A note for the gentlemen in our lives...
In this issue, we’re highlighting men who have built some pretty incredible paths for themselves— most of which aren’t always visible on the surface. Success doesn’t come without tradeoffs: long hours, missed moments, and the steady pressure of always moving something forward. Each one of these men is unique in who they are and in the industries they’ve chosen to build within.
What stands out most about each of their journeys is the consistency behind it all—the discipline, the focus, and the commitment it takes to keep building over time.
Even though we’re a women-led team, we deeply value collaboration and what’s possible when people work together. So let’s raise a glass to the men who are doing exactly that—building with intention, supporting their communities, and creating legacies of their own. After all, we’re better off when we take the time to celebrate each other a little more often.
Cheers to our men's issue, and happy Father's Day to all of you incredible Dads out there!
JENNIFER LEE, MANAGING EDITOR @ROCHESTERCITYLIFESTYLE
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Jordan Sakalian | jordan.sakalian@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Jennifer Lee | jennifer.lee@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Snow | hello@jessica-snow.com
MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Kyrstyn Dean | KyrstynDeanMBA@KyrstynDean.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Lee, Justin Rose
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ben Lew, Jessica Snow,
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The best place to have an event, at Forks + Fêtes! Floral: Lulu’s Flower Bar. 2: A huge thank you to all of our Founding Partners! 3: Partners Coffee (L-Jen Lee, Center-Jessica Snow, R-Erica Wood. 4: Dr. Joe Canu of Rochester Chiropractic and Erica Wood, Realtor. 5: Tina Polleiner from The Spa MD + Publisher, Jordan Sakalian 6: L- Jen Lee, Kyrstyn Dean, Jordan Sakalian, Kiki Pape, Jessica Snow-R. 7: Deb Silver of Silver Shamrocks, Forks + Fêtes. Lesley Hellow, Ann Hellow Lulu’s Flower Bar Photography by Detroit Promotions/Kiki Pape
Bike Fitting Services at Clever Fox Cyclery
A proper bike fit isn’t about comfort alone. It’s about efficiency, injury prevention, and getting the most out of every ride. Our professional bike fitting process is designed to help you ride stronger, longer, and painfree, no matter your experience level. Every rider is different, which is why our bike fitting process is personalized from start to finish. We focus on your body, your goals, and your riding style, not generic measurements.
20% Off Mens Headspas at Ruby and Clover
Your scalp is the foundation of healthy hair— buildup, dryness, and imbalance can affect growth, shine, and texture. Regular cleansing, targeted treatments, and proper care keep your scalp balanced and nourished so your hair can thrive. For the month of June, Mens head spas are 20% off, so get ready to refresh, reset, and give your roots the VIP treatment they deserve!
Photography by Jessica Snow
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Brotox Is Real at The Spa MD
BROTOX IS REAL. Erase the lines that you gave him this Father's Day. Enjoy a complimentary computerized Skin Analysis and $50 to use on any service. We look forward to celebrating you! ONE PER CUSTOMER. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. THE-SPA-MD.COM
Photography by Jessica Snow
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THE MODERN GENTLEMAN
Individually Driven. Collectively Inspiring. Men Who Lead In Their Own Lane.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW
The Eastman Bar x The Modern Gentleman
Joe V. Lucido is a devoted family man with refined taste and a keen eye for exquisite craftsmanship, which he has honed through years of experience. As President of Lucido Fine Jewelry, he takes great pride in offering his clients an unmatched experience and only the finest pieces, carefully selecting each one for its exceptional quality and timeless beauty. When he’s not busy at work, Joe can be found spending time with his loved ones, exploring new restaurants, or indulging in his passion for fine wines and spirits. With his impeccable taste and unwavering commitment to excellence, Joe is a true connoisseur in every sense of the word.
"The most important investment I’ve ever made is in my faith. There are moments in business and in life when challenges feel overwhelming, and the natural instinct is to rely solely on tangible solutions or personal control. But I’ve learned that the greatest strength comes from leaning on Christ. When situations seem uncertain or beyond your control, placing your trust in Him provides clarity, peace, and direction."
After 15 years in broadcast television, four-time Emmy Award winner Justin Rose recognized it was time for a new chapter. As traditional media evolved and digital platforms transformed the way brands connect with audiences, he embraced a new challenge: helping businesses discover and define their voice in a changing world.
As Director of Business Development and Chief Content Officer for Make The Turn, Rose works closely with companies to shape authentic, compelling narratives, stories that communicate not only what they do, but why they do it.
