Mount Clemens, MI September 2023

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Dear Reader,

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy!

Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes or offices, to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

Style is deeply personal. It’s a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world, and what we value. About a year ago I transitioned from a career in corporate America to my dream job becoming owner and publisher of Mount Clemens City Lifestyle. Over time, I’ve been retiring some of my previous workwear and creating my new workspace.

I’m discovering that style is a tool to transform one’s self-image. Changing how you look, or your environment, can significantly impact your mindset and overall outlook on life. I encourage you to envision how you want to see yourself and how that version of yourself shows up in the world. Transforming your self-image through mindset, style, and surroundings can be a powerful tool for personal growth and success.

I hope this issue inspires you to try something new this season, whether it’s a bold red lipstick, a new pair of eyeglasses, or creating the perfect sanctuary to spend your time working or relaxing. There is so much here in Mount Clemens to ignite your creativity.

Here’s to being uniquely you!

KIMBERLY JANOWICZ, PUBLISHER @MOUNTCLEMENSCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Janowicz | kimberly.janowicz@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Amy Niezur | amy.niezur@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kevin Shea, Sam Harms, Jason Carbary, Andy Schwartz, Emma Burcusel

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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Tag your Instagram photos with @mountclemenscitylifestyle

1: Chad Valead and Susan Laurent at Gumbo’s Mardi Gras Block Party. 2: Owner Jeremy Taite, Laila, and Issa at Gumbo’s 1st Annual Mardi Gras Block Party. 3: Corinne McKay, graduate of Mount Clemens High School, is awarded the Mount Clemens Kiwanis Scholarship. 4: Azalyiah Wallace proudly accepts the Mount Clemens Kiwanis Scholarship to attend the University of Kentucky. 5: Amy Solomon, Junia Querio, and Jena Solomon enjoy the Sight & Sound Riverfront concert. 6: Mary Navalta listens to Air Margaritaville at the Sight & Sound Riverfront concert. 7: Danny Krawczyk and Teri Krawczyk enjoy the concert along the Clinton River.

Photography by Kimberly Janowicz

LaCroix Eye Care is excited to add another fabulous line to our designer collection. Italian brand Coco Song creates women’s luxury eyewear delivering an unparalleled artistic masterpiece in each and every frame. Drawing inspiration from the mystery of the Orient, each frame is made by the careful hand and expertise of an artisan taking a minimum of 6 months to perfect. Exquisite elements such as silk, feathers and semi-precious stones are matched with acetates to create a magical blend of Italian design and Asian culture.

Transform your style with the colorful world of Coco Song! Experience the LaCroix Eye Care difference… book your appointment today!

586-468-4211

136 Cass Ave | Mount Clemens visionsource-lacroixeyecare.com

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

American Dream Experience October 5-6 at Macomb Community College

At the American Dream Experience, you’ll engage in a profound exploration of your family’s financial future. Unlike any financial training available, this is your opportunity to discover what investing really is, how it works, and how it can fulfill your purpose for your life. You will have the opportunity to alter your relationship with money and invest in a way that leaves you and those you care about powerfully pursuing your dreams. Visit first.adxleader.com/the-american-dream-experience

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MountClemens

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA

Vision, Wellness, Style

LACROIX EYE CARE COMBINES THE LATEST TRENDS WITH QUALITY SERVICE

Wearing glasses is often a necessity, but why not do it in style? LaCroix Eye Care, with its history of serving Mount Clemens for over 80 years, combines a commitment to quality care spanning three generations with advanced diagnostic technology and the latest trends in eyewear.

LaCroix Eye Care was founded in 1939 by Dr. Albert LaCroix. His daughter, Dr. Ann LaCroix Fredal, joined the practice in 1984, after watching her father work as a child. Says Dr. Ann, “My mom was my dad’s receptionist, and they would take me to work with them on Saturday mornings. I was fascinated by the precision and attention to detail that was incorporated into the eye examination. I couldn’t have imagined a better career for myself. I have now had the honor of personally taking care of five generations of patients!”

CONTINUED >

“Oversized frames have been on trend for a few seasons, and we have an impressive selection at every price point. Round frames with a keyhole bridge, popularized by Oliver Peoples, have a classic cool vibe. This silhouette is available in many of our collections. Translucent and colorful plastic styles and geometric metal frames are all the rage.”

Dr. Tessa Fredal, Dr. Ann LaCroix Fredal, Dr. Joyce Yestrepsky.

Photo by Sam Harms.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives the personalized attention necessary to achieve optimal visual performance, eye health, and overall wellness.”

