CASADEI: METRO INTELLIGENCER 94 • GERAK: SOCIAL LIGHTS 100
B I R M I N G H A M
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B L O O M F I E L D
NOVEMBER 2018
INSIDE LOOK AT ELECTION POLLING ATRAZINE: WIDELY-USED, CONTROVERSIAL GENERAL ELECTION ENDORSEMENTS ECRWSS Postal Customer EDDM
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Truth in numbers: political polling There's a saying that numbers never lie. But numbers can be manipulated, interpreted and misinterpreted. Just ask a pollster or campaign manager for anyone running for public office, especially as the November 6 vote approaches.
LONGFORM
59
Atrazine is considered the second-most used herbicide in the U.S. and a critical tool for farmers, but it has been found in drinking water in thousands of communities across the country,
FROM THE PUBLISHER
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Editorial writers at The Detroit News are telling readers to vote 'no' on the three state-wide ballot proposals, but they fail to recognize why citizens petitioned for these changes in the first place.
OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL
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Republicans pull back cash from Bishop; Wolkinson goes off-therails; surprise for 15th Senate Tea Party shoo-in; expected Epstein loss talk of GOP get-together; plus more.
CRIME LOCATOR
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A recap of select categories of crime occurring in the past month in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills, presented in map format.
MUNICIPAL
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Birmingham master plan decision postponed; answers on primary ballot shortage; no bistro applications for 2019; Bloomfield Village millage rate; township losing legal counsel; plus more.
THE COVER The Birmingham skatepark within Kenning Park, located in the southeast portion of the city. The skatepark, designed by skaters in 2004, is part of the city’s recreational complex. Downtown photo: Laurie Tennent.
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Pete Dawkins
METRO INTELLIGENCER
94
Writer/reporter Dana Casadei helps us bring back the popular feature – now called Metro Intelligencer – that provides quick takes on what is happening in the world of food and drink in the metro Detroit area.
SOCIAL LIGHTS
100
Society reporter Sally Gerak provides the latest news from the society and non-profit circuit as she covers recent major events.
ENDNOTE
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Our recommendations on both candidates and state-wide ballot issues facing voters in the Tuesday, November 6 general election.
FACES
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Laura Varon Brown Pete Dawkins Catherine Rollin Jerod/Liz Swallow Jack Faxon
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FROM THE PUBLISHER o help set the stage for this month's column, I have been following politics in Oakland and the state of Michigan since the mid-1970s. I throw that out as a point of information in this election year because, I humbly submit, I have one of the better grasps of how government – be it at the local, county or state level – does or should function. A student of government. A political junkie.
T
My decades of observation, combined with years of experience on the part of others here, assures that when Downtown newsmagazine weighs-in with editorial opinion on a current day issue or a candidate, what we offer as advice on a topic comes with a good amount of research and a healthy does of historical perspective. No, we don't consider our opinion the be-all and end-all on any given topic, because we recognize we are just one of many voices in the community. Thanks to the rise of the internet and the accompanying proliferation of opinion-makers, publication opinion pages probably carry less influence than they did when I first started in this profession. We do guesstimate, in response to a common question we often get, that we still have a one to three percent impact if we are throwing our support behind a ballot issue or candidate in a dead heat when votes are cast. But the days of press lords controlling an election and single-handedly setting the public agenda have long passed. Today, at least in the tri-county area of southeast Michigan, there are only a few metro area publications that still carry editorial opinion pages, the Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News come to mind first. Most non-daily publications would rather avoid the grief, are ill-equipped to weigh-in, or fear for their bottom line if they offend the wrong advertiser. All of this serves as background for my disappointment in the last couple of weeks with an election-related editorial appearing in The Detroit News recommending that voters reject all three of the state-wide ballot issues they will face in the November 6 general election. The three constitutional amendments are: Proposal 1, legalizing recreational use of marijuana; Proposal 2, changing how legislative districts are drawn every 10 years following the latest federal census; and Proposal 3, expanding access to the voting process and making it easier to register and cast a ballot. None of the three are perfect but they represent strong proposals that we have supported on our Endnote editorial page. Capsulized, The Detroit News' basic premise is that the three ballot proposals are amendments to the Michigan Constitution, which means that, if approved, any changes in the future would require the agreement of voters at the polling places. Further, their suggestion is that state residents should push to have these issues dealt with through their elected members of the Senate and House. Failing that, voters should replace them, says The Detroit News. Sounds simple but not realistic.
submitted to the state 120 days in advance of an election for review and approval to appear on the ballot. Once approved for the ballot, the state legislature has a specific time period in which lawmakers can vote to adopt similar proposals or just allow the proposals to appear on the ballot. Here's why The Detroit News suggestion of leaving these issues to Lansing lawmakers makes little sense. No one expected state lawmakers would approve changing the process for redrawing of political districts because the political party in power (now Republicans), which controls how districts are redrawn every 10 years, would be goring its own ox. No surprise on this one. As for the expanded voting rights proposal, voters already went to the ballot years ago to protect straight ticket (party) voting, only to have lawmakers later vote to take away this right and prevent a referendum petition by adding an appropriation to the bill, which in Michigan prevents voters from challenging what they did. The issue was recently litigated and the courts ruled straight ticket voting could be eliminated. But that is not the only voting rights issue addressed in this proposal. GOP lawmakers in Lansing have resisted calls for “no reason” absentee ballots, including a push in recent years by Oakland-native and Republican Secretary of State Ruth Johnson. Other states have for years successfully dealt with “same day” registration and other aspects of Proposal 3. The fear by the Republican-controlled Senate and House is that the voting rights proposal could allow for better turnout at the polls (i.e. by Democrats) and would help prevent some of the voter suppression efforts on the part of GOP lawmakers in recent legislative sessions. As for the recreational use of marijuana – go figure. It has taken the legislature over nine years (yes, years) to finalize the system to enact the medical marijuana proposal voters overwhelmingly approved in 2008. Based on that track record, it was highly unlikely anyone could rationalize with lawmakers on recreational use of marijuana, so taking the issue to the ballot is the only logical path. As for The Detroit News' cavalier suggestion that voters disappointed in the legislature's lack of response on an issue could just replace state lawmakers – in one of the more gerrymandered states in the nation – fat chance. So we continue to urge our readers to vote 'yes' on all three ballot proposals.
All three amendments to the constitution made the ballot through the citizen petition drive process, as allowed in 24 states in the country. A petition drive in Michigan for a constitutional amendment requires signatures equal to 10 percent of the votes cast in the most recent gubernatorial election (315,654). And signatures can be gathered by paid firms that exist for just this purpose.
Election endorsement footnote: In our October issue we published our recommendations on general election candidates and ballot issues for the benefit of those voting by absentee ballot, a growing segment of the registered voter base. We repeat those recommendations at the back of this issue (Endnote) for those heading to the polling places on Tuesday, November 6. Lastly, a word of thanks to those who have phoned or emailed in recent weeks with appreciative comments relative to the Voter Guide we produced for the general election.
Signatures on petitions for an amendment to the constitution must be gathered within a 180-day period following approval of petition language by election officials. After signatures are gathered, the petitions must be
David Hohendorf Publisher DavidHohendorf@DowntownPublications.com
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INCOMING/READER FEEDBACK We welcome feedback on both our publication and general issues of concern in the Birmingham/Bloomfield community. The traditional “letters to the editor” in Downtown are published in our Incoming section and can include written letters or electronic communication. Opinions can be sent via e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 W. Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009. If you are using the mail option, you must include a phone number for verification purposes. WEBSITE downtownpublications.com
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Voters should choose their politicians not the other way around. Politicians and lobbyists draw voting maps behind closed doors WKDW GLUHFWO\ EHQHĆ“W themselves, instead of putting the interests of voters or communities of Michigan Ć“UVW
Proposal 2 is F-I-T for Michigan! FAIR - Voters—not lobbyists and politicians—will draw election maps that cannot give one party or candidate an unfair advantage
Voters Not Politicians is a nonpartisan, grassroots group that collected 425,000 SHWLWLRQ VLJQDWXUHV IURP 0LFKLJDQ YRWHUV WR Ć“[ the problem by putting Proposal 2 to create an Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission on the November 6, 2018 ballot!
IMPARTIAL - Maps will be drawn through compromise by Republicans, Democrats, and voters who GRQĹ?W DIĆ“OLDWH ZLWK either party and must follow strict criteria
More than 425,000 Michiganders signed the petition to put Proposal 2 on the ballot on 1RYHPEHU
TRANSPARENT - The process will happen in public meetings with input from Michiganders, not behind closed doors Everything used to draw the maps—including data and software—must be published publicly
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McCarthy-like tactics For many years, our family has emphasized the importance of keeping support for Israel bipartisan. We are disappointed that someone seeking a career in public service would violate this precept and stoop to totally falsely accusing his opponent of “anti-Israel extremism” and “supporting Hamas”. These baseless accusations should cease immediately. We are proud to support Mari Manoogian, knowing full well that she supports strong security and peace for Israel and opposes BDS. She will be a champion for affordable healthcare at home, safe roads, and clean water and we hope that her opponent (David Wolkinson) will address these issues which come before the state House of Representatives, instead of using smear, McCarthy-like tactics. Andy Levin, Congressional Candidate Carl Levin, Retired U.S. Senator Sander Levin, U.S. Representative
Epstein caucus flip flop It’s not easy being Lena Epstein: after wrapping herself in Trump clothing during her primary, Trump’s campaign co-chair has suddenly figured out Michigan voters don’t like President Trump’s healthcare agenda that would gut protections for preexisting conditions and charge older Americans what the AARP calls an “age tax.” So it’s no surprise she also figured out that her affinity for the House Freedom Caucus doesn’t play as well with general election voters as it did during her primary. Back then she was pretty clear about her love for the group that even John Boehner described as “anarchists.” In her own words: “I’ve said this publicly, I want to be a member of the Freedom Caucus. I want to join the men in the fight to advance a conservative agenda.” Now? Not so public about her support. In a recent interview with the Detroit News, Epstein “sidestepped” when asked about the obstructionist, arch-right organization founded by disgraced Ohio Republican Jim Jordan and currently lead by Rep. Mark Meadows. Some politicians flip and flop their way out of sticky primary positions. Others lie. Lena just left the public with this awkward, insider take on the House’s inner workings: “I just want to update with you and share with you, there are many tremendous caucuses. There are bipartisan caucuses, and I want to be working across the aisle." Only Epstein can explain why she’s suddenly terrified to talk about her support for the group founded by an “idiot” and “legislative terrorist.” But if downtownpublications.com
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SPEAK OUT We welcome your opinion on issues facing the Birmingham/Bloomfield communities. Although we do not have a fixed maximum length for letters sent to us, we recommend a maximum length of 175-200 words. We also reserve the right to edit letters for length if necessary. Opinions can be sent via e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 West Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009.
we had to speculate, we’d guess some of her advisers decided to show her a few things Republicans and independent observers have said about Epstein’s would-be colleagues. Austin Laufersweiler Michigan Democratic Party
Bishop’s smear campaign The only "fact" that Ronald DiLiddo got right in his attempt to smear Congressional candidate Elissa Slotkin (October Incoming/Downtown) is that he correctly spelled her name. That's it. Here are facts that live in the world of reality, that have the virtue of being true, and totally refute the disgusting smear campaign by (Congressman Mike) Bishop that DiLiddo swallowed whole. A desperate candidate for Michigan’s 8th Congressional seat has used radio ads, TV spots and social media messages to make three bogus claims about his opponent. In a flailing campaign, Mike Bishop is trying to smear Elissa Slotkin, a genuine public servant, but has only added a new stench to his already stained reputation. The first false claim featured Bishop sinking further into the slime of fake news as he tried – and failed – with a disgusting TV spot to exploit the recently deceased war hero Senator John McCain. It was a deplorable act for which Bishop was rebuked by McCain’s family who demanded his campaign stop showing an out-ofcontext video clip in which McCain uncharacteristically personally criticized a public servant for following a president’s orders. The second fabrication by Bishop was to actually attack Slotkin for devoting her life and her career to public service. While Bishop snuggled down safely at home, serving only the wishes of campaign underwriters Big Pharma, Ambassador Bridge magnate Manny Moroun, and other corporate
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contributors, Slotkin served this nation under fire in Iraq and Afghanistan and in a crucial anti-terrorist position in the Pentagon. Rather than turn away from an opportunity to actually serve constituents, when her country called, Slotkin answered. Not with empty words, but with action. Ironic and disgusting that Bishop would stoop to stabbing Slotkin in the back for serving her country instead of remaining comfortably in her childhood home in Holly. If you’re going to fight terrorists for 14 years as Slotkin did, you go where the threat is, where the action is. Then, after you’ve done your duty as a courageous patriot, you can return to the home you love and try to do further public service. What better way to do that than by defeating a lazy and ethically corrupt representative who has abused his tenure by catering to corporate interests at the expense of his constituents. The third phony Bishop ad asserted that Slotkin was bent on “bankrupting Medicare.” That was rapidly discredited by fact-checkers as false. The height of hypocrisy that Bishop, who gloated that he voted again and again to kill health care coverage for millions of Americans, would portray himself as its savior whereas Slotkin has proposed that improved and expanded health care legislation is a top priority. Bill Haney Ortonville
Make facts fashionable Facts - let’s make them fashionable again. I’m writing, as a local community member and scientist, to urge your consideration of Elissa Slotkin for Congress (MI - 8th District). I admire her courage, her dedication to civil service, and her focus on evidence-based public policy. I am disappointed with my current Representative’s voting record, and my calls and emails over the past four years have returned only canned (and irritating) responses from Mike Bishop, thanking me for my support. I was disturbed by Mr. Bishop’s recent TV ad, which concludes that Elissa Slotkin’s plan is to take Medicare away from current senior recipients. This is simply and verifiably false, and Politifact states that, “We found no evidence to suggest that any of Slotkin’s positions on health care would result in taking away coverage for current seniors.” I was therefore doubly disturbed to see Mr. Bishop’s signature on Governor Snyder’s public call to “commit to civility in public discourse” (Detroit Free Press, July 20, 2108). This is not acceptable for many reasons, but perhaps the most troubling is that it downtownpublications.com
teaches our young people that leadership requires dishonesty. It is obvious to me that facts are essential for progress and improved quality-of-life. Endless denial does not change reality; it simply creates chaos in which unprincipled people thrive. I believe that Ms. Slotkin’s integrity can help turn back the tide of falsehoods and polarized politics that have disabled our democracy, and help create a better future for all. Andrew Goldberg Rochester Hills
Republican backs Slotkin I am a Republican woman supporting Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat. Out of all the President’s remarks that pollute our political system, those that are derogatory toward women are perhaps the most upsetting. The November elections are a chance to stand up to this offensive misrepresentation of American values. It is also a chance to demonstrate that support for the President and his amorality is not acceptable to Republican women across Michigan. I have been a proud Republican for years and have been reluctant to support candidates on the other side of the aisle. But in early 2018 I was invited by my sister to attend a meet and greet with a Democratic congressional candidate, Elissa Slotkin. I was impressed. She called upon all of us to stand up and take action in our communities, and help elect a new generation of leaders who will truly represent us. After leaving this meeting I felt that this was someone I could definitely support. When the negative ads against Elissa used John McCain’s remarks out of context, my resolve to support Elissa was further strengthened. I had worked on the McCain campaign in 2000 and felt this was a dishonor to his bipartisan approach to governing. I encourage my fellow Republican women to seize the opportunity that this election year presents. We have the ability to save our party by electing members of Congress who will stand up to the President when he degrades women and further divides this country with his inflammatory rhetoric. On election day this Republican woman is supporting Elissa Slotkin for Congress and I hope other Republican women join me – let’s work together to take back our party. Kathleen VanPoppelen Oakland Township DOWNTOWN
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OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL IN BIRMINGHAM
SMALL BUSINESS
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.
S AT U R D AY
NOVEMBER 24, 2018
Photo by Ed Morykwas, River of Time Photography
PIG, MEET MUD: The whiff of desperation is rising off of 40th District (Birmingham, Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills) state House Republican candidate David Wolkinson, who has been slinging mud at his opponent, Democrat Mari Manoogian – stooping so low as to assert in a TV ad and in Facebook postings that Manoogian is an anti-Semite who supports Hamas and opposes Israel – all factually false – because she is part of a nationwide group of progressive Democratic candidates, some of whom, such as Rashida Tlaib, who won the primary for Congress in MI-13 to WOLKINSON replace former Congressman John Conyers (and is running unopposed November 6), is a Palestinian-American. Manoogian responded, “As a former program officer at the U.S. Department of State, I support the state of Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people and as an ally of the United States.” Former Sen. Carl Levin, Congressman Sander Levin and his son Andy MANOOGIAN Levin (D), running for Sandy’s 9th district seat, all condemned Wolkinson for “falsely accusing his opponent” and for his “McCarthy-like tactics.” Wolkinson’s unhinged behavior (dare we say vulgar?) also included an odd email to Downtown news editor Lisa Brody. He also attacked Brody and Downtown on Facebook but later removed his postings.
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OUT OF OFFICE REPLY: Just days after Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) was in town for a private fundraiser for Republican Congressman Mike Bishop (Rochester, Rochester Hills, Livingston County, Lansing area), came word that the Congressional Leadership Fund, a PAC with ties to Ryan and which had reserved $2.1 million in television air time to defend and support Bishop in his fight against Democratic challenger Elissa Slotkin in the 8th District, was withdrawing financial support. For the third quarter, Slotkin raised almost $2.5 million – more than any other candidate in Michigan, for a total of $5.5 million. In comparison, Bishop raised $763,449 this last quarter, BISHOP for a total of $3.65 million, still quite a haul. The Michigan Campaign Finance Network notes it is the most expensive U.S. House race in Michigan history. Pollsters put the race at a dead heat, and may remain so till the final days of the election. As for Ryan’s PAC pullout? Bernie Porn of EPIC/MRA likened it to triage – “Republicans have come to the conclusion SLOTKIN that they’re not likely to win, and will put their money in more viable races” around the country. And will a recent email from President Trump endorsing Bishop help him or hurt him with Independent voters – the ones pundits say will swing the race? HEAR NO EVIL: Libertarian candidate for Michigan’s 8th Congressional seat, Brian Ellison, doesn’t hide his contempt for law enforcement – considering he live-streamed his own August arrest in Royal Oak, where he clashed with police during the department’s anniversary celebration, then used the booking photo as his Facebook profile. But Ellison has been tight lipped in recent videos about his October 11 domestic violence arrest in Madison Heights, where he allegedly scratched his wife’s face during an altercation in their car. According to reports, he put her earbuds in to drown out his comments, but he ripped them out, subsequently scratching her face in the process. “The Madison Heights police have been very professional in my recent dealings with them,” he posted the night of the arrest. CLEANING UP CRUMBS: In the race of the Millennial women, Democrat Haley Stevens appears to be solidifying her lock on the 11th District (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, Pontiac, Commerce Township, western Oakland County and western Wayne County) versus Republican Lena Epstein. Epstein issued a Republican party poll on October 16, claiming she was now making gains on Stevens. However, numerous unbiased polls, from the New York Times Upshot/Siena College Poll, had Stevens at 45 percent to STEVENS Epstein at 38 percent, with a five percent margin of error; FiveThirtyEight, had Stevens at 51 percent and Epstein at 44 percent, giving
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Magnificent 2001 built estate home on 1.4 acres. Expertly constructed with gorgeous finishes and quality throughout. 5 bedrooms, 5.2 baths.
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Beautifully situated home on a cul-de-sac one acre lot in desirable Echo Ridge sub. Recently remodeled and updated throughout. 4 bedrooms, 4.2 baths.
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990 Pilgrim – Birmingham - $2,499,900
One of the finest homes in Quarton Lake Estates. High-end finishes throughout 7000+ square feet of living space. 4 bedrooms, 5.3 baths. 4 car garage.
30 Cabot Place - Bloomfield Hills - $999,900
Spacious 5 bedroom, 3.2 bath home with first floor master suite. Large 1.2 acre lot. Beautiful in-ground pool, decks and landscaping. Birmingham schools.
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1136 Pierce - Birmingham - $850,000
Wonderful home walking distance to downtown. Beautiful large kitchen with center island open to family room. 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths. Finished basement.
411 S Old Woodward, #912 - Birmingham - $689,900
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Stevens an 82.9 percent chance of winning. ALG Research released a poll on October 17, giving Stevens a 10-point lead – 44 percent to Epstein’s 34 percent. David Wasserman of The Cook Political Report wrote in October, “Republicans privately acknowledge Democrat Haley Stevens is the favorite over Republican Lena Epstein for this open suburban Detroit seat.” Democratic party leaders and Dem PACs have been running ads regularly reminding voters that Epstein is a Trumpite – her only previous political experience was as Donald Trump’s Michigan cochair. At a recent Republican fundraiser for Secretary of State candidate Mary Treder Lang, filled with GOP illuminati like Gov. EPSTEIN Rick Snyder and former top Michigan GOP chair Bobby Schostak, talk was that Epstein is toast. So, we ask, is it the preview of impending doom that drove the Trump apostle to the show of conservative radio broadcaster Frank Beckmann where she disparaged Stevens with falsehoods (i.e. lies) about Stevens’ time as chief of staff for the Obama auto bailout?
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ARE YOU FLIPPIN’ KIDDING: It’s no joke that Oakland County has become the place to watch this November as long-held Republican Senate districts across the state could witness upsets. Analysis by Michigan Information and Research Service (MIRS) done after the primary led them to release a list of the state’s “10 Senate Districts Most Likely to Flip” in the general election. Those include current Sen. Mike Kowall’s 15th Senate District, where Republican House Rep. Jim Runestad, a strong Tea Party conservative candidate, is facing off against Democrat Julie Pulver. According to MIRS and Target Insyght, Pulver has been polling 52-36 percent over Runestad in his current 39th House District area, which makes up about a third of the Senate district. However, the district includes a large portion of northern Oakland County, which has traditionally favored Republicans. Others on the flipping list of potentials include the 13th Senate District where Democratic challenger Mallory McMorrow tallied more primary votes than Republican incumbent Marty Knollenberg; and the 12th Senate District, where GOP Rep. Mike McCready could have trouble winning swing voters in Pontiac and other spots in the district against Democrat Rosemary Bayer. PRESIDENTIAL TURNOUT: Local clerks are reporting monumental requests for absentee ballots for the November 6 election, with higher-than-normal returns of those ballots. Three weeks out, Novi was up to 7,500 requests for absentee ballots, versus 5,000 in a typical midterm year; Farmington Hills already had almost 11,000 in requests; and Rochester Hills had surpassed 11,000, with almost 37 percent returned. “We’re blowing away our presidential absentee returns,” Rochester Hills Clerk Tina Barton reported. Expect turnout on November 6 to be in the presidential election category – or higher. LOWERING THE BAR: Misdemeanor crimes aren’t a disqualifier for Oakland County Circuit Court candidates, particularly when they’re running unopposed. That should come as some relief to candidate Julie McDonald of Bloomfield Township, who is running for a new court seat and was arrested on the morning of Saturday, September 8, for alleged drunk driving on Woodward in Royal Oak. McDonald, who was stopped about 10:45 a.m. for speeding in her 2015 Chevy Tahoe, told officers she had about four drinks the previous night, but she was unable to walk a straight line and blew a .102 on her breathalyzer test (the legal limit is .08). “I don’t drink and drive,” she can be heard telling the officers while handcuffed in the back of the patrol car. “I’m running for an office MCDONALD right now, and this will fuck me up really bad.” McDonald, who also allegedly dropped her cigarette out of the window and turned without signaling prior to the stop, was arrested on suspicion of operating while intoxicated and littering, both misdemeanors, and no proof of insurance, a civil infraction. While a conviction or plea won’t disqualify McDonald from her likely election victory in November, she could face sanctions by the state’s Judicial Tenure Commission after taking office. CLERKING IT: With Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli’s retirement in 2020 pretty much a foregone conclusion, township insiders and those looking for a job are circling the wagons. Word is that former 40th District Republican candidate Malissa Bossardet, who lost in the August primary to David Wolkinson, is interested in the position. She has been asking some other local municipal clerks how she should prepare for that role. But rumor is she doesn’t care for Roncelli, after Roncelli backed Wolkinson in the primary. As one said, if Bossardet wants to win, she’ll need to sit with Roncelli and get her support – everyone else in the township will follow Roncelli’s lead.
