Downtown newsmagazine | Birmingham/Bloomfield

B I R M I N G H A M

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B L O O M F I E L D

JULY 2019

WHAT YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT CHEMICALS IN YOUR

EVER-EXPANDING BATTLEFRONT ON FOOD INSECURITY PROBLEM SOCIETY NOTEBOOK • METRO INTELLIGENCER • OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL ECRWSS Postal Customer EDDM

DOWNTOWNPUBLICATIONS.COM

S ES N E: D IN IO SI S T IN :BU SEC ES AL C CI FA SPE

VOTE YES BIRMINGHAM BOND / YES BLOOMFIELD SAD

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In-Town Luxury | $3,479,000 Brookside Avenue, Birmingham

2.3 Acres of Serenity | $1,190,000 Dow Ridge Road, Orchard Lake

Fantastic Curb Appeal Dowling Road, Bloomfield Twp.

Quarton Lake Estates | $1,749,000 Glenhurst Drive, Birmingham

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DOWNTOWN07.19

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Questions raised on sunscreen chemicals While sunscreen is key to protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, new research on sunscreen ingredients has numerous consumers and advocacy groups concerned that some products may be affecting health and the environment.

LONGFORM

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The battlefront in the fight to combat food insecurity has expanded to college campuses where students are facing this challenge and to hospitals where overall health of patients' and the families is a major concern.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

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Here's the backstory on why we are changing our approach to what we present on the cover of the newsmagazine each month – our efforts to highlight the longform journalism we offer to our readers in each monthly issue.

CRIME LOCATOR

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A recap of select categories of crime occurring in the past month in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills, presented in map format.

OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL

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Jumping on the impeachment inquiry bandwagon; purging trail of pro-Trump statements; Pott's state run looming; county exec brass ring; political dynasty nears end; Akouri goes silent; plus more.

THE COVER Cover design: Chris Grammer

MUNICIPAL

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Township OPEB plan approved; SAD scenarios; Cameron’s closes; ethics charges dismissed against city manager and mayor; public safety foundation questioned; interim superintendent named; and more.

FACES:BUSINESS SPECIAL SECTION CENTER OF THIS ISSUE

At T e N t I o N

BlOoMfIeLd ToWnShIp ReSiDeNtS

VoTe YeS tO PrOtEcT oUr PoLiCe aNd FiRe The Township has a structural deficit caused by a 2017 change in state law. The change requires higher payments for Defined Benefit pension plans and Other Post-Employment Benefits. This change will require future payments of $4 to $6 million per year for the next fifteen years.

What Bloomfield Township has Already Done to Cut Costs.

• The Township has 23 fewer employees today than in 2008 (average T of $1.9 million per year). savings • The Township had a 5-year freeze on employee salaries during the T recession.

• In 2005 the Township ended the Defined Benefit pension plan, and moved to a Defined Contribution plan, which is similar to a 401K plan.

• In 2011 the Township closed the retiree health care plan for all new hires.

• In 2010 the Township switched its healthcare plan for all employees to a high deductible plan.

• Longevity pay was ended for all new hires in 2011.

• Continual review of each department conducted to find ways to cut costs and maintain quality service.

Without a millage increase, deep cuts will need to be made to public safety, roads, animal welfare, and other areas of the budget to meet these new state-mandated funding levels. The public safety budgets are the largest budgets in the Township. Two-thirds of all Township employees and retirees are from Public Safety.

If this ballot proposal is approved, the existing voted general millage of 1.25 mills, set to expire at the end of 2019, will not be levied, collected, or renewed by the Township. This public safety millage is a net increase of 1.05 mills.

The average Bloomfield household will pay $219 more per year to protect Township police, fire, and dispatch

VoTe YeS On TuEsDaY AuGuSt 6 PrOtEcT OuR OuR PoLiCe PoLiCe AnD PrOtEcT AnDFiRe FiRe Paid for by Committee to Protect Our Police and Fire, 3883 S. Miller Way, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301

Paid for by Committee to Protect Our Police and Fire, 3883 S. Miller Way, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301

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Mallory Brown

METRO INTELLIGENCER

90

Writer/reporter Dana Casadei helps us provide quick takes on what is happening in the world of food and drink in the metro Detroit area.

SOCIETY NOTEBOOK

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Society Notebook reporter Gigi Nichols provides the latest news and snapshots from the society and non-profit circuit fundraising events.

ENDNOTE

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Critical ballot issues are facing voters on August 6 in both Birmingham and Bloomfield Township and we are urging voters in both communities to support the issues as presented.

FACES

28 43 57 79 84

Rory Lincoln Larry Murphy Michael DeMeglio Paul Vachon Mallory Brown

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FROM THE PUBLISHER ou have arrived at this page to read my monthly column, so then you have already seen one of the major changes that we have made to Downtown newsmagazine with this July issue.

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Since the fall of 2010, we have been featuring iconic scenes from the communities of Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills and Bloomfield Township on our covers. In the early days of this publication we fielded on a regular basis a number of emails from readers who questioned why the covers of Downtown were not tied thematically to stories appearing within a given issue, like you would normally find in other magazines. Our standard answer was simple: our goal was to feature scenes from the local area, highlighting everything from noted monuments to general community portraits that form the backdrop to everyday life for all of us in the three municipalities.

This was accomplished with the assistance of photographer Laurie Tennent, who operates Laurie Tennent Studio in the Rail District of Birmingham. Many of our covers since 2010 have been photographed by Laurie, or in some cases by those who were part of the studio's creative workforce.

I knew when we first set about to bring Downtown newsmagazine to market that at some point we would have to address the fact that there are a finite number of local scenes in any community to feature each month. We are quickly reaching that point. Since our launch we have highlighted on our covers well over 100 iconic scenes in our local communities.

So with this issue we are turning the focus of the cover to highlight the longform stories we produce each month. The Merriam-Webster dictionary describes longform journalism as follows: “covering a subject at much greater length and in much greater depth than a standard news article.”

Covers – created in-house but occasionally using outside talent – will serve the purpose of drawing attention to one of the longform essays inside each issue. In other words, encouraging the audience to explore the content of each issue. While we don't vie on newsstands with other publications, we recognize that we do compete as we arrive in the mail each month with other items brought to you by your postal carrier. So you can expect graphic covers that are visually appealing and at times even jarring or shocking to capture your attention.

Our move to a different approach on the cover is simply a reimagining of Downtown. Our basic brand will remain the same.

In terms of branding we have developed for Downtown newsmagazine, we are known by our strong editorial content that sets us apart from other print products in the area. No other local publication devotes as much effort on the editorial front as we do at Downtown. Our longform pieces are an intricate part of our publication each month, and we can't think of any publication in this market that is doing longform journalism. Our longform essays (3,500-6,000 words) are planned out months in advance and take considerable work on the part of the news staff which seeks out sources from across the state, country and on occasion in other countries as they do in-depth research on a topic. Our intent with the longform stories is to allow readers to explore weightier issues that affect them.

We are journalists and storytellers producing a hybrid newsmagazine that still hews to the traditional concept of providing our readers with news coverage of important issues facing the communities, including monitoring and reporting how local elected and appointed officials address these concerns. We include in the definition of local not just the three municipalities and two school districts we serve, but also the county, regional and state government units when official action or lack thereof impacts this area. I use the term hybrid because we are a newspaper, presented in magazine format on a monthly basis, hence the term newsmagazine.

We believe that the general population must be given the information necessary to make decisions and take action when they are so inclined. The three local communities have a population with the highest educational level in the state of Michigan and we think Downtown serves the residents well with this publishing philosophy.

Right or wrong, we have not fallen prey to the growing tendency in print media to produce what is commonly known as “click bait” journalism – stories that draw more “hits” when posted to a publication's website. While we post to social media and our website – downtownpublications.com – our first order of business here is providing you with a strong print product.

So as noted earlier, the basic brand in terms of quality content remains the same.

We are adding some new content to Downtown in the coming months, as evidenced by the special section appearing in this issue – Faces: Business, which will now become an annual effort on our part.

The idea from this section is an outgrowth of the monthly Faces personality profiles we created when the newsmagazine first began. Faces profiles are intended to make the community aware of people living in the area or who had lived here at some point in time and have accomplished something unusual, important and interesting.

We approached the business community for our Faces:Business advertorial section, appearing in the center of this issue, with the concept of allowing business owners to share with readers some additional background on themselves as a means of building relationships with current and future customers or clients.

Other special sections are on the drawing board as I write this column. Each of them will be unique in terms of special sections rather than the usual “canned copy” sections that appear in most other local publications – you know, the ones few people read.

Again, our goal with the special sections is to bring you something unique that you want to read.

As always, I welcome your feedback.

David Hohendorf Publisher DavidHohendorf@DowntownPublications.com

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271 West Maple Birmingham

PUBLISHER David Hohendorf NEWS EDITOR Lisa Brody NEWS STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brody Anchill | Dana Casadei Kevin Elliott | Austen Hohendorf | Gigi Nichols Bill Seklar | Judith Harris Solomon | Julie Yolles PHOTOGRAPHY/CONTRIBUTORS Esme McClear | Laurie Tennent | Chris Ward Laurie Tennent Studio ADVERTISING DIRECTOR David Hohendorf ADVERTISING SALES Mark Grablowski GRAPHICS/IT MANAGER Chris Grammer OFFICE 124 W. Maple Birmingham MI 48009 248.792.6464 DISTRIBUTION/SUBSCRIPTIONS Mailed monthly at no charge to most homes in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills. Additional free copies distributed at high foot-traffic locations in Birmingham/Bloomfield.

For those not receiving a free mail copy, paid subscriptions are available for a $12 annual charge. To secure a paid subscription, go to our website (downtownpublications.com) and click on “subscriptions” in the top index and place your order online or scan the QR Code here.

INCOMING/READER FEEDBACK We welcome feedback on both our publication and general issues of concern in the Birmingham/Bloomfield community. The traditional “letters to the editor” in Downtown are published in our Incoming section and can include written letters or electronic communication.

Opinions can be sent via e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 W. Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009.

If you are using the mail option, you must include a phone number for verification purposes.

WEBSITE downtownpublications.com

FACEBOOK facebook.com/downtownpublications TWITTER twitter.com/downtownpubs OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL oaklandconfidential.com METRO INTELLIGENCER metrointelligencer.com Member of Downtown Publications DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM/BLOOMFIELD

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CRIME LOCATOR

NORTH

Map key

Sexual assault

Assault

Murder

Robbery

Breaking/entering

Larceny

Larceny from vehicle

Vehicle theft

Vandalism

Drug offenses

Arson

These are the crimes reported under select categories by police officials in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills through June 17, 2019.

Placement of codes is approximate.

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INCOMING Details of Birmingham vote On Tuesday, August 6, 2019 Birmingham residents will be asked to consider a ballot proposal that would fund the reconstruction of the North Old Woodward parking structure and extend Bates Street from Willits to Old Woodward. The planning for this project was initiated in 1996 with the creation of the Downtown Birmingham 2016 Plan and has been under consideration since that time. The plan is now being advanced due to the increasing demand for parking downtown, which reaches 95 percent of its total capacity during the week on a regular basis and given that the North Old Woodward parking structure is the oldest structure in the city’s system and has increasing maintenance required to operate it.

Birmingham residents are being asked to consider a general obligation bond in an amount not to exceed $57.4 million. In addition, Birmingham residents will not be charged for this cost to repay the bond debt for the parking structure and street extension. The cost to repay the debt on the bonds will come from the Enterprise Parking Fund, which is comprised of user fees paid to the parking system.

There is no tax increase to Birmingham residents if the bond is approved. All of the existing parking structures were funded with general obligation bonds and this allows the bonds to benefit from the attractiveness of the city’s current AAA bond rating and receive the best rates in the municipal bond market.

The ballot proposal includes funding for two public elements.

These include the reconstruction of the North Old Woodward parking structure with a small retail liner included on the first floor of the structure and the extension of Bates Street with on-street parking from Willits north and east to Old Woodward to provide access to the two entrances of the new structure.

The new city parking structure will have six stories above ground and three stories below ground with entrances on the north and west sides of the structure along the new Bates Street extension. The main structure entrance will be convertible, thus allowing multiple lanes into and out of the structure in the mornings and evenings when ingress and egress are concentrated and then allow shared access downtownpublications.com

SPEAK OUT We welcome your opinion on issues facing the Birmingham/Bloomfield communities.

Although we do not have a fixed maximum length for letters sent to us, we recommend a maximum length of 175-200 words. We also reserve the right to edit letters for length if necessary.

Opinions can be sent via e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 West Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009.

throughout the day. The height of the new structure will be compatible with that of adjoining buildings and have flat floor plates and ceiling heights of 11 feet to allow plenty of air and light into the structure. This will also allow for adaptive reuse of the structure in the future should the city’s needs change. Total parking on site will increase by 400 parking spaces over what exists today.

The existing North Old Woodward parking structure has frontage on North Old Woodward.

Under the proposed plan, the structure has been set back from the frontage on Old Woodward by 70 feet in order to hide the structure from Old Woodward and will allow a new RH (Restoration Hardware) gallery story to be constructed on Old Woodward and serve as a buffer from the street to the structure. This 70-foot parcel is planned to be leased to the Woodward Bates Partners development team and constructed as a private component and is not part of the city bond proposal.

Property taxes and lease payments will be paid to the city under this arrangement.

If the parking bond is approved in August, it is anticipated construction could begin as soon as November and contemplates approximately a 24-month construction schedule. This timeframe has been selected as construction costs continue to escalate and obtaining guaranteed pricing now will control project costs. Work would involve the demolition and reconstruction of the existing parking structure along with the extension of Bates Street.

During this period, a comprehensive parking mitigation plan will be DOWNTOWN

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implemented offering multiple alternative parking solutions. These alternative solutions will include options such as off-site parking facilities, shuttle and trolley services to, from and within the downtown, additional valet stands, “drop & go” service opportunities, monthly bus pass discounts, rideshare service programs, and introduction of a parking app to assist users in making the commuting decisions that are most convenient for them.

Ultimately, visitors and shoppers will continue to experience the opportunity to park downtown.

The Birmingham NOW (North Old Woodward) Project is a comprehensive plan. It adds parking capacity downtown and will not cost Birmingham taxpayers. For more information on this project, please visit the city’s website at bhamgov.org/birminghamnowproject for further details.

Be informed and vote on August 6th.

Joseph A. Valentine City Manager

New deck not the answer City officials say a new parking deck would help solve a parking shortage in Birmingham, but it won’t, and not only because the private development to accompany the deck would consume most of the additional spaces provided.

Even if the city eked out a net gain in parking, the shortage would not be addressed – and there are good reasons to suggest it should not be. That’s because the shortage is not the problem, it’s a symptom.

The problem is systemic, and so must be the solution.

The biggest problem is that the city now encourages property owners to build offices, for which it provides parking as a matter of right (at a very low cost), and discourages them from building residences, because it requires them to provide their own parking. The residential development we do get is very large and very expensive, primarily because more, smaller units would require more, very expensive parking. And so we are left with an imbalance: too many offices (at least in relation to the supply of parking), with more on their way.

Meanwhile, many believe we have too few less expensive condos or apartments, and not enough people actually living downtown.

Birmingham is not nearly fully builtout, and so there is lots of room to 22

move for property owners. The only question is: In what direction?

The bottom line: The city could add 1,000 new parking spaces, property owners would quickly build offices to fill them, and we’d be right where we are today. Problem not solved.

Birmingham has other problems that involve parking, most glaringly the lack of it in the city’s Triangle District, the area bounded by Woodward, Maple, Adams and Lincoln. This underdeveloped area was the subject of a master plan more than a decade ago, and though city-owned parking was a major component of the plan, it was never executed. No parking, no development, a dead-end largely of the city’s own making.

Other dynamics affect the supply and demand of parking – technology, for example, and the decline in car ownership. While mass transit isn’t much a factor in Birmingham, the rise of ride hailing and car-sharing services like Uber and Zip will make serious differences. And the impact could go in both directions. Not only could Uber cause a drop in demand for parking; a drop in supply of parking could cause an increase in the use of Uber.

So now it’s your turn to contribute to the solution. As a resident, would you rather have more offices and office workers and daytime parkers overloading our parking system, or a thriving community of more fellow residents living downtown?

We’re going to guess you’ll take the latter. And so the answer is relatively simple: Pass laws that encourage smaller, less expensive residences downtown, and do whatever you can, in addition to the self-regulating dynamic of supply and demand, to discourage office development.

City planners have been talking for some time about reducing or eliminating the parking requirement on residential development downtown, and outside planners hired to revise our master plan in May recommended just that.

Residents would use the parking structures at night, after the office workers go home. (Those planners also told us we are just about maxed out on parking in the Central Business District, and ought to be looking to the Triangle District for future supply needs, a recommendation that dovetails

ELECTION LETTERS Both Birmingham and Bloomfield Township will have issues appearing on the August 6 ballot. Because our August issue comes out so close to the election date, we will not be publishing letters related to the ballot issues because it would not allow response, if needed, before voters go to the polls.

nicely with the district’s master plan.)

To assist supply and demand in discouraging office development, the city could begin to recognize the role of pricing in the law of supply and demand. In other words, raise its prices. Did you know that a monthly parking permit in Birmingham is about one-third the cost of a similar permit in downtown Detroit?

If you’re lost in the woods and can’t see the forest for the trees, watch out. Wolves lurk. Developers will be more than happy to build you a shiny new parking deck, especially if you’re willing to give them a sweet deal on some prime real estate.

The answer to Birmingham’s parking problem is not a new, slightly larger $67 million parking deck.

Vote ‘no’ on August 6, and insist on a do-over that addresses the real problems – with a much lower price tag.

Clinton Baller Birmingham

RL Concetti expansion On behalf of RL Concetti, we wanted to extend a big "thank you" for featuring their expansion to Birmingham in the Business Matters section of the June edition. RL Concetti is over the moon!

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Time to pay the piper I watch the comments on the issue of the Bloomfield Township SAD and have to chuckle. Yea, chuckle.

No one wants their taxes to go up.

Not one person. That said, there are issues the voters neglected for years.

Contracts were agreed to by both

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the employer and the employees. That includes the "elected officials" elected by the constituency of Bloomfield Township. Regardless of what any may want for the future, the contracts of the past need to be honored.

The voters should have been more aware of what was going on for years, i.e., neglecting to build up the funds to cover the retirement benefits for employees.

Now is not the time to be critical of the benefits that were negotiated and agreed to or past voting elected officials that made poor decisions.

Now those decisions, like the chickens, have come home to roost.

The piper needs to be paid. The employees deserve the benefits agreed to and if necessary the residents need to dig into their pockets to come up with the payment.

There can be plenty of conversations for the future. But the past needs to be honored.

That's the long and short of it. I can't cut the lease car payment because it is getting a little hefty. I ordered the appliances and furniture.

I need to pay for those things. I, through the elected persons, agreed to the contracts including wages and benefits. I need to pay the bill.

Michael Wasielewski Bloomfield Township

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Proposed new hotel While it is about time that corner was redeveloped from the long ago Shell gas station, it is sad to see the character of the original Hunter House and its Woodward frontage outdoor seating be consumed inside an antiseptic contemporary hotel.

No way it can ever be the same.

Charlie Smith Birmingham

Police foundation Sounds more like the city manager was aware of it and failed to notify the commission!

Why would commissioner McClure automatically assume it’s unethical?

Are other non-profits that help police departments all unethical?! She’s saying the West Bloomfield police foundation is unethical?

Why would a resident of Bloomfield Hills donate money to support police operations and have their money rerouted by the commission to something stupid like flowers in the median in Woodward?

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OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL Oakland Confidential is a periodic column of political gossip/news, gathered both on and off-the-record by staff members at Downtown newsmagazine. We welcome possible items for this column which can be emailed to: OaklndConfidential@DowntownPublications.com.

All sources are kept strictly confidential. The gossip column can be viewed at OaklandConfidential.com where you can sign up to receive updates each month via email.

HIDE AND SEEK: The man being held up as the future of Michigan’s Republican Party, John James, is apparently trying to hide the unwavering support he extolled during his failed 2018 Senate campaign for President Donald Trump by deleting statements promoting him from his social media accounts. James, a 2004 West Point graduate who served in Iraq as an Apache helicopter pilot, returning home to run his family business, lost his bid for Senate against Democrat Debbie Stabenow. But, with James taking 43.7 percent of the general election vote, Republicans have pinned their hopes on James as a future leader in the party. James’ name had been tossed about for a potential ambassadorship appointment from Trump, which went nowhere. He has since announced his second run for Senate, this time against the state’s junior senator, Democrat Gary Peters. With support for Trump not expected to hold water with Michigan voters in 2020, Democrats called James out for quietly removing photos and statements pledging support for the president. Trump balloons were conspicuously cropped out of recent photos shared by the James’ campaign. On June 17, 501(c)4 organization VoteVotes, which has close ties to congressional Democrats, announced its support for Peters.

PETERS The organization is backed by more than a half-million veterans and military family members and their supporters. Peters is a former lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Subsequently, James pushed back by urging donors to pledge their support before the latest filing deadline, which is at the end of June.

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IMPEACHABLE OFFENSES: The time delays in waiting for the courts to decide whether President Donald Trump can continue stonewalling oversight by ordering people not to testify before House members has prompted Congressman Andy Levin (D-Bloomfield Township, Franklin, Beverly Hills, Royal Oak, Huntington Woods and parts of Macomb County) to lend his voice to those calling for an impeachment inquiry to begin – as long as he has a bipartisan coalition. “I feel if we follow our current path, with five different committees investigating, it’s just too slow, and it’s not fair to the American people,” Levin said.

While he has always maintained that Trump has been violating the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution, intertwining his business with government dealings, the results of the Mueller Report, along with conversations with fellow members on the Judicial Committee, convinced him that “on 10 or more occasions the President did obstruct justice or sought to obstruct justice.” He said his announcement for an impeachment inquiry is “a practical evolution – how can we uncover the information? I think impeachment hearings are the best way, just like with the Watergate hearings (in 1973). The American people deserve to get the information directly, not just from a 400-page LEVIN document.” Rather than just initiating proceedings, his goal is to build a consensus with fellow Democrats, like Reps. Haley Stevens (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, west Oakland and western Wayne County) and Elissa Slotkin (Rochester, Rochester Hills, north Oakland, parts of Livingston and Ingham counties), who are still urging caution, as well “reaching across the aisle to engage Republican colleagues about the urgent need to protect our democracy.” Oakland County’s other member of the House, Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (D-Southfield), has now also announced that she is supporting the start of impeachment hearings.

PARTING SHOT? A MIRS post in mid-May alleging that Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson would be willing to step down early if the Democrats on the board of commissioners promise to keep the executive’s GOP appointees on the job just long enough to secure their full retirement benefits may be all wet, according to both Democrats and Republicans around the Oakland County water cooler – one, because those executive appointees are all in a defined contribution system, so there’s no vesting needed; and two, because Patterson isn’t planning on going anywhere. Patterson, who announced he is battling pancreatic cancer, is going through rounds of chemotherapy, which those in the executive office acknowledge is hard on him, but is producing good results. “We think the MIRS piece was planted,” said one Oakland County employee. While word is that both country treasurer Andy Meisner and board chair Dave Woodward want the appointment as executive if the opening arises, Meisner publicly disavows that. “I’m not actively seeking an appointment,” he said. “A lot of the death watch stuff is distasteful. It’s not worthy of the respect someone in that office deserves.”

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READY FOR BATTLE: While he is waiting to formally announce his candidacy to be the Republican state House 40th district nominee in 2020, Birmingham resident Dave Potts, an attorney and former Oakland County commissioner, is priming the pump. He’s hiring a “big guns” consultant to help him win what he terms “a very winnable campaign” to return the district, won by Democrat Mari Manoogian in 2018, a first for the 40th, made up of Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township and the eastern part of West Bloomfield, and said the Republican Party is determined to put a lot of money behind him to take it back – at least if he makes it past a primary. But the district may have changed from the days of yore – in 2016, it went for Hillary Clinton, not Donald Trump, who is proving more and more to be a Republican liability. Manoogian, also POTTS of Birmingham, appears to be taking nothing for granted, already knocking on doors and letting residents know what she is doing in Lansing.

She is also very active on social media. Word is folks won’t see Potts going door-todoor, as he said he has a disability (diabetes) but he assures us he will have surrogates out on the trail. He also is very eager to debate Manoogian, and show up her “youth.” Potts will be 79 during the 2020 campaign, so a word of caution – youth can sometimes outshine past experience.

REACHING FOR THE RING: Word bouncing around the Oakland County Executive Building is that former Congressman Mike Bishop (R-Rochester, Rochester Hills) is interested in throwing his hat in the ring for county executive in 2020 to replace L. Brooks Patterson, especially since Rochester Mayor Bryan Barnett may be rethinking running for the county’s brass ring. Barnett’s national profile has been rising as he is now a member of the United States Conference of Mayors, visiting the White House in January and joining Vice President Mike Pence on a leadership conference mission to Poland in May. Word is that the reaction at the county building to Bishop as exec is lukewarm at best. The former state Senate leader has looked at a county gig before, running for prosecutor in 2016 against Democrat Jessica Cooper, but that gambit proved a losing proposition. Bishop, who lost the 8th District to Democrat Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, had also been rumored as reportedly mulling another congressional run.

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TO THE RIGHT: Speaking of Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (D-Rochester, Rochester Hills, north Oakland, parts of Livingston and Ingham counties), earlier this month the right-wing website Washington Free Beacon (backed by a billionaire conservative activist) attempted to throw shade at her – especially with Jewish voters in her district – by questioning differences in two different resumes she has – one of which is on LinkedIn, where everyone posts their most in-depth and accurate accounts of their work history. The Free Beacon stated that two of her resumes offer different accounts of an early point in her career, “raising questions about which version is most accurate...The discrepancy is also drawing some criticism from proIsrael quarters.” It stated that in 2012, when she was applying for assistant secretary of state, she claimed that in 2000-2001 she had been a grant writer for the Follow-Up Committee on Arab Education (FUCAE), an education-oriented professional body representing Palestinians in Israel. Her current LinkedIn profile doesn’t include that, stating she worked in Israel for a grassroots feminist organization as a grant writer.

An orthodox rabbi quoted in the Free Beacon said of Slotkin, who is Jewish, “It comes across as advocating for education of Palestinians.” Why should it matter?

Transparency and honesty, the rabbi and website said. Slotkin, who did three tours of duty in Iraq as a CIA analyst, isn’t deigning to dignify the report from a news outlet labeled by one national critic as “decadent and unethical.” Instead, she has joined the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, equally comprised of Democrats and Republicans in the House, “to collaborate on practical, pragmatic solutions to improve people’s lives,” such as the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund.

FLIPPIN’ OUT: The end of an Oakland County political dynasty of sorts is fast approaching in the 38th District as Republican Rep. Kathy Crawford (Novi, Northville, Lyon Township, S. Lyon, Walled Lake) faces the last 18 months of her third and final term in the Michigan House of Representatives.

Crawford, who won her first term in 2014 after her husband Hugh Crawford vacated the seat due to term limits. The seat is considered by some analysts one of the top 15 likely to flip in the 2020 election – and state Democrats are eager to flip the state House after coming oh-so-close in 2018, narrowing the gap by six seats, with Republicans holding a 58 to 52 majority. Novi City Council member Kelly Breen, a Democrat, announced at a June 6 “Take Back Our State” campaign kickoff event that she intends to take the seat.

Breen was narrowly defeated by Crawford in the 2018 general election by a single percentage point, or 48 percent BREEN to 49 percent, with Libertarian candidate Brian Wright taking 2.4 percent of the vote. “It’s go time,” Breen captioned a photo she tweeted out in May after filing to run for the seat with the tag #FlipTheHouse.

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RADIO SILENCE: In terms of potential opponents to take on Congresswoman Haley Stevens, we are wondering what has happened to former conservative talk radio host John Akouri, the Republican who months ago announced he was starting a tour to assess possibly running for the 11th House District. The former Farmington Hills councilman and president and CEO of the Lebanese American Chamber has not filed anything campaign related with Oakland County, the state, or Federal Election Commission. He’s been silent on Facebook and Twitter, as well, other than repeated speculation about being named Ambassador to Lebanon. At this juncture two years ago, both Stevens and fellow Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin had already started their ground games.

HERE COMES THE JUDGE: Former Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Karen McDonald, who stepped down from the bench in March in order to run for Oakland County Prosecutor in 2020 – ironically, only a few months after her reelection to the bench, recently made it official by filing her statement of organization with the county clerk’s office May 28 to run against current prosecutor Jessica Cooper (D).

Cooper, who was first elected in 2008 after being both a circuit court judge and a Michigan Court of Appeals judge and reelected twice as prosecutor, has let it be known she has no intention of going anywhere. The Democratic primary may be a tussle, as Cooper has been credited with cleaning up the office. Some wondered if McDonald would run as a Republican, because she has been seen at a number of Republican functions in the last few years. “She probably did the math and figured there’s going to be a blue wave in Oakland County in 2020,” one prosecutor said, adding that she had a “pretty mediocre career as a prosecutor.”

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SHRI FOR THE D: Vowing that he won’t fade away from the public scene, former 2018 gubernatorial candidate Shri Thanedar (D-Ann Arbor) is rumored to be considering a run for office, this time as mayor of Detroit. Thanedar, who spent some $12 million of his own money in a failed bid for the Democratic nomination for governor, came in behind governor Gretchen Whitmer and Abdul El-Sayed. However, his advertising blitz made him a household name in Detroit, where he bested all other Democratic candidates. “It shows me as their candidate,” he said during an interview on public television. In May, Shri spoke with the Deadline Detroit website, saying he had not ruled out a run for mayor. More recently, he attended the Mackinac Policy Conference where he said on social media that he was meeting people, listening to policy discussions and making friends. In January, he posted photos of himself on vacation, saying “the dream to take Michigan to the next level is still alive, but for now taking time to see the world and recharge.” With years to go before the 2021 election, Shri recently told Deadline Detroit he is in the “listening and learning phase.”

SPIGOT TURNED OFF: Michigan’s most prolific GOP boosters – the DeVos family – has vowed to end support for Grand Rapids Congressman and Libertarian-leaning Republican Justin Amash following the lawmaker’s support to impeach President Donald Trump. Amash, who is considering a presidential run with the Libertarian Party, is serving his fifth term in the state’s third House District. On May 18, Amash, in a series of tweets, said he had read the Mueller report and claimed it “reveals that President Trump engaged in specific actions and a pattern of behavior that meet the threshold for impeachment.” The DeVos family in response decided to cut ties with Amash, saying through a spokesman that it hadn’t made any political contributions to Amash this cycle and doesn’t plan to, despite hefty contributions in the past. A spokesman further said that family members have expressed concerns about what they say is a lack of representation in AMASH Amash’s congressional district, according to media reports.

Amash, who has maintained a conservative voting record while still tending to stray from support for Trump, has continued his criticism of the President. “I swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution, not an oath to do the bidding of one man or one political party,” he tweeted on June 1.

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SHOW ME THE MONEY: State Rep. Larry Inman (R-Williamsburg) has been stripped of his committee assignments, but is ignoring calls from leadership for his resignation in the wake of a federal indictment accusing him of bribery, extortion and lying to an FBI agent. The Grand Traverse County Republican, who admits to opioid problem, pleaded not guilty to charges in connection to his alleged pursuit of a campaign donation over $5,000 from the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and other unions in 2018 in exchange for opposing efforts to repeal the state’s prevailing wage law. “The capitol is going nuts,” a source told Oakland Confidential on May 15, when the federal indictment came to light. “The media barged into the appropriations hearing and he ran out.” Inman spoke with media the following day, claiming the charges were the equivalent of bull excrement. However, the indictment reveals text messages indicating Inman expected at least $30,000 for his campaign to block the vote. “It’s not worth losing assignments and staff for $5,000. You need to get people maxed out,” he texted a union lobbyist according to the indictment.

