MEET THE CANINE COMFORT CREW OUTDOOR LIVING IN BIRMINGHAM PET PAPARAZZI: PHOTOS FROM INSTAGRAM! THE KIDS & PETS ISSUE
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This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future — they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us, bringing joy, laughter and meaning to our everyday lives.
But we also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.
At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth — they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love.
I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.
Here’s to our future, our little ones and the pets who make everything better.
ALI KRAMER, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bailey Hall, Susan Thwing, Patti Zielinski
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brandon Folsom, Gary Leung, Sally Matak, U-M Athletics, Geoff Wickersham
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Left to Right: Jason M Geisz, Elizabeth M Silver, R Adam Biswanger, Suzanne Minster, Robert F Alati, Robyn R Crewdson
inside the issue
Meet
A
city scene
The Summer Kick-Off Party with DJ Marcie Bolen at New York Paris Art Gallery in Birmingham June 18. 1: Maria Guidobono and Kathleen Garmo. 2: Photographer Terry O’Neill’s 1971 print of Brigitte Bardot. 3: Jack Reinhart and Joe Reinhart. 4: Naomi Campbell. 5: Michelle Dab. 6: New York Paris Art Gallery Owner Gerard Marti and Birmingham City Lifestyle Publisher Ali Kramer. 7: The gallery.
Lincoln of Troy Wellness Event for Charity benefitting Ennis Center for Children, with Lagree and Pilates classes led by instructors, June 14. 1-2: The showroom transformed into a studio. 3: Birmingham City Lifestyle Publisher Ali Kramer and Catie Carnaghi. 4: Hannah Kissel, Allison Slater, Maria Siciliano, Andrea Weatherly and Zoey Tink. 5: Jenna Milward and Emily Kravitz. 6: Taylor Kovacs, Brooke Dabish and Hannah Shamoun. 7: Bouncing.
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GRIDIRON GLORY
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARY LEUNG AND U-M ATHLETICS
Avery Gach’s journey from Birmingham to the Big House.
When Avery Gach steps onto the football field at the University of Michigan this fall, he won’t just be carrying the hopes of a new team; he’ll be carrying the pride of his hometown.
The 6-foot-5, 280-plus-pound offensive lineman from Birmingham has always stood out — literally and figuratively. But while his imposing size made him a natural for football, his journey to becoming one of the most heavily recruited linemen in the country was shaped by much more than physical attributes. It’s a story of family, mentorship and a local kid who turned hard work into a full-ride to one of college football’s most storied programs.
FROM BACKYARD TO BIRMINGHAM PATRIOTS
Gach’s football story began in kindergarten with flag football, coached by his father, David. Back then, Avery played quarterback despite being the biggest kid on the field. His mother, Amy, made a deal early on: She’d only allow tackle football if he was still the biggest kid when he reached seventh grade.
He was.
That year, he joined the Birmingham Patriots youth team. But it wasn’t as easy as he expected.
“He was good, but not as dominant as he thought he’d be,” his dad says. “That’s when things changed. He started lifting, studying the game and getting serious.”
With COVID canceling his eighthgrade season, Gach took it upon himself to train. That self-driven commitment paid off big time.
U-M Head Football Coach Sherrone Moore with freshman Avery Gach
MAKING HIS MARK AT GROVES
By the time he reached Groves High School, Gach was ready. He started at right tackle as a freshman and never looked back. Over four years, he helped the Falcons to three playoff appearances, two trips to the state semifinals and a 12-1 senior season.
He became the first two-time captain under long-time Groves coach Brendan Flaherty in 25 years of coaching.
Though football eventually took center stage, Gach was a multi-sport athlete. He played baseball through his sophomore year — “my first love,” he says — and threw for the track and field team as a junior.
But football had its own unique draw.
“It’s the one place you can legally hit people and not get in trouble,” Gach says with a laugh. “There’s no feeling like taking someone from point A to point B.”
A NATIONAL NAME, A LOCAL FOUNDATION
Gach’s breakout sophomore year earned him 40 Division I offers. Toledo was first, but when Ohio State came calling a week later, the floodgates opened. Despite growing up a Michigan State fan in a Spartan household, Gach made his own choice.
