BUSINESS MATTERS

Short term RH space

As Birmingham awaits its new RH (Restoration Hardware) building at the corner of S. Old Woodward and Brown streets, which is under construction with a new design plan and likely not to open until early 2025, shoppers can access the store’s products and design services at its new temporary RH store at 100 S. Old Woodward at the corner of Maple in the former Hastens bed making store, which has closed the new downtown Birmingham store, shoppers can peruse a two-story (inclusive of a lower level) experience of vignettes and furnishings, meet with designers and place orders. The location features their upscale home goods brand which includes chic, timeless furniture, textiles, lighting and home accessories. In addition, a by-appointment-only design studio has been created at The Surnow Company building at 320 Martin Street in downtown Birmingham.

Feeling lucky

Looking for a neighborhood cup o’ Joe? Lucky Detroit Coffee & Espresso has opened a Birmingham location at 1728 W. Maple Road at Chesterfied, next to Mills Pharmacy + Apothecary and Holiday Market. With Corktown Detroit, Southfield and Grosse Pointe Park locations, their espresso and coffee drinks are made from top of the line beans they roast locally and then are expertly prepared by their baristas, who take great pride in their work. “Ours is not just your regular coffee shebang,” they state on their website. “Our artisan roastery serves the city’s finest coffee and espresso-based drinks made with traditional hand-crafted techniques. From complex flat whites to smooth latte art, we have something for everyone here looking for a delicious pick-me-up drink.” The coffee shop also serves cookies, croissants, muffins, four-cheese grilled cheese and other sandwiches, and eight different flavors of macaroons.

50 Years Of Loving Shoes

When Rob Wolk opened the first Sundance Shoes at Northland Mall in 1973, little did he think he’d one day celebrate 50 years of great shoes, customer service and wonderful staff. Today, the store is located at 233 S. Old Woodward in downtown Birmingham, and Rob’s daughter, Katie Johnston, is at the helm – with Rob’s help and involvement. “My dad is living his best life,” Katie said. “He’s here when he wants. For us both, it’s our happy place when we’re in our store.” For many years, Sundance Shoes was situated in

West Bloomfield, on the Boardwalk, “at the time West Bloomfield was the happening place. We both realized we needed to expand on this side of town.

I live here,” said Katie, and in 2016, the Birmingham store opened, with a large mix of not only fashionable shoes but also clothes and accessories. In the shadow of COVID, they realized one store was the sweet spot. A true family business, Katie said her 10-year-old daughter loves to wait on customers, and believes she will one day carry on the shoe legacy. To thank all of their loyal customers for supporting them over the years, Rob and Katie are hosting a big 50th anniversary sale June 15-18, so stop by.

Acupuncture therapy

Renü Acupuncture, offering personalized, compassionate, and holistic treatments, has opened at 189 Townsend Street, Suite 302, in Downtown Birmingham. Founder and owner Valentina Anikeyeva, L.AC., is a fully licensed and board-certified acupuncturist with extensive knowledge of both eastern and western medicine. Anikeyeva has created unique treatments that help her patients live pain free, without the harmful side effects of drugs. With over 25 years of experience, she is wellversed in therapies such as acupuncture, acupressure, massage, cupping and moxibustion. Her vast knowledge of acupuncture has helped rehabilitate hundreds of patients with post operative pain, sports injuries, headaches/migraines, sciatica pain, stress and anxiety. Renü Acupuncture offers acupuncture, electroacupuncture, cupping, cupping massage, CBD and aromatherapy treatments and shockwave therapy.

Facial bar opens

A new facial bar has opened in downtown Birmingham at 700 N. Old Woodward, Suite 202. FACE FOUNDRIÉ is an all-inclusive focused facial bar. “We empower our customers to look and feel their best by providing cutting edge services, accessible pricing, and an extensively trained staff of skin experts that deeply care.” One of numerous locations around the country, the goal of FACE FOUNDRIÉ is to provide efficient and effective services for all things face: facials, lashes, brows and skincare. “We pride ourselves in offering an impeccable service experience and strive for 100 percent customer satisfaction. We aim to be affordable, approachable and accessible to all.” Founder and CEO of FACE FOUNDRIÉ Michele Henry said she knew at a young age she wanted to be an entrepreneur. She headed her father’s construction company and at the age of 20, she swapped her construction boots for stilettos and started Primp, a cheap chic boutique in 2010, and there are now eight boutiques throughout the midwest. After having her third child, Henry sought skin care treatments which could support her changing skin. In response, she opened FACE FOUNDRIÉ in 2019 for an array of custom curated skincare products. She was ready to make accessible and approachable skincare an industry standard.

