February 2021 E-Newsletter |
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Upcoming Chamber Events
Please join us ...
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Thursday, February 4
8:30 - 10:00 am
Join us via Zoom
Healthcare Network Group Meeting
If your business is associated with the healthcare industry please join us as this group will share information & education, pass referrals and help promote the overall well-being of healthcare related businesses within our Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.
Part networking, part referrals, part education and open discussion forum about topics impacting you.
Currently hosted as virtual events, we will resume rotating to different group member locations each month when we are able.
Host: CNS Healthcare
Topic: Students in Crisis – Understanding & Preventing Stress, Anxiety, Depression & Suicide in Teens
Presenter: Sarah Scantamburlo, MSW, PA-C, Physician Assistant.
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Friday, February 5
8:30 - 9:30 am
Join us via Zoom
1st Friday virtual Coffee Connect
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Join us for this fast, fun, FREE morning mixer. It’s a great way to find out more about our host business and network with fellow Chamber members.
Kick off your Friday morning with your favorite beverage and snack ... We’ll go around and give everyone a chance to say “who you are and what you do” – you could make a new friend or customer before the week is out!
Topic: Marketing Your Business to Increase Revenue
Host / Presenter: Chad from Ever Studios, Owner & Consultant
Over the last two decades, Chad has worked with thousands of people to help grow and streamline their businesses. Join us as Chad highlights 5 major pillars to increasing your revenue and decreasing your costs.
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Tuesday, February 9
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Join us via Zoom
YPG Virtual Business n' Breweries
Our Young Professionals Group hosts this after-hours casual networking event via Zoom with a little help from our member breweries who will share their brewery expertise as we "educate" ourselves on their products.
We'll take some time to hear from each of our participants too. So, register today and join the fun!
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Wednesday, February 10
Noon - 1 pm
Sidecar Slider Bar
Lunch on the Lakes
Sponsored by LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Walled Lake
As part of our new "Love the Lakes" campaign, chamber members are invited to Lunch Local by picking up a free lunch* from one of three member restaurants during February, March or April. See the flyer later in this newsletter or download it / register using the links below.
*up to 25 members can participate per month and you can only participate once during the 3-month event.
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Monday, February 15
3:30 - 5:00 pm
Join us via Zoom
Multi-Chamber EOS® Working Group
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Join this forward-thinking group made up of Novi and Lakes Area Chambers members who meet monthly with professional EOS® Implementer™ Richard Price of 2Elate to share their EOS® knowledge and to learn more. It's open to current EOS® users and those interested in learning more about EOS®.
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Thursday, February 18
8:30 - 9:30 am
Join us via Zoom
3rd Thursday Virtual Coffee Connect
Join us virtually for this fast, fun, FREE morning mixer! Learn about the host business and perhaps meet your next customer before you even get to work ...
Topic: Leverage Your Technology to Save Money and Grow Your Business
Host: James Wardrop, Founder & CEO of CoffeeTree Group and Navy Veteran
We will discuss a variety of ways to help your business save money, leverage technology to grow your business and answer questions similar to those listed below. We look forward to listening to the challenges you are facing in the Technology space.
- Do you want to free up time for marketing and sales and allow CTG to manage your technology services?
- Due to COVID, many small and medium businesses are working remotely - are you safe from Cyber-criminal malware and phishing?
- Are you paying for servers on-site or leveraging more economical cloud-based solutions?
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Wednesday, February 24
10:00 - 11:00 am
Join us via Zoom
Ambassador Meeting
Chamber Ambassadors are making good things happen... they meet the last Wednesday of the month (virtually for now) to stay abreast of chamber activities and events, share new developments in their businesses, and take advantage of special opportunities like mentoring new members, celebrating member anniversaries or showering appreciation on "We Thank You Wednesday".
See more details about this group and register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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We remained mostly virtual during the month of January but have offered numerous opportunities to connect to network, educate and support one another both personally and professionally. |
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JANUARY 7 - HEALTHCARE NETWORK GROUP MEETING |
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Thanks to Nancy McDaniel of Formula For Fitness for your presentation at the FIRST Healthcare Network Group Meeting of the new year. We appreciate your fitness tips and extra bit of motivation as we get creative with our exercise routines. Nancy has four certifications: Personal Training, Specialist in fitness for Older Adults, Specialist in Nutrition Fitness, and Specialist in Exercise Therapy.
