Troy, MI November 2025 by City Lifestyle

Troy’s True Luxury: Giving with Style

There’s a particular magic in November, when the air cools but the colors warm. Even all the lovers of beige, sworn to subtlety, yield to the velvety browns and jeweled burgundies, the mystery of rich navy, the scarlets of bonfires and holiday ball gowns. There's a whole symphony of oranges that evoke why red and yellow fell in love. It’s always the golden hour in November!

This season, my personal muse has been a shade often misunderstood, yet impossible to ignore — the opulent chartreuse. I remember in art class boldly proclaiming I couldn’t stand that color, I would have called it more irritating than opulent. But seeing it woven through the stunning fashion of HBO's series "The Gilded Age," I couldn’t help but admire how its contrast to the more traditional colors created a stunning unexpected beauty, particularly when it’s whispered through a delicate bow or in the detail of a vintage cameo.

In this Thankful Issue, we celebrate another kind of beauty — the kind that doesn’t hang in closets or glow from the jewelry box, but radiates from the human heart. Last year, our annual Giving Campaign unveiled just that. What began as one small, tentative act — a reluctantly hopeful nomination — unfolded into something transformative. The gift met a tangible need, yes, but more than that, it brought a light that pierced through an often beige world.

Todd and I are so thankful to work with so many inspiring businesses in Troy. Our city not only boasts of many thriving businesses but is also home to people who infuse success with soul. Here, entrepreneurs and our community members don’t just build; they serve, they share. They shine. They are the true gems — rare, radiant and dazzling beyond measure.

So as the leaves fall and the palette deepens, may we find inspiration not only in the season's natural brilliance but in the brilliance of giving. May we wear gratitude as boldly as chartreuse, and may we remember that the most enduring luxury is generosity itself.

Stay Fabulous, Troy.

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Todd Haight | todd.haight@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Margaret Meyer Haight

margaret.haight@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Allison Sommerville allison.sommerville@citylifestyle.com

Jim Ghormley | jim.ghormley@citylifestyle.com

Julie Flores

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Samantha Durbin, Susan Thwing

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Simran Bajwa, Aly Darin, Emily Merrill

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

I n d i v i d u a l c o v e r a g e i s u n d e r w r i t t e n b y A m e r i c a n F a m i l y L i f e A s s u r a n c e C o m p a n y o f C o l u m b u s | W W H Q | 1 93 2 W y n n t o n R o a d | C o l u m b u s , G A 3 1 9 9 9 | 8 0 0 9 9 2 3 5 2 2 | I n N e w Y o r k , c o v e r a g e i s u n d e r w r i t t e n b y A m e r i c a n F a m i l y L i f e A s s u r a n c e C o m p a n y o f N e w Y o r k | 2 2 C o r p o r a t e W o o d s B o u l e v a r d S u i t e 2 | A l b a n y N Y 1

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

At Troy City Lifestyle and The Amour Women Work Community’s Gilded Era-themed Portrait Unveil Party: 1: Troy Mayor Ethan Baker. 2: Canetha Amour-Porter, founder of Amour Women Work Community. 3: Troy City Lifestyle Publisher and Creative Director Margaret Haight. 4: Handmade (and hand-painted) chocolate treats. 5: Margaret Haight and Roslyn Reeves. 6: Dr. Bethany Baker, Tracy Passmore Allen and Mayor Ethan Baker. 7: Margaret Haight, Troy City Councilwoman Ellen Hodorek and Mayor Ethan Baker.

SIMRAN BAJWA

Want to be seen in the magazine?

8: Mallory Kuhn, Dr. Bethany Baker, Jamie Yaldoo, Margaret Haight, Adajah Irving, Canetha Amour-Porter and Cheryl Arafat. 9: Esse Tuke and Jaunice Kellar, The Tuke Law Firm, PLLC. 10: Toc Porter and Canetha Amour-Porter. 11-14: Celebrating Cindy Stewart’s 25 years of service as the City of Troy’s Community Affairs Director, at her Retirement Soiree at Escape Entertainment Center, Troy. 11: Cindy Stewart cuts the cake. 12: Cindy Stewart, center, with son and daughter-in-law Jason and Heather Stewart. 13: Sarah Harfield, former Troy Chamber President Ara Topouzian, Sheila Denstaedt and Cindy Stewart. 14: Tara Tomcsik-Husak, Dr. Bethany Baker, Cindy Stewart and Troy Mayor Ethan Baker.

