What’s it worth? Appraiser Darlene Hines knows

Like to watch Antiques Road Show on TV?

Darlene Hines lives it.

The Bloomfield Township businesswoman operates Nostalgia Antique Appraisal Services out of an office at Square Lake Road and Woodward.

But she spends a lot of time appraising collections of furniture, vintage clothing, jewelry, paintings, porcelain, china, African-American art and whatever. “My specialty is antiques and residential contents,” she said.

“Clients call our office for appraisals for insurance, divorces, estates, charitable donations and for value confirmation. I get calls from residents, corporations, attorneys and regular clients.”

What they get is a detailed evaluation of their items that is not quite like what you see on the Antiques Roadshow, although Hines has no quarrel with the show, and even has served as an off-camera appraiser for it.

But for an official appraisal, one that can stand the scrutiny of the courts or – shudder – the IRS, a thorough evaluation is needed. That can result in a 70-page report.

“Every appraisal is like a research paper,” she said. “It’s time consuming.”

And it’s not a job for amateurs. Hines is a certified appraiser with the International Society of Appraisers and served two terms on the ISA board of directors. She is past president and vice president of the Great Lakes Chapter of the ISA.

Along with the Antiques Roadshow she has appeared on the PAX TV show What’s It Worth and published an article in the Journal of Advanced Appraisal Studies, in the ISA newsletter and on its blog and was a guest speaker at the National Auctioneers Conference in Grand Rapids.

She didn’t start out as an appraiser. She and her husband opened an antique store in Brighton in 1995. That led her to become involved with the ISA and gain certification as a professional appraiser.

Gradually, she spent less time at the store and more doing appraisals. “My business grew out of that,” she said.

Professional appraising is a highly specialized field requiring a rigorous training to get certification and continuing education afterward. ISA also has strict ethical standards appraisers must adhere to.

Appraisers must have a thorough understanding of the item and know who to turn to for assistance with items that are not in their specialty. “We piggyback on each others’ skills,” she said.

There are fewer than 200 certified appraisers in ISA in the country, she said. Appraisers produce evaluations that can stand up in court or be accepted by the IRS for charitable tax deductions or used for insurance claims to recover losses.

“I do appraisals all over the country,” Hines said. But the Birmingham-Bloomfield area is particularly fruitful and Hines has worked for many local residents and businesses.

Her most memorable object was also the most emotion stirring one. “A church burned down – except for a crucifix,” she said. “That was the only thing to survive. They called me in. That was touching.”

She can be reached at (248) 454-1062 or (248) 431-4552. Go towww.nostappraisals.com.

First Huron Corp Bank Merging With Talmer Bancorp, Inc.

Talmer Bancorp, Inc., of Troy, expects to close its merger with First of Huron Corp. on Feb. 6.

First of Huron Corp. is a holding company for Signature Bank. It is based in Bad Axe and has eight branches in the Thumb.

"We're going to convert the weekend of Feb. 6," Will Oldford, Talmer Bank and Trust regional president, said. "The signs will change, we'll complete the merger, they will be on the Talmer Bank system that weekend, and that Monday everybody is going to open up Talmer bank."

According to a news release, the merger agreement was approved by First of Huron stockholders in December. Oldford did not know the total acquisition price, but said Talmer paid $25 a share.

"One of our strategic priorities is to continue to acquire other banks," he said.

He said the merger has been approved by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the Federal Reserve and the state of Michigan

First of Huron had Signature Bank branches in Bad Axe, Sandusky, Harbor Beach, Port Hope, Caro, Sebewaing and Frankenmuth.

Oldford said Talmer will consolidate branches in Bad Axe and Sandusky.

"The Signature branch is across the street from a Talmer Bank branch in Sandusky, so we already announced we will be closing the Signature Bank in Sandusky," he said.

There are two Signature Banks in Bad Axe. The company will consolidate the two into a single Talmer Bank branch.

Oldford said all of the Signature Bank branch employees will be retained.

"Signature is a great franchise," he said. "It complements our footprint in the northeast region. The customer loyalty they have shown was the primary driver for this acquisition."

Talmer Bancorp, Inc., is the holding company for Talmer Bank and Trust and Talmer West Bank. The banks operate in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland and Nevada.

MICHIGAN CHRISTMAS EVENTS METRO DETROIT 2014

AUBURN HILLS MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, November 15, 2014 through Christmas Eve
Auburn Hills MI Christmas Event – Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops (Great Lakes Crossing Phone: 248-209-4200)
Bass Pro hosts Santa Claus (and tons of free Christmas fun for kids at Bass Pro) daily through Christmas Eve. You can even get a free photo with Santa while enjoying the free fun! Click here for info and times for Santa’s daily appearances and for a list of all the free fun holiday games, crafts and activities happening each day!

