Grant 1

Kate Grant
Mrs. Kipfmiller
Ac. World Lit./7th
7 April 2014
The Great Escape
Everything is more beautiful because were doomed. You will never be lovelier than
you are now. We will never be here again should sound familiar (Homer). Words taken straight
from Pariss mouth and whispered into Helens ear put the city of Troys opportunistic,
stimulating aura in focus. While The Iliads lover boy might have been referring to his ancient
Anatolia kingdom, there is a magnificent modern-day Troy right in Oakland County, Michigan.
A sprawling land of major businesses and upscale shops, offerings of both places to work and
nest for a wide range of professionals exist. The Somerset Mall, a main attraction, brings in job
seekers from the world over in Ellis Island-fashion, allowing a new generation of entrepreneurs
to gather their bearings in small-scale retail before jumping into the full lifestyle of glamorous
Troy. Even native tourists seeking a refreshing local trip gravitate here to explore the latest in
high society. From work to play, there is enough activity in this metro-Detroit hub to ignite a
Trojan war over what to do first.
The background on what draws folks in from far and wide makes for one seriously
reputable city. With over 6,100 businesses covering technology to finance, employment easily
surpasses 125,000 people. Major automotive research and development facilities and banking
giants--Delphi and PNC, respectively--supply openings in the labor force regularly for
newcomers. CNN Money ranked Troy as the 22nd Best Places to Live in the U.S. because of
this astronomical statistic and its consequential socioeconomic stability (Did You Know?).

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Since workers are so numerous, people from drastically different walks of life inevitably
make Troy ...the second most ethnically diverse city in Michigan (Did You Know?). In fact,
out of 82,212 residents in the 2012 Census, 18,368 were foreign-born (Troy, MI). Nearby I-75
surprisingly attracts a great deal of these optimistic immigrants seeking a change. Contrary to
popular belief, suspected crime from the high level of passing travelers doesnt affect the
metropoliss claim of Michigans safest hotspot one bit.
Ironically, even the most innocently enticed voyager may feel criminal after indulging in
several renowned restaurants guilty pleasures. A three-course experience at exclusive Mortons
The Steakhouse can set a patron back $59.99, for starters. Considering Mortons longstanding
commitment to serving only the top two percent of USDA prime beef cuts, the costliness is
forgivable. No need to sweat if short on cash (or avoiding supper previously on four legs),
though: Just down West Big Beaver Road sits Bonefish Grill, a Florida-based chain where the
spotlight is on seafood. Chilean sea bass, gulf grouper, and cold water lobster tails will appeal to
lighter-fare fans for a lesser expense without sacrificing quality, per the companys sustainability
assurances. Granite City Food and Brewery is another regional take on American favorites like
burgers and beer; made-from-scratch specialties and drinks brewed on-site set a reasonably
priced casual scene for adults, not to mention those under a certain age, alike. If a full-blown
feast isnt on the itinerary, a chill visit to one of nine Starbucks is as easy as taking a jaunt down
Wattles Road (Troy, MI). No matter the street, the signature green Siren sign cant be far.
Sound body, sound mind is a fitting motto for filling up on knowledge after washing
down chow. Exploring The Troy Historic Village [which] looks back to the past, offering
visitors a unique chance to understand a way of life now gone is a fine venture for enriching
ones gray matter (Troy History). It is an interactive museum with restored homes and farms of

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original area pioneers intended to bridge the gap between what once was a simple rural town and
todays evolving industry. Curiously, pertinent 19th- and early 20th-century artifacts are housed
in just one of ...10 historic buildings that give visitors a glimpse into [the] regions storied past
(Troy History). They showcase rustic Poppelton Schools rudimentary desks, books, and slates,
which are complemented by classic recess toys from the institution. A replica Town Hall is also a
few steps yonder from the display, granting studious guests access to Troys first political setting.
Functional carbon copy wagon and print shops grace the grounds as well for a complete handson visit not to be soon forgotten.
In a similar vein, the Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center encourages visitors by transforming
them into tree huggers. Right off the bark--er, bat--a trail trek lends itself to serene ponds
featuring native wildlife. Predators and prey alike find refuge in the omnipresent woodland,
making for a peaceful rarity in such a hustling city. Moreover, several guided tours of the terra
put into perspective what a stark contrast it is for fauna to reside here. Yet, it isnt all about the
animals: A March drop-in means prime time for maple trees. Eager guests can eke out syrup
from them, bottle it up, and leave with their own delicious keepsake during this green month.
Becoming one with nature in a normally fast-paced environment will leave its mark on tourists,
sticky hands down.
For those who cant have enough of the great outdoors, a round of golf at one of two
premier lawns should satisfy. Troy Golf Courses offers a couple of outstanding greens, namely
Sanctuary Lake and Sylvan Glen. The former lies on 190 acres to spread out its beautiful par-71
landscape with more wildlife for setting the scene; the latter includes identical specifications, but
morphs into a cross-country skiing venue during winter so slope bunnies can have in on an
unmatched day of sporting. Naturally, both places are accompanied by a practice facility, though

