West Bloomfield, MI June 2025

Celebrating the Everyday Dads of West Bloomfield

When you think about the people who shape a community, you can’t get very far without talking about fathers.

All across West Bloomfield — from the sidelines at Drake Sports Park to afternoons spent boating on Pine Lake – you’ll find dads doing what they do best: showing up and making memories that last a lifetime.

I think back to my own childhood and how my dad could turn even the smallest moments into something unforgettable. Whether it was helping me fix my bike or just being there with a quiet kind of strength, he made it clear that being present mattered more than anything else.

That same spirit is alive and well right here in West Bloomfield. You see it in the dads who coach little league, teach their kids how to fish or simply carve out time for a backyard game of catch after a long day.

The truth is, dads make a difference – sometimes in ways they’ll never even realize. Their words, their hugs, their encouragement and even their tough lessons all help lay the foundation for strong families and a strong community.

This Father’s Day, let’s celebrate the dads, stepdads, grandfathers and father figures who pour so much into the people around them. And to all the dads out there – thank you. West Bloomfield is a better place because of you.

Happy Father’s Day!

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Margaret Meyer Haight margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Allison Sommerville allison.sommerville@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mel Boban, Linda Ditch, Emily Foster, Susan Thwing

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Darrel Ellis, Ryan Klosowski

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Jason

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: WB Parks hosted their annual Egg Scramble April 17 at Drake Sports Park, including an egg hunt, a trackless train ride for the kids, a farm-animal petting zoo and family photos with Mr. Bunny. Also on-hand were a Friendship Factory-hosted Build Your Own Stuffed Animal Friend station and delicious treats from the Little Donut Factory. Photography by WB Parks

business monthly

New Neighborhood Eatery Vive Opens in West Bloomfield

Vive, a fresh new dining destination, has arrived in West Bloomfield. The neighborhood eatery is now open and ready to serve the community with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu designed for both lunch and dinner. Expect fresh ingredients, thoughtfully crafted dishes and friendly service that feels like home — where diners feel comfortable coming any day of the week. Viverestaurantmi.com

Men: Protect Your Health with a Prostate Screening

June is the perfect time for men to get their prostate checked (ladies, encourage the men in your life to schedule). This month, Midwest Diagnostic Imaging (MDI) is offering Men's Health Screening Packages starting at $159, with advanced prostate and full-body ultrasound screenings. Upgrade to the Preventive Package for $299 or Heart + Health for $399. Invest just 30 minutes for a lifetime of better health. Mdimichigan.com; (248) 681-2000; staff@mdimichigan.com.

Squeak's Window Cleaning Event to Benefit Grace Centers of Hope

On June 6, Jordan DiMercurio, founder of Squeak's Window Cleaning, will provide services in Bloomfield Hills, donating 100 percent of profits to Grace Centers of Hope (GCH). This organization supports homeless individuals through soup kitchens, employment opportunities and character development programs. GCH has successfully helped many secure jobs and rebuild their lives. This event aims to raise homeless awareness while providing practical support through donations. Squeakcleaning.net .

DO THE RIGHT THING

ARTICLE BY TODD HAIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARREL ELLIS

JASON DABISH IS ALL ABOUT BUILDING SOMETHING THAT LASTS.

When realtor Jason Dabish received news that a client’s stunning Commerce home had multiple offers, the sale seemed all but certain. But when an unexpected rental opportunity entered the mix, Dabish’s advice surprised everyone.

“I told him, if I were in his shoes, I’d hold off on selling and rent it out instead,” Dabish recalls. “Even if it meant walking away from the commission, I knew it was the better move for the client.”

That kind of honesty is rare — but for Dabish, it’s second nature. A lifelong West Bloomfield resident and realtor with Max Broock Realtors (jasondabish.maxbroock. com) in West Bloomfield, he sees real estate not as a transaction, but as a chance to help people build the lives they want.

“Home has never been just four walls and a roof to me,” he says. “Home is your community. It’s where you grow your roots, raise your family and create relationships that matter.”

