LIFE + CULTURE
AN EVENING OF RED, WHITE & BLUE
ARTS + CULTURE
THRIVE ON THE HILL FESTIVAL
STYLE + BEAUTY
TAKE YOUR NEXT VACATION WITH EFFORTLESS FLAIR
74 Kercheval Ave, Grosse Pointe Farms
Kika Vargas
Summer and America Celebrates 250
Happy July, Grosse Pointe! This month, we gather to celebrate a monumental milestone: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Two and a half centuries ago, the greatness of America and the American people launched the profound freedoms and standards we hold so dear today. At the heart of this legacy are the enduring pillars of Western culture and American ideals: God, family, and country.
As we watch the fireworks illuminate Lake St. Clair, we honor America and especially those brave souls who served and died to protect our way of life. Because of their ultimate sacrifice, American moms, dads, children, and families can safely pursue the American dream. It is a timely reminder that we earn the dream through hard work and determination—it is never simply given.
In this special issue, we connect deeply with this spirit of service and community. We sit down with Maria Miller, President and CEO at The War Memorial. She shares the vibrant history of the estate, from its origins with the Russell A. Alger, Jr. family to its modern mission. We also highlight their event, an Evening of Red, White, and Blue—a perfect tribute that echoes our nation's semiquincentennial. The War Memorial remains a beacon for our community, honoring our veterans while serving as a beautiful gathering space for all. A special thanks to Jeffrey Smith, Lisa Vallee-Smith, Mary and Ron Lamparter, and honorary co-chairs Fred and Veronica Alger.
True freedom also allows us to pursue a long, happy, and healthy life. To that end, we speak with iCryo owner Kristin Giancola about the first annual Grosse Pointe Thrive on the Hill festival. This exciting community event invites all ages to discover the incredible health and wellness businesses right in our backyard. It is the perfect way to spend a summer day on The Hill, connecting with neighbors and focusing on holistic well-being.
We also take an inventory on how you can approach the next vacation you take to have the little things covered so you can enjoy the big things.
As you enjoy the warmth of the season with friends and neighbors, let us reflect on the greatness of America, the strength of the American family, and the inalienable rights bestowed upon us by God.
God Bless America!
July 2026
PUBLISHER
David Mattaliano | david.mattaliano@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Paige Peabody | paige.peabody@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Margaret Carroll
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Inner Circle Photography, Blaine Seisser Photography, Rosetti
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn
DAVID MATTALIANO, PUBLISHER @GROSSEPOINTECITYLIFESTYLE
inside the issue
More Than a Dental Office— A Haven.
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1: Lanna Young (Savvy Chic) and Anuja Tolia (Anuja Tolia Jewelry). Savvy Chic 11th anniversary party. 2: Tina Ellis, Katy Walsh, Morgan Decker (Decker Dermatology) at Savvy Chic 11th anniversary party. 3: Savvy Chic 11th anniversary party group photo.
The Helm Wilson Day Center NOW ENROLLING
An Evening of Red, White & Blue
Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY INNER CIRCLE PHOTOGRAPHY
The Grosse Pointe War Memorial is steeped in American history. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and programs and events abound to draw people from not only the Grosse Pointes, but from surrounding communities as well.
Located on the grounds of the historic Alger Estate on the shores of Lake Saint Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, it includes the Italian Renaissance-style home designed by architect Charles A. Platt of New York and built in 1910 for Russell A. Alger, Jr. and his family. After Alger’s death in 1930, the family wanted the house to be used to improve the quality of life in the community. From 1936 to 1948, the building became a branch of the Detroit Institute of Arts.
In 1949, it was donated to the newly formed Grosse Pointe War Memorial Association, and it had a dual purpose: to serve as a perpetual memorial to the 3,500 Grosse Pointe residents who served and the 126 who died in World War II; and to provide a continuing educational and charitable activities center for the Grosse Pointe community. Its mission is and always will be to honor those who served, enrich the community, and deliver exceptional experiences.
