Dog Days of Summer
Summer is a season of celebration, and in August many families enjoy a last hurrah before school begins anew. Long, lazy afternoons enjoying a BBQ with family and friends. Outdoor activities that help us be mentally happier and physically fitter, like hiking or camping, golfing or pickleball, gardening or listening to birdsong. No matter how you do it, summer-style relaxing brings about a welcome change of mindset. To truly enjoy all these things requires us to be focused on each moment. This issue, dedicated to kids and pets, makes perfect sense in August. No two groups understand better how to live simply and be fully present. My husband and I have built our dog training business around helping people and dogs be able to harmonize. One of the things that has helped me stay mostly sane through owning a business over the last seventeen years are my dogs. For me, they are a reminder, a guide, a grounding.
We hear it often said that each moment is a precious gift. So simple to agree with, but so easy to lose sight of in the shuffle of ‘adulting’ and life’s busyness. The temptation to worry, to lose ourselves in memories of the past or the future, it’s all a distraction and a theft of this moment you have been gifted. Recently, we experienced the unexpected, devastating loss of a team member. A mother, a friend, a teacher, so full of life one day and gone the next. We were reminded that what we have here is fleeting and the next moment is not guaranteed. If you’re lucky enough to be reading this, stop to relish this beautiful summer day. Feel the temperature of the breeze on your skin, play with your dog, enjoy an activity with a child’s guileless abandon. Reach out to a friend, turn your face away from a screen and to the sun. Just stop and fill your lungs completely and take a deep, rejuvenating breath. Enjoy these precious summer days.
Dedicated to the memory of Caty Gittner
AMY GARABEDIAN, OWNER SIT MEANS SIT DOG TRAINING
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Chris Oliverio | chris.oliverio@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Snow | jessica.snow@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Lee | jennifer.lee@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Shauna Oliverio | shauna.oliverio@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
April Jennings, Shauna Oliverio, Ally Menske, Emma Maynard
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jessica Snow Photography, Kelly Ohly, Hannah Mitkus, Abby Thompson
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
FAMILY FOCUSED CARE
AWARD-WINNING TEAM
MODERN
TECHNOLOGY
LOCALLY ROOTED
COSMETIC & PREVENTATIVE
How
Because
Youth,
Tre
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FAMILY FUN DAY at Bites & Beats by The Paint Creek
Join our Weekend Come Back, Saturday August 16th from 1pm-4pm! This Family Fun Day with bounce houses, games, food, giveaways and more is put on by RARA Recreation and Rochester Mills Beer Co at the scenic Lions Park Amphitheater.
Smiles Start Here: Paint Creek Dentistry Makes Pediatric Care a Priority
If you’re looking for a friendly and family focused dental office we would love to welcome you to our practice! From kids as young as one year old, we care for smiles of all ages. With gentle cleanings, the newest technology, and a team that treats you like family, we encourage parents to promote regular dental visits at an early age. Schedule an appointment 248-652-3663 paintcreekdentistry.com
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TreeRunner Rochester Adventure Park Introduces Bounce Forest
TreeRunner Adventure Park in Rochester has introduced the Bounce Forest, a unique netted playground suspended among the trees. This aerial adventure allows guests to jump, crawl, climb, and slide across interconnected nets without the need for harnesses or ropes. Designed for individuals aged 7 and up, it offers a gravity-defying experience that combines active play with outdoor exploration. A waiver is required for all participants, and closed-toe shoes. Call 248-759-5222 to reserve your spot
POETIC Paper by HARPER LOU
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
HOW 12-YEAR-OLD HARPER LOU TURNED
In a world that often feels fast-paced and screen-filled, 12-year-old Harper Lou is bringing back the charm of handwritten words and heartfelt connections through her business, Poetic Paper by Harper Lou. Local to our Rochester community, this young entrepreneur has turned her love for drawing, writing, and spreading joy into a growing greeting card company with an ever-expanding collection of thoughtful designs.
“Growing up, I’ve always loved art, being creative, and making money,” Harper shares. Her earliest memories of creating date back to her grandma’s visits: “My Grandma K used to bring over a ‘craft of the day’ every time she visited, and the crafts progressed in level of difficulty, eventually decorating our house for the holidays.”From a homemade vending machine crafted out of a cardboard box to driveway mini markets filled with handmade crafts, Harper’s entrepreneurial spirit was clear early on.
