Grosse Pointe, MI February 2022 by City Lifestyle

F E B R UA RY 2 022 | TH E LO C A L LOV E I S S U E

Local Love

Beautiful. Believable. The BEST version of yourself. 8 Years Awarded

2021

Dr. David S. Balle, Board-Certified Dermatologist, has the credentials and expertise to manage the total health and well-being of your skin. Also recognized as a leader in minimally invasive facial aesthetics, he can help you bounce back and achieve an ageless appearance.

Dr. Balle blends science and artistry with non-surgical face and body solutions to create balanced, natural-looking results. • All Skin, Hair and Nail Disorders • Medical-Grade Skincare Products •Neuromodulators and Dermal Fillers •IPL and Laser • Facial Rejuvenation Treatments • Body Contouring Schedule a complimentary consultation today and we will customize a plan to fit your needs. Grosse Pointe Dermatology and Cosmetic Center offers the most effective treatment options so that you can experience next-level skincare and feel your best! Follow Dr. David Balle:

David S. Balle, M.D. FAAD 16815 E Jefferson Ave • Suite 260 • Grosse Pointe, MI 48230 www.GrossePointeDermatology.com | 313-886-2600

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“ G Ex P c P C el ro h le u am n d be ce W r in inn o f Bu er C s o in m e m s er s” ce

February 2022 PUBLISHER

David Mattaliano | david.mattaliano@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Local Love and Compassion Art comes in many different forms, and it gives us a glimpse of someone’s heart—a part of them we don’t see on the surface. We are all drawn to various expressions of art in different ways, and we tend to appreciate artistic expression that makes us feel something and that resonates with us. Our February issue is dedicated to sharing art in areas outside the traditional forms. The art of being human and the art of compassion. We visit with Executive Director of the Grosse Pointe Theatre Linda Zublick as they approach the 75th year of bringing joy to Grosse Pointe through different forms of performance. Find out how the Theatre has adapted to the present and looks to a bright future. In a touching tribute and inspired mission, parents John and Gail Urso open their hearts and describe the mission behind their organization named “Brian’s Song” in honor of their late son and the art of understanding and compassion for those that struggle with depression. We take some romantic trips to exotic destinations where we can celebrate the art of love and romance. Let us not forget the culinary arts with a decadent recipe ready for you to try for that special someone. Its Red Velvet love! We welcome Massage Green to the Grosse Pointe City Lifestyle family. It’s a perfect match with our luxury brand and the art of relaxation with proprietor January Thomas and her wonderful team. So, while you fill your home with chocolates, flowers and valentines this month, remember to give yourself time to do what you enjoy and appreciate those you love. Find what makes you feel alive, and don’t forget to share it with us. And while you are at it, don’t forget to shop local and support our local makers and artists right here in our community. Check out citylifestyle.com for a free digital subscription, to view all our previous and current issues, constantly updated content, and advertiser information. Please follow us on Facebook @grossepointelifestylemagazine and Instagram @gplifestylemag. LinkedIn grossepointelifestyle. Happy Valentines Day Grosse Pointe! DAV I D M AT TA L I A N O, P U B L I S H E R @GPLIFEST YLEMAG

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/GROSSEPOINTE |

EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Paige Peabody | paige.peabody@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER

Zane Smith CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Paige Peabody, Susan Baldani

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Grosse Pointe City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Grosse Pointe area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Grosse Pointe City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

A Pointe In Time

38 McKinley Place Designed by C. Howard Crane for Walter E. Parker. 38 McKinley was completed in 1914. The property is a superb example of an Arts & Crafts home, completed during the peak of the styles popularity. The 5,036 sq ft three-story, six-bedroom house is filled with wonderful decorative craftsmanship throughout including wooden floors and interior paneling. The first floor features a large 14 x 20 sq ft living room and sitting room, along with an attached greenhouse, and a covered porch. Architect C. Howard Crane’s portfolio is one of the more diverse of any designer in the early 20th century. During his career he created many spectacular residences in Grosse Pointe (in numerous architectural styles) and more than 250 theaters worldwide, including the Columbia Theater, the first movie theater in the City of Detroit.