Dr. Ann was joined in 2015 by associate Dr. Joyce Yestrepsky, and finally in 2022 by her daughter, Dr. Tessa Fredal, who adds, “My grandparents were honest, hardworking people who always treated patients in and out of the office with genuine care, and my mother fostered this culture. I was inspired by her example to carry on the legacy of conscientiousness and exceptional care.”

“The patients at LaCroix are like family,” says Dr. Joyce, “and it is so rewarding for me to help each of my patients to see at their optimal level.” Supporting the doctors in this goal is cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art instrumentation. “Lens technology has evolved exponentially in the last few years,” notes Dr. Tess. “We are dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives the personalized attention necessary to achieve optimal visual performance, eye health, and overall wellness. We think our mission statement says it all:  VISION. WELLNESS. STYLE.”

Speaking of style, says Denise Schroeder, an optician at LaCroix, “Oversized frames have been on trend for a few seasons, and we have an impressive selection at every price point. Round frames with a key-hole bridge, popularized by Oliver Peoples, have a classic cool vibe. This silhouette is available in many of our collections. Translucent and colorful plastic styles and geometric metal frames are all the rage.”

In addition to Oliver Peoples, “We offer a myriad of cutting-edge designer collections such as Tom Ford, Gucci, and Tiffany, to name a few,” says Denise. “We have also added a fabulous new line to our practice, Coco Song. Based in Florida and made in Italy, the uniqueness of the assembly is what elevates the brand. Each frame is handcrafted and takes at least six months to produce—no two are the same.” No matter what your style, she adds, “We definitely have something for every taste and every face.”

“Over eight decades of longevity and loyalty to serving the community with quality eye and wellness care speaks volumes,” says Dr. Ann. “Our team has been voted Best of the Best by the readers of the Macomb Daily three years in a row, and we are committed to earn that title every day.”

Historic Meets Modern

46 Macomb Place Finds New Life as Law Office

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON CARBARY, ANDY SCHWARTZ, EMMA BURCUSEL

In 1891, George and Mortimer Shotwell built 46 Macomb Place here in Mount Clemens. Designed in Queen Anne style, the building housed their business, called Mineral Springs Drug Store. At the time, architect Northup J. Gibbs designed many of the buildings in town, and 46 Macomb Place was no exception. The building featured electricity and steam heat, and along with the drug store, the first floor housed United Lines Telegraph Company. Above were three suites, which were described as “elegant”, and certainly were for the time.

In the decades that followed, 46 Macomb Place, also known as the Van Camp Building, was home to several businesses, including Brown and Brown Menswear, Hauptman’s Grocery, Hecht Appliance, Baskin Robbins Ice Cream, and McSorley’s Irish Pub. Unfortunately, after sitting vacant for the past decade, the building had fallen into disrepair. After having his eye on the site for 25 years, 46 Macomb Place was purchased by Joe Nahas, President of American Tradition Custom Builders, who began an extensive renovation

Mark and Jodi Switalski

in collaboration with former Judge Jodi Debbrecht Switalski, owner of Switalski Law, PLLC, where she practices with her husband, retired Judge Mark Switalski. Says Jodi, “The exposed brick walls and original tin ceiling are what initially attracted me, but as soon as I toured the remainder of the building, I knew how much potential it had.” She continues, “The original build-out was supposed to be one suite upstairs and downstairs. We moved in while construction was in process but soon realized we needed to expand further to encompass Mark's mediation practice.”

As a result, the renovation was extended to additional suites and the rooftop of the building. The extra space will not just house the law firm, but allow space for community events such as fundraisers, Macomb Chamber LEAD meetings, and more.

Intent on preserving the history of the structure while reflecting the aesthetics of a modern law firm, Jodi and Joe chose to keep much of the first floor original to make the most of its unique character, while the second floor blends contemporary design with the structure’s historic appeal. Downstairs, the tin ceiling was painted yet left imperfect to retain its charm, and exposed brick and uncovered pipes complete the look.  The 7 ½ feet by 5 ½ feet windows, with transoms above, were enhanced with three additional windows on the Walnut Street side to maximize natural light.

To help provide a cohesive feel and reflect the time period the building was constructed, Edison bulbs are used throughout, from wrought iron pipe lighting fixtures to the large wagon wheel chandelier illuminating the library.

Artwork displayed in the building reflects the history of Mount Clemens, including photographs of the Macomb County Building from 1935, the Mount Clemens Pottery Company from 1914, and a photo of 46 Macomb Place from 1955. Additionally, pieces of wallpaper dating to the early 20th century discovered during the renovation were framed and are on display. Other pieces relate to justice and the law, such as Rosa Park’s mug shot and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

Another interesting find during the renovation was an entire wall of law books, some dating back as far as 1874. The completed law library at 46 Macomb Place houses these books, along with the firm’s diplomas and professional achievements.

