Oxford Biz April 2010

8/9/2019 Oxford Biz April 2010

1/12

Whats The Biz -- April 2010 1

BIZBIZWhats the Whats the Whats the Whats the Whats the Whats the Whats the Whats the

April 2010 Vol. 5 # 4

Oxford Areas Monthly Business News & Info

The Easter Bunny dropped by Sweet & Savory Bake Shopin downtown Oxford Saturday to visit owners DebraMeyers and Scott Eschelbach, and help kids decoratespecial Easter cookies. Photo by C.J. Carnacchio.


2/12

2 Whats The Biz -- April 2010

Comfortable Family Care Warm Friendly Staff Cosmetic Dentistry

Make Over Consultations Most Insurances Accepted

830 South Lapeer, Oxford

www.northoaklanddentalgroup.com

At Home and In-OfficeZOOM WHITENING

Join Us In Our

Newly Remodeled Office Today Quality Care In Our CommunitySince 1981

North Oakland Dental Group

I-69 Exit #155

Drahner Rd.

DOWNTOWNOXFORD

LAKE ORION

830 S. Lapeer

I - 7 5 E x i t 8 1

Bank president separates facts from rumorsBy C.J. Carnacchio

Biz Editor There are plenty of rumors swirlingaround town concerning Oxford Bank andits future.

Its unfortunate, but its not unusual,said C. James Bess, the banks president andChief Executive Officer since June 2009. Itsthe risk you take when you have people witha little bit of information and a lot of imagina-tion.

In an effort to separate fact from fiction,the Leader sat down with Bess last week todiscuss the current status of the 126-year-old financial institution and where itsheaded.

I think its in everybodys best intereststhat they deal with facts, not a bunch of ru-

mors on the street, he said.One of the most persistent rumors seemsto be the idea that Oxford Bank has been or isgoing to be sold.

The reality is the bank has not been sold.But when asked about the possibility of

selling it, Bess replied, Everythings on thetable.

This is a bank in crisis. Theres a wholebunch of banks in crisis in southeast Michi-gan, he continued. The Number One goalis to do what you can for shareholders andretain an independent community bank here.

Right now, Bess said the main goal is torecapitalize the bank and get it back on itsfeet.

However, raising enough capital to do thiscould lead to an investor taking control of the institution by virtue of purchasingenough stock.

If somebody comes in here with what-ever the number would be $20 million, $30million they obviously have control. Thatsnot necessarily a sale, but its control, Besssaid. If (the bank) gets recapitalized, youretalking about a big dilution for existing share-holders. Its just a fact of life.

It only takes $5 million (and) theyll havecontrol of this bank less than $5 million,frankly, he noted. The actual value of theshares (is) probably less than a dollar if wegot a fairness opinion on the stock today.

At the banks annual meeting in May 2009,in an effort to raise capital, the shareholdersapproved offering up to 12.5 million sharesof stock under a Private Placement Memo-randum (PPM).

Its a way to raise additional capital (from)accredited investors. You have to reach cer-tain income, certain net worth thresholds,Bess explained. (The PPM) was for a mini-mum of $10 million (and) a maximum of $25million at $2 a share.

So far, no ones taken advantage of the

offering.We dont have any subscriptions at this point, Bess said.

But Bess isnt discouraged by that.We do have some fairly encouraging bal-

ance sheet fundamentals that we think areultimately going to attract investors, he said.

The problem with finding investors in thismarket is competition from the federal gov-ernment.

Youve got a lot of banks failing and a lotof investors are sitting on the sidelines buy-ing stuff from the (Federal Deposit InsuranceCorporation) for pennies on the dollar, Bessexplained. The FDICs the biggest competi-tion you have as far as finding investors rightnow.

Despite that, the bank is currently talkingwith a number of private investors who could provide the capital it needs.

We have four private sources right nowthat were in negotiations with, Bess said.Whether or not theyll be successful, wedont know.

Bess could not reveal the identities of these investors nor could he say if theyrelocal, in-state or out-of-state.

He did confirm that none of investors arelarger banks looking to take over OxfordBank. He said, Theyre all private investor sources.

Our Number One goal with an investor isto find somebody that will keep the name up,keep it an independent community bank,

Bess said. That doesnt mean that it will(happen). We can still get bought by Mr. Big.Mr. Big cannibalizes. If it gets sold to aComerica or Chase, you know what they do

they cannibalize banks.Bess views selling out to a larger financial

institution as Plan Z.If it had to come to that, that would be

our last resort, he said.Those who visit or do business with Ox-

ford Bank on a regular basis have probablynoticed a lot of missing faces since Bess cameto town last year.

Since June 2009, the bank has lost 33 employees due to staff reductions, retirementsand attrition.

When asked how this has affected moraleat the bank, Bess replied, I dont think its aquestion of morale.

Weve reduced the number of officersand staff to fit the banks asset size, he ex-

plained. This bank was a $550 million bank afew years ago. Its a $300 million bank today.You have to adjust. We think it fits.

Bess indicated he doesnt anticipate the bank making anymore layoffs this year.

As for next year, he said, If you can tell

me what the economys going to be next year,I can talk to you about that.

Will the bank be doing any hiring?It depends, if we have an opening, Bess

said. Were not expanding per se, but if wehave somebody who leaves for retirement or whatever reason or if we think we have aneed, we certainly have the flexibility to hireif we choose to. We dont have any specifichiring plans right now.

Bess plans to stay in Oxford till we getthe job done, which means raising capital

for the bank and returning it to profitabilityOr until the directors decide they don

want me anymore. I serve at the discretion othe board, he noted.

Looking to the future, Bess is optimistabout the banks prospects for recovery.

Its our full intention that were going be still standing when a lot of these othehave failed, he said. Time will tell. Its noan exact science and you cant make promises except that you work hard at it and yowork at it everyday.

Oxford Bank Presidentand CEO C. James Bess.


3/12


Andrew Huntof Edward Jo

20 Hudson St Oxford 248-969-1490

Specialists In

ESTATE PLANNINGFor Families

ATTORNEY & COUNSELORSMaxwellPhillip B.