“People will not go down for $5,000, not that we don’t appreciate it.”

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Rory Lincoln ory Lincoln enjoys a lot about his job, especially one area he didn’t expect to.

“I never would have thought of myself as someone who would teach a biking class or someone who is informed about bicycling safety and can impart wisdom on others,” said Lincoln, MoGo Detroit’s director of programming & operations. “It’s actually pretty awesome.”

Among his many responsibilities at the non-profit – where he’s one of only three employees – is teaching MoGo’s Street Skills classes.

One class is focused on making bicyclists more confident riding busy, city streets, and the other is for those who haven’t ridden ever, or in a long time.

Like one woman he worked with who was well into her seventies and hadn’t ridden a bicycle in over 45 years.

“She was riding confidently, pedaling pretty fast by the end of a few hours,” he said. “That’s happened numerous times now.

“I really enjoy getting to see people who get satisfaction about being on two wheels and riding independently,” continued Lincoln, a certified instructor by the League of American Bicyclists.

This is all a part of the programming side of the Seaholm High School alumnus’ job, an area where he manages programs focused on equity and accessibility, so everyone can ride.

Lincoln said MoGo does this through programs like their adaptive program, created for those with a wide range of needs who can’t ride a typical two-wheel bicycle. It started last spring, and Lincoln said it’s one of the few programs of its type in cities as populated as Detroit.

And in a determination to reach more people, MoGo started a neighborhood ambassador program to help spread the word about bike share.

There’s also MoGo’s $5 access pass, an annual pass for those using a variety of state benefits programs with each rider having an unlimited number of 30 minute trips for the year.

“I think it’s pretty important…especially with how expensive it is to own a personal vehicle and the well-documented transit struggles of the city of Detroit,” Lincoln said. “It’s was really important for us to make sure that anyone who needed access to two-wheel transit could do so.”

Lincoln understands that struggle. It was one he understood when he was stationed in Madagascar from 2012-2015 while volunteering with the Peace Corps.

“Madagascar is definitely not known for its transportation,” he laughed.

Each volunteer was given a bicycle, and this was when Lincoln became really interested in bicycles as a form of transportation.

To learn more about his love for volunteerism though we have to go back a bit further. After completing his degree at the University of Miami – where he studied broadcast journalism, as he originally wanted to be a sports reporter – Lincoln soon discovered working in local news would not be the field for him after all.

“It was a little bit of a bummer for me, so I ended up starting to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity,” he said.

Cue someone suggesting he look into the Peace Corps.

From there he went on to do a fellowship with Challenge Detroit, where he met MoGo Executive Director Lisa Nuszkowski. Immediately, Lincoln knew he wanted to work with her. He joked after hounding her for a job he finally got one, and he has no plans on leaving any time soon.

“This is hands-down the best job I’ve ever had,” Lincoln said.

R

Story: Dana Casadei

Photo: Laurie Tennent

BY KEVIN ELLIOTT

kin cancer affects more than three million people in the United States each year, with a rate of 22.7 per 100,000 people in Oakland County, Michigan. While sunscreen is key to protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, new research on sunscreen ingredients has numerous consumers and advocacy groups concerned that some products may be affecting health and the environment.

Slathering on a layer of sunscreen for a day outside has been normal operating procedure for sun worshippers and responsible parents for the last several decades, and the advent of lighter and more effective sunscreens has increased the number of products available to consumers, as well as their use. However, recent testing has shown that many of the most popular sunscreens on the market contain ingredients that are absorbed by the skin and enter the bloodstream.

In May, researchers with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) presented its own data showing that four of the most widely used sunscreen ingredients do in fact enter the bloodstream through absorption into the skin.

The tests follow a proposed rule introduced by the FDA in February of this year that would update its sunscreen rulebook, including active ingredient safety, dosage forms, sun protection factor (SPF) ratings and broad-spectrum requirements. At the heart of the proposed rule is the FDA's longstanding goal to gather additional safety data, including studies to determine whether ingredients that penetrate the skin can cause endocrine disruption, cancer or other harms.

Whether or not the tested sunscreen ingredients have negative impacts on human health isn't yet known with certainty. However, there is evidence that some sunscreen ingredients that are taken up by humans may be responsible for a loss of coral reef habitats. Additional research suggests those same ingredients may act as endocrine disruptors on some aquatic life.

Environmental concerns alone have led to bans on the sale of some sunscreens in all or part of two states.

Weighing in on the issue has been the consumer advocacy organization Environmental Working Group (EWG), which has mounted its own campaign raising concerns about sunscreen ingredients, as well as releasing its own guide to sunscreens.

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According to the EWG, many studies in animals and cells have shown sunscreen ingredients to affect reproduction and thyroid hormones. Further, the group claims some sunscreen additives may speed the development of skin cancer, and questions the overall effectiveness of sunscreen in light of potential risks.

With the FDA's final rule not expected to be complete before the end of this year, health experts are urging consumers to continue their current use of sunscreens as a measure against skin cancer, sunburn and other harmful effects caused by the sun.

Associate Professor and Assistant Chair for Medical Education with the University of Michigan's Department of Dermatology Frank Wang said sunscreen use is vital to lowering the risk of skin cancer.

"I couldn't agree more," he said regarding the continued use of sunscreen. "We are seeing an epidemic of skin cancer, including more deadly forms, like melanoma, in younger individuals. And it's one of the most preventable cancers. There are no doubt benefits from sunscreens."

In terms of risks associated with absorption of sunscreens, Wang said more research needs to be done. However, he said the known benefits of sunscreen outweigh the known risks – at least at this time.

"I still recommend sunscreen until more is known," he said. "I usually tell patients that (sunscreen) is just one part of their sun protection regimen. Staying out of the sun in the middle of the day, wearing sun protective clothing, hats and glasses all should be done in combination of sunscreen.

"If you personally have some concerns, stick with something that we know is safe, like physical sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide."

Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have been characterized as Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective (GRASE) in the FDA's proposed rule. The two ingredients are considered mineral or physical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and provide protection from the sun by reflecting rays away from the user. Chemical sunscreens, however, work by being absorbed into the skin and creating a chemical reaction with ultraviolet rays, converting the rays into heat and then releasing that heat from the skin.

The FDA also proposes listing two specific chemical sunscreen ingredients as not GRASE, or not considered safe for use: PABA and trolamine salicylate — which aren't currently marketed in products for sale in the United States.

Another dozen chemical UV-filters already widely used in the United States are now under consideration by the FDA, which said there is insufficient evidence to determine whether the ingredients are GRASE, or safe for use. Those ingredients include: cinoxate, dioxybenzone, ensulizole, homosalate, meradimate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, padimate O, sulisobenzone, oxybenzone and avobenzone. Four of those chemicals – avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene and ecamsule – were found by FDA researchers in May to enter the bloodstream through the skin.

"The FDA has been working on sunscreen for a very long time, and the science and use of sunscreen have been evolving," said Theresa Michele, director of the FDA's Non-prescription Drug Products.

"Sunscreen is regulated in the FDA's OTC monograph, which is like a rulebook. If manufacturers follow the rulebook, they can bring products to market with FDA approval. That started back in the 1970s, when people didn't use sunscreen very much. Then science evolved and we started learning more about UV radiation and the damaging effects on the skin, and we realized sun protection is critical to prevent cancer and premature aging."

Drawing on the FDA's study that found some of the ingredients are absorbed into the skin, the FDA is requiring additional information from manufacturers to determine safety and effectiveness.

"For example, the available literature includes studies indicating oxybenzone is absorbed through the skin to a greater extent than previously understood and can lead to significant systematic exposure, as well as data showing the presence of oxybenzone in human breast milk, amniotic fluid, urine and blood plasma," the FDA said in its proposed rule. "The significant systemic availability of oxybenzone, coupled with a lack of data evaluating its full absorption potential is a concern, among other reasons, because of questions raised in the published literature regarding the potential for endocrine activity in connection with systemic oxybenzone exposure. Nearly all of these sunscreen active ingredients also have limited or no data characterizing their absorption."

In addition to evaluating sunscreen ingredients for safety, the FDA's proposed rule would consider sunscreen dosages in spray, oils, lotions, creams, gels, butters, pastes, ointments and sticks as GRASE. Powder forms are being considered, but additional data is requested. However,

wipes, towelettes, body washes, shampoos and other dosage forms are proposed to be new drugs because the FDA hasn't received data showing they are eligible to be included in the monograph.

The proposed rules would also cap the maximum SPF value on labels at SPF 60+, and to require sunscreens with an SPF higher than 15 to also provide broad spectrum protection. Additionally, for broad spectrum products, as SPF increases, the magnitude of protection against UVA radiation also increases. "Broad spectrum" protection refers to protection against both UVA and UVB rays, as all sunscreen products don't automatically protect against both.

The proposed rule would also require new product label requirements to assist consumers to more easily identify key information, including the addition of active ingredients on the front label; a notification alert for sunscreens that don't prevent skin cancer, and revised formats for SPF, broad spectrum and water statements.

Finally, the proposed rule would consider all products that combine sunscreen with insect repellents as not generally recommended as safe and effective.

"This proposed rule is quite comprehensive," the FDA's Michele said. "It is an update for most sunscreens available in the United States to better ensure consumers have access to safe and effective sunscreens that are in line with the latest science."

The first update to sunscreen regulations came in the late 1990s, when the FDA added new rules regarding SPF ratings and the use of "broad spectrum" sunscreen, or those that protect from both UVA and UVB radiation. In the early 2000s, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health put out information that some sunscreen ingredients may be absorbed through the skin.

In 2014, Congress passed the Sunscreen Innovation Act to expedite

THE FDA HAS BEEN WORKING ON SUNSCREEN FOR A VERY LONG TIME, AND THE SCIENCE AND USE OF SUNSCREEN HAS BEEN EVOLVING…SUNSCREEN IS REGULATED IN THE FDA'S OTC MONOGRAPH, WHICH IS LIKE A RULEBOOK. IF MANUFACTURERS FOLLOW THE RULEBOOK, THEY CAN BRING PRODUCTS TO MARKET WITH FDA APPROVAL.

the review and approval process for over-the-counter sunscreens, giving the agency new tools to review ingredients. While the FDA at that time sought input on ingredients and possible health effects, a formal request for additional data wasn't made until February of 2019, when the agency proposed new regulations.

Michele said the agency typically reviews and evaluates data rather than conducting its own research. In general, the FDA relies on manufacturers to provide data on active sunscreen ingredients needed to establish safety and effectiveness. However, she said the FDA was able to use part of its small research budget to look into absorption of sunscreen ingredients.

"This is one of the first studies done, for any drug, of looking at how much is absorbed into the body," Michele said. "We used to think the skin was like an impermeable barrier, but now we know things can go through the skin and can actually change the drug as it goes through the skin. We have nicotine packets and estrogen packets, and arthritis medication that people rub on. There are all kinds of drugs we give people intentionally through the skin. ... This was the first time someone had looked at absorption in the way that sunscreens are regularly used."

The study, "Effect of Sunscreen Application Under Maximal Use Conditions on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients," was published in May in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The study included a randomized clinical trial involving 24 health participants who applied four commercially available sunscreens containing the ingredients avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene and ecamsule. Sunscreen was applied to 75 percent of each participant's body, four times a day for four days, with 30 blood samples collected over a week from each person.

Researchers found plasma concentrations in participants exceeded

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the FDA's threshold set to require toxicity assessments on drugs to see whether use may result in cancer, birth defects or other health problems.

The Environmental Working Group, which has issued its own guide to sunscreens, has said oxybenzone – one of the most widely used UVfilters – is particularly worrisome. The organization failed to respond to multiple requests by Downtown newsmazine to comment for this article.

"Researcher shows that oxybenzone is an allergen that is absorbed into the skin and can be detected in the bodies of nearly every American," EWG stated on its website. "It is also a potential hormone disruptor still used in 60 percent of non-mineral sunscreens. ... In another study, American adolescent boys with higher concentrations of oxybenzone in their bodies had lower levels of testosterone."

The EWG also cites Danish researchers who found eight of 13 sunscreen ingredients allowed in the United States affected calcium signaling of male sperm cells in laboratory tests, which the researchers suggest could reduce male fertility.

Marya Ghazipura, a doctoral researcher with New York University's Marron Institute, is one of the researchers cited by the EWG. Ghazipura's work has included a systematic review of oxybenzone studies involving humans and animals. The review included pooling together combined results from multiple studies.

"The data is really lacking, not only in the United States, but all over," she said. "But studies are finding high urinary concentrations of UV filters. We've also found humans absorb a lot of UV filters, at a rate of up to two percent."

Ghazipura said the findings are concerning because many of the chemicals, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, have similar structures to BPA, an industrial chemical used in some plastic containers that have been found to leach into food and pose potential issues to fetuses, infants and children, including brain and prostate gland issues, as well as increased blood pressure.

"It's theorized it can pass through the placenta, but no evidence has been found," she said "But it is entering our system. We see it in our urine. And there are higher amounts in men after they shave, and in women after shaving their legs. By making micro-abrasions then applying these products, it can absorb at a higher rate."

Still Ghazipura said there remains a lack of research to determine if the chemicals are harmful to humans.

"There is a lot of evidence in animal studies, but you can't necessarily extrapolate that for humans," she said. "When considering doses in animals, a typical human would have to apply a half ounce over 25 percent of their body every day for 200 years, so it's not easy to extrapolate those findings."

While mineral sunscreens have been deemed safe by the FDA, Ghazipura said those products tend to be less popular, particularly among users with darker skin tones.

"They tend to be white and thick when applied, so a lot of people, especially people with darker skin, aren't comfortable using them," she said. "That means use goes down, so you see a lot of people that won't gravitate toward those products. Many tend to gravitate toward the chemical sunscreens."

In addition to applications to the skin, Ghazipura said exposure to sunscreen chemicals is expanding in other ways.

"A lot of studies on humans are looking at dermal applications, but as we keep using it, it's getting into our water. The route of exposure is expanding," she said. "We are orally consuming these chemicals, and we don't have enough evidence to see if these concentrations start accumulating. If there's bioaccumulation, we may not see harmful effects until 40 years from now. That may be worth considering.

"It's impacting coral reefs, and we know that. We need to take a step back and consider that."

In 2018, Hawaii was the first state to ban sunscreens believed to be harmful to coral reefs. The law, which goes into effect in 2021, will ban the sale or distribution of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.

A study published in 2015 by Haereticus Environmental Laboratory, a non-profit scientific organization based in Virginia, found the chemicals cause bleaching, deformitites in DNA damage and death in coral.

"In a health environment, ecosystems can take a hit and recover, but when persistently stressed by localized pollution – that's when they don't come back," said Craig Downs, executive director of Haereticus Environmental Laboratory. "The Florida Keys have lost nearly 90 percent of their coral reefs, and they aren't coming back. The same is happening in the Caribbean, where they have lost 80 percent of coral reefs, and they haven't come back. That's the real danger. Not coming

back means you're starting to get decertification. You can spend $48 million to do coral reef restoration and it will produce nothing."

Downs' research into sunscreens started when the lab was given the task by the federal government to look into coral reef loss in Trunk Bay, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. That research, he said, began by looking for sources of pollution that could be impacting the water and coral.

"There was only one house there that belonged to Kenny Chesney that was on top of the mountain. We were trying to find out what was killing the reefs and we couldn't find anything," he said. "We ended up in a grocery store, a bunch of scientists arguing and stress eating, when a Rastafarian guy there overheard us and said, 'You're so stupid.

It's the tourists.'

Downs said the bay is a major tourist stop, averaging between 3,000 and 6,000 people each day. Their grocery store acquaintance suggested they go to the bay at sunset and observe the water.

"We went down before sunset, and it was beautiful because the sunscreen on the top of the water was iridescent. You could notice it once everyone got out of the water," Downs said. "We went back to the grocery store and started looking at sunscreens, and all the chemicals in them. Oxybenzone was a hit, and in high concentrations."

Downs said the chemicals can bioaccumulate in aquatic life, such as turtles, which nest on beaches. One study found 80 percent abortion rates among turtles, while a nearby beach had an 80 percent hatch rate. Scientists traced the issue to sunscreen in the eggs. Another study out of Spain showed dolphins pass the chemicals on to their young when pregnant.

"We think it's everywhere," he said. "The Chinese are really leading the way on research in the area, but it's been found from Alaska to the north Pacific. In Europe, it's been found in Alpine lakes, and it's

THE EWG SAYS RESEARCH SHOWS OXYBENZONE IS AN ALLERGEN THAT IS ABSORBED INTO THE SKIN AND CAN BE DETECTED IN THE BODIES OF NEARLY EVERY AMERICAN...IN ANOTHER STUDY, ACCORDING TO THE EWG, AMERICAN ADOLESCENT BOYS WITH HIGHER CONCENTRATIONS OF OXYBENZONE IN THEIR BODIES HAD LOWER LEVELS OF TESTOSTERONE.

because of swimmers and sewage. It's not just in oceans – it's in rivers and can impact mayflies, crayfish and other things that trout feed on."

Downs said the impact of sunscreens on freshwater systems hasn't been an area of focus, but it could impact areas like Michigan, based on the reported loss of trout in the Cowichan River in British Columbia believed to be linked to sunscreens.

"Freshwater science and monitoring of sunscreen chemicals is pretty much absent in the U.S.," he said. "There are a couple of science papers for studies in Europe (Alpine lakes, the Rhine, etc.,) but almost nothing in the North America. The closest story was a Blue Ribbon trout river that has been 'dying' ever since river tubing became so popular."

The CBC reported last summer that the tubing business has since partnered with a company to provide those using the river with titanium dioxide sunscreen.

Earlier this year, Key West city commissioners voted to approve a ban on the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.

That ban will take effect in 2021.

Despite mounting evidence that some sunscreen ingredients may be impacting aquatic life, the consumer Healthcare Products Association has rejected laboratory findings, calling the bans irresponsible and based on weak evidence.

"Banning oxybenzone and octinoxate – key ingredients in effective sunscreens on the market – will drastically and unnecessarily reduce the selection of safe and effective sunscreen products available to residents and visitors," the association said in 2018. "Oxybenzone and octinoxate, found in the majority of sunscreens, are safe and effective over-the-counter active ingredients recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as important aides in decreasing the risk of developing skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S.

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"The ban also avoids the real causes of coral decline according to scientists in Hawaii and around the world: global warming, agricultural runoff, sewage and overfishing."

The statement was made prior to the FDA's proposed rule that is holding the chemicals from GRASE classification until additional data is provided.

Mike Tringale, spokesman for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, said a response to the proposed rule is being formed.

"We believe the industry will provide or plan to provide what the FDA is seeking," Tringale said. "We are mostly concerned about misunderstanding of the proposed rule. They aren't saying these ingredients are unsafe. They have said they don't want people to stop using sunscreen."

Tringale takes issue with efforts to ban sunscreen.

"We believe the evidence is on our side, not the ban side," he said.

"No public policy should be based on one or two studies. That's what happened in Hawaii and Key West. They set these bans on extremely limited evidence. They are all lab-based, not done in the real world. We want policy to be based on a larger body of evidence."

Downs said his research has led to major lobbying efforts by the sun care product industry. It's also led to attempts to scare and discredit him.

"I'm getting death threats now. I had to disconnect my landline," he said. "I get random calls, pick it up and someone says, 'I'm going to kill you and I know where your children are.' We are still moving on with research."

Based on his own research and that of others, Downs said he believes sunscreen manufacturers could be the focus of litigation in the future.

"The industry is looking at trillions in litigation," he said.

"Oxybenzone can also cause a proliferation in breast cancer cells, and there's really good research on it that shows oxybenzone causes these types of diseases. That's why the FDA did what they did. There's no choice. Pretty soon, you'll see these lawsuits, like you're seeing with Bayer and glyphosate. Ninety-seven percent of the population in the United States has oxybenzone in their body – the smoking gun is the product. It will be much bigger than Round-up because everyone is exposed to it."

Attorney and associate professor of law Nick Schroeck, who serves as director of clinical programs at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School, said a causal link between sunscreens and harmful impacts to the environment or human health could open up sunscreen manufacturers to litigation.

"If you were showing actual impacts to human health, that's when you get these huge judgements, like with glyphosate," he said. "You can put a dollar value on the environment, but it's typically lower than human health impacts. If they determine coral reefs are lost in major tourists areas, that could be a huge economic hit."

In Michigan, a loss of trout could result in economic disaster for some areas that rely on recreational fishing.

"It will be interesting to see how it shakes out," Schroeck said. "It all comes down to causation and being able to show that even in small quantities it can harm coral, and it's not being caused by other stressors. It's one thing to show it in the lab, but it's another to then show it in the ocean."

Even without the current threat of litigation, some manufacturers are already taking steps to offer consumers more products that are known to be healthy and environment friendly.

Edgewell Personal Care, which makes Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic sunscreens, said it supports the efforts of the FDA and will work with the agency as the final rule, with an expectation that additional testing will be be needed.

"It's important to know that we continually evaluate our current and pipeline sunscreen products to ensure we are providing consumers with a variety of safe, high quality and innovative options that respond to their preferences," Edgewell said. "Most recently, our customers have expressed an interest in products without oxybenzone and octinoxate, and we have minimized our use of these ingredients in favor of other readily available and approved UV-filters that provide the same safe and effective production."

Overall, the sun care product market is expected to grow from about $14.8 billion in 2015 to $24.9 billion by 2024.

The interest in different sun care products is expected to be a trend across the entire sunscreen market as consumers and manufacturers work through changes at the regulatory level, said market analyst Larissa Jensen, with The NPD Group.

"As the FDA continues to evaluate traditional sunscreen ingredients and issue laws, we expect the proliferation of more natural-based

sunscreens (using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) to accelerate in sales," she said. "Also of interest are current laws under evaluation (California) or being passed (Hawaii) with regards to sunscreen chemicals that harm oceans. Brands focused on sun safety are already reacting by marking products as 'reef safe' so that consumers can shop easily if they live in or are traveling to those destinations."

Jensen said in-sun product launches, or those products used in the sun, are up triple digits for the first quarter of 2019.

"One of the top launches this year is a mineral/zinc oxide-based product that offers sun, broad spectrum and blue light protection, already adhering to proposed new FDA regulations."

Bayer, which makes Coppertone products, said its product testing already exceeds industry norms and includes additional tests that serve to support safety and overall performance. Meanwhile, the company is in the process of selling its Coppertone line to Germanbased Beirsdorf AG, makers of Nivea, Eucerin and other skincare products. The sale comes as Monsanto, which was acquired by Bayer in 2018, has become the target of litigation in connection to the use of the herbicide glyphosate (Round-up) and cancer.

Bayer said the sale of Coppertone was a strategic choice to leverage its science and marketing capabilities in five core over-thecounter categories.

"While we have made significant progress in revitalizing the Coppertone brand over the past years, it falls outside of these core OTC categories and requires significant long-term investments to continue the positive momentum and grow the brand to sustainable levels," Bayer said in a statement to Downtown. "The exit from Coppertone recognizes that it's a better strategic fit for another company to invest in at a level where it can continue to grow and thrive.

"We believe that we have found the right partner in Beirsdorf to

ONE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION SAID BANNING OXYBENZONE AND OCTINOXATE WILL DRASTICALLY AND UNNECESSARILY REDUCE THE SELECTION OF SAFE AND EFFECTIVE SUNSCREEN PRODUCTS. FOUND IN THE MAJORITY OF SUNSCREENS, BOTH ARE RECOGNIZED BY THE FDA AS IMPORTANT AIDES IN DECREASING THE RISK OF SKIN CANCER.

continue to invest in and grow the Coppertone brand."

The FDA's public comment period on the proposed rule was scheduled to end on June 26; however, sunscreen manufacturers may file a request for a waiver extension to allow for added time to submit data requested by the FDA. "It may not be possible for the industry to conduct all of the studies we asked for on the 12 ingredients. Rather than pulling them from use, if the manufacturer asks for a deferral for a particular ingredient because they have committed to providing all the data in a reasonable time frame, then we will defer that while the data is being developed," the FDA's Michele said. "In the meantime, we will approve the rest of the rule."

Michele said on June 10 that no manufacturer had yet filed such a request.

Despite potential impacts of sunscreen ingredients, the FDA has been quick to point out that the fact an ingredient is absorbed through the skin and into the body doesn't mean the ingredient is unsafe.

Instead, the data calls for further testing to determine the safety. Such measures are part of the typical pre-market safety evaluation process of most chronically administered drugs with systemic absorption.

"Just because it's absorbed doesn't make it unsafe. That's the next step. When things are absorbed, we ask the next question, and that's where we are at right now," Michele said. "The most important thing you can tell consumers is that sunscreens are one of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun, and need to be used in conjunction with other sun protective measures."

Health experts echo the FDA's recommendations on sunscreen use, including local dermatologists following regulations on sunscreen.

"Just because you can detect something doesn't mean there's any danger to health or safety," said Bloomfield Hills dermatologist Linda

Honet M.D., who owns and operates Honet Dermatology and Cosmetic.

Honet said the use of sunscreen is vital to skin protection, particularly as skin cancer becomes more common among younger patients.

"It used to be a condition of more elderly people. People over 60 or 65. Now, we see it more commonly in younger people. My youngest patient with melanoma is 19," she said.

Overall, about one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, with one dying from skin cancer every hour, according to the National Cancer Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health. Yet unprotected exposure to UV radiation is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer.

The most serious form of skin cancer is melanoma, which is the most common cancer among children and young adults, ages 15 to 29.

Although melanoma accounts for about three percent of skin cancer cases, it causes more than 75 percent of skin cancer deaths. While not all melanomas are sun-related, UV exposure and sunburns, particularly during childhood, are risk factors.

Non-melanoma skin cancers, while less deadly, can spread if left untreated, possibly leading to disfigurement and other serious health problems.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer tumors. Usually appearing as small, fleshy bumps, tumors are most common on the head and neck but can appear anywhere. As it grows, it rarely spreads to other parts of the body nor penetrates to the bone.

Squamous cell carcinomas are tumors that may appear as nodules or red, scaly patches on the skin. It may develop into larger masses and can spread to other parts of the body.

"The number one thing is genetics," Honet said about the risk factors for skin cancer. "They are genetically linked and there's usually a trigger, and that's usually sun or UV radiation.

"Tanning booths have come into the commercial market, and that's been one of the biggest carcinogens. The World Health Organization deemed them to be a carcinogen equal to tobacco, with tanning more implicated in melanoma than other skin cancers. Tanning booths have been a big deal for dermatologists, who have tried to ban them in other countries. In this country, being a free-market society, we haven't banned them."

Outside of genetics, Honet said sun exposure and ozone are other key factors in skin cancer risk.

"I think environmentally, the sun that hits the earth and skin today is more potent than in the 1930s or even the 1980s," she said. "The sun exposure may have a more potent impact. We do see a huge generational difference."

While there are other factors that can increase the risk of skin cancer, such as cigarette smoking, genetics and sun exposure are the main contributors.

When it comes to sun exposure, UV rays, and sunscreens, there are several differences and levels of protection.

Ultraviolet radiation is part of the electromagnetic light spectrum that reaches earth from the sun. Because UV radiation has wavelengths shorter than visible light, it can't be seen by the naked eye. Wavelengths are classified into three categories, depending on length.

For instance, UVA includes the longest waves and are considered aging rays which can cause premature aging of skin, wrinkles and spots. Ultraviolet A rays can pass through most window glass and clouds. UVA accounts for roughly 95 percent of the UV radiation reaching the earth's surface. UVA is less intense than UVB rays, but are 30 to 50 times more prevalent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Further, research within the past two decades show that UVA may initiate the development of skin cancers.

The Skin Cancer Foundation states that UVA is the dominant tanning ray, with tanning booths primarily emitting UVA rays at rates as much as 12 times that of the sun, giving people who use tanning salons a 2.5 times higher chance to develop squamous cell carcinoma and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma. Overall, the Skin Cancer Foundation say the first exposure to tanning beds in youth increases melanoma risk by 75 percent.

UVB rays are shorter than UVA, and are considered "burning" rays, which cause sunburn and are typically blocked by window glass. Even shorter UVC rays are usually absorbed by the ozone layer and don't reach the earth.

The main cause of sunburn is from UVB radiation, which also plays a key role in the development of skin cancer. Intensity of UVB rays varies by season, location and time of day. The most significant amount of UVB hits the US between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., from April to October. Still, UVB rays can damage skin year-round.

"Even small doses of sun without protection can be harmful,"

Honet said. "It's common for farmers or truck drivers to develop problems on the left arm or the left side of the face in the United States – maybe that's different in England. Even an office worker who is inside most of the time, driving back and forth, can still get a lot of UVA radiation through the side window glass. The windshield blocks quite a bit of UVA and UVB rays, but the sides are less effective and allow UVA rays to penetrate the vehicle."

Honet's belief that UV rays have become more intense holds up when reviewing UV Index records maintained by the Environmental Protection Agency and recorded by the National Weather Service. As ozone depletion and seasonal and weather changes lead to different amounts of UV radiation reaching the earth, the National Weather Service uses the index to indicate the risk of overexposure. The Index ranges from 0 (low risk) to 11 or more (extremely high). The index is calculated using a computer model that relates the ground-level strength of UV radiation to forecasted stratospheric ozone concentrations, forecasted cloud coverage and ground elevation.

Low UV Index (0-2) indicates little or no protection is needed. A moderate to high index (3-7) means people should seek shade in the late morning and mid-afternoon, and apply broad-spectrum, SPF 15 or higher sunscreen, wear protective clothing and a widebrimmed hat and glasses when outside; a very high to extreme index (8 or higher) means extra protection is needed. Additionally, experts recommend seeking shade on high UV Index days when your shadow is shorter than yourself.

UV Index records from 1995 to 2017 for the metro Detroit area list the number of days each year that the UV Index reached low, moderate, high, very high and extreme levels. While the low,

DOWD SAID THE INDUSTRY IS LOOKING AT TRILLIONS IN LITIGATION. PRETTY SOON, YOU'LL SEE THESE LAWSUITS, LIKE YOU'RE SEEING WITH BAYER AND GLYPHOSATE. NINETY-SEVEN PERCENT OF THE POPULATION IN THE UNITED STATES HAS OXYBENZONE IN THEIR BODY. IT WILL BE MUCH BIGGER THAN ROUND-UP BECAUSE EVERYONE IS EXPOSED TO IT.

moderate and extreme UV Index days have remained consistent overall, the average number of "very high" index days per year was 66.2 from 1995 to 2005, with the number of "high" index days averaged 73 for the same period. However, the average number of "very high" index days per year increased to 91.6 days from 2006 to 2017, while "high" index days decreased to an average of 64 for the same years.

As UV protection remains a top concern for those spending time in the sun, health experts say it's important to remember that there are safe sunscreen options, and that they should be used in conjunction with other ways of staying out of the sun.

"Everyone wants to make sense out of this," said Bloomfield Township dermatologist Steven Grekin D.O., founder of the Grekin Skin Institute. "You have the EWG that says its terrible and you shouldn't use it. Then you have the dermatologists that say you should use it."

Grekin said many hats and clothing are specifically designed to provide protection from UV rays. Such measures should always be used when spending time in the sun. In terms of mineral sunscreens versus chemical filters, he said mineral sunscreens have come a long way since the heavy pastes used prior to the proliferation of chemical filters.

"It's not your grandma's zinc oxide. It's different, and that's a very good point," he said. "If you ask me, I use physical sunscreens and have for years."

Grekin said people using zinc oxide-based sunscreens tend to have fewer allergic reactions, which are common. He also pointed to environmental concerns.

"It's absolutely proven that chemical sunscreens are the ones that are hurting the environment," he said.

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FACES

Larry Murphy hile there's the stereotype that most hockey players trade in their sticks for golf clubs over the summer, former Detroit Red Wing and Hall of Fame defenseman Larry Murphy prefers a little quicker pace.