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Sanctuary Lakes boasts 70 hitting stations with real and artificial turfs. Year round, an athlete is
promised a picturesque backdrop at the course of his or her choosing.
If less formal recreation is sought, other options are available as well. Killer workouts
courtesy of CrossFit affiliates such as Stay Strong, Iron Warrior, and CrossFit Troy allow dropins for an average of $15 per MetCon, giving day trippers a taste of home. For the whole family,
AirTime Trampoline and Game Parks high-intensity activities are a viable choice. 12,000 square
feet of bounce entertains all ages by combining pulsating jams with near-zero-gravity dodgeball
and basketball in addition to foam mosh pits for perfecting ones gymnastic skills. On Friday and
Saturday nights, a DJ spins hometown artists beats to up the ante of rivalries on the court.
Keeping busy while in town isnt difficult when given these selections, for sure.
Now, one seeking a more, say, lasting experience while in Troy may fancy deviating from
the norm at Ironclad Tattoo Company. Since opening in July 2012, the shop has grown into a
crew of seven veteran artists and two seasoned piercers, one of whom is Ironclads owner, Mike
Moore. Seems status quo...But what distinguishes Ironclad from a shady operation run in a back
alley illuminated by spotty streetlights? Standards. Communication. 21st-century creations-thats what. Case in point: Da Vincis modern rival, Tom Renshaw.
Practically born with a needle in his hand, Renshaw has more than two decades of
practice under his belt. According to his regularly updated portfolio, Tom has won over 400
national and international awards for his photo realistic style of tattoo in said twenty years
(About Tom). Oh, and specialization in human/wildlife portraiture combined with an edge in
wildlife/landscape scenes makes him a standout for the right reasons. Each black and gray
piece--yes, piece, not sketch--is exceptional when judged on the seven elements of art.
Devotion to every work is proven through Tom work[ing] very limited hours and days,

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preferring quality over quantity (About Tom). Hundreds of magazines have taken note and
showcased him for universality; among those publications are Rolling Stone, Sports
Illustrated, and Playboy.
Switching back to ICTs business end, the company offers only the highest grades of
jewelry primarily from Body Vision Los Angeles and Anatometal. Both manufacturers carry an
endless array of genuine gemstones and metals for customization. Typically, Mike or his
knowledgeable piercing, accomplice Chase Suarez, assists customers with designing new gear
right in-store. Understanding how each guests anatomy differs gives them the chance to
flawlessly personalize orders right down to the threaded ends. At ICT, professionalisms finished
product is more than skin-deep--its permanent, baby!
Then again, an equally enduring escapade for saner--ahem, sophisticated--folks lies ten
minutes away at the glorious Somerset Mall. Following valet parking of ones ride, a short
sashay into the bi-level South district introduces the serenade of a pianists melodies and a glass
elevator--fit for Cinderella--for hoisting shoppers to the second floor. The journey hits higher
notes from there: Spanning the six-lane boulevard Big Beaver Road, and integrating the twin
centers, is an enclosed 700-foot long climate-controlled skywalk designed for transporting
fashionistas across to North (The History of Somerset Collection). For added convenience,
couture lovers can speed up their struts by taking advantage of the bridges moving sidewalk.
Given ...1.44 million square feet...with more than 180 stores and restaurants to cover, oglers
will need all the time they can muster (The History of Somerset Collection).
From the get-go, 500,000 square feet of South side ritz singlehandedly renders spenders
speechless (and penniless). Italian boutiques like Gucci, Emporio Armani, and Salvatore
Ferragamo, exclusive to Michigans market, are all conveniently clustered for those living a