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Over 55 Homes Sold in 2018
6025 Upper Straits Blvd ~ $1,649,900 4 BR, 4.1 BA, 5,023 SF, 3 Car Gar 100’ on Upper Straits Lk Southern Views, 1.4 Acres
323 Lakewood Dr ~ $1,389,900 4 BR, 5.2 BA, 5,561 SF, 4 Car Gar 150’ on Endicott Lake 2 Acres, Birmingham Schools
4812 S Valleyview Rd 4 BR, 2.1 BA, 3,182 SF Hardwood Floors, Corner Lot Bloomfield Hills Schools $373,000
2744 Brady Dr 4 BR, 2.1 BA, 2,450 SF Granite Kitchen & Bathrooms Bloomfield Hills Schools $349,900
4813 Pelican Way 3 BR, 2.1 BA 2,240 SF Detached Condo John Morgan Bathrooms $349,900
29797 Deer Run 3 BR, 3.1 BA, 2,200 SF Detached Ranch Condo Waterfront Setting $369,900
576 W Merrill St 2 BR, 2.1 BA, 1,290 SF Downtown Birmingham Private Balcony & Garage $359,000
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5975 Seville Cir 4 BR, 3.2 BA, 3,915 SF 3/4 Acre Lot, 3 Car Garage Upper Straits Lake Privileges $519,900
611 S Glenhurst Dr ~ $1,349,900 5 BR, 4.2 BA, 4,125 SF, Daylight LL Built by Hunter Roberts, Corner Lot Att. Gar., Birmingham Schools
32272 Hearthstone Rd 3 BR, 2.1 BA 2,256 SF Granite Kitchen & Bathrooms Farmington Schools $289,900
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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 October 15, 2018. Placement of codes is approximate.
FACES
Laura Varon Brown s the Executive Director & CEO of Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit, Laura Varon Brown seems to constantly be on the go from the minute she walks through their red door. Sometimes though, the people who walk into the clubhouse have the ability to make her pause, if only for a moment. “There are times when someone will say to me that 'Gilda’s Club saved my life,'” Brown said. “It just stops you in your tracks when you realize that this business that you’re running really makes a difference to families.” Through their free programming – yes, free – Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit is able to help the thousands of people who come to the clubhouse each year, for both those with cancer and their family and friends. Brown knows how vital that support can be. She lost her mom to cancer when she was in her early twenties and watched her second husband go through cancer, which he successfully beat. “I didn’t know about Gilda’s Club then, but I can only imagine what it would have meant to my kids to have the children’s programming that we have and certainly me as a caregiver,” she said. With over 10,000 members, that’s a lot of people to affect, and serving those people is Brown’s favorite part of the job. Being able to stay connected to the community was another draw of working in the non-profit world for Brown, and something she knew well. Before running the non-profit – which she’s done since 2012 – the Bloomfield Township resident worked in journalism at the Detroit Free Press and Detroit News for almost 25 years as both a reporter and an editor – with a brief pit stop at the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan in between. Her years in journalism helped prepare her for her current role more than one might think. Those years in the newsroom helped her become an excellent communicator, a skill needed in any role, and gave her fact-checking skills and the ability to explain herself well. “I think I’ll always be a journalist, not a former journalist – you’re always a journalist –it gets under your skin,” Brown said. “It absolutely prepared me at being able to interact with the community, understand the community and the differences in our community. We have such a diverse community in every way and journalism certainly helped me to understand that.” Under her leadership, Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit is now more financially stable than when she entered the position. For the first time they own their clubhouse. Her next goal is to accomplish more program growth to make sure they are serving as many people as possible and continue to have an impact on the community. She also hopes to have an impact on her staff and help them build careers at Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit. Brown knows non-profits aren’t necessarily known for building careers, but she wants to change that. “My job is to make sure that our staff feels confident in their careers here, that they can build a career, that they can support a family with their career. And watching them grow is truly an extraordinary part of my job,” she said. With all she’s been able to accomplish in her six years in the position, Brown plans on staying in the role as long as she’s making a difference and that they are growing. “I would like to stay here as long as they’ll have me,” Brown said. “I love it.”
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Story: Dana Casadei
Photo: Laurie Tennent
TRUTH IN NUMBERS BELIEVABILITY AND THE RELIABILITY OF POLITICAL POLLS AS SNAPSHOT OF PUBLICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THOUGHT
BY LISA BRODY
There's a saying that numbers never lie. But numbers can be deciphered, manipulated, interpreted and misinterpreted, all in an effort to tell one story or another. Just ask a pollster or campaign manager for anyone running for public office, especially right now, as we head into the final days of the 2018 midterm general election. In the abstract, a pollster is someone who conducts and/or analyzes opinion polls, on any matter or topic. A strong pollster provides a snapshot in time, the feelings and state of mind of those who answered the poll. A poll should not predict, but reflect, and distill down and put in perspective as one tool, one measurement, of the public's thoughts at the time it was taken. “It is a snapshot in time – it could change tomorrow,” noted Tim Malloy, assistant director of Quinnipiac University Poll at Quinnipiac University Connecticut. “The purpose of polling is a bit like reporting, but of the public. It's taking the temperature of the public's feelings, of issues and politicians, and then relating it to government.
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A STRONG POLLSTER PROVIDES A SNAPSHOT IN TIME, THE FEELINGS AND STATE OF MIND OF THOSE WHO ANSWERED THE POLL.
“It's not our intent to shape things,” Malloy continued. “Our hope is that politicians and leaders see them (the polls) and understand them, and we hope the general public sees them. It's telling the broader public what we learned from calling other Americans.” Ed Sarpolus, founder and executive director of Target-Insyght, which has done polling for The Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, and WDIVTV, is emphatic that the role of a pollster is not just to report what they've polled. “The nature of being a pollster, your job is to interpret the research, data and statistics,” Sarpolus said. “Sometimes it is looking at the margins of error, and sometimes it's dismissing the margins of error. It's looking at the patterns and trends, because those can be telling me something. I have to study history, other sources, and previous voting patterns (in a specific race). I'm always less interested in what the politically correct response is than in what actually is...what the data tells me.” Polling is now a big business, with many Americans viewing polls with skepticism and distrust – or interpreting them through partisan filters and self-interests. Part of that distrust has been fostered by President Trump, who has consistently implored his followers that the polls from the 2016 election were wrong – when pollsters say they generally were accurate, with a majority of their polls showing only that Democrat Hillary Clinton was leading in the 2016 presidential contest, and in the final days, by just two or three percentage points – which is what she won the popular vote by nationally. The Brookings Institute noted, “If you took a public opinion poll about polls, odds are that a majority would offer some rather unfavorable views of pollsters and the uses to which their work is put. Many potential respondents might simply slam down their telephones. Yet if you asked whether politicians, business leaders, and journalists should pay attention to the people's voices, almost everyone would say yes.” The Brookings Institute asks the same question we all do – “Can we trust the polls? Under the best of circumstances, the answer is 'Not necessarily without a fair amount of detailed information about how they were conducted.'” The Pew Research Center concurs, noting that the accuracy of a poll depends on how it was conducted. “It all depends on the poll, and the crafting on the poll,” explained Jen Eyer, senior vice president, Vanguard Public Affairs, which provides public relations, marketing and consulting services, but not polling work for candidates. This cycle, Eyer is working with 9th District Democratic candidate Andy Levin, which covers Bloomfield Township, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, Franklin, Royal Oak, Huntington Woods, and part of Macomb County. She said campaigns typically choose their own pollsters. “Polls have to be careful not to skew the results. A carefully crafted, worded poll can help predict the results of a race or ballot initiative, but it's important not to rely just on one poll. Further, it's important (for the candidates and the strategists) to know how the messages are being received by voters. But polls are a guidepost – every candidate I've ever worked with has certain core beliefs they are going to stick with. Polls allow them to know which issues are most important to voters, and what voters want to hear at that time – so you can tell them what you're going to do about certain issues they want to know about right now.” She said a good example might be learning that tax cuts are not top of mind to the public, even if they are a central belief to a candidate – while health care concerns are very important to voters. A candidate might pivot to speaking about health care after learning
that from polling to appeal to voters concerns. Once in office, if the candidate prevails, he or she might return to working on tax cuts, along with the health care issue. “Good pollsters, especially this cycle are better, are taking deeper dives. They are not just asking questions about candidates, but about voters feelings. There are pollsters who are engaged in the process,” noted Dennis Darnoi, a political consultant with Densar Consulting. “In 2016, voters said, 'Oh yeah, I'm going to vote,' but they were as a 'likely voter,' and many pollsters did no follow up. They just took it at face value. They just did not do the deeper dive. This cycle, it's a different electorate and a different time. “Before, you could just look at someone's voting history – you could just look at that data and not press any harder,” Darnoi said. “What I'm seeing in '18 from trusted pollsters, is they're really gaining an understanding of the motivations of the voters,” he said. “It's really cheap to do a poll – and it doesn't have to be good or bad. “The good pollsters, who do live polls, which are very labor intensive and expensive – those are very accurate,” Darnoi said. “But they get lobbed in with the cheap pollsters. Unless there is a clear distinction between cheap pollsters and good pollsters, it's going to be said that polling is obsolete.” The 2016 election, where polls seemingly led pundits, media and voters to believe that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the Democrat, was leading by a landslide in the presidential election, only to have Republican Donald Trump squeak by and win the presidency. “What occurred in the 2016 general election is that every reliable poll was done in advance – at least 10 days or more in advance,” said Richard Czuba, founder, Glengariff Group. Czuba said he is currently doing the polling for The Detroit News and WDIV-TV. “Polling is a snapshot of a particular moment of when a poll comes out. Yet, races close in the final five days, the weekend before an election. I don't know of any media that can afford to do polls that close – and I wouldn't trust any that is spending money to. It would be influencing the race.” He said that in 2016, his last public opinion polls were done on October 10 and 11. “That's four weeks away from the election. There was no way it was meant to predict a race,” he said. “Instead, it was meant to help inform people of which way people were thinking.” The point of polls, Czuba emphasized, is not prediction, but as a barometer. “We need to be more responsible with public polls, because it (has the potential to) change the narrative,” he said. “It sears itself into the public mindset, and tells the voter population what is happening. “Polls should be much more than predicting a horse race.” This year, for the 2018 November 6 election, Czuba said he and many other pollsters are looking at “how people are viewing races through the lens of how they personally view the president. Rather than just putting out the numbers, we're putting out what is motivating voters.” In order to accomplish that effort, Czuba, Sarpolus and other experienced pollsters are working in different ways to achieve that goal. Few are relying on automated “robo-calls,” which can only be done on landlines, per federal law. In an effort to address the evergrowing scourge of telemarketing calls, in 1991, Congress enacted the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The TCPA restricts the making of telemarketing calls and the use of automatic telephone dialing systems and artificial or prerecorded voice messages. The law was updated in 2012, and forces telemarketers to respect Do Not Call
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lists to landlines. Political campaigns and polling are exempt. However, telemarketing calls to wireless, or cell phones, remains illegal, and it is illegal for anyone making any call, other than for emergency purposes, to use any automatic phone dialing system or any artificial or prerecorded voice message to any cell phone. That doesn't mean all campaigns follow that law. “The biggest change in polling in the last several years is people getting rid of their landlines – so the trick is getting them on their cell phones. Anyone looking to save a dime is getting rid of their landline,” said Dave Doyle, executive vice president of Marketing Research Group (MRG). “When there were landlines, you were pretty sure you were getting a certain geographical area – but now with a 248 area code, you could be in Los Angeles, New York, or Mozambique. The key is figuring out the right mix of cell phones, and if you have a large enough area with various demographics.” Doyle has worked with state Rep. Mike McCready (R-Birmingham) in his three previous races for the House 40th District, as well as in his current state Senate battle for the 12th District (Bloomfield Township, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farm, Franklin, Auburn Hills, Pontiac, Clarkston, Independence Township, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, Oakland Township, Addison Township, Orion Township, Oxford, and Southfield Township). “In an area like Bloomfield Township, you want to make sure you have a good mix of the community,” he said. “It's harder to do with cell phones. You have to ask more questions to make sure you have the right geographic mix. You have to have good live callers, because the best polls are with live callers.” Doyle said that some firms get around the law prohibiting “robocalls,” or automated surveys only to landlines, by having a live dialer call to a cell phone, and then connecting it to a recording. “We do not do that,” he emphasized. “Anyone who is only calling landlines, and not calling cell phones – you're obsolete and irrelevant,” Malloy, of Quinnipiac, said. Czuba concurred. “Michigan has a lot of schlock pollsters – driven by doing automated polls,” he said, “where they never call cell phones and just push a button.” Glengariff only uses live callers “talking to real people,” Czuba said. “Automated polls are known for under representing young people, who primarily have cell phones, rather than landlines,” Jill Alper, of Alper Strategies, said to Michigan Information Research Service (MIRS) in early October. “Polls and surveys have to fold in cell phones as people have cut the cord on landlines,” said Arnold Weinfeld, interim director at Michigan State University's Institute for Public Policy and Social Research, noting that makes it “ever more challenging these days. Response rates are very low right now – people are shying away from surveys and polls right now.” The advent of Caller ID on phones alerts callers to that likelihood that a call is a poll – or a telemarketer, or someone they don't know, and don't care to speak to. And increasingly, callers just don't answer the phone, meaning pollsters have to increase the amount of calls they make in order to reach a viable survey number. Another challenge – “In a tight labor market, it's harder to hire surveyors,” Weinfeld said. “Ours rely on (Michigan State) students (as does Quinnipiac). We are competing with retailers, restaurants, fast food. We have had our own challenges – so we recently raised our wages to be competitive, in order to have enough interviewers to handle the number of calls and polls we have to make.” Weinfeld said the right number of respondents for an adequate poll depends on what the poll is being conducted for, what methodology is being used, and what the geographic area is that is being covered.
“For our state of the state (polling), we want to get to 900, 1,000 respondents,” he said, meaning they have to make several thousands of calls to reach that many respondents who answer and fit the right demographic mix. A striking example of how many calls are needed to reach an ever-shrinking pool of people answering is rolling polls on Michigan's 11th Congressional District (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, the western Oakland lakes area and western Wayne counties) by The New York Times, as reported by MIRS. Of the 66,770 calls the newspaper claimed it made in the district, MIRS reported they were only able to get 465 people to respond to their poll – a slim .7 percent response rate. Results on October 10, showed Democrat Haley Stevens leading Republican Lena Epstein, 45 to 38 percent, with a margin of error of five percent, which is considered a high percentage of error among pollsters. In the 8th Congressional District, covering Rochester, Rochester Hills, northern Oakland County through Livingston County to Lansing and E. Lansing, the response rate was slightly higher – .9 percent, with 501 people picking up the phone out of 53,590 people surveyed. In this race, which many feel will be too close to call through election day, incumbent Rep. Mike Bishop (R) was up over Democratic challenger Elissa Slotkin, 47 to 44 percent. But noted national pollster and pundit Nate Silver of FiveThirtyEight had it much tighter, MIRS reported, over the same time period – with Bishop at 48.6 percent and Slotkin at 48.3 percent. To many, that's a dead heat. “Our margin of error is two to three percent,” said Michigan State's Weinfeld. “The lower the margin of error, the more reliable the poll, and the more reliable your entity is seen as a research source. “In a close race, plus or minus five or nine is too high a rate of error,” he noted. “We're trying to be relevant so people rush out to the polls. We'd rather have as many respondents as possible, with as low a margin of error as possible.” Doyle, of MRG, said, “The smaller the sample size, the larger the margin of error. It makes it much less reliable. If you get 300 respondents (in a Congressional race or state Senate race), with a plus or minus three percent, once you look at the smaller quantities within that, the actual margins of error go up. For example, if you have 152 within that group, the margin of error goes up. If you have 50 people over the age of 65 voting – the margin of error goes up. “The reason people do polling is because it's generally reliable – but only if it's done right,” Doyle continued. “It needs to be a geographically appropriate size, with an accurate demographic representation. If you're polling eight precincts in the 40th House District (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, the eastern portion of West Bloomfield), you can't talk to 40 percent from West Bloomfield, and they can't all be males.” Bernie Porn, of EPIC/MRA, does primarily live polls, seeking a response rate of 600 calls statewide, with no more than a plus/minus margin of error rate of four percent. Their mix is approximately 30 percent cell phones, “and it will probably be 35 percent cell phones next cycle. You have to have cell phones to represent all voters. “If 50 percent said, 'Yeah, it's a beautiful day out today,' that means it could be 54 percent, or down to 46 percent,” Porn said. Robocalls, he said, can be somewhat accurate only in primaries, “when you're only talking to Republicans or Democrats, or in school elections, because younger voters don't vote in those.” He quoted a recent poll which showed Slotkin up over Bishop by four points – the margin of error. “If there is a Blue Wave, the Democrats will rise up, and she will capture the Independents, as well, for a solid win,” Porn
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DOWNTOWN
11.18
INCREASINGLY, CALLERS JUST DON'T ANSWER THE PHONE, SO POLLSTERS INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF CALLS TO HAVE A VIABLE SURVEY.
prognosticated, based on his polling. He said pre-existing conditions are “really hitting home for voters – it's a huge concern.” And that is Slotkin's signature calling card over Bishop. “The federal tax cuts – people are slightly against them,” he said. “People are realizing the benefits are chump change versus the health care costs they are seeing. If Bishop loses, it will be because of that issue.” Darnoi, of Densar Consulting, thinks that is the race that is too close to call, and that Bishop could pull it off – but only if “Mike holds on to his female voters in Rochester Hills – women who have typically identified as Republicans but may be identifying as Independents this cycle, and how well he does with ticket splitters in Independence Township.” Darnoi said the biggest thing being seen this cycle is women who have traditionally been Republicans, supportive of Republican candidates and Republican policies, “are now in the polling, supportive of Independents, and self-identifying as Independents. It's not good for Republicans right now. It shows there's a stain on the Republican brand right now – that people do not want to say, 'I'm a Republican' right now. “Those voters will dictate and set the tone – just because those voter aren't self-identifying as Republicans doesn't mean they support liberal policies,” Darnoi explained. “Demographics will dictate, district by district.” He agrees that “it's hard to trust a poll with a margin of error greater than four percent – because if it's five percent or bigger, there's something wrong with the assumptions you have to make. It means your poll is unbalanced somewhere – something is off. There's not enough women, not enough women under 40, not enough people earning X. Then you're making an error in your judgement in the polling. With a large margin of error it should be discounted – it's not worth the paper it's printed on.” In 2016, “We said polling nationally was showing that Clinton was up three percent – and it is what she won by,” Porn said. “So the polling was accurate for the popular vote. Where the disconnect was at the time was in the social media impact – emphasizing how unpopular she was, and it may have been where voting or influence was suppressed, or where there was outside influence. “If not for that, in Michigan, I think she would have won.” Czuba of Glengariff said they only conduct live operator polls. “We only have live operators talking to people,” he said. With a plethora of polls being disclosed this election cycle, Czuba's advice is that “if the media is going to report it, I say, 'show me the full poll. Show me the demographics, the region, the age breakdown, racial breakdown, gender – this year you must have accurate age breakdowns. If, as a reporter, you can't see the full demographics, you shouldn't report it. This year, there are too many people putting out polls with an agenda – and those are the polls not to trust. The public has a right to be skeptical of polls – to be really wary of them.” “Four years ago, in 2014, we only used automated (landline) dialing,” said Steve Mitchell, chairman, Mitchell Research and Communications, who claimed his firm was only off by two percent in the governor and senate races. “In 2016, right at the end, we had Hillary Clinton at plus-three, and we changed our collection method. We did geofencing, which is a form of capturing voters on their cell phones or tablets. It's not a call. It's a banner. It's asking them if they want to answer.” Geofencing is a location-based service or app which uses GPS, WiFi, or other cellular data to trigger a pre-programmed action when a mobile device enters or exits a virtual boundary set around a geographical area, known as a geofence. Depending on how it is configured, it can prompt mobile push notifications, trigger text
messages or alerts, or send targeted advertisements on social media, among other applications. Mitchell was the only pollster or analyst who mentioned utilizing geofencing as a polling tool. He said at the end of the polling period in 2016, “I ended up overweighting, and I had the margin (of error) go up to plus-five for Clinton. “I will not make that same mistake.” He said this cycle, he is doing a combination of autodials and cell phones, as well as operator-assisted to landlines and cell phones. “Sometimes people are more honest to a computer than a person – especially Trump voters, because they've been castigated so much that they're racists, bigots. They don't want to tell a person that they're voting for Trump,” Mitchell said. Alper disagreed. “People are not as likely to profess their real attitudes to an auto dial as they are to a real human being,” she said. One of the bad raps of 2016, Mitchell added, “is that the polling was wrong. It wasn't wrong. The polling had Hillary Clinton at plustwo – and she did win with two percent of the popular vote,” he pointed out. “It was a dead heat. “Anyone who had it within two to three percent of actual results is a pretty accurate poll.” “Polls are only a snapshot of the moment they were done. They're not supposed to influence voters,” Czuba said. “We've seen countless times when something happens, an event that changes things. In 2012, Romney was closing in on Obama, but then there was Hurricane (Sandy) in October, and everything stopped and went back to where it was. In 2016, Hillary Clinton had a healthy lead in Michigan until the Comey letter in the last 10 days. But it was in the last weekend that Trump closed in on a close race – and then the person who is behind will win. No poll will show that because they're close in the last weekend, and they'll close and lead on election day – and there's no poll that can predict that.” Sarpolus, of Target-Insyght, noted another problem with 2016, was that despite respondents to polls, “more moderate voters, progressives and Independents chose not to vote for the top of the ticket, or did not show up at all.” He said that election day 2016, at 8 p.m., he was working for MIRS News, and noted that Clinton and Trump were basically tied, with Trump with a slight lead – “which is what happened.” He pointed out, “The Detroit Free Press had the big error, because they were asking people at the polls who they had voted for. The sample design they had created had the error. It was based on past elections, which was random samplings of precincts – and not representative of actual voting patterns. “Over history, theirs was more accurate. But not in 2016,” he said. Sarpolus chose a different method completely. “I basically started an automated poll at 5 p.m. and ended at 8 p.m. – with 600 completed interviews. It was more accurate (than the Free Press) because it was of people who actually voted. My sample design was more accurate than their scientific polling. I chose people who had voted, as well as some absentee ballot voters,” he said. “2016 broke the mold of how they should have designed their polling,” Sarpolus said. “Mine was more random, and caught the differences in actual turnout. It let people answer, versus specifically asking them who they wanted to vote for.” A pollster has to not just report the data, but to look at it and analyze it, as well. “I'm just a hired gun. Because of my background, I can't be partial. Whatever the data shows me, coupled with my experience, gives me the outcome. As a pollster, I may reject my results,” Sarpolus said. “Throughout 2016, I never said Clinton was winning – just said she was leading. I always said both Clinton and
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DOWNTOWN
11.18
IN 2016, MORE MODERATE VOTERS, PROGRESSIVES AND INDEPENDENTS CHOSE NOT TO VOTE FOR THE TOP OF THE TICKET.