For Rose, the move from life on camera to a role behind the scenes has been both natural and rewarding. After nearly a decade building relationships across Metro Detroit, he says one truth has remained constant: meaningful connections are at the heart of every success.
“I would not be where I am today without the amazing people who have helped, lifted, and guided me along the way.”
CONTINUED >
Justin Rose, Director of Business Development, Make The Turn
Joe V. Lucido, President, Lucido Fine Jewelry
“Success is not defined by money and business, it’s defined by what type of person you are, and your character is priceless.”
— Vito M. Pampalona
Ralph Bianchi began his career as a hairdresser and salon owner in 1976, building a legacy brand in the professional beauty industry. For more than five decades, he has been recognized for his vision, consistency, and commitment to excellence.
He later partnered with his sons, Michael and Nicholas, to grow a family-driven business rooted in innovation and tradition. Together, they own and operate four L’Oréal Professionnel salons—Bianchi’s Salon—across Michigan, as well as two Elevate Salon Institute cosmetology schools.
Ralph has maintained a 35-year partnership with L’Oréal Professionnel, focusing on education and mentorship. He and his
sons also lead Bianchi Development Group, specializing in commercial and residential construction. He credits his success to hard work, faith, and family.
Vitaliano “Vito” Terracciano is a business owner, real estate leader, and entrepreneur driven by a simple but powerful belief: people matter more. As the founder of Arterra Realty and Arteva Homes, Vito has built companies centered on developing advisors, not just agents, who focus on truly understanding the homes they sell and the homes their clients purchase. His approach challenges the traditional, transactional model of real estate by emphasizing relationships, discernment, and long-term impact.
Ralph Bianchi, Founder, Bianchi Salons
Vitaliano "Vito" Terracciano, Founder Arterra Realty and Arteva Homes
What sets Vito apart is the depth of his experience. He has been involved in nearly every type of real estate project, from land development and commercial buildings to ultra high-end residential homes, high-rise developments, and complex projects. This hands-on background allows him to guide his team and clients with insight, clarity, and confidence beyond the typical real estate experience.
"The legacy I want to leave starts with my faith in Jesus Christ. It shapes how I see success, treat people, and what truly matters. At the end of the day, it’s not about what you build—it’s about who you build."
Michael Cupisz is a co-founder of ACN, a global telecommunications and essential services company with more than three decades of history. Known for his long-term vision and steady optimism, he has built his career on navigating challenges without losing momentum. Cupisz believes leadership is the backbone of any successful venture—people are drawn to clarity, conviction, and direction.
While his work has taken him across the world, he remains deeply rooted in his local community, where he invests his time and energy close to home. He credits his greatest personal success to his marriage, viewing family as the ultimate foundation and priority. For Cupisz, business achievements matter, but they are secondary to the relationships and values that endure.
Vito M. Pampalona studied Construction Management at Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business and earned a BA in Management from Northwood University. With over 25 years of experience, he has owned and operated two successful real estate development and management companies. He serves as President of Pampalona Companies and is a partner in University Properties-Rochester, overseeing more than 150,000 square feet of office and medical space. He holds Michigan Real Estate Broker and Builder licenses and has won Detroit Design and C-Store Design awards. Beginning as a laborer and roofer, he built a hands-on foundation that informs his comprehensive approach to construction. He is married to Ashley and is the proud father of Adelina and Roman, whom he credits for his success overall today.
CONTINUED >
Michael Cupisz, Co-Founder of ACN
Vito M. Pamplona, President of Pamplona Companies
“Entrepreneurship is a tough road at times, and it’s that passion that’ll keep you showing up.”
— Nathan Hamood
"I want my son and daughter to know that their Father was not perfect, but performed to the best of his ability with what God gave him. To know that life is not always about work and some of the wealthiest people, are ones with little money but abundant joy for simple pleasures that are truly good for your soul. To take their time and do things with care…nothing is accomplished overnight. Lastly, I want them to understand that Ashley and I are Proud of them no matter how successful they become."
Nathan Hamood is an entrepreneur recognized across the specialty coffee, food and beverage, and small-batch manufacturing industries for his hands-on approach to building brands with integrity. After earning early attention for his industry leadership at Dessert Oasis Coffee
Roasters, Nathan co-founded Ace High with longtime friend Christian Kettenbeil. The two started the company as a late-night side project—experimenting with formulas in the hours after Dessert Oasis closed—driven by a desire to create honest, high-performing hair products made in small batches. What began as a passion project quickly evolved into a full-fledged hair product brand with a loyal following. Today, Ace High manufactures its own products in-house and ships nationwide, with a growing footprint of B2B partners across barbershops, salons, and retailers throughout the U.S. and overseas. Nathan continues to champion craft, community, and the entrepreneurial grit that shaped Ace High and Dessert Oasis.