“I enjoy car racing,” Murphy, a longtime resident of Birmingham, said of his decade-long hobby of amateur car racing. “I race in the 24 Hours of LeMans, where you're supposed to buy a piece of junk and get it up to safety specs. You have to build a roll cage and add a fuel cell. The car probably cost $500, and you spend $10,000 getting it up to that level of safety. I have a 1983 BMW that I've run for about 10 years. I spend a lot of time in the summer with it.”

Recently, Murphy was able to hang out with Team Penske IndyCar racer Josef Newgarden during Detroit Grand Prix's press day, where the hockey legend introduced the racer to the Detroit-born sport of 'fowling,” which combines bowling and football.

Prior to his racing interest, Murphy got his adrenaline rush on the ice, where he played 21 seasons in the NHL, winning back-to-back Stanley Cup championships with the Pittsburgh Penguins (1991, 1992) and the Detroit Red Wings (1997, 1998). Selected as the fourth overall pick in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft, Murphy went on to accumulate the most points (76) and assists (60) of a rookie defensemen in the 1980-81 season; and became the fifth highest scoring defensemen in NHL history.

“Winning the Cup here in Detroit after the team had such a long dry spell, that was exciting for the city when we won. It's ingrained in the fabric of the city. You only get that in an Original Six city,” Murphy said, referring to the six original NHL teams –Boston, Detroit, Chicago, Montreal, New York and Toronto – from 1942 to 1967.

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After retiring from the NHL in 2001, Murphy began providing color commentary for a portion of Detroit's West Coast road games for Fox Sports Detroit, along with former Wing Pat Verbeek. His duties expanded with the network until 2013, when he and the sports provider parted ways. This past Valentine's Day, the network announced Murphy was returning to Fox Sports Detroit for the 2018-19 season. He said they are now in contract talks for the upcoming season.

“It's a job that takes a lot out of you. I spend more time prepping than on the air. It's a lot to know what's going on in the league. Reading, watching and observing – that's the biggest, most time consuming part of the job,” Murphy said. “You have to be aware of the players in the system and what they are doing. You have to be ready to go three or four questions deep on every player in the system.

“Watching is the easiest part. I enjoy watching the Wings play. That's the easiest part of the job.”

Adding to interest for the team's upcoming season is the addition of fellow Red Wings legend Steve Yzerman, who is returning to the team as general manager, along with former teammate Verbeek, who will serve as assistant general manager.

The return of Murphy to the airwaves and Yzerman to the team marks a sort of homecoming for the former teammates, both who have lived in the area for decades.

“I've been in Birmingham for 22 years,” Murphy said. “I left home at 17 from Scarborough, Ontario. It's the longest I've lived in a place.”

Story: Kevin Elliott

Photo: Laurie Tennent

THE NEW FRONTS IN THE BATTLE ON FOOD INSECURITY RELIEF EFFORTS EXPANDED TO THE EDUCATION AND MEDICAL COMMUNITIES

BY LISA BRODY

The W Food Pantry at Wayne State University. Photo: Paul Hitzelberger

pending 10 or 12 hours on University of Michigan-Dearborn's campus each day isn't unusual for Sara Alqaragholy, a senior studying urban and regional studies. But after paying for gas to get to campus, tuition and textbooks, midway through those days, not surprisingly, she often finds herself feeling really hungry. Sophomore year, as her family was enduring difficult financial times, affording even a snack, much less lunch, while she was at school was out of reach for her.

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“I was working several jobs, on and off campus,” Alqaragholy recalled. For a few years she worked in the library on campus; in 2017 and 2018, she worked on voter registration drives, as well as holding down other jobs.

“To get gas in my car and to gain work experience, so just to get snacks while on campus,” she ended up tapped out financially.

She turned to the food pantry on campus.

University of Michigan-Dearborn started their food pantry on campus in 2013 after hearing from students that they could either spend their money on food or gas – but not both, said Brendan Gallagher, coordinator for civic engagement at U of M-Dearborn as well as director of the campus food pantry.

Gallagher, a former student on the campus who is now an administrator, was then one of the students who started the food pantry.

“We're largely a commuter campus,” he said, “with a very diverse community both religiously and ethnically. We have both a lot of first generation students and commuters.”

First generation students refer to students who are the first in their family to attend college.

Having a food pantry on campus, unfortunately, is no longer a unique attribute, but a necessary component to address widespread food insecurity among students, whether undergraduate or graduate.

“There are now food pantries at all 15 (Michigan) public universities, community colleges and many private colleges,” noted Jean Ann Miller, senior director of the Office for Student Involvement at Oakland University. “We only opened our pantry in October 2018. Like ours, most are primarily for students, but also

faculty and staff. They're not open to the outside community. At ours, there are no questions asked – they just must show their student or faculty ID to ensure they're part of our Oakland University community.”

Since opening, there has been a steady flow of people accessing the food pantry, with some individuals becoming regulars, she said. “Now it's just getting the word out about the availability of this resource,” on campus.

Food insecurity, defined as being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food, is currently a situation that 12.3 percent of U.S. households experience. It's defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food. According to 2016 research done by Susan Blumenthal, M.D. and Christina Chu, then with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), there are an estimated 17.5 million undergraduate students in America, 15 percent of which are enrolled in four-year colleges and living on campus. Twenty-five percent of students are over the age of 30, and 43 percent attend two-year institutions. As of May 1, 2019, student loan debt totaled $1.6 trillion, with an average household student debt of $47,671.

Blumenthal and Chu determined that lowincome students are more likely to drop out of college for financial reasons, such as not having the funds to cover living expenses associated with student life, including books, supplies, transportation, health care, clothes, housing and food, and it occurs at both four-year and twoyear institutions.

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A multi-state survey conducted by the University of Wisconsin of more than 33,000 students enrolled at 70 colleges in March 2017, found that as many as two-thirds of students were food insecure.

“Many students consider food to be their most flexible expenditure when determining where to cut expenses, which may be contributing to the alarming rates of food insecurity across college campuses in the United States today,” Blumenthal and Chu wrote.

“I think it's one of those hidden aspects of college life that's become more aware as costs are increasing,” Miller said. “Some students are choosing tuition and books over basic necessities, and the choice might be food. It's become an either/or.

“This is across the country, not just at our school.”

David Strauss, dean of students at Wayne State University, concurs.

“It's not just food – it's all basic needs,” he said. “With the increasing costs of tuition for college, it's food, shelter, clothing.”

Strauss said on the Wayne State campus, he has seen a big increase in student food insecurity in the last decade. “We weren't talking about this 10 years ago. We weren't talking about food insecurity, homelessness, basic needs challenges. Everyone was always having food drives for Gleaners (Community Food Bank of Southeast Michigan,) but that was for other people. Now we're having department food drives for our students.”

Strauss and other administrators at area schools of higher education emphasize the reason food insecurity and hunger is such a major issue – and pressing talking point – is because it can be a direct impediment to student success.

“If we look at student success, and we focus on student success and graduation, our number one goal is to get them across the finish line – and if we cannot get them nourishment, we can't help them succeed and across the finish line,” Strauss explained. “For many of our students, the question is, do I buy a textbook or food?”

“Hunger on Campus: The Challenge of Food Insecurity for College Students,” from October 2017, a production of the College and University Food Bank Alliance (CUFBA), National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness, Student Government Resource Center and Student Profile Interest Research Groups, found that 32 percent of students suffering from food insecurity reported it had affected their educational performance, with 55 percent of those students stating they did not have sufficient funds to purchase their required textbooks; 53 percent missing their courses; and 25 percent ending up dropping their courses. ost food insecure students, 56 percent, are working; 75 percent of them receive some financial aid, including Pell Grants; and 43 percent are enrolled in a school meal plan. Food insecurity occurs at both two-year and four-year institutions, with 25 percent of community college students qualified as having very low food security (more severe levels of insecurity, where both the quality of food and the quantity is impacted), compared to four-year students. According to Hunger on Campus, food insecurity was more prevalent among students of color, with 57 percent of African American students reporting food insecurity, compared to 40 percent of non-Hispanic white students.

More than half, 56 percent, of all first generation college students were food insecure, compared to 45 percent of students who had at least one parent who attended college.

Rachelle Bonelli, vice president of programs at Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeast Michigan, said their food bank is part of Feeding America, and partners with three campus food pantries, Wayne State University, University of Michigan-Dearborn and University of Detroit Mercy, which began their pantry recently in 2019.

“It takes a while for word to get out, and for the stigma to lessen,” Bonelli said. She noted that food insecurity is higher at community colleges.

“If you don't have the money to go away to college, maybe you have to work,” she speculated.

Identified risk factors around low income students, Bonelli said, include being a first generation college student, a single parent – especially a single mother, homeless, had been a foster child when they were young, and had or currently have a disability.

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“Any of those things increased the risk among low income students,” she said, pointing out that in Michigan, the cost per year for tuition and room and board to attend a public institution is now $21,823, and $33,489 per year for a private institution. “If you come from a low income household, where the poverty rate is about $20,000 a year for a family of four, how are you going to send your kid to school?”

Like Alqaragholy, the senior at U-M-Dearborn, the report noted that food insecurity is a problem for students who are employed, participate in a campus meal plan, or who seek other financial or material help, with 56 percent of food insecure students reported having a paying job. Of those employed students, 38 percent worked 20 hours or more per week. In order to qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, a student must work a minimum of 20 hours a week in addition to attending classes, or have a dependent under the age of six.

Nationwide, 25 percent of students receive SNAP benefits.

“If students aren't eating, they're going to class, working part or fulltime jobs, they're operating on fumes,” noted Raneisha Williams Fox, coordinator of student wellness at Wayne State University and the W Pantry, Wayne State's food pantry, which during the 2018-2019 school year gave out more than 8,000 pounds of food. It opened in April 2017. “In a week we'll see 25 to 28 students, and between 80 and 100 students monthly. Since we've opened we've serviced 1,500 students, and we've given out more than 20,000 pounds of food.” he said they see both undergraduate and graduate students, with a mix of ethnicities, although “we're seeing more graduate students (right now), because I think – life.

They tend to have more responsibilities – they have bills, higher tuition, household bills and responsibilities and they may have kids.” The W doesn't ask any financial questions nor screen anyone. “Just because you have a job doesn't mean you don't need help,” Fox pointed out.

It's also open twice a week during the spring/summer terms, “and even if a student isn't enrolled for spring/summer, but is enrolled for fall, they can still access it. Just because the semester is over, doesn't mean you won't be hungry.”

Fox said they have a caseworker through their Connor Service Center on the premises once each week to help individuals through the application process for state and federal benefits.

“That was an important aspect we began because many students don't think they qualified, and they do,” she pointed out. “Or that they didn't have time to apply. So this helps. It also dispels the stigma and the myth of who qualifies for assistance.”

She said they see more females than males. “I don't think there is a big difference, but I think more females are comfortable asking for help.”

Gleaners' Bonelli said they have SNAP benefits, or the ability to get people qualified for them, and they want to encourage individuals to become educated about them.

“Most able-bodied people between the ages of 18 and 49 enrolled in college are not eligible for SNAP,” Bonelli acknowledged. “Some come from means, are working, but when you realize that to get SNAP benefits you have to work 20 hours a week or are taking care of a dependent in their household under six, or participating in a work/study program or other workforce training program – so there are opportunities to be approved. But it is difficult to be a full-time student and work full-time.

“It's difficult for students to get on SNAP – it's ironic,” she said. “They should really be getting ahead. Their job should be studying.”

“What we're seeing now are the children of the (Great) Recession,” pointed out Wayne's Dean Strauss. “If we look at traditional students age 19, 11 years ago, they were eight years old. Instead of saving, (their families) were using that money to eat, pay housing, credit card debt.

Today, we're seeing greater financial insecurity, mental health challenges and social media challenges. So many of our students are caring for their families. We hear of so many students using their financial aid money to care for their families (rather than for school). If they have an emergency, they have no credit, no money, and no one to turn to.”

Miller, of Oakland University, agrees. “This is a reflection of real life.

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You don't think how pervasive it can be in our communities, and it is an eye-opening reminder.”

“There are no questions asked” of those who utilize the pantry, opened in October 2018, or any of the other services offered to students and faculty. Of the variety of needs many recipients require beyond food assistance, she noted, “We're not a counseling center, but we offer a lot of resources, from transportation, housing, legal aid, information, for our commuter students so they can be successful personally as well as academically.”

The W pantry has a partnership with Gleaners, as does University of Michigan-Dearborn's food pantry, allowing them to purchase food at a discount. Oakland University does not at this time. The W offers both perishables and non-perishables, with 25 percent purchased from Gleaners and 25 percent coming from on and off-campus food drives.

Fox said that besides healthy and sustainable food, they also provide feminine hygiene products, toiletries, razors, gently-used household items and some school supplies.

“We are also teaching sustainability,” she said. “We have two nutritionists who are students, in the nutrition science program, who are creating recipes from items in our pantry, from staple items we always have. We noticed in the beginning students didn't know how to cook. They were getting healthy food but didn't know what to do with it.

“It's a collaborative effort,” she said, “so students aren't just coming in for food, but for nutrition advice and lessons as well, and they have access to recipes.”

Fox has a leadership team of 13 students who volunteer at the pantry.

“It's students helping students – they can say, 'it's OK. I've used it, you can too.'”

At University of Michigan-Dearborn, Alqaragholy has turned her personal experience as a pantry client around and now volunteers there to help her fellow students in need.

“I oversee the restocking of shelves (which includes toiletries and feminine hygiene products also), making sure the pantry looks very nice for anyone coming in,” she said. “I really enjoy helping others. We are working very hard to meet the needs and wants of our recipients. We want our recipients to feel as comfortable as possible.”

She recognizes that many people feel a stigma or shame in utilizing a food pantry.

“Maybe it's my personality, but I didn't feel any stigma (when she used the pantry),” Alqaragholy said. “But I can see that for some others. We're built to think we should be able to take care of ourselves, and should be ashamed if we can't – and that's not accurate or right. There should be no stigma or shame.”

Since 2013, University of Michigan-Dearborn's pantry, which also is staffed and run by student leaders, has also worked with Gleaners, Brendan Gallagher said, “which allows us to purchase food and non-food items for pennies on the dollars. One of the challenges of that is when people ask how they can help, some donate food items, but I tell them to donate money because I can go out and stretch that money so much farther by going to Gleaners.” allagher said he is developing a big fundraising campaign for next school year on that – as well as that they saw three times the number of students use the food pantry last year, “so if that continues, we will need to increase the dollars to help them all. Here at U-MDearborn, the food pantry is really supported monetarily, and by food donations, by the administration, staff, students and alums.

“We really see ourselves as a resource on campus like any other that is imperative to help students be successful and not have the lack of food be a barrier to being the best version of themselves.”

They also have begun to provide recipe cards to recipients, as well as educational demonstrations to teach how to read labels, what the difference is between “sold by” and “best use by” and are planning cooking demonstration on simple types of meals.

“We have the availability now to offer perishables, because the student government purchased a freezer/refrigerator for us,” he said. “We have a permaculture garden run by another administrator (on campus) that we

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have a partnership with, and we're offering fresh blueberries, strawberries, mint, sage. It's really taken off for students. It also provides a sustainability loop, where students are learning responsibility for giving, caring, learning healthy food choices and its sustainability.”

Figure being on a student meal plan will alleviate a student's hunger?

Unfortunately, it doesn't, as most meal plans only are offered for dinners, or dinners and breakfasts, and many students run out of their meal points.

“Even meal plans for campus dining halls may not be effective prevention, as up to 43 percent of meal plan enrollees at four-year colleges report experiencing food insecurity,” reported Blumenthal and Cho. “Campus meal plans are structured to provide students with seven or 14 meals per week. Many low income students get their meals elsewhere because they lack funds to afford a comprehensive meal plan option.

Students who opt for cheaper meal plans may not be eating an adequate number of meals; 46 percent of food insecure students report running out of meal points before the end of the term, compared to 33 percent of all students on a meal plan.” armel Price PhD, MSW, associate professor of sociology, University of Michigan-Dearborn and lead for Michigan Food Pantry Network, specializes in research on college food pantries across the country and food insecurity amongst students. “We don't know if it's a new issue – I hypothesize it's not, it's just newly recognized,” she said.

“One of the reasons it's newly recognized is the (Great) Recession,” Price pointed out. “The conversations that we're having nationwide about equality and inequality, we're more openly talking about it, tuition increases, and the staggering increases in the cost of tuition. The conversations that we're also having nationwide about equality and inequality – we're more openly talking about it on campus. You have parts of society openly having conversations about income inequality and hunger, so there's more transparency.”

What Price said she does see as new is a greater proliferation of food pantries on campuses all over the country.

“When I first began looking into food pantries on college campuses, in 2014, there were about 140 across the country,” she said. “Today, five years later, according to the College and University Food Bank Alliance (CUFBA), there are about 700 registered. What you have is a new recognition that campuses are saying, 'We have a problem and we want to be part of the solution, and we're going to open pantries on our own campus.'”

The first campus-based food assistance program in the country was established in 1993 at Michigan State University with the Student Food Bank. “It was the first in the nation to be run by students, for students,” Michigan State said. In the course of a year, the MSU Student Food Bank serves over 6,000 students, many with families, and distributes over 110,000 pounds of food.

Almost 20 years after its own founding, in 2012, Michigan State University partnered with Oregon State University Food Pantry to establish CUFBA, which advises and supports campus food banks, with its goal of alleviating food insecurity and hunger on college and university campuses.

There were originally 15 colleges registered. As Price noted, there are now over 700.

“Hunger and food insecurity on college campuses is not a new situation, but the recognition and the response with food pantries are new,” Price elaborated. “There were always professors with granola bars in their drawers and collectives.”

She said there is no uniform food pantry design or standards – they are as individual as the school.

“In our research, pantries look very different across the country,” Price said. “Each pantry makes it work for themselves. Sometimes they're housed through the health center, the social work office, or the student union. Sometimes they're run with academic involvement; sometimes they're run through student life. Sometimes they're student-driven; sometimes they're administrative-driven. I've seen pantries with walk-in freezers, and pantries operating out of a closet.

“One of the things we found in our research is how they differ from on and off-campus pantries. On-campus pantries are able to meet student

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needs that off-campus ones aren't,” she said. “Students feel more comfortable and feel less stigma going to one on their own campus versus a community pantry. Some students tell us they have been turned away from community pantries, versus campus pantries where they feel less stigma and feel more welcome.

“We have students who tell us they're able to stay in school because of their campus food pantry.”

Price said operating a campus food pantry has some unique challenges for universities that off-campus pantries don't encounter, from fighting for space, to food services viewing campus pantries as competition, to even having the financial aid office asking pantries to report the assistance they are giving to students – so they can count it against the student's financial aid package.

“We've been told pantry directors are sometimes wearing multiple hats at colleges, and may not have a background or training in food insecurity, whereas for an off-campus pantry, for that director, it was their career path,” Price explained.

But, “they have some unique opportunities to meet the needs of students and level the playing fields for students who don't have the financial wherewithal but also come with unique challenges in an academic bureaucratic environment, and they're doing it with very few resources,” she pointed out.

“The question still to be answered is to what extent are food pantries able to level the playing field of exacerbating inequality” on college campuses, Price said, which is the goal of her research long-term, as colleges “actually have the potential to exacerbate inequality, especially when a student has the potential to take an unpaid research opportunity or internship. But, if you're hungry, you can't take it, so when you graduate you have a worse resume than your fellow students, you have holes because you had to work and couldn't take internships. It's a myth college is way to pull yourself up by your bootstraps. You end up with higher debt.” baidah Bitar of Bloomfield Hills, who recently graduated from Wayne State University, along with three friends and fellow civil engineer students at Wayne, recently designed six-foot tall food boxes that are food pantry installations designed for people to anonymously donate non-perishable food items, toiletries and hygiene items – as well as to access them anonymously.

So far, Bitar and his friends have built two, with the goal of three more in the very near future, which have been installed in religious institutions near the Wayne State campus. One is on the Wayne State Campus, at Forest and Cass. “It's on the sidewalk between two religious institutions, near the entrance of the university Islamic entrance and by a church across the street.”

Bitar said the four students were motivated by the homeless around campus, as well as his fellow students, including Bilal, one of the four creators.

“Bilal experienced food insecurity. His dad struggled to find a job; his brother went to school and he couldn't always eat lunch, and he really struggled in school,” Bitar said. “He is the most dedicated (of us) to service. They're doing well now (Bilal's family).”

Called “blessing boxes,” the white structures, six-foot tall by two-anda-half feet wide, are made of durable wood to withstand various weather conditions. He said they have a shelf on top so anyone in the community can donate.

“We saw that food banks are open during work hours, 9-5, and not open on weekends,” Bitar said. “A lot of low income people don't have access to cars and transportation.”

He also noted that many people they spoke to were embarrassed to go to food pantries.

“People think it's a weakness, that they'll be judged,” he explained. “It's very difficult for them to put themselves in that role, especially if they know someone.” Hence the anonymity of the blessing boxes.

Another box is being built for Auntie Na's House, with another destined for the Downtown Synagogue. “We're talking to others as well. We hope to have five boxes built and installed by late 2019,” Bitar said.

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Health toll of food insecurity tudents are hardly the only segment of the population experiencing food insecurity, and colleges are just one segment seeking to ameliorate the problem. So too are health care institutions, many of which are analyzing the effects of food insecurity on their populations, and how best to help patients successfully access healthy and plentiful sustenance.

“Hospitals are very concerned about the social determinants of health,” said Rachelle Bonelli, vice president of programs at Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeast Michigan, “which contribute to about 80 percent of health issues. A lot of your health is determined by 'do I exercise, do I eat healthy and have access to healthy food, do I have access to transportation?'”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the social determinants of health are the conditions in the places where people live, learn, work and play and how they affect a wide range of health risks and outcomes.

“We know that poverty limits access to healthy foods and safe neighborhoods, and that more education is a predictor of better health,” the CDC said. “We also know that differences in health are striking in communities with poor social determinants of health such as unstable housing, low income, unsafe neighborhoods or substandard education.

By applying what we know about social determinants of health, we cannot only improve individual and population health, but also advance health equity.”

The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion developed Healthy People 2020 to identify ways to create social and physical environments that can promote good health for everyone.

“All Americans deserve an equal opportunity to make the choices that can lead to good health,” Healthy People 2020 said. “But to ensure that all Americans have that opportunity, advances are needed not only in health care but also in fields such as education, childcare, housing, business, law, media, community planning, transportation and agriculture.”

Paramount among the objectives of Healthy People 2020 is the availability of resources to meet daily needs, both for safe housing and local food markets, and access to health care services. Several Detroit area health care systems have begun to address the social determinants of health by working to provide healthy food options for patients, both for sustenance, and to ascertain if it will help reduce the frequency of emergency room visits and admittance to their hospitals.

Bonelli said that Beaumont Hospitals have developed a food work group; however, repeated calls and emails to Beaumont were not returned.

Gleaners has developed a year-long study with Henry Ford Health System, called Henry's Groceries for Health, “where we've had significant reductions in our early indications of keeping people out of our ERs and decreasing their days in the hospital,” Bonelli said.

“Henry's Groceries for Health is a joint project between Henry Ford Health System and Gleaners Community Food Bank. It's aimed at addressing the very real shortage of nutritional food for many of the health system's patients in the Detroit area and its impact on the health of these individuals,” said David Olejarz, manager, media relations, Henry Ford Health System. “The program assesses the feasibility of food distribution to food insecure people, meaning those without a means to obtain healthy food on a regular basis, and its resulting effects on their health care – in particular, their need for emergency room visits, and hospital admissions.”

“We were testing whether providing enough nutritious food to our clinical patients would improve their health overall to measure

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success,” said Susan Hawkins, senior vice president of population health, Henry Ford Health System, as well as a board member of Gleaners. “Most of these patients have multiple chronic conditions and see their doctors frequently, but things happen overnight or on weekends.

“Our hypothesis was, take food – and the right kind and enough of it – out of the equation.”

The study – which Hawkins said was conducted as a full clinical trial – enrolled their first patient in November 2017, and the last in a 300-patient one-year trial in May 2019. Participants were patients within Henry Ford's Comprehensive Care Centers in Taylor and Detroit Northwest, and their Academic Internal Medicine Clinic at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. They had to live in a home with fewer than four people in order to ensure that there would be enough food to provide benefits. They also had to have the ability to store food properly and have the ability to prepare food, such as having a microwave, or ideally a stove and oven.

As part of the program, Gleaners delivered, or made available for pickup, food boxes every two weeks for a period of a year. Hawkins said they introduced the food boxes about six months into the program, “so people could choose their preferences while still getting healthy options and recipes. They became very popular.” Most participants chose to have their food boxes delivered.

“Each food box contains enough food to prepare 10 supplemental meals for the two-week period as well as recipes for preparing healthy meals,” Olejarz said. Participants also received a bi-weekly check-in from a Henry Ford Population coordinator who interviewed the participants to evaluate the quality and quantity of the prior food delivery and their experience.

They also measured blood sugar levels for people with diabetes, blood pressure, and weight and body mass, “because often people who are undernourished are overweight,” Hawkins pointed out. “It's a lot easier to get a $1 menu item than nutritious healthy food. We see a lot of people with heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, lung disease or COPD, mental health issues and depression.”

While the final study data will be completed later this summer, the preliminary data is extremely promising. Of the initial 300 patients in the study, they ended up with 280 patients, and a preliminary 68 percent had a reduction in inpatient involvement, and there was an over 25 percent reduction in emergency room visits compared to before they began receiving the food boxes. awkins said for Gleaners, delivering food was a new endeavor, and they successfully recruited a driver who was consistent and stayed with the program, becoming very friendly with the patients. As for plans to continue Henry's Groceries for Health, she said, “We need to figure out the return on investment. Anyone who was a participant was referred back to Gleaners and their food pantries. Our goal is to create a full-on operation to scale up, but we still need to figure out the funding.”

At Detroit Medical Center's Children's Hospital of Michigan, pediatric hospitalists Dr. Sara Haidar and Dr. Chaya Pitman-Hunt, codirectors of Children's Food Insecurity Task Force, said they were both seeing patients where the symptoms of food insecurity were obvious.

“With some patients, the symptoms are staring at you in the face – failure to thrive, weight loss. In other situations, you have to dig deeper,” said Haidar. “A parent who is very angry – they've been in the hospital (with their child) for two or three days, and they're very, very hungry and can't afford hospital meals.”

About 18 months ago, the two said they were each looking at dealing with how best to address food insecurity, both for their patients and the parents of their patients, when they decided to join forces and

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develop the task force, where they now have medical students and residents working with them. They noted that one in five children in Wayne County is food insecure. Pitman-Hunt said that for children who live in a single family household, with a father, 20 percent are food insecure; those with a mother as the head of the household, 30 percent are food insecure.

In 2015, the American Academy of Pediatricians recommended that all pediatricians screen for food insecurity, and in 2017, they published a tool kit.

“Unless you ask, you won't be able to tell which child is going to bed hungry, and you won't be able to connect their families to resources, like SNAP, WIC (special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants and children), or food pantries, that will help get them food,” said Benard P. Dreyer, M.D., president, American Academy of Pediatrics. here are two screening questions they recommend to see if there is hunger: “Within the past 12 months, we worried whether our food would run out before we got money to buy more;” and “Within the past 12 months, the food we bought just didn't last and we didn't have the money to get more.”

Patients screen positive for food insecurity if the response is “often true” or “sometimes true” for both or either question, the academy advised.

“A lot of people know patients are hungry, but it's a sensitive topic.

We didn't have a good solution. We had to find partners, and it's difficult to connect the dots when they're in a clinical environment,” PitmanHunt said. “We partnered with the United Way, connecting patients to United Way's 211 call system. They have an anonymous call center, with family screening and help. They can address all different kinds of social determinants in order to make a more robust determinant.”

Pitman-Hunt and Haidar received a small grant request from the Children's Foundation, and developed a six-part lecture series this past winter.

“We wanted the staff to be knowledgeable about the social determinants of food security and what can be done to help,” PitmanHunt said. “We surveyed our providers, and 80 percent have concerns that their patients have food insecurities.”

As part of their project, they are thinking about developing a food pantry at Children's Hospital, but Haidar said it's not yet in development.

Gleaner's Bonelli said they want to create something at Children's for “low income parents whose kids have to stay for a long time.”

“In the public health realm, there are studies that show that families with food insecurity delay care, and we often see patients at a more delayed stage, which can have great implications for families,” PitmanHunt said. “In pediatrics, with the screening, we find families are often afraid, if they're honest, that their kids are going to be taken away from them, especially if their child is underweight. They're afraid they're going to be in trouble – we just want to help.”

The two are currently focusing their energies on training their colleagues to consistently screen and monitor their pediatric patients, and their parents.

“There are specific health repercussions of food insecurity, from delays in health, cognitive delays, mental and behavioral problems, increases in the number of hospitalizations, adjustment problems in adolescence and poor quality of parenting,” Haidar said.

“All of these efforts show that healthy food impacts health outcomes and reductions in health care costs,” Bonelli pointed out. Because of that, lots of hospitals are interested in setting up food pantries, she said.

No matter where food insecurity is encountered, “success begets success and investment,” Bonelli pointed out.

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FACES:BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY PROFILES

SPECIAL SECTION/DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE JULY 2019

INDEX This special advertorial section is designed to provide readers of Downtown newsmagazine with added insight into the people behind the businesses serving the local community.

With the exception of the photos on page 15 and 27, all photography is the work of Laurie Tennent of Laurie Tennent Studio in Birmingham. Stories are the work of writers Lisa Brody, Dana Casadei and Kevin Elliott.

Page 3: Team of Lynn Baker & Deby Gannes • Lynn Baker, Deby Gannes Page 4: Spa Mariana • Maciek Lyko Page 5: Australia 2000 Travel • Karen Hardy Hodgson Page 6: McCleod Carpet One • Stan Fons Page 7: Tender • Cheryl and Karen Daskas Page 8: Mills Pharmacy + Apothecary • Pierre Boutros Page 9: Shades Optical • William J. Koppin OD Page 10: Harp's Lingerie • Doug Hardy, Tom Hardy, Dr. Lew Harp Page 11: The Birmingham Tailor • Ali Cheaib Page 12: The Italian Dish • Holly Anselmi Page 13: Sterling Development Corporation • Todd Emerson Page 14: Deyo Studio • Barbara Deyo Page 15: KW Domain Birmingham • Tushar Vakhariya Page 16: B&R Auto Repairs & Towing • Ray Bazzi Page 17: College Admissions Counseling • Jessica Fowle, Julie Gould, Jane Williams Page 18: Hazel, Ravines and Downtown • Emmele Herrold, Beth Hussey Page 19: Kastler Construction Inc. • Rick Kastler, Paul Kozicki Page 20: Lori Karbal • Lori Karbal Page 21: Stroh's Ice Cream Parlour • Tino Orozco, Paul Scott Page 22: Yummy Cupcakes • Lori Horton Page 23: KW Domain Birmingham • Erin Keating DeWald Page 24: Castaldi • Anna Castaldi Page 25: The Morrie • Aaron F. Belen Page 26: College Choice Counseling • Barbara Connelly Page 27: SEE Eyewear • Richard Golden Page 28: Dan Gutfreund Realty Group • Dan Gutfreund

Downtown newsmagazine | 124 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009 | 248.792.6464

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TEAM OF LYNN BAKER & DEBY GANNES Lynn Baker, Deby Gannes 442 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009, 248.379.3003 www.LynnAndDeby.com | Facebook/lynnanddebyhallandhunter

he world of real estate has evolved exponentially since Lynn Baker and Deby Gannes first got their real estate licenses, in 1979 and 1984, respectively.

While staying up-to-date, the two also rely on timeless style and skills.

“We add the most important aspects they can’t get off the computer,” Baker said.

