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THE PANDEMIC VOTE WHAT TO EXPECT AS BALLOTS START ROLLING OUT GO GREEN: LOCAL COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS SEPTEMBER 2020 DOWNTOWNPUBLICATIONS.COM

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DOWNTOWN09.20

38

Pandemic voting: what to expect in November COVID-19 concerns and changes to Michigan's voting laws that include 'no reason' absentee ballot voting, drove up both the turnout in the August primary and the number of mail-in ballots, so here is what to expect for the upcoming eneral election

LONGFORM

53

Climate change and how the country should be responding to this crisis is still a topic for debate at the national level, but here in the state of Michigan most local communities are taking action to address this critical issue.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

16

The Republican party, no longer as many remember it, is facing its latest threat coming from a conspiracy-theory off-the-rails group, QAnon, that believes a Satanic cabal is controlling the government.

CRIME LOCATOR

25

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

OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL

28

Mari Manoogian's national performance; Islamophobic candidate for state house; Birmingham as 'elitist bastion'; blood in the county board water; township candidate to face judge; plus more.

MUNICIPAL

67

Clinton Baller ethics hearings; 2020 safety path contract; school board candidates; dining outdoors this winter; city commission goes to school; forfeiture fund spending; Luxe expands; plus more.

THE COVER Cover design: Chris Grammer.

We’re Here for You The world has changed, but special moments remain.

We’ve reopened our store and can’t wait to safely welcome you back.

With new hours or by private appointment, we’re here to provide you personal and trustworthy service. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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METRO INTELLIGENCER

88

Reporter Dana Casadei returns to our prior format in which she brings interesting news items to the newsmagazine's readers, certainly made easier now that the restaurant industry has started to re-open.

ENDNOTE

90

Our thoughts on absentee voting for the general election, ballots for which will start being mailed out September 28; the city of Birmingham efforts to assist the business community, in particular the restaurant industry in the city.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER ur country's founding fathers had a concern about the development of political parties, fearing they would over time help divide the union of states, but on day one parties developed regardless.

O

Since the start of the union, politics in this country have been dominated for the most part by two major political parties that have fought for support of the nation's voters. And within each party there have been factions or movements competing for the soul of each party.

The most notable examples from recent history would be the Tea Party faction within the Republican Party, or the Democratic Socialists of America within the Democratic party, represented

by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) in Congress.

The competitive tension among the various factions helps shape each party.

that now appear on QAnon social media sites are from a group writing under the Q tag.

The group's basic belief is that there is a Satanic cabal within the government here, comprising the Democratic party and the elite of Hollywood, that controls everything. Cabal members, QAnon says, run a sex-trafficking ring that is plotting against President Trump. As the theory goes, Hillary Clinton is part of this cabal, along with a number of other people considered familiar whipping boys when you talk to any fringe group. Wait – it gets more bizarre. Cabal members also supposedly prey on young children who they eat to gain some type of mythical power from their blood. QAnon members claim to be in possession of national security documents that support their theories.

The group operates under the catch phrase of “We Are The Storm” – a reference to the group's belief that members of the cabal will eventually be rounded up and imprisoned. Their motto is – “Where We Go One, We Go All.”

Further shaping the national parties is the occasional leader who leaves a lasting mark extending well beyond their term of office. Ronald Reagan would be one from the recent past, while today we have Donald Trump whose cult-like influence on the Republican party will remain long after he leaves office, either at the start of 2021 or four years from then.

My first inclination when QAnon members showed at a Trump rally with signs last year was to dismiss this group as so far off the rails that no one could buy into this madness. However, some estimate QAnon has 4.5 million followers.

Unfortunately, Trump's impact on the GOP may well permanently drive away voters such as myself.

Now we see a number of disturbing things that say QAnon's influence is growing within the GOP.

I still consider myself an Independent, rather than a Democrat or Republican, despite what some of my critics think based on letters and personal emails I receive anytime I criticize the current administration. For the record, I took the time in recent weeks to review my presidential voting record, going back far too many years than I care to admit. Out of the last twelve presidential elections, I voted Republican in seven of those contests, although most recently I have backed Democrats in the last three elections. In none of those election years did I vote because of party – being more of a policy wonk even in my younger years – and I did not vote straight ticket. Hence, my declaration as an Independent.

Consider this: Congressional GOP primary candidate Marjorie Taylor Green of Georgia admits to being a pro-QAnon candidate, and was congratulated by Trump on her victory, shortly after he labeled members of QAnon as “people that love our country.” By some estimates, another dozen GOP primary candidates this year were in the QAnon camp.

It's critical we maintain a strong two-party system so that from a policy standpoint we have some choice. Forget holding out a lot of hope for third party candidates who will be destined to play not much more than a spoiler role when it comes to presidential elections. Big money campaigns pretty much prevents third parties from having much of an impact beyond that.

Both the Democratic and Republican parties have attracted their share of fringe groups in the past. But in the last few years the Republican party has become a magnet for what I would call miscreants and dark forces which are hard to ignore regardless of party policy considerations.

Under Trump the party has become a gathering place for White supremacists and racists. These elements have always been part of the overall population and party makeup but are feeling unshackled now to show their true colors thanks to the dog-whistle politics from our current president.

The FBI has labeled QAnon as a potential domestic terrorist group, which generally has not found wide acceptance within the party, either from members of Congress or the big money donors underwriting the reelection effort. A couple members of Congress have finally started to speak out, trying to distance the GOP from this group.

But that has not stopped one of Trump's sons, some members of administration and his campaign from reportedly using QAnon icons and phraseology on social media. Then there's the president himself who, according to analysis by the progressive watchdog group Media Matters, had either retweeted or amplified accounts of QAnon followers over 200 times by mid-August.

I get it – it's the Machiavellian philosophy of the ends justifying the means.

The last several years, and now the current campaign, are straight out of the 16th century author's playbook (The Prince) for obtaining and retaining power, legitimizing the use of fraud and deceit if necessary, as well as physical force against opponents or opposition groups.

So if you can't grow your Republican base and have little chance of swaying Independents in the 2020 general election, may as well throw yourself in with the White nationalists, racists and now QAnon.

Now a new fringe element has appeared on the scene and is actually working its way into the Republican party. If not stopped dead in its tracks, it will become an influence that will diminish the party even more for the foreseeable future in terms of being an option for voters.

It matters little that you have completely condemned the Republican party to a lesser role in coming years. Winning is everything, even at the risk of losing Independents turned off by where the party is drifting.

The new fringe element is QAnon, a wacky (to put it mildly) conspiracy theory group that reared its head first in late 2017 on both 4chan, a website frequented by White nationalists, and 8chan, another nationalists site that has since been forced off the internet.

NOVEMBER VOTING GUIDE: Downtown newsmagazine will be publishing a general election Voter Guide, much along the lines of what we did for the August primary. Watch for it in our October issue which goes in the mail and online October 8.

As legend has it, Q is or was actually a person, often referred to by adoring followers as a “truth-teller” who worked or work within the federal government. Current speculation is that any anti-government pronouncements

David Hohendorf Publisher DavidHohendorf@DowntownPublications.com

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PUBLISHER David Hohendorf NEWS EDITOR Lisa Brody NEWS STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brody Anchill | Dana Casadei | Stacy Gittleman Austen Hohendorf | Gigi Nichols | Bill Seklar PHOTOGRAPHY/CONTRIBUTORS Esme McClear | Laurie Tennent | Chris Ward Laurie Tennent Studio ADVERTISING DIRECTOR David Hohendorf ADVERTISING SALES Mark Grablowski GRAPHICS/IT MANAGER Chris Grammer OFFICE 124 W. Maple, Birmingham MI 48009 248.792.6464 DISTRIBUTION/SUBSCRIPTIONS Mailed monthly at no charge to most homes in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills.

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

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

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

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

DOWNTOWN GOALS/MISSION The personnel at Downtown newsmagazine bring a special commitment to the publishing effort, reinvesting in the local communities and working to make sure the Birmingham/Bloomfield area reaches its highest potential.

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

Downtown newsmagazine captures life in the local communities through coverage of major municipal and school issues, personality profiles, the latest news from the business community and the all important social non-profit circuit that makes these communities unique. We also devote considerable effort each month to address major issues facing local residents through our longform story-telling efforts, further setting us apart from others competing for readers' attention.

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Arson

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Placement of codes is approximate.

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Doctor Loan Democrats lack of action In David Hohendorf’s article (From The Publisher/August), he bemoans the lack of a national testing policy to respond to the coronavirus crisis.

However, the reason that there is no national policy is that every time an attempt is made to set a national policy the state governors cry out that “you can’t tell us what to do.”

The easy thing to do would be to blame this on Donald Trump – as you are wont to do for nearly everything – but the fact remains that nothing has come forward from the Democrat Partycontrolled House of Representatives to establish a national testing policy.

What do we hear from them?

Crickets.

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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.

Constituents deserve better Our government leaders in Michigan have failed us.

With massive unemployment since late March 2020, our unemployment system has not been available by telephone or text to those that are in dire need of their unemployment income to live. Numerous repeated cases have been reported where people cannot reach a live person at Michigan UIA but are met with a consistent busy signal and a disconnect on the phone.

The same is true of trying to use the website to send a message. Many Michigan residents are having to wait 8-10 weeks to get a check and in the meantime they are suffering.

Our governor has ignored pleas for help from her constituents. Why not open up some new jobs by hiring some of those laid off workers to work for the Michigan UIA. Fix the system and give your constituents the service they deserve.

This complaint is data driven with plenty of facts to back it up.

Pamela D. Coultis Redford downtownpublications.com

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SKY IS THE LIMIT: Michigan Rep. Mari Manoogian (D-Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, West Bloomfield) might be running for re-election to return for a second term to represent the House’s 40th District, but she clearly has an open road to bigger and brighter roles down the road – which is why state and national Democrats definitely have their sights on her. Manoogian was one of 17 up-and-comers from around the country who were invited to give the keynote speech on the second night of the Democratic National Convention. Manoogian, who turns 28 in September and is MANOOGIAN the youngest person in the state legislature, gave an f’in (literally) shoutout to Joe Biden and to her hometown of Birmingham in the keynote, stating, Democratic policies will help boost “small business owners, like the ones whose shops and restaurants line the streets of Birmingham, Michigan.” Manoogian is a strong booster for Biden, pointing out to convention watchers that the former VP had “stuck his neck out to protect” the auto industry a decade ago. Those watching Manoogian wonder where she’ll land when she’s term-limited after her third House stint. The state Senate district that includes her hometown of Birmingham, now held by Democrat Mallory McMorrow, is not likely to be open for Manoogian, but then who knows what will happen when redistricting takes place. Politicos given to spitballing wonder if some spot may be found eventually in the state administration or even the Biden administration if he wins in November, at least as a temporary home until some Michigan district opens.

IF A TREE FALLS: The old saying, “What happens if a tree falls in the forest and no one hears it?” could apply to the pseudo controversy Fox News has stirred up over so-called “dead voters” in Michigan. Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum claimed on August 16 that absentee ballots from deceased people cast in the August 4 primary were evidence of “intentional” fraud. What she failed to tell viewers, or perhaps understand, was that the votes were cast by mail and then the voters had died.

The totally false narrative was then picked up by First Son Donald Trump Jr. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s office released preliminary data on August 14 MACCALLUM showing that over 10,000 absentee ballots were rejected by local clerks in the election, including 846 ballots that had been cast by voters who subsequently died before election day. Some were rejected because they lacked signatures on the exterior of the envelope; some people had moved and were no longer registered in the jurisdiction, among other reasons, Benson’s office said. While the rejected ballots because people had died accounted for less than .03 percent of the total votes cast in the primary, Trump Jr. tweeted, “The media: NOTHING TO SEE HERE!!!

It was only about 8% of the votes cast.” Guess math wasn’t his best subject in school.

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SAY WHAT? — PART I: We’re pretty sure we heard state House Rep. Christine Greig (D-Farmington, Farmington Hills), who is also the House Minority Leader, audibly gasp. Greig is term-limited this election go-round, in which three Democrats who served together on the city council fought to represent their party to fill her seat, with Samantha Steckloff the primary victor. Her general election opponent, Republican Mitch Swoboda, just made an uphill battle even tougher for himself in the traditionally Democratic district (the three Dems had a combined total of 18,456 primary votes to Swoboda’s 6,680), by posting on Facebook on August 29 that “2300 years ago, long before Islam, Arabs discovered that forcing people to cover their nose and mouths, broke their will and individuality and depersonalized them...The mask is the beginning of deleting individuality,” with a photo of a blonde woman wearing a mask with a lock and chain attached. The Michigan chapter of the Council on DOWNTOWN

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SAY WHAT? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; PART II: How soon some Republicans forget.

Birmingham, which until 2018 was considered a Republican stronghold, was recently upbraided and dismissed as a toxic, wealthy liberal enclave by Meshawn Maddock, who sits on the national advisory board of Women for Trump 2020 and is wife of Republican state Rep. Matt Maddock (Milford), as well is the local Republican chair of the 11th District.

Maddock was featured on Fox-2 Newsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Let It Rip feature, along with Rep. Mari Manoogian (D-Birmingham). As Maddock went on and on about the violence in MADDOCK Democratic-run cities, Manoogian countered that she had been in downtown Birmingham the night before, and it was nice, quiet and peaceful. As Fox-2 anchorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charlie Langtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes nearly popped out of his head, Maddock retorted, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Birmingham is the bastion of elitists.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bunch of rich white women...No one is interested on election day on how safe Birmingham, Michigan is.â&#x20AC;? Meshawn then proudly posted the clip on Facebook for her fans.