Thanks for reminding us that fitness is not just a number on a scale or a dress size, fitness means having the strength and energy to do all the activities you desire.
For more information about this Referral Group, reach out to our Membership Manager, Pam Coffey, at [email protected].
Thanks to Mark Einhaus with Media Hero for sharing these fun photos. |
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JANUARY 11 - COVID TOOLKIT DELIVERY
in Waterford. They're using the masks, gloves, sanitizer, etc. to keep their employees and their customers safe. With 30 years of experience in the HVAC services industry, they're committed to providing you quality products and service.
If you're in need of their services they can be reached at 248.673.0438.
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JANUARY 12 - YPG EDUCATIONAL BREAKFAST
Kudos and thanks to Nikki O'Donnell with Viewpoint Psychology & Wellness for presenting at our Young Professionals Group Educational Breakfast on January 12. Nikki shared "Life Hacks for Stress Relief" and reminded everyone of some simple ways to make sure you're taking care of yourself during these stressful times. Here's a sample of just a few things we discussed:
- Don't let in too much visual stimulus (might be as easy as looking at the lighting in your office to make your workspace more soothing)
- All the things you need when you leave the house now like gloves, masks, hand sanitizers, etc. can be left right in the car so it's there when you need it
- Less phone, less news, less "noise" can make a big difference
- Music can help to change your mindset
- Words of affirmation or meditation each day
- Imagery can be so helpful - where's your happy place? Thinking of a beach, the mountains, the woods, etc. can feel real and relaxing if you let yourself go there
- Get outside, work out, play with your kids or pets more and enjoy the benefits of having fun
Thanks to our 2021 YPG Sponsors:
Ever Studios and LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Walled Lake
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JANUARY 18 - MULTI-CHAMBER EOS MEETING
Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Novi Chamber of Commerce hosted our Multi-Chamber EOS Workshop in mid-January. Entrepreneurial Operating System® is a complete set of simple concepts and practical tools designed to help businesses achieve their goals. The facilitated workshop helps businesses brainstorm, share ideas and solve problems in a confidential atmosphere. We'll meet via Zoom next month on February 15th from 3:30-5:00 pm (see the calendar of events at top of newsletter). Join us and check it out ...
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JANUARY 21 - 3RD THURSDAY COFFEE CONNECT hosted by KATHE CAMERON, INDEPENDENT MARY KAY CONSULTANT |
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Kathe suggests putting your camera at eye level, checking your lighting before the meeting starts (ring lights are a great way to control the lighting), and it's always best to be present - don't simply use your picture during the meeting - it's nice for the speaker to be able to see your face.
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JANUARY 21 - OAKLAND CHAMBER NETWORK WEBINAR WITH SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION |
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The SBA Region V Administrator discussed PPP updates and loan forgiveness, Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), and new resources included in the recently passed $900 billion stimulus package.
We'll continue to make these events available to help you connect with the contacts and resources you need for your business.
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JANUARY 25 - EDUCATION EVENT - USING THE POWER OF YOUR MIND TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS presented by CHRISTINE ALLYSON of CHRISTAL CLEAR CONSULTING |
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Thanks to Christine Allyson of Christal Clear Consulting for her presentation today. We've all been overwhelemed with change this past year and Christine shared some ideas and thoughts on how to put your "whole mind" into navigating change successfully. From Vision Boards to Hypnotherapy, Christine offers tools to navigate successfully both in and out of change. |
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JANUARY 26 - BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
Our LACC Board of Directors met virtually in January. We are so fortunate to have their guidance, participation and commitment as we work together to support our member businesses and the communities we serve. Thanks for all you do!!
Matt Burns - Burns & Company LLC
Kyle Ingraham - Wellcare
Mark Steinberg - UBS Financial Services
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JANUARY 27 - AMBASSADOR MEETING |
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Our LACC Ambassadors have BIG plans for 2021!
Membership Manager, Pam Coffey and Ambassador Co-Chair Audrey Ryskamp met with this fabulous group today to get things rolling.
Shout out to the following folks for joining us virtually today. We appreciate all you do to support the chamber and reach out to our members!