Integrity. Heritage. Lifestyle. A Pointe In Time - brought to you by Higbie Maxon Agney - Grosse Pointe’s premier independently owned real estate company. To learn more about historic Grosse Pointe visit our weekly blog: higbiemaxon.com/blog *Please note this property is not currently for sale.

313-886-3400 | 83 Kercheval Avenue, Grosse Pointe Farms | higbiemaxon.com

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inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Spreading Love

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Local Limelight

Mental Wellbeing

Travel Journal

Back Stage

Realty Report

Culinary Creations

The Magic of the Grosse Pointe Theatre

18 A Song of Hope

Suicide education, prevention, and support

24 Inspiration from the Heart Romance Travel by Blue Pointe

34 The Love of Cake Valentines Red Velvet Cake

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Provided by The Grosse Pointe Theatre 6

A RTS + C U LTU R E LI FE + C ULTU R E

T R AV EL

PR O FES S I O NA L S E RV IC E S R EA L ESTAT E FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Selling at the highest price is the result of presenting what is considered priceless.

Joseph Leto 313.418.2555 jleto@signaturesothebys.com

Grosse Pointe Birmingham Northville Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

Joseph Leto Local Knowledge | Global Reach

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Clairpointe Family Chiropractic Clairpointe Family Chiropractic would like to introduce Dr. Nathan Blackwell as the newest member of our Clairpointe team. Dr. Nathan served internships with us in 2018 and 2021. He is a recent graduate from the Palmer College of Chiropractic and has been adjusting patients since the start of 2022. You can learn more about Dr. Nathan and Clairpointe Family Chiropractic by visiting our website at www.clairpointe.com.

Grosse Pointe Artists Association Lecture Series The Grosse Pointe Artists Association resumes its popular Your Old Mansion lectures on Sunday afternoons in winter and early spring. Topics focus on polishing up the tarnished city that was once called “the Paris of the Midwest.” Learn the latest from Jefferson Chalmers; the Michigan Central Train Station; and a new company that chauffeurs visitors through the city’s historic neighborhoods in Model A’s. Because of construction at The War Memorial, the fundraiser is being held at Christ Church Grosse Pointe. For details, go to grossepointeartcenter.org/events or call 313.881.3454

Mindful Matters: Offering Classes and Coaching in Mindfulness Mindful Matters works with individuals & businesses to create mindfulness-based well-being programs. Owner/Instructor Elizabeth Puleo-Tague received her professional training in mindfulness & meditation at Brown University. She is an MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) instructor, is credentialed in leading trauma-informed & teen mindfulness programming, and is a Certified Workplace Mindfulness Facilitator. For more information or to learn about the upcoming 8-week course in MBSR, contact Elizabeth at 313.506.5021 or mindfulmatters.elizabeth@gmail.com

If you want to be included, send us a message! Visit CityLifestyle.com/GrossePointe to get in touch.

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

The Grosse Pointe Chamber’s online Shopping Destination. A one-stop-shop to shop, find, and buy local!

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local experiences Locals recommending the best places and things to do in the city.

Celebrate the ones you love this Valentine’s Day by treating them to a day or night out with an extra special romantic experience. Whatever you are looking for, we have you covered.

Romantic Date Ideas EDSEL & ELEANOR FOR D HOUSE: Take a romantic lake walk at the Edsel

Eleanor Ford House, 1100 Lakeshore Drive, 313-884-4222. 1100 Lake Shore Rd Grosse Pointe Shores, MI CAMPUS MAR TIUS PAR K: Ice Skating at The Rink At Campus Martius Park is almost every couples delight, 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 313-963-9393. THE WAR MEMOR IAL: Take that special person to a romantic movie at The War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Rd, 313-881-7511. PINE KNOB: A day or evening ski at Pine Knob can be a fun and exciting adventure, 7778 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston, Michigan 48348, 248-625-0800, HUR ON MEADOWS METR OPAR K: Take your valentine cross country skiing at the enchanting Huron Meadows Metropark. 8765 Hammel Road, Brighton, Michigan 48116, 734-426-8211. Park Hours 7am-8pm.