“Michigan just felt like home,” he says. “The family culture, the facilities, the way they develop linemen. It was everything I was looking for.”
And staying close to home means his family, his biggest fans, will be there in the stands.
“My mom has never missed a game,” Gach says. “And my dad’s been my role model in everything. My brother, Eli, is more into music and theater, but he’s been incredibly supportive.”
Gach on Groves Senior Night with parents David and Amy.
Gach rouses the team with Groves Football Coach Brendan Flaherty.
WHEN AVERY GACH STEPS ONTO THE FOOTBALL FIELD AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN THIS FALL, HE WON’T JUST BE CARRYING THE HOPES OF A NEW TEAM; HE’LL BE CARRYING THE PRIDE OF HIS HOMETOWN.
LOOKING AHEAD
Now enrolled at U-M and studying sports management, Gach is focused on adjusting to the faster pace and stronger competition of college ball. But the goal is clear: “Play in front of 110,000 fans. Go to the NFL. Then maybe real estate or something in business.”
His advice to younger athletes? “Iron sharpens iron. Surround yourself with people who push you.”
For now, Birmingham’s hometown hero is ready for the next chapter. And Michigan fans should be, too.
Gach with parents David and Amy and brother, Eli.
Celebrating a touchdown.
AVERY GACH BY THE NUMBERS
HIGH SCHOOL: Wylie E. Groves (Class of 2025)
HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6’5”, 287 lbs
POSITION: Offensive Tackle
COLLEGE: University of Michigan
MAJOR: Sports Management, School of Kinesiology
HIGH SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS:
• 4-year starter
• 2-time team captain (first in school history under Coach Flaherty)
• Led team to 12-1 record and state semifinals as a senior
• Played baseball (2 years) and track and field (1 year)
RECRUITING:
• 40-plus D1 scholarship offers
• First offer: Toledo
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ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON FOLSOM, GEOFF WICKERSHAM
Meet this year’s stunning star students — graduating high school seniors who’ve excelled in athletics while earning top marks.
the Class
DANNY HOLT
HIGH SCHOOL Brother Rice High School
AGE 18
CITY OF RESIDENCE Rochester
COLLEGE ATTENDING IN THE FALL Vassar College, where he will play lacrosse SPORT Lacrosse
ACCOLADES Academic: Brother Rice High School Valedictorian; Brother Rice Computer Science Medalist; AP Scholar with Distinction; Scholastic All Catholic Team; Brother Rice Tradition of Excellence Scholarship; Zidar Family Scholarship; IKE Guardian Angel Scholarship.
Athletic: Brother Rice’s Varsity Lacrosse team for four years; 2025 USA Lacrosse All American; 1st Team All State; Finalist for Michigan Lacrosse Player of the Year and recipient of the Courage Award from the Detroit Free Press; two-time Lacrosse State Champion (2023 and 2025); Brother Rice Lacrosse MVP 2025; All Catholic League; Academic All Catholic League. Service: Rochester Area Youth Assistance Leadership Award 2024; Charlotte’s Wings Youth Leadership Council 2021-2025 (organization that donates books to children in hospitals throughout Michigan, where Holt helped organize fundraisers, coordinate donations and deliver books).
Other: This past semester, I tried out for the first time for the Marian Rice Players. I had a lot of fun trying something different and was cast at Troy Bolton in High School Musical. I had no idea how much time and effort went into putting on a production. It closed on a Sunday night and I had Rice lacrosse tryouts at 5 a.m. MAJOR Computer science with a focus on artificial intelligence
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM THE SPORT YOU PLAY?
I love lacrosse and specifically the position I play –faceoff – because it combines both skill and strategy. When I decided to focus on faceoffs, I had a lot to learn, but I loved studying techniques and learning that every move had a counter move. It is a little bit like a very fast chess match every time I head out to take a faceoff.