It seems only fitting then, with our nation celebrating its 250th anniversary, that this beloved patriotic institution honored that milestone with a celebration of its own. An Evening of Red, White & Blue, was held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in the historic Alger House and ballroom.
Co-Presented by Jeffrey Smith, Lisa Vallee-Smith and Mary and Ron Lamparter, and with honorary co-chairs Fred and Veronica Alger, the evening took many months of planning. “The energy in
“All of the social events that we have in this beautiful home, in our beautiful ballroom, support our mission work…”
the building the week before was just insane,” says Maria Miller, its president and CEO. “You could just sense this freneticism.”
The invitations were designed by its in-house graphic designer, Emily Orttenburger. “We are blessed to have her,” she says. “The invitations were fantastic, and she also did the programming and delved deep into American history. She made a map from 200 years ago and put it on parchment-type paper. When unfolded, the map denoted locations where the food had come from for the meals that night.”
The 300 tickets sold out fast. Attendees, dressed in cocktail attire—some featuring the iconic colors of the American flag—enjoyed a strolling reception, live entertainment, and a three-course dinner menu designed by its executive chef and culinary team. These meals were accompanied by amazing wine pairings.
The menu, titled Sea to Shining Sea, included Lobster Bisque, Pan-Roasted Pacific Halibut, Charcoal-Seared USDA Prime Angus Filet, and Michigan Cherry Sorbetto. Even the butter molds to go with the bread were creative.
“We were actually excited about butter molds,” says Maria, laughing. “They were only an inch tall, and we chose four individuals—George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony—who we believed helped shape American history.”
While guests dined, an auction and paddle raise took place. Later in the evening, dessert and nightcaps were enjoyed.
Many of the auction prizes, which featured luxurious gifts and exclusive experiences such as an African safari, were donated. “People have been amazing and gracious with their donations,” she says. “Being in this community and working
here as much as I do, I can see that people really look out for each other.”
The nonprofit is continually thankful for the public’s support. “All of the social events that we have in this beautiful home, in our beautiful ballroom, support our mission work and the upkeep of this beautiful 1910 estate.”
The Red, White & Blue celebration was a resounding success, and something guests will remember for many years to come.
Other highlights of its America 250 program include Tea & Treasures: A Toast to America at 250 with Detroit Opera, Second Saturdays at TWM, and a Jazz Brunch featuring Dave Bennett, spotlighting American compositions and traditions.
Of course, The War Memorial is not just a place for special events, although it has its fair share, including weddings, but it’s also a home for many community-minded organizations and programming. “We have Gilda’s Club and they offer their members free programming,” says Maria. “The Family Center’s been here for a while, as well as the Grosse Pointe Artists Association. Another partner group is the
Grosse Pointe Garden Center that tends to our beautiful gardens. They all do great work.”
Providing for veterans is also a large focus of the nonprofit. “Veterans have done so much for us and for our freedoms, and we want to thank them. For example, an American Legion post holds its meetings here and we waive the room rental. In the end, we’re a patriotic institution.”
She adds, “We are giving other organizations the ability to be here, because it’s part of our nonprofit mission. We’re trying from a community perspective to support each other.” Maria estimates that they have provided close to a million dollars of discounted services, food and rental space.
The War Memorial is the only public space on the water in the Pointes, she explains. Everyone, not just those living in the Grosse Pointes, is welcome to visit and enjoy the grounds for free.
“When you’re walking around here, you can’t help but be struck by how special it is,” she says. “And, I think any event that folks have attended here leaves them feeling like there’s been a memory made, and hopefully they’re all good memories.”
Some of the other events taking place this summer include a SummerFest blues concert with Thornetta
Davis, a Simon & Garfunkel tribute, and a WWII/1940’s-esque set list by the Rhythm Society Orchestra. Movies and more will also be happening.
“We had Shakespeare on the Rocks last year, where there was a little twist of a Shakespeare vignette, and people loved it,” says Maria. “Each of these events brings in different groups, a different crowd. It’s fun to see the various types of people who are walking through our doors.”