Friday, December 6, 2014 at 6p
Auburn Hills MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
MOMS Memorial (Auburn Rd at Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills, MI)
Tree lighting events include visits with Santa & Mrs Claus, wagon rides through Downtown Auburn Hills, s’mores, crafts, keepsake photos & more! All events are free.

BERKLEY MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 1p-5p
Berkley MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Berkley Holiday Lights Parade 2014
Downtown Berkley MI
a full day of fun activities including, horse-drawn carriage rides, petting zoo, vintage trolley rides, parade, tree lighting ceremony and a visit with Santa. Tree lighting takes place at 5:30p. Questions call RoseAnn at 248-239-0284 or e-mail roseann@nicolaievents.com.

BIRMINGHAM MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Wednesday, November 26, 2014 at 6p
Birmingham MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Birmingham Holiday Tree Lighting
Shain Park (S Bates St. and W Merrill St., Birmingham, MI, 48009)
Jump into the Holiday spirit with a night that brings the festive lighting of the winter season and the opening of Santa House. Enjoy live Christmas caroling and the lighting of the 35-foot tree with more than 20,000 LED Christmas lights.

Wednesday, November 26 through Christmas Eve (various dates)
Birmingham MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Birmingham Santa House
Shain Park (S Bates St. and W Merrill St., Birmingham, MI, 48009)
Children may give Santa their list and have their picture taken with him. A $5 donation goes to the Birmingham Lions Club and Leader Dogs for the Blind. Click here for dates and hours.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014 then weekends through Saturday, December 20, 2014
Birmingham MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Birmingham Carriage Rides
Near Santa House (corner of Henrietta and Merrill, Birmingham, Michigan)
Enjoy the 2014 Christmas season with an old-fashioned carriage rides on weekends through December 20.

Friday, December 5 (3p-9p), Saturday, December 6 (10a-9p), Sunday, December 7, (11a-4p)
Birmingham MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Birmingham Winter Markt 2014
Attendees will enjoy European food and drinks, gift items, holiday greens, crafts, ice carving demonstrations, roaming winter princesses , live reindeer, warming stations, a Kinderhaus children’s activity area, the popular Santa House, horse-drawn carriage rides and live entertainment.

CLARKSTON MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, December 13, 2014 at 6p
Clarkston, Michigan Christmas and Holiday Event – Holiday Lights Night
Depot Park (Depot Road in Downtown Clarkston)
Enjoy a night out with the family in Downtown Clarkston. First enjoy the Holiday Lights Parade, and immediately following stroll down into Deport Park where Santa will read a story and lead the crowd in a tree lightning ceremony. Here is your chance to give Santa your letter, enjoy thousands of lights, make a s’more and enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate. This is a free event.

CLAWSON MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, November 8, 2014
Clawson, Michigan Christmas and Holiday Event – Christmas in Clawson Craft Show
Clawson High School (101 John M Clawson, MI 48017)
A variety of exhibitors will be displaying their crafts! Come enjoy a wonderful lunch, while you get your holiday and personal shopping done. For more info and applications for space, call Betsy O’Brien at (248) 288-1663.

Monday, December 1, 2014 at 6:30p
Clawson, Michigan Christmas and Holiday Event – Christmas Tree Lighting
Memorial Park at Blair Memorial Library (416 N Main St Clawson, Michigan 48017)
Meet at the Library gazebo for caroling, tree lighting and the arrival of Santa Claus at 7 pm. After Santa is given the key to the city, walk across the street to Clawson Middle School for Hot Chocolate and Cookies and a visit with Santa.

DETROIT MI CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2014

Friday, November 21, 2014 from 5p-midnight
Detroit MI Christmas Event – Campus Martius Park Tree Lighting
Campus Martius Park (800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan)
Following the tree lighting Campus Martius Park Ice-Skating season begins!

Thursday, November 27, 2014 at 9a
Detroit MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Detroit Thanksgiving Parade 2014
Woodward and Kirby, Downtown Detroit, Michigan
Hundreds of thousands of parade-goers will be watching as the Parade makes its way down Woodward Avenue. The parade will be broadcast LIVE on WDIV Local 4 from 9-10am and on WJR 760 AM.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 5p-10p
Detroit, MI Christmas Event – Noel Night 2014
Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center Area (between Cass and John R and Kirby and Willis)
Free shuttle service is offered between participating venues. Convenient parking is available in area lots. Enjoy holiday shopping, family craft activities and live entertainment.