Before launching her online shop, Harper first tested her card line at her neighborhood sale. “Last summer was the first time I sold my handmade cards, and it was a hit!” Encouraged by that success, she used the income to invest in her very own business and, at age 12, launched Poetic Paper by Harper Lou.
“IT IS PRETTY COOL THAT I AM ABLE TO CREATE SOMETHING beautiful AND SELL IT TO SOMEONE WHO WILL write SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL IN IT FOR ANOTHER PERSON. TO ME, THAT IS “ poetic ” IN ITSELF.” SHARES HARPER LOU
Her journey into card design began during the COVID-19 pandemic. “At the age of eight years old, I started drawing and designing cards for fun during COVID. I hand-drew every single card and gave them out to family and friends.” As she developed her brand, her dad suggested scanning her handmade cards to reproduce them more efficiently. “So, for my 12th birthday and Christmas, I received my own printer. Shortly after that, I began designing my online store.”
A love of words runs in Harper’s family. “My mom was a Language Arts teacher, so I was born into a home that fostered my love for reading and writing. “I have always enjoyed being creative and imaginative, and I wrote stories when I was little”, shares Harper.
That thoughtful sentiment is the foundation of her business. “The cards I create serve as an avenue for people to write a special note of love, appreciation, admiration, or thoughtfulness. To receive a card is a gift, and I like that my business is part of the gifting process, whether as stationery or the thoughtful message written on one of my cards,” explains Harper.
Harper’s creative process involves both traditional and digital methods. “Originally, I did not use any technology to produce a card, but we found it was much faster and more efficient to upload my hand-drawn designs to the computer and print from there.” She now uses Canva to format designs, add text, and create matching stationery. Still, her work remains largely analog at heart. “At home, we try to use as minimal of technology as possible,
“THE CARDS I CREATE SERVE AS AN AVENUE FOR PEOPLE TO WRITE
A special NOTE OF LOVE, APPRECIATION, admiration , OR thoughtfulness .”
SAYS HAPER LOU
and this allows me to explore my own art throughout the cards. Working solely on a computer can limit my creative abilities and work places, such as outside in my backyard or on vacation,” shares Harper.
Even as a business owner, Harper remains intentionally unplugged. “I don’t have a phone or watch, so I can be more productive with my time by making cards and doing other hobbies.” She checks orders and fulfills them from her workspace at home, using her mom’s phone only when needed.
Outside of Poetic Paper, Harper is a well-rounded and joyful kid. “Some hobbies of mine are playing basketball and spending time with my family. We especially enjoy eating out at downtown Rochester’s restaurants.” She also plays on an AAU basketball team, has recently taken up lacrosse, and attends mass with her family at St. Andrew Catholic Church. “I am thankful for my faith, as all the success and joy I experience in life are truly a gift from God.”
Her family is at the heart of everything. “My parents help me run my business and play a huge role in Poetic Paper by Harper Lou. My dad helps me with the financial side of my business... My mom has an eye for design and helps me with the format of some of my cards.” Her younger sisters, Ruby and Wynnie, inspire creativity at home with their energy and love of play.
Harper’s favorite card? “The Peony ‘Thinking of You’ card is among my favorites because I love flowers and being outside... I draw peonies often, whether it’s for a school assignment or outside on the concrete with chalk.”
As her product line expands to include everything from graduation and teacher appreciation to wedding and baby shower cards, Harper remains focused on innovation. She dreams of seeing her cards become a household name in the community. “My overall goal is for there to be brand recognition when someone receives my cards and stationery.” From seasonal lines to exploring opportunities at local markets, PTA collaborations, and beyond, she is determined to grow her business the right way.
And while she’s excited about what’s next, Harper never forgets to be grateful. “I think it is important to share how grateful I am to have a community that supports me.”
From friends and neighbors to her first wholesale opportunity at Studio Em & Lu, Harper’s journey is a beautiful reminder that creativity, heart, and a strong village can take you anywhere.
“It is pretty cool that I am able to create something beautiful and sell it to someone who will write something beautiful in it for another person. To me, that is ‘poetic’ in itself.”
WAIT UNTIL 8TH
ARTICLE BY APRIL JENNINGS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY OHLY
Let Kids Be Kids
ROCHESTER PARENTS JOIN NATIONAL MOVEMENT TO DELAY SMARTPHONES FOR KIDS
A growing grassroots movement of Rochester parents is taking a stand against early smartphone use by pledging to delay giving their children smartphones until at least the end of 8th grade. This local initiative is part of the national Wait Until 8th campaign, a parent-led movement aimed at protecting childhood from the negative effects of early smartphone use.
