Holidays & Giving
Making memories this holiday season in West Bloomfield
With the spirit of the holidays among us, it seems we always try to replicate what made the season feel so magical in our youth.
I suppose that's why the traditions we set for our own families often mirror what we experienced as a child – the smells, the sounds, the lights, the special dish we prepare for the family meal. Everything that reflects the best of what we remember and cherish.
Many of those memories are from the community around us. Shopping for holiday greenery at English Gardens or last-minute gifts at Orchard Mall. An elegant dinner surrounded by seasonal lights at Prime29. Menorah lightings and the festive Chanukah Wonderland.
What is your favorite memory of this season in West Bloomfield?
They're all part of our collective joy as, this month, we highlight the magic of the season and what our community has to offer that helps spread cheer. We’ve even compiled a guide for making year-end gifts to local nonprofits serving those in need.
To support families that struggle during this season, you'll find a special story about the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign. Read on to discover how you can nominate someone from West Bloomfield to receive help this season through City Lifestyle's nonprofit that helped more than 150 families nationwide last year.
My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace, and that we all remember to take care of one other with grace, empathy and love.
Happy Holidays!
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Marshall Zweig | marshall.zweig@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Allison Sommerville allison.sommerville@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Margaret Haight | margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jonathan Ashbury, Margaret Meyer Haight, Marshall Zweig
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Simran Bajwa, Amy Gillespie
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Haute Coco
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day or next day appointments, results within
Stroke Prevention Package - $149
Take control of your health with our comprehensive package which includes our carotid artery screening, EKG for evaluation of atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias, ABI for detection of peripheral artery disease, abdominal aorta screening to detect aneurysms of the aorta.
Women’s Health Package - $159
Comprehensive ultrasound screening of the uterus, ovaries, and bladder to detect cancers, cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, or other abnormalities. Also included is an ultrasound of the thyroid.
Preventative Care Package - $199
Your health is your most valuable asset. This exclusive package includes full abdominal ultrasound including liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and bladder, as well as abdominal aortic aneurysm screening.
Heart Health Package - $149
Echocardiogram for early detection of heart conditions such as heart valve disorders, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart defects, and covid related myocarditis. The package is for all ages. Get your young athletes screened prior to participating in sports.
DVT Screening - $199
Lower arterial and venous doppler for detection of blood clots. Get peace of mind following covid, surgery, injuries or if you have any risk factors / family history of blood clots.
DripIV launches Immunity/Vitamin D booster treatments for cold season
Drip IV Therapy ( DripIV.com) has launched an all-new Immunity and Vitamin D booster shot treatment to help you stay healthy during the colder months. Available at the West Bloomfield and Birmingham locations. Designed to fortify your body’s defenses and boost overall wellness, these treatments join DripIV’s comprehensive lineup of health optimization services. Call (248) 955-1616 (West Bloomfield) or (248) 963-7933 (Birmingham) to give your immune system the support it needs to thrive this winter.
Magic Soiree offers mid-week holiday shows for small groups, businesses
The Magic Soiree is offering midweek holiday shows (Dec. 4, 11 and 19), perfect for small groups and businesses to celebrate together. Plan a departmental holiday party or get the family together for a little magic. Hosted by Camp Ticonderoga in Troy, with the Chef’s special holiday menu, plus clean comedy and lots of audience participation. But with only 64 seats, you’d better act fast. Visit TheMagicSoiree.com for tickets.
Expedition Detroit Founder Appointed to Michigan Wildlife Council
Dan Cooke, founder of Expedition Detroit (expeditiondetroit.com), has been appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to the Department of Natural Resources’ Michigan Wildlife Council. Cooke will serve a two-year term as council member with a media and marketing background. The Michigan Wildlife Council was created by law to preserve Michigan’s rich hunting and fishing heritage, while advancing conservation and wildlife management. Cooke’s responsibilities will include addressing wildlife conservation concerns within Southeast Michigan. For more, visit hereformioutdoors.org.
Photography by James Cooke, Cooke Productions
Photography by Kevin Shea
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Holiday Haute Coco
Discover pre-loved luxury in the heart of West Bloomfield with consigned designer handbags, shoes and accessories
ARTICLE
BY
MARGARET MEYER HAIGHT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMRAN BAJWA
Christina Yono showing Chanel Deauville Tote
What makes the perfect Christmas gift?
