May June 2012 Newsletter Website

May/June
2012
Chamber
News
LIVONIA
COME ENJOY
SOME SUMMER
FUN AT THE
CHAMBER
SPREE BBQ
T he Cham ber ’s Spree
Fireworks Barbeque will be
held on Sunday, June 24 at
the Livonia Chamber office
and Nehasil Park (Civic
Center).
The event is presented by
Bright House Networks
Business Solutions and
Schoolcraft College.
From 6 - 9 p.m., members
and their friends and families
can come enjoy a BBQ
dinner—courtesy of Rose
Catering Inc., featuring
Sweet Sass Foods.
After eating and networking,
sit back and watch the
Livonia Spree’s 30 minute
firework display.
The
Chamber’s parking lot and
Nehasil Park is the perfect
spot to watch them light up
the sky.
Tickets for this popular event
are $5 per person and can be
purchased at the Chamber
office.
For more information,
contact Laura Sweeney at
734.427.2122, or via e-mail at
Sweeney@livonia.org.
Livonia’s Business Connection
RALLIES AROUND
SYNTHETIC DRUG CONCERNS
Chamber, City, Save our Youth team on proactive effort
One of the things that
historically made
Livonia one of
Michigan’s leading
communities has been
its ability to come
together at the
most-challenging
times.
The accused killers are his adopted son and
another young man who police said were using
K2.
Look at Livonia’s
response to the tragedy that claimed Livonia
Police Officer Larry Nehasil in January 2011.
Officer Nehasil was killed in the line of duty as
he tried to apprehend a man suspected of
committing a number of crimes throughout
metro Detroit. Emotionally, many Livonians
connected to Officer Nehasil’s death their own
personal sense of loss. Thousands responded by
paying respects with funeral home visits, letters
and cards to the family, well wishes to Livonia
officers, standing in the frigid cold to
acknowledge the police procession, and/or with
generous donations to Livonia police and the
Nehasil family.
President Column continues on page 13.
Dan West, President
In a similar way, it’s not surprising to see
Livonia’s leaders quickly respond to the growing
concern over the rampant availability and use of
synthetic drugs in and around our community.
Synthetic drugs – the most-commonly known
is synthetic marijuana or K2 - are found to
cause a dangerous high for those who ingest it,
typically by smoking it. Experts are finding
the stuff can create an incredibly violent
reaction which has been blamed for the killing of
a well-respected Farmington Hills man.
These substances are also being blamed for
causing hallucinations and permanent psychosis,
said Dale Yagiela, the executive director of
Growth Works Inc., a family-support
organization that serves Western Wayne County.
The 26th Annual Livonia Business Expo took
place on Thursday, May 10 at Laurel Park Place
Mall and Detroit Marriott Livonia. This was the
Expo’s first year at its new location.
For more details, please see page 10.
INSIDE
Upcoming Events……………………...………2
Grand Openings………………………...….....2
New Chamber Members…………………....….3
Renewals……………………………………...4
Expo Recap…....……..……………………...10
Member Profile…....…………………………15
Ambassador Briefs…………………...…........19
Chamber News
2
Upcoming Events
2012 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chairwoman
KATHY HOEN
Community Alliance Credit Union
Chair Elect
KEN WAGNER
State Farm Insurance
KATHY RAYMOR
Lis, McEvilly & Associates
KAREN SANBORN
Madonna University
GRETCHEN ALANIZ
TRW Automotive
2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
LISA ABBEY
Livonia Public Schools
BILL COLBECK
Computer Troubleshooters
JIM FAUSONE
Fausone, Bohn LLP
STEVE FUTRELL
Technology Solutions
KEN HUNT
Ford Motor Company
BRANDON KRITZMAN
New Perspective Architects
JUNE
JULY
Thursday, June 14
Meet Mayor Dave Bing
Sponsored by Cambridge Underwriters,
Madonna University, NYX Inc., and
Parkside Credit Union
Burton Manor Banquet & Conference Center
(27777 Schoolcraft Road)
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
$30 per Chamber Member
Hear from Detroit Mayor Dave Bing at a
joint luncheon with the Westland Chamber
Monday, July 16
Livonia Chamber Golf Outing
Presented by Edward Jones-Robin Whitfield
Idyl Wyld Golf Course & 1 Under Bar & Grill
(35780 Five Mile Road)
10:30 a.m. Shotgun Start
$500 per Foursome
$125 for Tee Sign Sponsorship
New Time & Venue!
See article on page 12 for more details.
Sunday, June 24
Spree Fireworks Barbeque
Sponsored by Bright House Networks
Business Solutions, Schoolcraft College
and Rose Catering Inc.
Chamber Office & Nehasil Park
(33233 Five Mile Road)
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
$5 per Chamber Member
Bring your family and enjoy a nice evening
of networking, BBQ food and fireworks.