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HERE COMES THE JUDGE: Bloomfield Township trustee candidate Don Valente is running because he really, really, really doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like current township supervisor Leo Savoie â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which he makes clear at just about every single board meeting, where he rants about what he considers Savoieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poor leadership. Same with his primary campaign mailers. But seems he went a little overboard â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when he allegedly stole 50 to 60 campaign signs for not only Savoie â&#x20AC;&#x201C; who lost in the primary, by the way â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but also township treasurer Brian Kepes, trustee Neal Barnett, Republican clerk candidate Tom Smyly, and a couple of others. Township police caught him on surveillance cameras doing the deed, and the signs were seen by officers in plain view leaning against the outside of Valenteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garage. Oakland County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office turned over their findings to the county prosecutorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office, which issued a warrant for his arrest, as the crime is a misdemeanor, punishable by 93 days in jail and/or $500, or three times the value of the property stolen, whichever is greater.

Word is Valente initially refused to turn himself in, repeatedly calling 48th District Court screaming. Assume wiser heads prevailed, as Valente is scheduled to appear at the 48th on Friday, September 11, along with his attorney.

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OFF ENDANGERED LIST: You certainly wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know it based on the attack ads on TV, but according to Roll Call, the news site on all things Congress and White House-related, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (DBloomfield Township) is no longer on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;vulnerableâ&#x20AC;? list of senators who look unlikely to win re-election in November. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While Peters still has a real race against Republican John James, the state appears to be a less competitive presidential battleground for President Donald Trumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campaign.â&#x20AC;? As of September 1, polling data has Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden leading Trump in Michigan anywhere from 11 points, according to EPIC-MRA, to six points, according to CNBC/YouGov. In addition, Politifact fact-checked those â&#x20AC;&#x153;invisible manâ&#x20AC;? ads James has been running against JAMES Peters, asserting Peters has a record of not showing for committee meetings. In actuality, Politifact stated, the China committee is a staff run commission which exists to monitor activity in China. A more important metric, Politifact said, is percentage of floor votes missed. There, Peters excelled â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in 2019, he missed zero floor votes, tying him with the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two leaders, Mitch McConnell (R-VA) and Chuck Schumer (DNY). â&#x20AC;&#x153;That record shows Peters was on the job,â&#x20AC;? said Steven B. Smith, a political scientist at Washington University in St. Louis. But as we all know, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not over â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til the fat lady sings.

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COURTING FAVORS: Despite a new television ad touting that he is “his own man” who can’t be “bought,” Republican Senate candidate John James of Farmington Hills has been spending time currying favors – in the form of big dollars – with a variety of questionable folk. We all know he’s into the DeVos family for $1 million. Word has come that new postmaster general Louis DeJoy has donated to James’ campaigns this year and in 2018, making it rather difficult for James to criticize any of the post office’s election shenanigans. One Nation, a non-profit organization affiliated with the GOP super PAC Senate Leadership Group, Mitch McConnell’s dark money group, began spending $4.5 million pitting Sen. Gary Peters against James. Word is One Nation joins other outside PACs spending up to $16 million in Michigan so far on the race, according to the Center for Responsive Politics – all after Politico published a memo from James’ internal campaign’s general consultant begging “for outside air support from Republican groups.” With all of the dark money being spent on James, on August 24, the Michigan Democratic Party filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) because a federal candidate, or agent of a candidate’s campaign, is prohibited from soliciting or directing funds to help their campaign from dark money groups.

WHEN YOU’RE ON TOP: Unlike in 2018, when Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (D-Rochester, Rochester Hills, northern Oakland, parts of Livingston and Ingham counties) was the underdog in her fight to flip this traditionally Republican district, this go-round Slotkin is the incumbent, with cash-on-hand (as of July 15) approaching $5 million, and a bulls-eye on her back to go with it. Her Republican opponent, Paul Junge, of Brighton, has only raised a tenth of what she has, but he’s determined to fight for the job – even if it means elongating the truth to fit his narrative.

Fact checkers at the Detroit Free Press have made mincemeat out of some of his claims, including one where he falsely claimed Slotkin, a former CIA intelligence analyst, National Security Council staffer and senior Pentagon official, had voted against legislation which condemned China’s malignant cyber activity. That four-Pinocchio moment came right after he falsely claimed Slotkin hadn’t condemned the violence and destruction which had come about from certain social justice protests. These phony statements, according to Slotkin’s campaign spokesperson Gordon Trowbridge, are the “latest in a series of false attacks from Junge that fall far short of that basic standard of civility and decency. The voters of the 8th District deserve a campaign based on the facts, not false attacks.”

BLOOD IN THE WATER: Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Dave Woodward (D-Royal Oak) and former chair, commissioner Mike Gingell (R-Lake Orion), were once such good friends, they vacationed together, had dinner together with their spouses – and had a deal for Gingell to get the Republican commissioners to support Woodward as the next county executive when the late L. Brooks Patterson died. When that plan was exposed and went south last August, so did their friendship – and so, apparently, has civility between the two on the commission. The water has become so toxic, it seems they can no longer talk out simple board disagreements. Case in point – a squabble playing out in public over press WOODWARD releases and who is authorized to send them out. Seems it all happened because Gingell sent a press release out regarding the commission’s approval of the upcoming county parks and rec bond, which Democrats on the board are proposing to increase by 50 percent. Gingell named the sponsor of the bill in his release – and Woodward took umbrage to the naming of the commissioner. “Gingell was being political, and Woodward felt it wasn’t collegial,” said one insider. Instead of talking it out, like friends or mature politicians, Woodward instituted a policy preventing commissioners from sending out press releases with specific policy without his approval. So – Gingell sent out a press release to object.

“We’ve always operated as a non-partisan staff, and the board is evolving into as partisan as the state legislature,” said Chris Ward, chief of staff, board of commissioners. Maybe they should be sent to the sandbox to work it out between themselves.

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FACES

Kim Sakwa im Sakwa has loved to read as far back as she can remember, but in her early teens she found a few authors, like Sidney Sheldon and Jackie Collins, that would change her life.

“There was just something about them,” said Sakwa, who went to Seaholm High School. “I remember seeing pictures of these authors sitting behind a desk and something just clicked and I thought, that's what I want to do. That's who I want to be. That's what I want to be.”

Now, Sakwa’s photo is gracing her own books.

Her second novel, Never Say Goodbye, was released in late June. Described as a contemporary romance with a time travel twist, it’s focus is on singer-songwriter Amanda Marceau, who travels through time and meets Alexander Montgomery.

Naturally, things don’t go completely smoothly and one of them gets amnesia.

Ultimately, Sakwa hopes that readers get a love story out of reading Never Say Goodbye.

“At the end of the day, for me it's about love and unconditional love, and finding that person that you know always supports you and is with you. Life is hard. It’s not puppies and rainbows,” she said. “So I love happily ever after against the odds and putting characters together and them finding their happy.”

Never Say Goodbye is also the first in the Brothers Montgomery series. Readers will meet her newest heroine in another book for the second in the series.

There’s also plans to revisit her debut novel, The Prophecy, which was a Scottish historical time travel romance novel, compared to Never Say Goodbye’s contemporary romance with flashbacks.

“The Prophecy was my ode to everything I love about time travel and historical romance,” she said.

The journey to getting The Prophecy published wasn’t always a smooth one. The first iteration Sakwa wrote years ago – it was originally called, Reaching for Infinity – was completed in a matter of months. It was her first time writing anything – she had never even written a short story before. Sakwa sent it to an editor who, as she put it, ripped it apart.

“So was it upsetting? Of course. Did it keep me down? Absolutely not,” she said.

So, Sakwa wrote it again. She had learned a lot and found that her voice had changed during that rewrite. What was now titled The Prophecy was sent out again.

This time, she got a call from an agent who loved it. Unfortunately, for a few reasons, it didn’t end up working out at the time.

Sakwa ended up putting writing aside for a while before returning to it a few years ago.

“I decided this is my dream, and I need to pursue this,” she said. “I can't keep this down any longer, I can't live my life because I'm not being authentic.”

Sakwa sent it to book editors in New York and found one. Then, well, you can figure out the rest.

Considering she didn’t give up on her own dreams, even after notes that would have stopped many from continuing, Sakwa has a lot of advice for a budding author. But her biggest piece is an obvious one – write.

“Write and pursue,” she said. “The reading world and the publishing world is our oyster today. It's there and it’s accessible.”

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“Vote early and vote often.”

That tongue-in-cheek election phrase, believed to have first been uttered in 1856 by John Van Buren, an attorney and son of President Martin Van Buren, as an anti-slavery Free Soil Party leader, although it has also been attributed to Chicago gangster Al Capone, the Tammany Hall political machine leaders of the 1860s, and even Nazi leaders when seizing of power in 1933. While voters today can't “vote often,” this year in particular they are being encouraged to vote early. And it is being portrayed not as a scam, other than by a few, but as a civic duty.

Technically, the November 3 general election is still almost two months away, and with it the debates, flyers, signs, rabid discussions and non-stop advertising. In reality, the ability to vote is merely weeks away, with Michigan clerks beginning to mail absentee ballots on September 28.

Michigan voters in November 2018 had the opportunity to decide the fate of Proposal 3, called Promote the Vote, an effort to bring sameday voter registration, no-reason absentee voting, automatic voter registration and other changes to Michigan's election law. The ballot issue also restored straight-ticket voting, which the state legislature in 2015 abolished after being allowed for 127 years. The ballot issue was approved, 67 percent to 33 percent, with over 2.7 million Michigan voters supporting the proposal.

Michigan is now in line with 37 other states and Washington D.C. which permit voters to obtain an absentee ballot with no reason needed. Numerous other states also already allow same day registration as long as a voter has photo ID and proof of residency. The state of Idaho, for example, has encouraged same day voter registration as far back as 1994.

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In addition, Proposal 3 provides the right to vote in a secret ballot; ensures military service members and overseas voters can obtain ballots; automatically registers citizens to vote at the Secretary of State's office unless the citizen declines; allows a citizen to register to vote anytime with proof of residency; and ensures the accuracy and integrity of elections by auditing election results.

The changes to elections were enacted immediately, but the first major test was the primary in August, with the grand kahuna coming up – the November presidential election. Local municipal and county clerks are gearing up for an unprecedented turnout of voters, all exercising their constitutional right, and privilege, to vote. And while it is a huge responsibility, tons of work and exhausting, clerks are excited and ready.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, sent out absentee ballot applications to all of the state's registered voters who were not already on their municipality's permanent absentee ballot list for the primary election – a move she is doing once again for the general election, said she felt it was a benefit to voters in the primary.

“Absolutely it was. It's why there were so many citizens voting absentee, on both sides of the aisle,” she said. “My goal is to have people exercise their rights.”

State Sen. Ruth Johnson (R-Holly), who was Benson's predecessor as secretary of state, strongly believes in noreason absentee voting, “I ran on it, and I got booed for it, until I explained what it was,” but is very strongly opposed to sending out mass mailings to all voters offering them the opportunity to apply for an absentee ballot.

“Hundreds of thousands of absentee ballot requests went to people who were ineligible to vote,” Johnson said, noting some registered voters had passed away, moved, or even moved out of state without alerting their local clerk's office or secretary of state office. “Some clerks were equipped to handle it, (but) some were overwhelmed (by the number of absentee ballot applications).”

To Johnson, it all smells of rank partisanship, as well as having the potential for voter fraud, where someone who is not qualified to vote, such as an immigrant with the ability to have a drivers' license, but is not a legal citizen. That person could believe they can apply and receive an absentee ballot, and vote.

“I sent a letter to the secretary of state (Benson) on August 18 – I feel she needs to clean it up first,” Johnson said. “You can't have questions after about election results.

“The secretary of state's office should be nonpartisan,” Johnson emphasized. “I treated it that way.”

Benson has countered that the mailings help cull the voter rolls by helping the state become aware of those voters who have moved or are dead, and help remove them from the qualified voter file. She also noted that signature verification – where clerks match the signatures they have on file to the ones on absentee ballot applications – helps prevent fraud.

“Voters will have voter choices that they can exercise safely. They can exercise their right to vote early at their clerk's office or by mail,” Benson said. “The only variable is what we categorize as from outside – foreign or domestic – or from outside influence.”

On August 26, the Michigan Court of Claims dismissed a suit challenging Benson's authority to send out absentee ballot applications to all registered voters, determining she has the power even when no requests have been made.

Compounding citizens right to vote this year is the coronavirus pandemic, which is highly contagious.

Many people are choosing the option to vote absentee as

SOS Benson said the mailing of absentee voter applications helps cull the voter rolls by making the state aware of those voters who have moved or are dead, and helps remove them from the qualified voter file. She also noted that signature verification by local municipal clerks helps prevent fraud.

A lawsuit from critics was dismissed when judges ruled she had the power to send out applications to all registered voters.

a safe alternative to heading to their neighborhood polling place.

“With COVID-19, many people are reluctant to go to precincts. In Michigan, we are well positioned for voting absentee because of the passage of Proposal 3,” said Barbara McQuade, professor at University of Michigan law school, political commentator and former U.S. Attorney for Eastern District of Michigan.

She noted that she believes this year it's actually a duty to stay home and vote absentee, in order to “leave the polls available for those who need or choose to go, whether because of illness, or handicapped accessibility. Think of it as the handicapped parking space – we leave it for others.”

