Birmingham Life, MI April 2020

APRIL 2020

HAGOPIAN SPONSORS STUDENT RUG DESIGN COMPETITION

FIRST ROBOTICS CHAMPIONSHIP TO HAPPEN IN DETROIT

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER

Tobin Clark | tobin.clark@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Danielle Alexander | danielle.alexander@lifestylepubs.com

Why hello, spring!

WINTER IS FINALLY STARTING TO LOOK LIKE IT IS IN THE REARVIEW MIR-

AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

ROR; WITH A FEW WARM DAYS STARTING TO SPRINKLE IN, IT'S TIME TO

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

THINK GREEN! Welcome to April, Birmingham. We have had what we Michiganders

Jessica Pawl

would say a very mild winter. Not sure if you can blame the weather on man-made climate change or natural climate change, but what I do know is that the winters have been pretty mild for a while now.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura McCaffery

Our April theme revolves around what we can do to be more eco-friendly. No matter what we believe in, I think we can all do a small part to help reduce our carbon footprint. Things as simple as recycling, ride sharing, shutting off lights in rooms we are not in and, of course, what we eat. As someone who spends an awful lot of time outdoors, I have seen the small positive differences in our environment. Yes, we still have a long way to go, but I think for the most part, people have in the last few years really started to think about the impact they can have on the environment.

It's funny, I did not grow up on a farm, and we never really had a garden except for a

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

few tomato plants in some planters. However, one of the most therapeutic and eco-

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

friendly activities I have personally discovered has been vegetable gardening. For

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

me, there is something "organic" about working the soil and eating a salad with

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce grown in your own yard. This year, I am so looking

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

forward to growing season and want to travel the state in search of the great home-

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

grown Michigan fruit, whether it is blueberries from Holland, cherries from Traverse City or peaches from Romeo. My hope is to document this journey later in the year and share it with you all.

Please read through the pages of our April publication; after all, Birmingham Life is about the community, our community! If you have a story idea or would like to nominate someone for a feature, feel free to contact me. From myself, Danielle (editorial coordinator) and Laura (photographer), we wish you a wonderful start of spring.

And think green!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Cheers,

ON THE COVER Birmingham 8 on Old Woodward

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA MCCAFFERY 4

Birmingham Life | April 2020

Tobin Clark, Publisher

LifestylePubs.com/Birmingham

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Birmingham Life™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Birmingham areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Birmingham Life™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2020 FEATURES

12 Hagopian sponsors student rug design competition In collaboration with College for Creative Studies, Birmingham’s Hagopian held its annual student scholarship competition.

16 Laid-back Lowcountry Escape to historic Charleston for southern charm, seaside views, food and more.

22 FIRST Robotics Championship to happen in Detroit The Robot Garage is helping prepare students for the championship and a successful future.

22 16

28 Spa Mariana opens new location The new location is the only spa in Michigan with a foot sanctuary.

28

12

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Renovate & Refine

16

Travel Destination

22 Locally Owned 26 Healthy Lifestyle 28 Now Open 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Culinary Creations

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GOOD TIMES

BBC hosts annual Real Estate Forecast Breakfast The Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber (BBC) hosted its annual Real Estate Forecast Breakfast in February at the Townsend Hotel in downtown Birmingham. The Real Estate Forecast Breakfast was the second event in the chamber’s 2020 Forecast Series, which already included an Economic Forecast in January.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BBC.

Photo Michel Gibert, for advertising purposes only. Special thanks: TASCHEN.

Profile. Velvet sofa, designed by Roberto Tapinassi & Maurizio Manzoni.

Lounge chair, ottoman and cushions upholstered in Jean Paul Gaultier fabrics.

Octet. Cocktail tables, design Roberto Tapinassi & Maurizio Manzoni.

Manufactured in Europe.

BIRMINGHAM, MI - 394 South Old Woodward Avenue - Tel. (248) 833-0300

8

Birmingham Life | April 2020

Art Leaders Gallery shared "The Art of Dr. Seuss Collection" The Art Leaders Gallery of West Bloomfield shared a very rare selection of artworks from "The Art of Dr. Seuss Collection." Visitors explored and acquired works from Dr. Seuss’s best-known children’s books, as well as "The Secret Art of Dr. Seuss," a mind-expanding collection based on decades of artwork, which Dr. Seuss created at night for his own personal pleasure.