It’s a smash

Summer means burgers, and Bloomfield Township has a new spot for a good burger. It’s Patty & Press Smashburgers located at 42767 Woodward Avenue just south of Square Lake Road in Bloomfield Township. Smashburger is a fast casual hamburger restaurant chain founded out of Denver which now has more than 227 corporate and franchise operated locations in the U.S. This locale will be owned and operated by Chef Goran Dimic and Brandon Gorgies of G&B Hospitality, and will seat up to 35 guests for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Smashburgers are known for serving grass-fed smashburgers, handcut fries, milkshakes and more. What’s the difference between a plain ol’ hamburger and a smashburger?

According to their press materials, “The main difference between smash burgers and regular burgers is the cooking method. A Smashburger is flattened or smashed while it is cooking, which helps to create a crisp outer crust and a juicy interior. A regular burger is not smashed, which can result in a less crispy burger. The idea behind a Smashburger is that instead of letting a big, fat burger languish on the grill to cook, you add the burger meat to a riproaring hot skillet or griddle and smash it as it cooks for the first few seconds. The heat plus pressure combo results in a crispy and well-browned burger that cooks very fast.”

Full health care offered

No longer offering only joint assistance, Dean Chiropractic has become Oakland Lifestyle Medicine (OLM) and relocated to Bloomfield Hills at at 36800 Woodward Ave, Suite 210. Dean Chiropractic was a marketleading, family-owned provider of holistic chiropractic and healthcare services for nearly 50 years, first established by Dr. Christophe Dean. Now his son and founder of Oakland

Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Jon Dean said the company’s new name reflects the beginning of a significant trend in the chiropractic field to help patients achieve optimal health and wellness through innovative chiropractic and lifestyle medicine services. “Though the Dean Chiropractic name, established by my father, Dr. Christophe Dean, has become well known in this community for nearly 50 years, we feel Oakland Lifestyle Medicine reflects our commitment to helping our patients identify, address and treat the root cause of their health issues through a revolutionary, comprehensive approach,” said Dr. Jon Dean. “Moving and expanding our facility will also allow us to accommodate our expanding team and diverse portfolio of services, which will allow us to better serve our patients and the community.” OLM offers chiropractic care, physical therapy, neuromuscular re-education, massage, cold laser and Shockwave Therapy, as well as some of the newest procedures available. Those include nutritional IV therapy, platelet rich plasma therapy, viscosupplementation, trigger point injections and steroid injections.

Defense law firm moves

Kirsch Daskas Law Group, a fullservice firm zealously advocating and representing its clients throughout the state of Michigan, has recently moved locations and reopened at 3883 Telegraph Road, Suite 105, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48302. Principal Lisa Kirsch said Kirsch Daskas is excited and proud to continue to provide exemplary services and enhanced client experiences in the new space while continuing to grow and expand the firm. Kirsch Daskas is a law firm specializing in areas of defense, include child abuse crimes, juvenile charges, gun rights and firearms, sex crimes, education advocacy, homicide and self-defense.

Closings in downtown

Two sides of Maple Road in downtown Birmingham have seen closures in recent days. Woodward Standard Print House, 282 W. Maple, and The Great Eros lingerie shop, 245 W. Maple, have both closed.

Business Matters for the BirminghamBloomfield area are reported by Lisa Brody. Send items for consideration to LisaBrody@downtownpublications.com. Items should be received three weeks prior to publication.

If you remember TV shows in the 80’s, then you probably couldn’t help but sing those lines instead of reading them. That chorus, of course, is from the long running TV show “Cheers”. I have jokingly closed our New Member Coffee presentations for years with the line — Next is like Cheers, where everyone knows your name and they are glad you came. Recently a new member, someone who has not had a chance to attend a New Member Coffee, said those exact words back to me. It was then that I realized those words are more than a catchy theme song: the words ring true at Next.

Coming in as a novice Pickleball player, this new member commented on how he felt welcomed in spite of his unfamiliarity with the sport. More experienced players showed him the ins and outs of Pickleball, giving him instruction and helpful tips. His game has improved but more importantly, he really looks forward to coming to Next because of the camaraderie.

Today, I looked into the gym to see 25 players lined up on the sideline waiting for their turn to play on the one court we have. Yes, we are working to relocate to a space better suited to our growing needs. But in the meantime, we are forging forward with so many opportunities to create meaningful, healthy connections. Too many players courtside isn’t ideal, but you would never know from the laughter and lighthearted fun drifting out from the gym into the hallways of Next.

When the United States Surgeon General Vivek Murthy was recently asked what is the leading disease affecting Americans today, he answered immediately, “It’s not cancer. . . not heart disease. It’s isolation. Ironically enough, while we’re living in the most technologically networked and interconnected period in history, we are feeling more isolated than ever. In this environment, human-to-human interaction is essential to your health.”

Next aims to educate, enlighten and engage. Where else can you find all that Next has to offer under one roof? In May and June, there are over 230 events each month including 32 guest speakers ranging from experts on Latin America, our regional focus this program cycle, along with many others highly credentialed presenters. Next will host six entertainment events, including a Bossa Nova Brazilian concert and Tango performance; important health concerns will be addressed by Henry Ford Health, our partner in Health and Wellness; new art classes; on-going fitness programs; shared meals; local travel; and so many ways to enjoy and relax. All this is added to our regular, recurring monthly programming.

Immerse yourself in what’s Next. Now is the time to join us –where everybody knows your name, and they are always glad you came! www.BirminghamNext.org.

Owed $207,000.00 –Settled for $7,352.00

Owed $374,416.00 –Settled for $19,181.00

Owed $1,039,938.00 –Settled for $85,824.00

DOLLARS– LET US HELP YOU SLEEP BETTER AT NIGHT.

House Happenings For Spring/Summer 2023

Friends and Supporters:

If the venerable Community House is to remain a beacon in an ever-changing world, our vision must be clear –we must reach a place where The Community House is not forced to make tough choices on essential community programming and services –educationally and socially –based solely upon our ability to charge others. As a 100year-old nonprofit, charitable organization, it is not in our DNA to turn others away based upon their ability to pay or based solely upon the profitability of the program or service. Too often, it is those that need us most that can afford our services least. It is vital that we grow our mission-directed scholarship funds and operating endowment so that no one is ever again turned away because of their ability to pay.

As you may remember, The Community House Association established The Community House Foundation several years ago. Its primary purpose is to raise awareness and to secure philanthropic funds to supplementally support The Community House, its quality programs, and services. Since its founding, the foundation has been focused on the revitalization of the Community House’s Estate & Planned Giving Program and Major Gifts. Estate and planned giving and major gifts have been identified as areas essential to The Community House’s long-term sustainability and financial health.

Now that we have humbly turned the page on our first century of service in 2023, we are seeking legacy and estate gifts to accelerate and give critical momentum and credibility to The Community House, our future space and facility needs, and our important work and mission –commensurate to The Community House’s laser-focused efforts to reach self-reliance and sustainability via its philanthropic efforts, stewardship, program capacity and ongoing fiscal excellence. It is a pain-less way to help endow The Community House after you are gone. It does not take from your current assets, but underpins our charitable organization and directly impacts those we serve –in your name –well into the future.

Contrary to what some may believe, we are solely independent and always have been (since 1923), we receive no tax dollars, no steady support – solely relying on our own revenue generating efforts and the kindness of others –like you – to survive and grow. Self-reliance before we seek the kindness of others is the proper and expected way to operate a truly nonprofit, 501(c)3, charitable organization. Some ask if self-reliance drifts from our nonprofit status. It does not. Foundations expect it. Corporations expect it. Private donors expect it. Our leadership expects it. Those entities regularly ask if we have truly done all we can to be sustainable ourselves –before we seek the support and kindness of others. Rest assure we do.

Some also might believe that we drift occasionally from our mission, we do not. “From business to philanthropy, from education to recreation,” these words are imbedded in our mission. These are the words we live by. These are the words we hold sacred.