Trump had high negatives. It was not typical of a presidential year.” He noted that in the polling throughout 2016, “Clinton never broke through 50 percent, which meant I could never say she was winning. It tells me that undecideds are going to break for the challenger – Trump – or just not vote. And that's what happened.” He asserted that in 2016, it wasn't the polling that was wrong – “It was the talking heads who were wrong, who always said she was winning,” Sarpolus said. “The polls always said she was leading. Further, the polls always said she would win the popular vote – and she did. The polls never said anything about the Electoral College.” In 2018, he sees similar momentum – or lack thereof – for two of the three statewide ballot measures, for Proposal 1, to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol; and Proposal 2, to create an independent citizens redistricting commission in an effort to end gerrymandering. Sarpolus has been testing the ballot language, and finding that many respondents are either not understanding it, that it is illegible, and they will vote no because of that, or that there needs to be more education on the issues and the language, or that voters do not feel a need to approve them, especially for the marijuana issue. “For the marijuana proposal, I don't see any marches, any youth rallies,” Sarpolus said. “People are indicating that those who want their marijuana, get their marijuana.” In typical polling, Sarpolus uses a mix of landlines and cell phones, and does stratified random samples, where calls reflect the population that will be voting that day. “Pollsters should try to call unlisted numbers as well as listed numbers,” he advised. “You're trying to build your sample in order for it to be a reflection of the community. You call the secondary numbers – if there isn't an answer, you hang up, and it's why you call the neighbors.” He gave an example of Troy, which he said is divided up into four segments. “There are bands of conservatives; Indians; whites and Polish;and Chaldeans,” Sarpolus said. “That is what a sample is supposed to reflect. With a mix of landlines and cell phones, I can do similar things as the Census Bureau.” The more advanced the sampling, with geo targeting, the greater the ability to come down to predictability, he said. He also emphasized that is why the sample size is so important – “because of the margin of error. The size depends on what you do with it. “One in 20 polls will be off,” Sarpolus asserted, “because it's a snapshot in time, if nothing else changes. That's why you do so many polls, and do a lot to withstand attacks on your polls. It's a science – but more of an art. It's why you have to study history – you have to understand the history of off-year elections, of who votes, the Chaldean community, the Hispanic community, of why males will answer the phone. “I've predicted every election (I've worked on since 1972) within a half-percentage because of my stratification,” he said. What are the pollsters forecasting in their crystal balls in the coming weeks? Most do foresee not only a Blue Wave of Democrats coming to roost in Michigan, but a Pink Tsunami – not only of women candidates who are running winning, but of suburban women who are angry, disaffected and highly motivated for change, voting – and voting for Democrats. “Trump will be largely responsible for the Blue Wave – he is affecting all the other candidates,” Porn said. He said that for governor, his polling shows a lock for Democrat Gretchen Whitmer. “She has 40 percent favorables, and only 26 percent unfavorables,”
Porn said. “She is above water and positive. Schuette, however, is underwater. He has 38 percent unfavorables, with 32 percent favorables.” In Michigan, Porn said that voters are most concerned about infrastructure, roads, and water, 27 percent; education, 21 percent; and health care, 13 percent; the state's economy and more jobs, 10 percent; controlling local and state spending, eight percent; state and local taxes, seven percent; the environment, seven percent; and controlling crime and drugs, just three percent. “Of the top three issues, Whitmer leads Schuette,” Porn said. “Schuette keeps pushing on taxes, and that is not a major issues even for Republicans. It's surprising that the sun, moon and starts are setting on the tax issue (for him) when it's just not an issue even for Republicans. It doesn't seem to make a lot of sense.” “Further, he seems to be stuck on the Nassar (the former Michigan State doctor convicted of multiple counts of sexual abuse) issue and that Whitmer didn't do her job – at the same time when you've got Bill Cosby sentenced to jail, and a Supreme Court justice accused of sexual assault and real issues of sexual harassment,” Porn continued. “Why bring up Nassar and sexual harassment? He's refocusing men and women, and it's not a good idea. He's not going to come out well on this.” While the attorney general race could be close, he said, otherwise, “it will be a Blue Wave all the way, and it will influence Congressional races, even down to state House races, and likely turn the state House. They will even pick up a few in the state Senate, but it's unlikely to flip the state Senate, but likely enough for the state House.” His polling and projections are showing Stevens winning in the 11th District, “and also Elissa Slotkin is looking stronger and stronger – I'd be surprised if she didn't win. Especially with (Speaker of the House Paul) Ryan's PAC pulling its financing (for Bishop). They're in the triage cycle, and they're come to the conclusion that they're not going to win and will put money in more viable races. “If there is a Blue Wave, Democrats will rise up, and she will capture the Independents as well, for a solid win,” he forecasted. Sarpolus pointed out that the 11th District – once so reliably Republican, it was gerrymandered to be a safe district for former Congressman Thaddeus McCotter, has changed demographically. “Many of the kids of immigrants who lived there, Indians, Chaldeans have moved back with college degrees. They're voting Democratic. The union people in western Wayne County – Trump has turned that area, the Big Three – they don't like Donald Trump. And a lot of children of Reagan Democrats from Macomb County and Wayne County, collegeeducated kids, have moved into the 11th. It's really a melting pot. “Democrats are leading where voters don't necessarily know who the Democratic candidates are – it's all against Trump and Schuette,” Sarpolus said. Darnoi concurred, and thinks the down ballot effect could be profound, noting that long time politician and incumbent state Sen. Marty Knollenberg (R-Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester, Rochester Hills) is “under water. His unfavorables are not good, especially for an incumbent. The Republicans are very worried, and it's trickling down to Doug Tietz (running for state House for Troy).” He said the 12th state Senate seat, usually a safe Republican district between McCready, the Republican, and Democratic challenger Rosemary Bayer, “is definitely being eyed. And McCready's seat, the 40th House District, (Democrat) Mari Manoogian versus (Republican) David Wolkinson, she's looking in very good shape. It's trending to Mari. “If there is a Blue Wave, we may see it crash upon the shores of Oakland County,” Darnoi said.
Elaina Ryder REALTOR®
Cindy Kahn
CINDY OBRON KAHN
REALTOR®
An Extraordinary Agent Providing Extraordinary Results 248.568.7309 | Cindy@CindyKahn.com | CindyKahn.com
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BIRMINGHAM 388 Greenwood Street $2,195,000
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Spectacular home in desirable area. “City chic” interior spans 5700+ SF of impeccable details and luxury. Magnificent master suite with balcony and treetop loft. Additional 2600 SF in LL. 5,758 Square Feet 4 Bedrooms 5 Full, 2 Half Baths MLS# 218094673
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BIRMINGHAM 1298 N. Glenhurst Drive $1,499,000 Quarton Lake Estates gem! Classic elegance and modern design in this updated colonial with outstanding architectural detail and superb amenities. Beautiful private setting. 4,294 Square Feet 4 Bedrooms 3 Full, 1 Half Baths MLS# 218099358
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BLOOMFIELD 5200 Windingwood Drive $599,000 Sprawling ranch surrounded by towering trees on 1.4 acres in sought-after Lone Pine Road Estates. Gilbert Lake privileges. Great opportunity to remodel, expand or build new. 2,593 Square Feet 2 Bedrooms 3 Full, 1 Half Baths MLS# 218098364
442 S. Old Woodward Avenue Birmingham, MI 48009 HallandHunter.com
EVERY PRICE POINT, SAME SUPERIOR SERVICE
CINDY OBRON KAHN 248.568.7309 | Cindy@CindyKahn.com | CindyKahn.com
City of Bloomfield Hills | 325 Dunston Road | $3,750,000
Bloomfield | 5015 Brookdale Road | $3,495,000
French chateau-style residence on one acre of gardens combines modern amenities & timeless elegance.
Exceptional estate on 3 acres. 1st floor master suite, amazing private in-law suite & indoor/outdoor pool.
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Bloomfield | 5735 Forman Drive | $3,400,000
City of Bloomfield Hills | 725 Vaughan Road | $2,750,000
Sleek, contemporary residence on double lot boasts spectacular Wing Lake views. Co-listed with Julie Sosin
Gracious estate nestled on 1.8 acres. Light-filled kitchen accesses outdoor space. Serene, sparkling pool.
Bloomfield | 4720 W. Wickford | $998,000
City of Bloomfield Hills | 55 Scenic Oaks Drive N | $949,000
Gated Hills of Lone Pine. Wooded setting with serene waterfall. Walkout LL. Co-listed with Julie Sosin.
Rebuilt & redesigned home in secluded enclave. 1st floor master suite. Finished LL has 4th BR, full bath.
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City of Bloomfield Hills 42 Vaughan Ridge Road | $625,000
Bloomfield 3735 Wabeek Lake Drive W | $425,000
West Bloomfield 5528 Old Carriage Lane | $269,000
Beautiful updated ranch condo with open floor plan & 1st floor master suite. Hardwood floors. Walkout lower level. Private setting.
Custom ranch condo in N. Wabeek lakefront setting. Remodeled with high-end finishes. Walkout lower level.
Quality built and lovingly maintained gracious colonial situated on a cul-de-sac in Potomac Green. Spacious master suite.
TOP AGENT 2012-2017
AREA TOP PRODUCER 2008-2017
TOP 1% OF REALTORSÂŽ NATIONALLY
FACES
Pete Dawkins etired Brigadier General Pete Dawkins was an avid competitor from a young age. "I would compete at anything, and enthusiastically so," Dawkins said in September, prior to Cranbrook's 2018 homecoming game where the school retired the Heisman Trophy winner's high school jersey. Stricken by polio as a youngster, Dawkins was the smallest player on the football team when he received an academic scholarship to Cranbrook at his mother's relentless persistence. Despite lagging in grades and size, he graduated in 1955 as an all-league quarterback and captain of the baseball team. "I realized I was hopeless at the size I was, so I decided I was going to get bigger. Even before I went to Cranbrook, I saw a Charles Atlas ad in the back of Popular Mechanics. I read all about it and sent it in, but it wasn't much help." Unable to afford a set of weights, Dawkins crafted his own barbell set with a lead pipe and concrete-filled coffee cans. Weighing in at 105 pounds his freshman year, Dawkins beefed up to 185 pounds by the time he graduated. After Cranbrook, he turned down acceptance at Yale University to attend West Point, where he continued his athletics and weight training, going so far as to hide disassembled barbells under his mattress and lifting at night against regulations. "I was really kind of crazed in terms of my desire to compete," he said. "I was a little unbalanced, probably, but it seemed to serve me OK." Playing as a 210-pound halfback, Dawkins went on to win the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award and was selected for the All-America team in 1958. He also served as assistant captain of the hockey team and won honors in rugby. In addition, he served as president of his class, captain of the football team, served as a Brigade Commander and was in the top five percent of his class academically. As the only cadet to hold all positions at once, he was featured in Life Magazine and Reader's Digest. After graduation from the Military Academy, Dawkins was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship, and later went on to earn advanced degrees in Economics, Public Affairs and International Affairs, the latter from Princeton University. During his military career, Dawkins earned two Bronze Stars for Valor, and held several distinguished positions. After retiring from the Army in 1983, he took a position as a partner at Lehman Brothers, later becoming vice-chairman of Bain & Company, CEO of Primerica, and held other positions in the financial industry. Throughout the years, Dawkins has credited Cranbrook and coach Fred Campbell's tutelage as major factors in his success. "He was a very demanding and tough personality, but for whatever reason he kind of took me under his wing early on," Dawkins said of Campbell. "We built a bond there and he really challenged me, and demanded a lot of me. Like so many good coaches and teachers, he was also remarkably supportive." To pay homage to his teachers, Dawkins established the Frances Miller Dawkins Excellence in Teaching Award, which provides an annual stipend to one teacher selected by students, staff and faculty. While he said the school initially pushed back on the single stipend, he was able to sway administrators. "Finally I said, 'I don't want to be a bully, but I'm willing to give you a big chunk of change to fund this 'thank you,' or I'm going to give you nothing,'" he said. "That was a compelling argument."
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Story: Kevin Elliott
Photo: Laurie Tennent
Grand Estate in Prestigious Gated Community $10,550,000
New Construction Estate in Kirk in the Hills $3,299,000 or $15,000/MO
Brand New Construction in Exclusive Gated Community $2,999,000
Custom Bloomfield Hills Estate with Indoor Pool $2,499,000
Remarkable Georgian Estate Near Cranbrook $2,499,000
To Be Built by Cranbrook Custom Homes in Gated Community $1,899,000 or VL for $399,000
Sapphire Homes New Construction in Bloomfield Hills $1,399,000
Luxurious Home in Exclusive Maybury Park Estates Gated Community $1,295,000
Downtown Birmingham Overlooking Barnum Park $1,199,000
210 S. Old Woodward | Suite 200 | Birmingham, MI | 48009 | 248.928.4224
Newer Construction Estate in Prestigious Gated Community $2,874,000
All Sports upper Long Lake Lakefront in Gated Community $2,850,000
European Inspired Estate Near Cranbrook $2,699,000
Georgian Estate Situated on over 2 Acres in Bloomfield Hills $1,799,000
Spectacular Custom Built home on a Private 1.26 Acre lot in Bloomfield Hills $1,699,000
Incredible former Frankel Model in Exclusive Heron Bay $1,495,000 OR $10,000/MO
Architectural Masterpiece in Bloomfield Hills $949,000
Golf Course and Lake Views in Bloomfield Hills $575,000
Updated Ranch off of Wabeek Golf Course $549,000 and lease $3,600/MO
210 S. Old Woodward | Suite 200 | Birmingham, MI | 48009 | 248.928.4224
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EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN AGENT AND AN EXPERT ReneeAcho.com | Renee@ReneeAcho.com
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5,758 Sq. Ft. | $ 5,758 Sq. Ft. | $
460 MARTELL DRIVE | BLoomfieLd HiLLs
5653 SHADOW LANE | BLoomfieLd HiLLs
5 Bedrooms | 6.2 Baths | 6,585 SF | 1 Acre | $2,950,000
7 Beds | 5.1 Baths | 7,451 SF | 4 Acres | $2,450,000
French-style estate privately nestled on one of the most exclusive streets in the coveted Cranbrook neighborhood. Exquisite master suite gracing the 1st level boasts private terrace with spa, sitting area, his/hers custom walk in closets & luxurious bath that rivals the most upscale hotels. Unparalleled architectural design & appointments include 18' ceilings, crystal fixtures, plaster detail, marble floors, stone accents & exotic woodwork. Flawless floor plan, spectacular walk-out lower level, & secluded outdoor oasis complete this remarkable estate.
History meets modern lifestyle in this 4 acre resort-like estate on Gilbert Lake. Situated in the heart of Bloomfield Hills, lush trees privately surround the park-like grounds featuring salt water pools, tennis court, lake front & multiple entertaining porches, terraces, & patios. Owners renovated every inch of this masterpiece including grounds, infrastructure & mechanicals to 21st century standards while preserving its classic architectural charm. This 5 star signature estate offers the ultimate in privacy, comfort, luxury & convenience.
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5420 LAUREN COURT | BLoomfieLd HiLLs
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789 VINEWOOD | BLoomfieLd HiLLs
4 Bedrooms | 3.1 Baths | 4000 SF | 1 Acre | $1,249,000
4 Bedrooms | 3 Bedrooms | 3.2 Baths | 3,700 SF | $1,190,000
Nantucket style estate home in the heart of Bloomfield Hills set on nearly an acre of serene treed landscape. Every inch was renovated or added on in 2014 with only the highest quality of design throughout from the scraped walnut hardwoods, wood beam ceilings, custom built-ins, ultra chic lighting, tile & stone selections. Gourmet kitchen w/quartz countertop & center island opens to dining rm & expansive family rm w/cozy built in reading nook & fireplace centerpiece. Aggregate patios, ultra private landscape complete this luxurious & comfortable home.
Luxury meets location in this custom built home set comfortably on a quiet street only steps from downtown Birmingham. Open & flowing floor plan with an abundance of natural light, soaring ceilings, warm hardwoods & custom trim throughout. Beautiful kitchen with plentiful maple cabinetry, granite countertops & large island opens to breakfast room. Master suite boasts fireplace, his/hers walk-in closets, spa tub & euro glass shower. Fully finished lower level includes wine cellar & half bath. Low maintenance, private outdoor landscape complete this Birmingham gem.
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4,150 Sq. Ft. | $ 4,150 Sq. Ft. | $
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7015 HAWK WOODS COURT | West BLoomfieLd
5600 BROOKDALE | BLoomfieLd HiLLs
5 Bedrooms | 4.2 Baths | 4274 SF | $899,900
4 Bedrooms | 3.1 Baths | 4400 SF | $999,500
Elegant custom built home perfectly set on a private cul de sac. Relish the details from intricate trim, doors & ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, & crystal & glass touches. Chef style kitchen w/walk in pantry & large island opens to breakfast rm & family room w/warm fireplace & built ins, & walks out to wrap around private deck. Indulgent master oasis includes sitting area, private deck, walk in closet w/custom built ins, & spa bath. Walk out lower level features full size 2nd kitchen, pub style wrap around bar, large rec space, 5th bedroom, full bath, & theater room.
Stylish home on nearly an acre of tranquil landscape close to downtown Birmingham features soaring ceilings & modern wood beams, exposed brick walls, and sun drenched rooms. First Floor master w/vaulted ceilings, spa style bath w/large euro glass shower, soaking tub & dual vanities. Chef island kitchen w/custom cabinets & state-of-the-art stainless appliances opens to massive great room w/gorgeous stone fireplace. Magnificent back yard oasis boasts built-in fireplace. 3-car attached garage complete this turn-key home perfect for a relaxed luxury lifestyle and entertaining.
210 S. Old Woodward | Suite 200 | Birmingham, MI | 48009 | 248.310.1414 Each office is independently owned & operated.
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11.18
Considered the second-most used herbicide in the United States and one that has been found in drinking water in thousands of communities across the country, atrazine is viewed as an invaluable weedkiller to corn, soybean and specialty farmers across the Midwest. In Michigan, nearly 6.4 million combined gallons and pounds of atrazine have been sold in liquid and solid form from 2005 to September of 2018, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), which tracks sales of more than 100 different restricted-use products that contain the herbicide. While essentially banned in the European Union since 2004 due to its strong potential to contaminate groundwater, atrazine has been widely used in the United States since 1959. Domestically, it's estimated between 60 and 80 million pounds of atrazine are used in the United States each year, with about 75 percent of stream water and 40 percent of groundwater samples from agricultural areas testing positive for atrazine, according to a study by the United States Geological Survey. In the United States, atrazine is registered for use against broadleaf weeds and grassy weeds. It's used on various foods, including corn, sorghum and sugar cane. It's also used for some non-food crops, including pine tree farms, turf for sod production, and some other turfs, including golf courses, roadsides and residential areas, such as playgrounds, parks and recreational areas. Atrazine is considered a restricted-use product, meaning only certified applicators are able to buy or apply the herbicide. As such, MDARD tracks all sales of atrazine. Records provided by MDARD to Downtown Newsmagazine show a total of 59,799 combined gallons and pounds of atrazine were sold, and assumed to have been applied, from 2005 to 2018 in Oakland County. Records show 50,978 pounds and gallons sold in Macomb County; 65,003 in Livingston County; 66,522 in Genesee County; 176,051 in Monroe County; and 8,513 in Wayne County. As can be anticipated, rural counties with a higher percentage of agricultural land had vastly greater sales, such as Lenawee County (293,990), Eaton County (313,364), Cass County (524,256), and Washtenaw County (163,675). While tens of thousands of pounds of atrazine have been used in Oakland County over the past decade, it appears most has been used for agricultural purposes. The question is, what effect has there been upon the residents of these counties? Rob Morosi, spokesman for the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), said the state doesn't use atrazine for weed control along any state-maintained roadways in the state. Likewise, Craig Bryson, spokesman for the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), said the county doesn't use atrazine along any roads serviced by the county. Inquires into atrazine use with local school districts and municipalities also show no atrazine use, which includes the cities of Birmingham, Rochester and Rochester Hills; Bloomfield Township; Birmingham Public Schools; Bloomfield Hills Schools; and Rochester Hills Community School District. As one of the most studied, widely-used and controversial pesticides on earth, the weedkiller has been linked to multiple effects on freshwater organisms, including fish and amphibians. Multiple studies show atrazine as a potential disruptor of sexual development in frogs, causing males to develop as females and even mate with male frogs. It has also been considered a possible human carcinogen, and a possible endocrine disruptor, effecting organs and hormones, and developing reproductive systems. Syngenta, one of the largest producers of atrazine, insists the herbicide is safe for the environment and humans. While it has been detected in thousands of drinking water systems, Syngenta says it's almost always
below the threshold set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A 2011 study by the U.S. National Cancer Institute concluded atrazine has no consistent link to cancer. Further, the manufacturer has rejected studies that have linked it to being harmful to animals or humans. Adding to the controversy of atrazine is evidence of a multi-million dollar smear campaign by Syngenta to discredit scientists publishing findings critical of atrazine's safety. That evidence includes internal memos, notebooks and emails that were released in a court case that Syngenta settled for $105 million with more than 1,000 public water systems which claimed they had to remove atrazine from their water supply. In settling the case, Syngenta admitted no wrongdoing or negligence. Currently, atrazine is in the midst of a pesticide registration review by the EPA. In 2016, the EPA's ecological risk assessment for the herbicide found "risk concerns for mammals, birds, reptiles, plants and plant communities across the country for many atrazine uses," with some recommending changes to the amount of atrazine allowed to be used on crops. More recently, the EPA released a human health assessment draft. Tim Pastoor, CEO of Pastoor Science Communications, and a former principal scientist for Syngenta Crop Protection, said the most recent assessment is good news for both the agriculture and herbicide industry, as well as for the public. "Atrazine is one of the best tested, best regulated and best understood pesticides on the planet, and I don't say
AS ONE OF THE MOST STUDIED, WIDELY-USED AND CONTROVERSIAL PESTICIDES ON EARTH, THE WEEDKILLER HAS BEEN LINKED TO MULTIPLE EFFECTS ON FRESHWATER ORGANISMS. MULTIPLE STUDIES SHOW ATRAZINE AS A POTENTIAL DISRUPTOR OF SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT IN FROGS... IT HAS ALSO BEEN CONSIDERED A POSSIBLE HUMAN CARCINOGEN. that lightly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there are many out there," Pastoor said, speaking on behalf of Syngenta. "It's been on the market for over 50 years. It's been through multiple rounds of data, development and regulatory reviews in a very transparent way. The data is showing atrazine is at extra low levels when found, or virtually non-existent in the environment. The EPA has gone through yet another round of review in gaining a degree of certainty in the safe use of atrazine. In the latest round, the EPA has done a remarkable job of turning over every stone of how best to regulate the product." As part of the most recent assessment process, the EPA conducted a cumulative health risk assessment. As a chemical, atrazine is closely related to two other herbicides, simazine and propazine, which together are called "triazines." Because triazines have a common mechanism of toxicity, they are often evaluated together in cumulative risk assessments, according to the EPA. In July 2018, as part of the EPA's registration review process, the agency released a cumulative human health risk assessment for triazines, as well as atrazine. The assessment also includes published toxicity and epidemiology literature. Overall, the assessment identifies potential risks to children who crawl and play on lawns and playgrounds treated with atrazine; workers who mix, load or apply atrazine; and workers who enter a triazine treated field after application to certain crops. Those opposed to the current use of atrazine see the EPA's current review in a different light.
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11/30 4 P.M. - 9 P.M. (Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 P.M.)
12/01 10 A.M. - 9 P.M. 12/02 10 A.M. - 4 P.M.