DAN LAIBLE
NYX, Inc.
GRAND OPENINGS
BETSY MCCUE
Huntington Bank
DAVID SPIVEY
St. Mary Mercy Hospital
TOM STROUP
Valaset Services
PETER VENTURA
Principal Associates
ROBIN WHITFIELD
Edward Jones
ALDRED WILLIAMS
UPS
Thursday, July 26
Twisted Blind Networking
Sports Locker Bar & Grill
(30375 Plymouth Road)
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
$10 per Member
Network during your lunch and receive an
opportunity to talk for 60 seconds about
your business.
Renewal By Andersen
Held their Grand Re-Opening
on April 20.
They are located at
37720 Amrhein Road
Livonia, MI 48150
and can be reached at
734-237-1060.
www.RenewalByAndersen.com
DENNIS WRIGHT
Livonia City Treasurer
PROCAM
STAFF
Held their Grand Opening
on April 26.
They are located at
34224 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI 48150
and can be reached at
734-838-6900.
DAN WEST
President
DAWNNE TOPPA
Vice President
DEBBIE FERENSIC
Office Manager
www.PROCAM.com
LAURA SWEENEY
Program Coordinator
LISA VALENTINE
Intern
LIVONIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
33233 Five Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48154
734.427.2122
734.427.6055 (fax)
www.Livonia.org
Grand Openings continue on page 7
LivoniaChamberof
Commerce.Blogspot
djwest777
LivoniaChamber
Livonia Chamber
of Commerce
TheLivoniaChamber
Livonia Chamber
of Commerce
Chamber News
3
NEW MEMBERS FOR APRIL - MAY 2012
Congratulations to the following organizations for recently investing in the work of the Livonia Chamber of Commerce.
Arconcepts Architects
Category: Architects
Contact: Shirley A. Ghannam
17177 N. Laurel Park Drive
Suite 256
Livonia, MI 48152
734-591-1090
www.Arconcepts.net
Dreamers Inc.
Category: Restoration Services/
General Contractors
Contact: Roy Nye
11904 Farmington Road
Livonia, MI 48150
800-264-7120
www.DreamersIncRestoration.com
Belfor USA
Category: Property Restoration
Contact: Doug Fraser
28400 Schoolcraft Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-261-7764
www.Belfor.com
FoleyPlex LLC
Category: IT Consulting Services
Contact: Sean Foley
37637 Five Mile Road
Suite 185
Livonia, MI 48154
888-909-0149
www.FoleyPlex.com
Binson’s Home Health Center
Category: Home Health Care
Contact: Bill Peterman
13450 Farmington Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-421-2041
www.Binsons.com
CBS Radio
Category: Radio
Contact: Cindy Bough-Kubert
26495 American Drive
Southfield, MI 48034
248-455-7202
CBSDetroit.com
Center Mass Inc.
Category: Sporting Goods
Contact: Brian Wojcik
33825 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-425-2195
www.CenterMassInc.com
Crest Asphalt & Sealcoating
Category: Asphalt Paving
Contractors
Contact: Daryl Pribik
9200 Middlebelt Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-422-4785
Detroit Pencil Co.
Category: Office Paper –
Supplies & Products
Contact: Lisa George
71 Park Street
Troy, MI 48083
248-577-0740
www.DetroitPencilCompany.com
Harriman Heating, Inc.
Category: Heating &
Air Conditioning
Contact: Jayson Harriman
33091 Eight Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48152
248-231-2102
www.HarrimanHeating.com
Hellenic Cultural Center
Category: Banquet & Conference
Facility
36375 Joy Road
Westland, MI 48185
734-525-3550
www.HellenicCulturalCenter.com
Infineon Technologies
Category: Semi-Conductors
Contact: Tricia Battersby
19111 Victor Parkway
Livonia, MI 48152
734-779-5000
www.Infineon.com
Jay-Bilt Construction
Category: Builders
Contact: Jim Hall
27820 Joy Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-421-5900
www.Jay-Bilt.com
JNP Magic Window Cleaning
Category: Window Cleaning
Contact: John Mitchell
33157 Lancashire Street
Westland, MI 48185
734-578-4257
www.JNPMagic4U.com
Joe’s Meat & Seafood
Category: Meat & Fish Markets
Contact: Joe Maiorana
33066 Seven Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48152
248-477-4333
www.JoesProduce.com
KDI Builders
Category: Kitchen & Bath
Contact: Karen Kowalski
36099 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-525-6601
www.KDIUSA.com
Livonia Elks #2246
Category: Clubs & Organizations
Contact: Renee Campbell
31117 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-425-2246
Livonia Mitsubishi
Category: Auto Dealerships
Contact: Colleen McDonald
30777 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-525-5000
www.LivoniaMitsbishi.com
Metro United Karate
Category: Karate Schools
Contact: Askia Allison
27550 W. Seven Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48152
313-362-1929
www.MUKarate.com
MichiganderStore.com
Category: Gift Shop
Contact: Tom Karabatakis
16115 Fairway
Livonia, MI 48154
734-464-2100
www.MichiganderStore.com
New Members continue on page 5
Chamber News
4
RENEWALS APRIL - MAY 2012
Thank you to the following organizations for continuing to invest in the Livonia Chamber of Commerce.
