West Bloomfield, MI June 2023

The Gift of a Father

Have you ever wondered, “Do fathers matter? What differences do I make in my home as a dad?” Let’s start with the simple answer—the importance of a father is tremendous! Fathers make countless differences in their home and family. However, how much impact you decide to make as a dad is entirely up to you!

A father’s gifts of quality time, life-giving words, and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on his children.

As I reflect on fatherhood this month, here are just a few of the ways dads can build up their home:

• A father’s strength can be powerful

• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational

• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting

• A dad’s smile can instill joy and confidence

• Time with a dad can be fun and productive

• A dad’s physicality can be challenging

• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational

• A father’s correction can be life-saving and life-giving

• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable

Let your father or a father figure in your life know how much he matters to you. And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say—thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.

Happy Father’s Day!

@WEST_BLOOMFIELD_CITYLIFESTYLE

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Joe Geagea | joe.geagea@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Amy Niezur | amy.niezur@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Sammie Laforce

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amy Gillespie, Paul Versluis

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

is a family owned and operated company established in 1917. Our high quality of workmanship has been handed down for four generations.

104 years of knowledge and experience produce not only the best quality work but also a total dedication to professionalism which is applied to every job.

Since we take pride in our work and our family business ethics, we consistently train our crews to ensure your project requests are personally met.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @west_bloomfield_citylifestyle

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab your guys and plan a relaxed or adrenaline-induced day, weekend, or guys night out with any one of these local experiences made for the males.

Our Picks for The Man Clan

CHURCHILL'S CIGAR BAR: Featuring a selection of fine cigars, wine, cocktails, and more, Churchill's is the perfect spot for a guy's night out. 6635 Orchard Lake Rd West Bloomfield, MI

KICKSTAND BREWING COMPANY: From Pontoon Pale Ale to Birch Bark Porter, Kickstand features a variety of craft brews for every taste. Private event space available. 3050 Union Lake Rd Commerce, MI

BATL | THE BACKYARD AXE THROWING LEAGUE: Put a little excitement in your life with a night of axe throwing with the guys. 44175 West 12 Mile Rd Novi, MI

M1 CONCOURSE: Xtreme Experience at the M1 Concourse brings the thrill of supercar driving June 15-18. Get behind the wheel of a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Porsche.  1 Concourse Dr Pontiac, MI

ACTION PAINTBALL: Grab your friends and have a rousing game of paintball! Their indoor field means you can play no matter the weather. 11845 Mayfield St Livonia, MI

Scan for more photos and the full list.

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Amy Niezur

Amy is the editorial coordinator for West Bloomfield Lifestyle.

Close With Patrice

Local resident Kevin Casey shares his experience selling his home recently with Patrice Henderson, Principal Associate Broker at Designed Living Real Estate. Here’s what he says about working with Patrice.

“It was an absolute pleasure having Patrice Henderson as my real estate agent in selling my house. Patrice was also my agent when I purchased the same house five years ago, and I was so impressed by her that I hired her back to sell my house, which I closed on today. Patrice is the utmost professional. She knows her stuff inside and out and keeps you posted and updated on everything throughout the process and makes it easy, simple and fast. I would recommend Patrice if you are looking to sell your house or if you are looking to buy a house. I think you will be very pleased with the service that she provides to you.”

Find out more at DesignedLivingRE.com or youtube.com/@closewithpatrice.

Patrice is the utmost professional. She knows her stuff inside and out and keeps you posted and updated on everything throughout the process and makes it easy, simple and fast.

BAK FINANCIAL

Erica Bak Shares Her Mission to Make Home Loans Accessible and Understandable

As a mortgage broker, Bak Financial LLC founder Erica Bak’s mission and philosophy is to make home loans accessible and understandable. What sets Bak Financial apart is the straightforward communication, knowledge, and support she provides at every step of the mortgage process. “It feels good to know I am creating reassurance and calm for that homebuyer in what can be an exciting but often very stressful time,” she says.

Erica started Bak Financial last year and has grown quickly in metro Detroit, working with realtors all over the area to help get their buyers into houses quickly. Realtors often call for help after the client has been given conflicting information about their approval or passed from one underwriting department to the next without a straight answer, which can be frustrating. “They just want a straight answer from someone,” she says. Knowing the underwriting rules around income, debt, and assets makes her a valuable resource.

After moving back home from New York City to settle in West Bloomfield with her then-husband and 3 kids, she left the

workforce to be a stay-at-home mom. Eventually getting divorced, says Erica, “I realized that because I had let my husband handle the mortgage, I knew very little about my house finances and felt very unprepared. My credit score dropped after my divorce, and I pledged to help educate people so they won’t get into that same situation.”

Eventually, Erica began a second career working as an account executive at UWM, where she learned the entire mortgage business. Erica realized she loved the combination of helping people, working with financials, and real estate. “After I left UWM, I became licensed as a loan officer and I loved it,” she says. “I knew it was what I was meant to do. I knew that starting my own mortgage brokerage was the best way to ensure quality service and low rates.”

