Troy, MI August 2023

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How to Make a Splash in Troy This Summer

I was probably five when Mom decided I should learn to swim, so she enrolled me in classes at the high school pool. I remember it well – trying to stay afloat while kicking my feet, gripping the edge of the pool with white knuckles. Mastering the dog paddle. Learning to tread water.

I went to the showers with confidence and a life lesson: Keeping your head above water is all that matters, and there are lots of ways to do it.

Let your kids make their own discoveries with the incredible seasonal and year-round water activities offered through Troy City Parks & Recreation.

The indoor leisure pool has slides, child water features and lap lanes, plus a separate therapy pool. Programs include water aerobics and – yes! –swim lessons for ages 6 months to adult.

Then, check out the outdoor Troy Family Aquatic Center. Your kids can cool off with tube and body slides, waterfalls and water spouts, a kiddie slide and splash pad, sand volleyball, a sand play area and more. Plan a group outing by reserving one of the cabana areas.

Of course, Troy offers many more recreation opportunities – parks, sports leagues, banquet and corporate meeting facilities, senior programs, community gardens, summer camps and a fitness center. You’ll find it all at rec.troymi.gov.

We've uncovered a few other local gems in this summer issue, thanks to some of our readers. We asked for their favorite family activities in Troy, and you’ll find their recommendations in our cover story, “What’s Your Local Disneyland?” You just might find a few surprises.

We also highlight several local artisans, like Mary Riley, a wonderful makeup artist who offers in-home lessons and private parties. And we sample the authentic, handmade meals at Carrabba’s Italian Grill – a great way to end a day of family fun. (Don't leave without the cannoli.)

The point is, you can do it all in Troy. So, dive in, take the shot, soak up the sun, perfect your swing, put your toes in the sand, pick up a hobby, blaze a trail, make the s’mores.

And always, keep your head above water.

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Rebecca Schweitzer rebecca.schweitzer@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Margaret Haight | margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Todd Haight, Rebecca Schweitzer, Margaret Haight

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kevin Shea

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Thank you to our Founding Partners.

Todd & Margaret Haight

Troy City Lifestyle Publishers

Ann Percy State Farm Insurance annpercyagent.com

Antoine Salon antoinesalonoftroy.com

Carrabba’s Italian Grill carrabbas.com/catering

Clear Choice Natural Healthcare ccnhc.com

The Design House tdhdoors.com

FYZICAL Therapy & Balance fyzical.com/troy-mi

Georgoulis Disability Group gdgroupllc.com

HAIRCLUB hairclub.com/citylife

Horizon Bank horizonbank.com/troy

JDCTek LLC jdctek.com

Joslyn Chiropractic Center joslynchiropractic.com

Liquid Mining invest.liquidmining.net

M1 Concourse M1Concourse.com

Mathnasium mathnasium.com/troy/about

Nutrition Counseling Center nutritioncounselingcenter.com

Padgett Business Services troy.padgettadvisors.com

Pure HealthyBack purehealthyback.com

Stalt Financial staltfinancial.com

TOUS les JOURS facebook.com/touslesjourstroy

Trion Solutions Inc. relyontrion.com

United Restoration Disaster Services unitedrds.com

VanBuskirk Dental vanbuskirkdental.com

Waymark Homes waymarkhomes.com

Wealth Strategies Group LLC wsgllc.net/welcome

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @troycitylifestyle

1: Kellie Setelia marks her 10th anniversary with Ann Percy State Farm Insurance Agency. Congratulations! 2: JoAnn Preston, Cathleen Francois and Ann Percy at the reception for Troy Traffic Jam sponsors. 3: A host of dignitaries and friends celebrate the grand reopening of Carrabba’s Italian Grill. 4: Kelly Dunn, Dr. Elceser and Angela Howe support the Power Company Kids Club fundraising gala. 5: Dean Chambos, Randy Wylin, Janet Pasco and Joe Zayance join the Troy Chamber Golf Outing. 6: Chris Ball, Cat Toone and Dan Zech at the LifeLab Kids Therapeutic Playpark grand opening. 7: Horizon Bank sponsors the Chaldean Chamber Annual Meeting/Awards Dinner April 28.

