Birmingham – January 20, 2020

Birmingham – January 20, 2020

by | Jan 20, 2020 | Birmingham News

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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Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Rochester – January 20, 2020

Rochester – January 20, 2020

by | Jan 20, 2020 | Rochester Hills News

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

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net
Troy – January 20, 2020

Troy – January 20, 2020

by | Jan 20, 2020 | Troy News

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
Berkley – January 20, 2020

Berkley – January 20, 2020

by | Jan 20, 2020 | Berkley News

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

Annabelle’s Couture featured in Local Business News

On an unassuming side street in Berkley, a few feet from 12 Mile Road’s relentless stream of daytime traffic, longtime boutique-clothing entrepreneur Patti Brock has created a cozy, richly stocked space for the apparel shoppers she’s been serving for 25 years — and for those who’ve just discovered her here at Annabelle’s Couture.

“I’ve always loved clothing and fashion,” Brock said recently at her store. “For 10 years, in the 70s and 80s, I enjoyed working part-time at specialty clothing store Patti Smith’s in Royal Oak. I became a buyer there. When I needed full-time work, I went to It Was/It Is, another Royal Oak boutique, where I worked for two years.

“I finally realized, ‘I think I could do this myself!’ Was it a leap of faith? Stupidity? Passion? A little of all,” she said with a laugh.

 

Read more here.

City Council to Vote on Vinsetta Garage Parking

After hearing the concerns of residents at the Jan. 6, city council meeting, Berkley and City Council worked with 27799 Woodward LLC on clarifying the consent judgment language surrounding the Planning Commission’s role.

The updated language clarifies that the proposed Oxford parking lot and its perimeter wall materials and construction are subject to the Planning Commission site plan review and approval process, in accordance with the consent judgment and city ordinances.

The consent judgment specifically states, “Prior to commencing any construction of the Oxford parking lot on parcels 25-17-431-023 and 022, Plaintiff must apply for and obtain site plan approval from the City Planning Commission in accordance with the City’s Zoning Ordinance. The scope of the City Planning Commission’s site plan review shall be to determine whether Plaintiff’s site plan is consistent with this Consent Judgment and applicable City ordinances.”

The judgment will be considered by City Council at the special city council meeting on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.

New Berkley Local Podcast

Check out the latest Berkley Local podcast from the Berkley Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Berkley. This week features Berkley Eyewear & Local Sunglass Co. and The Atomic Dawg. Click to listen.

Berkley U Series on Healthy Workplaces

Join other business owners and managers for the Jan. 31 Berkley U Series Program: 20/20 View of a Healthy Workplace. The event runs from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Berkley Public Library.

Megan Patterson, a total health and wellbeing consultant from the Marsh & McLennan Agency, will discuss best practices and the impact of good health and a healthy culture on the bottom line. Regardless of budget, there are several steps you can take to improve this area of your business.

This program is free to attend but you must register.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net
Royal Oak – January 20, 2020

Royal Oak – January 20, 2020

by | Jan 20, 2020 | Royal Oak News

Detroit Radio and Sports Celebs Prepare for Lip Sync Battle

Jimmy Fallon made the lip sync battle famous. Now it’s time for our Detroit celebs to step up to the mic in the first ever Celebrity Lip Sync Battle, hosted by New Day Foundation for Families. Eight local celebrity teams will compete on behalf of a New Day family in a lip-sync throw-down when they take to the Royal Oak Music Theatre stage live on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 6:30 p.m.

Staging their performances with hip choreography and iconic costuming, celebrities will pull out all the stops to win. Performances will be critiqued by celebrity judges and voted on electronically by audience members. Battling it out will be:

Stephen Clark and JoAnne Purtan – WOMC, 104.3 FM
Blaine Fowler Morning Show – WDVD, 96.3 FM
Mickey York – FOX Sports Detroit
Andy Dirks – former Detroit Tiger, Realtor at Berkshire Hathaway
Chuck, Rachael and Grunwald – WYCD, 99.5 FM
Jackie Paige – WWJ News Radio, 950 AM
Kim Adams – 98.7 The Breeze
Devin Gardner – former U of M quarterback

Justin Rose, from the WXYZ 7 Sports Cave, will emcee the inaugural Lip Sync Battle. Celebrity judges Paul Glantz, founder and chairman of Emagine Theatres and David Van, president of Art Van Pure Sleep, will provide commentary and critique the performances from the judges’ panel. Ultimately, the audience will decide by popular vote which team will be crowned as the victor.

Tickets are available now for $50 each, or at the door with no fees, and include a pub-style buffet including sliders, Coney dogs and a hot pretzel bar; a cash bar is available. Bring the family for food, fun, raffles and more. Doors open at 6 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit New Day Foundation for Families, which works to alleviate financial toxicity and improve treatment outcomes for families facing cancer.

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The Weekly eBlast is the easiest way to stay up-to-date on the latest news, information and can’t-miss events happenings in Royal Oak. eBlast is published every Friday and sent directly to your email or cellphone. If you want to increase your knowledge on what is happening in your hometown, sign up using NoitfyMe or click here to sign up.

State of the Chamber Breakfast

Join us for Business over Breakfast and hear the State of the Chamber. A full breakfast will be served including: omelet station, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, ham croissant sandwiches, pancakes, French toast, pasta salad, fruit, cheese and crackers.

The State of the Chamber and VIP Celebration gives Chamber Board President, Tom Tull, the opportunity to share key insights about the activities, goals and state of the Chamber.

In addition, you will hear from each of our networking groups. Awards will be presented to our Business Person of the Year, Business Beautification, Ambassador of the Year, Feet First and The Rick Johnson Chamber Champion of the Year.

2020 Royal Oak Are Preschool and Child Care Directory

If you’re looking for child care options, check out the 2020 Royal Oak Area Preschool and Child Care Directory. The directory provides information on more than 50 area facilities.

The information in this directory was supplied by the individual agencies. The list does not contain every preschool and child care facility in the area.

The State of Michigan’s website has useful information about how to choose a child care provider. Go to www.michigan.gov/childcare and click on “Parent Resources.” Additional links to the State of Michigan and Oakland County family and child care resources are listed at the end of the directory. Questions about this directory should be directed to Emily Ellison, Youth Services Librarian, Royal Oak Public Library at -248-246-3716 or roplpin@ropl.org.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Storm Water Utility Workshop

The city is hosting several meetings in 2020 to help property owners understand the new utility. For residents the workshops will be held:

-Saturday, Feb. 29, at 10:30 a.m. in the Library Auditorium

-Wednesday, March 18, 3 p.m. at the MM Senior Center, rooms 4-5

Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 p.m. in the Library Auditorium

This event is FREE; RSVP.

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