YOU R GO TO GUY Shain Park will come alive
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European food and drinks, gift items, holiday greens, crafts, ice sculptures, live reindeer, warming stations, a Kinderhaus childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activity area, the popular Santa House, horse-drawn carriage rides and live entertainment. More than 50 vendors will be
M I C H A E L S B R O CC A A SSO C I AT E B R O K E R 2 4 8 . 7 0 9. 9 1 1 9 | M S B R O C C A @ M A X B R O O C K . C O M 275
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Nathan Donley, senior scientist with the Center for Biological Diversity, said while the EPA did a good analysis of the ecological assessment of atrazine under the Obama administration, the most recent assessment is a return to industry-influenced findings. "The ecological risk assessment, or draft assessment, was done under the Obama administration. I thought that was a pretty good analysis. I thought they might have gone further, but they took into account a lot of studies, and recommended lowering the levels," Donley said. "Now, under the Trump administration, I think things have gone quite a bit different. This human health assessment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it's a typical assessment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they take the guideline studies, and these are done by the pesticide industry in support of their (own) product." Donley said he was disappointed the EPA didn't take into account studies that found harm to human health at lower levels, and discounted or gave less weight to some studies done by independent researchers and university studies that have been published in peer-reviewed journals. "The EPA typically ignores researchers at a university and focuses instead on these experiments that are required to be submitted by the pesticide companies," he said. "That's pretty typical." Donley said the models favored by the pesticide industry and given the most weight by the EPA are physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, or PBPK modeling, which is a mathematical modeling technique for predicting the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of chemicals in humans or other animals. Because tests can't be conducted on actual humans, the tests utilize concentrations that harm lab animals, such as a rat, and use the model to determine what exposure would be harmful to a person. "Let's say you have a concentration of 10 micrograms per liter that would harm a rat. To convert that for humans, the agency adds what are called 'uncertainty factors,'" Donley said. "Typically, the agency adds a 10-times uncertainty factor due to the fact they are testing a different species than humans. Then, they usually add another 10 times because lab rats are a genetically homogeneous group, or have no genetic difference... so that reduces the harmful dose by about 100. That's what the agency typically identifies as a safety threshold for humans." Donley said the newer PBPK models instead allows researchers to take the toxicity in an animal and convert it to what might be toxic in a human, rather than adhering to a standard uncertainty factor. "They are trying to get a better grasp on it than just a 10-times factor, but that model was partially developed by Syngenta, and they have quite a bit of incentive here to make a model that is beneficial to them," he said. Pastoor, who serves as president of the Health and Sciences Institute, has specialized in human health risk assessment for three decades, as well as in product development with DuPont, ICI, Zeneca, Novartis and Syngenta. Pastoor said the PBPK modeling gives greater certainty to the results of an assessment. "In this case, what they knew from using this computerbased model is that they have a greater degree of certainty, to 30 fold from 100 fold," he said. "The analogy I like to use is: if we are standing by a bonfire, and we know that everyone within five feet of it will be burnt, so to be certain we will stand 10-fold farther, so we go to 50 feet. Then, we say, let's go another 10-fold, so we are 500 feet away. That's what the EPA does in its regulation. But, with a greater degree of certainty, we have a greater sense of risk, so they say you can be closer than originally set because we know more." Pastoor said that even with a reduction in what is considered harmful to humans, the EPA has still maintained retaining the maximum contaminant level
(MCL) in drinking water for atrazine at three micrograms (ug/L), or about one part-per billion (ppb). The MCL threshold serves as a benchmark for potential human health concerns, rather than a regulatory standard. While atrazine is one of the most commonly detected herbicides in drinking water, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) states that about 95 percent of the nation's agricultural areas have less than a 10 percent chance of exceeding the threshold. "The highest probabilities are predicted for shallow groundwater in agricultural areas where substantial atrazine use is combined with natural conditions of permeable soils and high groundwater recharge, such as parts of eastern Nebraska," the USGS said in a 2012 study. "Probabilities of high concentrations are lower across much of the Corn Belt, where atrazine use is greatest, but soils tend to be poorly drained and often require artificial drainage that diverts recharge from groundwater to nearby streams." The EPA's Atrazine Monitoring Program monitors about 150 community drinking water systems, primarily in the Midwest. The program has been required since 2004, following a reregistration of the herbicide. Under the monitoring program, selected community drinking water systems are monitored on a weekly basis during peak atrazine use season, and bi-weekly during the rest of the year. The program doesn't monitor any locations in Michigan. The EPA also maintains an Atrazine Ecological Exposure Monitoring Program, which monitors atrazine
WE PROBABLY SAW ATRAZINE MORE THAN OTHERS, BUT USUALLY IT DOESN'T EXCEED THE DRINKING WATER STANDARDS WHEN IT IS PRESENT. MAYBE ONE OR TWO TIMES IN THE 20-PLUS YEARS THAT I'VE BEEN HERE. ONE OF THOSE TIMES WAS FROM IMPROPER DISPOSAL...THERE WAS AN ARIAL APPLICATOR (WHO) GOT RID OF SOME BY DUMPING IT DOWN A DRY WELL. levels in streams in watersheds exposed to atrazine runoff from corn and sorghum production. That program also doesn't include any monitoring locations in Michigan. Public drinking water suppliers are required to monitor periodically for unregulated contaminants. Those public drinking water suppliers include the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), which supplies water to the majority of southeast Michigan communities. The GLWA said monitoring for atrazine and other pesticides occurs every three years during the second and third quarters. Monitoring for atrazine last occurred in 2017, and none was detected. Previous monitoring by the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (the precursor to GLWA) also found no detection of atrazine in previous tests. Robert Pigg, with the groundwater monitoring program within the Michigan Department of Agriculture, said the state receives some funding from the EPA to conduct testing for pesticides in private and domestic wells. Pigg, who has been with the program for more than two decades, said the presence of atrazine in private water wells has dropped since the introduction of glyphosate, or Roundup. "We look in places that aren't normally tested. We do look for atrazine and other leachers that tend to move with water," he said. "Roundup tends to bind to soil well, and not leach." While atrazine has been one of the more commonly
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detected pesticides, Pigg said it has only been found to exceed the maximum contaminant level set by the EPA once or twice in the past 20 years. "We probably saw atrazine more than others, but usually it doesn't exceed the drinking water standards when it is present. Maybe one or two times in the 20-plus years that I've been here," he said. "One of those times was from improper disposal – we know for sure. There was an arial applicator, who isn't around anymore, and he got rid of some by dumping it down a dry well." A baseline study of MDARD's groundwater monitoring program tested 391 random wells between 1997 and 2000. Of the 75 different pesticides tested, atrazine was detected at just one well. That finding was at a level of two ppb, while the EPA threshold is about three ppb. Overall, the study found less than 1.75 percent of rural wells tested had a detectable level of pesticides. The one well that did test positive for atrazine was located in St. Joseph County, which had the eighth highest amount of atrazine sales in the state from 2005 to 2018. Despite the lack of atrazine presence, it's possible that the presence of contaminants may be seen many years in the future. "It's important to remember that groundwater quality in general, and domestic well water quality in particular, are lagging indicators," Pigg wrote in the report. "Infiltration and percolation of water from the surface to domestic well screens can take generations in some cases. The impacts of land use may not be reflected in domestic well water quality for several decades or longer. "For example, research carried out at the USGS in southeast Michigan indicated that 10 to 28 domestic supply wells (36 percent), which had been selected essentially at random, supplied water older than 47 years, based on tritium dating. This evidence, albeit limited, that the water quality of a significant fraction of domestic supply wells in Michigan has not yet been impacted by post Second World War and Green Revolution land use practices." Even if increases in contaminated wells is found, Pigg said there must be greater cooperation among agencies and others to mitigate the problem. "There's little point to searching for contaminated groundwater if nothing will be done once it's found," he wrote. "The Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program has provided state-wide leadership in tackling many of the problems that can lead to groundwater contamination. The MDA and other organizations need to continue to work to prevent groundwater contamination and to mitigate it when it's found." The spread of atrazine to groundwater and drinking water starts at the surface. Because atrazine doesn't bind well to soil and is soluble in water, it's easily spread by rainwater and other runoff from farm fields and other areas where it's applied. The herbicide can then be carried to streams, rivers, lakes and other surface water. Even without entering groundwater, surface water may serve as a drinking water source, providing yet another avenue for atrazine to enter a system. And, because atrazine breaks down slowly in rivers and lakes, it may persist for a long time. Atrazine may also drift when applied as a spray or in dust when it's eventually removed from the air by rainfall. In dust form, it's possible for atrazine to travel more than 100 miles from its application area. A 2012 study by the International Association for Great Lakes Research conducted a modeling study to determine if atrazine persisted in Lake Michigan, and if it poses a threat to algae, the foundation of the fishery's food chain. According to the study, researchers forecasted atrazine concentrations to increase from about .048 ug/L to about .67 ug/L by 2057, if current usage continues into the future. While the projection is below the known criteria for the established protection of algae, the model shows atrazine
to be decaying very slowly, or about .9 percent of the inventory each year. In addition to the EPA's maximum contaminant level for drinking water, Michigan maintains a surface water quality value for atrazine, which is set at 7.3 (ug/L) micrograms per liter. Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash said the department doesn't test surface water for atrazine in Oakland County. A 2005 study conducted by the USGS, in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), sampled 23 sites across the state for atrazine and other pesticides. The study took 320 samples from March to November of 2005. In all, only one site – the Black River, near Jeddo, Michigan, in St. Clair County, exceeded the state's surface water limit for atrazine. Sampling at the Black River site showed a maximum concentration of 10.55 ug/L, which is over the limit of 7.3 ug/L. Other sites and their maximum concentrations included: St. Joseph River, at St. Joseph (.9 ug/L); Kalamazoo River, at New Richmond (.16 ug/L); Grand River near Eastmanville (.86 ug/L); Muskegon River near Bridgeton (.25 ug/L); Pere Marquette River at Scottville (.1 ug/L); Cheboygan River (pond) at Cheboygan (.12 ug/L); Thunder Bay River near Alpena (.15 ug/L); Au Sable River near Au Sable (.14 ug/L); Saginaw River at Essexville (.71 ug/L); Clinton River at Mt. Clemens (.34 ug/L); River Rouge at River Rouge (.23 ug/L); Escanaba River at Wells (.15 ug/L); Shiawassee River, near Fergus (.97 ug/L); Deer Creek near Dansville (.48 ug/L); Grand River at Lansing (.88
DESPITE CLAIMS BY SYNGENTA THAT LEVELS OF ATRAZINE IN DRINKING WATER HAVE BEEN AND REMAIN LOW, THE COMPANY IN 2013 PAID OUT $105 MILLION TO SETTLE A CLASS-ACTION LAWSUIT WITH 1,085 COMMUNITIES WHO SAID THEY SPENT MILLIONS OVER MANY YEARS TO FILTER THE HERBICIDE FROM THEIR DRINKING WATER. ug/L); Shiawassee River at Owasso (.4 ug/L); Mill Creek near Avoca (.9 ug/L); Pine River near Marysville (1.75 ug/L); Belle River near Marine City (1.18 ug/L); and Clinton River at Sterling Heights (.24 ug/L). Overall, atrazine concentrations ranged from a low of .0046 ug/L to the maximum of 10.55 ug/L, with a median for all samples of .15 ug/L. While testing is typically done in areas where agricultural use is highest, sampling gave researchers with the USGS some varying results based on land use. Overall, the highest concentrations were from agricultural sites; however, a high percentage of agriculture wasn't consistently correlated with high pesticide concentrations. "For example, the drainage area of Deer Creek, a small stream in the Grand River watershed, is 82 percent agriculture (corn and soybeans); however, herbicide concentrations at this site were similar to those at urban sites," the authors wrote. "This was the case for several agricultural sites. "More detailed sampling – including sampling of storm runoff – and more information on site characteristics – such as the amount of tile drainage – would be needed to fully understand the effects of land use and pesticide application on water quality in streams." Despite claims by Syngenta that levels of atrazine in drinking water have been and remain low, the company in 2013 paid out $105 million to settle a class-action lawsuit with 1,085 communities who said they spent millions over
many years to filter the herbicide from their drinking water. The suit, which claimed atrazine exposure could lead to low birth weights, birth defects and reproductive problems, ended without any admission of wrongdoing. In fact, Syngenta said no one has ever been or could be exposed to concentrations in drinking water high enough to affect their health. The site included water systems from Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri and Ohio, serving about 52 million people. Payments ranged from $5,000 to more than $15 million, with an average payout of $50,000, according to the Associated Press, which stated the plaintiff's attorneys, Korein Tillery, received about $35 million in fees. Jason Rohr, a professor at the University of South Florida and one of the leading researchers on the effects of atrazine on amphibians, has also chronicled the controversy of that research. While Rohr said the settlement ultimately did little to improve drinking water in the Midwest, it did reveal the tactics used by the company to discredit scientific research that put the herbicide in a bad light. "The case was led by Stephen Tillery, and filed because they couldn't get the atrazine out of the drinking water to get out of the EPA's maximum containment level for drinking water," Rohr said. "I personally think the case wasn't necessary. I'm not a proponent of atrazine or Syngenta – I think their tactics are appalling. But Tillery tried to get me to be an expert witness. When I asked if they were using carbon filtration, and they said 'no' – they only had sand, which isn't a very sophisticated way to clean water “Why not sue the EPA for not enforcing the drinking water standard,” Rohr continued. “You can sue the EPA, but not for money, only to enforce a policy they aren't enforcing. So, they sued Syngenta rather than the EPA because it's easier for them to settle... the municipal water companies got very little... but that court case resulted in about 1,000 documents of Syngenta's being subpoenaed and revealed tactics, which was a smear campaign against Tyrone Hayes and others, including me, and to promote their own research." Hayes, a biology professor at the University of California at Berkeley, was hired in 1998 by EcoRisk Inc., a consulting company that hired academic scientists on behalf of Syngenta. Hayes's quit Syngenta after his research showed that levels of atrazine, which were below the EPA's threshold for drinking water, caused hermaphroditism and other changes in male frogs. As Hayes' research continued, he began accusing Syngenta of attempting to undermine his findings, his credibility and career. For instance, in 2003, Hayes was offered a position with Duke University, but the offer was rescinded after Syngenta allegedly interfered by contacting the university, according to documents revealed in a class-action suit. More than 1,000 pages of memos, notes and emails obtained by investigative reporter Clare Howard with OneHundred Reporters revealed a campaign by Syngenta to smear Hayes. One of the tactics revealed was to purchase "Tyrone Hayes" as an internet search so that Syngenta could link their material to his findings first. Other phrases included "amphibian hayes," "atrazine frogs," and related terms, and that searching for "Tyrone Hayes" prior to the settlement brought up an advertisement that said, "Tyrone Hayes Not Credible." Rohr said the tactics also included hiring a detective agency to investigate scientists on the federal advisory panel and looking into the personal life of a judge. Other strategies included commissioning a psychological profile of Hayes, having his work audited by third parties, asking professional journals to retract his work, investigating his funding, investigating his wife, tracking him at speaking engagements, and baiting him through emails. In some cases, representatives would appear at talks and attempt to embarrass Hayes. Rohr said he, too, endured similar experiences. In one
case, Rohr said a paper he and colleagues published showing atrazine increased infectious disease risk in a declining amphibian species was subjected to a critical review funded by Syngenta. The review, he wrote in a follow-up paper, misrepresented 50 studies and had 122 inaccurate and 22 misleading statements. Of the 144 inaccurate or misleading statements, 96.5 percent appeared to be beneficial for Syngenta in that they supported the safety of the chemical. Jennifer Sass, senior scientist for the Natural Resources Defense Council, said the EPA's Atrazine Monitoring Program was a result of negotiations with Syngenta and their work with the EPA. However, she said the program doesn't have teeth to require significant changes – simply just additional monitoring. Since the advent of the program, she said the organization hasn't been very active about atrazine. "We haven't been very engaged," she said. "Not because it isn't very important, but because the pesticide office has been stuck in this 'study the problem without doing anything' mode. Without a litigation angle – we can't sue them – we didn't see where we could make a difference." Meanwhile, farmers and the agricultural industry continue to press the EPA to move forward with reregistering atrazine without any significant changes. "Michigan farmers grow, on average, about 2.6 million bushels of corn annually, with about 56 percent treated with atrazine," Michigan Farm Bureau President Carl Bednarski said in a 2016 comment to the EPA. "Loss of the ability to utilize this herbicide will negatively impact
MICHIGAN FARMERS GROW, ON AVERAGE, ABOUT 2.6 MILLION BUSHELS OF CORN ANNUALLY, WITH ABOUT 56 PERCENT TREATED WITH ATRAZINE. LOSS OF THE ABILITY TO UTILIZE THIS HERBICIDE WILL NEGATIVELY IMPACT MICHIGAN CORN GROWERS, LIMITING THE TOOLS...TO...NUTRITIOUS FOOD EFFECTIVELY WITH LIMITED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. Michigan corn growers, limiting the tools in their toolbox to produce healthy, nutritious food effectively with limited environmental impact." The Michigan Farm Bureau, as many other proponents of atrazine, say the EPA's ecological assessment is based on "flawed science" and calls for reductions in application levels that would render the herbicide ineffective. Rohr, who said he has served on the EPA's scientific advisory panel in the past, had been asked to serve on the panel for the atrazine assessment until it determined his own research would play a role in the panel's findings. "I don't anticipate any changes," Rohr said about the reregistration process. "It's been evaluated every five to 10 years without any changes. The only change that happened was about 30 years ago when the label rate was cut in half. There's really nothing that suggests there's going to be any changes in atrazine." In terms of an all-out ban, Rohr said he has no position on the issue.. Rather, that's up to policy analysts to evaluate and policy makers to decide. "I'm not a strong opponent on whether or not atrazine should be banned. You have to look at the cost/benefit, and the cost/benefit of the replacement should be evaluated," he said. "Policymakers, not scientists, and policy analysts have to evaluate the cost/benefits. I'm not really against pesticides or GMO crops... I think we have to make sure we are using them appropriately. If they have more adverse effects than good, then look at that."
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Catherine Rollin ianist, music teacher, composer and author Catherine Rollin began learning piano by ear before she started kindergarten, with formal lessons starting in her elementary school years. Today, Rollin has written hundreds of compositions from her Bloomfield Township home and music studio, where she shares her knowledge with students from around the world. "My whole family could play by ear. My parents were very musical," Rollin said. "I was already playing very well from a young age. I remember as a kindergarten student that I played for the first graders. It was Beethoven, and I was playing by ear. "That has helped me a lot as a composer. Now, I'm a very schooled pianist, but playing by ear has given me freedom to sit down and be much more creative, as opposed to playing by notes my whole life." More than 400 of Rollin's compositions have been published by Alfred Publishing Company, including several books, earning her a reputation for creating works with a combination of musicality and teachability. Her work is also available in Japan and Taiwan, and has been featured on many prestigious lists throughout the world. Rollin's students have also gone on to find their own success as featured performers. Additionally, her own performances have occurred throughout the world, including her solo work and her recent trio Suite Detroit: Sounds of an American City. Rollin starting taking on students about 35 years ago, after coming out of music school. At first, it was side work while preparing for auditions. However, she quickly learned she had a passion to help students. "There was something in me where I had this desire to help students discover a passion of music, and to bring out the best in people," she said. Soon, Rollin was not only teaching students but writing her own
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compositions, many that she would use in her lessons. The idea, she said, is to provide appealing music to students to inspire them to learn. "If they are already outstanding musicians, they don't have any trouble finding music to showcase, but at early levels it's challenging to find something that sounds like real music." It was at the intersection of art and music where Rollin found another way to connect with students. "In my role as a teacher, I am always using imagery from art to try to inspire a student, in terms of their playing. If I want someone to use their arms in a way that is flowing, I might show them a painting by Monet and how the brushstrokes flow for the water," she explained. "As a person who loves art, I thought it would be really wonderful to have the artworks inspire me to write music." The idea was the inspiration for a four-book series, "Museum Masterpieces," which features musical pieces motivated by great works of art. Born and raised in Detroit before moving to her Bloomfield Township home 31 years ago, it's not surprising that many of the artworks featured in the series are at home at the Detroit Institute of Arts. The series earned an award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) in 2015. And pieces from the books have been featured in two concerts at the Cincinnati Art Museum. "I didn't know how accepted a book like that would be. A lot of my writing is for people who are studying the piano at different levels," Rollin said. "As it turns out, it had an incredibly accepting reception." Story: Kevin Elliott
Photo: Laurie Tennent
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MUNICIPAL After discord, master plan decision delayed
No applications for new bistro licenses By Lisa Brody
By Lisa Brody
Birmingham city commissioners, presented with two qualified groups which had submitted request for proposals (RFPs) to update the city's comprehensive master plan, disagreed at their meeting on Monday, October 8, over which group best met their vision of working with constituents, and with mayor Andy Harris absent, postponed a vote until the commission has all seven commissioners in attendance. Commissioners had previously postponed making a decision on approving a contract for the city's master plan update at their meeting on September 17, for a group helmed by DPZ of Miami, which created the city's 2016 Plan. The group led by DPZ was recommended to the commission by the ad hoc master plan selection committee after interviewing and hearing formal presentations from DPZ, formerly known as Duany Plater-Zybeck, and MKSK of Columbus. At the September meeting, some commissioners were concerned reading the materials provided by DPZ, formerly known as Duany Plater-Zybeck, which created the city's 2016 Plan, was overly focused on the city's retail area, and was not looking to incorporate the neighborhoods and other subplans, and requested the ability to question MKSK. Both groups came before commissioners at the October 8 meeting. MKSK team leaders emphasized that community involvement is critical, with stakeholder meetings taking place early in the process, followed up by week-long charettes. Meg O'Hara, from a Pittsburgh firm, said, “We spend a lot of time in established neighborhoods. We have an authentic way of spending time listening to your residents, and reflecting back the plans. There is a great authenticity to our process. We have different ways to approach the population of Birmingham. We take it and filter it through our experienced lens.” Commissioner Rackeline Hoff and mayor pro tem Patty Bordman, who was leading the meeting, were fans of the MKSK team. But other commissioners preferred the DPZ presentation, as well that the ad hoc downtownpublications.com
or the second year in a row, the city of Birmingham did not receive even a single application for a bistro liquor license for 2019. The deadline to apply for one of two available bistro liquor licenses for 2019 was October 1, 2018. There will be a second opportunity for a 2019 license since there were no applicants, with the deadline April 1, 2019. Per the city's ordinance, which was created in 2007, only two bistro applications can be approved each calendar year. The bistro ordinance was developed as an economic development tool to invigorate the downtown streets, create walkability and vitality, and to enhance the retail component of the city. The city's bistro ordinance was designed to create small and intimate establishments in the city's downtown and entice operators to create unique dining operations in Birmingham as an economic incentive to drive walkable traffic to the city's retail community. The ordinance permits no more than 65 interior seats, with no more than 10 of those at a bar, large windows that open out to the street, outdoor dining, and restaurants where food is the focus, not the bar. The bistro ordinance has since been expanded to include the city's Rail and Triangle districts, and there are currently efforts to tweak and improve the ordinance, including determining how much outdoor dining is appropriate per establishment; seeing if larger bistros would be allowable in the Rail and Triangle districts; deciding that outdoor patios cannot have year-round enclosures; and determining that railings or planters on outdoor dining platforms can not be any higher than 42inches tall, and rooftop dining would be permitted as an outdoor use if surrounding properties are not negatively impacted and there is also adequate street level outdoor dining.
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committee had recommended them. “We just worked with you on Old Woodward, and our frustration was that you repeatedly told us what couldn't be done – and then there were revisions, and they could be done, and then another thing came up, and it couldn't be done, and the cycle repeated,” commissioner Stuart Sherman challenged the MKSK team. “One of the issues we have – you mention urban design and downtown and the overall city, and how you look at that,” commissioner Mark Nickita said to MKSK, “but our planning in the last 20 years has been much less like traditional planning and more like urban planning. Can you embellish on how your team would address that?” “We understand that; it's clear in knitting together the areas of downtown and the neighborhoods,” said Chris Herman, principal of MKSK. Andres Duany, partner at DPZ, spoke to the commission, and was there along with Bob Gibbs of Gibbs Planning Group, and Sarah Traxler, Phillip McKenna and John Jackson of McKenna. Duany explained how “We are expecting to make different
reports for each neighborhood. If one plan had to work for all neighborhoods, it would be too generalized. We need a plan for each neighborhood.” He said during the charrette process, they work to seek out a cross section of the population, and not just rely on volunteers. “The first answer in charrettes is always 'no – I don't want to change. I don't want apartments, I don't want mixed use, I don't want traffic.' And it tends to be age – it's the old who don't want to change,” Duany pointed out. “If the young show up and they say yes – and then the old go along. The process is for the young. It's for the future – for 30, 40 years – it's not for now. “Also, it cannot be a self-selected group, because they become selfselected mobs. That's what makes it accurate.” Bordman publicly attacked Duany, telling him she felt his RFP ignored some aspects she felt was important, believing that MKSK answered it to her interpretation. “You will do what you want, not what we want. You may be a big deal, or think you are, but here you are not. This RFP is
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crystal clear in real language – not planning language,” she said. But she was not speaking for the entire commission. After a room wide pause, when Duany said, “I am so sorry,” Sherman spoke up and said, “I can see how someone can interpret the RFP from either direction. While we drafted the RFP carefully, maybe it wasn't as clear. This is supposed to be about clarification.” Nickita agreed. “There's some comfort in both teams coming up with about the same budget, even if one allocates it one way or another. It's clear they know how to do things. It comes down to the overall experience of both teams.” “We've had a recommendation from the ad hoc committee to go with DPZ. We appointed a very credible committee. DPZ did a great job, and with the presence of Gibbs and McKenna being here, in our backyard, I feel total confidence in DPZ, and I make a motion to award the contract to them,” commissioner Pierre Boutros said. “I feel the opposite,” commissioner Rackeline Hoff said. “Tonight, MKSK had so much more community involvement – which was our concern.” Bordman and Hoff insisted the commission hold off voting until Harris would be in attendance, despite his stated preference for DPZ at the previous meeting, and the voted was delayed until the next commission meeting when all seven commissioners are in attendance.