Now, one of her favorite tasks is educating people about their finances and the loan process, such as how to improve their credit scores, how to prepare to buy real estate, and how to understand all the fees and paperwork in a mortgage transaction.

Find out more at bakfinancial.com

WE’RE CHANGING THE EXPECTATION OF EXTERIOR COATINGS, ONE HOME AT A TIME LET’S SCHEDULE A FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATE NOW WHILE SPOTS ARE STILL AVAILABLE.

HIGHEST STANDARD OF SERVICE

THE VERY BEST ALTERNATIVE TO OLD-FASHIONED EPOXY

4X-STRONGER THAN EPOXY

Building a Lifelong Habit of Fitness

Get to Know Ralph Thompkins of SWAG Kids Gym

Ralph Thompkins has always loved to work out and be active. “My parents were very instrumental in making sure that I got every opportunity to be involved in various activities growing up, and sports was my thing,” he says. During his time as a student athlete at Grand Valley State University, he developed a passion for working with children. “I wanted to help them experience the same joy I had with sports and exercise.”

Getting his start at The Little Gym of West Bloomfield, Ralph served as the Gym Director and Lead Instructor for five years. After teaching over 7000 classes, Ralph decided to open a gym of his own and SWAG Kids Gym launched in West Bloomfield in 2019.

At SWAG Kids Gym, says Ralph, setting the foundation of physical literacy and exercise at a very young age is at the core of what they do. As a result, classes

are offered for children as young as four months old. This shared play, where parents and children under age 4 participate together, “really promotes and teaches families the value of exercise while educating everyone on the importance of incorporating fitness as a lifelong habit,” notes Ralph. Younger children build age-appropriate physical skills such as crawling, tumbling, climbing, jumping, and kicking, along with a bouncy air track, bubbles, and ball time to keep the fun going.

For children aged 4 and up, classes are instructor-led, and always energetic and interactive. A variety of class offerings are available, from yoga to gymnastics to sports and “ninja warrior” classes, which use different equipment and obstacle courses to challenge kids while allowing them to develop at their own pace.

SWAG Kids Gym also offers party packages and can host events both inside and outside the gym. “We can come to your house, school, country club, or park to provide our services,” says Ralph. In-gym parties include facility rental, dining area, and more.

“We understand and appreciate the sacrifices parents make to have their children come to SWAG and the most important thing we can give them is our positive energy and engage their children so they become the best version of themselves within our gym,” says Ralph. “Our mission is to promote and supply the perfect environment to improve the mental, physical, and emotional status of your growing child. We take this very seriously and this is the core of everything we do here at SWAG.”

father's day dinner

CREATE A MEAL THAT DAD WILL LOVE

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to a delicious summer meal! Our fried chicken recipe features a flavorful mix of herbs and spices in a buttermilk brine that can be prepared the day before. Pair the chicken with roasted carrots drizzled with spicy hot honey, a salad with fresh greens, and a dessert that features the best fresh fruits of the season, such as strawberry shortcake or peach cobbler. Enjoy!

buttermilk brined fried chicken

ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons white pepper

• 1 teaspoon ground mustard

• 5 teaspoons paprika

• 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper

• 2 tablespoons garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 2 teaspoons cayenne powder

• 1 teaspoon celery salt

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 4 teaspoons onion powder

• 1-2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 4 cups buttermilk

• 1 bunch fresh sage

• 2 cups flour

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• Whole chicken, cut up

• 4 cups shortening

directions:

Mix white and black pepper, ground mustard, paprika, garlic, oregano, cayenne, celery salt, thyme, onion powder, and salt to make spice mixture. Set aside.

Combine buttermilk, sage, and half of spice mixture for brine. Marinate chicken in brine (place in refrigerator) for up to 24 hours. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Add remaining spice mixture to flour, cornstarch, and baking powder and combine.

In a Dutch oven or heavy saucepan, heat shortening to 350 degrees. Remove chicken pieces from brine and coat in flour mixture. Fry in shortening for 3-5 minutes per side. Place chicken on a rack over a baking sheet and complete cooking in oven for 15 minutes. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

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

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

SPOIL HIM WITH BREAKFAST IN BED

Breakfast in bed isn’t just for Mother’s Day. Dads can enjoy it too! Whip up some of his favorite brunch treats and start Father’s Day off the right way.

06 09

HAVE A WINE AND PAINT NIGHT

Sign up for an artistic experience at a local wine and paint shop so Dad can let his creative side show and you can have a custom piece of art for years to come.

TACKLE A TASK TOGETHER

Is Dad a hands-on guy? Why not spend the day constructing a tree house or painting a birdhouse? Or better yet, help him organize the garage or start a garage redesign.

DO A FITNESS CLASS TOGETHER

Consider signing him up for a fitness class together. Whether he likes cycling, boxing or HIIT, encourage him to be adventurous and try something new.

12

08

FIRE UP THE BACKYARD GRILL

There’s no greater way to get to a Dad’s heart than the word “barbecue”. Grab extravagant meats like a rack of ribs or wagyu beef burgers and go to town.

