Entertainment

Summertime Notes

Mark your calendars for family-friendly outdoor fun — from bands to bee watching — in West Bloomfield. Article by Lynne Konstantin Whether you’re fans of family-friendly outdoor musical stylings or prefer an activity to do together, WB Parks has you covered this July and August. Kick up your heels or settle in for live entertainment (with snacks, of course) or break out the hiking shoes — there’s something for everyone. For more, visit wbparks.org. Marshbank Music Series: July 9, 16, 23...

Sports + Recreation

Big Fun, Close to Home

Check off your family adventure bucket list with these local thrills, all within an hour of West Bloomfield. Article by Susan Thwing Looking for unforgettable family outings that spark curiosity, courage and connection? Metro Detroit is full of adventures that require nothing more than a tank of gas and a little bit of spirit. Here are a few family-friendly activities that you can get to in under an hour — and will remember forever. SADDLE UP: SEE A HORSE SHOW Whether you’re horse-crazy or...

Professional Services

A Different Kind of Game

A former pro-golfer uses the game to build business. Article by Todd Haight | Photography by Darrel Ellis Bob Krause might seem like a golf pro who never left the course — but he’s actually more than that. As Business Development Advisor for Trion Solutions, Krause has turned his passion for golf into a powerful tool for business development and relationship building. His story is not just about fairways and birdies — it’s a lesson in connection, trust and the simple magic of spending a few...

Arts + Culture

Paradise Found

Travel writer Cindy Stewart explores the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands. Article and Photography by Cindy Stewart Yes, I’ve always had a bucket list of places where I wanted to travel — Alaska, Hawaii, Caribbean Islands and Italy.  And yes, over the years I have been fortunate enough to visit them all, plus many more spectacular destinations. I am also certain that there are cities and countries I never thought about visiting or places I know nothing about.  So when the opportunity...

Health + Wellness

Wellness Wonderland

Troy’s Club Studio is a one-stop-shop for health and workout. Article by Linda Ditch Stepping through the doors of Club Studio is like entering a wellness wonderland. The new Troy gym and fitness club (clubstudiofitness.com) 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...

Real Estate

Do the Right Thing

Jason Dabish is all about building something that lasts. Article by Todd Haight | Photography by Darrel Ellis When realtor Jason Dabish received news that a client’s stunning West Bloomfield 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...

Food + Beverage

Homegrown

Detroit City Distillery celebrates a decade of spirits, stories and strong community roots. Article by Susan Thwing | Photography 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...

Life + Culture

Design With Purpose

David Byron designs for the future with heart, vision — and sometimes legs. Article by Susan Thwing 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...

Wellness

Say Spahh

Pamper mom on Mother’s Day with a visit to a local day spa — and treat yourself, too. Article by Lynne Konstantin MassageLuXe Spa in West Bloomfield is all about rejuvenation. Try a Trigger Point Massage for tight knots, Reflexology Massage targeting hand and foot pressure points, or indulge in a 4-Layer Seaweed "Fountain of Youth" Facial — add a Vitamin Scalp Treatment or Papaya Enzyme Micro-Peel. Better yet? Gift her with a membership. Massageluxe.com/locations/west-bloomfield-mi.   Led...

Beauty

Lip Service

With P.U.R.E. LIP, Maria Bland has created a legacy of beauty, family and empowerment. Article by Susan Thwing | Photography by Darrel Ellis In the dynamic world of beauty, Maria Bland is making waves with her brand of lip gloss, P.U.R.E. LIP, a company she founded alongside her three daughters, Kennedi, Cameron and Cachet. Driven by a desire to create high-quality, safe lip products, Bland’s journey is one of passion, perseverance and empowerment. When Bland’s youngest daughter, Cameron...