Downtown Newsmagazine | Birmingham/Bloomfield

OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL / 30-32 | METRO INTELLIGENCER 86-87

FEBRUARY 2022

TOXIC KIDS TOYS HEALTH HAZARDS FROM PLASTIC TOYS LURKING IN HOME PLAYROOMS, BEDROOMS, DAYCARE

THE VERDICT: THE PROMISE AND REALITY OF 2018 PROPOSAL 1 ECRWSS Postal Customer EDDM

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DOWNTOWN02.22

36

Promise or reality: recreational cannabis update Voters in 2018 approved Proposal 1 on a state-wide ballot which provided for the decriminalization of recreational cannabis so as we start a new year we take a look at how the recreational system is now working in Michigan.

LONGFORM

53

Long-term health hazards are lurking in the amount of plastic toys that are ubiquitously found in day care classrooms or at home in playrooms and bedrooms that can threaten the health of a child.

CRIME LOCATOR

21

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

OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL

30

Levin-Stevens congressional battle; McMorrow, Bayer, Moss truce; latest governor race numbers; cluster for Oakland commission; feds handed case of false electors; plus more.

MUNICIPAL

67

THE COVER Cover design: Chris Grammer

More district court fallout; Birmingham 2040 Plan; Eddie Merlot lawsuit; Valente sentenced; cool reception to Mayor's Club plan; Birmingham Restaurants weeks; CB2 comes to Birmingham; plus more.

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FROM THE BSD

81

Sean Kammer, the Executive Director of the Birmingham Shopping District, is now writing a monthly column about the local business community.

THE COMMUNITY HOUSE

83

William Seklar, President and CEO of The Community House, updates followers about the April plans for the Bates Street Society dinner and awards.

METRO INTELLIGENCER

86

FACES

34 50 64 78

Sabrina Spanta

George Vutetakis

Kimberly Bishop-Yanke

Molly Borman

Gigi Nichols provides readers with quick takes on what is happening in the world of food and drink in the metro Detroit area.

ENDNOTE

90

Our thoughts on the pending proposal for voters to be asked to pay an annual tax in support of two cultural institutions, and the Birmingham proposal for a Mayor's Club to advise city commissioners and other officials.

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BIRMINGHAM | BLOOMFIELD

PUBLISHER David Hohendorf NEWS EDITOR Lisa Brody NEWS STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brody Anchill | Tracy Donohue | Kevin Elliott | Stacy Gittleman Austen Hohendorf | Sean Kammer | Jennifer Lovy | Jeanine Matlow | Gigi Nichols | Bill Seklar PHOTOGRAPHY/CONTRIBUTORS Laurie Tennent | Chris Ward Laurie Tennent Studio ADVERTISING DIRECTOR David Hohendorf ADVERTISING SALES Mark Grablowski GRAPHICS/IT MANAGER Chris Grammer OFFICE 124 W. Maple, Birmingham MI 48009 248.792.6464 DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE GOALS/MISSION The personnel at Downtown Newsmagazine bring a special commitment to the publishing effort, reinvesting in the local communities and working to make sure the Birmingham/Bloomfield area reaches its highest potential.

Our mission dictates that we strive each month to provide a solid news and advertising product that local residents look forward to reading. Our goal is to build a community of informed citizens through the efforts of our passionate team. We are innovators producing products that go well beyond what others offer.

Downtown Newsmagazine captures life in the local communities through coverage of major municipal and school issues, personality profiles, the latest news from the business community and political gossip/news.

We also devote considerable effort each month to address major issues facing local residents through our longform story-telling efforts, further setting us apart from others competing for readers' attention.

DISTRIBUTION/SUBSCRIPTIONS Mailed monthly at no charge to most homes in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills.

Additional free copies distributed at high foot-traffic locations in Birmingham/Bloomfield.

For those not receiving a free mail copy, paid subscriptions are available for a $15 annual charge.

To secure a paid subscription, go to our website (downtownpublications.com) and click on “subscriptions” in the top index and place your order online or scan the QR Code here.

INCOMING/READER FEEDBACK We welcome feedback on both our publication and general issues of concern in the Birmingham/Bloomfield community. The traditional “letters to the editor” in Downtown are published in our Incoming section and can include written letters or electronic communication. Opinions can be sent via e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 W. Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009. If you are using the mail option, you must include a phone number for verification purposes.

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CRIME LOCATOR

NORTH

Map key

Sexual assault

Assault

Murder

Robbery

Breaking/entering

Larceny

Larceny from vehicle

Vehicle theft

Vandalism

Drug offenses

Arson

These are the crimes reported under select categories by police officials in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills through January 20, 2022.

Placement of codes is approximate.

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Decline to sign petition

Made for you.

The bipartisan Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks opposes the Secure MI Vote Initiative. It creates new barriers to voting, while disenfranchising many legitimate voters from both parties.

As the elected Bloomfield Township Clerk, it is my job to administer elections and to keep voters apprised of threats to voting rights or to voting security. The Secure MI Vote Initiative is one such threat, and it must be defeated.

If the petition number is reached, the Republican legislature will pass this proposal into law without the Democratic Governor’s signature, and, more importantly, without a popular vote. This is both undemocratic and contrary to the wishes of 84 percent of voters, who, according to a poll recently conducted by the Detroit Chamber of Commerce, want election law changes to be bipartisan.

The initiative is ostensibly aimed at placating those who fear widespread voter impersonation.

This fear is not supported by any facts — impersonation almost never occurs. Moreover, voting laws and procedures already effectively prevent impersonation and provide severe punishments to the minuscule few who attempt it.

One provision would require citizens to disclose the last four digits of their social security number in order to register to vote, which is both unnecessary and burdensome.

The full social security number is already required to get a driver’s license or a state ID, and this database is cross-checked against the voter database. Why should registering to vote expose us to greater risk of identity theft?

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Another provision proposes to eliminate the ability to vote without identification by signing an affidavit to that effect. This affidavit process rarely occurs. In Bloomfield Township, only 24 out of 31,137 ballots cast in the November 2020 election required the affidavit process. Importantly, no one claims that any of these 24 people impersonated another voter.

But the most concerning provision of the initiative is aimed at stifling absentee voting. It proposes to condition the ability to vote absentee on agreeing either to disclose private information or to appear in person. This would place unwarranted risks and burdens on those who rely on absentee voting. It would require those applying for an absentee ballot to provide our drivers’ license number, the last four digits of our social security number, or a copy of our identification to the clerk’s office. If this is not done, the clerk must issue a provisional ballot, which would only be counted if the voter personally appeared in the clerk’s office to present identification no later than six days after casting the ballot.

In November 2020, 22,728 citizens of Bloomfield Township voted absentee, entirely without incident. The initiative would defeat the very purpose of an absentee ballot, as those who are homebound or temporarily out-of-town will be prevented from voting without disclosing private information. There are already multiple and redundant procedures in place to confirm absentee voter identity and address possible fraud. Specifically, ballots are mailed only to registered voters, with a confirmed address, and after applying with the signature that

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appears on their driver’s license. The signature requirement remains a strong method to confirm identity and absentee voting is not the only democratic process utilizing signatures – signatures are utilized to determine which special assessment districts tax property, which candidates are on the ballot, and even whether the Secure MI Vote Initiative is presented to the legislature for adoption.

In short, this initiative is a solution without a problem. It would damage the absentee ballot process, reduce voting opportunities, and impose significant administrative costs on clerks, without any added budgetary support, and with no ability to prevent the kinds of fraud that, regardless, rarely occur.

Citizens have a right to election laws that make voting both accessible and secure. The Secure MI Vote does neither. It is a lose-lose initiative – a proposal to amend the Michigan Constitution with provisions that would produce unnecessary hurdles for most voters, while adding nothing to election security.

We should not sign this petition.

Martin C. Brook Bloomfield Township Clerk

Meritless election claims City commissioner (Clinton) Baller's letter published in your January 2022 issue continues his campaign of harassment and incorrect statements that I as a candidate lied and spread disinformation about the master plan of which there are currently two drafts, the second one published in October in the midst of the election campaign.

At the conclusion of the letter Downtown added a Publisher's Note apparently stating agreement that I put out disinformation and falsehoods about the developing master plan during the election.

On what verified information did the publisher make these meritless claims and why did you not provide me with the courtesy of a response before making them?

David Bloom Birmingham

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

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

PUTTING ON THE GLOVES: We’re disappointed to see two popular Democratic congresspersons – Haley Stevens and Andy Levin – getting ready to rumble in the August primary for the newly-drawn 11th District, which encompasses most of Oakland County in a contiguous and non-gerrymandered shape – over 40 percent of Stevens’ current district. Levin, in announcing his decision to go for the 11th, rather than the more widely expected – but Republican-leaning – 10th District, which covers a portion of Oakland but a wide swath of Macomb County, a lot of his current 9th District, stating he lives in Bloomfield Township and grew up in Berkley. But there is no STEVENS residency requirement for Congress – former Rep. John Conyers hadn’t lived in his district in several years, and when Republicans gerrymandered then-Rep. (now Senator) Gary Peters in what is now Rep. Brenda Lawrence’s 14th District seat out of Bloomfield Township west and south, to West Bloomfield, Southfield and Detroit – he ran and won. And didn’t move. Levin’s name recognition – and progressive work and union backing – might bolster him in the southern part of the Oakland County district, but the northern and central portion could be a different situation. Stevens is definitely winning the money game so far – as of January 1, she had a LEVIN war chest of over $2 million cash on hand, compared to Levin’s $935,645. It’s early in the name game – but Levin’s playing hardball, wracking up endorsements from Pontiac’s new mayor Tim Greimel, the AFL-CIO and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Plymouth Township Supervisor Kurt Heise, a Republican, reached across the aisle to thank Stevens for her work in Washington on behalf of the township. It appears Stevens may have the support of fellow Oakland County Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (D-Detroit, Pontiac, Southfield, Farmington, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield), who is retiring, and between the two, represent two-thirds of Oakland County. Lawrence introduced Stevens to voters in Pontiac at MLK events. Stevens, a manufacturing and technology stalwart, has said she feels really good about her strengths.

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HANG 10: Levin’s decision to bypass the 10th district leaves it currently without a Democrat – but potentially a bunch of Republicans ready to jump into a primary fight. “That’s going to be an interesting one to watch,” Republican politico Dennis Darnoi said. “While the 10th was more suited for (Rep. Andy) Levin, I’m not surprised he went for the 11th, because it’s a Democrat-lean, and there you win in the primary and you anoint yourself congressman. In the 10th, you’re the only Democrat in the primary, but you suffer to win in the general (election).” While currently two-time loser John James of Farmington Hills lives in the 11th, word is he plans to move into the 10th to run. Rumblings are former GOP Congressman Mike Bishop is looking to get in, also, as is Eric Esshaki, who Democratic Rep. Haley Stevens beat in the 11th in 2020. While folks are saying that Oakland Republican Chair Rocky Raczkowski is looking to get into fray, we have verifiable word (at this point) that he will not, having just purchased a new home in Troy. Darnoi said. “This race will be won by whoever embraces the modern Republican Party. Whoever is successful will have to run very far to the right.”

NO FISTICUFFS: There isn’t any looming battle between local incumbents in the state Senate, where Democratic Senators Mallory McMorrow, Rosemary Bayer and Jeremy Moss have all played nice on their newly reconfigured districts – even though they will all have to potentially represent some new communities. McMorrow, who currently represents Royal Oak, Birmingham, Bloomfield, Rochester and Rochester Hills in the 13th

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District, in 2022 will go for the new 8th District, covering Birmingham, Clawson, Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Oak Park, Royal Oak Township and part of Detroit. In a fundraising email, she acknowledges her new district is very competitive, and expects a primary challenge. “Next year, we’ll be running in a solidly Democratic district instead of a swing state. That means we’re much more likely to have a primary opponent (or a few), but that winner will most likely win the general election and the seat,” she wrote. There was speculation that Bayer would run in the 7th District, which runs BAYER from Waterford, Lake Angelus, Auburn Hills and Pontiac in the north through Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills to Franklin, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Lathrup Village, Southfield and MOSS part of Detroit, but Moss has announced that he will be running in that district. He currently represents Southfield, while Bayer represents Bloomfield Township, Franklin, Beverly Hills and Bingham Farms, and said she is moving from her Beverly Hills home to a new home in the 13th District, comprising West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake Village, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, part of Commerce Township, Farmington Hills, Northville, Novi and Plymouth.

SWITCHEROO: Last year, Bloomfield Township resident and attorney Anthony Paesano announced he would be running as a Republican for the state House in 2022, in the 40th District against Democratic incumbent Mari Manoogian, and he had invested $30,000 of his own money into the campaign. Fast forward, and the 40th District is no more, due to redistricting, and early in January he announced he would instead be running in a new district, the 19th, against Rep. Samantha Steckloff (DFarmington Hills). The 19th District represents Bloomfield Township, part of Birmingham, Bingham Farms, Beverly Hills, Franklin and Farmington Hills.

Paesano said his campaign is very encouraged by the new map. “We see the 19th District as winnable and we’ve charted out a 10-month plan to get after it,” he said. Manoogian will now run for re-election in the 5th District, comprising Birmingham, parts of Royal Oak and Berkley, Royal Oak Township, Southfield, Southfield Township, Oak Park and northwest Detroit.

A Republican challenger has yet to announce.

WHO’S UP?: With all the chatter about the 2022 gubernatorial election, it’s important to remember that the August primaries are still six months away – and the November general election is in a whopping nine months, which is like centuries in politics. The latest poll conducted by The Detroit News and WDIV-Channel 4 by Richard Czuba and Glegariff Group shows Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) currently back on an upswing after a difficult 2021 with fallout of her pandemic handling, with her approval ratings rising to 56 percent. “That’s a fairly solid position to be in, and she’s leading all her Republican challengers,” said Oakland University political science professor David Dulio, although he noted she’s slightly below 50 percent – the golden marker – at 49 percent v 39 percent against presumed Republican leader former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, and leads 50 percent to 33 percent, with 17 percent undecided, against both Republican candidates Garrett Soldano, a chiropractor and activist from Mattawan, and Bloomfield Township businessman and former auto dealer Kevin Rinke. Dulio said Whitmer still will have concerns because “less than 40 percent of likely voters say they will re-elect her, but on the Republican side they all have major work to get their name recognition throughout the state.

Fifty-five percent say they’ve never heard of Craig, 80 percent never heard of Rinke, and 85 never heard of Tudor Dixon, and they need to beef that up… There’s an uncertainty about handicapping the race until the filing deadline (in late April). It will take the whole summer to shake out.”

TAINTED BUCKS: Mother’s adage to be careful of who you play with can also come in handy when it comes to politics. That is especially true for those who have played in the same financial sandbox as former Michigan state Speaker of the House Lee Chatfield (R- Levering), who was recently accused of sexual abuse by his sister-in-law.

Chatfield had been named as an advisor to Republican gubernatorial candidate James Craig, the two were photographed together, and Chatfield was known as a 32

CHATFIELD

prolific fundraiser, with his four political action committees (PACs) raising a total of $2.9 million in 2019 and 2020, giving out $2.8 million to Republican candidates and causes. Just for comparison, current Senate Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake) raised $564,160 in two PACs. Because of course everything is always political, Michigan Democratic Chair Lavora Barnes called on Craig do “disavow campaign advisor Lee Chatfield as he faces allegations of sexual assault.” So far, Craig’s been mum.

THE COUNTY CLUSTER: Even county pols are bewildered when it comes to the exact street boundaries of new county commission districts when trying to determine who may be running in 2022. Here’s what we know at this point for the Birmingham/Bloomfield area.

Current county commissioner Marcia Gershenson (D) will be running in the new 11th district, which is one of three that will carve up Bloomfield Township. The new district also would give her Bloomfield Hills and a larger portion of West Bloomfield. Watch for Democrat incumbent commissioner Angela Powell to run in District 9 which GERSHENSON includes most of her home base of Pontiac and the northern and eastern tiers of Bloomfield. A small carve out of the township looks like it falls in with Franklin, Bingham Farms, Beverly Hills and a large POWELL section of Southfield which appears to be the home territory of incumbent Democrat Janet Jackson.

Birmingham also got subdivided into two county districts.

The larger portion of the city has been drawn into a district that includes Huntington Woods and Ferndale. Incumbent Republican commissioner Chuck Moss, a Birmingham resident, would be in this district. No word on whether he will run – we hear that the numbers are still getting JACKSON crunched. If he does run, Moss would be facing progressive Democrat Charlie Cavell of Ferndale, first elected in November 2020. A sliver of Birmingham falls into District 1 which includes a sizable chunk of Royal Oak and also Troy. It’s anyone’s guess at this point who might be in the wings on this one although it won’t be incumbent Republican commissioner Thomas Kuhn of Troy who we hear has his sites on a state House seat.

HERE COMES THE FEDS: You can dismiss it as street theater gone bad but in the real world it is a violation of state and federal law to submit a false public record (up to 14 years) and attempt to circumvent election law (up to five years). Sobering thoughts for the 16 GOP members who attempted to enter the Michigan Capitol on December 14, 2020, falsely claiming that they represented state voters as the official electors aiming to cast ballots for the former president and vice-president, ignoring the 154,000 ballot victory of President Joe Biden. The clown posse included Michigan-based GOP national committee member Kathy Berden, state party vice-chairwoman Marian Sheridan and Republican Shelby Township Clerk Stan Grot. Oh, and state Republican Party co-chair, and Milford resident/wife of state Representative Matt Maddock, Meshawn Maddock, who never misses an opportunity to burnish her MAGA bona fides. All four and 12 others signed the falsified document which claims they convened in the Capitol and cast their votes for Donald Trump and Mike Pence. Not true. The group was denied entry into the state Capitol by Michigan State Police that day, but Berden submitted the bogus electoral certificate to the U.S. Senate and other officials connected with the Electoral College in an attempt to gum up the works when Congress was preparing to accept official November 2020 vote counts from the states. The office of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has been investigating the violation of law for a year, but the AG announced on national television (Rachel Maddow show/MSNBC) weeks ago that she has now forwarded the matter to the U.S. Attorney for the Western District in Michigan for a federal probe.