1 Under Bar & Grill
Derenzo & Associates
14 Kt. Jewelers
Devonaire Ice Arena
All Night Auto
Embassy Title Agency
Allie Brothers of Livonia
ERA Country Ridge Realty
Ameriprise Financial Services David Kelton
Fairfield Inn
Aristeo Construction
Arlington Agency, Inc.
Ashley Capital
Bigg Burger, Inc.
Bildon Parts & Service, Inc.
C&M Services
Canterbury Park Apartments
Cardwell Florist
Caroline A. Grech-Clapper,
Secrest Wardle
Carousel Cleaning Service
Caterer One
Charles Seigerman, Ph.D., P.C.
City of Livonia Golf Division
Clarenceville School District
Colleen's Gaelic Gifts, Inc.
Comfort Inn—Livonia
Commercial Lawnmower
Computer Troubleshooters
Connor's Family Dining #2
Conrad Schwartz
Consumer Choice Marketing
Co-op Services Credit Union
Costco
Crown Capital Securities Andy F. Piron
D & G Heating & Cooling
Dal Mar and Associates
Davenport University
Dental Smiles of Livonia
Farmers Insurance – District 15
First Centennial Title, Inc.
First Place Bank
FitZone for Women
Fountain Park Apartments
G & D Accounting, Inc.
G. Subu's Leather Bottle
Golden Gifts - Jewelers
Harry J. Will Funeral Home, Inc.
Hyatt Place Detroit, Livonia
IDN - Hardware Sales, Inc.
Independence Village
Independent Bank
Joe's Produce
Joseph J. Weiss, MD
Livonia Save Our
Youth Task Force
Lotus Bank
Luigi's Pizza Café
Mad Science of Detroit
Mango Plumbing
Manoogian Manor
Marycrest Manor
Mary Kay Cosmetics–Elaine Hayes
McLaren Performance
Technologies
Metro Agency Inc.
MetroPCS
Michigan Tai Chi Association
MJ Creative Printing
Noodles & Company
NYX, Inc.
Performax Physical Therapy
Plastomer Corporation
Plymouth & Farmington Big Boy
Krazy Kones
Plymouth Physical Therapy
Specialists
Ladywood High School
Principal Associates, LLC
Las Palapas
Qualigence
Lawrence J. Fisher, CFP
Ram Construction Services
Lawrence Technological University Rea & Shoemaker, CPA's
Leonard Brothers Data
Management
Republic Waste Services
Livonia Anniversary Committee
Sacred Heart Byzantine
Catholic Church
Livonia Bar Association
Sam's Club
Livonia Dermatology, PLLC
Sanctuary at Villa Marie
Livonia Family YMCA
Senator Glenn S. Anderson
Livonia Little Tots Day Nursery
Snooker's Pool & Pub
Livonia Loyal Order of
Moose #1317
Soave Homes, Inc.
Livonia Montessori Center
Society of Manufacturing
Engineers
Stenco Construction Company LLC
Chamber News
5
RENEWALS APRIL - MAY 2012 CONTINUED
Stephen Crocker, DDS
The UPS Store #3011
Surgery Center
Strength & Spirit
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Vento Decorative Concrete
Toner Ink & More
W.J. O'Neil Company
Tri-County Title Agency, Inc.
Wayne State University
Trinity Church: An Evangelical
Covenant Church
WindowPro
The Crack Team
The Recovery Project
University of Michigan
Sunset RV Storage & Service
TCF Bank - Plymouth Road
Tennyson Chevrolet, Inc.
Wonder Janitorial Service, Inc.