“In considering best practices for administering elections during a pandemic, lawmakers must take into account the health and safety of not just those involved in the voting process but also members of entire state populations who could be negatively affected if proper precautions are not taken,” pointed out Danielle Root of the Center for American Progress. “In order to keep voters, poll workers, and especially populations at risk of COVID-19 safe, state and national leaders must take immediate action to fortify the voting process and protect voters and nonvoters alike.”

“It's essential we vote,” McQuade emphasized. “I feel an obligation to vote that was so hard fought,” referencing the centennial anniversary of woman's suffrage and the civil rights struggle. “We just need to do it safely.”

Both Benson and Johnson, along with political prognosticators on both sides of the aisle, are anticipating a record voter turnout in November's election.

“Michigan will likely top 70 percent turnout,” Benson said. “That's about 5 million voters. We had about 2.5 million voters in the August primary – without a statewide contested election.”

Of those 2.5 million votes cast, Benson said 1.6 million votes were done by mail, or absentee.

“We're anticipating we could receive three million absentee ballots in November, which is almost double the number of 2016's,” Johnson said.

While President Donald Trump continues to cast aspersions and ramps up fear of mail-in voting, the facts just don't support his theories.

“Absentee ballots are a subset of mail-in voting,” McQuade said, “because you can mail them in or drop them at a ballot box.” She suggested that perhaps Trump is remembering the past, when only those who were not in their district on election day could legitimately apply for absentee ballots – which is no longer valid in most of the country.

She explained that, just as in Michigan prior to Proposal 3, “once it was only for those who had a reason to be absent from their polling place on election day.

Now, the numbers are much larger. Even if people aren't absent from their district, many states permit them to utilize their absentee ballots. I think some have confusion on the difference.”

“Voting absentee or by mail is a safe, trusted and age-old practice. Moreover, expanded access to absentee voting comports with conservative principles, which helps explain why a number of conservative state policymakers have advanced proposals to achieve it.

Finally, and critically, policymakers should take note that polling data indicate very clearly that the public strongly favors expanded access to absentee voting and that its results are partisan-neutral,” said Kevin Kosar of R Street, a non-profit, non-partisan public policy research organization.

Ben Ptashnick, president of National Election Defense Coalition, disagrees because he said research

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shows that vote by mail efforts “disenfranchise a lot of minorities, youth and Native Americans.

“With how much they move, how stable their living facilities are, how well their mail is catching up with them or if they have to re-register to vote, especially with youth, there's a reduced participation, by 10, 15, to 20 percent,” with vote by mail efforts,” he said.

“It is true that it would be safer for COVID-19 to vote by mail, and safer for seniors to vote by mail, but civil rights experts note that whenever there are vote by mail efforts, minorities are left behind,” Ptashnick said.

“Blacks and Latinos are used to voting in person. Blacks are used to standing in line to vote – once they were allowed to vote in person. Trust levels by minorities are very low for voting by mail – 28 percent of Blacks do not want to vote by mail, and 25 percent of Latinos. They say they just do not want to put their ballot in the box.

“It's not something you want to initiate in a crucial election.”

There are actually five states – Colorado, Washington, Hawaii, Oregon and Utah, a Republican bastion – that only have mail-in voting. In those states, there is no inperson voting at precincts. And it's not a new phenomenon. Oregon has had all mail voting since 2000, and Colorado, since 2016.

Despite claims of increased fraud – or of “rigged elections” – with increased usage of absentee ballots, the truth is quite different.

“Oregon has had strictly mail-in voting – no polls – since 2000, and the level of fraud was minute,” McQuade said. “Out of 100 million ballots cast in 20 years, they have documented 12 cases of fraud. That is .00001 percent.

“A voter has a greater chance of being struck by lightning than experiencing fraud at the polls,” she emphasized.

Besides clerks having to compare signatures on the absentee ballots to what they have on file here in Michigan, “there is a bar code (on the ballot) that is tracked all the way to the poll,” she said. “Those safeguards are in place to prevent fraud. Absentees for this election are the safest way to prevent fraud and to leave the polls for those who need, must or want to go to them.”

Local municipal clerks saw turnout increase significantly for this August's primary, as well as the use of absentee ballots. Oakland County Clerk Lisa Brown said that countywide turnout in August 2020 was a little over 37 percent, with a record number of absentee ballots.

“We set a record for voter turnout in a primary,” Brown said. “It's a good thing when more people participate.”

Her crystal ball is still cloudy figuring out November's forecast.

“November will be the first big election since (Proposal) 18-3, it's first big test,” Brown noted. “So many people just did vote by absentee ballot, so I think they'll vote that way. It'll be interesting.”

Around the county, many local municipalities, large and small, reported increased turnout as well as a surge in usage of absentee ballots. Troy Clerk Aileen Dickson, who has been in office about 20 years, said because of that she usually has a good expectation of turnout. Troy, she said, had a total turnout of 38 percent of their 59,000 registered voters and 74 percent voted absentee – compared to the previous presidential year, 2016, when in August they had a total turnout of 17 percent, and 52 percent voted absentee.

“All of my statistics I've had to throw out the window.

Usually, it's an even-year August. Nope. I've had to throw them all out. It's just a huge turnout for an August election,” Dickson said. “All of my models and

Birmingham City Clerk Designee Alexandria Bingham said the city had a 39 percent turnout in the August 2020 primary, with 29 percent of those voting absentee, compared to a 19 percent voter turnout in the 2016 primary, of which less than nine percent voted absentee. For the November election the clerk's office is expecting to mail more than 7,500 absentee ballots out of a total of 18,308 registered voters.

predictability are out the window. I have to rebuild them all.”

She said the March presidential primary was the first election they held since the passage of Proposal 3.

“That election is always low. That was the first glimpse into the turnout. We had 35 percent turnout, with a much bigger absentee at 50 percent, which wouldn't have ever happened before,” she said. “That wasn't because of COVID-19. We were already ramping up due to Proposal 3.”

Dickson said since the COVID-19 pandemic, it has all become exponentially more difficult for clerks.

“For the November election, we have about 30,000 absentee applications waiting,” she said. “A humungous total of our registered voters have already applied and are waiting, and we're getting more and more applications every day.”

She said in August, they did receive a few same day voter registration applications, but not many, which she believes is because her office held a few weekend registration drives and pushed online registration.

“We have over 1,000 people that did the online secretary of state application, and then turned right around and voted absentee,” Dickson said. “I think it helped a lot of people and it took some of the burden off of us.”

“Proposal 18-3 has caused a lot more work for clerks across the state but as a public servant I appreciate how the new laws are more accommodating to voters,” said Alexandria Bingham, city clerk designee in Birmingham, which had a 39 percent turnout in the August 2020 primary, with 29 percent of those voting absentee, compared to a 19 percent voter turnout in 2016, of which less than nine percent voted absentee. For November, they are already expecting to mail more than 7,500 absentee ballots out of a total of 18,308 registered voters, “and we'll continue to mail ballots as requested before the Friday, October 30, mailing deadline.”

She is preparing for 100 percent turnout between Birmingham's absentee and in-person voters, understanding that already 40 percent of Birmingham voters have requested an absentee ballot, looking for extra assistance at the clerk's office and carefully calculating and predicting her election supply orders.

“I see the increased demand of absentee voting and overall voter turnout as an exciting challenge for clerks,” Bingham said. “It takes proactive planning and organization to be successful in running any election and even more so with Proposal 18-3 and COVID-19 accommodations. Absentee voting can be more convenient and enable voters to vote early if they can't (or prefer not to) make it to their designated polling place on Election Day.” A nice by-product, she noted, of the increase in absentee voters, is that “in August, I noticed that all the live polling locations were running smoother with less traffic. There were almost no lines or wait times throughout the day. I want voters to feel reassured that they can vote safely in-person or by mail – it's always the voter's choice.”

Turnout in Bloomfield Hills was 42 percent, which was about the same as in August 2018, Bloomfield Hills Clerk Amy Burton said. “Absentee ballots was where we saw the big difference. We issued 1,600, and we received 1,200 back. In 2018, we issued about 600. There was only 12 percent turnout at the precincts,” she said.

For a small municipality, Burton said they did receive a number of same-day voters registering and voting.

“We had about a dozen,” she said. “We usually do have some. Anecdotally, I think a lot of it for us is from the Cranbrook Educational Community – residential students or teachers who are changing their status.”

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Burton said her goal for the November election is to get out consistently – and frequently – before residents with enews blasts about how they can get their absentee ballots and how to get them back to her efficiently.

“We are open – our city hall is open. We have an outdoor drop box but you can come in and put it in the box in our lobby too,” she said. “It's there 24/7. We check them frequently – several times a day.

Almost 48 percent of Bloomfield Township voters voted in the August primary, compared to 31 percent in the August 2016 election.

“Oh my gosh, we issued over 15,000 absentee ballots,” Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli said, out of a total 37,175 registered voters. She said the biggest problem they had was not from voters, despite about 200 spoiled ballots because they did not understand they could not cross party lines in the primary, but with the post office. Birmingham had 123 spoiled ballots; Troy had about 300; West Bloomfield reported a significant amount; Bloomfield Hills had none.

“We had huge, huge problems with the mail delivery, and we had lots of people come into the office who had been mailed their absentee ballots, but it had never arrived,” she said, noting one mailing took 13 days to get to residents. “That's unacceptable.

When we spoke with the post office, they said they didn't see a problem.”

She was glad residents made appointments to come into the clerk's office to get another ballot, or to vote at their polling precinct.

“At least they voted,” she said.

Roncelli noted that unlike in some other states, it does not matter if the absentee ballots returned are postmarked or not. They just must be returned no later than 8 p.m. Tuesday night, election night.

“Yes, many of our returned ballots come from our drop box. It doesn't matter if they're postmarked, or if they're returned without postage. They just have to arrive by Tuesday at 8 p.m.,” Roncelli said.

The day after the election, and for days after, Roncelli said, absentee ballots continued to trickle in by mail.

“They're still trickling in from the March election” from the post office, she added.

“We have to go in and reject those, with the reason being that we received those after election day,” Roncelli said. “We have to reject those ballots because we issued those ballots.”

She said the total number of rejected ballots from each municipality is automatically posted on the qualified voter file maintained by the Secretary of State's office, which can then be accessed by the county.

“It's how they know exactly how many and which ballots I issued, how many I received back. It's also the way a voter can track the status of their ballot, and how the state gets all of their statistics,” she said.

Rochester Hills Clerk Tina Barton said they had more than 22,000 voters in the August primary, a 40 percent turnout, with 16,378 absentee ballots returned.

“In August 2016, we had a 19 percent turnout, and had only 9,000 total voters,” just under 6,000 of which were absentee, she said. “Our absentee ballot counting board jumped from 20 people to about 70. Mayor Bryan Barnett closed down the entire city hall to any business – city workers could work from home or they could work as an election worker and get paid – and a lot jumped in and helped.”

She said many people were afraid to visit precincts, or believed they might be closed due to COVID-19, and despite sending out information, she had to bring in an extra co-worker to answer phones that day.

“Precincts were calling saying people had not

Bloomfield Hills Clerk Amy Burton said turnout in that city was 42 percent. Absentee ballots increased significantly, with 1,600 issued and 1,200 returned. Burton said her goal for the November election is to get out consistently – and frequently – before residents with e-news blasts about how they can get their absentee ballots and how to get them back to her efficiently using a drop box inside City Hall and an outdoor box.

received their absentee ballots or they were surrendering their ballots, they had spoiled their ballots by crossing party lines.”

This election, she said, she had less than 10 people register to vote same day. But she anticipates November to look more like last March “when the majority of new voters were 18 to 25 year olds. Those kids will not be in college. The lines we experienced in March, we'll see in November again, only bigger.”

Barton, like all other clerks and Michigan Secretary of State Benson, is encouraging voters to not mail their ballots back in November, but to return them to drop boxes at their local clerks' office.

Troy's Dickson is even asking the Troy City Council to let her office offer a two-day drive by absentee ballot pickup at Troy City Hall the weekend before they're scheduled to mail them out.

“It's something we've never done before, but we've never had this kind of need before,” Dickson said.

Residents would show their ID, and clerks would retrieve absentee ballots from a bin. “We work really closely with the Troy Post Office, and we know they do everything they can do to get our mail out, but there are breakdowns in the system.”

“The primary had volume; this one will have volume and vitriol,” said West Bloomfield Clerk Debbie Binder.

Noting they had a very busy primary season, Binder said West Bloomfield had 40 percent total turnout in the August primary, of which 77 percent were absentee voters. Similarly, in March they had a 37 percent turnout. In the August primary in 2016, just 23 percent of West Bloomfield voters exercised their right.

“From August of 2016 to August 2020, there was an 86 percent increase in total ballots and a 177 percent increase in absentee ballots,” Binder said. Precincts, she said, saw a definite decrease in turnout.

“The highest number of absentees prior to this election was November 2012, a general election, when we had 15,615 absentees. This time, we had 16,777, for a primary,” she said. “With very realistic forecasting for the presidential election, we know we're going to have 85 to 90 percent turnout in November. With about 54,000 registered voters in West Bloomfield, that means about 35,000 absentee ballots to process. We're talking a huge difference.

“There was very little in both (March and August 2020) to bring Republicans out,” Binder noted. “The numbers will skyrocket in November. We're getting the word out.”

She said they received about 65 to 75 late ballots in August, “but we got the word out that the mail was late and really promoted the drop box.

