West Bloomfield, MI March 2024

Where the Heart Is

Home. So much is contained in that little four-letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” As we thought about home, we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the food and drinks, the aesthetic and design, but most importantly—the people.

This month, we bring you inspiration to elevate your living space as well as a look at the “home” outside of the building itself—from a special summer camp for your children to advice for getting your finances in order. Finally, we share a local brewery and gathering place that can serve as a home away from home, a place to meet friends and enjoy time with others in the community.

We feel like the lucky ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise our area and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you—in the West Bloomfield area, your neighborhood, and most all of—your home.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Happy March!

JOE GEAGEA, PUBLISHER @WEST_BLOOMFIELD_CITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

1-3: Residents enjoy the Senior Walk on a crisp winter afternoon. Photography by West Bloomfield Parks

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY GILLESPIE

HELPING YOU ACHIEVE THE RETIREMENT OF YOUR DREAMS

VANTAGE POINT FINANCIAL

“When considering financial planning,” says Ron Braun, President of the Michigan office of Vantage Point Financial, “make sure you seek out a fiduciary as they are required to put the client’s interests first.” Another important consideration is to find an advisor who specializes in retirement planning, as retirement has specific risks and strategies that differ from when you were accumulating and growing your assets.

explains, “so if one is neglected it could result in problems with other components of the plan.”

“You can’t have a plan that is ‘set it

LEADING CLIENTS TO A RETIREMENT THAT IS BEYOND THEIR EXPECTATIONS.

and forget it’” says Ron, so Vantage Point provides their clients with a written plan incorporating all six areas that is regularly reviewed and updated. “Life, financial markets, and the economy all change over time and a good plan must adapt and modify accordingly.”

At Vantage Point, which has offices in Farmington Hills as well as in Illinois and Missouri, says Ron, “We are fiduciaries who are dedicated to leading clients to a retirement that is beyond their expectations.” Working with his son Jeffrey, who is also a fiduciary and financial advisor, Vantage Point uses a holistic approach that combines and integrates six areas of financial planning: Goal Planning, Income Planning, Investment Management, Tax Management, Health Care and Insurance Planning and Legacy Planning. “Each of these areas impact each other,” Ron

Be sure to remember the non-financial issues also. “Where do you want to live, and how do you want to spend your time? The first six months of retirement can feel like an extended vacation, but then you must have a routine and a lifestyle to settle in to. Additionally, it can be an adjustment for a spouse who has been home to all of a sudden have her partner around 24/7. Frank and open discussions before retirement can be helpful to set expectations and develop a plan together.”

Get started today at vantagepoint-financial.com .

AUTHENTIC MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

Whether you desire a special dining experience or have an occasion to share with your family or friends, Orchard Lake Mezza is the right place to enjoy real, exceptional cuisine.

You will love our Mediterranean dishes from Kabob, Shawarma, Hommous, Tabbouli, Fattoush to many other delicious fo ods.

4189 ORCHARD LAKE ROAD

WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP, MI 48323

248.865.0000

ORCHARDLAKEMEZZA.COM

Inside Accurate Cabinetry

A CONVERSATION WITH OWNER WENDY ANNS

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY GILLESPIE

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT ACCURATE CABINETRY AND THE INSPIRATION BEHIND ITS INCEPTION?

Accurate Cabinetry was born out of my passion for creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing spaces. I noticed a gap in the market for kitchen and bath designs that seamlessly blend precision and style. I founded Accurate Cabinetry with the mission to provide homeowners with high-quality, customized solutions that elevate their daily living experiences.

WHAT ARE SOME KEY PRINCIPLES THAT GUIDE ACCURATE CABINETRY’S APPROACH TO KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN?

At Accurate Cabinetry, we believe in the power of precision and attention to detail. Every design is crafted with the homeowner’s lifestyle in mind. We prioritize functionality without compromising on aesthetics. Sustainability is also a core principle for us, reflected in our choice of eco-friendly materials and practices.

HOW DOES ACCURATE CABINETRY INCORPORATE ECO-FRIENDLY ELEMENTS INTO ITS DESIGNS?

