hike where I can also view the Capitol building and beautiful Lake Mendota. It’s a 3-mile hike, but you don’t realize it because the view is so breathtaking. This natural spot is also the perfect place for my grandkids to run around and burn off some energy.

6 P.M. Head over to the Memorial Union with my grandkids to grab pizza and ice cream, and hear a local band play while feeling the lake breeze on my face.

8:30 P.M. Take a quick stroll down State Street to get some fresh-baked cookies from Insomnia Cookies. It’s the perfect snack before bedtime!

Picnic Point

Choose Your Own Adventure

Surrounding Madison are several smaller cities and cute villages that are all begging to be explored.

BY KATRINA SIMYAB

Turn any summer day into a charming adventure with these short jaunts. Each area is located less than an hour from Madison, and all are full of fun things to eat, drink, explore and experience.

Seven Acre Dairy Company

Orchard

Dune Gift and Home

STOUGHTON

Start the day with breakfast and a coffee at Wildwood Cafe the gluten-free honey amaranth waffle (topped with seasonal compote and maple whipped cream) is a must. Then stroll down Main Street for a treasure hunt at The Next Generation, an excellent kids’ and women’s secondhand shop. Head over to Dune Gift and Home and treat yourself with something from its beautiful selection of curated items including handmade jewelry (some of which is made by the shop’s owner, Ciré Rosenbaum Cross), clean beauty and home goods. Next, stop at Hello Art Hatchery, a thrift store for crafting and art supplies. Unwind postshopping with a stroll on the Yahara River Trail Walking Bridge, and go as far down as Cooper’s Causeway. End your day trip with a craft cocktail and comfort food at Wendigo. When in doubt, get the sweet potato fries!

PAOLI

Your Paoli adventure starts at Landmark Creamery & Cafe, located at Seven Acre Dairy Company. This eatery packs a big punch with a selection of perfectly gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers and a hot dog — all topped with Landmark cheeses, of course. Then take your spoils to Paoli Park for an afternoon out on the water with Sugar River Outfitters. Those looking for a kayaking challenge will enjoy the three-plus hour Verona to Paoli trip or keep it low-key with a short-term rental on Lake Belle. After working up an appetite, check into your

NOW NOW

Walk to End Alzheimer’s –

Dane County

Sunday, October 5

Warner Park, Madison

•3rd generation owned since 1943

•Serving all prime grade steaks and fresh seafood

•Upscale, modern supper club •Fresh, locally sourced ingredients

The Mill Paoli

room at The Inn at Seven Acre Dairy Company and get ready for dinner at on-property restaurant Little Cloud. Afterward, time your trip right to catch an act from Seven Acre’s summer outdoor concert series or walk over to The Mill Paoli to end your night on a musical high note. In the morning, commemorate your stay with retail therapy at Paoli Road Mercantile, The Purple Goose and Lily’s Mercantile & Makery.

SUN PRAIRIE

Grab your bike and get moving at Sheehan Park as you race through over 2 miles of off-road mountain bike trails. A little too fast-paced for you? No worries there’s also a paved, multi-use path that winds through the park for a gentler option. Refuel after your ride with a juicy burger and a side of goat milk cheese curds at Tipsy Cow (go for the housemade fried pickles as a backup option). Participate in a little healthy competition as you try out some board games in the impressive library at I’m Board! Games and Family Fun. With your new favorite game in hand, order a craft beverage at Liv’s Drink Emporium. Select from a seemingly endless array of inventive “dirty soda” combinations, but if you simply can’t make up your mind the peanut butter cold brew has a cult following. Conclude your escapade by touring downtown’s shops. Faded Roots Boutique has an eclectic collection of women’s clothing and accessories, or, if you have more time, book a workshop at Board & Brush and make your own DIY wooden craft project.

MOUNT HOREB

Kick off your visit to the Troll Capital of the World with a morning of antiquing at Isaac’s Antiques. With multiple stories and every nook and cranny filled there is something for everyone. While you’re in browsing mode, stop in at Sift and Winnow to admire all the brightly colored enamel pins and pretty giftable goods. Follow your nose to Telsaan Tea next and steep in the aroma of all their incredible loose-leaf blends don’t forget to sample a few seasonal selections to

help narrow down your final picks. Drop into Sunn Cafe for a leisurely lunch with any of its nourishing grilled sandwiches or salads. For dessert? Well, Sjölinds Chocolate House is an ideal stop. Afterward, spend some time in nature at Stewart Lake County Park, which was the first official county park in Dane County, and is also the perfect place to cap off your day with a quick hike or (weather permitting) a refreshing swim at the beach. Stop by Driftless Social for drinks and dinner to toast your perfect day.