“We don't want to discourage people mailing their ballots because we have a large population that uses the mail – snowbirds, college students, seniors in assisted living facilities. The only recourse we have is voter education,” she said.

Binder said they had 30 to 40 people register same day in August.

“In March, we had 79 people. In March, Ann Arbor had 1,200,” she pointed out, when students were still in school (March 10, prior to lockdown). “I think we'll have a larger number in November. We could get a huge number of same day with a lot of college students at home. We may also be able to get some of them back as election workers.

“Most of the changes with Proposal 3 were for the better, but there were some unintended challenges – which for clerks was same day registration, which the bulk of come late in the day,” Binder said. “For a municipality of our size, we need four clerks just dedicated to same day registration, because many are also then voting absentee. They're spending between 10

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and 15 minutes with a voter. It's resource-intense operation.”

“Smaller elections had 71, 72, 76 and 77 percent absentee ballot turnouts, but now we have COVID-19.

That's why those bills that Sen. Ruth Johnson has sponsored are so critical. It's just math and what's physically possible – and it's what other states have done.”

Binder is referring to two Senate bills Johnson has introduced, one, Senate Bill 756, which would permit shifts of election workers to work; the other, Senate Bill 757, to allow municipal and county clerks to open the outer envelope of absentee ballots on the Monday prior to the election to expedite processing on election day.

“There are about 30,000 election workers, and the average age is 72,” Johnson pointed out. “The current law says once you come in to a precinct or election area, you cannot leave for the whole day. You have to surrender your phone. It's unfair to expect someone to work what could be 30 hours. It's to allow shifts of workers. They would still be sequestered, there would still be checks and balances. I think this is so, so important.

“It's hard enough to get them to work.”

Johnson said SB 756 passed the state Senate unanimously in June, but is stalled in the state House.

SB 757, to permit preprocessing of the secrecy sleeve of absentee ballots, has been held up by Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake).

“It would permit high speed openers to open the secrecy sleeve on the Monday before an election from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for municipalities with populations of 25,000 or more,” Johnson said, noting there could be citizen and party involvement.

“Clerks could register numbers, which take a lot of time,” she said. “This would really help clerks and election workers. It would not divulge any votes and it would have checks and balances.

“I would really like these to pass. COVID has really created challenges for us,” Johnson said.

Local clerks interviewed by Downtown are in favor of both bills.

“Absolutely. It is a critical need for clerks,” Binder said. “Opening the day before is of the utmost importance to us. We're looking to process a huge number of ballots. As for shifts of workers – it's inhumane to keep people that long. You're dealing with human beings, not just counting ballots.”

Dickson of Troy would be thrilled to have either bill pass. “Right now, I know I will be awake for 48 hours” in November. “I'd be fine with either one. We're under the assumption nothing is going to change under election law – but it would be really nice if it did, if we could do preprocessing where you slice open the pre-envelope, or if they approved putting the ballot in the processor, but not the tabulator until election day.”

“My priority is not speed – it's safety and security.

Our focus is on making all 60 people working on our absentee ballot counting board feel safe,” she said. “We had PPE. We changed everything about how we sit, had lunch, had breaks, how we spaced people out. The whole place smelled like cleaning solution. People who worked in August all want to come back.”

“Processing ballots before election day seems like an awkward practice to me, but I also see the need,” said Bingham of Birmingham. “I care deeply about elections being held with integrity and transparency so long as the practice is secure and consistent across the state. I am confident that the clerks needing this method will be able to adapt if this law is passed. The demands on absentee voting have more than doubled in our jurisdiction and I can't even imagine how much stress that amount of work feels to clerks in larger jurisdictions

Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli issued over 15,000 absentee ballots for the August primary, out of a total 37,175 registered voters.

Almost 48 percent of Bloomfield Township voters voted in the primary, compared to 31 percent in the August 2016 election.

She said the biggest problem they had was not from voters who did not understand they could not cross party lines in the primary, but with the post office.

or clerks who have less resources. Rapid mechanical letter openers and high speed tabulators are amazing tools but even with assistance of these devices, counting all of those ballots is still an enormous and critical job.”

“I definitely support it,” said Amy Burton of Bloomfield Hills. “There has to be the option for those communities that really need it. There are best practices that have been put into place. Other states have it, and do it safely.”

Oakland County Clerk Lisa Brown said she definitely supports both legislative measures, with one caveat.

“I don't support it being limited to municipalities of a certain size (25,000 or more population),” she said.

“Every municipality has to do the same work, regardless of size.”

Dickson said the bigger issue she faces – echoed by other clerks – is getting enough election workers.

“We're crying for more workers,” she said. “I hear it from everyone. And then we expect them to work for 20 to 24 hours. We had a lot of people signed up to work until about four weeks before, then they kept cancelling, until and through the day of the election, many because they didn't want to be out in a crowd. We usually have a backup plan – we always have cancellations, but this time we had already used up people on our backup list and it was too late to get more.

“We did OK. We didn't have shortages. We shuffled people around.”

“We need 20 to 30 more workers for November, to beef up the reserves,” Binder of West Bloomfield said.

“For sustainability, we need to engage younger workers.

It's a paid position. Most younger workers coming the first time come for the money, but when they learn what a long day it is, they don't come back. Adults who do it, there is a fulfillment, and they come back even though they know it's a long day.”

Brown said the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved hazard pay of a $50 bonus of all election workers, from $200 to $250 for the day, although individual municipalities determined if they paid it.

With the increase in absentee ballots, Brown set up a county election board to assist communities after legislation signed in June to permit their formation.

Birmingham was one of 16 municipalities to be part of Oakland County's election board in August. Brown said she currently has 40 municipalities indicating interest in having them help tabulate their absentee results in November, but she does not know if they are all seriously interested – or if so, where she will find a venue large enough for everyone to count ballots.

One requirement of participating in the election board was each municipality had to have someone from that municipality be part of the counting board. Cut off for absentees to be part of the election board is 4 p.m. the Monday prior to Election Day; after that, all absentees returned go to their precinct to be processed.

“The individual clerk's office still had to check the signatures,” Brown said.

Brown, county election workers, and the 16 representatives from each municipalities began in August on Tuesday morning with high speed envelope openers, and “We were done before dinner and up (on the county election site) by 8:01 p.m.,” Brown said. “It's consolidation and it turns out we could have done more.”

She acknowledged she was nervous prior, but she and her staff practiced and practiced, assigning each person their own specific task. “We figured out the bottlenecks, ensuring the privacy of that voter is maintained. It's really important. That way we could figure out how many people we needed to hire so it was the most efficient,” she said.

FACES Stephanie Steinberg he sunlight-soaked space of the Detroit Writing Room, an entrepreneurial endeavor launched in June of 2019 by wife and husband team Stephanie Steinberg and Jake Serwer, is quiet and empty during these pandemic months. But now that many are finding the time to get their creative juices going during quarantine, Steinberg and her team of accomplished writing coaches have never been busier, virtually guiding those who are curious about starting a podcast, who will finally pen that long pent-up novel, or need just the right branding for their business concept. Throw in a few poetry slams and children's book author readings, and Steinberg has crafted the coziest virtual spot for all things literary in Detroit.

University of Michigan alumni Steinberg and Serwer met while living and working in Washington D.C. In 2016, they returned to the area, where Steinberg landed a job as a feature reporter at The Detroit News and Serwer founded Espresso Public Relations.

“I kept writing about people who were opening up new businesses in Detroit,” said Steinberg, who lamented that during her 2015 book tour for In the Name of Editorial Freedom: 125 Years at the Michigan Daily, there was no downtown Detroit literary hotspot for book lovers and authors.

“Jake and I decided we wanted to be a part of this transformation. As part of Detroit’s comeback, we thought there needs to be a workspace for the creative and literary community to meet and mingle.”

They found a spot in downtown Detroit close to restaurants and bars where job seekers could get help on sprucing up a resume or pull up a chair at the side of a writing coach to plan out a work of fiction or non-fiction, and moved into an apartment across the street. Now, they live in Birmingham, where they enjoy taking walks in the neighborhood with their Goldendoodle puppy. Steinberg is also a contributing editor for U.S. News and World Report, where for five years she held writing and editing beats in health and finance.

Through a non-profit initiative called Coaching Detroit Forward, the DWR this summer provided an online journalism camp to qualified high school journalists not only from Detroit but also New York, Florida, Georgia, and Texas.

Students shared stories from a turbulent spring and summer as they covered protests for racial justice and documented how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their lives and communities. To Steinberg, the students' demonstrated interest and passion for reporting and photojournalism is proof that despite the economic battering the industry has taken, journalism still matters.

"This camp exposed students to what good journalism can do," Steinberg said.

"Now more than ever, we need to train young journalists to go into their communities and report back on what is going on there. The upcoming generations are not just standing idly by. They want to make a change, and some want to make a change through their writing and storytelling skills."

Steinberg is not sure when or even if the physical DWR will open again, even as she launched the virtual opening of the New York Writing Room, boasting writing coaches with bylines in the New York Times and Sports Illustrated, among other publications.

“I would love to someday again fill the space with people for all kinds of classes and events,” said Steinberg. “But for now, the DWR will continue virtually. Because no matter what field you are in, from marketing to law to medicine, there will always be a need for learning how to communicate and write a great story.”

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Take the county government, for instance.

When David Coulter was appointed late last year as Oakland County Executive, he met with Jim Nash, Oakland Water Resources Commissioner, who told Coulter that he saw a future in which there were solar panels on the roofs of all the building across the county campus. Nash wanted to share that and see if Coulter had a similar vision.

“I said to him, ‘Jim, we have an amazing gem of a campus and there's so much more we can do to be the role model of environmental sustainability,’” said Coulter.

That campus plan is now one of Coulter’s three areas of focus to move the county towards a more sustainable environment. Over the course of the next year, Coulter hopes to create an environmentally sustainable campus for the county, establish environmental sustainability goals throughout the county as a whole, and look at doing an energy revolving loan fund to help either projects or communities in Oakland County.

All these goals start with one very important hire – a full-time sustainability planner. Coulter said that planner position was put into the budget presented to the board of commissioners that they will hopefully adopt by the end of September. So with the position funded, it’ll just be a matter of the putting out an application.

Coulter knows the importance of that type of role and the effect it can have. During his time as mayor of Ferndale, he hired the city's first sustainability planner.

“We kept having these annual strategic planning sessions as a council, so many of which incorporated environmental and sustainability goals. But we didn't feel like we were moving the needle fast enough on these,” he said. “What I discovered was, somebody has to own that goal.

Somebody has to be doing it as part of their job.

It just can't be out there as a goal if you're really going to make progress.” uring his administration thus far as Oakland County Executive, Coulter was honest about how they haven’t made any significant investments or implemented anything in regards to sustainability.

That changes going forward, though.

“We have already begun to lay the groundwork on this campus plans. There are already people that have begun this work. In all sincerity, COVID really redirected a lot of our efforts and attention and it has been delayed,” he said. “Going forward, even with a distraction like COVID, this will continue to be someone's full-time job. That's why I think it's so important that you have to have someone on staff that just keeps their eye on this.”

Oakland County Commissioner David Woodward said that the county is interested in doing a countywide energy audit to set a baseline and put them on a path towards reducing carbon emissions.

“Oakland County is the economic engine of Michigan…that position gives us the responsibility to demonstrate how this can be done. How it can be afforded and for the

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production of this planet. We are being expected to do it by our constituency,” said Woodward.

Several years ago, Bloomfield Township did an energy audit, which led to implementing changes all across its municipal campus. At Bloomfield Township Hall alone, the boiler in the basement was replaced with new high-efficiency units, devices in bathrooms and other faucets to reduce the use of hot water by 10 to 20 percent were installed, and occupancy sensors in 28 rooms were installed throughout the building to control electricity usage. Similar changes were made to other buildings across the campus.

Steven Kaplan, West Bloomfield Township Supervisor, is the first to admit that environmental sustainability is not an area in which he is an expert.

“It’s like a different language,” he said. “It's like if you went out with somebody who was a music major and conducted a band and played different instruments. It's like a foreign language to you, even though you like music.”

Thankfully, he has two full-time staff members leading the way when it comes to the township’s environmental concerns, and they’re both high-level positions.

In the last few decades, and for some even longer, everywhere from White Lake Township to Royal Oak, communities have been pushing more towards sustainability.

Actually, Michigan as a whole has been looking for more of an advance. Announced in August, the state is currently seeking proposals for the creation of an energy storage roadmap for Michigan. In 2016, Michigan passed a law requiring electric providers to produce 15 percent of their power from wind or other renewable sources by the end of 2021, up from 10 percent from a similar 2008 law.

Since there are no provisions in those laws that require municipalities to create goals for clean energy or going more green, it has been left up to the cities, townships and villages themselves and elected officials to create policies and programs – but it’s been working.

Traverse City, in 2018, was the first municipality in Michigan to commit to a communitywide 100 percent clean energy goal, voted in favor by the board of the city’s municipality-owned utility, Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP).

“Our goal is to reach 100 percent by 2040, and we are well on our way to reaching our interim goal of 40 percent by 2025,” said Ross Hammersley, a partner with the Michigan law firm of Olson, Bzdok & Howard, and board member of TCLP. The city council of Traverse City also set a goal for 100 percent clean energy for the municipal operations, which Hammersley said was met in only a few years.

In that part of the state there’s also Leelanau County, which has an energy plan to get them to 100 percent renewable energy by 2040. The plan was developed with the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability.

Within that same study from 2019, the Sierra Club’s Ready for 100 campaign is brought up.