I have traveled to Novi from Rochester since freshman year a couple times a week to work on my faceoff skills with all of the best players in Michigan. We are a close knit group and our coach, Ben Gjokaj, has helped all of us really develop as players. I have learned that dedication and hard work will pay off if you keep at it. I have applied this lesson to school as well.
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER A MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU’VE ACHIEVED?
I would consider winning the Division 1 Lacrosse State Championship twice a major accomplishment for my time at Brother Rice.
DO YOU HAVE A ROLE MODEL/MENTOR?
My parents are my role models. They have taught me to never give up and that hard work pays off.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE?
I am looking forward to college and meeting people from all over the world. I hope to work in the development and use of artificial intelligence.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUMMER?
I was diagnosed as a Type 1 diabetic when I was in 5th grade and started attending Camp Midicha that year. [Camp Midicha is a sleep-away camp in Fenton run by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) to provide support and unforgettable experiences to children living with diabetes.] I was a counselor-in-training last year and a full counselor this year. It is my favorite place and I plan on working again next year. This year was tough because I had to report to training by 7 a.m. the morning after we won the lacrosse state championship!
TELL ME SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Every spring, I make maple syrup from trees in my yard.
CONTINUED >
GABBY FRAZIER-BODY
HIGH SCHOOL Groves High School; she is one of 21 Groves student-athletes who will play in college
AGE 18
CITY OF RESIDENCE Southfield
COLLEGE ATTENDING IN THE FALL North Carolina Central University SPORT Flag football quarterback and soccer; will play flag football in college
ACCOLADES All League OAA Award in soccer; 4 offers (Siena Heights University, Tiffin university, Aurora university and North Carolina Central University); awarded Best Offensive Player of our 2024 season
MAJOR Nursing
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE SPORT YOU PLAY?
Soccer made me see my capabilities — but flag football gave me life. With my confidence and skills from soccer, I was able to jump into flag football with no hesitation. I learned that I need to discipline myself more and always work hard to get what I want in life. My team taught me what it means to have a sisterhood.
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER A MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU’VE ACHIEVED?
A major accomplishment is being a role model for the younger kids, girls and boys — and being the reason they want to play flag football.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE?
I hope to help build flag football all around the world, continue to be a part of flag and to possibly play in the Olympics.
TELL ME SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
What some people may not know about me is that even though I’ve been in numerous articles, been interviewed many times and even made appearances on the news, I have a secret: I am insecure and afraid of public speaking, despite my outward confidence and success. I also believe that I’m destined for greatness to create something influential and meaningful to my family, particularly my little sisters — leaving a lasting legacy.
PHOTO BY BRANDON FOLSOM
PHOTO BY BRANDON FOLSOM
PHOTO BY BRANDON FOLSOM
PHOTO BY BRANDON FOLSOM
PHOTO BY BRANDON FOLSOM
PHOTO BY BRANDON FOLSOM
Ambassadors of Calm
Teachers and their four-legged friends bring comfort, joy and connection to Birmingham Schools.
In the hallways of Birmingham Public Schools, tails wag alongside backpacks and sneakers. Whether nestled beside a student in a counseling session or padding through a science class, the members of the Canine Comfort Crew are more than just pets: They’re a vital part of the district’s mission to create safer, more supportive environments for all.
Since its launch in the fall of 2021, the Canine Comfort Crew program has grown from two therapy dogs to 13 across nearly every school in the district. A collaboration between Birmingham Public Schools, local donors and training organizations like 4Paws Strong and Ugly Dog Training, the initiative is a heartfelt response to the increasing mental health needs of students and staff, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve really seen our dogs transform our school culture,” says Lindsey Walton, BPS curriculum coordinator and one of the program’s founders. “Students say the dogs help them feel calmer. They’re helping kids regulate emotions, build friendships and they give general boosts of joy and morale throughout the day.”
Thanks to generous funding from the Rotary Club of Birmingham, DFCU Financial, Eagles for Children and Oakland County Mental Health grants, the program continues to expand. Each therapy dog is trained and certified, then paired with a primary staff handler. The dogs live with their handlers and are fully integrated into the school day.