Something that demonstrates exquisite taste, luxury and world class quality.
I was delighted to find these attributes being expertly curated at Christina’s Consignments inside Orchard Mall. Gorgeous displays of designer handbags, shoes and accessories in all price ranges, even items for men. So many delightfully giftable pieces with their original dust bag, box and certificate of authenticity from Entrupy.
Showroom owner Christina Yono explains she loves to give gifts, especially when she knows the person will love it. She shows me her favorites for under the tree – handbags by Chanel, Hermes, Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
“Pre-loved luxury is a great alternative to retail. Not only can you find something amazing for under retail, you can also find vintage and rare pieces. Certain pieces are smart investments and will hold their value or can be worth more over time.”
In fact, Vogue wrote this year that circular fashion has become more than just a trend, naming Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Chanel as top performers in the resale market.
As a wife and mom to three amazing sons (Sam, Jake and Ben), Christina has a special eye for helping clients buy and sell the best in upscale resale. Many are featured on her TikTok, Instagram and Facebook accounts, with new finds coming-and going-very quickly. Shop early at ChristinasConsignments.com
Vintage Chanel Velvet Braided Handle Bag
Wall of Louis Vuitton
Immersed in Hermes Kelly, Louis Vuitton New Wave Chain Tote, Chanel Chevron, Hermes Birkin, Gucci Tote, Louis Vuitton luggage and more
A Steakhouse In Its Prime
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY GILLESPIE
Every restaurant's organizational philosophy differs when it comes to finding talent. Some places value education. Some value experience.
And some, like Prime29, value dedication, passion and potential.
Take Stoli Liti. He's chief operating partner of West Bloomfield’s now-legendary Prime29 Steakhouse. Stoli started in the restaurant industry as a server assistant. He rose because, as he demonstrates repeatedly during our interview, he’s both highly passionate and highly knowledgeable about the restaurant industry.
WEST BLOOMFIELD’S ONLY STEAKHOUSE FOR OVER A DECADE, PRIME 29 SHARES ITS RECIPE FOR SUCCESS
"PRIME29 IS QUIET LUXURY. WE WANTED AN ATMOSPHERE THAT, WHEN YOU'RE ENTERING, MAKES YOU FEEL SPECIAL."
Stoli begins with his perspective on the concept of value.
"Value is what you're getting for the amount of money that you're spending,” Stoli explains. “So value and price are two totally different things. And yes, we always try to give you the best price possible, but our guests appreciate value way more than price.”
Stoli breaks down the value equation: first, don't price-shop for staff and suppliers. "We're looking for like-minded individuals,” Stoli informs me. “Hard-working people who are passionate about what they do, who love this business and want to be in this business.”
Next on Stoli's list: giving a diner a special experience every time.
"There's value in consistency,” Stoli offers. “Every day is, ‘Have we made everybody's experience special?’ That's a continuous fight that we fight every day. If you butcher steak properly, cook it properly, season it properly, you're going to have better quality steak.”
Stoli moves to ambience.
"Prime29 is quiet luxury. When you go to Prime, it's usually a special occasion or a business event, a business meeting. So we wanted an atmosphere that, when you're entering, makes you feel special."
I wonder how often people just stare at their phones during dinner. Stoli says Prime29 is working hard to bring that number down with customer-focused innovations like tableside Chateaubriand and live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays. ”Everywhere you turn,” Stoli describes, “there’s something going on."
Stoli tells me tableside service, the "big-time" trend right now, is tricky.
“It’s not easy," he says. "If you're making a tableside Caesar, you're also in the back peeling every little baby gem, one by one. You're grinding fresh
Prime29 Steakhouse didn't just serve up fine dining.
IT LAUNCHED A BRAND –PRIME CONCEPTS DETROIT.
The hospitality industry is about more than just a pleasant environment and a great meal, according to Stoli Liti, chief operating partner of Prime29 Steakhouse. “We believe that authentic connections between staff and guests and memorable experiences that connect people to our businesses in meaningful ways are what keeps employees happy – and guests coming back for more.”