There are currently over 160 cities, more than 10 counties, and eight states committed to meeting

100 percent of their energy demand through renewable energy. Of the communities in Michigan, they include Traverse City and Petoskey. Larger cities like Ann Arbor approved a resolution for the Ready for 100 campaign as well. In 2012, the Ann Arbor City Council passed a Climate Action Plan that set communitywide goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase renewable energy use, with their ultimate goal to reduce greenhouse gas admissions communitywide 25 percent by 2025 and 90 percent by 2050. The city reached its original goal to use the equivalent of 20 percent renewable energy for municipal operations in 2010.

There’s one city much closer to home on the Ready for 100 list. ulie Lyons Bricker, grants coordinator/energy and sustainability manager for the city of Royal Oak, said that mayor Michael Fournier signed on for the city to the Sierra Club’s Ready for 100. The city commission recently approved the climate emergency resolution, a formal declaration that recognizes that climate change is affecting local climate, regional climate and state climate.

They’ve also tasked staff with creating a greenhouse gas emissions inventory to set a baseline so Royal Oak knows what kind of emissions they are creating.

When asked which municipalities in the county were particularly leading the way on sustainability, Coulter mentioned Royal Oak, which learned this past April they were the first city in Michigan to be designated LEED for Cities-Certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) under version 4.1, and only the third municipality in the country. A grant they earned last year from the U.S. Green Building Council and Bank of America helped them achieve that status.

Currently, they are in the process of creating a citywide sustainability plan, which has been on the commission’s desired activities list for a few years.

“One of the things that I did at the beginning of last year was inventory all of the programs that we have that are in place for other reasons, but happened to fall under sustainability items,” Bricker said.

Items include their parking decks having multiple electric vehicle chargers, added years ago, and a few hybrid fleet vehicles. They’re looking to increase that number.

“These things were put into place, but it was without a comprehensive thought about a sustainability plan,” she said.

The new plan will put all of these programs and policies in one place, including their ordinances about permeable pavement rules and renewable solar energy.

Future sustainability actions for Royal Oak include energy efficiency retrofits for municipal buildings, solar installations as appropriate, additional electric vehicle chargers, and streetlight conversion to LEDs. With Royal Oak’s two newest buildings, city hall and the police department building, sustainability was incorporated into the design

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elements, like the white roof on the city hall building. Bricker said the intention with making the roof white instead of black, for example, is so the heat from the sun will reflect rather than heat up the building. It is one way they’ll need less energy to cool it down.

She said they had looked at green roof options for the buildings but the additional infrastructure was deemed too expensive, a common problem when it comes to becoming more green.

That is where funding programs like Lean and Green Michigan and Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) come in.

In 2010, Michigan passed the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Act which helps enable commercial and industrial property owners in Michigan to access financing to upgrade their buildings, whether that's through retrofit or an adaptive reuse, or even thinking about building better buildings because of new construction. It allows for people to access the capital, but it can only be accessed within a PACE district.

“The statute says that local governments can create PACE districts, can opt into PACE districts, and nobody was doing it,” said Bali Kumar, chief executive officer, Lean and Green Michigan. umar said that Andy Levin, now the U.S. congressman for Michigan’s 9th District, saw that no one was taking advantage of this, so he started going to local governments to pitch the idea of Lean and Green Michigan, which could administer the PACE program on their behalf. Kumar said that whenever a deal closes there’s an administration fee as part of their closing costs.

The long-term financing tool facilitates through local governments and allows commercial property owners in Michigan to undertake energy efficiency, water efficiency, and renewable energy upgrades. Oakland County is a participating jurisdiction in Lean and Green.

Kumar said the most common projects they help fund are hospitality types, office buildings, and a lot of non-profits which have begun to reach out.

SEMCOG, whose principle purpose is to help local governments in southeast Michigan improve and maintain everything from transportation systems to infrastructure and environmental quality, covers seven different counties, including Oakland, and multiple municipalities have benefitted from it. Kelly Karll, manager, Environment and Infrastructure for SEMCOG, said currently their biggest priority is looking at how to address flooding issues. One of the projects they’ve developed that will be rolled out during a webinar in October is a flooding risk tool which looks at assigning a flood risk to transportation assets, including roads, bridges, culverts and pump stations.

A good demonstration of SEMCOG's benefit is Southfield’s Evergreen Road effort from 2016, that was part of a pathway project. With help from SEMCOG, the city was able to create a

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bioretention pond, also known as a rain garden, that collects 32,000 cubic feet of stormwater. As part of that project they also added pervious pavers along the edge of the curb and large planting beds.

“It's that first inch of stormwater that has 90 percent of the pollutants, all the oils, greases, dirt that comes off the road,” said Terry Croad, Southfield’s Director of Panning. “So we want to try to collect that and filter it before it goes into our rivers and streams.”

SEMCOG’s funding was significant for that project, assisting with $1 million in total as part of a $12 million reconstruction and utility upgrade.

Brian Pawlik, bicycle and pedestrian planner, SEMCOG, mentioned that another project they helped fund with some green infrastructure elements is a road reconstruction project on Auburn Road in Rochester Hills. The project included a number of transportation and streetscape elements, but also incorporated green infrastructure within the right-of-way, making it a holistic project overall.

Part of SEMCOG is also its Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), which focuses on funding pedestrian connections, pathways and also environmental, sustainable projects.

Southfield has benefited from that program as well. The city’s most recent pathway project received 60 percent of it's funding from TAP. A future potential for helping fund green projects in Oakland County would be Coulter’s idea for an energy revolving loan fund, similar to a program he created while mayor of Ferndale.

The Ferndale program was originally seeded by fund’s from the city’s government and helped fund projects that moved towards more sustainability. “It's one thing to want to do this in your heart, but when you need to get a project off the ground, if you don't have the funds, sometimes the green designs are the things that get nixed,” Coulter said. “We didn't want that to happen.”

Since these types of green projects can be easily measured for return on investment (ROI), city officials, through this loan fund, said they would pay upfront for the cost of the green portion of a project. They could then calculate the ROI over the course of its lifetime. From there, 75 percent of the savings were kept by whoever was doing the project, and 25 percent of the cost savings over time would be given to the city and put back into this fund, which grew and then funded more projects.

Coulter thinks they could do this in a few ways in Oakland County, by either having the county be the funder of the individual projects or help communities set up these revolving funds themselves.

Smaller municipalities could potentially benefit greatly from the creation of funds like this.

“We're a smaller community and we have to be very cautious with our expenditures,” said Rik Kowall, township supervisor for White Lake Township.

The township may not be looking into things like electric vehicles – they haven’t hit the economic mark that would make sense – he

said, but they are making changes where they can, like with their annual home hazardous waste event that started five years ago.

Bloomfield Township and West Bloomfield Township do similar programs twice a year.

“Folks can bring in their old cleaning supplies or something that got left in the garage. It's a concoction of who knows what,” Kowall said. “They can be properly disposed of because White Lake Township is a wellhead protection community, which means that the drinking water from this community comes from wells within the ground. So it's very important that we do everything we can to assist in keeping those kinds of chemicals out of the ground.”

The reason for starting for the program was simple. As a member of his community, Kowall thinks it’s important to do everything the township can to solve the problems and not create them.

Currently, the township is looking to build two new facilities, a new township hall and a new public safety building, in the next few years. They are in the preliminary stages, but they do plan to make them as sustainable for energy as possible. Kowall said they’ll probably have LED lighting and high-efficient heating and cooling systems.

“We'll take a look at the technology that's available at the time that the buildings are actually designed because as we know, all that technology is advancing very rapidly,” he said.

In less dense municipalities the improvements, much like the populations themselves, tend to be smaller.

“I don't think there's much that we've done recently to reduce energy because we don't use a lot of it,” laughed David Hendrickson, city manager, Bloomfield Hills. “We have a small department of public works that only uses the equipment they need to use.”

Their public safety department uses motorcycles though, which saves energy, and there isn't a lot of commercial building occurring in the city. hile they aren’t currently looking at any programs or policies towards a more green future, they did work with DTE on their budget last year to have all of their streetlights replaced to LED. Hendrickson said that was a $30,000 initial cost to change out over 100 streetlights but they will be able to recoup that money in under four years. LED lights will also last much longer and therefore save the city power costs for years to come.

“It’s the same question of how do you eat the elephant? One bite at a time,” said Robin Boyle, Birmingham Planning Board member and retired Wayne State University urban planning professor.

“A lot of people are saying that, yes, it's all well and good for global bodies to suggest a large scale or global response to climate change, but at the same time, there's a very strong argument that small scale change at the local level is just as important. In fact, you could

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argue that it's even more important,” Boyle continued.

Smaller actions may not seem like much, but they add up.

“There's low hanging fruit. There's easy things to do,” said Chris Kobus, director of Engineering and Energy Education at Oakland University. Kobus is also part of the university’s Clean Energy Research Center.

A survey of local municipalities in Oakland supports this approach.

One item that frequently came up was the use of LED lights. Numerous municipalities have switched over to the more energy saving lights in both new developments and when old light bulbs stop working in their current buildings. Recycling programs are also common.

Installing daylight sensors is another common practice found across the county.

Hybrid cars have been introduced into fleets in cities like Novi and Royal Oak. Others, such as Southfield and Rochester Hills, have started to look into incorporating those into their purchasing policies.

Even things like Bloomfield Township’s switch to a four-day work week and Novi’s Bike to Work Day, an annual program that encourages employees to do just what the title says, can help move a municipality more green.

“It started with little things like a no idling policy and it kind of comes full circle into the larger things like the solar panels, or the hybrid vehicles,” said Simone Bell, Novi Assistant to the City Manager.. ell said that Novi really began to make more sustainable changes around 2006. One of their first big changes was instituting the no idling policy.

As a way to reduce emissions, staff are no longer allowed to leave their car idling if they are making a quick stop at the civic center in Novi.

Last year, the city was able to dip their toes into alternative energy with their new parks maintenance storage facility, which uses 26 solar panels that are hooked to the DTE solar grid program, which allows them to use renewable energy. That building, along with their department of public works complex, installed dual flush toilets and low-flow faucets in the bathrooms all over campus. There’s also low-flow shower heads in the public works garage.

Within the buildings on Novi’s municipal campus, visitors will find that the furniture and ceiling tiles include content from recycled materials. Carpet throughout the municipal buildings are made from 100 percent recyclable materials. Thirty-nine percent of city purchases from 2014-2018 contained recyclable content, and 24 percent of purchased content was recycled.

“We've definitely had sustainable practices in the fabric of everything that we do here in the community,” Bell said. “But as you can see, we don't have a comprehensive document of these are all the green things...as we go along we do our best to mitigate our impact with the

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environment that we have here in the community.”

Bell said a sustainability plan may be worked on in the future.

When it comes to sustainability, some start bit by bit, but others, well, have gone full force from the get-go.

“Most of the stuff that we do is big,” said Pat Engle, Oakland University's Associate Vice President for Facilities Management. So big, in fact, sometimes it gets an audience, like in 2010 when Kobus, Director of Engineering and Energy Education at Oakland University, took videos of the Human Health Building as a geothermal system was installed. It was the first LEED-certified building on campus and now is the only Platinum LEED-certified building for any educational institution in the midwest. There are now three buildings with a Gold LEED rating as well.

“Thirty years ago, stuff like that just didn't exist, and now I'm on a campus where every new building being planned for is planned for being more sustainable…And that includes construction materials that you use, as well as energy efficiency after the building is commissioned. I love seeing that,” Kobus said.

Oakland University’s campus doesn’t just use sustainable practices in its buildings but on its grounds as well. Siraj Khan, the university’s director of engineering, said that well water is used on the campus’ golf course and the grass sprinklers’ centralized controller detects if watering is needed based on rain sensors. They are currently working on a recycling program and lightbulbs have been switched to LED to bring down the utilities and carbon footprint.

Engle said they have an electric waste heat turbine that has been generating electricity for the campus for the past three years. It uses the heat to run instead of putting it out of the top of the building.

“Sustainability is probably our biggest push right now,” Engle said. “Sometimes it costs more, but it's the right thing to do and so frequently that's our mantra as we're going through these processes.”

“Any technology, there's going to be an upfront cost to it, always,” Kobus said. “You can get a more efficient generator but even though it's going to save you money in the long run, you have to have that long-term vision. If your vision is limited to one year, you're not going to pull the trigger.”

There also has to be patience.

For the last four years, Farmington Hills has been working towards creating a trailhead, the Hills 275 Trailhead, that will be along the Interstate-275 Metro Trail, that connects from Lake Huron to Lake Michigan. The trailhead will go behind the WoodSpring Suites Hotel on Haggerty Road, which will be usable in October, with a grand opening of the trailhead next spring.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) was unanimously supported by the Farmington Hills City Council in July as part of an agreement for the construction, maintenance, and operation of the trailhead and park at the hotel.

Farmington Hills will spend under $20,000 on the space from a sustainability grant.

“The future thought is that creating connectivity between our community and others is how you create destination points,” said Bryan Farmer, deputy director of special services, Farmington Hills. That connectivity will allow for people to bike to work or stop and visit businesses along the trail.

Farmer said they are currently working on legislation with trails and greenways.

The trailhead isn’t the only thing Farmington Hills has done to further the city’s green movement.

“We're definitely a community that is at the forefront when it comes to sustainability – we're not putting it in the back seat,” Farmer said.