FAMILY TIES: Mea culpa. Last month we erred in an account of a preholiday get-together at Oakland Hills Country Club to meet Republican gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon, held by Lauren Rakolta, first cousin of Ronna (don’t call me Romney) McDaniel, chair of the Republican National Committee. Rakolta and McDaniel are related because their mothers are sisters. Rakolta is not related to Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) and former presidential candidate (who grew up in Bloomfield Hills and went to Cranbrook), as we mistakenly stated.

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02.22

Sabrina Spanta abrina Spanta acquired an eye for design watching her father work as a tailor in Afghanistan, where she was born. When she and her family fled the wartorn country, her birth mother tragically died during their journey. Spanta later came to the United States at the age of eight, where she was adopted by her great-aunt who she now considers her mom.

Growing up in Bloomfield Hills, Spanta attended Andover High School and earned a BFA in fashion design from The Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. Upon graduation, she relocated to Florida to work in corporate fashion for the retailer White House Black Market, among others.

Then came the pandemic, which took a toll on the industry. Spanta lost her job and headed back home to Bloomfield Hills. After hundreds of job applications and no offers, she decided to apply to Project Runway – and was eventually selected to be one of the 16 contestants. The 29-year-old was recently featured on season 19.

Working in the fashion industry often means sitting at a desk from 9-to-5 on designs done on a computer. “With Project Runway, it’s on the spot, making, creating and using every skillset I learned in school,” Spanta said.

“The fashion world is tough and Project Runway is a competitive world that teaches you resilience. It’s an amazing experience that helps you figure it all out so much more.”

Spanta gained an even better appreciation for the show and how much work goes into it, from the producers to the crew.

“There is a beauty to doing a TV show because it tells a story and it brings fashion into the world,” she said. “I was the first Afghani designer and I had so many Afghanis reach out to me, and non-Afghanis who did not know anything about the culture.”

While she did not win the grand prize, she did make it to the fifth episode, learning plenty and teaching others along the way.

“To wake up and know you inspired someone’s life through this platform is a very humbling experience,” Spanta said.

She recently launched her own eponymous brand inspired by her cultural roots. Her fashion-forward collection includes her signature X-Pants that have been well-received. When Spanta first came to the U.S., her adoptive mom would be the first woman she ever saw to drive a car and wear pants. That was when she realized the power of wearing pants.

“Because I went to school for design, I am very specific about what I put out there,” she explained. “It’s so important to bring a fresh perspective and introduce something that tells a story and evokes emotion. My designs are edgy, chic and bold with a more meaningful backstory.”

Spanta plans to continue putting out statement pieces that combine versatility, sustainability and philanthropy. She also designs custom wedding gowns.

“I want to make my pieces available for more people and body shapes,” she said. There will also be some collaborations from the savvy fashion designer that are currently in the works.

Wherever her creations take her, Spanta considers living in Bloomfield Hills a real privilege and she knows there are many other women and girls who would want the same opportunities, which is why she tries to be a positive role model and supports specific charity organizations through her business.

“I went from having nothing to coming here,” she said. “My appreciation is vast. I wake up every day with gratitude.”

Website: sabrinaspanta.com. Instagram: @sabrinaspanta.

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Story: Jeanine Matlow

Photo: Chris Ward

FACES

EMPTY PROMISES OR GOLDEN TICKET? THE STATE OF LEGAL MARIJUANA IN MICHIGAN

BY LISA BRODY

epending upon your age and proclivity, marijuana has been considered a plant that, when smoked or otherwise enjoyed, can produce a mellow high and make life a little more pleasant, no different than enjoying a cocktail. To others, it is seen as a dangerous and illegal substance, a gateway drug that can, and likely will, lead to harder drugs and possibly a life of crime.

For decades in America, it was all black and white on the topic of cannabis – the world was divided: there were stoners and there were anti-drug crusaders, and rarely should the twain meet.

That is, until the 21st century, when the medical use of cannabis was found by many to treat disease or improve the symptoms of diseases or medical conditions, and the compassionate care of those suffering has led to the legalization of medical marijuana in 36 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands – including Michigan, where 63 percent of voters approved the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act in 2008, which removed the penalties for registered patients to buy, grow and use small amounts of marijuana. It also created a category called caregivers, who can grow and dispense medical marijuana for up to five patients, and grow up to 12 plants per patient.

As residents of the state became more and more comfortable with their friends, neighbors and relatives utilizing medical marijuana, advocates for the legalization of recreational marijuana were able to put a proposal (Proposal 1) on the ballot in 2018, which was supported by 56 percent of Michigan voters, making Michigan the first state in the Midwest to legalize the possession and use of recreational marijuana for adults age 21 and older.

(Illinois legalized cannabis in 2020.) The proposal also allows individuals to grow up to 12 plants in their residence; creates an excise tax of 10 percent in addition to the six percent state sales tax, to be levied on marijuana sales at retailers (dispensaries) and micro-businesses. Distribution of excise tax is mandated by the ballot proposal, including sending funds to the local county and municipal governments where the businesses are located, as well as to K-12 education and for road and bridge maintenance.

The Anderson Economic Group conducted a study for the Michigan Cannabis Manufacturer's Association in 2020, which showed cannabis retail stores sold $985 million in cannabis products. The commercial cannabis industry generated $129 million in taxes and fees. This includes sales and excise tax revenue; grower, processor, and retailer license fees; and registration fees for medical patients. In addition, the study found that one in five Michigan residents used cannabis in 2020 – two million people.

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According to the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA), 2021 sales were even better – preliminary legal adult use sales were about $1.3 billion, and legal medical sales were $483 million.

To preserve local control as well as to make sure cities, townships and villages don't have marijuana dispensaries thrust on them, municipalities are able to determine whether or not they want to have marijuana businesses within their boundaries, and are authorized to ban or limit marijuana establishments. The proposal does not provide a set number per municipality for retailers, allowing for total local control. A community that doesn't want cannabis businesses within their borders can opt out. One that wants to benefit from the residuals of taxation, property tax increases and other advantages can opt in, and decide whether they want to determine a certain number limit, or keep it limitless. Proposal 1 of 2018 also provided for initiative petitions to allow voters to override decisions by the local government at the ballot box.

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ax revenue for 2020 went to counties and municipalities with businesses in their boundaries – approximately $11,000 per municipality per business. While not an enormous amount, if a municipality only has one marijuana business – but there increasingly are municipalities with multiple dispensaries, such as Ann Arbor, which now has 37. That tax revenue can then add up.

The ballot initiative also legalized the cultivation, processing, distribution and sale of industrial hemp.

While Michigan has legalized medical and recreational adult use marijuana – as it is in 17 other states and the District of Columbia – it remains illegal nationwide, as a Schedule I drug. According to the National Cancer Institute, a Schedule I drug is a drug or other substance that has a high chance of being abused or of causing addiction and has no FDA-approved medical use in the United States.

Examples of Schedule I drugs include heroin, LSD and ecstasy. They are also called Schedule I controlled substances.

“Although marijuana (cannabis) is classified as a Schedule I drug by the federal government, some states have passed laws that allow the medical and recreational use of marijuana,” the National Cancer Institute said.

That has changed the perception of marijuana as a dangerous drug, with the U.S. House of Representatives passing bipartisan legislation in December 2020 that would decriminalize marijuana and expunge nonviolent marijuana-related convictions. The bill, which is currently stalled, and unlikely to pass in the U.S. Senate, would also remove cannabis from the Controlled Substance Act and authorize a five percent tax on marijuana that would fund community and small business grant programs to help those most impacted by the criminalization of marijuana.

Following the passage of the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act in 2008, there was great confusion and a lack of follow up legislation in the state, at least until 2016, when there was the passage of the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act, which allows persons age 21 and over to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis in public, up to 10 ounces at home, and cultivate up to 12 plants at home.

Among the package of bills then-Governor Rick Snyder signed into law in 2016, allowed for the operation and regulation of medical cannabis dispensaries; set a three percent taxation rate on medical cannabis; and permitted the use of non-smokable forms of pot, such as edibles, tinctures and topicals.

“In 2010, when I first began working in Lansing, I saw a big void in the education of what regulation could look like,” said Justin Dunaskiss, partner and COO, Dunaskiss Consulting and Development, a lobbying and consulting group in Oxford which got officially engaged in cannabis work in 2010. He said he saw illegal grows, basement grows, and illegal storefronts opening up around the state. He also

traveled to Colorado and California, which had legalized cannabis, and saw what profitable operations could look like.

“Once I learned what the future could look like – and saw how the other states were operating – I sought out more of a free market approach here, so that big corporate interests couldn't come in here.

There needed to be residency requirements, there needed to have provisions for Michigan entities to have residencies and for tax purposes.

“It took six years of education – until September of 2016, until we could get the legislation passed and Governor Snyder to sign a package for medical marijuana. Then we needed to turn to look at what a regulated store would look like. As the medical market took form, the will of the people drifted to the adult market,” Dunaskiss pointed out.

When it came time to mobilize for the adult use recreational market, Dunaskiss said many of the same stakeholders from the original medical use proposal came together for the 2018 initiative – but there were also many new players, and some had conflicting interests.

“There were those who wanted to treat it more holistically, like a farmers market, a very laissez-faire attitude, without any government intervention,” Dunaskiss said. “We knew the legislature would not approve it.”

Some were looking to simply prevent their clients from being charged as criminals, while others saw the model of some western states, with tax revenues going to offset road repairs and other needs, as well as simple free market capitalism – the opportunity to make money in a new lucrative business.

“I started my practice in criminal defense and marijuana was criminal. I had become very well known as defending people charged with marijuana and using medical marijuana as a defense,” explained Barton Morris Jr., of Law Offices of Barton Morris and Cannabis Legal Group in Royal Oak. He said he had issues with his clients being charged as criminals, “especially with growing a plant which is hurting no one. I was instrumental in getting it legalized.”

Douglas Mains, a partner at Honigman's Lansing office, helped draft both the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act and the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act, and served of counsel to the 2018 proposal legalizing recreational marijuana.

“The sophistication level of the people in the industry has really grown in the last five years or so,” Mains said. Nonetheless, “there's a tension now between the 'true believers' and the 'guys in the suits.'”

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ick Thompson, executive director of NORML Michigan, a non-profit public interest advocacy group representing the interests of those who consume marijuana responsibly, said, “We were interested in stopping people from being arrested. All of the tax revenue and stopping the black market weren't really big factors for us.”

Now that the legislation has been enacted, “Michigan is really an excellent model. There is permissive growing and opportunities for 'mom and pops' to get started,” Thompson said.

NORML also likes that municipalities have been co-opted for involvement. “It's important for buy-ins,” Thompson said. “If they're forced to have them, it wouldn't work.”

Stephen Linder, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Manufacturer's Association, said one of the key components in writing and passing the legislation was for cities, townships and villages, “We didn't want to force it on them. We built in an opt-in so municipalities could opt-in, at the time for medical marijuana, for what kind of licensing they wanted and for how many licenses. There are no caps for the number of licenses by the state. That law passed, but it did not eliminate the caregivers, because for people there was a genuine concern that the recreational market – which is now a $3 billion industry – that people would want to buy from the commercial side of

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the market. Caregivers don't have to report where they are located, nor do they have to test their product.

“Fast forward, the regulated market, the one that has to buy the licenses, do the build-outs, pass inspections and test product – they're the ones creating all the jobs and providing all the revenue, all the tax revenue and are competing against the people who do none of those.”

Like others involved with getting the recreational market up and going, Thompson and his colleagues looked at other states who had walked the walk before them, such as California, Oregon, Washington and Colorado.

“Here we see the American dream being realized every day,” Thompson said.

Asked whether the legislation has been an empty promise or a golden ticket, Mains said, “It's somewhere in between. In terms of the revenues and the black market, it's still too early to tell. The market isn't mature yet.”

For many others, their golden ticket is already being claimed, and faster than expected, with purchasers clamoring for products.

However, Thompson does have concerns that the natural evolution of the market is that “small businesses will get gobbled up. We like to think of cannabis as being unique, but it's true as in any other business.”

Many in the business believe the new cannabis business is a highlycompetitive business, “as cut-throat as you can find,” said one.

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ichelle R. E. Donovan, senior counsel at Clark Hill in Detroit and San Antonio, Texas, said, “I do cannabis nationwide, and Michigan has a model program, from a legislative, regulatory and distribution standpoint. Michigan set the standard. There is no limit on licenses, while other states do put limits on municipalities, like in New Jersey, which has ridiculous restrictions.

“Michigan is very cutting edge, and Michigan sets the standard for regulatory and compliance,” she said.

Donovan said the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA), which works to establish Michigan as “the national model for a regulatory program that stimulates business growth while promoting safe consumer access to marijuana, it has come a long way since the board was first established. We (the industry) is in the process of compiling a set of statutes so there is cohesiveness between the medical and recreational industries. Right now, we have two sets of licensing, regulatory and compliances.”

While some are concerned the medical marijuana market will get squeezed out of the picture, others understand it will stay, notably because it is the only legal way for minors to acquire the product for medical means. Yet currently the medical market and its caregivers do not require the strict testing of product which the recreational market enforces.

“The only difference right now from the medical market and the recreational is there are higher standards for contaminants in recreational – heavy metals, mold, and pesticides can be in medical.

They're both from the same plant,” noted Linder.

Andrew Brisbo, executive director of MRA, said the intentions of the people, both voters and those seeking legalization, have been upheld.

“Both medical and recreational were based on voters initiatives.

With legalization, there are less people utilizing the gray market and are accessing better product that they can now trust,” he said. “The local intent has been respected for municipalities. It's created an efficient systems which has done well to protect the consumer as well as to allow businesses to grow and thrive. As for tax revenue projections, I think the industry has ramped up more quickly than expected, and we as an agency work to facilitate that. Businesses were prepared. There was a lot of skill all ready to move into the market. I

think we're in a period where there's a lot of growth.”

While on its face, the lack of statewide limits for municipalities appears to give locals the ability to control their cannabis destiny, it also means that as communities become more comfortable with the legislation and business models and give out more dispensary licenses, it could lead to a region as a whole having more licenses than the market can bear – although Michigan is far from being saturated. An example would be if Royal Oak, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Berkley, Ferndale, and nearby Warren all give out dozens of licenses in total – all appealing to the same customers.

Those in the business believe one of two things will happen: there will either be consolidation of businesses, or some of the dispensaries will fail.

“We all sell the same product,” noted Howard Luckoff, CEO of New Standard, with four dispensaries around the state, including in Hazel Park. “How do we differentiate ourselves? New Standard does it through our customer experience, selling both to the soccer mom and to the stoner. We have tried to distinguish ourselves. We don't have salespeople – we have team members and educators. We ask people what they are looking for out of this experience. When you walk into a store, there's a nice vibe, a nice feel, a nice smell.”

He likens their environment to a Shinola store or a Starbucks.

“They're our customers, they're like guests in our home. We're guiding them to find the right mix for them,” expanded Mary Turon, New Standard COO, a cannabis expert who previously operated dispensaries in California and Illinois. “It's a lifestyle. It's not just about smoking, it's about edibles, oils, topicals and tinctures, which you put under your tongue. As new products come on the market, our team members need to be retrained.”

Aric Klar, CEO of Quality Roots, has 10 recreational dispensary licenses in different stages, including for Berkley and Waterford, which will open in 2022. Quality Roots currently is operating in Battle Creek and Hamtramck. Klar grew up as the son and grandson of pharmacists, managing drug stores in high school and college and then started the toy chain Toyology.

“I grew up in this family regulatory environment, and saw where large conglomerates came in,” he said. His grandfather's store, Sherman Drugs, at Maple and Lahser in Bloomfield Township later became Perry Drugs before Rite Aid took it over; his father and mother owned Warren Drugs in Farmington Hills which was eventually sold to Sav-Mor Prescriptions.

When he was 12, his parents gave him four-feet of the store to put in a Beanie Babies area at the height of its craze – “I turned it into a 7,000 square foot toy area,” he said, and Toyology was born.

As to the possibility that large cannabis conglomerates could come in and attempt to gobble up smaller players, Klar answered, “If I can compete with Amazon in the toy business, I feel I can compete with the cannabis competitors in Michigan. The approach we take is going back to what I learned in the pharmacy business – knowing everyone's name and being a specialty business. We're not a cannabis brand – we're a community brand that sells cannabis.”

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lar believes larger out-of-state players will take time to learn the Michigan market. “This industry changes so fast that it's very important to follow the changes,” he noted. “We're operating a family owned-and-operated business, not a conglomerate.”

Rick Thompson of NORML Michigan thinks the downward spiral of cannabis pricing has made companies less profitable, so they could be more likely to sell out, “similar to what can happen in any other industry. The cost of financing is a big deal, and some market forces can force you into a sale mode. But there are a lot of successes in momand-pops opening two, three, four franchises. But that is more

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attractive to a California company who wants to buy a bunch of franchises so they can get their name in the marketplace rather than creeping into the marketplace,” Thompson said.

Others, like Luckoff of New Standard, believe there will be room for both chains and the independents, just like for pharmacies. “There will always be room for both.”