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
At Seaholm High School, Bernedoodles Maple and Ernie are local celebrities. Ernie’s handler, special education-teacher Adam Rosenfeld, has seen the impact firsthand.
“There’s real science behind it — having a dog in the room can lower cortisol levels and blood pressure, and it just sets a calmer tone,” Rosenfeld says. “It’s amazing to watch how students, especially those with anxiety or autism, bond with Ernie. For some of my kids, he’s a daily source of comfort, a constant in their lives.”
Rosenfeld explained that the dogs don’t just help students. They’ve changed the culture for staff as well.
“It’s heartwarming. I see it in the faces of my coworkers,” he says. “When Ernie’s walking down the hallway, people just light up.”
Ernie and Maple begin their day alongside Rosenfeld and fellow teacher Allyson Holloway, then rotate throughout the school for check-ins, sensory breaks or simply quiet companionship.
and
Student Cole Foster with Ernie
Maple.
“Sometimes he’s with me in the autism classroom, sometimes he’s in ceramics or outside with a student who needs a walk. It’s a natural sensory break, and it’s meaningful,” Rosenfeld says.
One of Rosenfeld’s students, a rising sophomore who entered high school feeling anxious and disconnected, found unexpected comfort in Ernie.
“He told me, ‘I can’t believe I’m in a class with Ernie,’” Rosenfeld says. “That connection helped him settle in, and now he’s thriving.”
For Rosenfeld, Ernie’s dual identity sums it all up.
“When he’s at school, he’s Superman wearing the vest, doing the work, supporting students. But when we get home and take the vest off, he’s Clark Kent. He’s just a dog hanging out with me,” he says.
The program is thoughtfully structured to ensure the dogs’ well-being as well as that of the students. Each has downtime, a consistent routine and a network of secondary handlers to help with care throughout
“We want our schools to be places of emotional safety and connection. The Canine Comfort Crew is one way we’re making that happen.”
the day. Ernie and Maple, who are littermates, even get daily playtime together in a courtyard where classrooms peek out to watch the joyful scene — another small moment of happiness embedded in the school day.
As Walton noted, the long-term goal is simple but powerful: a dog in every school.
“In today’s world, students face more stress than ever. We want our schools to be places of emotional safety and connection. The Canine Comfort Crew is one way we’re making that happen,” she says.
In classrooms and corridors across Birmingham, these fourlegged ambassadors of calm are quietly changing lives — one wag, one nuzzle, one shared moment of joy at a time.
Ernie and Maple
Adam Rosenfeld with Ernie.
Location Cambria hotel Detroit
Photo by Shelby Dublin
Mary Grace Dickson President & Lead Designer
The gentle lull of the backyard space softens the modern elements of the 5,200-square-foot home.
THE P A T H TO OUTDOOR LIVING
A ONCE COMPACT SPACE IS TRANSFORMED INTO A LUSH, STUNNING RETREAT.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SALLY MATAK
THE DETAILS
Home: Birmingham
Landscaping: Mosher Design Co., Royal Oak
Furniture: Witmer Design, Bloomfield Hills
Soft greenery dotted with lush and juicy hydrangea lines the pathway to this backyard oasis in Birmingham.
multi-piece sectional creates flexible seating.
A
A covered sunporch, replete with fireplace and TV, is great for lounging or spillover seating from the dining table.
Elegant flower pots burst with seasonal blooms, strategically placed among towering hydrangea and sculpted shrubs to bring colorful life to the serenity of the cool blue pool.
Matt Mosher, owner of Mosher Design Co. in Royal Oak, transformed a once small space into a stunning retreat. Expansive yet inviting, clean and modern yet brimming with verdure, the space unites luxury with functional, family-friendly comfort.
Elegant flower pots burst with season blooms, strategically placed among towering hydrangea and sculpted shrubs to bring colorful life to the serenity of the cool blue pool.
Fire elements, like this cozy fire table and a builtin fireplace, cast a warm glow in the evening.
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PET PAPARAZZI: PHOTOS FROM INSTAGRAM!