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April 2020 | Birmingham Life

9

AROUND TOWN

SPA MARIANA OPENED NEW LOCATION OFF ETON STREET On Thursday, April 2, Spa Mariana held a grand

METRO DETROIT HUSBAND AND WIFE INSPIRE THROUGH ONLINE MOVEMENT

opening event, celebrating its new location at 223

"What Are You More Than?" is an online move-

N. Eton. St. in Birmingham. There were hors d'oeu-

ment founded by Dr. Warren Woodruff and Dr.

vres and beverages, a chance to win great prizes,

Amira May Woodruff that empowers others to

special event pricing and more. For more informa-

embrace all facets of themselves as a way to show

tion about the new location and service offerings,

the world and themselves that they are more than

visit spamariana.com. Photo by Laura McCaffery.

the label society places on them. Through the movement, the couple shares the ultimate prescription for motivation and freedom in 2020. For more information about the movement or to listen to the "What Are You More Than?" podcast, visit whatareyoumorethan.com.

"THERE IS A FLY IN MY SOUP" AT SOUL STUDIO There Is a Fly in My Soup, which opened in March, presents recent artworks by over 40 artists at the Dresner Foundation Soul Studio at the Friendship Circle Farber Center (5586 Drake Road), working in a variety of media. In this exhibition, outstanding

10

VEGAN CHEESE AND DESSERT BAR "PLANTHROPIE" OPENED ON PIERCE STREET

performances hidden in plain sight are celebrated. It

The region’s first all-vegan cheese and dessert

may not be what you ordered, but take a moment to

bar Planthropie opened its doors in February at 135

delight in the unexpected and the extraordinary: the

Pierce Street in Birmingham. All of the cafe’s items are

fly in the soup. The exhibition will run through May 24.

vegan, gluten-free and soy-free and prepared with

Birmingham Life | April 2020

primarily raw ingredients that are both organic and fair trade. Visit planthropie. com for more information. Photo courtesy of Planthropie's Facebook page.

BORN YOGA HOSTS ZOOM CLASSES TO PROMOTE CALMNESS AND CONNECTEDNESS DURING AN UNSETTLING TIME

Inspired by Community

After temporarily closing doors in March, Born Yoga in Birmingham held LIVE children and family yoga classes via Zoom to stay connected amid

social

distancing.

Owner

Ashley Goldberg said, “I would like to express how grateful and honored I felt to have been connected to families during this difficult time.”

For more information about Born Yoga and its class offerings, visit bornyogastudio.com.

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April 2020 | Birmingham Life

11

RENOVATE & REFINE

hagopian sponsors student rug design competition IN COLLABORATION WITH COLLEGE FOR CREATIVE STUDIES, BIRMINGHAM’S HAGOPIAN HELD ITS ANNUAL STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION.

ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTORS AND DESIGNERS IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY MET AT HAGOPIAN’S BIRMINGHAM LOCATION TO JUDGE THE 31ST ANNUAL STUDENT RUG DESIGN SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION. Sponsored

by Hagopian World of Rugs in collaboration with College for Creative Studies (CCS), this contest was open to all CCS students.

At the beginning of the fall semester, an announcement of the competition was e-mailed out to the faculty and student body with an entry packet. The 2019-2020 theme was “Color, Culture, Design.” Using the psychology of color and culture, students were asked to choose a color, relate it to a culture and then create a design based on both, keeping in mind current market appeal. Computer-generated designs were allowed, and suggested techniques included water colors, pencils, gouache, pantone paper or acrylics. In addition to the design, a written description was also required for submission, answering the questions of 1) why that color?, 2) why that culture?, 3) why that design? and 4) where will the rug be used?

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY LAURA MCCAFFERY AND HAGOPIAN 12

Birmingham Life | April 2020

“Hagopian believes it is fundamentally important to encourage new generations to pursue studies and careers in fields involving the arts and specifically the textile arts, and this project actually started to mentor students in the field of interior textile design,” Executive Vice President Suzanne Hagopian explained.

She said the project started with her dad, Edgar Hagopian, who always loved young energy and artminded students. He reached out to CCS’ textile/fiber head at the time and worked together to create a design project for students. Even today, 31 years later, Hagopian gets CCS faculty members involved with the contest, working together to choose the theme.