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unaskiss likens it to the Michigan craft brewery business. “There are a lot of parallels. No one thought anyone could compete with Molson's or Budweiser, but now it's the opposite. The same thing is happening on the cannabis front,” he said. “The large publicly traded Canadian cannabis companies grew too fast, and the customer now wants smaller craft growers. The customer base is drifting to smaller, more niche product.”

Attorney Michelle Donovan concurs. “There's enough demand that you can have a craft product or something that is a nationwide product. It's a consumer's preference.”

There are a little over 1,700 cities, townships and villages in Michigan, but according to Dunaskiss, only about 160 of those municipalities allow any sort of adult use facility in their community.

About 175 municipalities permit medical marijuana dispensaries, including Detroit, which permits medical facilities but has not yet allowed adult use licensing to move forward.

Dunaskiss noted, “It's still a slow process (working with the municipalities), and it will be a slow trickle over the next few years because we have not seen the process moving forward. It's about a 12 to 18 month process for a municipality from 'maybe we'll do it,' to drafting ordinances to pulling permits and opening doors.”

He pointed out it recently took Royal Oak 10 months just to create their ordinance to permit dispensaries.

“More and more are seeing the benefits to having facilities and creating ordinances as to where to put them, from rural to urban,” Dunaskiss said. “A retail cannabis shop opening up in a town can help restaurants and shops by revitalizing interest in a town.”

He pointed out that Orion Township, which was an early adopter of first medical marijuana, and then recreational marijuana, provisioning centers, “were very strategic of where they wanted them. They knew they could entice developers and businesses to areas where it makes sense for the area. Through those endeavors, they were able to raise hundreds of thousands of direct fees for licensure in addition to hundreds of thousands in property and other revenue taxes. Over 100 new jobs have been created as well.

“The new cannabis revenue, combined with the tipping fees from the local waste management facility, paid for the new township hall,” Dunaskiss said.

There are five different kinds of adult use recreational or medical marijuana licenses that can be attained in Michigan – cultivation and growing; processing; provisional centers; safety and compliance laboratories; and transportation.

In order to hold a license, there no longer is a residency requirement, which was in effect for the first two years of the law. What can be an issue is banking – which, because of the federal prohibition against marijuana, can create obstacles both from the lending side to the deposit end. But things are beginning to change as banks recognize the opportunity for profit.

“It's up to each state to set up banking regulations. In Michigan, it's come a long way,” Donovan said. “When this first began, it was one thing.

Now, some are working with them, as long as they are not federallyinsured, like FDIC, so a credit union or a state-chartered bank.”

Luckoff said they have never had an issue with banking.

“The issue with banking was fees, because they had to deal with compliance,” he said. “The fees have come down. We can now use retail and national banks. The national banks are even soliciting

cannabis businesses. The national banks are offering commercial financing. Banking has come a long way.

“Day one, when we started, we started with a credit union, and then moved to a bank,” Luckoff continued. “We have great relationships. It makes it a little safer, because it's a cash business for customers.

MasterCard and Visa still don't allow purchases at cannabis locations.

This way we have a safe place to put our cash every day. It also helps to change the stigma of cannabis, as businesses like banks are working to catch up with the cannabis business.”

A marijuana processor is licensed to possess, process, package, and store marijuana. Processors purchase the marijuana from growers, then extract resin from it, and create marijuana-infused products. Processors are also licensed to sell, transfer, and purchase marijuana from other state licensed entities.

Also known as a dispensary in most other states, a provisioning center for marijuana is a state operating license that authorizes the purchase or transfer of marijuana only from a grower or processor, and sells it to the public, over the age of 21.

A micro-business is an entity that is licensed to cultivate, process, and sell products from up to 150 marijuana plants, as long as they do it completely in-house. The plants are processed, packaged and sold to individuals who are at least 21 years of age. They are not authorized to sell or transfer products to marijuana establishments. These microbusinesses cultivate, process and sell the marijuana out of their own storefront. These dispensary business owners are not allowed to have more than one storefront, and are not able to obtain more than one license type.

While businesses can hold more than one kind of license, they cannot have a testing or transportation license if they have a retail, processing or cultivation license. That was purposefully done to prevent fraud or the appearance of impropriety.

“We own a processing, cultivation and have nine retail operations all over the state,” Luckoff said, “but we cannot transport our product and we cannot own a lab.”

A key difference to purchasing legal recreational cannabis from a licensed purveyor is the requirement by the state that all product be tested. It's called seed-to-flower testing, designed to provide a pure and quality product for the consumer, without mold, toxins, heavy metals and other hazards. Most believe it is a system that is successful – as evidenced by a recall issued in November 2021 by the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency after unreliable and inaccurate results were discovered in products tested by Viridis Laboratories.

“All of our flowers are tested, and we do not sell any remediated product,” said Brittany Yaffa, chief marketing director for Pure Roots, with offices in Birmingham, stores in Ann Arbor and Centerline, and 13 licenses on their way. “When you go to test to get it on the market, if the flower does not pass the state regulators' testing, cultivators are given the option to retest to save their crops. So cultivators have to do something different to pass, and that process is called remediation.”

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affa described the result as similar to having a partially eaten container of ice cream that eventually gets freezer burned. “You scrape that off, and it tastes good. That's similar to the process,” she said.

Common remediations, she said, are using ozone gas, hydrogen peroxide baths and other processes on the weed. “It's like thinking you have a moldy loaf of bread, and you put it in an ozone gas machine and it takes it away,” she said, noting the mold, mildew and other toxins are still there.

She said some states will not permit remediated products to be sold in licensed dispensaries, “and that is where we would like the state to be headed. It protects our customers from smoking or inhaling microbial particles.”

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Every dispensary is given information about the cultivator by the MRA, and is notified if the marijuana has been remediated by putting a triangle next to the product, so the buyer is notified. “At that point you can decide to buy or not, or to negotiate a better price,” Yaffa said.

“The giant stain on the Michigan cannabis program is remediation because it can hide bad gardening processing and remediation can hide cannabis that has failed testing,” pointed out Thompson of NORML MI. “As a consumer advocate first, consumers do not want cannabis that has been X-rayed or sprayed to kill the creepy crawlies to make it palatable.

“Our system allows remediation at multiple points in the cannabis lifecycle because it's financially devastating if your cannabis fails and you have to throw it all away,” he said. “Remediation is a way for businessmen to save their losses.”

“Right now there's a lot of guessing in testing. It's just a fact we have to accept. The industry is so new and we don't know what is safe or not because the federal government hasn't permitted studies to determine what chemicals and heavy metals levels are safe,” noted attorney Barton Morris. “It's going to take time – decades – and federal legalization – to understand the chemical impact.”

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hether due to the COVID-19 pandemic, or to the increasing level of comfort and acceptance towards cannabis, as of 2020, the first year recreational marijuana was legal in Michigan, it was estimated to be a $3.2 billion industry, according to a study done by Anderson Economic Group for the Michigan Cannabis Manufacturer's Association. According to Executive Director Stephen Linder, one third of the marketplace was the legally licensed marketplace; one third of the marketplace was product from caregivers, sold in excess of their medical patients in what is called a “gray” market; and one third is the illegal black market.

“Two-thirds of all cannabis identified was sold outside of the licensed marketplace,” Linder said. “That's not creating jobs, not providing tax revenue, it's not tested product. It's an underground economy.”

So one promise of the legislation – to rid the state of a black market – has not occurred.

“It's a bad thing and it's only going to get worse because the statute did not lay out penalties, so it's not prosecutable,” said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard. “Two things in a marijuana business is cash and drugs. The product is valuable and there's the cash. In other states, we've seen where they kill the salesperson, steal the product and take the cash.”

Bouchard said they have had multiple houses blow up because of hash oil extraction in residential neighborhoods.

“The pot is grown from the basement to the attic. They're illegal grow operations. There's no testing. They smell, there's black mold and they're hazard scenes,” he said. “They're kicking sand in the faces of anyone who is doing it correctly.”

A major reason, according to numerous sources, is due to excess supply by medical caregivers. Currently, medical marijuana does not need to be tested, as recreational cannabis does, so there potentially could be pesticide or other metals or toxins in it. However, it's also not taxed – meaning it's cheaper for some consumers.

Bouchard echoes that a major area of crime in the marijuana black market is caregivers with “tremendous amounts of pot who are undercutting people. The legislators have done nothing. We have seen this problem across the country. Pre-legalization, our attention was focused on traffickers, not users. The legislature needs to write a comprehensive law that protects businesses, pushes out illegal use and grow operators out of residential neighborhoods.”

“There are about 25,000 to 35,000 caregivers in this state who are

growing tremendous amounts of medical marijuana, and some of it is going into the black market, although I prefer to refer to it as the unlicensed and unregulated market versus the black market because marijuana is legal,” said attorney Barton Morris. He noted that more than half of the state's caregivers are providing an excess for people other than their patients “so by law they're not caregivers. It's no different than a doctor operating a fraudulent pill mill, who is not acting as a licensed doctor. A majority of registered caregivers are funneling unlicensed, unregulated product to consumers. Marijuana has been an illegal, controlled substance since 1970. Some people say it has always been untested. But it may have pesticides, mold, heavy metals – these are things that can hurt you.

“Many people prefer to go to a licensed dispensary where the product is tested, there is more diverse product and knowledgeable salespeople,” he noted.

Attorney Douglas Mains isn't as sure.

“I don't think we'll ever get rid of the black market completely – it's in our country's DNA to resist regulation,” he said. “Cannabis is unique that people have used it for decades, there's a loyalty and trust if they've been buying it from their local dealer. As the system evolves and grows, it will become easier to go to local stores, which are welllit, have no crime, and prices aren't much higher. They'll get used to it.”

The goal for the industry, now, is to rid itself of excess untested product by passing the Marijuana Safety Act, Linder said. “It's our number one priority, which licenses the caregivers. We don't want them out of business – we want them accountable. These bills will decrease the number of plants in the house to 24 from 72. If you have more than that, you have to move to an industrial or agricultural setting.”

In addition, they must report their address, which will allow for accountability as well as for tracing by law enforcement and Marijuana Regulatory Agency.

“They aren't supposed to sell their product. They do,” Linder said.

“We'll say they can, not be charged tax, but they must have their product tested. People who stay in their homes can be exempted from testing.”

The act would permit specialty marijuana growers to have more than 24 plants and up to 96 plants, as long as they test.

L

inder noted that as an added benefit, it will provide a lower barrier for entry for disadvantaged communities for social equity. “The license to get in is only $500,” he said, compared to thousands of dollars in the current recreational market.

“We've made a lot of concessions to right-size the market.

“We're not trying to reignite the War on Drugs,” Linder said. “We're trying to get everyone to play by an accepted set of standards.”

The Michigan Cannabis Manufacturer's Association decided to do bipartisan polling and focus groups to determine citizen's perspective about marijuana, with Greenberg Quinlan Rosner and Public Opinion Strategies coming out with a statewide survey report in August 2021 that showed overwhelming support, “both broad and deep,” for regulating medical marijuana to the same standards as recreational marijuana.

Their survey showed strong bipartisan support (61 percent) for testing, as well as location and licensing. Linder noted they believe the bills will pass.

“If you look at pot like liquor, it'll get better,” said Michelle Donovan of Clark Hill. “It's catering to an untested market, as well as minors.

Eventually, the more industry is regulated, that will fade away, just like we no longer buy bootleg booze on the corner. Marijuana, cigarettes and alcohol are all taxed. (The black market) will eventually get squeezed. Ultimately, people want to be regulated – they want to be legitimate.”

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FACES

George Vutetakis eorge Vutetakis grew up enjoying the cultural traditions associated with preparing and eating healthy, flavorful Greek Mediterranean cuisine. In the 1970s, he traveled to India, where he was also inspired by the food. From this foundation, the Bloomfield Hills resident developed a passion for healthy, plantbased cooking which he has channeled into over four decades of success in the food industry as part of the plant-based food revolution.

Vutetakis, who has been a vegetarian for 50 years and a chef for 45 years, says his interest in yoga led him in the direction of vegetarianism.

“We are consistently advised to increase plant-based foods for better health and every culture has plant-based, vegan elements – that is a benefit to having so many cultures in the Detroit area,” Vutetakis explains. “James Beard used to say that Detroit was one of the best ethnic food cities in the country.”

In 1981, Vutetakis became a founding chef at Inn Season Cafe in Royal Oak and the owner four years later. The restaurant featured a farm-to-table concept before it became trendy and Vutetakis was greatly influenced by his involvement with farmers and farmers markets.

After two decades at the cafe, he sold the business and began writing and teaching. He and his wife, Sara Hill, also began renovating 1920's era homes in Birmingham, Royal Oak and San Diego, with an emphasis on culinary gardens and “charming chef’s kitchens as the heart of the home.” They moved to San Diego during this time. In 2010, his book, “Vegetarian Traditions: Favorite Recipes From My Years at the Legendary Inn Season Cafe,” was published. The book is being re-released this year in an eBook format.

“Michigan has a different kind of farmers market than San Diego. There’s nothing like kale kissed by the cold fall. There are incredible foods here [in Michigan] that you can’t find anywhere else – celebrate it!” he explains.

While promoting his book at the Birmingham Farmers Market in 2011, Vutetakis connected with the late Jack Aronson, well-known philanthropist and owner of Garden Fresh Gourmet, the largest fresh salsa company in the world which is headquartered in Ferndale. Aronson hired him as director of research and development, and he happily moved back to Birmingham.

“Working closely with Jack was a journey of enlightenment into the larger food industry,” says Vutetakis. “I went from a busy 50-seat restaurant to developing products in the packaged food industry – from feeding thousands to feeding millions.” During this period, he and Aronson created SEED, an incubator program to help food startups benefit from Garden Fresh’s success. “I learned a great deal about giving back from Jack and was heartbroken when he passed away last year.”

When Campbell’s Soup purchased Garden Fresh in 2015, Vutetakis continued working with Campbell’s where he developed vegan products for the fresh food division and shared his plant-based food expertise. Currently, Vutetakis continues his mission to promote and develop organic and plant-based products as a consultant and business owner.

In 2020, Vutetakis’s Birmingham-based Only Plant Based! Foods launched with a line of well-received mayonnaise, sauces, and dressings from Northern Ireland. The plant-based products are designed without factory farms, negative environmental impact, and climate-associated disruptions. Products are sold online, in local gourmet stores and to the food service industry.

“Food is a foundation of how we enjoy daily life and a significant way to create community and affect change,” he says. “Sharing food is a language of its own.

Cooking for someone else fills you up. It’s something we can still do in these uncertain pandemic times.”

For more information: www.thevegetarianguy.com, www.onlyplantbasedfoods.com

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Story: Tracy Donohue

Photo: Chris Ward

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PLAYING WITH POISON TOXIC THREATS IN CHILDREN'S TOYS

BY STACY GITTLEMAN

In an early Saturday Night Live sketch, a young Candice Bergman and Dan Aykroyd perform in a consumer probe spoof. In the skit, Bergman plays a journalist questioning Aykroyd, who portrays a toy company executive, about the safety of the toys he is trying to market: a knife-wielding Ken doll, and most notably, a bag of broken glass.

Jokes aside, toy safety is no laughing matter. Over the decades, toys have come to be the most regulated consumer products on the market. Enacted in 1972 with the passage of the Consumer Product Safety Act, the Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) over the decades has created a labeling system indicating the age appropriateness of a toy to prevent choking, strangulation, and electric shock hazards.

Even so, there are some troubling statistics concerning toy safety.

According to the Children’s Safety Network, children and adolescents ages 0-19 sustained over one million toy-related injuries that were treated in emergency departments between 2015 and 2018.

There was a slight drop in toy-related injuries in more recent years. The CPSC estimated that in 2020, emergency rooms treated 198,000 children because of the toys they played with.

While most of these injuries were related to skateboards, scooters, and bicycles, there are more insidious, long-term health hazards lurking in the amount of plastic toys that are ubiquitously found in daycare classrooms or at home in playrooms and bedrooms that can threaten the health of a child long after the toy loses appeal as a plaything.

As mass-produced toys moved from wood materials to plastic, toys became abundant and more affordable so that parents and caregivers could indulge children with an increasing number of toys. Plastic toys tend to be soft and flexible for young hands and mouths to explore. Though the consumer is often most concerned about the most visible hazards in toys, such as small parts, removable small batteries, and magnetic toys that can be a choking and swallowing hazard, that seemingly harmless plastic ball pit or plastic play kitchen can emit gasses known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs – a hidden yet pervasive danger that can have long-term adverse health effects. Scientists, environmentalists, and medical researchers fear these VOCs, as well as the chemical components of plastic toys, are harming the developmental, reproductive, and endocrine health of children. There are links between chemical exposure to disorders from everything from obesity to learning disorders to decreased male fertility.

In addition to emitting VOCs, when children play with plastic toys, traces of chemicals can be absorbed through their skin, inhaled as micro-plastics floating in the dust, or ingested when mouthed by infants and toddlers. Over time, these chemicals have a cumulative effect.

Olivier Jolliet, professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Michigan School of Public Health and his international colleagues at Technical University in Denmark, along with the United Nations Environment Programme, pinpointed the most prevalent toxic substances found in children’s playthings in Chemicals of Concern (CoC), a paper published in the January 2021 issue of Environment International. This peer review study examined the results of 25 global studies of toxic substances in toys and identified 126 chemicals of concern in toys that children can be exposed to either by touch, mouthing, or inhaling.

“Our consumer products contain somewhere around 30,000 chemicals. This is a lot to address and regulate,” said Jolliet. “The United States is a bit behind the European Union in this regard.”