In addition to their law practice in its freshly renovated historic home, Jodi and Mark will serve as Honorary Chairs for the 2023 ArtParty at the Anton Art Center on September 21.  Says Jodi, “This is the largest fundraiser of the year for Anton and a spectacular evening. The Anton Art Center exemplifies the impact that art can have on community development, education, inclusivity, and everyday life. It plays a key role in defining Mount Clemens as an Art City.”

Through their work at 46 Macomb Place and with the Anton Art Center, Jodi and Mark express their commitment to Mount Clemens. A source of pride is “deepening our investment into the community and the people in addition to committing to the resurgence of Mount Clemens,” according to Jodi. “Being a part of this community and giving back to it is quite special.”

“The exposed brick walls and original tin ceiling are what initially attracted me, but as soon as I toured the remainder of the building, I knew how much potential it had.”

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

Mount Clemens, a down-to-earth city that has everything from riverfront views to convenient shopping. Come to Mount Clemens for a day of shopping and enjoy an outstanding meal or snack at one of the many restaurants. Finish off your visit by enjoying the exciting Mount Clemens nightlife.

The Oasis Social District is where people can buy and drink alcoholic beverages outdoors in the city's downtown area from participating businesses. See signage in the downtown area for limitations.

Is the battery running low on your career future? We can help you find the training you need to advance your career or match you to jobs and employers in the high paying fields, and supporting fields, of the electric vehicle and advanced manufacturing industries.

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA

THE ENCHANTED Garden

“Our house and garden are very personal and reflect the things that we like and enjoy,” says Joel Baird, an interior designer from Mount Clemens. “I like to create interesting ‘rooms’ in the garden that get revealed as you look around. I don’t want you to see everything in one view.”

Joel and his wife, Denise, moved to Mount Clemens decades ago, buying their first house on Smith Street. Their current home, where they have lived for 30 years, is home to their stunning garden. Mount Clemens appealed to Joel from the start. “I grew up in Armada,” he explains, “and used to come to Mount Clemens for doctor visits. I would drive through this neighborhood when getting back over to Groesbeck to go home. I always loved the old houses and architecture here.”

Professionally, Joel works collaborating with designers on hand-knotted rugs and custom broadloom carpet designs at the Michigan Design Center’s Ghiordes Knot showroom, along with his own interior design company, Baird Design Group.

Of course, Joel doesn’t limit his love of design to his work. At home, his garden reflects his eye for color, style, and natural beauty. “I designed the garden over the years and have refined it along the way. We like to have a very relaxed, cottage-style garden with a pergola and sunroom as features for guests.”

Denise and Joel Baird

Among the plantings, including Denise’s beloved hydrangeas, Joel incorporates art in the yard, displayed on the house, in the sunroom, and throughout the garden. Some are Joel’s original work, while others are pieces he and his wife have collected. They also collect china and items with thistle motifs, which they worked into the design of a custom garden gate.

The sunroom, the perfect spot for spending a pleasant afternoon, was built about 20 years ago, along with a carriage house. “Many of the homes in this area have original carriage houses in the back yard due to the access to the old alleys,” says Joel. “We studied the other buildings and built a similar story and a half building with a stairway and a full second story for storage.” The sunroom, attached to the carriage house, “feels like it is part of the garden since it has windows on three sides and sits in the formal garden.”

Many of the homes in the neighborhood feature fairy gardens around the bases of trees, notes Joel, and their home is no exception. “We just started ours this year, at the base of our magnolia tree in the shade garden by our front door. I handmade some of the items and we are slowly adding things as we find them. We like to have one new item each time our granddaughter comes here.”

Joel’s advice to those looking to elevate their own gardens is to start by selecting areas for structural focal points, such as architectural items and urns. For interest, install an easy-to-maintain water feature. “We have two that just recycle water from reservoirs underneath, so no children can fall in and harm themselves,” he says. When it comes to the plants, Joel recommends planning for year-round interest, with a variety of blooming times for flowers. Also, “mix green leaf plants and trees against red leaf plants and trees—gardens are more about contrast than matching colors.”

At home or in the garden, Joel and Denise love living in Mount Clemens. “Whenever we discuss moving,” he says, “we decide not to—it would be very difficult to find another house in a community as interesting as what we already have.”

Visit Joel’s Instagram account @joelrbaird to see more of his work.

The Comfort of Indoors—Outside!

PATIO ROLLER SHADES FROM VERTICAL VIC’S

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DRAPER, INC

Looking to turn your garage, porch, or other space into a more enjoyable outdoor living area? Christa Bazinski of Vertical Vic’s Blinds and Drapery in Mount Clemens offers a stylish solution. Patio roller shades can create “a more pleasant experience outdoors,” says Christa. “The shades help with harsh glare and sunlight and can protect against wind and insects.”

