Troy, MI February 2025 by City Lifestyle

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ITALY: LOVE'S ORIGIN

Embracing the Spirit of Local Love in February

As February graces us with its season of love, I find myself reflecting on what truly binds our community together: the local businesses that make Troy a vibrant and dynamic place to live.

This month, as we celebrate love in all its forms, let’s take a moment to support and appreciate the small businesses and entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their craft and enrich our city.

From cozy dinners to unique shopping experiences, Troy offers countless opportunities to celebrate love locally. Start your day at Cafe Immortelle, where a perfectly brewed latte warms more than just your hands. Planning a romantic evening? Ocean Prime Troy delivers an unforgettable dining experience with its impeccable seafood and steak menu. Looking for the perfect gift? Stop by the newly redesigned Tapper's Jewelry for a timeless treasure that speaks from the heart.

For self-care, visit SB Med Spa for luxurious treatments or explore Somerset Collection for world-class shopping. And don’t forget to treat your taste buds at Antica Nova , the newest Italian gem redefining elegance and flavor in Troy.

Our local businesses are the heartbeat of this city, and by supporting them, we strengthen the fabric of our community. Let’s embrace the spirit of February and show our love—through every coffee we sip, meal we savor, and treasure we purchase.

TODD HAIGHT, PUBLISHER

@TROYCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Margaret Haight | margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Allison Sommerville

Allison.Sommerville@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Simran Bajwa | simbaphotography1@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marshall Zweig, Jonathan Ashbury, Allison Sommerville, Cindy Stewart

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Cindy Stewart

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Investing With Care

Paul Dries

Luxury Meets Local

Check

Italy: Home of Amore!

City

2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Lions legend Barry Sanders with Chuck Vercellone of Wealth Strategies Group at the Axtella conference 2: SB Med Spa debuts in Troy, redefining luxury wellness with cutting-edge treatments and care 3: Lydia Gutierrez, Joe Dominiak, Andrew Blake and Tara Tomcsik-Husak at the Troy Chamber’s Holiday Luncheon 4: Ann Percy (annpercyagent.com) and Chuck Vercellone (wsgllc.net) at Troy Chamber of Commerce Holiday Luncheon 5: Antica Nova opens in Troy, bringing timeless Italian flavors and modern dining elegance to the community 6: Mayor Ethan Baker, Ruksana and Sul Salam and Sheila Denstaedt celebrate the new DRIPBaR in Troy (thedripbar.com) 7: Paul and JoJo Dries, Margaret Haight and Roop Raj at the Troy Chamber’s Holiday Luncheon

business monthly

Home Helpers Home Care of Troy adds operations director

Home Helpers Home Care of Troy (homehelpershomecare.com/troy-mi) has added Samantha Webb as Director of Operations, announced Owner Randall Morris. Samantha brings extensive expertise to enhance scheduling, training, recruitment and community outreach efforts. With a mission to provide trusted, comprehensive home care, Samantha’s leadership will ensure outstanding support for individuals seeking independence at home. Located at 41000 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills, Home Helpers is thrilled to welcome Samantha and her impactful vision for quality care.

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A Year of Gratitude and Growth from H/B Insurance Agency

Howard Beatty IV Insurance Agency in Troy ended the year with gratitude and reflections on a year of milestones. In 2024, the team assisted more than 600 Michigan households and businesses secure their homes, cars and livelihoods. From first-time homeowners to small businesses, they built relationships by delivering guidance, service and savings. "Insurance is more than policies," says Howard Beatty IV. "It’s about trust and being there when it matters most." Visit hbivinsuranceagency.com

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Tapper’s Jewelry opens stunning new showroom at Somerset Collection North

Tapper’s Jewelry in Troy (tappers.com) has reopened with a stunning 9,500-square-foot showroom at Somerset Collection North, doubling its previous size. Highlights include luxury watch boutiques, private shopping spaces, Mark’s Bar and the Diamond Loft, showcasing Michigan’s largest collection of diamond engagement rings. Founded in 1977, Tapper’s remains a trusted, family-owned destination for fine jewelry and luxury timepieces. Tapper’s invites guests to explore the beautifully renovated space and to experience its legacy of craftsmanship and service. For more, call (248) 649-2000.