Scan for more photos and the full list. Edsel & Eleanor Ford House

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

16822 Kercheval Avenue Grosse Pointe www.savvychicgp.com

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

Spreading Love THE MAGIC OF THE GROSSE POINTE THEATRE ARTICLE BY PAIGE PEABODY PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE GROSSE POINTE THEATRE

As we approach its seventy-fifth anniversary, The Grosse Pointe Theatre has shared its love of the stage with our community for decades. We are blessed to have such a world class theatre group as a central part of our society’s fabric. Throughout the years, the Grosse Pointe Theatre has brought smiles, tears, laughter and meaning to our everyday lives. The last few years have been challenging for the Grosse Pointe Theatre. “The performing arts were greatly affected by the COVID pandemic for over eighteen months,” says Executive Director, Linda Zublick. “The community theatres... and performing arts in general were probably most affected for the longest period of time. We had to figure out how to be creative, stay in front of the public, and connected to our patrons without being live and in-person.” During this time, this local Theatre had to transform its way of performing and re-create itself. With changing its platform to Virtual Film, YouTube, and Outdoor Theatre, they found that they were able to continue their mission and share their passion of performance with the community. The Grosse Pointe Theatre put together such virtual performances as all the World’s a Stage-Shakespeare monologues and duologues, A Love Letter from GPT, Singin’ in the Streets outdoor theatre and so much more. Just last February for Valentine’s Day, they created a virtual performance with love songs and highlighting relationships born on stage and narrated by the couples who came together through the Grosse Pointe Theatre. “It was a huge hit,” says Zublick, Some of these couples had been together for fifty plus years and met on stage. People just loved these romantic stories. Singin’ in the Streets

outdoor theatre went into the backyards, churches and other community courtyards to spread the joy during the shutdown. Zublick explains, “Although the pandemic certainly was a challenge, it was important to the organization to make sure that we were still reaching out to the community to fulfill our mission to connect and entertain.” As the Theatre continues to move forward with programming, they are still experiencing some COVID issues. Linda, the Board, and its Members, however, have found innovative ways to help keep everyone safe. “Smaller cast sizes, smaller orchestras, and smaller numbers help,” Zublick says. They recently had to cancel three performances of It’s a Wonderful Life because of a Covidexposure in the cast. “We have gone to fully digital ticketing, every other row seating, and requiring masks.” The first few performances in the new season have limited actors but they are hopeful by summer, they will be ready for a larger cast in The Sound of Music. The Grosse Pointe Theatre is no stranger to obstacles. A few years back, they lost their primary venue and had to find alternative performance sites. The War Memorial had hosted the performances of the Grosse Pointe Theatre for 50 years. “It took some adjusting when we left but we have a lot of angels looking out for us,” says Zublick. The Grosse Pointe Public School System and University Liggett School offered to partner until the new Arts Center is built. The A. Paul and Carol C. Schaap Center for the Performing Arts and the Richard and Jane Manoogian Art Gallery will break ground sometime this summer and will be home to the Theatre in 2024. This world class performing arts center will allow the Theatre to offer an even higher level of artistic excellence. Over the last seventy-four years, The CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/GRO S S E P O I N T E

Grosse Pointe Theatre has become highly respected not only because of the level of talent they are able to recruit but also because of their outstanding youth development program. ‘Youth On Stage’ is a renowned program that has served thousands of children and enabled them to gain self confidence, make new friends, and ultimately made a difference in their lives. YOS usually has two performances per year but because of COVID, the Theatre is hosting only classes and will return to normal as soon as it is safe to do so. For the past 40 years, scholorships have also been given to students for college tuition and theatrical summer camps by the Theatre and its generous donors. The Grosse Pointe Theatare is a volunteer, member based, non-profit organization and is extremely passionalte about its mission to connect, create and inspire communities through theatre. “Over all of these years, we have continued to stay focused and share our message of love to the community, says Zublick. To view the Love Letters, go to YouTube.com/grossepointetheatre and search “Love Letter from GPT’. To share your love and donate to the Grosse Pointe Theatre, go to gpt.org or call, 313-881-4004.

upcoming shows Nunsense February 18-20 and 24-27, 2022 Pierce Middle School Auditorium Tickets available at gpt.org

I Hate Hamlet April 1-3 and 7-10, 2022 Parcells Middle School Auditorium

The Sound of Music June 24-26, 29-30 and July 1-3 Parcells Middle School Auditorium Purdon Studio Theatre