FARMINGTON MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 10a
Farmington MI Christmas Event – Holly Days
Downtown Farmington MI
Holly Days will kick off the celebration with the Farmington Winter Market at the American Legion operating 10am – 2 pm. Kids will enjoy a visit from Santa at Farmington’s “North Pole” from Noon – 4 pm and free holiday movies at the historic Farmington Civic Theater.

Saturday, December 6, from 1p-7p & Sunday December 7, from 1p-5p

Farmington MI Christmas Event – Holiday Open House
Governor Warner Mansion (33805 Grand River Avenue, Farmington, MI)
The Governor Warner Mansion will be decorated for the holidays and open for visits. Tree lighting is at dusk on Saturday.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 5p
Farmington MI Christmas Event – Light Up The Grand Holiday Lighted Parade
Downtown Farmington
The parade will march across Grand River Ave. beginning at Warner St. and ending at Liberty St., right through the heart of Downtown Farmington. Parade floats or walkers must incorporate lights into their entries.

Battery operated lights and glow sticks are highly encouraged!

FARMINGTON HILLS MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Tuesday, December 2, 2014 at 6:30p
Farmington Hills MI Christmas Event – Holiday Lights Ceremony 2014
Farmington Hills Fire Department HQ (31455 W 11 Mile Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48336)
During the Annual Holiday “Lights” Ceremony, the beautiful trees at City Hall will be illuminated as well as a 20-foot candle, which represents commitment to peace and unity in Farmington Hills. Santa will be on hand and refreshments will be served at the Fire Station Headquarters after the ceremony.

Saturday, December 13 (10a-4p) and Sunday, December 14 (11a-4p)

Farmignton Hills MI Christmas Event – Holiday Shopping Expo 2014
Costick Center (28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, Michigan)
The Costick Center in Farmington Hills is hosting a Holiday Shopping Expo to showcase a variety of vendors and crafters. Shop from over 60 vendors. This is a free event. Call 248-473-1800 for more info.

FERNDALE MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, November 22, 2014 from noon-8p
Ferndale MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Holiday Hoof & FestivALE
Downtown Ferndale (on W. Troy Street)
Enjoy a 4+ mile night obstacle run/2mi. fun walk, Americana (bluegrass and folk) music, X-mas craft beers, cold weather comfort foods, tree lighting ceremony, and reindeer games. For more info or to register for the run, contact the Ferndale DDA at 248-591-7034.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 9a-3p
Ferndale MI Christmas Event – Ferndale Holiday Show Place Arts and Crafts Show
Kulick Community Center (1201 Livernois, Ferndale, Michigan 48220)
Admission is $1 per person at the door. Food and concessions will be available.

Saturday, December 13, 2014 from 8a-6p

Ferndale MI Christmas Event – Ferndale Holiday Ice Festival 2014
Downtown Ferndale, Michigan
The Holiday Ice Festival is a hometown-celebration of the holiday season, featuring a display of ice sculptures, live reindeer, hay-ride and a visit from Santa Claus! Call (248)546-1632 for more info or visit www.DowntownFerndale.com.

GROSSE POINTE SHORES MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS

December 5 through December 27, 2014
Grosse Pointe Shores MI Christmas Event – Edsel & Eleanor Ford House Tours
Edsel and Eleanor Ford House (1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236)
The Edsel and Eleanor Ford House (Ford House) historic estate celebrates the Christmas and Holiday Season with specially themed tours and events.

HIGHLAND MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, December 13, 2014 from 10a-Noon
Highland MI Christmas Event – Great Candy Cane Hunt
Apollo Center (2029 N. Milford Rd, Highland MI 48357)
Kids will get to search an outside course for candy canes, decorate their own cookies, and create cheerful holiday crafts! Hot chocolate will also be served to help warm up the festivities! Younger kids will tackle the course first with older kids going later. The cost is $7 per child. Dress for the outdoors. Call 248-676-8390 to register.

HOLLY MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

November 28-30, December 6-7, December 13-14 from 5p-9p each evening
Holly MI Christmas Event – Holly Dickens Festival 2014
Downtown Holly, Michigan
Step back into time as you stroll the streets, visit the shops, pubs and eateries in quaint downtown Holly, getting caught up in the story of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Bring the whole family and get a jumpstart on your Christmas shopping.