SIMRAN BAJWA

AMALIA GRAHAM

H O P E

with YOU

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

ARTICLE BY R. TODD HAIGHT

Hope Lost Then Found

IN TROY, CITY LIFESTYLE’S ANNUAL GIVING CAMPAIGN REMINDS US — EVERY ACT OF KINDNESS CAN RIPPLE OUTWARD.

We don’t always get to see the ripple effect of our actions. But last fall, what started as a routine office email became the spark that lifted a family through the unthinkable.

That’s when Ashley Boyd’s boyfriend, Ricc Wilkerson, went from an ordinary drive home to a fight for his life. A devastating auto crash left him in the ICU, where doctors placed him in a coma, uncertain if he would recognize his loved ones again.

“It was horrific,” recalls Ashley, who works at Entech Staffing Solutions in Troy. “When he finally woke up, it was like starting life over — learning to walk, talk, remember, everything.”

And then an unexpected email changed their path. Emma Hampton, a manager at Entech, heard about Troy City Lifestyle ’s annual Giving Campaign and shared the nomination form with the entire team. Ashley saw it and nominated Ricc, hoping for a little help.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” she says. “Even just encouragement or a little relief with bills would have meant something. It could give him hope.”

Her instinct was right. Ricc was chosen as a recipient. More than easing financial stress, the recognition lifted his spirit. “It wasn’t about the money,” Ashley says. “It was knowing people cared. It gave him something to keep fighting for.”

Emma was just as moved. “You never know what someone is going through,” she reflects. “Forwarding that email felt so small at the time, but it made a huge difference. I’m so glad I didn’t just delete it.”

Today, Ricc is rebuilding his independence, back to part-time work and finding healing through music. His journey is ongoing — but thanks to one email and a simple nomination, he has hope.

This holiday season, you can be part of the ripple effect. Nominate a neighbor, colleague or friend who may be facing challenges in our annual Giving Campaign (see how on page 12). Your simple act could change everything for someone around you.

Ashley Boyd, Emma Hampton and Cathy Boyd of Entech Staffing Solutions

Nominee Ricc Wilkerson with nominator Ashley Boyd

Home for the Holidays

HOME HELPERS HOME CARE HELPS MAKE THE HOLIDAY SEASON BRIGHTER.

ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING

The holiday season is often filled with joy, gratitude and togetherness. But for families caring for aging loved ones, it can also bring overwhelming stress. Between shopping, cooking and logistics, the responsibilities of caregiving and gathering relatives can make it difficult for families to fully enjoy the season.

That’s where Home Helpers Home Care of Troy (homehelpershomecare.com/troy-mi) steps in. The team of caregivers offers compassionate and reliable support that enables seniors to stay at home, or provide trusted care while at gatherings, giving families the gift of peace of mind. Clients are given a safe and affordable way to remain active and independent in their home, retirement community, nursing home, rehabilitation center and more.

“The holidays are one of the most stressful times of year,” says Randall Morris, owner of Home Helpers Home Care of Troy. “When a family member is caregiving, they stop being a daughter or a spouse and instead take on that caregiver role. We allow families to get back to what their role is in the family. Sometimes that’s as simple as providing respite care for a few hours so a daughter can be a daughter again.”

From part-time assistance to 24/7 coverage, the team provides non-medical care tailored to each family’s needs. That flexibility is especially valuable during the holidays, when family gatherings can highlight both the joys and the challenges of caring for an aging parent or spouse.

Home Helpers’ Marketing Coordinator Kathleen Lawrence has seen the difference firsthand.

“Caring for a loved one is tremendously hard, but during the holidays, when everything feels overwhelming, it helps to have a third-party caregiver who can be that stress reliever and a ray of sunshine,” she says. “It allows families to realize, ‘I don’t have to do this alone, and I shouldn’t be doing this alone.’”

Randall Morris

Based in Bloomfield Hills, Home Helpers Home Care of Troy serves families across Southeast Michigan — including Troy, Bloomfield Township, Pontiac, Clinton Township and West Bloomfield. The company’s wide range of services includes personal care, meal preparation, transportation, wellness checks and aroundthe-clock coverage when needed.

“We are a 24/7 operation,” Morris says. “Even if I can’t answer immediately, my cell phone is always on. Families know they’re not alone.”

This commitment to availability can be especially meaningful during the holiday season, when unexpected needs often arise. Whether it’s driving a client to a medical appointment, preparing a festive meal together or simply offering companionship and assistance during family gatherings, caregivers step in to make life easier.

Both Morris and Lawrence see their work as more than a job; it’s a calling.

Morris began his career in cardiac rehabilitation before spending nearly 30 years in manufacturing leadership. When his stepfather was diagnosed with dementia, Morris witnessed the strain it placed on his mother. That personal journey inspired him to pursue a more fulfilling path in home care.