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Photography by Cindy Stewart

Photography by Samantha Webb

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Investing With Care

Paul Dries of Edward Jones guides clients toward a brighter financial future—and strengthens the community along the way

The first thing I notice about Paul Dries— besides his striking smoking jacket, which he’d worn to the Troy Chamber of Commerce meeting he had just come from—is his calm, easygoing energy. Within moments, I can tell this is someone who genuinely gets fueled by helping others.

“I treat every client like they’re a member of my own family or one of my closest friends,” Paul says, and from him, these don’t sound like mere words. There’s a respectful caringness to Paul, the kind of energy that puts people at ease. It probably serves him well in his profession, because finances can be a daunting subject for many.

In fact, Paul’s caring nature is part of why he was drawn to being a financial advisor: he tells me he had “a desire to help people and families feel confident about their financial futures.” Paul chose Edward Jones because they’re client-focused: the company believes one size does not fit all, so they make sure to understand each client’s differing needs and goals. What impressed me most about Paul’s answers was how much people, not money, matter to him. When I ask Paul what success means to him, his answer isn’t about numbers on a page—it’s about the lives those numbers impact: “It’s helping clients achieve the life they envision, whether that means financial independence, supporting loved ones or charitable causes, or pursuing their passions,” he responds.

ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMRAN BAJWA

He tells me about a young couple who started their journey with little financial knowledge. “I guided them from the basics of budgeting to building a solid investment strategy,” Paul recalls. “Over time, they saved for retirement and eventually purchased their dream home.” Making his client’s dreams come true seems to be the outcome Paul focuses on.

Paul’s style is rooted in education and trust. “I simplify complex concepts, provide clear explanations, and ensure clients feel comfortable asking questions throughout the process,” Paul shares. And he makes sure to talk with his clients in terms they can understand—”not industry jargon,” he assures me.

His approach seems to resonate: Paul recently sat down with two prospective clients who’d seen multiple advisors before him. “When the meeting wrapped up, they told me they’d never had someone sit down and explain their entire financial picture so thoroughly,” he remembers proudly.

Paul specializes in intergenerational planning and wealth strategies, which, as he puts it, comes down to clear communication, no matter someone’s age or income level. “I focus on fostering communication across generations, to make sure everyone’s priorities are understood and addressed while preserving and growing family wealth,” Paul declares.

Whether his clients are focused on sending their child to college, retiring, or planning a legacy, Paul breaks those major life transitions into manageable steps—making sure his clients feel supported every step of the way.

What really moved me, though, was Paul’s passion when he spoke about his wife JoJo, and her nonprofit, On The Wings of Angels. Paul makes it clear how important to him it is that they both be part of his story.

JoJo met Paul when they were kids. For JoJo, whose childhood was marked by trauma and abuse, Paul represented something rare: safety and kindness. "He was the calm to my storm" is how JoJo describes it. Jojo came to rely on their friendship, but when things turned romantic years later, Jojo’s abuser got in the way. Paul essentially told Jojo he couldn’t rescue her—she needed to rescue herself first.

After Jojo finally did reclaim her power, life brought the two back together in an extraordinary way: they were matched on Match.com, rekindling a love story that blossomed into a Valentine’s Day wedding.

Jojo’s experiences overcoming her own hardships inspired her to create On The Wings of Angels, a nonprofit that helps women escape domestic violence and rebuild their lives. From providing emergency housing to offering resources for long-term stability, the organization is a beacon of hope for survivors. “It meets survivors where they are,” Paul adds, “and helps them take the next step toward healing.” On The Wings of Angels is always looking for mental health professionals and attorneys to volunteer their services, and gratefully accepts donations; sign up for either or both at onthewings.org

Paul serves on the board of the nonprofit, and volunteers wherever he’s needed—at food banks, animal shelters, and with youth organizations. Simply put, community is something Paul and Jojo value the most. “It’s about making a meaningful impact,” Paul notes.