"Entrepreneurship is a tough road at times, and it’s that passion that’ll keep you showing up."
A special thank you our Men's Issue gentlemen, and to Nate Hamood for allowing us to use The Eastman as our backdrop.
Nate Hamood, Dessert Oasis + The Eastman + Ace High
Being born and raised in Rochester means my roots run deep. I’ve grown alongside this community, and it’s a privilege to now help others plant their own roots here. With local insight and a relationship-first approach, I’m proud to serve the families who make Rochester such a special place to live, grow, and build memories.
www.soldinmichigan.com 248.342.7466
Golf Michigan
One of the greatest golf states in America.
There is something wonderfully fitting about Michigan being one of the great golf states in America. It is a place made for the game, a state where long summer light, lake air, rolling terrain, and a certain unpretentious elegance come together in a way that feels unmistakably special. Golf here is not simply a pastime, it is part of the rhythm of life. From pristine public fairways to storied private clubs, Michigan has built a golf identity that is both expansive and refined, one that continues to earn admiration well beyond the Midwest. At the start of 2026, Michigan had 868 golf courses overall, including 748
publicly accessible courses, the most public golf of any state in the nation.
That scale is impressive on its own, but the true story is what golf means to Michigan culturally and economically. This is not a seasonal niche, it is a serious engine for the state. A recent impact study found that golf contributes nearly $6.1 billion to Michigan’s economy, supports roughly 61,000 jobs, and generates more than $821 million in state and local taxes. In other words, golf in Michigan is not just scenic, it is substantial. It touches tourism, hospitality, retail, real estate, and local
ARTICLE BY JUSTIN ROSE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY MAKE THE TURN
communities in a way that gives the sport a meaningful place in the state’s broader identity.
And then there is the quality. Michigan is one of those rare places where quantity never comes at the expense of distinction. Nationally, the state is recognized as one of America’s finest golf destinations, particularly when it comes to public access. Golf Digest rankings placed Michigan tied for No. 2 in the country for public golf, an honor that confirms what golfers here have known for years, this is a state where extraordinary golf is not hidden behind velvet ropes.
Of course, Michigan’s private-club pedigree is every bit as compelling. Crystal Downs Country Club remains the state’s crown jewel, revered not only within Michigan but across the country as one of the finest courses in America.
Oakland Hills Country Club, especially its restored South Course, carries a major-championship aura and a legacy that is woven into the history of the game itself. The Kingsley Club also stands tall among architecture purists, offering a quieter but deeply respected kind of prestige. These are clubs that do not need to shout, their reputations already travel.
On the public side, Michigan’s star power is just as strong. Arcadia Bluffs has become an icon, its dramatic perch above Lake Michigan giving golfers one of the most visually striking experiences in the country. Forest Dunes and The Loop continue to attract national attention for their inventive design and destination appeal. Bay Harbor, Greywalls, and Arcadia Bluffs South prove that Michigan public golf is not one-note, it can be rugged, polished, scenic, strategic, and unforgettable, sometimes all in the same round. And resorts? With BOYNE Golf, Treetops, Tullymore and Shanty Creek all boasting more than three courses on their properties, it's nearly impossible to run out of championship level golf in the Mitten State.
Left page: Walloon Lake Country Club
This page, top: Eagle Crest Golf Club Circle: Links of Novi
Bottom: Quarry/Preserve at Bay Harbor Golf Club
And in today’s golf world, the culture around the game matters almost as much as the courses themselves. That is where Metro Detroit Golfers has carved out a powerful presence. With a community of more than 130,000 across all platforms, Metro Detroit Golfers has become one of the most influential voices in Michigan golf, spotlighting courses, stories, events, and the people who make the game feel local and alive. Its website proudly calls it the largest online golf community in Michigan, and that influence is easy to see. More than a media brand, it has helped create a sense of connection among golfers across the region, from serious players chasing tee times to newcomers simply looking for their place in the game. If you love Michigan golf, it is an easy invitation, join the conversation and be part of the community.
“Golf in Michigan is not just scenic, it is substantial.”