Anthony Barnett - Lifemark Securities
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Mark Steinberg
UBS Financial Services
Farmington Hills MI 48334
248.932.8061
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Mark is a past President of the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and has been a member of the Chamber since 2003. Mark is a 20-year veteran of the financial services industry. Prior to his career in the financial services industry, Mark was a senior executive with a major Detroit-based company. After completing advanced study, he received the Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor designations.
Mark works on a seven-person Wealth Management Team at UBS Financial Services. His team’s core values are quality, integrity and teamwork. They utilize a holistic wealth management approach based on a financial planning process that focuses on client goals. They work with a variety of clients including small business owners, women going through transitions, and people planning or entering retirement.
Mark has an M.B.A. and B.A. from Michigan State University. Active in the community, he serves on the Boards of Huron Valley Sinai Hospital, Edgewood Country Club, and the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.
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Our Newest Chamber Members |
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LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
of Walled Lake
Audrey Ryskamp - 248.717.2807
Walled Lake 48390
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Absotemp Climate Control Inc.
Matt Dickow - 248.960.3100
Member Since 2017
Advance Plumbing Supply
of Walled Lake
Sam Genetti - 248.669.7474
Member Since 2015
Allstar Alarm
Kevin Popp - 248.943.9715
Member Since 2019
Andale Mexican Grill & Cantina
Tony Vitale - 248.363.9000
Member Since 2018
AT&T - Wixom
Chard Hartung - 248.434.3399
Member Since 2017
Benessere Wellness Center
Stacy Waack - 248.533.6070
Member Since 2019
Britt Perrotta Sommerfield Trust
Cara Gardner - 248.736.7799
Member Since 2016
City of Walled Lake
Linda Ackley - 248.624.4847
Member Since 1986
City of Wixom
Steve Brown - 248.624.0894
Member Since 1986
CoffeeTree Group
James Sibel - 248.526.3315
Member Since 2019
Comerica Bank - Commerce
Sandi Henwood - 248.360.2563
Member Since 1988
Costco Wholesale - Commerce
Robin Puckett - 248.529.2337
Member Since 2003
Cross Country Mortgage
Teri Ciucci - 248.568.6600
Member Since 2018
Edgewood Country Club
Brian Bach - 248.363.7112
Member Since 2004
Edible Arrangements
Ginger Page - 248.960.5200
Member Since 2007
Ever Studios
Chad Ever - 248.660.0508
Member Since 2019
Formula For Fitness
Nancy McDaniel - 248.787.2853
Member Since 2019
Genisys Credit Union - Commerce
Rachael Bates - 248.363.3539
Member Since 2009
Genisys Credit Union - Wixom
Jo-Anne Tite - 248.926.0648
Member Since 2014
GreatStaff Solutions LLC
Sandra Hall - 248.960.9995
Member Since 2019
Holiday Inn Express of Wixom
Patricia Vazquez - 248.735.2781
Member Since 2017
Law Office of Philip J. Weipert
Phil Weipert - 248.486.1100
Member Since 2018
Lepak-Krumm Family Dentistry
Lauryl Lepak-Krumm - 248.363.3228
Member Since 1991
Levin Insurance Agency
Shayna & Jeff Levin - 248.531.8300
Member Since 2017
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Lifemark Securities
Tony Barnett - 248.505.0976
Member Since 2006
Magnolia by the Lakes
Carol Payne - 248.681.8000
Member Since 2017
Mark Epps Financial Advisory Services
Cara Gardner - 248.203.5955
Member Since 2010
McCallum Group at Baird
Ryan McCallum - 248.723.7361
Member Since 2019
MERGE LIVE
Ken Milburn - 248.956.1287
Member Since 2013
Metro Drones
William Brooks - 248.325.5003
Member Since 2019
Monat Global
Lynn Lipman - 248.765.8941
Member Since 2018
Mulligan Heating
Bridget Kaspor - 248.698.9700
Member Since 2019
NLB Corporation
Jayne Davis - 248.624.5555
Member Since 1993
North Pointe Painting & Carpentry
Karen Safiedine - 248.366.9900
Member Since 2019
Penny Lake Marketplace
Mark Shammami - 248.624.5445
Member Since 2017
PH Homes, Inc -
Preserve at Hidden Lake in White Lake
Laura Kenny - 248.242.6838
Member Since 2020
Planet Fitness - Waterford
Mike Shipman - 248.599.9795
Member Since 2018
Redwood Commerce
Lexi Metcalf - 248.462.0330
Member Since 2013
Redwood Wolverine Lake
Cara Welch - 248.893.9280
Member Since 2017
Rolling Hills Retirement Community
Bang Lake - 531.207.5465
Member Since 2019
Sector 7 LLC
Brian Hernandez - 248.687.6809
Member Since 2016
Signarama Novi
Mike & Beth Powers - 248.924.3324
Member Since 2018
Skull Island Camp
Kathryn Chipman - 248.789.2223
Member Since 2017
The World of Travel
Sandie Slusher - 248.203.0022
Member Since 2020
Thin Blue Line USA
Linda Searles - 248.415.5537
Member Since 2020
Trail's Edge Cafe
Shelby Carolan - 248.756.4348
Member Since 2019
Trion Solutions, Inc.