In 2023, Stoli and the team at Prime Concepts Detroit unveiled Aurora Italiana in West Bloomfield, a vibrant eatery serving up authentic Italian cuisine and capturing the essence of Capri. The passion for culinary excellence led to a growing portfolio that now includes NARA Sushi & Hibachi Steakhouse in West Bloomfield; Wabeek Club in Bloomfield Hills; and PAO Detroit in, of course, Detroit.
Learn more at primeconceptsdetroit.com
Parmesan cheese. You're making your dressing blend with – well, I don't want to say all the secrets, but it’s a process. You’ve got to prep for it.”
When I ask Stoli what makes Prime29 different, he mentions their 29-day steak aging process – “it enhances the flavor” – but he says their biggest advantage is not being restrained in their creativity and flexibility.
“Consistency is there, of course, but there must also be creativity,” Stoli notes. “We run specials weekly. We change the menu at least three times a year. We'll make a seafood margarita if a customer calls two days before. That's something we’re proud of. So that's what I think is different: the soul. There's a lot of soul at Prime29."
That’s why Stoli doesn't see corporate-owned steakhouses as competition: “We don’t want to be better than them. We want to be better than ourselves.” Stoli says Prime29’s competition is their own remarkable 4.8-star rating on Open Table. "Five is perfection," Stoli notes. "That humbles us."
So the next time I take my wife out for a special night, what would Stoli recommend as Prime29’s signature dish? Stoli lists their crab cakes, seafood tower – “I think we have one of the best in the state,” Stoli adds – Wagyu tomahawk steak, Miso Chilean sea bass and warm butter cake with vanilla gelato. “Can’t get rid of them, can't take them off the menu, because everybody loves them. But we’re always evolving.”
That evolution applies to ambience; Stoli says a refresh is coming by February. “It’s going to be very similar, but diners will be surprised by some aspects that I think they’re really going to enjoy,” Stoli informs me.
Speaking of enjoyment, I ask Stoli what he enjoys most about his job.
“We'll do a couple's proposal party, right?” he replies. “Then they come back and, you know, there's a little baby with them in a stroller. Other times we’ve had graduation parties and next thing you know, we’re hosting their engagement dinner. And that's very memorable. Prime29 just becomes special for them. It's special to a lot of people.”
For reservations, or to join the annual Prime29 New Year’s Eve party featuring live entertainment and a DJ, visit prime29steakhouse.com or call (248) 737-7463.
Provision Living at West Bloomf ield
Where Heart and Hospitality meet.
During this holiday season, as generations gather and share stories, we find joy in passing down traditions that connect us through time.
Take a step toward a stress-free winter and a brighter tomorrow-schedule your tour today!
that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘TIS
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Well-wrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-ItYourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together, tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper.
the SEASON
Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.
THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch – with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
VARIATIONS TO SAVOR
Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.
MINTY FRESH WONDER
Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your
own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.
SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR
Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.
GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER
Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.
DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE
Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.
Giving back
during the Giving Season
ARTICLE BY JONATHAN ASHBURY
Everyone
has something to give: Local nonprofits who need your year-end gifts
December, we all know, is about holidays, family gatherings and homemade cookies.
It’s also about giving back with yearend contributions.
There are so many causes to consider. So many in our community who need assistance. Children with cancer. Women and men escaping abusive relationships. Individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities. Children in foster care. Seniors needing caregivers or simply companionship.
Community organizations protecting our history and our environment.
Find a cause you care deeply about and join in. Everyone has something to give. Whether you have time to volunteer regularly or can offer a year-end monetary gift, every little bit counts.
Here is a list of great charitable organizations to get you started. We would love to hear from our readers about others that they support. Tell us on Facebook (troycitylifestyle) or Instagram (troycitylifestyle).
AgeWays (formerly Area Agency on Aging)
AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers in southeast Michigan. AgeWays helps people access services and programs to live independently and with dignity in their own home or with family caregivers. The organization provides direct care programs for seniors, and funding and support for programs offered by community partner organizations.