The results are in — our community loves our pets! Get to know some of our favorite furry friends, submitted by our readers (and follow us @birminghamcitylifestyle).
TEDDY HERMANN
So many adorable, charming, mischievous and cuddly bonus family members — we wish we could include them all. To help us choose, we brought in Birmingham City Lifestyle ’s Senior Cuddle Specialist, Teddy Hermann. P.S. He’s currently scheduling playdates with his new friends.
MAISEY DOBBS
MOM Leigh Dobbs
CITY Beverly Hills
TYPE Australian Cattle Dog Mix
HOBBIES Long walks with her pup friends, enjoying a Pup Cup from Beyond Juice, sunbathing in the backyard and cuddling with humans.
PERSONALITY TRAITS Majorly scared of bunnies.
SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE She insists on sleeping with a human every night and has to be fully under the covers. Gives very good kisses. When she’s happy her whole body wiggles and sometimes she’ll smile with all her teeth.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
GORDIE PULTE BLU HILLENBERG
MOM Lauren Pulte
City Birmingham
TYPE Toy Goldendoodle
HOBBIES Watching Detroit sports, especially the Red Wings (he’s named after Gordie Howe).
PERSONALITY TRAITS Gordie loves everyone! He will sit at strangers’ feet and wait for pets, and always makes new friends. He loves to give kisses and snuggle.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE Gordie is the best boy!
MOM Shayna Hillenberg
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Mini Bernadoodle
HOBBIES Stealing socks and playing tug of war.
UNIQUE SKILLS Blu is a social-therapy dog. He works with kids in a mental health setting and volunteers at local schools. And he can walk on his back legs.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He is super cuddly and comforting.
TEDDY SCHULTE
MOM Kelly Schulte
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Pomeranian
HOBBIES Walking, sticking his head out the window on car rides, sniffing everything on a turtle walk, floating on inflatables and swimming.
PERSONALITY TRAITS He loves all humans. He loves driving through Dunkin Donuts and getting love and bacon from his fans.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He is the best dog on the planet. We love to do everything together and he’s so tiny, I take him everywhere.
FREDDIE LANGTON
MOM Lauren Langton
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Cavapoo
HOBBIES Stealing his baby sister’s toys, laying on mom’s lap, barking at the mailman, greeting dad when he gets home from work with some excited pee, going for walks through Birmingham, playing with any and all dogs.
PERSONALITY TRAITS He loves to stand on his hind legs so he can see all the action going on around him. He will jump up on the barstools to watch mom cook dinner.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He sees himself as a part of the family (as do we!). He is very protective of his baby sister and is always by her side.
MOM Megan Davidson
CITY Fraser
TYPE Guinea Pig
HOBBIES Eating hay and sunbathing.
PERSONALITY TRAITS Super hearing — she can hear a bag of veggies open across the house and starts chirping. Although she is small, she has a vibrant personality. She greets everyone with a squeak and a hello.
SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE She is small and cuddly and she loves snuggles.
MOM Sharone Bigelman
CITY Bloomfield Hills
TYPE Maltese Shitzu
HOBBIES Going on walks, playing fetch with his stuffed cow, alerting us of passersby.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He smiles frequently! He is sweet to everyone and is always by your side if you’re feeling sick or down.
PEANUT DAVIDSON
SNOOP BIGELMAN
ELLIOT STABLER
DAD Andrew Vedder
CITY Birmingham
HOBBIES Running around, wrestling with his sister, eating sticks, worrying about where his Momma and Daddy are, running away from the vacuum. Zipping through the yard, escaping then waiting at the gate to be let back in, walking and sniffing everything, barking at all the big dogs that he thinks he can totally take.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE Always worried and nervous, always looks sad, but is always such a good boy. He loves to eat remotes and pens but is so loving. He is also very protective of his big sister and of us. Very loyal and loving pup.
SODA MORIN
MOM Victoria Lynn Morin
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Toy Poodle
HOBBIES Sleeping, barking and begging for food.