Jolliet pointed to the 2009 revisions to the European Toy Safety Directive, which states that chemicals that are susceptible to cause

cancer, change genetic information, harm fertility, or harm an unborn child are no longer allowed in the accessible parts of toys beyond the concentration limits unless they are considered safe following a rigorous scientific evaluation.

The revised ruling also heavily restricted 19 'heavy elements,' like mercury and cadmium, and banned 55 allergenic fragrances in toys sold in Europe.

But still, Jolliet said this is not enough. If it is necessary to use some harmful chemicals in toy manufacturing, they should be listed on a product’s packaging, just the way ingredients are listed in food.

“Globally, there must be more transparency on the part of toy manufacturers. We had a hard time determining exactly what these toys were made of because the toy companies do not disclose their composition. If certain toys cannot be constructed without certain chemicals, there should be clear labeling on the packaging. I think there is no reason why we don't know what is in a consumer product. Why is it so complicated?”

Jolliet said it was important to quantify how much exposure children were getting to these chemicals through play. They found that plasticizer chemicals that make toys soft and flexible comprise between five and 50 percent of a toy's composition.

Jolliet acknowledges that in the studies used to build his 2021 study, it is unclear when the scrutinized toys were manufactured, or which toy company manufactured the toy. Several of these studies were published before 2018, the year before the CPSC banned all phthalates from toys sold in the United States from mainstream manufacturers.

But just because a certain chemical has been banned does not mean that toys sold in previous years are not lingering around at home, school, or a daycare facility. Old toys are donated, passed off as a hand-me-down to relatives of friends, or sold in consignment stores or garage sales where they largely go unchecked.

The most harmful kinds of chemicals that have been used to make toys are orthophthalates (phthalic acid esters), a class of about 40 organic substances used to make polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC. Present in manufacturing for over a century, phthalates are the stuff that makes plastic products plasticized – flexible, strong, or even translucent. In addition to being used for toys, they are also present in cosmetics, adhesives, paints, and pesticides. Phthalates with low numbers of carbon atoms over time have been replaced with less toxic versions containing more than six carbon atoms. Still, ecologists and researchers are concerned that even these replacements pose a risk to the health of young children. They are deemed by environmentalists as the “worst class” of plastics because of their associated health hazards.

Numerous studies have linked phthalates exposure to interference with hormone production and reproductive development, especially in young children. U.S. government data shows that for many phthalates, exposure is significantly higher in children aged six to 11, and in people of color. This class of chemicals has also been linked to metabolic disruption liver and testicular damage.

Asian supply chain quality assurance watchdog QIMA in 2010 conducted a phthalate content study on selected plastic toys

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produced in China. It found that 25 percent of these toys contained dangerous levels of phthalates. The organization revealed that between 2008 and 2009, there was a five percent increase in the number of dangerous toy notifications in the EU marketplace – from 1,866 in 2008 to 1,993 in 2009. Of these,1,993 products were later pulled from the EU market. Of these toys, 60 percent were made in China or Hong Kong and 26 percent of notifications were due to chemical hazards, more than any other category.

In late 2014, the CPSC proposed to ban five types of phthalates in children’s toys and child care articles due to these health risks but it was not until grassroots organizations pressured and sued the agency to uphold its promise did the CPSC issued its final phthalates ban on October 18, 2017. The ban took effect on April 25, 2018.

Other chemicals of concern in the U-M study that were found in toys known to cause long-term harm include polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs, flame retardant chemicals that have been used to produce cheap recycled plastics that often reenter the consumer stream when used for toys. Exposure to PBDEs is linked to learning, memory, and developmental problems, as well as endocrine disruption and cancer in both animal and epidemiological studies.

Jolliet said caregivers can limit a child’s exposure to the toxins in their toys by keeping rooms well-ventilated or opening new toys outside so gasses from new products do not contribute to indoor air pollutants. Overall, he advised limits on the amount of plastic toys that are kept in classrooms, play areas or bedrooms.

“While most children play with one toy at a time, we discovered that within the areas they play, they are surrounded by plastics because they may receive between as much as 35 to 40 pounds worth of plastic toys per year,” he said. “We advise limiting the toys that are in a child's environment by rotating toys and keeping others stored away in a garage or basement. " For infants, Joliet recommended limiting the use of pacifiers and bottles with plastic nipples and not letting one's baby fall asleep for hours sucking a pacifier.

In January, Joliet and his colleagues presented their findings to Chinese toy producers in hopes that they will self-regulate the chemicals used to make their products and understand the potential risks to children and learn how there is a global push from countries which are importing toys to phase out the most harmful chemicals in toys and other consumer products such as cosmetics.

A 2014 report published by the Washington State Department of Ecology found high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including ethylbenzene, styrene and formaldehyde, in tents and tunnels created for children’s use. Electronic toys also emit VOCs as do some wood toys made from pressuretreated or pressed wood or particleboard.

In general, researchers say it is best to stay away from plastic toys that are soft and pliable.

Overall, the CPSC maintains that its toy safety standards are the most stringent in the world.

“The U.S. has one of the best toy safety standards,” said CPSC spokesperson Nychelle Fleming. "Toys have to meet some of the lowest lead and phthalates limits in the world. Part of the way in which product compliance is ensured is through the requirement that an independent testing body has tested and confirmed compliance to applicable standards, including those related to chemical and mechanical hazards."

According to Fleming, toys sold in the United States must meet up to specifications and testing set by ASTM F963-17, a comprehensive standard addressing numerous hazards that have been identified with toys. The CPSC keeps a continuously updated

list of recalled toys, childcare products, and furnishings at cpsc.gov/recalls. While most toys make the list because of choking, shock, or falling hazards, a few toys in recent years made the list because they contained lead or phthalates. A product of particular concern that was recalled in September 2021 was a toy shaving kit sold by Janod that contained phthalates. The company sold 13,600 units of the toy before it was recalled.

In August 2020, Hasbro recalled some of their super soaker water blasters sold at Target because they contained lead. About 52,900 were sold nationwide.

The CPSC in recent years recalled dozens of children's clothing items, especially sleepwear, because they did not meet the agency’s flame retardant requirements. CPSC regulations mandate that sleepwear fabric for children sizes nine months to 14 years must be made of flame-resistant material and the clothing must be tight-fitting beginning at nine months, the age babies become mobile. According to Rhodes, from June 24 to July 29, 2021, there were seven children’s sleepwear recalls for this violation. In total, the seven recalls amounted to 22,380 units being found to be too dangerous to be on the market.

Most recently, the CPSC recalled the following sleepwear items because they failed to meet flammability standards: Mark of Fifth Avenue Children’s Robes recalled December 8, 2021, with 10,00 units having been sold.

When thinking about buying toys, consumer advocates contend that it is best to buy from well-known manufacturers and retail stores, even if it means spending a bit more money.

Hannah Rhodes, consumer watchdog associate at U.S. Public Interest Research Group (USPIRG) said its 36th annual Trouble in Toyland report, warns consumers about the pitfalls of buying counterfeit or knockoff toys on the internet from murky vendor sources. When sold online directly from the factory to the buyer, these toys evade stringent laboratory testing that is required of toys to be sold by traditional retailers that bear a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) label found on the original boxes or packaging of bigger brand toys sold through traditional toy retailers.

“One of the dangers with of counterfeits or knockoffs – and by knockoffs, I mean toys that do not violate copyright laws but are offbrand toys that mimic more mainstream brands – is they are not undergoing safety tests. That's a major concern,” said Rhodes. “Toys sold in the United States have some of the strictest safety standards out of any consumer product. There are tests for toxic chemicals and small parts. Approved toys also need to withstand use and abuse testing to understand how a toy will hold up to the wear and tear kids put a toy through. So, the idea that toys are being sold online that are not undergoing the safety standards that have taken years of research to develop is really alarming.”

Rhodes said that while one hazard is no more concerning than another when it comes to toy safety, the problem with the presence of toxins in toys is that they are invisible.

She continued, “Parents can see if a toy breaks into pieces with jagged edges or discern if a toy’s parts are too small for younger children to play with. But they cannot detect when toys emit VOCs or when toxic chemicals are absorbed through the skin or inhaled.

The toy companies need to be more transparent and list the chemical composition that goes into a toy’s manufacturing.”

In its efforts to assure that all toys reaching US consumers are rid of high levels of harmful banned chemicals, USPIRG is lobbying Congress to pass the Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online

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Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM) Act. Introduced into Congress in March 2021 by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA). INFORM, if passed into law, would curb the online sale of counterfeit and knockoff goods by high-volume anonymous sellers (high-volume is defined as vendors who have made 200 or more discrete sales in 12 months amounting to $5,000 or more), and ensure that consumers can see basic identification and contact information for purchased products.

INFORM would also require the online marketplace to supply a hotline to allow customers to report suspicious marketplace activity such as the posting of suspected stolen, counterfeit, or dangerous products. The bill’s requirements would be implemented by the Federal Trade Commission.

European environmentalists and consumer advocacy groups have also sounded the alarm on harmful chemicals in children’s products sold by lesser-known toy companies. Karolína Brabcová is the manager of the toxic substances and waste program of Arnika, a 20-year-old Czechoslovakian environmental research organization that examines the dangers of exposure to chemicals in consumer products in daily life. Just like her counterparts in America, Brabcová sees the greatest chemical threats coming from phthalates and toys made from recycled plastics that contain remnants of bisphenol flame retardants.

“In Europe, there are more substances that are banned from toys than any other category of consumer goods,” said Brabcová.

“However, one must look at the entire environment that children and pregnant women live in and consider other sources of indoor air pollutants such as chemicals used to make carpeting, furniture and kitchen products that can have a cumulative adverse health outcome.”

Brabcová said the next steps should include restricting and eventually eliminating chemicals from all consumer products.

“At the end of the day, to protect the population, you just have to reign in the presence of toxic chemicals in all consumer products that are having an intergenerational health impact.”

Brabcová said that toys made from plastics created from electronic products that contain PBDEs and flame-retardant foams remain on the market in some parts of the world. Though she pointed to the fact that delegates at the 2009 Stockholm Convention Conference of Parties agreed to list certain PBDEs as products that should be banned from the global recycle stream, the convention agreed to create an exemption that permitted recycling of plastics, foam, and other materials containing these substances until 2030.

An example of how these substances show up in toys was documented in 2015 by Arnika with the International Pollutants Elimination Network, which together analyzed the composition of chemical substances found in cube puzzle toys. The study compared the chemical makeup of the trademarked Rubik’s Cube, manufactured in Hungary, with cheaper knockoff versions manufactured in Belarus, China, Hungary and Serbia. The study determined that 57 percent of the knockoff brand samples surpassed the EU’s allowable levels of persistent organic pollutants at 50 parts per million, but the official brand contained zero parts per million of banned pollutants. Over time, Brabcová cautioned that toys made from these recycled plastics can leach chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin.

"We did this study because it proved that toys still have residues of substances that have been banned globally from getting iPBDEsy

production. PBDE’s have been banned in Europe for 10 years because of their toxicity. But there are still no-name brand toys made in places like China that are made cheaply from recycled plastics that contain all these legacy chemicals. We went back again in 2018 to examine toys sold in places like Germany and Portugal, and we once again found even higher levels of PBDEs. So, if the consumer is going to buy no-name brands or brands that are less well known, you are probably going to buy an unsafe toy."

Lisette van Vliet is senior policy manager of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners and in years past worked with Brabcová advocating for stronger regulations of toxic chemicals in Europe.

Back in the United States, her organization, along with the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Environmental Justice Health Alliance for Chemical Policy Reform was instrumental in getting the CPSC to finally ban the use of phthalates in toy manufacturing.

Industry groups, led by the National Association of Manufacturers, have challenged this ban.

Lisette van Vliet's organization has extensively documented evidence drawing links between phthalate exposure with breast cancer. She maintains that even with the ban, the United States is "very behind" the European Union on protecting children and adults from phthalates exposure.

She pointed to research that concludes that fetuses and infants, who are at critical stages of their development, are particularly sensitive to phthalate exposure, and young girls exposed to high levels of phthalates are also at risk of negative health effects.

Phthalates can cross the placenta and are present in and can be transmitted through breast milk. The chemical also poses adverse health effects in human reproductive, neurodevelopmental, behavioral, hormonal, and metabolic function.

“It’s not just the products children come into contact with, whether child-specific or not," insisted van Vliet. "It's that the whole panoply of uses of toxins is filling all our indoor and outdoor environments with toxic pollution. Children are born already exposed to toxicants before they are born and they continue to be exposed as they breathe, eat and drink. The fact that toxicants are making people and animals sicker, and killing them, across generations is a fundamental point. Our toxics crisis is as big as the climate crisis."

Alan Kaufman, senior vice president of technical affairs for The Toy Association, said that toys are the most heavily regulated products on the United States market. The Toy Association, founded in 1916, comprising 850 members of global toy companies, manufacturers and accredited third-party testing sites, has worked closely with the CPSC for nearly 40 years and serves on a committee that reviews and revises America’s ASTM F963-17 toy safety standard.

Kaufman said that most toy manufacturers in the United States, since the 1990s, have been voluntarily phasing out phthalates. Even so, Kaufman maintains that it is impossible to omit all potentially harmful chemicals in toys.

"There's this feeling that you can eliminate all potentially harmful chemicals from toys, but that is not always possible. When a toy is designed, there are concerns about electrical safety, impact strength, and whether a product will shatter when dropped or if small pieces can be ripped off and swallowed. So, the presence of a small amount of these chemicals to assure the overall safety of a toy is sometimes unavoidable.

He continued, "When you make plastics, there may be very minute amounts of a chemical used in the synthesis that is leftover in the final product, but the levels are so low, and they are locked in the matrix of that product. In other words, it’s not migrating out of that plastic toy.”

Kaufman said that the industry has been moving to replace phthalates with citrate acid esters as proposed as a class of

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substitute plasticizer, or cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic aciddiisononyl ester, a phthalate alternative introduced into the market in 2002 that is increasingly used especially in the production of toys, food contact materials, and medical devices.

Kaufman also questions the outcome of certain studies, including the chemicals of concern study conducted between U-M and the UNEP, which included peer-reviewed studies that examined offbrand toys sold in developing countries. Because of the continued presence of these products, Kaufman advises consumers to play it safe and buy from reputable brand names at traditional retailers.

“At the end of the day, just because you cannot find that highly sought-after toy that your child wants (at a retail store), don’t go looking to purchase a knockoff product sold at a dollar store or from someone selling a toy on the street for a cheaper price,” advised Kaufman. “And if you want to buy a product at a consignment store, make sure it was made after 1980.”

Toyology Toys owner Nori Klar said much care goes into selecting the merchandise sold in their several stores in metro Detroit. When it comes to purchasing toys, Klar also cautions the consumer that it is best to spend a few more dollars to buy from a reputable seller.

Another good reason to steer away from cheaper knockoff toys, Klar explained, is that, if at any time there is a safety recall on a product, she will be notified by the manufacturer. She keeps records of her customers’ purchases, making it easier to inform them of a recall.

"I don't carry the cheapest toys from no-name third-party manufacturers because I don't know where they are coming from or how or if they have been tested,” affirmed Klar. “And a third-party toy manufacturer would never contact me to pull a product from my shelves like a brand name manufacturer would if there was a need to recall it.”

One example of the many toys sold through Toyology Toys is Crazy Aaron's products.

The company is based in Philadelphia and is best known for its line of stretchable putty products, all made in the United States.

Owner Aaron Muderick, who claims he stays up nights studying toy safety regulations and who has served on the ASTM F963-17 committee for almost 15 years, has been at the forefront of fighting the "whack-a-mole" game of counterfeit and knockoff products that try to pass off as his company’s toys.

In November 2021, Muderick, who also serves as a local council member in Pennsylvania, testified before Congress in favor of passing the INFORM Act. He told federal legislators that his staff can spend up to 20 hours per week sending out requests to Amazon to remove counterfeit products from the mammoth online commerce website trying to pass off as his brand.

“Citizens and business owners need to share their experiences with legislators,” said Muderick. “If we assume that someone else will say something then it is likely no one will, and our democratic process will suffer as a result. Until there is new legislation from Congress, we will continue to play the 'whack-a-mole' game to keep on top of potentially dangerous counterfeiters. Hopefully, my testimony, along with others, will help improve our laws and lead to a better safer outcome for consumers.”

Muderick said ASTM committee members such as himself work to not only try to anticipate the possible uses of a toy but also all the potential for abuse and mishandling that could endanger children to chemicals locked inside a toy’s construction.

“It is a global and international effort that has dramatically improved the safety of play for children across the entire world.”

But understanding the risks in chemical-laden toys is merely scratching the surface of all the harmful chemicals that people are

exposed to in daily life, in and out of their homes. The Ecology Center of Ann Arbor launched a program called Healthy Stuff after it was discovered in 2005 by the non-partisan U.S. Government Accountability Office that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since 1979 required testing for fewer than 200 of the 62,000 chemicals used in commerce and the EPA has only restricted five chemical groups in the last 29 years.

Healthy Stuff discovered that 42 percent of 700 popular toys contained PVCs. “In the beginning, we looked at chemical hazards in an array of consumer products,” said Jeff Gearhart, Ecology Center research director. “Children’s products were one of the first categories we evaluated.”

Gearhart explained that the work of The Ecology Center and other environmental researchers around the country identified high levels of lead in these toys that eventually resulted in the 2008 Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. This law amended the Consumer Product Safety Act to provide the CPSC with significant new regulatory and enforcement tools.

CPSIA addresses lead, phthalates, toy safety, and third-party testing and certification.

Gearhart said such revisions are capable of quick and dramatic results, as evidenced by a sharp drop in lead detected in children’s products in the years after the revised law was enacted.