THE MISSION IS SIMPLE BUT URGENT: WAIT UNTIL THE END OF 8TH GRADE - AND LET KIDS BE KIDS.
When you think of childhood summer days, what comes to mind? Splashing in the creek, riding bikes until dusk and flashlight tag under the stars? Now imagine that joy replaced. Three kids sit at a park—ages 8, 9, and 10—each glued to a glowing screen. No laughter. No movement. Just scrolling.
This is the new normal. And Rochester families are saying: not for our kids.
Although the average age children receive their first smartphone is now just 10 years old, more Rochester families are pushing back. They are joining forces to safeguard the elementary and middle school years from the constant distractions, social pressures, and mental health risks that come with smartphone access.
“Smartphones are designed to be addictive—even for fully developed adult brains,”
says Adam Hamilton, Psychotherapist and Owner of Rochester Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Clinic . “Childhood is a time for play, learning, and real-world connection. Constant digital stimulation can interfere with social-emotional development, attention, and overall mental health.”
When parents sign the Wait Until 8th online pledge, they commit to delaying smartphone use for their child until at least the end 8th grade. Once ten families from the same grade and school sign, participants receive a list of other like-minded familieshelping to create a supportive community and reduce peer pressure.
“Most parents I talk to only get their elementary or middle schooler a smartphone because they feel like everyone else already has one,” says April Jennings, a Rochester parent and local organizer of the pledge. “The pressure is intense, and it feels inevitable. But I want more for my kids. I want them surrounded by friends who aren’t glued to screens, who are still playing, still present. There’s strength in numbers, and by banding together, we’re creating real change.”
For parents who need to stay in touch with their children while they’re out of the house, the movement suggests alternatives like basic phones without internet access or smartwatches designed for calling and messaging - devices that allow for communication without the downsides of full smartphones.
Parents can take the pledge at waituntil8th.org and follow the local Rochester group on Instagram at @waituntil8th_rochester.
Cooler Than You
BASIC POPSI C LES JUST WON
Skip the store-bought stuff, these pops are cooler. With just a freezer mold and a few whole, vibrant ingredients and kids that are ready to be creative and healthy, you can make refreshing treats without the dyes, additives, or mystery stuff to enjoy in the sun. Juicy, colorful, and totally DIY, each one is a little burst of creativity you can taste. It’s all about fresh flavor, clean ingredients, and freezer fun done right.
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
Creamsicle Crush
INGREDIENTS
• 2 Cups of Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice with no pulp
• 1/2 cup of Greek or coconut yogurt
• 1-2 tbsp of honey
• 1 tsp of vanilla
DIRECTIONS
1. Blend or mix all of your ingredients until smooth or evenly combined
2. Pour the mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion as they freeze
3. Insert the sticks into the center of each mold once they start to take shape
4. Freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results
5. Release pops by running warm water over the outside of the mold for a few seconds
6. Store popsicles in individual bags with ties to maintain freshness, protect from freezer burn and keep them sanitary
Cool Tips for Healthier Popsicles
CHOOSE WHOLE, ORGANIC AND FRESH INGREDIENTS
Stick to real fruit, fresh-squeezed juice, and natural sweeteners like honey, agave, or maple syrup. Whole ingredients mean more flavor and more nutrients, no dyes, no fillers, no junk. Buy organic as much as possible.
LOOK FOR BPA-FREE & NON-TOXIC MOLDS
Silicone or stainless steel molds are a great alternative to traditional plastic ones. Make sure they’re labeled BPA- and phthalate-free for safer snacking, especially for kids.
SKIP THE ADDED SUGARS
Rely on ripe fruit for sweetness and skip added sugar altogether. If needed, a splash of fruit juice or a little honey goes a long way.
ADD
A BOOST OF NUTRITION
Toss in chia seeds, a touch of coconut milk, or even blended spinach for a vitamin-packed treat. Kids won’t even taste the hidden greens!
WATCH THE PORTIONS
Mini molds are great for little hands (and little appetites). They’re fun, fast to freeze, and easy to enjoy without overdoing it.
GET THE KIDS
INVOLVED
Let kids pick ingredients, pour mixes, or layer colors—it turns snack time into a hands-on, healthy activity.