ANN PERCY

ANN PERCY

TROY CITY LIFESTYLE

STALT FINANCIAL

HORIZON BANK

HORIZON BANK

JOSLYN CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT. WITHOUT THE SWEAT EQUITY.

Everyone wants the return of an investment in real estate. But when it comes to the hard work of improving the property? Not so much.

Investing as a funding partner may be right for you. We invest the capital of partners like you – making it possible to earn dividends from real estate investments without having to buy, manage or finance the properties yourself. In other words, without investing the sweat equity.

Create the potential for a steady secondary income stream by diversifying your funds outside of traditional stocks and bonds.

If you have some IRA or other extra funds to invest, let’s have a conversation about how you can invest in real estate projects.

Past performance is no guarantee offuture results.

Waymark Homes Founder Ron Walraven has sold more than 3,500 homes since earning his real estate broker’s license in 1999.

Dr. Elceser appointed to statewide chiropractic board

Dr. Leigh Elceser of Joslyn Chiropractic Center has been elected to represent Oakland County on the Board for the Michigan Association of Chiropractors, a nonprofit representing Michigan's chiropractic industry.

She also was voted one of Hour Magazine’s Top Chiropractors. According to Hour Detroit, this list is based on a peer-review survey conducted by Professional Research Services of Troy.

Joslyn Chiropractic Center is a female-owned, faith-based health center offering chiropractic care, massage and nutritional counseling.

Scan to read more.

Joseph Pytel of Dickinson Wright elected President of MIPLA

Dickinson Wright recently announced that Joseph J. Pytel (Member, Troy) has been elected President of the Michigan Intellectual Property Law Association. Joe concentrates his practice on providing strategic counseling on intellectual property matters and preparing and prosecuting patent applications. He has significant experience in the electrical, computer hardware and software, and mechanical arts. In addition to patent preparation and prosecution, he has experience in providing patentability and infringement opinions.

Scan to read more.

KIRCO honored as 2023 Developer of the Year

KIRCO has been named 2023 Developer of the Year by the CoreNet Global Michigan Chapter. Quinn Kiriluk, EVP Corporate Real Estate & CMO, accepted the honor at the Michigan Chapter Awards at the Gem Theater.

Troy-based KIRCO is an award-winning commercial real estate development, construction (KIRCO MANIX) and property management organization. Having planned and developed over 30 million square feet, KIRCO is a major developer of build-to-suit own or lease properties coast to coast.

Scan to read more. Want

Photography KIRCO Management

Photography Dickinson Wright

Photography Joslyn Chiropractic Center

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Tap into the magic of murals

HOW TO CREATE A PERSONALIZED PLAYROOM WITH WALL ART INSPIRED BY YOUR CHILD

ARTICLE BY TODD & MARGARET HAIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONDRIAN PROPERTIES

Years ago, our daughter Becca fell in love with owls. Suddenly, everything – toys, dishes, towels – had to feature nightbirds. Margaret, an artist, doubled down by offering to paint a bedroom mural.

The result? A silhouetted tree with a perched owl blended with Caribbean blue, dreamy blue, calypso turquoise and cerulean blue (if it works for Oscar de la Renta and Yves Saint Laurent, it works for you, right, Ladies?). A standout feature was glow-inthe-dark eyes. With the lights out, you could see the owl watching over you. Becca loved it.

And so, recently, we came across Troy-based Mondrian Properties, with bedrooms featuring wallsized art. Room-sized art, actually.

It was a reminder that murals and matching accessories add both luxury and personality. Here are some ideas for getting started:

• You’ll find plenty of “extreme wallpapers” online, but for that true touch of luxury, hire a local artist to incorporate your child’s personality and interests.

• Feature their favorite color, so even if they don’t love Batman next year, it’s still pleasing.