Before we wrap up, I ask Paul if he has a single piece of advice to share—a financial ‘life hack.’ His answer is deceptively simple but wise: “Start early, even if it’s small. Time is one of the greatest assets you have when building wealth.” I remember that truism about time from my college finance courses: time harnesses the power of compound interest.

Here’s my hack about time: spend it wisely, with people you feel comfortable around, people you sense have your best interests at heart. That’s the kind of confidence I believe you need to feel in order to trust someone with your financial future. And that’s the strong sense I get from Paul: genuine, steady—the kind of person who doesn’t just build portfolios, but peace of mind.

To connect with Paul Dries at his Utica Edward Jones office, visit edwardjones.com/paul-dries or call 586-254-0881.

LUXURY MEETS LOCAL

Check our list of favorite spots to shop, dine—and more

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY STEWART

Premier Pet Supply has been a local favorite for pet lovers since 1992. This family-owned business offers exceptional customer service, over 60 pet food brands, a DIY dog wash and monthly Michigan-made product discounts. Stop by for treats, toys or special events like Mardi Gras pet photos on February 23, supporting local rescues.

2848 W. Maple Road | (248) 677-0154 premierpetsupply.com

The Little Shop of Lily Rae , founded by Ashley Jenkins during COVID, blossomed from a hobby into a thriving Troy business offering personalized gifts, spiritwear, engraved charcuterie boards and more. Lilly Rae also showcases 30 local artisans. Don’t miss February’s men’s shopping event with gifts, beer and treats.

69 W. Long Lake Road | (586) 738-4110 littleshopoflilyrae.com

1969 W. South Blvd | (248) 635-9827 sourdoughida.com 1.PREMIER PET SUPPLY

At Sourdough Ida , Mirsida Zholi and Edmond Marena craft artisanal sourdough breads using a three-year-old starter and a 24-hour process. Assisted by daughters Monica and Dea, this family-run gem also offers muffins, cookies and espresso. From jalapeño cheddar breads to rosemary olive, their loaves sell out fast, so come early.

2. THE LITTLE SHOP OF LILY RAE

3. SOURDOUGH IDA

The Little Shop of Lily Rae

Premier Pet Supply

Sourdough Ida

Stumblebum Beer Co. is a new brewery concept from brewmaster Eli Green, offering high-quality craft beer thoughtfully paired with cheeses and meats. Choose from a selection of paninis, charcuteries and even “French Fry Flights,” perfectly paired with seasonings and dips such as parmesan garlic, Swiss onion and cheddar pepper.

1965 W. Maple Road | (248) 307-7204 stumblebumbeer.com

6. PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES 4. VINO LAB

Step into Vino Lab, where Italian elegance meets modern sophistication. Born from the beloved Cucina Lab Torino, this upscale wine bar and boutique offers curated wines, handcrafted gelato and Italian-inspired bites. Explore their exclusive Wine Club, savor dailymade delights or host an intimate gathering in style.

3960 Crooks Road | (248) 707-9301 vino-lab.com

Tax day is almost here. Steve Federspiel and his team at Padgett Business Services take the guesswork out of tax and payroll preparation for individuals, families and small businesses, including entrepreneurs and freelancers. Clients love the excellent customer service Steve offers while handling personal and business accounts.

1120 E. Long Lake Road, Suite 150 | (586) 323-2360 troy.padgettadvisors.com

5. STUMBLEBUM BEER CO.

Vino Lab

Stumblebum Beer

Padgett Business Services

Paul

Dries,

AWMA™

Financial Advisor 45174 Cass Ave Utica, MI 48317 586-254-0881

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY

CINDY STEWART

Our City Lifestyle Travel Correspondent Cindy Stewart discovers her love for the history, culinary delights and stunning landscapes in Italy

Italy: Home

of Amore!

Ciao!

When you think of Love–amore–what country comes to mind? For me, it's Italy! My 2024 travels took me all over the world–to Panama, Honduras, Mexico, Belize, Alaska and Poland. I also discovered fun adventures in places like Herndon, Virginia, where I met my great-granddaughter Elizabeth Rose, and in Glen Arbor, Mich., where I watched amazing sunsets and decided that the beauty of Lake Michigan rivals the Caribbean.