Wood Funeral Home
NEW MEMBERS FOR APRIL - MAY 2012
Continued from page 3
Oakmont Livonia
Category: Senior Housing
Contact: Pamela Armon
14265 Middlebelt Road
Livonia, MI 48154
734-261-2884
www.OakmontCommunities.com
Red Lobster Restaurant
Category: Restaurants & Bars
Contact: Willie Hurst
29980 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-427-0537
www.RedLobster.com
TCF Bank – Middlebelt Road
Category: Banks & Credit Unions
Contact: Stacey R. Williams
13401 Middlebelt Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-261-5825
www.TCFBank.com
Parastar Emergency Systems
Contact: Theresa Redding
25250 W. Eight Mile Road
Southfield, MI 48034
248-352-0440
www.Parastar.net
Roto-Rooter
Category: Plumbers &
Sewer Cleaners
Contact: Andrea LaFrance
12898 Westmore Street
Livonia, MI 48150
734-525-1370
www.RotoRooter.com
Trane Commercial
Systems & Services
Category: HVAC - Commerical
Systems, Service and
Energy Solutions
Contact: Meredith Frederick
37001 Industrial Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-452-2069
www.Trane.com/Detroit
Pritchard Wilson
Heating, Cooling
and Plumbing
Category: Heating &
Air Conditioning
Contact: Audrey Crain
13335 Farmington Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-421-5180
www.PritchardWilson.com
Rainbow International
of Livonia
Category: Restoration Services/
General Contractors
Contact: Gary Page
12407 Stark Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-266-6001
www.RainbowIntl.com
Stellar Properties &
Management Group
Category: Real Estate
Management
Contact: Consuelo Blakely
32540 Schoolcraft Road
Suite 220
Livonia, MI 48150
734-427-0999
www.MyStellarProperities.com
Style Trader
Category: Retail
Contact: Jennifer Fields
11502 Middlebelt Road
Livonia, MI 48150
734-422-6600
www.StyleTrader.biz
Ultracom-Intelesys
Category: Telephone Systems
Contact: Steve Swanson
25860 Lahser
Southfield, MI 48033
248-350-2020
www.UltracomIntelesys.com
Zagata Agency
Category: Insurance
Contact: Kelly and Robert Zagata
33491 Seven Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48152
248-442-5795
www.ZagataInsurance.com
6
Chamber News
Chamber News
7
GRAND OPENINGS
Continued from page 2
Zagata Agency
Metro United Karate
Held their Grand Opening on May 1.
They are located at
33491 Seven Mile, Livonia, MI 48152
and can be reached at 248-442-5795.
www.ZagataInsurance.com
Held their Grand Opening on May 4.
They are located at
Photo from Livonia Observer
27550 W. Seven Mile, Livonia, MI 48152
and can be reached at 313-362-1929.
www.MUKarate.com
Roto-Rooter
Held their Grand Opening on May 15.
They are located at
12898 Westmore Street, Livonia, MI 48150
and can be reached at 734-525-1370.
www.RotoRooter.com
Door to Door Organics
Held their Grand Opening on May 23.
They are located at
30940 Industrial Road, Livonia, MI 48150
and can be reached at 734-762-1552.
www.Michigan.DoortoDoorOrganics.com
Infineon Technologies
Ground Breaking Ceremony
Joe’s Meat & Seafood
Held their Grand Opening on May 24.
They are located at
33066 Seven Mile Road, Livonia, MI 48152
and can be reached at 248-477-4333.
Held their Ground Breaking Ceremony on May 18.
Pictured above: State Sen. Glenn Anderson, Livonia
Mayor Jack Kirksey, Shawn Slusser of VP Automotive,
State Rep. John Walsh and John Zielinkski of VP Power
Management & Multi-Market.
Chamber News
8
McCotter to depart
Congress
Livonia will have a new
representative in the U.S. House of
Representatives next year.
Livonia Republican Thaddeus
McCotter, who represented his
hometown in Congress for 10 years,
was deemed ineligible to have his
U.S. Rep. McCotter
name on the ballot for this summer’s
primary election. The Michigan Secretary of State ruled
he did not have enough adequate proper voter signatures
on his petitions.
The matter is under investigation into why McCotter’s
submitted petitions were photocopied and altered.
Haggerty Road
project set to begin
in September
A Wayne County project to resurface Haggerty Road
between Six Mile and Seven Mile roads is scheduled to
begin after Labor Day. The project also calls for
enhancements to the traffic lights at Haggerty’s
intersections at Six Mile and Seven Mile roads.
Meanwhile, a state project to rebuild Plymouth Road
between Farmington Road and Market Street, one block
west of Levan Road, will continue throughout the
summer and is scheduled to be complete sometime in the
fall.
A number of Republicans are emerging as potential
write-in candidates and challenge the lone Republican on
the August 7 primary ballot: Kerry Bentivollo. The
Republican nominee will advance to the general election
in November against the winner of the Democratic Party
primary between Bill Roberts and Syed Taj. The eventual
winner will earn a two-year seat in Congress beginning in
January, representing a district that serves western Wayne
and Oakland counties.
McCotter, 46, was elected to the Schoolcraft College
Board of Trustees, Wayne County Board of
Commissioners, and the Michigan Senate before his
initial election to Congress in 2002. His Congressional
term runs until the end of 2012.
Above is the one of many spots on Haggerty Road in between Six Mile and
Seven Mile roads that will be resurfaced starting September 2012.