There have been programs put in place, including purchasing more fuel economic vehicles for their fleet; their ice arena was completely converted to LED, which saves them both energy and money; automatic lights are in all office across the campus; and water bottle filling stations can be found everywhere from the parks to the fire department. Their city hall was redone several years ago and is now LEEDcertified, and there’s a large, citywide recycling program. he city does a lot of practices so they’re able to study if it's something they want to move forward with. One example would be the replacement of wood chips at Olde Town Park with what is know as poured in place, a rubber surface from recycled material. What they’ve found is that it requires less maintenance so their park staff doesn’t have to visit the park as often, saving on fuel and oil emissions. There are plans to do a second project this fall with the poured in place.

“If your expectations are that, you know, I'm going to 'wow you here with policies,' you're probably going to be disappointed,” said Brent Savidant, community development director for the city of Troy.

However, what Troy has done over the years is wow-worthy.

Most of their green initiatives occur within the buildings themselves, according to Troy’s Facilities & Grounds Operations Manager, Dennis Trantham. His department has worked to retrofit or replace many of the lighting fixtures throughout various city facilities; most facilities utilize a building control system for the HVAC system where temperatures are based on building usage times; the library has a lighting control system that allows lights to be scheduled on and off based on the building’s use; storage buildings at the department of public works have motion sensors on light fixtures; overhead doors were upgraded to insulated panels for garages with conditioned space; and the newly-renovated Sylvan Glen Pro Shop takes advantage of daylight harvesting.

Their grounds division only installs benches that are made of recycled plastic, recycling opportunities are throughout the campus, and their mowing contractor uses commercial grade battery-operated equipment.

Outside the municipal campus, there have

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been some large changes throughout the years.

In 2006, they looked at where the city was in terms of their major artery, Big Beaver Road.

The quarter was mostly companies with a lot of large office buildings but it didn’t offer much more than that.

“We recognized that we had an opportunity with the Big Beaver corridor to do something better,” Savidant said. “So we decided to try to create a world class corridor.”

That same year they developed the Big Beaver Quarter Study and it set into motion a bigger vision for the area, part of which included more mixed use buildings, which ideally consist of retail or restaurants on the first floor at street level and then residential on higher floors.

“Recognizing that it's a puzzle and one of the pieces is residential, we took that vision that we defined in our master plan and in 2011, we comprehensively rewrote our zoning ordinances,” he said.

From there, they created the Big Beaver District, the Maple Road District, and the Neighborhood Node District. Savidant said within those districts they strongly encourage development of mixed use buildings and residential buildings in those areas, which addresses automotive and walkability.

The first projects the city saw were one-story buildings with retail and restaurants but they have started to see some multi-storied buildings, like DMC-Children’s Hospital. urrently, Zen Apartments is under construction on Big Beaver and once completed it’s going to have a parking deck attached. Within that parking deck on the first floor, one side will have commercial and restaurant type uses that will activate the street, and about 270 units above it.

As part of the city’s desire to encourage walkability, they created a program that incentivizes the construction of parking decks.

Savidant said developers can recapture some of their investment back through the program, as long as they invest in a parking deck, and/or underground retention. With the city approaching 100 percent build-out this is important for future development. Parking vertically will free up more property to be developed.

Troy isn’t the only one who gives incentives when it comes to development. West Bloomfield Township offers incentives for developers to satisfy LEED regulations. If developers follow LEED regulations, township Supervisor Kaplan said their plan is more likely to be accelerated through the different departments needed for approval.

There’s a clause in Birmingham’s landscaping ordinance that if native plants are utilized, they get a bit of reduction in terms of parking lot landscaping requirements. In the city's Triangle District, planning director Jana Ecker said that people can get extra square footage if they plan to do a LEED-certified building and developers have taken advantage of it, a bonus for both developers and

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sustainability. In that same district, bike parking is required for all developments.

Ecker said they encourage green roofs, but not many people take them up on it; many of the city’s parking decks use LED lights; and in city hall everything from the lights to vending machines are on timers. She also mentioned large developments must do a transportation study and transportation impact analysis to indicate walkability and how they’ll be providing access to public transportation and amenities for bicyclists.

According to Birmingham’s City Manager Joe Valentine, the city has several initiatives underway from solar power ordinances to LEED certification initiatives. Robin Boyle, from the city’s planning board, said officials are now discussing the current and a new master plan and the topic of more sustainable development has been brought up. Even though it’s still a draft, Boyle said that bioswales are being considered for the next master plan, among other items.

A few municipalities are beginning to think a little outside the box.

In July, approval was given in Rochester Hills for a new office building to be of recycled shipping container at their park, Innovation Hills.

Yes, a recycled shipping container.

“The whole park is a testament to our commitment to innovative environmentalism,” said Bryan Barnett, Rochester Hills Mayor.

“That whole park was developed with sustainability in mind.”

It has a living roof that will be installed in a pavilion, all the benches are made of recycled material, rain gardens are in all the parking lots, and there’s a permeable pavers system throughout the majority of it.

“We've got more work to do too,” Barnett said. “I mean, sustainability is not a destination, it's a journey. You're always kind of working to get better and there's new ideas that are presented.”

West Bloomfield Township is asking developers to comply with the concept of anticarbon, which helps prevent global warming.

One place in the county that’s been ahead on the sustainability front is the Oakland County International Airport, which in 2010 broke ground on the county’s first completely green building. The green terminal, completed in 2011, was certified at the LEED gold level, and became the first general aviation airport in the nation to have a LEED-certified terminal building.

David VanderVeen, director of central services who also oversees Oakland County International Airport, said that the terminal building was outdated, both functionally and design wise, and the debate began whether or not they were going to remodel.

Then the 2008 recession hit. As part of the recovery efforts there were funds available to build a couple buildings for what VanderVeen called “shovel ready projects.”

“We decided, well, if we're going to be a bear, let's just be a grizzly bear,” VanderVeen said. “So we said let's go all the way and design an aesthetically pleasing, green

building that's very compatible to the environment.”

The big savings in terms of energy for the terminal comes from the geothermal heating and cooling system – with reductions in utility costs by 44 percent. The terminal also has LED lighting, electric charging stations, and a living wall.

These types of changes throughout the county have primarily occurred in the last few decades, thanks primarily to a cultural shift.

“I can tell you when some of our early projects were suggested that there was some resistance, to say the least, from elected officials and even from some of our departments, because it was perceived as more work than it was worth. It’s taken some time to educate and to implement and to show that there is positive aspects for this type of thing,” said Croad, of Southfield. “We were more likely to get funding and support from our elected officials in the last five plus years.” hat cultural shift also is reflected at the college level. Kobus of Oakland University said when he started in the early 2000s at the university, his class on alternative energy systems was the only one of its type at the university. Now, there’s a whole track for students with an interest in alternative energy.

At Wayne State University (WSU), where Birmingham Planning Board member Robin Boyle spent almost 30 years in the Department of Urban Studies and Planning, he said there was a whole curriculum change regarding sustainability. The focus is now on the 3 E’s of sustainability – environment, economy and equity.

WSU’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Daryl Pierson, thinks that bringing students who are studying different subjects and faculty who are in different areas together to form a multidisciplinary approach about sustainability is important.

“You can't really just look at it from one side in order to get something that's truly sustainable,” he said.

Pierson said that those who think things are moving too slowly need to be patient and not get frustrated, but continue to share the message of efficiency and the benefits of its work. It will ultimately lead to a big difference all around.

Ashley Flintoff, director of planning and space management at WSU, said there’s also interdisciplinary sharing with students, who bring in fresh ideas and teach them while also being taught. Collaboration is vital to sustainability moving forward.

Flintoff hopes that sustainability is able to get woven into the everyday vernacular and become less of a thing were people toot their horn about and have banners every time they achieve something with sustainability.

"You just work it into your everyday life so that eventually the goal is that everything that you do has the sustainability aspect to it,” she said. “You don't have to think about it, you just do it. It just becomes kind of normal.”

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FACES Annie Slabotsky ove over, sourdough. Banana bread is the true loaf of the quarantine.

At least that is the observation of Annie Slabotsky, cofounder of the runaway baking company gonanas. Since founding the allergen-free baking brand with Morgan Lerner in 2016 as dormmates at the University of Michigan, gonanas has exploded, with the duo now marketing their signature loaves in six states, including many smaller supermarkets around southeast Michigan. And now, anyone who has Wi-Fi access can indulge in making a gluten-free loaf at home by purchasing a baking mix that comes in a growing array of flavors.

Slabotsky, of Bloomfield Township, mixed up her earliest batches of banana bread in her grandmothers’ kitchens. Back when she was a high school student at Frankel Jewish Academy, classmates nominated her as the future Miss Betty Crocker.

Through her college years studying computer science (she says she’d rather be mixing batter than coding on any given day), she baked for sorority fundraisers and then moved on to sell her signature goodies to coffee shops and cafes around Ann Arbor. When graduation rolled around in May of 2019, gonanas was in markets in Chicago and Boston.

“Morgan and I did our research,” said Slabotsky. “There are lots of cookie and other baking good companies, but no banana bread wholesale companies existed on a national level.”

Slabotsky and Morgan acquired commercial kitchen space in Ypsilanti, where they continued wholesaling their bread. To further their niche market, they crafted a recipe that is both vegan and allergen free.

“Bananas have the perfect, binding texture and moisture content to eliminate the need for eggs,” said Slabotsky. “Add some coconut milk and a sweetener such as maple syrup, agave or brown sugar, and you have the perfect, nutrient dense and vegan food.”

When the coronavirus pandemic hit, the “grab and go” culture at cafes and coffee shops driven by harried commuters came to a halt. Gonanas was suddenly left with hundreds of pounds of flour and sugar and gallons of coconut oil languishing in its kitchen.

That is when the gonanas quarantine banana bread making kit was born. The new normal of online grocery shopping opened doors to a line of shelf-stable mixes that come in three flavors with more on the way. All the home baker needs are the mix, some sweetener, and some wellripened bananas.

“Since the pandemic, it seems we have an even closer connection to our customers who are buying the mixes,” said Slabotsky. “They are showing off how versatile they can be and have created with the mix things like French toast and doughnuts, or are making their own banana bread cereal.

They share their creations with our Facebook and Instagram account.”

Also, Slabotsky reassures new bakers that banana bread is a hard thing to screw up.

“At our first attempt at baking from the mix, we burned it.

Instead of tossing it, we cut off the top and ate the middle. It still tasted great. You just can’t mess this up. “

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MUNICIPAL Clinton Baller comes before ethics board

By Lisa Brody

Birmingham City Commissioner Clinton Baller appeared at a hearing of the city's ethics board on Tuesday, September 1, relative to resident Donna Klein's formal complaint alleging he libeled her on the social media site NextDoor and via a newsletter he disseminates through email that he sends as a city commissioner, and through his public Facebook page.

Klein filed her complaint with the city July 27; Baller sent a written response August 24 disputing her allegations, with his attorney, Matthew Erard, asserting that conduct for a city commissioner “is limited to official business,” and that commentary made on his blog is private conversations that could not violate the code of ethics.

Sheldon Klein, Donna's husband representing her and an attorney with Butzel Long, responded that he took exception that it was private.

“He has this on 'Clinton Baller City Commissioner' letterhead, and 'Clinton Baller City Commissioner' Facebook page,” he said. “I understand he has a private Clinton Baller Facebook page. I don't think this world is divided into private and public behavior.”

Sheldon Klein noted that city ordinance requires city officials to be bound by conduct for public figures, including city commissioners.

Among the policies, it is written that “each city official, employee, or advisor must earn and honor the public trust by integrity and conduct.”

Further sections state, “All city officials and employees must avoid conflicts between their private interests and the public interest.

Public officials and employees must: Be independent, impartial, and responsible to the people.”

The ethics board unanimously voted to deny Baller summary disposition of the complaint as well as summary decision to deny that there was no genuine issue of material fact to move forward. Board member John Schrot said, “Based on some of the allegations made by Ms. Klein to harass a private citizen, and to utilize an official newsletter, there appears to be genuine issues of material fact.”

Donna Klein, who is a local neighborhood lead on NextDoor, stated that, “I am here today downtownpublications.com

Restaurants to serve outdoors all winter

By Lisa Brody

n a move to assist Birmingham restaurants during a trying economic time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Birmingham City Commissioners, at their meeting on Monday, August 24, unanimously approved a resolution that will allow them to continue offering outdoor dining throughout the winter, as well as allowing them to provide temporary enclosures against the weather.

Birmingham City Manager Joe Valentine explained, “We previously put before you a set a of initiatives to help our business community. Now we're doing some for the winter months. We're looking ahead because they'll expire in October. We understand we have to accommodate our business in downtown, considering the unique challenges they face.”

On June 8, the city commission approved a resolution to permit expanding outdoor dining by the amount of seats a restaurant was losing in their interior, and they could expand beyond their storefront space.

That resolution is set to expire October 31. The new resolution will be in effect from October 1 through April 1, 2021.

Planning director Jana Ecker said this would allow for restaurants to continue outdoor dining “into the winter season, with some enclosures.

So they wouldn't have to bring things in each night, and they can continue as they have been.”

Restaurants would need to apply to the city for a permit, although all fees are waived, she said. A restaurant is only qualified if they already have outdoor dining during the summer season.

“They could have some enclosure system, and can have heaters put in place to give them space to make customers comfortable, as long as safety provisions are met,” Ecker said. “It would still be reviewed and vetted by the building and planning departments, and have to meet the fire code.”

This outdoor dining allowance would only be for this winter season, and is temporary.

