May June 2012 Newsletter Website
Transcription
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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected] 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: [email protected] 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 Dawnne Toppa at 734.427.2122 or email [email protected] Don’t forget to ask about discount with advance purchasing. Advertising Rates Business Card 2 x 3.5 $100.00 per issue Quarter Page 4 x 5 $200.00 per issue Full Page Inset $200.00 per issue Half Page 5 x 8 $350.00 per issue Full Page 8 x 10 $700.00 per issue