LAKE ORION / ORION TOWNSHIP CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS

Wednesday, December 3, 2014 at Dusk
Lake Orion MI Christmas Event – Downtown Lake Orion Tree Lighting Ceremony
Downtown Lake Orion

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 6p
Lake Orion MI Christmas Event – Orion Lighted Parade
Downtown Lake Orion
Sponsored by the Orion Area Parade Company. The parade boasts over 75 entries each year, from civic organizations, dance studios, scouting troops, local dignitaries, marching bands, school groups and more. The event is capped off with a special visit by Santa himself, much to the joy of the young and old in the crowd lining the village streets.

MADISON HEIGHTS MI CHRISTMAS – HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Monday, November 24, 2014 at 6:30
Madison Hts MI Christmas Event – Holiday Tree Lighting
Civic Center Plaza
The Mayor will welcome Santa and present him with an official key to the City. Visitors will enjoy cookies and cocoa while listening to seasonal music. Following the tree lighting program, children may wish to get their photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus inside the Breckenridge Room of the Library.

MILFORD MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Thursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:30
Milford MI Christmas / Holiday Event – The Big Reveal
Downtown Milford
Stores on Main Street in Downtown Milford reveal festive holiday Christmas and holiday window displays to their stores. Come downtown and watch the kids “unwrap” the storefronts. Local merchants will wrap their storefronts on Tuesday, get busy, and reveal their holiday best on Thursday night.

Saturday, November 29, 2014 at 10a
Milford MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Downtown Christmas Parade
Downtown Milford
Come out to the annual Milford Christmas Parade, one of the longest-standing Main Street traditions around. Wonderful holiday event for the entire region. Come early! Main Street fills up fast.

Thursday, December 4, 2014 from 5:45p-9p
Milford MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Christmas Open House
Downtown Milford
Enjoy the winter wonderland with strolling entertainment, special promotions at a variety of shops and restaurants, horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday caroling and of course, a visit with Santa. Santa Claus arrives at 6p. For more information, call 248-684-1975.

MT CLEMENS MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Friday, November 28, 2014 at 10a
Mt. Clemens MI Christmas Event – Macomb County Santa Parade
Downtown Mt Clemens
Continuing tradition, the parade ushers in the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving with the arrival of the jolly old elf himself, Santa! There will also be plenty of new floats, marching bands, characters, and sights and sounds for all to enjoy. The parade route runs on Main Street from Church Street north to Clinton Street.

NORTHVILLE MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Friday, November 21, 2014 at 6:30p
Northville MI Christmas Event – Holiday Lighted Parade
Downtown Northville MI
Ring in the Holiday Season with the annual Holiday Lighted Parade in downtown Northville, the official kickoff to Northvile’s Hometown Holidays.

Sunday, November 23, 2014 from 1p-4p
Northville MI Christmas Event – Christmas in the Village
Mill Race Village Northville
Enjoy have snacks, carolers, the Weavers will be demonstrating their craft and the Northville High School band will play a few numbers. St Nicholas may make an early appearance.

Friday, December 12 from 9a-8p, Saturday, December 13 from 9a-5p
Northville MI Christmas Event – Tinsel & Treasures Holiday Market
Northville Community Center
More than 75 hand-selected, juried artists and fine craftspeople from the Midwest will showcase their one-of-a-kind pieces of work. From glass design, gourmet foods, jewelry, original fashions, home décor, authors, and more.

NOVI MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Friday, December 5, 2014 from 6p-9p
Novi MI Christmas Event – Light Up The Night Novi
Novi Civic Center (45175 West Ten Mile, Novi, Michigan)
Tree Lighting at 6:15pm, Santa visits, train rides, magic shows at the Novi Public Library, marshmallow roasting, live reindeer, ice sculptures, free refreshments. This is a free event.

ORTONVILLE / BRANDON TWP CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2014

December 6, 2014 from 1p-5p
Ortonville MI Christmas Event – Christmas in the Village
Downtown Ortonville
Enjoy live entertainment, a parade, visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, live reindeer and more!

OXFORD MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Friday, December 5, 2014 at 6p-9p
Oxford MI Christmas Event – Oxford MI Tree Lighting
Centennial Park (Downtown Oxford)
Enoy pics w/Santa. The tree-lighting is at 8p.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 2p
Oxford MI Christmas Event – Oxford Christmas Parade
Centennial Park (Downtown Oxford)
Enjoy holiday fun in Downtown Oxford.