PERSONALITY TRAITS He’s so smart you would think he was just a tiny human. Phenomenal listening skills and also knows how to ignore me.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He gives the best cuddles. Soda is my first dog and he has brought joy in my life that I never knew was possible.
SULLY COBURN
MOM Kelly Coburn
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Bernedoodle puppy
HOBBIES Digging holes and chewing on shoes. Riding shotgun on road trips.
PERSONALITY TRAITS Loves belly rubs, gives lots of hugs. He has a special blanket that goes everywhere with him. Loves to hold his leash in his mouth on walks.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He is so cuddly and affectionate, he gives lots of kisses and loves to be by your side. We recently lost our Bernedoodle to cancer. It was devastating. But puppy therapy is real and Sully has been a tremendous blessing to our family.
SCOTCH HOGAN
MOM Kelsey Hogan
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Golden Mountain Doodle
HOBBIES Being a couch potato, stealing food and cuddling. Sniffing everything outside that she can!
PERSONALITY TRAITS Scotch is such a lover. If you come to visit, you’re guaranteed to make a new best friend. She’s a mix of a Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle, her looks and personality are striking and truly magnetic.
FUN FACT We found out that her twin sister also lives in Birmingham!!
SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE She looks happy all the time, probably because she is. She’s the best big sister. She definitely thinks she’s a human.
JJ COLBURN
MOM Lauren Colburn
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Toy Poodle
HOBBIES Throwing toys to himself and watching TV. Loves visiting his fur aunts.
PERSONALITY TRAITS He can basically do Parkour Kid Jumps everywhere. He watches TV and tries to jump into the screen when he sees animals.
FUN FACT I got him between the Rose Bowl and National Championship of the Michigan 2023-24 football season. I named him after JJ McCarthy in good faith, and then we won the natty!
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He’s super soft and smiley. Everyone at my office loves JJ. He’s basically become the office mascot and brings joy to everyone.
OLIVIA BENSON
MOM Lora Vedder
CITY Birmingham
HOBBIES Sleeping, barking, guarding, picking pockets for tissues and wrappers. Sniffing everything, running around the pool and chasing her brother.
SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE She is the spunkiest and most mischievous puppy we’ve ever had. She loves to play and get you to chase her. I love how funny she is and how cuddly she gets when she’s pooped after running or going in full attack towards anything that moves outside her perch.
MOM Christine Keillor
TYPE Mini Bernadoodle
SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE She loves cuddling and going for long walks.
MOM Taren Plackmann
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Red Doberman
HOBBIES Walks in Downtown Birmingham, getting treats at his fave stores and cuddling. He also loves barking at squirrels.
PERSONALITY TRAITS Teddy is a sleepy Doberman who was diagnosed with DCM (heart condition), which has limited his energy. But he still loves his walks downtown and collecting treats.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He’s an 80 pound lapdog, true Velcro dog. The most gentle giant. Everyone adores him. I think he’s changed a lot of people’s opinions about Dobermans.
MOM Kelly Finnigan
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Mini Goldendoodle
HOBBIES Napping, walks around Birmingham, happy hour on a patio. And chasing bunnies! PERSONALITY TRAITS She loves to “dance” on her hind legs. SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE of her spunky personality.
MOM Andi Hosler
FRANKLIN Franklin
TYPE Long-Haired Dachshund
HOBBIES Walking through Barnum Park then into town for a Pup Cup. She loves going to the office, she is the social mascot. PERSONALITY TRAITS Lola Pearl is the quintessential dachshund — sweet and sassy, smart and stubborn.
SHE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE She is happiest when she is with her family.
SHANDY FINNIGAN
LOLA PEARL HOSLER
BERNIE KEILLOR
TEDDY PLACKMANN
BOGEY SATOVSKY
DAD Brian Satovsky
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Mini Goldendoodle
HOBBIES Playing catch (he never misses) and long walks.
PERSONALITY TRAITS Dad’s best wingman ever!!
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He has the kindest disposition and is definitely a licker. He follows me everywhere and loves people in general.
LOUIE RAIMI
MOM Nikki Raimi
CITY Bloomfield Hills
TYPE Mini Goldendoodle
HOBBIES Taking walks and eating treats. And rides in the car.
PERSONALITY TRAITS He has gorgeous human-like brown eyes and we love to keep his hair longer because it’s straighter than most goldendoodles. It’s a gorgeous auburn color.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He loves people, is super friendly, so sweet and loves everyone that comes through the door. He follows me everywhere I go and loves to cuddle.
SIZZLES (“SIZZLING SAUSAGES”) HILDITCH
MOM Laura Hilditch
CITY Birmingham
TYPE Sausage dog!
HOBBIES Cuddles with his sister.
PERSONALITY TRAITS Will roll over to “sausage roll,” twirls and shakes hands.
FUN FACT Sizzles is an expat. We are a British family who traveled the world and Sizzles joined us whilst living in China. We think he still understands Chinese.
HE STEALS MY HEART BECAUSE He is so sweet natured.
CreativeIceCubes FOR SUMMER
Stay Cool with Fun Infused Ice Recipes
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summer can be sweltering, but you can beat the heat with these fun and refreshing infused ice recipes. Not only are they a great way to stay cool, but they also add a delightful twist to your favorite beverages.
Coffee Ice Cubes for Iced Coffee
Transform your iced coffee experience by using coffee ice cubes. This simple trick ensures your drink stays strong and flavorful without getting watered down.
Ingredients:
• Freshly brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. Brew Coffee: Make a pot of your favorite coffee.
2. Cool and Freeze: Allow the coffee to cool, then pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze.
3. Serve: Add the coffee ice cubes to your iced coffee for a rich, undiluted flavor.
Edible Flower Ice
Create stunning and elegant ice cubes using edible flowers. These pretty ice cubes are perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of beauty to everyday drinks.
Ingredients:
• Edible flowers
• Water
Instructions:
1. Prep the Flowers: Rinse the edible flowers thoroughly.
2. Fill the Tray: Place the flowers in an ice cube tray, filling each compartment halfway with water.
3. Freeze Partially: Freeze until the water is just starting to set, then fill the rest of the tray with water to fully submerge the flowers. This helps keep the flowers centered in the cubes.
4. Freeze Completely: Freeze until solid.
5. Serve: Use these beautiful ice cubes in your favorite drinks for a floral touch.
These infused ice recipes are not only practical but also add an extra layer of enjoyment to your summer beverages. Enjoy these refreshing and creative ways to stay cool all season long!
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DOGS' DAY OUT
GET A DOG’S-EYE VIEW ON THE BIG BISCUITS, SHADY PATIOS, FRESH FOUNTAINS AND PLACES TO ROAM IN AND AROUND BIRMINGHAM.
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI
Dexter enjoys people watching on the outdoor patio at Brooklyn Pizza.
When you want the inside scoop on dogfriendly hot spots, you ask an expert: Dexter, an affable Airedale Terrier who is known as “The Begger of Birmingham.”
“At the CVS [at 35777 Woodward], pharmacists Caroline, Nora and Patricia are particularly generous with the treats when Dexter dog picks up his monthly medication,” says owner Ann Tappan of Birmingham. “Dexter likes sniffing everything on the shelves in addition to the plentiful snacks.”
Dexter also enjoys the generous treats at UNION BARBER (“very large,” he notes), Gazelle Sports, STREETSIDE SEAFOOD and FAHERTY, which also displays a wall of Polaroid photos of their dog visitors. He also enjoys shopping for pet supplies inside HOLLYWOOD FEED, where he can lap up fresh water and gobble even more treats. The DAXTON HOTEL offers fresh chef-made treats dispensed year-round at the valet stand to all dogs — not just the hotel’s canine guests. “It’s the highlight of my dog’s walk,” Tappen says. “He also
enjoys people-watching on the outdoor patio at BROOKLYN PIZZA.”