“There must be a hands-on approach to pricing all properties,” Gannes added. “Zillow pricing has no effect because they don't have access to the most current information or are able to see the inside of the home with the upgrades or special features of the home.”

It seems their client-first philosophy – they always do a personal interview with clients and go out to the house before putting together a presentation – has been working.

The duo has worked together for decades, making them the top listing

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agents at Hall and Hunter for 21 years out of their 22-year partnership.

But Baker and Gannes – who play off each other’s strengths – are much more than just successful listing agents.

Baker said they agreed as they became successful they wanted to give back to the community, as both had volunteered with local charities prior to becoming partners. So, every year they choose local charities to support, such as the Older Persons Commission (OPC) and Rochester Community Schools. They also constantly donate school items to underprivileged schools in Detroit.

Since both have teaching backgrounds, helping schools hits close to home. It has also played a role in their real estate careers.

“The philosophy that Deby and I have is that we teach people,” Baker said.

“What we tell our team when we go out to do a listing or presentation is that we’re here to educate.”

Above: Deby Gannes, Lynn Baker DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 3

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SPA MARIANA Maciek Lyko 909 Haynes Street, Birmingham 48009, 248.792.2050 | 6447 Inkster Road, Bloomfield Hills 48301, 248.592.4300 www.spamariana.com | Facebook/spamariana | Instagram/spamariana

aciek Lyko wasn't born a masseuse and spa owner. Through hard work, sacrifice and a unique journey, he transformed himself from a poor boy in rural Poland to the owner of two award-winning spas in Birmingham and Bloomfield, someone in demand for the healing touch of his hands by not only locals, but celebrity clients and athletes, as well.

Lyko, owner of Spa Mariana in Birmingham and Bloomfield, was born shortly after his father died in a rural factory town in Poland. His mother spotted his talent as a dancer, and he became a professional youth dancer in ballroom, ballet and traditional Polish dancing. At 17, severe ankle pain led him to a masseuse who transformed him, physically and spiritually.

“Not only did I heal but he also ignited my desire to help others find their own path to wellness,” Lyko said.

He studied in Europe and Asia, and found his way to Michigan, working

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and studying first at St. Mary's College, then as a private masseur.

In 2010, he opened Spa Mariana, offering massages, facials, body treatments, and other spa services in a tranquil setting. The Bloomfield spa followed in 2015, with team training for a South Africa spa opening in summer 2019.

Lyko, a Birmingham resident, has written a book, “Beyond Relaxation,” a guide on how to enjoy the spa experience, and will soon have a second, a business-to-business blueprint, “Maximize Your Massage Department Profits.”

“I'm a mentor, a coach, I consult with other spas and I train spas and individual masseuses and owners in owning the spa business,” Lyko said.

“My favorite part is sharing my knowledge, utilizing my passion and knowledge to help others achieve their dream.”

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AUSTRALIA 2000 TRAVEL Karen Hardy Hodgson 139 W. Maple Road, Suite C, Birmingham 48009, 248.647.4530 www.australia2000travel.com | Facebook/Australia2000travel | Twitter/Australia2000

s a fifth-generation Australian with a lifetime of travel experience, Karen Hardy Hodgson founded Australia 2000 Travel with a unique knowledge and passion for providing one-of-a-kind experiences on luxury, bespoke, experiential journeys to South Pacific travel destinations.

Whether it's talking with the skipper of a 40-foot yacht while sailing on Sydney Harbor, taking in the culture and sights of the Australian Outback with a private guide, hiking in New Zealand or snorkeling on the Great Sea Reef off a remote tropical island in idyllic Fiji, Hardy Hodgson ensures each destination is as unique as the traveler.

“Every itinerary is created from scratch. I start by asking people what makes their eyes sparkle and their heart sing,” she said. “There's a gift I have to listen well when people describe what they like doing in their lives then match that in a fun way to a travel adventure.”

Hardy Hodgson and her husband have lived in downtown Birmingham for 32

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years and are often seen walking around town. A former teacher in Australia, she began her travel career more than a quarter century ago in response to the number of locals who expressed interest in exploring the South Pacific, and concern that they were unable to find qualified professionals to fulfill those dreams.

Hardy Hodgson is recognized by Tourism Australia as Michigan’s only Premier Aussie Specialist, by Tourism New Zealand as a Life Time Gold Kiwi Specialist and by elite Luxperience as one of the Top Two Hundred Fifty Travel Designers in the World.

“Everything our clients do has an element of meeting the locals and discovering the usual from an unusual perspective,” she said. “That's the principle of what I do – always making sure we don't put people on big tour buses.”

DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 5

FACES:BUSINESS

MCLEOD CARPET ONE Stan Fons 42598 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills 48304, 248.333.7086 www.mcleodcarpet.com | Facebook/McleodCarpetOne | Instagram/mcleodcarpet

his year marks 60 years for local flooring company, McLeod Carpet One. “It’s very exciting,” said Stan Fons, owner at McLeod. “We are very proud of the fact that we’ve been a leader in the business for 60 years.”

Originally, the company was opened in 1959 by then-owner Mac McLeod, but since 1997, it has been owned by Fons. The love for the business clearly runs in the family, as his son, Danny, is McLeod’s contract manager, daughter, Christine, is director of operations, and wife, Mary, is office manager.

The store expanded into the building next door, and as industry trends have evolved to focus more on design, the company works to provide the best customer service to their clients.

The team at McLeod Carpet also places a strong importance on the

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community through their Carpet One Cares initiative, where they work with local charities, including the Bottomless Toy Chest, Children’s Leukemia Foundation, Alternatives for Girls and Building for America’s Bravest.

McLeod is the choice for many of the area’s finest designers and custom home builders.

“We pride ourselves on having trustworthy experts in the field when it comes to all aspects of the business,” says Fons. That can't be said for all businesses.

When they say they have experienced employees working to help customers find their ideal flooring – whether it be carpet, hardwood, or tile – believe them.

Fons has been there for over 30 years, and the sales team combined has over 75 years of experience in flooring and design.

Above: Stan Fons and the team at McLeod 6 / DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE

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TENDER Cheryl and Karen Daskas 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.258.0212 www.tenderbirmingham.com | Facebook/TenderBirmingham | Instagram/tenderbham

ndi Rehm wants you to have a good time, like a really, really good time.

“The most important thing is about having fun,” says Rehm, manager at the iconic Birmingham boutique Tender. “People want an experience they cannot get online.” That is the main reason she has such great relationships with her clients – it is all about trust.

When clients come in for Rehm’s assistance, some want wardrobes for an entire season while others simply want a piece for a special occasion. They know Rehm is always sure to style them in a fresh and forward look.

For Rehm – who studied fashion merchandising at Michigan State University – working at Tender is like being a kid in a candy shop. Except the candy is fashion, something Rehm has loved since childhood.

The boutique opened 25 years ago – Rehm’s been there for 20 – and is

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owned by sisters Karen and Cheryl Daskas. While Tender has evolved over the years, the boutique's emphasis remains on European and American designer fashion that is unique to the market. Tender never loses focus on customer service and providing the ultimate experience. Rehm said it is all about knowing your client and taking into account their personality. “They need to know they look great and feel special, which is where I come in.”

“People ask me all the time how I can stay at the same place for so long?” laughs Rehm “But I look at it as ever-changing. Every season is new fashion and new people to meet. Plus after 20 years it is like working with your family. We laugh a lot!”

So Tender is a really good time for her, too.

Above: Andi Rehm DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 7

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MILLS PHARMACY + APOTHECARY Pierre Boutros 1744 W. Maple Road A, Birmingham 48009, 248.644.5060 www.millspharmacy.com | Facebook/MillsPharmacy | Twitter/MillsPharmacy | Instagram/millspharmacy

ream jobs and the perfect community are hard to come by, but Pierre Boutros has found both in Birmingham.

After earning his Doctorate of Pharmacy degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, Boutros began his professional career in Michigan in 1997. Shortly after marrying his wife Beatrice, who also holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, the two landed in Birmingham in 2010.

Already the proud owner of OneCare, a long-term care pharmacy, Boutros' purchase of Mills, a 70-year community pharmacy in 2010 was the perfect opportunity to transform an aged location into the state-of-theart retail and compounding pharmacy it is today. Mills offers not only pharmacy services but also European-style apothecary products that elevate the shopping experience to another level while staying true to a heritage

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defined by quality, service and community connection.

The local pharmacy experience has developed strong relationships between Mills customers and Boutros, and deepened his commitment to the community. In 2015, Boutros was elected to the Birmingham City Commission, where he is currently Mayor Pro-tem.

Today, Pierre and Beatrice are busy raising their three children and running multiple businesses. Pierre is focused on continuing his work to improve Birmingham for the people who call it home today – and into the future.

“Whether it’s in my white coat at the pharmacy or in a suit at a city meeting, taking care of people is who I am. My kids, my customers, and the community are what I’m passionate about and keeps me going,” he said.

FACES:BUSINESS

SHADES OPTICAL William J. Koppin OD 193 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.645.0075 www.shadesoptical.com | Facebook/ShadesOpticalBirmingham | Instagram/Shadesoptical

or three decades, Michigan optometrist Dr. Bill Koppin has been changing the standard of eye care in metro Detroit. His practice, Shades Optical located in Birmingham, is committed to delivering an extraordinary level of personalized service and attention to detail for patients who come from all over the globe.

Shades has always abided by the mission that the best vision starts with the best eye exam. And every year the Shades Optical eye exam gets even more precise, with new instruments and protocols that keep the Shades community seeing clearly, comfortably in the best fashion frames.

Shades is one of the most innovative and remarkable optometric practices in the world that has built an outstanding reputation for merging cutting edge style with constantly advancing technology. Dr. Bill, as he is called, and his team take close care and attention with every patient, exam, frame, contact lens, and

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treatment. The Shades team seeks out the highest quality materials, curates the finest designs from around the world, including limited edition collections from Theo, Anne et Valentin, Barton Perreira and more.

Dr. Bill believes the eyes are the window to whole body wellness. This eyebody connection is at the core of Dr. Bill Koppin's overall philosophy about integrative care that Shades Optical refers to as the Line of Sight. Eye care needs change with time and internal and external conditions. Dr. Bill and the Shades team have unique protocols for testing and treatment that include optimization for sports, computer work, low light, dry gritty blinky eyes, tough prescriptions and more.

Shades is a unique business, owned and operated by a doctor who provides quite literally an eye-opening level of sophisticated optometric care along with whole body wellness.

DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 9

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HARP'S LINGERIE Doug Hardy, Tom Hardy, Dr. Lew Harp 265 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009, 248.642.2555 www.harps-lingerie.com | Facebook/harps1947 | Twitter/harps1947 | Instagram/harpslingerie

ven though Harp’s Lingerie has been around since 1947, not that much has actually changed.

Yes, they now have a website and a social media presence – and are more specialized than when they began – but the heart of what they do, and who they are, is the same now as it was when they first opened over 70 years ago.

“It’s been a great family business,” said Lisa Hardy Hamill, who runs Harp’s Lingerie with her cousin, Kim Hardy Hickson. “It’s been wonderful watching...being able to transform and help women really feel great about themselves. That’s what we really try to do.

“It’s not rocket science to make somebody feel good,” she continued.

Hamill said that starts with the trust they’ve built with their customers, who receive one-on-one service from the minute they walk in the store. Their employees – who combined have over 100 years of experience – help

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customers find everything from the right bra for under their wedding dress to everyday needs.

The duo strive to live up to the legacy of excellent service their grandmother, Elizabeth Harp, started when she opened the store with her husband, Elouis.

Harp’s is currently owned by Tom and Doug Hardy and Lew Harp.

“To follow in my grandmother’s footsteps was pretty huge,” said Hamill, who joked that Elizabeth ran the store so long she was like the Queen of England.

During an era where online shopping is taking over, one would think that speciality stores like Harp’s may be nervous about continuing their success, but not Hamill.

“There will always be a need for being fit for the proper undergarments,” she said.

Above: Lisa Hardy Hamill, Kim Hardy Hickson

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THE BIRMINGHAM TAILOR Ali Cheaib 139 W. Maple Road Suite H-K, Birmingham 48009, 248.433.3703 www.thebirminghamtailor.com | Facebook/ali.cheaib.3 | Facebook/bhamtailor | Instagram/bhamtailor

li Cheaib first picked up a needle and thread at the age of 13 in Beirut, Lebanon, where his family owned a small manufacturing business.

After emigrating to the United States, he worked at various tailor shops and eventually opened The Birmingham Tailor in 2002, where he has quickly become a household name for his honesty in fitting and skilled craft tailoring, as well as working with local high end boutiques from Tender, Ferragamo, Lululemon, Gucci, Max Mara, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.

Recently, Cheaib expanded his business to offer custom made-to-measure clothing for men, focusing on suits, sport coats, dress coats and shirts, many with unique linings. Clients are able to choose fabric from fine Italian, French and English mills, including Loro Piana, Scabal, Zegna, Gladson and Holland & Sherry, among others. A wide variety of spectacular linings are available to

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choose from to completely personalize the suits and jackets. Many custom suits are clients' wedding suits or designed – and monogrammed – for special events.

“Always, always, we focus on the quality,” Cheaib said. “We're tailors and clothiers. We make a big impact because we understand tailoring and how suits are supposed to fit, and focus on the current fashions of Europe.”

Quality and fit are watchwords for Cheaib and his staff, who want everyone to walk out looking and feeling their best, because he views every client as a friend or neighbor since Cheaib and his wife Lisa, who often works alongside him, have lived in Birmingham for 19 years, along with daughter Jenna, 13, and son Hadi, 9, both of whom attend Birmingham Covington School. When not working, he admits he's quite a foodie, enjoying many local restaurants.

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THE ITALIAN DISH Holly Anselmi 288 E. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.593.8299 www.theitaliandish.com | Facebook/theitaliandish | Twitter/theitaliandish | Instagram/the.italian.dish

n 2003, Holly Anselmi took a trip to Italy with her niece. Little did she know that trip would end up inspiring her to switch careers.

With her Italian heritage and love for ceramics – which she bought a lot of during said trip – an idea started brewing, one where she would combine those loves and leave her corporate job.

“I wanted to do something that I had more excitement and passion for,” Anselmi said.

Enter The Italian Dish, the Birmingham speciality store she’s owned since 2005.

When the store originally opened, it primarily sold Italian ceramics. Today, 14 years later, it has expanded in not only price points but has products from all over Europe, including soaps, lotions, books, picture frames, and solid color

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dinnerware as Anselmi looks to expand the bridal registry side of her business.

Anselmi’s shop evolved because she listened to the needs of her customers, which Anselmi said is one of the best parts of her job.

While some things have changed, a few haven’t, including Anselmi’s desire to educate – done through weekly emails about products and signage in the store – and make sure her product offerings are different from the rest.

“A lot of people are tired of going to the same box store and seeing the same product. So we have unique products. If someone is looking for a gift they know they can come to my store and find something,” she said.

This spring Anselmi and her niece returned to Italy on a buying trip. Wonder what inspired her this time.

FACES:BUSINESS

STERLING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Todd Emerson 2382 Franklin Road, Bloomfield Hills 48302, 248.203.2036 www.sdc.build | Facebook/SterlingDevelopment

ince starting Sterling Development Corporation as an investor in 1996, Todd Emerson has taken a hands-on approach to custom building. He has now grown the Bloomfield Hills-based business into one of the most recognized and awarded luxury contractors in metro Detroit.

“I decided to pursue building full time in 2002, and I began by developing homes on speculation which soon expanded into renovations and new construction for clients,” Emerson said. “As my business grew naturally through word of mouth, I made the decision to bring in a partner to oversee operations in 2014” – his partner and brother, Marc Alexander. “We have very complementary personalities which has proven to be very effective,” Emerson went on to say.

Today, Sterling has approximately 18 employees, including project administrators, superintendents, and a crew of finish carpenters. With a focus

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on new homes, additions and renovations throughout Oakland & Wayne counties, Sterling Development brings together over 200 years of construction, planning, architectural and interior design experience, earning multiple Detroit Home Design Awards over the past five consecutive years.

“I like to stay active in all aspects of the business, including customer relations, marketing and regular site visits. This allows me to properly communicate my vision to my staff along with insuring quality expectations are met,” Emerson said. “I am also heavily involved in the planning process with the client, architect and interior designer”.

Sterling has recently added a service department to handle all of the client’s maintenance needs to insure customer satisfaction and ease of ownership beyond the warranty period. “Our goal is to insure complete customer satisfaction from the completion of the project and into the future.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

DEYO STUDIO Barbara Deyo 576 N. Old Woodward Avenue 2nd floor, Birmingham 48009, 248.203.1222 www.deyostudio.com | Facebook/BarbaraDeyo | Instagram/barbaradeyomua

hen Barbara Deyo was nine, her father came home and announced he had quit his job to start his own business.

That moment, and the advice that would follow, made a lasting impression on Deyo, who has owned Deyo Studio in Birmingham since 2009.

That’s thanks in part to the Birmingham community, which has supported Deyo since her first Birmingham endeavor, Boldface Makeup studio in 2000.

She co-owned Birmingham's Touch Spa as well.

While Deyo is often now at Deyo Studio, during the beginning of her career she worked for TV channels like NBC and CBS, and was even at the courthouse with Tom Brokaw during the O.J. Simpson trial. The lengthy list of celebrities she’s worked with – including Kid Rock, President Barack Obama, and Sir Paul McCartney – has helped her become the go-to name for VIPs when they come to Detroit.

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Her regular clients are who she counts on, and she wouldn’t have a business without them. They’ve become family.

“I’ve had clients and seen them grow up and have weddings and baby showers. I really enjoy catching up with my clients, hearing about what’s going on in their lives,” Deyo said. “It’s a very personal business.”

At Deyo Studio, she and her team offer airbrush tanning, facials, makeup applications, waxing services, massages, microblading and eyebrow shaping.

The latter has been her number one service for years.

Her advice for those thinking about doing their own eyebrows?

“Don’t” she laughed. “Have a professional do it. It’s really easy to make a mistake. One hair can make a difference.”

FACES:BUSINESS

KW DOMAIN BIRMINGHAM Tushar Vakhariya 210 S. Old Woodward, Suite 200, Birmingham 48009, 248.289.0660 www.Tusharvakhariya.com | Facebook/TusharVakhariyaAssociates | Instagram/Tushar_Vakhariya

ost young boys gravitate to sports, climbing trees or video games. For Tushar Vakhariya, he asked his friends to challenge him in Monopoly.

Unbeknown to Tushar, his childhood pastime would emulate his future career.

Vakhariya has been investing in real estate since his early 20s. He invests in luxury properties and rentals and short-term housing in Birmingham, Bloomfield and Detroit.

As a young investor, Vakhariya learned market trends. He lent his expertise and knowledge to his friends and colleagues. This led to a natural transition into his current place in the real estate industry. He is a top producing agent in the top one percent of realtors in the nation with over a half billion dollars in career sales. His clients include luxury buyers, high net worth individuals, professional

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athletes, and those who are looking for a family home. He shares that finding a dream home for his clients is the most rewarding part of his job.

“A home is where one finds the most comfort and where people envision their future where memories will be made,” Vakhariya said.

Vakhariya is also a proud co-owner of KW Domain in Birmingham. The KW Domain office opened in 2016 and has over 200 agents.

Vakhariya’s future includes expanding his personal real estate portfolio as well as opening another KW Domain office in Bloomfield Hills. Ultimately, he aspires to have a presence in the international market.

Unlike Monopoly, Vakhariya does not foresee the game ending. The possibilities are endless.

DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 15

FACES:BUSINESS

B&R AUTO REPAIRS & TOWING Ray Bazzi 2330 Cole Street, Birmingham 48009, 248.258.7000 hen Ray Bazzi was asked the thing people should know about his company, B&R Auto Repairs & Towing, his answer was a bit surprising.

It wasn’t about any of the services they offer, like mechanical repairs for everything from engines to transmissions to brakes, and tune-ups. Or that they are now licensed to use a new set-up for freon.

His answer was that they were honest.

“I’m a firm believer in being straight-up with people due to the fact that I like to go home at the end of the day with a clear conscience,” said Bazzi, who opened the current location in 2009.

Bazzi won't let people get taken advantage of or told to buy things they don’t need. Further, his customers know that.

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With no website or social media to advertise on, having customers spread the word about B&R through word-of-mouth is essential.

“I’m not a computer person but give me a car and I’ll fix it,” Bazzi said.

Bazzi has always been into mechanics. Before opening up in Birmingham, he and his brother owned a gas station in Romulus that did repairs and towing. Then, in 1998, he left for AAA, where he worked before deciding to open his own shop.

It seems his love for mechanics has been passed on to at least one of his kids, with his nine-year-old very interested in the business. Good thing too, because Bazzi hopes to pass the business down to the next generation.

But don’t worry, he’ll stick around even after that happens.

“I’m not going anywhere,” he said.

FACES:BUSINESS

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS COUNSELING Jessica Fowle, Julie Gould, Jane Williams 1221 Bowers #254, Birmingham 48012, 248.425.1407 www.cactoday.com | Facebook/collegeACtoday | Twitter/collegeACtoday

ane Williams and her two colleagues, Julie Gould and Jessica Fowle, at College Admissions Counseling, work as a team to help not only students – but the whole family – feel comfortable finding the right college match.

“Parents get as anxious as the students do,” Williams noted. “We try to take the pressure off and help them manage the process in a timely manner.”

All three have experience in college counseling – Williams and Gould worked in the Counseling Department at Seaholm High School for years, and Fowle, on the other side of the table, was an admissions advisor at Kalamazoo College.

“Working as a team, we understand both sides of the process,” Williams pointed out.

They like to begin working with students early, ideally when they are entering their freshman or sophomore years in high school, so they can assist with

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curriculum choices and resume building. Williams pointed out that students’ resumes have become an important part of the admissions application.

“Colleges are looking for young leaders who will make a difference in the world.”

As students approach their junior and senior years, they help families find the right college match, with an emphasis on the entire family.

“We find the right fit for a student’s interests,” Williams said, “whether a big or small campus, a distance that's close to home, a rural or urban campus.

Also, it's really important to keep in mind the family's finances.”

She said that while most assume that means only an in-state college is affordable, Williams suggested that there are a variety of tuition levels and merit scholarships that are available out-of-state. Their goal is to guide families to find those wonderful options.

Above: Julie Gould, Jane Williams DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 17

FACES:BUSINESS

HAZEL, RAVINES AND DOWNTOWN Emmele Herrold, Beth Hussey 34977 Woodward Avenue Suite 100, Birmingham 48009, 248.671.1714 www.hrd.kitchen | Facebook/hrd.kitchen | Instagram/hrd.kitchen

ometimes, when you know, you just know. At least that was the case for Hazel, Ravines and Downtown co-owners and friends, Beth Hussey and Emmele Herrold, who is also the executive chef.

“We call each other our food soulmates because we have very similar ideas of how food should be and how it should be served,” Hussey said.

Before they opened HRD – named after three Birmingham neighborhoods that converge at its location – the duo worked together at Ferndale’s One-Eyed Betty’s and Pop’s for Italian. They met through a mutual friend and quickly knew they wanted to one day open a restaurant together. Enter HRD. The duo work well together for many reasons, like how they balance each other out and have the same core, fundamental beliefs. Hussey said they both believe that work should be fun. If you and your employees are enjoying

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themselves, then so will your guests. It helps keep staff turnover low, too.

“We definitely think we’ve filled a niche that needed filling,” Hussey said.

Since opening the casual dining space a few months ago they’ve learned a lot about running their own restaurant. The food and drinks menus are constantly evolving – they are split in to three sections: Hazel (familiar food), Ravines (well-traveled), and Downtown (trending foods) – and they have plans to stay in Birmingham for the long term.

“A lot of people have these aspirations to move on and open something else quickly, and for the two of us we just want to keep growing what we’re doing...as far as the future goes, we’re not in any hurry to make any giant changes,” Herrold said.

Above: Beth Hussey, Emmele Herrold 18 / DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE

FACES:BUSINESS

KASTLER CONSTRUCTION INC. Rick Kastler, Paul Kozicki 425 S. Main Street, Clawson 48017, 248.655.5580 www.kastlerconstruction.com | Facebook/kastlerconstruction | Instagram/kastlerconstruction

ow has Kastler Construction Inc. stayed in business for over 20 years?

That’s easy. “We work very hard...too hard,” laughed Rick Kastler, president of Kastler Construction, Inc. “And we love what we do” adds vice president Paul Kozicki.

Together, Kastler and Kozicki run two successful businesses that serve both discriminating homeowners and professionals. Kastler Construction is a fullservice design/build firm, working with clients from design inception until the construction is complete. With a 2,500 square-foot showroom, which also houses their sister company, Visionary Cabinetry & Design, clients are able to choose from a variety of cabinetry and project materials right on site.

Kastler’s primary focus is building custom homes, cohesive home additions,

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whole house renovations, gourmet kitchens, and bathroom remodeling. Kastler noted that the most common request in a home used to be open floor plans, but recently, people are asking for more defined rooms.

“For us, it’s really about helping the clients create a space they’ll enjoy for many years and working through the details to give them the finished product that they are expecting,” Kozicki said.

And high quality is what they do – just ask their clients who often bring them back for second and even third projects. “There’s nothing better than reading a review online from a client saying how satisfied they were with our work, attention to detail, and being connected with them during the entire process.

It’s very rewarding,” he said.

Above: Paul Kozicki, Rick Kastler DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 19

FACES:BUSINESS

LORI KARBAL Lori Karbal 560 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009, 248.258.1959 www.lorikarbal.com | Facebook/lori.karbal | Instagram/LoriKarbal

or both longtime devotees and newer fans of Lori Karbal's sophisticated and beautiful Birmingham boutique, they might be surprised to discover that the store wasn't originally a part of her life's plans.

Before opening her eponymous business in 1990, Karbal was a court reporter for 13 years, a job she realized wasn’t making her happy.

However, what she did love was ordering and discovering new products – so when her parents suggested she look into opening her own store, she started making inquiries.

“I was very fortunate,” said Karbal, who grew up in the area. “I had parents that made this possible for me.”

What first began as a cosmetics, lotions, fragrance and candle shop has evolved into a true boutique, offering an assortment of specialty items for her customers as both she – and they – grew and matured.

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“We call ourselves an edited boutique,” Karbal said of the eclectic medley of clothing, lingerie, unique home accessories, and as at the beginning nearly 30 years ago, fragrance, candles and lotions.

“I was continually looking to add products and opportunities for my customers,” she said. “We try to offer things that other people locally may not offer. We're always trying to push the envelope here.”

Lori Karbal the boutique has also developed into a local gathering spot, where Karbal and her “girls” have enjoyed watching many of her customers get married, have babies, and watch those children grow up and go to college and into first jobs.

“That's a part of my business that I love – that people come in and share their lives with me,” she said.

Above: Margo Apple

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FACES:BUSINESS

STROH’S ICE CREAM PARLOUR Tino Orozco, Paul Scott 3659 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills 48301, 248.647.7660 Facebook/strohsicecream

aul Scott’s day can change in a matter of minutes. It really just depends on the weather and how much people want ice cream.

“Some days we’re sitting around like, where is everyone? Especially in the off season,” said Scott, who owns Stroh’s Ice Cream Parlour of Bloomfield Hills with his business partner, Tino Orozco. “But this time of year, when the weather is better, we're pretty busy.”

Since opening in the winter of 1964 – Scott has been there since the beginning, Orozco for the last 33 years – the retro feel of when they first opened has become iconic while their selection has expanded. Now, instead of solely selling ice cream, they offer frozen yogurt, frozen drinks, and old-school candies.

With countless flavors, Scott said there are a variety of popular sellers, but

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it’s that blend of blue, yellow, and red – aka Superman – that guests, young and old, keep coming back for.

“People who move away and come to visit call and ask if we have it,” Scott said. “They all want Superman.”

Scott’s more partial to chocolate and peanut butter, coffee, or cookies and cream.

When asked how it feels to have been in business this long, Scott laughed before he said that it sure doesn’t feel that long.

Like many who have owned shops for over half a century – something Scott attributes to hard work, dedication, and perseverance – he’s gotten to watch his customers grow up and start bringing in their grandkids and in some cases, great-grandkids. He’s even watched some go gray or bald.

“We’ve been here so long we’re all like family now,” Scott said.

Above: Paul Scott, Tino Orozco DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 21

FACES:BUSINESS

YUMMY CUPCAKES Lori Horton 39566 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills 48304, 248.494.4644 www.yummycupcakes.com | Facebook/YummyCupcakesBloomfieldHills | Twitter/YummycupcakesBH | Instagram/YummycupcakesBH

ith more than 400 different cupcake flavors available, customers at Yummy Cupcakes in Bloomfield Hills could eat a different flavor cupcake every day and still not taste each and every flavor in a year.

"My favorite is probably either Salted Caramel, Chocolate Covered Macaroon, or Miss S’More (lemon and white chocolate)," said Lori Horton, owner-operator of Yummy Cupcakes. Of course, it has to be hard to pick when the choices are made fresh from scratch each and every day, including a full line of vegan, gluten-less, gluten-less vegan, and sugar free cupcakes.

Horton, who opened the franchise store in 2013, following a 12-year career in the automotive industry and years at home with her two daughters, is the name and face behind the store. In fact, it's likely she's the one behind the counter, working the ovens and mixers, decorating the cupcakes, answering the phones or even delivering catering orders on any given day.

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"I make a point of remembering people's names," she said about treating customers like members of the family, often remembering their kids' names and birthdays, too.

Perhaps the work reminds Horton of her very first job during high school working in a bakery, learning to decorate cakes and pastries and work the counter. Today, Horton keeps a daily mix of at least 26 different cupcake flavors.

Her creativity shows through with her offering of cupcake-related specialty treats, such as Truffles, Truffle Pops, Cupcake Crunch, Frosting Shots, Cupcake Push Pops, and ready-to-eat Cookie Dough Pops. Yummy Cupcakes also offers advance order custom cakes of all sizes.

"It’s a great place to stop by if you’re having a bad day," Horton said, "happiness is just a cupcake away."

FACES:BUSINESS

KW DOMAIN BIRMINGHAM Erin Keating DeWald 210 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 200, Birmingham 48009, 248.259.3544 www.erinkdewald.com | Facebook/ekd.domain | Instagram/ekd.domain

rin Keating DeWald is a fourth generation offspring of local developers and top producing area realtors.

Erin originally entered the corporate world after college but naturally kept coming back to houses, design and her love of working with people.

"For me, it was a natural progression,” said DeWald, realtor and co-owner at KW Domain-Luxury Homes International in Birmingham.

DeWald, who grew up in the Birmingham/Bloomfield Hills area, has helped people find their dream homes for about 20 years, and helped launch KW Domain-Luxury Homes International in 2016. She has worked across various price points and all across metro Detroit.

DeWald said since the market is much smaller for luxury homes, one needs to really stay on top of what’s selling, who is buying, networking with the top

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real estate professionals and creatively marketing those properties.

“You have to be good at telling the story of your own personal properties to make sure they stand out,” she noted, mentioning that communication, market knowledge and persistence is a key to being successful.

Clearly, whatever she is doing is working. DeWald said they are the fastest growing office in downtown Birmingham, and she is now one of the top producing agents.

DeWald hopes to become the number one office overall in downtown Birmingham, without losing the personal touches that make her, well, her.

“My goal for my career and success is built on honesty, loyalty, integrity. An ethical agent...that people can trust. I’m going to guide and educate my clients to make the best real estate decision for their needs.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

CASTALDI Anna Castaldi 245 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.590.2890 hen a woman is seeking her one-of-a-kind wedding dress, mother of the bride or groom gown, or any other special occasion dress, she turns to Anna Castaldi, owner of Roma Sposa Bridal Atelier and Castaldi, Anna's new store for formal wear, both in Birmingham.