PONTIAC MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 8:30a-10:30a (Winter Fun Festival) Parade at 11a.
Pontiac MI Christmas Event – Holiday Extravaganza Parade and Winter Fun Festival
Downtown Pontiac
The WinterFUN Festival is a great opportunity for families to come together to participate in several activities. There is a Gallery of Ice with live ice carving competition, a petting farm with adorable animals, live Santa reindeer, s’mores and much, much more. There is also a children’s WinterART Center that allows kids to participate in several different craft projects, get their face painted and much, much more. All activities at the Holiday Extravaganza are free. Parade starts at 11a at 196 Cesar E. Chavez Ave, Pontiac, MI.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 8:30a-2p
Pontiac MI Christmas Event – Holiday Extravaganza Craft and Vendor Show
Oakland Artist Market (7 N. Saginaw St, Pontiac, MI 48342)
Stop by the Holiday Extravaganza Craft show after the big parade for unique holiday gifts!

ROCHESTER MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014Wednesday November 12, 2014 through January 4, 2015
Rochester MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Royal Park Hotel Gingerbread House 2014
Royal Park Hotel (600 East University Drive, Rochester, MI 48307)
If you’re heading to Downtown Rochester to check out the Big Bright Light Show, why not check out the Giant Gingerbread House at the Royal Park Hotel. The giant gingerbread house stands eight feet tall and is adorned with Christmas colors and decorations, and features fine details such as cobble stone border, candied icicles, snowflakes on the gingerbread shingled rooftop, and a toy room inside. Pics, video and more info on the Royal Park Hotel Giant Gingerbread House.

Monday, November 24, 2014 from 6p-9p
Rochester MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Lagniappe
Downtown Rochester MI
Join the merchants of Downtown Rochester when they offer their customers Lagniappe (Creole for “a little something extra”) in appreciation for their support throughout the year. Favorite Lagniappe activities will return, including Big Bright Light Show debut, horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown, strolling carolers, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Monday, November 24, 2014 at 7p through January 4, 2015
Rochester MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Big Bright Light Show
Downtown Rochester
See Downtown Rochester lit up in Holiday glory as the city is adorned with over 1.2 million Christmas Lights. Click here for more info and a photo gallery of the Big Bright Light Show.

Friday, December 5 (4p-10p) and Saturday, December 6 (noon-10p)
Rochester MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Kris Kringle Market
West 4th Street (between Walnut & Main, Rochester, MI)
The Kris Kringle Market is inspired by the 700 year-old tradition of the European Christmas Market and visitors can enjoy the food, shopping, entertainment and ambience of this open-air, holiday market.

Friday, November 28, 2014 through Tuesday December, 23, 2014
Rochester Michigan Christmas / Holiday Event – Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk 2014
Meadow Brook Hall and Gardens (480 South Adams Rd, Rochester, MI 48309)
The Meadow Brook Hall annual Holiday Walk explores the Dodge and Wilson family’s winter traditions and activities they enjoyed while living on the Meadow Brook Estate. Click here for a photo gallery and more info on the 2014 Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk.

Sunday, December 7, 2014 from 2p-4p
Rochester MI Christmas Event – Downtown Rochester Christmas Parade
Downtown Rochester MI

In its 63rd year, the Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade is the largest Christmas parade in Michigan with an average 3,000 parade participants that represent a collaborative effort among families, businesses, non-profit and civic organizations, as well as schools and universities.

ROCHESTER HILLS MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Friday, November 21, 2014 at 7p
Rochester Hills MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Village of Rochester Hills Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Village of Rochester Hills (NE corner of Adams Rd and University, Rochester Hills, MI)
Once again the Village will come to life with over 850,000 lights that will illuminate all at once! In addition to lighting our 25 foot tree, we will welcome Santa to the Village for another year of free visits. The fun starts at 6p, the tree-lighting takes place at 7p.

ROYAL OAK MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, November 22 from 10a-4p
Royal Oak MI Christmas Event – Holiday Arts & Crafts Marketplace
Royal Oak High School (1500 Lexington Boulevard, Royal Oak, MI)
Fun, food and holiday shopping! Featuring more than 100 local artisans. Luncheon entrees and baked goods available for purchase. Admission is $2, kids 12 & under are free.

November 22 – December 31, 2014 from 5:30-9:30 (see dates below)

Royal Oak MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Wild Lights
Detroit Zoo (8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak, MI 48067)
The Detroit Zoo will light up the night this holiday season with Wild Lights, a spectacular holiday light display. For 24 nights, more than five million LED lights will illuminate trees, buildings and animal sculptures on a half-mile trail through the front of the Zoo. Dates: November 22,23,28,29,30 – December 5,6,7,11,12,13,14,18,19,20,21,22,23,26,27,28,29,30,31.