**Editors Note: Learn more about our founding partner, Tullymore Golf Resort: Experience a Michigan Masterpiece Discover two distinct world-class courses, beautifully crafted by highly acclaimed architects, and offering their own unique experiences. Like “the whisper of the forest tree and the thunder of the inland sea”, these two courses “unite in one grand symphony” and will leave you wondering why you’re not here right now.
Reclaimed from land carved by ancient glaciers, Tullymore Golf Resort is nestled amongst 800 acres of pristine Michigan woodlands and wetlands. Our resort facilities include luxuriously appointed accommodations and premium amenities such as a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and two comfortable clubhouses. And the Villages at Tullymore offer the opportunity to truly make us your home away from home.
Tullymore Golf Resort is located in beautiful central Michigan, near the Village of Stanwood and adjacent to the beautiful Canadian Lakes. They are just 30 miles west of Mt. Pleasant and one hour north of Grand Rapids. There are two separate courses at Tullymore located just five miles apart, the St. Ives Golf Club and the Tullymore Golf Club. Visit tullymoregolf.com for more information.
Metro Detroit Golfers
The Metro Detroit Golfers is a podcast built specifically for the Michigan golfer. Mike Sullivan and Kyle Bogey will bring you fun golf discussions, course reviews, and great guest interviews.
Left page, top left: Tullymore Golf Resort
Top right: Oakland Hills Country Club
Bottom left: Indianwood Golf + Country Club - Old Course
Bottom right: Crystal Downs Country Cub
This page, circle: Justin Rose, Make The Turn
CELEBRATING 40 Years
LeConte Men’s Clothiers | Established 1986
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW
For 40 years, LeConte Men’s Clothiers has been Rochester’s trusted destination for elevated menswear and exceptional service. Founded in 1986 by Mike and Suzanne Browe, LeConte is built on timeless style, quality craftsmanship, and lasting relationships. From tailored essentials to milestone dressing, expect provide expert guidance, personalized attention, and classic confidence in every fit.
leconteltd.com | 316 S. Main Street
Classic. Timeless. LeConte.
U-Pick Evenings in the Fields
Private Events I Bloom Bar I DIY Bloom Buckets
Seasonal Flower Subscriptions
PROMO: CITYLIFESTYLE10
N Rochester Road, Rochester, MI
JOIN US FOR A SEASON IN BLOOM. Every stem is grown right here in Rochester, Michigan and thoughtfully curated to capture the beauty of the season.
REVIVE DENTISTRY
WHERE MODERN CARE MEETS MEANINGFUL CONNECTION
In a time where efficiency often outweighs experience, husband-and-wife dental team Dr. Jessica Saikaley and Dr. James Tangalos are quietly redefining what it means to visit the dentist. At Revive Dentistry, the appointment is only part of the equation. The deeper mission is rooted in connection, comfort, and care that feels incredibly human.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW
The story of Revive Dentistry begins with a shared purpose. Both doctors were drawn to dentistry not only as a healthcare profession, but as a unique intersection of science, artistry, and personal impact.
Dr. Jessica Saikaley and Dr. James Tangalos
“Dentistry allows you to truly change how someone feels about themselves. Whether you're relieving pain or helping someone smile again without hesitation, the impact is immediate and lasting”, they say.
As careers progressed, they found themselves envisioning something more intentional—an environment where patients weren’t just treated, but genuinely understood. That vision became the foundation for Revive Dentistry: a practice designed to blend clinical care with an experience that feels thoughtful, personal, and comforting from the moment a patient walks through the door.
Their partnership extends far beyond the walls of their practice. The two met in dental school, where their relationship developed alongside their clinical skills. Studying together, navigating the demands of rigorous training, and growing through shared challenges created a unique bond—one that continues to shape how they practice today.
“We didn’t just grow as individuals—we grew as clinicians together. That shared experience built a level of trust and alignment that naturally carries into how we care for patients.”
The result is a practice philosophy centered on trust, transparency, and a genuine sense of partnership. Patients aren’t simply recipients of care—they’re active participants in it.
At Revive Dentistry, each visit begins with something deceptively simple: listening. Every patient brings a unique story into the dental chair, whether it’s a specific concern, a long-term goal, or even anxiety shaped by past experiences.
From there, the team emphasizes clear, open communication. Procedures are explained thoroughly, questions are encouraged, and no appointment feels rushed. It’s an approach that replaces uncertainty with clarity—and often, fear with trust.
“We want patients to feel seen and heard,” they say. “Not just treated.”