Castaldi opened Roma Sposa in 1996, and quickly discovered that her brides required more than just wedding gowns. “When I began working with women, I realized there was a need for dresses for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, receptions, and to go to other parties,” she said, noting they became long-term customers. “She would go to the auto shows, charity events, bar mitzvahs, other weddings.

“We started out dressing brides and mother of the brides, the sisters of the brides, and these customers became repeat customers, and would tell other customers,” Castaldi said of the metamorphosis to an evening wear store, Castaldi, that caters well beyond weddings.

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Originally named Roma Notte, the evening wear store was located within Roma Sposa for 15 years before Castaldi opened her namesake store on W. Maple Road in 2018, featuring cocktail, evening and black tie attire.

“I travel worldwide constantly finding designs and searching for designers who work by hand, do details and who are willing to customize dresses for my customers, because every woman has different needs,” she said of the customization to choose any color, fabric, neckline, and sleeve.

“As a stylist, I both consult and analyze your style, shape, the way you move and I can suggest styles that best suit you, including the importance of the location and place you are attending to make sure you are in season. Myself and my team, for us it's a mission, not a job to help a woman feel confident and shine.”

FACES:BUSINESS

THE MORRIE Aaron F. Belen 260 N. Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009 www.themorrie.com | Facebook/themorrie | Instagram/the_morrie

aron F. Belen understands what diners in Birmingham want, because it's what he desires and enjoys as well.

Belen, owner of Royal Oak's Bistro 82, a modern contemporary French restaurant, and SCL, a nightclub right above it, as well as The Morrie, a casual, fun neighborhood roadhouse with late night entertainment, is bringing his passion home with The Morrie Birmingham, opening in July on N. Old Woodward in the Palladium Building.

Belen, who lives in Bloomfield Hills, attended Cranbrook Kingswood Schools as a “lifer,” learned business acumen, real estate knowledge and wisdom from his late grandfather, the original Morrie, Morrie Fenkell, a prominent businessman and banker.

“My grandfather was the most important person in my life. I always referred to him as my best friend,” Belen said. Fenkell passed away from pancreatic

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cancer in 2007, and Belen, who said he could have moved to New York, Chicago, LA or Miami, returned to metro Detroit.

“I viewed it as a great opportunity to make it my own way and make my own name.”

While others of his generation are focusing on the resurgent Detroit dining scene, Belen is excited to energize Birmingham. Going into and extensively renovating a space where three other ventures have failed, Belen said The Morrie is designed to fill a void in the marketplace of affordable quality fare for all ages.

“I have a good handle on the community. I grew up and still live here. I know Birmingham,” he emphasized. “Our motto at The Morrie is 'Food, Drink and Music,' and we do all three at a very high level. The Morrie is really a venue – it's food, it's cocktails and it's entertainment.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

COLLEGE CHOICE COUNSELING Barbara Connolly 950 E. Maple Road, Suite 208, Birmingham 48009, 248.294.0099 www.collegecc.com

arbara Connolly’s clients come to her at one of the most stressful times of their lives: when they're applying to college.

As a parent of four children she helped through high school and college, Connolly knows what an intense process it is for both students and parents.

That’s partly why she started College Choice Counseling in 2002.

“I really didn’t understand what the school’s counselors were telling us...I thought there was a need to do self-help,” Connolly said. “Once I started doing self-help...I became very expert at it.”

What began as a kitchen-based, referral business has grown into a full-scale company, with a team of 15 professional tutors and college counselors. Her students have been accepted to schools like Harvard, Yale, Columbia and Michigan, among many others.

College Choice Counseling offers tutors for numerous academic subjects,

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SAT/ACT prep, essay writing, resume preparation, and college applications. To stay on top of curriculum and campus changes Connolly visits schools throughout the year.

She said her holistic approach makes her unique in the field.

Her qualifications do, too. Connolly is not only a lawyer, professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, and former admissions reader at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, she’s also the only Certified Educational Planner in the Bloomfield/Birmingham area.

She’s an advocate for her students, and watching them succeed and grow is a pretty rewarding thing to witness.

“When they genuinely, independently, come to me with excitement to tell me, ‘Look what I’ve done, look what I’ve achieved,’ that’s very, very gratifying,” Connolly said.

FACES:BUSINESS

SEE EYEWEAR Richard Golden 160 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009 (Flagship store location), 248.723.1900 www.seeeyewear.com | Facebook/SEEeyewear | Twitter/seeeyewear | Instagram/seeeyewear

oming to the eyeglass business with a background in progressive rock radio, SEE Eyewear founder and CEO Richard Golden had a hit three decades ago when he introduced “Sexy Specs” to the world. Today, he's still topping the charts with a tune that everyone appreciated: high quality, exclusive glasses at an agreeable price.

“We started SEE with our first store in Birmingham in 1998 as a test with a unique concept,” Golden said. “We knew factories around the world that would make us frames that are as good or better as the designers being made, but without the brand name. The whole idea was that I could make them for a great price and not have to buy them from someone else and mark them up.”

Golden successfully cut out the middle man in order to bring customers fashion-forward frames without the price that comes with designer names. “All of

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a sudden in 1998, we had great frames in the window and our line was 'Hip without the Rip.'” SEE has 43 locations with plans to grow. The collection is crafted under the SEE brand, and are handmade in limited quantities. “If we produce a frame in five colors and only order 80 pairs, that's about two per store,” Golden said. “If you're in Nashville, you only have one or two frames of a kind in the city. That's the closest thing to custom frames there is.

“We’re family-owned and operated with a mission to make friends, not customers,” added Golden. “Nothing makes me happier than seeing people shopping with their kids and dogs and having a great time. We wanted it to be fun, and I think we’ve accomplished that.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

DAN GUTFREUND REALTY GROUP Dan Gutfreund 415 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009, 248.497.4646 www.iSellMichigan.com | Facebook/DanGutfreundRealtySpecialist | Instagram/dan.signaturesothebys

fter selling his custom cabinet making business, and moving to Michigan from Canada, Dan Gutfreund decided to enter the world of real estate, with a little nudge from his wife.

“My wife one day woke up and said, ‘You need to get a job,’” said Gutfreund, who took a few years off to enjoy life in between jobs. “I decided to look into real estate because the nature of my previous career was sales and marketing and construction. I thought, that would round me out as a great sales professional in real estate.”

Now, he’s the name behind Dan Gutfreund Realty Group, a member of Signature Sotheby's International Realty, and one of their top producers.

Gutfreund’s group opened in Birmingham in 2009 and Sotheby’s was the only company Gutfreund interviewed with.

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Recently, Gutfreund has acquired a team – who he said are the best of the best – and he said they treat each home, whether it’s worth $300,000 or $3 million, with the same level of care and strong sales presentation.

Over the years Gutfreund has discovered a lot about his new career field, like being available for clients 24/7 and how real estate is not as easy as people think.

Especially when you have to start your foundation of clients from scratch.

“That made working in this business extra hard because I really, truly had to sell me and what I could bring to the table on my own merit without six degrees of separation,” Gutfreund said.

Now, Gutfreund – who is at every house showing – has a multi-million dollar business. Clearly, his personal, old-school approach is working.

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DOWNTOWN

07.19

FACES

Michael DeMeglio ainter Michael DeMeglio isn't the first artist to translate sound into images on canvas, but being deaf brings another dimension to his work which transcends the senses and speaks to viewers on an emotional level.

Deaf since birth, DeMeglio is able to hear only with the use of hearing aids, which leads to a greater appreciation for music. From jazz to classical, music has been a source of inspiration for him for years. But it was the lesser known movements of Beethoven's 5th Symphony that led to his latest series of paintings offering an abstract, visual representation of the work.

"I have painted images from other musical genres that were subjective and pulled from the lyrics, but the Beethoven series was created intuitively rather than subjectively," said DeMeglio, who was raised in Bloomfield Hills and now lives in the Twin Cities metro area in Minnesota. "I started with a blank canvas and an open mind and allowed myself to be color-driven by what I heard from the music as it flowed in its form on the canvas. I painted strictly how the music made me feel."

For viewers familiar with the music, it isn't hard to "hear" the music coming through the visual artwork, from delicate brush strokes and the blend of soft colors that build to bold colors and thunderous crescendos. In fact, the realization that both artists – DeMeglio and Beethoven later in his life – were deaf could be easily lost on a viewer. However, there's no separating the artist from the art.

"My deafness does affect my work because I take in more visually to make up for what I can't hear," DeMeglio said. "It is a part of who I am, and I believe that it allows me to see texture, color and depth differently than others. I subconsciously assign color to mood, environment and memories. It

P

can't help but affect my work and people often comment on my use of color."

The series, which was initially intended to be only one piece, has garnered attention in the Twin Cities area. This August, DeMeglio's four Beethoven paintings will be on display at the Robert Kidd Gallery in downtown Birmingham.

A graduate of Gallaudet University in Washington D.C., DeMeglio works as a deaf-blind interpretor for a school district in Minnesota. But as a self-taught artist, painting is a lifelong pursuit.

"Painting is a compulsion for me. I have to paint, and I get the most satisfaction from a large or oversized canvas," he said. "I have always been an artist. My grandfather was a passionate artist. The smell of oil paint in his Detroit basement and the pictures of his home in Italy are the things I grew up with. I didn't really take it seriously until I was about 25. When I was pursuing a graphic design degree, it became too digital feeling. It wasn't organic enough or satisfying. That's when I turned to paint and canvas."

Not surprisingly, DeMeglio was first drawn to Picasso's use of color blocking, as well as what he calls his childlike perspective.

"As a self-taught artist, I certainly matured," he said. "I didn't go to school for art, and you can see that in my earlier pieces... I have honed my ability to build depth into my work that even in an abstract, it isn't just a bunch of colors mushed together to make mud. That's not abstract in my opinion. An abstract should draw a viewer into it as deeply as any good landscape would."

Story: Kevin Elliott

Photo: Laurie Tennent

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MUNICIPAL

Township OPEB plan approved by treasury

By Lisa Brody

Supervisor outlines SAD vote scenarios

By Kevin Elliott

Bloomfield Township Supervisor Leo Savoie, at a meeting on Tuesday, May 28, presented potential budget scenarios to the board of trustees that could play out in regard to the passage or rejection of a public safety special assessment district (SAD) that will be voted on by residents on August 6.

"I'm not putting it out there as scare tactics," Savoie said, outlining the elimination of about 10 police officers, eight firefighters/paramedics and other measures to cover an estimated $5 million annual budget shortfall should the proposed tax fail to gain voter approval.

"I think we could make those cuts.

Would it be optimum? No, it wouldn't be optimum," he said. "But I think as a township, it's imperative and prudent that we look at staffing ourselves for a worst case scenario because worst case scenarios do in fact happen, and we would not be at an optimum level if that were to occur."

The scenarios are the same information Savoie noted he has been sharing with residents at a series of public information meetings about the proposed 15-year SAD. The question-and-answer sessions focus on a proposed 2.3-mill public safety tax. If approved, the SAD would provide about $9 million a year to police and fire operations. The township also would terminate the final year of a 10-year millage approved in 2010, eliminating about $4.85 million in current tax revenue.

The SAD would result in an overall net increase of 1.05 mills, decreasing the township's general fund contribution to police and fire by about $1.9 million each year.

The proposed SAD is in response to a 2018 Michigan law intended to ensure local retiree health care and pension plans are adequately funded.

Under the law, the township must ensure at least 40 percent of OPEB (other post-employment benefit) costs are funded within 30 years.

Previously, municipalities were permitted to pay OPEB costs as they came due. The township has about $164 million in unfunded OPEB liabilities, with about $65 million needed to cover the funding gap.

In addition to the new funding requirement related to OPEB costs, Savoie reiterated that the township has a $3.7 to $3.8-million shortfall related to the township's defined

benefit plan due to a lack of returns in a long-term fixed account with Prudential. The township has tried unsuccessfully to exit the plan, which provides investment returns of about 2.9 percent. The account dates back to the early-1960s.

The proposed SAD would allow for the township's police and fire departments to pay for its share of the OPEB and defined benefit contributions on an annual basis.

Trustees Dave Buckley and Dani Walsh, who have opposed the proposed SAD, said at the meeting they were unaware that it would contribute to payments related to defined benefits, as the majority of discussion has related to OPEB liabilities, despite it being emphasized at several board meetings over the last 18 months which they both have attended.

"That should be explained," Buckley said.

Walsh also questioned whether results from a budget study conducted by Plante Moran that outlined more than $7 million in eliminations and revenue generating measures was being shared at the public meetings hosted by Savoie.

Both Walsh and Buckley have said they opposed the SAD because none of those measures were implemented prior to approving ballot language for the proposed tax.

Savoie said the information is available online and discussed when the issue was raised. Those measures also have been included in Savoie's budget scenarios.

Included in the scenario is the elimination of 10 police officers and eight firefighter/paramedics through attrition; the elimination of an annual $1.4 million contribution from the general fund to the township's road department; the elimination of the animal welfare department; elimination of the township's funding of a school liaison officer; the transfer of police officers from joint task forces, including the county's Narcotics Enforcement Team, financial fraud, gang and surveillance task forces to the township's patrol division; elimination of electronic waste and hazardous waste collections; and maintenance on medians along Woodward, Telegraph and Square Lake roads. The township would also institute a one-percent administration fee for processing tax collections.

"Our number one goal isn't to advocate for this. We won't advocate," Savoie said of the meetings. "We want the information

corrective action plan indicating how Bloomfield Township will address underfunded retirement benefits was unanimously approved Monday, May 20, by the Municipal Sustainability Board at the Michigan State Treasury.

The township announced in December 2018 that changes to state accounting laws that had gone into effect require municipalities to fund at least 40 percent of their unfunded liabilities, including other post-employment benefits (OPEB), which includes benefits such as medical, dental, vision and life insurance for retirees and their spouses. The changes meant the township can no longer pay for those expenses as employees retire and accrue actual costs, as they have for decades, or pay-as-yougo, a practice used by many municipalities.

Under the Protecting Local Government Retirement and Benefits Act, or Public Act 202 of 2017, municipalities that have at least one retirement health benefit system that has been determined to be underfunded must submit a corrective action plan. A retirement health system is considered underfunded if it is less than 40 percent funded, and if the annual required contribution for the retirement health system of the municipality is greater than 12 percent of that government's annual fund revenues.

The law requires local municipalities to report and have a collective action plan for each retirement pension benefits and/or retirement health benefits account to the state treasury of each plan's funded ratio by specifying assets and liabilities; the annual required contribution, if it is a retiree health care plan; the actuarial determined contribution required, if it is a retirement pension plan; and the local unit of government's annual fund revenues.

For pension plans, the criteria for underfunded status is less than 60 percent funding; and for retiree health systems, less than 40 percent funding.

As of January 1, 2018, municipalities had to develop collective action plans to show how they would get to a minimum of 40 percent funding in the next 30 years if they were determined to be “underfunded.” In February, Bloomfield Township submitted a corrective action plan that was denied by the state as a community survey and specific actions were not yet considered complete.

The township had 60 days to revise and resubmit its plan. In the interim, the township board of trustees approved putting a proposed 2.3-mill tax intended to help fund retiree benefits over the next 15 years through the creation of a special assessment district (SAD) dedicated to public safety operations on the August ballot. If approved, the SAD would provide about $9 million a year to police and fire operations, which would provide $1.5 million to OPEB liabilities. The township would also be required to let expire at the end of 2019 a 10-year general millage approved in 2010, thus eliminating $4.85 million in current tax revenues. The measure would provide an overall increase of 1.05 mills to public safety, decreasing the township's general fund contribution to police and fire by $1.9 million each year.

On Monday, May 20, township supervisor Leo Savoie, clerk Jan Roncelli and treasurer Brian Kepes travelled to Lansing to present their revised corrective action plan to the Municipal Sustainability Board, which approved the Bloomfield Township plan for OPEB. Savoie, Roncelli and Kepes all said the board liked the plan for the SAD election, which is designed to get to the state mandated funding level by 2033, and to be fully funded by 2043, based on actuarial assumptions.

“If it (the SAD) does not pass, we told them here is what we will cut, in terms of both personnel and programs,” Savoie said.

Bloomfield Township has approximately $164 million in unfunded retirement liabilities.

A

CHRIS

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over $36 million pending and closed yTd in 2019

372 Barden - Bloomfield Hills - $2,799,900

275 S. Old Woodward Downtown Birmingham

325 Keswick - Bloomfield Hills - $2,299,000

Magnificent 2001 built estate home on 1.4 acres. Expertly constructed with gorgeous finishes and quality throughout. 5 bedrooms, 5.2 baths.

Wonderful 6 bedroom, 4.3 bath colonial on about an acre near Cranbrook. Extensively updated. Stunning first floor master suite. 3 car side entry garage.

336 Suffield - Birmingham - $1,425,000

30 Cabot Place - Bloomfield Hills - $949,900

3361 Squirrel - Bloomfield Hills - $748,000

1023 Bennaville - Birmingham - $699,900

Wonderful Quarton Lake Estates colonial on a 120 foot wide lot. Spacious floor plan with beautiful remodeled kitchen & butlers pantry. 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths.

Gorgeous home on a beautiful lot overlooking a private pond. 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths. First floor master suite. Home set back off the main road. Wonderful views.

4205 Valley Forge - Bloomfield Hills - $599,900

Spacious 5 bedroom, 3.2 bath home with first floor master suite. Large 1.2 acre professionally landscaped lot. In-ground pool. 3 car garage. Birmingham Schools.

Newer, quality construction in Birmingham. Move-in ready. 4 bedrooms, 4.1 baths. Hardwood floors throughout main level. Finished basement and flexible 3rd floor finished space.

1865 S. Bates - Birmingham - $499,900 or $3850/mo

Four bedroom, 2.1 bath cape cod in Foxcroft on a gorgeous .64 acre lot. Great curb appeal and nice updates throughout. Back family room addition. Three car garage.

Great location for this 3 bedroom 2 bath colonial close to Pierce Elementary. Remodeled kitchen with island. Two story front living room. Finished basement and 2 car garage.

2940 Masefield - Bloomfield Hills - $389,900

832 Davis - Birmingham - $375,000

Four bedroom, 2.2 bath tri-level on a half acre lot in Bloomfield Township. Spacious eat-in kitchen with island. 3 car side entrance garage.

Land opportunity - hard to find 60 foot wide lot on a great street of many new builds. Home currently exists on lot.

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275 S. Old Woodward Downtown Birmingham

over $36 million pending and closed yTd in 2019

765 Vaughan - Bloomfield Hills - $1,899,900

Incredible 2 acre estate property on gorgeous grounds just blocks from Cranbrook. Expansive floor plan with spacious rooms. 6 bedrooms, 6.2 baths. 3 car side entry garage.

3696 Walnut Brook - Rochester Hills - $799,900

Custom built sprawling ranch in prestigious Walnut Brook Estates. 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths. 3 car side entrance garage. Huge finished basement. Gated community.

1424 Yorkshire - Birmingham - $675,000

1222 Fairfax - Birmingham - $1,499,900

2000 custom built Quarton Lakes Estates colonial. Excellent floor plan with lavish updates throughout including beautiful white gourmet kitchen. 4 bedrooms, 4.2 baths .

10 Vaughan Crossing - Bloomfield Hills - $799,900

High quality built condo in a great area. First floor master with 2 additional ensuite bedrooms upstairs. Wonderful floor plan with spacious rooms and high ceilings.

5 Manorwood - Bloomfield Hills - $635,000

Spacious 5 bedroom, 3.1 colonial on an 80 foot wide lot. Updated kitchen opens to family room.

Finished basement. 4 car tandem garage. Short walk to downtown.

3 bedroom, 4.1 bath home in the city of Bloomfield Hills with gorgeous new custom kitchen that opens to spacious living room. New fully finished basement.

18150 Dunblaine - Beverly Hills - $464,900

590 Riverside/596 Riverstone - $399,900 - Birmingham

Charming brick colonial in desirable West Beverly. Updated kitchen with granite counters. 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths. Finished basement.

3632 Pheasant Run - Bloomfield Hills - $350,000

Beautiful wooded views from this light-filled ranch condo in Wabeek. Spacious living with high ceilings. Master with attached bath & outdoor access. 2 additional ensuite bedrooms.

2 vacant sites remaining in Riverside Place. Fantastic opportunity in an exclusive detached condo development steps from downtown. Design and build your dream home.

6689 Granger - Troy - $349,900

Centrally located within Bridge Park sub. Spacious 4 bedroom, 2.1 bath colonial. Replacement windows, newer driveway. Troy schools.

– the accurate information – to go out and we want the voters to decide what direction they want us to go in.

The key comment is the 'correct' information," alluding to misinformation being trafficked on social media.

Savoie then showed a graph circulating on social media that shows the township to have the highest per-resident expenditures in the state. He said the graph fails to take into account comparable local cities. It also includes pass-through types of expenditures, such as Bloomfield Village public safety payments, that skew the results. A subsequent chart that includes those items places the township on the same spending level as other Oakland County communities, such as Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills and Troy.

"That's the correct information we want to get out there and let the voters decide," Savoie said.

Forums are scheduled at the Bloomfield Township auditorium, including those on Thursday, June 27, at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, July 10, at 3 p.m.; and Wednesday, July 31, at 7 p.m.

Township August voter precincts consolidated Voting precincts will be consolidated into a total of 17 locations for the August 6, 2019 special election in Bloomfield Township.

Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli said the changes were approved by the election commission in order to increase efficiencies and lower costs. The changes will only be in place for the August 2019 election.

Roncelli said residents whose voting locations change will be notified by mail. Further, she said, former locations will have signage posted that will include the correct voting location.

Precinct changes are as follows: Precinct 1 and 24 will be at the Bloomfield Community Television Studio; precincts 2, 7 and 23 at Marian High School; precincts 3 and 10 at the Gary M. Doyle Center; precincts 4 and 18 at East Hills Middle School; precincts 5 and 22 at the Dave Payne Public Services

Building (DPW); precincts 6 and 14 at Eastover Elementary School; precinct 8 at Birmingham Covington School; precincts 9 and 28 at Brother Rice High School; precincts 11 and 16 at West Maple Elementary School; precincts 12 and 29 at the Bloomfield Hills Baptist Church; precinct 13 at Harlan Elementary School; precinct 15 and 30 at Conant Elementary School; precincts 17 and 27 at St. Paul Methodist Church; precinct 19 at George P. Way Elementary School; precincts 20 and 25 at Fox Hills Preschool; precincts 21 and 32 at Bowers Farm Activity Building; and precincts 26 and 31 at the International Academy.

New rules for smoke shops, tattoo places A proposed Bloomfield Township ordinance to place special use requirements on tobacco stores, smoke shops and body art and tattoo studios was recommended for approval on Monday, May 20, by the township's planning commission.

The commission voted unanimously to send the proposed ordinance to the township's board of trustees for consideration.

If approved, the ordinance amendment would require those places of business to be at least 750 feet from schools, places of worship, public parks, residential neighborhoods and other youth-orientated activities. The proposed amendment also would require a 1,000-foot setback between properties requiring special use approval in order to prevent an overabundance or concentration of the businesses in one area.

The township already regulates similar uses, including massage parlors, pawnshops, secondhand dealers, precious metal and gem dealers, as well as other types of shops and stores.

Bloomfield Township Deputy Director of Planning, Building and Ordinances Andrea Bibby said it had been recognized that such uses may have negative impacts on abutting properties, as well as the public's health, safety and welfare.

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62

DOWNTOWN

07.19

Board rejects charge, dismisses second one

By Lisa Brody

The Birmingham Board of Ethics met on Wednesday, June 12 to hear two complaints from Clinton Baller, a Birmingham resident, against city manager Joe Valentine and mayor Patty Bordman, over their involvement with the winning bid and proposals for the new N. Old Woodward Bates project, but the ethics board dismissed the complaint against Valentine as a similar case is pending in federal district court, and the board did not find Bordman had acted inappropriately, while at the same time calling out Baller for verbally attacking her at meetings and in social media as inappropriate actions.

Chairman James Robb noted that Baller had first filed two cases addressed against the city's ad hoc parking committee and the city commission, both of which were dismissed because ethics complaints cannot be filed against boards. Baller, who has consistently complained about the direction the city

downtownpublications.com

commission has taken with the Woodward Bates project, then refiled his complaints against Valentine and Bordman.

Birmingham city commissioners approved a resolution to put a parking structure bond proposal in the amount of $57.4 million before voters on the August 6 election at their meeting on Monday, May 6, in order to secure financing for demolition and rebuilding of a new parking structure to replace the N. Old Woodward structure and an extension of Bates Street, the first phase of the Woodward Bates project that will include development of other multi-use buildings.

The city issued a request for proposal (RFP) in November 2017, to redevelop the N. Old Woodward parking structure and create an extension for Bates Street. After a lengthy process, two finalists emerged, TIR Equities of Birmingham, represented by Ara Darakjian, and Woodward Bates Partners, to redevelop the N. Old Woodward parking structure with more parking, an extension of Bates Street, a liner of retail along the new street, a mixed

use building comprising residential and office space, and a park.

Woodward Bates Partners consists of Victor Saroki of Saroki Architecture in Birmingham; Paul Robertson of Robertson Brothers Homes in Bloomfield Hills; John Rakolta Jr., of Walbridge in Detroit, and Ron Boji of The Boji Group in Lansing.

The parcel of land, approximately four acres in the city’s central business district, consists of the current N. Old Woodward parking garage, a neighboring surface parking lot and adjacent parcels. The city’s objective had been to solicit creative and innovative development plans from qualified developers that will extend Bates Street from Willits to N. Old Woodward, connecting the north and south parts of Birmingham, to redevelop the remainder of the site by constructing a new parking structure that will provide a minimum of 380 parking spaces in addition to replacing the 745 parking spaces currently on the N. Old Woodward / Bates Street site, plus adding residential, commercial and/or mixed uses in order to create an activated, pedestrian-oriented urban streetscape

DOWNTOWN

while also providing public access to the Rouge River and Booth Park to the north.

The city commission chose Woodward Bates Partners in June 2018, and have proceeded with predevelopment agreements, development agreements, and approval of the bond resolution vote.

Darakjian filed suit, still pending, in federal court against the city of Birmingham, Valentine and commissioner Mark Nickita in March 2019, asserting that Saroki helped Birmingham develop its RFP, thus depriving Darakjian and TIR of their constitutional right to due process.

The lawsuit stated that the city’s selection of the Woodward Bates Partneers was the “culmination of an arbitrary, capricious, unfair, and unjust bidder selection process, tainted by, among other things, favoritism and conflicts of interest.”

The city of Birmingham denied the allegations and requested a jury trial, attorney costs and denial of damages to Darakjian.

The ethics complaint against Valentine asserted that by city manager “approving the issuance of

63

an RFP for the development of Bates Street that was written with substantial assistance from architect Victor Saroki and his firm, and then allowed a development group that includes Mr. Saroki and his firm to respond to the RFP...is in direct violation of … the Ethics Ordinance...'City officials and employees are bound to observe in their official acts the highest standards of ethical conduct.'”

Robb said he had looked at the complaint carefully, “but there is a federal lawsuit that is pretty much the same.” He noted that as the aggrieved party, TIR and/or Darakjian should have come to the ethics board for an opinion before filing its lawsuit, and that two weeks after it was filed, Baller filed his complaint. As it is still before U.S. District Court, Robb said, “I intend to vote to dismiss this case without prejudice – to allow Mr. Baller to bring this case back at a later date – until the court decision is through all of its appeals or there is a settlement.

I'm not convinced that it is the role of this body to determine jurisdiction for district court. I don't think it's good government for us to interfere.”

Fellow board members John Shrot Jr. and Sophie Fierro-Share agreed, as did Michael Sullivan, attorney for Valentine.

Baller, who argued he was representing the residents of Birmingham, disagreed.

“I'm asking the question of whether Saroki Architecture was ethical to bid on a proposal it was hired to draft,” he said. “I think time is of the essence. A decision bears on a project – a vote is scheduled for August 6. One way or the other, voters want to know. What would be the harm in making a decision?”

Robb said what concerned him was that he could not anticipate the impact of the ethics board's ruling.

“This was not raised until eight months after the contract was let. The ethics complaint came up during the lawsuit.”

“The suggestion that my complaint is in timing with the lawsuit or that I'm in cahoots with the developer,” Baller huffed back. “Another resident pointed it out to me.”

Fierro-Share asked if the federal court decision could affect the election. Robb answered that he didn't know, and if TIR wants to enjoin the election, they can, but the board shouldn't make any decision. The board concurred, voting 3-0 to dismiss without prejudice.

In Baller's complaint against Bordman, in reference to her and her 64

Information meet on Woodward Bates he city of Birmingham will hold an information meeting for city residents on the Woodward Bates project and the upcoming bond proposal vote on Tuesday, July 16, at 6:30 p.m. the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center (BBAC).

Birmingham residents are being asked to approve a bond proposal on August 6 in the amount of up to $57.4 million to secure financing for the replacement of the N. Old Woodward parking structure and an extension of Bates Street.

What is the Woodward Bates project, and is it good for Birmingham?

Those questions will be answered at the meeting at the BBAC, 1516 Cranbrook Road.

The parcel of land being discussed is approximately four acres in the city’s central business district, consisting of the current N. Old Woodward parking garage, an adjacent parking lot and adjacent parcels.

Over the last few years, the city solicited creative and innovative development plans from qualified developers to extend Bates Street from Willits to N. Old Woodward, connecting the north and south parts of Birmingham, to redevelop the remainder of the site by constructing a new parking structure that will provide a minimum of 400 parking spaces in addition to replacing the 750 parking spaces currently on the N. Old Woodward / Bates Street site, plus adding residential, commercial and/or mixed uses in order to create an activated, pedestrian-oriented urban streetscape while also providing public access to the Rouge River and Booth Park to the north.

The city commission chose Woodward Bates Partners LLC in June 2018, and have proceeded with predevelopment agreements, development agreements, and approval of the bond resolution vote.

T

fellow commissioners' votes in favor of a vote in August to approve a bond to finance the parking garage, he asserted that it was a violation of Birmingham's ethics ordinance that “city officials are bound to observe in their official acts the highest standards of ethical conduct,” and that by accepting the offer of a private developer to help defray the cost of a special election, “Mayor Bordman has created the appearance that the city has lost complete independence or impartiality.”

First, the ethics board clarified to Baller that in her role as mayor, once the commission votes in favor of anything, it is mandated that the city's mayor sign an agreement or contract on behalf of the city, so it was not an ethical violation for her to sign the commission-approved development agreement as Baller had alleged.

“By ordinance, I see even if you don't vote for something, you are required to sign an agreement,” Robb noted.

“It's the timing of when the (development) agreement was given to the city commission,” Baller countered. “Did they have time to read it? It's dense. Did they have time to consider everything?”

Sullivan, also representing Bordman, responded, “That seems to

be a procedural issue, not an ethics complaint.”

“I can't see any facts in dispute,” Robb agreed.

In her written response to the complaint, Bordman noted that as a commissioner, she is one vote of seven; as mayor, which is a largely ceremonial title, she has no authority to sign any contract on behalf of the city of Birmingham without the vote of the commission. Further, she noted, by Baller filing the ethics complaint against her and not other members of the commission, “I believe that Clinton Baller is furthering his threat to defeat my candidacy by claiming that I violated the ethics ordinance, and that he is also attempting to coerce me to vote against the project.”

“In the complaint, it states in part that there was an offer for the developers to defray the costs of a special election,” Shrot said.

“Do you know of any special offer like that?” Baller asked. “Perhaps the city suggested that, but I can't imagine that, so I assume the developer threw that in...I think by accepting this provision of the contract, it certainly raised my eyebrows. It certainly dropped my respect for mayor Bordman. If she undermined the respect of even a small amount of residents, there is a

DOWNTOWN

problem. They should avoid giving the appearance of impropriety. I think it did.