Lemonade Love
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup of fresh-squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 2 1/2 cups of cold water
• 1/3 cup of Agave
DIRECTIONS
1. Blend or mix all of your ingredients until smooth or evenly combined
2. Pour the mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion as they freeze
3. Insert the sticks into the center of each mold once they start to take shape
4. Freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results
5. Release pops by running warm water over the outside of the mold for a few seconds
6. Store popsicles in individual bags with ties to maintain freshness, protect from freezer burn and keep them sanitary
Strawberry Watermelon Swirl
INGREDIENTS
• 3 cups of cubed watermelon
• 1 tbsp of lemon juice
• 1 cup of strawberries
• 1 tbsp of honey
DIRECTIONS
1. Blend or mix all of your ingredients until smooth or evenly combined
2. Pour the mixture into your popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion as they freeze
3. Insert the sticks into the center of each mold once they start to take shape
4. Freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results
5. Release pops by running warm water over the outside of the mold for a few seconds
6. Store popsicles in individual bags with ties to maintain freshness, protect from freezer burn and keep them sanitary
YOUTH, DOGS, AND PASSION DRIVE SUMMER AT USPBL
Baseball, Bat Dogs, and Big Dreams
ARTICLE BY ALLY MENSKE AND EMMA MAYNARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH MITKUS, ABBY THOMPSON, AND JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
“Every moment reinforces our promise of Real Baseball. Real Fun. It’s family-first entertainment, start to finish.”
At the United Shore Professional Baseball League, summer baseball magic goes far beyond the diamond. Whether players chase dreams, parents relive childhood memories, or a bat-retrieving dog sprints across the infield, every night at Jimmy John’s Field delivers what the league proudly calls “Real Baseball. Real Fun.”
Local families are the heartbeat of that promise, and it shows in the wide-eyed wonder of each child who steps between the chalk lines. Through immersive opportunities like the USPBL Reading Program, Pitch Like the Pros Baseball Camp, and Kids Club, the league pairs skill-building with smiles, inspiring a lifelong love of the game and genuine enthusiasm for learning.
“We’ve seen amazing growth in our youth programs,” says Katie Page, Vice President of Marketing. “Every season more families make the USPBL a pillar of summer. When kids high-five players, meet JJ, or race around the bases under the lights, it leaves a mark they’ll carry forever.”
Beyond the books, on-field experiences deepen the connection. Pitch Like the Pros clinics give aspiring hurlers personalized instruction from league coaches, complete with radar-gun feedback and video analysis. Nike Baseball Camp spans three days of drills, team challenges, and leadership talks delivered by current USPBL stars. And weekly on Sunday, the entire outfield turns into a playground when hundreds of youngsters dash from first to home during the league’s joyous Run the Bases tradition.
The Reading Program turns literacy into celebration. Partnering with local educators, it rewards elementary students for meeting goals set by their teachers. As young readers finish chapters and log minutes, they earn coveted incentives—most notably free game tickets, with discounted admission for accompanying family members.
Before the first pitch, their accomplishments are saluted in a special on-field ceremony, transforming academic success into an electric, unforgettable moment.
Excitement actually begins weeks earlier. USPBL mascots like Ribbi and Woolly visit participating schools, urging kids to keep reading and reminding them that effort off the field is as valuable as talent on it. These assemblies inject fun into classrooms, reinforcing the league’s dedication to literacy. Incentivebased, community-supported, and packed with heart, the program proves that Real Baseball. Real Fun. starts with real impact.
Celebrating its milestone 10th season, the USPBL powered by UWM has doubled down on that promise. Fans entering the gates this year find more than scoreboards—they walk into a living festival.
Four freshly redesigned jerseys, custom theme music, and playful dugout props set the stage for nightly storytelling that puts every age group at the center of the action.
Children, however, aren’t the only stars. Enter JJ “The Field General,” a tail-wagging veteran whose bat-retrieving antics have become must-see entertainment. Now in his eighth season, JJ is mentoring his apprentice, Scout, a red golden puppy learning to greet umpires, fetch bats, and pose patiently for selfies.
“JJ has brought immeasurable joy to our fans,” explains League President Dana Schmitt. “He’s part teammate, part mascot, part hero. Scout has big paws to fill, but watching him grow alongside JJ is its own show.”
Whether it’s a line drive drilled into the gap or Scout’s first successful fetch, every moment reinforces the league’s promise of Real Baseball. Real Fun. Families leave with memories, new heroes, and stories that will echo long after the final firework fades into the Michigan night.