“This work gives me fulfillment that goes beyond making a living,” he says.

Lawrence’s caregiving journey began at home.

“I was always the one taking family members to the grocery store or helping them around the house,” she says. “As a mother of four sons, two with disabilities, I know firsthand how important reliable support is. That’s why I connect so deeply with families going through the same thing.”

She adds: “There’s something about the integrity of this company that appealed to me. Randall goes above and beyond to make sure clients and caregivers are treated fairly, with dignity and respect.”

CONTINUED >

“It’s okay to let go and let somebody else help. By stepping in, we allow families to focus on creating positive memories rather than feeling overwhelmed.” — Randall Morris

Home Helper Lena with client Jo Anne

TIPS FOR FAMILIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Lawrence encourages families to simplify holiday traditions so seniors can participate without feeling overwhelmed.

“Do little things,” she says. “A craft, writing cards or just quiet time together. Take it slow, and remember that the holidays are about gratitude and connection, not pressure.”

Morris adds, “It’s okay to let go and let somebody else help. Our caregivers are trained, experienced and passionate. By stepping in, we allow families to focus on creating positive memories rather than feeling overwhelmed.”

As Home Helpers Home Care of Troy looks to the new year, the focus remains on helping more people while maintaining high standards of care. Every caregiver is carefully chosen, trained and supported so that families can trust the quality of service their loved ones receive.

“We’re not just here to provide services — we’re problem-solvers,” Morris says. “Sometimes families don’t even know the right questions to ask. We help define the problem, provide the right resources and support them every step of the way.”

For families navigating caregiving during the holidays, Home Helpers Home Care of Troy offers more than assistance. They provide comfort, relief and the chance to focus on what truly matters: spending meaningful time together.

HOLIDAY CARE TIPS FROM HOME HELPERS

Make the season brighter for everyone.

• Take it slow. Seniors can get overstimulated by the hustle and bustle — choose small, meaningful activities.

• Create calm moments. Card writing, simple crafts or looking through photo albums can be more enjoyable than large events.

• Share the load. Use respite care so family caregivers can rest and enjoy the holiday as sons, daughters or spouses again.

• Focus on gratitude. Keep the holidays centered on connection and thankfulness rather than schedules or obligations

MODERN SURGERY OFFERS RELIEF FROM CHRONIC ACID REFLUX.

From Heartburn to Healing

ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALY DARIN

For many people, heartburn is an occasional annoyance. But for those living with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the condition can become a daily struggle. GERD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, leading to chronic discomfort, difficulty sleeping, and in some cases, longterm damage. While medications can provide relief, they don’t always address the underlying problem.

“Primary care doctors are slow to refer people for reflux surgery because medications do a good job of masking the symptoms — but the reflux itself continues,” explains Dr. David Chengelis, a board-certified surgeon specializing in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries, and founder of Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, PC, in Troy (dlcsurgery.com). “The surgery goes to the root of what is causing it. We can correct the problem and, in many cases, resolve it.”

Acid-suppressing drugs, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), can help manage the burning sensation associated with GERD. But they don’t stop acid from backing up into the esophagus — they only make it less painful. Over time, the constant reflux can still lead to complications, including Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition.

“There’s also increasing evidence that long-term use of reflux medications can have side effects, such as depleting bone density in women,” Chengelis says. “Surgery can eliminate the need for medication altogether.”

Reflux surgery, often performed laparoscopically or robotically, physically reinforces or reconstructs the valve between the esophagus and the stomach to prevent acid from flowing back up. For non-obese patients, a common approach is laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, in which part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.

For patients who are also struggling with obesity, bariatric procedures can address both weight and reflux. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), for example, is highly effective at reducing acid production and improving reflux symptoms. While the popular sleeve gastrectomy helps with weight loss, its effects on GERD can be mixed — sometimes improving, sometimes worsening reflux.

“The best surgical option depends on each patient’s anatomy, weight and symptoms,” Chengelis says. “That’s why evaluation and a customized treatment plan are so important.”

WHY ROBOTICS ARE CHANGING THE GAME

At Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, Chengelis performs nearly all procedures robotically, including bariatric, gallbladder surgery and hernia repair. While both laparoscopic and robotic surgeries are minimally invasive, robotics allow for enhanced precision and control.

“With robotic surgery, the instruments have wrist-like movements that mimic the surgeon’s hand but on a smaller, more precise scale,” Chengelis explains. “The 3D, high-definition view makes a huge difference, especially in delicate procedures. Patients benefit from smaller incisions, less pain and faster recovery.”