Chamber News
9
NETWORKING EVENTS
APRIL - MAY 2012
On April 4, the Chamber introduced a new Chamber event—Lights,
Camera, Network! Presented by Phoenix Theatres Laurel Park Place,
this event had a great turnout. A breakfast spread was provided by
Detroit Marriott Livonia and popcorn was also available! Chamber
members were able to take a behind-the-scene tour of the theatre and
learn more about Livonia’s 100-percent digital theatre. All attendees
received movie passes, while some lucky members won gift cards, a
free month of advertising and more!
A 5 O’clock Connection took place at Buddy’s Pizzeria on Tuesday,
April 17. More than 60 Chamber members enjoyed pizza and
networking inside the restaurant, as well as on the patio.
Some 80 Chamber members attended this year’s Wine Tasting at
Andiamo’s Restaurant—Livonia. Sponsored by Ameriprise
Financial-Parker, Patrick & Associates, members enjoyed a variety of
wines available for tasting. In addition to wine and food, three
members won gift certificates courtesy of Andiamo’s and Parker,
Patrick & Associates.
Exp 7/31/12.
Exp 7/31/12.
Exp 7/31/12.
10
Chamber News
New Location Reenergizes Business Expo
The 26th Annual Business Expo – presented by Bill
Brown Ford, Davenport University, Farmers
Insurance District 15 and TDS Metrocom – had a
successful first year at Laurel Park Place Mall and Detroit
Marriott Livonia on Thursday, May 10.
The day-long event had nearly 10 hours of activities –
starting with the Business Breakfast Roundtable and
concluding with Tastefullly Livonia.
A sell-out audience of 112 people attended the Business
Breakfast Roundtable at the Marriott Hotel featuring a
panel discussion on state and local economic issues. The
panel comprised state representatives John Walsh
(R-Livonia), Phil Cavanagh (D-Redford), Detroit Free
Press Business Columnist Tom Walsh and Detroit News
Editorial Page Editor Nolan Finley.
The panelists answered questions about business taxes, the
state’s current business climate, the Detroit River
International Crossing, the potential of several state
referendum issues on the November ballot, and workforce
development.
This was the second year the Business Breakfast
Roundtable, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of
Michigan and Schoolcraft College, kicked off the
Livonia Business Expo. The year’s event attendance grew
by some 30 people compared to last year’s program.
With more than 100 businesses on display from 10 a.m. –
5 p.m., attendees of the breakfast were able to walk
through the mall and be the first to visit the many
exhibitors that stretched from the food court to Parisian.
Exhibitors were able to advertise their businesses to more
consumers and potential clients at this new location than
they have in past years.
The mall brought in a natural flow of traffic throughout
the day. Even those unaware of the expo, came to eat
lunch or do some shopping and ended up spending time
talking to Chamber Members. This allowed businesses to
reach out to new consumers, but also interact and build
relationships with current customers.
Some 70 prizes donated by Chamber members were raffled
off every hour at the Comerica Bank Prize Station providing additional exposure to businesses in the Livonia
community.
Four business workshops took place throughout the day
in the Mall’s Food Court. Chamber staff held two sessions
titled How to Connect Online Social Networks to Business that
took business owners through the importance of social
media, and some ideas and tips on how to use the multiple
social networks for their business. Blue Cross Blue Shield
of Michigan held two intimate sessions and answered
questions on Understanding Changes in Health Insurance.
The day concluded with the new and renovated Tastefully
Livonia program (formerly Taste of the Town), presented
by Tennyson Chevrolet. This business-casual networking
event sold out and took place back at the Detroit Marriott
Livonia banquet room.
Attendees tried a variety of food samples from restaurants
around town; including Laurel Manor, Sweet Lorraine’s,
Noodles & Company, Jimmy John’s, Andiamo’s – Livonia,
1 Under Bar & Grill, Giulio’s Cucina Italiana, Bahama
Breeze, Livonia Dream Dinners, Buffalo Wild Wings and
Mitchell’s Fish Market.
While enjoying food, drinks and music provided by C.C.
King Entertainment, bids were being placed on 13 silent
auction items, generating more than $1,500. All proceeds
from these items - Detroit Tiger tickets, a BBQ grill and
golf clubs to name a few - went to the Livonia Chamber’s
scholarship program. The Chamber appreciates all the donations and those who participated in supporting this great
cause.
Other sponsors of the Livonia Business Expo
includes: Madonna University, Huntington Bank,
Livonia Spree, Laurel Park Place Mall, Ameriprise
Financial – Klassa, Swaggerty and Associates, Bright
House Networks Business Solutions, and The Livonia
Observer.
Remember, the entire list of exhibitors and the expo layout
can be found at www.Livonia.org under “The Chamber”
tab.