While the roar of the crowd echoes through Jimmy John’s Field in Utica, the heart of the USPBL’s operations beats just a short drive away in Downtown Rochester. Nestled inside the historic Rochester Mills Building, the league’s front office is where strategy, creativity, and community connections come to life on a daily basis.
“Our Rochester headquarters give us the best of both worlds,” says Andy Appleby, USPBL League Owner. “It’s a vibrant, walkable downtown where we can stay connected to fans, local businesses, and schools.”
From sales and marketing to sponsorships, content creation, and youth programs, much of the day-today planning happens behind the brick façade of the Mills Building. It’s here that ideas like the Reading Program, Kids Club events, and themed promotions are imagined, refined, and brought to life throughout the season.
The league’s Rochester presence is more than just office space—it’s a long-standing commitment to community. Being based in one of Oakland County’s most beloved downtowns allows the USPBL team to build deeper, more meaningful partnerships with educators,
nonprofits, and neighborhood organizations that share its mission of family-first entertainment.
As the USPBL celebrates its 10th season, its Rochester roots serve as a powerful reminder that Real Baseball. Real Fun. begins with real people, working year-round to make summer magical for everyone.
Beyond its popular camps and entertaining mascots, the United Shore Professional Baseball League has firmly established itself as a launching pad for local talent across Michigan and the country. For many aspiring baseball players, the league serves as a stepping stone— an opportunity to sharpen their skills, gain valuable experience, and showcase their abilities in hopes of advancing to higher levels of professional baseball.
“There’s no other league like it,” says Shane McCatty, the Director of Baseball Operations, who works closely
with players throughout their development. “We give guys a chance to stay in the game, get seen, and continue to grow.” This commitment to player development has made the USPBL a place for athletes seeking to keep their baseball dreams alive in a competitive and ever-evolving sports landscape.
Over the years, the USPBL has proudly seen more than 50 players signed to Major League Baseball organizations, including five that have made it to the big show. The league’s unique focus means that many players come from Oakland, Macomb, and surrounding counties—putting them in front of hometown crowds and creating an incredibly special experience for both the players and fans alike. The excitement of playing for the community that raised them adds an emotional and motivational boost that can’t be replicated elsewhere in professional sports.
“Playing here gave me the visibility and coaching I needed,” said Dugan Darnell, a Michigan native who signed with an MLB affiliate. “But more than that, it reminded me why I love the game.” Darnell’s story is just one example of how the USPBL nurtures not only athletic skills but also passion, confidence, and resilience in its players.
The league offers more than just exposure; it delivers elite training programs, access to top-tier coaching staffs, and consistent opportunities to be seen by professional scouts. Beyond these resources, the USPBL also emphasizes holistic development—including strength and conditioning, mental toughness, and sportsmanship—helping players prepare for the many challenges of a professional career.
Yet, what truly sets the USPBL apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. Games are played in a welcoming setting that emphasizes fun and community engagement, allowing players to perform at their best without overwhelming pressure or distractions. Families and fans enjoy affordable, accessible baseball entertainment while witnessing the real-life journeys of players striving for the big leagues.
This balance of competitive player development and strong community connection is the essence of what makes the USPBL so unique. As children cheer from the stands, they’re not only enjoying a fun day at the ballpark—they’re watching real pathways unfold and real dreams take flight right before their own eyes.
CONTINUED >
We give players the chance to grow, get seen, and keep their baseball dreams alive. “ ”
Take Control of Your Health
HOW A SCREEN-FREE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARK IS HELPING KIDS BUILD CONFIDENCE, CONQUER FEARS, AND CONNECT WITH NATURE
TreeRunner Rochester
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
Located in the heart of Oakland University’s Rochester campus, TreeRunner Adventure Park offers families a screen-free escape into nature that is as thrilling as it is empowering. Created by a team of outdoor enthusiasts, TreeRunner is more than just a high ropes course, it’s a haven for young adventurers to challenge themselves, build confidence, and connect with the great outdoors.
“TreeRunner allows people of all ages to experience and enjoy the outdoors without a screen,” the team shares. “So many kids in particular are phased out of team sports at a young age, and TreeRunner offers a great active alternative for them to be outdoors and in nature.”
The idea for TreeRunner was first discovered on a trip to Tennessee, where the founders encountered a similar aerial park concept. Inspired and determined, they brought the idea back to Michigan, opening their first park in West Bloomfield 10 years ago. Since then, the TreeRunner family has grown to four parks, with the Rochester location being the newest jewel in their treetop crown.