While these events draw many of the same people year after year, there are always new faces in the crowd, and she hopes to see even more. “There are people even in this community who don’t step foot in here, and some of them who have just moved into the community didn’t even know you could,” she says. “So, really getting that word out that, ‘Hey, this is your space. It’s not my space’ is important. I’m just helping to be that shepherd for the community and make sure the programming’s working and meeting the needs of the community.”
The War Memorial is always offering new things, and its programming for veterans and others continues to evolve. “I’m always hopeful that people will come here and enjoy our events, and also give us feedback,” says Maria. “We want to know what we’re doing right, and what we can improve on or are missing. Let us know.”
To learn more, go to WarMemorial.org .
Mark Wilamowski, Agent 19637 Mack Avenue Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
Bus: 313-881-8100
Email: mark@callmarkw.com Callmarkw.com I
ARTICLE
Thrive on the Hill Festival
A Family-fun Day Focused on Health and Wellness
When Kristin Giancola’s husband, Domenic, mentioned hosting a community-wide health and wellness festival, she quickly got on board. Owners of iCRYO in Grosse Pointe Farms, they totally understand the benefits of preventative and holistic medicine. Their business offers vitamin infusions, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, ozone therapy, red light therapy, cryotherapy, and more to boost people’s health and immune systems.
“We’re really excited,” she says. “I’m a part of the Hill Association, and we were talking about other events we could do on the Hill that would be fun for the whole family. One thing I hear a lot from moms is that there aren’t enough health-focused events where you can bring your child.”
They presented their idea to the mayor and the Grosse Pointe Farms Council, and they wholeheartedly approved it. The Grosse Pointe Thrive on the Hill festival will be held on Saturday, July 18th, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
“The Grosse Pointe Chamber has really worked hard to partner with us on all of the logistics that it takes to host a large festival here on the Hill. They’ve been very, very helpful.”
The plan is to showcase all of the local health and fitness businesses. “Grosse Pointe is so health-focused,” says Kristin. “We have many Pilates and yoga studios, gyms, and healthy food offerings. This is a fun way to bring these local businesses together and celebrate them. We want everyone to participate, whether they’re our competitors or synergistic, because it’s not about us.”
As of May 18, they already had 23 vendors signed up, with another 20 pending, and they are hoping for even more as word gets out.
The event is completely free, and attendees can participate in classes, learn about gardening, and sample healthy foods. “One focus has been on getting all of the movement places involved. We’re going to have about eight free live classes lasting about half an hour or so.” There will even be chair yoga for those with mobility issues.
Children will be able to conquer a giant 60-foot inflatable obstacle course, jump around in a bounce house, have their faces painted, and interact with a balloon artist. “We’re really including all generations of the family,” she says.
“Grosse
Pointe is so health-focused,” says Kristin. “We have many Pilates and yoga studios, gyms, and healthy food offerings.”
People will also be able to receive giveaways, enter raffles, listen to lively music, and enjoy the many restaurants on the Hill. “It’s just a great marketing event for so many vendors and business owners,” says Kristin. “We’re bringing people to the area and letting them know what we’re doing.” Nonprofits such as The War Memorial and The Family Center will also be participating.
If the event goes well, Kristin and Domenic plan to form a committee and hold it annually. “There have already been several local business owners who have said they would like to help out,” she says. Enjoy this fun and health-focused day with your family! To find out more about the Grosse Pointe Thrive on the Hill festival, go to GrossePointeChamber.org , Instagram.com/reels/DYP1YsskjVB or Facebook.com/events/1409719427127596
TAKE YOUR NEXT VACATION WITH EFFORTLESS FLAIR
YOU WORK HARD ALL YEAR—YOUR VACATION STYLE SHOULD FEEL CINEMATIC, EFFORTLESS, AND UNMISTAKABLY MAIN CHARACTER.