The benefits of reflux surgery extend well beyond eliminating the need for medication. Patients often report being able to sleep better, enjoy a wider variety of foods and live without the constant discomfort of heartburn. For those seeking a longterm solution, reflux surgery may provide lasting relief and a healthier future.

“People get great results from this,” Chengelis says. “Living with GERD impacts every aspect of your life, but it doesn’t have to be that way.”

To learn more about options for reflux relief, an assessment can be arranged at (248) 291-6516.

Dr. David Chengelis

Expand Your Horizons

Continue developing your skills or pursue a new passion with over 1,400 continuing education courses, professional CEUs, micro-certifications, and upskilling programs across fields like information technology, business, and more.

• Search for popular professional CEUs approved for SHRM, ACE, AMA PCM, PMI, HRCI, ATD

• Self-paced options with the freedom to learn on your schedule

• Online or in-person course offerings

Fall Into A Healthier Youthful Smile

SEASONAL

a simpler

RECIPES BY BRITTANY MEADTH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY MERRILL

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN

HONEY

ROASTED CARROTS WITH LABNEH AND FRESH DILL

Hosting Tip: “Ask for help from the right people. Some people aren’t going to be comfortable making bread rolls or a dessert, but maybe they’re great at making salad. Others can be asked to bring drinks or clean afterward. Nobody is a mind-reader—don’t be afraid to set up a spreadsheet where they can sign up!”

Ingredients

• 10 carrots

• ½ cup fresh dill

• 3 sprigs of thyme

Directions

• 1 cup labneh

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

1. Preheat oven to 400° F

2. Wash, peel, and prep your carrots. If carrots are skinny, you can peel them and place them onto a cookie sheet. If the carrots are thicker in diameter you can cut them lengthwise into halves.

3. Drizzle honey and olive oil over carrots on baking sheet. Use your hands to make sure the carrots are properly coated on all sides.

4. Add salt and pepper

5. Bake in the oven at 400° F for about 25-30 minutes

6. Take them out of the oven and set aside

7. On a large serving plate add about a cup (or more) of labneh. My favorite is called Luretik.

8. Add your carrots then freshly chopped dill and thyme to the top

9. Drizzle a good olive oil over the whole thing

FLAVORS

SEASONAL

HONEYNUT SQUASH

Ingredients

• 3 honeynut squash

• olive oil

• salt

• pepper

• smoked paprika

• pomegranates

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400° F

2. Slice the squashes in half, remove all the seeds

3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast for 30 minutes

4. Add smoked paprika and pomegranates to serve

Hosting tip: “It’s all in the way you present it to kids…when you ask your kids to join, try not to make it sound like a punishment. Emphasize that they have a responsibility prepping really yummy food. Include a special drink for the kids while they’re helping, like spiced apple cider. Adjust your expectations to allow for extra mess, extra time, and know it won’t turn out exactly as if you had done it yourself. But the tradeoff of creating happy memories is 100% worth it.”

Cooking tip:

CRISPY POTATOES

“I don’t peel my potatoes because who really has time for that? The secret to this recipe: baking soda. The baking soda makes the water alkaline which helps break down the surface of the potatoes, making them very crispy and very delicious.”

Ingredients

• 10 small yellow gold potatoes

• 1/2 tablespoon baking soda

• olive oil

• salt

• rosemary, garlic, chives (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400° F

2. In a large Dutch oven, bring water, baking soda, and salt to a boil. Place unpeeled potatoes into the water and reduce the heat to medium-low. Once the potatoes are soft to touch (20-25 min), drain and let sit for 10 minutes.

3. On a cutting board, grab a potato and use any large object (wine bottle, glass jar) and smash down the potato. Do this gently and have a spatula close by to transfer to a baking dish. Once you have smashed all the potatoes, add salt and olive oil.

4. Place in oven and roast for 20 minutes or until crispy

5. Top with the garlic, rosemary, and fresh chives

FLAVORS

“A Thanksgiving Meal: The love of a family is life’s greatest blessing. Remember to keep the meal simple so you will have time to cherish your love ones and the blessings that come with.”

CARAMEL CHEESECAKE

Ingredients

Crust

• 12 graham crackers

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1⁄4 cup brown sugar

Filling

• 4 sticks of cream cheese (room temp)

• 1-1⁄2 cup sugar

• 5 large eggs (room temp)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350° F

Crust

• 2-1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla

• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

• zest of whole lemon

Caramel

• 1-1⁄4 cup sugar

• 1-1⁄3 cup water

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 cup unsalted or salted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. In a food processor, add the graham crackers, butter, and brown sugar. Blend until sand-like texture.