• Try general themes (wildlife, outer space) that will hold appeal as your child's tastes evolve.

• Use acrylic glow-in-the-dark craft paint to highlight points of interest in the mural, so the value of work carries through the night as well.

Your home should reflect you and your family today. When your children grow up or it’s time to move, murals are easy to paint over. For now, enjoy the art!

Thanks to MondrianProperties.com for the inspiration.

Most financial advisors are quick to talk about investment returns and market volatility. We’ll probably talk to you about sleep. Because if you don’t have a plan that aligns with your goals, you may never get any rest. So let’s take the return out of the conversation. Instead of asking how your investments performed last year, let’s talk about how to align your financial decisions with your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

We’ll do more than help manage your investments. We’ll help manage your comfort level. So, let’s talk.

OUR PATIENTS ARE WALKING TESTIMONIALS OF OUR CARE.

We’re unlike any other physical therapy you’ll experience. Our exclusive MedX equipment is the only FDA-registered device for strengthening the lumbar and cervical areas of the spine. With MedX and our expertise in the McKenzie Method, our patients improve muscle strength, disc health, endurance, mobility and function. But what makes us unique is more than what we do. It’s who we are – a compassionate team that promotes better health with a clinically superior patient experience.

1500 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 150, Troy // 888-396-2642

What’s your local Disneyland?

What’s the best way to enjoy summer in Troy? We asked our readers for their favorite kid-friendly spots.

DR. BRITTANY VANBUSKIRK

VanBuskirk Dental

“My four-year-old twins love Troy Gymnastics. They have three gyms in Troy, with options for all ages. Our favorite is Open Gym and Play in their toddler gym. It’s an awesome space with age-appropriate equipment to explore and play.”

JEN PETERS

Troy Historic Village

STEVEN FEDERSPIEL

Padgett Business Services

“My family enjoys the Troy Public Library. The kids’ section has a great variety of books surrounded by a toy area with a kitchen set, Legos and other toys. Our only challenge is finding the library books among all the other books we have in our house!”

“My kids love the Troy Historic Village. Yes, it’s mom’s workplace, but they love the buildings, the artifacts, the programs and the people. They also love helping – from taking friends on impromptu tours to handing out treats for Halloween! The Village has become a second home and hangout.”

DENEEN MACEDONIA

Trion Solutions

“All of my kids play hockey, so our clear favorite is Troy Sports Center/Buffalo Wild Wings Arena. Sticks and Pucks or Open Skate is a great way to experience the sport together and to be on the ice at the same time. The kids love skating circles around me!”

DIANA BADR

Mathnasium of Troy

“Our kids like the same places I did when I grew up in Troy – the library, Aquatic Center and Lifetime Fitness. And, of course, Gilly’s, which is right next to Mathnasium. All our Mathnasium students love going there for ice cream!”

ART, COMMUNITY AND BEAUTY UNITE

ARTICLE BY REBECCA SCHWEITZER & TODD HAIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA/LONGLONG STUDIO/MARY RILEY

THREE LOCAL ARTISTS SEEK TO EDUCATE, BUILD COMMUNITY AND CAPTURE BEAUTY

Longlong Zhou

Longlong Art Studio

Longlong’s passion for art, her students and culture shines the moment you walk into Longlong Art Studio. Longlong, an artist and educator, directs the studio, which offers art education for children and adults. In addition to education, she sees art as a means of cultural exchange for the Asian American community. Longlong Art Studio leads an annual Chinese Culture Day at a Detroit Public Schools magnet school to teach cultural art and practices.

Students of the studio undergo an interview process to determine their artistic skills and goals in order for Longlong and her staff to create a tailored program.

Her students receive the best training and many opportunities. Over the past several years, her students have exhibited their artwork at The Detroit Institute of Arts, led a live art demonstration with the NBA, showcased their artwork at Detroit Symphony Orchestra events and displayed artwork at the Troy Public Library – where it still lives today.