“The contest has really evolved over the years, but year after year, the students who enter are just so passionate, making it really hard to judge,” Hagopian said.

“We got around 30 entries this year but have had more in the past. There is such a diverse group of students at CCS, and some discussed their own backgrounds, which was really neat.”

The first-prize winner received $1,500, the second-prize winner won $1,000 and the third-prize winner took home $500. Additionally, the winning design is being made into a finished rug and will be displayed at the 2020 CCS Student Exhibition in May. “It was a wonderful evening with a great group of people, probably one of the best,” Hagopian said. “Donald Tuski, President of CCS, actually shared with us that this is the longest-running collaborative project they still have.”

With locations in Ann Arbor, Birmingham, Grand Rapids, Clarkston, Novi, Oak Park, Plymouth and Utica, Hagopian World of Rugs celebrated its 81st anniversary in March. Services offered include in-home cleaning, rug repair, rug cleaning, air duct cleaning, commercial cleaning and cushion cleaning. Additionally, Hagopian sells flooring and rugs. For more information about Hagopian or to read about its impressive 81-year history, visit originalhagopian.com.

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

13

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

why hagopian supports wool carpet: An environmentally-friendly choice: Wool carpet locks up carbon dioxide, rapidly regenerates and is biodegradable and versatile.

Sheep grow wool continuously and can be shorn every 9-12 months, thus making wool rapidly and readily renewable.

A safe choice: Approximately 80% of all U.S. fire deaths occur in the home. Wool is a safe choice, as it self-extinguishes and will not melt, drip or give off noxious fumes like synthetic fibers.

A healthy choice: Wool carpet fixes harmful pollutants, there’s no off-gassing and it’s inherently flame retardant. Wool carpet absorbs moisture, is hypoallergenic and does not lay host to bed bugs or dust mites.

An affordable choice: Most synthetic fibers are petroleum-based and have gone up in price steadily in recent years, making the price difference small especially when you consider all the advantages of wool.

14

Birmingham Life | April 2020

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brianneeper.com April 2020 | Birmingham Life

15

TRAVEL DESTINATION

Laid-back L o w c o u n t ry

ESCAPE TO HISTORIC CHARLESTON WHERE SOUTHERN CHARM AND SEASIDE VIEWS ARE THE ONLY TRAITS THAT TOP THE FOOD SCENE.

FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ONE DETROIT COUPLE WHO HAS MADE TRAVEL MORE THAN JUST A PASTIME. They’re the founders of the blog DepartingDTW.com (and the complementary Instagram account of the same name).

A recent urge to head south led them to Charleston, due in part to the ease of several direct flights from Detroit Metro Airport. They’ve chronicled their itinerary for a walkable

+ day 1

weekend in the city:

WHAT TO DO: Located beside downtown Charleston’s

Marion Square, The Dewberry Charleston hotel serves as an ideal homebase for a weekend stay. Step inside the beau-

tifully-renovated, mid-century federal building, and one is instantly greeted with a dimly-lit coziness that gives way to small but gorgeous guest rooms. If leisurely mornings are on the agenda, consider an upgrade to the Charleston Flat guest room, which includes a soaking tub in a spacious, corner unit.

Once settled, head down King Street to Miller’s All Day, a

buzzing diner that serves up brunch (think: steak and eggs and gigantic cinnamon rolls) alongside a cheeky back bar. There will likely be a wait, so plan to arrive a bit early, allowing time to pop in and out of King Street’s high-end shops while waiting for a table to open up. Popular stops include custom candlemaker Candlefish and honey mecca Savannah Bee Company, but be sure not to miss the well-stocked Preservation of Charleston Gift and Book Shop, which includes a variety of local artisans’ work and a bookstore in the back that includes a wide selection of local and historical tomes.

Eat lightly– if possible– at Miller’s because an afternoon stop at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit storefront shouldn’t be missed.

There, savory and flaky sandwiches are served up to hungry tourists and locals alike, all of whom wait in line for their turn to order at the counter. Die-hard fans can lean in even further and book a space in the Biscuiteer 101 class, which provides a tutorial in buttermilk biscuit bliss. From here, it’s only a short walk back to the hotel where a leisurely afternoon nap is the only proper way to prepare for an evening out.