While the experience at Revive Dentistry feels warm and personal, the scope of care is comprehensive and highly advanced. The practice offers a full spectrum of services, including preventive care, restorative treatments, cosmetic dentistry, endodontic procedures, and oral surgery.
What sets their approach apart is not just what they offer—but how they deliver it. There is no onesize-fits-all model here. Every treatment plan is carefully tailored, combining detailed diagnostics with meaningful conversations about each patient’s lifestyle, priorities, and long-term goals.
“A treatment plan should make sense for the whole person,” they explain. “Not just their teeth.”
Treat yourself.
This personalized approach ensures that care is both clinically sound and practically aligned with the patient’s life—an often-overlooked balance in modern dentistry.
In a community with many established dental practices, Revive Dentistry stands out not by doing more—but by doing things with intention.
The physical space itself reflects this philosophy. Designed to be modern yet inviting, the office avoids the sterile, clinical feel that many associate with dental visits. Instead, it creates an atmosphere that feels closer to a wellness experience.
One of the most distinctive elements is their complimentary comfort menu— an offering that transforms routine appointments into something unexpectedly relaxing. Patients can choose from cozy blankets, supportive pillows, noise-canceling headphones, aromatherapy, cooling under-eye patches, and even ceiling-mounted TVs for entertainment during procedures.
“We wanted to create an environment where patients don’t feel like they’re ‘at the dentist. “It’s about changing that perception entirely.”
While comfort and connection are central to the Revive Dentistry experience, technology plays an equally important role behind the scenes. The practice has invested in advanced digital imaging and modern diagnostic tools
that allow for greater precision and efficiency. These innovations help streamline workflows, reduce treatment times, and improve overall outcomes.
“Technology is a tool,” they explain. “It helps us be more accurate and efficient, but it doesn’t replace the importance of listening, explaining, and connecting with patients.”
This balance ensures that patients benefit from cutting-edge care without losing the warmth and attentiveness that define the practice.
Ask them what they love most about being dentists, and the answer is immediate: the ability to make a tangible difference every day.
Sometimes, that impact is urgent—relieving pain or addressing a pressing dental issue. Other times, it’s transformative in a quieter way, like helping a patient regain the confidence to smile freely again.
Those moments, they say, never lose their significance. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the
Choose from their comfort menu.
change, not just physically but emotionally,” they share. “That’s what keeps us motivated.”
That passion translates directly into their work. It drives them to stay current with advancements in dentistry, continually refine their skills, and approach each patient with the same level of care and attention—no matter how routine the appointment may seem.
Among the many services offered at Revive Dentistry, smile transformations stand out as both a technical and creative endeavor. These procedures require more than clinical expertise—they demand an artistic eye and a deep understanding of each patient’s individuality.
Every transformation begins with a conversation. What does the patient envision? What feels natural to them? How will their new smile complement their facial features and personality?
From there, the process becomes highly collaborative. Patients are involved at every stage, ensuring that the final result aligns with their expectations.
“Our goal is always to enhance, not overdo,” they explain. “A beautiful smile should look natural—like it was always meant to be there.”
It’s a philosophy that prioritizes authenticity over perfection, resulting in outcomes that feel both refined and uniquely personal.
As Revive Dentistry continues to grow, the vision remains clear: to become a trusted cornerstone of the Shelby Township community. For them, it’s about building lasting relationships, supporting local connections, and creating a space where patients feel genuinely comfortable returning year after year.
“We want to be known not just for the quality of our work, but for how we make people feel,” they say.
And in doing so, they’re giving the community something more than healthy smiles. They’re offering a new perspective on care itself, rooted belief that every patient deserves to be seen and heard.
Revive Dentistry is located at 51540 Van Dyke Ave in Shelby Township, just North of 23 Mile Rd. on the East Side of Van Dyke. Learn more or make an appointment by visiting revivedentistrymi.com .
and Dr. James Tangalos
Dr. Jessica Saikaley
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
ACE HIGH
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW
When you can’t find exactly what you want, sometimes you just have to dig in and create it yourself. In early 2016, that’s precisely what happened. Nate Hamood began putting together small batches of natural ingredients to create an easy-to-use, water-based product that had incredible hold, with a natural feel and pliable texture – something that didn’t really exist at the time.
Eventually they perfected the process. With the help of a modified crockpot and many sleepless nights in the kitchen of Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters, they produced the first 25 official jars of Ace High Original Pomade.