ASSOCIATES, PLLC&

Come in ForYour

FREEESTATE

EVALUATIONCall For An

Appointment TodayPhillip Maxwell

Molly B. Maxwell

Smart investmenmoves for 2010Plan for

the end;dontavoid it

Andrew HunterFinancial Advisor826 S. Lapeer Rd., Suite AOxford, MI 48371(248) 628-3811

www.edwardjones.comMember SIPC

.

IS YOUR BROKER GIVING YOU

THE COLD SHOULDER? At Edward Jones, the level of service you receive depends onyour personal needs and preferences, not on the size of yourinvestment portfolio.

If youd like to experience exceptional personal service, con-sider Edward Jones. We offer solutions for all your financialneeds. Get to know us.

Call today to schedule a free portfoilio review.

As an investor, you might wondewhat the new year has in store for youWhile economic and market forces areas always, somewhat unpredictable, thoverall outlook is gener-ally favorable and bymaking the right moves,you can further improveyour chances of making2010 a good year for your portfolio.

And one of the bestmoves you can make isto stay invested. If youhad jumped out of themarket during the longdownturn from late 2007

through March 2009, you would havmissed quite a rally. In fact, the DowJones Industrial Average staged a considerable comeback from its March lowsclimbing 61.1 percent in 2009. The S &P 500 rose 66.7 percent off of its low.

Still, its unlikely that well experiencreturns in this neighborhood for 2010. Although we may see reasonably strongrowth in corporate earnings a kedriver of stock prices stocks are nlonger as undervalued as they were whethe rally began.

However, although we still face somsignificant issues, such as high unemployment and tight credit, most experts predict that the economic recovery will continue in 2010, though not at a sizzling paceAnd a growing economy is usually goonews for investors.

Of course, despite the potentially favorable investment environment, therealways the possibility of bumps in throad. To protect yourself, consider taking these steps:

I Stick with buy and hold. Despitsome claims that buy-and-hold is nlonger a viable investment strategy givetodays volatile markets, it worked prettwell for those investors who were patient enough to ride out the bear markeContinue looking for quality investmentand holding them until they no longe

meet your needs or until the fundamentals of the investments themselvechange.

I Own some short-term investmentDuring the long bear market, short-terminvestments, particularly cash, held u

better than most other assets. Yet maninvestors had too little cash in their portfolios. Dont make that mistake. Kee

Please See EDWARD JONES on Page 11

Death and incapacity are natural part of life - but for most of us, talking about it isnt.

Many people avoid talk-ing about end of life be-cause of their fear of theunknown.

Facing our fears is thefirst step towards planningfor the future so that youmay live your life to the full-est and according to your wishes.

Documents, which can be drafted and executed to

direct future medical and financial decisionsand authority now to live your life accordingto your wishes, keep control out of the courtsystem include:

I Durable Power of AttorneyI Creation of Joint Ten-

anciesI The Living TrustI Pre-Need Nomination

of Guardian and Conserva-tor

I Living Will/HealthCare Power of Attorney

An hour of time spentplanning and putting theappropriate directions inplace can save the emotional toll, not to men-tion time and financial demands, which maybe placed on your family.

Begin the conversation; this uncomfort-able act can be the very thing to bring youthe most comfort in the future.

Molly Maxwell-Powell, Esq.Phillip B. Maxwell & Associates PLLC

248-969-149020 Hudson Street , Oxford

TheBLUE

BUTTONon our websitelinks YOU to allof our PICTURES

Go To oxfordleader.com


4/12

Sit DownDining

American Legion Post 108130 E. Drahner Rd.

Oxford, 248-628-9081Big Boy - Oxford955 S. Lapeer Rd.,

Oxford, 248-628-3841Honey Tree Grille & Coney

978 N. Lapeer Rd.,Oxford, 248-236-4161Kens Coney Island212 S. Washington St.Oxford, 248-969-3665

Lakeville Inn1318 Rochester Rd.

Lakeville, 248-628-4460Louies Food & Spirit

600 Lakeville Rd.,Lakeville, 248-628-2440

(The) Nugget1055 S. Lapeer Rd

Oxford, 248-628-2503Ox Bar and Grill

22 S. Washington St.248-628-1400

Oxford Hills Golf Club(Seasonal)

300 E. Drahner Rd.Oxford, 248-628-2518

Oxford Tap5 S. Washington St.

Oxford, 248-236-0380Red Knapps American Grill

2 N. Washington St.,Oxford, 248-628-120024th Street Tavern13 S. Washington St

Oxford, 248-628-1217Tamis Grill

1386 S. Lapeer Rd.Oxford, 248-236-0900Victorias Delights12 S. Washington St.

Oxford, 248-969-3477Wiches

40 N. Washington St.Oxford, 248-572-4790

EthnicCasa Real (Mexican)

Out For LunchWTBs

Restaurant managers-- call us if you would like tohave a menu item featured!

248-628-4801

21 S. Washington St.,Oxford, 248-969-2801

Golden Dragon (Chinese)32 S. Washington St.,

Oxford, 248-628-9800Italia Gardens (Italian)

1076 S. Lapeer Rd.,Oxford, 248-628-4112Thai Cuisine (Thai)180 S. Washington St.Oxford, 248-236-9205

Coney JointCountry Coney

1040 S. Lapeer Rd.,Oxford, 248-628-7712

Honey Tree Grille & Coney978 N. Lapeer Rd.

248-236-4161

Pizza PlaceCottage Inn Pizza51 S. Washington St.

Oxford, 248-628-9500Guidos Premium Pizza


Isolas Pizzeria & Restaurant80 N. Rochester Rd.

Addison Twp., 586-752-3585Jets Pizza

204 S. Washington St.Oxford, 248-969-5387Little Caesars Pizza

89 W. Burdick St.,Oxford, 248-628-6302

Fast FoodBurger King

583 S. Lapeer Rd.Oxford, 248-628-3636

Dairy QueenOxford, 248-628-3690

McDonalds280 N. Washington St.Oxford, 248-628-2780Subway Sandwiches

95 W. Burdick St.Oxford, 248-969-6920

Uncle Boombas Mr. Pita/Dairy Queen


GoodEats


Mary Forte

Warmer weather is coming; break out the salads!When making a salad, it is impor-

tant to know what you will be servingwith the meal.