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Birmingham Life | April 2020

ARTICLE JESSICA PAWL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JESSICA PAWL

+ nig ht 1 WHAT TO DO: Kick off the first evening in Charleston with a libation at the hotel’s relaxed lobby bar, the Living Room, which is lauded as one of the city’s best. Live music will likely be softly playing, but a seat at the intimate brass-laden bar is best, if available. There, guests have a front-row view as craft cocktails are shaken and stirred. Order a charcuterie board and enjoy the buzzy atmosphere for an hour or so before requesting a house car to the evening’s first excursion, Old South Carriage Company.

A haunted twilight tour of the city is the perfect way to become familiar with all that lays beyond King Street. This 40-minute horse-drawn carriage ride offers as much history as haunts and is a fantastic way to check out several of the city’s eerie and old graveyards and cemeteries. Later this evening, take time to walk more slowly past one or two. The grand grave markers and lush, often overgrown greens cast especially spooky shadows once the sun has set.

From the carriage company, walk to celebrated restaurant Husk on Queen Street where a reservation is a must. While waiting for the clock, guests can grab a drink at the Husk Bar next door or lounge in the courtyard setting, if space allows. Choose an appetizer from their limited menu, or save a full appetite for the restaurant’s raw oysters. With a menu that changes daily, the Husk restaurant offers only one guarantee: the robust, regionally-based selections won’t disappoint. And although the plates will be serving up the most delightful part of the night, guests are sure to appreciate the gorgeous venue, an 1800s Victorian structure, sitting as stately as ever in the city’s historic district.

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

17

+ Day 2

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

WHAT TO DO: After a late evening, spend the morning enjoying The Dewberry’s comfortable guestroom– and that soaking tub, if possible– before partaking in one of the hotel’s most luxe amenities: the spa. A morning massage sets the right tone before hitting the sidewalks once again, and the masseurs here are wellequipped to soothe a traveler’s muscles. Check in for an appointment at the tiny registration room, but save a few minutes to further decompress in the dimly-lit waiting area on a cozy chaise lounge with a glass of fruit-infused water in hand.

Post massage, hunger is certain to strike, and just downstairs guests can take advantage of Henrietta’s brasserie for a late breakfast or brunch in sun-dappled leather booths. A hearty meal will kick off an afternoon of leisurely exploration. Wander down Meeting Street and take in the gorgeous, historic row houses as you near the water and the fabled Battery Park. En route, tourists can meander past East Bay Street’s legendary Rainbow Row, a collection of 13 colorful Georgian row houses that are nothing if not Instagram-friendly.

At the park itself, stroll the pathways and take in sweeping water views while ducking out of the almost certain engagement and wedding shoots that will be taking place nearby.

Squint out toward the sea and one can just barely make out Fort Sumter, which is another educational way to spend the afternoon, requiring only a 30-minute ferry ride.

Also in the Battery Park area is the historic Nathaniel Russell House museum, the early 1800s home to a wealthy merchant and slave trader. Pay a small fee to walk through the opulent mansion with an iPod-led audio tour and glimpse into the day-to-day of a southerner whose lavish life was made possible only by forced labor 200 years ago. Learn about the finest materials available to craftsmen of the day, all called upon to develop this high-end residence of yesteryear, as well as a realistic and startling look at everyday life for Russell, his family and his enslaved workers.

18

Birmingham Life | April 2020

+ nig ht 2

WHAT TO DO: A trip to the oceanside would hardly be com-

plete without indulging in the region’s seafood specialties. Plan for dinner at King Street’s southern seafood hall and oyster bar The Ordinary, which is tucked inside a former bank, featuring lofty ceilings, beautifully-arched windows and a delightfully-long bar for those who prefer informal seats or forget to book advance reservations. Once seated, choose from cold and hot menu items or simply graze the oyster bar selections.

With dinner complete, those who are apt to get rowdy

need simply step outside. Here, King Street gives way to a scene not so unlike Bourbon Street (save for the beads), full of bustling bars and ripe with students from the city’s two universities celebrating the weekend. If that level of excitement seems a bit much, there are plenty of quieter establishments to duck into, but note that they are outnumbered by tightly packed, music-pumping options with doormen. If fun is an order of the evening, this is where it can be found.