The studio and its students have received numerous awards. The International Scholastic Art Contest recognized Longlong for her excellence in artistic education, while her students have received over 80 awards in the OCCAAF International Youth Arts Contest. One of her students had their work featured as a Google Doodle. For more about Longlong and her studio, visit longlongart.org.

Longlong Zhou with some of her students at Longlong Art Studio

Provided by: Longlong Zhou

Mary may be a professional makeup artist, but she offers more than a beautiful face of makeup. With over 15 years of experience in the makeup industry, Mary brings her expertise to photoshoots, magazines, weddings, bridal parties, and other special events.

She also shares her knowledge of makeup and the industry in workshops and makeup classes.  Mary’s workshops function as a crash course for those looking to become makeup artists themselves. Many cosmetology programs take a long time and don’t always come with the knowledge needed for booking clients and growing a business.

For the clients interested in learning to perfect their own makeup, Mary offers both group classes and one-on-one lessons. The group classes are usually hosted by a client who invites friends to join.

Mary books classes for girls’ weekends, bachelorette parties, teen slumber parties, birthday parties and more. She also offers private lessons and courses on becoming a makeup artist and can tailor classes to any purpose and age group.

To top it off, Mary also has her own line of makeup, FAME Cosmetics. Visit famebymary.com or call (248) 982-6718.

Mary Riley

Professional Makeup Artist

Mary Riley making the world beautiful

Provided by: Mary Riley

Kevin’s goal as a photographer sounds rather simple: Uncover the hidden beauty in ordinary moments. But it takes extraordinary expertise, an eye for detail and an ear for listening.

“I want to remind people to appreciate the magic that surrounds us. So when I work with people, I love learning about their experiences so I can create portraits that reveal their true personality. No matter the subject, I strive to create images that move the heart and captivate the soul.”

His schedule includes a lot of corporate and product work, but he says people are still the key. “I like the dance of figuring out who they really are. As they tell me what they care about, I capture that true moment when their eyes change, their smile appears or their body language opens.”

He admits photography may not seem like art to some people, but adds, “Photographers have the ability to capture truth – moments that give you perspective. The art of it is in the lighting, the angle, the composition, the color, the objects in the background, and in the end, you come out with an image that communicates something about them.”

Look for Kevin Michael Shea Photography on Facebook or call (248) 496-6048.

Kevin Shea

Kevin Shea Photography

“I capture that true moment when their eyes change, their smile appears or their body language opens.” – Kevin Shea

Picture perfect: A Kevin Shea selfie

Come for the Food, Stay for the Friends

Carrabba’s Italian Grill on Big Beaver serves up quality food and closer community.

ARTICLE BY REBECCA EVE SCHWEITZER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN SHEA

The most satisfying meal isn’t really about ingredients. It’s the luxury of fellowship.

“People can get great food everywhere,” said Roy Clinton Richardson, managing partner of Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Troy, during the grand reopening in June. “But these days you need something more,” he continued.

That something more, according to Richardson, is people.

This year, Carrabba’s of Troy celebrates its 10-year anniversary. Additionally, the team celebrates

finally reopening for both lunch and dinner seven days a week, something that had not been possible since before the pandemic.

Many people know the restaurant chain as a place to find classic Italian dishes, but Richardson wants the community to know they have even more to offer.

Richardson has introduced monthly wine dinners. These group events take place the second Tuesday of the month in the bar area. The four-course meal will be paired with different wines, and diners will learn about the pairs. Beyond the food, Richardson wants to bring

Catering Manager Erica Lewis and Proprietor Clint Richardson

people together. The group nature of the event cultivates new relationships and connections for all of the diners. In fact, he gives everyone a task to get to know somebody new.

When Richardson came to the Troy location about a year and nine months ago in in the wake of the pandemic, the community had started to re-enter public spaces. Richardson put that uncertain time behind him and focused on the future.

“I try to surround myself with people that are happy and enjoy, what they do,” says Richardson, adding how he wants customers to feel welcome and connected when they come to eat.

