LIFE + CULTURE
CULTIVATING COMMUNITY
FOOD + BEVERAGE
INCOME TAX COCKTAIL
ART + CULTURE
BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS
How does your garden grow?
The best returns in life come from the simplest choices
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about investment— not just in the financial sense, but in all the ways we invest our time, energy and resources into what matters most.
Some investments are obvious, like planning for the future or supporting a local business. Others are more personal, like nurturing relationships, prioritizing health or simply making space for things that bring joy.
One of the best investments I’ve made recently was an afternoon completely unplugged—no emails, no calls. Just quality time with family, laughing, talking and truly being present. It didn’t cost a thing, but the return? Priceless.
I think that's the culture in West Bloomfield. We want to be present. And we're a community that invests in local businesses, in families, in entertainment, in joy, in education, in faith. Look around and you'll see individuals everywhere making intentional choices for a better future, shaping the place we call home.
In this issue, we’re diving into many ways we can invest. You’ll find stories of local entrepreneurs making an impact, plus inspiration for living a life rich in purpose and connection.
Whatever investment looks like for you right now, I hope this issue reminds you that the best returns often come from the simplest choices.
Here’s to investing in what truly matters.
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Margaret Haight | margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Allison Sommerville allison.sommerville@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jonathan Ashbury, Kristy Belley, Angela Brookerd, Susan Lanier-Graham
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Simran Bajwa, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: West Bloomfield Parks & Rec staff snowshoeing for some outdoor enjoyment 2: Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce’s Cup of Connections at LaFontaine Subaru 3: There were lots of great moves at the Daddy Daughter Dance at Glen Oaks Golf Course 4: Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Director Installation at Connect Senior Center 5: Guests enjoying the Valentine’s Day Lunch at Connect Senior Center 6: Greater West Bloomfield Chamber’s networking event for wellness and health at Provision Living 7: The dance floor was full at the Daddy Daughter Dance at Glen Oaks Golf Course
GREATER WEST BLOOMFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
GREATER WEST BLOOMFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
GREATER WEST BLOOMFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DripIV now offers mobile services
Now you can get your healthy IV hydration therapy on the go. DripIV (dripiv.com) is now offering Drip Direct—concierge IV therapy delivered right to your home, office or event. It’s perfect for parties, weddings, golf outings and corporate wellness. If you can’t make it to the West Bloomfield location, 6909 Orchard Lake Road, Drip IV will come to you. Call (248) 955-2649 or go online to book an appointment.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1. Squeeze your OJ.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
6. Garnish.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
SPRING INTO BLOOM
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN ASHBURY PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMRAN BAJWA
FROM DORMANT TO DAZZLING: 5 STEPS TO SPRING GARDEN GLORY
After this harsh winter, nature is eager to burst into life, and with a little planning, your outdoor space can flourish with vibrant color and healthy growth.
April is the perfect time to revitalize your garden and landscaping, so embrace a season of renewal with five simple steps from Tim Travis, owner of Goldner Walsh Garden & Home.
1. OBSERVE AND LISTEN TO NATURE
Before you break out your tools, take a leisurely stroll around your garden. Notice where buds are peeking through and where nature seems to be taking its time. These early signs help you decide where extra care is needed. Like a good conversation, your garden tells you its story—and when it’s ready—if you take the time to listen.
CONTINUED >
Tim Travis of Goldner Walsh Garden & Home
Nelly, the entertaining tortoise
2. CLEAN AND REFRESH YOUR BEDS
Spring cleaning isn’t just for the indoors. Clear away winter’s debris and prune ornamental grasses and hydrangeas as new growth emerges. By removing dead material gently, you give your plants room to breathe and set the stage for a lively display later in the season.
3. FEED YOUR GARDEN RIGHT
After a long dormancy, plants need nourishment to get started. Tim recommends an acid-based organic fertilizer—such as Holly Tone—to cater to Michigan’s alkaline soils. This slow-release nourishment not only boosts growth but also supports the thriving ecosystem beneath the soil’s surface.
4. WATER WITH CARE
April’s weather is usually a mix of sudden warm spells and unexpected cool snaps. Instead of a constant sprinkler schedule, water only when the soil shows signs of dryness. This mindful approach encourages deeper root development, ensuring your garden stays resilient through the season’s fluctuations.
5. DESIGN THOUGHTFULLY
Great gardens are crafted with an eye for balance. Avoid overcrowding by choosing native, deer-resistant plants and giving each one ample room to shine. A thoughtful layout not only creates a picturesque scene but also supports local wildlife. Remember, less is often more—let each plant’s natural beauty take center stage.
By following these five tips—observing nature, refreshing your beds, nourishing your soil, watering judiciously and planning with care—you can create a garden that thrives well into the season. Embrace the art of gardening as both a creative pursuit and a natural remedy for everyday stress, and enjoy the bounty that April is preparing.