The private developer is in it for money – the public is potentially losing money.

It doesn't pass the smell test.”

“Could the city have made the developer pay for improvements on roads,” Robb asked.

“They could have insisted on a lot of things they didn't,” Baller said.

“I don't understand how it's an obstacle to the election,” Robb asked.

He asked how Bordman lost her impartiality by voting for the city to hold this election with the developer offsetting the cost. Baller went on a tangent how Bordman limited his – and others – comments at a commission meeting to two minutes, and he was angered to the point he was going to put it on YouTube, and only didn't because “I didn't like the angle, it wouldn't have made good YouTube.”

Shrot pointed out to Baller that he said the developer was in it for profit, and asked him if most residents assume that a successful developer is in business to make a profit. Baller answered “yes.” Shrot followed up by asking if the city's citizenry knew that the city was getting a break on expenses associated with a special election “is undermining the confidence of Birmingham as related to its government.” Baller said confidence would be undermined, but acknowledged that there was nothing wrong with the contract providing for the developers to pay for other items in the development project.

The board asked city attorney Tim Currier if he knew if private underwriting of election costs had happened before and if it was legal.

“I know it's happened before in other towns. I don't know if it's happened before in Birmingham,” Currier said.

“I don't believe there is any semblance of ethical violation,” Shrot said of Bordman. I don't think there is anything presented that showed any ethical violation or loss of impartiality, or any action on her part that showed loss on the part of the city, or that at any time she didn't act in highest ethical standards.

“I have a concern about the exchange between Baller and the mayor, and I hope they are resolved,” he noted.

“I agree. I think it's unfortunate at any time she should be made uncomfortable or unsafe,” Fierro-Share said of threats to future elections for Bordman that Baller acknowledged he made towards her.

Robb concurred, and the board voted 3-0 to dismiss Baller's complaint.

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Foundation formation questioned by council

By Kevin Elliott

Concern over efforts to help augment funding for Bloomfield Hills' public safety department through a private foundation were brought to the forefront at the Bloomfield Hills City Commission meeting on Tuesday, June 11, primarily for its lack of transparency and failure to inform city commissioners of its establishment.

That was part of the lesson for a Bloomfield Hills public safety officer who had worked for years to establish a non-profit foundation to benefit his department. After more than three years of work, the Friends of the Bloomfield Hills Foundation was recently revealed to commissioners – all whom were caught off guard by the formation of the foundation.

"We applaud your efforts. We support public safety 100 percent, but we have oversight responsibilities and all of us have concerns about the way this was brought up," said city commissioner Michael Coakley.

Stemming from an idea by public safety officer Christopher Furlong and supported by city resident KC Crain, the foundation was established to provide resources to the department, which includes both police and fire services.

The foundation's website says it's "the only organization authorized" to raise funds on behalf of the Bloomfield Hills Public Safety Department. Questions arose among commissioners as to who authorized the organization.

"We don't mean to be negative, but there are some serious issues... the website says you're the only organization authorized to accept funds on behalf of the department," Coakley

said. "Where did that authority come from? I didn't give it. The commission didn't give it. We have to have oversight of this. We have an excellent reputation, and reputation is the easiest thing to lose. Once you lose that, it's really hard to get back. We want to protect the reputation of the officers in the city."

Bloomfield Hills Public Safety Director Noel Clason said Furlong got the idea for the foundation after attending a grant writing course in 2016. It was there that the instructor told Furlong that the city wouldn't qualify for most public safety grants due to its positive financial status.

"He said the way that you do it is as a non-profit," Clason said.

Furlong said it was former public safety director and now city manager David Hendrickson who approached him to attend the grant writing school.

After learning that a non-profit foundation may be a better way to obtain funds for additional equipment or services, Furlong began investigating the process, enlisting the help of a volunteer attorney and others. The foundation received approval from federal tax regulators last year. A website was also created, which Furlong said is still in the process of being updated.

"But we just heard about it a week ago," commissioner Sarah McClure said.

"It's great that residents want to support the community and it's great for community relations, but there are other concerns and questions.

"First of all, these foundations tend to be in cash-strapped communities, like Flint, New York City in the 1970s and Los Angeles. In all the years of being on the commission, there have only been two items brought to us (from public safety) that have been turned down... I was taken aback because I was never

Bloomfield Hills water, sewer rates to increase ater and sewer customers in Bloomfield Hills will soon see an increase in their utility bills, as the city commission on Tuesday, June 11, approved an overall 4.4 percent average increase for the 2020 fiscal year, which begins on July 1.

Bloomfield Hills Finance Director Keith Francis said the average water customer will see a quarterly increase of about $19, or 4.5 percent, while the average sewer customer will see an increase of $11, or 4.2 percent. The combined increase will be about $30 per quarter, or 4.4 percent.

Francis said rates are based on analysis of rates charged by the Oakland County Water Resources Commission, which provides sewer services, and the Great Lakes Water Authority

W

under the impression that we weren't giving our officers the tools they need to do their jobs."

McClure said she was also concerned that such donations may give the impression that residents who donate to the foundation may receive special treatment from the department.

"We have to make sure it's transparent and ethical," she said.

"Some communities have gotten in trouble with these by using funds for club memberships or other things. I'm not saying that would happen here, but we try to be better than that. What is it that we aren't providing that hasn't been communicated to us?"

Clason said funds from a foundation can be used for purposes outside of equipment, which the city wouldn't necessarily have the ability to provide.

For instance, a non-profit organization such as the foundation could provide scholarships or support for families in need, such as widows and children of fallen officers if the need arose.

"We do have good equipment and we haven't come to you, but some is aging and becoming antiquated," Clason said.

"When Chris came to us, I said, 'let's do it.'

Clason said he believed having a foundation and board in place would allow for donations to be transparent, and ensure some distance between its operation and that of the department.

Furlong said that while residents have always had a way to donate to the department, the thought was that a non-profit vehicle would make the process easier. "Most community members are more comfortable with donating to an organization which has a spelled out mission, rather than going into the city's general fund," he said.

McClure also questioned whether officers are soliciting for donations in

and Southeastern Oakland County Water Authority (SOCWA), which provide water. The analysis is conducted by the city's planning and engineering consultant, Hubbell, Roth and Clark, Inc. (HRC).

According to the analysis, HRC looked at service provider costs and recommended a 2.1 percent increase in the commodity water rate.

While the city's portion of the commodity charge will remain the same, the increase is due to passthrough rates from the suppliers. The city has collected a fixed charge per water bill to pay for ongoing water system replacement and maintenance programs by the city and county's water resources commission.

Further, the city was informed by the county that several pressure reducing valve facilities will require additional maintenance over the next two years. Additionally, the city's primary internal pressure reducing valve at Woodward and Long

the community, which could also create conflicts.

"We don't do that," Hendrickson said.

"That's against our general order for the public safety department and we don't do that. Never. In the past, some people solicited for (the city) open house, and it wasn't appropriate. This stops all of that."

Bloomfield Hills City Attorney Derk Beckerleg said he did look into potential conflicts of interest in the foundation and confirmed it does have a conflict of interest policy in place in its founding documents, and he did not identify any conflicts. Still, commissioners said they were concerned about the appearance conflicts, particularly with an officer on the foundation's board, as it benefits that officer's own department.

"These are great points," Hendrickson said. "I believe everyone wants to see something positive. We should probably have a small subcommittee look at this."

The board elected to form a subcommittee consisting of McClure, mayor pro tem William Hosler, Hendrickson, Clason and Furlong to discuss potential issues and processes.

That subcommittee is expected to report back to the full commission in July.

Furlong and Crain, who was credited with helping to form the foundation, apologized to the commission for not providing information to members earlier. Memos in the board package note the foundation documents were signed in May 2018.

"I didn't understand when we started the process that we probably could have done a better job working with the city and communicating better," Furlong said. "It was just a group of citizens that want to help our officers. It wasn't supposed to be a contentious thing."

Lake needs to be replaced this fiscal year. Lastly, the last few phases of water main replacement will require additional funding in the next two years.

To address the needs, a $6-per-meter equivalent unit fixed charge increase was recommended to fund upcoming projects.

Sewer rates were also looked at in the analysis. Consultants found sewer rates to the city would increase 2.6 percent, with an overall net increase of 4.2 percent. The increase takes into account capital improvements in the system and a grant received by the city to prepare asset management plans for sanitary and storm sewer systems. The local match for that plan will need to be paid out of the sewer capital fund.

City officials said the increases are expected to be the last for the next couple of years, as capital projects are addressed and rates stabilize for the next three to five years.

Township sees slight increase in crime

By Kevin Elliott

Police reported a slight uptick in overall crime in Bloomfield Township in 2018 compared to the previous year, with non-violent offenses and minor complaints accounting for most increases, according to the department's annual report.

Part A crimes, which account for the most serious offenses, showed a significant decrease over the past three years, with overall complaints dropping from 953 in 2016 to 886 in 2017, and 704 in 2018. However, the drop is related to the way the department reported identity theft complaints in 2018, removing those complaints from overall fraud reports, leading fraud complaints to drop from 394 in 2017 to 220 in 2018.

Part A crimes handled by the department included the following crimes: Criminal sexual conduct I and III: three in 2016, two in 2017, and two in 2018; criminal sexual conduct II and IV: two in 2018, consistent with 2017, down from four in 2016; kidnapping: one in 2016, and zero in 2017 and 2018; robbery: one each in 2018 and 2017, and three in 2016; assaults: 62 in 2016, 59 in 2017, down to 54 in 2018; aggravated assaults: up to 12 in 2018, from eight in 2016 and 10 in 2017; intimidation/stalking: 45 in 2018, 48 in 2017, and 64 in 2016; burglary/home invasion: 33 in 2018, a steep drop from 67 in 2016 and 48 in 2017; larceny from a building: 35 in 2016, 42 in 2017, and 41 in 2018; larceny from auto: 94 in 2016, dropping to 62 in 2017, and 51 in 2018; motor vehicle theft: 18 thefts in 2016, up to 23 in 2017, and just eight in 2018; forgery/counterfeiting: 10 in 2016, six in 2017, and 11 in 2018; embezzlement: 15 incidents in 2016, 17 in 2017, 11 in 2018; retail fraud: 55 in 2016, jumping to 71 in 2017 and 73 in 2018; drug violations: 90 in 2016, /91 in 2017, and 124 in 2018; weapons violations: 18 in 2016, 10 in 2017, and 15 violations in 2018.

Part B Crimes increased slightly, from 304 total complaints in 2016 to 343 in 2017 and 358 in 2018.

Bloomfield Township Police Chief Scott McCanham said the overwhelming majority of complaints the department handles are Part C complaints, which downtownpublications.com

Trial scheduled in commissioner sign theft

By Kevin Elliott

A

jury trail has been scheduled for September in Oakland County's 44th District Court in Royal Oak in the criminal theft case involving a Bloomfield Hills City Commissioner accused of stealing campaign signs in 2018.

Bloomfield Hills City Commissioner Stuart Sherr was arrested about 10:15 p.m. on November 1, 2018 and charged with larceny, under $200.

Bloomfield Hills police said an officer saw Sherr stop in the parking lot of 74 W. Long Lake Road, get out and take two campaign signs out of the ground and put them in his trunk. The signs belonged to Anjali Prasad, a candidate for Bloomfield Hills School board, who had filed a complaint with police days earlier regarding the theft of several of her campaign signs at other locations.

Police said at the time that Sherr stepped around two other campaign signs belonging to Shelley Taub for county commissioner and Lena Epstein for Congress, both of whom he supported on his Facebook page.

Police said in an incident report that Sherr claimed he was conducting his duty to remove the signs, which he claimed were in violation of the city's sign ordinance, which requires campaign signs to be no closer than 10-feet of the roadway. While the two other signs were also in violation of the ordinance and in front of Prasad's signs, Sherr said in a court filing that due to weather – "it was raining terribly" – that he only removed the signs that were most egregiously in violation.

Farmington Hills attorney Lawrence Leib said in a motion filed on Sherr's behalf to dismiss the charge that Sherr didn't commit a crime because he had permission from the property owner to remove signs on the property that were in violation of the city's ordinance.

The court rejected that motion at a pretrial hearing on Tuesday, June 4.

Sherr, who is vice president of Sherr Development Company, a family real estate business, as well as an attorney and CPA, said he had authority from property owners Arkan Jonna and Arie Leibovitz to remove signs in violation of the ordinance and which might cause a hazard to motorists. Those letters were included as evidence the court files. Prasad also had written permission from property owners to place the signs, predating the letters to Scherr.

The case was set on June 4 for jury trial on September 23 at 8:30 a.m. before 44th District Court Judge James Wittenberg. The case was initially filed in 48th District Court in Bloomfield Township but was transferred to the 44th District Court after judges at the 48th recused themselves. The 48th District Court receives partial funding from the city of Bloomfield Hills.

include minor offenses and request for service.

"The vast majority of our calls for service is Part C complaints, which is what we are all about in terms of customer service and citizens' assist," he said.

Overall, the department took 30,287 Part C complaints in 2018, which include complaints about alarms (3,326); animal complaints (671); personal injury crashes (362); property damage crashes (1,928); other complaints (1,195); warrant arrests (284); driving while suspended (519); medical emergencies (1,288) and all other Part C complaints (20,714).

The department's increase in Part C crimes is mainly due to including traffic stops, verbal warnings, house

checks and school checks into the "all other complaints" category, which weren't included in previous years.

Also new to this year's annual report was the inclusion of use of force incidents.

The department documented seven use-of-force incidents in 2018, including two Taser deployments; three soft-hand controls; one incident of tackling a felon; and one incident where officers used a vehicle intervention to stop a driver who had driven three miles in the wrong direction on Telegraph Road.

"These are medium level uses of force," McCanham said. "Save for nearly 32,000 calls for service, that's .021 uses of force, or about one for every 4,600 calls."

DOWNTOWN

2019-2020 budget approved for city

By Lisa Brody

Birmingham city commissioners on Monday, May 20, unanimously approved the 2019-2020 annual budget of $86.2 million, representing a decrease of $2 million, or two percent, from fiscal year 2018-2019, which was $88.2 million.

The city's fiscal year begins July 1 and runs through June 30 each year.

Commissioners had reviewed the budget at a workshop on Saturday, May 11, during which department heads presented recommendations to address current and future community needs while balancing service demands and long-term capital requirements.

Over the past three fiscal years, the city's taxable value has grown by 5.5 percent in 2016-2017; 5.2 percent in 20172018; and 6.3 percent in 2018-2019. The budget for 2019-2020 includes a 5.8 percent increase in taxable value with a projected 3.9 increase in 2020-2021, as “the future of the state and southeast Michigan economy looks uncertain as the U.S. auto makers announced plans earlier this year to limit or cease production of internal combustion cars and concentrate on electric vehicles, SUV’s and trucks,” the budget document stated.

Key anticipated expenditures are $14.4 million for public safety; $8.3 million for engineering and public services; $8.3 million for highways and streets; and $6 million for general government costs. The city is looking at street reconstruction projects, including the Maple Road reconstruction project beginning spring 2020.

Key anticipated revenues are $36 million in taxes; $26.5 million in charges for services; $6.7 million for contributions and transfers in; and $5.2 million for intergovernmental revenue.

The millage was approved at 14.3584 mills, inclusive of city of Birmingham property taxes, Birmingham Public School taxes, state education taxes and Oakland County program taxes.

Pension legacy contributions are projected to increase by $332,030, or 17 percent, for fiscal year 2019-2020 and $238,530, or 10 percent, for fiscal year 2020-2021. Retiree health care contributions are projected to remain approximately the same for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 at $2.9 million, and the city is contributing approximately $1 million more per year than the actuarially calculated contribution based on the valuation that was performed at June 30, 2018.

Commissioners approved the budget, 6-0, with commissioner Andy Harris absent.

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MUNICIPAL City master plan ideas presented by Duany

By Lisa Brody

Urban planning expert Andres Duany presented preliminary concepts for the citywide master plan on Monday, May 20, to the Birmingham Planning Board, and on Tuesday, May 21, at a closing presentation to the charrettes, as part of work being done by DPZ Partners, LLC, on a new master plan for Birmingham, primarily focused on the city's neighborhoods and their integration within the city.

In December 2018, the city commission chose DPZ Partners, LLC, to provide professional services to prepare an update to the city's comprehensive master plan. The group led by DPZ was recommended to the commission by the ad hoc master plan selection committee after interviewing and hearing formal presentations from DPZ, of Miami, formerly known as Duany PlaterZybeck, and MKSK of Columbus.

DPZ, known then as Duany PlaterZybeck, helmed by master urban planner and designer Andres Duany, created the city's 2016 Plan in 1996, focused on the city's core downtown.

This citywide master plan will focus on the neighborhoods, residents, and how they work with one another, parks, downtown, transportation and other issues. This is the first citywide master plan since 1980.

Duany began his presentation by commenting that Birmingham “has an amazingly balanced demographic between older and younger residents, which is very unusual. We think you need to support that. For example, if you don't support affordable housing, it will skew older, and that will affect schools, as there will be no students for schools.”

He noted that while it wasn't an issue to residents, he and his team believe the city should become more environmentally sustainable.

Another thing he said was lucky – “As we study plans of past and get to know the area, many towns located on Woodward had wealth, but Birmingham is the clear winner. This is the most desirable place. That's really consequential.”

He also praised predecessors of the planning board and city commission “who made some very good decisions, noting that in the 1920s, they condemned houses in the downtown in order to build City Hall and Baldwin Library. That created presence, a beautiful sense of place.” downtownpublications.com

Township approves Jewish Chai Center he Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees on Wednesday, June 12, unanimously approved special land use and a site plan for the relocation of the Birmingham Bloomfield Chai Center to 36300 Woodward Avenue.

The approval follows a zoning ordinance amendment in January that allowed for places of worship to be permitted in O-1 office district zoning.

The center will be located in a former PNC Bank branch, and brings an end to a three-year effort on behalf of the center to locate at the building.

Bloomfield Township Planning Director Patti Voelker said plans to occupy the 2,992 square-foot building began in April of 2016, when an attorney representing the Borsand Family Foundation, Jewish Values Institute and Paragon Properties requested using the building as a learning center. At the time, the proposal was contrary to the office district zoning. However, changes made that year to the proposed floor plan and use as an office space only for the Jewish Learning Center were determined to be in line with the spirit of the previous ordinance.

The township in January of 2019 updated the zoning of the 0-1 office zoning requirements to allow for places of worship, as the district serves as a transition between commercial districts, major thoroughfares having right-of-way of 150 feet or greater, and adjacent to single-family residential districts. That change then led to the Borsand Family Foundation pursuing the relocation of the Chai Center to the location.

The Birmingham Bloomfield Chai Center is a small Orthodox shul that holds services on Shabbat (Saturday) and Jewish holidays. The center was established in 1985 and is led by Rabbi Tzvi Muller. The center currently holds services on Friday evenings and Saturdays at the Birmingham Masonic Lodge.

Under the plans, the center is permitted to have seating for 56 congregation members for educational and worship purposes, as well as 10 additional seats in five offices.

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In the 1960s, the commission said the five parking garages would be built. “Those parking garages made all this happen,” Duany noted. “So this could become a sophisticated mixed-use downtown. Otherwise it would be a one-story downtown.”

Moving forward, “We'll make recommendations of the things that are more important, and some things that are less,” he said of the concepts and ideas gleaned from a series of public charrettes.

He praised the redevelopment plans for Woodward and Bates Street.

“That plan is great,” he said.

On the other end, he likes the Rail District, but noted that one property near the existing Troy railroad transportation building is blocking its completion. “It needs to be bought.

Rail is the future of transportation,” Duany said. “The property is not particularly valuable, but you need to bite the bullet and buy it.”

He further said the city must build a parking garage in the Triangle District behind Walgreen's in order for developers to come into the district.

“Development will come there. You

have to build it (the garage) to incentivize the first builders.”

Duany was enamored with what he called the “lower Rail District,” – “the inexpensive commerce, incubating businesses. It's cool.

Businesses that can't afford anything here (downtown). It's very inexpensive retail and it's cool – which means gritty to the kids. It's exactly like the Wynwood District in Miami. That's where it's at now.

Similar to Detroit.”

In the city's downtown, where affordability and parking are key issues, Duany said the city requires that people who want to build housing have to provide their own parking, which is very expensive.

“Our recommendation is that parking structures that are largely empty during off hours can be assigned to residential,” he said.

Matt Lambert of DPZ noted that peak time at the garages is usually noon to 2 p.m., with increases beginning around 10 a.m. “Nighttime, there is about 3,200 unused capacity; weekends, about 2,600 unused capacity,” he said. “We found that

DOWNTOWN

only about 30 percent of monthly users park for six hours or more.”

“This is mixed use parking,” Duany explained.

Duany and Lambert said there is a great need for more affordable housing. “Residential cannot be big, and it must be affordable,” Duany said. “It will always appraise low, and therefore stay low, because they don't have parking.”

He noted it was “a painless win.

Try it, and if it becomes difficult, adjust it.”

The neighborhoods are more difficult, Lambert and Duany said, largely because there are disparities between boundaries, and some neighborhoods have associations and some do not, with some residents coalescing around historical issues, parks and schools. They counted 27 neighborhoods, and said 16 are appropriate.

“We are proposing a new city hall position that convenes with these neighborhoods regularly and sees what their issues are,” Duany said.

“We're looking to preserve the diversity of age and income,” he said.

After reviewing the city's codes, they said that it needs a thorough cleaning up.

“It's a mess,” Duany said, noting they would help prioritize it. “We want to not just organize it but simplify.”

Lambert showed an example, where there are 300 different rules for neighborhood parking. “It's difficult for police to administer.”

Other preliminary recommendations are to leave all building height zoning in districts as they are; to recommend not permitting more than two lots to be combined, and to match the neighborhood's setbacks.

As for the draft of the plan, they anticipate presenting it to the city commission at the end of the summer, in order to provide time for two to three months of feedback, including public comments.

Another series of public surveys from the team will be administered in both June and October to gauge reactions.

“We're trying to make this as politically viable as possible,” Duany said of the recommendations in the plan.

“This is very exciting. We're excited to see the final report,” said planning panel chairperson Scott Clein.

73

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Revised dinner hours, license change set

By Lisa Brody

Birmingham's Toast restaurant was approved for an amended special land use amendment relative to a change to its dinner hours and liquor license ownership at the Birmingham City Commission meeting on Monday, June 3.

In late February, during a commission meeting where all of the city's liquor licenses received their annual reviews, it came to light that there were numerous outstanding violations against Toast, located at 203 Pierce Street, from minor, such as too many seats, to an ownership change in 2017 due to a divorce between the principals, Thom and Regan Bloom, and that the restaurant was no longer serving dinner, which was a condition of the original bistro license special land use permit.

At the meeting on June 3, city manager Joe Valentine wrote in a memo that the police department had received a request for a transfer of membership interest from the original owners, pursuant to the divorce settlement, where Thom Bloom assigned his 50 percent interest in Toast Birmingham to Regan Bloom.

“Following this transfer, Regan Bloom took on additional investors and ultimately created Toast Holdings, LLC, to which the license was ultimately transferred,” Valentine wrote.

Toast Holdings, LLC, consists of Omar Ammori, Saber Ammori and Kevin Denha.

Planning director Jana Ecker said, “There's a condition in their SLUP that requires them to be open seven days a week for dinner. There was a complaint in November/ December that they were closed for dinner. The city commission let it be known they did not want it closed every night for dinner.”

Toast had begun closing daily at 3 p.m.

Ecker said that when Toast originally opened, they had only wanted to be open for breakfast and lunch, but because the city wanted to activate the streets at night, it was a condition of their bistro license.

Their new proposed hours are 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sundays; 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Mondays and Tuesdays; 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; and 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturdays. The new dinner menu features mussels, foie gras, crab cake, a wild mushroom and goat cheese downtownpublications.com

Cameron's closes with no advance notice hile there had been rumors for months, Birmingham restaurant Cameron's Steakhouse, 117 Willits Street, closed after dinner service Sunday, June 16, with no advance notice for long-time customers and diners.

Cameron's originally opened in the Willits Building shortly after it opened in 2001 along with companion restaurant Mitchell's Fish Market.

At the time, both restaurants were owned and operated by Columbus restaurateur Cameron Mitchell, who sold the restaurants to Ruth's Chris Steak House for $92 million in 2008, which then sold the 21-restaurant group to Landry's for $10 million in 2014.

Mitchell's, located at 115 Willits in Birmingham, was closed by Landry's on January 1, 2018 – also with no prior notice.

The combined site locations are being marketed for lease by Erica Dunlap, Angela Thomas and Nicole Voisard of Signature Associates.

Voisard said the Mitchell's space is 7,812 square feet, and the Cameron's location is 6,891 square feet. The liquor license is available with the space, she said, and they would prefer to have one user for both spaces.

The landlord is asking $32 a square foot, triple net. While there is some interest in the two spaces, nothing is confirmed.

Landry's did not respond for comment.

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roulade, steak frites, chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and whitefish tosca.

“I am very pleased to see some willingness to change the hours,” mayor Patty Bordman said.

“I am also very pleased,” commissioner Stuart Sherman said. “I have no problem about being closed some days. I am concerned about closing at 8 or 9 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Would you consider staying upon til 10 those nights?

“No, respectfully, they would not,” responded attorney Kelly Allen.

“That's a big space to leave empty.

That's not what we're looking for.

Perhaps if you change it to 'at least 8 p.m.; at least 9 p.m.' It gives you some flexibility at dinner business hours,” Sherman said.

“I'm surprised. Usually, the bistros ask for the hours to be extended,” mayor pro tem Pierre Boutros noted.

“I also cannot understand why you are limiting yourself.”

“It's branding. They're coming to me two or three times a week for breakfast; they think of someplace else for dinner,” Regan Bloom said.

“I've struggled for 10 years. I'll struggle again with these hours.”

“Would you ever consider staying in business without a liquor license,” asked commissioner Rackeline Hoff.

“No,” Bloom responded.

Commissioners voted 5-0 to approve the ownership change and adjusted hours, with Andy Harris absent and Mark Nickita recusing himself for potential conflict of interest.

Hunter House site hotel plan approved The Maple, a five-story hotel building proposed for three parcels at Maple, Woodward and Hamilton roads, which would front onto Park Street in Birmingham, received unanimous approval from the city's planning board at their meeting on Wednesday, May 22, although conditions and concerns remain from board members as the owner and architect move forward to final site plan.

After previously postponing presenting preliminary site plan for a new hotel for 35001 Woodward Avenue in both January and February because of too many problems with the plan, including traffic and parking issues, planning director Jana Ecker presented a revised preliminary site plan that she said had more details and resolved many – although not all – of the concerns of board members.

The proposed building, called The Maple, is to be developed by Hesham Gayar of Grand Blanc. It will have first floor retail and commercial uses, relocate a Hunter House restaurant, have banquet facilities, three floors of hotel rooms, and residential units on the fifth floor.

Planning director Jana Ecker said the site is made up of three parcels: the city, she said, owns the northwest corner, while Gayar owns the other two parcels, one where the Hunter House sits and a gravel parking lot.

The revised plan features a first

DOWNTOWN

floor with retail spaces off of Hamilton, two banquet facilities, one on the first floor that can accommodate 80 guests, another considered a meeting room, on the mezzanine level, for 40 people. There will be three floors of hotel guest rooms, with the fifth floor residential long-stay rooms. The plan showed 17 units, each at 600 square feet with kitchens, meeting the city's requirement. Also per zoning ordinance, the fifth floor must be stepped back in, which Ecker said it now is.

She said there is also a rooftop design which includes mechanicals as well as a rooftop bar.

Board members questioned who the bar would be for, and architect Kevin Biddison said for hotel guests.

“It's the kind of thing we would do for our guests,” he said.

However, Ecker explained that is not a permitted use in the city's overlay district. “You cannot have a commercial operation above residential,” she said.

To alleviate issues with parking, of which there are two levels underground with 80 spaces, and queues of valet, Biddison designed a drop off and holding area inside the first floor.

“We feel very comfortable we're getting it very close to making it work for day and night,” he said. “As for a building, I think we've brought everything into compliance and made adjustments.”

While some board members mostly liked what they saw, chairperson Scott Clein disagreed. “My only real concern – Park Street. You just have this corral of seven cars at the expense of pedestrians. I just can't get past it,” he said. “This plan is asking for the city to give up a considerable amount of pedestrian space for parking. We don't do that for anyone else. I'm not comfortable.

“From a final (site plan) perspective, I'm not comfortable with this layout,” he continued. “I need to know that you and the city's engineering department are doing what's right and not just what fits. I don't see a streetscape – it's how are we going to move these cars around, not what's best for Park Street.”

Clein still voted, along with the rest of the board, to approve the preliminary site plan, allowing the owner and architect to proceed forward on the plan towards final site plan approval.

75

Commission, planners look toward the future At their annual joint workshop, Birmingham City Commissioners and members of the planning board met on Monday, June 17, to discuss and review current issues before them and to review prioritizing the planning board's action list for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1.

Among the items reviewed at the workshop session, where no formal decisions were made, were whether the planning board should review solar panel regulations; enclosure requests for balconies, patios and terraces; criteria for administrative approvals versus coming before the planning board; and the city's master plan charrette and draft of key proposals.

Birmingham Planning Director Jana Ecker explained that in the last six months there have been approximately eight requests for solar panels, and their aesthetic impact is not as great as it once was, with newer solar panels blending into roof shingles. She noted that currently, those interested in solar panels have been paying the city's design review fee if they're put in the front of the house, but just a $100 administrative fee if they're placed in the rear of the home.

“During the master plan discussion, people were interested in (the concept) of 'use, reuse, sustainability,'” commissioner Stuart Sherman said. “I don't see what the harm would be to review it.”

Planning board member Stuart Jeffares concured, noting it has

become a hot topic, and mayor Patty Bordman said there was consensus to have the planning board look at the requirements again.

Ecker said concerns have arisen regarding enclosing balconies, terraces and patios “because some encroach into the right of way, some are into privately-owned properties.

We have had numerous occasions of people coming in and adding roof structures and walls,” to terraces and balconies.

Commissioner Mark Nickita cautioned that permitting them as physical expansion of structures is a “slippery slope. I'm immediately thinking of Eisenglass, where they're essentially adding square footage, and it's getting away from balconies.”

Others questioned the effect on setbacks, easements, streetscapes and it was determined it was a topic to have a formal review.

Members of both boards felt that staff understood when to approve items administratively, and when to bring an item to the planning board.

As for the master plan and the charrette process, while it was praised, Bordman noted, “I want to remind everyone that we have not received a draft of the master plan.

There is still a survey and they could change their key proposals.”

Ecker said that while a number of items have been checked off the planning board's action list since last year, a number of items are on hold until the master plan process is complete.

“It's almost like an interim list we have,” Sherman said.

Kostiuk named interim BHS superintendent

By Lisa Brody

he Bloomfield Hills Schools' Board of Education on Thursday, May 23, appointed Christina (Tina) Kostiuk interim superintendent of the district, beginning July 1, following the resignation of superintendent Dr. Rob Glass in late April, and began a national search for his replacement.

“The board of education has complete confidence in Mrs. Kostiuk’s capable leadership of the district during this transition period,” said Paul Kolin, president of the board of education.

Kostiuk joined Bloomfield Hills Schools in 2011 as the assistant superintendent for business services, in which she provides direction and administration over financial operations for the district. Kostiuk oversees the district's budgets and fund, which total over $100 million. She also

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Memory care facility planned for township

By Kevin Elliott

A proliferation of assisted living, memory care facilities across Oakland County hasn't slowed the demand for such resources, as Bloomfield Township considers the construction of a 36,000square foot, 60-bed memory care facility in the 2100 block of Opdyke Road.

Dubbed "In the Present," by Dr. Sase Persaud, the proposed site plan would cater exclusively to residents diagnosed with Alzheimer's or early stages of dementia, and would include amenities such as an interior courtyard with gardens and other conveniences at the former Montessori school property at 2101 Opdyke Road.

The site plan, which requires special accommodation use approval, went before the Bloomfield Township Planning Commission on Monday, May 20, which unanimously recommended sending the plans to the township board for approval.

If approved, the plans include a single-story, 36,033 square-foot building with a maximum of 58 units, including two two-bedroom units, for a total of 60 proposed beds. The average studio unit would be about 375 square feet, with one-bedroom units at 405 square feet, and deluxe and two-bedroom units at 528 square feet.

The facility also includes dining areas, resident services, building maintenance facilities and 21,450 square feet of interior courtyard for exclusive use by the residents. The overall height of the building would be 22 feet.

The proposed site plan raised some

serves as treasurer of the Bloomfield Hills Schools Foundation. In 2014, Kostiuk was awarded the Oakland County School Business Administrator of the Year, and served as president of the organization during the 2015-2016 school year.

On Tuesday, April 23, Glass announced that he will be relocating to New York in July, after his wife accepted the job of her dreams at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and he had been offered, and accepted, a position as superintendent at a school district in Westchester County, New York, the Eastchester Union Free School District, outside New York City.

“I consider myself the bridge in this transition,” said Kostiuk. “I hope to help Dr. Glass make an easy transition to New York, as he has done a great deal for our district and served us extraordinarily well. We will miss him and his exemplary leadership. We have an exceptional district that I will have the enjoyment of serving until the board of education has found a new

concern from neighbors adjacent to the site, many of whom told commissioners they wanted appropriate landscaping and vegetation to shield their homes from the facility.

The plans calls for evergreen screening around transformers and air conditioning units, as well as the addition of 59 trees, including extensive landscaping and a 20-foot greenbelt along the northern property line.

The plan includes a market study of similar facilities in the areas which showed a strong demand for such services.

"The market for senior residential care facilities in Bloomfield Hills preliminary market area and surrounding areas is strong, with retirement living types surveyed achieving high occupancy rates, even while the product has doubled over the past four to five years," a market analysis from Nancy Patzer Consulting stated. "Since 2013, nearly 400 new assisted living and memory care beds have entered this market. Even given this, the overall occupancy rate for assisted living beds in the Bloomfield Hills Site PMA is over 92 percent."

The study said the recommended base fee of $5,500 for the proposed memory care units is comparable to surrounding facilities that were surveyed, including First & Main, Windemere Park of Oakland, Cedarbrook of Bloomfield Hills, Oakmont Rochester, Sunrise Assisted Living of Troy and Arden Courts of Bingham Farms.

The proposed site plan was unanimously recommended for approval to the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees.

superintendent – which, hopefully, is within the expedited timeline they’ve set. It will be my honor to help facilitate that work until the board of education finds the right fit for our community.”

“Tina will do a beautiful job in supporting the district and continuing to move forward,” Glass said. “She has been a tremendous colleague – it’s been my absolute pleasure to work alongside her.”

Kostiuk will serve as interim superintendent until the board of education hires a new superintendent and the individual has started work.

On Thursday, June 6, the board of education chose Ray and Associates, which specializes in nationwide educational executive searches, to begin a national search for a new district superintendent. Board President Paul Kolin said preliminary work will be done over the summer, with stakeholder and resident meetings this fall.

“We're hoping to have someone in place by the end of the school year, if not sooner,” Kolin said.

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FACES Paul Vachon aised in Bloomfield Hills and educated in Birmingham schools, Paul Vachon is the embodiment of a longtime metro Detroit resident whose interests and heart belong to the city and its outer suburbs, as reflected in his latest book: "Detroit: An Illustrated Timeline."

The book traces the 300-year timeline of Detroit's history, from a French trading post to its fall to the British during the War of 1812 and beyond, as well as some of the lesser known people and happenings that formed Detroit and its suburban areas.

"There's a lot of material covering a wide swath of history," said Vachon, who has written two previous books, "Forgotten Detroitâ&#x20AC;? and "Lost Restaurants of Detroit," for Arcadia Press. "Any city when it gets large enough gets quite complex and the history of that forms its records. If that's not written down, it gets lost."

Vachon's writing has also appeared in Crain's Detroit Business, HOUR Detroit, the History Channel Magazine and other publications. He has written two guidebooks about Michigan and its Upper Peninsula as well as two other books, one on south Oakland County and another on legendary locals of Detroit.

A graduate of Sacred Heart Seminary College in Detroit, Vachon worked in retail for two decades before jumping careers as an author. When the recession hit in 2008, Vachon decided to gravitate toward his interest in writing and local history. He pitched his first book, "Forgotten Detroit" to Arcadia which leapt at the book, leading to other book deals.

"I was fortunate that the publisher is open to dealing with firsttime authors. They have a link to an application online where they ask for an idea and so forth. My idea was to write a book of themes of Detroit history that were lesser known," he said. "They called back and said they didn't want to do it. They thought it was too academic. I pitched it again, revising it... that's been one of the most successful books they have ever done. After that, we had a good rapport."

While authors typically find landing a deal one of their biggest challenges, Arcadia approached Vachon on his latest endeavor, pitching the illustrated timeline project, similar to ones it had published in other major cities.

"It was an enormous amount of work. Much more than I had anticipated," Vachon said. "Promoting it has been even more work.

It's a very substantial book."

"Detroit: An Illustrated Timeline," is a compilation of texts ranging from 100 to 300 words assembled in chronological order and broken into chapters, each telling the story of a particular event in Detroit's past, and each leading to subsequent events.

"For example, the very poor race relations that festered throughout Detroit in the 19th century carried into the 20th century," he said. "During the Civil War, in 1863, there was an incident in an area that was known as the Black Bottom area. So it was the bitterness from that experience that created racial animosities that grew over time," he said. "That's a major theme that I emphasize in the book."

While the latest work focuses mainly on the city itself, Vachon's other works illustrate the connections that helped form the entire area. It's that connection that guides his approach to writing and the end result.

"It really takes a local," he said. "There are exceptions, but you have to write what you know."

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Story: Kevin Elliott

Photo: Laurie Tennent

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FACES Mallory Brown allory Brown understands the power of storytelling to connect and change someone's life. Twenty-six women around the world, who have never met, will soon be bound together through her Walk A Mile campaign, where she tells their unique video story and gives away necklaces to link them to one another.

“That’s a really powerful moment for me because...it’s my thank you to these women for letting me tell their story,” said Brown, who lives in Birmingham.

“It means a lot to them to have something so they’re connected to the other women around the world…Most of them have never left their village, let alone gone to a different country. But, to them, that is sort of their little link.”

First launched last November on Giving Tuesday – which couldn’t have been more appropriate – Walk A Mile is a 26-part series for global women's empowerment. During her visits, Brown partners with local non-profits around the world often found through recommendations. After selecting the non-profit, and much discussion, they pick a woman – a sort of success story – for Brown to highlight.

With each video, all being funded by donors, 100 percent of the proceeds raised go directly to that non-profit through the crowdfunding platform Crowdrise.

Brown has raised almost $50,000 right now, with her ultimate goal of $1 million after all the videos have been uploaded.

Videos are being uploaded every few months and so far, Brown has uploaded three, walking a mile with women in Tanzania, Detroit, and Guatemala, where she partnered with the Adventure Project, the Empowerment Plan, and Konojel.

Brown said she had completed 11 projects from a filming perspective, and India and Serbia were part of two upcoming videos.

“The series in general aims to zigzag around the globe and show what people are going through everywhere,” Brown said.

Brown thinks the project will take her about five years in total, and is based on the quote, “Don’t judge someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.”

“To me, that’s the epitome of empathy,” Brown said. “So, I took that quote and thought, 'I’ll walk a marathon and do it 26 times and see what I can discover.'”

Brown – who runs the website TravelMal – isn’t new to this type of fundraising. She’s been working with it for almost a decade. In fact, it’s what got the idea for Walk A Mile going in the first place.

A few years ago for the social entrepreneur and humanitarian’s 30th birthday, Brown decided to mount a fundraiser focused on women in Ethiopia, where she wanted to empower 30 women to start their own businesses. It ended up being the most successful fundraiser she had run at the time.

“It was so emotional for me. I just really identified with the women on the ground and it felt like something that I really cared about,” she said. “I basically thought, how can I do this over and over again? And multiply it out to a region of women in more situations.”

Brown also works as a public speaker, where she focuses on empathy, and is in the midst of writing her first book. These 26 videos are just the start for Walk A Mile. She hopes to branch out the campaign so people can walk with others around the world.

“For me, it’s a platform I’m willing to have be what I stand for the rest of my career,” Brown said.

Looks like she might be buying a lot more necklaces.

M

Story: Dana Casadei

Photo: Laurie Tennent

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220: American. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 220 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.646.2220.

5th Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2262 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9607.

Adachi: Asian. Lunch & Dinner daily. Liquor.

Reservations. 325 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009. 248.540.5900.

Andiamo: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301.

248.865.9300.

Bangkok Thai Bistro: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 42805 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Township, 48304. 248.499.6867.

Beau's: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. Liquor. 4108 W. Maple, Bloomfield Hills, 48301.

248.626.2630.

Bella Piatti: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor.

167 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.494.7110.

Beverly Hills Grill: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Liquor. No reservations. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills, 48025. 248.642.2355.

Beyond Juice: Contemporary. Breakfast & Lunch daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

No reservations. 270 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.594.7078.

Big Rock Chophouse: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 245 South Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774.

Bill's: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Daily. Reservations, lunch only.

Liquor. 39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.646.9000.

Birmingham Sushi Cafe: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.8880.

Bistro Joe’s Kitchen: Global. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Sunday brunch. Liquor.

Reservations. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.0984.

Bloomfield Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 71 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.645.6879.

Brooklyn Pizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.6690.

Café ML: New American. Dinner, daily.

Liquor. Call ahead. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township. 248.642.4000.

China Village: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 1655 Opdyke, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.758.1221.

Churchill's Bistro & Cigar Bar: Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

116 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.4555.

Cityscape Deli: Deli. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Beer.

877 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield

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Hills, 48302. 248.540.7220.

Commonwealth: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.9766.

Dick O’Dow’s: Irish. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 160 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.642.1135.

Eddie Merlot's: Steak & seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 37000 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.712.4095.

Einstein Bros. Bagels: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 4089 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.258.9939.

Elie’s Mediterranean Cuisine: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations.

Liquor. 263 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.2420.

Embers Deli & Restaurant: Deli.

Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 3598 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.645.1033.

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: American. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 323 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.723.0134.

Forest: European. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham 48009.

248.258.9400.

Greek Island Coney Restaurant: Greek.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 221 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.1222.

Griffin Claw Brewing Company: American.

Dinner, Tuesday-Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday and Sunday. No Reservations.

Liquor. 575 S. Eton Street, Birmingham.

248.712.4050.

Honey Tree Grille: Greek/American.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, daily. No reservations. 3633 W. Maple Rd, Bloomfield, MI 48301. 248.203.9111.

Hunter House Hamburgers: American.

Breakfast, Monday-Saturday; Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.7121.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse: American.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 201 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.594.4369.

IHOP: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2187 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301. 248.333.7522.

Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner daily; Sunday brunch.

Reservations. Liquor. 39475 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.792.9609.

Kaku Sushi and Poke': Asian. Lunch & Dinner. Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. No Liquor. 869 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.480.4785, and 126 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.885.8631.

Kerby’s Koney Island: American.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2160 N. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.333.1166.

La Marsa: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner daily. Reservations. 43259 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 48302.

248.858.5800.

La Strada Dolci e Caffe: Italian.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, TuesdaySunday. Reservations. Liquor. 243 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.480.0492.

Season tickets will go on sale in July, 2019

The Places To Eat for Downtown is a quick reference source to establishments offering a place for dining, either breakfast, lunch or dinner. The listings include nearly all dining establishments with seating in the Birmingham/Bloomfield area, and then some select restaurants outside the immediate area served by Downtown.

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DOWNTOWN

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Leo’s Coney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

154 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.9707.

Also 6527 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.646.8568.

Little Daddy’s Parthenon: American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 39500 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.647.3400.

Luxe Bar & Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily; Late Night, 9 p.m.-closing.

No reservations. Liquor. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.6051.

Mad Hatter Cafe: Tea Room. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. No reservations. Liquor.

185 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.540.0000 Mandaloun Bistro: Lebanese. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, Daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 30100 Telegraph Rd., Suite 130, Bingham Farms, 48025. 248.723.7960.

Market North End: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 474 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.712.4953.

MEX Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar: Mexican. Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily. Liquor. 6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301.

248.723.0800.

Nippon Sushi Bar: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2079 S. Telegraph, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9581.

Olga’s Kitchen: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2075 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.451.0500.

Original Pancake House: American.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 33703 South Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.642.5775.

Panera Bread: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 100 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.7966.

Also 2125 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.253.9877.

Phoenicia: Middle Eastern. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 588 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.3122.

Pita Cafe: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 239 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.6999.

Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.988.8941. Also 42967 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48304.

248.874.1876 Red Olive: Middle Eastern/American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 42757 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48302.

248.481.7767.

Roadside B & G: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

1727 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7270.

Rojo Mexican Bistro: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 250 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.6200.

Salvatore Scallopini: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.8977.

Sidecar Slider Bar: Burgers. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

downtownpublications.com

280 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham 48009. 248.220.4167.

Social Kitchen & Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations, parties of 5 or more. Liquor. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4200.

Stacked Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Delivery available. No reservations. 233 North Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.5300.

Steve’s Deli: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6646 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield, 48301.

248.932.0800.

Streetside Seafood: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily.

Reservations, Lunch only. Liquor. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.645.9123.

Sushi Hana: Japanese. Lunch, MondayFriday; Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.333.3887.

Sy Thai Cafe: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9830.

Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro: American.

Dinner. Monday-Saturday. Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor. 55 S. Bates Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.731.7066.

The Franklin Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 32760 Franklin Rd, Franklin, 48025. 248.865.6600.

The Gallery Restaurant: American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & wine. 6683 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.851.0313.

The Moose Preserve Bar & Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2395 S. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48302.

248.858.7688.

The Rugby Grille: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.5999.

Toast: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278.

Tomatoes Apizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner daily. Carryout. 34200 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009.

248.258.0500.

Touch of India: Indian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 297 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009.

248.593.7881.

Townhouse: American. Brunch, Saturday, Sunday. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 180 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.5241.

Triple Nickel Restaurant and Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Liquor.

Reservations. 555 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009. 248.480.4951.

Vinotecca: European. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 210 S. Old Woodard, Birmingham, 48009.

248.203.6600.

Village Coney Island: American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 653 S. Adams.

Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.7964.

Whistle Stop Diner: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; No reservations. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.566.3566.

Zao Jun: Asian. Lunch Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6608 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.949.9999.

Royal Oak/Ferndale

Ale Mary's: American. Weekend Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 316 South Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.268.1917.

Anita’s Kitchen: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 22651 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.548.0680.

Assaggi Bistro: Italian. Lunch, TuesdayFriday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 330 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.584.3499.

Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. No Reservations. Liquor. 711 S. Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067.

Bistro 82: French. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 401 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.542.0082.

The Blue Nile: Ethiopian. Dinner, TuesdaySunday. Reservations. Liquor. 545 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220.

248.547.6699.

Cafe Muse: French. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 418 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.544.4749.

Cork Wine Pub: American. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 23810 Woodward Ave., Pleasant Ridge, 48069.

248.544.2675.

Due Venti: Italian. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor.

220 S. Main St., Clawson, 48017.

248.288.0220.

The Fly Trap: Diner. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 22950 Woodward Ave., 48220. 248.399.5150.

GreenSpace Cafe: Vegan. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. No reservations.

Liquor. 215. W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.206.7510.

Howe’s Bayou: Cajun. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 22949 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.691.7145.

Inyo Restaurant Lounge: Asian Fusion.

Weekend Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. Liquor. 22871 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220.

248.543.9500.

KouZina: Greek. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 121 N. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.629.6500.

Kruse & Muer on Woodward: American.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 28028 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.965.2101.

Lily’s Seafood: Seafood. Weekend Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 410 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.591.5459.

Lockhart’s BBQ: Barbeque. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 202 E. Third St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.584.4227.

Oak City Grille: American. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 212 W. 6th St, Royal Oak, 48067. 248.556.0947.

One-Eyed Betty: American. Weekend Breakfast. Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale, 48220. 248.808.6633.

Pronto!: American. Weekend Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 608 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.544.7900.

Public House: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 241 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220.

248.850.7420.

Redcoat Tavern: American. Lunch &

DOWNTOWN

Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

31542 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 48073. 248.549.0300.

Ronin: Japanese. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 326 W. 4th St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.546.0888.

Royal Oak Brewery: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

215 E. 4th St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.544.1141.

Strada: Italian. Dinner, Wednesday Sunday. Liquor. No reservations. 376 N. Main Street. Royal Oak, 48067.

248.607.3127.

Toast, A Breakfast and Lunch Joint: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.398.0444.

Tom’s Oyster Bar: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 318 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.541.1186.

Town Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 116 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.544.7300.

The Morrie: American. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.216.1112.

Trattoria Da Luigi: Italian. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor.

415 S, Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.542.4444.

Twisted Tavern: American. Dinner, daily.

No reservations. Liquor. 22901 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220.

248.545,6750.

Vinsetta Garage: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley, 48072.

248.548.7711.

Troy/Rochester Capital Grille: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 2800 West Big Beaver Rd., Somerset Collection, Troy, 48084. 248.649.5300.

Cafe Sushi: Pan-Asian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1933 W. Maple Rd, Troy, 48084. 248.280.1831.

Cantoro Italian Trattoria: Italian. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1695 E. Big Beaver Road, Troy 48083.

248.817.2424.

CK Diggs: American & Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 2010 W. Auburn Road, Rochester Hills, 48309.

248.853.6600.

O’Connor’s Irish Public House: Irish.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 324 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.608.2537.

Kona Grille: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 30 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48083.

248.619.9060.

Kruse & Muer on Main: American.

Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 327 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.652.9400.

Loccino Italian Grill and Bar: Italian.

Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily.

Liquor. Reservations. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy, 48098. 248.813.0700.

McCormick & Schmick’s: Steak & Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. Somerset Collection, 2850 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, 48084. 248.637.6400.

The Meeting House: American. Weekend Brunch. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 301 S. Main St, Rochester, 48307. 248.759.4825.

Miguel’s Cantina: Mexican. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

89

METRO INTELLIGENCER Metro Intelligencer is a monthly column devoted to news stories, tidbits and gossip items about what's happening on the restaurant scene in the metro Detroit area. Metro Intelligencer is reported/created each month by Dana Casadei who can be reached at DanaCasadei@DowntownPublications.com with news items or tips, on or off the record.

Local hangout opening The countdown is on for Aaron Belen and AFB Hospitality Group’s The Morrie Birmingham. Located at 260 N. Old Woodward, Belen said they plan to open by the end of July and the menu is about 75 percent finalized. “We’re in the final stages of construction and we’re looking to start training in the middle of July,” he said. Much like The Morrie’s Royal Oak location, guests can expect something in between a coney island and a high-end restaurant, with pizza, salads, and burgers gracing the menu. The hospitality group is still working on the details of setting up late-night entertainment for the after-dinner crowd. Belen is excited to bring The Morrie to town and for guests to see what they can offer. “Wherever I go, people talk to me about it, and there’s just such a need,” he said. “The residents, the business people, are just dying for a different offering.”

Keep on truckin’ When one door closes, well, a food truck opens. The original plan for Tavern on Broadway – 1315 Broadway, Detroit, right next to Punch Bowl Social – was to open this fall, but after deciding to take the building down to its studs and bricks and demolish an existing elevator shaft, the upcoming restaurant’s opening has been moved back to early 2020. “In turn, one of my investment partners one night called and said, ‘What about a food truck while we’re waiting?’” said Executive Chef Chris Gadulka, former chef at Toast Birmingham who partnered with Saber Ammori, one of the owners of Toast, for this venture. “We have a brand we feel we could take mobile and have some fun with it.” Said food truck – which will either be named Tavern on Broadway On Wheels or TBD (Tavern on Broadway Detroit) – will have a limited menu of fresh made items, like a Cuban sandwich, General Tso’s chicken sandwich, burger, and a few more items. They’ll also offer sides like duck fat fries and plantain chips. With a plan to open in early July, Gadulka said they are going to keep the prices affordable, ideally all in the single digits. Once the tavern – which will serve similar items to the food truck, well-made drinks, and craft beer – does open the food truck will still be seen around the area. They plan to use it to test out new items for the restaurant.

Dinner service at café After years of people asking, the folks at Birmingham’s Commonwealth Café – 300 Hamilton Row – have added a dinner menu and will be open until 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Owner James Hayosh had nothing but good things to say the day after their first dinner service began in early June.

“There were a lot of familiar faces, and everyone loved the food,” he said. “It just felt really good, it felt natural.” The much-anticipated dinner menu includes grilled salmon with bamboo rice, macaroni and cheese with bacon lardons, and breakfast items like steak and eggs (topped with chimichurri) and a quinoa breakfast bowl. “One thing we definitely realized is people like eating breakfast any time of the day...when we did the dinner menu we weren’t about to hold off on that,” he said. Dinner isn’t the only change coming to the popular cafe. Hayosh said they have plans to do carryout meals for four – like their lasagna – and just bought six soft serve machines to be installed this summer. Flavors will include classics like vanilla and strawberry, as well as soft serve versions of their coffee drinks, along with a few vegan options.

Women power The four women of Nest Egg LLC have huge plans for Corktown. First for the quartet – Ping Ho, owner of the Royce and Marrow; Sarah Welch, Marrow executive chef and partner; and Folk and Farmer’s Hand co-owners Kiki Louya and Rohani Foulkes – is a beverage program with alcohol being launched at Folk, created by Ho. Next is the closing of Farmer’s Hand (which will return) so it can become Mink – 1701 Trumbull Avenue, Detroit – where Welch will serve as director of operations (and still cook at Marrow) and the kitchen will be run by Cameron Rolka, Marrow sous chef. “We’re kind of treating it like Detroit’s waiting room,” Welch said about Mink, which hopefully will open in September. “We’re aiming to be a place you can go before or after dinner. Or a place you can stop into for light apps and wine.”

Reservations. Liquor. 870 S. Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, 48307.

248.453.5371.

Mon Jin Lau: Asian. Lunch, MondayFriday. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 1515 E. Maple Rd, Troy, 48083.

248.689.2332.

Morton’s, The Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 888 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48084. 248.404.9845.

NM Café: American. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 2705 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48084.

248.816.3424.

Oceania Inn: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. The Village of Rochester Hills, 3176 Walton Blvd, Rochester Hills, 48309.

248.375.9200.

Ocean Prime: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, 48084. 248.458.0500.

Orchid Café: Thai. Lunch, Monday-Friday.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. 3303 Rochester Rd., Troy, 48085.

248.524.1944.

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48084.

248.816.8000.

Recipes: American/Brunch. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

134 W. University Drive, Rochester, 48037. 248.659.8267. Also 2919 Crooks Road, Troy, 48084.

248.614.5390.

Rochester Chop House: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 306 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.651.2266.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 755 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48084. 248.269.8424.

Silver Spoon: Italian. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 6830 N. Rochester Rd., Rochester, 48306.

248.652.4500.

Steelhouse Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1129 E. Long Lake Rd., Troy, 48085.

248.817.2980.

Too Ra Loo: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 139 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307.

248.453.5291.

West Bloomfield/Southfield Bacco: Italian. Lunch, Monday-Friday.

Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 29410 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, 48034. 248.356.6600.

Beans and Cornbread: Southern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

29508 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, 48034. 248.208.1680.

Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. No Reservations. Liquor. 29110 Franklin Road, Southfield, 48034.

The Bombay Grille: Indian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 29200 Orchard Lake Rd, Farmington Hills, 48334. 248.626.2982.

The Fiddler: Russian. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Thursday-Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 6676 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248.851.8782.

Mene Sushi: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine.

6239 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.538.7081.

Meriwether’s: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-

Saturday. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 25485 Telegraph Rd, Southfield, 48034. 248.358.1310.

Nonna Maria’s: Italian. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 2080 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, 48323.

248.851.2500.

Pickles & Rye: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6724 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.737.3890.

Prime29 Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6545 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield, 48322. 248.737.7463.

Redcoat Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Liquor. 6745 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248.865.0500.

Shangri-La: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. Orchard Mall Shopping Center, 6407 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248.626.8585.

Sposita’s Ristorante: Italian. Friday Lunch. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 33210 W. Fourteen Mile Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.

538.8954.

Stage Deli: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

6873 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248.855.6622.

Yotsuba: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 7365 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield, 48322.

248.737.8282.

West Oakland Gravity Bar & Grill: Mediterranean.

Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday, Dinner. Reservations. Liquor.

340 N. Main Street, Milford, 48381.

248.684.4223.

It's A Matter of Taste: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 2323 Union Lake Road, Commerce, 48390.

248.360.4150.

The Root Restaurant & Bar: American.

Lunch & Dinner, Monday - Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 340 Town Center Blvd., White Lake, 48390.

248.698.2400.

Volare Ristorante: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

48992 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, 48393.

248.960.7771.

North Oakland Clarkston Union: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 54 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346.

248.620.6100.

Holly Hotel: American. Afternoon Tea, Monday – Saturday, Brunch, Sunday, Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 110 Battle Alley, Holly, 48442.

248.634.5208.

Kruse's Deer Lake Inn: Seafood. Lunch & dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 7504 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, 48346.

248.795.2077.

The Fed: American. Lunch and Dinner daily, Brunch, Saturday and Sunday.

Liquor. 15 S. Main Street, Clarkston, 48346. 248.297.5833 Via Bologna: Italian. Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 7071 Dixie Highway, Clarkston. 48346. 248.620.8500.

Union Woodshop: BBQ. Dinner, Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday – Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 18 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346.

248.625.5660

Detroit Bucharest Grill: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2684 E. Jefferson, Detroit, 48207.

313.965.3111.

Cliff Bell’s: American. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit, 48226.

313.961.2543.

Craft Work: American. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 8047 Agnes St., Detroit, 48214.

313.469.0976.

Cuisine: French. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit, 48202.

313.872.5110.

The Detroit Seafood Market: Seafood.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 1435 Randolph St., Detroit, 48226. 313.962.4180.

El Barzon: Mexican. Lunch, TuesdayFriday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 3710 Junction St., Detroit, 48210. 313.894.2070.

Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café: Cajun. Breakfast, daily. Sunday Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Saturday.

Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

400 Monroe Street, Detroit, 48226.

313.965.4600.

Giovanni’s Ristorante: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 330 S. Oakwood Blvd., Detroit, 48217. 313.841.0122.

Green Dot Stables: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2200 W. Lafayette, Detroit, 48216.

313.962.5588.

Jefferson House: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 2 Washington Blvd., Detroit, 48226. 313.782.4318.

Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Lunch, Monday- Friday, Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit, 48243. 313.567.6837.

Johnny Noodle King: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2601 W. Fort St., Detroit, 48216.

313.309.7946.

Mario’s: Italian. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 4222 2nd Ave., Detroit, 48201. 313.832.1616.

Midtown Shangri-la: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 4710 Cass Ave., Detroit, 48201.

313.974.7669.

Motor City Brewing Works: American.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Beer & Wine. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 48201. 313.832.2700.

1917 American Bistro: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 19416 Livernois Ave., Detroit, 48221.

313.863.1917.

Prism: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 555 E. Lafayette St, Detroit, 48226.

313.309.2499.

Red Smoke Barbeque: Barbeque. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

Trappers Alley Shopping Center, 573 Monroe Ave., Detroit, 48226.

313.962.2100.

Russell Street Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. 2465 Russell St, Detroit, 48207. 313.567.2900.

Selden Standard: American. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Liquor. Reservations. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit, 48201.

313.438.5055.

SheWolf Pastifico & Bar: Italian. Dinner, Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 438 Selden St, Detroit 48201.

313.315.3992.

Sinbad’s: Seafood. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

100 St Clair St., Detroit, 48214.

313.822.8000.

Slows Bar BQ: Barbeque. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2138 Michigan Ave, Detroit, 48216.

313.962.9828.

Small Plates Detroit: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 1521 Broadway St., Detroit, 48226. 313.963.0702.

St. CeCe’s Pub: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 1426 Bagley Ave., Detroit, 48216.

313.962.2121.

Tap at MGM Grand: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 1777 Third Street, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1234.

Taqueria Nuestra Familia: Mexican.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 7620 Vernor Hwy., Detroit, 48209. 313.842.5668.

The Block: American. Sunday Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 3919 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.832.0892.

Tom’s Oyster Bar: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 519 East Jefferson Ave., Detroit, 48226.

313.964.4010.

Traffic Jam & Snug: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

511 W. Canfield, Detroit, 48201.

313.831.9470.

24grille: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, 1114 Washington Blvd, Detroit, 48226.

313.964.3821.

Union Street: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 4145 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201.

313.831.3965.

Vince’s: Italian. Lunch, Tuesday-Friday.

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 1341 Springwells St., Detroit, 48209. 313.842.4857.

Vivio’s Food & Spirits: American.

Saturday Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2460 Market St., Detroit, 48207.

313.393.1711.

The Whitney: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & High Tea, Monday-Friday. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, daily. Liquor.

Reservations. 4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.832.5700.

Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina: Italian. Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third St, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1646.

Wolfgang Puck Steak: Steak & Seafood.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third St, Detroit, 48226.

313.465.1411.

Wright & Co.: American. Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 1500 Woodward Ave Second Floor, Detroit, 48226. 313.962.7711.

The menu will offer an array of small plates with a focus on seafood and wine, beer, and sake in the intimate 400-square-foot space, which will seat 20. It’s all being done under Backbone Hospitality, a new hospitality group owned by Ho that Welch said will allow them to pool their resources together and create a system all the companies can use for things like hiring and training staff.

Coffee a go go With plans for Royal Oak and Birmingham locations to open by fall, New Order Coffee Roasters – who also have a location in Midtown Detroit – is in for some big changes. Along with these two new spots, their Ferndale space is being converted to a coffee shop set to open in early 2020, while their offices will move to Troy. CEO Elizabeth Rose said the Royal Oak location – 30955 Woodward Avenue – is part of the Woodward Corners by Beaumont project and will serve their custom blends and original lattes in addition to a food menu, which Rose wasn’t able to give specifics about. She did confirm there will be homemade ice cream, cold brew shakes, and matcha ice teas though. Inside the entrance of Papa Joe’s Market, 34244 Woodward Avenue, will be their Birmingham stop. Even though the menu will be more limited, there will be espresso drinks, roasted beans on-site, and plans to offer freshly roasted New Order Coffee in single-serve pods. “They can walk in, ask us to roast them a pound of beans, go out into the store, and pick up a warm bag of beans on their way out of the store,” Rose said.

Pizza & pasta Replacing Will Leather Goods – 4120 Second Avenue, in Detroit’s Midtown – will be the latest from restaurateur Jeremy Sasson, who owns Heirloom Hospitality, known for Prime + Proper and Townhouse restaurants in both downtown Birmingham and Detroit. The 9,000-square-foot space will include a restaurant with a big pizza focus and a market where Executive Chef Myles McVay of Otus Supply will lead the kitchen. Sasson said they will explore naturally fermented breads and natural yeasts – including in their Neapolitan pizzas – not just through bread making but also in the curing process of the food. Produce, pasta making, and rotisserie will also be large focuses on the menu. “The food is intended to be very – I’ll call it ‘health-minded,’ at its core,” Sasson said. “So, food you can enjoy and eat an abundance of and not necessarily feel like you’re down too many calories.” The market will follow a similar fashion, plus offer jams, oils, and beer and wine. Sasson said the aesthetic is inspired by vintage Palm Springs-meets-coastal-Italy, and they plan to keep some of the building’s historical beauty. With the goal to start construction over the summer, Sasson speculated they could be open as early as the end of the year.