Deneen Macedonia - 810.908.1420
Member Since 2019
University Lending Group
Bambi Chick - 248.933.9398
Member Since 2013
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January 22 MDHHS Public Health Order Announced
In effect from February 1st through February 21st
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Oakland County, it’s time to
“Save your Spot” in line
for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Help us understand your interest in a vaccine so we can organize the distribution of our supply. When you are eligible to set an appointment and vaccine doses are available, we will contact you by phone, text or email. Use the newly launched Save Your Spot link on our website, oaklandcountyvaccine.com to help us identify individuals who are eligible and interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. For anyone unable to complete the form, call our upgraded health hotline at 800-848-5533.
“We are asking the community to help us plan for administering future doses of vaccine we receive by completing this new form,” said County Executive David Coulter. “This will help us reach residents and workers who are eligible for vaccination when more doses become available. As we receive more vaccine, we will continue to administer them quickly and efficiently until everyone has the opportunity to receive the vaccine.”
The Health Division is currently vaccinating individuals in phases 1A and 1B of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) COVID-19 vaccination plan who work or live in Oakland County.
The Health Division is following MDHHS and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for prioritizing distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to individuals. According to MDHHS, those now eligible to receive the vaccine include:
· Healthcare workers
· Residents 65 years and older
· Frontline essential workers including police officers, first responders, frontline state and federal workers, jail, and prison staff; and preK-12 teachers and childcare providers (Phase 1B)
In addition to frontline essential workers, there are over 217,000 residents age 65 and older eligible to receive the vaccine in Oakland County. To receive updates on COVID-19 vaccine availability, register your email address at oaklandcountyvaccine.com or text OAKGOV to 28748. The Health Division phone lines are very busy and sometimes Nurse on Call receives over 20,000 calls per day. Oakland County appreciates the public’s patience. Nurse on Call is available at 800-848-5533 to answer health-related questions, make COVID-19 testing appointments, and assist those unable to complete the ‘Save Your Spot’ link.
Currently the COVID-19 vaccine is available through local health departments and local health systems. Residents are encouraged to check their health providers’ online medical chart or portal as all local health systems are going to start making appointments for their patients once they vaccinate their medical personnel.
Vaccine information can be found at:
More information about COVID-19 can be found on the Health Division’s website at www.oakgov.com/covid. For up-to-date public health information, follow @publichealthOC on Facebook and Twitter.
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Hungry?
Our local member restaurants need your support ...
pick up something yummy to go!
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MSGCU to Award $106,500
in Scholarships This Year
Over the course of many years, Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union (MSGCU) has helped hundreds of students and educators fund their higher education pursuits through its annual scholarship program. In fact, the Credit Union has awarded nearly $900,000 in scholarships to more than 425 students and educators since their founding.
“Education is an incredibly powerful tool,” says Pete Gates, MSGCU President/CEO. “We are pleased to help local students and educators take their next steps toward a more successful future.”
Offering more than $106,000 in awards this year, applications are now being accepted for the following scholarships at msgcuscholarships.org:
Educational Solutions Scholarship for high school seniors planning to attend a two- or four-year college or university. Eighteen $2,500 scholarships are offered.
Rudolph Heino High School Scholarship for high school seniors who embody the MSGCU philosophy of “people helping people.” Five $2,500 scholarships are offered.