Township looks for new legal counsel Bloomfield Township attorney Bill Hampton has notified the township board of trustees that he will retire as of December 31, 2018, and trustees have issued a request for proposal (RFP) for either an in-house attorney or a law firm to provide the township with legal services. Hampton has had a long and illustrious career, first practicing law with his father in Pontiac, when in 1964, at the age of 26, he was elected to the state House representing Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills. Two years later, Republican leaders elected Hampton House Majority Leader, despite his youth. "It was pretty heady stuff to be the House Majority Leader at age 28," Hampton has said. "I was suddenly in 71
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a position where I was meeting regularly with Governor Romney and Lieutenant Governor (William) Milliken to plan our strategy for getting the Governor's programs through the state House." After a third term, he decided to he'd had enough of the state government â&#x20AC;&#x201C; although Milliken considered Hampton as lieutenant governor, before choosing James Brickley. Milliken appointed Hampton to an opening in the Oakland County Circuit Court, where he served several years as chief judge. In 1977, Hampton returned to private practice, as a partner with Secrest Wardle, specializing in municipal law, providing counsel for cities, townships and county agencies. He retired from the firm in February 2017, and went in-house with Bloomfield Township. Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli posted a letter that the township is â&#x20AC;&#x153;interested in filling the position either as in-house or through a law firm with a designated attorney to do general township legal services.
Existing contracts for prosecution, labor and tax tribunal work will be renewed and are not subject of the RFP.â&#x20AC;? The township is looking for a general philosophy on the attorneyclient relationship the township may expect. Fee schedules are negotiable, the RFP states.
Committee advises on ballot shortages A bipartisan committee appointed by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners submitted a report to the full board on Thursday, September 27, regarding the shortage of ballots during the primary election in Oakland County on August 7, with recommendations to avoid a similar problem in the future if implemented. According to the report, compiled by a four-member bipartisan Ad Hoc Committee on Oakland County Election Infrastructure comprised of commissioners Tom J. Berman (R-
Keego Harbor), Nancy Quarles (DSouthfield), Marcia Gershenson (DBloomfield Township) and Adam Kochenderfer (R- Rochester Hills), they determined numerous reasons for ballot shortages, including the complexity and challenges of forecasting voter behavior in the 516 precincts in Oakland County, unprecedented voter turnout and shifting turnout geography due to the volatile political climate, the lack of an emergency response plan among election administrators, and human errors like ballot spoilage and miscommunication that exacerbated problems in an already stressed system. Ultimately, the committee determined that approximately 140 precincts experienced ballot shortages and were resupplied, and approximately 75 precincts exhausted their supply of ballots and had to resort to emergency ballot procedures. Oakland County had a 34 percent turnout for the primary election in August, a record for a primary election. The report includes information and
contributions from 48 local clerks, Oakland County Clerk Lisa Brown and Elections Director Joe Rozell, precinct workers and voters. Among the recommendations for future elections, the committee suggested to amend the county budget in order to authorize sufficient funding for the county clerk to provide a ballot for 100 percent of registered voters in a primary. Ballots are provided for 100 percent of registered voters in general elections. The committee requested that the county clerk work with local clerks in developing a new procedure for allocating ballots, and to work collaboratively with local clerks to determine the appropriate ballot orders for each precinct. The report requests that the Secretary of State provide county elections staff with access to absentee voter data in order to improve election planning capabilities and to encourage the Elections Division to create an absentee voter tracker program that could integrate absentee voter data and historical voter data for more accurate turnout forecasting.
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Shop in Birmingham and support the local economy! Enjoy extra WLYRZ MVY ZOVWWLYZ LHYU )PYTPUNOHT )VU\Z )\JRZ HUK Ă&#x201E;UK \UPX\L NPM[Z MVY L]LY`VUL VU `V\Y SPZ[ ;OL L]LU[ ^PSS RPJR VÉ&#x2C6; ^P[O HU PUH\N\YHS Birmingham Santa Walk at 9:30 a.m. Information: 248-530-1200 or ALLINBirmingham.com/SBS2018
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Shain Park will come alive with activity during the annual Birmingham Winter Markt. Enjoy European food and drinks, gift items, holiday greens, ice sculptures, live reindeer, warming stations, Santa House, horse-drawn carriage rides and live entertainment. Tree Lighting Ceremony â&#x20AC;&#x201C; November 30 at 6 p.m. Information: 248-530-1200 or BirminghamWinterMarkt.org SANTA HOUSE & CARRIAGE RIDES |
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Weekends
On weekends throughout the holiday season, children are invited to visit the Santa House under the pavilion in Shain Park. Also enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides throughout downtown Birmingham. View the complete schedule for the Santa House and carriage rides at www.ALLINBirmingham.com/calendar.
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The problem of ballot spoilage could be minimized, the report suggested, with a $25,000 allocation which the county clerk has requested in order to launch a voter education effort, as well as to urge the state legislation to return political party logos to the ballot design. The Elections Division should have a plan for Election Day emergencies by hosting a training session where they discuss a response plan for future ballot shortages. The committee requested that the county clerk maintain timely, highquality customer service from the voting equipment vendor in advance of, and during, elections. They also recommended exploring the possibility of having a presence close to the southern population centers in Oakland County, and supplying this operations center with an emergency ballot printer. They requested the Elections Division partner with local clerks to offer ongoing work training, including more advance preparedness training for precinct chairs, and that the board of commissioners consider creating a grant program to help local
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communities in recruiting new precinct election workers. “After conducting an extensive review and analysis of the ballot shortages that occurred on Election Day, we are confident our recommendations, if implemented, would prevent a repeat of the serious problems many voters experienced at the polls on August 7,” Berman, one of the co-chairs, said. “This election demonstrated that you cannot take people for granted when they are hungry for change,” said co-chair Quarles. “There is a tremendous level of excitement about the political process this year from young people, women, minorities and many others. This committee listened, learned and is recommending steps are taken to protect the rights of all voters to cast a ballot.” “Every resident has the right to expect well-run elections free from ballot shortages. Our recommendations are aimed at protecting that right and ensuring we never again have ballot shortages in Oakland County," Kochenderfer said.
Update to safety path master plan approved Bloomfield Township trustees unanimously passed the 2018 safety path master plan update at their meeting on Monday, October 8. Olivia Olsztyn-Budry, township engineering and environmental services director, said the safety path millage renewal successfully passed in August, so the next step for the department was to update the master plan, which had last been done in 2008. Since that time, additional safety path routes have been requested by residents, either verbally, or by email or letter. She said safety path routes are also considered based on staff observations, as well as proximity to existing safety paths, schools, points of interest and commercial areas. Bloomfield Township's safety path program has been in place since 1998, with over 70 miles of existing paths. Following the millage renewal, approximately 5.8 miles of safety paths on the current master plan remain to
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be constructed, at an estimated cost of $6.2 million. Upcoming recommended paths to be included in the updated 2018 safety path master plan are Club Drive from Square Lake to Franklin, estimated to cost $3.6 million; the north side of Maple Road, from W. Surrey to Inkster, for $2.2 million; south side of Big Beaver, from Brookdale to Woodward, $380,000; east side of Woodward Avenue from Manor to city of Birmingham, $220,000; Square Lake Road, on the north side, Woodward Avenue to Telegraph Road, $1.7 million; the west side of Telegraph Road from Long Lake Road to Hickory Grove, $900,000; and the east side of Telegraph Road from Quarton to Long Lake roads, $1.7 million. In addition, there are several high traffic intersections that do not have pedestrian crossings, Olsztyn-Budry said. Four are proposed, and will be evaluated. They are: Telegraph and Quarton roads; Square Lake and Telegraph roads; Square Lake and Opdyke; and Woodward and Big Beaver.
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In addition, she said, long-term maintenance of the existing safety paths include an asset inventory database. “It helps us to determine the contracted repairs, where the ADAcompliant repairs are needed, and other needs are,” she said. At present, there is $3 million in the reserve fund, which should provide 15 to 20 years of maintenance at current estimates. She recommended that as land continues to be developed, that the township consider working with land developers, to require including safety paths in their site plans for approvals for future developments. “We've also been working with MDOT and the Road Commission (of Oakland County) as they do work, we're considering the establishment of future routes to include in the work,” Olsztyn-Budry said.
City parking report will now be reviewed Birmingham city commissioners on Monday, October 8, accepted the Downtown Parking Strategies and Recommendations report as presented by Nelson Nygaard Consultants, and directed the ad hoc parking committee to evaluate and prioritize implementation of the recommended strategies. Assistant City Manager Tiffany Gunter said the report had been developed to make sure Birmingham's downtown parking system is being operated, managed and developed in accordance with professional and technological best practices. With a shortage of parking, she said the city was looking to have a realistic plan for a more effective use of parking, as well as better management of the parking system in the central business district, one that will utilize the latest technology, be self-sustaining to cover operations, ongoing capital improvements and system growth. “The report draws upon best practices in parking and demand management to develop proven solutions that work,” Gunter wrote in a memo. “The consulting team has worked closely with the city and its partners to understand and evaluate the downtown parking system and develop recommendations to achieve the outcomes.” Of the existing conditions, Nelson Nygaard wrote in its report that parking demand has been steadily increasing, especially for long-term, monthly downtownpublications.com
BSD to increase annual assessments By Lisa Brody
fter not increasing its assessment rates on first floor retail or second floor and above space for at least a decade, the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) Board of Directors voted on Thursday, October 4, to increase the rate for second floor space and above from $.196 per square foot in the central business district to $.346 per square foot, pending approval from the Birmingham City Commission. Board member Steve Quintal was the only dissension. The BSD was created after citizens lobbied in Lansing in 1991-1992 to get a Principal Shopping District (PSD), which was created by statute. Recently, it was rebranded as the “Birmingham Shopping District” for marketing purposes. The mission of the board is to provide leadership in marketing, advertising and promotion of the downtown retail district, ensuring the entire shopping district serves as a center for business, service, social, cultural and community activities. For the last 10 years, the rates, set every three years, have been kept constant, at District 1 (the central business district), first floor, at just under 50 cents a square foot;, second floor and above, $.196; for District 1A, areas beyond the central business district, first floor, $.247; second floor and above, $.96. “There was a strong retail focus when the PSD was created, but others have also benefitted, When the act was created in 1992, there was a cap of $10,000 per building,” Ingrid Tighe, executive director of the BSD, explained. “The cap has been raised every year with inflation and is currently at $15,517.” Property owners are assessed, and usually pass on the assessments to retailers and businesses in their rents. Tighe explained in a memo that four years ago the BSD started saving for the Old Woodward construction project, with the goal to have a fund balance of $600,000. Their goal is to save again for the two future downtown road construction projects – Maple in 2020, and S. Old Woodward in 2022. The decision to increase the assessment on the second and high floors – in essence, on the office market – was made because it was felt retailers endured the greatest burden of the road construction project this past summer, and will continue to with the future projects, board member and retailer Richard Astrein said. “There will be two more tough phases,” he said. Further, he said, “most of the burden on the parking system is because of office.” At the BSD board's September meeting, a proposal to increase the assessments was met with concern by some board members, including Quintal, who represents landlord Ted Fuller and Central Park Properties on the board. At that meeting, according to minutes, he stated that it was a big increase for large companies and he was not comfortable with the assessment amount doubling. At the October 4 meeting, Tighe proposed holding the first floor retail space assessment at the same level, and increasing the second floor and above, but 20 percent less than recommended in September, to $.346 for those in District 1, and to $.173 for those in District 1A, for a period of four years. The board approved the request, with Quintal dissenting, and board member Judy Solomon absent. The request will go before the Birmingham City Commission for approval on Monday, November 12.
A
parking, and has outpaced the addition of new parking supply. However, at any time of the day, at least half of the metered (more than 70 percent) block segments are underutilized. During the peak lunch period, each
of the city's five garages exceed 90 percent utilization. A significant number of parkers staying longer than five hours are not permit holders. And the permit wait is longer, but many of these parkers are finding space within
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the system, “sometimes paying more to park and sometimes finding other opportunities.” Birmingham's current downtown parking system consists of about 4,944 publicly owned spaces, of which 3,423 are in the five public parking structures; 1,272 are metered, on street; and 391 are in five surface parking lots. There are two private, independently-run parking structures and additional private parking lots which are being used temporarily by the city to expand supply and meet demand from permit parkers. Potential strategies to redistribute demand include expanding employee parking options and ensuring drivers know their options; to reduce demand, they suggest optimizing “ParkOnce efficiencies; provide circulator and shuttle options; improve pedestrian and bicycle network infrastructure; provide commuter benefits; and transition monthly permits to a daily pricing structure. Other recommendations include expanding capacity, whether by continuing to refine the public valet for visitors and commuters; expanding mobile pay options; varying regulations; allocating curbside spacing for highercapacity forms of parking; and using pay-by-phone options to encourage offhours shared parking. They also suggest expanding the supply, to continue to refine jointdevelopment mentality, as well as to develop technologies, such as utilizing license plate recognition software, and supporting electronic vehicle infrastructure. Commissioners voted 4-0, with mayor Andy Harris absent, and commissioners Stuart Sherman and Mark Nickita having left due to the late hour, to approve accepting the report and moving it back to the ad hoc parking committee to recommend implementation.
City joint meeting highlights issues By Lisa Brody
At their joint workshop on Monday, October 15, the Birmingham city commission and planning boards shared thoughts on current issues and action items, including proceeding on changing zoning for residents’ ability to age in place; rooftop usage in the MX, or Rail, District; use of astro turf in residential rear yards; and walls, structures and grade changes in front yards. 77
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The joint workshop, one of two they hold annually, was an informal session, with staff presentations followed by discussions, but no formal decisions or votes were taken. The meeting allowed a free discussion format between the planning board and city commissioners, with each member able to share their perspective and thoughts on problems, as well as potential solutions. Planning director Jana Ecker presented the first item, aging in place, for both boards to consider, as a series of items the planning board could be directed to study as zoning ordinance changes to then present to the commission. “This whole topic, we first addressed about 10 years ago, and at that time, our zoning ordinances did not allow for any (aging in place) uses anywhere, other than we changed some parking requirements,” Ecker said. “We didn't address aging in place if you want to stay in your home, in terms of mobility, the addition of ramps; people wanting to redesign their kitchens and baths to allow for wheelchairs; some want to add a first floor master – what do they do if they've already reached their setbacks. “Is this something the city commission wants us to start looking at
– to change zoning ordinances for our aging population?” she asked, noting it would primarily address single family residential, but could also be applicable to multimodal, as there are sidewalks everywhere, “and should there be benches to sit down on, along with other things?” “Part of this is the larger topic of affordable housing, and the discussion on a nationwide scale,” planning board chair Scott Clein said. “If this moves forward, could we discuss it with affordable housing, because someone leaving their single family home (in Birmingham) cannot afford something that's at $700 a square foot.” “I think it could be any kind of housing,” commissioner Carroll DeWeese said. “I think we should look at all of our zoning for aging in place, at the broader issue for the whole housing code for our population. We're going to have more and more aging in place.” “This is probably a trend affecting many communities – are there any standards?” asked mayor Andy Harris. “There aren't any standards, but there are many examples out there,” Ecker responded. “One of the unintended consequences is what happens if the seniors change the house – and then
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when they sell the house, it's to someone younger? What do they do with the house?” asked commissioner Rackeline Hoff. Commissioner Mark Nickita noted that, among a variety of suggestions, from converting garages to first floor spaces, that perhaps changing density requirements for certain neighborhoods or certain streets would work. It was determined that aging in place was an issue to be examined further. Ecker then explained that in Birmingham's downtown and Triangle District, “you can have a rooftop patio, fireplace, pool, patio, etc. But in the MX (Rail) District, when the ordinances were developed, it prohibited rooftop uses.” She said several developments in the MX District have wanted to offer rooftop amenities, but have been prohibited. “Should we consider changing it in the MX District so they have equal opportunity?” she asked. “I'm a big fan of this, and we should have addressed this a while ago. It's a common amenity in a lot of buildings, and it's increasingly in a lot of cities,” Nickita said. There was consensus to look at
changing the ordinance to permit rooftop usage in the MX District. Building official Bruce Johnson said there have been requests from people to install astro turf in their rear yards. “We have always denied them,” Johnson said. “We've considered them an impervious surface, that rainwater wasn't able to filter through. But there have been improvements to filter systems, where they now circulate through to water plants and flowers. One kind, the softest, most realistic kind, holds up in residential use. It comes in lots of colors. The drainage system is pretty much determined by the installer.” He explained that drainage systems can vary anywhere from flowing directly out to the drainage system to being reclaimed and reused, with 100 percent of the rainwater retained. It was determined it was a viable option to study. Johnson then showed photos of some homes which had changed the grade in their front yards and installed short walls. “This is a new topic, and it's done after the fact,” he said. “You're right. We need to be very clear as to what is permitted,” Nickita said. “We need to get in front of this. We need to define the limits.”
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FACES
Jerod and Elizabeth Swallow etting to travel with your partner is often a fun time. Getting to travel to compete in the Winter Olympics together is a little bit better than your average trip, though. That’s exactly what Jerod and Elizabeth Swallow got to do during their ice skating career. Numerous times. “I wouldn’t have wanted to have that experience with anyone else,” she said. “He was definitely a big sense of support for me and it was so unique that we were able to compete together in the only Olympic sport where men and women compete together.” During their ice dancing career the duo – who have lived in Birmingham the last 20 years – competed together at two Winter Olympics, multiple World Championships, and won five U.S. Championships, including one in Detroit – a special moment for both of them. Before they become that powerhouse skating team, though, they skated with different partners until one day they were paired up in a mock competition, where skaters were paired with different people so judges could practice judging. “I don’t think we were thinking of partnership then but a few years later we skated together again,” Jerod said. “I think that’s when people started noticing how well-suited we were for one another, at least on the ice.” They realized it too, and made it official. Both commented that they thought they worked so well together for a few reasons. One, they had become friends first and two, they are both rather easygoing, a key to success in any sport with intense competition. “You spend more time together as partners than a lot of married couples do,” he laughed. “So if you can get along and be an ice dancing couple you can probably be a good match for husband and wife.”
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Turns out they were. The couple got married in 1993, and competed together for five more years. They ended their eligible career in 1998, and skated professionally for a few years after that. That transition of going from competing to a more regular life was difficult for both of them. Luckily, they had someone going through the exact same thing right next to them. Elizabeth said those last five years of skating were spent trying to prepare themselves for what was to come. What they didn’t know was that all of those big changes – leaving skating, going back to school, coaching, and starting a family – would happen at the same time. “That was a big transition for us, and I feel like we finally got over the hump. I didn’t realize it would take 10 years to make that transition,” she laughed. "It hits you by surprise whether you are ready for it or not. It’s definitely a humbling experience and there’s no real road map.” Both went on to coach at the rink they called their home ice for years, the Detroit Skating Club in Bloomfield Township. While Elizabeth left in 2014 to pursue a career in interior design, Jerod stayed, now serving as their managing director. He’s getting the next generation ready, including those coming to compete at the 2019 U.S. Figure Skating Championships which will be held in Detroit. The Detroit Skating Club will host the novice, intermediate, and juvenile events during the competition. Elizabeth has some advice for those upcoming skaters. “Enjoy every moment of it because you really are competing for such a short time in your life and that is fleeting,” she said. Story: Dana Casadei
Photo: Laurie Tennent
BUSINESS MATTERS Return to retail From his original Birmingham retail establishments Mark Keller, to West End to Basic Goods, Mark Keller has returned to his retail roots, which stretch back to 1975, with the establishment of Matthildur x Mark Keller, 929 S. Eton Road in Birmingham, where he shares space with Laurie Tennent Studio. “I met Matthildur 20 years ago, when I still had the (Lilith) retail store in the (Willits) alley,” Keller said, of the Icelandic designer, who at the time was working with two other women and marketing under ELM designs – which stood for their three initials. “I bought some sweaters and sold them, and I told them I could help them out – I opened 40 accounts for them.” The company grew – until the 2008 Great Recession, when the country of Iceland actually went bankrupt. Matthildur’s friends soured on the business, but Keller told her to go for it – and she has, using fine Peruvian fabrics and a flowing style. Keller opened accounts around the country for her, including many in New York City, and periodically did pop-ups in Birmingham’s Linda Dresner. Recently, they saw the space at photographer Laurie Tennent’s in Birmingham’s Rail District, “and we said it’s perfect,” and Keller is back in retail. “Retail is not dead – and Birmingham has great retailers – like Linda Dresner, Caruso, and Sundance Shoes,” he said. What Keller likes best about having his own store again, which is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday and by appointment, “is getting customer feedback. That’s worth a zillion dollars. I enjoy the ability to listen and make people happy.”
Hockey World was started in 1976 in Flint by Bob Perani, a local pro hockey player and fan favorite who played for a number of years as a goalie with the Flint Generals. Over the past 30 years, the company has grown to include 22 retail stores in North America, with a companion web and catalog company.
Glowing medi spa Honet Dermatology, 36800 Woodward Avenue, Suite 100, in Bloomfield Hills, helmed by accomplished board certified dermatologist Linda Honet, MD, FAAD, is opening The Glow Studio in early November. The Glow Studio, with eight treatment rooms, will be connected to the medical office, and expand the offerings and nurturance available to patients. “We are going to be doing all of our cosmetic procedures, including Botox and all injectables, at The Glow Studio,” said Senada Purovic, assistant practice manager. Besides fillers and injectables, all noninvasive body contouring, such as Coolsculpting, TruSculpting 3D and BTL Exilis, will be available at The Glow Studio, as well as facials done by a medical aesthetician. “Our facials are different because a majority of them incorporate the Restorsea product line, which is only available at our offices,” Purovic said. Restorsea is a revolutionary anti-aging skincare line anchored in an enzyme salmon fry release at the time of hatching. “We are also still going to be doing silk peels and chemical peels,” Purovic said, along with the addition of microneedling, PRP treatments, and laser treatments. “The Glow Studio is really beautiful. I can’t wait for everyone to see it,” Purovic said.
Hockey shop opening Sports enthusiasts will enjoy a new store to find their gear, with the opening of Perani’s Hockey World. The new store, located at 2067 S. Telegraph Road in Bloomfield Township, features all kinds of ice hockey gear, from skates to gloves, along with lacrosse equipment, for players in youth to adult leagues. Perani’s 82
Design shop out Paulina BH, a dress boutique owned by Paulina Braiz-Harb, specializing in custom fashion dresses and accessories, located at 229 N. Old Woodward in downtown Birmingham, closed in September. Braiz-Harb, a native of Venezuela, said she started designing dresses at the age of 11 and finally opened
her first retail store in the summer of 2008 in Birmingham. She said she currently does not have plans to reopen a retail location.
Tuning in and cutting out Even better than a haircut and a shave is a haircut and a radio show. Lady Jane’s Haircuts for Men, whose corporate headquarters are located at 34915 Woodward Avenue in downtown Birmingham, has entered into a partnership with Beasley Radio to unveil the Wicked Awesome Productions Lounge – a state-of-the-art broadcast studio for Beasley Stations, which include 101.1 FMWRIF, 94.7 FM-WCSX, and 105.1 FM-WMGC. “Lady Jane’s Haircuts for Men owner Chad Johnson has created something truly unique with his corporate headquarters and adjacent coffee shop, Birmingham Roast,” said Beasley Radio Vice President and Market Manager Mac Edwards. “Our personalities are excited to be part of the bustling action that surrounds this exciting retail development.” Johnson paid the compliment back. “The Wicked Awesome Productions Lounge will help us bring our headquarters full circle.The radio stations and the talented local personalities in Detroit have always been a huge part of our brand. We value our relationship with Beasley Radio and I am so excited to be able to build this studio for them, my corporate staff and the people of Birmingham,” Johnson said.