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dressed-to-the-nines life. Often, apparel takes a backseat to home merchandise stores. Sur la
Tables expansive lineup of premium culinary goods has roots tracing back to worldwide
countries despite the emporiums humble French origins. Walls plastered with quirky cooking
devices only balance the use of them in the neighboring instructional kitchen. Indeed: There is
one of more than fifty of the nations largest avocational chef schools right in the mall, offering
multiple classes on a regular basis for moms and Giadas alike. But an abode without neat
furnishings beyond the galley would be dull. Hence, Crate and Barrels presence just down the
white marble landing. Uniquely intertwined between the two floors as if it were a home itself,
C&B displays modern amenities for keeping budgets cozy and showcases what a utopian living
space can look like...before kids, at least.
Luckily, those with offspring have a better opportunity to share Somersets excitement on
the three-story North end. The ground flat holds a tech-savvy Apple retailer where the most
advanced i-(Insertgadgethere) can be taken for a spin, foremost. Geeks are even allowed to chill
with Siri longer if they sign up for individual gizmo lessons by the hour. Transitioning to the
middle deck, one finds Apples nemesis Microsoft competing for attention among non-techie
chains. Swarovski steals the spotlight by literally outshining with exquisitely cut crystal, and hip
Guess tempts peepers by means of the hottest trends. The top mecca of North holds a few more
treasures, too. Unbeknownst to the casual passerby is The Detroit Shoppe, which asserts Part
museum. Part retail. All Detroit as integral to its purpose (Mission Statement). This souvenir
seller doesnt solely advertise Motor City--it assists area charities by raising funds for donation
to local nonprofits (Mission Statement). Further good vibes radiate from Lushs wholesome
handmade cosmetics. Naturalists will rejoice with assurances of safe, vegan, non-animal tested
products available from only sustainable organic sources. Urban Outfitters similarly lures in

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earthy personalities through retro looks and 70s-esque memorabilia; upon seeing mega record
players, one is promised a groovy time warp. Truth be told, there really is a happy medium for
folks of varying flavors given any level they land on.
Speaking of tastes, hungry patrons can fill up at their desired choice of six full-service
restaurants right in the mall. P.F. Changs, housed in South, features ambrosial Asian food with
flare. Bold dishes like Seared Ahi Tuna with Wasabi Guacamole and Orange Ginger Beet Salad
truly hit the spot. Milder cuisine connoisseurs might prefer Norths California Pizza Kitchen,
capable of bringing the West Coast to diners tables. Sedona tortilla soup, carnitas tacos, and
Jambalaya fettuccine are found alongside CPKs famous hearth-baked pizzas. Hmm...dinner
without dessert seems blasphemous. Godiva Chocolatiers irresistible goodies finely top off any
feast; Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory has a way with overloaded caramel apples big enough
to be a meal in themselves. Whether shopping or dining, Somerset Mall is the ultimate
rendezvous in the mitten state.
Hopefully, families mini-vacationing in Troy wont actually feud over the overwhelming
plethora of diversions. Parents desperate attempts at educating their young at the Historic
Village and Stage Nature Center will become just that--attempts. Youths will be inclined to put
holes in their still-developing heads at Ironclad over learn while spending a day here. Of course,
theres still the Forbes Companys spectacular mall to settle on if a stalemate between nerdiness
and nonsense perpetuates. Alas, For in my heart and soul I know this well: the day will come
when sacred Troy must die... (Homer). Well, at least according to The Iliads scapegoat,
Hector. But one problem lies within his statement: It concerns the ancient Trojan land.
Michigans doppelgnger city exists in the present with potential enough to flourish for many
more moons, Apollo willing.

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Works Cited
About Tom. Tom Renshaw. Tom Renshaw Tattoo, 2014. Web. 1 Mar. 2014.
Did You Know? Troy, MI. City of Troy, 2013. Web. 25 Feb. 2014.
The History of Somerset Collection. Somerset Collection. The Forbes Company, n.d.
Web. 25

Feb. 2014.

Homer. The Iliad. The Iliad. Ed. W.H.D. Rousse. London, England: Signet Classics, 2007.
Print.
Mission Statement. The Detroit Shoppe. n.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
Troy History. Troy Historic Village. Culture Source, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
Troy, MI. City-Data.com. Onboard Informatics, 2013. Web. 25 Feb. 2014.