Mount Clemens, MI March 2024

Choosing the right Medicare coverage can be confusing with its alphabet soup of options. There is Original Medicare (Parts A and B), Medicare Supplement (Plans A-N), Prescription Drug Plan (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) and more.

How do you know what is the right choice for you?

Let’s have a no-cost to you, no-obligation conversation, and I’ll provide answers to your questions, and you’ll learn about:

 The A, B, C’s of Medicare

 How and when you can enroll

 What are supplements and how they help

 Extra Help with prescription drugs

 What is not covered by Medicare

 What are the options beyond Medicare

Call, message or email me to schedule an appointment and let me help you understand your options.

Home: Transforming Spaces, Inspiring Lives

Hello, my friends!

As the seasons change and our city undergoes exciting transformations, it’s only fitting that our focus turns toward the heart of it all — our homes. In this issue, we celebrate the essence of home, the stories embedded within historic walls, the artistry of remodeling and the thrill of embarking on a new home-ownership journey.

The saying goes, “If walls could talk,” and indeed, behind the enduring facades of historic homes lie tales of generations past … stories of resilience and love throughout the passage of time. We delve into the charm and character of one couple’s historic home renovation. From preserving architectural details to blending modern conveniences, discover the delicate balance of honoring the past while embracing the future.

Remodeling a home is a transformative journey, one that transcends bricks and mortar. It’s an expression of personal style, a reflection of evolving needs and a canvas where memories are painted. Our pages unfold with insights into the latest cabinetry trends, expert tips and inspiring stories of individuals who have turned their houses into homes that truly resonate with their spirit. For those contemplating a new chapter in homeownership, we share guidance on navigating the process of buying a home. Finding the perfect dwelling is not just about the structure, but also about becoming part of a community on the brink of new possibilities.

Our city is more than just a backdrop; it’s our home. As it transforms and evolves, so do the spaces we inhabit. Join us in celebrating the beauty of these transformations, from the historic to the contemporary, as we explore the various facets of home in this special Home + Design issue.

Wishing you warmth and inspiration,

KIMBERLY JANOWICZ, PUBLISHER @MOUNTCLEMENSCITYLIFESTYLE

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city scene

1: Melissa and David Lavender open Uma’s Market & Cafe at 52 Walnut Street. 2: Deziree Burford and Vega Lavender, who operate Uma’s Market & Cafe, welcome new customers. 3: Anton Art Center’s Outdoors Exhibit with juror Lori Zurvalec, June Nash sold her squirrel sculpture, “Nuts.” 4: Sarah Kasper with her second-place painting, “Dawn’s Rosy Fingers,” acrylic on canvas. 5: First place was awarded to Peggy Ann Whiteley for her oil painting “Kitch iti kipi.” 6: First State Bank President & CEO, Mark Jansen, inducted as Macomb County Chamber Chairman of the Board. 7: Macomb County Chamber of Commerce 2024 Board of Directors induction. Photography by Kimberly Janowicz

To open an account, scan the QR code, visit your local branch, or online at fsb.bank/winter-savings

Balances are fully insured up to the FDIC’s allowable limits.

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) as of 11/06/2023. Rates on certificates of deposit accounts are fixed for the duration of the term unless otherwise disclosed; fees could reduce earnings; penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal on Certificate of Deposit accounts. You must deposit at least $1,000 to open the 15-Month CD and earn APY. Deposits must be new funds to First State Bank. Current First State Bank customers are eligible to make a one-time transfer from another First State Bank account of up to $25,000 with the deposit of $5,000 or greater in funds new to First State Bank. Limit one account transfer offer per tax-reported owner. Promotional offer subject to change or cancellation at any time.

**Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of 11/06/2023 and subject to change. This is a variable rate account and the interest rates and APYs may change at any time. Limited time offer. Limit one account per Tax ID. Balances from $1,000 to $4,999.99 earn 3.50% APY. Balances between $5,000-24,999.99 earn 4.00% APY. Balances $25,000+ earn 4.50% APY. Promotional rate guaranteed for 12 months from date of account opening. Other terms and restrictions apply. A minimum of $1,000 to open account and earn APY. Deposits must be new funds to First State Bank. Current First State Bank customers are eligible to make a one-time transfer from another First State Bank account of up to $25,000 with the deposit of $1,000 or greater in funds new to First State Bank. Fees may reduce earnings. Make up to six withdrawals per monthly statement cycle via ATM, in-branch transaction, or online transfer. After six withdrawals, an excess transaction fee will apply

Fire Chief Marks Retirement

Greg Sisoy, owner of The Engine House, recently celebrated his retirement. In December, the Detroit Fire Chief stepped away from 35 years of fighting fires and service to the city’s department. Greg says because he loved what he did, his work in the department never felt like a job. He will continue to run the popular bar and restaurant in Mount Clemens.

Scan to read more

A LEGACY TO BUILDON

DESIGNER-TURNED-OWNER AND HER CREATIVE TEAM DEVELOP RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH RENOVATIONS

ARTICLE BY AMY SALVAGNO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA AND SKYVIEW EXPERTS

“Listening is our little sweet spot; it really sets us apart.”

Your home should be your haven – a sanctuary of solace that provides warmth, respite and even functionality. Yet over the years, it can become a space that needs sprucing up. So, whether you’re looking to add usefulness to a mudroom or completely overhaul the look of your kitchen, the talented team of experts at Cabinetry by Better Bilt can guide you from the smallest update to the most jaw-dropping transformation.

A staple in the community for the past 47 years, the company has undergone its own remodel since Andrea Yeip purchased it five years ago, after joining as an interior designer in 2012. The showroom has been elegantly expanded and improved, and she’s brought on several designers with a fresh vision who she says are willing to push the envelope and work with trends. The team is often gathered in an office, collaborating on various projects.

“The future of the company is what we provide to people. We know whatever project they have planned: they’ve been

saving for it and it’s an investment for them,” Andrea says. “They come to us because they’ve either passed by us over the years and now, they need us, or their parents came here and they remember Better Bilt. They come in as a stranger and leave as a friend.”

Although known for kitchen remodels, Andrea and her team also provide design and products for bathrooms, laundry rooms, offices, and mudrooms. With its refreshed facade beaming from the corner of Gratiot and Cass avenues in Mount Clemens, the respected business is a one-stop shop for your project. Here, customers have their pick of a variety of striking countertops, eye-catching backsplash, stylish flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures, sinks and even cabinet handles and drawer knobs. They range in styles, from the iconic minimalism of mid-century modern to the dignified sophistication of traditional to the rustic warmth of farmhouse.

Last year, Better Bilt added the availability of interior design services incorporating furniture, including stools, club chairs, dining tables and coffee tables, as well as lighting. Andrea notes the company also designs closet organizers, bookshelves and even mudroom lockers.

“People want to go to one place, so the more things we can offer keeps the project moving and is less stress on the homeowners,” says Andrea. “We have a network of people that we built relationships with, so if you are asking for something that we don’t offer, we can confidently refer you to the right vendor to assist you.”

At the beginning stage of a project, both Design Manager Devon Moore and Interior Designer Alex Tooma prefer to visit a client’s home to first understand how the surrounding space will integrate with the new changes.

“It also helps me get a sense of who they are in their own home, or what they like or dislike. They can be overwhelmed here because there is a lot to see,” says Devon. “I tend to do my info gathering in their comfort zone before I bring them into my comfort zone.”

For Alex, next steps involve color. A recent kitchen project showcased warm tones, with dark maple cabinets opposite

those of white maple, complemented by light countertops with dark veining, a neutral backsplash and natural flooring that captured both cabinet colors.

“Our portfolio is very diverse … no job is the same,” he says. “I like the learning aspect of the job. Every project is different with no two jobs being the same. When we run into a challenge, it sticks with you, and you remember it for next time.”

Devon, who has been designing for 19 years, still finds herself becoming attached to clients. “Because I’ve been doing this for so long, I have repeat clients. I’ve seen babies born, they’ve seen mine,” she laughs. “I like seeing the job come to fruition … to have a customer say, ‘This is exactly what I envisioned. I can’t believe this is my house,’ even years later. It’s what I love about this job – I’m doing something to make people happy.”