Sustainability is a key pillar of our design philosophy. We source materials responsibly, opting for reclaimed wood, bamboo, and other eco-friendly options. Our commitment extends to our production processes, ensuring minimal waste and energy efficiency. We aim to create kitchens and baths that not only stand the test of time in terms of style but also contribute positively to the environment.

MOVING ON, WHAT DESIGN TRENDS DO YOU FORESEE SHAPING THE KITCHEN AND BATH INDUSTRY IN 2024, AND HOW IS ACCURATE CABINETRY ADAPTING TO THESE TRENDS?

We’re seeing a shift towards sustainable elegance, smart integration, and bold color choices. Accurate Cabinetry is at the forefront of these trends. Our designs incorporate sustainable materials, embrace smart technologies for modern living, and introduce a vibrant color palette to infuse personality into the spaces. We’re also exploring open shelving aesthetics and minimalist designs, offering homeowners a variety of options to suit their preferences.

CAN YOU SHARE A SUCCESS STORY OR A PARTICULARLY MEMORABLE PROJECT THAT STANDS OUT IN YOUR MIND?

One project that comes to mind is a complete kitchen transformation for a family who loves to cook and entertain. We created a customized kitchen with smart storage solutions, open shelving for their curated collection of cookbooks, and a stunning mixed-material island. Seeing the joy and satisfaction on their faces when they saw the finished space was incredibly rewarding.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO HOMEOWNERS LOOKING TO EMBARK ON A KITCHEN OR BATH RENOVATION?

My advice would be to prioritize functionality and personalization. Your kitchen and bath should not only be visually appealing but also tailored to your lifestyle. Work with a designer who understands your needs and preferences. Additionally, consider sustainable options to create a space that not only reflects your style but also contributes positively to the environment.

Accurate Cabinetry’s showroom in Waterford showcases a diverse range of premium cabinetry brands such as Pioneer Cabinetry, Europa Cabinetry, Starmark, and many more. Whether you’re planning a renovation or simply seeking inspiration, Accurate Cabinetry’s showroom promises a visual feast of design possibilities. Visit or call to embark on a journey towards creating a space that reflects your unique style and preferences.

Call 248-742-1421 for an appointment or visit accuratecabinetry.com

Our designs incorporate sustainable materials, embrace smart technologies for modern living, and introduce a vibrant color palette to infuse personality into the spaces.

Kickstand Brewing

ARTICLE

EACH BATCHREPRESENTS A NEWOPPORTUNITYFORANOTHER JOURNEY.

Kickstand Brewing Company began with a small used brewing system. “At first it was a fun way to supply not only ourselves, but our friends and family as we hosted parties,” says Scott Emerick of Kickstand Brewing Company. “But soon it became much more than that. The idea that this could be bigger and better, than it could reach more than just our inner circle, that idea lit the fire and motivated us to dream bigger and in turn, act on those dreams.”

“From the beginning we set out with the idea of being a brewery with food, the focus being more on beer,” says Scott. “However, our clientele dictated that food was the priority. Our menu has expanded and evolved to

include a very diverse selection for all tastes, including Mahi Mahi Tacos, White Truffle Gnocchi, Bourbon Salmon, and a Prime Filet. Our Executive Chef consistently executes weekly specials to highlight current restaurant trends while utilizing the freshest of locally sourced ingredients.”

Of course, the beers are the heart of Kickstand Brewing Company, and many of them tell a story. “Take our Long Strange Trip, for example,” says general manager Andris Zukovs. “Eight years ago, between working out the kinks of our new brewing system and sourcing ingredients, it was a long journey to complete that beer, and a strange one at that—hence the name. Now, it remains one of our staples and hottest-selling beers.”

Scott and his business partner Brendan Rogers were born and raised in Commerce and were eager to add to the local community. “We always wanted to bring another experience to Commerce as there really aren’t many places to dine here. Now being dads, our focus is on growing relationships with local businesses, patrons, and their expanding families,” says Brendan.