A devoted father and husband, Dabish balances a fast-paced career with quiet nights around the dinner table — living the very values he brings to his clients. His path to real estate wasn’t typical. After more than a decade helping run his family’s business in Detroit, Dabish stepped into real estate with a strong work ethic and an even stronger sense of connection.

He brings that same thoughtful approach to every buyer, seller and family he works with — treating their journey as if it were his own.

That kind of integrity may not show up on a spreadsheet, but it’s exactly why his phone keeps ringing. And it’s made Dabish a go-to for families in West Bloomfield — and across southeast Michigan. From young couples buying their first home to longtime residents making a move, his clients know they can count on him.

“The most rewarding part of my job,” he says, “is when a client invites me to their housewarming or even their wedding. That means I did more than sell them a home — I became part of their story.”

But Dabish’s own story isn’t just about business. It’s about family and faith. It’s about finding balance. He and his wife, Mary – he calls her the anchor of their home – are raising four kids who keep them on their toes.

“She’s the reason I had the courage to go into real estate,” he says. “She believed in me before I believed in myself.”

And she keeps him grounded in his values and grateful for his roots. “I was born and raised here. I know the streets, the schools, the neighborhoods — and the people. It’s not just where I work. It’s home.”

Asked what defines success, Dabish doesn’t mention deals or closings. “It’s how people talk about you when you’re not in the room,” he says. “It’s about leaving a legacy of kindness, faith and doing the right thing — no matter the price tag.”

Jason Dabish was photographed on location at the iconic Churchill's Cigar Lounge  (churchillscigarbar.com) in West Bloomfield. A special thank you to owners Nash and Eddie Zaitouna for their hospitality and for providing the perfect backdrop. Dabish’s look for the day courtesy of Albaron Tailoring & Clothing (@albaronfashion) in Farmington Hills.

DESIGN WITH PURPOSE

DAVID BYRON DESIGNS FOR THE FUTURE WITH HEART, VISION — AND SOMETIMES LEGS.

ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING

“THERE’S A GROWING MOVEMENT HERE. DETROIT USED TO BE COMPETITIVE TO A FAULT — EVERYONE GUARDED THEIR IDEAS. NOW THERE’S REAL MOMENTUM TOWARD OPENNESS, TOWARD CO-CREATION.”

— DAVID BYRON

For David Byron, the director of Innovation Strategy at Sundberg-Ferar in Commerce Twp., creativity isn’t just a skill — it’s a lifelong calling.

“I always wanted to be a car designer,” he says. “Since I was five.”

That early ambition propelled him from New Jersey to Detroit, where he enrolled at the College for Creative Studies (CCS), sight unseen.

“I found a book at Barnes & Noble in the late nineties about how to draw cars like a pro. The author said, ‘If this is something you'd like to do as a career, look at the CCS in Detroit.” Byron says. “I said, That's what I want to do. I never even applied to

another college. I never visited Detroit. But after graduating high school, I packed up my Firebird and drove here.”

Now, more than two decades later, Byron has evolved far beyond his automotive roots. At Sundberg-Ferar, one of the nation’s oldest independent design consultancies, he leads innovation projects that span mobility, consumer goods, healthcare and beyond. His approach is grounded in human-centered design and driven by curiosity: “Once I started designing things other than cars, I realized — I just love designing everything.”

That curiosity has led to some extraordinary collaborations. One of his most

well-known projects is Hyundai’s walking car — yes, a vehicle with legs — which debuted on the keynote stage at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the world’s largest tech show. Byron led the design team that answered Hyundai’s provocative question: What if a car could walk? From snowbound vehicles stuck just feet from safety to disaster-response rovers that crawl over rubble to reach survivors, the result wasn’t just futuristic — it was deeply practical.

“That project ended up in the Smithsonian,” Byron says, still amazed. “I took my wife and daughter out to D.C., and there I was — my face in a display next to a video of the car. It was surreal.”

But Byron isn’t content with splashy concept cars or one-off showpieces. His work often veers into less visible — but equally transformative — realms, such as user experience design, systems thinking and service design. One current project, for example, involves a membership model for Merit Park, a new community wellness and recreation space in northwest Detroit.