The heartier the maincourse the lighter the saladshould be.

Mixed greens with a lightvinaigrette dressing would

be well suited to a heavymeal such as pasta and meat-

balls.However, a cool creamy

coleslaw would go well withspicy barbecued ribs or chicken.

On a hot summer night, a meal of two or three different salads can beserved as the whole meal. The taste

of the salad you make will vary depending onthe types of salad greens you use.

Some greens are very mild, others such asarugula, have a peppery taste.

For a tossed salad, experiment withthe right mix of greens until you havethe perfect combination for your family.

A main course salad might have atits base cooked chicken, beef, tuna,

pasta or rice.These salads usually require a

dressing which is more flavorful andfull bodied.

Make sure when you are making asalad that you wash the greens well.

Washing them the night before and lettingthem crisp up in the refrigerator will be wellworth your time.

A salad spinner is a good thing tohave. In the end, you want to end upwith greens that hold the dressing well.

Salad making is easier with thesekitchen tools;

Lemon Juicer Pepper Mill Egg SlicerCutting Board

Garlic Press Kitchen Scissors Grater Mortar with Pestle Tomato Corer

Salad Spinner Wire Wisk When adding ingredients to salads

such as pasta or potatoes, you may needto double the amount of dressing.

Wash greens, wrap in paper towels,and store in a plastic bag in the refrigera-tor.

Mary Forte is an Oxford Village Resi-dent.

Breakfast, outdoor seating coming

to 24th Street Sports TavernDowntown Oxfords 24th StreetSports Tavern its just like Cheers,

but in Oxford.

Over the next few months, some bigchanges are on the horizon for the 24thStreet Sports Tavern, located at 13 S.Washington St. in downtown Oxford.

It all starts in April, when the tavernwill open a 40-seat patio area completewith brand new furniture and two plasmascreen televisions.

I think people know, when I dosomething, I do it right, said owner Viktor Paljusaj. Its going to look re-ally nice out there.

Then on May 1, two things arescheduled to happen.

The first is Michigans smoking banin bars and restaurants throughout the

state.I cant wait, Viktor said. I think its going to bring in more people, morefamilies who before wouldnt think about coming to a bar because of thesmoke. Its going to take the bar busi-ness to the next level.

The second big change is the 24thStreet is going to start serving break-fast.

You dont hear of too many tavernsthat serve breakfast, Viktor said.

The plan is to serve breakfast begin-ning at 8 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Theres a lot of retirees around thearea looking for some place to come,chat and hang out in the morning, Viktor said.

On Saturdays and Sundays, the 24thStreet will serve a breakfast buffet complete with a cook preparing made-to-order omelets right in front of custom-ers. It will be like going into a resort,Viktor said.

One thing that wont change are the 24thStreets fantastic hamburgers, which Viktor

believes amount to about 50 percent of hisfood sales.

I can guarantee you the best burger intown. I said that from the get-go, he said.

The entire menu is a hit as far as Viktor andhis customers are concerned.

Everything is prepared fresh and is topquality, he said.

The 24th Street boasts quite a diverse

menu with its chicken parmesan, penne pastadishes, coney dogs and ever-changing se-lection of soups made daily.

Its the first time in 12 years (in the res-taurant business) that I have a menu whereeverything sells, Viktor said.

Those looking to save a buck or twwill be pleased to know the 24th Street ofers daily drink and food specials.

For instance, on Mondays, everythion the menu is $5 with a beverage puchase. Tuesdays after 6 p.m. are CrazConey nights featuring 50-cent conedogs.

If you can get a couple in here, eatinand drinking, for less than $20, youre ding something right, Viktor said.

The 24th Street Sports Tavern is opMonday through Saturday from 11 a.muntil 2 a.m. and on Sundays from 12 nooto 9 p.m.

For more information, call (248) 621217.


5/12

By C.J. CarnacchioBiz Editor

While most people were celebrating St.Patricks Day by using their livers as storagetanks for green beer, Oxford mortician KevinLynch was busy getting a shave and a hair-cut for a lot more than two bits.

Lynch, whose family owns and operatesLynch & Sons Funeral Directors BossardetChapel at 39 W. Burdick St., made his entirehead a hair-free zone in order to raise $1,655for the St. Baldricks Foundation, which fundschildhood cancer research.

The shaving was done publicly at theUptown Grille in Commerce Township.

Its weird seeing my face, he said. Itsmy face and Ive grown up with it, but I look a lot different to myself.

For the better part of five years, Lynchhad sported the type of beard Grizzly Adamswould have been proud to have.

Now that its gone, Lynch is amazed byhow much time hes saving because he nolonger has to clean his chin whiskers after eating and drinking.

It was almost like a monkey groominghimself, he said.

Last month, Lynch decided to collect do-nations for the St. Baldricks Foundation andget everything above his neck shaved.

It gives kids with cancer and their fami-lies hope and it honors the kids who havedied, Lynch said.

Every year since 2000, St. Baldricks vol-unteers shave their heads in solidarity withkids fighting cancer and solicit donations for the foundation. Over the last 10 years, morethan 106,000 volunteers have shaved their heads at events in all 50 states and in 24 coun-tries, raising more than $68 million.

Lynch was grateful for all the support anddonations he received.

It was helpful to me, but more importantly,it was for a great cause, he said. I reallyappreciate The Oxford Leader putting thestory in (Feb. 24) and helping to raise somemoney.

But Lynch wasnt the only member of hisfamily who went bald. At the last minute, hisfather and brother, Tim Lynch Sr. and Jr., de-cided to collect donations while at the res-taurant and place their melons under the clip-

pers. This pushed Lynchs total to more than$2,000.

Lynch goes baldfor a good cause

Oxford mortician Kevin Lynch went from Grizzly Adams (left) to Kojak to raise moneyfor cancer research. Photos by C.J. Carnacchio.

Like Lynch did, his dad got his headshaved along with his beard and mustache.