Talk Radio March 11-12 and 17-19, 2022 Christ Church Grosse Pointe

Take Ten Saturday, May 7, 2022 Grosse Pointe Theatre’s 10-Minute Play Festival Christ Church Grosse Pointe

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

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A SONG OF HOPE SUICIDE EDUCATION, PREVENTION AND SUPPORT ARTICLE BY SUSAN BALDANI

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | L I F E + CULTURE

Kevin Urso was a caring, intelligent and sensitive young man who loved people and had a special connection with animals. He found joy in making others feel special and making them laugh. Unfortunately, Kevin also suffered from a deep depression that eventually caused him to take his life at the age of 41. “We knew that Kevin dealt with some depression,” says his mother, Gail Urso. “He had been diagnosed later in life with depression, but looking back, I think Kevin probably dealt with depression his whole life, but we never had that diagnosis. We had taken him to see some counselors when he was young, but no one ever suggested that he suffered from depression.” After a visit to Florida to see their son in January of 2013, she and her husband John thought that he was doing better than ever. He was happy, and they had a great time together. Unfortunately, that was not the case. When he died in March, they were shocked. Of course, there were signs, such as weight loss and the giving away of favorite items, but back then, she and her husband didn’t recognize them for what they were. And Kevin never mentioned how deeply he was hurting. “They don’t want to be a burden to other people, which is something we learned early on from Dr. Thomas Joiner, an expert in suicidology,” says Gail. It’s critical, she explains, to reach out to people who you think may need help or are a danger to themselves. “For years, people thought by asking they would put ideas in the person’s head, but that’s absolutely incorrect. Instead, to ask is very freeing for them because they can talk about it instead of keeping it a secret. It can open a conversation and that person can then be helped.” She and John knew that there must be a lot of other people like them. “We’re well-educated and informed people, and we didn’t know,” she says.

“Out of our grief, we decided that one thing we could do was maybe help prevent other suicides.” She and John founded Kevin’s Song in 2013, which obtained its 501(c)(3) status in 2014. The name was chosen because Kevin loved music and had a great voice. “We began to learn about the different organizations that exist to deal with suicide, such as the American Association of Suicidology, which has been around for over 50 years. We had never heard of it and it’s a national organization. And there were other local organizations as well.” One of Kevin’s Song’s goals is to educate others about suicide. The second is to bring together all of these organizations that are working on suicide prevention. The third is to support other people who have lost someone to suicide. After forming a board of directors, they began to raise money to hold annual conferences which would bring people together to share information and educate the public. This past January 27, 28, and 29, they held their 6th annual conference. As in 2021, this one was virtual. “Another goal was to have a website that would be a resource for people, and to make a film, so over the next couple of years, we accomplished those goals as well,” says Gail. “We’ve been fortunate to have been introduced to Keith Famie, a well-known producer and filmmaker who was on Survivor and was also a famous chef. About 15 years ago, he decided to devote his time and talent to film making and has done a whole series of documentaries on very important causes. He did a film called ‘Death is Not the Answer,’ available through our website, and it was the first of many films that Kevin’s Song has produced.” CONTINUED >

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Gail is thankful for the tremendous support from the community. The Children’s Foundation, the Dolores and Paul Lavins Foundation, and the Joseph J. Lawrencelle Memorial Foundation are just a few of the organizations that have made the conferences possible. “We try to get as many sponsors as possible so we can keep the ticket prices as low as possible,” she says. “We just recently received a $50,000 grant from the Flinn Foundation, so we know there is clearly a need for what we started back in 2013 and 2014.” Even though they have many wonderful sponsors, they are always looking for more. While the conference for 2022 has already taken place, they need support for future conferences. Main attendees, she says, are mental health professionals, educators, medical practitioners, clergy, first responders and many people who have lost someone to suicide. In 2021, over 400 people attended. “We offer support for people who have lost someone to suicide,” says Gail. “A lot of people who attend our conferences have lost someone and they want to learn more about it and

“A LOT OF PEOPLE WHO ATTEND OUR CONFERENCES HAVE LOST SOMEONE AND THEY WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT IT AND TO INTERACT WITH OTHERS WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME LOSS. IT’S A HEALING PROCESS.”