One of those people, Erica Lewis, the Marketing and Catering Manager, joined in January of 2023 and has been instrumental in working with Richardson to connect with the community. Her position is a new one for the chain.

Lewis focuses on building local relationships. “Our business community is wonderful!” she says. “I deeply resonate with the adage, if you help enough people get what they want, your endeavors will naturally be blessed.”

According to both Lewis and Richardson, Carrabba’s seeks out opportunities to help local nonprofits and schools. Carrabba’s has partnered with Troy High School to provide meals. CARE House of Oakland County, a nonprofit that helps to heal children that have been physically or sexually abused, is Carrabba’s 2023 Charity of Choice. Lewis also expressed excitement about working with Haven of

Oakland County, which will be their 2024 Charity of Choice.

Richardson says they’re happy to do fundraising events with other local charities and organizations to help them raise money by hosting an evening where anyone who brings in the event flyer will have a percentage of their check donated to that organization.

“I truly feel that most people are looking for love, support and true connections (along with some good food) and this is what we provide as we work daily,” says Lewis.

Back to offering more than expected, both Richardson and Lewis want the community to know about Carrabba’s catering business.  In addition to traditional catering services, the new Carrabba’s Sandwich Bistro focuses on gourmet sandwiches. They also called out new happy hour offerings such as charcuterie boards. When asked about his favorite dish, the Tuscan Grilled Ribeye, Richardson mentioned that some people forget the “Grill” part of the name Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

Ultimately, both Richardson and Lewis could talk endlessly about the delicious food, but they focused even more on their amazing team, guests and community. Richardson hopes Carrabba’s has a welcoming environment where everyone, returning or new, feels like they belong.

“I haven’t met a stranger,” says Richardson, “just a friend I haven’t got to know yet.”

“People can get great food everywhere, but these days you need something more.”

Back into the Kitchen

Bringing Joy

Chef Dennis Prescott Talks Falling in Love with Feeding People and the Connection Food Creates

Find the things that you love. Take the stress out of food. Feed people because all they really care about is spending time with you. Bring joy back into the kitchen.”

Whether you know him from the Netflix hit Restaurants on the Edge or from his absolutely mouth-watering food photos as @ dennistheprescott on the ‘gram, this former-musician turned internationally-renowned Chef is an amazingly talented, thoughtful, and globe-trotting force to be reckoned with. When it comes to inspiration for creating experiences around food and your community, as well as creating travel bucket lists to some of the world’s most unique and delicious destinations off the beaten path, Chef ‘Dennis The Prescott’ is a culinary change maker whose feed you’ll want to feast on

Originally an aspiring musician, Canadian-born Dennis Prescott’s journey began while in university with a single invitation from another solo musician who asked him to tour with them around the US. This eventually took him to Nashville where they began making records and pursuing their musical dreams.

Yet, in the midst of all of this, Dennis was not taking care of himself — eating take out, dollar menus, etc, had become a way of life. A friend had a “come to Jesus” moment with him and stressed that he needed to start taking care of himself. Having no idea exactly what that meant or how to do so, the advice was simple: “You need to start eating better.”

The Start

“Go to the library and borrow some cookbooks,” his friend suggested. Dennis went to a nearby library and borrowed three books only to have his friend ask why he chose those in particular. Dennis remembers saying verbatim, “I don’t know? The guy on the cover looks kinda good looking, and I feel like I could probably pull these recipes off, and he seems really happy too!” As it turned out they were three books by Jamie Oliver; it’s just that he had no idea who Jamie Oliver was at the time.

Flash forward and Dennis’ first dinner-hosting experiment was made up of twenty people from the music studio, all sitting in camping chairs with beer koozies and makeshift tables in his apartment.

“I remember at the time this moment of, okay, the food is on the table, it’s a stressful thing, and then everybody tucks in and they take their first bite, and there’s a moment of hush that kind of came over everyone; it got really quiet just for a second, and then everyone started talking and getting into it and I fell in love with food right there at that moment.