“It’s fun to see how excited the client is throughout the process,” adds Danielle Malecki, design assistant. “I love to see them get what they expected at the end, and then soon they’re calling us for their next project.”

Andrea says the most important aspect of Better Bilt’s customer service is to ask clients their opinions and what they want their space to look like. “Listening is our little sweet spot; it really sets us apart.”

» Kitchens

» Bathrooms

» Closets

» Offices

» Laundry Rooms

» Interior Design Services

IF Historic WALLS COULD TALK

ARTICLE BY AMY SALVAGNO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA

Their house is more than a home – it’s a step back in time. Few can lounge where ladies once sipped tea in ruffled skirts and blouses that boasted simple brooches. Or share meals in the same dining room that hosted lively chats between dapperly-dressed gentlemen.

For the past 13 years, John and Laurie Brian have lived among a century’s worth of memories in their historic home on Belleview Street in Mount Clemens. And they have committed to maintaining its legacy and grandeur.

“Romantically, we always wanted a Victorian-era house,” says John, noting that the couple has long had an appreciation for the vintage lifestyle. “When we moved in, we had all of this history presented to us and that really set us on a path for having a love of antiques and to restore and rehabilitate.”

The 1895 Colonial Revival house was built by William S. Jenney for his bride, Grace Nellis. The couple married in 1899 – he was an attorney in the city and son of the mayor; she was the youngest daughter of the publisher of the Mount Clemens Monitor. They had two children before a rare and shocking divorce in 1916 – rumors circulated over the reason, though members of the two prominent families claimed it was a dispute over money.

JOHN AND LAURIE BRIAN SHARE THE TIMELESS CHARM OF THEIR 1895 COLONIAL

“FOR THE FIRST WEEK, I WOULD WALK DOWN THE STAIRS AND IT WAS A SURREAL MOMENT: I  CAN’T BELIEVE I LIVE HERE. I’M HONORED TO BE a part OF THIS LEGACY.”

Grace and her children remained in the Belleview house, and she followed in the footsteps of her father and brother, Frank, who also worked in the newspaper business. Grace became the society editor for the Michigan Business Farmer and then wrote for the Monitor.

When the residence was converted into a two-flat home, the back staircase was used as the second-floor entrance for Grace’s sister, and a nook was built off the kitchen. Grace added on a first-floor bedroom for herself, which is now an English Tudor-style pub off the dining room.

One of the oldest homes in Mount Clemens, it’s still filled with unique and original features: A coal-burning fireplace in the parlor; a glistening gasolier in the dining room; crisscross windowpanes with oak frames meant to impress; dramatic wood archways to separate rooms; tall 12-inch baseboards, ornate crown molding and classic wainscoting; the charming front porch swing; even steam radiator heat throughout.

“For the first week, I would walk down the stairs and it was a surreal moment: I can’t believe I live here,” remembers Laurie. “I’m definitely more used to the surroundings now, but I’m honored to be a part of this legacy.”

The Brians renovated the carriage house where Jenny’s horse, George, was boarded, preserving it with new flooring and support beams for John’s second-floor woodshop. Their work over the years has also included a remodel of the ensuite bathroom, kitchen updates and a new roof.

Laurie’s favorite room of the house is the parlor, with its lovely afternoon light that once welcomed guests to Grace’s Musicale Mondays. It’s also where the graduate of the Detroit Conservatory of Music lay in state upon her death in 1949.

From a decor view, the couple has created modern tension with vintage touches, from sepia-toned photographs of their grandparents to antique cameras to playful period relics.

“I feel very grateful to be part of the history here – until something breaks,” John jokes. He’s been a member of the Mount Clemens Historical Commission for nine years. “We very much view ourselves as caretakers of this property … It’s a piece of the history of Mount Clemens.”