Runner safety clinics Better safe-than-sorry is a great motto – one that Gazelle Sports, 99 W. Maple Road in downtown Birmingham, is espousing with free Injury Wise Clinics, an in-store opportunity for individuals to consult one-on-one with a sports medicine professional to address any injury concerns. From torn muscles to sprained ankles to shin splints, when dealing with the discomfort and inconvenience of a minor injury, fitness enthusiasts have questions and want answers, without the challenges of securing a doctor’s
DOWNTOWN
appointment. Held periodically, their next Injury Wise Clinic is Tuesday, November 6, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness novice, injuries happen. Free 10-minute appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is no advance registration required.
Jeweler closed There’s one less jeweler in downtown Birmingham. James Designs Fine Jewelry, 135 Pierce Street, next to Woolly & Co., closed late this summer.
Clean shop Ecologically clean and earthfriendly, Tide Dry Cleaners opened its first Michigan location at 33367 Woodward Avenue in Birmingham. The local franchise, owned by Ankur Patel, is the first in a series, with a Shelby Township location in the offing. Tide Dry Cleaners utilizes environmentally friendly GreenEarth Cleaning for all dry cleaned clothing, and Tide and Downy on all laundry. “It’s environmentally safe. It’s completely green. We don’t perk like the older dry cleaners,” said a representative. The cleaners, which is open seven days a week, features a drive thru where customers can just pull up and an attendant will come out and take their clothing, or deliver it to them. They also offer 24-hour drop off and pick up at the Woodward location.
Restaurant makeover Local dining favorite Pasta Fagiola at Square Lake and Telegraph roads has shuttered its doors after its long-time owner sold out, and new owners couldn’t make a go of it. It has reopened as Kabob Kings, 2398 Franklin Road, offering classic Mediterranean cuisine. Business Matters for the Birmingham Bloomfield area are reported by Lisa Brody. Send items for consideration to LisaBrody@downtownpublications.com. Items should be received three weeks prior to publication. 11.18
A culture is defined by its people. Sotheby’s International Realty is the vanguard of prestige property in the global real estate market. We were founded 42 years ago and share nearly three centuries of heritage with Sotheby’s selling the world’s most cherished possessions. Our remarkable story has been on of ambition, foresight, and inspiration. We have established a truly global presence, with innovative technology and unrivaled service. The culture of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand is defined by its people. We are particularly proud of all of the exceptional sales associates across our network, from Tokyo to Telluride, and Paris to Palm Beach, who provide personalized service and local expertise that help clients achieve their dreams. Our commitment to these principles is unwavering. We understand unlike any other that a home is an investment in your future – a statement about how you and your family want to live and where you will create countless lasting memories. Sincerely,
Philip White President and Cheif Executive Officer Sotheby’s International Realty 72 COUNTRIES. $108 BILLION IN SALES VOLUME IN 2017. NO PLANS OF SLOWING DOWN. ©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
sir.com
Birmingham | Bloomfield Hills | Northville | Grosse Pointe
248.644.7000
Michigan's #1 Family of Real Estate John, Bridget & Jack Apap Cell 248.225.9858 | japap@signaturesothebys.com
www. johnapap.com 415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009
Top Producing Agent
271 Fairfax Street
1011 Westwood Drive
Birmingham - $2,599,900
Birmingham - $2,195,000
1080 Pleasant Street
856 Lakeview Avenue
Birmingham - $1,645,000
Birmingham - $1,575,000 r
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1219 Quarton Road
7106 Old Mill Road
Birmingham - $1,349,000
Bloomfield Hills - $1,297,888
Lynn Wiand
Chemical Bank, Mortgage Division
Vice President | Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS # 394920
Lynn.Wiand@ChemicalBank.com
248-228-4805 2301 W. Big Beaver Rd. Suite 525 Troy, MI 48084
Michigan's #1 Family of Real Estate John, Bridget & Jack Apap Cell 248.225.9858 | japap@signaturesothebys.com
www. johnapap.com 415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009
Top Producing Agent
4792 Hough Road
4290 N Willoway Estates Court
Dryden Township - 30 Acre Horse Farm - $1,275,000
Bloomfield Hills - $1,249,000
on
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1527 N Glengarry Road
2993 Heron Place
Bloomfield Village
Bloomfield Hills - $1,199,900
2723 Indian Mound Road South
275 Barden Road
Bloomfield Village - $1,099,000
Bloomfield Hills - $1,067,500
248-644-1200 248-644-1201 (f) 36400 Woodward Ave, Suite 122 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
Ken Mascia NMLS #135323
kmascia@primecapitalmortgage.com
Michigan's #1 Family of Real Estate John, Bridget & Jack Apap Cell 248.225.9858 | japap@signaturesothebys.com
www. johnapap.com 415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009
Top Producing Agent
585 Golf View Blvd
140 Hamilton Road
384 Puritan Avenue
Birmingham - $1,050,000
Bloomfield Village - $974,900
Birmingham - $924,900
9414 Softwater Woods Drive
1825 Huntingwood Lane
3623 W Bradford Drive
Clarkston - $799,900
Bloomfield Hills - $749,900
Bloomfield Hills - $409,900
4076 Willoway Place Drive
977 Stratford Lane
31843 Sheridan Drive
Bloomfield Hills - $384,500
Bloomfield Hills - $375,000
Beverly Hills Village - $369,000
Lara J. Forte Senior Loan Officer NMLS # 1169665
Lara.Forte@ChemicalBank.com
Chemical Bank, Mortgage Division
248-284-5178 2301 W. Big Beaver Rd. Suite 525 Troy, MI 48084
Michigan's #1 Family of Real Estate John, Bridget & Jack Apap Cell 248.225.9858 | japap@signaturesothebys.com
www. johnapap.com 415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009
Top Producing Agent
1170 Chesterfield Avenue
4950 Stoneleigh Road
Birmingham - $2,149,000
Bloomfield Hills -$1,575,000
Extraordinary Homes
1080 Pilgrim Avenue
1186 Westwood Drive
Birmingham - $2,795,000
Birmingham - $2,295,000
1298 Brookwood Street
885 Redding Road
887 Redding Road
Birmingham - $2,295,000
Birmingham - $1,249,000 - Price reflects one Townhome
Birmingham - $1,249,000 - Price reflects one Townhome
248-228-4805 2301 W. Big Beaver Rd. Suite 525 Troy, MI 48084
Chemical Bank, Mortgage Division
Lynn Wiand
Vice President | Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS # 394920
Lynn.Wiand@ChemicalBank.com
Michigan's #1 Family of Real Estate John, Bridget & Jack Apap Cell 248.225.9858 | japap@signaturesothebys.com
www. johnapap.com 415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009
Top Producing Agent
Detroit River Frontage - Grosse Ile 20638 East River Road - $29,000,000 Majestic European Manor Home with its old world distinctive designs and grandeur embodies timeless architecture. Co-listor Sue Lozano
Two Sensational Properties In Franklin Village
Mid-Century Modern Masterpiece - designed by Jeffery King Interiors 30800 Rosemond - $699,900 4 Bedrooms! 3 Full, 2 Half Baths! Over 4000 sq. ft. of living space! Shrouded in tall trees on 2 Acres in Franklin Village with Birmingham Schools! If you are looking for a classic mid-century modern style, this is it! Located directly off 13 mile along a picturesque winding road, you'll see views of woods teaming with wildlife! Constructed with beamed cathedral ceilings and uniquely angled windows in the living and family rooms. Magnificently hand-crafted floor to ceiling fireplaces and the custom built-in craft closet and wet bar add the finishing touches. New door walls lead to a rear brick paved patio and wrap-around balcony overlooking the circular drive, covered front porch and wooded ravine. Sprawling granite kitchen with tons of cabinets and long center island. Master suite with enormous dressing area and walk-in closets. Finished walk-out lower level with 2 recreation rooms and 5th bedroom. The rear screened-in Pavilion with floor to ceiling fieldstone fireplace and concrete floor is an added bonus.
26900 Crestwood - $499,000 This spectacular 1.41 acre parcel available in the Estate section of Franklin Village is surrounded by mature trees, woods and tall pines offering TOTAL privacy! Build a beautiful new construction: • 4 Bedroom 3150 square foot colonial for only $1,099,000 with a 1st floor master option. • 3 car garage, open floor plan and possible walk-out basement add on. • Strong flowing Artesian well. Quality new construction at an affordable price offered by Kensington Family Homes! Consider Kensington or bring your own builder. This is a tremendous opportunity in Franklin Village with Birmingham Schools.
Eva Morrow
248-320-9100
Associate Broker
eva@signaturesothebys.com 415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009
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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, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 220 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.2220. 5th Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2262 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9607. Adachi: Asian. Dinner daily. Liquor. Reservations. 325 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009. 248.540.5900. Andiamo: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.865.9300. Bangkok Thai Bistro: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 42805 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Township, 48304. 248.499.6867. Beau's: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 4108 W. Maple, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.626.2630. Bella Piatti: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 167 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.494.7110. Beverly Hills Grill: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Liquor. No reservations. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills, 48025. 248.642.2355. Beyond Juice: Contemporary. Breakfast & Lunch daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. 270 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7078. Big Rock Chophouse: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 245 South Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774. Bill's: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Daily. Reservations, lunch only. Liquor. 39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.646.9000. Birmingham Sushi Cafe: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.8880. Bistro Joe’s Kitchen: Global. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Sunday brunch. Liquor. Reservations. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.0984. Bloomfield Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 71 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.645.6879. Brooklyn Pizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6690. Café ML: New American. Dinner, daily. Liquor. Call ahead. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township. 248.642.4000. Cameron’s Steakhouse: American. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 115 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.723.1700. China Village: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 1655 Opdyke, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.758.1221. Churchill's Bistro & Cigar Bar: Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 116 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.4555. Cityscape Deli: Deli. Lunch & Dinner,
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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, MondaySaturday. 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, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham 48009. 248.258.9400. Greek Island Coney Restaurant: Greek. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 221 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.1222. Griffin Claw Brewing Company: American. Dinner, Tuesday-Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday and Sunday. No Reservations. Liquor. 575 S. Eton Street, Birmingham. 248.712.4050. Honey Tree Grille: Greek/American. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, daily. No reservations. 3633 W. Maple Rd, Bloomfield, MI 48301. 248.203.9111. Hunter House Hamburgers: American. Breakfast, Monday-Saturday; Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.7121. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse: American. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 201 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4369. IHOP: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2187 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301. 248.333.7522. Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner daily; Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor. 39475 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.792.9609. Kaku Sushi and Poke': Asian. Lunch & Dinner. Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. No Liquor. 869 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.480.4785, and 126 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.885.8631. Kerby’s Koney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2160 N. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.333.1166. La Marsa: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner daily. Reservations. 43259 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.5800. La Strada Dolci e Caffe: Italian. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 243 E. Merrill Street,
THANKSGIVING TO GO Let Big Rock Chophouse help with Thanksgiving dinner this year so you can enjoy the holiday too. We are now taking orders for Thanksgiving To Go featuring locally sourced turkeys that are oven ready and/or cooked and carved complete with delicious side items and a pumpkin pie for dessert. For more details or to place your order, visit bigrockchophouse.com/thanksgivingtogo Thanksgiving to Go
JOIN US FOR
THANKSGIVING 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Serving our dinner menu and holiday specials including a Turkey dinner. Make your reservations now as space is limited. Thanksgiving at Big Rock
TOUR AND TASTE: WINES TO PAIR WITH THANKSGIVING THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2018 • 7-9 p.m.
A tasting tour with Charlyn Huntington of Great Lakes Wine and Spirits Includes wines and appetizers. $40 inclusive of tax and tip Attendees will receive a 20% discount bonus to dine at Big Rock following the tasting. Voucher good for the purchase of food and beverage, dine in only, must use the night of this event, no other discounts apply, non-transferrable, no cash value, not good towards 20% tip or 6% sales tax.
Must make reservation prior to dining.
Wines to Pair with Thanksgiving
Executive Chef Eric Voigt • Winner 2015 A.C.F. Pastry Chef 245 S. Eton St., Birmingham • 248.647.7774 • bigrockchophouse.com
DOWNTOWN
91
food with
IMPECCABLE TASTE
15% OFF
*
$
20
GI FT CA RD
your first online order *Carryout and delivery only
Discount can be used Sunday - Thursday dinner only. Dine in only. Cannot be applied to the purchase of gift certificates, tax, alcohol or gratuity. Must present original coupon. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offers. Minimum purchase of $75. One coupon per table. Excludes Holidays. Expires 12-01-2018
— START YOUR ORDER AT —
ristorantevolare.com or text VOLARE to 33733
248 960 7771 48992 PO N T IAC T RA IL, W IXO M, MI 48 3 9 3 ristorantevolare.com
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. Mad Hatter Cafe: Tea Room. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. No reservations. Liquor. 185 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.540.0000 Mandaloun Bistro: Lebanese. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, Daily. Reservations. Liquor. 30100 Telegraph Rd., Suite 130, Bingham Farms, 48025. 248.723.7960. Market North End: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 474 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.712.4953. MEX Mexican Bistro & Tequila Bar: Mexican. Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily. Liquor. 6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.723.0800. Nippon Sushi Bar: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2079 S. Telegraph, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9581. Olga’s Kitchen: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 2075 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.451.0500. Original Pancake House: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 33703 South Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.5775. Panera Bread: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 100 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.7966. Also 2125 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.253.9877. Phoenicia: Middle Eastern. Lunch, MondayFriday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 588 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.3122. Pita Cafe: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 239 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.6999. Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.988.8941. Also 42967 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48304. 248.874.1876 Red Olive: Middle Eastern/American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 42757 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.7767. Roadside B & G: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 1727 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7270. Rojo Mexican Bistro: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 250 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.6200. Salvatore Scallopini: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.8977. Sidecar Slider Bar: Burgers. Lunch & Dinner,
downtownpublications.com
daily. No reservations. Liquor. 280 E. Merrill Street, Birmingham 48009. 248.220.4167. Social Kitchen & Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations, parties of 5 or more. Liquor. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4200. Stacked Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Delivery available. No reservations. 233 North Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.5300. Steve’s Deli: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6646 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield, 48301. 248.932.0800. Streetside Seafood: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. Reservations, Lunch only. Liquor. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.9123. Sushi Hana: Japanese. Lunch, MondayFriday; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.333.3887. Sy Thai Cafe: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9830. Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro: American. Dinner. Monday-Saturday. Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor. 55 S. Bates Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.731.7066. The Franklin Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 32760 Franklin Rd, Franklin, 48025. 248.865.6600. The Gallery Restaurant: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & wine. 6683 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.851.0313. The Moose Preserve Bar & Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2395 S. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7688. The Rugby Grille: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.5999. Toast: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278. Tomatoes Pizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner daily. Carryout. 34200 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009. 248.258.0500. Touch of India: Indian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 297 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.7881. Townhouse: American. Brunch, Saturday, Sunday. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 180 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.5241. Triple Nickel Restaurant and Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Liquor. Reservations. 555 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009. 248.480.4951. Vinotecca: European. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 210 S. Old Woodard, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.6600. Village Coney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 653 S. Adams. Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.7964. Whistle Stop Diner: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; No reservations. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.566.3566.
Royal Oak/Ferndale Ale Mary's: American. Weekend Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 316 South Main St., Royal Oak,
48067. 248.268.1917. Anita’s Kitchen: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 22651 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.548.0680. Assaggi Bistro: Italian. Lunch, TuesdayFriday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 330 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.584.3499. Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. No Reservations. Liquor. 711 S. Main Street, Royal Oak, 48067. Bistro 82: French. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 401 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.542.0082. The Blue Nile: Ethiopian. Dinner, TuesdaySunday. Reservations. Liquor. 545 W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.547.6699. Cafe Muse: French. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 418 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.544.4749. Cork Wine Pub: American. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 23810 Woodward Ave., Pleasant Ridge, 48069. 248.544.2675. D’Amato’s: Italian. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 222 Sherman Dr., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.584.7400. Due Venti: Italian. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 220 S. Main St., Clawson, 48017. 248.288.0220. The Fly Trap: Diner. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 22950 Woodward Ave., 48220. 248.399.5150. GreenSpace Cafe: Vegan. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 215. W. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale, 48220. 248.206.7510. Howe’s Bayou: Cajun. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 22949 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.691.7145. Inn Season Cafe: Vegetarian. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. No reservations. 500 E. Fourth St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.547.7916. 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, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Liquor. 202 E. Third St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.584.4227. Oak City Grille: American. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 212 W. 6th St, Royal Oak, 48067. 248.556.0947. One-Eyed Betty: American. Weekend Breakfast. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale, 48220. 248.808.6633. Pronto!: American. Weekend Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 608 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.544.7900. Public House: American. Lunch & Dinner,
DOWNTOWN
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. Toast, A Breakfast and Lunch Joint: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.398.0444. Tom’s Oyster Bar: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 318 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.541.1186. Town Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 116 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.544.7300. The Morrie: American. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.216.1112. Trattoria Da Luigi: Italian. Dinner, TuesdaySunday. Reservations. Liquor. 415 S, Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. 248.542.4444. Twisted Tavern: American. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 22901 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.545,6750. Vinsetta Garage: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley, 48072. 248.548.7711.
Troy/Rochester Capital Grille: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 2800 West Big Beaver Rd., Somerset Collection, Troy, 48084. 248.649.5300. Cafe Sushi: Pan-Asian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1933 W. Maple Rd, Troy, 48084. 248.280.1831. Cantoro Italian Trattoria: Italian. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1695 E. Big Beaver Road, Troy 48083. 248.817.2424. CK Diggs: American & Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 2010 W. Auburn Road, Rochester Hills, 48309. 248.853.6600. O’Connor’s Irish Public House: Irish. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 324 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.608.2537. Kona Grille: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 30 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48083. 248.619.9060. Kruse & Muer on Main: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 327 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.652.9400. Loccino Italian Grill and Bar: Italian. Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily. Liquor. Reservations. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy, 48098. 248.813.0700. McCormick & Schmick’s: Steak & Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. Somerset Collection, 2850 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, 48084. 248.637.6400. The Meeting House: American. Weekend Brunch. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. No
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METRO INTELLIGENCER Metro Intelligencer is a monthly column devoted to news stories, tidbits and gossip items about what's happening on the restaurant scene in the metro Detroit area. Metro Intelligencer is reported/created each month by Dana Casadei who can be reached at DanaCasadei@DowntownPublications.com with news items or tips, on or off the record.
Tailgate to-go packages Prime + Proper’s executive butcher Walter Apfelbaum may be a New York Jets fan – which we won’t fault him for…too much – but he’s still willing to make a Detroit Lions tailgate a great one. “When I first moved here I was like, ‘Holy crap, everybody is tailgating,’” he said. “So I’m like, this is a great opportunity to utilize the rest of my trim, like the best part of everything.” Now through December, the restaurant at 1145 Griswold Street, Detroit, will be selling limited run tailgate-to-go packages each week through Eventbrite (the link can be found on their Instagram and Facebook pages @primeandproperdetroit). There are two package options, four-person and eight-person, and both include dry-aged all beef hot dogs, rib eyes, dry-aged burgers, limited edition prime relish, and seasoning. “If you eat one of the burgers, you’re eating every single steak, because there’s trim from every single steak in those burgers,” he said.
Hibachi & hot rocks What was once Shogun Hibachi Bistro has now transformed into NARA Hibachi & Hot Rocks, a hibachi and stone grilling restaurant, bar, and lounge at 5656 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield. “All the ingredients are fresh, nothing is outsourced, and they butcher everything on property, so all the meats are hand cut,” said general manager Trina Gegovic. “It’s really just great food and a great atmosphere.” She said the restaurant has two entirely different spaces once inside. On one side are the hibachi tables with group seating of about 10; on the other is the lounge area, which Gegovic described as a little bit more sophisticated. Chefs Howard Barnes and Teddy Quinones’ menu includes food with an Asian flare, like their Katsu sliders and hibachi. Guests can also cook their own meat yakitori style, done on a 824-degree stone rock.
Shinola dining delights After lots of anticipation, New York-based NoHo Hospitality Group has finally announced some of the dining concepts that will be inside the Shinola Hotel at 1400 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, when it opens in December. Confirmed by NoHo Hospitality Group’s Director of Communications Alexis Altschuler, there will be three spots for guests to enjoy. There’s San Morello, an urban Italian neighborhood restaurant from Chef Andrew Carmellini. (Fun fact: one of his partners, Josh Pickard, is from Huntington Woods.) Evening Bar – which already has a location in New York run by the group – is a “comfortable, classic American bar,” which will serve seasonally crafted cocktails and small plates. Last, but certainly not least, is Brakeman, hailed as an American beer hall that will rotate craft beers from the midwest. Brakeman is also going to have an alleyway with ping-pong, foosball, and shuffleboard open year-round.
reservations. Liquor. 301 S. Main St, Rochester, 48307. 248.759.4825. Miguel’s Cantina: Mexican. Lunch, MondayFriday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 870 S. Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, 48307. 248.453.5371. Mon Jin Lau: Asian. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1515 E. Maple Rd, Troy, 48083. 248.689.2332. Morton’s, The Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 888 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48084. 248.404.9845. NM Café: American. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 2705 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy, 48084. 248.816.3424. Oceania Inn: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. The Village of Rochester Hills, 3176 Walton Blvd, Rochester Hills, 48309. 248.375.9200. Ocean Prime: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy, 48084. 248.458.0500. Orchid Café: Thai. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. 3303 Rochester Rd., Troy, 48085. 248.524.1944. P.F. Chang’s China Bistro: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. Somerset Collection, 2801 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48084. 248.816.8000. Recipes: American/Brunch. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 134 W. University Drive, Rochester, 48037. 248.659.8267. Also 2919 Crooks Road, Troy, 48084. 248.614.5390. Rochester Chop House: Steak & Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 306 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.651.2266. Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 755 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, 48084. 248.269.8424. Silver Spoon: Italian. Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 6830 N. Rochester Rd., Rochester, 48306. 248.652.4500. Steelhouse Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1129 E. Long Lake Rd., Troy, 48085. 248.817.2980. Too Ra Loo: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 139 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307. 248.453.5291.
New in Royal Oak
West Bloomfield/Southfield
Through the end of the year, Cello will be filling the Andiamo Trattoria-sized hole in people’s hearts in Royal Oak. Howell restaurateur Adam Merkel thought bringing the Italian restaurant to Royal Oak would be fun, and a good use of space he already owns, the former home of Red Fox and Cantina Diablos at 100 S. Main Street. “Cello works really well for us in Howell, so we thought it would be fun to just do something different and test it out for a few months during the colder months,” he said. Guests can expect the same menu as the Howell location, full of hand-made pastas and limoncello, while dining upstairs where Red Fox was. In regard to the other restaurants that will eventually take over the space – Diamond’s Steak and Seafood, and Pinky’s – Merkel said Diamond’s is on track to open sometime this fall while Pinky’s is looking at an early 2019 opening.
Bacco: Italian. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 29410 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, 48034. 248.356.6600. Beans and Cornbread: Southern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 29508 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, 48034. 248.208.1680. Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. No Reservations. Liquor. 29110 Franklin Road, Southfield, 48034. Maria’s Restaurant: Italian. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 2080 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, 48323. 248.851.2500. The Bombay Grille: Indian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 29200 Orchard Lake Rd, Farmington Hills, 48334. 248.626.2982. The Fiddler: Russian. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Thursday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 6676 Orchard Lake Rd, West
Mongers’ Provisions Ferndale shop Provisions is not only expanding to a second location in Detroit – which will be at 4240 Cass Avenue, Suite 111 – but a name change. The speciality cheese, chocolate, and charcuterie shop will now be known as Mongers’ Provisions. “It came to us, why not use the word monger?” said William Werner, who owns the shop with Zach Berg. “That’s what we do
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. Pickles & Rye: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6724 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.737.3890. Prime29 Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6545 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield, 48322. 248.737.7463. Redcoat Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Liquor. 6745 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.865.0500. Shangri-La: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. Orchard Mall Shopping Center, 6407 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.626.8585. Sposita’s Ristorante: Italian. Friday Lunch. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 33210 W. Fourteen Mile Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248. 538.8954. Stage Deli: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 6873 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.855.6622. Yotsuba: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 7365 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield, 48322. 248.737.8282.