What eventually followed were 13 episodes over nine months where the Restaurants on the Edge team traveled to and filmed restaurant revivals that included three in Canada, one in the continental US, one in Hawaii, and others outside of North America, including Hong Kong, Slovenia, Austria, Malta, St. Lucia and Finland.

CONTINUED >

“When

Travel Recommendations for Foodies

“Slovenia borders Italy and Croatia, which is to say there are a lot of shared values in and around food; they have really great cheese, dairy, beef, pasta, but very few tourists, hardly any. So if you love Italy, that kind of specific travel and food experience, particularly Northern Italy, because you can see the Alps from where they are. It’s picture perfect, a beautiful place, and also where orange wine is from.”

Dennis also highly recommends Costa Rica, Hawaii and Finland.

“Most people love the idea of travel, but we tend to pick the same places when we travel, and there is nothing wrong with that, they are amazing for a reason, but when you get off the beaten path a little bit, you learn the difference between vacation and travel.”

Restaurants on the Edge is important and meaningful to Chef Prescott because it tells stories of hope and joy and redemption around the kitchen. Oftentimes the food space can be very stressful, but he believes that at the end of the day, people just want to spend time with other people that they love.

One of the most common fears Dennis hears from people cooking and/or grilling at home is, ‘where do I start? I don’t know how to get going, so I just don’t.’

Rather than overcomplicating it, Dennis recommends cooking the things that bring you joy — things that are on a restaurant menu you can’t NOT order because you’re so pumped that those dishes are on there.

“Find the things that you love. Take the stress out of food. Feed people because all they really care about is spending time with you. Bring joy back into the kitchen.”

you get off the beaten path a little bit, you learn the difference between vacation and travel.

5 Hot Trends in Kitchen Design

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY J.A. STENGER PHOTOGRAPHY

When designing your dream kitchen, it’s important to balance timeless features with elements that reflect your personality and design aesthetic. You may not plan to remodel your kitchen each year (does anyone do that?), but that doesn’t mean there aren’t creative ways to keep your space feeling modern and fresh.

We spoke with interior designer Brooke Cover about the trends in kitchen design she’s seeing this year, touching on everything from cabinet colors and lighting to tile and countertop combos she’s loving.

TAKING THE COUNTER MATERIAL UP THE BACKSPLASH

Although the iconic subway tile backsplash is timeless in its own right, Brooke says she is seeing a big shift toward marble slab backsplashes — which add drama and depth to the kitchen. Not only is it easier to clean than tile, but a marble backsplash and countertop also sets the tone for the entire space and makes a big statement.

A peek at what’s ahead: bold cabinet colors, statement hardware and swaths of stone.

WARMING UP THE WHITE

We doubt the classic white kitchen will ever completely go out of style, but trends show people are going away from the white kitchen and gray cabinets. They’re opting for white mixed with warmer wood tones, dark greens and blues. Some homeowners are mixing vintage in with the new and modern through butcher block islands or other unique cabinetry choices. Black is making a bold comeback in some kitchens, while others usher in warmth through painted islands or other darker contrast tiles in the bar area. You don’t have to leave behind the timelessness when you warm up your space if you opt for equally timeless black and wood-stained accents. If you want a quick refresh, consider adding pops of wood through cutting boards or other decor accents on countertops or open shelves.

HIDDEN STORAGE, VISIBLE APPLIANCES

Gone are the days of it being a given to hide the fridge behind custom cabinets. Many brands of appliances are so beautiful and sleek these days, homeowners want to see them rather than hide them behind a cabinet facade. Small appliances, however, are another story. Custom cabinets and “appliance garages” aren’t going away anytime soon. Form and function make them a desirable addition to any kitchen.

BOLD HARDWARE

Mixed metals and sizes are having a moment in kitchens across America. Brooke says not to shy away from a variety of sizes of pulls and handles, depending on the drawer and door size. For instance, you may see a mixture of longer pulls on larger drawers and square knobs on smaller glassware cabinets - and that’s more than just ok - that’s recommended. As the heart of the home, kitchens shouldn’t feel sterile and hyper-coordinated - they should feel inviting and tailored to the space. Since no two kitchens will be exactly alike, feel free to boldly mix the hardware sizes and styles to the needs of your kitchen.