Lynch noted it was the first time hed seenhis father without a mustache since he was 7years old.

It was pretty shocking, he said.About a week prior to the event, Lynchs

brother-in-law, Mark, also had to shave hishead due to a mishap.

Were all bald at this point, he said.

So what does Lynchs wife think of hnew look?

I think she likes it , he said. Shes beinsupportive. If she doesnt like it, shes at lea

putting up a good front for me.His mother, who never liked the beard,

definitely thrilled. My mom is loving seeinmy face, Lynch said.

If his hair grows back, Lynch, whos going bald, said he might do it again next yea

By Andrew Moser Leader Biz Writer

The hardware store that was previouslyoccupied by Groves True Value has reopenedunder new management and with a new name.

Oxford Hardware, which is owned by pre-vious Groves General Manager Chris Bishop,opened Oxford Hardware, located at 190 S.Washington St., in late January.

Its not much different than what waspreviously done before, other than a newlook, fresh faces and fresh products, Bishopsaid.

It wasnt easy for Bishop because noth-ing was left in the building after Groves hadit going out of business sale in September.

There was nothing left to buy when Iopened, said Bishop. Before I reopened,we had to do some remodeling; we put in allnew products, all new shelving and all newcomputer systems, he added.

Bishop is seeing all his hard work pay off a month and a half later.

Business has been good and we havebeen seeing business improve ever since weopened, he said. The nice weather hasbeen a big bonus for our sales.

Oxford Hardware offers a wide variety of repair work and parts for equipment.

We do power equipment repair, screenrepair, storm window repair, as well as offer

power equipment parts, chainsaw chainsharpening, mower and blade sharpening anda full line of Valspar and Dutch Boy paint,Bishop said.

He indicated that a shipment of patio fur-niture was going to be coming in by the endof next week and that they would be offeringa full line of lawn and garden equipment.

We also carry a full line of softener saltand outdoor bagged goods, from potting soil,top soil, mulches and things like that, headded.

Bishop also indicated that they will beexpanding into rental services when it wasthe appropriate time and financial situation.The only thing that Oxford Hardware is notdoing at this time is flowers.

Currently the store has 15 employees,some of which previously worked for Groveswhile Bishop hired the others. He said thatin the middle of April he would be expandinghis staff to accommodate the increase in sales.

Were community based as a lot of

people who work here also live in Oxford,he said.

A grand opening celebration is being planned for the last weekend in April. Weare still putting the event together, but therewill be sales, giveaways and free hot dogsand pop as well as other specials, Bishop

Theres a new hardware in town

said.Oxford Hardware is open Monday throug

Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday froma.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to

p.m.For more information, contact Oxfo

Hardware at (248) 628-9335.

Meet Chris Bishop (right), owner of the new Oxford Hardware store.


6/12


Future business leaders heading to intl. competitionBy C.J. CarnacchioBiz Editor

Oxford High Schools DECA Club onceagain did the community proud by doing ex-tremely well in the state competition heldMarch 12-14 in Dearborn.

Of the 32 DECA students who representedOxford, 20 qualified to compete at the Inter-national Career Development ConferenceApril 24-27 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Thats pretty good, said DECA advisor Steve Ruch. Weve got over 50 percent go-ing. I was real pleased with how those kids

performed. Even the kids that didnt make it,they did very well and got a lot of positivefeedback from the judges. All the kids per-formed well.

All of the projects required a 30-page writ-ten entry and 15-minute oral presentation

before DECA judges.DECA is an international association of

high school and college students studyingmarketing, management and entrepreneurshipin business, finance, hospitality and market-ing sales and service.

Next months international conference isthe highlight of the DECA year for the ap-

proximately 15,000 members, advisors, businesspersons and alumni who attend.Most of the participants will be competitorsin one of the events.

I have more underclassmen than seniorsgoing, which is a little abnormal for us. But ImOxford High School DECA students are heading to Louisvil le, Kentucky next month.

real excited about seeing how they do, Rucsaid. The kids and I are going to be workin

over the next few weeks to make some improvments do some things that the judges sugested. Im looking forward to it.

The following students are heading to tinternational conference:

I Danielle Bauman, Emily Holland aMegan Tilley did a public relations proje

promoting the advantages of going greento OHS students and the Oxford communit

I Leah Paul, Brittney Resk and Cody Ru promoted financial literacy to high school anmiddle school students by teaching lessoabout the importance of maintaining gocredit, creating and following a budget, aninvestment strategies.

I Sarah Ricketts and Sara Ruch promotthe concept of entrepreneurship to both OHstudents and fifth-graders at Oxford Elemetary.

I Samantha Connelly and Allison Laidlaformulated a business plan for a water ssummer camp for children.

I Kevin Cramer and Zach Miller; Eliz beth Downs, Alex Labarge and Olivia JonePaul Elezaj, Gabe Grifka and Chris LanctoLindsay Stairs and Joshua Taraski Studenon these four teams worked with BouldPointe Golf Club, Oxford Township Parks anRecreation, Ox Bar and Grill and the OxfoBig Boy to develop a strategic plan to im

prove employee training.

If you have not been to Cass River Bulk Foods at 4053 S. Lapeer Rd. (M-24) just south of Dryden Rd., Metamora,MI, you are missing a unique experience.

As the name implies, it is an Amish-style bulk food store with a focus onMichigan Made products.

Youll find a nice selection of spices,a wide variety of flours and grains as wellas Pinconning cheese and Frankenmuth

coffee.Some of the Amish products to findare homemade noodles and granola,

Cass River Bulk Food

focuses on productsmade in Michiganhandmade soaps and baskets and delcious baked goods.

Cass River Bulk Foods has expandetheir product line to include organic andgluten-free products.

And as soon as the season starts, loofor Amish grown produce, Michigan as

paragus, strawberries, blueberries ancherries.

So come in and see Randy at Ca

River Bulk Foods, find some fresamples, chew the fat and make a newfriend.

