Farmington – January 20, 2020

Farmington – January 20, 2020

Friends,

My heart is happy.

I’m a huge advocate for volunteerism. It’s a huge, satisfying part of my life.

With it being Martin Luther King Jr. Day, seeing all the volunteering and giving opportunities makes me proud to be in these communities. While I’m not going to pretend to understand the depth and breadth of what Dr. King means to the African-American community, I truly admire the movement to create something special in his memory. I think that’s one of the most profound legacies a person can leave in this world.

In talking with my aunt last week, she said something that resonated with me: To whom much is given, much is expected. I agree. I’m no millionaire, but I certainly can’t complain about my lifestyle. My family is safe, warm and fed. We have access to doctors and teachers. Life is good.

But others aren’t so lucky.

Time is free and it’s the most important thing you can give. I encourage you to get out there this week, and every week, and lend a hand where you can. You don’t even need to be formal about it. Grab some paper and markers and make cards for kids in the hospital. Pick up litter at your local park. Start a pay-it-forward the next time you’re in the drive thru.

It’s all about kindness, folks. And it’s the least we can do.

Stay warm,

Rebecca

The Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce Presents the ‘State of the Cities’

The Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce presents the “State of the Cities” at 7:30 a.m., Feb.12 at the Holiday Inn and Suites, 33103 Hamilton Ct., Farmington Hills.

Community leaders will share information about new developments that will contribute to the overall growth and stability of Farmington and Farmington Hills. Speaking will be Farmington Mayor Sara Bowman, Farmington Hills Mayor Vicki Barnett, and Farmington Public Schools Superintendent Robert Herera, Ed.D.

In addition, this year, Annette Compo, of the Annette Compo Home Team at Keller Williams, will provide an update on local area real estate.

The event is open to the public and costs $30 per person, which includes a buffet-style breakfast. Register online at www.gfachamber.org.

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Applications Accepted for Farmington City Council Vacancy

The Farmington City Council is now accepting applications to fill a vacancy.

To be eligible to serve on City Council, it is necessary to have lived in the City of Farmington for one year, you must be 18 years of age or older, and you cannot be in default to the city or any other governmental unit in the state

The City Council requests that anyone interested in being considered for this appointment complete the application and questionnaire. The application and questionnaire should be returned to the City Clerk’s office by noon on Thursday, Jan. 23. The applications will then be forwarded to the City Council for their review.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact 248-474-5500, x 2218.

Detroit Eatz Hosts Ribbon Cutting

At long last, Detroit Eatz is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Jen. 24, from noon to 1 p.m. Detroit Eatz is located at 32704 Grand River Ave.

The menu includes burgers, chicken sandwiches and hand-breaded chicken tenders, fresh-cut fries and Dearborn Brand lunchmeat, spiral hams and deli sandwiches. Everything will be freshly made with “nothing from a box.”

Check out the feature that describes the novel drive-thru at Detroit Eatz in Local Business News.

Game Day at the Library

Join the fun for a monthly Game Day meet up hosted at the library in collaboration with Oakland County Gamers. Game Day is Saturday, Jan. 25, from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Volunteers will be on hand to help teach and play games of all types for any age and any level of experience. Explore the current board game collection or bring one to share.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Mount Clemens – January 20, 2020

Mount Clemens – January 20, 2020

Friends,

My heart is happy.

I’m a huge advocate for volunteerism. It’s a huge, satisfying part of my life.

With it being Martin Luther King Jr. Day, seeing all the volunteering and giving opportunities makes me proud to be in these communities. While I’m not going to pretend to understand the depth and breadth of what Dr. King means to the African-American community, I truly admire the movement to create something special in his memory. I think that’s one of the most profound legacies a person can leave in this world.

In talking with my aunt last week, she said something that resonated with me: To whom much is given, much is expected. I agree. I’m no millionaire, but I certainly can’t complain about my lifestyle. My family is safe, warm and fed. We have access to doctors and teachers. Life is good.

But others aren’t so lucky.

Time is free and it’s the most important thing you can give. I encourage you to get out there this week, and every week, and lend a hand where you can. You don’t even need to be formal about it. Grab some paper and markers and make cards for kids in the hospital. Pick up litter at your local park. Start a pay-it-forward the next time you’re in the drive thru.

It’s all about kindness, folks. And it’s the least we can do.

Stay warm,

Rebecca

15th Annual Chili Cook-Off Pub Crawl Fundraiser

On Thursday, Jan. 30, downtown will fill with the aroma of chili as bars and restaurants compete in a Chili Cook-Off Pub Crawl Fundraiser. The crawl runs from 6 to 9 p.m.

Tickets are $15 per person or $25 per couple. Cost includes a taster chili at each site, chili pepper beads, and a scorecard.

For more information, call 586-469-4168.

15th Annual Mount Clemens Ice Sculpture Show

Ice sculptures will be on display on Macomb Place Downtown from Friday, Jan. 31, to Sunday, Feb. 2. There will also be live carving demonstrations on Fountain Stage and a Kids Wonderland Warming Center.