“The follow-up testing we did years later prove the revised regulations had a real-world impact on the amount of lead that was showing up in toys and we considered that a victory and proof of the importance of having leadership on regulations at the federal level.”

Gearhart agrees with the findings of the Chemicals of Concern study and that there must be an across-the-board reduction in using fossil fuels to make household goods, furnishings, clothing, and other things that are part of consumer's daily lives. Toys are just one source of chemical-laden products that a child will encounter in their lifetime.

“Toys are one part of a broader environment that a child inhabits.

The one thing babies and small children interact with, even more than toys, is flooring. If it is made with synthetic material, it is laden with chemicals. I understand the concern people have around toys, but The Ecology Center also wants to educate the potential hazards that are in furniture, flooring, and certain finishes. Routes of exposure in addition to a child putting a toy in their mouth include inhaling or ingesting dust that contains plastic additives. “ Gearhart said the public must be concerned about the overall life cycle of plastic products – from how they are produced, used and disposed of, and regulatory bodies must also reflect the hazards of plastics throughout this life cycle if policies are to truly have a positive impact on health and the environment.

“There must be a cosmic shift in our buying habits as well as regulatory policy. None of this is going to be easy,” he noted. “When you think about the toxic nature of plastic products – how they are produced, how they are used, and where they end up when we are done with them – we must consider the toxic impact right along with the overall climate impact of using global warming pollutants.”

Gearhart said it was once thought that purchasing plastic toys made from polymers did not have a direct impact on the climate.

“But I actually think it's very direct, and becoming more direct every day,” he said. “One of the things we have to think about as consumers are, what are the broader impacts of our consumption decisions directly on our health in how we are exposing ourselves to chemicals from plastics in our homes and offices, but what are the global impacts on these consumption patterns? I just want to encourage folks that even small decisions at the consumer level do make a difference.”

FACES

Kimber Bishop-Yanke etween her business, Kids Empowered, which offers coaching and counseling, and her non-profit, Kids Empowered On The Move, that held conferences before pivoting since the pandemic, Kimber Bishop-Yanke was already helping others when she heard about a young woman sleeping in her car during the polar vortex and felt she had to take action.

“I ended up spending the next two months trying to keep her out of the cold,” said Bishop-Yanke, who discovered Oakland County lacked services for people who are homeless. “I was told, ‘Call these 10 numbers and these 10 numbers.’

It’s like a hamster wheel.”

So, the Birmingham resident reached out to local politicians like former state Rep. Christine Greig (D-Farmington Hills), which led to a community meeting. “I was upset about how the homeless were being treated,” she said.

It turned out that state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) wanted to start a local task force for poverty and homelessness – and Bishop-Yanke was asked to help.

“A couple of weeks later, I saw on Facebook that I was the chair of the task force,” she said.

Though the newly-established Oakland County Poverty and Homelessness Task Force remains a grassroots effort, it aims to increase public awareness and break down some of the barriers people in poverty and homelessness face and identify legislative issues.

Bishop-Yanke contacts local organizations to help people in need, like a Pontiac teacher who had been washing kids’ clothing at home. “We got a washer and dryer for the school,” she said. “Of course, it got delivered the day the schools shut down during the pandemic.”

She also works with other volunteers and organizations to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to 250 food-insecure families. As she explained, there can be roadblocks to assistance, like people that don’t have cars to get to food banks, where the hours can also conflict with their jobs.

In some cases, furniture and bedding have been delivered as well. “It’s been shocking to learn how many kids don’t have beds,” said Bishop-Yanke, who has two sons and a stepdaughter.

Other efforts include everything from helping with temporary housing in local hotels to a book buddy reading program.

She remains frustrated by the fact that a person in crisis has to contact multiple organizations to get help and that assistance can be impractical, like needing checks to cover apartment application fees that take weeks to receive when the apartment will no longer be available.

“We don’t have this sort of triage, like, ‘Let’s get you set up and see how we can help you,’” Bishop-Yanke noted. “It’s like banging your head against the window. We get dejected from all the rejections and we have food and shelter.”

Despite all the setbacks, she has had success along the way, like raising enough money to cover babysitting costs for one local mom while she earns her GED, and getting a new home for another who had black mold and holes in her trailer.

Whether it’s a kid without a birthday cake or a person who needs a ride, the requests are many. “We can’t meet all the needs, but we don’t have to have meetings,” said Bishop-Yanke. “We just do what needs to be done.”

Still, she asked, “As a community, how do you get Oakland County as a whole to take responsibility for these issues? I feel as citizens we need to be involved and help with the solution.”

Those who can lend a hand can contact her through kidsempoweredonthemove.org.

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MUNICIPAL Court agreement up for further review

By Kevin Elliott

A local government agreement reached in December among Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and West Bloomfield to fund the 48th District Court could fall apart just a month after being approved as Birmingham city commissioners debated on Monday, January 10, pulling out of the agreement for 2023.

Birmingham city commissioners in December approved an inter-local agreement for the expenses and maintenance of the court, which is located in Bloomfield Township and serves Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, Sylvan Lake, Keego Harbor and Orchard Lake. In general, the court is funded through fines and fees generated from each of the municipalities it serves.

However, the four largest communities – Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, West Bloomfield and Bloomfield Hills – have had an agreement since 1985 to act as designated “funding units” for the court.

As funding units, the municipalities share in the vast majority of funding the operations and maintenance of the court. As such, funding communities receive a larger return on fines paid to the court when its income outweighs expenses. Likewise, funding communities are responsible for covering shortfalls, if revenues fall short. Funding communities typically receive as much as $50,000 or pay more than $100,000, varying upon the year.

In late 2021, Bloomfield Hills opted to withdraw from the funding agreement. The move drew the ire of city leaders in Birmingham and Bloomfield Township. Subsequently, a new funding agreement between the remaining three municipalities was approved in December. Upon approving the new agreement, Birmingham city commissioners also voiced its desire to withdraw from the new agreement.

Birmingham City Attorney Mary Kucharek said that under the terms of the agreement, Birmingham would be required to give notice of intent to opt out of the agreement by the end of January, with a formal withdrawal at the end of 2022. If it opts out of the agreement, Birmingham would receive one-third downtownpublications.com

City's restaurant weeks starting January 24

By Lisa Brody

eventeen years ago, Restaurant Week in Birmingham was a new concept for Michigan. Now, it's such a hit, it's a two-week event.

Welcome back to the opportunity to explore new dining and experiences in Birmingham, with the annual winter event of Birmingham Restaurant Week, Monday, January 24 through Friday, January 28, and Monday, January 31 through Friday, February 4.

Almost two dozen of Birmingham's finest and most unique dining establishments will offer discounted meals during the 17th annual Birmingham Restaurant Week event. Patrons will enjoy three-course lunches and dinners at discounted price points. Top chefs will create unique menu items during the culinary extravaganza, and foodies from all over metro Detroit are sure to head to Birmingham to indulge in more affordable meals – so make your reservations early.

Participating restaurants in this year's Restaurant Week event include 220 Restaurant, Adachi, Bella Piatti, Birmingham Pub, Elie's Mediterranean Grill, Hazel's, Mare Mediterranean, Phoenicia, Salvatore Scallopini (Sal's), Streetside Seafood, Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro, Townhouse and The French Lady.

“Downtown Birmingham is known regionally as a premier dining destination, offering a variety of restaurants and cuisines. Restaurant Week is a great time to try something new, or visit your local favorites for special menus and pricing,” said Sean Kammer, Birmingham Shopping District executive director.

“The atmosphere remains festive this time of year, with thousands of lights lining the downtown streetscape. Plus, in the last few months, several new retailers have opened, so you may want to plan some extra time to walk around and see the shops while you’re here,” Kammer said.

For menus and updated information, contact birminghamrestaurantweek.org.

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of fines and fees paid to the court from cases generated in the city, rather than it’s current two-thirds return.

Kucharek said the savings to the city from withdrawing from the agreement could be “significant,” depending on the year.

Commissioners on Monday, January 10, were presented with a motion to opt out of the agreement, but stopped short of taking action following an update from Bloomfield Township and comments by 48th District Court Chief Judge Marc Barron.

“We were told clearly by the Bloomfield Township Supervisor (Dani Walsh) that if we opt out and if we give notice to opt out, that they too will opt out and cease being a funding unit,” Kucharek said. “If that happens, despite the fact that the court is in their political subdivision, there’s not a funding unit for the court. The court still has to be funded, and it will.”

Additionally, Kucharek said the township supervisor said the township would cancel its lease with the court, which is located in the township’s government complex.

Should that happen, Kucharek said it’s likely the court would file legal action against the township for breaching its lease agreement for the building.

Birmingham City Manager Tom Markus said the declarations don’t change his opinion on whether the city should opt out of the agreement.

Rather, he said, it may be beneficial to Birmingham if all the jurisdictions served by the court were treated equally accountable.

Judge Barron, who spoke first as a representative of the court, said giving notice of intent to opt out of the agreement would essentially end the agreement, and spur immediate legal action to fund the court under state law.

“The court is not going to wait,” Barron said. “As soon as a funding unit gives notice of intent, we will take action. We must determine who will fund the court.”

Barron also spoke as a resident of Birmingham, urging commissioners to remain in the agreement, which provides a higher return, two-thirds, on fines and fees, as opposed to nonfunding units, which only receive a one-third return. Further, Barron

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questioned why Birmingham would enter an agreement, just to withdraw from it weeks later.

Commissioner Clinton Baller questioned why the city would opt to take a smaller share of revenues.

“The idea is that we have to fund the court either way,” he said. “Why not take two-thirds instead of onethird? It seems that if the agreement blows up, someone is going to decide that we are going to have to fund it.”

Markus said the desire to opt out is based on the financial belief that the city would pay less overall to fund the court without the current agreement. He indicated the new agreement was formed after Bloomfield Hills withdrew from the former agreement, supposedly also based on financial forecasts.

However, Markus said Bloomfield Hills didn’t follow the terms of the agreement when it withdrew, but was permitted to opt out, regardless.

As such, he said the city would opt out of the new agreement, under its terms.

“We believe (they left) for financial reasons,” Markus said. “There was already inequity without allowing the (smaller communities) to get involved, and then they allowed Bloomfield Hills to leave. Now that it’s Birmingham pulling out, all hell breaks loose? Where was that with Bloomfield Hills?”

Commissioners voted unanimously to table the matter until its January 24 meeting.

Daxton Hotel moves management in-house A change of management at the Daxton Hotel, 298 S. Old Woodward,

by Woodward Brown Ventures, which has decided to oversee operations internally, prompted a request to the Birmingham City Commission on Monday, January 11, where it was unanimously approved.

Birmingham Planning Director Nick Dupuis said the Daxton was and will remain owned by Woodward Brown Ventures; however, the hotel has decided to take management of the hotel in-house. The management had been handled by the Aparium Hotel Group in Chicago. The move requires a change in ownership of the hotel’s liquor license to Woodward Brown Ventures from Aparium Hotel Group.

The change therefore required a special land use permit amendment to the hotel issued by the city. The city initially issued a liquor license 67

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and permit in 2019 to Woodward Brown Ventures/Aparium Hotel Group, which is owned by several entities.

Attorney Kelly Allen, representing the hotel, said there are no changes to the layout, operation or hours of business.

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the special land use permit amendment, with commissioner Pierre Boutros recused.

Lawsuit against Eddie Merlot's cites racism

By Lisa Brody

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Two former employees of Eddie Merlot's Bloomfield Hills, 37000 Woodward Avenue, filed a civil rights lawsuit in Oakland County Circuit Court on Monday, January 10, alleging ongoing racism by the restaurant's manager which led them to leave an unwelcome employment environment.

The complaint, filed by attorneys Jonathan Marko and Zachary Ryan of Marko Law in Detroit, for plaintiffs James Gaines, a former sous chef, and Allante Bridges, a former waitress, against Eddie Merlot's LLC and Curtis Nordeen, the general manager of the Bloomfield Hills location, allege Nordeen would, during their tenure at the establishment, add “CPT” after assumed African American names, asserting they would run late. “CPT” was his term for “colored people time.”

Gaines and Bridges said they witnessed Nordeen call a Black homosexual employee a “fucking faggot,” and frequently accused Black customers, behind their backs, of being on drugs. They allege Nordeen participated in jokes with kitchen staff that Black people like fried chicken and watermelon; he also made jokes about shoving watermelon down Black children's throats.

Nordeen told staff, including Bridges, that he only wanted Black staff waiting on Black customers because it made him comfortable.

According to the complaint, Nordeen also would seat African American customers and white customers in different sections of the restaurant.

“Mr. Nordeen's blatant racism empowered Caucasian staff members to regularly engage in racist behavior,” the complaint said.

“The alleged incidents occurred during their employment,” Marko DOWNTOWN

said, noting complaints were repeatedly made to management.

Gaines was hired in 2016; Bridges in 2020.

He said it reached it's height on July 3, 2021, when Gaines, Bridges and four other co-workers, who were white, took Nordeen outside and told him he had to “stop this racist behavior or we will have to leave.”

According to Marko, Nordeen said he couldn't stop it, that it was who he was. Instead, he offered them all raises to stay.

“Each of the employees declined Nordeen's offer,” Marko said. “They all declined to be bought to work in a racist environment.”

Marko said Eddie Merlot's LLC would not deny or confirm if Nordeen is still employed at the restaurant. A call to the restaurant confirmed he is still the general manager.

“This is a harassment and discrimination-free environment,” said a manager who declined to be named. “Remember, these are just allegations.

“I have sat down with them twice, and they've refused to take any responsibility,” Marko said. “The first time their lawyer accused me of making it all up.”

Further affidavits from other employees were taken and presented to the corporation, and Marko said they have continued to deny culpability, so the lawsuit was filed, alleging that Eddie Merlot's and Nordeen have violated the ElliotLarsen Michigan Civil Rights Act as Gaines and Bridges were their employees.

“We cannot take back that terrible, hostile work environment, or give them back their jobs, so we're going to ask a jury to send a very loud message to have them take responsibility,” said Marko.

He did not specify an amount they are seeking.

“As many millions as it will take for Eddie Merlot's to stop perpetuating this racist culture,” he said.

The case has been assigned to visiting Judge Edward Sosnick at Oakland County Circuit Court.

Mayor’s Club idea gets split response

By Kevin Elliott

Looking to tap into the wealth of knowledge in the community, Birmingham City Manager Tom Markus on Monday, January 10, 02.22

pitched the idea of developing an Emeritus Mayor’s Club to the city commission.

Markus said he spoke to a former mayor about the number of civicminded people in the community and about the idea of the forming of local think tank.

“It seems like such a waste. We get you guys all trained and then you decide you’re not going to be an elected official anymore, and it all just goes away,” Markus said. “Well, I’m not willing to let them go. We should keep them engaged.”

Markus said the goal of the club would be to create a resource to providing strategic advice on broad ideas and topics facing city government. Former mayors, he said, have unique historical perspectives and could offer advice on various issues.

Further, he said the club could assist community groups, charities and other projects by forming a non-profit entity.

Markus said he had already contacted past mayors who no longer serve on the city commission in order to gauge interest in the concept of an Emeritus Mayor’s Club.

The Birmingham City

Commission elects a mayor and mayor pro-tem each year, with a new mayor selected each year, with the exception of 2020, when former mayor and current mayor pro tem Pierre Boutros was elected by commissioners for a second term as mayor. Markus said there could be as many as 25 members of the club, due to the way mayors are appointed. The mayor is responsible for leading city commission meetings, working with staff to direct the city, conduct ceremonial functions and other duties. The city manager runs the city government and reports to the city commission.

Commissioner Clinton Baller made a motion to approve a resolution to encourage Markus to explore the concept of the club with those interested in forming it.

“I think we should have some sort of roundtable,” he said. “There’s so much knowledge in this community, it’s ridiculous. Let’s get these people to the table.”

Commissioner Andrew Haig asked how the city would prevent any appearance of influence of the group over decisions on various

Expice the

RESTAURANTS IN DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

boards and committees.

Commissioner Brad Host also asked the purpose of the city commission voting on the matter, if such a club were to operate as its own entity apart from the city.

“Why should the city commission give direction on this,” Host asked.

“Why should they be organized?

Because you want a foundation or a non-profit? I see this going south.

Why do you want to do this?”

“Because they have a lot to offer the community,” Markus answered.

“You represent a group of people who commit to do something. I’m a paid gun. Compared to people from the community who basically volunteer to run this organization, it takes a lot of time. And they take a lot of heat, depending on the issues.

That’s an expression of complete commitment to me, and a resource the community can use.”

Commissioner Elaine McLain also said she was concerned about unintended or unforeseen consequences by the commission taking formal action.

Baller said commissioners may misunderstand, as such a club would

be its own entity and not fall under the city’s purview.

“If it’s not under the city, then why is it being voted on,” Haig asked.

Markus recommended Baller withdraw the motion to approve exploring the committee. Baller subsequently withdrew the motion and the commission moved on without further action.

Preliminary plats for sub lots approved Final preliminary plat approval for Bloomfield Mill and Franklin Woods, two platted subdivisions in Bloomfield Township, were considered and approved on Monday, January 10, by the board of trustees.

Patti Voelker, township director of planning, building and ordinance, explained the plats were coming back to the board after tentative preliminary approval in November 2020. The proposed Bloomfield Mill subdivision, on the west side of Franklin Road between Maple and 14 Mile Road, is comprised of two

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single-family residential lots, while the proposed Franklin Woods Subdivision comprised of nine single-family residential lots on the east side of Franklin Road.

“Because it's a plat it is following the Michigan Land Division Act as well as the township's Land Division and Subdivision Ordinance,” Voelker said.