Back on Meeting Street, Doar Bros.’ small and subtle bar

makes for a perfect nightcap for those seeking a bit more solace. Here, craft cocktails are stirred up– sometimes by a former Michigander– and served in style. No matter the libation or atmosphere, a raised glass and gratified toast is the simplest way to conclude a weekend in this charming southern city. Till next time, ya’ll.

+ e c o f r i e n d lY t r av e l t i p s tip tip tip tip tip

1: 2: 3: 4: 5:

Choose lodging wisely. The Dewberry reimagines a mid-century masterpiece (originally commissioned by John F. Kennedy) and boasts eco-friendly LEED certification.

Explore responsibly. The Lowcountry is ripe for paddlesports. Tour operator Coastal Expeditions offers several sustainable options.

Support preservation. Visiting Fort Sumter allows a glimpse of America’s history while promoting continued investment in the National Park Service.

Eat local. Popular restaurant Butcher and Bee fuses Mediterranean and Lowcountry flavors to regional acclaim, without compromising sustainability.

Shop smart. Check out the Historic Charleston City Market for locally-produced and handmade wares that support small business owners.

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

19

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Birmingham Life | April 2020

The foundation of beautiful design Celebrating with our customers and community for 81 years

RUGS

•

CARPET

•

STAIR RUNNERS

•

RUG CLEANING

•

RUG REPAIR & RESTORATION

850 S. Old Woodward • Free Parking Lot 248-646-RUGS (7847) • HagopianRugs.com

LOCALLY OWNED

FIRST ROBOTICS CHAMPIONSHIP TO HAPPEN IN DETROIT THE ROBOT GARAGE, A LOCAL MAKER SPACE, IS NOT ONLY HELPING PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP BUT A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE.

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY DANIEL ERNST AND LAURA MCCAFFERY

22

Birmingham Life | April 2020

BETWEEN APRIL 29 AND MAY 2, HEAD

for the future, but it is also the world’s leading

DOWNTOWN TO SUPPORT OUR FUTURE

youth-serving nonprofit that is advancing

INVENTORS AND INNOVATORS IN THE

STEM education, offering over $80 million in

CLOSE OF YET ANOTHER ROBOTICS SEA-

college scholarship opportunities.

SON AT THE 2020 FIRST CHAMPIONSHIP,

Its mission is “to inspire young people

THE WORLD’S LARGEST CELEBRATION

to be science and technology leaders and

OF

TECHNOLOGY,

innovators, by engaging them in exciting

ENGINEERING AND MATH) FOR STU-

STEM

(SCIENCE,

mentor-based programs that build science,

DENTS. The annual event (which for the last

engineering and technology skills, that

three years has been held in Detroit) will bring

inspire innovation, and that will foster well-

together tens of thousands of students from

rounded life capabilities including self-confi-

all over the world who participate in FIRST’s

dence, communication and leadership,” and

PreK-12 robotics program.

Michigan actually has more FIRST robotics

Not only is FIRST (For Inspiration and

teams than any state in the US.

Recognition of Science and Technology) a

FIRST robotics teams run like small busi-

global robotics community that annually pre-

nesses. Students know their end product

pares 660,000 young people in 110 countries

goal, but they have to obtain startup funds,

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

23

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

learn how to talk to sponsors, put together a presentation,

but if we’re all going to be working with robots and artificial

speak succinctly to judges and much more.

intelligence, there’s such nice ways to teach kids the funda-

“It’s more than just robots,” president at FIRST in Michigan

mentals. We simply wanted to create an accessible place in

Gail Alpert explained. “Every single thing we do builds the

the community where everyone can come and feel successful.”

whole person. In fact, founder of FIRST Dean Kamen always

The Robot Garage has a longstanding partnership with

says, ‘We’re not using kids to build robots. We’re using

FIRST. In fact, FIRST has hired The Robot Garage exclu-

robots to build kids.’”

sively to travel through Michigan to train the majority of

Alpert was a coach of her son’s high school robotics team

the state’s rookie teams over the past five years. The Robot

in 2000, but prior to this role, she said she was not familiar

Garage even hosts weekly FIRST studio nights during

with the program at all.

“build season” for teams to get help.