The event is free and fun for the whole family.

Survey Launch Party

Artspace will conduct a major online survey of artists, arts organizations and creative businesses in the Mount Clemens area to determine the size and nature of the market for an Artspace mixed-use project in the community.

The eight-week survey will be launched with a free public event at 7 p.m. on Feb. 4, at the Anton Art Center. The event is open to all; artists and directors of arts organizations and creative businesses are especially encouraged to attend.

The Survey Launch Party is an opportunity to learn about building affordable live/work artist housing and studio space in Mount Clemens. Area artists, arts & culture organizations, creative community members, businesses and arts supporters of all kinds are invited to attend the launch party for refreshments, information and camaraderie.

Preregistration is requested.

Craft All Day at the Library

Crafters, rejoice! The Mt. Clemens Public Library is hosting an all-day craft-a-thon on Feb. 1 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Join fellow crafters for a full-day of scrapbooking, card making or whatever inspires you. Spend the day and have a six-foot table to craft to your hearts content.

Lunch is potluck and dinner is $5.

Click here for registration and information.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Birmingham – January 20, 2020

Birmingham – January 20, 2020

Friends,

My heart is happy.

I’m a huge advocate for volunteerism. It’s a huge, satisfying part of my life.

With it being Martin Luther King Jr. Day, seeing all the volunteering and giving opportunities makes me proud to be in these communities. While I’m not going to pretend to understand the depth and breadth of what Dr. King means to the African-American community, I truly admire the movement to create something special in his memory. I think that’s one of the most profound legacies a person can leave in this world.

In talking with my aunt last week, she said something that resonated with me: To whom much is given, much is expected. I agree. I’m no millionaire, but I certainly can’t complain about my lifestyle. My family is safe, warm and fed. We have access to doctors and teachers. Life is good.

But others aren’t so lucky.

Time is free and it’s the most important thing you can give. I encourage you to get out there this week, and every week, and lend a hand where you can. You don’t even need to be formal about it. Grab some paper and markers and make cards for kids in the hospital. Pick up litter at your local park. Start a pay-it-forward the next time you’re in the drive thru.

It’s all about kindness, folks. And it’s the least we can do.

Stay warm,

Rebecca

Birmingham Restaurant Week

Birmingham’s finest restaurants will offer discounted meals during the 15th annual Birmingham Restaurant Week event from Jan. 27- 31 and Feb. 3-7. Patrons will enjoy three-course lunches and dinners at discounted price points.

Brand new this year, a social media contest will give diners a chance to win a $50 gift card to a Birmingham restaurant during Birmingham Restaurant Week. To enter the contest patrons simply post a picture of their Restaurant Week meal on Facebook or Instagram, along with the restaurant name and #birminghamrestaurantweek hashtag.

“We have 24 restaurants participating in Birmingham Restaurant Week, and we’re excited to welcome newcomers Pernoi and The Morrie,” said Ingrid Tighe, executive director of the Birmingham Shopping District. “With 800,000+ white lights still aglow throughout town, we encourage everyone to come out and enjoy a fantastic meal in a picturesque setting.”

Check out participating restaurants and event menus. Reservations may be made by contacting the restaurants directly.

Birmingham Youth Assistance 39th Annual Kid’s Dog Show

Attention all kids aged 4 to 14: It is time for the Birmingham Youth Assistance Kids’ Dog Show. Register by Friday, Jan. 31, and join the show at Berkshire Middle School on Sunday, Feb. 2, at 1 p.m. Go to www.birminghamyouthassistance.org or call 248-203-4300 for full details and to register.

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Rochester – January 20, 2020

Rochester – January 20, 2020

Friends,

My heart is happy.

I’m a huge advocate for volunteerism. It’s a huge, satisfying part of my life.

With it being Martin Luther King Jr. Day, seeing all the volunteering and giving opportunities makes me proud to be in these communities. While I’m not going to pretend to understand the depth and breadth of what Dr. King means to the African-American community, I truly admire the movement to create something special in his memory. I think that’s one of the most profound legacies a person can leave in this world.

In talking with my aunt last week, she said something that resonated with me: To whom much is given, much is expected. I agree. I’m no millionaire, but I certainly can’t complain about my lifestyle. My family is safe, warm and fed. We have access to doctors and teachers. Life is good.

But others aren’t so lucky.

Time is free and it’s the most important thing you can give. I encourage you to get out there this week, and every week, and lend a hand where you can. You don’t even need to be formal about it. Grab some paper and markers and make cards for kids in the hospital. Pick up litter at your local park. Start a pay-it-forward the next time you’re in the drive thru.

It’s all about kindness, folks. And it’s the least we can do.

Stay warm,

Rebecca

Community Outlook Breakfast

The 2020 Annual Community Outlook Breakfast on Monday, Feb. 24, features community updates from Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township and the Rochester Community Schools.

Breakfast and presentations will be held in the Oakland University Student Center beginning at 8 a.m. with a press conference. Networking, breakfast and speakers will follow.

For more information, contact the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce at 248-651-6700.