Sunday, November 23, 2014 from 2p-3:30p
Royal Oak MI Christmas / Holiday Event – Royal Oak Holiday Magic Parade 2014
Downtown Royal Oak, MI
Over 80 parade units will include marching bands, floats, musical performances, circus acts and more. Visits with Santa are after the parade from 3-5pm! This is a free event.

Thursday, December 4, 2014 from 4p-8p
Royal Oak MI Christmas Event – Tree Lighting Ceremony and Royal Oak Holiday Magic Marketplace
Royal Oak Farmers Market (316 E 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak, Michigan)
Tree-lighting will be at 6:15p. The Royal Oak Farmers Market will host a Holiday Marketplace before, during and after the City Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, December 4th from 4pm to 8:30pm. Over 60 local crafters and artisans featuring antiques, collectibles, crafts, & many downtown merchant booths. For additional information call (248)246-3276.

SOUTHFIELD MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Monday, December 1, 2014 at 7p
Southfield MI Christmas Event – Burgh Historical Park Tree Lighting Ceremony
Burgh Historical Park (northeast corner of Civic Center Drive and Berg Road, Southfield MI)
The annual lighting of the holiday tree at Burgh Historical Park. The Metropolitan Singers will lead the crowd in a holiday sing-a-long as the holiday display is lit. Visitors are then invited inside the 1854 Church to enjoy a performance by The Metropolitan Singers or they head over to the (outdoor) gazebo to meet with Santa and share with him their all-important holiday wish list. Refreshments will be served. This is a (mostly) outdoor event so please dress for the weather. This is a free event for the community.

SOUTH LYON MI CHRISTMAS / HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 10a-8p
South Lyon MI Christmas Event – Cool Yule Festival
Downtown South Lyon
South Lyon whips up a full-day of Christmas and holiday fun with Cool Yule. Enjoy an arts and crafts show, candy cane hunt, live reindeer, Christmas cookie extravaganza, Parade of Lights, a tree-lighting and much more throughout the day.

TROY MI CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2014

Saturday, November 29, 2014 from 9a-4p
Troy MI Christmas Event – Elf Shelf Arts and Crafts Show
Troy High School (4777 Northfield Pkwy, Troy, MI)
Admission proceeds from the event benefit local charitable organizations. For info, call 248-988-0426.

Wednesday, December 3, 2014 from 7p-8:30p
Troy MI Christmas Event – Christmas Tree Lighting
City Hall
Children are invited to visit with Santa Claus after he lights the Christmas Tree. The Troy Colt Drumline will march in with Santa Claus. The Athens High School Choirs will lead the caroling. Enjoy hot cocoa & holiday sweets.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 1p-3p
Troy MI Christmas Event – The Giving Christmas
Troy Historic Village (60 W. Wattles Rd, Troy, MI)
Enjoy cider, cookies, Christmas music and more. Children are invited to meet Santa and make a craft. Children under 6 are free. Call 248-524-3570 to register.

WALLED LAKE MI CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2014

Monday, December 1, 2014 at 7p
Walled Lake MI Christmas Event - Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
City Hall (1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake, MI)
Holiday Tree Lighting and visit from Santa Claus. Festivities start at the Walled Lake City Library(1499 E. West Maple Road, Walled Lake, Michigan 48390) at 6p with pics and visits with Santa and his reindeer!

WARREN MI CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2014

Saturday, November 15, 2014 from 9a-4p
Warren MI Christmas Event – Holiday Craft Show
Warren Community Center (5460 Arden, Warren, MI 48093)
Over 200 tables, several holiday vendors & more. Admission is just $1 per person.

Saturday, December 6, 2014 from 5p-8p
Warren MI Christmas Event – Warren Tree Lighting Ceremony
Warren City Square (Van Dyke N of 12 Mile Rd)
Visit with Santa, free ice-skating admission all day (skate rental $3), horse-drawn wagon rides, refreshments, and more!

WATERFORD MI CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Tuesday, December 2, 2014 from 6p-8p
Waterford MI Christmas Event – Tree Lighting and Santa Celebration
Town Hall (5200 Civic Center Drive, Waterford, MI)
Celebrate the season with a variety of activities including: crafts, a chance to visit with Santa, Christmas sing-a-long and more. Food concessions will be available. This is a free event!