Since launching their Original Pomade, the team has developed a full Ace High product line that includes Pomade, Beard Balm, Tonic, Shampoo and Conditioner. They’ve moved past the crockpot to an actual production space in their own red brick building with a rad staff dedicated to production and manufacturing.
Learn more about Ace High, or order some product for yourself by visiting acehighco.com
(Ace High Products are cruelty free, sold in sustainable packaging, made with all natural ingredients and produced at the highest quality, for everyone.)
Small Batches, Big Ideas.
Where it all started.
L-R; Cool Water Pomade, Red Bandit Beard, Blue Suede Clay, Original Pomade, Hair Tonic.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 4TH
Gatsby Garden party
Meadowbrook Hall | 6:00 PM
A lavish summer evening in Roaring ’20s style In this twist on our popular Twilight Tours, guests are invited to enjoy an evening garden party in the style of The Great Gatsby. For questions, contact (248) 364-6202. meadowbrookhall.org/events/gatsbygarden-party
JUNE 6TH
Killer Flamingos at the ROXY
The Roxy, Downtown Rochester | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a straight 90's music set! A night of pure energy with Detroit's own Killer Flamingos! This is a Roxy double show - Tickets will be available for a 7PM & 9:30PM show. Find tickets at theroxyrochester.com
JUNE 18TH
2026 Summer Vertical
Concert Series at Royal Park
Royal Park Hotel + Park 600 | 6:00 PM
We're kicking it off Thursday, June 18 with high energy music and three ticket packages to choose from. June 18 - @ parallelfifthband, July 16 - @bluewaterkingsband, August 6 - @yourgeneration_. Visit our website to learn more, confirm performance times and to secure your spot royalparkhotelmi.com/ vertical-concerts.htm
JUNE 18TH - JULY 30TH
Music in the Park Concert Series
Rochester Municipal Park | 7:00 PM
The Music in the Park Summer Series kicks off on June 18th! Pack a picnic, grab a blanket or chair and enjoy summer music amongst the trees. Admission is FREE! These concerts take place June 18-July 30th (Thursday Nights Only). For more info, contact 248-656-0560
The Old Fashioned is the drink that never needed reinventing. Long before cocktail menus turned into encyclopedias, this was the blueprint—simple, balanced, and entirely about the whiskey.
The Old Fashioned traces back to the early 1800s, when the word “cocktail” first appeared in print as a mix of spirit, sugar, bitters, and water. By the late 19th century, bartenders began adding liqueurs and embellishments, and some drinkers pushed back—asking for their cocktails made the “old-fashioned way.”
THE CLASSIC OLD FASHIONED RECIPE BY THE MEETING HOUSE
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube (or ¼ oz simple syrup)
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Large ice cube
Proper Technique (This Is Where It’s Won or Lost)
1. Build the base: Sugar cube. Rocks glass. Saturate with bitters. Splash water.
2. Muddle gently: Break down the sugar just enough to dissolve.
The Old Fashioned
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN LEW
3. Add ice: Add one large, solid cube.
4. Whiskey: Pour over the whiskey and stir slowly for about 15–20 seconds.
5. The Orange Peel: Twist the peel over the glass to release the oils, then run it along the rim and drop it in.
WHAT YOU SHOULD NEVER COMPROMISE.
The Whiskey. If the base isn’t good, nothing will hide it. Choose a quality bourbon for a richer, sweeter profile or rye for a spicier, drier edge.
The ice. Large cubes or nothing. Small cubes melt too fast and dilute the drink.
Too much sugar ruins the structure. Too little and it becomes harsh. The goal is subtle sweetness—not a dessert.
Skip the muddled fruit and neon cherries. The orange peel isn’t decoration—it’s aroma, and aroma is flavor.
The Old Fashioned is tried and true because it respects the drinker. It doesn’t try to distract you with too many ingredients—it asks you to pay attention. Every sip changes slightly as the ice melts, opening up new notes in the whiskey.
It’s also adaptable without losing its identity. Swap bourbon for rye, adjust the sweetness, or change bitters—and it’s still unmistakably an Old Fashioned.
More than anything, it represents a certain philosophy: that great things don’t need to be complicated. Just done well.
Editors Note: The Old Fashioned isn’t just a cocktail— it’s a benchmark. If a bar can’t make this properly, it tells you everything you need to know.
Head to The Meeting House in Downtown Rochester for the Perfect Old Fashioned, bonus points for branded ice.
(If you’ve seen Mad Men, Don Draper approves this message.)
Great things don’t need to be complicated. Just done well.
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