“I was actually selling real estate at the time,” Alpert

“There are a lot of STEM providers, but The Robot Garage

said, laughing. “I wanted to keep him happy and safe. As I

is the only one who focuses on this one niche,” Sarah Jacobs

watched though, I was just amazed. And I was able to learn

said. “This is all we do, 24/7. We have 110 employees, includ-

right alongside him.”

ing both part-time and full-time staff, as well as high school-

Jonathon and Sarah Jacobs were also inspired by their child’s life-changing experience in robotics, so much, in fact,

The Robot Garage’s two locations offer classes in the

that they actually decided to open up Birmingham’s The Robot

spring, fall and winter for children starting as young as age

Garage, a maker space that teaches engineering and robot-

four. During the summer months, there are a variety of week-

ics to kids, in 2011 and then a second location in Rochester

long camps available for kids first through eighth grade, too.

Hills in 2014. The company began when their oldest daughter, Jane, was in ninth grade on a Bloomfield Hills team.

“When her team made it to the State Finals, we realized

24

ers and college students.”

“Most of our classes and camps actually align with that of FIRST,” Sarah Jacobs explained. “They are meant to provide kids with a strong foundation.”

there were millions of kids like Jane, and if these students were

The Robot Garage is located at both 637 S. Eton St. in

not fortunate enough to be at a school with robotics, they had

Birmingham and 1659 W. Hamlin Rd. in Rochester Hills. For

no access to these amazing programs,” Sarah Jacobs said.

more information about The Robot Garage’s classes or sum-

“This day and age, you don’t have to want to be an engineer,

mer offerings, visit therobotgarage.com.

Birmingham Life | April 2020

“STUDENTS NEED TO START LEARNING HOW TO THINK , AND THAT ’S WHAT ENGINEERING, ROBOTICS AND THE ROBOT GARAGE DOES. IT BUILDS THEIR PROBLEMSOLVING ABILITIES AND E XPANDS THEIR RANGE OF KNOWLEDGE.” -GAIL ALPERT OF FIRST IN MICHIGAN

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

25

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

body + soul

NOURISH your

UNDERSTAND WHAT’S IN YOUR FOOD FOR MINDFUL EATING

ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

26

Birmingham Life | April 2020

T H I N K O U T S I D E T H E S C A L E . T R Y TA K I N G N O T E OF HOW YOUR FOOD MAKES YOU FEEL AFTER Y O U E AT I T. I T ’ S E A S I E R T O M A K E H E A LT H Y CHOICES WHEN YOU CAN FEEL THE DIFFERENCE!

nutrition MINDFUL EATING MEANS KNOWING WHAT IS IN YOUR FOOD, HOW IT IS AFFECTING YOUR BODY AND TAKING THE TIME TO FULLY APPRECIATE THE NUTRIENTS AND FLAVORS YOU ARE TAKING IN. Whether or not you are trying to lose, gain or maintain weight, reading labels and understanding nutrition facts will help you make better choices for your body and ultimately feel better in your day-to-day.

PROTEINS Protein makes you feel full longer. If you eat a meal with little protein, you’ll feel hungry again pretty quickly, and it can be discouraging. But you don’t have to eat a huge steak to get enough protein. You can find it in cheese, nuts, seeds, spinach, eggs, avocados, broccoli, hummus, lentils—the list goes on and on! Mindful eating means taking note of how hungry you feel and eating enough protein to satisfy that hunger in a way that will last.

C A R B O H Y D R AT E S Carbohydrates are not your enemy. But, it is important to pay attention to how you feel when you eat them. If you eat a lot of carbs in one sitting, it can cause your blood sugar to spike, and when it drops back down, you can feel lethargic and maybe even irritable.

By spreading your carbohydrate intake throughout your day and always pairing it with a protein, you can help your body regulate your blood sugar more effectively and feel more alert all day long.

F AT S Fats also help slow carbohydrates down so they don’t instantly turn into sugar in your bloodstream. Fats are important for energy, and it’s especially important to eat the right kinds of fats for your brain. For better concentration and memory, try to incorporate foods like salmon, avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil.

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

27

NOW OPEN

Spa Mariana

OPENS NEW LOCATION LOCATED OFF ETON ST., THE NEW SPA MARIANA LOCATION IS THE ONLY SPA IN MICHIGAN WITH A FOOT SANCTUARY.