Thursday, December 4, through Saturday, December 6, 2014
Waterford MI Christmas Event – Holiday Bazaar Craft Show & Green’s Market
Waterford Senior Center Gym (3621 Pontiac Lake Rd, Waterford, MI)
Free admission, all are welcome. One-stop holiday shopping featur-
ing one-of-a-kind crafts to fit every budget. Lunch and snacks avail-
able for purchase. Antique appraisals and raffles. The Waterford Garden Club will feature their popular annual Green’s Market.

WHITE LAKE TWP MI CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2014

Friday, December 5, 2014 from 6p-8p
White Lake Twp MI Christmas Event – I’m Dreaming of A White Lake Christmas Festival
Fisk Farm (9180 Highland Road, White Lake Township, MI 48383)
The tree lighting will take place at the Fisk Farm from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Activities for all ages. including live reindeer, pics with Santa and Mrs Claus (bring your camera), ice sculptures, balloon creations for kids, marshmallow roasting / s’mores and hot chocolate, White Lake Middle School Choir & Jazz Band, kids crafts and more!

WIXOM MI CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY EVENTS 2014

Friday, December 5 (3p-10p) and Saturday, December 6 (10a-10p)
Wixom MI Christmas Event – 2014 Holiday Markt
Sibley Square Park
The new “Wixom Holiday Markt” will feature the sights, sounds and smells of an authentic, old-world market with decorated vendor huts & tents selling traditional crafts, art, holiday greens as well as the sound of carolers singing holiday music. Additional events, activities and things to do include: Santa craft tent, food and beer tent. City Tree Lighting and more.

10 Outdated Resume Strategies That are Derailing Your Search

Barbara Safani

I don’t know what it is about resumes. People seem to get so caught up in what they think a resume “should” be that they overlook what a resume can be…a path to a new role, a new career, a new life. Some people seem to treat their resumes like they are their tax returns…break a rule and get penalized; enter information in a different place and suffer the consequences…it really doesn’t need to be so formulaic…and it shouldn’t be. A good

resume is a representation of your strengths, your passion, your dreams…all wrapped up into a compelling message of value. Here are ten outdated approaches I see people use when writing resumes and some tips for how to avoid these pitfalls.

1. You think there is one acceptable resume format for your industry. I hear this a lot. “In my industry we don’t use resume profiles” or “No one in my industry ever writes a resume that is more than one page.” Usually these “rules” are perpetuated by people who have been using the same format for their resume since they graduated from college ten or more years ago. What worked then won’t necessarily work now. Or they are perpetuated by people who have gotten used to reading resumes that all look the same so they no longer question their value or relevance in today’s market.
2. You think that because you are confident in your writing abilities you can write a good resume. Sure it helps to have a strong command of the English language. But resume writing is less about the actual writing and more about the strategy than many people realize. A resume writer can look at your background objectively, analyze any potential obstacles in your search, and create a strategy that emphasizes your overarching accomplishments and doesn’t dwell on your more difficult to explain roles and transitions.
3. You think using visual elements on a resume is weird. Many of us are used to seeing PowerPoint presentations where charts, graphs, and other visuals are used to create engagement and communicate information succinctly. Why would you think that a presentation of your candidacy should be any different? Visual elements can differentiate you from your competitors, convey a lot of quality information in less space, and position you as a savvy communicator. Here’s an example of a more visual resume.
4. You are using a resume template to convey how special you are. A resume is all about showcasing your unique value. Don’t shoot yourself in the foot by using a stale Microsoft resume template to explain your unique value proposition.
5. You have copied and pasted your previous job descriptions into your resume. The reality is that people in similar jobs perform similar job tasks. An accountant in company A may not have job tasks that are that different than the accountant in company B. Yet the value that each brings to their organization may be totally unique. Minimize content about job tasks and focus on more compelling accomplishments.
6. You don’t show a clear connection between your past achievements and your future direction. If your resume merely represents your chronology it may be difficult for a hiring manager to understand how your past experience relates to their current position. This is especially true if you are trying to transition to a new job function or industry. Your resume needs to be idiot proof. Be sure to connect the dots between past performance and future value to the organization (I recommend a profile at the top of the resume to accomplish this). No one will connect the dots for you. Take the time to create a clear roadmap from past accomplishments to future value.
7. You have no clue what keywords are. Keywords are the buzzwords or industry terminology that is relevant to your job function or industry. You can source keywords by reviewing job descriptions for positions you would consider applying to and looking for the consistency in these keywords from posting to posting. Many employers use ATS or Applicant Tracking Systems to source candidates and they will only find your resume if the words in your resume correlate to those posted in their job specs.
8. You are uploading a Word version of your resume into a database that requires a text version. Many people make the mistake of taking their formatted Word document and uploading it into a text box on a company website. The format is generally not preserved when you do this and your document will end up looking sloppy and unprofessional. Here are instructions on how to create a text resume.
9. Your resume is made up of big blocks of text that no one wants to read.Imagine going to a website looking for information and being confronted with a homepage with a huge paragraph of text. Would you stay on the site and read everything word for word or would you quickly navigate away in search of a site that enabled you to find the information you are looking for quickly. My guess is you would opt for the later. People who read resumes feel the same way. If they have to muddle through big chunks of text to figure out if you are a potential fit for their job, they will probably navigate away from your resume quickly. Use bullets, bold, shading, or text boxes to highlight critical information and help your reader figure out what you are all about in just a few seconds.
10. Your resume is overwhelming to the reader. If your resume is more than two pages it probably fits into this category. Examine your resume and edit, edit, edit. Do you really need to list the 7 management classes you took in 1987 now that you have been a CEO for the past 10 years? Do you really need to dedicate a full page to your employment experience before 1990? Probably not. Frequently with resumes, less is more.