Chamber News
11
Left, a sold-out crowd listened to the Business Breakfast
Roundtable panel discuss state and local issues. The panel
included state representatives John Walsh, Phil Cavanagh, Detroit Free Press Business Columnist Tom Walsh and Detroit
News Editorial Page Editor Nolan Finley.
Right, representatives from Bill Brown Ford were all smiles at their
exhibit space ready to talk to consumers walking through the mall.
Mall goers and exhibitors, such as Correct Mechanical picture
left, interacted all the day throughout Laurel Park Place Mall.
Right, St. Mary Mercy Hospital answered questions and provided a
variety of materials to members of the Livonia community.
Left, the Expo came to a close with networking,
food, drinks and music enjoyed by some 160
people who attended the Chamber’s new
Tastefully Livonia event.
Chamber News
12
Chamber Moves Golf Outing’s Venue and Time
The Livonia Chamber Golf Outing is back this year at a new
venue and new time!
Presented by Edward Jones—Robin Whitfield, the outing
returns to bring all golfers a great opportunity to golf,
network and have fun at Idyl Wyld Golf Course and
1 Under Bar & Grill with a 10:30 shotgun start.
A very popular event among Livonia Chamber members,
this event has sold out weeks in advance in recent years.
Golfers of all skill levels sign-up and enjoy a summer day on
one of the City of Livonia’s finest golf courses. Plus, golfer’s
aid packages are available to improve your score! Trophies
will be awarded to not only the first and second place teams,
but last place too!
Golf packages begin at $125 per golfer, $500 per foursome
or $600 for a foursome and a tee sign. Golf packages
include a round of golf with cart, lunch at the turn and a
relaxing dinner at 1 Under Bar & Grill’s Banquet Center.
Don’t golf? That’s okay there are still opportunities to get
your business involved. A tee sign sponsorship will get your
business name in front of more than 100 golfers at the
outing for $125. Or exclusive hole sponsorships are
available for $350.
Contact Laura Sweeney at 734.427.2122 or
Sweeney@livonia.org to register and for more information.
Registration opens at 9 a.m. Arrive early and compete in the
putting and chipping contest, where winners can claim cash
prizes.
There will be a variety of fun golf-themed games
throughout the day including closest to the pin,
marshmallow drive and others. Raffle tickets are available
for purchase and golfers can win a wide range of prizes at
dinner—including a new TV!
Which foursome is going to challenge Madonna University, the
2010 and 2011 first place winners?!
Chamber News
Community Responds
to Drug Concerns
President Column continued from page 1.
Livonia Police Chief Curtis Caid and Katie Olex from the
Livonia Save Our Youth Task Force have already spent
months investigating the local availability at these legal-but
dangerous substances. SOYTF identified some 70 Livonia gas
stations, party stores, and smoke shops as candidates that
might sell these substances. Of the dozens of these businesses
visited as of late May, Olex said she found more than half of
them sold synthetic drugs.
The SOYTF also held a public symposium on synthetic drugs
at Livonia City Hall on June 12, hoping to make more families
aware of this phenomenon. Ultimately, a better-educated
general public is best way to discourage the purchase these
substances or any kind of drug use.
Fighting the legal distribution of synthetic drugs is difficult for
federal and state lawmakers because of the nefariously creative
way these substances are packaged and marketed. They are
advertised for some sort of household use, but people in
search of a high are aware of the product’s designed use.
Yagiela said lawmakers can outlaw certain substances in these
products, but manufacturers will merely develop other
products that don’t use the banned substances. Also, it could
take time to figure out the next generation of synthetic drugs.
“They could create something that is marketed as a lubricant
for a vehicle, but if they can find a way to create a high, they
can put it on the shelves as a legal product as long as they
mark that it is not for human consumption,” Yagiela said.
Recognizing the time and challenges it takes for legislative
remedies, Livonia will urgently pursue its own initiatives to
warn people of the dangers and encourage businesses to not
sell such substances.
In a collaborative effort with Mayor Jack Kirksey, Chief Caid,
the LSOYTF, city and county leaders, and other local entities,
the Livonia Chamber of Commerce Board of
Directors recently authorized our organization to be part of a
campaign to educate the community about synthetic drugs
and reach out to businesses by inviting them to
participate in the city’s well-being by pledging to not sell these
substances. We would give these pledging businesses some
positive publicity to highlight their promise to stay away from
synthetic drugs.
The Livonia Chamber of Commerce has long supported
credible businesses in and around Livonia, and this campaign
to support responsible businesses and discourage those that
sell synthetic drugs is the next step in continuing that mission.
13
14
Chamber News
Chamber News
15
MEMBER PROFILE___________________________
Livonia native brings boutique art to town
The 7th Street Boutique brought a unique idea and
opportunity to Livonia artists and shoppers when they
opened their doors late 2011. Aiming to bring a different
style of shop to Livonia, owner Donna Wilsher decided it
was the perfect place to establish her art boutique.