None, however, could rival the best journey of this year: 18 days in Italy, the country of amore. From north to south, each region has something unique and beautiful to offer.

Talk about Loving Local, that's exactly what we did in Italy: Explored, tasted and loved the local specialties.

Our trip was planned as a yoga retreat in the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy, but one cannot go all the way to Europe and only stay one week. With two of my fellow yogis, we added on time to the beginning and end of the retreat to extend the trip by almost two remarkable weeks.

After flying into Milan, our first stop was north to Comune di Perledo, on the east shore of Lake Como. There are a number of small Comunes (municipalities) bordering one another throughout Italy. We learned very quickly that the best and only way to tour Italy is to pack light and use a small suitcase.

The roads are cobblestone and sidewalks are very narrow, but the views are spectacular with stunning landscapes. The town churches are breathtaking, like the Church of San Martino, the main church of Perledo. Impressive architecture sits on a hillside overlooking a commanding view of Lake Como, with a tall bell tower and a stone terrace in front.

Close by, we found the Lake Bakery in Comune di Varenna with freshly baked croissants, cannoli, focaccia and other heavenly delights.

The pistachio cannoli stole the show, as did the views of Varenna from the local ferry as we traveled to Bellagio.

Our yoga retreat week began with a walking tour of the spacious piazzas and the mesmerizing palaces located in Turin, the capital city of Torino. There is such a rich history in Italy, as Turin is known as the hidden jewel on the banks of the Po River. We strolled the city from square to square, admiring sites such as the Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Piazzo Castello, the Royal Palace and Piazzo San Carlo, with the regal monuments dedicated to past historic heroes.

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“BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE TO SEE IN ITALY! A TRAIN FROM TURIN TO FLORENCE TOOK US TO A 12TH CENTURY MEDIEVAL TOWER IN THE HEART OF TOWN, ONLY 120 STEPS UP TO OUR ROOM, AND OH, WHAT A VIEW!”

Locals set the pace here, not tourists. There are so many quaint cafes where you can leisurely spend time sipping drinks and eating tasty delights.

In town we were treated to an exclusive tour of Croci Bruno Cioccolato (cioccolatocroci.com), a chocolate shop established in 1930 and currently run by the founder’s grandsons, Guido and Luca Croci. Their goal is to preserve Turin’s traditional techniques and recipes but also to introduce new tastes and flavors.

Needless to say, we were in chocolate heaven. While Guido spoke no English, you really do not need a translation to understand superb, scrumptious, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate.

The highlight of our trip was arriving at our countryside villa, Casa Gallo, in the gorgeous, vineyard-stricken Monteu Roero. The villa has 10 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, chef’s kitchen, plus yoga shala, swimming pool, outdoor pizza oven and the most spectacular views of the Piedmont countryside.

From our villa we took side trips to Alba, Canale, and Bra as well as an e-bike ride through the local hills and vineyards including Cascina Lanzarotti (consorziodelroero.it/cantine), founded in 1883 and run by the Ferrero family for four generations. What an amazing experience sampling their exquisite wines and luscious peaches.

A week of exploring the Piedmont region, plus twice-a-day yoga led by Amy Satterfield, owner of Explore Yoga (exploreyogatroy.com), would be a wonderful way to end the adventure. But wait, there’s more to see and do in Italy! A train from Turin to Florence took us to a 12th Century medieval

tower in the heart of town, only 120 steps up to our room, and oh, what a view!

Firenze (Florence) is the cradle of the Renaissance. The sites were simply breathtaking from the majesty of the Duomo (cathedral) to Michelangelo’s statue of David and everything in between.

We were in awe as we crossed the Ponte Vecchio arch bridge to begin our daily explorations. Strolls took us over each bridge delighting in the shops and restaurants along the way.