Karen Stickel of engineering firm Hubbell, Roth & Clark explained the developer, Terry Nosan of Nosan Properties, had one year from board approval to submit the plat proposal to relevant agencies. As the township did not hold a second meeting in December 2021, it was moved to the January meeting.

“All final preliminary plat requirements have been submitted in accordance with the Land Division Act and the township Subdivision Act,” Stickel said.

She explained the developer is still going through engineering plan approvals, and plat approval is not contingent upon engineering approvals. EGLE sanitary sewer approvals were reached as well as a Sunoco pipeline permit. She said

they will have to apply for a tree permit in the future.

On the Franklin Woods subdivision site, Nosan said they will need to remove most trees, other than where there are wetlands, as it is a former apple orchard, the soil is contaminated with arsenic “and other normal mid-20th century pesticide management. In order to remove the contaminated soils, the majority of the trees need to be removed.”

Trustee Stephanie Fakih voiced concern about disturbing wetlands, and she and trustee Val Murray were worried about stormwater runoff and and management.

Nosan explained that after the large storm events last year, the Oakland County Water Resources Commission changed the rules for storm water runoff, “and this is one of the first systems to have the new one.”

Trustees voted 5-1 to approve the Bloomfield Mill final preliminary plat, with Fakih opposed and trustee Michael Schostak absent. They voted 4-2 to approve the Franklin Woods final preliminary subdivision plat,

with Fakih and Murray opposed and Schostak absent.

Master plan reviews neighborhood quality

By Kevin Elliott

Birmingham Planning Board members on Wednesday, January 12, reviewed the second draft of the city’s Master Plan 2040 long-range planning document and how it relates to retaining neighborhood quality throughout the city.

Board members met with Matthew Lambert with DPZ CoDesign, which is heading up the project on behalf of the city. On January 12, Lambert and board members discussed the third chapter of the citywide master plan, which focuses on retaining neighborhood quality through parks; pedestrianfriendly streets; retaining the city’s tree canopy; revising parking restrictions; and retaining housing character in neighborhoods.

Lambert noted that the third chapter identifies the Torry neighborhood as the area of the city

that is most notably lacking park space, recommending future open space or the development of Worth Park to assist in meeting park needs in the area.

Planning board member Bert Koseck said it’s unlikely Worth Park, at just a half acre, would offer much of a draw to the Torry neighborhood, which is already split up. Further, Koseck said, there were some areas of the chapter that needed revision, in which statements don’t always ring true.

“There’s a blanket statement that ‘Birmingham’s streets are beautiful,’ and I would say generally that’s true, but some are in bad shape,” Koseck said. “The same with the tree canopy. In some areas it’s retained, in some areas, no.”

Koseck said he liked many suggestions, including the formation of a committee to establish tree policies, if that’s not being done already. Additionally, he agreed with a recommendation to lower speed limits in residential neighborhoods from 25 mph to 20 mph.

“I would love it if you can do it,” Koseck said about the speed limits.

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Board member Daniel Share said the plan oversteps the bounds of a master plan in some areas, and treads on the parks and recreation board where it recommends park. He also disagreed with the idea of lowering speed limits.

“I grew up in a town where the speed limit was 20 mph, and it didn’t work,” Share said. “If you read the state statute, it says the opposite of what you say in here.”

Board member Robin Boyle said he appreciated expanded information on parks. However, he said the plan may need to be more directive in its recommendations.

“Everyone agrees that we have wonderful neighborhoods, but not everyone would agree that all the neighborhoods are good. I live in a neighborhood with great tree coverage and architecture, but the streets are terrible,” Boyle said. “We should have a plan that pushes people to take action, like those that sit here Monday nights (city commission)… we need to be more directive in where we put our time and money.”

Birmingham received the second draft of the 2040 Master Plan in October of 2021, after nearly two years of review and input. The planning board will conduct a full review before further direction is given by the city commission, with a third and final draft to follow.

A full version of the plan is available for review online at thebirminghamplan.com. The planning board will meet on Wednesday, February 9, to discuss the fourth and fifth chapters of the plan: Support Mixed-Use Districts, and Advance Sustainability Practices. The public is invited to each session and encouraged to provide comments in person and online at thebirminghamplan.com.

Agreement restated between cable boards

By Lisa Brody

Approval was unanimously given to a third restated agreement by the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees at their meeting on Monday,

January 10, for cable access management between Bloomfield Community Television and the Birmingham Area Cable Board.

Greg Black, Bloomfield Community Television operations manager, explained that since 2000, the two area cable boards had shared cable access management.

This is the third restatement of the original agreement, effective from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2026. There is an annual amount of $308,300 payable in equal quarterly payments of $77,075 by the Birmingham Area Cable Board to Bloomfield Community Television.

New to this agreement, he said, is coverage of the regularly scheduled Bingham Farms Village Council meeting; Birmingham Historic District Committee and Design Review Board; Franklin Village Planning Commission; Franklin Village Historic District; Franklin Village Zoning Board of Appeals; and twelve special meetings.

Another addition to this agreement is the coverage of 25

Birmingham Public Schools sporting events per year which were previously invoiced per event.

Birmingham applies for county parks grant

By Kevin Elliott

Birmingham city commissioners unanimously supported the city of Birmingham applying for a $100,000 grant from Oakland County Parks and Recreation for the future development of Adams Park, on North Adams, near the Roeper School, at their meeting on Monday, January 10.

Adams Park was purchased by the city in 2006, and established a shared-use agreement with the school as part of the sale. Under the agreement, the school has the ability to use the park for school related activities, such as recess and after school sports. Roeper contributes funding toward improvements of the track and field

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CB2, Serena and Lily coming soon

By Lisa Brody

B2, a modern furniture and contemporary home décor store, has signed a lease for the former Panera location in downtown Birmingham, and Serena & Lily, a casual comfort home furnishings store, will be moving into the former Linda Dresner store on West Maple in the city.

CB2 is a sister brand to Crate & Barrel, considered “Cool and edgy, CB2 is a modern furniture store for lofts, apartments and houses of all sizes,” their website says. “From velvet sofas to chrome coffee tables, CB2 has a wide selection of fresh, fun furniture for playful personalities. With the brand’s signature urban twist, pieces are often designed with city living in mind, often small in scale and multifunctional. With the affordability of CB2 furniture, you can even decorate a first apartment in style.”

In addition to modern furniture, CB2 carries a range of quirky kitchenware and creative home decor. CB2 offer an eclectic selection of lighting, art and accessories which can add a little eccentric flair to cabinets, tabletops, ceilings and walls. Unique finds can include black flatware, animal-shaped accessories and iridescent serveware.

Crate and Barrel opened its first CB2 store in Chicago in 2000 – the new downtown Birmingham store, located at the corner of Old Woodward and Maple will be its 16th store. From New York's SoHo to Los Angeles' West Hollywood, Crate and Barrel says CB2 always positions itself in the heart of urban areas known for their artistic flair and modern style.

CB2, once the space is renovated, will include both the Bakehouse52 space, which is moving to the former Adventures in Toys location on W. Maple, as well as the former Tiger Shoe Repair location on E. Maple Road. The first floor of the former Panera location is about 7,855 square feet.

Serena & Lily will offer downtown Birmingham a more mellow, laid-back California vibe when it opens at 299 W. Maple Road at the corner of Bates. Their look is is casual and coastal, relaxed yet refined.

The website for Serenaa & Lily describes its aesthetics in the following manner: “Our designs blend classic influences with modern lines; eclectic inspiration with great American style. We love spaces that feel put together, yet livable – well-traveled with a personal point of view. We believe home should be a welcoming oasis – your favorite place to retreat, gather, and live well every day.”

Serena & Lily offers free design advice and advice for every room of the house, including living and dining room furnishings, bedroom furniture, mattresses and bedding, lighting and décor, outdoor sofas, sectionals, dining room tables, chairs and rugs, throw pillows, rugs and accessories.

Both properties are owned by the Boji Group.

Boji Group purchased the iconic Linda Dresner building on the corner of Maple and Bates streets, renaming the building MapleBates. Ron Boji, owner of Boji Group, secured Serena & Lily with the help of Signature Associate’s Angela Thomas. The lease was signed in early November with plans for the company to move into the 7,945 square foot building by the end of July 2022. The development represents a $3.2 million investment.

CC Consulting assisted with the CB2 lease.

Boji, who is also part of the group developing the new four-story $50 million, 49,624 square foot RH (Restoration Hardware) store with a rooftop restaurant in downtown Birmingham, said, “I have been incredibly impressed with Birmingham and the vision the city and residents have for their community. Not only are we investing in the city, we’re also planning to move our headquarters here. The prosperity of the downtown greatly contributes to the vibrancy of the neighborhoods, and we’re pleased to be a part of that.”

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elements of the park, which are available for all users.

Birmingham Parks and Recreation Manager Carrie Laird said there is a park design ready, and the improvement of Adams Park is in the city’s five-year parks and recreation master plan. In hopes of helping to fund the project, Laird said the city is applying for a grant from Oakland County, through its Parks Improvements Grant Program.

“This would be from the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Bond passed in November of 2020, and a portion of that is available to local municipalities for park improvements or trail way improvements,” she said.

Laird said plans for Adams Park include ADA compliance and sustainability. And, while the plans include a picnic area, playground, court sports and field sports, the grant application would not relate to trails or pickleball courts.

“We will be considering other grant opportunities for these future projects,” she said.

The county bond includes $1.2 million for the county’s parks and recreation grant program, which are intended to assist local communities with planning, preliminary engineering, design and construction costs related to park and trail improvement projects. Of the $1.2 million, about $450,000 is dedicated to park projects.

Laird said the city will be applying for a park improvement development grant for the maximum amount of $100,000.

Commissioners unanimously approved the application.

Valente sentenced in sign theft case

By Lisa Brody

Don Valente, 2020 Republican candidate for Bloomfield Township Trustee, received a sentence of eight months probation, must perform 25 hours of community service, pay court costs, and

cannot appear at any Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees meetings, following sentencing at 48th District Court on December 27, 2021, as part of a plea deal in a case involving theft of political signs in 2020.

On December 2, Valente had agreed to a plea deal for disorderly conduct, replacing the original charge of larceny of campaign sign theft for property less than $200.

Judge Kimberly Small at 48th District Court sentenced Valente to the term of eight months probation, with 90 days to be held in abeyance; he must pay $1,170 in costs; cannot have any contact with any of the victims of the original alleged sign thefts; and he is not to appear at any township board meetings.

In addition, his case has been turned over to the state bar's Attorney Grievance Committee.

Valente, a retired attorney, had been accused of stealing political signs during the 2020 primary election. The crime is a misdemeanor, punishable by 93 days in jail and/or $500, or three times the value of the property stolen, whichever is greater. The signs stolen were for township candidates Bloomfield Township Supervisor Leo Savoie, Brian Kepes, trustees Neal Barnett and Michael Schostak and clerk candidate Thomas Smyly. Kepes, Barnett and Schostak all won their primary and general elections.

Township police records indicate that about three dozen signs were found outside the garage on Valente's property.

A complaint was initially filed with the Bloomfield Township Police Department by a citizen who recognized Valente and saw him taking campaign signs for Savoie and Kepes in the vicinity of Long Lake and Telegraph. The case was eventually turned over to the county sheriff's office due to possible conflict of interest because one of the candidates was a township police officer.

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FACES Molly Borman t was intended to be a gag gift; fake nipples designed to make women look cold but feel hot, But, what started out as a fun fashion statement evolved into something much more meaningful.

At first, Birmingham resident Molly Borman made Just Nips using drug-store and Amazon-purchased pasties, a glue gun, and Mardi Gras beads. It grew into a business after she started wearing the stick-on fake nipples, and women began asking how to get a pair.

When the product launched in 2016, national media outlets like Glamour, The New York Post, and Allure hailed Just Nips as a hot new accessory.

"The more press we got, the more people would email saying 'Hey, I'm a breast cancer survivor, or I'm going through treatment, can I use your product? Is it safe to use over an incision?' I was getting hundreds of these emails," said Borman, who was living in New York at the time but has since moved back to her hometown of Birmingham with her husband, Larry Heymont, and their two-yearold son Henry.

When Borman first developed Just Nips, she was working as a copywriter for Ralph Lauren's website. She didn't have experience starting a business, and had no idea whether her product could be used by women who had undergone breast surgery.

"I remember calling my dad and saying I don't know what to do," she said.

Her dad's advice, "If you think this is something you really want to pursue and could be a real business, you have to do it right, and doing it right means bringing in a medical engineer."

Borman followed her father's suggestion. She developed a latex-free product using non-sensitizing materials, making Just Nips safe to wear and painless to remove. It became the fastest-growing breast cancer nipple accessory.

At the time, the only other product on the market was a $300 prosthetic.

Borman's one-time use fake nipple sells for $9.99. A reusable pair that can generally be worn up to 10 times sells for $24.99.

Today, 70 percent of her customers have been impacted by breast cancer.

"From the start, I always knew Just Nips Fake Nipples would be involved with breast cancer awareness and care in some way, but I wasn't sure how," Borman wrote on her website. "As our product gained publicity, women from all over the world reached out to share their stories about post-mastectomy life without nipples.”

The company also donates thousands of fake nipples to breast-cancer-related charity events, hospitals, and plastic surgeons.

"This allows them to say, 'here's an alternative,'" said Borman. "We obviously want to be sensitive because it's such an emotional topic. A lot of the doctors that we work with say that when people get our products, it makes them smile.”

In addition to product donations, the company likes to make financial contributions to various charities. One of their favorites is Cap & Conquer, an organization that raises money for local women using cold cap therapy, a treatment designed to reduce chemotherapy-related hair loss.

Borman brought her sister, Hannah Crane, a Bloomfield Hills artist, on board when she needed help with her rapidly expanding company.

Borman, like her sister, has a talented creative side. In addition to running Just Nips, she takes whimsical photos of Barbie dolls. The dolls are styled with custom-made jewelry and clothing. The prints, a fun mix of glamour and nostalgia, start at $600, with a portion of all sales going to charity.

Borman and Crane have further capitalized on their creative talents with Housewife Essentials, an online site that highlights Borman's art and beautifully patterned, high-end Coco Chanel-inspired wallpaper they've designed.

Borman's products can be found on justnipsforall.com and housewifeessentials.com.

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Story: Jennifer Lovy

Photo: Laurie Tennent

FROM THE BSD Importance of Supporting Small Businesses in Downtown Birmingham As the inaugural article, I think it is fitting to promote supporting the small businesses in downtown Birmingham, and to make a strong case that Birmingham have a balanced mix between national chains and small businesses.

Downtown Birmingham is renowned for its shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings. The downtown boasts some well-known, upscale retailers and is an increasingly sought-after market for national brands. Just this past year, more than half a dozen national brands either signed leases or moved forward with their development plans. This speaks to Birmingham’s attractiveness as a walkable shopping destination.

The Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) can be credited with contributing to the success that is being enjoyed today. The BSD is a public agency that is part of the city government governed by a Sean Kammer 12-person board, which includes the city manager, property owners, business owners, and residents.

The BSD is responsible for economic development, marketing and advertising, special events, and downtown maintenance.

Since its founding in 1992, the BSD has dedicated itself to promoting and maintaining the downtown.

The Birmingham Shopping District represents a broad constituency, ranging from restaurants, salons, and retailers to professional services, non-profits, and medical services. This includes national chains and small businesses. Because of this diverse base, it is important that the BSD be equitable in terms of its programs and policies. As national retailers continue to open in Birmingham, it is important now more than ever that the BSD also focus on the needs of small businesses.

As executive director, I have met and connected with dozens of small business owners who comprise the downtown economy. Many are hidden gems that have been steadily evolving over the years, producing not just personalized goods and services, but also producing an intangible sense of authenticity, genuineness, and a unique ‘cool factor’ that gives the community its identity and soul.

I was excited to learn that some independent store owners are not limited to retail, but also design and produce unique products themselves.

Located at 152 N. Old Woodward, Viga is a local fashion designer and makes upscale apparel on site. Her clients even include notable television news reporters. Two doors down, at 172 N. Old Woodward, Urban Wick Candle Bar not only produces candles, but offers the experience of candle making as a group event. These two examples illustrate the innovation, personalized service, and unique sense of place that small businesses can bring to a downtown.

The interest from national chains in brick-and-mortar stores in the age of online retail is a remarkable achievement for the community. National chains possess a mass magnetism that boosts foot traffic and expands the boundaries of the regional trade area. However, it is the small, locally owned businesses that contribute to a unique sense of place in a way that no national chain can replicate. We need to appreciate the balance between the two in terms of business attraction, retention, and expansion.

The BSD has already begun several new initiatives around supporting small businesses. Recently, the BSD launched a business anniversary program which recognizes the contributions of these businesses. We are excited to take even more steps to support small businesses as we move into 2022.

Sean Kammer is the Executive Director of the Birmingham Shopping District. downtownpublications.com

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THE COMMUNITY HOUSE THE BATES STREET SOCIETY DINNER RETURNS REGISTRATION NOW OPEN As positive cases and hospitalizations continued to rise in Michigan, and as exposures continue to surge, the historic Community House and its Foundation, made the difficult, but prudent decision to postpone its signature friend and fundraising celebration – The Bates Street Society Dinner and Awards Ceremony – until April 30, 2022.

Started in 2015, The Bates Street Society was created to help recognize donors who make significant charitable contributions to support the work and mission of The Community House. New members are acknowledged annually at The Bates Street Society Dinner, an extraordinary evening hosted by The Community House Association and Foundation Board of Directors.