Larry Swantek Educational Studies Scholarship for college students studying education or high school seniors with plans to study education in college. Four $2,500 scholarships are offered.
Milo Perreault Educator Advantage Scholarship for certified educators and administrators of early childhood, primary, secondary, and post-secondary schools who are continuing their education. Four $2,500 scholarships are offered.
William Cayen Skilled Trades Scholarship for students pursuing a skilled trades certificate in Macomb, Oakland or Wayne counties. Two $2,500 scholarships are offered.
Scholarship details and online applications can be found at msgcuscholarships.org. The application period runs through March 5, 2021.
In addition to these scholarships, MSGCU also offers annual scholarships to students in the police and fire academies at Macomb Community College, Oakland Community College, and Schoolcraft College. The Stephen Thomas First Responder Scholarship program awards $2,000 to twelve academy graduates annually. Information on these scholarships is available through the program directors of each academy.
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From the Lakes Area Community Coalition ...
If you are a parent, you'll want to keep Wednesdays at 6:30pm open to join us for "Wellness Wednesdays".
We've been hard at work developing these 30-minute live webinars featuring local experts that will help educate and strengthen you and your kids. We will also be launching a monthly "challenge" so stay tuned for links to access live and view later as well as details on presenters and topics.
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This virtual training is delivered over three, two-hour live training sessions. Harness the power of workplace conflict with Everything DiSC® Productive Conflict Workplace. Rather than focus on a step-by-step process for conflict resolution, Productive Conflict helps learners curb destructive behaviors so that conflict can become more productive, ultimately improving workplace results and relationships. Everything DiSC Productive Conflict helps learners increase self-awareness around conflict behaviors and discover how to effectively respond to the uncomfortable and unavoidable challenges of workplace conflict.
WITH PRODUCTIVE CONFLICT, PARTICIPANTS WILL:
- Take the Everything DiSC Productive Conflict assessment and receive a 23 page in-depth report
- Appreciate how their style of handling conflict affects the people around them
- Learn how to “catch” themselves when going down a destructive conflict path
- Discover how to reframe a conflict situation and choose more productive behaviors
- Build a common language in the organization around appropriate conflict behavior
Virtual Training Details:
Dates: This is a 3-part training
Session 1: February 5, 2021, 2:00pm - 4:00pm (EST)
Session 2: February 12, 2021, 2:00pm - 4:00pm (EST)
Session 3: February 19, 2021, 2:00pm - 4:00pm (EST)
Cost: $295.00 per person - Includes live virtual training, Productive Conflict DiSC assessment and report, digital training manual, and additional resources. These will be sent via email before the first session.
For Participation You Will Need:
- A computer, laptop, iPad, or smart phone with a working webcam
- Internet access
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Join Monica Levin for a Free live meditation on Feb. 7 at noon!
1) Monica will lead you through a meditation which will strengthen your intuition.
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OCC Launches New Program
to Close Manufacturing Skills Gap
Learn about OCC’s Five-Week Pre-Apprenticeship Program
at Upcoming Virtual Information Session
A Pre-Apprenticeship program at Oakland Community College that helps prepare students to enter a career or apprenticeship in manufacturing will be the subject of this virtual information session. The one-hour information session offered via Zoom will be held on February 10th from 1-2p.m.
The session will discuss OCC’s new, no-cost, pre-apprenticeship program and how it can provide students a career path in manufacturing with employment or an employer sponsored apprenticeship.
OCC’s Pre-Apprenticeship program begins March 10. The five-week program provides students with basic manufacturing skills such as shop math and blueprint reading, with an opportunity to earn the OSHA 10 and Mike Rowe WORKS Employability Skills certifications. Students will also participate in interview preparation, including resume writing and mock job interviews, and will receive a variety of networking opportunities with potential employers to increase their chances at a manufacturing career.
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KATHERINE'S WEEKDAY
BUSINESS MEALS
Each meal is individually packaged for your protection
and provided hot for your enjoyment.