“It’s not just a park — it’s a community hub,” he explains. “We’re designing how it works, how it includes people, how it delivers value. That’s design, too.”

In fact, Byron has helped “design” nonprofits themselves — guiding missions, services and engagement strategies using the same processes that drive physical product development.

“Design is ultimately about identifying needs — both functional and emotional — and creating a desirable solution,” he says. “Whether that’s a kitchen appliance, a digital interface or a membership structure.”

Back in the tangible world, he’s led the design of everything from medical wearables to pet products to small kitchen appliances — many of which may already be sitting on your countertop. Earlier in his career, he also designed helmets for Warrior Sports — equipment that is still in use by professional hockey players today.

“I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A CAR DESIGNER, SINCE I WAS FIVE.”

Still, his design ethos is not rooted in nostalgia for Detroit’s auto industry’s glory days. It’s oriented toward a future of collaboration and sustainability.

“There’s a growing movement here,” he says. “Detroit used to be competitive to a fault — everyone guarded their ideas. Now there’s real momentum toward openness, toward co-creation. That’s what made Silicon Valley thrive. And we’re finally embracing that here.”

Part of that energy stems from Byron himself. He’s an active teacher at the College for Creative Studies, where he’s

taught for 18 years — not for the paycheck, he says, but to stay connected to young talent and fresh ideas.

“They give to me as much as I give to them,” he says. “It keeps my creative juices flowing.”

He’s also president of the Michigan Design Council, a nonprofit that promotes design education and careers through initiatives like the M-Prize, a statewide design challenge for K–12 students.

“We’re planting seeds early,” he says. “Showing kids that design is a powerful tool — they can use it to build the future they want to see.”

Byron’s inspiration often comes from nature — sunlight filtering through trees, the gait of an alligator versus a dog, the structural beauty of a spider’s movement. “God is the greatest designer of all,” he says.

At this point in his career, he’s achieved what many only dream of: a car on a billboard in Times Square, a vehicle in the Smithsonian, a Mustang in his driveway that he designed himself. But he measures success differently now.

“That supercar was my dream come true,” he says. “But I remember sitting with my mom, and I said, ‘It’s amazing. But it didn’t change anyone’s life.’ And that was the turning point. I wanted to do more than make things look cool — I wanted to solve problems that matter.”

And for David Byron, that’s exactly what design is: a way to make life better, one idea, one product, one solution at a time.

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

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.

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Homegrown

Detroit City Distillery celebrates a decade of spirits, stories and strong community roots.

ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING

BY RYAN KLOSOWSKI

Tucked in the heart of Eastern Market, Detroit City Distillery (DCD) has been raising a glass to the Motor City’s resilience and spirit for 10 years. This year marked a major milestone for the distillery founded by eight friends who decided to bring an old-world craft into a new era — one batch, one bottle, one bold idea at a time. DCD (detroitcitydistillery.com) creates small-batch artisanal whiskey, gin and vodka using the finest local ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms.

The story began not in a boardroom, but around a campfire party where whiskey flowed freely and ideas even more so. Among those friends was J.P. Jerome, now master distiller and co-owner, whose background in brewing at Bell’s Brewery and scientific training at Michigan State University gave the group the technical chops to turn their whiskey-fueled dream into reality.

“We all had different backgrounds — lawyers, accountants, science nerds — but we were all into craft spirits,” Jerome says. “We knew we wanted to be in Detroit, and more specifically, Eastern Market. There’s history here, energy. It’s a place where people come to buy local and connect.”

That authenticity runs through everything DCD does. From the start, they’ve made it their mission to distill everything in-house using Michigangrown grains — about 95 percent of it local. That’s no easy feat when manufacturing in a city still rebuilding itself. But the DCD team leaned in, determined to not just represent Detroit in name, but in every sip of what they make.

Their first spirits — a couple of vodkas, a gin and their flagship Bloodline American Whiskey — were crafted in a modest space behind their Eastern Market cocktail bar. Today, they’ve expanded operations to the historic Stroh’s ice cream factory, now reimagined as The Whiskey Factory, where most of their production, aging and tours happen.