Formerly selling her works at art fairs for the past 15 years,
she decided to open her own store as a place for both herself
and local artists to sell their creations. The store contains the
work of about 30 local artists. This wide range of artists
encompasses all types of talent, from the acrylic canvas
paintings of a 12-year-old girl to the drawings of an
89-year-old man.
Wilsher and many of the other artists of 7th Street Boutique
seek to repurpose vintage items into art, such as turning old
windows into embellished home decorations. In addition to
home decorations, canvas art, and homemade soaps and
candles, the store also sells handmade clothes and jewelry for
all ages, including infants. New items come into the store
about once or twice a week and she is always looking for
new artists to sell their creations in her store.
“My favorite part is the ability to just create something that I
think of and be able to sell it to somebody that enjoys it,”
Whilsher said.
She also likes receiving feedback from customers and seeing
her art around town or children wearing her handmade
clothes. In addition to selling her art in the store, she
continues to sell her products at local art shows on
weekends.
“I still love doing the art shows because I love being out
there and the people love to meet the people who create the
art,” she said.
The shop allows her to provide the artists with a “home
base” and the ability to sell their art year round.
7th Street Boutique’s is located at 33300 Seven Mile Road,
one block east of Farmington Road. The phone number is
248. 477.4777.
Visitors of the shop will be pleasantly surprised to find that
unlike most other stores, the 7th Street Boutique only sells
one-of-a-kind items. For this very reason, many people come
to the shop to purchase unique gifts for friends and family.
Whilsher finds that people like to purchase items that are
“more personal and know where they’re coming from.”
“A lot of people like the idea that it is handmade by people
in Michigan. They like to support other people that live
here,” said the self-taught artist.
When customers come into the shop, they are given the
background story behind the art and the particular artist who
created it. Such a thing as a wind chime becomes a treasured
memento. The customer discovers that it has been made
from Lake Michigan beach wood by a Michigan-based
husband and wife team, who travel the country selling their
art.
Art pieces that originate in Michigan add to the connection a
customer may have to a product purchased at 7th Street
Boutique. For Wilsher, she enjoys giving people the chance
to share in her love for art.
7th Street Boutique’s store front window displays the variety of art that
can be found inside; including clothes, shoes, repurposed furniture,
wall art and much more.
Chamber News
16
Thank You!
Thank you to all of the businesses who donated door prizes and/or
auction items at our 26th Livonia Business Expo.
Everyone’s support and contributions are truly appreciated.
Advance Novelty Co.
All Night Auto
Arbor Crossing Chiropractic
Life Center
Eastern Michigan University
Edward Jones—Robin Whitfield
First Oriental Therapy Center
Mind, Body & Seoul
Martial Arts, LLC
MI Slingers
MJ Creative Printing
Bold Media
Giulio's Cucina Italiana
Bright House Networks
Business Solutions
Hyatt Place Detroit, Livonia
Buffalo Wild Wings
City of Livonia Golf Courses
Jimmy John's Gourmet
Sandwiches
Comfort Inn - Livonia
Joe's Produce
Roto-Rooter
Commercial Lawnmower, Inc.
Kenneth W Lyon, CFP LLC
Tennyson Chevrolet
Community Alliance
Credit Union
Laurel Park Place
The DeAngelo Team—
Keller Williams
D&B Landscaping
Dental Smiles of Livonia
LPL Financial Services—
Bob Carris
Detroit Marriott Livonia
Madonna University
Walmart - Seven Mile
Detroit Pencil Company
Merry Maids
Walmart - Plymouth Road
Jack Jackson Golf
Livonia Symphony Orchestra
NovoPrint USA
Office Depot #366
Performax Physical Therapy
Rodan + Fields Dermatology
Time Out Bar & Grill
TLC Holistic Wellness
Chamber News
17
Livonia Chamber endorses Livonia Road
Millage Renewal Request
The Livonia Chamber of Commerce endorses the
Livonia Road Millage Renewal Request that goes to city
voters in an August 7 election.
The Livonia Chamber of Commerce’s Board of
Directors unanimously voted to endorse the measure.
“We believe this millage is a good investment that
protects property values for home owners and business
owners in Livonia,” said Kathy Hoen, chairperson of the
Livonia Chamber Board. “Quality roads are
important toward supporting economic development in
our community.”
Livonia voters will be asked to consider renewing a
0.89-mill levy for another 10 years. The original millage
was approved by Livonia voters in August 2002 and
generated nearly $41 million for city-controlled road and
residential street projects over the past decade. Some city
resources also were used to provide necessary local
matching funds for state and county road projects within
Livonia.