Goldner Walsh Garden & Home
For this article, we toured Goldner Walsh Garden & Home, nestled in Pontiac's historic district. Spanning 12 acres, this iconic establishment blends artistry, horticulture and design, offering everything from award-winning landscape services to a full-service floral department, event venues and a lush six-acre nursery.
Under the leadership of Tim Travis and Jim Slezinski, who acquired the business in 1988, it remains a beacon of creativity and community engagement—hosting weddings, art openings and cultural events that celebrate beauty in all forms.
You'll want to explore the workshops and events, from how to create a layered bulb container to helping kids build their own bird feeder. Oh—and don't miss seeing Nelly the tortoise. Visit goldnerwalsh.com for details.
Answering The Call
The Master of Connections: Mark Friday’s Reputation for Showing Up and Solving Problems
ARTICLE BY R. TODD HAIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMRAN BAJWA
Mark Friday
Mark Friday never set out to lead just another telecommunications company. For him, business has always been personal. As the president of RJ Telecommunications (now.rj10.com), he’s woven the values of trust and service into every aspect of the company.
CONTINUED >
Growing up in a large, close-knit family, Mark learned that success isn’t about profit—it’s about taking care of people. Whether lending a helping hand to a cousin in need or gathering with relatives for a meal, his family thrived on connection and support.
Those same principles now shape the way he runs his company. “At the end of the day, it’s about doing right by people,” he says. “If I take care of the customer, everything else—growth, financial success—figures itself out.”
Founded in 1996, RJ Telecommunications has grown into a trusted provider of business phone systems, cabling, fiber networking, managed IT services and internet solutions. Mark and his team operate with a simple but powerful philosophy: Do what’s best for the client, no matter what.
Tracy Tackett-Helzer can attest to that. She's the office manager for Lakes Surgery Center in West Bloomfield, and she was there when RJ stepped in to bring urgent help—and solutions—during a crisis.
Mark and his team answer the call–with speed, expertise and a little humor
"We were in the middle of switching phone systems and upgrading to fiber optics when our vendor suddenly passed away. Mark and his team stepped in and had us up and running with basic services within one day. It was incredible.
“Mark has gone above and beyond, often helping with technical issues outside his direct scope just to make sure everything runs smoothly for us. His dedication, problem-solving skills and exceptional service have made a huge impact on our patient care, and I truly can’t praise him and his company enough."
In an era where IT support often means navigating automated menus or waiting days for help, Mark and his team pride themselves on immediate, personal service.
“I’ve had customers tell me they’re surprised by how fast we respond—almost to the point of annoyance,” he laughs. “They’ll say, ‘You can come tomorrow, Mark, you don’t have to drop everything,’ but that’s just how we do things.
“You won’t find a ticket system or a long wait time with us,” he adds. “When you call, we answer. When you need help, we show up.”
Bright Side Dental turned to RJ Telecommunications while struggling with multi-location call routing. Patients would often call the wrong office, only to be told to hang up and redial. Mark’s team stepped in and designed a system that allows calls to transfer effortlessly between locations.
“They needed a solution that made life easier for them and their patients. So we built it,” Mark explains. “Now, they never miss a call and their staff can focus on patient care instead of phone issues.”
While offering high-level IT and communication solutions, RJ operates with transparency and integrity. When Bright Side Dental wanted Bluetooth headsets for their call center, Mark didn’t upsell them expensive adapters. Instead, he replaced their phones with Bluetooth-compatible models at no extra charge.
“It was just the right thing to do. And when you take care of people, they stick with you.”
– Mark Friday
“It was just the right thing to do,” Mark says. “And when you take care of people, they stick with you.”
Emily Ostroski, RJ’s controller and office manager, echoes this sentiment. “Mark won’t sell someone something they don’t need. He cares about people first,” she says.
This commitment to service extends beyond customers to employees as well. Mark’s team includes several family members, from his cousin Elizabeth to his children, who are beginning to get involved in the business. His philosophy? If family members share the company’s values, why not give them opportunities to grow?
Despite RJ’s impressive growth, Mark remains committed to the principles that have guided him. Expansion is on the horizon, but it will never come at the expense of customer care.
“We’re not perfect,” he admits. “But if we ever make a mistake, we own it, we fix it and we make it right.”
In an industry often defined by impersonal transactions, one thing is certain: Mark Friday’s commitment to treating customers like family isn’t changing. Even as technology advances, RJ Telecommunications isn’t just about linking phone lines or networks—it’s about connecting people.
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
1 2 BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE
From scenic trails to vibrant events: How West Bloomfield Parks enriches our lives
In West Bloomfield, community isn’t a concept—it’s a way of life. Nestled among lakes and lush green spaces, our thriving township offers more than just beautiful scenery. Thanks to the incredible West Bloomfield Parks team, led by Executive Director Kelly Hyer, families have a wealth of opportunities to engage, explore and invest in their well-being right in their own backyard.
The expansive parks system spans 570 acres of parkland and 13 miles of scenic trails. Yet the true heartbeat
of West Bloomfield Parks is the depth of programs and popular events like the annual Marshbank Park Campout and the festive Trick-or-Treat Trail.