To that end, from a warm front door welcome to their exceptional table service, Kickstand Brewing Company aims to please with rustic décor, upbeat music, a wide array of brews, Michigan wines, handcrafted cocktails, and freshly prepared food. “Kickstand breaks the mold when it comes to breweries,”

continues Scott. “We serve an exceptionally diverse group of guests and offer a wide variety of food and beverage options typically not available in your standard brewery. Our staff are comprised of local, community-oriented individuals who look forward to seeing our repeat guests and welcoming new folks into our fold.”

One question remains—why Kickstand?

“Actually, we get that question a lot. Perhaps it is due to the parallels that can be drawn between the history and evolution of the bike and the advances and rich history of beer! Well, we could make up some creative idea like that, but hey, that’s not how we roll,” says Scott. “In all honesty, when you think about it, what does a kickstand represent? Putting it down means you have finished a ride or a journey, putting it up means you are just getting started on another chapter. That’s the way we look at our friendship and our shared passion for what we are trying to accomplish—to provide world-class beer that is uniquely our own.”

Find out more at kickstandbrewingco.com.

SKULL ISLAND CAMP

Set Sail for Summer Fun

In 2003, Kathryn Chipman’s children were unsatisfied with day camp. “My kids hated the place I had enrolled them in. At the time, we owned a small parcel of land on Gale Island on Pontiac Lake. I suggested to my children that if they would play quietly so I could finish my work, we would bring a few of their friends out to the island tomorrow and make our own day camp.” The name, chosen by Kathryn’s son, was inspired because it “sounds scary, but it would be fun!”

The rest is history. Because it really is on an island, and not just a name, campers arrive each morning on one of Skull Island Camp’s uniquely designed 30-foot pontoons—Black Pearl, Flying Dutchman, Jolly Roger, Kraken, or Skallywag. The six-minute boat ride runs in the mornings from 7:45 to 9:30 AM, and several return trips run between 3:00 and 6:00 PM. Campers wear colored wristbands to note their scheduled return time.

“The island is open for play as soon as the campers arrive,” says Kathryn, “with water activities beginning each morning after the

daily round-up. We have a floating water park the size of a football field with water trampolines, floating obstacle courses, water slides, zip lines, rope swings, acres of wooded trails, fishing, kayaking, paddle boats, rock wall, petting zoo, foosball, ping pong, basketball, arts and crafts, plenty of soft sand—and no electronics at all.”

Skull Island Camp is recommended for ages 5-12, and the camp has a buddy program to help single campers make new friends. For those ages 12-13+, Skull Island offers a junior counselor program. “Our volunteer program gives them a sense of purpose, a place to go, a little responsibility, and a lot of pride. It’s from our counselor-in-training program that we do 100% of our hiring for staff.”

At full time enrollment, notes Kathryn, “it works out to less than $6 an hour for your child’s care, including all sporting activities, safety equipment, a full buffet lunch, and three daily snacks.” The camp is also planning to be open Saturdays this summer to provide additional options for families. Find out more at skullislandcamp.com

ARTICLE BY AMY NIEZUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY SKULL ISLAND CAMP

Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home

QUALITY DESIGN SERVICES AND CUSTOM HOME FURNISHINGS

ARTICLE BY SHELLEY RAYMOND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAKER BLINDS & VESTALIA HOME

Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home began 40 years ago as one of the first true design showrooms in southeast Michigan. Not quite a furniture store and not quite the kind of design studio available only to the elite at the time, Baker Blinds bridged the gap between the two—making quality design services and custom home furnishings available to all.

Today, a wide range of interior designers can be easily found but very few have expertise in the very complex field of custom window treatments. With that in mind, Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home has perfected a range of products and services that focus on what clients and independent designers struggle with the most—the procurement and coordination of textile-based home furnishings.

Two elite brands comprise not all, but most, of the beauty at Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home. Hunter Douglas is world-renowned as the leading manufacturer of custom blinds, shades, and shutters. Handcrafted in North America, Hunter Douglas window treatments are known and loved for their consistent quality and impeccable style.

Vestalia Home, the company’s own line of custom furnishings, includes custom draperies, bedding, and luxury upholstered sofas, chairs, and unique seating arrangements. All are 100% hand & bench-made in the USA with all the things you would expect from a highend brand—premium cushioning, hardwood frames, and traditional, 8-way hand-tied spring systems. Engineered for comfort, Vestalia Home features a wide selection of luxury fabrics and leathers.