• EASY TO PRE-ORDER •
• KATHERINE’S HIGH-QUALITY FOOD •
• PERSONALIZED SERVICE •
• A LA CARTE OPTIONS •
• CURBSIDE PICK-UP OR DELIVERY Tuesday-Friday •
CALL US TO ORDER at 734.930.4270
Are your workspaces and board rooms empty for now while employees work from home? Katherine's would love to discuss food drop-off services for your employees and larger staff working from home or meeting virtually. Give us a call at 734.930.4270 to discuss this option.
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Our Katherine's To Go menu features family-style lunch and dinner meals, perfect for your next home dinner or small gathering. Check out our delicious additions - including NEW Cabin-Fever Appetizers, Comfy Cozy Entrées, Hearty Winter Soups, and more.
Stay cozy and satisfied this winter with Katherine's To Go!
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Roger Findley, President
Just Right Heating & Cooling, Inc.
6650 Highland Rd, Ste. 223
Waterford, MI 48327
Tel: 248-889-0789
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Just Right Heating & Cooling is looking for a full time HVAC installer with 5+ years experience.
Top pay to the right candidate.
Contact Roger for more information or to apply for the position!
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Did you know?
The new LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Walled Lake store (formerly Shuman) is hiring for all positions, sales, and service techs. Check out the postings on their website and if you or a friend is interested, please send a resume to John Rossi at [email protected] .
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Drafting Table Beer News
TAP LIST & CAN LIST
Click here to view the current tap list and can list:
Back in Cans:
- Buzz Blanket
- Professional Pils
- Coffee with a Blonde
- Kolsch
The following will be back in cans soon!
- Rezolute (tentative: 1/21)
- Good Hydration (tentative: 1/28)
- Proud Lake Porter (tentative: 1/28)
Drafting Table Brewing Company - 49438 Pontiac Trail, Wixom MI 48393
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Stay active and engaged with your community
this winter season!
With safety as our top priority, we've put together a diverse mix of virtual and outdoor programs for our residents to enjoy. Some of our favorite annual events, such as Daddy Daughter Dances and the Spring Fling Egg Hunt had to be put on hold for this year but we were able to add a ton of new programs in their place. Below are some of the new offerings you will find in the Winter Guide:
- Black History Month programs (see below)
- Bunny Trail Egg Hunt
- Virtual Science Programs for kids
- Family Game Night with Super DJ Dave
- Virtual Chair Yoga
- Virtual Chocolate Tasting
- Virtual Meaningful Mondays
- Themed Parking Lot Lunches and Games at Connect
- and more!
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Seasoned Executives Named to
Government/Community and
Teaching Excellence Posts
Eunice Jeffries Named Director of Government and Community Relations
and Dr. Marc Thomas as Dean of Teaching Excellence
Oakland Community College has announced two key leadership additions with Eunice Jeffries joining OCC as director of government and community relations and Dr. Marc Thomas named dean of teaching excellence.
Director of Government and Community Relations, Eunice Jeffries
Jeffries brings more than 25 years of experience in government and community affairs and community service to this position. In her new role, Jeffries will develop and manage government and community relations plans to advance OCC’s goals with key external constituencies.
“Ms. Jeffries has both the depth of professional experience and personal qualities that are a perfect fit for this new role at OCC,” said Dan Jenuwine, vice chancellor for advancement. “I am confident she will be able to continue to nurture the College’s vital relationships with government and community leaders.”
Jeffries most recently was regional director of Read to a Child, a national nonprofit charged with fostering a love of reading and improving literacy for elementary school students. She was also a regional community affairs manager at Beaumont Health and served on the staffs of a U.S. Senator, Michigan Governor and Michigan Secretary of State. She is also a member of the Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents, where she serves as chairman. Jeffries is civically involved in the Farmington Hills community where she lives, and was previously the Executive Director of the Farmington/Farmington Hills Foundation for Youth and Families.
Jeffries earned a master of business administration from Northwood University and a bachelor of science degree in accounting and business administration from Fisk University.
Dean of Teaching Excellence, Dr. Marc Thomas
Thomas has a varied background in the public and private sectors, including community college faculty member, global programs coordinator and academic dean.
As the new dean of teaching excellence, Thomas will work with faculty and staff to build a renewed infrastructure for continuous improvement in teaching and learning. This work includes the development of an OCC Center for Teaching and Learning to provide enhanced professional development resources for OCC faculty, including identifying and implementing strategies for inclusive teaching and experiential learning.