This year’s event will induct nine new members into the Bates Street Society. Members of The Bates Street Society include individuals, corporations, and foundations that have given extraordinary treasure, $25,000 or more cumulatively, and donors who make an irrevocable legacy gift of $25,000 or more to The Community House. Each year we gather to recognize, Bill Seklar honor, and induct these extraordinary donors and volunteers in a public way at the Bates Street Society Dinner.

The Bates Street Society Dinner also recognizes TCH/TCHF’s annual Pillars of Vibrancy in Business, Education, Culture, Wellness and Philanthropy.

Our 2022 Pillars of Vibrancy Honorees include: • Honorable Dave Bing — Business & Culture • Dominic DiMarco — Education • Barry Franklin, Ph.D. — Wellness • Lila Lazarus — Wellness & Education • Duane Mezwa, M.D. — Wellness & Education • Rabbi Daniel B. Syme — Culture • Linda Schlesinger-Wagner — Business & Philanthropy • S. Evan Weiner — Business & Philanthropy • Jessie Beld Elliott — Business & Philanthropy Impacted by COVID-19 and Omicron, out of an abundance of safety and caution, the Bates Street Society Dinner was moved to Saturday April 30, 2022. It will mark The Community House’s first large in-house gathering since the start of COVID in 2020. To help lead this extraordinary gathering, Mr. Huel Perkins, iconic broadcast journalist, has once again agreed to assume the role of master of ceremonies, with live entertainment by renowned jazz saxophonist Jeff Ponders II. Our gratitude and special thanks to founding sponsor, PNC Wealth Management and to Beaumont Health, Huntington, Oakland University, Metalbuilt, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Edw. C. Levy Co., Chief Financial Credit Union, Cranbrook Educational Community, Deroy &

Devereaux, Michael Willoughby & Associates, SlipNOT, Emerson-Prew, Helping Hand Nursing Service, Inc. and Hall & Hunter Realtors for their sponsorship of the 2021 (now 2022) Bates Street Society Dinner as well.

The best way for our friends and supporters to show their gratitude to our loyal sponsors would be to remember them when you might be in need of their kinds of products or services. It truly does take a village.

Sponsorship and advertising opportunities will remain available for our 2022 Bates Street Society Dinner until February 28.

OTHER NEWS Welcome Back! The Community House is pleased to welcome back: • The Birmingham Shopping District monthly meetings • The Birmingham Optimist Club monthly meetings • The Birmingham Teen Council, • The President’s Advisory Council • The OUR TOWN Advisory and Planning Committees • The NEW Classical Brunch Series Steering Committee Congratulations! The Community House is delighted to announce that it has successfully completed all requirements and expectations for consideration as: • The Knot – Best of Weddings 2022 • Wedding Wire Couple Choice Awards for 2022 Welcome! The Community House is pleased to welcome Chef Ryan Friedrich as Executive Chef and leader of its award winning culinary program. Chef Friedrich brings with him the vast culinary knowledge and expertise he acquired as executive chef at beloved Birmingham staples Market North End and Streetside Seafood, as well as his experience as a personal chef to LeBron James.

Business Announcements: • The Community House announces that its Early Childhood, Infant and Toddler Centers have fully and successfully met the requirements and expectations of the State of Michigan/Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (License for the Care of Children). The centers were granted license renewal through August 2023. Issued in accordance with Act 116, Public Acts of 1973, as amended being the Child Care Organizations Act. • The Community House has also been informed by the State of Michigan - Department of Education that its Early Childhood Center has been awarded a 2021-2022 relief grant from the state of Michigan’s Child Care Relief Fund for Child Care Sustainability, Development and Care.

For more information about the 2022 Bates Street Society Dinner or any other TCH happenings contact Christopher Smude, vice president, The Community House Foundation, at csmude@communityhousefoundation.org.

William D. Seklar is President & CEO of The Community House and The Community House Foundation in Birmingham.

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PLACES TO EAT 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. Lunch & Dinner, Monday- Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 220 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.2220.

5th Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2262 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9607.

Adachi: Asian. Lunch & Dinner daily.

Liquor. Reservations. 325 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009.

248.540.5900.

Andiamo: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301.

248.865.9300.

Bangkok Thai Bistro: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 42805 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Township, 48304. 248.499.6867.

Beau's: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. Liquor. 4108 W. Maple, Bloomfield Hills, 48301.

248.626.2630.

Bella Piatti: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 167 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.494.7110.

Beverly Hills Grill: American. Dinner, daily. Liquor. No reservations. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills, 48025.

248.642.2355.

Beyond Juice: Contemporary. Breakfast & Lunch daily; Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. 270 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.594.7078.

Bill's: American. Lunch & Dinner, Daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.646.9000.

Birmingham Pub: American. Lunch and Dinner, daily. Weekend Brunch.

Reservations. Liquor. 555 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham.

Birmingham Sushi Cafe: Japanese.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.8880.

Bistro Joe’s Kitchen: Global. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Sunday brunch. Liquor.

Reservations. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.0984.

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

248.645.6879.

Brooklyn Pizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Liquor. No reservations. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.6690.

Café ML: New American. Dinner, daily.

Liquor. Call ahead. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township.

248.642.4000.

Casa Pernoi: Italian. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 310 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009.

248.940.0000.

Churchill's Bistro & Cigar Bar: Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

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116 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.4555.

Cityscape Deli: Deli. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations.

Beer. 877 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302.

248.540.7220.

Commonwealth: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.9766.

Dick O’Dow’s: Irish. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 160 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.642.1135.

Eddie Merlot's: Steak & seafood.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

37000 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.712.4095.

Einstein Bros. Bagels: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 4089 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.258.9939.

Elie’s Mediterranean Cuisine: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations.

Liquor. 263 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.2420.

Embers Deli & Restaurant: Deli.

Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 3598 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.645.1033.

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: American. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 323 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.723.0134.

Forest: European. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham 48009.

248.258.9400.

Greek Island Coney Restaurant: Greek.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 221 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.1222.

Griffin Claw Brewing Company: American. Dinner, Tuesday-Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday and Sunday. No Reservations. Liquor. 575 S. Eton Street, Birmingham.

248.712.4050.

Honey Tree Grille: Greek/American.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, daily. No reservations. 3633 W. Maple Rd, Bloomfield, MI 48301.

248.203.9111.

Hunter House Hamburgers: American.

Breakfast, Monday-Saturday; Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.7121.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse: American. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 201 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4369.

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

Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner daily; Sunday brunch.

Reservations. Liquor. 39475 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.792.9609.

Kaku Sushi and Poke': Asian. Lunch & Dinner. Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. No Liquor. 869 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.480.4785, and 126 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.885.8631.

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• 6 Assorted Bagels

• Turkey

Buttermilk Chicken

• Nova Lox

• Salami

• One Pan of

• Tomatoes

• Swiss Cheese

• Cucumbers

• New & Old Dill

• Capers

Pickles

• Onions

• Coleslaw

• Cream Cheese

• Potato Salad

• Fresh Fruit

• Steve’s Bottle of

• 1/2 Gallon of

• Steve’s Jar of

Mustard And

Turkey Chili

Chocolate Chip

• One Jar of

• One Jar of

Cookies And Steve’s

Chocolate Chip

Chocolate Chip

Cupid Corn

Cookies

Cookies

A $9999 Value

A $12999 Value

A $14995 Value

DOWNTOWN

Sesame Chicken Tenders • One Pan of Mac & Cheese

Orders Must Be Placed By 2/10/22

DINE-IN/CARRY-OUT/CATERING

85

METRO INTELLIGENCER Metro Intelligencer is a monthly column devoted to news stories, tidbits and gossip items about what's happening on the restaurant scene in the metro Detroit area. Metro Intelligencer is reported/created each month by Gigi Nichols who can be reached at GigiNichols@DowntownPublications.com with news items or tips, on or off the record.

Passport to Wine Series Andiamo’s sommelier Andree Lux prepared a Passport to Wine Series, inviting guests to take a journey from Europe to New Zealand to North America tasting wines and delicious bites. Attendees will learn about the wine, the land and the culture in each distinct region tastings will include four small plates and four wine pairings for each month’s destination.

Conveniently, the tasting event takes place on different evenings at all five Andiamo locations. On February 17, the Bloomfield Andiamo will present “Wines of the Pacific Northwest.” Featured wines are: Sokol Blosser, Pinot Noir; Stags’ Leap, Viognier; Et Fille, Pinot Noir; and Dusted Valley, Syrah. The small plate menu includes goat cheese fritter; puree of roasted butternut squash soup; pan roasted Pacific salmon; and grass-fed tri-tip sirloin. Price per person is $59.95 plus tax and gratuity. The Wines of the Pacific Northwest tasting will also be held at Andiamo Warren, February 10; Andiamo Fenton, February 22; Andiamo Livonia, February 24; and Andiamo Detroit, February 25. Check Andiamo’s website for more tasting events in March, April and May edition Andiamo wine glasses and wine journals can be purchased during the events. Andiamo Bloomfield, 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Twp. andiamoitalia.com

A French invasion Have you noticed a lot of French-inspired restaurants popping up in and around Birmingham and Bloomfield? First on the scene was The French Lady, which opened on Old Woodward Avenue in Birmingham, September of 2020. The timing proved to be inopportune since all Michigan restaurants were shut down for indoor dining due to COVID-19 from November 18, 2020 until January 31, 2021. Today, owner Claude Pellerin, who was born and raised in France, says business has been good. “During the pandemic, we did a lot of carryout because that’s all we could do, but now people are coming back to dine in,” said Pellerin.

The cozy eatery offers indoor seating for 28 and outside seating for 16. Pellerin’s signature dishes include beef bourguignon, creamy quiches and cassoulet – a stew of white navy beans and smoked sausages in a tomato sauce that is based on her grandmother’s recipe. “It took me several years to actually do it like my grandmother,” she said, “and I’m still using her pot.” Pellerin notes that they have applied for a bistro license and have made it through the first step. “When we receive the license, it will be so nice to finally serve a red wine with our beef bourguignon,” she said. Just a few blocks south of The French Lady on Old Woodward Avenue, the Paris Baguette Bakery Café opened its first Michigan storefront at the end of January. The South Korean-based franchise has over 4,000 stores worldwide and has just recently ventured into the American market.

The quick serve bakery boasts a delectable assortment of cakes, cookies, pastries and seasonal specialties, in addition to iced or hot coffees. Meanwhile, in Bloomfield Township, the owners of the French patisserie, Chez Pierre et Genevieve, which opened in the fall of 2020, have plans to open Bistro Pierre in the next few months. The bistro will be located right next door to Chez Pierre et Genevieve and will feature classic French dishes. According to owner Moni Ghosn, the new establishment’s menu will include true and classic French dishes, “things you can’t get here, that are more typical of France,” such as fondue like in the Alps, savory and sweet crepes, and French pizza, which he explained is thin-crusted, made with French flour. Sounds magnifique! The French Lady, 768 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham zfrenchlady.com; Paris Baguette, 183 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham parisbaguette.com; Bistro Pierre, 6525 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Twp.

beppé opens in Royal Oak The restaurant business is in Dominic Morelli’s blood. His father, Joseph Morelli,is one of the co-partners of Crispelli’s. Now, Dominic is the new owner and operator of beppé, an eatery located in the vacated Niki’s Greek diner in Royal Oak. The concept, says Dominic, was simple. “The main goal was for the community. I really wanted to create a space that would become a staple in the community – something that people would flock to… The menu is not necessarily Italian,” continues Dominic, “but rather New American.” The kitchen is under the direction of Chef Justin Allen and features classic entrees such as grilled Faroe Island salmon with honey garlic glaze, roasted marble

Kerby’s Koney Island: American.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2160 N. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.333.1166.

La Marsa: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner daily. Reservations. 43259 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.5800.

La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar: Italian.

Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 243 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.480.0492.

Leo’s Coney Island: American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 154 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.593.9707. Also 6527 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301.

248.646.8568.

Little Daddy’s Parthenon: American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 39500 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.647.3400.

Luxe Bar & Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily; Late Night, 9 p.m.closing. No reservations. Liquor. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.6051.

Madam: American. Breakfast, MondayFriday, Brunch, weekends. Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 298 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.283.4200 Mandaloun Bistro: Lebanese. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, Daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 30100 Telegraph Rd., Suite 130, Bingham Farms, 48025. 248.723.7960.

Market North End: Mediterranean.

Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 474 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.712.4953.

MEX Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar: Mexican. Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily. Liquor. 6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301.

248.723.0800.

Nippon Sushi Bar: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2079 S. Telegraph, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9581.

Olga’s Kitchen: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2075 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.451.0500.

Original Pancake House: American.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 33703 South Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.642.5775.

Phoenicia: Middle Eastern. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 588 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.3122.

Planthropie: Vegan. Dessert and Cheese. 135 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.839.5640.

Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Also 42967 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48304.

248.874.1876 Roadside B & G: American. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 1727 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7270.

Salvatore Scallopini: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer &

Wine. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.644.8977.

Shift Cocktail Bar: Small plates. Dinner.

Liquor. 117 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.2380.

Sidecar: American. Lunch and Dinner, daily. Liquor. 117 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.2380.

Slice Pizza Kitchen: Pizza. Lunch and Dinner, daily. Liquor. 117 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.3475.

Social Kitchen & Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations, parties of 5 or more. Liquor. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009.

248.594.4200.

Stacked Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Delivery available.

No reservations. 233 North Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.593.5300.

Stateside Deli & Restaurant Deli.

Breakfast, Lunch, Sunday-Monday.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. No reservations.

653 S. Adams Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.550.0455.

Steve’s Deli: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6646 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield, 48301.

248.932.0800.

Streetside Seafood: Seafood. Dinner, daily. Liquor. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.9123.

Sushi Hana: Japanese. Lunch, MondayFriday; Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.333.3887.

Sy Thai Cafe: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.9830.

Sylvan Table: American. Dinner daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 1819 Inverness Street, Sylvan Lake, 48320.

248.369.3360 Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro: American. Dinner. Monday-Saturday.

Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor.

55 S. Bates Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.731.7066.

The Franklin Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 32760 Franklin Rd, Franklin, 48025. 248.865.6600.

The Gallery Restaurant: American.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & wine. 6683 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.851.0313.

The Moose Preserve Bar & Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2395 S. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7688.

The Morrie: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 260 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009.

248.940.3260.

The Rugby Grille: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.5999.

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

248.258.6278.

Tomatoes Apizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner daily. Carryout. 34200 Woodward

Avenue, Birmingham 48009.

248.258.0500.

Touch of India: Indian. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 297 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.7881.

Townhouse: American. Brunch, Saturday, Sunday. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 180 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.5241.

Whistle Stop Diner: American.

Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Liquor. No reservations. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.566.3566.

Zao Jun: Asian. Lunch Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

6608 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.949.9999.

Royal Oak/Ferndale Ale Mary's: American. Weekend Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 316 South Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.268.1917.

Anita’s Kitchen: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 22651 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.548.0680.

Assaggi Bistro: Italian. Lunch, TuesdayFriday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 330 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220.

248.584.3499.

Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch.

Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

No Reservations. Liquor. 711 S. Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067.

The Blue Nile: Ethiopian. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor.

545 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.547.6699.

Cafe Muse: French. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 418 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.544.4749.

Cork Wine Pub: American. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 23810 Woodward Ave., Pleasant Ridge, 48069. 248.544.2675.

Due Venti: Italian. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 220 S. Main St., Clawson, 48017. 248.288.0220.

The Fly Trap: Diner. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 22950 Woodward Ave., 48220. 248.399.5150.

Howe’s Bayou: Cajun. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 22949 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220.

248.691.7145.

Inyo Restaurant Lounge: Asian Fusion.

Weekend Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 22871 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220.

248.543.9500.

KouZina: Greek. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 121 N. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.629.6500.

Kruse & Muer on Woodward: American.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 28028 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.965.2101.

Lily’s Seafood: Seafood. Weekend

Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 410 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.591.5459.

Lockhart’s BBQ: Barbeque. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 202 E. Third St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.584.4227.

Oak City Grille: American. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 212 W. 6th St, Royal Oak, 48067. 248.556.0947.

One-Eyed Betty: American. Weekend Breakfast. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale, 48220. 248.808.6633.

Public House: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

241 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.850.7420.

Redcoat Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

31542 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 48073. 248.549.0300.

Ronin: Japanese. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 326 W. 4th St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.546.0888.

Royal Oak Brewery: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

215 E. 4th St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.544.1141.

Strada: Italian. Dinner, Wednesday Sunday. Liquor. No reservations. 376 N. Main Street. Royal Oak, 48067.

248.607.3127.

The Morrie: American. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.216.1112.

Toast, A Breakfast and Lunch Joint: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily.

No reservations. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220.

248.398.0444.

Tom’s Oyster Bar: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

318 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.541.1186.

Trattoria Da Luigi: Italian. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor.

415 S, Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.542.4444.

Twisted Tavern: American. Dinner, daily.

No reservations. Liquor. 22901 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220.

248.545,6750.

Vinsetta Garage: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley, 48072. 248.548.7711.

Troy/Rochester Capital Grille: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 2800 West Big Beaver Rd., Somerset Collection, Troy, 48084. 248.649.5300.

Cafe Sushi: Pan-Asian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1933 W. Maple Rd, Troy, 48084.

248.280.1831.

CK Diggs: American & Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 2010 W. Auburn Road, Rochester Hills, 48309.

248.853.6600.

O’Connor’s Irish Public House: Irish.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 324 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.608.2537.