Most people know and appreciate the value of a good interior designer. Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home offers that and more. Window treatment designs require extensive expertise, more than one might imagine. Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home has a team of

engineers, installers, designers, and long-time industry pros. They will walk you through each step, providing expert advice and industry knowledge to collaborate on custom furnishings that showcase your unique style and enhance the atmosphere of your home or office.

To maximize your joys-worth, we suggest that you begin your projects with a home or office appointment for just $250. This is a time for you and a Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home interior designer to meet, discuss priorities, and come up with a project plan that includes timing and design fees. The Design Fee program is good for you and good for the designer. With this program, you are assured that design fees do not escalate out of control, and when designers are compensated for their time, they invest themselves in finding the perfect solutions for you.

Free on-site appointments are available for those who are looking for blinds, shades and/or shutters. A Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home window treatment professional will arrive at your location equipped with the full range of working samples of Hunter Douglas and other offered brands. Together you will make selections, with options ranging from automation, light control, room-darkening, specialty shapes, and more. The professional will then measure your windows and provide a quote, all while on-site.

Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home has two showrooms where you can see the latest blinds and shades in action, including PowerView® Automation, or peruse through a selection of beautiful fabrics. Their Farmington showroom is open Mondays only from 11:00 AM-7:00 PM. Their Birmingham showroom is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11:00 AM -7:00 PM. Phones are answered before, during, and after hours. Home appointments are available 6 days per week. Visit bakerblinds.com for more information.

Baker Blinds & Vestalia Home has perfected a range of products and services that focus on what clients and independent designers struggle with the most—the procurement and coordination of textile-based home furnishings.

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.

“GET YOUR HANDS ON A PLANT-BASED COOKBOOK, PICK A DOZEN RECIPES, AND COOK THOSE WITH YOUR FAMILY ON SUNDAYS.”

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.

If you haven’t subscribed to watching “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” streaming on Netflix, do yourself a favor and soak up the well-documented views into how Ikaria, Greece, Loma Linda, California, Sardinia, Italy, Okinawa, Japan, and Nicoya, Costa Rica exemplify the basis behind the Blue Zones truth and have since inspired Dan and his team to further extrapolate how we can manufacture healthy blue zone lifestyles in virtually any city and within our homes by way of intentional adaptation.

Most of us are well aware of the “American way of life” we reside in, that being one of convenience in all shapes and forms. We excel in offering the most fast food options in any country. We rank at the top of the most cars per household. We embrace a sedentary at-home lifestyle. And, for many of us, it stems from our childhood to no-fault of our own; comfort foods and Friday night pizza deliveries, complacent recliners and cushy car commutes. In short, however, now more than ever we categorically live in a country where processed foods and ultra-convenience, unfortunately, translate to life-threatening health diseases and a lack of organic joy.

What is the best news of all? All of these characteristics are wildly easy to overcome with effortless, yet conscious pivots to making better decisions with our time, our food, and our focus. Ask yourself: Are you driving or walking? Are you connecting socially? Set your sights on avoiding the majority of processed foods and start eating a largely whole-food and plant-based diet that will (statistically) give you another 10-12 years on your life.

In place of your toaster, keep a fruit bowl on the counter. Create a low-level junk food drawer. Stop buying processed meat, potato chips, sweetened snacks like cookies and candies, and worst of all, sugar-sweet beverages, and start buying more beans, nuts, grains, and tea.

“Am I going to tell you to never have these? No, people deserve to treat themselves. But you’ll do yourself an enormous favor if you just don’t bring those into your home. If you want to go out for those treats, go ahead,” Dan says.

“Simply just don’t bring them home, and you’ll cut out 70-80% of consumption right there.”

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.

Who do you hang out with? Happiness is contagious. “The Blue Zone approach is to go through your contact base and think of some friends whose recreation is pickleball, biking, or gardening. Who will care about you on a bad day and have a meaningful conversation? Identify one or two friends who are vegan or vegetarian and show you how and where to eat whole foods. Actively invite them out for lunch, and bring them into your social circle: this will have a bigger, long-term impact on your behavior than any new diet or exercise, and it costs you zero. Plus, there is a ton of data that shows it works, and it’s long-term.”