AGEWAYS.ORG
Blood Cancer Foundation of Michigan
The Blood Cancer Foundation of Michigan, formerly Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan, is a nonprofit organization based in Farmington Hills, benefiting Michigan blood cancer patients and their families. The Foundation supports individuals and families through financial assistance, social and emotional support, and education and resources.
BLOODCANCERFOUNDATIONMI.ORG
Common Ground
Recognized as one of the most comprehensive crisis service agencies in the nation, Common Ground offers 24/7 confidential crisis support to people in moments of crisis, whether they’re dealing with a mental health emergency, need counseling or emergency shelter, or just need someone to talk to.
COMMONGROUNDHELPS.ORG
Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society
The Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing history of our community. It has virtual exhibits containing more than 4,000 photos and scores of documents about local historical treasures to ensure they are remembered. Give monetarily or donate local historical items. GWBHS.ORG
Another Way Pregnancy Care
Center
Another Way is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering free, confidential pregnancy tests; limited obstetric ultrasounds to verify pregnancy, viability and gestational age; parenthood mentoring for men and women; relationship guidance; clothing, diapers and other material goods; Medicaid/WIC program information, and more. Give monetarily or donate baby and maternity items.
AWPCFRIENDS.ORG
Chaldean Cultural Center
The Chaldean Cultural Center in West Bloomfield celebrates and explores the extraordinary history, arts, traditions and contributions of the Chaldean people from ancient times to the present, serving as a repository for the collected history and stories. By forging relationships with other educational and cultural institutions, the CCC not only nurtures pride within the Chaldean community, but also promotes greater understanding among communities as part of cultural diversity.
CHALDEANCULTURALCENTER.ORG
Greater West Bloomfield Community Coalition
The Greater West Bloomfield Community Coalition creates partnerships to help reduce high-risk behaviors in West Bloomfield youth including alcohol, tobacco and other drug use. This is accomplished through prevention activities, collaborations with community stakeholders, and educational programs for parents, in schools and in the community.
GWBCOALITION.ORG
Whether you have time to volunteer regularly or can only offer a small monetary gift, every little bit counts.
JARC is a local 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving people with developmental disabilities via group homes, independent living support and in-home respite care. Today, JARC serves 120 individuals with developmental disabilities in 45 locations, including 24-hour care in group homes and independent living settings for adults, and respite services within the family home for children, teens and young adults. JARC.ORG
Leadership Oakland
Established in 1990, Leadership Oakland is a 501 (c)(3) organization focused on business and community leadership development. The organization provides a nine-month Cornerstone Program to participants from businesses, organizations and governmental agencies that are selected based on an application process. Leadership Oakland graduates are key business and community leaders serving as catalysts on boards of various organizations throughout the region.
LEADERSHIPOAKLAND.COM
Maggie’s Wigs 4 Kids
Maggie's Wigs 4 Kids Wellness Center and Salon is a local grassroots non-profit 501(c)(3) organization providing wigs and support services at no charge to children and young adults experiencing hair loss due to cancer, alopecia, trichotillomania, burns and other disorders. Their wig recipients, also known as Ambassadors, range in age from 3 to 18. Every wig is custom-fitted, age-appropriate and individually cut and styled to help them feel comfortable and confident.
WIGS4KIDS.ORG
On the Wings of Angels
On the Wings of Angels fights against domestic or physical abuse, offering help with legal advice, food and grocery needs, child care, mentorship and counseling, housing and other supportive needs. Do you need a therapist? A doctor? Attorney? Advocate for you and your children? Support? Friendship? Contact OTWOA to be plugged into the best solutions for your specific needs. OTWOA.ORG
The Jewish Community Center
With people across generations searching for more meaningful connections, explore The J – the organization with the most programming, events and activities tailored to Jewish families in southeastern Michigan. Discover countless opportunities to nurture your Jewish soul, build friendships, try new things, challenge yourself, share stories and learn how to be an even better human being. Donations play a central role in the continuing physical, social, spiritual and educational well-being of the Jewish community of metro Detroit.
THEJDETROIT.ORG
The New Foster Care
The New Foster Care is committed to making a transformative change in the Michigan foster care system and a measurable and meaningful impact in the lives of children who have experienced foster care. The organization achieves this through direct service programs that directly impact children; partnering with state and local agencies; and policy and legislative action.