“Dr. Thomas’s experience supporting faculty and students in the development of rich learning experiences, from international education to service learning, will be a great benefit to OCC,” said OCC Provost Dr. Jennifer Berne.
Before joining OCC’s team, Dr. Thomas served as social science professor for 13 years at Lansing Community College, where his work included leadership as global programs coordinator. His administrative experience includes service as senior campus leader in Colorado, including as dean of general education and health sciences at Morgan Community College and assistant dean of instruction at the Colorado Mountain College. Prior to his work in higher education, he served as an analyst for the Michigan House of Representatives and as researcher for Public Policy Associates, Inc. Thomas previously was an elected Ingham County Commissioner, where his service included two years as CEO of county government as Board Chair.
Thomas earned a Doctorate in Community College Leadership from Ferris State University, along with master’s degrees in global education policy from the University of Illinois and public administration from Western Michigan University.
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Oakland County High School Seniors
Sought for OCC Annual Scholarship
Awardees receive $3500 to cover full tuition and fees
for their first Fall and Winter terms at OCC
“This past year has been especially tough on high school seniors and non-traditional education program students,” said OCC Chancellor Peter Provenzano. “It is important we help support their future academic dreams and college success with greater accessibility and support. The Chancellor’s Scholarship provides an additional financial lift to qualifying students to help get them started.”
OCC’s Chancellor's Scholarships are awarded annually to students from a public or private Oakland County high school and students from qualified adult-education or alternative-education center. The $3,500 award ($1,750 for the fall 2021 semester and $1,750 for the winter 2022 semester) covers full tuition and fees for the first academic year
To qualify, students must be a high school senior graduating from a public, private, charter or home school program in Oakland County with a minimum 3.0 grade point average (GPA). Adult and alternative public or private graduating high school students in Oakland County qualify with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Recipients must attend OCC at least full time (12 credit hours minimum) for both fall and winter semesters. If the student does not attend classes, the scholarship is forfeited.
Applicants also need to take OCC’s English placement test by June 1, 2021 and place into English 1510-Composition I, or higher. The test is self-directed through the prospective student’s MyOCC account.
The deadline to apply is April 15, 2021. Eligibility criteria and applications are available online at Chancellor's Scholarships.
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The Chamber is working on
scheduling our 2021 First Friday
and Third Thursday Coffee
Connects ...
Through winter and late spring we are planning for virtual Zoom "mixers"; warmer weather and Covid-19 status will dictate when folks are comfortable about resuming in-person coffees.
We will be reaching out to those who wanted to host a coffee in 2020 and could not ... we are also asking all our members if you would like to host a Zoom coffee in the next few months, please email Michele at [email protected] to book a date.
Zoom coffees are fun too - PJs, bunny slippers, the beverage and snack of your choice ... and our hosts still get time to present what they want to share about their business while the guests get the round-robin "who they are and what they do" .... it's a WIN-WIN nice way to start a morning!
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Oakland County Michigan Works! Expands Free, Virtual Workshop Program for Job Seekers
Oakland County Michigan Works! is expanding its free virtual workshop program through March 2021 and includes a new workshop entitled “Presenting a Professional Image.”
The virtual workshops began last spring after the county’s six Michigan Works! service centers were closed to the public due to COVID-19 concerns. Nearly 1,000 people participated in the live, online sessions covering various career development and job search topics.
A key to a successful career move is exhibiting a professional image, no matter the type of position, said Tamara Myles, talent development specialist at Oakland County Michigan Works! Waterford and presenter of the newest virtual workshop.
“Your professional image projects your character and determines others’ impression of you,” Myles said. “While there are plenty of resources to teach you how to dress for success, that is only part of the story in managing your professional image. In this workshop, you’ll learn to exude your best qualities.”
Workshop topics include:
- Resume and Cover Letter Writing: Opening the Door to Employment
- Virtual Interviewing: Making a Great Impression
- The Language of LinkedIn: Using the Popular Career Tool the Right Way
- Changing Careers: New Opportunities, New Future
- Mid-Life Career Transitions: Switching Careers and Flourishing in Today’s Economy
- Personal Brand: Building and Maintaining a Successful Marketing Strategy for You!