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | L I F E + CULTURE

to interact with others who have experienced the same loss. It’s a healing process.” Detroit Public Television, she adds, has brought Kevin’s Song a lot of exposure and is now producing the conferences. “Also, the media attention we have received from various local channels and radio has all been great at drawing attention to the problem. We have reached a lot of mental health professionals and educators around not only Metro Detroit, but from out of state too, which we feel is very important.” Everyone who registers for the conference will also have access to a link that will take them to any part of the conference they want to visit. There is also an effort underway to add highlights of past conferences to the website as well. “We have connected organizations and experts in a way that has been very meaningful,” she says. “I have watched relationships develop around the country that we know we have been responsible for between

people who have met at our conferences and are now doing projects together, so we are thrilled.” Kevin’s Song was actually instrumental in the creation of another 501(c)(3) nonprofit called With One Voice. “It came about because as we were working on the issues and meeting with other organizations across the state who were doing similar things, it occurred to us that in order to accomplish more of our goals, it might be much more effective if we had all of these people working together,” says Gail. “With One Voice is statewide and is going to accomplish wonderful things.” Kevin’s Song is always looking for donations, which can be made on its website, as well as volunteers to assist with its mission. “We are always appreciative of volunteers for our various committees, and those who want to give their talent and time to Kevin’s Song,” she says. To find out more, go to https://kevinssong.org/.

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Inspiration from the Heart ROMANCE TRAVEL BY BLUE POINTE

ARTICLE BY MICHELE LINDSAY AND SUSAN KEHOE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you and your significant other might be dreaming about your next romantic adventure. Taking a break from the everyday routine is an exceptional way to rekindle that romantic spark, or to celebrate your relationship milestones over the years. A favorite destination for romance is the island of St. Lucia. With the landscape of the mighty pitons and the island’s lush flora, the atmosphere is ripe for a “yes” to the proverbial question. On St. Lucia, some of the most romantic resorts are Jade Mountain and Sandals La Toc. Jade Mountain is a unique property built into the side of the mountain, blending in with the surrounding topography. Each one of the suites boasts a breathtaking view of the pitons because the fourth wall of your

St. Lucia, West Indies

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Riviera Maya, Mexico

suite opens to the outside. In addition to the view, many suites offer butler service, an infinity pool and many more romantic amenities. If privacy and seclusion are what you had in mind, this is the perfect spot. For the couple that prefers a lively atmosphere, the stunning acres of Sandals Regency La Toc is another gem on the island of St. Lucia. It’s set on 220 acres, including a half mile stretch of powder fine beach and a private golf course. With a topnotch spa and beach-front private cabanas, La Toc offers multiple opportunities to create those intimate moments. Before that sweet bundle of joy arrives, many couples like to take a getaway from everyday life. These escapes, coined “babymoons,” provide full pampering for the mother-to-be and a chance for the couple

to unwind before the sleepless nights of parenthood. Arizona provides a popular break because of the sunny skies, dry weather, and abundance of luxurious resorts. For the ultimate resort, the Canyon Suites at the Phoenician supplies an oasis in the desert. The AAA Five Diamond resort has no shortage of options for hungry foodies dining at the Phoenician. A special afternoon of high tea at the Canyon Suites makes expecting parents feel like royalty. Or if your style is a bit more rugged, choose the option for s’mores at the Canyon Suites fire pit. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is another favorite of moms-to-be. Mom can indulge in a prenatal massage while dad takes in a round of golf. When you aren’t relaxing poolside at the Scottsdale Princess there are beautiful hikes and nature walks in the surrounding areas. CONTINUED >