“We've approved this before, we're extending this, to help restaurants survive in our city,” noted mayor Pierre Boutros.

“It appears because of COVID we're expanding what it means to be a bistro,” said commissioner Clinton Baller.

“We're adding outdoor seats to bistros, but Class C establishments can add seats as well,” Ecker said.

“Do we have any restrictions to what can be used in these enclosures?” asked commissioner Rackeline Hoff.

“No, as long as they meet safety and code requirements,” Ecker said.

She added that if COVID-related restrictions are lifted before April 1, it is very easy for commissioners to change these accommodations.

I

because Clinton Baller gratuitously and falsely demeaned me. He was banned by NextDoor. Rather than accepting the consequences, he launched a tirade – at me, in his official capacity.”

She noted she was not responsible for his ban from the social media site after what some felt were objectionable posts against the parking structure vote in 2019, but she bore the brunt of his outrage.

“Those comments against me are still up – which he could have taken down. He was not honest, he was not fair, and he was not ethical to a citizen,” Klein said. “I am not on trial. I acted in complete compliance with the site as a moderator. He

violated the city's ethics ordinance.”

To questions from the threemember board, Baller said his newsletter is “just an email consisting of several compiled writings that goes out to people who may have subscribed. It's a digest of my opinions.”

“These are not city properties, they're from you individually?” Schrot asked. Baller responded, “Yes, absolutely.”

Member Sophie Fierro-Share asked him what his purpose was in posting his opinion of Klein.

“I disagree that I was posting my opinion. I was posting the facts as I saw them,” Baller retorted. He also said he uses his commissioner

DOWNTOWN

moniker because he believes he is like politicians he follows, congressman and senators, who send out newsletters. “I never thought I should remove it.”

To Baller, it is a free speech issue.

“It's not my job to avoid offending people. This is about a legislator's job to speak freely.”

“The ethics board is not designed to squash free speech,” Fierro-Share stated. “This commission is not out to get you.”

Board chair Jim Robb asked Baller if he was aware that the board of ethics had adjudicated a case “almost exactly like this? It was opined that it was a violation of city ordinance because it was on his official letterhead and it was determined it was not official city business.”

The case, against former traffic and safety board member David Weisz, dealt with Weisz' activities against the transit center in Troy, where his email signature block listed himself as a member of the traffic and safety board.

The three board members unanimously voted to adjourn the Baller complaint meeting until Friday, September 11, at 9:30 a.m. in order to review the Weisz ruling and review the city ethics ordinances.

Dispatch center will use forfeiture funds The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees unanimously approved amending its forfeiture fund budget, adding an increase of $53,000, at its meeting on Monday, August 24.

The original line item was expected to be $20,000.

The increase will allow for the Bloomfield Township Police Department to purchase new furniture for its dispatch center. The current furniture is in disrepair and falling apart, and the company no longer makes replacement parts, Jason Theis, township finance director, reported.

The forfeiture fund balance as of March 31 was $216,240. Theis reported that these funds are relegated and audited annually by the federal government to assure the police department is spending the funds only on qualified items.

“This purchase qualifies as an allowable expenditure from the fund,” Theis said.

The increased expenditure will go through a bid process for purchases, when it will be presented to the board with more exact numbers.

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Free garage parking through end of year In light of the continuing COVID19 pandemic and related economic fallout, Birmingham city commissioners approved extending free parking in the city's five parking structures from September 1 through December 31, 2020, and charging a one-time fee for permit holders of $100 to keep their permits, at their meeting on Monday, August 24.

Assistant city manager Tiffany Gunter said the ad hoc parking committee had met and reviewed the current parking situation in the city.

On street parking, charges for which began again July 1, is averaging 70 percent occupancy.

“In the parking garages, which remain free, we have not seen the same return to occupancy,” Gunter said, with ranges from the Chester garage at about 10 percent to the Pierce structure at about 40 percent.

The Park Street, Peabody and N. Old Woodward each average about 30 percent occupancy.

“We don't know how long people are staying,” she noted. “We had about 85 percent occupancy last year on average. We thought we would have returned to some sort of normalcy by September 1, which we now know is not happening.”

She reported that the fiscal impact for free monthly permits is $224,000 per month; there are 3,800 monthly permits in the system, spread out between the five parking garages.

The city has not charged for monthly passes since April 1.

“The impact to the parking fund reserve, to date, is a total $1,445,580.

The parking fund balance, as of June 2020, totaled $20,383,867,” Gunter reported.

Gunter said the ad hoc parking committee suggested a one-time fee of $100, payable by November 30, in order to recoup approximately one month of parking revenue, as well as to cull the pass holders who no longer intend to use a structure.

Most commissioners were in support, as well as to leaving the structures free for shoppers and diners.

“I just feel for those who are using it, they should pay for it,” commissioner Clinton Baller said. “I don't see why we don't charge for the decks. I don't understand why we're continuing to support the permits, those who are hoarding it. A hundred dollars. I don't even think about it. It's nothing.”

“This affects the transient parkers, the merchants, anyone who comes into Birmingham,” said commissioner Stuart Sherman. “Yes, it is an asset that generally earns money. A hundred dollars – I think a business with a few hundred permits will think about it. I think this is a good option.”

“I think we're in the same situation we were in May, and we should continue, because we don't know how long it will last,” said commissioner Brad Host.

“When we help all the restaurants to continue, it's their cost. With this, it's our cost,” said Baller. “It's a lot of

Safety path repair program contract awarded for 2020 loomfield Township trustees unanimously approved a recommendation to award a 2020 safety path repair program contract to JB Contractors on Monday, August 10, for repair and maintenance of the township's safety paths, bridges and retaining walls.

The 2020 safety path repair program contract bid is for $157,955, and will allow for up to $200,000 to be expended for the safety path repair program.

Olivia Olsztyn-Budry, director of Bloomfield Township’s Engineering and Environmental Services Department (EESD), said that JB Contractors, which was also awarded the 2019 contract, was the lowest of the five bids for the repair work.

In previous years, the safety path repair division was included as part of the new construction program for the township, but this year it was decided to make it a separate project

B

money out of our pocket. I'm not going to support the motion.”

Commissioners voted, 6-1, with Baller voting against, to approve keeping the structures free and monthly pass holders to pay $100.

Luxe Bistro requesting to expand next door Birmingham's popular Luxe Bistro came before the city's planning board on Wednesday, August 26, seeking to amend its special land use permit and receive final site plan and design review approvals to expand into the adjacent former shoe store in order to enhance its functionality and add spacing between tables during the coronavirus pandemic.

Planning board members unanimously supported their requests, recommending approval by the city commission.

Planning director Jana Ecker explained that most changes to the exterior facade of the bistro are minimal, other than adding a new window where the door of the shoe store was.

“The majority of the current interior at Luxe will remain, and the applicant is proposing to expand the kitchen and cooler area, relocate the host stand, add a new dining counter and several extra tables in the vacant retail space to the south. No additional bar space will be added, nor will the proposed layout exceed the maximum number of 65 seats for a bistro,” she said.

Luxe's owners intend to add more

so that repairs can be responded to more quickly, with the goal being to have one contractor whose only job is to do repairs of the safety path system.

“The goal is to make it more efficient and quicker so we can address issues as they arise on a more efficient basis,” Olsztyn-Budry said.

This year, EESD also asked bidders to provide unit prices for a potential second and third year contract extension. JB Contractors was the lowest bidder for that as well. Those bid amounts were strictly estimates.

A second motion was passed unanimously to accept the pricing from JB Contractors for years two and three, which would make them the repair company of record for future repairs, based on their ability to service this year's repairs, and at the discretion of the engineering department.

Olsztyn-Budry said that the second motion isn’t promising JB Contractors a dollar amount, but it did lock in the pricing for 2021 and 2022.

She said it will also save time so the township doesn’t have to go out to receive bids again, which takes about three weeks. If JB Contractors performs satisfactorily, the township can continue

exterior tables, from 12 seats to 50 seats, and to reduce the number of seats at the bar from 10 to five. They plan to space their interior tables out, adding tables to the entire expanded storefront.

“We sense there is a necessity for a little more spacing in our restaurant. Looking forward to winter and into next spring, we think it needs to be spaced out… so that everyone feels safe,” said Joe Bongiovanni, who owns Luxe along with his brother Larry and his wife Kristin. “I think this design meets that.”

He noted his father Larry, who passed away in May 2019, and started Luxe as well as adjacent restaurant Salvatore Scallopini, had been paying rent on the shoe store for many years. The family also owns Market North End across the street.

“The way the business is today and the niche Luxe has made in the market here in the north side of town, it hasn't missed a beat,” Bongiovanni said. “What this design does, it allows employees to work a little harder for guests, meets the needs of carryout that I don't think is going away anytime soon. This is meant to be an adaptation of what Luxe always was.”

“In the very early days, they gave us a model of what a bistro should be,” said planning board member Robin Boyle. “I'm delighted they're going to take over the shoe store and add more outdoor seating.”

the project and the contract by way of a change order each year that matches the budget approved by the board.

The township has over 72 miles of safety paths and each year the repair program does maintenance and repairs on the paths, including fixing cracked or settled areas of the paths as well as repairs on fencing and retaining walls.

This year, the township had two car accidents that affected the safety paths. One damaged a retaining wall on Adams Road; the second damaged a safety path bridge on Lahser Road.

The proposal estimated repairs on those at $56,000 and $10,000, respectively. Those are not included in the repair bid from JB Contractors and the township is currently working with insurance agencies to regain some of the repair expenses.

At the November board of trustees meeting, the original estimate for 2020 was $100,000 for safety path repairs and $100,000 for retaining walls repairs. The estimated amount for this year is now above that original estimate.

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DOWNTOWN

09.20

MUNICIPAL Basketball hoops, play structures okayed

By Dana Casadei

Bloomfield Township Trustees on Monday, August 24, unanimously approved a new zoning ordinance which will permit basketball apparatuses and play structures in the township.

“If we’re a family community then we should do what we can to ensure that there is enjoyment for the kids in their own yards,” said supervisor Leo Savoie.

Previously, residents had to apply to the zoning board of appeals (ZBA) in order to install basketball hoops and play structures, as they were considered accessory structures.

Patti Voelker, director of planning, building and ordinance, said that after looking at those who appealed to the ZBA for those instances over the last 10 years, they found very few times they weren’t approved. Voelker said the ZBA was very supportive of the draft language for this ordinance.

The new ordinance requires basketball hoops, either garage-

mounted or with a pole, to be no more than 14-feet in height, contiguous to the driveway, no more than one per home, and if located in the rear yard, to have a setback 16feet from side and rear lot lines.

For play structures, they are only permitted in the rear yard, they cannot exceed 14-feet in overall height, must use neutral earth tone colors for any shade canopies, and have a setback minimum of 16-feet from side and rear lot lines.

Sport courts are not permitted under the ordinance.

The specific standards are based off of polling the department did in adjoining communities, including Birmingham and West Bloomfield.

The provision becomes effective seven days after publishing.

Planet Fitness to move into township An amendment to the development agreement for the Village at Bloomfield was unanimously approved by the Bloomfield Township Board of

Trustees at their meeting on Monday, August 24, permitting wall signage for a new Planet Fitness at the development.

Planet Fitness received approval from the Joint Development Council, which oversees the development of Village at Bloomfield, on June 17, to build a new 30,048 square foot gym at 1935 S. Telegraph Road. Redico is the developer and owner of Village at Bloomfield.

The approved amendment allows for the authorization of the township attorney to finalize the development amendment for the supervisor’s signature.

Under the first amendment of the agreement, primary building signs are allowed at six percent of the building facade area and the total signage may not exceed 150-squarefeet. It also allows for one primary sign and a secondary wall sign that does not exceed 50 percent of the primary sign.

Patti Voelker, township director of planning, building and ordinances, explained that the two signs proposed do not exceed the six percent total. The sign that would

face Telegraph Road is only 3.5 percent and the secondary sign, which would be above the entrance and face the Hampton Inn and Suites, would only be one percent of the facade and met the requirement to be less than 50 percent of the primary sign, the combined square footage does exceed the limit by 105square-feet.

Since the building is setback over 500 feet and the main entrance faces Telegraph Road, the wall signage was deemed compatible with the surrounding building areas.

It was also being recommended in the proposed amendment that the signage include dimming capabilities, with any required dimming of the illumination to be negotiated internally by the municipalities, Pontiac and Bloomfield Township, and Redico, consistent with the second amendment to the development agreement.

This is the third amendment to the development agreement. The second was over a similar issue at Henry Ford Medical Center, which was ultimately allowed to have additional signage.

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Parliamentary review for city commission

By Lisa Brody

Birmingham city commissioners held a special workshop meeting on Monday, August 17, where former city mayor and noted parliamentarian Coco Siewert gave a presentation on parliamentary procedure.

In introducing Siewert, who is a professional registered parliamentarian, mayor Pierre Boutros noted she is a former city commissioner, mayor and library board member. Siewart was Birmingham mayor from 1988-1989 and again from 1995-1996. She has been a parliamentarian for over 20 years for the Michigan Municipal League and a trainer for League of Michigan Municipal Clerks.

The commission sought clarification from Siewert after disputes over how to proceed with meetings and agenda items.

Siewert explained that there are numerous laws that must be followed. “There is a certain order to the laws or rules by which a municipality in Michigan must conduct itself,” she said. “It must follow the Constitution of the U.S., and applicable federal laws which would affect you.”