As for what’s in the bottle? DCD’s product line has exploded over the years, with standout regulars like Butcher’s Cut Bourbon (the label features Jerome’s grandfather, a former Eastern Market butcher, whose shop was on the same site Jerome built the distillery), Railroad Gin and Paczki Day Vodka — a customer favorite infused with raspberry paczki from New Palace Bakery in Hamtramck. Detroit City Distillery creates small batch artisanal whiskey, gin and vodka using the finest local ingredients sourced directly from

farms near their distillery and tasting room located in Detroit's famed Eastern Market.

But Detroit City Distillery is about more than award-winning spirits — it’s about building community.

“We always knew we had to be authentic,” Jerome says. “We didn’t want to fake it or slap a Detroit label on something made elsewhere. That’s why we give back.”

And give back they do — whether it’s donating hundreds of bottles, tours and merch to local fundraisers, or launching custom collaborations for causes like Bees in the D and Detroit Dog Rescue. The dog rescue partnership alone raised thousands of dollars through limited-edition bottles — $40 from each sale going directly to the nonprofit.

To mark their 10th anniversary, DCD opened their vault of one-off spirits and merch, donating all the proceeds to charities rooted in the Eastern Market neighborhood.

“We’re proud to have created 25 jobs over 10 years,” Jerome says. “That’s the kind of impact that matters.”

Visitors today can explore DCD through three distinct experiences: the original tasting room with its high-end craft cocktails; a behind-thescenes distillery tour at The Whiskey Factory; or the ever-popular Blend Your Own Bourbon session, where guests sample from four distinct barrels, mix their own unique blend and bottle it to take home, label and all.

There’s also The Whiskey Club, a members-only crew of hardcore fans who get exclusive bottles, merch and access to four annual events, sometimes featuring a live barrel-making demonstration.

“They’re our diehards,” Jerome says. “They’ve been with us from the beginning.”

As DCD looks toward the next decade, the team remains focused on continuing to be a place where people come for the spirits but stay for the stories.

“Expect an authentic experience,” Jerome says. “This is something you really can't get very many places outside of Kentucky. But it's right here. It's local.”

Detroit City Distillery is planning an open house on Thursday, June 26, from 4 until 7 p.m. Regular tasting room hours and information on booking tours or Blend Your Own sessions can be found at detroitcitydistillery.com.

THE NEW CLUB STUDIO IS A ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR HEALTH AND WORKOUT.

Wellness Wonderland

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH

Stepping through the doors of Club Studio is like entering a wellness wonderland. The new gym and fitness club (clubstudiofitness.com) on the border of Troy and Birmingham — just minutes from West Bloomfield — has a sleek, modern look and brings a unique concept to the market by offering top-of-the-line amenities and wellness services — all in one location.

“We are in a category of our own,” says Allie Ruben, Club Studio coordinator. “I really view Club Studio as your one-stop shop for all things — not just fitness but also health and wellness. We have an incredible team that works with you, breaks everything down and ensures it fits your schedule and lifestyle.

“Because of that,” she says, “it does give you the most bang for your buck.”

The sleek, high-tech studio offers 150-plus classes, from music-pumping cycle rides and CS4 cardio and strength circuit training to boxing, Reform Pilates and yoga. Members can also work out at their own pace with free weights, cardio and functional training equipment. Take a dip in the studio’s lap pool, or join in a game of basketball or pickleball.

However, fitness is only half of what Club Studio offers. Wellness and recovery are part of the game plan. Members have access to a steam room, sauna and whirlpool spa. For an extra fee, they can also take advantage of cryo and red-light therapies, as well as the Kalologie Medspa with services like IV Drip Hydration,

Vitamin Shots, Botox, Juvederm, CoolSculpting and Skin Rejuvenation. Afterward, members can relax and refuel at the organic superfood cafe.