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STONE SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Effortless vacation style isn’t about having the perfect outfit for every moment—it’s about having the right foundation to make every moment look intentional. When you know how to build a capsule travel wardrobe, you’ll avoid agonizing over what to wear and spend more time actually enjoying your getaway, all while looking like you have a personal stylist tucked in your carry-on.
Here’s your go-to list for this season’s travels:
1. THE EFFORTLESS STATEMENT SET
A coordinated two-piece (linen, silk, or cotton) that transitions from day to night. Sets are easy to wear, photograph, and offers effortless ways to look put together. Bonus: you can mix and match the pieces with other items that you pack. I would recommend packing multiple sets to make it even easier to mix and match. For both men and women, simply focus on neutrals and, if you want to add color, make sure it coordinates well with other items in your luggage.
2. THE MOOD-ALTERING PIECE
A sweeping dress in a bold print or luscious fabric that makes you feel sensual, grounded, and free. Find something that moves with you and captures light beautifully. This is your dreamy piece— flowy fabrics with movement that captures the eye and works for any kind of event.
3. THE LUXE FLAT OR SCULPTURAL SANDAL
Find footwear that balances style and comfort. Look for interesting shapes or materials (like leather with architectural cutouts or metallic finishes). More than shoes—they’re anchors for adventure, grounding your aesthetic wherever you land. This goes the same for men. Your footwear can also make an impact through the braided details of your sandals or the canvas of a casual slip-on loafer.
4. THE TRANSITIONAL THIRD PIECE
Think: kimono, over-sized linen blazer, a lightweight duster, or a gauzy button-down left open. This is your layering hero that adds polish without effort. It’s an aura amplifier that instantly makes your outfit feel styled and intentional.
5. INTERESTING AND IMPACTFUL SUNGLASSES
Sunglasses with personality is a must. They could be over-sized, cat-eye, or tinted lenses that feel more like “cinematic escape” than “just functional.” Because you’re not sightseeing—you’re starring in your own travel film.
6. A SCULPTURAL CARRYALL
A bag that holds your essentials but looks like art— think woven textures, unique shapes, or buttery leather. Practicality meets poetry. You deserve a vessel that carries your dreams...and your SPF.
7. SIGNATURE SCENT OR TRAVEL CANDLE
Pack travel-sized fragrance or a tiny candle that evokes your essence or complements the location. Scent is meant to ignite memories and set the tone— infuse your travels with an olfactory signature.
8. ACCESSORIES WITH A STORY
A few intentional pieces such as a ring from a market you found during your travels, a layered necklace that serves as an easy throw-on, or a straw hat to protect your face from the sun (even if it’s a cooler climate, because remember, safety first: don’t get burnt).
Phone: 313.343.6809
Email: alex.martinez@raymondjames.com
Phone: 313.343.6809
Email: alex.martinez@raymondjames.com
Website: raymondjames.com/alexmartinez
Website: raymondjames.com/alexmartinez
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
JULY 10TH
Ford House Presents: Saved by the 90s
Ford House | 7:00 PM
Please join us for the Outdoor Summer Concert Series at Ford House. www.fordhouse.org
JULY 18TH
iCRYO Presents: THRIVE ON THE HILL
Kercheval on the Hill | 10:00 AM
Get ready for something brand new for Grosse Pointe…Thrive on The Hill is transforming The Hill into a high-energy wellness block party filled with movement, music, healthy food, and inspiration. Spend the day exploring the latest in fitness, health, recovery, and holistic wellness while connecting with local businesses and the community. www.grossepointechamber.org
JULY 23RD
Picnic & Play by the Lake War Memorial | 10:30 AM
Beginning June 25 and continuing July 23 and August 27, families from Grosse Pointe and beyond are invited to enjoy two carefree hours by the lake from 10:30am–12:30pm. Bring your own picnic blanket, your favorite snacks, and your favorite people. We’ll bring the fun. Expect plenty of yard games and hands-on activities for kids and families to enjoy together. www.warmemorial.org