Vertical Vic’s offers patio roller shades in a variety of fabric colors and levels of opacity, with different options for controlling the shades. Motorized XL shades can be up to 16 feet by 11 feet and crank or clutch shades up to 11 feet by 11 feet, depending on the fabric chosen. These shades are intended to diffuse sunlight and should be pulled up in windy weather. More robust options, such as those with zipper side channels, can handle higher winds. The motorized zipper XL shades are available up to 25 feet by 15 feet, with optional obstacle detection for safety. For more information on upgrading your space with patio roller shades, visit their knowledgeable sales staff in the showroom or call Vertical Vic’s at 586-465-3631.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 8TH

September Art and Craft Show

DOWNTOWN MOUNT CLEMENS | 11:00 AM

Looking for something to do on a late summer weekend? The second annual Downtown Art and Craft Show will feature a variety of items for sale with artists on hand to answer questions. Show runs Friday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Saturday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, along with live entertainment. Space still available for crafters, call 586-469-4168.

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Uptown Friday Night Concert Series

FOUNTAIN STAGE ON MACOMB PLACE, MOUNT CLEMENS, MI | 7:00 PM

The Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority continues their live entertainment series! Bring your lawn chairs to the Fountain Stage and enjoy jazz music featuring Olivia Van Goor, Ian Blunden, Trevor Lamb, and Dave Zwolinski. Drinks available for purchase at the Oasis Social District from participating businesses. Sponsored by Mount Clemens City Lifestyle.

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Mount Clemens Grand Prix Soap Box Derby

40 CROCKER BLVD MOUNT CLEMENS, MI | 8:00 AM

Children ages 5-12 race for local charities! Enjoy music, a pancake breakfast at the fire station, and food specials at Rec Bowl. Hosted by the Mount Clemens Lions Club. For information, visit facebook.com/MountClemensLions

SEPTEMBER 16TH

River Sight and Sound Concert Series

CLINTON RIVER PARK, MOUNT CLEMENS, MI | 7:00 PM

The River Sight and Sound Concert series welcomes the Erinn Alexis Jazz Quintet. Enjoy the sounds of music along the river! Families are welcome to sit on both sides of the riverbank and bring chairs, blankets, coolers, etc. Boat wells are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Presented by the Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority.

SEPTEMBER 21ST

Anton Art Center's ArtParty

ANTON ART CENTER, 125 MACOMB PLACE MOUNT CLEMENS, MI | 6:00 PM

Enjoy an evening of food, entertainment, and art supporting the Anton Art Center's programs. This year's theme is "Express Yourself", and the theme color is 2023 Pantone Color of the Year: Viva Magenta. Live music, art demonstrations, and hands-on art experiences will enhance the evening. Presented by First State Bank. For more information and tickets, visit theartcenter.org/artparty

SEPTEMBER 23RD

Mount Clemens Public Library Grand Reopening

150 CASS AVE MOUNT CLEMENS, MI | 10:00 AM

Join the excitement at our library's Grand Reopening party! We will celebrate the official reopening of the library with a ribbon cutting, food, face painting, giveaways, and more! After two years of renovations, see the many exciting changes including an expanded section for teens, maker spaces, and larger story time area.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MountClemens

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 oz- Cucumber & dragon fruit gin

• 3/4oz- Toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum

• 1/2oz- Lime juice

• Topped with ginger beer

• Hawaiian black lava salt & black sesame

GARNISH

• Small paint brush

• Simple syrup

• Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with a pinch of black sesame

The Magic Dragon

Make a Statement With This Stylish Cocktail

INSTRUCTIONS

Infused Gin: Infuse 1 whole peeled and cut cucumber in gin for a week. Strain the cucumbers out. Add 1 tablespoon of organic dragonfruit powder and mix very well with a whisk. To make the syrup, toast 1/2 cup of black sesame at 350 for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool. In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted black sesame, but not too fine. Add the sesame into one bottle of John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum. Let that set for about 2 to 3 days and use cheese cloth to strain out the fine bits of sesame. Juice one fresh lime and strain to remove the pulp.

Cocktail: Paint a strip of simple syrup down a Collins glass. Take a spoon full of Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with black sesame and layer that down where the painted simple syrup was placed. In a shaker tin combine: 1 1/2oz cucumber dragon fruit gin, 3/4oz toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum, and 1/2oz lime juice and shake that up!  Fill the painted glass with ice (I use crushed ice) and strain over the ice. Top with your favorite ginger beer (my choice is fever tree ginger beer).

ARTICLE BY MATSUMOTO MARI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES