Downtown Newsmagazine | Birmingham/Bloomfield

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K-12 DEI THREATS

As part of the ongoing culture wars the Trump administration began earlier this year to attack DEI policies in government and at universities but now a threat has been issued that K-12 federal funding could be in jeopardy over the issue.

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CRIME MAP

A recap of select categories of crime occurring in the past month in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills, presented in map format, plus a reminder about our online interactive map with story details on public safety incidents.

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OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL

Campaign stumbles by Stevens and McMorrow; John James ethical missteps; Rinke may run (for Congress); Yatooma seeks SOS nod; Hollier changing races; Mike Johnson’s Birmingham welcome; plus more

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MUNICIPAL

Changes for Birmingham Athletic Club; deer control in Bloomfield Township; citizen survey in Birmingham; longvacant Woodward lot plan; community center panel seeks direction; plus more.

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VOTER GUIDE

Candidates for city commission in Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham and library board hopefuls in Birmingham address some of the issues.

HENRY BEGUELIN

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David Hohendorf

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Lisa Brody

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Laurie Tennent Studio

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C R I M E M A P

I

N C O M I N G

What’s next for Next?

At the Febr uar y 10 meeting of the Bir mingham City Commission, I spoke in opposition to a proposed special election seeking taxpayer approval for a $30 million bond to constr uct a “Community Center ” at 400 East Lincoln The new facility would primarily ser ve as a per manent home for NEXT, the nonprofit ser ving senior citizens in Beverly Hills, Bir mingham, Bingham Far ms and Franklin

I had three messages for the city staff and commissioners: The bond request had zero chance of passing; stop telling NEXT they ’ re getting a $30 million home, essentially rentfree forever; and instr uct your ad hoc committee to explore alter native options

My testimony ended with this war ning: “If you don’t change course, the biggest loser will be Next ” Eight months later the commission voted 5-2 not to place a bond request on the November general election ballot What wasn’t deter mined was what options are being explored There’s concer n that city officials are craf ting a lease with Next for 400 East Lincoln that would evict the YMCA and transfer to Next all operational and maintenance obligations

Any lease between the City of Bir mingham and Next should mir ror the city ’ s cur rent lease with the YMCA, clearly stating that 100 percent of the operational costs for the building are the responsibility of the tenant (Next) This would include, but not be limited to, utilities (water, sewer, electricity, and natural gas), roof and wall maintenance, HVAC maintenance and/or replacement, proper ty and liability insurance janitorial ser vices, landscape maintenance, snow and ice removal, and pool maintenance

What would that cost Next? It’s estimated that the YMCA is cur rently spending between $500,000 to $600,000 annually to cover operating expenses At a recent meeting of the Ad Hoc Senior/ Recreation Committee, a $260,000 number was casually discussed with no detail to suppor t that figure

Proposals to shif t some city offices to the building and shut down whole floors would offer insignificant savings Without the YMCA, which has made it clear they ’ re no longer interested in being a co -tenant, Next would shoulder the cost of maintaining the swimming pool, which cannot be “mothballed” as has

been suggested, without destroying it How ironic that the one feature of the building Bir mingham taxpayers said they wanted was the pool, which would be the ver y feature denied them

For tunately, the MOU, craf ted carefully by the city, took the possibility of insur mountable difficulties and better options into consideration It states: If for some reason a mutually agreeable lease ar rangement between the City of Bir mingham and Next fails to be achieved, then in a showing of good faith, the city will retur n the Five Hundred Thousand ($500,000) contribution from Next toward the purchase price of the proper ty ”

The city should cut Next a check and star t from scratch

Commissioners made the right decision to keep the bond request off the November ballot They now need, with open minds, to ask two questions: What oppor tunities and sources of financial suppor t for Next are available in Bir mingham as well as Bingham Far ms, Beverly Hills and Franklin? And is the YMCA committed to staying in Bir mingham long ter m?

Until these questions are answered, commissioners should not even look at a lease

I end with the war ning I gave to the city and commission back in Febr uar y: “If you don’t change course, the biggest loser will be Next ” Paul Reagan Bir mingham

Move Next into city building

Foolish me -- I thought the city commission had finally decided to proceed with Next moving into the city owned YMCA building per the MOU agreement

But no, the commission seems deter mined to consider any and all alter natives all over again The commission should refer to my previous letter, laying out the reasons for moving Next into the city owned facility Now, af ter many meetings, several hundred thousand tax dollars and much political handwringing, you have still not reached consensus?

Seniors deser ve better from the commission Most members of the commission were on the commission when the proper ty was purchased and the MOU was agreed to As you know, Next provides an outstanding ar ray of ser vices for seniors at the old but still functional Midvale school The YMCA building does suffer from

years of maintenance defer ment, which reflects on the long suffering financial condition of the YMCA

Cities in Michigan have specific statutor y authority to fund senior ser vice centers, but to my knowledge cities do not have authority to fund a YMCA There are cur rently 38 municipal entities in Oakland county, providing senior ser vices

The decision regarding reuse of the building, versus demolition and rebuild, has continued to be discussed af ter the last commission discussion on this matter The ad-hoc committee which recently met now seeks your guidance

Again, your direction should be to move for ward with Next moving into the city owned YMCA building per the MOU The city has experience with rebuilding public buildings instead of tearing them down and rebuilding, including the City Hall and librar y Granted these buildings have and do still have a strong architectural presence However, one of our old buildings which clearly has less architectural character and was clearly in poor operational condition was the retired sanitar y sewer treatment plant at Lincoln Hills golf course Talk about a sow ’ s ear being tur ned into a silk purse The BBAC is a splendid reuse of a building that houses an absolutely stunning center for the ar ts I have personally overseen the renovation of an old building into a combined fire depar tment/senior center in Lawrence, Kansas I would also think that demolition of the YMCA building without Next concur rence would be prohibited by the MOU

The plan to reuse the old YMCA building can and will work You have an excellent senior ser vices provider in Next Next is willing and capable of moving into the old YMCA building and making it work

You have had the plan in front of you based on the MOU but you have spent 2 5 years discussing numerous other alter native ways to provide a senior center

The original proposal will work and will cost significantly less than a teardown and rebuild The only thing it won’t be is as pretty as a new building However, the tr ue beauty of this building is what occurs inside the facility I’ve worked with and overseen a fair number of senior centers, and I can honestly say none come close to the care, suppor t, and

yes, love that Next provides to the seniors population

To continue the commission discussion any fur ther is in my opinion nothing shor t of “elder neglect ” Next needs to know you suppor t them The seniors need to know that they will have time to transition into the Y building so they can continue the social engagement they receive from Next and which is so vital to their ongoing health

Next needs to move for ward and get a feel for what they need before spending more consultant dollars

Chris Braun is a strong leader and manager and will be able to manage the transition in ter ms of move-in and scheduling any pre move-in essential improvements

The long-ter m needs of the senior population can be a continued conversation in the community without the undo time pressure you are now constrained to Don’t do what the school district has done when they broke their promise to provide space for our seniors You recall the seniors were provided space in school facilities for years under the banner of “lifelong lear ning “ The silent quid pro quo was the suppor t the seniors provided the school district at the ballot box This ar rangement was cer tainly beneficial to the cities as well The cities were relieved of suppor ting seniors without the exception of a modest annual contribution And while I’m discussing the schools, the school district should be approached about one of the numerous swimming pools for community use under the community education program The YMCA pool is the dog of the building and needs to be filled and tur ned into a multi-spor t cour t

The seniors are not feeling they are being suppor ted, and the commission needs to openly express their suppor t to this impor tant population in the city “Doing the right thing“ in this context is giving your strong suppor t for Next to move into the city owned YMCA building under the MOU As Brad Host is fond of saying: “Seniors have paid for ward to the city over several decades ” It’s time the city commission retur ns the favor and provides the retur n on their investment

Thomas Mark us

For mer City Manager

City of Bir mingham

Oakland Confidential is a column of political gossip/news, gathered both on and off-therecord We welcome possible items for this column which can be emailed to: OaklandConfidential@DowntownPublications com All sources are kept strictly confidential

OOPS, CAMPAIGN STUMBLES: We wish we could say politicians never make an er ror or put their foot in their mouths, but then we’d probably have to change the definition of ‘politician ’ Lately, two candidates competing for the Democratic primar y U S Senate nod have been taking tur ns making cringewor thy er rors First, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D - Oakland County) – or her campaign apparatus – er roneously claimed in a social media post that she had won the endorsement of Ber rien County Commissioner Chokwe Pitchford However – she hadn’t The endorsement claim was quickly removed, but Pitchford decided to capitalize on his newfound fame, posting a message on X that he’d never communicated with Stevens’ team about an endorsement, or anything Stevens’ campaign spokeswoman, Reeves Oyster – who is of ten difficult to communicate with – told The Detroit News, “ There was a miscommunication ” Pitchford told The News he had been in contact with both of Stevens’ competitors campaigns, state Sen Mallor y McMor row (DRoyal Oak, Bir mingham, Detroit) and for mer Wayne County Health official Abdul El-Sayed, ultimately rewarding McMor row with his for mal backing “ We need someone who understands the moment: humanity, the grit, and the need for longer ter m relationship building with local elected officials and community leaders Mallor y McMor row is that leader,” Pitchford said in a statement In another foot-in-mouth moment (or just a lack of a proper histor y lesson?), Stevens, in announcing a new bill to prevent the use of the militar y or national guard by President Tr ump, said, “Mike Rogers just called to deploy the National Guard to Detroit Was wrong in ‘67 and it’s wrong now ” Those of us with a few strands of gray in our hair have to school the young ‘ uns During 1967 Detroit Riot, or Rebellion as it is known now to some, was not just an increase in day-to -day civil crime but resulted in 43 deaths, 1,189 injured, over 7,200 ar rests, and more than 400 buildings destroyed A tad different than what Tr ump claims he is dealing with today Michigan Gov George Romney ordered the Michigan National Guard into Detroit, and President Lyndon Johnson sent in the U S Ar my ’ s 82d and 101st Airbor ne Divisions But McMor row ’ s hands are not untar nished While par t of her state senate district encompasses nor thwest Detroit, there have been complaints, highlighted by for mer state Representative and cur rent Detroit School Board member Sher r y GayDagnogo who told Fox-2 News McMor row has “pretty much been AWOL in representing her par t of the city of Detroit as a Senate member for Michigan,” af ter it was revealed that the campaign’s strategy to reach out to Blacks was through “ rappers and influencers ” Fox-2 said that “ some in the Black community were upset, saying there needs to be a more authentic approach to reaching out to Black voters ” McMor row responded by saying she would do better

ETHICAL MISSTEPS: Congressman John (what am I r unning for now)

James (R-Rochester, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, most of souther n Macomb County) has been campaigning for some office or another the last eight years or so that you would think he’d have the r ules of r unning down pat But, no - o - o - o - o - o! Joel Ruther ford, a 10th District constituent and an Air Force veteran, filed a U S House Ethics Committee complaint against James for “blatant misuse of taxpayer money to help his campaign ” According to Ruther ford, James used taxpayer-funded federal gover nment resources to promote his campaign for gover nor, which would be illegal and a potential ethics violation The U S Hatch Act states that federal employees – including elected officials – cannot engage in par tisan political activity while on duty or in a gover nment workplace, use their official authority to influence an election, or solicit political contributions at any time Ruther ford stated that on August 20, James and his congressional office hosted an

STEVENS

MCMORROW

JAMES

official “Backpack Giveaway Event” at Jimmy John’s Field in Utica, MI The event was hosted and advised by James’ congressional office with the official congressional seal of the United States Congress However – at the venue, the backpacks were sur rounded by John James for Gover nor posters One Republican strategist noted that is one of the problems with office staff working on campaign events “It’s carelessness,” he said, noting James’ guber natorial announcement was on his congressional website “ Take the time and rewrite your website ” At the same time, Republican guber natorial candidate Tom Leonard unveiled the Michigan Accountability and Ethics Package, a sweeping plan to restore integrity and transparency in Lansing, along with an Independent Ethics Commission “Michiganders deser ve a transparent and accountable gover nment they can tr ust, and our campaign is about providing real solutions to make that happen ”

TIME OF RECKONING: With only 11 months remaining before the 2026 primar y election, we can assume that the likely list for par ty candidates will fir m up soon That process could happen quickly now that we hear Republican Kevin Rinke, who made his millions with the Rinke Automotive Group and a couple of medical field ventures, could be zeroing in on plans for the coming year Rinke’s name has been par t of a number of conversations since he ran for gover nor in 2022, losing out in the par ty primar y by taking only 21 5 percent of the vote against Tudor Dixon This year political wags have figured him as a possible contender for the state’s top spot, for which last time he spent $10 million of his personal money But we are now told that Rinke is looking to jump into the 10th district race for the U S House seat being vacated by John James He has told more than one person that he is willing to commit $5 million of his personal wealth to get in this contest for a district which is made up of the souther n par t of Macomb County along with par ts of Oakland County, including Rochester and Rochester Hills Yes, he would legitimately be considered a carpet bagger, much like James when he first ran for the House, although members of Congress do not have to live in the district We hear from several GOP insiders that Macomb County attor ney Rober t Lulgjuraj of Sterling Heights, a declared candidate, remains the par ty favorite But we also continue to hear that Michael Bouchard, Jr – Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard’ s son – is still interested in this race and his father has been attempting to raise campaign funds in Washington D C but is finding it a difficult hustle If Rinke enters the contest, watch the field quickly nar row Money talks and bs walks, as the old adage goes

UNDER SIEGE: Democrats are not pleased to have lost Michigan’s 7th Congressional District last election cycle, af ter for mer Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin pursued and won the open Senate seat vacated by retiring Senator Debbie Stabenow (D) Cur rently held by GOP Rep Tom Bar rett, the midMichigan district is getting the attention of a couple of highlevel Dems who previously ser ved in the Obama and Biden administrations For mer U S Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink, who ser ved under for mer President Joe Biden, had announced she was r unning for Congress in June Brink also ser ved under for mer President Barak Obama at the deputy director of U S State Depar tment and the National Security Council She was appointed ambassador to Slovenia by President Donald Tr ump in his first ter m before becoming ambassador to Ukraine in 2022 Brink will face a fellow Obama administration alum in the August primar y as for mer Navy SEAL Matt Maasdam, who was a militar y aide to Obama and car ried the “nuclear football” for the for mer president, has jumped into the race On September 17, according to Punchbowl, a slew of Obama alums held a Washington D C fundraiser for Maasdam to get his campaign star ted Among those listed on the invite list were Jay Car ney, Ben LaBolt, Stephanie Cutter, Jim Messina, for mer Sen Tom Daschle (D -S D ), for mer Obama body man Reggie Love, for mer White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough, for mer UN Ambassador Susan Rice, for mer HHS Secretar y Kathleen Sebelius and Alyssa Mastromonaco, a top Obama aide

MONICA WHO?: The race for Republican candidate for Secretar y of State has a new candidate, with Monica Yatooma of Commerce Township

BRINK MAASDAAM

announcing in early September that she was “officially in the race ” Yatooma said, “I’m a Christian, mom, and activist, bor n in Detroit to legal immigrants and blessed with the oppor tunity to star t my own business, lear ning firsthand how to solve difficult problems, prevent fraud, and root out inefficiencies ” A businesswoman, she owns a hazardous waste removal company called Metro Detroit Medical Waste and co -founded a grassroots advocacy organization, the Great Education Initiative, that works to strengthen parents’ rights and local control within the school system and is an “advocacy organization that helped parents take back school board seats across Michigan ” She said she first became motivated to act “when our children’s future was at stake during the COVID -19 lockdowns and ensuing mask mandates, I stepped up and fought back ” An avid Tr ump suppor ter and 2020 election denier Yatooma’s push for the par ty nomination may well create a showdown between two MAGA contenders, assuming that for mer guber natorial contender Tudor Dixon announces for SOS as we were told last month We circled back with our GOP source who contends that a Dixon announcement will still happen

NEW FACE: Look for state Rep Jason Hoskins (D -Southfield, Lathr up Village, Far mington, Far mington Hills) to announce that he will r un for the state senate seat that Jeremy Moss (D) is vacating to r un for Congress in the 11thdistrict Hoskins began his political career as a legislative aide to Moss before r unning for Moss' old state Rep seat in 2022

WHERE’S HOLLIER: The last few years, promising Detroit Democratic politician Adam Hollier, a for mer state senator, has appeared to be floundering He was one of eight Black individuals who ran against Shri Thanedar in 2022 for the majority Black 13th Congressional seat, only to come up shor t against Thanedar ’ s self-funded war chest of millions He tried again in 2024, and failed to make the ballot He had announced another r un for 2026, but staring at that war chest once again, he has decided to r un instead for Michigan Secretar y of State In his announcement, he said he was a U S Ar my Paratrooper who ser ved two ter ms in the Michigan state Senate and was later tapped by Gover nor Whitmer to ser ve as director of Michigan’s Veterans Affairs Agency “Our fundamental rights are under attack like never before Donald Tr ump and his MAGA allies have put ever ything from free and fair elections to the right to vote on the chopping block” said Hollier “As a U S Ar my Paratrooper, I’m trained to go where the challenge is greatest As your Secretar y of State, I will lead the fight against any assaults on our fundamental freedoms, and will never back down in the face of these undemocratic and unconstitutional attacks ” He also pledged to invest in local clerks, ensuring they have the necessar y resources to conduct elections fairly and efficiently Also r unning for the post are Ingham County Clerk Barb Byr um and Deputy Secretar y of State Aghogho Edevbie.

WECOME COMMIT TEE: We’re sure U S House Speaker Mike Johnson is more accustomed to adoring crowds and fawning Republican members of Congress But that’s not what he got when he checked into the Townsend Hotel in Bir mingham on Tuesday, August 26, a night ahead of a fundraiser the next day at the home of Bobby Schostak, Michigan GOP chair man from 2011-2015, on the board of the real estate development company Schostak Brothers and founder of the Templar Baker Group, a strategic political and business consulting company that counts among its par tners the noted Peter Kar manos Instead, about 50 protesters positioned themselves outside of the luxur y hotel, replete with signs, anti-Tr ump administration chants and a message projected on the side of the Townsend calling Johnson a “Guardian of Pedophiles ” Bir mingham police provided assistance to U S Capitol Police while waiting for ar rival of Johnson at the hotel, according to an incident repor t we pulled from the depar tment The next mor ning the Oakland County Sheriff Depar tment had road blocks or check points on the Bir mingham street where Schostak lives Sheriff Mike Bouchard told us that his depar tment is of ten requested to provide var ying degrees of security assistance when political pooh-bahs are in town No word on whose behalf the fundraiser was being held, although a couple of par ty insiders speculated it could be for Congressman Tom Bar rett who is seeking a second ter m for U S House District 7, which is centered around Lansing but sprawls as far away as a small por tion of Oakland County When Bar rett first ran and lost an election attempt in this district against now -Senator Elissa Slotkin, the race cost well over $30 million, the most expensive House contest in the histor y of the countr y

YATOOMA

FA C E S

Ignacio Gerson

Some people have the innate ability to predict what business trends will burgeon into something big, and Ignacio Gerson is someone with that kind of Midas touch.

The Bloomfield Hills resident grew up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, ”a very fastpaced city much like San Fransisco or New York City, where you walk out your front door and everything is right there I came to the United States to pursue a career in technology and entered the creative side, that included design, animation and video gaming,” Gerson said

He soon founded his own gaming company in the early 2000s, and had four different gaming patents, leading the company to success

By 2010, he was ready for something new and sold his gaming business to start a totally new endeavor in Miami, as a travel executive with a brand new concept

“It was a platform for tourism like Expedia, where technology was used for booking tours and professional tour guides for famous museums like the Louvre and Guggenheim museums

“It was an exciting business that was really taking off and then the pandemic hit,” said Gerson Leisure travel was virtually cut off, and the unstoppable entrepreneur made another bold pivot and moved to Detroit to start an Argentinian restaurant with his boyhood friend, Chef Javier Bardauil. “After traveling to downtown Detroit I saw an opportunity to take over one of the many restaurants that were closing and live my dream of bringing the first Argentinian restaurant to the city,” said the visionary businessman His restaurant Barda brought Patagonia-style Latin American cuisine to Metro Detroit The restaurant was nominated for a James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2022, their first year in business.

Still keeping ties in Argentina, Gerson was continuing to build another business near to his heart – SHOCK Gelato – a popular artisanal gelato brand he founded in Buenos Aires in 2017, with over 10 locations there

“After selling my interest in Barda several years ago, I was looking for an opportunity to have a more hands-on family life here,’ said the father of two. The answer was opening the first U.S. SHOCK Gelato a month ago with his cousin, Luciano Barosio, at 335 E Maple Road, in downtown Birmingham The company is known for its handcrafted, high-quality gelato made with authentic techniques and “farm to scoop” ingredients, with 36 gourmet classics like pistachio and Dulce de Leche, to bold creations like White Chocolate Passion Fruit and Lemon Ginger Mint sorbet.

“I’m passionate about SHOCK’s mission to deliver artisanal gelato, and to deliver this kind of craftsmanship to American customers for the first time,’ said Gerson “We use local ingredients sourced in Michigan with no preservatives –not only guaranteeing a superior taste and freshness but also supporting the local economy,” he said.

Shock’s menu also includes Intelligencia coffee, and exquisite cakes and “masitas,” all created by pastry chef and gelato master Barbara Lafage

Gerson has many plans for the future, including live music at the Birmingham gelato location, and the addition of up to seven new stores in Michigan “I’m also setting up a home delivery service for customers who want to indulge in this special dessert in the comfort of their own home, all year long,” Gerson explained

After the many businesses he has founded through the years, what does the energetic entrepreneur feel has been his key to success? Said Gerson, ”It means so much to me to have brought a bit of Argentina here and to continue to take risks to create total joy experiences for customers through my businesses –it’s something that’s my biggest priority and my real recipe for success.”

Story: Susan Peck

Laurie Tennent

Photo:

K-12 DEI THREAT

SCHOOLS RELUCTANT TO TALK AB OUT

POS SIBLE $$ LOS S

B Y STACY GIT TLEMAN

Donald Tr ump made fighting “woke lef t diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)” practices the cor nerstone of his education policy during his 2024 presidential campaign Tr ump made good on these promises when, in Januar y 2025, he issued multiple executive orders targeting DEI across the federal gover nment, federal contractors, and educational institutions The orders, which have been challenged in cour t, aim to end DEI initiatives by cutting funding to K-12 schools and instituting investigations

However, while local school districts may be toning down or rebranding DEI language on their websites, they remain committed to delivering the values of DEI despite the threats from the federal gover nment Nearly all school districts in the depths of the COVID pandemic lockdown in 2020 passed DEI resolutions following the murder of George Floyd in May of 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota Tr ump ’ s executive orders include EO 14151, which mandates the end of all DEI programs and contracting agencies in the federal gover nment, and EO 14173, which rescinds a 1965 executive order that had required affir mative action plans for federal contractors EO 14173 also requires the United States Attor ney General to develop an enforcement plan targeting “discriminator y ” DEI practitioners in the private sector and higher education Lastly, EO 14168 defines “ sex ” as a biological binar y and instr ucts federal agencies to remove policies promoting “gender identity ideology ”

The executive orders placed higher education and K-12 education institutions on guard with threats to federal funding if schools continue with DEI initiatives Specifically relating to the K-12 arena, the administration instr ucted the United States Depar tment of Education to reverse equity effor ts in schools because they are now considered racially discriminator y

On Febr uar y 14, the U S Depar tment of Gover nment Efficiency (DOGE) followed up on these executive ordrs It released a letter that threatened DEI programming, citing that race-based initiatives have tainted American institutions, especially if they are used as a factor deter mining admissions, financial aid, hiring, and other operations DOGE said of ten these measures are to the detriment of white and Asian students, many of whom come from disadvantaged and lowincome backgrounds, the letter said

The letter stated: “Educational institutions have toxically indoctrinated students with the false premise that the United States is built upon ‘systemic and str uctural racism’ and advanced discriminator y policies and practices Proponents of these discriminator y practices have attempted to fur ther justif y them par ticularly during the last four years under the banner of DEI, smuggling racial stereotypes and explicit race-consciousness into ever yday training, programming and discipline But under any banner, discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin is, has been and will continue to be illegal, according to the letter

The letter cited the Supreme Cour t’s 2023 decision in Students for Fair Admissions v Har vard, which clarified that the use of racial preferences in college admissions is unlawful, sets for th a framework for evaluating the use of race by state actors and entities covered by Title VI

According to the letter, the U S Supreme Cour t deter mined that there are only two compelling examples when to deploy race-based decisions and actions: “(1) remediating specific, identified instances of past discrimination that violated the Constitution or a statute; and (2) avoiding imminent and serious risks to human safety in prisons, such as a race riot ”

DOGE harshly rebuked DEI programs that “teach students that cer tain racial groups bear unique moral burdens that others do not Such programs stigmatize students who belong to racial groups based on cr ude racial stereotypes “

It concluded: “ The Depar tment will no longer tolerate the over t and cover t racial discrimination that has become widespread in this nation’s educational institutions The law is clear: treating students differently on the basis of race to achieve nebulous goals such as diversity, racial balancing, social justice, or equity is illegal under controlling Supreme Cour t precedent All students are entitled to a school environment free from discrimination The Depar tment is committed to ensuring those principles are a reality ”

On April 3, the depar tment of education released a letter echoing messages from the DOGE letter It stated that it would allocate federal financial assistance to state K-12 public education depar tments on the condition that they would be consistent with the Tr ump administration’s view that effor ts suppor ting diversity, equity and inclusion are unlawful

On April 25, Michigan Attor ney General Dana Nessel, along with

19 state attor neys general, announced she had filed a lawsuit that challenged the depar tment of education’s threat to withhold federal funding from state and local agencies that refuse to abandon lawful programs and policies that promote equal access to education in the nation’s K-12 classrooms Other states in the lawsuit include Califor nia, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawai‘i, Illinois, Mar yland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Ver mont, Washington and Wisconsin

Nessel’s office described the depar tment of edcuation interpretation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in respect to DEI as “legally incoherent ” States were expected to adapt this interpretation, outlined in the April DOE letter, or risk immediate and catastrophic loss of federal education funds

According to Nessel’s office, Michigan, like many other states, declined to sign the cer tification for m as draf ted, explaining that there is no lawful or practical way to do so given the depar tment’s vague, contradictor y and unsuppor ted interpretation of Title VI

“ That the federal gover nment would strangle our schools and shutter classrooms to achieve their political attacks on DEI programming is appalling,” Nessel stated in a press release from April 25 “Our educational agencies cannot be expected to comply with legally incoherent demands that undercut the 1964 Civil Rights Act, par ticularly when our schools are not in violation of Title VI and have annually cer tified compliance with this law Federal educational funds are a significant por tion of the funding needed to teach the children of our state, and right now, in the face of these unlawful demands, we ’ re fighting the Tr ump administration just to keep special education in our public schools ” For fiscal year 2024, Michigan was allocated $1 267 billion in congressionally mandated financial suppor t through the U S Depar tment of Education for a wide variety of needs and ser vices related to children and education This funding includes financial suppor t to ensure that students from low -income families have the same access to high-quality education as their peers, provide special education ser vices, recr uit and train highly skilled and dedicated teachers, fund programming for nonnative speakers to lear n English, and provide suppor t to vulnerable children who are in foster care and without housing As a condition of receiving these funds, state and local education agencies provide written assurances that they will comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin, and Michigan has consistently and regularly cer tified its compliance with Title VI and its implementing regulations

According to Nessel, the April DOE letter presented the state depar tments of education and local school districts with an impossible choice

“ There are two untenable options,” read the press release “Either refuse to cer tif y compliance based on the Depar tment’s undefined viewpoint on what constitutes unlawful diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, cur riculum, instr uction, and policies, and place federal funding in peril, or, cer tif y compliance, attempt to identif y and eliminate lawful diversity, equity, and inclusion to the detriment of students, and still face liability for failing to comply with the DOE’s vague and ill-defined order ”

Faced with this choice, the Michigan Depar tment of Education infor med the federal depar tment of education that it would continue to stand by its prior cer tifications of compliance with Title VI and would not give in to the unlawfully issued cer tification, according to Nessel

In the lawsuit, Nessel and the multi-state coalition asser t that the depar tment’s attempt to ter minate federal education funding based on its misinterpretation of Title VI violates the Spending Clause, the Appropriations Clause, the separation of powers, and the Administrative Procedures Act of the U S Constitution

According to Danny Wimmer, Nessel’s press secretar y, as of press time, the federal depar tment of education has not acted on the demands of the lawsuit, nor has it sought to withhold funding due to states’ and districts’ decisions not to cer tif y the order as initially

demanded The lawsuit remains pending, with a status conference scheduled for October 6

“ The U S Deparetment of Education has attempted to cut several education programs, though it is not always clear if the cuts are specifically tied to the administration’s effor ts against DEI initiatives,” Wimmer wrote in an email “AG Nessel has successfully recovered many millions of dollars in funding to local districts that the administration has attempted to cut, including $25 million intended for pandemic relief funding, funds to suppor t building upgrades, and $171 million in Title VI funding Another case is pending related to funding cuts to school-based mental health ”

On August 14 a federal judge in Mar yland blocked two Tr ump administration actions aimed at eliminating DEI programs at the nation’s schools and universities, citing that the federal depar tment o education violated the law with these draconian measures The new r uling orders the DOE to scrap the guidance because it r uns against procedural requirements

On June 9, 2020, the Michigan Depar tment of Education passed an anti-racism resolution stating: “Educators as lifelong lear ners are obligated to teach and lear n about race and racism and should be provided with the development tools and resources to facilitate discussions on racism, understand and teach about racism’s origins If necessar y, the state’s school districts must make amendments and adjustments to cur ricula, training, policies, and systemic practices used in schools to help root out racism The resolution committed the state DOE to review cur rent and proposed state budgets, standards, policies, legislation, and policy guidance to ensure that they promote equity and aggressively discourage and disr upt practices that allow racial inequities to persist ”

State Superintendent of Education Dr Michael Rice is set to retire this month on October 3 Leading up to his depar ture, Rice released several memorandums that focused on “Belonging and Inclusion” in response to threats to K-12 schools that actively deploy DEI initiatives

Responding to the Tr ump administration’s Febr uar y 14 letter, on Febr uar y 27, he wrote: “ The MDOE continues to suppor t diversity in literature, comprehensive histor y instr uction, and broad recr uitment for students and suppor t staff to become teachers ”

The letter continued: “MDE disagrees that pre-K-12 programs that promote diversity, representing all children, regardless of race, and inclusion of all children, regardless of race, inherently har m par ticular groups of children and are de facto violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ”

Rice wrote in a September 2 memo that as superintendent, he attempted to create a culture of belonging for the students of Michigan’s 824 local school districts and 56 inter mediate school districts, even during the COVID pandemic Now, state educators have the legal obligation to stand up to threats to public education funding cuts from the federal gover nment

Rice wrote of students’ rights to a free public education “regardless of citizenship or immigration status and an education that is free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination based on religion, race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression In tur n, public educators and staff have the right and responsibility to teach from a diverse well of viewpoints, texts, and literature that reflect the full breadth of histor y ”

While not specifically mentioning DEI or attacks on these values by the Tr ump administration, Rice wrote that the state depar tment of education has par ticipated in eight lawsuits regarding the rights and funding of students, staff and schools

Urging the state’s educators to get on the floor to be at eye-level with their students, sit in the lunchroom, or stand in the playgrounds to find any child who may appear to be lef t out, marginalize and alone, Rice wrote: “I felt it impor tant to remind some and infor m others of our legal responsibilities to children At MDE, we remain committed on the legal front to advocating for, defending, and communicating the rights of children at ever y oppor tunity Yet we know that those rights can only be fully realized in classrooms, schools, and school communities It is our local educators, suppor t

staff, and administrators who create the environments in which these hard-won protections can take root and flourish ”

At a September 9 state board of education meeting, Rice decried Lansing’s failure to meet its statutor y requirement of passing an education budget by July 1 and explained how this hur ts schoolchildren across the board as they headed back to class

“ This is unacceptable,” he told the board “ The failure to pass a timely budget has led to districts being more cautious in their spending decisions, including their staffing decisions this summer into the beginning of the school year Some districts have begun to share with parents that cer tain programs will not r un or may not r un This includes universal meals, af ter-school programs, and the hiring of additional teachers to reduce class sizes ”

Rice described the House’s proposal as an “outlier budget ”

“It fails to fund (professional) training, a pilot program to lower class sizes in high pover ty districts (from kindergar ten to Grade Three), and fails to fund research-based early literacy materials, general education, and transpor tation reimbursement ”

Rice also criticized the House budget in Section 22f, which lumped a large por tion of money into a block grant system This would require districts to compete against each other for resources that are state and federally mandated by law, such as universal meals and state summative assessments Districts would also need to compete for dollars to pay for children’s mental health, school safety, and funding to hire extra teachers for English lear ners

“I had not anticipated that my six years in the role (of Superintendent) would be marked at the beginning by a pandemic and then, at the end, marked with lawsuits,” Rice said “But this is where we are, faced with much uncer tainty, yet with the need and lawful obligation to protect children in any shape or for m, and that protection includes ser ving them in our schools ”

The Michigan Education Association (MEA), representing about 120,000 teachers, education suppor t professionals, and higher-education employees, is equally fr ustrated with the stalled state budget, coupled with teachers retur ning to school without a working contract

The Democratic-led Senate passed a budget in May that increased K-12 funding by $1 billion to continue improving teacher salaries, student mental health, school infrastr ucture and literacy initiatives Conversely, state House Republicans in August passed a budget that would diver t $1 4 billion from the classroom to fix the state’s roads Republicans in Lansing are also falling in line with Tr ump ’ s desire to ax DEI initiatives

Writing to Downtown, the MEA noted that Michigan students with special needs and those attending schools in lower-income districts also rely on federal funding to provide the extra help they need to fulfill their full potential, and any cuts to those will hur t their education and the foundations necessar y for a bright future

“ We believe that ever y student regardless of where they live, their family ’ s income or other characteristics deser ves a great education that can prepare them for life af ter graduation and the jobs of the future,” wrote Chandra Madafferi, MEA president and chief operating officer and a teacher in Oakland County “Cuts to our hometown schools will cause ir reparable har m to hundreds of thousands of students across Michigan at a time when we should be giving them more suppor t not less We are urging elected leaders on both sides of the aisle to come together to suppor t our local schools, students, and communities Our kids’ future depends on it ”

Considering they are working without a passed state budget or union contracts, no local school district, including Bir mingham, Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, Royal Oak or Troy, agreed to an inter view with Downtown for this stor y on the impact of executive orders relatie to DEI and federal funding They cited a lack of staff resources and time due to the demands of preparing their staff and buildings for the first day of school

Instead, most districts responded with written statements West Bloomfield Schools declined to comment for the stor y, and Royal Oak Schools did not respond to multiple requests for comments

As evidenced on school district websites, staffing and cur ricula offerings, none of the above districts are wavering from their DEI

initiatives DEI messaging had been growing in schools before the pandemic, but was catalyzed af ter the May 2020 murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis at the hands of police officers and the ensuing Black Lives Matter movement Each district passed a DEI resolution with a promise of reviewing and revising cur ricula that may be constr ued as perpetuating systemic racism in the public education system

`Despite the Tr ump administration’s threats to cut funding –mainly in the for m of assistance with free meals offered in schools –local districts are not backing down from cur ricula or af ter-school clubs or activities that speak to race, gender, sexuality, ethnic or religious diversity

Downtown’s review of 2025-2026 course catalogs for area high schools revealed that all are offering courses that examine race, religion, sexuality, and protest

For example, local high schools offer courses such as African American Histor y and Advanced Placement African American Histor y, advanced English seminars that examine women, feminist and LGBT literature, and a variety of contemporar y American histor y and social studies courses that offer cur ricula through the lens of various social justice and protest movements

Bloomfield Hills administrators did not respond to multiple requests for an inter view Instead, the district wrote the following to Downtown regarding its commitment towards DEI in the face of threats from the Tr ump Administration:

“Our focus is on providing high-quality educational experiences in welcoming environments where students are respected, suppor ted, and able to fully engage in their lear ning While we will follow state and federal requirements, our commitment remains to ensuring that students can lear n, grow, and thrive in Bloomfield Hills Schools ”

During a June 25, 2020, Board of Education meeting, the Bloomfield Hills school board unanimously voted in favor of a resolution to eradicate racism and create more equitable and inclusive schools for all children The impetus to pass a resolution was prompted by a student-led coalition for med during the height of the pandemic in the isolation of their bedrooms

Under the resolution, the Bloomfield Hills Schools Board of Education committed to revising its equity policy to eliminate the effects of racism on our marginalized students and staff, “decolonize the cur riculum that is racially and culturally literate across all grades and school buildings, honor the contributions of indigenous people, reduce hate incidents through anti-racism training, and expedite antiracism accounts ”

In 2021 and in years prior, the school endured multiple racist incidents targeting black students These included a bathroom wall where someone scrawled “Kill all (N-word) ” In another incident, a black doll was hung in a communal area of the school Black parents felt that administrators had not investigated the incidents seriously enough and filed a $150 million lawsuit against the district in November 2021

Attempts to implement DEI programming and address racism at the high school through a mandator y high school assembly in March of 2023 backfired, caused rif ts throughout the district, and drew inter national attention

At the student- organized assembly, Huwaida Ar raf, a human rights attor ney with Christian Palestinian heritage, was one of four who were invited to speak to discuss how they coped with any discrimination they may have encountered when they were in high school

Ar raf went off topic and, in four separate sessions, told a student body of 1,700 students, many of them Jewish, that Israel was an apar theid state committing genocide against Palestinians and must be dismantled

Af ter ward, the district saw the resignations of the high school principal, the administrator charged with DEI programming, and the superintendent

The district, in successive meetings, said that it would thoroughly investigate how the diversity assembly was organized and put in place restorative practices and student and teacher anti-hate and

anti-bias training that would car r y through the remainder of the 20232024 year and continue into the next academic calendar year

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a source with a leadership role in the district said none of that happened

“Just like ever ything else in the district, promises are made, and nothing gets done,” said the source “In tr uth, the district wanted the whole matter to be swept under the r ug and forgotten about ”

As a result of the diversity assembly fallout, the source said that Bloomfield Hills Schools began to dial back its DEI focus long before the second Tr ump administration The district has no plans to hire a new DEI administrator, for example, the source said “

Whether or not our DEI administrator resigned or was forced to resign af ter the assembly, she lef t because she was ineffective and did nothing to stop the assembly from going off the rails,” said the source “ The district has not moved to hire another DEI administrator That does not mean that the district does not offer a rich ar ray of diverse courses No matter what the Tr ump administration threatens regarding K-12 schools, nothing in Bloomfield Hills has changed We are not talking about overhauling cur riculum or getting rid of cer tain textbooks or books in our libraries because we are wor ried about losing our funding ”

The source said this includes offering courses such as AP African American Histor y and other English and social studies classes that examine multiculturalism, women ’ s and gender issues, and other issues centered on these affinity groups

The source did say, however, that if the district is put under a microscope and millions of dollars are jeopardized, the board would have to reconsider

For example, the biggest threat is losing dollars from federal funding that would drastically cut free meals for underser ved students The source acknowledged that hungr y children cannot lear n, therefore creating an inequitable lear ning environment And although that is one area that could negatively impact the district, it has more to do with the state not passing an education budget “

The fact that the state has not yet passed its education bill hur t the kids who need those free breakfasts and lunches the most,” said the source “So far, though, nothing has come to our attention that would make us believe our district is under threat We are not changing anything ”

This also means that students can for m a variety of af ter-school clubs that speak to their ethnic, religious, cultural, or sexual identity, the source added

The Troy School District stated that it squarely stands behind initiatives and a culture steeped in DEI On its website, it defines the concept as one providing a diverse and inclusive community in which each member is respected and valued The district has one full-time employee who is the administrator of district student wellness and community engagement

Troy defines DEI as a system that encompasses people of different races, genders, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, and those with visible and invisible disabilities Working under this DEI framework, the district stated that it understands that all students have dreams and ambitions, but some may have obstacles and require additional resources to reach them Inclusiveness means that each student must be recognized and appreciated for their talents, be provided with oppor tunities to get involved, and have their perspectives valued and heard

In a written response concer ning threats to funding if such concepts were continued, Kendra Montante, director of communications for Troy Public Schools, said: “ The district’s focus has always been on ensuring that ever y student feels a strong sense of belonging in our schools and classrooms For us, this means that students feel seen, respected, and suppor ted so they can fully engage in their lear ning ”

The statement continued: “ We understand that DEI can mean different things to different people Our emphasis is not on politics but on creating welcoming environments where students from all backgrounds, whether cultural, religious, linguistic, or personal, feel connected and valued ”

For example, Montante explained the district’s cur riculum continues to include world languages such as Spanish, Chinese, and French

The district also suppor ts student-led clubs, which provide spaces for students to connect with peers who share common interests, including cultural and affinity groups

“As for federal or state policy changes, our approach is simple: we will always follow the laws and regulations in place,” wrote Montante “At the same time, we remain committed to providing high-quality educational experiences that reflect the rich diversity of our community ”

In the last five years, Bir mingham Public Schools made great investments to examine its shor tcomings in teaching about race and diversity and incorporated these findings into a long-ter m strategic plan

According to a May 2022 news repor t from Capcom, Michigan’s online watchdog newspaper, Bir mingham Public Schools spent $176,000 in consulting fees to assist in its “strategic plan and culture and climate sur veys ” Capcom obtained this infor mation through a Freedom of Infor mation Act request The company also assisted with a DEI audit and compiled recommendations into an Anti-Racism Discussion Guide

The two -year audit from 2020-2022 included 4,305 sur vey respondents, including 39 percent of students, 42 percent of parents, and 19 percent of staff

The sur vey revealed that while most students agreed that the school district suppor ted individuals from diverse backgrounds and different sexual and gender identities, some said that classroom discussions do not frequently address equity and that teachers were unprepared to have discussions on these issues

The audit recommended that the district address academic disparities among minorities and economically disadvantaged students, offer more individualized education programs, conduct equity-focused professional development offerings for teachers, and address the under representation of African American, economically disadvantaged, and students with IEPs in the “proficient” categor y on the SAT, M-STEP , and other assessment tests

In tur n, Bir mingham Schools incorporated DEI messaging into its 2022-2027 strategic plan From an academic standpoint, in its student success section of its strategic plan, the district stated that it wished to reduce or eliminate disparities among students in college and career readiness, including scores in Evidenced-Based Reading & Writing and mathematics on SAT by 30 percent by 2027 and reduce and eliminate disparities in student lear ning in grades 3-8 on the MSTEP in literacy and mathematics by 30 percent by 2027

As par t of the district’s Character, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, Bir mingham offers clubs and activities at nearly all grade levels that reflect the diversity in the district

In a written statement to Downtown, Bir mingham Superintendent Dr Embekka Roberson said the 2022-2027 strategic plan demonstrates the district’s commitment to providing a safe lear ning environment where ever y student can achieve and succeed

“Developed with broad-based input from our entire school community, our strategic plan embodies our values and our mission to build upon our track record of academic excellence and success, ” read the statement “ We oppose discrimination and do not tolerate bullying, harassment, or intimidation of any kind We thoroughly investigate all repor ts of inappropriate conduct in accordance with our school policies and procedures We also encourage a culture of civility, respect, and compassion by creating venues for civil discourse and the exchange of ideas so our students can become infor med and engaged citizens ”

In a written statement to Downtown, Sheri Stuar t Collins, director of Oakland Schools communications, said that as an inter mediate school district, its mission is to suppor t the 28 local school districts and 23 public school academies in its ser vice area

“Ever ything we do is centered on helping educators create safe, suppor tive, and inclusive lear ning environments where ever y student can thrive,” she wrote “ While each local district makes its own

decisions about cur riculum and classroom programming, Oakland Schools follows the law and is committed to ensuring that educators have access to the training, resources, and suppor t they need to meet the diverse needs of their students ”

Critics of the DEI movement say that while the concept is a noble one with good intentions on paper, in practice, it has been problematic when it places people in boxes based on race and religion

David Ber nstein is executive director of the Nor th American Values Institute (NAVI) NAVI is a non-profit organization based in Mar yland that maintains a K-12 extremism tracker, collects data on extremist concepts being introduced in school cur ricula, and writes a blog about school districts and teachers’ unions that they deem are taking DEI practices in the wrong direction They also provide resources to educators and parents

“ We ardently suppor t any practice of DEI that allows for a diversity of viewpoints, ethnicities, and identities,” Ber nstein said “ We believe that all people should live near, lear n, or work with people who are different from them, who are not exactly like them The problem is, DEI of ten works against these values ”

NAVI on its website has a one-page fact sheet entitled: DEI: Not your friendly puppy in the window

It states that NAVI believes schools, workplaces and businesses should follow civil rights laws, people should not face discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality, and those who need accommodations should receive them so that they have equal access and oppor tunities at work, schools, businesses, and public places

However, the organization is critical of DEI practices that offer cer tain groups preferential treatment based on race, ethnicity, gender, or religion It is critical of any practice or teaching method that justifies the discrimination of cer tain groups based on real, perceived, or stereotypical historical or cur rent discrimination, privilege, or power It also disagrees when schools, businesses, or institutions tell employees or students what to believe about power, privilege, and oppression

“In some school districts, there tends to be an indoctrination program through some cur ricula telling our students precisely what they must believe about our society, who has and who does not have power, ” Ber nstein explained “It works against critical thinking and civil discourse It under mines the spirit of our common national project When students are placed into affinity groups based on their race, when white students are told to contemplate how they have power, and minority students are told they are powerless, this does not bring students together This does not cultivate or motivate students to create community and create a common civic culture in school and society ”

In one example of a sticking point the Tr ump administration has with DEI, Ber nstein said the White House is aiming to push back on school districts that are not offering or giving standardized tests because of the belief that they are slanted against minorities or marginalized groups Ber nstein said NAVI’s research has shown no evidence that the Tr ump administration is targeting schools based on which af ter-school groups students join on a voluntar y basis

Ber nstein said that before the second Tr ump administration, the pendulum in America’s public schools was already beginning to swing away from suppor ting DEI

But Tr ump ’ s executive orders and his administration’s new interpretations of what constitutes discrimination or violations of the Civil Rights Act are expediting the shif t

Ber nstein said there is a “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” rationale as to why few school administrators want to talk to the media about DEI

“If they say something publicly that gets the attention of the federal gover nment, they could compromise their federal funding,” Ber nstein said “If they say something positive or neutral about the notion of dialing back DEI programming and initiatives, they may upset their teachers’ unions or local constituents in their school district They just can’t win ”

FA C E S

Mike Binder

Successful

comedian, writer and filmmaker Mike Binder knew by age nine that he wanted a career in comedy

“I always loved comedy. I was a class clown and was involved in high school skits…I’ve been making a living at it since I was 17 years old. I just knew it’s what I wanted to do,” he explained

Binder was born in Detroit and moved to Birmingham with his family in sixth grade He spent many summers of his youth at Camp Tamakwa in Ontario, Canada, which later became the inspiration for his 1993 comedy-drama movie, “Indian Summer.”

Binder wrote and directed the movie which his childhood friend, film director Sam Raimi, had a supporting role Binder attended the camp with Raimi and actor-comedian Tim Allen

“I had lots of fun as a kid growing up in Michigan and still have so many friends from that time ”

After graduating from Seaholm High School, he moved to Los Angeles with the intention of getting into the local comedy scene and to attend Los Angeles Community College, where he “struggled the first week of class ”

Binder said initially started working as a doorman at The Comedy Store, a famed comedy club on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, and moved into performing alongside legendary comics such as Howie Mandel, Bob Saget, Jim Carey, Chris Rock and Jay Leno “It became my education,” he remarked

He was also able to work with his close friends from Michigan, Tim Allen and Dave Coulier – Coulier later being best man at Binder’s wedding and the godfather to one of his children

In 2020, Binder directed, produced and starred in Showtime’s documentary miniseries, “The Comedy Store,” which explored the history and different time periods of the celebrated club and featured appearances by a lengthy list of famous comedians

“It was a community and fellowship of guys I know to this day It was a magic time I was in the right place at the right time – I was very lucky ”

Over the years, Binder made several films about Detroit including “Crossing the Bridge” and “The Upside of Anger.” He is currently working on two Detroitrelated films, one about Henry Ford II and the other a boxing movie with his son, Burt Binder, a talented actor, producer and writer

The comedian also recently wrote a crime thriller novel, “Long Day in Detroit,” soon to be released

Binder lives in Santa Monica and has been married for 38 years to his wife, Diane, with two adult children, Molly and Burt He proudly notes he has been sober for 41 years He returns to Michigan regularly for comedy performances, film projects, Detroit Tigers games, and to visit friends and family, including his mother who still lives in the area

“I’m writing, directing and back doing stand-up [comedy] and having fun. I’m never going to retire,” he said, adding, “I live five blocks from the ocean and spend a lot of time down there I have a really good life here, but my heart is still in Detroit "

After decades in the entertainment industry, Binder offered this guidance: “Figure out a way to do what you want to do and then do it If you want to do stand-up comedy, go to an amateur night and just do it. Learn to write – it s a shortcut to the front of the line Write a screenplay – write, rewrite and write another one Learn all the new AI tools ChatGPT can be just as useful for feedback as studio notes are ”

He reflected, “Through all the ups and downs and dry spells I never changed what I wanted to do It’s been one of the blessings of my life that I always knew what I wanted. I’m very lucky that something always came along and I’ve been able to do it my way ”

Story: Tracy Donohue

Township exploring options for deer

By Dana Casadei

For those concer ned by the growth of the local white tail deer population in Bloomfield Township or consider the deer to be a nuisance, a solution may be coming, but not any time soon

“ There is no magic bean for this urban deer discussion,” said Chad Stewar t, Michigan Depar tment of Natural Resources (DNR), who spoke at the Bloomfield Township Board of Tr ustees meeting on Monday, September 8

During his infor mational presentation, Stewar t covered the biology of deer, the process each community should consider with urban deer management, and the options This type of communitybased decision about deer management comes with four phases problem definition, decision making, implementation, evaluation and adaptation, Stewar t said

Before any type of a final decision is made though, the township will have to define what the board and the community want to achieve with this Defining what solutions they hope to achieve will make for an easier decision among the eight different options Stewar t presented, and where they must star t

Of those options, there will be a tough decision to figure out what’s the most impor tant for the community: cost, efficacy, speed, or controversy Stewar t said at best, a solution for controlling deer population will have two, maybe three of those; and it’s ver y unlikely one option – he presented eight –would have all four

A few options were eliminated immediately during Stewar t’s presentation, like trapping and relocating deer, and reintroducing deer ’ s predators into the community

Other options to potentially get the deer population under control in Bloomfield Township that Stewar t –who has been a deer biologist for 10 years with the DNR, and involved with white tail deer management –spoke about included hunting the deer through hired sharpshooters or local hunters, trapping and removing the deer, contraception, sterilization, and fencing and repellants

Each of the eight options comes with their own set of pros and cons, ranging from cost to efficiency and safety concer ns One thing was for cer tain among the board though,

Birmingham okays contract for survey

The Bir mingham City Commission, in a unanimous vote on Monday, September 15, approved a contract with the Cobalt Community Research fir m from Charlotte, Michigan to conduct a community sur vey to deter mine the priorities of city residents on local issues

The idea of a community sur vey was first proposed in June by city commissioner Andrew Haig and in August the commission deter mined that they prefer red using a professional sur vey fir m for the task

Assistant city manger Melissa Fairbair n in August told the commission that the cost of city staff conducting the sur vey would be about $10 000 but commissioners deter mined then that a professional fir m was the prefer red approach

At the September 15 meeting Fairbair n shared with commissioners that city staff had inter viewed three fir ms and were proposing the commission approve a contract with the Cobalt Community Research fir m which has worked with a number of Michigan communities, including Troy and Royal Oak, along with the Southeast Michigan Council of Gover nments The cost of the contract is $21,435 Fairbair n also said that city staff had reached out to Troy officials for a recommendation

Haig and other commissioners raised a number of questions relative how questions for the sur vey would be deter mined and expressed a desire to have sur vey results from a broad sampling of those in the community who of ten times only respond on issues that directly affect them personally

Commissioners also expressed a desire to see the proposed sur vey questions before the community was approached for feedback

Two local residents whose professional backgrounds included working with sur vey fir ms spoke during the public comment section on the sur vey agenda item and said that there were a number of questions that still needed to be answered or explained by the sur vey company before they would recommend that the city approve the proposed contract Commissioners did suggest that one or two members of the city commission should be par t of the city staff working group that will be developing the questions, and a suggestion was made that one of the members of the public that addressed the sur vey issue during public comments be asked to also work with the staff group to assure a more successful sur vey

doing nothing was not an option, with treasurer Michael Schostak saying just that

No solution was selected during the Monday night meeting, but super visor Mike McCready did seem keen on the idea of gathering more infor mation through a citizen advisor y committee

“I like the idea of a citizen advisor y committee to tackle this subject with us much like the road advisor y committee,” he said “I would enter tain having them study with us and come back with recommendations ”

Other tr ustees seemed in agreement, noting how many people came to speak out about the deer population at the board of tr ustees meeting, and how passionate residents are about the issue

Public comment at the meeting went on for over 10 minutes, with several residents speaking up about ever ything from safety concer ns and car crashes involving deer, the fear of

and this past August, there was one week with four separate incidents, an all-time high

Between Jan 1, 2015 and Aug 27, 2025, the police depar tment has aken 747 car vs deer crashes, with nearly 60 taking place in 2025 In 2022, there were 99, a tremendous ncrease from the 32 that took place n 2016, officials said

When it comes to deer management it comes down to biological car r ying capacity, which is how many deer the area can suppor t where they would be thriving, and how many deer people are willing to deal with, aka the social car r ying apacity

“ What we typically see is people get fed up with deer before they each biological car r ying capacity his community can probably hold more deer,” Stewar t said

SCC future debated by commissioners

Bir mingham City Commissioners on Monday, September 15, spent time discussing but took no for mal action on a number of questions

ur rounding the future of the Ad Hoc Senior/Recreation Committee (SCC) now that the city commission in ecent weeks voted not to put a bond proposal for a community center project on the ballot this fall for voter approval

them spreading Lyme disease – one woman said her dog recently contracted it – to pets and humans, and the costly damage deer are causing to local landscapes and declining yard appeal as well

“ There’s a dual concer n for us –car accidents have tripled, and calls have gone way up, ” said police chief James Gallagher

The calls related to deer that the police depar tment have received has nearly doubled over the last decade, going from 246 in 2015 to 469 in 2024

From Januar y to August this year they have gotten 311 calls where deer were mentioned, which is more than they received for the full year from 2015-2018, Gallagher said

Some of those calls are related to the traffic incidents that happen involving deer in Bloomfield Township, a number that has also seen significant growth

McCready commented that there’s roughly one traffic incident per week in the township that involves deer;

The discussion was prompted by a meeting last week of the ad hoc ommittee at which members questioned what the future of the panel would be now that it appears that a massive project that cost over $30 million was at least suspended if not cancelled completely The charge to the ad hoc committee when it was named by the city commission was “to provide oversight and input on the planning and development of the Bir mingham Community and Senior Center at 400 E Lincoln, and to provide recommendations throughout the process to the City Commission ” For mation of the committee took place af ter the city purchased the YMCA building at 400 E Lincoln in the city as a future home for the nonprofit Next organization that provides ser vices and programs for the senior citizens in the community Voters in the city two years ago approved a millage for three years to make improvements to the E Lincoln facility but review by the SCC suggested that a new building was prefer red over making improvements to the existing building Over the past year the SCC enter tained several

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ideas for a new building that would also include the YMCA which was originally going to leave the city

At the SCC meeting last week a number of committee members seemed inclined to continue on with consideration of alter natives to making improvements to the E Lincoln building, although the city has spent considerable time and taxpayer funds doing just that in the past two years The city paid $2 million to the YMCA for the building, $500,000 of which was provided by the Next group, along with an additional $200,000 in funds since the initial purchase

SCC members, two of which are city commission members, last week decided to ask the city commission for future direction

At the city commission meeting this week commissioners were asked to decide if the mission statement and goals of the SCC, as originally approved by the commission, were still per tinent or if the commission would like something different The commission was also asked to deter mine what the role of the SCC would be, if it continue to operate at all Fur ther, SCC members wanted to know if vacancies on the ad hoc panel would be filled and whether it would make sense to hold a joint workshop involving the SCC and the city commission

Individual members of the city commission were polled on those questions this week and although there was no for mal vote it appeared that most commissioners thought a new mission statement and goals for the SCC should be set No time table was established for setting of the new goals

` There did appear to be suppor t by a number of city commissioners to seek out other alter native ideas for use of the for mer YMCA building However, hovering over any such considerations are legal agreements between the city and Next which provide that the seniors group has been guaranteed use of 75 percent of the E Lincoln facility as its new home The Next board has recently voted to proceed ahead with its original plans to occupy the building and make incremental improvements to the facility over several years

At one point in the meeting, Next Executive Director Cris Braun addressed the commission to dispel misinfor mation that members of the commission and the public had put for th, something that has taken place on more than one occasion in past meetings

Birmingham Athletic Club updates okayed

By Dana Casadei

Major renovations are on their way to the Bir mingham Athletic Club (BAC) af ter gaining final approval from the Bloomfield Townshjip Board of Tr ustees on Monday, September 8

The four projects approved include rebuilding the existing ser vice station hut for food ser vice, extending the ground-level dining patio by 23 feet, rebuilding the existing tiki bar, and conver ting one tennis cour t in the most nor theaster n cor ner to four pickleball cour ts Originally, they were proposing 12 cour ts but af ter much consideration took it down to four

Design of these renovated spaces will fit in with the club s cur rent aesthetic, with the renovated ser vice station hut using the same cedar siding as the other buildings, and proposed metal project- out awning windows

Because the BAC located at 4033 W Maple Road, is an existing, nonconfor ming use, multiple variances were needed to be approved before they moved fur ther on the project, something that must happen ever y time the BAC wants to make a change of this size

“I think it’s a win-win for the club, a win for the neighborhood,” said tr ustee Neal Bar nett “I think you ’ ve done an outstanding job ”

The approval of this site plan came with not only the requirements from township depar tments and the township’s landscape architect, but also three other items, all regarding the proposed pickleball cour t, which led to some discussion at the board of tr ustees meeting, much like it did at the planning commission meeting on Monday, July 21

Those requirements include that pickleball must stop at dusk and may not be extended with ar tificial lighting; the club will take into consideration any expansion to the sound bar rier if there are noise complaints; and that pickleball occur ring on site must stop immediately, which it did back in July af ter the planning commission became aware that pickleball was being played on unapproved cour ts at the BAC

The clanning Commission also requested that an eight foot high fencing would include a sound bar rier material to help with any noise and sof ten the sound from the cour ts

Pickleball cour ts will have a black acoustic fence material to provide a sound bar rier, and the material will hang from the cour t’s protective fence This is the side of the cour ts that will face the club’s neighbors to the south

A sound study was submitted by an acoustic engineer, who worked with the township’s consultant, and found that the proposed design and cour ts will meet Bloomfield Township standards at the proper ty line

It was also noted that af ter that planning commission meeting, the club met with nearby neighbors and home owner associations to address their concer ns

“I was just at the cor ner of Oak Hills and Maple and the traffic noise made it difficult to hear each other,” Bar nett said “So the placement of the new pickleball cour t is well thought out, the neighbors across the street won’t hear it You guys have done a really well thought out job on this ”

The Board of Tr ustees voted in favor of the site plan request 7-0

Non-union employees get wage increase

By Grace Lovins

Non-union employees of the city of Bir mingham are set to receive wage and merit increases af ter city commissioners approved the adjustments during the Monday, August 25, meeting

The adjustments apply to over 80 non-union city administrative, management and per manent par ttime employees

Bir mingham Human Resources

Manager Christina Cilluffo said the wage increases are meant to be market adjustments to maintain competitive wages and keep pace with the cur rent economic climate

She explained that the city looks at the consumer price index to deter mine the suggested increase to maintain competitive pay

According to Cilluffo, the consumer price index indicates an inflation rate of 1 4 percent leading the city to request a three percent wage adjustment The adjustment is retroactive going back to July 1,

2025, for all non-union employees

Commissioners were also asked to approve merit adjustments offered to employees Cilluffo said these adjustments allow employees to move upward within their pay range based on their annual per for mance evaluations

The merit and wage adjustments combined would amount to approximately $325,000, Cilluffo said, which was budgeted for

With no questions or discussion, commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the wage adjustments for non-union employees Commissioners Katie Schafer, Jason Emerine and mayor pro tem Clinton Baller were absent from the meeting

City still refining RFP on ordinance update

By Grace Lovins

The Bir mingham Planning Board continued to refine the draf t request for proposal (RFP) for the city ’ s zoning ordinance update during a study session at their Wednesday,

LIVERNOIS - FERNDALE

August 27, meeting, with members focusing on evaluation criteria, deliverables and public engagement requirements

Planning director Nick Dupuis presented the revised version of the draf t, noting changes made af ter the board’s first review He highlighted new language that ties in public communication strategies and a reworked evaluation process

Continuing to refine the document, board members recommended more simplification and restr ucturing of the evaluation criteria Board member Ber t Koseck recommended moving qualifications and references higher in priority and placing a greater weight on the consultant’s understanding of project goals Chair Scott Celin agreed with the overall approach but cautioned lumping the community engagement por tion into other categories, saying it risks minimizing the impor tance of it

The board also discussed the need to clarif y deliverables, with Clein suggesting each task identified

in the scope of work should have an interim memo or repor t along with the final deliverables at the end of the project In addition to these points, board member Robin Boyle recommended adding something into the proposal that requires consultants to disclose their use of ar tificial intelligence Clein advised that the city manager and attor ney should deter mine if it would belong in the RFP or contract

Several board members also drew attention to the language around stakeholder engagement Board member Daniel Share questioned the inclusion of “developers” in the draf t, arguing it could potentially cause confusion on what the goals of the community engagement por tion are The board agreed to replace the ter m with “ proper ty owners ” and to clarif y that engagement should focus on local residents, businesses and institutions

Members also emphasized that the purpose of community engagement should be clearly stated as gathering feedback, educating the public and infor ming final decisions

Dupuis also brought up consolidating the zoning ordinance update tasks matrix to accompany the RFP While generally board members suppor ted trimming the document for clarity, others suggested leaving cer tain items, such as accessor y dwelling units, to allow consultants flexibility in their proposal

The board agreed to have Dupuis incorporate the refined wording into the proposal language ahead of the RFP ’ s planned Tuesday, September 2, release date No for mal action was taken

Township to begin meetings earlier

By Dana Casadei

As of Monday, October 13, Bloomfield Township Board of Tr ustees meetings will no longer begin at 7 p m but at 6:30 p m

This approved change was first proposed back in July and since then the clerk’s office has received no written public comments for or against this proposal Clerk Mar tin Brook said he only received one comment against the proposal af ter that meeting on July 28, but nothing else since then

While no comments from the

public were received prior to the tr ustees meeting on Monday, September 8, there was some debate about moving it up half an hour from members of the board

Tr ustee Valerie Mur ray thought the earlier star t time was a good idea but that having that go into effect as soon as their next meeting was too soon She suggested they implement the 6:30 p m time in Januar y, which was not something other board members suppor ted

“I think we should star t this as soon as we can, said tr ustee Neal Bar nett “ This was a deliberate and well thought out plan ”

Middle ground was found with the approved star t date of 6:30 p m on Monday, October 13, for the change to begin

But it was tr ustee Mark Antakli who was the most outspoken against the proposal

“I’m concer ned about restricting access to be able to get here by then for public comment,” he said about the 6:30 p m star t

Antakli went on to say that a 6:30 p m star t time would be a disser vice to those who work far from their Bloomfield Township home and/or have to get their kids settled af ter school

His fellow board members did not agree that this would be a disser vice, and noted that all of them are always willing to meet with residents outside of meetings if they aren’t able to make it to public comment, and the last thing they want to do is reduce voices in the community

Brook said that if they find issues with the new 6:30 p m time that they will be open to changing it back or to another time entirely

This new star t time will amend the board of tr ustees meetings star t time for the foreseeable future, and has been done before by the board, with meetings having a varied star t time over the years, some as late as 8 p m

Meetings that have a later star t time and have already had notices sent out will stick to their original time and not be adjusted

The change was approved 6-1, with Antakli voting no

New three-story building approved

By Grace Lovins

A new three-stor y commercial building to be located at 36977 Woodward Avenue in Bir mingham was given preliminar y approval by the city ’ s planning board during their Wednesday, September 10, board meeting

restrictive covenant on the proper ty states that a vapor mitigation bar rier has to be installed Valant said the bar rier is already par t of the plan

InvestWise Financial LLC will occupy the new building at a site that has sat vacant for decades at the cor ner of Woodward and Quar ton Road

Owner of InvestWise Financial Dean Thur man told the board the building would be a new home for the company cur rently operating in Bloomfield Hills He said the family- owned fir m is made up of roughly 20 employees, and the company will own and occupy the building itself

City planning director Nick Dupuis presented the plans to the board explaining that the three-stor y building will sit in the city ’ s TZ3 transitional zoning district He said the maximum stories for a TZ3-zoned building is four stories, meaning the building is under that requirement, but it still exceeds the actual height requirements by about three feet

Dupuis and the board also discussed the building’s frontage requirements As the city requires 75 percent of the building frontage within five feet of the lot line, the city ’ s board of zoning appeals would have to grant a variance to go through with the cur rent design

A similar issue came about with the entrances to the building Buildings with street frontage are also required to have an entrance on the street, but the plans did not show one proposed The owners will either have to pursue a variance from the board of \zoning appeals or adjust their designs to meet the requirement

The ordinance also requires the building to have 19 parking spaces, which the plans show exactly Sur rounding the building will also be required landscaping and screening as set by the city ’ s ordinance Dupuis also noted that the owners plan to make improvements for pedestrians including new crosswalk striping at Woodward and sidewalks around the building

Because of the site's previous use as a gas station years ago, board member Br yan Williams asked about any environmental concer ns Mike Valant, managing director of Newmark commercial real estate advisor, explained that the underground tanks were removed and remediation was complete in the early 2000s, but a

Ultimately, the board collectively stated they were excited to see a new building being proposed for the lot to bring life to the cor ner of Quar ton and Woodward The board unanimously approved the preliminar y site plan in a 7-0 vote with the conditions that they address the frontage, street entrance, as well as other minor fixes to the plans

Sushi restaurant set for Hamilton Row

By Grace Lovins

The final site plan and design of a new high end sushi restaurant at 211 Hamilton Row received the green light from the Bir mingham Planning Board during its Wednesday, August 27, meeting

Named No 28, the new establishment will be operated by the owners of neighboring restaurant Ter ra Kitchen & Cocktails

A new venture for Randy Foumia, owner of Ter ra Kitchen & Cocktails, and The Palladium of Bir mingham LLC, the restaurant will ser ve high end sushi made from fresh fish delivered daily along with craf t cocktails Foumia explained that the space will create an intimate setting, open Wednesday through Sunday until 2 a m Mondays and Tuesdays will be reser ved for private rentals

No 28 will occupy the cur rently vacant first floor space of the five stor y Emagine Palladium, said city planner Leak Blizinski

The restaurant is also pursuing a Class C liquor license from the state liquor commission separate from Ter ra under The Palladium of Bir mingham LLC

Several board members brought up the for mer Blue Mar tini bar that used to occupy the space many years ago noting the troublesome histor y the establishment had in the city Foumia explained that the establishment will be a restaurant first and plans to operate the business like Ter ra where they tur n down patrons if seating is full He also explained that if there is no market for late-night ser vice, they would revisit the hours of operation

In the end, planning board members voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the special land use per mit with conditions that table ser vice is required for outdoor dining, No 28 will operate as primarily a restaurant and not a bar, and a cur tain proposed on the front window is removed from the plans

VOTER GUIDE

ANDREW HAIG

Andrew Haig is a Senior Engineering Manager at Westinghouse Electric Company. He holds degrees in mechanical engineering and engineering manger from the University of Sussex and the University of Hertfordshire and Hamburg University of Applied Sciences Haig has been a member of the Birmingham City Commission since 2021 and was a member of the Multi Modal Transportation Board from 20012002 He has also been involved in a number of community organizations

UNIMPROVED STREET PLAN

Birmingham in 2018 began studying in earnest the unimproved streets in the city and at the end of 2020 adopted a plan to address 26 miles of unimproved roads which are essentially gravel roads with coats of sealer on top The total cost per mile is estimated to be $4 55 million, which includes road costs and infrastructure (water/sewer) updating The plan adopted by the city provides homeowners fund 85 percent of the cost, with the city paying 15 percent which has drawn complaints from some homeowner groups. In one recent case the city commission relented and agreed to pay 50 percent of the cost Should the city revisit the cost sharing for future roads? Would you support a bond proposal that some have suggested to cover the city-wide total costs which are estimated to be over $110 million?

Yes, cost sharing must be reexamined A $110M+ bond is staggering, and Birmingham deserves fair funding models that don’t overburden property owners, especially those who’ve already paid special assessments or live on unimproved streets I’ve submitted

BIRMINGHAM CITY COMMIS SION

Four-year terms, non-partisan, vote for three

alternative proposals that reflect our city’s varied conditions. Before any bond is proposed, we need a transparent Municipal Capital Needs and Reserve Study, guided by public input. That’s why I initiated the resident survey, to ensure citizen priorities lead the way Aging infrastructure like sewers and water mains must be addressed as part of resurfacing roads However, necessary major projects like City Hall renovations and Derby Bridge replacement add complexity. W ith rising property values and recurring millage’s, we risk taxpayer fatigue and losing the age and economic diversity that define Birmingham. Transparent, inclusive planning will help residents understand the balance between community desires and municipal necessities, without compromising fairness

CITY RESIDENTS SURVEY

One member of the current city commission has suggested that Birmingham should consider conducting a formal survey of local residents Would you support a professional survey by an outside firm of city residents to more accurately gauge resident opinions on a variety of city issues or priorities? Explain your answer

As the commissioner who introduced the motion and earned unanimous support, I believe in responsive leadership. I said at the time: we’re elected to represent our residents, so why wouldn’t we ask what they want? Public input is essential to shaping policy and setting priorities that reflect the needs of our entire community I believe a professional firm should conduct something this important, doing it properly while also sharing our fundamental municipal needs and financial constraints I don’t just listen to what people say, I also quietly visit neighborhoods and see things firsthand When we take time to understand residents’ concerns, we gain clarity on what truly matters That insight helps us make smarter decisions with our limited resources and builds public trust Staying connected ensures we’re not just governing, we are collaborating This is about moving Birmingham forward together, hearing, respecting and considering every voice

two years has been grappling with the task of finding a home for the Next group, an independent nonprofit which for decades has provided services for the growing senior population in the city and some adjacent communities. As part of this effort, the city purchased the existing YMCA building, which will be the new home for Next, using the voterapproved millage for some improvements to the building Do you think in general that municipalities today must make the senior population’s needs a consideration? Explain

Yes, I do Seniors are members of our community The commissionappointed Aging In Place Committee developed a survey for that very purpose, to understand our senior’s needs with almost 700 seniors responding Our primary obligation is to all Birmingham residents I have been vocal about the lack of equitable financial support from interlocal agreement municipalities, as well as people residing outside of our agreement areas Every commission decision embeds consideration for vulnerable populations, whether in parks and recreation, assessments and millages, safety, parking or walkability For example, the commission recently took a strong stance for seniors at the Baldwin House In general, we should, and already do, make seniors needs a priority. We should also leverage, without duplicating, senior dedicated resources available at the federal, state and county level Fortunately, Next has been a dependable contracted provider in coordinating these services locally

TRIANGLE DISTRICT

Can you tell us how familiar you are with the Triangle District plans? As part of what is proposed, the plan includes parking decks for the Triangle District First, are they needed now and, if so, how should construction be funded?

I am well acquainted with the proposals and how they were most recently addressed in the 2040 Plan At this time, I am not convinced parking is needed in that area –- yet Growth in this part of town differs from the downtown core: new developments have included on site parking and our current parking decks are not at capacity. I believe it’s more prudent to monitor how the district

evolves This measured approach ensures that future decisions regarding parking infrastructure are based upon actual demand and continuing thoughtful planning, not premature assumptions. This also ties directly into our broader conversation about public spending and priorities When the time does come, we must carefully evaluate the taxpayer burden against the tangible benefits of any proposed initiative, remaining fiscally responsible and focusing our limited resources on the areas of greatest community need

CITY BISTRO PROGRAM

Birmingham created a bistro program in 2007 which was designed to bring a variety of dining options and help animate the streets of the city Is there a saturation point where the downtown area has a sufficient number of bistros and restaurants in general? Explain

The growth in dining establishments has intensified competition, with many businesses now vying for the same group of patrons Outdoor dining, while popular, has slightly reduced centrally located street parking, adding to the challenge for visitors and residents Food and drink account for 12 percent of Birmingham’s 600 businesses, and some residents and business owners worry this concentration is diluting the unique character of our downtown experience While the city may grant up to two bistro licenses per year, there’s no obligation to do so simply to meet a quota. Our goal should be to support a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable business environment Variety is valuable, but we must also consider the impact on long standing establishments A more measured pace in issuing new licenses may help preserve the strength and stability of existing dining businesses, ensuring that growth continues to enhance, not undermine, our downtown vitality

TOP THREE IS SUES

If elected what are your top three issues that you would like to address as a commissioner?

As a commissioner, my core responsibilities are clear: build public trust, safeguard health and safety, allocate tax dollars thoughtfully and address our urgent needs with fiscal discipline Financial transparency is

essential for earning public trust I have already requested benchmarking of Birmingham project costs versus other communities, to continue driving the best value for our tax dollars. Roads must be safe and well maintained for all users – drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, with unimproved streets being more affordable to replace. Water and sewer systems are interlinked and must function reliably within the regional network ensuring high quality and volume essential for public health, safety and daily life While, the proposed resident survey will help clarify community priorities, I see these core needs forming the foundation for future decisions, ensuring we support what matters most to Birmingham’s residents

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

Why should voters select you in this election?

It takes time to understand the unique workings of local government, which differs significantly from private enterprise I bring hard earned experience and insight to continue serving as your voice. As the only incumbent in this election and the only remaining commissioner raising young children while caring for my senior mother, I understand our community needs I bring continuity, knowledge, an engineer’s analytical mindset and a proven commitment to what Birmingham residents value most Thanks to past commissioners, our downtown thrives, drawing praise and visitors My focus is ensuring the residents who made those improvements possible, receive the attention they deserve I remain committed to being accessible, listening, and advocating for your needs I initiated the resident survey to ensure our priorities reflect your voices Continuing to serve means keeping residents at the heart of every decision, guiding progress with transparency, fiscal discipline while upholding our community values

ZACHARY JENNINGS

Jennings is a Human Resources Coordinator at the University of Michigan He holds a masters from Michigan State University in Human Resources and Labor Relations

UNIMPROVED STREET PLAN

Unimproved streets are a major concern for our residents they affect safety, property values, and the quality of life in our neighborhoods. The estimated total cost suggests that this is no minor decision; it’s a big investment that will impact all of Birmingham I believe the current 85/15 ratio places an unfair burden on individuals who own homes. I would be more in favor of modifying the 50/50 split to better reflect a fair and balanced arrangement I would hope that we develop a plan which responsibly phases in enhancements, pursues outside funding whenever possible, and distributes costs so they are perceived as fair to residents but also protects the financial future of the city

CITY RESIDENTS SURVEY

A professionally conducted survey could give us valuable data on what our community prioritizes, and it would ensure that we are hearing from a broad cross-section of residents not just those who are able to attend meetings or speak out publicly Alongside any formal survey, I believe we should also strengthen engagement efforts by having neighborhood meetings, digital tools, and open forums, so that residents always have accessible ways to share their perspectives In short, I would support a professionally conducted survey if it’s thoughtfully designed, fiscally responsible, and tied directly to decisions that impact Birmingham’s future

NEXT SENIOR SERVICES

I believe that the seniors are a growing share of Birmingham’s community, and they have helped build the city we all enjoy today. Making sure they have access to programs, services, and spaces where they can stay active and connected is the right thing to do for the long-term health of our community The city’s work to support Next and provide them with a permanent home shows how partnerships between government and nonprofits can meet these needs effectively At the same time, I believe we need to think about seniors within a broader framework that serves residents at every stage of life from young families to older adults That means designing our city to be walkable, accessible, and welcoming for all ages

TRIANGLE DISTRICT

Parking is an important part of keeping Birmingham vibrant and accessible, and we should always be responsive to residents, businesses, and visitors who need it That said, adding new parking decks is a very costly step, and before making that kind of investment we need to be sure the demand truly justifies it

CITY BISTRO PROGRAM

The bistro program has helped make our downtown lively, walkable, and a destination for residents and visitors Restaurants play a vital role in keeping our streets active and supporting other local businesses. At the same time, I do think it’s important to consider balance A downtown that relies too heavily on one type of business, like restaurants, can be vulnerable A strong downtown also needs a mix of many other cultural spaces and community gathering places. I don’t believe the city should put a hard cap on bistros or restaurants But I do think the commission should be thoughtful in encouraging a healthy mix so that Birmingham remains vibrant and resilient for the long term

TOP THREE IS SUES

My biggest issue I would like to address is finding ways to actively involve and respect the community’s voice I grew up in Birmingham and the people are what make it such a great community I want to be

involved with plans to continue to make Birmingham distinct My next issue would be safety, especially during heavy hours of traffic Making sure we continue to have safely designed sidewalks, implementing speed bumps, just keep making Birmingham a safe and great place to live My last issue is parking, making sure that we find solutions that are economically friendly while still making residents feel at ease

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

Voters should select me because I bring a genuine commitment to this community and a fresh perspective to city leadership. While I don’t have political experience, I believe that’s a strength, as I approach issues as a resident first

BILL KOLB

A graduate of the University of Michigan, Bill Kolb is the former Chairman and CEO of the McCann Worldgroup creative agency He is on the board of directors of Project Healthy Minds, National Kidney Foundation of Michigan and the metro Detroit Women of Tomorrow. Kolb is an alternate member of the Birmingham Advisory Parking Committee

UNIMPROVED STREET PLAN

The streets, homes and public services of our community are a real part of the attraction - and retentionof our residents It’s important our city leaders continually examine the needs and improvements our city requires balanced with equitable methods to pay for these upgrades A bond proposal affords our residents the option to weigh in on the importance they assign the upgrade; and stretch the costs in different ways aligned with community desires.

There’s a case for residents questioning why the roads weren’t improved on a regular basis - as part of on-going annual capital expenditures It’s important our residents have a say in improvements and financial planning, and a bond proposal gives them that opportunity

CITY RESIDENTS SURVEY

This is an absolutely fantastic idea and I enthusiastically support a comprehensive independent formal professional survey of our community to understand what local residents think, want, expect and where their interests and priorities lie. This kind of data drives better outcomes for our community and its residents and gives them a platform to be heard and for the commission to understand where consensus lives Further, I would suggest a regular, disciplined cadence of surveys over time We all benefit from an on-going and deeper, more granular understanding of what our community needs and wants- and how that informs our vision for the city and our annual budget The city commission represents the needs, wants and priorities of the city residents, so anything that gives the commission greater insight provides a huge value to all residents and businesses, and to the elected commission representatives

NEXT SENIOR SERVICES

I believe it is the responsibility of the commission to meet the needs of all its residents which includes the senior populations. The commission represents the needs of all residents and wherever possible should provide solutions that meet the needs of the diverse community we want to create and serve to create the most welcoming and inclusive environment for all our residents Some of what makes Birmingham so attractive are its city services, its walk-ability and its support of all age groups, including the elderly Many of our elderly are long-time residents of Birmingham and how we accommodate them now in their advanced years is a signal of who we are as a city

TRIANGLE DISTRICT

I am very familiar with the Triangle Plan the city commission approved on August 20, 2007 and am impressed with the engagement of the community in developing this plan As the plan outlines the funding/development is set up as

public and private partnerships across the district. Given there is significant development currently across the city the model works and proves that the public private collaboration is appropriate.In terms of parking, I do believe with the development of the Triangle District additional parking facilities will be required As a resident on South Old Woodward, parking is very congested and with additional development attracting additional visitors we must make ease of access and parking a key component of building out the district

CITY BISTRO PROGRAM

I believe attracting new and diverse dining experiences into Birmingham is an important part of creating a thriving downtown environment and a walkable city where people can enjoy our city then relax over a meal without previous reservations At this point in time I do not believe we are anywhere near a saturation point I eat out in Birmingham frequently and have regular challenges getting seats W ill there be a point at which Birmingham is saturated, yes, but business conditions and business choices will self-select out too much bistro development – and the laws of supply and demand make this inevitable. Recently opened new restaurants are quite busy, so the environment created by the community has created the demand and the customers to make these businesses successful I am fully supportive of the Bistro program and believe it should continue for the foreseeable future. Market forces always take control over time

TOP THREE IS SUES

Easily accessible parking in adequate amounts Making Birmingham accessible to young families so that we continue to build value in our homes and schools Continue to drive the quality of our education system, our public services and accessibility of our community to all that are interested

WHAT MAKES YOU QUALIFIED

I am a new voice to the city but a longtime resident I ran one of largest employers in Birmingham (in the old Jacobsen’s building) I’m the recently retired Global Chairman and CEO of McCann Worldgroup and have chosen to live in Birmingham for the remainder of my years It is a

wonderful city, with incredible people and I provide a fresh voice with an extensive amount of experience and insight My business experience speaks to financial acumen, but also how to consensus-build, prioritize, manage varied personalities and expectations, and motivate teams. Other relevant experience: currently I am the chairman of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, a board member of Project Healthy Minds, an organization working to make mental health service widely accessible to all people and on the board of Women of Tomorrow in Detroit I am committed to Birmingham, committed to making this an even greater place than it currently is and building a future that we can all be proud of, raise families, have our children go to college, get a job and come back and raise their families in the Birmingham community. It would be a great honor to serve the residents of Birmingham and as a long-time resident and employer in this town I feel I bring unique perspective to the position that is new and fresh.

KEVIN KOZLOWSKI

Kevin Kozlowski is a software developer at Glencoe Software He holds a bachelors degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan and a masters in finance from Case Western Reserve University He is the chair of the Birmingham Advisory Parking Committee

UNIMPROVED STREET PLAN

Both the special assessments and the bond issue face the same underlying problem: roads only last 30 years Treating them as one-time expenses is a guaranteed way to find ourselves with budget shortfalls when

we must repair and replace them The special assessment approach feels unfair It can put young families and seniors on fixed incomes in stressful situations they did not foresee. A bond would remedy that, but still does not cover the recurring costs of maintaining and replacing the road As a commissioner, I would support revisiting the cost sharing split for unimproved roads in need of urgent replacement This would encourage the city to reallocate funds for critical infrastructure work without taking on additional debt My primary focus would be on smart ways to increase the city’s revenues and the share spent on infrastructure to ensure future generations do not find themselves in the same situation

CITY RESIDENTS SURVEY

Understanding what residents want from the city is obviously essential for city commissioners However, I am skeptical of the value of such a survey I think most citizens of Birmingham broadly agree on priorities We don’t need a survey to know that citizens care about public safety, great parks, and quality infrastructure. The commission’s work is to deploy the city’s limited resources in a way which balances all these desires The devil is in the details, which a broad survey would fail to capture We also have Engage Birmingham as a platform to get rigorous citizen feedback on specific projects, like park improvements. As a commissioner, I will always listen to and value citizens’ concerns, ideas, and opinions, but I will also strive to be someone they can trust to have their best interests at heart, so they can focus on their lives and their families

NEXT SENIOR SERVICES

Yes - the city must take the needs of seniors into consideration. Seniors are an essential and growing part of our community, and often require or benefit from public services which the city does not otherwise provide Things like rides, home visits, and meals on wheels are services provided through Next that some seniors in Birmingham depend on Next also serves as a gathering point for seniors These resources are particularly important because without them, some seniors can be isolated and vulnerable If it becomes necessary to make capital investments in Next’s new home that go beyond the current voter-approved

millage, I believe we need to stay sharply focused on seniors This would give voters clarity when they vote on a new bond

TRIANGLE DISTRICT

The Triangle District Plan envisions a mixed-use, walkable neighborhood east of Woodward It suggests locations for two new parking decks that would help the district meet its parking needs once it is fully built out. However, we are not close to a full build-out, and parking is generally available now As chair of Birmingham’s Advisory Parking Committee, I know that parking availability can change quickly, so we should prepare for future demand today A barrier in the Triangle District is that the city does not own land there We should keep open lines of communication with commercial property owners to either purchase land or partner to supply public parking as part of new developments Any parking project should be financed by special assessment of the commercial properties which will benefit from the parking or through a public/private partnership

CITY BISTRO PROGRAM

I enjoy our outdoor dining options downtown and believe they succeed in energizing our streets and encouraging community As Chair of the Advisory Parking Committee, I look at parking occupancy data regularly. While spaces can get scarce around lunch time, evenings tend to be only modestly busy and weekend parking is plentiful Restaurants and bistros bring life to our streets in times when they might otherwise be empty We need to be mindful of sidewalk accessibility and late night noise, but these are issues we can manage As someone with a young family, I sympathize with residents who wish there were more familyfriendly options downtown, but I do not believe a hard limit on the number of restaurants or bistros would change that

TOP THREE IS SUES

I want Birmingham to live up to our motto of “A Walkable City ” Therefore, my first issue is street safety There are many opportunities for small, inexpensive improvements with big impacts like adding signage and striping crosswalks Second is infrastructure The simple truth is that we need to permanently increase the

amount we spend on road, water, and sewer maintenance to address our backlog. Instead of increasing our already high taxes, I will push for alternatives like (1) raising city revenues through strategic development in downtown and mixeduse areas and (2) transfers from the parking fund to ensure commuters and shoppers contribute their share Third is Woodward As a Poppleton Park resident, I know firsthand that it is our biggest obstacle to community, connection, and walkability. The commission must put relentless pressure on MDOT to mitigate speeding, reduce noise, and mend the cleft this road cuts through our home.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

As a father to three-year old Blaise and one-year old Stella (who won’t graduate from Seaholm until 2042), residents can trust that I will always take the long-term view when balancing tradeoffs on the commission I also bring a unique skillset. As a software engineer with degrees in math and finance and experience working at Bloomberg and Amazon, it’s safe to say I’m a numbers guy I’ve already been able to use these skills to serve Birmingham as the chair of our Advisory Parking Committee I’ve focused on data integrity and long-term planning, reinstituting regular reviews with the city’s finance department and creating monthly usage reports to inform commission policy decisions about this multi-million dollar business I am committed to bringing the same combination of dedication, vision, pragmatism, and analytical rigor I have shown leading the APC to the city commission It would be my honor to serve

DOUG WHITE

Doug White is the manager at OEM Sales He has a business degree from Washington & Jefferson College. White is the past chairman of the Birmingham Multi-Modal Transportation Board

UNIMPROVED STREET PLAN

I believe the city should revisit the cost sharing for future roads There needs to be a consistent process that is fair to the city, unimproved street homeowners as well as residents who are already on improved roads I do not support a bond proposal to cover the projected costs of over $110 million

CITY RESIDENTS SURVEY

I support a survey to better gauge the opinions of Birmingham residents on city issues and priorities My experience with resident surveys on the Multi Modal Transportation Board is that you are able to garner incredibly valuable thoughts and opinions The key is strong engagement to achieve an elevated response rate that best represents all demographics our our city

NEXT SENIOR SERVICES

I do think it’s incumbent upon municipalities to ensure their senior population needs are an important consideration Birmingham is an incredible place for families with great schools supported by wide ranging community activities. For empty nesters there is a vibrant downtown, strong amenities and many opportunities for social engagement We do a great job with those two population segments. I believe our seniors have earned the right to have their needs considered Nearly 40 percent of our residents are over 50 and today’s population is living longer, healthier lives I recently visited Next and witnessed first hand our seniors enjoying the wonderful programming available And the support services offered like transportation, Meals on Wheels, medical equipment loans and benefit navigation are critical and something I wish my parents had access to in their community

TRIANGLE DISTRICT

Parking is an issue in many of the dense and developed cities I’m familiar with, especially those with an active downtown area There is considerable untapped opportunity for the Triangle District and parking is a

key element I don’t think traditional parking structures are always the answer and believe there are opportunities for innovative solutions, including potential public/private partnerships

CITY BISTRO PROGRAM

Birmingham’s bistro program has expanded the types of dining options available to our residents and visitors It’s been a great opportunity for many of our restaurants. At some point there has to be saturation where the other businesses and residents/visitors are impacted I believe careful consideration and planning is necessary for this successful and important initiative

TOP THREE IS SUES

My top 3 issues to address are:

• Infrastructure planning and funding

• Next

• Balancing commercial and residential needs

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

I’ve lived in Birmingham for nearly 20 years and my wife and I raised two daughters here It’s a fantastic place to live For much of those 20 years I’ve been involved in our Tory Community Association and in an appointed position on the Birmingham Multi Modal Transportation Board My experience with Tory Community Association has provided me with unfettered fellow resident feedback and how to successfully interface with the city on our issues and needs As the Muti Modal Transportation Board Chairman I gained first hand experience in how the city operates, gains public input and makes and implement s decisions I will do my very best for my fellow Birmingham residents I commit to become a student of the issues in order to effectively debate, decide and deliver optimal solutions for all of Birmingham

PAMELA M. GRAHAM

Pamela M Graham is a retired automotive engineer, with degrees in material science and engineering from both MIT and Northwestern University She has been a member of the Birmingham Parks and Recreation board sine 2019; a member of the Birmingham Public Arts board since 2023; and a member of the city Ad Hoc Senior/Recreation Center since 2024 Graham is also a member and officer in a number of community and art groups.

IMPACT OF FEDERAL CUTBACKS

In mid-March President Trump issued an executive order to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services which provides federal funds for libraries How, if at all, has the Baldwin Public Library been impacted by this cut in the federal budget?

The Baldwin Public Library has not yet been directly financially affected by the executive order dismantling the Institute of Museum and Library Services. However, potential impacts could arise in the future, particularly in areas such as interlibrary loans of books and journals Beyond funding, other executive orders affecting the Department of Education, immigration, and diversity policies create ripple effects that can influence how libraries serve their communities It is essential that Baldwin remain a place where all patrons feel safe, welcome, and included As a library board member, preserving and enhancing our library’s exceptional programs and materials is a priority, regardless of challenges

BUDGET FUND BALANCE

The Baldwin Public Library has a

voter guide | november 2025

BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY B OARD

Four-year terms, non-partisan, vote for three

fund balance policy Are you aware of the range in which the fund balance should fall? If the fund balance were to exceed the range set in the policy, how would you propose the library board guide the director to best use taxpayer funds?

Explain

I support Baldwin Public Library’s fund balance policy which requires maintaining an unassigned balance between 25 percent and 35 percent of annual expenditures. In recent years, major renovations were successfully funded through prudent use of the balance rather than issuing a bond. The library will always have capital needs and must plan for short- and long-term expenses, including those unplanned Planning future capital needs and managing the reserve to fund is a prudent and responsible use of taxpayer funds Improving accessibility of the north entrance and updating carpeting and furnishings on the lower level are two projects that come to mind but I would listen to the director, the library staff and the community to prioritize library repairs and enhancements

CITY PROVIDED SERVICES

Although the library is an independent entity, the city provides and charges for a variety of services. After a recent proposal from the city to increase administrative services charges (payroll, finance, human resources) by 110 percent, the library board has been reviewing the costs to determine if some of these services can be bid out to private contractors to save money. Do you agree with moving services if a savings can be documented?

I believe it is in the best interest of the Baldwin Public Library and the City of Birmingham to negotiate a fair and reasonable increase in service charges so that library employees can continue to be City of Birmingham employees, with payroll, finance, and human resources services provided by the city At the same time, the library must be fiscally responsible The bid responses from private contractors show that many services could be delivered to the library at a lower cost than the city’s proposal The city and the library should use this benchmarking information to reach an agreement that is both cost-effective and competitive, while maintaining the strong partnership between the library and the city I believe our

community expects effective services, municipal partnerships, cooperation and trust

CENSURE OF B OOKS

Libraries are often referred to as “the last bastions of free speech” in terms of offering a diverse collection of works to the public. Do you think people should be allowed to attempt to censure books available in a library? Are you familiar with the library’s collection development and maintenance policy?

I support the American Library Association’s Freedom to Read statement, which is also affirmed on the Baldwin Public Library website The freedom to read is fundamental to our democracy While individuals and parents have the right to decide which materials are appropriate for themselves or their children, they do not have the right to restrict access for others The library has a thoughtful Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials process, though it is rarely used in our community In addition, there is a popular form allowing cardholders to suggest new materials for acquisition, and these requests are considered in accordance with the library’s collection development policy. This balanced approach ensures the collection remains diverse, relevant, and responsive to community needs

ROLE OF B OARD MEMBER

How would you define your role as a member of the library board?

If elected to the library board, I would work collaboratively with fellow board members to set budgets, oversee expenses, appoint the library director, and establish policies that guide library services I see the role of a board member as both governance and stewardship ensuring fiscal responsibility while supporting the library’s mission I would listen carefully to the library director, staff, board members, and community members to make informed, balanced decisions that best serve the public

CHANGING LIBRARY ROLE

The role of public libraries continues to evolve in terms of what services are offered to the public Are there added services you think the Baldwin Public Library could offer?

I believe the Baldwin Public Library can continue to expand its role as a center for creativity, innovation, and connection In addition to growing the Library of Things with Idea Lab items such as Lego robotics kits, VR goggles, and sewing machines, I envision the library offering more hands-on experiences that inspire exploration and lifelong learning I believe in the value of physical books and media However, as books and periodicals move increasingly online, the library’s value as a civic commons where people come together to create, collaborate, and engage faceto-face will only grow. We need to review offerings and identify gaps in programs, especially to segments like neurodiverse and disabled members of our community These groups can benefit from the improved access and new and inviting meeting spaces The future of the library is not just about access to information, but about building community

VALIDITY OF ELECTION RESULTS

Do you believe the results of the 2020 Presidential Election were valid?

Yes The 2020 election was valid As an election worker, I have seen firsthand the integrity of our election process I appreciate the dedication and integrity of my colleagues and of our city and county clerks who work tirelessly to ensure elections are free, fair, and transparent

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

Why should voters select you in this election

I bring collaborative data driven problem-solving skills from my engineering career, community experience from serving on the Parks & Recreation Board, and a strong and informed knowledge of city and library issues from living in the city for 29 years Most importantly, I love the library Every week I enjoy reading materials, attending programs and using resources like the Seed Library, Library of Things and Idea Lab. I want to help keep Birmingham’s library thriving for all ages and abilities

OMAR ODEH

Omar Odeh is a Group Marketing Manager withm the Ford Motor Company, with a bachelor degree in business administrtion from the University of Michigan and a masters degree in business administrtion from the uiversity of California – Irvine.

IMPACT OF FEDERAL CUTBACKS

The Baldwin Public Library is in a strong financial position, supported by a healthy budget, a trust fund filled by generous contributions from the Friends of the Library, and personal gifts from library patrons While Baldwin doesn’t depend directly on federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), cuts to IMLS could affect statewide services like MeL and MeLCat, which provide vital interlibrary loans and digital access. Fortunately, Baldwin serves a dedicated and engaged community of more than 20,000 Birmingham residents and patrons from our contracted communities, who deeply value and support the library. Baldwin Public Library is wellpositioned to continue delivering excellent services, even if external resources are reduced or eliminated If cuts to shared services among our partners occur, I will work with fellow board members and library director Craft to develop creative solutions that keep Baldwin patrons connected to these essential resources At the same time, I will advocate strongly for continued investment in shared library systems that benefit all Michigan communities

BUDGET FUND BALANCE

Baldwin’s policy to maintain an unassigned fund balance between 25–35 percent of annual

expenditures ensures sound, longterm financial health. I support continuing this prudent approach so the library can adapt to unexpected changes, invest in critical one-time projects, and maintain high-quality service without putting pressure on taxpayers If Baldwin’s fund balance exceeds the 35 percent cap, I would support using the surplus for strategic, one-time investments that serve the public without creating ongoing costs Installing a building generator was an idea that received unanimous support from the ad hoc development committee I served on, including a library board member, the library director, and the associate director This would allow Baldwin to serve as a safe haven during power outages, offering warmth, cooling, or even temporary shelter when residents need it most

CITY PROVIDED SERVICES

A proposed 110 percent increase in administrative charges naturally raises concerns, and I support the library board’s decision to review those costs carefully If the library can secure the same or better services for less through private vendors, it’s their responsibility to explore that option The library director, Rebekah Craft, and the board members must also consider the implications that changing providers may have for our staff One area of concern for the library is health insurance: a lower cost would likely reflect less robust coverage, which would not benefit staff The board must protect public resources (taxpayers’ dollars) and ensure high-quality, cost-effective service that supports without lessening benefits for staff members who receive them Equally important is striving for a healthy, good relationship with the city, maintained through transparency and open communication

CENSURE OF B OOKS

I don’t believe in censoring books in our libraries One of the most powerful things about a library is that it’s a place where everyone can encounter new ideas A library is meant to serve the whole community, and that means offering wide range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. Our library should remain a space where curiosity and learning are encouraged not restricted Baldwin has professional policies for book collection, maintenance, and reviewing concerns I support

protecting those policies from political pressure and national censorship campaigns

ROLE OF B OARD MEMBER

Library board members are guardians of the mission and stewards of the public trust, who ensure that the library thrives as a cornerstone of education, literacy and community As a board member, I would ensure the library continues serving our entire community not by managing daily operations, but by supporting the director and setting long-term policy and vision Together, we are responsible for the big picture: budgets, strategic planning, and ensuring resources are used responsibly I also see board members as advocates We should connect the library with the community, listen to residents, and make sure the library remains accessible and relevant for everyone For me, this comes down to protecting one of our most beloved institutions a place open to all, free to all, and vital for learning and opportunity I would bring a thoughtful, accountable approach to ensure our library thrives for our present patrons, their families, and future generations

CHANGING LIBRARY ROLE

Public libraries are no longer simply book depositories; they’re vibrant community hubs that adapt to meet the changing needs of the people they serve Baldwin Public Library already offers an impressive range of services: the IDEA Lab (a maker space), a growing Library of Things, and engaging programs for all ages provided by outstanding staff support That said, there’s room to build on our strong foundation One area of opportunity is flexible-use space Maybe one of the spaces we rent could be reconfigured as a studio for musical performing or podcasting Baldwin could explore using our existing space or partnering with other local organizations to broaden how the library physically serves its community Additionally, I see great potential in adding programming around cooking and nutrition These classes promote healthier living and provide accessible, practical education that benefits families, seniors, and young adults alike Partnering with local chefs, nutritionists, or educators could make this feasible and exciting. Ultimately, Baldwin should continue to evolve in

ways that reflect our community’s values curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning. By embracing innovative services while maintaining our commitment to literacy and access, Baldwin will remain relevant and essential for future generations

VALIDITY OF ELECTION RESULTS

Yes, I believe the 2020 presidential election was valid I think it’s important for our community to have trust in the democratic process because that trust carries over to all our local institutions, including the library The library is a place where everyone should feel that decisions are made fairly, transparently, and in the best interest of the community By respecting the integrity of elections, we reinforce the idea that are our library is a trusted, inclusive space

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

I will always champion the needs of the library, staff, and patrons as I serve. I’ll listen to your ideas and concerns and ensure they’re heard at our board meetings I’ll always fight for our library, promoting equity, learning, and understanding for everyone Your tax dollars matter; I’ll always use them wisely to strengthen and improve our library From resources to inclusive programming, I’ll advocate boldly for a library that reflects and serves the needs of our entire community Lastly, I’ll bring my future-focused leadership to the Birmingham public library as I work to ensure our library continues to evolve with excellence, innovation, and heart

FRANK PISANO

Frank Pisano is Director of Investments at Oppenheimer &

Company He has served four terms as a trustee on the board of the Baldwin Public Library

IMPACT OF FEDERAL CUTBACKS

The Baldwin Public Library in the past has received $38,000 a year from the Library of Michigan (LM) which receives the money from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Currently this hasn’t affected Baldwin Public Library because a majority of our funding comes from local property taxes, but this will have severe impact on libraries in other states

BUDGET FUND BALANCE

Baldwin Public Library (BPL) has a Fund Balance Policy that the library board of directors shall maintain an unassigned fund balance of not less than 25 percentof the annual expenditures and of not more than 35 percent of annual expenditures, except where it is building its fund balance in support of specific nonrecurring projects, which will be assigned as such These percentages are based on BPL’s previous fiscal year-end financial statement. If BPL has excess reserves I would be in favor of using additional funds to help fund other projects in the city with the direction of the city manager to help keep residents’ tax base as low as possible

CITY PROVIDED SERVICES

I would like to see a negotiation of administrative contract between BPL and the city. I want to acknowledge the importance of this process and the long-standing partnership between the city and BPL Both institutions are essential pillars of the community, each with clear and valuable mission to serve the public equitably, transparently and effectively. The city and BPL share a commitment to serving the public, and both are working within budgetary constraints that require thoughtful planning and compromise I think a fair and transparent administrative contract strengthens accountability, trust, and a long-term cooperation between the city and BPL

CENSURE OF B OOKS

I express strong opposition to any policy that would restrict, remove or censor books from BPL collections As a public institution, the library has a foundational responsibility to uphold

the principles of intellectual freedom and ensure access to broad range of ideas, perspectives, and voices even those that may be controversial or uncomfortable Public libraries exist not to reflect the opinions of one group, but to serve the informational and educational needs of all members in our community BPL has a strong policy on Collection Development and Maintenance of the collection and the staff does a great job managing the materials collection

ROLE OF B OARD MEMBER

• Adopt bylaws and rule for the board’s governance

• Maintain control over the building and grounds of the library

• Control the expenditure of all funds credited to the library

• Can appoint, supervise, evaluate, discipline or remove a director

• Approve an annual library budget

• Adopt policies, rules and regulation regarding use of the library

CHANGING LIBRARY ROLE

The role of libraries is undergoing a major transformation, shaped by digital technology, changing community needs, and evolving societal expectations At BPL we have digital access hubs, E-books, audiobooks, and databases. BPL is a community center offering cultural events, author talks, health awareness events, and many other programs. We serve as inclusive, safe spaces for everyone BPL has cutting edge Makerspace that fosters collaboration, and hands on learning BPL is a safe haven during crises like pandemics or extreme weather events as cooling or heating centers BPL supports lifelong learning and literacy support. BPL has continued to evolve and offer many services I think BPL offers our community a wealth of services

VALIDITY OF ELECTION RESULTS

Since I began voting in presidential elections, I have consistently respected the outcome My commitment to democratic norms is a vital foundation for a healthy electoral system I find presidential elections as valid and fair

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

I have just completed my foiurth term as a Baldwin Public Library Trustee I enjoy being on the BPL board and I feel I have made a positive impact to

BPL Since I have been on the board, I have served on the building and finance committees and have championed many projects to improve the library, including adding an automated handling system, curbside drop box, three phases of renovations, a new contract with the City of Bloomfield Hills for library services, strong relationships with our contract communities, and ongoing support of library staff

DANIELLE RUMPLE

Danielle Rumple is a secretary in the Birmingham Public Schools She holds a bachelor degree in psychology and biological anthropology from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Wayne State University Rumple has been a Baldwin Library board member since 2021 and is involved in the Friends of the Baldwin Public Library, as well as Birmingham Schools organizations.

IMPACT OF FEDERAL CUTBACKS

The state of Michigan receives modest funding from IMLS which supports key cultural, historical and literary projects W ith the cuts to IMLS, a number of popular services offered by Baldwin will be affected, including: database access, staff training programs, interlibrary loan delivery, Michigan Activity Pass, and e-rate funding for internet access in the building The biggest risk is the potential for losing Michigan Electronic Library (MelCat), which is a statewide service that allows patrons of participating Michigan libraries to borrow materials they need by obtaining materials from other Michigan libraries The funding for MelCat is guaranteed through September 30, 2025 but there is uncertainty for the 2026 fiscal year If anyone is dissatisfied with these

possible cuts, I encourage them to reach out to their Michigan representatives to express their concerns

BUDGET FUND BALANCE

The BPL Board of Directors shall maintain an unassigned fund balance of not less than 25 perent and not more than 35 percent of annual expenditures, unless we are building our fund balance in support of specific non-recurring projects. If the fund balance were to exceed the range set in the policy, that event would trigger a conversation that would take place during a board meeting The public is always invited to attend BPL board meetings We would depend on library leadership to guide us in how to best use the surplus funds

CITY PROVIDED SERVICES

The City of Birmingham and the Baldwin Public Library need to maintain a close positive relationship. As a board trustee, I would encourage the library to look at all the options while maintaining fiscal responsibility and ensuring that our community members continue to receive the incredible service they have today

CENSURE OF B OOKS

I do not agree with public censure of books in libraries BPL has a form used for requesting the reconsideration of material if someone has an issue with particular materials I appreciate that BPL offers everyone the freedom to read the books and topics they choose I am very familiar with the BPL Collection Development and Maintenance Policy and find our policies well developed and comprehensive in ensuring that BPL has an outstanding print and electronic collection in the space it has.

ROLE OF B OARD MEMBER

As the current BPL board president, my role is to preside at all meetings, appoint subcommittee members and perform other various duties The library board is elected to be the keeper of library policies, act as a public trustee for the library, oversee the performance of the library director and ensure fiscal responsibility I have served on various committees during my first term as a board member, including, Finance (2021- current), Outreach (2021-2023), and I am a

current member of the Strategic Planning committee The BPL 20252028 Strategic Plan is expected to be completed in the fall of 2025 I love the Baldwin Public Library and think it is a truly invaluable resource for our community I strive to be a responsible trustee and do my best to share this wonderful resource with our community and contract communities so they can utilize BPL now and into the future

CHANGING LIBRARY ROLE

I am very proud of the programming and services that are being offered at BPL I think director Craft and the entire staff are doing an outstanding job of serving our patrons Staff have completed training on a variety of ways to best serve our community and we appreciate all the new ideas they share Baldwin Public Library’s Idea Lab continues to be an amazing option for patrons as well as the recent addition of the Library of Things Did you know that you can borrow yard games from Baldwin Public Library? As my two kids continue to grow, I appreciate the increased programming in the Teen Scene and BPL’s responsiveness to patrons’ interests BPL does a great job of growing its programming, and I rely on BPL’s dedicated staff to propose new services and programming

VALIDITY OF ELECTION RESULTS

Yes.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

As the current library board president, I feel confident that I can continue to serve the Baldwin Public Library in a positive way BPL is an independent entity, but we have more work to do to ensure fiscal responsibility and maintain a positive relationship with the City of Birmingham. I think my experience with the library will help to ensure we can keep all our patrons and staff supported on their path to learn, connect and discover

“Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate rulers of our democracy are not a president and senators and congressmen and government officials but the voters of our country.”

FRANKLIN D ROOSEVELT 32ND PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

VOTE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS CITY COMMIS SION

Two-year terms, non-partisan, vote for five

ALAN ACKERMAN

Alan T Ackerman is a lawyer with bachelor and master degrees from Michigan State University and a law degree from the University of Michigan He is a member of the Bloomfield Hills Zoning Board of Appeals and a past member of the Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees. Ackerman is an adjunct professor of law at Michigan State University and is a math tutor at Pasteur Elementary

SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS

Bloomfield Hills, through the city’s website, provides some information relative to environmental issues but do you think the city should be more proactive, like some communities in Oakland, in terms of addressing sustainability and climate warming issues? Explain

The environment is important to me, as it is to all our residents in the City of Bloomfield Hills I understand that clean water and protecting the beautiful natural surroundings of this city are important reasons why people move and build a life here. It is important to keep it that way We need to consider our impact on the environment while our city commission stays focused on the duties it is tasked to perform, assuring public safety, public works, and rational zoning rules. I want to make sure our residents can enjoy their property and lifestyle, while also requiring the city’s public contracting and services are provided in a fiscally responsible manner. Respecting the environment and providing good governance, grounded in local concerns, are both critically important and mutually supportive goals of mine

CITY MEETING TRANSPARENCY

Should the city provide the

opportunity for residents to attend commission meetings and interact with officials through Zoom broadcast of meetings? Explain

Yes. Transparency is mandatory for our local government Over my 50 years as an attorney, I have represented a variety of local communities in the Detroit area. Some of my municipal clients have allowed local zoom meetings for many years It is an effective and easy way for citizens to remain involved in their local government, interact with board members, and get responses to their questions and concerns

PEDESTRIAN PATHS

Although city officials in the past have said that residents don’t support creating pedestrian or safety paths throughout the city, do you think on major roadways that pedestrian paths should be provided?

Explain

I believe there are sufficient pedestrian paths available to the city as they exist today The city has low traffic and has spacious neighborhoods Local residents are generally able to walk in their neighborhoods I do not see any need for the city to seize parts of our beautiful lawns, potentially cut down trees and existing vegetation, and expend considerable public funds on a new and extensive sidewalk system

TOP IS SUES

If elected what are your top issues that you would like to address as a commissioner?

It is vital that the city commission pursue transparency with the public, ensure effective provision of basic public services, and guarantee that funds from taxpayers are spent responsibly Fiscal rationality and responsiveness in local matters to the actual needs and viewpoints of citizens is paramount The commission must review and approve major city contracts, amendments to the zoning ordinances, and public use and construction regulations I understand that these and other duties are very important for the lives and properties of residents As commissioner, I will give these issues the seriousness they deserve, thoroughly review available records, and make informed decisions that protect the beauty, identity, and fiscal health of the city, without the need for additional taxes or assessments.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

Why should voters select you in this election?

I have been a resident of Bloomfield Hills for decades I love the city It is where I raised my three children and built my career and life, all of which I am incredibly blessed to have It is important that City of Bloomfield Hills continues to have knowledgeable, dedicated, and responsive city commissioners. I am a self-made professional with decades of experience in law, specializing in the representation of property owners and their conflicts with local government I have been heavily involved in community organizations, including the Bloomfield Hills Zoning Board of Appeals I know this city and its residents, and I believe I effectively represent their viewpoints, interests, and concerns. It would be a privilege to sit on the city commission and serve those who also have made Bloomfield Hills their home

BRAD BAXTER

Brad Baxter is the founder and chairman of the W isker firm He holds a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of W isconsinMadison Baxter if an incumbent city commissioner and a member of the city’s planning commission and the zoning board of appeals He is a board member of Preservation Bloomfield

SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS

I believe the city of Bloomfield Hills has been proactive in addressing issues related to an increasingly extreme climate Management of increased rain events has been a top priority and managing runoff from construction projects as well as working with residents to better retain and manage

water on their property are ongoing efforts. Additionally, the city has an ongoing annual tree planting program which has been quite successful and popular with residents

CITY MEETING TRANSPARENCY

It is a bit unfair to couch this as a transparency question. The city commission meetings are open to the public and there is a video/audio recording of each meeting, so I would not say there is a lack of transparency. As for the convenience factor of being able to attend a meeting via Zoom, I would not have a problem with that, however, I feel logistically it could get complicated and difficult to manage when it comes to residents wanting to interact via Zoom As a personal preference, I do appreciate and welcome the benefit of interacting with residents in person

PEDESTRIAN PATHS

Safety paths do not make sense on secondary streets within the City of Bloomfield Hills There is no support for it, the utility would be limited, and the cost would be very high to the residents. In the case of major roadways like Woodward Avenue, or roadways that connect a neighborhood to schools, I believe safety paths may have a case. Safety paths on the major thoroughfares would be helpful and provide safe passage for residents that choose to walk, jog, or ride a bicycle –and would also provide safe connection to the safety paths that already exist in Bloomfield Township On the other hand, I understand, respect, and would be sensitive to the concerns of property owners along those corridors

Additionally, funding would be a major challenge requiring a majority in favor and a special assessment district as there are no funds currently available for a project like this

TOP IS SUES

Maintaining public safety and fire services at the current level of excellence Modifying and updating ordinances for the purpose of clarity and ease of enforcement as well as adapting to changes in climate and residential building footprints

Continuing to look at ways to reduce noise on Woodward Avenue

Reforestation of legacy hardwoods such as Oak, Hickory and Walnut

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

20+ years resident of the City of

Bloomfield Hills Served on the zoning board of appeals for four years, six years as city commissioner and served on the planning commission while mayor of the City of Bloomfield Hills I am a practical problem solver that is willing to look at an issue from all angles – collaborating to craft a solution that works for all I look for fairness over preference and gravitate toward facts and reality vs becoming a victim of the latest pendulum swing In my line of business one must think outside of the box, and I believe this skill adds to the toolbox of the city commission

ALICE I. BUCKLEY

Alice I Buckley holds bachelor and law degrees from Michigan State University Buckley has been a city commissioner since 2019 and has served as mayor, and as a past member of the zoning board of appeals and the planning commission She also volunteers with the Ladies of Charity Clothes Closet

SUSTAINABILITY EFFORT

I am proud that Bloomfield Hills is a green city You know you are in Bloomfield Hills by the abundance of trees lining the streets and boulevards Trees are a natural line of defense and modulate the effects of climate warming, air pollution, drought and biological invasions Tree preservation is very important to our citizens and our city It is a basic element of our city’s master plan that serves as a guidepost in everything that we do, development wise We also have a detailed tree protection ordinance and a very popular annual city tree planting program that supports our sustainability and ecological stewardship.

CITY MEETING TRANSPARENCY

In short, yes, Bloomfield Hills should

absolutely offer residents the chance to join commission meetings via Zoom if they so desire, in addition to our live broadcasts of commission meetings, in real time, through the Bloomfield Township Community Cable Channel on Youtube It’s a simple step that makes local governance more accessible and ensures that more people can engage without having to physically show up. It’s really about transparency and convenience

PEDESTRIAN PATHS

We’re a small and close-knit city, and even tiny pedestrian paths come with a big price tag of millions. Since we only have a few taxpayers to share that cost, we’d really need a lot of demand to make it worthwhile Plus, we want to keep our trees and natural beauty intact Right now, we’re keeping an eye on how many folks actually want this, but we just haven’t seen that big need yet

TOP IS SUES

Protecting our safety Providing great city services at lower costs to taxpayers Preserving our city’s beauty Woodward Avenue: Keeping it safe; keeping the noise under control; preserving its beauty and function

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

W ith deep roots in Bloomfield Hills of 24 years as a resident, serving this city has been both an honor and a natural extension of my experience For the past six years, I’ve served as a city commissioner, including a term as mayor, and have served on both the zoning board of appeals and planning commission with a deep record of concern for our citizens, and our city Professionally, I’m a licensed attorney with a long career in commercial and contract law, including roles as Divisional Vice President of Commercial Law and Assistant Secretary at Kmart Corporation and as Assistant General Counsel at Sears Holdings That background has been invaluable in city governance much like a public company, a city requires thoughtful oversight, strategic planning, and a commitment to the greater good.

LAUREN G. FISHER

Lauren G Fisher is a past commercial loan officer and commercial real estate officer with JP Morgan Chase, with a degree business financing and marketing from the University of Southern California. Fisher has been a member of the city commission since 2020, and has served as mayor, a member of the zoning board of appeals and is currently a member of the planning commission. She is involved with a number of local and regional community groups

SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS

Yes, our city has both the opportunity and the responsibility to be proactive in addressing sustainability and climate resilience As stewards of our beautiful, tree-lined streets, rolling hills, and carefully maintained neighborhoods, we have a strong foundation but there’s more we can do to protect this environment for future generations Proactive sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing the charm or character of our community. Together with our planning commission, we are preserving our tree canopy and native plant species, encouraging water-wise landscaping, and promoting thoughtful development that respects our natural terrain. On the city commission, we also budget funds to prepare for extreme weather by strengthening infrastructure to better withstand flooding, etc

CITY MEETING TRANSPARENCY

We have always welcomed anyone to attend our meetings on the second Tuesday of every month, and we always provide time on the itinerary for them to speak at city council meetings To provide further transparency, we on the city council adopted the open meetings act this year, and post any meeting

between our members 24 hours prior so that any resident may attend.

PEDESTRIAN PATHS

Our city’s character is rooted in its natural beauty, open space, and ruralresidential feel The absence of sidewalks reflects our community’s desire to preserve this park-like atmosphere Adding sidewalks could disrupt mature trees, natural drainage patterns, and scenic frontage; and would add hardscape that would further aggravate any flooding issues People chose to live in Bloomfield Hills because of its character Any sidewalk proposal would need robust community input, environmental sensitivity, and smart design to ensure safety without compromising what makes our city special Sidewalks would also create a significant financial impact on residents Even limited installations can cost hundreds of thousands per mile before factoring in grading, drainage, and ADA compliance These added complexities drive costs up substantially. For example, Bloomfield Township’s sidewalk plan is estimated at $15 8 million Any sidewalk expansion in Bloomfield Hills must be weighed carefully against actual community needs and the long-term financial responsibility placed on residents

TOP IS SUES

Public safety is and will remain one of my highest priorities. We are fortunate to have recently hired a toptier chief of police and fire who brings not only experience and strong leadership, but also a proactive, problem-solving mindset and valuable connections with neighboring departments and federal agencies Our public safety department is fully staffed, well-equipped and trained They thwarted national burglary rings, fires, and also made important progress addressing noise complaints along Woodward Avenue, despite the added challenge of it being under state control Second, I support our city manager’s systematic infrastructure maintenance Well-maintained roads, sewers(currently lining the pipes), and bridges (Chesterfield repair starts soon) and culverts are essential I promptly voted for the adoption of Encode Plus, a new digital zoning and planning software platform that brings greater transparency and ease of use for residents, builders, and landscapers We will also standardize street signs with a new vendor and replacement policy Under the leadership of our

planning commission chairman, we are updating all the ordinances

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

I care about the City of Bloomfield Hills We are fortunate to have raised our children in Bloomfield Hills and to have lived in two different areas of the city Having built and renovated homes here, I understand the importance of preserving what makes our community special while planning wisely for its future I have a finance background, come from a family of award-winning architects, and have served the city for almost seven years As a re-elected city council member, I would bring a practical, solutions-driven approach that prioritizes both the everyday concerns of residents and the long-term health, beauty, and stability of our city

SUSAN MCCARTHY

Susan McCarthy is director of CCC Intelligent Solutions, with a bachelor and a master degree from Central Michigan University and NYU She has been a Bloomfield Hills City Commissioner for 10 years.

SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS

I think the city is very proactive looking at energy efficiency and protecting our natural resources. The city website provides information concerning water conservation and offers suggestions to our residents about actions they can take to conserve water Our cities master plan promotes green technology and to protect the natural environment within the city We encourage green technology in all new building plans, and we preserve our natural wetlands and their setback requirements The city is also a member of the Alliance of Rouge Communities

CITY MEETING TRANSPARENCY

We actively encourage our residents to

attend our city Commission meetings. We video tape all city commission, planning and zoning board of appeals meetings However, the state of Michigan requires that all city meetings be conducted in person

PEDESTRIAN PATHS

Our city residents continue to tell us they do not want safety paths throughout our city or on the main roads The topography of our city with its rolling hills and large trees would make it very expensive to cut into the landscape or build bridges over waterways. Residents have told us they do not want to significantly alter the natural landscaping that defines Bloomfield Hills

TOP IS SUES

I believe a balanced budget is a primary objective I strive to spend residents tax dollars wisely. I will continue to work to maintain our city roads within our budget so that we do not need to assess our residents Supporting our police and firefighters with state-of-theart equipment to protect our residents and their homes is another top priority

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

I ran for city commission for the first time 10 years ago after serving on the city zoning board of appeals and planning \commission I love our city and want to preserve the natural beauty it offers our residents with its rolling hills and large trees I will strive to maintain the unique beauty of our city so that it continues to be a highly desirable place to live I also have an innate ability to listen to all points of view with an open mind to build consensus and bring about positive outcomes for the city I encourage residents to contact me directly with any suggestions or improvements for our city

ANJALI PRASAD

the University of Michigan, a masters degree from W illiam & Mary, and a law degree from the Emory Law School She is a former Assistant United States Attorney and has served on the Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission She is active with Mai Family Services which serves the South Asian community in Michigan.

SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS

In my years as both a federal prosecutor and a defense attorney, I have learned that good decision-making is about balancing immediate needs with longterm consequences. The same is true for sustainability Bloomfield Hills should promote responsible use of natural resources, reduce waste, and look for fiscally sound ways to minimize pollution If our neighbors are implementing smart initiatives, there is no reason we cannot do the same in a way that reflects our community’s priorities To me, sustainability is not about politics, it is about quality of life Just as in a courtroom where small choices can have enormous outcomes, our choices today about the environment will affect both our families and our property values tomorrow

CITY MEETING TRANSPARENCY

As a trial lawyer, I have seen how much it matters when people feel their voices have been heard It changes outcomes and builds trust That same principle applies to local government Not everyone can get to a commission meeting in person, especially parents who are hustling to get homework done or professionals who are juggling hectic work schedules. By broadcasting meetings on Zoom and allowing questions or comments, we would open the door to more voices and broader participation. We have the technology to make this possible at minimal cost The question is whether we are willing to value inclusion enough to use it I believe Bloomfield Hills residents should not have to choose between family, work and civic engagement W ith a simple change, we can make government more transparent and accessible for all

PEDESTRIAN PATHS

In my work, I never made decisions without first gathering the facts and hearing from everyone involved That same approach should guide the discussion about pedestrian paths Some residents may welcome them for safety and walkability, while others may have concerns about cost or neighborhood impact The best way to

move forward is to ask the community directly through surveys and open discussions Once we have that input, we can study feasibility, safety benefits, and fiscal impact before deciding I like big ideas, but just like in the courtroom, I want evidence before I act If paths are supported, they should be designed to serve residents well and use taxpayer funds wisely If they are not, then we should respect that consensus.

TOP IS SUES

The issues I want to tackle reflect problems I have experienced personally or observed firsthand from listening to residents First, public safety As a prosecutor I worked closely with law enforcement, and as a defense attorney I see how safety concerns ripple through families and communities Schools are central to this conversation because student safety is community safety Second, noise pollution along Woodward Avenue. The constant roar of traffic and excessive noise take away from the peaceful character that drew many of us to Bloomfield Hills, which in my mind is the classic bedroom community Third, storm water management Too many residents deal with flooded basements and property damage, and this is an issue that cannot be ignored My focus will always be on practical solutions that improve daily life while respecting taxpayer dollars

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

For 25 years, I have stood in courtrooms as both a prosecutor and a criminal defense attorney In both roles, my job has been to listen, weigh facts, and advocate for people whose voices might otherwise go unheard I want to bring that same skill set to the city commission Bloomfield Hills has been home to my family since 1981 I grew up here, my parents still live here, and I raised my own children here That lifelong connection gives me both historical perspective and a personal stake in our city’s future I know what makes Bloomfield Hills special, and I also know where we can improve Residents deserve a commissioner who will fight for them, not for an agenda. I believe my background proves that I can be that advocate

Anjali Prasad is the owner of the Prasad Legal firm, with a bachelor degree from

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FA C E S

Lynn Alexander

Lynn Alexander, author of “Caregiver Tsunami,” grew up in an intergenerational household, where she developed a passion as an advocate for the elderly.

“I was born into a very interesting household,” Alexander said “I actually came home to a caregiver household ”

While in their 20 s, Alexander’s parents took on the responsibility of caring for her grandmother and grandfather

“Caregiving is in my DNA . My parents eventually took care of all four of my grandparents,” she said “Not long after that, I was taking care of my own parents

So, you could say that I have been preparing for this my entire life ”

W ith a keen understanding of the challenges that come with advocating for the elderly, Alexander set out to help others by authoring the book, “Caregiver Tsunami ”

“Caregiving for elderly parents can be a stressful undertaking,” Alexander said. “So I wrote a how-to, self-help book for caregivers,” she said “I feel very strongly that this book can be very helpful for people It’s not just for lay caregivers but professional caregivers as well There are strategies on how to weather the storm ”

The book teaches caregivers how to advocate for the elderly, manage stress and embrace the joys of caregiving.

“We forget that you can find humor in caregiving,” she said “My dad was blind, but he would still tell jokes and wear different hats for his caregivers My parents were as sharp as tacks until the day they passed ”

Alexander also stresses the importance of acknowledging the humanity of the elderly and respecting their lived experiences

“It’s important to look into their eyes, hold their hands, and have compassion and humanity ”

Since authoring “Caregiver Tsunami” 12 years ago, Alexander has gained more experience and skills She decided to write a second edition of “Caregiver Tsunami” to include more ideas and tips for those caring for the elderly

The second edition was launched in August 2025, and is currently one of the top new releases on Amazon.

“I know the book is really resonating with people The caregivers are really doing the bounty of work,” she said “The more we support them, the more competent they will be They’re doing such important work that they should be recognized It’s also about understanding the positive aspects of intergenerational relationships and that connection. It’s important to maintain those intergenerational relationships with grandchildren and great-grandchildren ”

Alexander received her B SW in social work and an MA in psychology Subsequently, she was a Michigan state cabinet official and the vice chair of the Michigan Health Endowment Fund

“I was on the board for seven years,” she said. “I was one of the original appointees under Governor Snyder and served two terms. I helped create quality of life for all Michigan residents ”

Additionally, Alexander implemented innovative strategies to assist the elderly

“We created adult daycare services and respite care,” she said “We helped them build better facilities ”

Alexander also headed up the My Choice Waiver Program. The innovative program offered in-home respite for the elderly “W ith this program, the elderly don’t need to go into a nursing home to get the care they need ”

Alexander and her husband, retired Oakland Circuit Court Judge James Alexander, have been married for 43 years and have resided in Bloomfield Township for 41 years

“We are great champions for each other,” she said. “And we love Bloomfield Township There s a real sense of community It’s a beautiful place to live Phoenicia (in Birmingham) is my favorite restaurant ”

After more than 25 years of advocating for the elderly, Alexander intends to continue helping others

“What I often tell people is that you’re not going to be perfect and you are not alone in this ”

Story: Katey Meisner

Photo: Laurie Tennent

B U S I N E S S M AT T E R S

Design W ithin Reach

Design Within Reach (DWR), the Connecticut-based moder n fur niture retailer, is set to open a new store in downtown Bir mingham at 214 W Maple Road the for mer home of Anthropologie The company was founded in 1998 by Rob Forbes At the time, iconic pieces by designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Le Corbusier, and Eero Saarinen were largely inaccessible to the average consumer and had extremely long wait times for deliver y Forbes sought to change that by offering these classics directly to the public One of the first companies to recognize DWR’s vision was Michiganbased Her man Miller Within its first year, DWR was selling Her man Miller ’ s iconic pieces like the Eames Lounge Chair and the Aeron Chair directly to retail customers nationwide via catalog The relationship came full circle in 2015, when Design Within Reach officially became par t of the Her man Miller family The company provides complimentar y design ser vices, including room planning, personalized fur niture and fabric recommendations, and 3D renderings to help customers visualize their space all at no cost Design Within Reach has over 70 locations nationwide, including standalone stores, Her man Miller stores, and DWR Outlets An opening date for the new Bir mingham store has not yet been announced

SKLD acquired by Optalis

Optalis Healthcare, headquar tered in Novi, is focused on development and operations management within the healthcare sector, specializing in post-acute rehabilitation and long-ter m care ser vices Recently, the company announced the acquisition of seven SKLD locations in Michigan including the location of SKLD at the cor ner of Big Beaver and Adams Road in Bloomfield Township “ This acquisition is a strategic step for ward in our mission to expand access to high-quality care By bringing these seven new

locations into our network, we ’ re not just growing – we ’ re investing in the health of the communities we ser ve, ” said Raj Patel, CEO “ We’re proud to welcome the dedicated teams at these locations into the Optalis family Together, we’ll ensure that residents experience a smooth transition and continued excellence in care ” Optalis Health and Rehabilitation of Bloomfield Hills provides both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and therapy ser vices to help individuals recover from injur y, surger y, or illness Their team of skilled and licensed therapists offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy ser vices to help improve mobility, strength, and overall function

My House of Style closes

Diane Har ris, owner and founder of My House of Style in Bir mingham, has announced that the store has closed its doors My House of Style, located at 574 N Old Woodward Avenue, offered ar tisan jewelr y, home decor, personal accessories and gif ts Har ris took to Instagram to explain the circumstances for the closure and to offer her patrons a thank you for their suppor t for the past twenty years “I had a dream to renovate My House of Style to create a brighter more updated and inspiring shopping experience I had secured financing and was filled with excitement, vision and hope for the future Unfor tunately, the financing did not go through as planned To my customers past and present, you have been far more than clients; you have been family Thank you for your suppor t through all these years, ” said Har ris

The NOW on Hamilton Row

The NOW Massage has its first Michigan location at 375 Hamilton Row, Bir mingham The massage boutique is designed for customers as “ an oasis to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect within ”

The NOW ’ s goal is to offer highquality, customizable massage ser vices without the time commitment and cost of a

traditional spa The company was founded in 2015 by Jason and Gara Post who saw a void in the marketplace for high quality massage in an inspired setting, without the time commitment and cost of a traditional spa Af ter opening the first NOW boutique in West Hollywood, success followed The company went from one to four boutiques in 18 months, and prepared them for the next stage of expansion which was franchising Since franchising in 2019, The NOW hopes to have close to 100 locations open and operating by the end of 2025 The Bir mingham location is the first in Michigan and is owned by brothers Mike and Andy Valentine The Valentines plan to open two more locations in Michigan one in Ann Arbor and another location to be deter mined Massage therapists at The NOW receive advanced training on the custom menu Guests can choose between three signature Swedish-inspired massage styles, including: The NOW, a signature relaxation massage; The HEALER, an energy-balancing massage designed to reduce stress; and the STRETCH, a spor ts-inspired recover y massage Guests can pair their ser vice with a variety of custom, exclusive enhancements, such as: Herbal Heat Therapy, Deep Tissue, Fresh Eyes, Hemp Calm Balm, Gliding Cupping, Cr ystal Hot Stones, and Gua Sha, a traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses smooth rose quar tz tools to target specific areas of the body The boutique also features a curated selection from its own signature line, including specialty personal care items like body oils and lotions, as well as cr ystals, candles, and jewelr y

CLEO Skin + Laser open

CLEO Skin + Laser, an aesthetic der matology concept focused on cosmetic laser treatments, will open its first Michigan location in downtown Bir mingham in mid-September Located at 670 S Old Woodward, CLEO offers an innovative approach to skincare that focuses on resolving issues at their source,

deep within the skin, and a unique business model focused on efficacy, transparency and accessibility The company was founded by par tners Brian DeRosa and Amber McMillan who have deep roots in health, wellness and hospitality They founded CLEO out of fr ustration with the status quo in beauty, where large brands overpromise and underdeliver on products that lack clinical validation for the skin issues they purpor t to resolve CLEO’s advanced skincare treatments cater to a variety of needs, from wrinkle reduction to acne treatment to hair removal, for all ages (16+), genders and skin tones “ The decision to expand to Bir mingham was both strategic and personal,” said Amber McMillan, co -founder and coCEO of CLEO Skin + Laser “I lived and worked here for many years while r unning LIFETIME’s business in the region, and I know firsthand how much this community values health, wellness and innovation We see a real oppor tunity to bring SE Michigan best-in-class skincare solutions delivered in a moder n, approachable way ” The brand’s retail locations offer a streamlined program of advanced skin treatments for the face and body, including: CLEO Signature Glass Skin Laser Facial; CLEO Contour Laser Facial; CLEO Signature Skin Shield Pico Laser Facial; CLEO Signature Photofacial; Radio Frequency Microneedling; Laser Hair Removal and Laser Tattoo Removal More CLEO Skin + Laser locations, in Michigan and beyond, are slated to open in 2026

Business Matters for the BirminghamBloomfield area are reported by Gigi Nichols Send items for consideration to GigiNichols@downtownpublications com Items should be received three weeks prior to publication

N E X T N O T E B O O K

Since 2013, Bir mingham has extensively studied senior ser vices, noting ver y compelling statistics on a quickly expanding senior population even given its own moniker the silver tsunami Although there has been a lot of discussion about how to best suppor t seniors, ver y little progress has been made

At last, more than twelve years later, this cur rent city commission made finding a new, per manent space for seniors to operate, one of their top three priorities Seniors became encouraged, even hopeful

In May of 2023, the YMCA made a ver y deliberate and strategic decision to sell their building at 400 E Lincoln, to the City of Bir mingham This new community asset was identified and purchased for senior programming, providing enough room to design a comprehensive gathering space to meet community needs now and into the future For Bir mingham seniors hope changed to excitement

Now in 2025, two and a half years into the project, there is indecision about how, or even if, this asset should be transfor med Our seniors are str uggling to understand It’s a troubling mindset that our older residents feel and fear the belief that once they age, they become less wor thy of community resources

They see the sur rounding communities and how they have provided for seniors Whether it is municipalities with ver y limited resources or others with abundant means, seniors have been made an impor tant factor in municipal planning In 38 other Oakland County communities, there is dedicated space with at least par tial funding for senior residents

Healthy communities recognize that suppor ting seniors isn't just about helping "them" it s about creating systems that benefit ever yone throughout life s jour ney, from the ver y young to our most vulnerable older residents

It is this ver y way of thinking were the majority of Bir mingham taxpayers suppor t bonds for our parks and recreational facilities, though just a small fraction of residents utilize the two golf courses, numerous playgrounds, tennis cour ts or even fewer, the skate park and the ice rink

It is why Bir mingham residents continually suppor t public school bonds and millages, even though only 30 percent of Bir mingham households have children in our public schools

Older community members, who may not benefit from many of these amenities, understand that providing oppor tunities for the health, wellness and engagement for all residents at all ages, is critical to being an inclusive society

The choice before us is consequential How will we treat the 400 East Lincoln project? We can either build a Bir mingham that works for ever yone, or risk creating a divided community

We are relying on the Bir mingham commission to follow the original plan to move senior activities to East Lincoln – the plan that was unanimously approved by this commission in 2023 We can then follow the voters’ wishes when they over whelmingly approved a three-year senior millage to be used for modest improvements to the building Next can then, finally, begin to plan for strategic long-ter m growth

When we invest in comprehensive programs that ser ve residents across all ages, we create economic growth, reduce social costs, and build the kind of place where families want to stay and businesses want to locate

Cris Braun is Executive Director of Birmingham Next

Fall is the per fect season to gather, lear n, and enjoy time together The Community House has something for ever yone From engaging classes that spark creativity and curiosity to our new Dinner and a Movie evenings, there are many oppor tunities to connect with friends old and new Visit CommunityHouseHelps org to explore all the activities we have planned for this fall

Take a midweek pause to enjoy lunch and feed both body and mind at our Masterclass Lunch & Lear n series These midday gatherings provide fresh perspectives and practical insights With topics that touch ever yday life and inspire personal growth, each session, presented by exper t speakers, is designed to be engaging and enjoyable Whether you come with a friend or on your own, you will leave feeling connected and uplif ted

October 15: Dan Er vin, Thriving Amidst the Chaos of Uncertainty and Change

Discover how to lead with confidence and resilience in times of transition with practical strategies to help you not only endure but thrive when life feels unpredictable

December 10: Wendy Jones, Redefining Home: Navigating the Next Steps of Senior Living

Deciding on senior living can feel over whelming, but this seminar brings clarity and compassion to the conversation, breaking down myths and explaining the differences between independent living, assisted living, and nursing homes

Invest in yourself this fall Each class includes lunch and r uns from 11:30 a m to 1:30 p m Tickets are $45 per person and can be purchased now at CommunityHouseHelps org

Next, celebrate one of metro Detroit’s most cherished cultural traditions: the OUR TOWN Ar t Show & Sale For four decades, this event has brought together ar t lovers and friends of The Community House in Bir mingham This year marks the 40th annual celebration of creativity and connection

Festivities begin with the OUR TOWN VIP Par ty on Wednesday, October 30, 6–9 p m This highly anticipated evening gives guests the first look at the juried exhibition featuring original works by Michigan ar tists

The VIP Par ty is more than browsing It is a festive evening to mingle with fellow patrons, meet the ar tists, and enjoy the exclusive oppor tunity to purchase ar twork before the show opens to the public Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the ar t world, it is a welcoming space to find something tr uly special

Tickets for the VIP Par ty are available now at CommunityHouseHelps org Proceeds suppor t the ar tists and The Community House, enriching lives through ar ts, culture, and education

OUR TOWN Ar t Show & Sale will continue free and open to the public October 31–November 1, 9 a m –5 p m Student Ar t Showcase follows OUR TOWN to celebrate the creativity of Metro Detroit K-12 Students

Join Bir mingham Youth Assistance for two excellent upcoming events Har vard Medical School psychologist Dr Willard will lead a workshop for middle and high school students and parents on building resilience through mindfulness training on November 6, 7 p m at Groves High School Breakfast with Santa retur ns Sunday, December 7, at the Townsend Hotel Advanced registration required for both at www bir minghamyouthassistance org

Alison Gaudreau is President of The Community House in Birmingham

Cris Braun

Alison Gaudreau

P L A C E S T O E AT

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.

Birmingham/Bloomfield

220: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 220 E Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 646 2220 220restaurant com

5th Tavern: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2262 S Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302 248 481 9607 5thtavern com

Adachi: Japanese Lunch & Dinner daily Liquor Reservations 325 S Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009 248 540 5900 adachirestaurant com

Andiamo: Italian Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301 248 865 9300 andiamoitalia com

Beau’s: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 4108 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301 248 626 2630 beausbloomfield com

Bella Piatti: Italian Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 167 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 494 7110 bellapiattirestaurant com

Bell Bistro: American Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Liquor Reservations 185 N Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 829 7900 bellbirmingham com

Beverly Hills Grill: American Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills, 48025 248 642 2355 beverlyhillsgrill com

Beyond Juicery + Eatery: Contemporary Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 270 W Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009; 221 Cole Street, Birmingham, 48009; 3645 W Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301; 4065 W Maple Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301; 1987 S Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302 beyondjuiceryeatery com

Big Rock Italian Chop House: Steakhouse. Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 245 S Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 275 0888 bigrockitalianchophouse com

Bill’s: American Breakfast, weekends, Lunch, Wednesday-Sunday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304 248 646 9000 billsbloomfieldhills com

Birmingham Pub: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, TuesdaySunday. Reservations. Liquor. 555 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 885 8108 thebirminghampub com

Birmingham Sushi Cafe: Japanese Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009 248 593 8880 birminghamsushi com

Bistro Joe’s Kitchen: Global Lunch and Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 34244 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 594 0984 bistrojoeskitchen com

Bloomfield Deli: Deli Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 71 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304 248 645 6879 bloomfielddeli com

Brooklyn Pizza: Pizza Lunch & Dinner, daily Liquor No reservations 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 258 6690 thebrooklynpizza com

Café Dax: American Breakfast, daily, Lunch, daily No reservations Liquor 298 S Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009

248 283 4200 daxtonhotel com

Café ML: New American Dinner, daily Liquor Reservations. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township 248 642 4000 cafeml com

Café Origins: Global Breakfast and Lunch, daily, Dinner, Monday-Saturday No reservations 163 W Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009 248 742 4040 originsbirmingham com

Casa Pernoi: Italian Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 310 E Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009 248 940 0000 casapernoi com

Churchill’s Bistro & Cigar Bar : Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 116 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 647 4555 churchillscigarbar com

Cityscape Deli: Deli Breakfast, Lunch and

Dinner, Monday-Saturday No reservations 877 W Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302 248 540 7220 cityscapedeli com

Commonwealth: American Breakfast & Lunch, daily No reservations 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009 248 792 9766 gocommonwealth com

Dick O’Dow’s: Irish Lunch & Dinner, TuesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 160 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 642 1135 dickodowspub com

Eddie Merlot’s: Steak & seafood Dinner, daily Reservations. Liquor. 37000 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248 712 4095 eddiemerlots com

Einstein Bros. Bagels: Deli Breakfast & Lunch, daily No reservations 4089 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301 248 258 9939 einsteinbros com

Elie’s Mediterranean Grill/Bar : Mediterranean Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday No reservations Liquor 263 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 647 2420 eliesgrill com

EM: Mexican Lunch, Saturday, Dinner, TuesdaySaturday Reservations Liquor 470 N Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, 48009 947 234 0819 embirmingham com

Embers Deli & Restaurant: Deli Breakfast & Lunch, Tuesday-Sunday Dinner, TuesdayFriday No reservations 3598 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301 248 645 1033 embersdeli1 com

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & W ine Bar : American. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 323 N Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 723 0134 flemingssteakhouse com

Forest: Continental cuisine Dinner, TuesdaySaturday Reservations Liquor 735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 258 9400 forestbirmingham com

Greek Islands Coney Restaurant: Greek Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 221 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009 248 646 1222 greekislandsconey com

Griffin Claw Brewing Company: American Lunch, Thursday-Sunday, Dinner, TuesdaySunday No Reservations Liquor 575 S Eton Street, Birmingham 248 712 4050 griffinclawbrewingcompany com

Hazel’s: Seafood Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 1 Peabody Street, Birmingham. 248.671.1714. eatathazels.com

Honey Tree Grille: Greek/American Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, daily No reservations 3633 W Maple Rd, Bloomfield, MI 48301 248 203 9111 honeytreegrille com

Hudson’s Place: Pizza/Coffee/Takeout Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, daily No reservations 1087 W Long Lake Road, Bloomfield, 48302 248 540 2266 hudsonsplacepizzeria com

Hunter House Hamburgers: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 646 7121 hunterhousehamburgers com

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse: American Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 201 S Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 594 4369 hydeparkrestaurants com

IHOP: American Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily No reservations 2187 S Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 248.333.7522. Ihop.com

Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Brunch, Sunday, Dinner daily Reservations Liquor 39475 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304 248 792 9609 joemuer com

Kaku Sushi and Poke’: Asian Lunch, MondayFriday & Dinner daily No reservations 869 W Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302 248 480 4785, and 126 S Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009 248 885 8631 kakusushipoke com

Kerby’s Koney Island: American Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 2160 N Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304 248 333 1166 kerbyskoneyisland com

La Marsa: Mediterranean Lunch & Dinner daily Reservations 43259 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48302 248 858 5800 lamarsacuisine com

La Pecora Nera: Italian deli Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, daily No reservations 135 Pierce St. Birmingham, 48009. 248.940.5613. lapecoraneradetroit.com

La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar : Italian Dinner, Monday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 243 E Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 480 0492 lastradaitaliankitchen com

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 leosconeyisland com

Lincoln Yard and Little Yard: American Little Yard take-out hours: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily Lincoln Yard hours: Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations Liquor 2159 E Lincoln Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 653 5353 eatlincolnyard com

Little Daddy’s: American Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 39500 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304 248 647 3400 littledaddys com

Luxe Bar & Grill: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 525 N Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 792 6051 luxebarandgrill com

Madam: American. Brunch, weekends. Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner daily Reservations Liquor 298 S Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 283 4200 daxtonhotel com

Market North End: American Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 474 N Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 712 4953 marketnorthend com

Marrow: American Butcher shop and eatery Breakfast and Lunch, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations 283 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009 734 410 0405 marrowdetroit.com/restaurant

MEX Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar : Mexican Brunch, weekends Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301 248 723 0800 mexbloomfield com

Middle Eats: Mediterranean Lunch and Dinner, daily No reservations 42967 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield, 48093 248 274 328 middleeats com

Nippon Sushi Bar : Japanese Lunch, MondayFriday, Dinner daily No reservations Liquor 2079 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302 248 481 9581 nipponsushibar com

Olga’s Kitchen: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 2075 S Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302 248 451 0500 olgas com

Original Pancake House: American Breakfast & Lunch, daily No reservations 33703 South Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 642 5775 oph-mi com

Phoenicia: Lebanese Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 588 S Old Woodward Birmingham, 48009. phoeniciabirmingham com

Roadside B & G: American Brunch, weekends, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1727 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield, 48302 248 858 7270 roadsidebandg com

Salvatore Scallopini: Italian Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Beer & W ine 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 644 8977 salsbirmingham com

Shift Kitchen & Cocktails: Small Plates Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 117 W illits Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 452 1355 shiftbirmingham com

Sidecar : American Lunch and Dinner, daily Liquor 117 W illits Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 792 2380 sidecarsliderbar com

Slice Pizza Kitchen: Pizza Lunch and Dinner, daily Liquor 117 W illits Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 792 3475

slicepizzakitchen com

Social Kitchen & Bar : American Lunch & Dinner, daily Brunch, Saturday & Sunday Reservations Liquor 225 E Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4200. socialkitchenandbar com

Steve’s Deli: Deli Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday Breakfast and Lunch, Sunday No reservations 6646 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield, 48301 248 932 0800 stevesdeli com

Streetside Seafood: Seafood Lunch, Thursday & Friday, Dinner, daily Liquor 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 645 9123 streetsideseafood com

Sushi Hana: Japanese Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations. Liquor. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304 248 333 3887 sushihanabloomfield com

Sy Thai Cafe: Thai Lunch, Monday-Saturday, Dinner, daily No reservations 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009 248 258 9830 sythaibirmingham com

Sylvan Table: American Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1819 Inverness Street, Sylvan Lake, 48320 248 369 3360 sylvantable com

Tallulah W ine Bar and Bistro: American Dinner, Monday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 55 S Bates Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 731 7066 tallulahwine com

Terra Kitchen & Cocktails: New American Lunch and Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 260 N Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 556 5640 dineterra com

Teuta: Diner. Breakfast and Lunch, daily. No reservations 168 W Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009 248 590 2113 teutabirmingham com

Thai Street Kitchen: Thai Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday No reservations 42805 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48304 248 499 6867 thaistreetkitchen com

The Franklin: Oyster Bar Brunch, weekends, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 32760 Franklin Road, Franklin, 48025 248 771 4747 thefranklinmi com

The Gallery Restaurant: American Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & wine 6683 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301 248 851 0313 galleryrestaurant2 com

The Moose Preserve Bar & Grill: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 2395 S Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48302 248 858 7688 moosepreserve com

The Rugby Grille: American Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 642 5999 rugbygrille com

Toast: American Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Reservations Liquor 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278. eatattoast.com

Tomatoes Apizza: Pizza Lunch & Dinner daily Carryout 34200 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009 248 258 0500 tomatoesapizza com

Touch of India: Lunch, Tuesday-Thursday, Saturday & Sunday Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations 297 E Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009 248 593 7881 thetouchofindia com

Townhouse: American Brunch, weekends

Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 180 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 792 5241 eatattownhouse com

Whistle Stop Diner : American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Liquor No reservations 501 S Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009 248 566 3566 whistlestopdiners com

W ilder’s: American Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 458 N Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 771 0900 wildersbirmingham com

ZANA : Modern American Dinner, TuesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 210 S Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009 248 800 6568 zanabham com

Zao Jun: Asian Lunch, Tuesday-Sunday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 6608 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248 949 9999 zaojunnewasian com

Royal Oak/Fer ndale

Ale Mary’s: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 316 South Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067

248 268 1917 alemarysbeer com

Anita’s Kitchen: Middle Eastern Lunch and Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 22651 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, 48220

248 548 0680 anitaskitchen com

Bella Limone: Italian. Dinner, TuesdaySunday No reservations Liquor 100 S Main Street, Floor 2, Royal Oak, 48067 248 955 5725 bellalimone com

Beppé: New American Lunch, Saturday and Sunday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 703 N Main St, Royal Oak, 48067 248 607 7030 eatbeppe com

Bigalora: Italian Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 711 S Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 544 2442 bigalora com

Blind Owl: International/American comfort Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 511 S. Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067. 248.216.1112. blindowlrestaurant.com

Blue Goat: Mediterranean Lunch, FridaySunday, Dinner, Wednesday-Monday Reservations Liquor 321 S Main St, Royal Oak, 48067 248 965 9955 bluegoatroyaloak com

Cafe Muse: French Breakfast & Lunch, Wednesday-Monday Reservations Liquor 418 S Washington Avenue, Royal Oak, 48067 248 544 4749 cafemuseroyaloak com

Coeur : New American Small Plates Brunch,

Sunday, Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 330 W Nine Mile Road, Ferndale, 48220 248 466 3010 coeurferndale com

Como’s: Pizza Brunch, weekends Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 22812 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, 48220 248.677.4439. comosrestaurant.com

Crispelli’s Bakery and Pizzeria: Italian Lunch and Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 28939 Woodward Avenue, Berkley, 48072 248 591 3300 crispellis com

The Fly Trap: Diner Breakfast & Lunch, daily Dinner, Thursday-Sunday No reservations 22950 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale 48220 248 399 5150 theflytrapferndale com

Grand River Brewery: American Brunch, Saturday & Sunday Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 1 E 14 Mile Road, Clawson, 48017. 248.607-3631. grandriverbrewer

Gus’ Snug: Irish Lunch and Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 38 S Main Street, Clawson, 48017 248 607 3631 gussnug com

HopCat: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 430 S Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 744 2544 HopCat com

Howe’s Bayou: Cajun Lunch & Dinner, TuesdaySaturday No reservations Liquor 22949 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, 48220 248 691 7145 howesbayouferndale net

Imperial: Mexican. Lunch and Dinner, daily. No reservations Liquor 22848 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, 48220 248 691 7145 imperialferndale com

Inyo Restaurant Lounge: Asian Fusion Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 22871 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, 48220 248 543 9500 inyorestaurant com

JINYA Ramen Bar : Contemporary Japanese Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 129 S Main St, Royal Oak, 48067 248.955.4692. jinyaramenbar.com

Kacha Thai Market: Thai Lunch and Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations 205 S Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 942-4246

KouZina: Greek Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 121 N Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 629 6500 gokouzina com

Kruse & Muer on Woodward: American Lunch, Monday-Saturday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 28028 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak, 48067 248 965 2101 kruseandmuerrestaurants com

Lily’s Seafood: Seafood Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 410 S Washington Avenue, Royal Oak, 48067 248 591 5459 lilysseafood com

Masala: Indian Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations 106 S Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 850 8284 food orders co/royaloakmasala

Mezcal: Mexican Bruch, Sunday Lunch and Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 201 E Nine Mile Road, Ferndale, 248 268 3915 mezcalferndale com

Noori Pocha: Korean Lunch & Dinner, TuesdaySunday. No reservations. Liquor. 1 S. Main Street, Clawson, 48017 248 850 7512 nooripocha com

Oak City Grille: American Dinner, TuesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 212 W 6th Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 556 0947 oakcitygrille com

Oak Parker : American Brunch, weekends Lunch & Dinner daily No reservations Liquor 13621 W Eleven Mile Rd, Oak Park, 48237 oakparker com

One-Eyed Betty’s: American Breakfast, weekends, Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor. 175 W. Troy Street, Ferndale, 48220. 248 808 6633 oneeyedbettys com

Pastaio: Italian Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 208 W 5th Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 565 8722 eatpastaio com/royal-oak

Pita Post: Mediterranean Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday No reservations 2520 W 14 Mile Road, Royal Oak, 48073 855 535 5588 thepitapost com

Pop’s for Italian: Italian Brunch and Lunch, weekends, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations. Liquor. 280 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale,48220 248 268 4806 popsforitalian com

Redcoat Tavern: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 31542 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak, 48073

248 549 0300 redcoat-tavern com

Ronin: Japanese Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 326 W 4th Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 546 0888 roninsushi com

Royal Oak Brewery: American Lunch &

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations Liquor 215 E 4th Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 544 1141 royaloakbrewery com

The Modern Vegan: Vegan Brunch, weekends, Lunch and Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations 304 N Main St, Royal Oak, 48067. 248.206-7041. tmvrestaurants.com

Three Cats Café: American. Brunch, weekends, Lunch, Tuesday-Sunday, Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 116 W 14 Mile Road, Clawson threecatscafe com

Tigerlily: Japenese Brunch, weekends Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 231 W Nine Mile Rd Suite A, Ferndale, 48220 248 733 4905 tigerlilyferndale com

Toast, A Breakfast and Lunch Joint: American Breakfast & Lunch, daily No reservations 23144 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, 48220 248 398 0444 eatattoast com

Tom’s Oyster Bar : Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 318 S Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067 248 541 1186 tomsoysterbar com

Trattoria Da Luigi: Italian Dinner, TuesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 415 S, Washington Avenue, Royal Oak, 48067 248 542 4444 trattoriadaluigi business site com

Vinsetta Garage: American Lunch and Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 7799 Woodward Avenue, Berkley, 48072 248 548 7711 vinsettagarage com

Voyager : Seafood. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations Liquor 600 Vester Street, Ferndale, 48220 248 658 4999 voyagerferndale com

Troy/Rochester

Antica Nova: Italian. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations Liquor 1695 E Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48083 248 422 6521 anticanova com

Cafe Sushi: Pan-Asian Lunch, Tuesday-Friday, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 1933 W Maple Road, Troy, 48084 248 280 1831 cafesushimi com

Capital Grill: Steak & Seafood Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 2800 W Big Beaver Road, Somerset Collection, Troy, 48084 248 649 5300

CK Diggs: American & Italian Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor 2010 W Auburn Road, Rochester Hills, 48309 248 853 6600 ckdiggs com

The Dime Store: American Breakfast and Lunch, daily No reservations Liquor 6920 N Rochester Road, Rochester Hills, 48306 248 963 0941 eatdimestore com

Ernie’s on the Creek: Modern Mediterranean Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 543 N Main St #201, Rochester, 48307 248 710 8808 erniesonthecreek com

Firebird Tavern: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor. 4845 Rochester Road, Troy, 48085. 248 289 9650 firebirdtaverntroy com

Grand Castor : Latin American Lunch and Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 2950 Rochester Road, Troy, 48083 248 278 7777 grancastor com

The Jackson: Modern American Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 184 N Adams Road, Rochester Hills, 48309 248 709 9453 thejacksonrestaurant com

Kona Grille: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 30 E Big Beaver Road, Troy, 48083 248.619.9060. konagrill.com

Kruse & Muer on Main: American Lunch, Monday-Saturday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 327 S Main Street, Rochester, 48307 248 652 9400 kruseandmuerrestaurants com

Loccino Italian Grill and Bar : Italian Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily Liquor Reservations 5600 Crooks Road, Troy, 48098 248 813 0700 loccino com

The Meeting House: American Brunch, weekends, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations Liquor 301 S Main Street, Rochester, 48307. 248.759.4825. themeetinghouserochester com

Mon Jin Lau: Nu Asian Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1515 E Maple Road, Troy, 48083 248 689 2332 monjinlau com

Morton’s, The Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 888 W Big Beaver Road, Troy, 48084 248 404 9845 mortons com

NM Café: American Lunch, Monday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 2705 W Big Beaver Road, Troy, 48084 248 816 3424

M E T R O I N T E L L I G E N C E R

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 Gigi Nichols who can be reached at GigiNichols@DowntownPublications com with news items or tips, on or off the record

Contemporary Greek

in Royal Oak

Blue Goat, a moder n upscale Greek restaurant, has officially opened its doors in Royal Oak Owned by the Tef tsis family and launched by Georgios Tef tsis and Chef Anderson Hardy, the restaurant blends tradition with innovation to create a refined Mediter ranean dining experience Georgios Tef tsis comes from a family of restaurateurs His grandfather immigrated from Greece in 1966 and went on to open Astoria Pastr y Shop in Detroit in 1971 Tef tsis describes Blue Goat and its Greek-inspired menu as the per fect setting for a sophisticated adult date night “Our focus at the Blue Goat is the guest experience and the hospitality that we can provide,” he said Highlights from the menu include Char red Octopus with hummus and caper vinaigrette; local lamb chops ser ved with oregano and avgolemono aioli; and a classic lamb & beef gyro with tzatziki, tomato, and onion For desser t, guests can enjoy a Baklava Flight an assor tment of traditional baklava prepared by the family ’ s own Astoria Pastr y Shop The beverage program features a full bar with beer and wine selections, including several Greek options, alongside a curated list of craf t cocktails Designed by Colin Tur y of Tur y Design in Detroit the Blue Goat’s interior evokes the spirit of Greece The space is marked by a calming palette of oceanic blues and crisp white stucco walls, enhanced with rich walnut accents and natural sisal-shaded lighting 321 South Main Street, Royal Oak bluegoatroyaloak com

New Chef at Basan

Basan, tucked neatly into the ground floor of Detroit s historic Eddystone building and a mere stone’s throw from Little Caesars Arena, opened in November of ‘22 Recently, the izakaya-style restaurant announced that Chef Connor Maxwell-McCabe stepped into the role of executive chef Originally from Wisconsin, and now proud to call Wayne, MI home, MaxwellMcCabe’s path to the kitchen has been anything but conventional Before pursuing his culinar y career, he studied metallurgical engineering, applied and computational mathematics, and somputer Science Ultimately, his passion for cooking led him to ear n an associate’s degree in culinar y ar ts from Henr y Ford College and he hasn’t looked back since In his new role, Connor is eager to embrace the many challenges of leading a kitchen from the precision of cost control to maintaining the highest standards in food and ser vice Above all Maxwell-McCabe claims his favorite par t of the work is the people: collaborating with the talented Basan team and connecting with guests, especially at the Chef ’ s Counter, where he finds joy in watching that first-bite reaction Basan ser ves up Japanese-inspired dishes, including bao buns, skewers, small plates, large plates sweets and inventive cocktails Basan is open seven days a week, for dinner and cocktails in both its main dining room and expansive lounge 2703 Park Avenue, Detroit basandetroit com

Rooftop Bella Limone opens

Bella Limone is a new Italian restaurant and bar that “brings the soul of Italy to life through handcraf ted pastas, house-made limoncello, and vibrant flavors infused with fresh lemon, herbs, and passion The Royal Oak establishment takes over the space for merly occupied by Pink y ’s Roof top which closed its doors at the end of June Like Pinky ’ s, Bella Limone is owned by the Adam Merkel Restaurant Group which owns several other well-known restaurants, including Diamonds Steak & Seafood, The Silver Pig, and Cello Italian Restaurant in Howell The menu is thoughtfully craf ted to encourage sharing, with a variety of dishes designed to be passed around the table and enjoyed together All pasta is made fresh daily

Signature offerings include: Lemon Spaghetti with lemon and mascarpone cream, fresh basil, and crispy capers; Rigatoni Spicy Palomino featuring San Marzano tomatoes, chili, and cream; Carbonara with bucatini, black pepper cream sauce, guanciale, peas, roasted cipollini onions, and egg yolk A full bar offers wines beer and craf t cocktails The wine list is exclusively Italian showcasing selections from across the countr y from Tuscany to Sicily The Limoncello is house-made and takes two months to per fect Guests can savor cocktails such as the Amalfi Spritz, made with house Limoncello and Prosecco, or the Limoncello Mar tini, craf ted with house Limoncello, Zim’s

neimanmarcus com/restaurants

Oceania Inn: Chinese Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor The Village of Rochester Hills, 3176 Walton Boulevard, Rochester Hills, 48309 248 375 9200 oceaniainnrochesterhills com

Ocean Prime: Steak & Seafood Lunch, MondayFriday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 2915 Coolidge Highway, Troy, 48084 248 458 0500 ocean-prime com

O’Connor’s Irish Public House: Irish Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 324 S. Main Street, Rochester, 48307. 248.608.2537. oconnorsrochester com

Orchid Café: Thai Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, Monday-Saturday Reservations 3303 Rochester Road , Troy, 48085 248 524 1944 orchid-cafe com

P F Chang’s China Bistro: Chinese Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor Somerset Collection, 2801 W Big Beaver Rd , Troy, 48084 248 816 8000 pfchangs com

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 recipesinc com

RH House: American Brunch, weekends, Lunch and Dinner, daily 2630 Crooks Road, Rochester Hills, 48309 No reservations Liquor 2630 Crooks Road, Rochester Hills, 48309. 248.586.1000. rh.house.com

RH Social: Pizza/Sports Bar Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 6870 N Rochester Road, Rochester Hills, 48306 248 759 4858 rochesterhillssocial com

Rochester Chop House: Steak & Seafood Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 306 S Main St , Rochester, 48307 248 651 2266 kruseandmuerrestaurants com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Steak & Seafood Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 755 W Big Beaver Road, Troy, 48084 248 269 8424 ruthschris com

Sedona Taphouse: American Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 198 Big Beaver Road, Troy, 48083 248 422 6167 sedonataphouse co

Silver Spoon: Italian. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 6830 N. Rochester Road, Rochester, 48306 248 652 4500 silverspoonristorante com

Stumblebum Beer Co.: American Lunch, Friday-Sunday, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations Beer 1965 W Maple Road, Troy, 48084 248 307 7204 stumblebumbeer com

Too Ra Loo: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 139 S Main Street, Rochester, 48307 248 453 5291 tooraloorochester com

West Bloomfield/Southfield

Aurora Italiana: Italian Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 6199 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Twp , 48322 248 782 3000 auroraitaliana com

Aurora on the Lake: Italian Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 2323 Union Lake Road, Commerce Township, 48382 248 360 6650 auroraitaliana com

Cornbread Restaurant & Bar : Southern. Lunch & Dinner, Thursday-Tuesday. Reservations. Liquor. 29508 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, 48034 248 208 1680 cornbreadsoulfood com

Bigalora: Italian Lunch, Monday-Saturday, Dinner, daily No Reservations Liquor 29110 Franklin Road, Southfield, 48034 248 544 2442 bigalora com

The Fiddler : Russian Sunday, Dinner, ThursdaySunday Reservations Liquor 6676 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248 851 8782 fiddlerrestaurant com

Mene Sushi: Japanese Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Beer & W ine 6239 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248.538.7081. menesususi.com

Nonna Maria’s: Italian Dinner, TuesdaySaturday Reservations Liquor 2080 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, 48323 248 851 2500 nonamariasbistro com

Pickles & Rye: Deli Lunch, & Dinner, daily No reservations 6724 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248 737 3890 picklesandryedeli com

Prime29 Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 6545 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield, 48322 248 737 7463 prime29steakhouse com

Redcoat Tavern: American Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday No reservations Liquor 6745 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248 865 0500 redcoattavern com

Shangri-La: Chinese Lunch & Dinner, Wednesday-Monday Reservations Liquor Orchard Mall Shopping Center, 6407 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248 626 8585 dinesangrila com

Stage Deli: Deli. Lunch, & Dinner, TuesdaySunday. No reservations. Liquor. 6873 Orchard Lake Rd , West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248 855 6622 stagedeli com

Vive: American Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 33080 Northwestern Hwy, West Bloomfield Township, 48322 248 406 8065 viverestaurantmi com

W itch Topokki: Korean Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations 300 John R Rd suite a, Troy, 48083 248 307 7587 witchtopokki com

Yotsuba: Japanese Lunch & Dinner, TuesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 7365 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield, 48322 248 737 8282 yotsuba-restaurant com

West Oakland

Volare Ristorante: Italian Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 48992 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, 48393 248 960 7771 ristorantevolare com

North Oakland

Clarkston Union: American Breakfast, Sunday, Lunch, & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 54 S Main Street, Clarkston, 48346 248 620 6100 clarkstonunion com

Kruse s Deer Lake Inn: Seafood Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 7504 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, 48346 248 795 2077 kruseandmuerrestaurants com

The Fed: American Brunch, Saturday & Sunday Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 15 S. Main Street, Clarkston, 48346. 248 297 5833 thefedcommunity com

Rudy’s Steakhouse: Steak Dinner, TuesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 9 S Main Street, Village of Clarkston, 48346 248 625 3033 rudysprimesteakhouse com

Via Bologna: Italian Dinner, Monday-Saturday No reservations Liquor 7071 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, 48346 248 620 8500 joebologna com

Union Woodshop: BBQ Lunch, Saturday & Sunday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 18 S Main Street, Clarkston, 48346 248 625 5660 unionwoodshop com

Detroit

Adelina: Italian Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 1040 Woodward Ave, Detroit,48226 313 246 8811 adelinadetroit com

Alpino: Alpine cuisine Brunch, Sunday Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1426 Bagley Street, Detroit, 48216 313 524 0888 alpinodetroit com

Ash-Bar : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations Liquor 1509 Broadway Street, Detroit, 48226 313 277 4736 ash world/hotels/the-siren com

Bar Pigalle: French Brunch, Sundays Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 2915 John R Street, Detroit, 48201 313 497 9200 barpigalle com

Barda: Argentinian Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 4842 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, 48208 313 952 5182 bardadetroit com

Basan: Asian Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 2703 Park Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313 481 2703 basandetroit com

Bucharest Grill: Middle Eastern Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 2684 E Jefferson Avenue, Detroit, 48207. 313.965.3111. bucharestgrill.com

Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails: Seasonal American Lunch, Friday, Dinner, TuesdaySaturday Reservations Liquor 15 E Kirby Street, D, Detroit 48202 313 818 3915 chartreusekc com

Cliff Bell’s: American Dinner, WednesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 2030 Park Avenue, Detroit, 48226 313 961 2543 cliffbells com

Coriander Kitchen and Farm: Farm to table Brunch, Sunday, Lunch & Dinner, Monday and Thursday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 14601 Riverside Boulevard, Detroit, 48215 313 338 9466 corianderkitchenandfarm com

Corktown Taphouse: American and Mexican No reservations Lunch & Dinner, daily Liquor 1611 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, 48216 313 362 8184 corktowntaphouse com

Cuisine: French Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 670 Lothrop Road, Detroit, 48202 313 872 5110 cuisinerestaurantdetroit com

The Eagle: The Eagle: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 3461 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313 334 4530 eaglerestaurant com

El Barzon: Mexican Lunch, Tuesday-Friday Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 3710 Junction Street, Detroit, 48210 313 894 2070 elbarzonrestaurant com

Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café: Cajun Lunch and Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 400 Monroe Street, Detroit, 48226. 313 965 4600 fishbonesusa com

Freya: Price fixed Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday Reservations, Liquor 2929 E Grand Boulevard, Detroit, 48202 313 351 5544 freyadetroit com

Giovanni’s Ristorante: Italian Dinner, TuesdaySaturday Reservations Liquor 330 S Oakwood Boulevard, Detroit, 48217 313 841 0122 giovannisrestaurante com

Green Dot Stables: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2200 W. Lafayette, Detroit, 48216 313 962 5588 greendotstables com

HIROKI-SAN: Japanese Dinner, TuesdaySaturday Reservations Liquor 1265 Washington Boulevard, Detroit, 48226 313 597 8344 hirokisandetroit com

Javier’s Downtown: Steakhouse Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 1452 Brush St, Detroit, 48226 313 816 0007 javiersdowntown com

Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood Lunch, MondayFriday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit, 48243 313 567 6837 joemuer com

Johnny Noodle King: Japanese Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 2601 W Fort Street, Detroit, 48216 313 309 7946 johnnynoodleking com

Lady of the House: New American Brunch, Weekends, Dinner, Thursday-Sunday Reservations. Liquor. 4884 Grand River Ave Unit 1C, Detroit, 48208 313 230 4678 ladyofthehousedetroit com

Leila: Lebanese Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1245 Griswold Street, Detroit, 48226 313 816 8100 leiladetroit com

Lena: Dinner, Wednesday-Monday Reservations Liquor 2720 Brush Street, Detroit, 48201 313 262 6082 lenadetroit com

Le Supreme: French Brunch, weekends, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1265 Washington Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48226. 313 597-7734 lesupremedetroit com

Lone Goat: British Pub Lunch, MondaySaturday, Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 33 John R Street, Detroit, 48226 thelonegoat com

Mad Nice: Coastal Italian/American Breakfast, Coffee Shop, daily, Brunch, Weekends, Lunch, Wednesday-Sunday, Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 4120 2nd Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313.558.8000. madnicedetroit.com

Mario’s: Italian Lunch, Saturday & Sunday, Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 4222 2nd Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313 832 1616 mariosdetroit com

Mezcal: Mexican Brunch, Weekends, Lunch and Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 51 W Forest Avenue, Detroit, 48202 313 974 7441 mezcaldetroit com

Midtown Shangri-la: Chinese Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 4710 Cass Avenue, Detroit, 48201. 313 974 7669 midtownshangril-la com

Motor City Brewing Works: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Beer & W ine 470 W Canfield Street, Detroit, 48201 313 832 2700 motorcitybeer com

Oak & Reel: Italian Seafood Dinner, Wednesday-Monday Reservations Liquor 2921 E Grand Boulevard, Detroit, 48202 313 270 9600 oakandreel com

Ostrea: Seafood. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations Liquor 536 Shelby Street, Detroit, 48226 313 403 2111 ostreadetroit com

PAO Detroit: Asian Fusion/Pan Asian Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 114 W Adams Avenue, Suite 200, Detroit, 48226 313 816 0000 paodetroit com

Parc: New American Brunch, Saturday &

Sunday Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48226 313 922 7272 parcdetroit com

Prime + Proper : Steak House Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1145 Griswold St, Detroit, 48226 313 636 3100 primeandproperdetroit com

Prism: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, WednesdaySunday Reservations Liquor 555 E Lafayette Street, Detroit, 48226. 313 309 2499 hollywoodgreektown com

Red Smoke Barbeque: Barbeque Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor Trappers Alley Shopping Center, 573 Monroe Ave , Detroit, 48226 313 962 2100

Selden Standard: American Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 3921 Second Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313 438 5055 seldenstandard com

Sexy Steak: Steakhouse Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1942 Grand River Avenue, Detroit,48226 313 403 1000 sexysteakdetroit com

SheWolf Pastifico & Bar : Italian Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 438 Selden Street, Detroit 48201 313 315 3992 shewolfdetroit com

Sinbad’s: Seafood Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations. Liquor. 100 St. Clair Street, Detroit, 48214 313 822 8000 sindbads.com

Slows Bar BQ: Barbeque Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 2138 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, 48216 313 962 9828 slowsbarbq com/locations/corktown

Soraya: Japanese Lunch, Tuesday-Thursday, Dinner, Monday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 160 W Fort St, Detroit, 48226 313 262 6078 sorayadetroit com

Sullivan’s Steakhouse: Steakhouse Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 1128 Washington Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48226 313 591 2495 sullivanssteakhouse com

Supergeil: Berlin Doner Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday No reservations Liquor 2442 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, 48216 313 462 4133 supergeildetroit com

Tap at MGM Grand: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 1777 Third Street, Detroit, 48226. 313 465 1234 mgmgranddetroit com

The Apparatus Room: New American Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 250 W Larned Street, Detroit, 48226 313 800 5600 detroitfoundationhotel com

The Block: American Brunch, Weekends, Lunch & Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 3919 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313 832 0892 theblockdet com

The Dime Store: American Breakfast & Lunch, Thursday-Tuesday No reservations Liquor 719 Griswold Street #180, Detroit, 48226 313 962 9106 eatdimestore com

The Peterboro: Chinese American Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 420 Peterboro Street, Detroit, 48201 313 462 8106 thepeterboro com

The Statler : French Brunch, Dinner, TuesdaySunday. Reservations. Liquor. 313 Park Avenue, Detroit, 48226 313 463 7111 statlerdetroit.com

Townhouse Detroit: American Lunch & Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 500 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, 48201 48226 313 723 1000 townhousedetroit com

Vecino: Mexican Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday Reservations Liquor 4100 3rd Ave, Detroit, 48201 313 500 1615 vecinodetroit com

Vertical Detroit: Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday Reservations Liquor 1538 Center Street, Detroit, 48226 313 732 WINE verticaldetroit com

Vivio’s Food & Spirits: American Lunch & Dinner, daily No reservations Liquor 2460 Market Street, Detroit, 48207 313 393 1711 viviosdetroit net

The Whitney: American Brunch, Sunday Wednesday-Friday, Tea Service, Friday & Saturday, Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 4421 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, 48201 313.832.5700. thewhitney.com

Wright & Co : American Dinner, TuesdaySaturday No reservations Liquor 1500 Woodward Avenue, Second Floor, Detroit, 48226 313 962 7711 wrightdetroit com

Zuzu: Asian Fusion Dinner, daily Reservations Liquor 511 Woodward Ave suite 100, Detroit, 48226 313 464 7777 experiencezuzu com

Vodka, lemon, and simple syr up 100 S Main Street Floor 2, Royal Oak bellalimone com

Evening with Piero Mastroberardino

The Detroit Foundation Hotel’s celebrated Chef ’ s Table at The Apparatus Room will host a special wine tasting dinner on Tuesday, October 14th at 7 p m , featuring one of Italy ’ s most legendar y winemakers, Piero Mastroberardino Presented in par tnership with Ethica Wines, this exclusive evening offers an intimate oppor tunity to experience the rich histor y and soulful stor ytelling behind one of the most iconic names in Italian wine Since the early 1700s, the family has championed Campania’s indigenous grapes Fiano, Greco and Aglianico Piero’s forebears helped define the region’s identity Today, Piero Mastroberardino stewards 260 hectares across 17 estates, merging deep-rooted tradition with thoughtful innovation Their Radici Taurasi Riser va 2016 was featured Wine Spectator ’ s Top 10 in 2023 To complement these storied wines, Executive Chef Rece Hogerheide will present a one-night- only tasting menu inspired by the flavors of souther n Italy carefully curated to highlight each pour ’ s str ucture soul, and histor y The event will be held in the exclusive Apparatus Room Chef ’ s Table setting Seating is limited and by reser vation only, $200 per person 250 W Lar ned Street, Detroit detroitfoundationhotel com

Sunda New Asian to open in Detroit

TV personality and restaurateur Billy Def has announced that Sunda New Asian’s newest location will open the Fall of 2025 in The District Detroit at 33 W Columbia Street Founded in 2009 Sunda is an award-winning restaurant showcasing moder n new Asian cuisine from Japan, China and other southeast Asian countries, elevating it with upgraded ingredients, cooking techniques and presentation The menu offers creative dishes that reimagine the time-honored Asian classics from sushi and dim sum to flavor ful noodles and rice dishes “Beyond the incredible amount of Michigan suppor t we have felt in our original Sunda home in Chicago over the last 15 years, we are in awe of the explosive pride, investment, energy and growth all happening in Detroit fast and furious, especially The District Detroit’s Columbia Street location where we are proud to call our new home Just as we identified Nashville as a growing market to explode 10 years ago and Tampa four years ago, we are confident Detroit is about to go on an outstanding growth r un the world won’t see coming and Sunda wants to contribute and be par t of it all,” said Billy Dec, CEO/Founder, Sunda New Asian “ The restaurant scene in Detroit has experienced exponential growth over the last few years The talent and diversity of food and drink experiences is exceptional The ever trend setting Mr Dec saw the oppor tunity in The District Detroit and chose Columbia Street for his first Detroit restaurant” said Keith Bradford, President of Olympia Development of Michigan and The District Detroit. 33 W Columbia Street, Detroit sundanewasian com/detroit

Oakland restaurateur honored

On September 10, Rina Tonon, owner of Café Cor tina in Far mington Hills, was inducted into the Distinguished Restaurants of Nor th America (DiR NA) Hall of Fame, one of the industr y ’ s most prestigious honors She was honored at the DiR NA event, held in Napa, Califor nia sur rounded by her sons, Adrian and Giancarlo, who play an integral role with Café Cor tina “A trailblazer of far m-to -table dining and one of the Midwest’s most respected restaurateurs, Rina Tonon has transfor med Café Cor tina into a nationally celebrated destination known for soulful Italian hospitality and a garden-toplate philosophy,” said Scott Breard, CEO of DiR NA “Her stor y is one of passion, perseverance, and hear t qualities that embody the spirit of the DiR NA Hall of Fame ” Tonon, who opened Café Cor tina with her late husband Adriano in 1976, is first-generation Italian American raised in Detroit She says her inspiration came from her parents, who once ran Rina’s Pizzeria on Schaefer Highway “It was named af ter me, ” said Tonon “I grew up watching my family cook, ser ve and care for people I knew from age 14 this was what I wanted to do I’ve always said Café Cor tina isn’t just a restaurant it’s a reflection of our values, our traditions, and our love for people,” said Tonon “ This recognition by DiR NA is an incredible honor, not just for me, but for my entire family and the loyal guests who’ve made this jour ney possible ” 30715 W 10 Mile Road, Far mington Hills cafecor tina com

E N D N O T E

Our recommendations for November ballot

Voters in Bloomfield Hills will be deter mining the fate of city commission candidates in the Tuesday, November 4, election, while voters in Bir mingham will cast ballots for the city commission and the librar y board At the same time, voters in the Bloomfield Hills Schools district are being asked to approve a sinking fund millage These elections are non-par tisan Downtown Newsmagazine sent questionnaires to candidates in both communities, the answers to which appear in the Voter Guide presented in this issue and online at downtownpublications com Candidate answers and other factors deter mined our endorsements appearing here

BIRMINGHAM CITY COMMISSION

A field of five candidates, all respectable, are seeking three four-year ter ms on the Bir mingham City Commission Two cur rent members of the commission – Katie Schafer and Jason Emerine –did not file for election this year

The only incumbent in this race is ANDREW HAIG who has been on the commission since 2021 Although we have not always agreed with Haig on some issues, there is no denying his analytical approach to decisions facing officials is a benefit to the city We suppor t his position that cost sharing on the unimproved streets program is in need of review and we tr ust his concer n about logical use of city resources Although he has his detractors, we think his years of institutional knowledge will prove an asset and he should be given another ter m on the commission

For the remaining two spots on the commission we think voters would be best ser ved by KEVIN KOZLOWSKI and DOUG WHITE Both candidates are knowledgeable when it comes to what is facing the commission and both bring some cur rent experience to the commission – Kozlowski on the Advisor y Parking Committee and White from the Multi-Modal Transpor tation Board Those positions at least give them both some insight into how the city operates as they begin ser ving ter ms on the commission

BALDWIN PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD

Three four-year positions on the six-member librar y board for Bir mingham will be decided in this election Melissa Mark, cur rently on the board, did not file for election She was par t of the board, along with incumbents FRANK PISANO and DANIELLE RUMPLE, who helped guide the Baldwin Public Librar y through an impressive, multiple-stage redesign in recent years

We think Pisano and Rumple have ear ned new ter ms on the librar y board And we were especially impressed with Pisano’s position now that the long-standing legal issue of the librar y board’s independence from the city has been finalized, that the board should be willing to work with the city in the interest of taxpayers if the librar y board exceeds its fund balance policy, and can afford to lower its millage at times

For the remaining board position, we were tr uly tor n between candidates Pamela Graham and OMAR ODEH, who had ser ved on a librar y development committee We liked what we heard from Odeh when it came to addressing the issue of possibly finding a new source for some of the ser vices provided to the librar y by the city –making sure that there would be no lessening of benefits for staff at the librar y Odeh would be a good addition to the board

As a final side note, we asked each of the candidates whether they believed the results of 2020 presidential election were valid, which all five accepted This question, posed to candidates in past elections, is our ongoing litmus test to make sure that a non-par tisan board is not negatively impacted by hard-right contenders who might not buy into the concept of a librar y ser ving the entire community and will bring the Baldwin Public Librar y into cur rent day culture wars

BLOOMFIELD HILLS CITY COMMISSION

Six local residents for mally filed by the deadline to r un for five two -year ter ms on the city commission in Bloomfield Hills Incumbent

commissioner David Fisher did not file for another ter m

Four incumbent commissioners – BRAD BAXTER, ALICE BUCKLEY, LAUREN FISHER and SUSAN MCCARTHY – are seeking new ter ms, and for voters this should be an easy decision All four have ear ned an added ter m on the commission

For the remaining open spot, two noted attor neys have filed for the commission Although both could no doubt handle city business on behalf of residents, we think that ALAN ACKERMAN, with his past experience representing local municipalities, has an edge in this contest For full disclosure, Acker man twice in the last five years has made small donations to the Downtown Newsmagazine public funding drive which did not influence our endorsement

BLOOMFIELD HILLS S CHOOLS MILLAGE

Taxpayers in the Bloomfield Hills Schools district first approved in 2005 what is commonly known as a sinking fund millage and have renewed it three times since then

Sinking fund millage revenues are highly regulated by law and must be used for constr uction and/or repairs on school buildings, technology purchases, school security issues and acquisition and repair of student transpor tation vehicles Such funds cannot be used for staff salaries

If approved by voters, the sinking fund millage will be 1 5 mills annually, which equates to $1 50 for each thousand of taxable value on a home or business building The ballot issue is being billed as a replacement for the cur rent sinking fund tax last approved in 2023, and would be levied for 10 years, from 2026 to 2035

We think school district officials have a good game plan for this sinking fund tax and we recommend a YES vote on the November ballot issue

Some blunt advice about home for Next

So let’s see if we have this straight when it comes to the city of Bir mingham s effor t to find a home for the 501(c)(3) non-profit group Next, which for decades has provided ser vices and programs directed at the senior (50+) population in the city For mer city manager Tom Markus spent his last year and longer, when he retur ned to Bir mingham, searching for a replacement home for Next, which come 2027 will be losing its space at the Midvale school which the Bir mingham School District generously provided for Next because it ser ves residents of Bir mingham and a few neighboring communities, all of which are par t of the Bir mingham Schools ter ritor y Markus, and Next Executive Director Cris Braun, individually and together scoured the Bir mingham area for possible commercial space and other possible school space as the new home for the senior nonprofit Finding nothing available, Markus recommended the city purchase the YMCA building at 400 E Lincoln because the Y was leaving the city The city paid $2 million for the building Next anted up a half million to complete the deal Agreements,

approved by the city commission, were executed

Voters were asked and gladly approved a three-year millage – wor th about $3 5 million – to fix up the existing building

Markus leaves town and an ad hoc committee was for med, but not just to address a new home for Next Somehow its charge was to address a possible community center An ad hoc panel decides that a new building would be the prefer red route; the YMCA (with no money to contribute) decides they would like to stay Their decision becomes the controlling factor when deciding space use in the new building, even though the city s agreement with Next provides that 75 of space in the existing building would be for the group

What star ted as an effor t to incrementally improve the existing building then balloons into an over $30 million project Thanks to Tr ump tariffs the cost climbs even higher and the city commission decides the public probably has no appetite for approving a 20-25 year bond pay- off plan and votes 5-2 not to put it on the ballot this year

Now the city commission is muddling through the

question of what the role of the ad hoc committee should be going for ward Really?

Our simplified take is blunt advice – implement the legal agreement the city has with Next Star t now with the process of deter mining what incremental building improvements will be made first The YMCA is scheduled to leave next spring Close down the pool, which was always par t of the original plan

Quit with the talk of fur ther debating alter natives for the existing building You have done that already for two years Nothing has changed Ever yone (both commissioners and familiar speakers at meetings) should quit dispensing misinfor mation about the ability of Next to handle the cost of its new home The false attacks on Next have gotten old

Live up to the legal agreements (actionable by Next or voters) This is what the city sold to residents who approved millage for an incremental approach to cleaning up the existing builing

Let Next star t working to take possession of its new home Now

Dan Gutfreund

4000 Vorhies Rd, Ann Arbor - SOLD