While these experiences create cherished memories, there’s always something new to explore with a robust lineup of fitness classes, from invigorating yoga sessions to creative painting workshops.
Seniors, too, have a dedicated space for wellness and connection. The popular Stretch and Tone class,
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN ASHBURY PHOTOGRAPHY BY WEST BLOOMFIELD PARKS
offered free twice a week, is a simple yet impactful way to promote balance and mobility—essential to fall prevention and long-term well-being.
Living in West Bloomfield means having direct access to resources that support physical and mental well-being. With a deep understanding of the role recreation plays in a fulfilling life, Hyer and her team work tirelessly to provide accessible, engaging spaces for all.
“People need an outlet—whether it’s a quiet walk in the nature preserve or an energizing group fitness class,” she says. “We strive to be that third place beyond work and home, where you can connect, recharge and invest in your health.”
For those who prefer leisure with a touch of luxury, West Bloomfield Parks even curates premium experiences, such as an all-inclusive trip to Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel, ensuring that recreation is as enriching as it is rewarding.
So, whether you’re lacing up your walking shoes, signing up for a painting class or simply taking in the beauty of nature, one thing is certain—West Bloomfield Parks is an investment in a richer, healthier life.
Visit wbparks.org for a full schedule of classes, activities and parks.
“PEOPLE NEED AN OUTLET—WHETHER IT’S A QUIET WALK IN THE NATURE PRESERVE OR AN ENERGIZING GROUP FITNESS CLASS.”
INVEST IN YOUR GREENS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
EVERY THURSDAY
Yoga for Wellness
Yoga Studio at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield | 10:30 AM
The therapeutic benefits of yoga improve strength and flexibility in the body and mind. In addition to strengthening muscles, yoga builds bone density and studies show that yoga improves lymphatic function, boosting the immune system. The use of yoga postures, breath work and meditation are tools to move toward greater health. Register now by calling (248) 325-2548. $15 per class.
APRIL 5TH & 12TH
The Magic Soiree, Michigan’s only magic comedy dinner show
Camp Ticonderoga, 5725 Rochester Road, Troy | 6:30 PM
This is a must-see magical, funny dinner show for everyone. Tickets include a delicious buffet meal, close-up magic at your table and the hilarious magical cabaret featuring Keith Fields and Lady Sarah. It's a great night out for magic and comedy. Once you see the show, you'll want to see it twice! Visit TheMagicSoiree.com for tickets before they disappear.
APRIL 7TH
What's New at the Library?
West Bloomfield Main Library, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield | 2:00 PM
Celebrate National Library Week by learning how to get the most value out of your library card. Whether you're a new resident or it's just been a while since you've visited the library, this is a great opportunity to learn about your library and connect with staff. Free event with no registration required. Call (248) 682-2120 for more information.
Building Inspiring
Brick & Masonry Designs
Residential & Commercial
Allow our small, family owned and operated company to transform your home’s appearance and structure.
Chimney & Porch Rebuilds | Stamped & Stained Concrete
Interior & Exterior Stone Veneer or Cultured Stone
Limestone Details | Exterior Brick Projects
APRIL 8TH & 16TH
4-Course Wine Dinner at Carrabba’s in Troy
Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 600 W. Big Beaver, Troy | 6:30 PM
Join Carrabba's Italian Grill in Troy for a flavor exploration with a four-course food and wine pairing. Relax and enjoy this exquisite meal with family, friends, neighbors or co-workers after a long day. Discover Carrabba's featured wine and off-menu masterpieces, as well as camaraderie and gifts compliments of the house. Visit Carrabbas.com or call (248) 269-0095 for details and reservations.
APRIL 12TH
Community Resource Fair
West Bloomfield Main Library, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield | 11:00 AM
Learn about local community resources for all ages. Representatives from a wide variety of local organizations will be on hand to answer questions, provide information and more. Whether you're looking for volunteer opportunities, family support or other local connections, this is a great opportunity for patrons of all ages. Free event with no registration required. Call(248) 682-2120.
APRIL 18TH
Fabulous 50s: Lunch, Listen & Learn for Senior Citizens
Connect Senior Center, 33230 W. 14 Mile Road, West Bloomfield | 12:00 PM
Join the band Fabulous 50’s and listen to hits from the '50s era while enjoying a finger-food lunch. Learn about the original artists and how music can be an educational tool for seniors. Music begins promptly at Noon. Pre-registration is required by April 11; $7-9 per person. Call (248) 451-1900 for more details.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties,
even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
“Our competitive edge is having one company handle all our HR-related services.”
Successfully managing 50 Jimmy John’s locations and more than 700 employees requires going above and beyond expectations. That became a challenge when we used three different companies to handle payroll, healthcare, and HR services. Switching to Trion, one of the country’s most trusted Professional Employer Organizations, to handle all three has made life much easier. Trion’s PEO offerings help us go the extra mile for our team members and customers. And that’s why we rely on Trion. Visit RelyonTrion.com
– Tomey Group LLC