4053 S. Lapeer Rd. MetamoraApprox 1/4 Mile S. of Dryden Road 810-678-2740

Cass River Bulk Foods Fresh Baked Goods Baskets Furniture Granola Honey Quilts Soap Jams/Jellies

Frankenmuth Coffee Pinconning Cheese Sugar / Flour / Grains Jerky / Sausage Soup Mixes / Dips Baking Supplies Organic Grain & Flours

Make Your OwnLAUNDRY SOAP

ALoad2

EBT Accepted

Coming SoonFresh Michigan

ASPARAGUS

The BLUEBUTTON

on our website links YOUto all of our PICTURES Go To oxfordleader.com


7/12


For many people, painful and stiff jointsand muscles are a part of their daily routine.Often, the solution involves scheduling sev-eral physical therapy appointments, co-pay-ments and treatment that is difficult to carryover at home.

Now, thanks to Total Motion Release(TMR), there is a fast-acting, movement-

based system that patients can learn on their own to ease their aching backs and stiff shoul-ders.

Dan Garr, MPT and co-owner of HealthQuest Physical Therapy and WellnessCenter in Oxford, MI has been applying TMR to most of his patients for the past two years.

TMR was founded by Tom Dalonzo-Baker in Raleigh, NC and is growing in popularityas more physical therapists are becomingtrained. Total Motion Release is a simpler and less painful approach to healing, ex-

plains Dalonzo-Baker. We use the good ar-eas of the body to fix the bad or injured areasof the body. These good areas are typicallyfound on the opposite side of the injury.

Many of Garrs patients are skeptical at

first, but often times the results speak fthemselves. Many patients see and feel rsults the same day and can learn to keep themselves feeling better with some very simpmovements.

Many of Garrs patients have had physcal therapy for the same issue in the past, buhave never experienced this new treatmeapproach. The odd thing is that the movments are done on the opposite side of thinjured area.

The most important aspect in the TMsystem is that the entire process can be eaily taught to patients, which allows them

become their own therapist.Garr has completed all three levels of TM

training and is the only TMR Level 1 instrutor in Michigan.

TMR has completely changed my a proach to patient care.

For more information or to schedulefree consultation, contact Dan Garr at:

HealthQuest Physical Therapy anWellness Center, 53 S. Washington Stree248-236-0035; [email protected]

Total Motion Release

A new way to heal

Oxford resident Lori A. Blaker, Presidentand CEO of TTi Global in Rochester Hills,

Michigan, a growing global business solu-tions and technical training, outsourcing andconsulting company that is seeing increas-ing demand for its services worldwide, wasnamed among the 2010 Enterprising Womenof the Year by Enterprising Women maga-zine.

The award, in its eighth year, recognizes North Americas top women entrepreneurs.Blaker will be honored, along with other win-ners, at a tribute March 17-19 in Miami.

Enterprising Women is the nations onlywoman-owned magazine for women businessowners that chronicles the growing political,economic and social influence and power of entrepreneurial women.

It provides a forum and stage for the criti-cal issues that are confronting womens busi-nesses and lives from the unique perspec-tives and experiences of entrepreneurialwomen.

The Enterprising Women of the Year Award is one of the most prestigious recog-nition programs in the world for women en-trepreneurs, said Monica Smiley, publisher and CEO of Enterprising Women. In light of the challenging economy, this years honor-

ees have overcome many obstacles to growtheir businesses, give back to others and re-

ally shine as leaders in their communities.Blaker was one of nine women receiving

the award for companies with over $25 mil-lion in annual revenue.

Under Blakers leadership, TTi has growninto a worldwide business consultancy andsolutions provider, offering client-tailored

programs in outsourcing, competence andworkforce development, specialist staffingand recruitment and instructor and web-

based training.The company has 1,200 employees at its

headquarters in Rochester Hills, Michiganand in offices in Brazil, Canada, Chile, China,India, Japan, Mexico, Thailand, United ArabEmeritus (UAE), UK and Venezuela. Blaker also spearheaded a successful workforce de-velopment program, in concert with severalautomotive OEMs, to train underprivilegedyouths in Mexico in auto industry careers.

I am honored and humbled to be recog-nized for this prestigious award, Blaker said.However this is actually a worldwide teameffort by everyone in the global TTi family.Id like to pass this recognition to them for their hard work alongside me.

TTi was founded in 1976 by Blakers fa-

ther as an automotive training manual com pany.

Today the company serves the worldwidtraining needs of everyone from giants in thautomotive industry to sectors includintelecom, banking, hospitality, business sevices and consumer goods.

Customers include Ford Motor CompanToyota, Honda, Mazda, Chrysler, VW

Navistar, Unibanco and Oi Telecommunications. For more information go to www.ttglobal.com.

TTi has been repeatedly ranked as one oMichigans fastest growing privately-hecompanies and ranks among the Top 2Woman-Run Businesses in the USA as recognized by the Womens Business Enterpris

National Council (2008 and 2009).The company was also listed by Cor

magazine as a Michigan Economic BrighSpot (2008) and listed by Crains Detroit Busness as one of metro Detroits Fastest-Growing Companies (2009).

Blaker is the first woman chair of the Ntional Automobile Technician EducatioFoundation (NATEF) and was recognized aan Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernest Young (2008)

Magazine honors Oxford entrepreneur

Oxford 53 S. Washington St. 248-236-0035

If youve tried physical therapy in the past without lasting results,TOTTOTTOTTOTTOT AL MOTION RELEASE AL MOTION RELEASE AL MOTION RELEASE AL MOTION RELEASE AL MOTION RELEASE(TMR)(TMR)(TMR)(TMR)(TMR) might be right for you.

TMR TMR TMR TMR TMR helps balance the body to reduce or eliminate painand stiffness. The ArArArArAr m Raisem Raisem Raisem Raisem Raiseexercise (shown here) is anexcellent way to help reducelower back pain and stiffness.

Call For A FREE CONSULTATION Today!TMR is easy and can help to reduce pain in minutes!

Lori A. Blaker


8/12


HEALTHY SMILE CENTERPersonalized Gentle Care

For The Entire Family

248-969-4840MarthaVega-Crist,DDS

New Modern Office WithState-of-the-Art Equipment

9 N. Washington(M-24 - Lapeer Rd.) Oxford

For All Your Family Pharmacy NPatterson

Prescription Pharmacy

Tim Davidson, R.Ph.