HEARTBEAT FOR HOME

ARTICLE BY AMY SALVAGNO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA

REVERED REALTOR IS AN ADVOCATE FOR HER COMMUNITY

Each week, you’ll find Kathleen Kelchner, eyes lit up from a smile, serving lunch to tummies at Mount Clemens Montessori Academy. At monthly meetings of the Mount Clemens Housing Commission, you’ll hear her voice advocating for fair housing. At Christmastime, you’ll spot her behind the scenes of the city’s annual parade. Up and around Macomb Place to the edge of Main Street, Kathleen’s heart beats for the city she’s belonged to for the past 26 years. She serves, she volunteers, she fundraises – for the look on a child’s face, the happiness of a new homeowner, the closeness of a community.

“Joy is my focus. Everything I do to serve others is because it’s a passion of mine, whatever their situation is or whatever their needs are,” says Kathleen, an agent with Oak & Stone Real Estate who has established a stature of empathy, engagement and expertise.

Kathleen with clients who purchased a multi-generational home.

Kathleen serves lunch to students at Mount Clemens Montessori Academy

For years, Kathleen worked in the construction industry as a controller, project accountant and project manager. The enjoyment she found while working with people nudged her eight years ago toward a career in real estate. “I go where my clients go. My business is built on relationships. Most of my clients aren’t just clients, they’re friends. They know I’m a resource and that I surround myself with the best in the industry to support them,” she says, citing her reputable team of lenders, title agent, inspectors and contractors.

Kathleen’s decades-long involvement in her hometown and career go hand-in-hand. “When people know who you are and what you stand for, you’re able to make meaningful connections. It’s my way of staying in tune with what’s going on in the community and helping to be an advocate.”

Her prior work in the construction industry, in conjunction with Detroit and Ann Arbor housing commissions to renovate multi-family and low-income properties, has supported her role on the city’s housing commission. Kathleen sits on the Mount Clemens Board of Review, volunteers with Downtown Development Authority events and is a committee member for the Santa Parade.

Kathleen loves working with the kids, but helping seniors is her passion. Her Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation allows her to assist older adults and their families making decisions like whether to downsize, age in place, choose multi-generational living or move to a senior living community.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about the opportunity to help people, to be trusted and supportive. It can be an emotional process and my job is to be empathetic to what the client is going through, yet remain neutral and stabilize those emotions to help them through the process.”

You can reach out to Kathleen by visiting her at www.sellwithkathleen.com .

ARTICLE BY AMY SALVAGNO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA

Selling Strategically

Realtor

Kristie Lohmann shares her tips to make your house sell-ready, and encourages buyers to embrace a remodel

Emotions can run high whether you’re a first-time buyer eager to create a home filled with memories or an empty nester ready to pack up and down-size. For 12 years, Kristie Lohmann has walked clients through the highs and lows of buying and selling a home. Her savviness, knowledge and determination have kept her at the forefront of her industry, and her authenticity has made her a friend to clients she’s helped along the way. “I do what needs to be done. It can take a month or a year, but I pour my heart into what I do,” says Kristie, a RE/MAX First associate. “My clients and I have shared laughter, disappointment, success and tears. You get to know them and they become part of your family.”

She has built a name for herself through a remarkable level of professionalism and performance. Her continued tenacity has also earned her esteem within the RE/MAX culture. In 2023, she placed in the Top 10 of approximately 900 agents in RE/MAX of Southeast Michigan, and landed at No. 6 among 196 agents within her brokerage.

The self-described perfectionist takes pride in managing all of the work on her own, with no assistant, so clients work strictly with her. “You get me from start to finish,” Kristie promises. Her personal touch has resulted in repeat clients and referrals.

As the 2024 real estate market heats up, she offers tips for those looking to either buy or sell.

Kristie encourages sellers to list their home early – that means now – so it stands out and earns top dollar, rather than wait until the warmer season when there is more competition. “It’s all about supply and demand,” she says, and inventory is still low. “I’m also telling my buyers to start looking now before the mad rush in the Spring.”