Fresh smoked BBQ At City Barbeque there is one thing you won’t find – a microwave. “We don’t have microwaves in the entire building,” said Shelby Morgan, regional marketing manager. “Everything is made fresh.” The Troy location, 700 W. Big Beaver Road, is the chain’s second Michigan location and opened in May. Morgan said that City Barbeque is “real deal, authentic barbeque,” where they smoke their own meats – smokers can be found going around the clock – and serve in-house made sides and desserts, all in a setting to let guests feel like they are in their own backyards for a cookout. Their barbecue mixes a variety of types, ranging from Texas-style brisket to St. Louis-style ribs. And, if you hear a cowbell ringing, that just means someone ordered their More Cowbell sandwich, a towering stack of Texas Toast, award-winning beef brisket, smoked provolone, horseradish, and crunchy onion straws.

Summer treats Gather and Cøllect owners — and husband and wife — Lea and Kyle Hunt hope to bring back some summer childhood nostalgia with their newest venture, Huddle. Located in the former home of Chickpea in the D – at 2 John R Street in Detroit – Huddle will be a walk-up window stand serving soft serve custard. Aiming to open in July and stay open year-round, Kyle said they will have two machines, one with vanilla and chocolate, the other with vanilla and a rotating flavor (both of which can be twisted) and simple toppings, like chocolate and rainbow sprinkles, cake and waffle cones. Don’t worry – there will also be bowls.

THE COMMUNITY HOUSE It is often difficult to measure the “economic value that non-profits add to our society, simply because the end product of their organizational processes are not tangible products or services, but rather intangible outcomes. However, there is true economic value that non-profits add to our society, and, to mankind.”

In addition to our own non-profit mission, The Community House is also “home” to 12 other non-profit and supported groups in our area that are generously subsidized by The Community House.

In 2018 alone, The Community House provided critical support to these worthy organizations at a direct or lost opportunity cost approaching $1 million dollars. Funds that The Community House covered via its revenue generating opportunities and supplemented by generous donors via our annual fundraising initiatives. It is right. It is what our founders called upon us to do.

Should you be interested in supporting or volunteering for any of these great causes – know that you are needed, wanted and welcome. And remember for every dollar that you gift to The Community House – we split it 11 ways – talks about value and making a true and lasting difference.

Some of the groups who also call The Community House home include:

KEEP IT Downtown.

The only publication of its kind in Birmingham/Bloomfield.

Quality editorial environment.

Produced by local residents from offices in downtown Birmingham.

Join the local business leaders, almost 400 of whom use Downtown on a regular basis, in our August issue.

Ad deadline Friday, July 12.

Contact Mark Grablowski.

(O) 248.792.6464 (C) 586.549.4424

LOCAL 92

Bill Seklar

BIRMINGHAM BLOOMFIELD NEWCOMERS CLUB: For 70 years, the BBNC (Birmingham Bloomfield Newcomers Club) has been an organization that has made it possible for women who are new to the area to meet, make wonderful friendships and to participate in activities and events throughout the year. Our members represent over 30 countries and they currently live in or around Oakland County.

BIRMINGHAM TEEN COUNCIL (BTC): The mission of Birmingham Teen Council (BTC) is to bring together students from local schools and provide an opportunity for community service, as well as establish a source of teen leadership in the area by creating a safe environment where students can collaborate and form bonds.

SENIOR MEN’S CLUB: An organization of active senior men (of sophistication) devoted to the promotion of fellowship, cultural interests and the rendering of community service.

STORYTELLERS GUILD: To enrich the lives of children through the art and love of storytelling.

THE WOMEN’S CLUB: The purpose shall be to provide fellowship, programs, and activities for the membership.

BIRMINGHAM LIONS CLUB: Service To Others – Lions Clubs are recognized for their service to the blind and visually impaired. This service began when Helen Keller challenged Lions to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness” during the 1925 Lions Clubs International Convention.

ROTARY CLUB: To encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service, high ethical standards in business and professions.

SAVE THE DATE 2019 Birmingham House Tour The Community House Foundation will host its 32nd Annual Birmingham House Tour, presented by Hall & Hunter Realtors on Thursday, September 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This year’s tour offers six spectacular private residential homes, in a variety of design styles and architecture. Co-chairs “extraordinaire” for this year’s event are Rose and Brian Bolyard.

Sponsors include Presenting Sponsors Hall & Hunter Realtors, MAISON Birmingham, Gorman’s Furniture, Bolyard Lumber and Detroit Home Magazine. Tickets are $42 in advance or $49 the day of the Tour.

2019 Movie Marathon at The Palladium Theatre Community House Foundation will host its second Annual 18-hour Movie Marathon with the Emagine Palladium in Birmingham from 1 p.m. Friday, September 20, until 6 a.m. Saturday, September 21. This unique friend and fundraising event engages movie buffs of all ages via an 18-hour movie marathon (if you can stay awake that long!) just like a walkathon, gift pledges will benefit The Community House’s children's programs and services. For accumulative pledges of $100 (or more) per moviegoer, complimentary all you can eat/drink popcorn and soda, swag bag with goodies, dinner, lunch and breakfast will be included.

2019 Octoberfest – Beer, Burgerz and Brats The first Annual Octoberfest 2019 will be held at the historic Community House on Friday, September 20 – Octoberfest 2019 Beer, Burgers and Brats will bring together Bell’s Octoberfest craft beer aficionados, Zim’s Vodka and German-inspired cuisine from area restaurants to celebrate on The Community House’s beautiful outdoor Terrace (weather permitting) all for the benefit of the 210,000 children and adults served by The Community House.

For more information about these and other Community House events, please call 248.644.5832 or visit communityhouse.com. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available.

William D. Seklar is President & CEO of The Community House and The Community House Foundation in Birmingham.

DOWNTOWN

07.19

nancykarasrealty@gmail.com 4130 Telegraph Road / Bloomfield Hills / MI 48302 / www.nancykaras.maxbroock.com

Selling at all price points | Lakefront & Luxury Estates | Executive Relocation

All Star MULTI YEAR

248-421-2670

RE DU

CE D

Results with First Class Service

Raised Ranch Lower Long Lakefront 1299 Porters Lane | Bloomfield Twp | 3,766 SF+ | $1,249,900

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MAGNIFICENT LAKE VIEWS, WALK-OUT SITE and access to 3 lakes! 3,766 SF Ranch on .6 Acre, 140’ lake frontage. 4 beds, huge master suite, exercise room, some hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace, 3 car gar, massive deck, large dock, finished lower level with sauna. Quiet cul-de-sac location. Bloomfield Hills Schools.

Forest Lakefront & Golf Front w/ Walk-Out 1371 Club | Bloomfield Twp | $1,299,000

NE W

CONDO ALTERNATIVE! GORGEOUS LAKE VIEWS, Prime Golf Course Frontage and access to 3 lakes including Lower Long and all sports Upper Long Lake! .3 Acre, 80' lake frontage. 5 beds, 3.1 baths, vaulted ceilings, updated kitchen, open concept, finished walkout lower level, steps away from Forest Lake Country Club. Bloomfield Hills Schools.

Sharp, Spacious Updated Ranch 7264 S Tratham Court | West Bloomfield | $269,900 Living is easy in this move in ready ranch with attached 2 car garage. 3 beds and 2 full baths. Fireplace in the large living room. One of the largest homes in desirable Franklin Knolls with approx 2,318 SF. Private fenced yard and gorgeous landscaping.

COMPLIMENTARY MARKET ANALYSIS OF YOUR HOME • Staging Consultation • Do's & Don'ts Before Selling • Vetted List of Contractors, Handymen, Painters, etc.

• Options for Your Next Home with Comps & Counsel • Professional Photography, Videography & Marketing

SOCIETY NOTEBOOK/GIGI NICHOLS

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ORT in the City

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ORT’s fifth annual spring fundraiser, ORT and the City, took place at Eastern Market in Shed 5 in Detroit. Over 500 guests attended the event which was deemed a celebration of Detroit, art, and culture, while promoting ORT’s mission of educating for life. A silent auction featured one-of-a-kind art designed by emerging and nationally recognized Detroit artists. Elizabeth Belkin, Stephanie Freedman, and Marlo Scott served as co-chairs. The event raised over $100,000 to support ORT’s global mission of impacting lives through education. 1. Todd and Jennifer Kroll of Birmingham.

2. Jody Trivax and Julie Chernow of Birmingham. 3. Ilene Kahan and Stephanie Freedman of Bloomfield. 4. Nancy Hodari and Elizabeth Belkin of Birmingham. 5. Brenda Rosenberg of Bloomfield. 6. Event Chairs – Elizabeth Belkin of Birmingham, Stephanie Freedman of Bloomfield and Marlo Scott of Birmingham. 7. Marjorie Krasman of W. Bloomfield, Marlene Rosenberg of Bloomfield and Karen Cantor of W. Bloomfield. 8. Henrietta Weinberger of Southfield and Doreen Hermelin of Bingham Farms.

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Beyond Basics Literacy Luncheon

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Beyond Basic hosted its Literacy Luncheon fundraiser at the Detroit Athletic Club to honor individuals who are bettering Detroit and the world. The event honored Laurie & Tom Cunnington as Humanitarians of the Year and also recognized Emily & Henry Ford III, Andrea & Chris Lambert and Kuhu Saha & David Merritt as Bettering Detroit Honorees. The Dedicated Giving portion of the program was successfully led Jack Krasula and matched by the Webber Foundation. The $105,000 raised from the luncheon will be used to fund Beyond Basics, a literacy non-profit dedicated to one-on-one reading intervention. 1. Caroline Rooney Dempster and Robert Dempster of Bloomfield. 2. Kara Howe of Bloomfield, Honoree Emily Ford of Birmingham, Katie Bologna of Bloomfield and Elizabeth Ruynon of Bloomfield. 3. Lex Hallahan of Birmingham, Rose Reedy Abbott of Bloomfield, Melissa Kahn of Bloomfield and Shania Allen of Birmingham. 4. Earl and Tisa Spohn of Bloomfield.

5. Jack and Annette Aronson of Bloomfield. 6. Henry Wells of Detroit, Humanitarian Award recipient Tom Cunnington of Birmingham and Pamela Good of Rochester Hills. 7. Sue Wilhelm of Birmingham and Sue Galambos of Bloomfield. 8. Maggie Durant of Detroit and Lisette Keil of Birmingham.

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07.19

GigiNichols@downtownpublications.com 248.515.6105

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Manresa Jesuit Retreat House Banquet

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Fr. Bernie Owens, SJ, former ministry staff member of Manresa Jesuit Retreat House, delivered the keynote address at the Manresa fundraising banquet at Shenandoah Country Club, West Bloomfield. Over 300 people attended the annual banquet which also featured a silent auction, a raffle and tours of the adjacent Chaldean Cultural Center. Monies raised will benefit Manresa Jesuit Retreat House, whose mission is to help men and women grow spiritually through prayer, reflection, guidance and teaching according to the tradition of St. Ignatius of Loyola. 1. Steve Raymond and Paul Seibold of Birmingham. 2. George and Grace Seroka of Bloomfield. 3. Jack and Mary Lou Burns of Birmingham. 4. Pat Seibold and Susan Raymond of Birmingham. 5. Patti Koval of Bloomfield and Fr. Fran Daly of Manresa. 6. Patti and Bob Koval of Bloomfield. 7. Chuck and Mary Ellen Schotthoefer of Bloomfield. 8. Mike and Kathy Doonan of Bloomfield and Moira and Len Prekel of Birmingham.

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Alzheimer's Association Spring Soirée

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Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection served as the venue for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Spring Soirée. Now in its eighth year, the festive evening included socializing, hors d'oeuvres, and of course, shopping. Danielle and Andrew Petcoff, Whitney and S. Eliot Weiner and Nicole Gopoian Wirick and Adam Wirick chaired the event. Over 220 guests attended the fundraiser. Thanks to the generosity of donors and sponsors, the evening raised approximately $70,000, with proceeds directly supporting the Alzheimer’s Association’s programs and services. 1. Joe Novak of Bloomfield, Peter Stasevich of Northville and Ryan Kraft of Plymouth. 2. Sarah Deson of Birmingham, Jack Sights of Bloomfield, Hillary and Randy Shaw of Bloomfield. 3. Erin Flynn of Plymouth, Katie Herzog of Novi and Sarah Wisniewski of Bloomfield. 4. Co-chairs Nicole Gopoian Wirick and Adam Wirick of Bloomfield. 5. Elizabeth Rauth of Southfield and Elissa Cooper of Birmingham. 6. Martha Lannen of Harsens Island, Ginny Zeffiro of Bloomfield and Sue McKay of Bloomfield. 7. Stephany and Jim Austin of Bloomfield. 8. Co-chairs Andy and Danielle Petcoff of Birmingham.

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Variety Hearts & Stars Dinner Variety’s Hearts & Stars Dinner was emceed by WJR’s Paul W. Smith at the Townsend Hotel. The goal of the evening was to raise awareness for Variety’s core programs which provide lifechanging support to children with unique and special needs. The event was co-chaired by Laurie Fischgrund and Rhonda Sabatini and recognized Rosalie and Joe Vicari for their dedication and commitment to children in need. Hearts & Stars raised $240,000 to further support the good work of Variety the Children’s Charity. 1. Michael, co-chair Rhonda and Paul Sabatini of Bloomfield. 2. Joanne and Steven Gordon of Bloomfield. 3. Ruthie and Marty Seltzer of Birmingham and Susan Kehoe of Bloomfield. 4. Ed and Felicia Shaw of Birmingham.

5. Mark and Lois Shaevsky of Bloomfield. 6. Katherine and Kevin Kosco of Bloomfield.

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7. Brian and Julie Boike of Bloomfield. 8. Sally Orley and Penny Blumenstein of Bloomfield.

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Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program Metro Detroit

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Two hundred guests assembled at the Detroit Athletic Club in Detroit for the Annual Inspiring Detroit Dinner benefitting The Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program. The event honored Bill Kolb, McCann WorldGroup; Faye Nelson, W.K. Kellogg Foundation; Brad Oleshansky, M1 Concourse; and Katie Valenti, philanthropist. In addition, Leslie Sheidler, Kelly Services was recognized as Mentor of the Year. The evening raised over $206,000. The Women of Tomorrow in metro Detroit reaches over 1,200 young women in 48 public high schools with a graduation rate of 97 percent.

1. Susanne Dicker of Troy, Patrick Cunnington of Bloomfield, Renee Read of Bloomfield and Katana Abbott of Commerce. 2. Honoree Katie Valenti of Bloomfield and Anu Kosaraju of Franklin.

3. Honoree Leslie Sheidler of Rochester Hills and Judy Wallace of Bloomfield. 4. Diane Molesky of Canton and Joanne Faycurry of Bloomfield. 5. Linda Schlesinger of W. Bloomfield and Marcia Nodel of Birmingham. 6. John Gilbert of Bloomfield and Ashley Harris of Birmingham. 7. Honoree Brad and Talia Oleshansky of Birmingham. 8. Honoree Bill Kolb of Birmingham and Kate MacNevin of NYC.

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GigiNichols@downtownpublications.com 248.515.6105

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WINGS Angels’ Place

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Angels’ Place held its annual WINGS event at fleurdetroit in Bloomfield Hills. The event, planned by Julie Beals, Judy Jonna, Martha Kistler, Sally Mezey and Diane Widlak, included a seasonal floral arrangement demonstration, gift basket raffle, silent auction, wine and light refreshments. Attendees also enjoyed socializing and strolling through the lush garden space presented at fleurdetroit. Over $25,000 was raised to benefit Angels' Place which provides people-centered services, including homes and professional support, for adults with developmental disabilities. 1. Sally Mezey of Birmingham and Julie Beals of Troy. 2. Sue Spangler and Lisa MacArthur of Bloomfield. 3. Karrie Rabban of W. Bloomfield, Sharon Kory of Birmingham, Laura Nadhir of W. Bloomfield and Kim Salman of Bloomfield.

4. Karen Defiore of Bloomfield and Tracy Yourke of Commerce. 5. Nancy Smith of Bloomfield and Kelly Cash of Birmingham. 6. Monica Atchoo of Bloomfield, Gina Zawaiden of Birmingham and Dina Pitsos of Los Angeles. 7. Susan Hall of Birmingham, Betty Desmond of Bloomfield and Julie Janosz of W. Bloomfield. 8. Allison Larson of Bloomfield and Lynn Melstrom of Birmingham.

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The Community House 90 & Beyond

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The Community House 90 & Beyond Celebratory Luncheon honored people in the community who reached the milestone of 90 years of age and older. The event was highlighted with “Thursdays with Gershwin” performance by Jeanne Bourget with accompanist, Amanda Sabelhaus. Sing-along tunes were enjoyed at the end of performance. Two hundred guests attended the event including 100 nonagenarians as well as three centurions. The inaugural event was held seven years ago, marking The Community House’s own 90-year anniversary, and continues today as a community favorite. 1. Carrie Proctor of Bloomfield and Mary Claire of Birmingham. 2. Marty Bones and Barbara Maertens of Bloomfield. 3. Peggy John and Ann Aliber of Birmingham. 4. Virginia Johnston of Bloomfield and Marion Easton of Beverly Hills. 5. Rachel Herbst and Barbara Travis of Bloomfield. 6. Lucille Jensen and Nancy Allen of Bloomfield. 7. Margo Strickland, Bill Seklar and Marion Wyatt of Bloomfield. 8. Chris Smude of Lake Orion and Maggie Allesee of Bloomfield.

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American House Foundation Fundraiser

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Over 250 supporters attended the American House Foundation 11th Annual Celebration of Dignity and Hope Fundraiser at the American Center Southfield. The American House Foundation estimated $190,000 – including sponsorships, tickets, auction items and raffles. In 2018, the Foundation provided assistance to 142 seniors through grant assistance; 500 seniors through the support of special programs; and over 1,400 seniors for Holiday Hope for Seniors. 1. Rob Gillette, Michael McDermott and Sean Morgan of Bloomfield. 2. Lodia Runco of Birmingham, Ronnie O’Hara of Bloomfield, Traci Gruley of Bloomfield, Melissa Ashcraft of Bloomfield and Kari Gillette of Bloomfield. 3. Jay Morgan of Toledo and Dale Watchowski of Birmingham. 4. Amanda Reisbig of Sterling Heights and Gail Tikkanen of Birmingham. 5. Dana Erickson of Bloomfield and Jodie Audia of Clawson. 6. David Haboian of Bloomfield, Samantha Eckhout of Commerce Twp., Darren Audia of Clawson. 7. Karen Sosnick-Schoenberg and Jeff Schoenberg of Birmingham.

8. Caryn Ciagne and Greg Schwartz of Beverly Hills, Chuck and Susan Scrafano of Birmingham.

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Suite Dreams Project Hats Off Luncheon

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Over 400 supporters packed the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham for the Suite Dreams Project Hats Off Luncheon. Chaired by Kelly Lauer and Dana Brophy, the event included a reception, raffle, lunch, short program and a Hat Crawl Wine Tasting, which was held after the luncheon at Bella Piatti and 220 Merrill. The Suite Dreams Project serves children and families in low and moderate income, urban areas by transforming their bedrooms into beautiful healing spaces where they can rest and recover. This year’s event netted nearly $100,000. 1. Co-chairs Kelly Lauer and Dana Brophy of Bloomfield. 2. Leslie Joseph of Sylvan Lake, Deanne Alfredo of Bloomfield and Nicole Moffatt of Royal Oak. 3. Denise Bianchini of Birmingham, Marilyn Stroh of Plymouth, Barb Lerner of Clarkston, and Kate and Theresa Petsch of Waterford. 4. Danya Bahoora of Birmingham and Denise Paulus of Bloomfield. 5. Jennifer Bradley of Bloomfield and Andrea Schiller of Beverly Hills.

6. Victoria Linsley of Chesterfield, Dr. Janet Koprince of Bloomfield, Cynthia Conklin of Bloomfield and Dr. Madeline Turner of Rochester. 7. Fabiane Acket of Bloomfield and Janet Rayan of Novi.

8. Alison Brawner of Rochester and Megan Fisher of Birmingham.

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GigiNichols@downtownpublications.com 248.515.6105

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Christ Child Society of Detroit Boutique and Luncheon

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Valerie George, Celia Lipsky, Tara Nittis and Kristen Wise chaired the annual Christ Child Society of Detroit Pour les Enfants Boutique and Luncheon. Held at Pine Lake Country Club, the event honored Carol Roney as Christ Child Society’s Woman of the Year. Guests enjoyed a flower arranging demonstration, shopping at the boutiques and socializing. The $40,000 in proceeds from the luncheon will benefit Christ Child Society, whose mission is to foster a personal love of Christ expressing itself in service for needy children regardless of race, color or creed.

1. Sarah Kepic and Kelly Eberlien of Birmingham. 2. Julie Soderwall of Bloomfield, Amy Louwers of Birmingham and Courtney Arndt of Bloomfield. 3. Co-chairs: Celia Lipsky, Valerie George and Kristine Wise of Bloomfield. 4. Julie Wells of Birmingham and Chris Schwartz of Bloomfield.

5. Christine Beser of Birmingham and Nancy Harrison of Bloomfield. 6. Laura Karmanos of Birmingham and Maria Glod of Bloomfield. 7. Paula Boehman of Beverly Hills and Pam Surhigh of Bloomfield. 8. Bess Paradiso of Birmingham and Gail Callaghan of Troy.

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HAVEN’S Blossom Gala

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HAVEN is Oakland County’s only agency offering comprehensive services for survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault. HAVEN provides emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis line, counseling, advocacy, forensic exams, community resources and educational programming to over 30,000 individuals each year. The non-profit held its Annual Blossom Gala at the Royal Oak Farmers Market to a crowd of nearly 400. Attendees were inspired by personal stories that were shared from a survivor. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and guests, the event raised $340,000. 1. Blanca Fauble of Bloomfield and Aimee Nimeh of Farmington Hills. 2. Jeri Davis of Beverly Hills, Cassandra Ingles of Lake Orion and Lisa Ross of Beverly Hills. 3. Janet Sherman of Southfield and Gary Faigle of Birmingham. 4. Melanie and Jordan Garwood of Clarkston. 5. Steven and Cherry Howell of Birmingham. 6. Teresa and Greg Mulawa of Rochester. 7. Aleksandra Miziolek of Grosse Pointe and Suzanne Seitz of Birmingham. 8. Machelle McAdory of Rochester Hills and Terry Merritt of Novi.

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Women Rock Science

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Adele Acheson and Linzie Venegas co-chaired the Cranbrook Institute of Science's second annual Women Rock Science fundraiser. Richard DeVore of PNC, Joi Harris of DTE Energy and Angela English from Detroit Public Schools were all honored for having a positive impact on the next generation of students through STEAM-oriented initiatives. Over $100,000 in proceeds will help bring more science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics programming, delivered by the Cranbrook Institute of Science, to Pre-K thru 12th grade students in underserved communities throughout metro Detroit. 1. Todd Stamper of Bloomfield and Mike Acheson of W. Bloomfield. 2. Nancy Swords of Berkley and Barbara Barrett of Bloomfield. 3. Erin DiMarco of Bloomfield, Sue Guise Cheslin of W. Bloomfield and Linzie Venegas of Grosse Pointe. 4. Co-chairs Linzie Venegas of Grosse Pointe and Adele Acheson of W. Bloomfield. 5. Ina Levison of Bloomfield and Betsy Gould of Birmingham. 6. Laura Zausmer of W. Bloomfield, Pauline Stamper of Bloomfield and Martha Zausmer of W. Bloomfield. 7. Sue Perlin of Novi and Marianne Brakora of Birmingham. 8. Sandy Smith of Bloomfield, Sally and Rod Spearin of Troy and Bob Wilson of Bloomfield.

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The BEF (Birmingham Education Foundation) raises private funds from the community to ensure academic excellence and innovation in the Birmingham Public Schools District. The BEF held a casual outdoor fundraiser on the grounds Kreger House in Franklin. The evening included music, full BBQ dinner and beverages from Griffin Claw Brewing Company. The money raised from the evening will support grants to teachers and staff with innovative ideas, helping them to provide the highest quality education possible to every child enrolled in Birmingham Public Schools.

1. Adam and Alicia Acey of Franklin, Ann Stephenson of Sterling Heights and Lisa Hudson of Beverly Hills. 2. Bernie Simms of Farmington and Doug Baltz of Birmingham. 3. Patrick and Ann Liebler of Birmingham and Tom Nardone of Birmingham. 4. Pam Davis of Bloomfield and Melissa Baltz of Birmingham. 5. Anne and Charles Cron of W. Bloomfield. 6. Dave Singh of Birmingham and Andrea Long of Birmingham. 7. Greg and Tracey Johnston of W. Bloomfield, Julia Krivoy of Franklin, Michael Casey-Palmisano of Franklin and Roger Mali of Bingham Farms. 8. Executive Director of BEF Alison Hendry of Troy and Diana Patterson of Birmingham.

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ENDNOTE

SAD necessary tool to preserve services loomfield Township voters on August 6 will be asked whether to support a 2.3-mill tax dedicated to public safety departments in the township through a 15-year special assessment district (SAD) that will generate about $9 million per year. If approved, the township would cease to collect a current general millage of 1.25 mills, resulting in an overall increase of current taxes by 1.05 mills.

One mill is equal to $1 per every $1,000 of a home's taxable value, which is typically half as much as a home's market value. The average taxable value of a home in Bloomfield Township is $215,234 ($430,468 market value), meaning the average homeowner would pay about $226 per year for the SAD. The genesis for the proposed SAD comes from a recent change in state law requiring municipalities to change the way they fund retiree benefits, specifically Other Post Employee Benefits (OPEB), such as health care and life insurance. Those benefits include current retirees who negotiated benefit packages with the township over the past several decades – of which about 70 percent in the township are former police and fire employees. The law, known as Public Act 202 of 2017, requires communities to have at least 40 percent of total OPEB obligations paid in full if the annual payment totals more than 12 percent of the municipality's total revenues.

Prior to the law, all communities could pay OPEB premiums as they came due each year. The previous process wasn't an issue for Bloomfield Township, which has always made annual payments without fail. However, state legislators, pointing to cashstrapped communities that defaulted on promised

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retiree benefits, decided it's best to protect government employees by upping the equity in those accounts.

For Bloomfield Township, the new law means coughing up $65 million – or 40 percent of the total $164 million OPEB liabilities. While the township has some 30-years to pay down the balance, retiree health care costs alone will total about $2 million per year. Additionally, the township is on the hook for $3.5 million to $4 million a year for its defined benefit plan for active employees and retirees. Again, at least 70 percent of those stem from public safety. In total, the township now faces a "structural" budget deficit of $5 million to $7 million each year, meaning that one-time fixes won't remedy the problem.

The SAD would provide about $1.5 million annually toward OPEB and defined benefit obligations owed to police and fire employees and retirees. Another $500,000 from the general fund would be used to cover the cost of other staff and retirees. Currently, the general fund contributes about $6.6 million to public safety which would be eliminated, because the SAD would cover it.

Despite allegations from a vocal group of naysayers, none of this was the doing of current board members or administrators. The bill has come due from the days of rich benefit packages when, prior to the Headlee Amendment in 1978, Michigan residents saw their home values and property taxes skyrocket year after year. Rather than ask voters for higher millage rates, municipalities across the state offered up retiree benefits in place of wage increases.

With the bill not expected to come due for decades, those retirement packages became the standard for

generations of employees, with Bloomfield Township being no different. Now the piper has to be paid.

Addressing the debt requires a meaningful, longterm solution on the part of the township, which is being done. Nickle-and-dime cuts to the annual budget won't do it, as some folks have suggested. Nor can the township get there by slashing the level of services residents have come to expect.

Such considerations should be taken into account by voters who have been bombarded with misinformation and claims of fiscal irresponsibility made by obstructionists who have opposed the proposed SAD, along with nearly any other action taken by the majority of the township board.

Whether or not the proposed SAD is supported, OPEB and defined benefit obligations must be paid.

That means rejection of the SAD in August will lead to numerous cuts, including the elimination of 10 police officer positions and eight firefighters and paramedics. To keep road patrols at current levels, support for school liaison officers, joint task forces and other assignments would be pulled.

Additional cuts to service would include eliminating $1.4 million from the general fund to the road department, meaning less road maintenance, and the elimination of the township's animal welfare division. Property owners would still pay more each year, as a one-percent administration fee for property taxes would be assessed, on top of cuts to services.

We recommend a YES vote for the SAD. The township has done its due diligence to find a responsible solution, with the state approving their plan. The average cost to homeowners is reasonable to maintain the quality of life for residents.

Support parking bond and city's future irmingham voters on August 6 are being asked to approve a bond proposal in the amount of up to $57.4 million to secure financing for replacement of the N. Old Woodward parking structure and an extension of Bates Street. It's the first phase of the Woodward Bates project, which potentially will add a public plaza, a bridge to Booth Park, a five-story building fronting Old Woodward to become an RH (Restoration Hardware) Gallery store with rooftop restaurant, a residential and commercial building on Willits Street, and a residential building along the rear of the four-acre parcel as part of a public-private partnership.

There is no cost to residents if the bonds are approved – i.e. no taxes – but state law requires all municipalities to obtain approval of its residents when going for a general obligation bond because the full faith and credit of the community is being pledged. The bonds will be paid off with revenues from the city's parking system, the same system followed successfully in the past by the city with all other parking structures.

Birmingham has a AAA rating from both Standard & Poor's and Moody's, and over 90 percent of its bonding capacity available, a strong financial position thanks to decades of solid management.

The idea for the Woodward Bates project has been germinating for 20 years since urban designer Andres Duany first proposed it as part of Birmingham's 2016 Plan, which has been faithfully followed since its inception. At a recent conceptual meeting for the city's

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new city-wide master plan, which Duany and his company (DPZ) are doing, he reaffirmed his commitment to the concept and to this project, which is being developed by Woodward Bates Partners, LLC, comprising Victor Saroki of Saroki Architecture in Birmingham; Paul Robertson of Robertson Brothers Homes in Bloomfield Hills; John Rakolta Jr., of Walbridge in Detroit, and Ron Boji of The Boji Group in Lansing.

The city's primary goal is to help alleviate a significant parking shortage in Birmingham. The old, decaying structure has outlived its lifespan and we don't need to educate readers about the problem with parking, which has been under study by officials and outside experts for several years. Currently, between the N. Old Woodward structure and adjacent surface lot, there are 745 parking spaces. The new structure will provide the city with 1,157 spaces. Concerns that all of the new spaces will be consumed by tenants in the new buildings are unfounded, as one building is all residential, which will have its own parking on site, and another is at least partially residential and will also provide self-contained parking.

Birmingham is proactively working on parking mitigation plans for current users of the N. Old Woodward garage for the approximate two years of demolition and reconstruction. There will be additional valets, shuttle services with established companies to off-site locations and a number of other options now being refined.

This is a vote on a necessary parking bond but the opportunity to breathe life into an underutilized parcel is icing on the cake, as city-owned land will be leased to the development group on a long-term basis, generating new property taxes. Equally important, Birmingham – often ranked nationally as one of the more successful small towns – must continue to maintain its health and standing in the region which can be easily lost to neighboring communities that have started to mimic the model created here.

Voters should be aware that the other finalist who had a proposal under consideration but was not chosen has gone to court. Watch out for a possible campaign against the ballot issue from acolytes of this person and others dispensing inaccurate information to befuddle residents in hopes of defeating this project.

Birmingham is putting the bond question on the August ballot, rather than waiting for November's general election, because parking is at a crisis state, and time and cost increases are critical concerns. The development group is contributing to defray election costs – not unusual in these situations. Construction, design and engineering must be locked in immediately in order to begin – and finish – as soon as possible. This is an exciting time for the city with the proposal for a new parking deck and surrounding multi-use development. Voters must say YES to help Birmingham move forward.

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