1 S. Washington St. Oxford248-628-2538 Fax 248-628-0721

Immediate CoverageFriendly, Personalized Service

1097 South Lapeer Road Oxford248-628-2565 www.dkpins.com

General InsuranceInsurance Protection for your

BUSINESS HOME AUTO

Serving TheOrion/Oxford

AreaFor 56 Years

www.hastingsmutual.com

Creative Embroidery Computerized Embroidery & Monogramming

Custom Designs, Personalized GiftsBusiness, School & Team Logos Varsity Jackets

10 E. Burdick St. Oxford248-628-9531

Ella

Fashionpresentspictures

of summerA bright sunny day can transform ev-

erything.The colors get stronger and the gar-

den view translates into a picture.Invite the colors of summer into your

house and into your wardrobe.Fashion follows the same scenario,

welcoming summer with the same vi- brancy mixing flowers and colors intothe collections.

If you like what the ladies on the leftand right are wearing, then visit Ella Fash-ion (7 N. Washington St.) in downtownOxford.

Oxford

man joinsfinancialfirm

Douglas Dawe, a resident of Oxford,was recently selected to join MichiganFinancial Companies as a financial repre-sentative.

Based in Southfield, Michigan Finan-cial Companies is a local financial servicesfirm and member of John Hancock Finan-cial Network (JHFN), a national networkof independent career firms.

Dawe is dedicated to helping his cli-ents achieve their personal financial goals.Doug received his Bachelor of ScienceDegree in Political Science in 1993 fromColorado College in Colorado Springs,Colorado.

He also received his Masters of Land-scape degree in Architecture/ Planningfrom University of Michigan.

Dawe is looking forward to assistingfamilies and business owners in the MetroDetroit area with their financial needs andgoals.

We are excited to have such a tal-ented professional join Michigan Finan-cial Companies. We pride ourselves onthe high caliber of our associates and are

pleased to welcome Doug Dawe to our

team, said Nick J. Valenti, Managing Part-ner of Michigan Financial Companies.

7 N. Washington Oxford 248-969-7777

24 S. Washington Downtown Oxford248-236-8386

ELLA FASHION

Accessories Clothing Jewelry Shoes

Divas Dont Shop At The Mall -

Has It All!

The Latest In Fashion & Unique Gifts

Make Beautiful Jewelry!!

25% Off SPRING SPECIALS

Call For Class Schedule & Details

April Special

1 FREE CLASSTo make this beautiful

CRYSTAL DOMED RING


9/12


436 S. Broadway (M-24) , Suite C Lake Orion

Licensed Broker Chairperson of County Bar R.E. CommMember American & State Bar R.E. Sections

James R. Porritt, Jr.

248-693-6245

30 Years Real Estate ExperienceATTORNEY

For Sale By Owner

TRANSACTION Advice, preparation of Purchase Agreement,Mandatory Disclosures & related documents.

Coordination of financing, inspections, surveys,appraisals, title work & closing

Cash To New Mortgage Transaction 1/2of 1%Seller Financed Sales 1%

SIMPLE WILLS F r e e I n i t i a l C o n s u l t a t i o n

Self directed disposition of assets Your choice of administrator Your choice of Guardian for minors Your choice of Trust for minors to be set up after your passing.Avoiding Probatedoes not justify the cost or inconvenience of setting up a Living Trust and maintaining it for therest of your li fe.Michigans unsupervised probate procedure is inexpensive,uses preprinted forms, avoids formalaccountings, court appearances, or approval of asset disposition.

Short SalesProcedures & Negotiations

If You Must Sell Your HomeAnd Cannot Without A

Reduction In Your MortgageBalance, Call For An

Appointment.(Land contracts, private mortgages, lease with option)

Attorney JamesR. Porritt, Jr.

The maker of a living trust favoredsome friends and family over others inthe ultimate distributionof her estate.

She also providedthat in the event theresiduary beneficiarieshad all died, that her estate would pass toher favorite well-rec-ognized charity.

When some of thefamily members chal-lenged the validity of the trust, the charitys attorney joined

in the dispute.

They claimed that if the residuary beneficiaries who all survived, wereshown to have been guilty of undue in-fluence, that they would be barred, butthe trust could still be valid and the char-ity would take all.

The trust was relatively small andcould not afford long term litigation.

The trustee settled and ended up paying the charity to get out of the liti-gation.

In cases where a challenge to atrust might be expected, makers of trusts should think twice about open-ing the door to contentious charities.

Think twice about opening

door to contentious charity

The Oxford Downtown DevelopmentAuthority (DDA) is excited to offer aseries of workshops guaranteed to edu-cate, evaluate and invigorate small busi-nesses.

Beginning with Building your busi-ness from the ground up to exploringfinancing and grant programs resources,this workshop series has all businessowners need.

We have heard our business own-ers in the DDA district and like every-one else, they need help staying com-petitive in this current economic stateand our workshop series is just the an-swer, said Madonna Van Fossen, ex-

ecutive director, Oxford DDA. Our workshop topics were strategically de-veloped to provide small business own-ers with the tools they need to succeed.If participants are not completely sat-isfied with the series, they will receivea full refund.

Business workshops offered by theOxford DDA are:

Building Strategic Alliances

(Wednesday, April 28) Cost: $25Presented by Sue Kinch, Fresh Eyes

Business Services, and Vicky Winkler,The Marketing Shop.

With over 50 years of successful busi-ness experience between them, these twowomen will teach you how to find your strategic business partners by industry, ex-

perience, location and target market.Learn how to save money and in-

crease your business exposure at thesame time.

Visualize and They WillCome (Wednesday, May 26) Cost:$20

Presented by Ron Campbell, Oakland

County Planning and DevelopmentLearn practical, real world tips thatentice customers into your business. De-velop creative and appealing alternativesthat say so long to boring, ho-hum dis-

plays.Physical improvements and exceptional

customer service will keep your audiencecoming back for more!