Another suggestion, Kristie says: “Clean sells! It doesn't matter what you’re selling, whether it’s your house or grandma’s house, clean it out.” She recommends clearing out the clutter and taking down one too many pictures off the wall. Go room by room and organize, she says. Make three different piles: Keep, donate and throw away. Temporarily store things in the garage or basement, and then accent rooms with greenery and simple decor. “You want a prospective buyer to walk into the entry of your home and say, ‘Oh, wow, I want to keep going.’ Sometimes you have to soften the look of your home if you want it to sell.”

Staging is another approach – and one of Kristie’s specialties – to make a house shine. “I step back and evaluate the room and find the best way to show off the beauty.” She rearranges furniture, moves decor from another room and swaps out a rug if needed. Kristie also has resources if the home is unfurnished and needs staging.

Kristie enjoys working with all clients, particularly first-time buyers, retirees, transferees and single parents. And while new construction is appealing, she often encourages buyers to embrace the idea of reviving an older home. “If all the big stuff has been done – the roof, windows and mechanicals – decorating is the fun part. Just picture what paint can do,” she says.

In her free time, Kristie enjoys boating on Lake St. Clair and spending time with her husband and kids. She also volunteers for Meals on Wheels, the Anchor Bay Community Foundation, which helps provide scholarships and grants, and the Barbara Richards Magic Wand Fund which helps local children in need.

You can reach out to Kristie at klohmann@remax. net or (248) 568-3602. You can also read her reviews on Zillow and at klohmann.soldbyfirst.com

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ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

New York Times Best Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research from the World’s Healthiest Cultures.

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities! Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones

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MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 2ND

Fool House - The Ultimate 90s Dance Party

Emerald Theatre, 31 N. Walnut, Mount Clemens, MI | 7:00 PM

Pay homage to the golden era of boy bands, pop stars, hip hop and pop punk with the show that recreates the sights, sounds and energy of the biggest stars of the 90s. Sing your heart out and dance all night to the music of NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, Nelly, TLC, the Spice Girls and more. Visit theemeraldtheatre.com for tickets.

MARCH 2ND & 9TH

Brunch with the Easter Bunny

The Nest Collaborative, 66 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens, MI | 12:30 PM

Families have two opportunities to enjoy brunch with their favorite hopping friend. The event includes pancakes, fruit, juice, treats, a craft, and a photo with the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $15 for a child and $10 for an adult and must be purchased in advance. For more information or to order tickets, visit the-nest-collaborative.square.site.

MARCH 7TH

Regina High School Open House

Regina High School, 13900 Masonic Blvd., Warren, MI | 5:30 PM

Visit the Spring Open House and meet Regina's students, staff, teachers, counselors, coaches, and alumnae. Tour the school and enter for the chance to win a tuition voucher. You can pre-register today at www.reginahs.com/springopenhouse and learn more about starting your Saddlelites story.

MARCH 14TH

Natural Supports for Healthy Blood Pressure

The Urban Naturopath, 99 S. Main St., Mount Clemens, MI | 7:00 PM

Participants in this $10 class will learn about the many root causes behind high blood pressure and natural ways to help tackle the stressors at play. Learn and experience how things like reflexology, herbs, essential oils, massage, exercise, breath work and more can play a part in healthy blood pressure balance. Email jennifer@urbannaturopath.com or call (586) 461-1416 to confirm your spot.

MARCH 19TH

Cabinetry by Better Bilt Spring Open House

Cabinetry by Better Bilt, 99 Cass Ave., Mount Clemens, MI | 4:00 PM

Cabinetry by Better Bilt hosts an open house. Meet the interior design team, learn more about the company and tour the beautifully renovated showroom. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be served. RSVP by March 5 by emailing contact@cabinetsbbb.com.

MARCH 24TH

Mount Clemens Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast

Trinity Lutheran Church, 38900 Harper Ave., Clinton Twp, MI | 8:30 AM

The Kiwanis Club of Mount Clemens and Trinity's Boy Scout Troop 157 host the 29th Annual Pancake Breakfast and Famous Bake Sale on Palm Sunday. Proceeds will benefit local charitable organizations. Tickets are $10 per adult, $6 per child (under 12). Advance tickets are available at Printing by Johnson, (586) 469-3555, or by calling Steve Hamick at (586) 260-5694.