THENEWFOSTERCARE.ORG
Oakland County Foster Closet
The Oakland County Foster Closet is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, 100% volunteer-run organization providing, at no cost, clothing, shoes, hygiene items, school supplies and more to foster, at-risk, adopted and qualified low-income children. OCFC operates on monetary, in-kind donations, fundraisers and grants. It is their mission to foster hope, love and community one child at a time.
OCFOSTERCLOSET.ORG
ReLeaf Michigan
Releaf Michigan is Michigan’s only statewide tree planting and education non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Releaf works with 677 communities and organizations across our state to protect and restore urban tree canopies. The group’s mission is to educate the public on the value of trees and how to properly select, plant and maintain them.
RELEAFMICHIGAN.ORG
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 5TH
Little Hikers Discovery Walk
Recreation Activities Center, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield | 10:00 AM
Join the West Bloomfield Parks Naturalist on a nature discovery walk. Enjoy silly songs and fun activities to engage all ages – from babies to school-aged children. Families can explore the Nature Room and the Outdoor Natural Play Area after the hike. The trail is unpaved, so only all-terrain strollers are recommended. Call (248) 451-1900 for more information.
DECEMBER 7TH
Bowl With Santa
Wonderland Lanes, 8265 Richardson Road, Commerce | 1:00 PM
Join Santa and his friends from West Bloomfield Parks for a jolly afternoon at Wonderland Lanes. Registration includes bowling, shoe rental, two slices of pizza and beverage. All registered children receive a holiday goody bag. Mingle with Kris Kringle, take holiday family photos and participate in the Ugly Sweater Contest. Limit six participants per lane. Cost: $20-$22. Call (248) 363-7131.
DECEMBER 9TH
Documentary Premiere: "Detroit: The City of Chefs"
Emagine Novi, 44425 W 12 Mile Rd, Novi | 7:00 PM
Detroit’s culinary heritage is as important to our city as the automobile. Even during economic downturns, legendary dining spots like the Detroit Athletic Club, Pontchartrain Hotel, Joe Muer’s, Mario’s and London Chophouse set standards of excellence for cuisine and service across the world’s stage. This film by Visionalist Entertainment Productions tells the unfiltered story Detroit’s culinary heritage. Tickets at DetroitCityofChefs.com
DECEMBER 11TH
Senior Hike
Recreation Activities Center, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield | 2:00 PM
Seniors are invited to join a West Bloomfield Parks Naturalist on a seasonal nature discovery walk. Each walk ranges from one to 1.5 miles. Explore various trails in West Bloomfield and observe the changing seasons. Hiking poles provided. Call (248) 451-1900 to register.
DECEMBER 19TH
Winter Solstice Hike
Recreation Activities Center, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield | 8:00 PM
Celebrate the darkest night of the year with a hike along the glowing trail. Activities include a glowing craft project, telescope viewing with the Oakland Astronomy Club (weather permitting), a custom glowing ice carving, marshmallow roasting and nature education stops. This is a self-guided walk along a lantern-lit trail. Bring your own lantern or flashlight. Cost: $7 to $9. Call (248) 451-1900.
DECEMBER 20TH
HO HO HOliday Lunch for Seniors
Connect Senior Center, 33230 W. 14 Mile Road, West Bloomfield | 12:00 PM
Seniors will love this festive lunch and performance by Tap Dance Detroit at the Connect Senior Center. Lunch includes roast beef, salad, mashed potatoes and veggies. Cost: $12 residents, $14 nonresident. Call (248) 451-1900 for more information.
“To
be the best restaurant, you need the best people.”
With more than a thousand employees at 24 restaurants, we know payroll and HR can be a huge headache.
That’s why we chose Trion, one of the most trusted Professional Employer Organizations in the country. With Trion’s PEO offerings, we no longer spend hours on HR paperwork and our employees get their questions answered faster. Trion eliminates the headaches for everyone, and happy employees make for great service.
That’s what our restaurants are known for, and that’s why we rely on Trion. Visit RelyonTrion.com.
– Joe Vicari, CEO
Joe Vicari Restaurant Group