- Presenting a Professional Image: Appearance, Communication and Performance
- Career Vision Board: Showcasing Your Interests, Skills and Goals
- Gig Jobs: Exploring Non-Traditional Employment Opportunities
Oakland County Michigan Works! operates service centers in Novi, Oak Park, Pontiac, Southfield, Troy and Waterford. Combined, they assist more than 105,000 job seekers annually. Services include career coaching, interviewing and job search workshops, placement assistance, training courses and job trend information.
The service centers also assist more than 3,000 employers seeking assistance with talent recruitment, apprenticeship programs, job fairs, candidate pre-screening, hiring and training support, layoff support and labor market data.
Service center staffs remain available by virtual appointment to work one-on-one with job seekers to build their resumes, prepare for job interviews and help address other needs. To schedule a virtual meeting, call 1-248-858-5520 and select the office nearest to you.
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Does your business or organization need more PPE?
The chamber can help!
We still have a few of the popular "Reopening Toolkits" from Oakland County left to share with our local businesses and organizations ... Let us know if you would like one and we will arrange it with you!
Kits include: hand sanitizer, reusable masks, disposable masks, signage and a touchless thermometer.
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Ambassadors are conducting outreach to statewide businesses to offer education and support to implement regulations on workplace safety.
In addition to tier-one education which provides a brief consultation, businesses can now visit the COVID-19 workplace safety website to schedule tier-two consultations, an in-depth assessment of workplace safety requirements, with NSF International. These in-depth, collaborative meetings will connect employers directly with an Ambassador to identify and implement solutions in their specific workplace free of charge to the business. Tier-two visits are targeted to these at-risk industries: retail stores, restaurants and gyms.
Businesses that successfully complete tier-two visits will soon receive official signage to acknowledge COVID-19 workplace safety commitments and efforts to keep customers and employees safe.
Ambassadors are delivering education toolkits to businesses statewide as part of tier-one efforts for the Ambassador program. The toolkit enables a review of current workplace safety and health procedures to limit the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Ambassadors will not propose citations or issue penalties. They are there to work with businesses to improve conditions and help comply with regulations on workplace safety.
Employers and employees with specific questions regarding workplace safety and health may contact MIOSHA using the hotline at 855-SAFEC19 (855-723-3219).
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County Aggressively Used Federal Funds
In 2020 Pandemic Response
Oakland County has used all its $219 million received in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding in support of its pandemic response this year. This included more than $145 million in grants to help stabilize and support small businesses, residents, and communities in every part of the county.
The grants were awarded to more than 15,000 local businesses, which employ 65,000 people; 22 local chambers of commerce; 57 cities, villages, and townships, 278 non-profit and 31 veterans services organizations; 28 local school districts as well as retailers, restaurants, community centers, and more.
In 2020, Oakland County was among the most impacted in Michigan by confirmed coronavirus cases, which exceeded 53,000 in the county with at least 1,468 deaths and more than 40,000 recoveries. The county maintained a dashboard throughout the pandemic and maps of community spread.
Other numbers associated with the pandemic include:
- The county’s Emergency Operations Center acquired over 1.3 million N95/KN95 masks, more than 1 million gowns/lab jackets, 141,000-plus face shields, about 50,000 boxes of medical gloves, and nearly 60,000 boxes of non-medical gloves.
- The center responded to 8,000 requests for resources from the county, local government, and other entities.
- Oakland County Health Division’s Nurse on Call hotline received nearly 86,000 COVID-related phone calls and over 2,600 COVID-related emails throughout the pandemic in 2020.
- The Health Division swabbed more than 31,000 COVID-19 tests at its drive-through testing sites in 2020.
- Provided over $770,000 in food assistance beginning early in the pandemic.
- Fed 700 homeless and at-risk individuals two meals a day. In addition, the county has been providing 200 meals a day at homeless shelters since August.
- Oakland County Michigan Works! received over 475,000 telephone calls and helped resolve over 46,000 unemployment issues.
The County Executive and the Board of Commissioners are again working quickly to ensure that county has appropriated the funds necessary to facilitate vaccine distribution in advance of additional state and federal action to provide additional resources.
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305 N. Pontiac Trail, Ste. A
Walled Lake 48390
Phone: 248.624.2826
Fax: 248.624.2892
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