Many retailers place water bowls outside of their stores for those strolling with pets — there are even two dog drinking fountains downtown in SHAIN PARK and near LOT 6 (at 660 North Old Woodward Avenue), where the city hosts the seasonal SUNDAY FARMERS MARKET
“Dogs are welcome throughout the downtown, in parks and at our outdoor events, as long as they follow the city’s guidelines of remaining on a leash and under reasonable control of their owners at all times,” says Erika Bassett, executive director of the Birmingham Shopping District. Leashed, well-behaved dogs like Dexter also are welcome in the PAPER SOURCE so they can give their opinions on unique gifts, craft supplies and specialty paper, and at the SUMMER CONCERTS in Shain Park.
Dogs and their owners enjoy scenic walks along the ROUGE TRAIL SYSTEM, specifically adjacent to BOOTH PARK, and
Bode the dog enjoys a Birmingham Concert in the Park. Photo by Ann Tappen
on the several miles of chip trails along the ROUGE RIVER as well as frolicking in the city parks (QUARTON LAKE is especially popular).
If your dog is social —or if, gasp, you don’t own a dog, but love interacting with them — Bassett notes the owners of TENDER, GRINSTEIN JEWELERS and BOBBLES & LACE often bring their dogs to work and the stores are dog-friendly.
Outside of the city, there are many places to have fun with Fido: In Bloomfield Hills, explore the CRANBROOK EDUCATIONAL COMMUNITY’s 319-acre campus and visit the FRANKLIN CIDER MILL (opening for the season Aug. 30) to nibble on cider donuts and apples with your dogs, which are allowed outside, or browse with them inside on a leash.
Pups can lounge outside with you as you enjoy fresh oysters and seafood at THE FRANKLIN OYSTER BAR & EATERY in Franklin and are welcome outside at the MICHIGAN BEER GROWLER COMPANY BEER GARDENS in Beverly Hills. A happy hour indeed! Leashed dogs up for some adventure can tackle the trails at DOUGLAS EVANS NATURE PRESERVE and HIDDEN RIVERS NATURE PRESERVE
And what better way to end a true dog day of summer, filled with treats, socializing with other pets and sniffing all the world has to offer? Treat your fur-baby to a SELF-SERVE DOG WASH in a private room at PREMIER PET SUPPLY in Beverly Hills. Now, that’s living.
Dexter basks at the Daxton. Photo by Ann Tappen
A sweet French bulldog visits the Daxton lobby bar. Photo by Ann Tappen
Dexter visits CVS.
Photo by Ann Tappen
A resident at Grinstein Jewelry & Design
S C A N T O V I E W A V A I L A B L E H O M E S
W H A T S E T S U S A P A R T
c u s t o m s t r a t e g i e s t h a t g e n e r a t e r e a l i n t e r e s t
C L E A R P R E S E N T A T I O N T H A T H I G H L I G H T S E V E R Y D E T A I L
F r o m s t a g i n g t o f i n a l w a l k t h r o u g h , w e m a k e s u r e y o u r h o m e i s s h o w c a s e d i n i t s b e s t l i g h t a c r o s s e v e r y
p l a t f o r m .
P E R S O N A L I Z E D S E R V I C E F R O M S T A R T T O F I N I S H
W e p r i o r i t i z e y o u r e x p e r i e n c e w i t h c l e a r
c o m m u n i c a t i o n , p r o m p t u p d a t e s , a n d h a n d s - o n s u p p o r t t h r o u g h e v e r y s t e p o f t h e p r o c e s s .
T R U S T E D N E G O T I A T I O N B A C K E D B Y E X P E R I E N C E
W h e t h e r b u y i n g o r s e l l i n g , w e h e l p g u i d e i m p o r t a n t d e c i s i o n s a n d w o r k t o s e c u r e t h e b e s t p o s s i b l e o u t c o m e w i t h p r o f e s s i o n a l i s m a n d c a r e
L O C A L K N O W L E D G E W I T H P R O V E N R E S U L T S
O v e r $ 5 0 0 m i l l i o n i n s a l e s a n d a d e e p u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e O a k l a n d C o u n t y m a r k e t a l l o w s u s t o p r i c e , p o s i t i o n , a n d p e r f o r m w i t h c o n f i d e n c e