CONSTRUCT SOMETHING OUT OF LEGOS

Harken back to Dad’s childhood with a specialty kit of legos. Embark on a family project of helping Dad build models of favorite movie props like the Death Star or Hogwarts castle.

HAVE AN OUTDOOR FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

07 10 11 13

COOK SOMETHING ADVENTUROUS

If some of Dad’s role models include Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay, consider thinking outside the box and create a meal with something you wouldn’t usually go for like bison burgers or grilled octopus tentacles. Tackling a complex recipe may seem challenging but the memories and the meal will be worth it.

Artificial Grass + Turf

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JUNE 3RD

Art on the Grand

DOWNTOWN FARMINGTON

10:00 AM

Stroll along Grand River Avenue in downtown Farmington and shop high quality art, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, and more. Event runs until 7:00 PM Saturday and continues from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday.

JUNE 3RD

Open House for National Trails Day

ORCHARD LAKE MUSEUM, 3951 ORCHARD LAKE RD

ORCHARD LAKE, MI | 9:00 AM

A special Open House at the Orchard Lake Museum will be held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM in conjuction with West Bloomfield Parks featuring a trail walk for National Trails Day. Museum is open from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on June 3, 4, 16, and 25.

JUNE 6TH

Food Truck Tuesdays

WEST BLOOMFIELD CIVIC CENTER COMPLEX, 4640

WALNUT LAKE RD WEST

BLOOMFIELD, MI | 11:30 AM

A rotating selection of food trucks comes to West Bloomfield (between the Recreation Activities

CONTINUED >

Patrice is your “styled” associate broker and licensed Realtor,® who is known for getting deals closed!

Patrice Henderson has found that integrity has been the foundation to success, creating long-lasting relationships with clients and a purpose for doing what she does. With her unique marketing plan for luxury homes including intricate home tour videos that excite buyers to purchase her clients’ homes, smart floor plans and so much more; she is able to help her clients net the most money from the sale of their homes. In addition, she is a Certified Waterfront Specialist for all of your waterfront real estate needs.

Patrice is much more than the average realtor – she’s a real estate broker. This means she’s highly knowledgeable in her craft of selling real estate, helping her clients and is held to a higher standard. She also has a supportive team to make sure that you get the world class service you deserve. So if you’re even just thinking about selling your home, be sure to reach out to Patrice Henderson for a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION on what you can expect to sell your home for in the current market and what she will do differently so you don’t just sell your home but that you close with Patrice.

EVENTS CONTINUED

Center and the library) from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Seating available. Try Posamscafe on June 6, Hearth, Wood, Fire Pizza on June 13, and The Potato Bar on June 27.

JUNE 17TH

Juneteenth Jubilee

SOUTHFIELD MUNICIPAL

CAMPUS, 26000 EVERGREEN RD SOUTHFIELD, MI | 4:00 PM

Celebrate Juneteenth on the Southfield Municipal Campus lawn. Enjoy vendors, DJs, food trucks, cash bar, and more. Concert at 7:00 PM. Free.

JUNE 17TH

Juneteenth in the WB

WEST BLOOMFIELD HIGH SCHOOL, 4925 ORCHARD

LAKE RD WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI | 10:00 AM

West Bloomfield High School hosts a celebration honoring National Freedom Day. Enjoy food, music, arts, vendors, and more from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Free.

JUNE 23RD

Summer in the City

SOUTHFIELD MUNICIPAL

CAMPUS, 26000 EVERGREEN RD SOUTHFIELD, MI | 7:00 PM

Spend an enjoyable summer evening on the lawn and dance to the sounds of Larry Lee and the Back in the Day Band. For details, visit facebook. com/southfieldparksandrecreation

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

VOLUNTEERING WITH DAD

Inspire a Love for Giving Back in Your Children—Together!

Arts and Scraps

Arts and Scraps (16135 Harper Rd. in Detroit) inspires imagination through the creative reuse of industrial scraps. Children as young as 10, with a parent, can help at the store sorting donations, organizing, cleaning, or even helping families create projects at events. Remote volunteering is also available. Best of all, volunteering at Arts and Scraps can stimulate your child’s creativity too! Learn more about volunteer opportunities at artsandscraps.org/volunteer.

Oakland County Animal Shelter

A variety of volunteering opportunities are available at the Oakland County Animal Shelter (1200 N. Telegraph Rd in Pontiac) for children to participate in along with a parent. Children can read to the cats, decorate the sidewalk with chalk for the dog walkers, or join their parent in walking a shelter dog. Volunteer hours are Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For more information on volunteering, visit oakgov. com/community/pet-adoption/ pet-adoption-center/volunteer

Capuchin Soup Kitchen and Earthworks Urban Farm

Children as young as 12 can volunteer at Capuchin Soup Kitchen (4390 Conner St in Detroit) or as young as 7 at Earthworks Urban Farm (1264 Meldrum St in Detroit), with a parent accompanying them. At the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, volunteers prepare food trays for guests, prepare food, and clean and sanitize tables and chairs. At Earthworks Urban Farm, children and parents can mix soil, flip compost, plant, weed, and other gardening tasks. To learn more, visit cskdetroit.org