LYKO HAS TRAVELED TO DIFFERENT PARTS OF EUROPE TO EXPERIENCE AND FIND ONLY THE BEST TREATMENTS TO BRING TO HIS SPAS IN MICHIGAN, AND HE IS EXCITED TO BE THE FIRST SPA IN THE STATE TO INCLUDE A FOOT SANCTUARY AT HIS NEW LOCATION ON 223 NORTH ETON STREET IN BIRMINGHAM. “There is so much healing power in our feet to help balance, nourish and heal oneself that the experience needs to be felt to truly understand why he chose to add this to his new treatments,” Chief Operating Officer and Director of Spa Experience Jennifer Beyer said.

Another couple exciting features at the new location include herbal relaxation sessions with a foot soak (a fully-clothed, 60-minute treatment with hand/foot reflexology, neck/shoulder massage, compression and scalp massage), as well as the fact that the spa will be moving forward to being completely green by 2022.

“When our clients speak, we listen,” Beyer said. “Spa Mariana guests asked us to push our limits to offer an even deeper level of relaxation and indulge in new experiences with us."

Spa Mariana is offering the first 25 foot sanctuary bookings an additional $10 off. Call (248)-792-2050 and mention #Relax79 to redeem this special offer! The spa’s hours are Monday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

28

Birmingham Life | April 2020

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER | PHOTOGRAPHY LAURA MCCAFFERY

FOR THE LAST TWO YEARS, SPA MARIANA OWNER MACIEK

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

29

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

12

24

EASTER SUNDAY BRUNCH

PULSE. BEAT. RHYTHM.

(380 S Bates St, Birmingham)

(850 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham)

Enjoy a beautiful Easter Brunch with

A part of the casual and intimate

family and friends in The Community

"NightNotes Series," Pulse. Beat.

EVENTS MAY CHANGE;

House’s gorgeous Wallace Ballroom

Rhythm. will feature Joseph Becker

PLEASE CHECK THE

and let them do the cooking! It'll be a

(percussion), Andre Dowell (percus-

buffet-style brunch with something for

sion), Andres Pichardo-Rosenthal

ORGANIZATION’S WEBSITE

everyone, and the Easter Bunny itself

(percussion) and Xavier Verna (per-

FOR CURRENT DETAILS

will be there. There are seatings at

cussion). Meet fresh faces and old

10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. Call

friends at Hagopian at 7:30 p.m. Each

(248)-644-5832 to make a reservation.

performance is preceded by a 7 p.m.

DUE TO MANY JUST-INTIME CANCELLATIONS OF PUBLIC GATHERINGS AFTER WE GO TO PRINT, PLEASE RECOGNIZE THAT THESE

5

Hagopian World of Rugs

The Community House

reception, inviting the audience to

20

NATIONAL ALL THINGS DETROIT DAY

meet the artists.

25

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION

Eastern Market

Recreation Activities Center

MODERN MANNERS FOR CHILDREN

(2934 Russell Street, Detroit)

(4640 Walnut Lake Rd, West Bloomfield)

Head to Eastern Market from 11 a.m. to

From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., celebrate Earth

4 p.m. to check out a curated group of

Day and explore the Nature Room and

more than 250 small businesses. "All

Outdoor Natural Play Area. There will

(3951 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills)

Things Detroit" is more than a semian-

be guided nature hikes at 4:30 and

From 12 to 2:30 p.m., young adults

nual event spotlighting them though:

5:30 p.m. (must pre-register), recycled

will be provided with the tools they

it's a community drawn together by

crafts, live animal interactions and

need to navigate a complicated

founder Jennyfer Crawford, owner

more. This is a FREE event.

world with kindness, class and con-

Oakland Hills Country Club

of Ask Jennyfer. It's a mindset that

fidence. Led by Bluestone Executive

supports entrepreneurial efforts and

Communications' Certified Etiquette

takes shopping local seriously.

Instructor Danielle Kovachevich, this age-appropriate program takes place

Independent Insurance Agency Working for You! CALL US FOR YOUR BUSINESS START UP

Committed to Our Community

One Life at a Time • Personal Insurance • Commercial Insurance 32

Birmingham Life | April 2020

• Financial Insurance • Health Insurance

Insurance Management Consultation

- CONTACT LUCRETIA 41000 Woodward Ave. | Bloomfield Hills

248.642.6004

www.hollidayinsurancecompany.com | lucretia@hollidayinsurancecompany.com

over an elegant three-course meal and empowers children to elevate their behaviors to make others (and themselves) more comfortable.