NEW GLARUS

Take in the picturesque beauty of Wisconsin’s hometown brewery at New Glarus Brewing Company. Book a three-hour hard hat tour in advance or opt for the short, self-guided option before heading to the tasting room for some samples of the final product. Add on a late morning meal at New Glarus Bakery its cases have been filled with fresh Swiss and American pastries since 1910. Delve into a replica of Swiss pioneer life in the 1850s and learn more about the area’s first founders at the Swiss Historical Village Museum. Return to the present day in time to look around home and lifestyle shop Hutch + Hide or hit up Blumenladen Collective, a boutique, garden center and kids’ store in one. For a bite of local culture, both Glarner Stube and Chalet Landhaus Restaurant serve

Faded Roots Boutique

Linen & Clove

Stewart Lake County Park

up international fare (think schnitzel, spätzli, rösti and fondue). Finish off your feast with a low-stakes game at Swissland Miniature Golf (see if the goats are out as an added bonus) or amble along a short portion of the Sugar River State Trail.

VERONA

Come hungry to Icki Sticki and start your Verona escapade off strong with madeto-order Belgian waffles before bopping around for some serious shopping. Cosa Boutique donates a portion of each purchase to a nonprofit partner, and has scores of fabulous fashion and accessories to choose from. Get design inspo and home goods from picture-perfect Linen & Clove, and be sure to explore every pretty inch of Kismet Books you need a new beach read! Lunch is a chooseyour-own-adventure. Will it be a cold beer and the bar menu on the bustling Hop Haus Brewing Company patio, or a cozy sandwich and iced coffee at The Sow’s Ear, the Midwest’s first café and yarn shop? A former limestone quarry, Fireman’s Park Beach must be your next destination. Pull out your new book and relax, or live it up with a dip in the swimming hole, or a rendezvous with the splash pad or waterslide. After a fantastic day, dig into a bowl of pasta at Avantis Italian Restaurant & Pub. Or pair a burger with the cider flight at Orchard, a new addition to the neighborhood. The restaurant features ciders from The Cider Farm, the family’s other business.

AMERICAN

Coward’s comedy Fallen Angels and 4 more shows now playing in the woods of Spring Green, WI.

Phoebe González & Laura Rook, Fallen Angels , 2025.

Photo by

Michael Brosilow.

Liv�s Drink Emporium

BRAVA MAG A Z INE BRAVA M A G A

Save the Date

AVARBENIZ M ENIZAGA WOMEN IN BUSINESS

WOMEN IN BUSINESS CELEBRATION

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Park Hotel

Speed networking, cocktails, light bites and our September/October issue cover reveal!

Scan me for tickets!

Sponsored by:

HOT DATES, COOL EVENTS

Your must-see summer arts and culture lineup.

BY JESSICA STEINHOFF

FREE FOR ALL

CONCERTS ON THE SQUARE

July 16, 23 & 30, Capitol Square, King Street corner

Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra’s summer season shifts into high gear in mid-July. Harpist Johanna Wienholts will solo in Debussy’s “Danses sacree et profane” on July 16, Jeans ’n Classics will help present Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” on July 23 and pianist Sylvia Jiang will step into the spotlight for Shostakovich’s “Piano Concerto No. 2” on July 30. wcoconcerts.org

OPERA IN THE PARK

July 19, Garner Park

Modern show tunes complement classical arias at this annual event, which gives attendees a glimpse of Madison Opera’s upcoming season. Soprano Renée Richardson and tenor Andrew Bidlack are among the featured performers. madisonopera.org

AGORA ART FAIR

Aug. 16, Agora Center Building

This family-friendly event has a colorful kite exhibit, an art space just for kids and hands-on activities for makers of all ages. You can also admire works by more than 100 local artists, including photographers, sculptors and woodworkers. agoraartfair.com

TASTE OF MADISON

Aug. 30 & Aug. 31, Capitol Square

Explore culinary artistry’s many forms at this mega-picnic with 80-plus food vendors (including Mediterranean, Mexican, West African and more) and live entertainment. Admission is free, but you’ll want to bring a snack fund. Proceeds from each dish you purchase benefit local charities. tasteofmadison.com

“JOSÉ LERMA, DOMESTIC IN A FOREIGN SENSE”

Through Sept. 14, Madison Museum of Contemporary Art Lerma was born in Spain, earned his MFA at UW-Madison and lives in Puerto Rico. His supersized portraits feature lots of paint but few brushstrokes, blending personal narrative and sociocultural history while daring viewers to reconsider what makes a painting a work of art. mmoca.org

Opera in the Park

"José Lerma, Domestic in a Foreign Sense"

Cancer changes everything. But you don’t have to face it alone.