The TOOL KIT That Keeps on

Working (Wednesday, June 23) Cost:$20

Presented by Jim Filak, Fliak CPA, andLola Ar, Oakland County Business Cen-ter Services

Obtain tools every business owner SHOULD have from financing and grantinformation; business planning tools; mar-ket research; training; marketing materi-als and more.

All workshops will be held in the Ox-ford Public Library, located at 530 PontiacRd, Oxford, MI 48371 from 7:30 a.m. to10 a.m.

Breakfast and networking opportuni-ties will be provided and participants who

register early and pre-pay for the entireseries will receive a 10 percent discount.In addition, each one of these work-

shops comes with a Money Back Guar-antee!

At the end of this series, if you are notsatisfied with the information given, youwill receive a refund!

To register for this series, visitwww.downtownoxford.org , click on

DDA offers small biz workshopsLocal or call (248) 770-8587.

****About the Oxford Downtown De-

velopment AuthorityThe Oxford Downtown Develop

ment Authority (DDA) is dedicated tthe physical and economic development of the downtown Oxford arewhile continuing to preserve its historical heritage.

The welcoming pedestrian-friendldowntown offers visitors a uniqushopping experience with a variety ospecialty stores, galleries and eateies.

As an Accredited National Ma

Street Community, the Oxford DDA consists of nine board members and foucommittees.

The committees, Organization, DesignPromotions and Economic Restructurinare comprised of volunteers who help thDDA board make decisions about thdowntown.

For more information on the OxforDDA visit www.downtownoxford.org

TradeYourOld

CameraOxford Leader

248-628-4801oxfordleader.com

For CashIn The Classifieds


10/12


By C.J. CarnacchioBiz Editor

Jack Curtis believes, to paraphrase anold song, Oxford ought to be in pictures.

Thats why hes encouraging the ownersof homes, businesses and vacant land withinthe township and village to post digital pho-tos of their properties on a website offeringlocations for filming movies throughout thestate.

This could bring many people here toutilize the downtown services and get famil-

iar with Oxford as a town, said Curtis, a town-ship planning commissioner who sits on thenewly formed Economic Development Sub-committee.

Property owners who wish to participatecan post their photos at mi.reel-scout.com/loc_add.aspx .

Each listing is limited to 10 digital photosat a maximum of 2 megabytes per image.

The website is run by the Michigan FilmOffice (MFO), a Lansing-based organizationcreated in 1979 to assist and attract incomingproduction companies and to promote thegrowth of the states indigenous movie in-dustry. Learn more about the organization atwww.michiganfilmoffice.org .

There is no cost or commitment to listinga location with our office, wrote MFO repre-

sentative Michael Grabemeyer in an e-mail toCurtis. If a production decides to film at acertain location, we will put the productionin touch with the property owner.

From the horse farms and gravel pits tothe historic buildings and beautiful parks,Curtis believes Oxfords diversity makes ita perfect location for filming movies.

Right now, only four Oxford locations arelisted on the website. Curtis has convincedNorm Fredericks, owner of the 1,200-acre

Koenig Sand & Gravel operation alongLakeville Rd., to post photos of his property.

His venue offers it all the privacy of 1,200 acres, the diversity of the land, youvegot woods, moonscapes, lakes, Curtis said.Its just a super fit for filming or photogra-

phy. Plus, the security. Theres only two en-trances into the pit. It can be watched andregulated.

Bringing the film industry here is boundto help stimulate the local economy, in Curtisview.

When these film crews come out, theyneed catering, they need stuff from the localhardware stores, they need lunches, gaso-line, he said.

Ron Davis, director of the Oxford Town-ship Parks and Recreation Department, is plan-ning to post photos of Oakwood, Seymour Lake, Stony Lake and Powell Lake parks onwebsite.

He believes all of the parks have their own unique qualities that make them per-fect movie locations.

Any part of that Oakwood setting would be ideal, he said. Once you get out there,its like youre (up) north. You could do afrontier movie there easily.

The 300-acre park is mostly undevelopedand rich in trees, wildlife, trails, rivers and

lakes.Although its much more developed,

Seymour Lake Park offers a diverse settingfor filming with its splash pad, giant play-ground, athletic facilities and open spaces.

Overall, Davis said the website would bea great way for Oxford to showcase what afine community we have . . . and what wehave to offer.

If it can bring some business to our area,that would be great, he said.

Properties sought forpossible movie locations

With all its rocks and contours, the Koenig Sand & Gravel property along Lakeville Roadcould offer a moonscape type setting for a movie location. Photo by C.J. Carnacchio.

Would you battle traffic, drive to a malland pay $150 for a prom tuxedo if you couldget the exact same tuxedo in Oxford for $99?Anne Marie Roop, owner of Oakwood Wed-ding Chapel, located at 2750 N. Baldwin Road(just south of Oakwood) offers a full selec-tion of high-demand tuxedo styles by topdesigners: Jean Yves, Calvin Klein, RalphLauren and more. The $99 rental includes acomplete tuxedo; jacket, pants, shirt, vest,tie and shoes. They are the exact same tux-edos renting in the malls for $149 and up,says Roop.

Oakwood Wedding Chapel offers all-in-clusive services for weddings and proms.Two of our wedding partners are offering

prom specials to go along with our tuxedorentals, said Roop. Every Oakwood tux-edo customer will receive a coupon for 5%

off professional senior portraits by Sugar Visions Photography. Our Limousine company is offering free soft drinks, snacks, water and ice, plus a 7th hour free with every sixhour limousine rental on a first-come, first-serve basis while availability lasts.

Tuxedo measurements, pickups and dropoffs are all conveniently handled at the Ox-ford or Lake Orion location. We can gettuxedos in three days and allow our custom-ers two days from the date of the event toreturn, said Roop. Call today (248)-431-

7556 to select your prom tuxedo.The historic Oakwood Wedding Chap

also has a new place to party! Were booking graduation open houses and summwedding receptions now, says Roop. Thnew reception room has warm metallic golshimmering walls and can be set with rounor banquet tables. Our remodeled bathroomhave slate floors and marble countertopsThe historic building is nestled on four roling acres with multiple photo sites, separadressing areas for the brides and groomoversized stained glass windows, candlelighoptions, a warm wood ceiling and seating fo180 guests. We offer custom invitations foweddings, graduations and special evenand have the capability to discreetly videowedding with built in cameras handled frothe front and back of the chapel. We c

even provide a minister to officiate the wedding without requiring multiple pre-maritcounseling sessions, said Roop. Combinour in-house services with those of our strtegic business partners and the OakwooWedding Chapel truly makes it easy and affordable for brides, graduates and anyonelse ready to celebrate.