26

for librarians, educators and care-

LAKER CONCERT FEATURING SIX13

Bloomfield Township Library. The

givers working with people who have disabilities will be held at the

Temple Israel

keynote speaker is Morénike Giwa

25

(5725 Walnut Lake Rd, West Bloomfield)

Onaiwu, EdD(c); MA (autism self-ad-

At 4 p.m., come check out Six13, a

vocate, speaker, educator, author,

BRUNCH BITES

groundbreaking, six-man A CAPPELLA

researcher and mom). Space is lim-

vocal band that brings an unprece-

ited. Register by April 25.

Downtown Royal Oak

dented style and energy to Jewish

What's better than brunch? The top

music with nothing but the power of the

brunch destinations of Downtown

human voice. Six13 is driven by a mis-

Royal Oak are teaming up for one

sion to connect Jews around the world

SUPER brunch on Saturday, April

with their heritage through music. Free

25 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Your

and open to the community.

ticket would include a brunch food and drink sample from each participating location. For more info, visit brunchbitesevent.com/royal-oak.

Tickets are for those over 21.

30 THE FIRST ANNUAL ROYAL OAK ANIMAL SHELTER FURBALL Fifth Avenue

30

(215 West 5th Street, Royal Oak)

ADAPTIVE UMBRELLA: AN ACCESSIBILITY WORKSHOP

dedicated volunteers invite you for an

The Royal Oak Animal Shelter fundraising committee and a group of evening out on the town, beginning at

Bloomfield Township Public Library

6 p.m. Come enjoy the music, appe-

(1099 Lone Pine Road,

tizers and libations while bidding in a

Bloomfield Township)

silent auction and getting silly in our

From 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., a workshop

photo booth.

April 2020 | Birmingham Life

33

CULINARY CREATIONS

kale salad with "drench" citrus honey vinaigrette dressing

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY LEXI HARRISON OF CROWDED KITCHEN

THIS SALAD RECIPE IS BOTH HEARTY AND SATISFYING SINCE QUINOA IS CONSIDERED A COMPLETE PROTEIN. Founder of “drench” Karen Akouri said she loves this recipe for many reasons, including giving her “gut” a break, reducing her global footprint, saving animals, lowering her risk of chronic diseases and keeping her on the path of healthy eating. For more Meatless Monday recipes, visit idrench. com or follow @drenchdressing on Instagram.

kale salad

INGREDIENTS

+ 1 pound curly kale or baby kale, washed, de-stemmed and chopped (can use pre-washed and chopped kale; no need to de-stem and chop if using baby kale!) + 3/4 to 1 cup sliced pine nuts or almonds + 1 cup caramelized golden raisins + 1 cup shaved parmesan cheese + 1/2 cup dry quinoa + 12 oz bottle of “drench” Citrus Honey Vinaigrette DIRECTIONS Prepare quinoa according to box directions; however, use one-to-one ratio. Add 1/2 cup quinoa and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan. (Quinoa increases in volume about three times when it’s cooked, so you won’t use all of this in your salad!). Cover and cook on low heat for 10 min.

Remove from pan and let cool.

Sautée sliced pine nuts or almonds on medium heat with about two teaspoons of olive oil (just enough to lightly coat the pan) until lightly golden for a few minutes and remove from pan and let cool. (Watch carefully as nuts will burn easily!). You can purchase the nuts already roasted; however, sautéing your own really brings out the aroma and flavor of the nuts.

While raisins, nuts and quinoa are cooling, wash, de-stem and chop kale. Then, using food service gloves, toss greens with the desired amount of “drench” Citrus Honey Vinaigrette. Incorporate 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa

FOUNDER OF LOCAL ALL-NATURAL, CLEAN SALAD DRESSINGS (“DRENCH”) SHARES A FAVORITE MEATLESS MONDAY RECIPE. 34

Birmingham Life | April 2020

and then sprinkle with nuts, parmesan and raisins.

Cooking tip: you can “drench” your salad hours before serving, and it won’t get wilted; it will actually taste better!

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