West Oakland Gravity Bar & Grill: Mediterranean. Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday, Dinner. Reservations. Liquor. 340 N. Main Street, Milford, 48381. 248.684.4223. It's A Matter of Taste: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 2323 Union Lake Road, Commerce, 48390. 248.360.4150. The Root Restaurant & Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday - Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 340 Town Center Blvd., White Lake, 48390. 248.698.2400. Volare Ristorante: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 48992 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, 48393. 248.960.7771.
North Oakland Clarkston Union: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 54 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346. 248.620.6100. Holly Hotel: American. Afternoon Tea, Monday – Saturday, Brunch, Sunday, Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 110 Battle Alley, Holly, 48442. 248.634.5208. Kruse's Deer Lake Inn: Seafood. Lunch & dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 7504 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, 48346. 248.795.2077. The Fed: American. Lunch and Dinner daily, Brunch, Saturday and Sunday. Liquor. 15 S. Main Street, Clarkston, 48346. 248.297.5833 Via Bologna: Italian. Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 7071 Dixie Highway, Clarkston. 48346. 248.620.8500. Union Woodshop: BBQ. Dinner, Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday – Sunday. No reservations. Liquor. 18 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346. 248.625.5660
Detroit Bucharest Grill: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2684 E. Jefferson, Detroit, 48207. 313.965.3111. Cliff Bell’s: American. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit, 48226. 313.961.2543. Craft Work: American. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 8047 Agnes St., Detroit, 48214. 313.469.0976. Cuisine: French. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. 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, Tuesday-Friday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 3710 Junction St., Detroit, 48210. 313.894.2070. Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café: Cajun. Breakfast, daily. Sunday Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 400 Monroe Street, Detroit, 48226. 313.965.4600. Giovanni’s Ristorante: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 330 S. Oakwood Blvd., Detroit, 48217. 313.841.0122. Green Dot Stables: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2200 W. Lafayette, Detroit, 48216. 313.962.5588. Jefferson House: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 2 Washington Blvd., Detroit, 48226. 313.782.4318. Joe Muer Seafood: Seafood. Lunch, Monday- Friday, Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit, 48243. 313.567.6837. Johnny Noodle King: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit, 48216. 313.309.7946. Mario’s: Italian. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 4222 2nd Ave., Detroit, 48201. 313.832.1616. Midtown Shangri-la: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 4710 Cass Ave., Detroit, 48201. 313.974.7669. Motor City Brewing Works: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 48201. 313.832.2700. 1917 American Bistro: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 19416 Livernois Ave., Detroit, 48221. 313.863.1917. Prism: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 555 E. Lafayette St, Detroit, 48226. 313.309.2499. Red Smoke Barbeque: Barbeque. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. Trappers Alley Shopping Center, 573 Monroe Ave., Detroit, 48226. 313.962.2100. Russell Street Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. 2465 Russell St, Detroit, 48207. 313.567.2900. Santorini Estiatorio: Greek. Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 501 Monroe Ave, Detroit, 48226. 313.962.9366. Selden Standard: American. Weekend
Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. Liquor. Reservations. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit, 48201. 313.438.5055. SheWolf Pastifico & Bar: Italian. Dinner, Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 438 Selden St, Detroit 48201. 313.315.3992. Sinbad’s: Seafood. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 100 St Clair St., Detroit, 48214. 313.822.8000. Slows Bar BQ: Barbeque. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2138 Michigan Ave, Detroit, 48216. 313.962.9828. Small Plates Detroit: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 1521 Broadway St., Detroit, 48226. 313.963.0702. St. CeCe’s Pub: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Liquor. 1426 Bagley Ave., Detroit, 48216. 313.962.2121. Tap at MGM Grand: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third Street, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1234. Taqueria Nuestra Familia: Mexican. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 7620 Vernor Hwy., Detroit, 48209. 313.842.5668. The Block: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 3919 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.832.0892. Tom’s Oyster Bar: Seafood. Lunch, MondayFriday. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 519 East Jefferson Ave., Detroit, 48226. 313.964.4010. Traffic Jam & Snug: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 511 W. Canfield, Detroit, 48201. 313.831.9470. 24grille: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, 1114 Washington Blvd, Detroit, 48226. 313.964.3821. Union Street: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 4145 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.831.3965. Vince’s: Italian. Lunch, Tuesday-Friday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 1341 Springwells St., Detroit, 48209. 313.842.4857. Vivio’s Food & Spirits: American. Saturday Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 2460 Market St., Detroit, 48207. 313.393.1711. The Whitney: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & High Tea, Monday-Friday. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, daily. Liquor. Reservations. 4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201. 313.832.5700. Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina: Italian. Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday. Reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third St, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1646. Wolfgang Puck Steak: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third St, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1411. Wright & Co.: American. Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 1500 Woodward Ave Second Floor, Detroit, 48226. 313.962.7711.
and its plural possessive because there’s more than one of us. We hope that as we train and grow there will be a lot more of us, too.” Given all the space in the new shop – coming in at 1,028 square feet – there will be plenty of options for others to become mongers, or ‘eaters,’ in French, especially since they will be offering more than 100 different types of cheese and plan to double their current chocolate selection. Oh, and since they have room for a meat slicer, expect more charcuterie. They are shooting for a late November opening and plan to offer events and classes, ideally by early December. “All of those things are immensely exciting to us,” he said.
Beer, wine, flowers “I know the idea can seem a little bit funky, it’s gotten some raised eyebrows in the past,” laughed Garden Flora owner Richard Ludka. “But basically it was a way for me and my wife (and co-owner) Laura to combine three things we love in life: beer, wine, and flowers.” The 3,000-square-foot space at 611 W. Philadelphia Street, Detroit, will do just that by selling three of the Kentucky natives’ favorite things through a flower shop focused on hand-tied bouquets (with in-season, locally-sourced flowers), a beer and wine retail shop, along with a bar. Some of their beer and wine options will be floral driven, like Trinity Brewing’s Three Flowers. If that isn’t your thing though, don’t worry, they will have other options too. Since the space is a bit larger than what they originally envisioned, the duo are now looking to collaborate with people who have food experience to add to the neighborhood bar. Those interested can reach out through their website. Keeping on brand, Ludka said they are shooting for a spring opening, the first day of spring to be exact.
Unique meats and eats Asking Marrow’s executive chef Sarah Welch which dish on the menu is her favorite is like making her choose between children. But if she must pick she would go with their sleeper hit, the corned pork tongue. “I was scared people wouldn’t really enjoy it and it’s been really well received,” she said. Pork tongue isn’t the only outlandish protein guests will find on the menu of Detroit’s first restaurant/butcher shop hybrid located at 8044 Kercheval Avenue. Owned by managing partner Ping Ho and chef Greg Reyner, the restaurant – which opened in October – plans to keep introducing the community to less common cuts of meat. So how do you get guests to eat it? “The joke around here is anyone will eat meat on a stick or anything you put in a dumpling,” Welch said. “I think those are going to be two of the things we use as vehicles for more intimidating proteins.” The menu will change throughout the year depending on what Welch and the butcher shop (lead by head butcher Nicholas Ponte) can get that is both local and seasonal. There are also plans to roll out brunch and a variety of classes before the holiday season.
Four for Fort Street After receiving over 60 applicants, the first four vendors have been announced for Fort Street Galley, which is looking at a December opening. Located inside the Federal Reserve Building in Detroit at 160 W. Fort Street. will be Allenby, a gourmet sandwich place with a Middle Eastern spin; the Filipino influenced Isla; Lucky’s Noble BBQ, a healthy BBQ concept; and Pursue, which is being described as a Korean concept. “I wish we had more kitchens,” said Ben Mantica, co-founder of Rust Belt food hall developer the Galley Group. “The applicants in Detroit were phenomenal.” Mantica said the 8,500-square-foot food hall will have communal tables, encouraging people to share and try multiple concepts when they come. With a model based on helping concepts open their own brick-and-mortar, each of the four vendors will start with a year-long lease deal. “We try to provide a really elevated experience but in a causal format that I think will be received well in Detroit,” he said.
To come Fans of Birmingham’s new Adachi modern Japanese restaurant in the FordPeabody mansion have something special to look forward to, as the team behind it, Chef Michael Schlow, of Boston, hotel operator Kenny Koza and real estate developer Clint Mansour are in the planning stages of Zao Jun, a family-friendly Pan-Asian restaurant. Zao Jun, named after the Chinese “Kitchen God,” will be located in the Bloomfield Plaza at Maple and Telegraph in Bloomfield Township, in the former Bagger Dave’s location. Word is they’re hoping for an early 2019 opening, with more details to come.
FACES Jack Faxon ormer Michigan Senator Jack Faxon has been a longtime educator, lawmaker and artist who retired from politics more than two decades ago, but his accomplishments and achievements continue to be relevant today. "My parents were from the old country, so they always expected me to make my own choices and do my own thing. They never imposed on me any requirements other than being a responsible personality," Faxon said of his upbringing and parents' immigration from Russia. "In many ways, my career in life was a unique experience as someone coming who was a first-generation American and going from an almost Victorian-type setting into a modern world where other people are looking at education and career to make money. I was driven by the idea of doing things for others." This idealistic approach made Faxon popular with his constituents, who first sent him to Lansing in 1964 and kept him there until he retired in 1994. Among the accomplishments he's most proud of in his political career was funding the arts, and creating the Michigan Council for the Arts. "I was very persistent in making certain that art and culture were treated with some respect and dignity," Faxon, a lifelong painter, said. "I always felt that the arts were treated with very little respect because the public didn't seem to understand the value it brought to the communities." His love of the arts was evident in 1965 when he held his own art exhibit at the state Capitol. Today, his home in Birmingham includes a lifetime of collecting that rivals the finest museums. Throughout the years, he has been involved with the Detroit Institute of Arts, Harlem School of Arts board and other organizations. Other political work Faxon is known for is the Michigan Indoor Air Act, which stemmed from his quest to curb smoking, and his work in education. In fact, it was his work as a teacher that led to politics and him being elected as a delegate to the 1961 Michigan Constitutional Convention, even before he was elected to the state legislature. Teaching at inner-city schools in Detroit, Faxon quickly endeared himself to parents by visiting each family during the summer to get to know them and their needs. He later moved on to high school students, where he got interested in politics. It was those students and others that elected him as the youngest delegate to the 1961 convention. After being elected to the legislature, Faxon was forced to leave public teaching. It was then that he started the City School of Detroit, which later moved to Southfield and became the International School, now located in Farmington Hills. Fifty years after its founding, the school continues to focus on teaching multiple languages and a global perspective. "That was a student of mine who I had in 1956. She's a pastor and keeps in touch with me, and she's very kind, warm and friendly," Faxon said after taking a phone call at his home. "People ask if I have a family. I say, I have a lot of children, but they aren't mine." While a recent medical issue has forced Faxon to put his love of flamenco dancing on hold, he continues to feel most comfortable surrounded by his art and paintings. As to what his next subject will be, Faxon said not to expect too much. "I don't know what more you want me to do â&#x20AC;&#x201C; parachute out of plane?" he said. "What's your next move, Faxon?"
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Story: Kevin Elliott
248-421-2670 nancykarasrealty@gmail.com 4130 Telegraph Road / Bloomfield Hills / MI 48302 / www.nancykaras.maxbroock.com
Selling at all price points | Lakefront & Luxury Estates | Executive Relocation
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Pine Lakefront 3556 Pine Estates - West Bloomfield w/ Bloomfield Hills Schools SOPHISTICATED 2010 REBUILD & RENOVATION! Panoramic sunset views from most every room, 100’ of sandy waterfront on ALL-SPORTS Lake! Quiet, private cul-de-sac setting. 4-5 Bedrms. 5.1 Baths. 4,986 SF plus 1,746 in finished walkout, perfect for in-law suite with kitchenette & full bath. Architect Willoughby & Templeton Built with dramatic vaulted ceilings, stone and exotic hardwood floors, 3 terraces, Chef’s Kitchen, ADT Smart Home, custom features throughout. High-end everything. Extra tall and deep garage could accommodate up to 5 cars. Bloomfield Hills schools.
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Forest Lakefront 1424 Lochridge - Bloomfield Twp TOBOCMAN BUT BETTER - 2012 REBUILD ON A PENNINSULA! Large 1.07 Acre lot, approx 640' of water frontage! Entry level master suite, 3.1 baths, 4 beds, 4 car garage. Extensive glass, gleaming hardwood floors, grand ceiling heights, clean lines, open concept, access to all sports lake! Entry level laundry room, two way fireplace, 2 large decks,large granite kitchen, high-end appliances: double refrigerator with 4 freezer drawers, professional gas range, floor-to-ceiling wine cooler, separate built-ins include: oven, steamer, microwave & coffee/capucino maker. Bloomfield Hills schools!
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Lower Long Lakefront
212 W Hickory Grove
1299 Porters Lane - Bloomfield Twp
Bloomfield Twp
MAGNIFICENT LAKE VIEWS and access to Forest Lake and All-Sports Upper Long Lake. 3,766 SF Ranch on .6 AC w/ 140' of lake frontage. 4 bedrooms including a huge master suite with exercise room. Built in 1953 and expanded and remodeled in 1991. Hardwood floors in Great Room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace. Driveunder 2 car garage, plus tandem space for 3rd vehicle, boat or storage. Massive deck across the back and large dock. Quiet cul-de-sac location. Bloomfield Hills Schools.
REDUCED FOR QUICK SALE! This home has curb appeal, good bones, open floor plan, vaulted great room ceiling, gas fireplace, 3 season room, circular drive a walk-up lower level to a partially fenced yard. Prime neighborhood, 5 minutes from Downtown Birmingham. Convenient to shopping, freeways and walking path. New garage door, new lower level carpeting, newer front windows and door. custom built home. Bloomfield Hills schools.
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Clark/Carroll Island Lakefront - 5986 Venice - Commerce
42160 Woodward - Bloomfield Hills
1.25 ACRE VACANT SITE ON AN ISLAND! APPROX 668' OF WATER FRONTAGE! ALL SPORTS LAKE! Over the bridge & down the winding road to your sandy beach! Breathtaking views and water wrapping all around! Idyllic, private setting. Home and other half of the island, at 6001 Venice, could also be purchased.
1,327 SF! Beautiful, Spacious, 1 Bed, 2 Bath, Updated Entry-level unit in Four Seasons. Close to Downtown B'ham. Quiet unit, immediate occupancy. Hardwood floors throughout. In-unit laundry. Private porch and storage area. Heated garage! Club house, pool and tennis court! Gas, water, dues and exterior maintenance are included.
proudly welcomes
JEN ZACHARY ASSOCIATE BROKER Jen Zachary is defined by unparalleled service...
"I have bought and sold six houses and this was by far our easiest transaction because of Jen. She was a pleasure to work with, a true professional in all aspects of the process.” -Trusted Client “Jen went above and beyond at every step of the way. Her service simply does not end with the sale.” -Trusted Client
“Jen was an absolute dream to work with! She made us feel like we were her only clients. She was patient, professional, attentive and thorough. We wouldn’t work with anyone other than Jen in the future. She made our first home buying experience as stress-free as possible.” -Trusted Client “Jen was incredibly detail oriented, a true advocate and an empathetic counselor as we debated between the best area and the best home for us. She was patient, tolerant and her insight was profound. We are grateful for her unwavering support and guidance.”-Trusted Client “Jen was a tremendous advocate for me in the sale of my home. She created exceptional marketing pieces and provided detailed follow up and feedback. She was engaged from the day I signed the listing until the day we closed.”-Trusted Client
c. + 1 248 212 4416 jzachary@hallandhunter.com HALL & HUNTER REALTORS | 442 S. OLD WOODWARD AVE. BIRMINGHAM | +1 248 644 3500 | HALLANDHUNTER.COM
THE COMMUNITY HOUSE Sites and Sounds of the Season The 33rd Annual OUR TOWN Art Show and Sale takes place November 2 and 3 at The Community House. The juried, all media art show provides a forum for Michigan artists to show and sell their work. Hours are Friday 10am - 6pm and Saturday 10am - 8pm. Admission to OUR TOWN Art Show & Sale is free. Generously sponsored by DeRoy Testamentary Foundation, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Bank of Ann Arbor, Michael B. Serling, P.C., Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., Detroit Home and WRCJ 90.9 FM, this year’s event will showcase 372 pieces of artwork from 154 Michigan artists. The art exhibition includes paintings, pastels, sculptures, glassworks, fiber works, photography, jewelry and mixed media. Thirty-five percent of the proceeds from all art sales will benefit The Community House children and adult’s programs and services. Special thanks to the 2018 OUR TOWN Art Show and Sale Committee under the extraordinary leadership of Our Town Chair, Liz DuMouchelle.
Let the
Gentlem
Take Ca en Movers re of Yo ur Move !
Bill Seklar
The 2018 OUR TOWN Opening Night Preview Party kicks off Thursday, November 1 from 6-9 p.m. The evening includes cocktails, strolling hors d'oeuvres and the first opportunity to preview and purchase artwork. In addition, this year’s event will feature a luxury raffle. Friend tickets, with admission at 6 p.m., are $75/pp. VIP Benefactor tickets, with early admission, start at $250/pp.
248-674-3937
www.changingplacesmovers.com
Other Fall TCH Happenings ON SALE NOW The Sarah Smith Youth Theatre of The Community House proudly presents The Lion King, Jr. on Saturday, November 10 and Sunday, November 11 in the Wallace Ballroom at TCH. There will be two performances each day. Tickets prices are (Kid’s) Floor Seating $10/pp; General Seating $15/pp; and Friends Reserved Seating $30/pp. To purchase your tickets or for more information, please visit communityhouse.com or call TCH at 248.644.5832.
Lic #: L-21897
Holiday SAVE THE DATE ENCORE 2018 Birmingham Winter Markt – Visit The Community House’s Gluhwein Tent (hot spiced wine, cider, donuts and authentic hand-made German pretzels) during the 2018 Birmingham Winter Markt taking place on November 30, December 1 and 2 in Shain Park, downtown Birmingham. Hosted by the Birmingham Shopping District, Winter Markt attendees will enjoy authentic European food and drinks, gift items, Santa House, holiday greens, crafts, ice carving demonstrations, roaming winter princesses, live reindeer, warming stations, a Kinderhaus children’s activity area and live entertainment. Proceeds from The Community House’s Gluhwein Tent benefits its children’s programs and services. NEW 2018 Holiday Concert Series – The Community House in partnership with Detroit Public Television (DPTV) and WRCJ 90.9 FM is proud to present The Community House’s First Annual Holiday Concert Series: Sounds of the Season, Thursday, December 6 and 13 and Wednesday, December 19 from 7-9 p.. in the Wallace Ballroom. A first-ever holiday musical arts concert series featuring prominent local artists Nadine Deleuery, Principal Cellist, Michigan Opera Theatre Orchestra; and Velda Kelly, Violinist, Michigan Opera Theatre Orchestra; Jeffrey Zook, Flutist, Detroit Symphony Orchestra; and Sharon Sparrow, Assistant Principal Flutist, Detroit Symphony Orchestra; Baldwin Ensemble featuring Andrew Wu, Melody Wootton, Andrea Yun and Jacqueline Hanson. Tickets $20/pp per concert; $50/pp for the series of three. Light refreshments will be served. Holiday Classes & Enrichment Back by popular demand, The Community House Dance Academy will present a Sugar Plum Tea Party on Sunday, December 9; and a fully-staged production of The Nutcracker on Sunday, December 16.. Both annual events will take place at The Community House and showcase our Dance Academy students, teachers and community members. All registrations can be made online via communityhouse.com or by giving the Programs & Enrichment office a call at 248-594-6416 The Community House is also pleased to present a collection of 2018 holiday inspired classes including Mommy, Daddy and Me Menorah Handprint Plate; Easy, Festive Holiday Breads; Ginger Bread House Decorating; Easy Holiday Entertaining; Children’s Snowman Band; and Christmas Traditions Around the World… For reservations, tickets or more information about other TCH Fall or holiday classes and events, please go to communityhouse.com or call 248.644.5832. William D. Seklar is President & CEO of The Community House and The Community House Foundation in Birmingham. downtownpublications.com
Walk To Cranbrook 14 Beresford Court • Bloomfield Hills • 1.34 Acres
BEDROOMS
BATHROOMS
SQUARE FEET
FEATURES
GARAGE
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4 Full Baths/ 2 Half
5,643
1st Floor Master
4 Car Attached
Daniel Mahoney Associate Broker
Phone: 810.695.1990 Mobile: 248.631.7707 Email: dan@mahoney.realtor Website: danmahoney.realtor
536 Perry Road, Grand Blanc, MI 48439 DOWNTOWN
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Here is the update on the recent social scene. Many more photos from each event appear online each week at downtownpublications.com where readers can sign up for an e-mail notice when the latest social scene column is posted. Past columns and photos are also archived at the website for Downtown.
Ted Lindsay Foundation Celebrity Golf Outing
Sally Gerak
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Ted Lindsay Foundation Celebrity Golf Outing The Ted Lindsay Foundation’s Celebrity Golf Outing was rife with moments to applaud. The 170 golfers ($1,125 & up) all got a 16” x 32” print of the three Red Wings stadiums signed by players who have starred at each – Lindsay (Olympia), Joe Kocur (JLA) and Dylan Larkin (LCA). The drawings were by former, all state, high school goalie Samantha Carrier, now a student at CCS. “If goalies (in my day) had been as pretty as Samantha, I might have taken more shots,” quipped the 93-year-old “Terrible” Ted to the crowd gathered for dinner (275 @ $165) at the Detroit Golf Club. Texas researcher Laura Hewiston reported progress in Autism Spectrum Disorder studies funded by the TLF that might make a big media splash in a few months…Ken McClure presented the foundation a check for $100,000 from Kroger’s customers…Nick Vondette and Mitch Owens and his family received Courage Awards for overcoming the challenges autism presents… Emcees Mickey Redmond and Ken Daniels announced that Dylan Larkin has committed to join Joe Kocur as co-chair of the TLF board…Frank Beckmann garnered $19,000 for four live auction items… Thanks also to the silent auction ($11,000) and sponsors, the 18th annual event added about $160,000 to the $4 million-plus already raised.
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5 1. Ted Lindsay (left) of Rochester, Jeff Blashill of Plymouth. 2. Marty Redmond (left) of Franklin, Nick Vondette of Rochester and Lew LaPaugh of Rochester Hills. 3. Janina Jacobs (left) of St. Clair Shores, Lynn Lindsay LaPaugh of Rochester Hills, Lindsay LaPaugh of Salt Lake City, UT. 4. Bridgit Finley Herman (left) of Bloomfield, Genevieve Finley of Troy. 5. Steve Lyons (left) of Royal Oak, Pete Mitchell of Oak Park, Spencer and Steve Eick and John Hess of Birmingham.
DiChiera Society Thank You Party
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1 Fay Herman (left) of Farmington Hills, Cathy Loria of Orchard Lake, Betty Bright of Bloomfield. 2. Stephanie Germack (center) of Grosse Pointe, Dr. Hershel & Dorothy Sandberg of Bloomfield. 3. Larry & Barbara Schiff of Bloomfield. 4. Assia Likomanov (left) of Grosse Pointe, Barbara Frankel of W. Bloomfield, Rick Williams of Bloomfield, Dodie David of Marine City. 5. Mary Ann Cromwell (left) and Elaine Fontana of Bloomfield, Allen Michael Jones of Detroit.