If you go: Italy truly is the country of amore and I highly recommend a trip to my favorite vacation spot in the world. A must-see is the Piazzale Michelangelo, the most famous viewpoint in Florence. The outlook is truly amazing, a 360-degree panorama of the Tuscan capital, including the Duomo, famous arch bridges and surrounding hills. It’s a very steep climb, but you'll be left with an image of Florence you'll never forget. And, after the long walk, you'll have plenty of room to eat scrumptious gelato every day.

Arrivederci!

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Winter Fun in Troy

Discover winter’s magic in Troy, where scenic trails and snowy activities invite you outdoors

Something magical happens this time of year: Winter transforms the City of Troy into a playground of walking trails, sledding, cross-country skiing and snowy escapades.

Get started with the walking trails at Stage Nature Center, Sylvan Glen Lake Park, Jaycee Park or behind the Daisy Knight Dog Park.

Looking for more adventure? You can also take the family sledding, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Sylvan Glen Golf Course. Bring your own equipment.

And new this winter: ice skating at The Rink (248-524-3484). This all-season skating ribbon at Stine Community Park is perfect for family outings or date nights. The Rink offers two fire pits, concessions and ice skate rentals (or bring your own) to have some fabulous outdoor fun together this winter.

Visit rec.troymi.gov to discover all the winter magic in Troy.

FEBRUARY 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 8TH, 15TH, 22ND

The Magic Soiree, Michigan's only magic comedy dinner show

Camp Ticonderoga, 5725 Rochester Road, Troy | 6:30 PM

This is a must-see magical, funny dinner show for everyone. Tickets include a delicious buffet meal, close-up magic at your table and the hilarious magical cabaret featuring Keith Fields and Lady Sarah. It's a great night out for magic and comedy. Once you see the show, you'll want to see it again! Visit TheMagicSoiree.com for tickets before they disappear.

FEBRUARY 11TH AND 19TH

4-Course Wine Dinner at Carrabba's in Troy

Carrabba's Italian Grill, 600 W. Big Beaver, Troy | 6:30 PM

Join Carrabba's Italian Grill in Troy for a flavor exploration with a four-course food and wine pairing. Relax and enjoy this exquisite meal with family, friends, neighbors or co-workers after a long day. Discover Carrabba's featured wine and off-menu masterpieces, as well as camaraderie and gifts compliments of the house. Visit Carrabbas.com or call (248) 269-0095 for details and reservations.

FEBRUARY 14TH AND 28TH

Skate Night at the Rink

The Rink at Jeanne M. Stine Community Park, 241 Town Center Drive, Troy | 6:00 PM

Come skate at the new Troy Ice Rink on Friday, Feb. 14 and Friday, Feb. 28. Celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14 with “Date Skate” and then come back on February 28 for "S'mores Skate" from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Skate rental fees apply. No registration needed. Free for all ages. Visit rec.troymi.gov for more details.

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FEBRUARY 17TH AND 18TH

Free Mid-Winter Break Open House

Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, Troy | 10:00 AM

Shake off the cabin fever and visit the Troy Historic Village free of charge. Explore historic buildings, go on a scavenger hunt and see what fun programs are available at the Village. Great for all ages! Monday, Feb. 17 and Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit TroyHistoricVillage.org for more information and to pre-register. Walkins welcome.

FEBRUARY 18TH

Christina Kateri Duo Concert

Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, Troy | 7:00 PM

Enjoy an intimate, live performance by the Christina Kateri Duo as part of the senior programs. Growing up in a family of musicians, Christina developed a deep love of singing at an early age and has fond memories sitting around the piano as a child, listening to her grandfather play traditional melodies from his homeland of Slovenia. Troy residents free; non-residents $5. Visit rec.troymi.gov.

FEBRUARY 26TH

Me & My Grand LOVE

Spending Time Together

Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, Troy | 4:30 PM

Children, celebrate Valentine’s Day with your Grand (grandparent, that is). Enjoy a Valentine-themed craft, play a Valentine-themed game together and enjoy a Valentine-themed snack. The event runs from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. $10 per pair, $13 per additional person. Please note that grandparents will register for a pair and a waiver must be signed by a parent/guardian. All ages welcome. Visit rec.troymi.gov to register.

Trion is a proud Troy Chamber member.