Kona Grille: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 30 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48083. 248.619.9060.

potatoes and grilled asparagus; braised beef short rib with mushroom and spinach polenta and sun-dried tomatoes; and chicken cutlet with tarragon Gruyere sauce, house and cut fries and roasted garlic aioli. Customers can also find a variety of sharable starters from deviled eggs garnished with smoked salmon and herbs to fried shrimp and calamari. A full bar offers a selection of wine, beer and cocktails. Beppé ’s interior is a complete transformation from the old Greek diner – now appointed with leather booths, wood accents and modern lighting. The space accommodates seating for 48 inside while a large outdoor patio provides seating for 34. 703 N. Main Street in Royal Oak eatbeppe.com

New name and new crab trap menu Hazel, Ravines and Downtown co-owners Beth Hussey and Emmele Herrold have a knack for transporting us to new places, without ever leaving the table.

And with this new year comes a brand new name and look for their restaurant.

When Hussey and Herrold originally opened the restaurant in October 2018, they intended to create a place the whole community could embrace and they named it after the three neighborhoods that converged right where the restaurant stands. Over time, the owners, staff and guests came to call it simply “Hazel’s.”

Going forward, Hussey and Herrold say the restaurant will officially be called Hazel’s. And, good news – Hazel’s Crab Trap menu, which began in January will continue through April 4. This winter seasonal menu is inspired by memorable spring break getaways to the Gulf and Florida coast. And uncomplicated, Hazel’s Crab Trap presents a seafood menu of in-season favorites – delivering everything from fresh-caught stone crab claws to a grouper reuben; New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp to conch fritters, alligator bites and even spicy gumbo. The crazy crabganza features three pounds of sharable crab – stone crab, king crab and snow crab. Just be sure to save room for a slice of pie – key lime, coconut or banoffee – by Hazel’s pastry chef, Olivia Rinke. 1 Peabody Street, Birmingham, EatatHazels.com

Townhouse Detroit has grand re-opening We reported back in August of 2021 about the interior décor renovation to Heirloom Hospitality’s Townhouse Detroit. The restaurant, which originally opened in 2015, had its official grand re-opening in December 2021. Townhouse Detroit’s interior transformation is now complemented with a new menu concept moving from comfort food to modern American refined dining.

Heirloom’s corporate culinary director Ryan Prentiss and pastry sous chef Rebecca Stanley have cultivated an eclectic menu which moves the concept into the fine dining realm while remaining committed to highlighting seasonal Midwest produce like Michigan cherries and sweet corn. The menu includes brand new dishes from Prentiss such as a Toro Hamachi that Prentiss describes as “a mixture of rich fatty toro and leaner top loin slices that are dressed lightly with a delicate pomegranate reduction and fresh strawberry juice; finely brunoise red onions, thinly sliced Serrano chiles and a black pepper oil balance the sweet, light and tart dressings with some piquant flavor and crisp texture.”

Guests can have a sweet ending to their evening with decadent desserts like the chocolate whiskey torte which features chocolate cake with layers of whiskey coffee mousse and espresso streusel enveloped in a crisp layer of dark chocolate, then covered with a marshmallow meringue and torched. 500 Woodward Avenue, Detroit townhousedetroit.com

Open one day, closed the next Longtime devoted customers were shocked at the sudden closure of Michael Symon’s Roast, located in the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel, downtown Detroit. On Friday, January 7, Roast’s Facebook page advertised their wellloved Happy Hour, with a reminder that it would start again on Tuesday January 11. That never happened. The restaurant was shuttered after Saturday evening’s service on January 8. Their website is shut down except for a message that reads: “Permanently closed. We are grateful for your business.” Roast was opened in 2008 by celebrity chef Michael Symon and offered upscale classic entrees, top-notch steaks, and a carefully crafted wine list. Symon has been seen on Food Network shows such as Iron Chef America, Burgers, Brew and ‘Que, Food Feuds, and The Best Thing I Ever Ate, as well as Cook Like an Iron Chef on the Cooking Channel and The Chew on ABC. On Facebook, many Roast customers were inquiring as to what to do with their gift cards. Those questions have been left unanswered.

Symon does own other restaurants – but Roast was his only remaining restaurant in Michigan.

Kruse & Muer on Main: American.

Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 327 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.652.9400.

Loccino Italian Grill and Bar: Italian.

Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily.

Liquor. Reservations. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy, 48098. 248.813.0700.

The Meeting House: American.

Weekend Brunch. Dinner, TuesdaySunday. No reservations. Liquor. 301 S. Main St, Rochester, 48307.

248.759.4825.

Miguel’s Cantina: Mexican. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 870 S. Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, 48307. 248.453.5371.

Mon Jin Lau: Asian. Lunch, MondayFriday. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 1515 E. Maple Rd, Troy, 48083. 248.689.2332.

Morton’s, The Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 888 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48084. 248.404.9845.

NM Café: American. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 2705 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48084.

248.816.3424.

Oceania Inn: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. The Village of Rochester Hills, 3176 Walton Blvd, Rochester Hills, 48309.

248.375.9200.

Ocean Prime: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, 48084. 248.458.0500.

Orchid Café: Thai. Lunch, MondayFriday. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

3303 Rochester Rd., Troy, 48085.

248.524.1944.

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48084.

248.816.8000.

Recipes: American/Brunch. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

134 W. University Drive, Rochester, 48037. 248.659.8267. Also 2919 Crooks Road, Troy, 48084.

248.614.5390.

Rochester Chop House: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

306 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307.

248.651.2266.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 755 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48084. 248.269.8424.

Silver Spoon: Italian. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 6830 N. Rochester Rd., Rochester, 48306.

248.652.4500.

Too Ra Loo: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 139 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307.

248.453.5291.

Southfield, 48034. 248.208.1680.

Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch.

Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

No Reservations. Liquor. 29110 Franklin Road, Southfield, 48034.

The Fiddler: Russian. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Thursday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor.

6676 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.851.8782.

Mene Sushi: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine.

6239 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248.538.7081.

Meriwether’s: Seafood. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 25485 Telegraph Rd, Southfield, 48034. 248.358.1310.

Nonna Maria’s: Italian. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 2080 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, 48323.

248.851.2500.

Pickles & Rye: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6724 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.737.3890.

Prime29 Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 6545 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield, 48322. 248.737.7463.

Redcoat Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Liquor. 6745 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.865.0500.

Shangri-La: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. Orchard Mall Shopping Center, 6407 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.626.8585.

Sposita’s Ristorante: Italian. Friday Lunch. Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 33210 W. Fourteen Mile Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248. 538.8954.

Stage Deli: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

6873 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322.

248.855.6622.

Yotsuba: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 7365 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield, 48322. 248.737.8282.

West Bloomfield/Southfield

Clarkston Union: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

54 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346.

248.620.6100.

Holly Hotel: American. Afternoon Tea, Monday – Saturday, Brunch, Sunday, Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 110 Battle Alley, Holly, 48442.

248.634.5208.

Bacco: Italian. Lunch, Monday-Friday.

Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 29410 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, 48034. 248.356.6600.

Beans and Cornbread: Southern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

29508 Northwestern Highway, 88

West Oakland Gravity Bar & Grill: Mediterranean.

Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday, Dinner. Reservations.

Liquor. 340 N. Main Street, Milford, 48381. 248.684.4223.

Volare Ristorante: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

48992 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, 48393.

248.960.7771.

North Oakland

Kruse's Deer Lake Inn: Seafood. Lunch & dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

7504 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, 48346. 248.795.2077.

The Fed: American. Lunch and Dinner daily, Brunch, Saturday and Sunday.

Liquor. 15 S. Main Street, Clarkston, 48346. 248.297.5833 Via Bologna: Italian. Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 7071 Dixie Highway, Clarkston. 48346.

248.620.8500.

Union Woodshop: BBQ. Dinner, Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday – Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 18 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346.

248.625.5660

Detroit Bucharest Grill: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 2684 E. Jefferson, Detroit, 48207. 313.965.3111.

Cliff Bell’s: American. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit, 48226. 313.961.2543.

Cuisine: French. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit, 48202.

313.872.5110.

The Detroit Seafood Market: Seafood.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 1435 Randolph St., Detroit, 48226. 313.962.4180.

El Barzon: Mexican. Lunch, TuesdayFriday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 3710 Junction St., Detroit, 48210. 313.894.2070.

Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café: Cajun. Breakfast, daily. Sunday Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Saturday.

Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

400 Monroe Street, Detroit, 48226.

313.965.4600.

Giovanni’s Ristorante: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 330 S. Oakwood Blvd., Detroit, 48217.

313.841.0122.

Green Dot Stables: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2200 W. Lafayette, Detroit, 48216.

313.962.5588.

Jefferson House: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 2 Washington Blvd., Detroit, 48226. 313.782.4318.

Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Lunch, Monday- Friday, Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit, 48243.

313.567.6837.

Johnny Noodle King: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit, 48216. 313.309.7946.

Mario’s: Italian. Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 4222 2nd Ave., Detroit, 48201. 313.832.1616.

Midtown Shangri-la: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 4710 Cass Ave., Detroit, 48201. 313.974.7669.

Motor City Brewing Works: American.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Beer & Wine. 470 W. Canfield St.,

DOWNTOWN

Detroit, 48201. 313.832.2700.

Prism: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 555 E. Lafayette St, Detroit, 48226. 313.309.2499.

Red Smoke Barbeque: Barbeque.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. Trappers Alley Shopping Center, 573 Monroe Ave., Detroit, 48226.

313.962.2100.

Selden Standard: American. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Liquor. Reservations. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit, 48201.

313.438.5055.

SheWolf Pastifico & Bar: Italian.

Dinner, Tuesday through Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 438 Selden St, Detroit 48201. 313.315.3992.

Sinbad’s: Seafood. Sunday Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. 100 St Clair St., Detroit, 48214. 313.822.8000.

Slows Bar BQ: Barbeque. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

2138 Michigan Ave, Detroit, 48216.

313.962.9828.

Tap at MGM Grand: American.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third Street, Detroit, 48226.

313.465.1234.

Taqueria Nuestra Familia: Mexican.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 7620 Vernor Hwy., Detroit, 48209. 313.842.5668.

The Block: American. Sunday Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 3919 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.832.0892.

Tom’s Oyster Bar: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 519 East Jefferson Ave., Detroit, 48226.

313.964.4010.

Traffic Jam & Snug: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

511 W. Canfield, Detroit, 48201.

313.831.9470.

24grille: American. Sunday Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

Liquor. The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, 1114 Washington Blvd, Detroit, 48226. 313.964.3821.

Union Street: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

4145 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201.

313.831.3965.

Vince’s: Italian. Lunch, Tuesday-Friday.

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 1341 Springwells St., Detroit, 48209. 313.842.4857.

Vivio’s Food & Spirits: American.

Saturday Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2460 Market St., Detroit, 48207.

313.393.1711.

The Whitney: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & High Tea, Monday-Friday.

Sunday Brunch. Dinner, daily. Liquor.

Reservations. 4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.832.5700.

Wright & Co.: American. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations.

Liquor. 1500 Woodward Ave Second Floor, Detroit, 48226.

313.962.7711.

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ENDNOTE

Tax proposal raises some serious issues wo longtime southeastern Michigan cultural museums have announced plans to reach out to Oakland and Wayne county residents for assistance – in the form of an operating millage proposal – to help them remain viable. If they succeed in placing the proposal on the ballot, they will be following in the footsteps of both the Detroit Zoo and the Detroit Institute of Arts, which both have sought, and successfully obtained, funding through millages taxing residents in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. It's a big ask that could set long-term precedent.

In January, the Detroit Historical Museum, along with the Charles E. Wright Museum, revealed plans to place a .4 mills operating millage for up to 20 years on the August ballot in Wayne and Oakland Counties. Museum officials have said the ability to raise money through an approved millage would help them stay afloat as the COVID-19 pandemic has cut their revenue. If approved, the tax would generate $22-24 million each year for the Wright Museum and $17 million for the Historical Museum.

Here is the overriding question: is it up to the region to support every cultural institution, and for how long? Will other requests from cultural groups follow in the coming years, given that all such endeavors feel the funding pinch, heightened even further by the COVID pandemic.

The Detroit Zoo was the first to step into the regional funding arena, in 2008, when it requested a .1 mill property tax for 10 years, meaning a homeowner with a home worth $200,000 would pay $10 extra a year. It was approved by 75 percent of Oakland County voters, 73 percent voted yes in Wayne County and 66 percent in Macomb County. In 2016, 74 percent of Oakland County and 70 percent of Wayne County voters approved the renewal, while Macomb County voters approved it by 59 percent.

In 2012, the DIA followed suit, requesting a .2 mill property tax for 10 years, so that homeowners with a home assessed at $100,000 (a $200,000 home) would pay an extra $20 a year, asserting it was a

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“one-time only” request at the time, stating the museum would eventually be self-sufficient. Alas, the city of Detroit went bankrupt in 2013, the DIA had to come up with $100 million to give to the city as part of the “Grand Bargain” – and in 2018, they came back with a 10-year renewal. Both passed overwhelmingly in Oakland and Wayne counties, and just squeaked out a win in Macomb.

The Detroit Historical Museum was first founded over 100 years ago, in 1914, when historian and attorney Clarence Burton donated his collection of historical papers to the Detroit Public Library.

Subsequently, in 1921, he and other local historians founded the Detroit Historical Society, dedicated to the preservation of the city's history. The society founded a permanent museum in the 1940s with $15,000. It continued to expand, raising nearly $4 million in 1994 for exhibits, educational programming and endowments, and in 2015, the museum launched a transformational long-term exhibit, Detroit 67:Perspectives, re-examining the 1967 riots in the city.

In 1949, the Detroit Historical Commission opened the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, dedicated to showcasing the story of the Great Lakes, with a special emphasis on Detroit’s role in regional and national maritime history, opened on Belle Isle. It is today part of the Detroit Historical Museum.

The Charles H. Wright Museum is a state-of-theart museum which is a repository for AfricanAmerican history and culture, a space for celebration and remembrance that would stimulate generations of visitors, a notable accomplishment and a source of inspiration in a city that is over 85 percent African American. Wright was motivated to build the museum after visiting Denmark and seeing monuments to World War II heroes. The museum opened in 1997 following the sale of construction bonds in 1992, and the 125,000 square foot building is home to more than 30,000 artifacts and archival materials, including a number of documents from Detroit’s labor movement.

While we applaud the growth and cultural diversity both institutions bring for generations of inquisitive minds, it is too early to say whether this proposed millage is one metro Detroiters, notably those living in Oakland County, should support. We are concerned about the length of time – up to 20 years – the millage is proposed for, and believe no millage should realistically last longer than 10 years before returning to voters.. This millage is also much larger than either the zoo or the art institute, at .4 mills – which is something homeowners will have to consider, and whether these are institutions they want to financially support. As we have all seen from the zoo and art institute, once an operating millage is initiated, renewals often continue into perpetuity.

At some point, residents who do not question the worthiness of the institutions may say it is up to the private sector, both wealthy benefactors and corporations, to lift up the torch to keep them open and well-funded.

There are also some serious financial questions about the Wright Museum that need to be answered before this goes on the ballot. We hear talk that the museum has $30 million in deferred maintenance that needs to be addressed and we have yet to hear whether the museum carries significant unfunded employee retirement benefits.

This issue is now before the state legislature. If it clears the hurdles there, then it will be up to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners to determine if it should go on the ballot. We are told the museums are shooting for an August vote, which is a nonstarter for us. This issue should go before the largest turnout of voters, which would be the November 2022 ballot, for a maximum of 10 years. Period. First, county commissioners must get some firm answers on the actual state of affairs of the finances and possible long-term debt of the museums before asking voters to ante up a millage.

Harness the knowledge of former mayors he city of Birmingham and its residents are blessed in numerous ways – there is a thriving city downtown with retail stores and restaurants, including several new ones scheduled to make their appearance in the coming year. Residential neighborhoods continue to be a desirable destination for families of all ages, stripes and configurations, with property values and prices continuing to skyrocket.

The parks and recreation department is investing in itself, upgrading its ice arena and continuing to improve the city's numerous parks. The public school district is one of the tops in the state. City government is well-managed, and there are so many dedicated citizens who volunteer for boards and commissions, not all are elected or appointed.

Birmingham also enjoys the benefit of a number of extremely knowledgeable and devoted former commissioners and board members, many still in the prime of their careers and life, who may have felt it was time to move on from city government and the intense time commitment it requires, but who still have much to offer. It would be foolish to squander the

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opportunity to tap into what amounts to hundreds of years of collective wisdom. Yet that is what it seems some members of the current Birmingham City Commission intend to do.

At a recent city commission meeting, city manager Tom Markus, someone who has, and recognizes, a great deal of accomplishment when he sees it, pitched the idea of developing an Emeritus Mayor’s Club to create a forum where past mayors can serve as a resource and think tank to provide strategic advice on broad ideas and topics facing city government. As Markus wrote in a memo to commissioners, many of whom are relatively new, “Members could provide a historical perspective of the commissioner’s role during the manager’s orientation of new commissioners. Members could provide valuable insight for a citizen’s academy. City staff and elected officials could call on members for historical perspective and advice on any number of issues… As a group, the members would retain their individual rights to express their personal views, however it is not expected that the club would engage in political

activities, including political endorsement”.

He even suggested they could perhaps form a nonprofit to fund future projects, with the city benefitting in all aspects.

Unfortunately, not all commissioners recognized the value proposition inherent in Markus' proposal – and likely saw it as threatening to their own self-perceived power base, so the idea was put on hold. Instead, wise commissioners should identify the opportunity to tap into an unending and diverse multi-generational talent pool of collective community wisdom.

Rather than a threat to the city commission or any individual commissioners, an Emeritus Mayor's Club extends the commitment of individuals who are passionate about Birmingham but are not seeking to upset the apple cart. They are not paid employees, and have the vantage of both perspective and looking at the long game.

There's an old adage to “not throw the baby out with the bathwater.” Let's hope Birmingham commissioners revisit the idea, and don't throw out wise ideas, especially due to egos.