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DiChiera Society Thank You Party The annual Thank You Party for members of the Michigan Opera Theatre DiChiera Society ($1,000 & up annual donation) set a new bar for fun nostalgia. It was hosted by Ron Lipson and Cathy Loria in their lakeside home. It abounds with Detroit and Hollywood vintage artifacts, curated by historian/author Michael Hauser. Event co-chairs Barbara Frankel and Dodie David greeted the 88 guests with big smiles, knowing full well that good humor would rule the day. Cocktails and conversation on the lakeside terrace or in the lower level “play room” preceded the program. It had highlights, most notably soaring vocal performances by the five, current MOT Studio artists Harry Greenleaf, Cheyanne Cos, Michael Day, Katherine DeYoung and Allen Michael Jones and their introduction by resident program director Richard Leech. A Forte Belanger buffet dinner concluded the perfectly delightful Sunday afternoon. Care Night Patron Preview Party In advance of the upcoming CARE House fundraiser, host par excellence Lisa Payne generously wined and dined sponsors, board members and major donors at a cocktail hour gathering. The sipping, snacking and conversational updating about family members and summer travels paused only briefly for the host and CH Executive Director Blythe Spitsbergen to thank the assembled for their loyal support and to praise Care Night honorees Pat and Jerry Wagner. Friends of Preservation Bloomfield More than 50 supporters of Preservation Bloomfield ($100, $250 tickets) convened at the Iroquois Club to salute four generous people. One of them, Jake Bolyard, gave new meaning to the good neighbor concept. Soon after moving from Birmingham to Bloomfield Township, he learned that PB’s Craig Log Cabin needed its fireplace and chimney restored. Friends of PB President Mia Materka thanked Bolyard for his $50,000 gift of labor and materials, including reclaimed, locally-sourced, historic field stones. PB board President Michael Dul then 11.18
saluted Materka, Carol Shaya and Sue Nine as Preservationists of the Year for their dedication, hard work and creative fundraising ever since PB was established 10 years ago. The totally volunteer collaboration is building future awareness of the past by preserving two historic structures for community use. Women Of Tomorrow Girls On Track From the moment the 250 guests ($200 & up) picked up their pit pass from the friendly Women Of Tomorrow mentees at the M1 Concourse party tent registration table, the action was on. It began with the moving, conveyer belt table presentations of hors d’oeuvres and continued on the track. More than 100 took thrill rides. Among those was WW II bomber pilot Mort Harris who said he loved the ride and was ready for another. During the program, event co-host Laurie “lead footed” Cunnington profusely thanked the sponsors of the mentor and scholarship program founded in Florida in 1999 by Jennifer Valoppi. Both the founder and Florine Mark noted the eight-year-old Detroit chapter’s 97 percent high school graduation rate for the more than 1,200 girls it empowers and the wish for more women to join the other 150 mentors. Emcee Paula Tutman also conducted a brief live auction and elicited more than $50,000 in outright pledges. This brought the event proceeds to more than $200,000 to get girls on the right track to reach their full potential. JET Annual Gala More than 600 attended the Jewish Ensemble Theatre Annual Gala chaired by Wendy Kohlenberg and Suzi Terebelo at Temple Israel. It featured a performance by the renowned Capitol Steps, the satirists that puts the “mock” in democracy. The current show, “Make America Grin Again,” included material that was literally from that day’s news and jabbed both sides of the political aisle. More than 300 of the guests ($180 & up) had gathered before the show for a strolling dinner and to see a rendering of JET’s new home. After 29 years at its location in the Jewish Community Center, JET is moving to Walled Lake beginning spring 2019. In addition to presenting award-winning equity productions, JET has reached nearly half a million students with live performances of “The Diary of Anne Frank” and its original anti-bullying shows. The Gala netted over $55,000 for JET plus nearly $10,000 in support of student outreach. downtownpublications.com
Care Night Patron Preview Party
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1. Pat & Jerry Wagner of Bloomfield. 2. Marla Feldman (left) of Birmingham and Lisa MacDonald of W. Bloomfield. 3. Lisa Payne (left) of Bloomfield, CARE House Executive Director Blythe Spitsbergen of Farmington Hills. 4. Dan Stall (left) and Eliot Weiner of Birmingham, Kevin Anderson of Bloomfield. 5. Cheryl Bornias (left), Helen Reasoner and Jennifer Margherio of Bloomfield, Alex English of W. Bloomfield, Allie Betz of Birmingham and Kathy Broock Ballard of Orchard Lake.
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Friends of Preservation Bloomfield
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1. Jake & Nancy Bolyard of Bloomfield. 2. Carol Shaya (left), Sue Nine and Mia Materka of Bloomfield. 3. Claudine Bacher (left) of Bloomfield, Contessa Bannon of Beverly Hills. 4. Karen Gerhart (left), Ed & Linda Kmit of Bloomfield. 5. Dan (left) & Liz Bolyard Moore, Brian Bolyard and Charlie & Jen Whitelaw of Birmingham.
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Women Of Tomorrow Girls On Track
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1. Katie Valenti (left) and sponsor Maureen Fisher of Bloomfield, Laurie Cunnington of Birmingham. 2. Jennifer Valoppi of Miami Beach, FL, Tom Cunnington of Birmingham. 3. Nicole Dowswell (left) of Rochester, Bill Cobb of Birmingham and Tamy Harms of W. Bloomfield. 4. Florine Mark (left) of Farmington Hills, Mort Harris and Sandy Morrison of Bloomfield. 5. Jill Harris (left) of Birmingham, Kate MacNevin of Detroit.
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK JET Annual Gala
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Loyola Legacy Gala The high school founded 25 years ago by the late Malcolm Carron SJ to serve young urban men is going strong as evidenced by the 250 founding members, supporters and alums who convened, first for Mass at Sts. Peter and Paul Church and then for a party at Port Detroit’s Waterview Loft. The program that followed a strolling dinner accentuated the school’s history and bright future, based in part on the fact that for eight straight years 100 percent of the graduating class has been accepted by colleges. To conclude the program current LHS President, Fr. Mark Luedtke, SJ lead a “Quiz Bowl” competition between the founders and the alumni. The latter won the trivia contest in convincing fashion. Motown hits performed by the Larry Lee Back in the Day Band capped off the celebration. The event raised over $100,000 to benefit scholarships for the students of Loyola High School
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The Children’s Center Tour de Fork Nearly 380 supporters of The Children’s Center ($55, $60, $150-VIP) gathered in Eastern Market’s Shed 3 for the annual Tour de Fork. In addition to plates and pours from Detroit eateries, diversions included games, music and a raffle that raised $4,000. Guests also voted for Brome Eatery to win the Forkie Award. Thanks to generous sponsors, the casual evening netted more than $75,000 to help fund the comprehensive services TCC provides annually to 7,500 families.
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Loyola Legacy Gala
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1. Tayshawn Braxton LHS ‘22 (center) of Detroit with Loretta & Hon. Jim Ryan of Bingham Farms. 2. Bob Storen (left) of Bloomfield, Ann & Chris Knight of Troy. 3. Mary Jo Wall of Bloomfield. 4. Steve Raymond (left) and Fr. Fran Daly SJ of Bloomfield, Mary Benedetto of Troy. 5. Bridget Morin (left) of Bloomfield, Cathy Schmitt of Traverse City.
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Hospice of Michigan’s SPEED There were two notable revelations at the annual HOM benefit which brought 200 supporters ($120 ticket) to the festival tent at M1 Concourse. One was honoree Rabbi Bunny Freedman’s explanation of his first name, a babysitter’s shortening of a longer Jewish name. He said he embraces it because it puts his hospice patients at ease. The founder of the Jewish Hospice & Chaplaincy Network got a standing ovation when he received HOM’s traditional Crystal Rose for his dedication to knowing what each patient needs and insuring that “…nobody is ever alone.” The other disclosure was HOM’s Marcie Hillary’s introduction of the new Give a Quarter Back campaign video. It features Michigan sports luminaries like Lloyd Carr, who declares that hospice made his grandson Chad’s brain cancer battle bearable for the family. Linda Juracek-Lipa and Sue Nine chaired the evening that began 11.18
with the National Anthem and witnessed 64 guests donate $100 for thrill rides with professional drivers around the M1 Concourse track. Counting a one-item auction ($3,700), pledges to the new campaign ($6,135) and thanks to sponsors, the 32nd annual event grossed nearly $80,000 to support end-of-life-care for all regardless of ability to pay. Camp Casey Gold Rush Gala The Horsey House Calls, Cowboy Camp Outs and Outlaw Outings that enable the non-profit Camp Casey to deliver happiness on horseback to children with cancer and rare blood disorders were in the spotlight at the non-profit’s annual fundraiser. It attracted 150 supporters ($100 and up ticket) to The Reserve for sipping and dining on the stroll, bidding ($15,000 in the silent auction), chance wine and whiskey pulling ($1,700) and buying 29 donated desserts ($1,200) in the Sugar Rush Raffle. But, as at past events, when parents like Patrick and Megan Brown described the camp’s unbelievably positive impact on their son Hudson, everybody understood what CC founder Molly Reeser saw as a college kid in 2004 – the healing power of horses. More than 10,000 people have experienced that power, which, the late Casey’s father Nathan Foote said, always comforts and amazes him. The gala raised $70,000 to keep brave children and their families smiling as they horse around. Hall & Hunter Estate Sale What realtors Barb Miller and Christine John began in 2005, in the aftermath of Katrina as a way for people who sell homes to help those who didn’t have one, continues to this day. All year long Hall & Hunter Realtors encourage their clients to donate no longer desired furnishings to the annual estate sale to benefit Habitat for Humanity. This happens because Johnna and Bob Struck‘s Changing Places Moving Company picks up and stores the donations and then delivers them to the sale held in tents in the real estate firm’s parking lot. A preview party the night before the sale is a thank you to the realtors and sponsors, and a chance for them to pay a 35 percent premium for first dibs on the treasures. This year 85 attended, socialized, sipped, supped and shopped. They spent $4,000. Volunteers greeted the long line of shoppers waiting to get first dibs the next morning. When the sale concluded proceeds totaled nearly $20,000, plus much of the unsold merchandise for Habitat to sell in its downtownpublications.com
Hospice of Michigan’s SPEED
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1. Sue Nine (left) of Bloomfield, Rabbi Bunny Freedman of Oak Park, Dr. Michael Paletta of Northville. 2. Linda Juracek-Lipa (left) of Bloomfield, Bob & Nancy Cahill of Northville. 3. Judy & Lee Gardner of Birmingham, Stephanie Le of W. Bloomfield. 4. Larry Raymond (left), Chip McClure and Mike & Linda Kane of Bloomfield. 5. Judy Vindici (left) of Birmingham, Bob & Maggie Allesee of Bloomfield, Dottie Deremo of Farmington Hills.
Camp Casey Gold Rush Gala
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1. Dom Mirabella (left) of Royal Oak, Tek Wiegert of Birmingham and Chuck Schmidt of Rochester. 2. Laree (left) and Gillian Harnadek of W. Bloomfield, Alyssa and Denise Leighton of Birmingham. 3. Molly Reeser (left) of Plymouth, Kirsten Adgate of S. Lyon and Audry Moiseeff of Plymouth. 4. Sherri Wiegert (left) of Birmingham, Laurie Schmidt of Rochester, Addie Mirabella of Royal Oak. 5. Erica Zambo of Walled Lake, Ryan Brooks of Birmingham.
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK ReStore shop. And thus, a good idea just gets better with age.
Hall & Hunter Estate Sale
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Birmingham House Tour Speaking of Hall & Hunter, they also sponsored the 31st annual Community House Birmingham House Tour during which 725 nest peepers ($40 ticket) toured six homes. The homes ranged in age from oneyear-old to more than 100-years-old and in design from a Wallace Frost classic cottage to a sleek contemporary by AZD Associates. The Frost cottage on Pine Street had been known for decades as “the moose head” house because one was mounted beside the front door until 2016. Tourists were glad to see that when the new owners renovated they paid homage to the historical head by installing a modern, artistic, white version over the living room fireplace. Rose and Brian Bolyard chaired The Community House Foundation fundraiser for the third consecutive year.
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1. Gillian Lazar (left) of Birmingham and Pam Gray of Lake Orion, Barb Miller of Berkley and Sue Simon of Beverly Hills. 2. Johnna (left) & Bob Struck of Waterford, Jim Gray of Lake Orion, Peter Sobelton of Birmingham. 3. Christine John (left) of Boulder, CO, Jerry & Diana Schmidt of Bloomfield. 4. Dennis Wolf (left) and Ryan Wolf of Birmingham, Tim Ruggles of Waterford and Braden Recker of Farmington Hills. 5. Mark Webberly (left) of Birmingham and Ted Edginton of Bloomfield.
Parade Company Grand Jester Reception
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1. Tony Michaels (left) of Rochester Hills, Tom Callan of Bloomfield, Jeff Sadowski of Birmingham, Mike Sadowski of Royal Oak. 2. Maggie Allesee (left) of Bloomfield, Bradley Stroud of Clinton and Angela Chunovich of Troy. 3. Dana (left), Rich and Becky Sorensen of Bloomfield. 4. Bernie (left) & Donna Rubin of Birmingham, Rachelle Nozero of Novi. 5. John Landis (left of Farmington Hills, Mike Obloy of Rochester Hills.
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Birmingham Teen Council The Birmingham Teen Council, launched late last year by the Community House Foundation, staged its first event – an 18-hour movie binge at the Emagine Palladium. More than 100 teens who had each raised $100 turned out. BTC members come from all the Bloomingham public and private high schools. Chase Seklar, Sophie Roth, Kasey Boegner, Charlie Casucci, Julia Crump, Grace Ordona, Liz Pedersen and Olivia Pero comprise the board. Membership is open to sophomores and up who are interested in socializing, honing leadership skills and doing community service with kids from other schools. Judging from the animated scene between movies the new BTC has started a fun tradition. Parade Company Grand Jester Reception For the 12th consecutive year, the LePage family has generously hosted a cocktail supper for the America’s Thanksgiving Parade Distinguished Clown Corps. Members pay $1,000 per year and honor a different member as Grand Jester each year. Van Conway, the 2017 Grand Jester who missed the reception last year, received his Crystal Clown Statue before Parade Company CEO Tony Michaels introduced his successor, Jeff Sadowski, a 26-year Distinguished Clown. He talked about how he always says he’ll be a DC “…for one more year…(but)…it’s in my blood…a phenomenal 11.18
experience.” He added it will be especially meaningful now that his three sons are also DCs and his wife/their mother passed away this year. The 200 guests at The Reserve at Big Rock Chophouse socialized, sipped, supped and perused the colorful photo albums that chronicle each year’s band of some merrymakers in their make-up and clown costumes. The latter are ranked in grandeur according to years in the corps. Distinguished Clown nominees have until Oct. 31 to sign up. New Day Foundation for Families Families who struggle financially when fighting cancer have had a source for help since Michael Spehn and Gina Kell Spehn launched a foundation in 2007 as a legacy for their late spouses who both died of cancer. It’s fall fundraiser attracted 320 supporters ($200 tickets) to the ballroom in Greektown’s Atheneum Hotel for cocktails, dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions and Dedicated Giving. The latter raised $14,000 in less than 5 minutes and donors made “Hope Shine” as they held up their lighted cell phones in the darkened ballroom. The BSP Law Offices got the Matt Kell and Cathy Spehn Legacy Award and Juliana Meidi, Terri Miller and Heather Lynch were the honored volunteers. The gala netted $140,000 for the foundation’s programs which ameliorate cancer-related financial toxicity. SIP Food & Wine Classic Seven food stations, all staffed with talented, solicitous chefs, served up small plates to the 150 “SIP-sters” ($295, $195, $95 tickets) gathered on a Friday night in the Wallace Ballroom at The Community House. Wines selected by event wine director John Jonna were at the ready to pair amicably with each offering. The Dawn Giblin Quintet made music while people sipped, supped and checked out the silent auction display of 25 food & wine-centric packages. TCH President/CEO Bill Seklar interrupted only briefly to thank the generous eateries who made the Community House Foundation fundraiser possible. At evening’s end a smiling guest awaiting his car described the scene: “A delicious Friday night in a historic meeting house in a small midwestern town.” Hickory Sticks Evans Scholar Fundraiser A bagpiper led 92 golfers clad in plus-fours (knickers) and tams onto Forest Lake Country Club for the 21st annual Hickory Sticks Invitational. During the cocktail hour before dinner, a silent auction and raffle helped the event raise more than $65,000. The postdinner program featured remarks by Molly Stachurski, President of the U-M Evans Scholars and Andrew Najor, President of the MSU chapter. They represented the 965 Evans Scholars currently attending 19 universities across the country. Each receives full tuition and housing scholarships from the Western Golf Association’s Evans Scholars Foundation. Dave Robinson also gave special recognition plaques to HS Invitational Co-Directors Chuck Plein and Marty Gillespie for raising more than $500,000 for the foundation. They announced Sept. 16, 2019 for the next event at Edgewood Country Club. Send ideas for this column to Sally Gerak, 28 Barbour Lane, Bloomfield Hills, 48304; email samgerak@aol.com or call 248.646.6390. downtownpublications.com
New Day Foundation for Families
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1. Michael (left) & Gina Spehn of Rochester; Jack Aronson of Bloomfield. 2. Sam Kell, Drew Kell, Charlotte Spehn and Dan Spehn of Rochester. 3. Julie & Paul La France of Rochester. 4. Caron Koteles & Keith Riha of Rochester. 5. Heather Dell (left) of Highland, Pamela Ayres of Bloomfield.
SIP Food & Wine Classic
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1. Robert Dempster & Caroline Rooney of Bloomfield. 2. Tim (left) & Barb Hertzler and Dan Quick of Birmingham. 3. Dick & Sally Brady of Bloomfield. 4. Tess & Jeff Bagalis of Birmingham. 5. Robert Allen (left) & Lee Trumbull of Birmingham, Kathie Ninneman of Bloomfield, Ryan Polk of Bloomfield.
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ENDNOTE
Our endorsements for November election irmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills voters will be deciding among candidates in the November 6 general election for a variety of congressional, state and county political offices, as well as local school boards, along with determining the fate of several state ballot issues, either at the polls or with absentee ballots. Downtown newsmagazine, through questionnaires, queried candidates on a variety of issues, the answers to which can be found in the special Voter Guide online at downtownpublications.com. We also met one-on-one over the course of the summer with most candidates seeking state or congressional offices to gain added insight into office seekers. The results of our efforts, along with our institutional knowledge of people and issues, provided the basis for the following endorsements, which we first published in our October issue for the benefit of absentee ballot voters.
line, especially on key issues, like the environment and civil rights, to name just two. We understand the legislative game as well as anyone – in the caucus setting the best of intentions can get dealt away. But then again, perhaps McCready is just following his own personal beliefs which then raises the issue of whether he is in sync with district residents. Either way, a change is necessary. With both legislative chambers and the administration under Republican control, there has been a lack of progress in some areas and outright decline on issues of importance for the future of the state. His opponent in this race, Democrat ROSEMARY BAYER, is keenly focused on public policy in the state that needs a new direction and will not hesitate to push for that. Bayer has the necessary skills, honed through her experience in the high tech industry and business, to work with others to bring about change and is well grounded on the issues. We were impressed and voters will be too.
9th Congressional District – Two-year term (Bloomfield Township)
13th State Senate District – Four-year term (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills)
When we were endorsing for the August primary, we had three strong Democratic candidates, so we opted to go with someone other than ANDY LEVIN in the contest to replace his retiring father, Congressman Sander Levin. But each election contest presents a new set of alternatives, and we feel Andy Levin is voters’ best bet in the race for this district which meanders through south Oakland and Macomb counties. Levin brings years of experience from both outside and in the heart of government at the state level, business knowledge from his work in the energy conservation field with his own commercial venture, and appears most qualified when discussing both the issues and the current day concerns that should be the priorities of any member of Congress.
Incumbent Republican MARTY KNOLLENBERG is seeking his second Senate term after having served in the past as a Representative in the state House. This district also includes Troy, Rochester and Rochester Hills. Knollenberg has been a focused policy maker in the area of education and has worked equally hard in other legislative areas. Knollenberg has kept in touch with officials and residents of the district.
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11th Congressional District – Two-year term (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills) Democrat HALEY STEVENS impressed us greatly when she first announced in 2017 for this congressional seat. A Millennial who has brought her government and private enterprise experience home, Stevens grew up in Birmingham, picked up undergraduate/graduate degrees, went to work as chief of staff of President Obama’s Auto Rescue Task Force effort and worked for the White House Office for Manufacturing and Office of Recovery for Automotive Communities and Workers. She cut her teeth, so to speak, helping to shepherd though the necessary components of the auto bailout through members of both parties in Congress and members of the business community. She has also spent time working in the private sector tied to job training and digital manufacturing. Bright, energetic, focused, with a good command of the issues. Her opponent in this race – a Trump acolyte whose blind allegiance doesn’t show through her deceptively shallow and evasive answers in our Voter Guide, no doubt on advice of her handlers who can read Trump’s disapproval polls. Congress is supposed to be part of the checks and balance system in government and we already have enough Trump handmaidens in DC who don’t understand their proper role. 12th State Senate District – Four-year term (Bloomfield Township) When he first ran for the state House we did not support Michael McCready, although in two elections since, we have backed him as a more moderate Republican who kept in touch with officials in the district and was not afraid to buck the party on some issues. Unfortunately, we wish he would have broken more often from the party
40th State House – Two-year term (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township) It has been everyone’s dream that the “brain drain” from Michigan would reverse itself and the younger generation, post-college and having gained experience elsewhere, would return to help guide and shape the future of Michigan. That is the story of Democrat MARI MANOOGIAN. Raised in Birmingham, received undergraduate/graduate degrees from George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs, served time in the office of Congressman John Dingell and with Ambassador Samantha Power at the United Nations, then was a program officer at the U.S. State Department. Manoogian has a strong grasp of Michigan issues. She has the drive, attention to detail and understands the course corrections that need to be made for the state’s future. As an added closing argument for Manoogian, her desperate opponent in the closing weeks of the campaign has accelerated his hard edge (dirty tricks) approach to seeking this office – this time a calculated smear campaign – something that reasonable voters must reject this election year. Further, word is that his campaign has, or is in line to get, funding from a DeVos-backed lobbying group that threatens funding for public education. More reasons to send Manoogian to Lansing as the new state rep for this district. 12th District County Commission – Two-year term (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township) Republican incumbent Oakland County Commissioner SHELLEY GOODMAN TAUB has paid her dues. From 1993-2002, she served as a county commissioner, then as state representative from 2002-2006, then in 2009 came back to the county board and has assumed a top position with the board of a national organization for counties. We are backing her once again because of her impressive track record as a leader, her ability to reach across the aisle to get things done and her unwavering attention to her constituents.
13th District County Commission – Two-year term (Southwest Bloomfield Township) Democrat MARCIA GERSHENSON has always impressed us since she started representing this district in 2004. She is dedicated to a number of critical issues and works hard on behalf of both her district and the county as a whole. Her passionate approach to board matters would be missed. 48th District Court – Six-year term (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township) DIANE D’AGOSTINI was first elected to the bench in 2000 and has been twice re-elected since. Both her time on the bench and her previous stint as an assistant prosecutor have helped her develop into one of the better district court judges. Her outreach to area youth through programs she has developed hopefully will help minimize future interaction with the court system. Birmingham School Board Three six-year terms Three long-term board members are stepping down from the Birmingham School Board, and of the seven candidates running to take their place, we were most impressed with LORY DOLAN, MIKE NUMMER and JENNIFER RASS. They are the best prepared to take on the tasks confronting the district as they choose a new superintendent and determine a new district strategic plan. Bloomfield Hills School Board Four four-year terms Incumbents HOWARD BARON, PAUL KOLIN and JASON PAULATEER have been strong stewards for the Bloomfield Hills Schools Board, and are deserving of another term. We believe LISA EFROS has the understanding and experience to join them in continuing to lead this district forward. State Ballot Issues Proposal 1 – Marijuana Legalization Michigan may well join a growing number of states allowing recreational use of marijuana if voters give their approval in this general election. No citizen-initiated ballot issue is perfect but drafters of this issue have done a reputable job of writing the rules and restrictions surrounding recreational pot use. Vote YES. Let’s hope officials in Lansing don’t take years to implement voter wishes, like they did with medical marijuana. Proposal 2 – Redistricting amendment This amendment to the Michigan Constitution would address the political gerrymandering that for decades has allowed whatever party is in power to redraw political districts to their advantage so they continue to remain in power. The proposal essentially creates a more independent commission that would redraw districts every 10 years following a federal census. Vote YES. Proposal 3 – Voting Regulations This proposal would amend the state Constitution to provide for, among other things, ‘no-reason’ absentee ballots, same day registration, restoring straight ticket voting and several other voting items, all designed to expand voting ability and enshrine these voting issues to protect against voter suppression efforts by lawmakers. Vote YES.
exceptional talent
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