“Livonia voters have a long history of providing
additional resources to maintain and enhance the quality
of life for families and businesses,” said Chamber
President Dan West. “We believe this millage renewal is a
prudent investment for Livonia, which has some of the
best municipal services for the second-lowest tax rate of
any city in Wayne County.”
A citizen committee works with city leaders to prioritize
the order of city road projects. The committee meets at
least twice a year in sessions that are open to the public so
residential and business owners can add their input in the
process.
In March, the Livonia City Council unanimously
authorized the millage renewal election for August.
Voter approval of this roads millage renewal will not
increase the current city tax rate for residential and
business property owners, but the city could continue its
long-term road improvement program which
includes maintenance to city-controlled roads such as
Levan, Newburgh, and Schoolcraft roads. These are main
arteries that direct traffic to hundreds of
businesses located within the Livonia Industrial
Corridor between Schoolcraft and Plymouth roads.
The Livonia Chamber is a non-partisan organization that
considers taking positions on local issues that
impact the business community. The Chamber’s
Government Affairs Committee, a collection of
business and government leaders, initially studied the
proposal in a meeting with city leaders and
recommended to the Chamber Board that the
organization endorse the measure and takes steps to
educate the public on the proposal’s merits.
“This is the same tax levy for residents and businesses,”
said Charlie Mahoney, who chairs the Chamber’s
Government Affairs Committee. “This proposal is fair to
the business community because the proposal does not
pit large businesses against small businesses.
She added: “Good roads lead to good homes and
businesses.”
Chamber News
18
Chamber honors
two high school
graduates
Recent Livonia Stevenson High School graduates Raya
Lasiewski and Allyson Hermann were selected to each
receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Livonia Chamber
of Commerce.
Lasiewski plans to attend Schoolcraft College and study
to become an emergency medical technician. Hermann
plans to attend Central Michigan University and study
early childhood development.
They were selected among 13 applicants to the high
school scholarship program. Eligible applicants had to be
a graduate from one of Livonia’s five high schools and
utilize the award to a university or college that is a
member of the Livonia Chamber of Commerce. Each
applicant had to write a 500-word essay about how they
make a difference in the community, which was judged
by a five-person committee from the Chamber’s Board
of Directors.
This is the third year of the Livonia Chamber scholarship
program, which will hand out four $1,000 scholarships in
the coming months. Two adult learners will be selected
to receive Chamber scholarships in January.
Company donations and Chamber event proceeds
generated the $4,000 for this current cycle of scholarship
awards.
Polly A. Swingle, PT
President and CEO
20000 Victor Parkway
Suite 100
Livonia, MI 48152
Tel: 855-877-1944
Fax: 734-953-1743
E-mail: paswingle@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.therecoveryproject.net
Aggressive Neurological Rehabilitation
Chamber News
19
AMBASSADORS OF THE MONTH
These featured members are honored as Ambassadors of the Month for their volunteer time for member retention,
member development and Chamber events.
MAY
JUNE
Carol Evans
M.J. Brunswick
Rodan + Fields Dermatology
(734) 464-9009
GreatSkinIsEasy.com
Corrigan Moving Systems
(248) 471-4000
www.CorriganMoving.com
Carol Evans originally moved to Livonia 26 years ago because
of the school system in Livonia. Since then, she had owned a
retail store in Livonia for 11 years. Upon closing it, she looked
for something to do that would excite her every day. She
found that opportunity in Rodan + Fields Dermatologists,
skincare lines by the creators of ProActiv – and her main focus
is to do for aging and sun damage what ProActiv did for acne.
“I look forward to each day as I love helping anyone have the
best skin they’ve ever experienced,” said Carol. She has been
with Rodan + Fields for more than three years and she is constantly educating herself, as well as others, about skin concerns.
Carol joined the Chamber to network and introduce this new
company. Being an Ambassador has encouraged her to be active in the Chamber and opened doors to many opportunities,
but along the way the relationships she has built are “priceless”.
Looking for business, Carol also found many new friends.
M.J. Brunswick has more than 24 years experience in the
moving industry. Corrigan Moving Systems, whom he has
been with for two years, has the ability to move a one room
apartment or a complete school or automotive plant around
the corner or around the globe. M.J. specializes in the
commercial moving portion of his industry. M.J. is excited
about the growth that he is seeing not only in the Livonia
area, but the entire Wayne country area as businesses
continue to relocate within or to the area. He has customers
in seven states and travels as needed for any of his customers
needs. Since joining the Chamber, M.J. has been active and
says he’s been able to meet a lot of quality people. He tries
to attend as many functions as he’s able to, as well as
volunteering to help work many events. M.J. is a Livonia
resident along with his wife and two children.
If you are interested
in advertising in
“Chamber News” contact
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or email Toppa@livonia.org
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