“We are marketed the idea that if we change our behavior by exercising more, taking the right supplements, trying this longevity or that anti-aging hack, that we will lose weight and get healthy, yet it never works for the longterm,” says Dan. The Blue Zones approach is not trying to change your behaviors, it is asking you to change your surroundings…your eco-system.

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.”

And, we would be remiss not to attend to the travelers at heart who would love to indulge in a luxurious resort paired with the facets of an actual Blue Zones destination. Dan highly recommends seeking out Silvestre in Nosara, Costa Rica where the experience offers wellness programming, fully-equipped kitchens, and outdoor activities that will fuel your inspiration for a healthier life.

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 for full insights and visit BlueZones.com to shop exclusive products.

MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 14TH

Veterans Resource Fair

Connect Senior Center, 33230 W 14 Mile Rd West Bloomfield, MI

9:00 AM

Veterans and their families can discover helpful resources such as free food boxes and support from the Oakland Community Health Network and Oakland County Veterans Services. Register at wbparks.org.

MARCH 21ST

Egg Scramble

Drake Sports Park, 6801 Drake Rd West Bloomfield, MI | 4:00 PM

Children ages 1-8 can bring a basket and collect and assemble eggs, then turn them in for a treat! Other activities include a petting farm, train rides, and you can even take your own photo with Mr. Bunny! Time slots begin at 4:00 PM, event runs until 7:00 PM. Register at wbparks.org.

MARCH 23RD

Solar Saturday

Recreation Activities Center, 4640 Walnut Lake Rd, West Bloomfield, MI | 10:00 AM

Learn about sun viewing and eclipse safety from the Oakland Astronomy Club! Event includes a craft and eclipse glasses provided by the West Bloomfield Public Library. Be ready for the solar eclipse on April 8! Adults and children register at wbparks.org.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

West Bloomfield Adult Education Register NOW for Winter ELL Classes!

Learn English, meet new people & make friends at your West Bloomfield ELL class. Join us today to improve your language & connect with the community!

Classes run from January 8 through May 1, 2024

Winter 2024 ELL Session 3: Jan. 8 to Feb. 21 (6 weeks, Omit 1/15, 2/19)

PM LEVELS I, II, III - Mon/Tues/Wed | 6:30-9:00 p.m. | $50

AM LEVEL I - Mon/Tues/Wed | 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. | $50

ADVANCED/INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH - Mon/Wed | 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. | $225

Students 18 and older are welcome from any district.

7071 Orchard Lake Rd, Suite 100; West Bloomfield, MI 48322 wbsd.org/departments/community-education (248) 539-2390 • DAWN.HANFORD@WBSD.ORG

West Bloomfield Adult Education

Spring Quiche

ARTICLE BY LAUREN LANE AND AMY NIEZUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

A Light and Tasty Meal for March

Get ready for spring with the fresh flavors of your favorite vegetables and sweep away the chill of winter.

ingredients:

• 1 pie crust

• 2 cups vegetables, such as asparagus and spinach

• 7 large eggs, beaten

• 1 1/4 cups light cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (such as thyme or parsley)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 3/4 cup gruyere or white cheddar cheese, grated

• 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated

directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9” pie plate with crust, crimping edges as desired. Cover with parchment paper and weigh down with uncooked rice or beans. Bake until edges are lightly golden, about 25 minutes. Remove parchment and rice or beans.

In a bowl, combine eggs, cream, and seasonings. Whisk lightly.

Layer half of the cheese into the crust, then the vegetables. Top with remaining cheese. Add egg mixture. Bake 35 minutes or until set.

More at @lauren_lane_culinarian.

Gutterglove Pro™ delivers innovation and flexibility, combining a sturdy frame, and stainless steel micro-mesh

TYPE

Blocks even the smallest debris and resists warping or rusting year after year.

RAISED -BEND TECHNOLOGY

Lifts debris off the mesh so it can blow off naturally, ensuring superior water flow, even in severe downpours.

ANODIZED ALUMINUM FRAME

Withstands the harshest environments including heavy pine cones and small tree branches.

Fits