Call (248) 431-7556, viwww.OakwoodWeddingChapel.com or [email protected]

prom, graduation party or wedding details

Oakwood Wedding Chapel offertuxedoes, reception room

2750 N Baldwin Road (just south of Oakwood) Oxford, MI 48371(248) 431-7556 www.OakwoodWeddingChapel.com

Oakwood Wedding Chapand FORMAL WEAR

Win AFREE Tuxedo

For Your PromCall For MoreInformation

Tuxedo Rental

$99Complete Rental:

Jacket, Pants, Vest,Shirt, Tie & Shoes

Choose from Top DesignersMeasurements, Pick Ups and

Drop Offs ConvenientlyLocated in Oxford

Weddings Receptions Tuxedos Invitations

Graduation Parties Showers Birthday Parties

Going ToThe Prom?

Why drive to the mall andpay $140 or more?Get the exact

same tuxedos inOxford for $99


11/12


Carolyn Chevrier ispresident of LakesCommunity CreditUnion.

4Mark YMark YMark YMark YMark Y ourourourourour

CalendarsCalendarsCalendarsCalendarsCalendars3 Great Special Sections

That Will Be Sure To Increase Your Business

4

Call Your Ad Representative TodayFor More Details

4

4

Spring SectionApril 14

The Lake Orion Review & Oxford Leader

Lake OrionBusiness Expo

April 28The Lake Orion Review & Oxford Leader

248-628-4801

Flower FairMay

The Lake Orion Review & Oxford Leader

www.LakesCommunityCU.org

350 N. Park Blvd. (Lapeer Rd.) Lake Orion

248-814-4000*Restrictions apply,stop in or call for more details.

Check Out Our

Home Equity Loans

Rates as low as4.25% APR *

Ready To Do SomeHome Improvement?

Ready To Do Some

Home Improvement?


Ready To Do Some

Home Improvement?

Ready To Do Some

Home Improvement?


Ready To Do Some

Home Improvement?

Ready To Do Some

Home Improvement?


The signs of spring are showing up ev-erywhere tulips and daffodils starting togrow, buds opening up on the trees, raccoons

trying to open up garbage cans waiting alongthe road for pick-up and the wonderfulsense of warmer weather.

Many people asso-ciate this time withspring cleaning atime to brighten thingsup and get the houseorganized for the year.Does this sound likeyou?

With spring clean-ing in the air, its alsoa time when you startto realize I couldsure use some morestorage space for myorganization project.Maybe some newshelving, or maybe its time to finally refinishyour basement to help you meet your needs.

You could be thinking that you are out-growing your house, but are concerned thatyou wont be able to get the selling price youwould like since housing prices have low-ered over the past several years. As an alter-native, maybe adding a family room, or a newbedroom might help ease up the sense of being crowded out in your own home.

All of this sounds nice, but where do youget the funds? If you are like the majority of home owners, you dont have a stash of sav-ings put away to cover these home improve-ments. But all hope is not lost - it could be agreat time to consider taking out a home eq-uity loan!

If you have built up some equity in your home over the time you have owned it, youmight qualify to take out a home equity loanand be able to make those changes youvebeen dreaming about! Home equity loanstend to have interest rates that are much lower than credit cards, and you may be able todeduct the interest you pay on your loandirectly on your income tax returns, easingup part of your tax liabilities!

You may hear many financial institutionsarent giving out loans, especially anythingto do with home improvements but, we are!Lakes Community Credit Union has money

to loan and have been actively helping thosethat qualify to get a home equity loan, a newcar, or a recreational vehicle to have fun with!

Anyone that lives, works or worships inOakland County can join our Credit Union.We are your community credit union, andyour savings are federally insured throughthe National Credit Union Association. Callus or make an appointment to speak with aloan officer and see if we can help you achieveyour dreams!

Spring is in the air Edward JonesContinued from Page 3

an appropriate amount of cash for youage, income level, risk tolerance and longterm goals.

I Consider adding fixed-income investments. By owning some fixed-income vehicles, such as bonds, you cahelp reduce the effects of volatility oyour portfolio. And if you hold your bonduntil maturity, which is often a wise moveyou can rely on them for a source osteady income. As always, make suryou understand the risks before investing.

I Watch for changes in investmetaxes. In the coming year, the tax ratmay increase for long-term capital gainand stock dividends. If that happens, yomay need to review your investment mix

However, even if the long-term capitagains rate rises, youll still likely be better off holding quality investments fomany years, thereby giving them the timto potentially overcome short-term pricvolatility. And even if taxes rise on dividends, dividend-paying stocks, with theiability to provide both income and growth

potential, can be a valuable part of you portfolio. (Keep in mind, though, that companies may reduce or eliminate dividendat any time.)

No one can say for sure what 201will bring to the investment world. Bu

by preparing your investment strategy foa range of possibilities, and by makinchanges as needed, you can make this year of progress toward your importanfinancial goals.

The Oxford Area Chamber of Com-merce is excited to announce that be-ginning in the May 2010 edition of Whats the Biz , it will feature a calendarof events and a Did You Know sec-tion featuring its many members.

Check back in May for upcomingevents and exciting news from the Ox-ford Area Chamber of Commerce.

And remember Buy Local, ShopChamber!

Chamber to join forces

with Biz section


12/12


W h e r e y o u c o m e f i r s t .

Happydrivers.3.99 %APR*aslowas

up to 72 months*Rate determined at time of application and based on individual credit experience. Must have Autopay and take Credit Life and Disability insurance to qualify for the lowest rate. Expires 4/30/2010.

Oxford Branch248-236-8135

22 Southeast Michigan locations,find more at www.genisyscu.org