2. In a springform pan, add parchment paper and butter the sides

3. Place crust into the pan and pat down to form a smooth base

4. Set in the fridge and chill for 15 minutes

Filling

1. Add the cream cheese to a standing mixer. Make sure it’s room temperature—this is an important step!

2. With your whisk attachment on medium speed, mix the cream cheese. Once it becomes fluffy, add the sugar and one egg at a time. Scrape down sides as needed.

3. Remove the pan with the crust from the fridge, add the batter to the pan, and place into your preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

4. Remove from the oven and let sit. Once cool, cover and place in the fridge.

Caramel

1. In a saucepan, add the sugar and water. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Keep heat on medium. Watch the sugar water—it will slowly go from a light brown to a rich amber color.

2 . Once it turns amber in color, add the heavy whipping cream and butter and whisk

3. Turn the heat off and let sit for 5 minutes

4. Remove cheesecake from the fridge and add the caramel to the top

The Business of Giving

TROY ENTREPENEURS SHARE THE CHARITIES CLOSEST TO THEIR HEARTS.

ARTICLE BY MARGARET MEYER HAIGHT

LORI FRYE

The owner of Elite Home Cleaning (elitehomecleaning.net), is proud to support the Rochester Lions Club , part of a global network dedicated to vision care, youth programs, disaster relief and more. Serving Troy and surrounding areas, Frye and her team are honored to contribute to these vital efforts, making a meaningful local impact while helping strengthen the broader community mission (rochesterlionsclub.org).

LISSA PIETRYKOWSKI

The owner of Peak Physique ( peakphysiquetroy.com), supports On the Wings of Angels . “We believe everyone deserves the chance to leave an unsafe situation and be given a chance to start over,” Pietrykowski says. This inspiring nonprofit uplifts domestic abuse survivors by creating a sanctuary of connection, guidance and renewal — helping individuals heal, rebuild and embrace a future defined by strength, dignity and resilience (otwoa.org ).

HOWARD BEATTY IV

The owner of Howard Beatty IV Insurance Agency ( hbivinsuranceagency.com) in Troy supports Susie Q’s Kids (susieqskids.org ) — striving to make a difference by supporting children and young adults who may be struggling emotionally, physically or mentally. By distributing comfort bags to children in a variety of situations, Susie Q’s seeks to improve and brighten lives, and empower those in need with the strength they need to overcome their challenges. Says Beatty, “We like supporting them because we know it is for a good cause and that good people are the ones we are giving the support to.”

NOVEMBER 4TH, 12TH, 18TH & 19TH

Wine & Bourbon Dinners at Carrabba's Italian Grill

600 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy | 6:30 PM

On Nov. 4 & 12, enjoy a special four-course dinner featuring award-winning wine selections from Antinori. Then, on Nov. 18 & 19, a different four-course meal is paired with small-batch bourbons crafted by family distilleries. Whether you prefer wine or bourbon, these special dinner events are a shared experience. Approximately $65/person plus tax and gratuity. Visit Carrabbas.com or call (248) 269-0095.

NOVEMBER 8TH & 22ND

Two Nights of The Magic Soiree: Where Magic Gets Funny

Embassy Suites by Hilton, 850 Tower Drive, Troy | 5:30 PM

An intimate magic-comedy show, beginning with close-up magic performed at your table in the Atrium Bar & Grill, followed by a cabaret-style stage show hosted by the magical and hysterical Lady Sarah and Keith Fields. Dinner and drinks available for purchase. Call (248) 990-8198 or visit TheMagicSoiree.com for tickets.

NOVEMBER 15TH

Polska Noc z Gwiazdami (Polish Night of Stars)

American Polish Cultural Center, 2975 E. Maple Road, Troy | 7:00 PM

Get ready for a spectacular evening of music, entertainment, delicious food and Polish culture at Polska Noc z Gwiazdami! Hosted by Maciej Smolinski and featuring a star-studded lineup of some of the biggest names in Polish music. Doors open at 7 p.m.; dinner begins at 8 p.m.; concert at 9 p.m. For details, call the American Polish Cultural Center, (248) 689-3636.

“To

be the best restaurant, you need the best people.”

With more than a thousand employees at 24 restaurants, we know payroll and HR can be a huge headache.

That’s why we chose Trion, one of the most trusted Professional Employer Organizations in the country. With Trion’s PEO oﬀerings, we no longer spend hours on HR paperwork and our employees get their questions answered faster. Trion eliminates the headaches for everyone, and happy employees make for great service.

That’s what our restaurants are known for, and that’s why we rely on Trion. Visit RelyonTrion.com.