Rochester’s community focus made it an ideal place to expand. “Knowing that Rochester has an extremely strong community, the partnership with Oakland University was a natural fit,” the team explains. “Many of our team members are passionate about education and natural resources, so our relationship with the University has been nothing short of gratifying and meaningful for everyone,” shares the team.
Today, TreeRunner is a vibrant outdoor destination where families can expect a full day of adventure. From the moment guests arrive, they are immersed in a lively and welcoming environment. After checking in, climbers receive a detailed safety briefing and are fitted with harnesses before venturing into the trees. The aerial trails are self-paced and designed for all skill levels, so everyone, from timid first-timers to daring thrill-seekers, can find their perfect path.
“TreeRunner balances fun and challenge with age-appropriate courses, from beginner trails to more advanced routes for older kids, there truly is something for everyone,” says the team. “The Little Zipper course is specially designed for our youngest adventurers, allowing parents to offer support from the ground.”
And for those who prefer to keep their feet closer to the ground? TreeRunner has you covered with its Putt Forest mini golf course, a gem mining station, and the wildly popular Bounce Forest, an expansive net park suspended in the air where kids can jump, bounce, and play.
The variety of activities ensures that no one is left out. “When we build a new park, we evaluate the kind of people that come to visit,” they explain. “Rochester is an area filled with young families, and as we saw more and more visit, we knew we could help with courses for all ages.”
TreeRunner is more than an adventure park—it’s a confidence builder. One of the most gratifying parts of the job, the team says, is witnessing kids overcome their fears. “We’ve had climbers come to our park, introverts, and leave as socialites. There was one young man who visited our park with a school group, and after he came, the parents informed us that he became a whole new person, eager to meet new people, and that
it truly grew his confidence in ways they never could have expected.”
Safety is always top of mind at TreeRunner. The park uses top-quality equipment, and staff members are trained to deliver thorough safety briefings and provide hands-on support. “After a safety briefing with our team, all of our guests go through practice lines with our team actively watching and helping. The self-paced design lets children explore within their comfort zones, and at their own speed.”
TreeRunner is also a top choice for birthday parties and group events, offering customizable packages and private party spaces that make celebrations seamless and fun. For corporate groups, team-building events are available that foster communication and camaraderie. “We have options for all size groups up to over 150, and have
activities for every person from the adrenaline junkie to the ground-based golf purist.” shares the team.
Exciting seasonal events keep the experience fresh all year long. Night Forest climbs take place every Friday and Saturday, allowing guests to explore the park after dark under twinkling lights and starlit skies. And new attractions continue to pop up. This year, the Bounce Forest debuted at the Rochester location, and over in West Bloomfield, a brand-new 18-hole Putt Forest mini golf course has just opened.
“Getting kids outdoors and active is more important now than ever because it helps balance out the screen time,” the team notes. “Being in nature encourages physical fitness, builds confidence, and sparks creativity in ways that indoor activities can’t match. Plus, climbing, ziplining,
and exploring with friends foster social skills and a sense of adventure that screens simply can’t provide,” says the team.
TreeRunner’s commitment to screen-free outdoor fun is evident in its two signature youth programs: the Summer Adventure Program and the Kids Club. The Summer Adventure Program is a weeklong immersion for kids ages 7–14, filled with climbing, ziplining, games, and outdoor challenges that encourage exploration and confidence-building. The Kids Club, offered Thursday and Friday mornings from 10 AM to 1:30 PM, gives parents a break while kids enjoy a structured drop-off adventure.
With a deep-rooted commitment to community, nature, and confidence-building, TreeRunner in Rochester is more than an activity, it’s an experience. It’s where kids find courage, families make memories, and the treetops become a playground for imagination and growth. As the team puts it best: “Truly, the most gratifying part of being at TreeRunner is watching timid travelers leave as confident conquerors.”
Whether it’s your child’s first climb or your tenth time through the course, every visit is a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the world above the ground.
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Village of Rochester Hills
Festival Park 104 N Adams Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48309 | 6:00 PM
Get ready for a night of music, laughter, and high-energy fun at the Village of Rochester Hills on Friday, August 23! Enjoy the unforgettable Dueling Pianos show, where talented musicians battle it out with crowd-favorite songs and hilarious entertainment. Bring your friends, sing along, and enjoy a lively evening under the stars. You won’t want to miss it!
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