Barbara Stefani is an Executive Resume Writer, Career Coach, Job Search Strategist, & President at Career Solvers

Plum Market submits site plan for new Ann Arbor store

Michigan grocery chain Plum Market is moving forward with plans for a new store in Ann Arbor.

The company submitted a rezoning request and site plan for a Plum Market store on the former Cleary University Washtenaw Campus at 3601 Plymouth Road.

Plans call to renovate the existing 20,596-square-foot structure and construct a 4,639-square-foot addition on the north side of the building. Plum Market is requesting to rezone the property from PUD to C3, commercial fringe development.

Plum Market has a purchase agreement for the 2.38-acre Plymouth Road property. Cleary University purchased the site for $2 million in 1998.

The university announced in late 2013 it would no longer conduct in-person classes at the Ann Arbor campus starting in the winter 2014 semester. Only one in-person class was taught on campus in fall 2013. The property was listed for sale at just under $3 million.

Plum Market President Matt Jonna said the Plum Market store on Plymouth Road would have a Zingerman’s coffee bar, an outdoor seating area and a cozy feel. Plum Market plans to spend about $12.5 million in acquiring the real estate, building the store and making site improvements.

“We couldn’t be more excited to hopefully get it all approved and get open,” Jonna said during a citizen participation meeting for the project in September.

Based in Farmington Hills, Plum Market operates three locations in Michigan, including a store on North Maple Road in Ann Arbor, and one store in Illinois. In April, the grocer was selected among hundreds of applicants to open a new eatery inside the McNamara Terminal of the Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Plum Market carries natural, organic, local and specialty grocery items. The Ann Arbor store has a Zingerman’s Coffee Bar, Swirlberry frozen yogurt, a chocolate shop, a prepared foods section, an apothecary, a produce department, grocery items and beer and wine.

Jonna said if approved, the new store on Plymouth Road will have a similar look to the store on North Maple Road, but it will be 10,000 square feet smaller in size.

Parking on the property would be reduced from 99 spaces to 82 spaces. Ten covered bicycle parking spaces are included in the plans.

The outdoor cafe is proposed along the Plymouth Road side of the building. There is a 40-foot buffer between the building and the sidewalk curb.

Access to the site would remain from a shared easement off Plymouth Road.

The new store would be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. The coffee bar would open at 6 a.m. The store would employ 125 people.

Michigan unemployment rates fall in all labor markets

Seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates fell in all of Michigan's 17 major labor market regions in August.

 

The state Department of Technology, Management and Budget said Thursday that jobless rates dropped due to workforce reductions and fewer unemployed people actively seeking summer and seasonal jobs. It says employment levels rose moderately in many areas of the state.

The biggest over-the-month advances in employment were in the Saginaw and Battle Creek areas. The only monthly employment drop was in the Detroit area, possibly because of severe flooding that hit the region.

Jobless rates ranged from a low of 4.6 percent in Ann Arbor to a high of 7.9 percent in Detroit.

Michigan Business Networking Group: Cancer Fundraiser

 The Michigan Business Networking Group is helping to put together a cancer fundraiser in late September.   We are looking for donated items as well as a band that would be willing to donate their time.

If you would like to help please call Ron Dwyer at 248-390-6345  or e-mail rondwyer@roninsureme.com