Chief Financial VP Named Transformative Leader of the Year

MichBusiness named Cheryl Boodram, vice president of Marketing and Sales at Chief Financial Credit Union, a 2019 Transformative Leader of the Year.
The MichBusiness Transformative Leader award recognizes leaders who are remarkable at elevating the quality of life for employees, clients or colleagues. The award is open to business leaders throughout Michigan, highlighting select individuals who exemplify leadership each year.

During her time at Chief Financial, Boodram has fostered the organization’s marketing and sales strategy from the department’s inception, and has acted as lead of credit union project management. She also developed programs that cultivated hundreds of thousands of dollars for community partners. Boodram was also honored for her efforts in 2018 with the Oakland County Executive’s Elite 40 Under 40 Award.

Chief Financial Credit Union is the only financial institution headquartered in the Greater Rochester Area. For more information, visit www.chiefonline.com.

Free Kitchen and Bath Clinic, Feb 5.

Big or small, every rebuilt kitchen or bath has its challenges. Learn how to conquer those obstacles, pick the right materials and love your new kitchen or bath at a free clinic on Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 6 p.m. at Dillman & Upton.

The latest trends and the “tried-and-true” will be highlighted by industry and design experts. Attendees will learn what to expect during and after construction.

The event will be held in the new Dillman & Upton Design Center filled with refreshed ideas for every room in your home.

With over 110 years in the building business, family-owned Dillman & Upton continues to be a major supplier of quality construction products and full-service, installation services. Read the feature on Dillman & Upton in Local Business News.

Space for the free class is limited. Make your reservation online at www.dillmanupton.com or call or visit Dillman & Upton at 607 Woodward Street in Downtown Rochester.

Chamber of Commerce Names Hunter 2020 Ambassador Chair

The Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce named Scott Hunter, of Cruise & Travel Experts with Scott the Traveling Man, as the 2020 Ambassador Chair. He has been part of the Chamber for 12 years and became an ambassador six months after joining the Chamber.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Troy – January 20, 2020

Troy – January 20, 2020

Friends,

My heart is happy.

I’m a huge advocate for volunteerism. It’s a huge, satisfying part of my life.

With it being Martin Luther King Jr. Day, seeing all the volunteering and giving opportunities makes me proud to be in these communities. While I’m not going to pretend to understand the depth and breadth of what Dr. King means to the African-American community, I truly admire the movement to create something special in his memory. I think that’s one of the most profound legacies a person can leave in this world.

In talking with my aunt last week, she said something that resonated with me: To whom much is given, much is expected. I agree. I’m no millionaire, but I certainly can’t complain about my lifestyle. My family is safe, warm and fed. We have access to doctors and teachers. Life is good.

But others aren’t so lucky.

Time is free and it’s the most important thing you can give. I encourage you to get out there this week, and every week, and lend a hand where you can. You don’t even need to be formal about it. Grab some paper and markers and make cards for kids in the hospital. Pick up litter at your local park. Start a pay-it-forward the next time you’re in the drive thru.

It’s all about kindness, folks. And it’s the least we can do.

Stay warm,

Rebecca

Troy 2019 Winter Property Tax Payments Due

Residents’ 2019 winter property tax payments must be received on or before Friday, Feb. 14, to avoid penalty charges. Postmarks are not accepted. A 3% penalty must be applied to all unpaid winter tax bill balances after the due date for February.

Several payment options are listed on the back of your tax bill. Payments made online through your banking institution may not be electronically submitted but require that institution to create a paper check and mail it. Please allow seven to 10 business days when mailing payments.

Payments by check may be made at City Hall located at 500 W. Big Beaver anytime using the secure drop boxes conveniently located outside the east (walk-up) and west (drive-up) entrances to the building.

If you are responsible for paying property taxes but have not received your bill, contact the Treasurer’s Office at 248-524-3333, Monday through Friday, or visit www.troymi.gov. If you recently refinanced or paid off your mortgage and are not sure who is responsible for the payment, contact your mortgage company.

March 2 is the last day to pay 2019 tax bills at City Hall. Payments not received in the Treasurer’s Office by 4:30 p.m. must be submitted with a revised statement including additional penalties to the Oakland County Treasurer, 1200 N. Telegraph, Pontiac, MI 48341.

Share Your Concerns

State Rep. Padma Kuppa invites the residents of House District 41 to attend open-door meeting hours at the Troy Public Library. Constituents are encouraged to come and share their concerns. The event is from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the library.

Photo Walk

Troy Nature Society Photo Club volunteers will lead a guided tour through the Stage Nature Center. Meet in the parking lot at the nature center by 8 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, and bring your camera. All ages are invited. Dress for the weather as the walk takes place entirely outdoors.

The cost is $2; Troy Nature Center members get in free.

Absentee Ballots Get New Look

Michigan Absentee Ballot envelopes have a new look. Your ballot will now come in a white and blue envelope with a green and white ballot return envelope.

Ballot mailing begins early February for the Presidential Primary on March 10. Voters may view a sample ballot, track their Absentee Ballot, and verify voter registration information here online.

For any additional information please visit the elections page.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net