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For a short getaway, the Riviera Maya area, just south of Cancun, Mexico, is a perfect anniversary destination. Visitors can find rare “overwater bungalows” in the Riviera Maya at Palafitos, which is part of the El Dorado Maroma Resort & Spa. Every bungalow has a glass bottom floor window, private infinity pool, private outdoor shower, and amazing sunrise views. Secluded in your private bungalow you can watch time pass and fish or swim without a care in the world. Palafitos is a private restaurant reserved for bungalow guests. They also have access to the many restaurants and amenities at El Dorado Maroma Resort & Spa. Consistently ranked among the top ten beaches in the world, Maroma Beach is a magical place to celebrate an anniversary. Also located on Maroma Beach is Secrets Beach Resort. Every anniversary couple can indulge in breakfast in bed in the morning and a special turndown service in the evening. Special touches like this help create those magical moments during an anniversary trip. Another way to commemorate your anniversary is to renew your vows while on vacation. Vow renewals are effortlessly coordinated by the resort, with an officiant, flowers, photographer, and dining and a toast all arranged for you. The only thing the celebrating couple needs to worry about is choosing between toes in the sand or flip flops for the ceremony. Whether you are beginning a new relationship, or celebrating fifty years of wedded bliss, there are many romantic options to reconnect and recharge your relationship. For more information, Michele Lindsay, Owner, Blue Pointe Travel in Grosse Pointe Park, michele@bluepointetravel.com

Phoenix, Arizona

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Maroma Beach, Mexico

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creative planning for your future ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

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Creative Planning believes there’s a richer way to wealth. Their team of CFP professionals, CPAs and attorneys work together to create clear customized plans to maximize your wealth, all in one place. Their award-winning in-house services span a variety of financial d isciplines, i ncluding c omprehensive wealth and investment management, insurance, tax prep, trusts, estate, financial and retirement planning. Founded in Overland Park, they have since branched out across the globe, gaining a national reputation that has earned them numerous prestigious awards, including #1 wealth management firm i n America by Barron’s, CNBC and Forbes. President and CEO Peter Mallouk shares his wealth of knowledge with approachable financial advice. Two issues coming together at once inspired the creation of Mallouk’s business. “My dad was a physician frustrated with his financial advisor who sold him products and didn’t really explain things well, and I was an estate attorney that saw a full view of the advisory world and thought there was a better way to deliver the all around experience. Ultimately, that led to Creative Planning offering investments and planning as well as legal and tax advice in a very approachable, consultative way.” Mallouk has written several books, including 5 Mistakes Every Investor Makes and How to Avoid Them, and has cowritten Unshakeable: Your Financial Freedom Playbook and The Path: Accelerating Your Journey to Financial Freedom with Tony Robbins. When looking for a financial advisor, find the right one by asking the right questions.

B ACK STAGE | PR OFESSI ONAL S E RVI CE S

“Most don’t realize that the vast majority of financial advisors don’t have to act in the client’s best interests. A minority of financial advisors are fiduciaries and operate under laws that share similarities with doctors and lawyers, meaning they do have to act in their client’s best interests. First, ask your advisor if they are registered as a broker or are dually registered. If they say yes to either, that means that part or all of the time, they don’t have to act in your best interests. There are thousands of advisors that will act in your best interest, so take the time to find one. Second, ask your advisor if their parent company, or the ownership of their parent company, own investment vehicles. If the answer is yes, don’t be surprised if some of those investment vehicles find their way into your portfolio. Essentially you may find yourself paying an advisor to then put you in a fund where the company collects another fee. There is no need to accept this conflict. Find a fiduciary that is not dually registered and that does not own their own investment products. At that point, you at least have someone that is incented to act on your behalf all the time. From there, look for education, credentials and experience with people like you.” As for the future, it’s never looked brighter at Creative Planning. “It’s an exciting time—we can do more for our clients today than at any point in our history. In many ways, it feels like we are just at the starting line.” For more information, visit CreativePlanning.com.

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FE BRUARY 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Grosse Pointe. N E I GH BO RH O O D

ORIGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

567 Middlesex

$549,000

$505,000

92%

2.2

260 Stephens

$539,000

$509,000

94%

2.1

639 Pemberton

$519,900

100%

2.1

1024 Whittier

$525,000

$520,000

99%

2.1

485 University

$575,000

$540,000

94%

2.1

290 McKinley

$548,000

$540,000

99%

2.1

821 Canterbury

$588,900

$565,000

96%

3.1

68 Muskoka

$575,000

100%

3.2

1068 Bedford

$599,900

$575,000

96%

3.2

1247 Berkshire

$585,000

100%

3.1

1033 Audubon

$639,000

$633,000

99%

3.1

555 Perrien

$650,000

$640,000

98%

2.1

591 Sheldon

$650,000

100%

47 Fordcroft

$689,500

$665,000

96%

109

3.1

174 Country Club

$699,900

$700,000

100%

631 Pemberton

$779,000

$750,000

96%

3.1

312 Touraine

$755,000

100%

3.1

329 Lake Shore

$895,000

$787,500

88%

132

3.1

545 Lakeland

$850,000

$805,000

95%

4.2

112 Vendome

$1,100,000

$980,000

89%

4.1

1016 Buckingham

$980,000

100%

3.1

372 Lakeland

$1,499,000

$1,500,000

100%

7.5

Information obtained through Realcomp Multiple Listing Service

Joseph Leto Local Knowledge | Global Reach

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The Love of Cake

VALENTINE’S RED VELVET CAKE ARTICLE BY CHOWHOUND

Red Velvet Cake is the pride of bakers in the South, and with reason. Imbued with an alluring deep red hue, a fine grain, and an abiding moistness, it’s one of the glories of the American pastry kitchen. Combine that with the sweet tang of cream cheese frosting, and it’s far too tempting to ignore.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE CAKE: • 2 3/4 cups plus 1 tablespoon sifted cake flour or 2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour, plus more for coating the pans • 2 teaspoons fine salt • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda • 1/4 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder • 2 tablespoons (1 [1-ounce] bottle) red food coloring • 1 1/2 tablespoons water • 2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for coating the pans • 2 cups granulated sugar • 3 large eggs, at room temperature • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest (from 1 to 2 oranges; optional) • 1 cup whole or low-fat buttermilk FOR THE ICING: • 1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature • 1 pound cream cheese, at room temperature • 1 pound (4 cups) sifted powdered sugar • 2 tablespoons whole milk, if needed

C ULIN A RY CR E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

FOR THE CAKE: 1. Heat the oven to 350°F. Coat 2 (9-inch) round cake pans generously with butter, then flour, tapping out any excess flour; set aside. 2. Sift the measured flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda together twice; set aside. Whisk the cocoa, food coloring, and water in a small bowl until smooth; set aside. 3. Beat the measured butter in a large bowl using an electric mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment) on medium speed until creamy, about 30 seconds. Add the sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, beating about 15 seconds after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary, until the mixture has lightened in color and become fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, the vanilla, and the orange zest (if using), beating 15 seconds after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the red cocoa mixture and mix until evenly incorporated. 4. On low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture, until just incorporated. Once all the ingredients are incorporated, beat the batter 10 to 12 strokes with a spoon or spatula if using cake flour, 2 to 3 strokes if using all-purpose flour. (Do not overwork the batter, as this will make the cake tough.) 5. Divide the batter between the cake pans and spread the tops evenly with the spoon or spatula. Bake until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in their pans on a rack for 10 minutes. Slide a thin paring knife around the edges and invert the cakes onto the rack to cool completely, at least 1 hour.

FOR THE ICING: 1. Beat the butter in a large bowl using an electric mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment) on medium-high speed until creamy, about 30 seconds. Add the cream cheese and continue to beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is fluffy, white, and very smooth, about 1 minute. Reduce the speed to low and add the powdered sugar 1 cup at a time, beating for 30 seconds after each addition, until the mixture is creamy, fluffy, and smooth. If the frosting is too stiff, beat the milk into it to loosen it.completely, at least 1 hour. TO ASSEMBLE: 1. Transfer 1 of the cake layers, bottom side up, to a serving plate or cake stand. Spoon 1 cup of the icing into the center of the cake layer. Work an icing or rubber spatula in a gentle swirling motion and spread the icing from the center toward the edges of the cake in an even layer (if you need to add more icing, add it to the center and work it out toward the sides). 2. Carefully set the second cake layer on top of the first and ice the second layer in the same manner, beginning with a dollop in the center and working it out toward the sides. Then ice the sides of the cake. (If the sides are crumbly, brush any excess crumbs away and place a thin layer of icing on the cake to seal the crumbs in. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, then apply another, thicker layer of icing on top of the first.) 3. Store the cake at room temperature beneath a cake cover. If you don’t plan to eat it within 24 hours, tent it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to remove the cake from the refrigerator an hour or more before serving to take the chill off. Serve with glasses of cold milk.

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