“The most beautiful thing about Club Studio is that we don't have a ‘typical’ type of member,” Ruben says. “With everything we offer, anyone is welcome, and everyone who walks through our doors thrives. We have younger individuals in their late teens and early 20s, all the way through to those 60 to 70-years-old and beyond. There really is something for everyone.”

Before signing up, prospective members can visit the facility and sample a free class. A sales associate will provide a private tour, showcasing the entire layout of the club, and answer any questions. Included in the membership is an optional oneon-one assessment with a personal trainer to help identify strengths, weaknesses and mobility. They can then develop a comprehensive plan, incorporating group fitness classes, one-on-one personal training sessions and tailored workout regimens.

“Whether you’re looking to refresh your fitness routine or want to start from scratch but are not sure where to begin, Club Studio might be the answer,” Ruben says. “Our coaches love what they do, and if they can get one person in every class to learn to love what they love, it's a win.

“It's not about how heavy you lift,” she says. “It's about just coming in, meeting yourself where you are that day — and knowing you have a team around you.”

GIVE YOUR MAN

A Look at The Man Cave

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

Ok ladies, for those of you that live with your man and are not too keen on his collection of deer heads or affinity for all things Chicago Blackhawks, then let me help you create his very own man cave, that you and he can be proud of.

CONTINUED >

HIS SPACE

With how a man cave is usually done in mind, there are plenty of ways to make this hideaway both agreeable and full of style. I always start with what is most important to your man and 9 out of 10 times it is comfortable seating. So, with that in mind, I start with smart seating. Do we need a sectional? Can we get away with a cool reclining chair? Do we need Barstools? Comfortable, durable, and stylish seating is my jumping-off point.

COMFORTABLE SEATING

THE RIGHT TELEVISION

Next, of course, there will need to be a TV for gaming and/or sports watching. Try and get him the size he wants, if it can work in space and not be too obnoxious (ladies, you’ll thank me later) because this is all men truly care about. He gets his big TV, then you have more of an opportunity to get what you want in the rest of the house. It’s a win-win.

EXPRESSIVE DECOR

Lastly, without getting too “theme-y,” I organize what he loves and treasures into a gallery wall. I recently did one wall of really cool wallpaper for a husband that was a huge Star Wars fan. It was a black and white Star Wars print that gave this aficionado a fun way to bring his subject matter and style together.

No matter who you are or what you like, I believe every person needs a space where he or she can relax, breathe and be joyful in. Man Caves are no exception.

Priceless Memories

Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

Retro Movie Night

Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.

Learn Together

Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.

Blast From The Past

Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.

JUNE 1ST-30TH

Men’s Health Screening Month at MDI

Midwest Diagnostic Imaging, 5463 Elizabeth Lake Road, Waterford

All month long, Midwest Diagnostic Imaging (MDI) is offering special pricing on men’s health screening. For just $159, get a Transrectal Prostate Screening, more accurate than traditional ultrasounds. For $299, get a full abdominal ultrasound. And for $399, get all of the above plus an echocardiogram – a detailed view of your heart and cardiovascular health. Call (248) 681-2000 to schedule.

JUNE 19TH

Juneteenth Jamboree

Recreation Activities Center, Civic Center Campus, West Bloomfield | 10:00 AM

Enjoy free food, live entertainment and more at WB Parks' Juneteenth Jamboree. Participants can visit programming hosted by the West Bloomfield Public Library next door. The Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society will share insight into West Bloomfield Township’s earliest black residents, some of whom risked their own freedom to fight for an end to slavery during the Civil War. Wbparks.org/event/ juneteenth-jamboree

JUNE 28TH

Summer-On-The-Bank Festival

Marshbank Park, West Bloomfield | 11:00 AM

Have a ton of summer fun at WB Parks’ Summer-on-the-Bank. This free summer festival, presented by Bright Behavior Therapy, features food trucks (for a fee), an interactive dj and free activities including water slide inflatables, fishing, kayaking, crafts with the WB Township Public Library and more. No registration required. Wbparks.org/event/sotb

This Father's Day, give the gift of a healthy, confident smile. Dr. Fienman's expert dental care provides the

and care your smile (and your dad’s smile) deserves.

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