Brooke’s Pro Tip:

I suggest viewing countertop slabs in person vs. a small sample piece because each slab has unique movement and colors. They are all so beautiful and works of art. Taking a trip to the warehouse will really help a client to understand the different types available and see the difference in the look of the material.

CONTRAST, CONTRAST, CONTRAST!

From painted and stained islands to dark lower cabinetry with bright white uppers and mixed lighting fixtures, contrast is the name of the game this year. You’ll see this juxtaposition between clean white and darker colors or even this year’s favorite - greens and blues - all over newly designed kitchens. You’re not breaking any rules by coordinating sculptural pendants over the kitchen island with more vintage-inspired gooseneck sconces over the standalone bar or a chandelier over the eat-in kitchen.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

4-Course Wine Dinner

CARRABBA'S ITALIAN GRILL, 600 W. BIG BEAVER, TROY | 6:30 PM

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

Picky Eating Concerns for Children Ages 6-18

NUTRITION COUNSELING CENTER, 1934 LIVERNOIS RD., TROY | 5:00 PM

Parents and caregivers can learn the differences between picky eating and something more problematic, such as Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. Get tips on how to help your children increase food variety and manage their anxiety around food. This free, one-hour Q&A with nutrition expert and adolescent feeding specialist Jessica Nelson, RD, is for adults only. Email info@nutritioncounselingcenter.com to RSVP.

Q&A: Your Burning Questions on Business Software and Deductions Answered

TROY PUBLIC LIBRARY MEETING ROOM | 6:00 PM

We'll dive into the financial software needed to run a small- to medium-sized business, programs such as Quickbooks, Xero or Bill.com. Then, we'll go over some deductions to watch for when running your business. You'll enjoy this informative session, led by Steven Federspiel, Managing Partner, Padgett Business Services, and you'll have a chance to ask questions. RSVP at (586) 323-2360.

Food & Body Talk: Do's and Don'ts of Raising Teens

NUTRITION COUNSELING CENTER, 1934 LIVERNOIS RD., TROY | 6:00 PM

Parents and caregivers of teens can learn how to handle the delicate conversations and issues around food and body image. Discover how to preserve your teen's self image and relationship with food. This free, onehour Q&A with nutrition expert and eating disorder specialist Patrizia Jesue, RD, is for adults only. Email info@nutritioncounselingcenter.com to RSVP.

Special Needs Family Symposium

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER, 6600 W. MAPLE ROAD, WEST BLOOMFIELD | 3:00 PM

Chris Ball, co-founder and financial planner with Stalt Financial in Troy, will be the keynote speaker at the Special Needs Family Symposium, a free, three-hour event created to help families with special-needs children navigate their young adult's transitional years. Agencies will be on hand with information about respite care, social interaction, housing, independent living and more. For details, email szoltowski@jccdet.org.

What Can an Eating Disorder Dietitian Do For You?

NUTRITION COUNSELING CENTER, 1934 LIVERNOIS RD., TROY | 7:00 PM

Concerned you may be struggling with an eating disorder? Join this one-hour session with Patrizia Jesue, RD, an eating disorder expert for nearly 25 years. Learn how to identify eating disorders and discover how an eating disorder dietitian can help you establish a more peaceful relationship with food. This event is free and for adults only. Email info@nutritioncounselingcenter.com to RSVP.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/TroyMI

THE POWER OF A PEO CAN

TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS.

A company’s greatest assets is its employees, which requires a commitment to providing them the best services available. Trion’s PEO and payroll capabilities can reduce the stress and burden of managing these areas, allowing you to stay focused on your core business. Reach out to Troy-Based Trion Solutions, one of the nation’s largest Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs), at relyontrion.com

Trion is a proud Troy Chamber member.