For more information about The Community House Foundation or its Legacy and Planned Giving opportunities, please contact Mr. Christopher Smude, Vice President, The Community House Foundation at csmude@communityhousefoundation.org or call 248.644.5832.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

The Community House’s “Classical Brunch Series” is returning to TCH in partnership with our dear friends at 90.9 WRCJ. This up close and personal threepart concert series will be held on June 11th, October 15th, and November 19th, and will feature outstanding classical music performed by members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and friends! A lovely brunch begins at 11:45 a.m. (each concert) followed by the performance at 12:30 p.m. Reservations are $55 per concert, $150 for the series. Audience members will enjoy printed musical notes in the program book for each concert prepared by a professional musicologist. For reservations and ticket information, please visit our website, communityhouse.com. Early reservations are encouraged.

Graduations Are Back

Attention all graduates – Experience the ultimate thrill when you host your graduation extravaganza at The Community House. We go above and beyond to ensure your graduate feels like a superstar, with every meticulous detail designed to dazzle and astound.

Whether you prefer an intimate gathering or a colossal fiesta, our versatile space can accommodate anywhere from 10 to a whopping 200 people, providing the perfect backdrop for your epic graduation saga. And let's not forget our outdoor tented terrace, where the party spills into the open air, adding a touch of magic to your celebration.

Brace yourself for an unparalleled culinary journey crafted by our renowned, awardwinning culinary team. From exquisitely plated, upscale delicacies that will tantalize even the most refined palate, to mouthwatering family-style favorites that evoke nostalgic memories, our chefs will take you on an epicurean odyssey that will leave you craving for more. Let us do all the work.

So, don't settle for ordinary. Choose The Community House and embark on an extraordinary journey that will redefine what it means to celebrate graduation. Prepare to be amazed, astonished, and absolutely blown away by an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memories. Book now and receive a special gift from us: A pearl arch of balloons with your school colors. Contact our Hospitality Team today at events@communityhouse.com or 248.644.5832.

SUMMER/FALL REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN!

The Community House Early Childhood Center is now enrolling. Our award-winning program believes that early childhood programming is the foundation of a child’s educational career. The Community House provides an engaging learning environment that empowers students to be active participants in their learning. Through the use of the nationally recognized Highscope curriculum, students in our program learn through discovery and hands on experiences. Teachers encourage student input and foster opportunities for students to create a plan, execute and then self-reflect on the outcomes. Our students have increased learning comprehension and the ability to think critically. While enrollments are limited, we still have spaces available for the summer and fall. For a tour or to secure your child’s space for summer or fall 2023, please contact our Early Childhood Center Director, Sarah Schuster at 248.594.6411 or sschuster@communityhouse.com.

Save The Dates

The iconic Birmingham House Tour now in its 34th year, presented by The Agency Hall & Hunter real estate firm, will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023, and will feature some of the most exquisite and unique homes in our area, thanks to the hospitality of the homeowners who open their homes for our guests’ enjoyment. The homes vary in size and highlight a wide range of interior design styles and architecture. Docents will be on hand in each of the homes to share interesting information (i.e. special collections, latest design trends used in the home, and in many cases talk about the rich history of the home’s interior and exterior.)

The tour is self-guided so guests can begin at any one of the featured homes, then break mid-day for a drop-in delicious buffet lunch at The Community House prepared by our award-winning Corporate Executive Chef Ryan Friedrich and his culinary team, before returning to the tour.

A day to treat yourself and your friends to a day filled with pure enjoyment. For more information and to purchase tour and lunch tickets, please visit The Community House website at communityhousefoundation.org.

THE COMMUNITY HOUSE “SPRING” ANNUAL FUND

The 2023 “SPRING” Annual Fund Drive is upon us. Given COVID, it is hard to overestimate how important our quarterly annual fund appeals are to the operations at the historic Community House. For the last three years (and counting) we have found ourselves, like so many charities, continuing to navigate through a perfect storm – COVID, supply chain issues, inflation, wage pressures, a faltering economy.

By making a 2023 Early Summer Annual Fund Drive tax-deductible gift to The Community House, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit charitable organization now, your gift will ensure that we continue to navigate through these challenges so that we may remain the important educational, philanthropic and community resource that thousands of individuals have relied upon for 100 years. To make an early summer 2023 Annual Fund gift now, you can send your donation in by mail at: TCH 380 S. Bates Street, Birmingham, Michigan 48009; give online at communityhouse.com/donate or by calling The Community House Foundation at 248-594-6417. Hope really does spring eternal.