At Gilda’s Club, we provide emotional support, expert-led education, and a compassionate community for children, teens, and adults impacted by any type or stage of cancer—including their loved ones. Thanks to the generosity of our community, all of our programs are completely free, ensuring that no one has to navigate cancer without support and hope.

Join us for our upcoming October fundraising event to support our community so that no one faces cancer alone.

Community is Stronger than Cancer

GILDA’S RUN/WALK

(Self-Timed 5K Run or 2 Mile Walk)

Sunday, Oct 5, 2025 | Gilda’s Clubhouse

Purchase your sponsorship or register today as an individual or group and start fundraising to prove that community is stronger than cancer at GildasRunWalk.com

All participants will receive free event gear and can look forward to a delicious Ruth’s Chris burger, Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, and family-friendly activities after the race!

Want to improve your fitness with expert guidance?

Join our free couch to 5k program to receive an at-home training packet and join the “Gilda Gliders” team for group training meet-ups to prepare you for the event!

Presented by:

Exact Sciences, The Levy Giving Fund, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, and WKOW 27 gildasclubmadison.org

GEEK OUT ON MUSIC

SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX

July 15, Orpheum Theater

A 1920s-style cover of Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop” vaulted jazz pianist Bradlee into the limelight and paved the way for recent delights such as Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” performed as a ’60s soul ballad. madisonorpheum.com

THE DECEMBERISTS

July 26, Orpheum Theater

Known for merging baroque pop with a nerdy history obsession, these playful Portlanders will stop by to share their latest album, “As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again.”

madisonorpheum.com

“WICKED”

Through July 27, Overture Hall

This run of the “Wizard of Oz”-inspired

Broadway smash includes a pre-show treat: for an extra fee, show-goers can visit The Ozdust Lounge, which includes a signature cocktail, snacks and a “Wicked” souvenir. overture.org

SUGAR MAPLE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Aug. 1-2, Lake Farm County Park

This homegrown event packed with concerts and jam sessions is a mustattend whether you’re a roots music fan, student, performer or all of the above. sugarmaplefest.org

THE FLAMING LIPS & MODEST MOUSE

Aug. 14, Breese Stevens Field

Two bands that have headlined oodles of big music festivals will team up to rock Breese Stevens Field. breesestevensfield.com

"Wicked"

MADISON

Twenty years ago, the first Girls on the Run team in Madison laced up and what a journey it’s been! Girls on the Run is a transformational program that uses running to build confidence, connection, and life skills in girls. From one site to 130+, we’ve reached over 25,000 girls across 11 counties. This fall, we’re celebrating everyone who made it possible: the girls, alumni, coaches, donors, and volunteers. Learn more about Girls on the Run and our powerful impact at girlsontherunscwi.org.

Celebratory Events

Striding Forward Celebration - October 4, 2025 Fall 5K Run/Walk - November 8, 2025

PET PALS | Meet the owners of our adorable Capital City Dogs (P. 29)! Top, L-R: Rebecca Gasper and Gill; Mallory Wedel and Ozzy; and Richard Best and Mary Hopkins-Best with Taiga. Middle, L-R: Jennifer Schmeiser and Hondo; Missy Dickson and Kevin; and Maggie Conrad and Cooper. Bottom, L-R: Ross and Kayla Kahler with Mango and Harry; Brett, Kendall, Leslie and Talia Riemen with Simon; Becca Hewison and Motley; and Dawn Terrien and Cocoa. Cocoa doesn’t appear in our feature — but she was too cute not to include. Terrien and Cocoa were photographed at Brat Fest — appropriate for this silky, sociable dachshund — because dachshunds are also cheekily called wiener dogs!

Beauty, Untamed

Professional polish meets personal power in every detail.