Then, municipal meetings must follow rules set forth by the Michigan Constitution of 1963, and applicable Michigan laws, notably two – Michigan Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act. “Both passed in 1976, following federal 1975 laws,” which she said came out of Watergate. “Watergate started the whole thing. In Birmingham, there has been an issue with attention paid to the Open Meetings Act, so we have to be careful. It applies to the commission – but also to all appointed boards, committees and subcommittees.

“There is a myth that anything less than a quorum does not apply.

But that is not true – because that becomes a subcommittee,” she said.

Next, a community must pay attention to its city or village charter, and she urged each commissioner to read it. “It's very important.”

Ordinances of the municipality, the laws passed by the municipal government, are the next in order to be followed, succeeded by the Council Rules of Order, which governs the procedures of the council.

“All of the rules take precedence over Roberts Rules of Order,” Siewert said. “You can have rules in your downtownpublications.com

Candidate to face judge September 11

By Lisa Brody

loomfield Township Republican trustee candidate Don Valente, who had a warrant issued by the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office on Tuesday, August 18, will appear in 48th District Court on Friday, September 11, for theft of campaign signs valued at less than $200.

Valente, a retired attorney, has been accused of stealing 50 to 60 campaign signs during the primary election. The crime is a misdemeanor, punishable by 93 days in jail and/or $500, or three times the value of the property stolen, whichever is greater. According to the warrant, to impose a fine of three times the value, the defendant must admit the amount, or it must be determined by the trier of fact at trial.

Valente is expected to be presented to the court by his attorney for arraignment.

A complaint was initially filed with the Bloomfield Township Police Department by a citizen who recognized Valente and saw him taking campaign signs for township supervisor Leo Savoie and treasurer Brian Kepes in the vicinity of Long Lake and Telegraph.

Valente has been a vocal opponent of Savoie and Kepes at township board meetings and in written campaign materials. Savoie lost in the primary, while Kepes won his primary challenge and does not face a general election challenge.

Bloomfield Township police initially investigated the complaint, with surveillance cameras confirming the thefts. They then expanded their surveillance review to other locations along Telegraph, where they saw numerous other signs for Savoie, Kepes, Tom Smyly, Eric Pernie, and other candidates that had been taken.

Pernie, who lost in the primary in his effort to run as a trustee, is a former Bloomfield Township police officer, and Smyly, who is the Republican candidate for clerk, is currently a Bloomfield Township police officer. Chief Phil Langmeyer said they turned the case over to the Oakland County sheriff's office in order to avoid any appearance of conflict. “It's not a case we are handling,” he stated.

The sheriff's office ran its own investigation and turned the results over to the county prosecutor's office.

B

council, rules of order that take precedence over Roberts – so don't let anyone shake Roberts at you.

Sometimes they're goals, sometimes they're adopted procedures, and sometimes they're charter requirements.”

Then comes parliamentary procedure, which is a tool that enables members to accomplish a municipality’s goals, is a recognizable format for a meeting, introduces motions that lead to decision-making, and prescribes minutes that record action.

“For you, it is the business of the city of Birmingham,” she said.

Noting the difficulty members have had in discourse over items, she explained the rules of debate, where the maker of the motion is entitled to speak first, and a member may not speak against his/her own motion, although they can vote against it. She said all remarks must be limited to the merits of the subject immediately under discussion.

“This is something councils do not do well,” she noted.

All personal comments about other individuals should be avoided, she pointed out, and all remarks must be addressed to or through the chair.

She said remarks should be limited to two minutes. “You do not have a limit – you are surrounded by municipalities that do. In the past, Birmingham did have a limit. It is not fair to the public to not all have same amount of time.”

She also said that commissioners could be timed in their remarks.

An issue in the last year, since the election of new commissioners in November, has been the addition of non-agenda items during commissioner comments. She said that was not an acceptable use of commissioner comments.

“In Roberts, it's called for the good of the commission, it's congratulatory.

It's not responded to, it's not for debate. It's common to have it for two or three minutes, 'I saw this new store opened,'” she said. “There has been increasing additions to your meetings that had not been on the meeting.

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That is understandably irritating or annoying to other council members who are not prepared to discuss them.

“One area to bring it up is new business – it alerts staff and commissioners whether it should be discussed in more detail at a future meeting,” Siewart said.

She said it should only be briefly explained, and then a motion can be made to have it on a future agenda to be looked into. “That puts staff, council members and the public on notice that it will be on a future agenda. It's increasingly being used by councils.”

Two other items Siewert pointed out – one was that during public comment, commissioners and staff should not respond to the public. “I don't know of any community that doesn't have a rule about no interaction with public comment.”

She also said the minutes of meetings should be what was done, not what was said. “Yours are like plays,” she chastised.

GLWA set to manage industrial wastewater The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees on Monday, August 10, unanimously passed a resolution to have the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) oversee the township's Industrial Pretreatment Program (IPP), previously handled by the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD).

GLWA implements and enforces an Industrial Pretreatment Program to regulate discharge of commercial and industrial waste and wastewater.

IPPs are a component of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) working as a cooperative effort of federal, state, and local environmental regulatory agencies to protect water quality under the Clean Water Act. The goal is to protect publicly-owned treatment works and reduce conventional and toxic pollutant levels discharged by industries and other non-domestic wastewater sources into municipal sewer systems and into the environment.

Bloomfield Township has had an ordinance in place since 1989 to address discharge of commercial and industrial wastewater, which used to be delegated to the city of Detroit under DWSD. Bloomfield Township Public Works Manager Katie Fotherby informed the board that the only change of note was language had been added to the rules and 77

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regulations regarding Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds. A resolution was passed last November by the GLWA to add the language to their rules to enforce for PFAS. Fotherby said that at this time the new PFAS language would not affect any of the township’s commercial accounts and so far there had been no industrial sites in Bloomfield Township that have been identified as being contributors of PFAS. GLWA is asking all communities who contribute to the wastewater as part of the Evergreen Farmington Sewerage Disposal System to pass a resolution adopting the full, updated rules by early September.

Fotherby emphasized that these were not new rules and regulations, but to allow GLWA to be the ones to continue to administer and enforce this program going forward.

Public art options for city presented Birmingham City Commissioners on Monday, August 24, unanimously accepted a report from the city's public arts board on how art can enhance terminating vistas.

City planner Brooks Cowan explained that terminating vistas are identified in the downtown overlay district as buildings or structures that terminate a view with architectural features of enhanced character and visibility. The public arts board created a report which included an inventory of terminating vistas and recommendations of ways in which public art may enhance terminating vistas in downtown Birmingham, as well as policy recommendations and implementation guidelines to improve the process of installing public art in such locations.

Cowan explained the term was first referenced in the downtown 2016 Plan.

The public arts board determined 20 locations that qualified, but chose seven locations for art as a high priority and at terminating vistas. “We also determined recommendations for public space enhancements,” he said, noting not all of the locations are terminating vistas.

The recommended locations are at Oak and N. Old Woodward; Harmon and N. Old Woodward; Ferndale and Hamilton Row; Hamilton Row and N. Old Woodward, to cover an electrical box; Kroger, at Maple and Woodward, where there is a piece of art work, but which they felt should have the sculpture lit; in front of the Birmingham Theater on S. Old Woodward, which was done last downtownpublications.com

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summer, where an electrical box was artistically redone as a popcorn box; and the southwest wall of the 555 Building, which would be good spot for a mural or other artwork, he said.

“Birmingham already has 15 sculptures, but only one is at a terminating vista,” Cowan said.

Public art can create interest in other ways, he said, such as interesting furniture to activate spaces with people-oriented seating; artistic reuse of utilities, such as electrical boxes; lighting, such as solar lighting; and wall art, including mosaics, murals or tile.

“Those could be particularly useful for terminating vistas with large blank walls,” he said. He added that since city ordinances prohibit their installation, ordinances would need to be altered to permit them.

He noted that issues with art installations have come up, and those would need to be clarified.

“I think it would be important to come back with a staff report on how to implement this report, to outline how to best implement this report,” said city manager Joe Valentine.

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Feeling Overwhelmed?

Candidates file for local school boards Four candidates have filed to run for two open seats on the Birmingham Public Schools Board of Education, and seven candidates have filed to run for three open seats on Bloomfield Hills Schools Board of Education.

Birmingham Board of Education seats are six-year terms; Bloomfield Hills Schools are four-year terms. The filing deadline was July 21.

In Birmingham, incumbent board member Lori Ajluny, currently board vice president, is running for reelection. Also running in Birmingham for one of the two open seats are Luke Joseph, Samuel Oh and Nash Salami.

Brian Jennings, current board treasurer, whose term expires in November, is not running for another term.

Three long-term trustees in Bloomfield Hills are stepping down from the seven-member board. Cynthia von Oeyen, currently board vice president, has been on the board for 22 years. Trustee Jacqueline El-Sayed and trustee Mark Bank are both completing their second four-year term.

Running to replace them in three open seats are seven new candidates: Dima El-Gamal, Nicholas Haugen, Renita James, Siva Kumar, Michelle Southward, Jonathon VanGemert and Samuel Walker.

All candidates will be on the November general election ballot.

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“Finding a New Normal Together” Gina LaPapa As we begin Fall 2020, forever changed by a worldwide pandemic, COVID-19, we at The Community House take pause to reflect on all of the people: individuals, corporations, foundations – kindnesses large and small, which have helped sustain us over these last six months, and to those who have made a true and lasting difference at the historic Community House, yesterday, today and always. If you are wondering when will the coronavirus end, you’re not alone. Until then, we shall endeavor to carry on.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization, it is our duty and our obligation to remain ever mindful that good stewardship is an essential part of the fundraising cycle. It covers the entire relationship between donor and organization. Likewise, we must continually celebrate and honor the importance of selfless service and volunteerism.

For without either, the work and missions of noble organizations such as The Community House would not be possible.

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Normally held in February, The Community House created the Bates Street Society Dinner - at which annual Pillars of Vibrancy: Education, Wellness, Culture, Philanthropy and Bill Seklar Business are celebrated and honored. The purpose is to publicly recognize extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated selfless service and philanthropy toward others while helping to “Create More Vibrant Lives” in the community - selfless service offered and provided out of a genuine and deep desire to help and be of service to others.

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Over the last few years, 69 pillars in our community have been recognized and inducted into The Community House’s Pillars of Vibrancy. 2021 will be no exception. Recently, The Community House announced the 2021 Pillar Nominees to date. They include:

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The Bates Street Society was established in 2015, to publicly recognize and induct members who have made significant charitable contributions to support the work and mission of The Community House in Birmingham. New member-inductees will be acknowledged annually at its Bates Street Society Dinner, a semi-formal event hosted by The Community House and The Community House Foundation’s - Officers and Board of Directors.

In an effort to recognize those that have given extraordinary treasure; $25,000 or more cumulatively, or donors who make an irrevocable legacy gift of $25,000 or more to The Community House, Community House Association and Foundation Leadership decided to combine and recognize key stakeholders; major donors, foundations and corporate partners - together with the Pillars of Vibrancy - at the annual Bates Street Society Dinner, under one philanthropic umbrella event.

Impacted by COVID, the 6th annual Bates Street Society Dinner has been moved to Saturday, April 17, 2020. The three-course sit-down dinner is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in the Wallace Ballroom of The Community House.

Please save the date. Until then, The Community House shall continue to monitor the pandemic, and if necessary, out of an abundance of safety and caution, adjust accordingly.

To help lead this extraordinary evening of recognition and celebration, Huel Perkins, beloved Broadcast Journalist and iconic American News Anchor, will return in the role of Master of Ceremonies.

This important gathering/dinner will offer guests a wonderful opportunity to publicly show enthusiastic support for the 2021 TCH Pillars of Vibrancy inductees, and to the scores of individuals, foundations and corporations whose contributions and kindness makes The Community House’s work and mission possible. Reservations (no tickets issued!) are $250/pp for General Admission and $350pp for Patron Admission. In addition, sponsorship opportunities are needed and available at all giving levels.

Until we find our new normal “let’s practice reckless optimism together.” Stay safe, be well.

For reservations, tickets or to become a sponsor of the 2021 Bates Street Society Dinner, please go to communityhousefoundation.org or call 248.644.5832.

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

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BUSINESS MATTERS Johnny Was opens in town Bohemian chic women’s clothing store Johnny Was is opening its first Michigan store in downtown Birmingham at 115 S. Old Woodward on Saturday, September 12. “The historical Birmingham Shopping District is the perfect location to debut Johnny Was in Michigan,” said Rob Trauber, CEO of Johnny Was. “It’s a great mix of upscale retail and dining, and also has beautiful tree-lined streets and architecture. When we search for a location for a boutique we always make sure it delivers a unique shopping experience.” Johnny Was clothing is synonymous with apparel that celebrates a bohemian elegance and artisan detailing with their unrivaled embroideries, prints and trims. For fall, Trauber said, “the Johnny Was collection highlights print silk dresses, embroidered faux-fur coats, crochet sweaters, and our timeless tunics – all in a wide variety of prints and intricate embroideries. From our hand-assembled kimono jackets to our popular swim collection and everything in between, our boutiques are about inviting guests into the Johnny Was universe.” The store, one of 50 independent Johnny Was boutiques, will also feature their recently added collection of Italian washed leather bags crafted in Florence and their popular fragrance, Talia, available in eau de parfum, oil and candle.

Viga around the corner Women’s wear store Viga, owned by Ludviga Shneyders, has taken her store right around the corner in downtown Birmingham – moving from 168 Maple Road to 152 N. Old Woodward.

Knitwear moves Popular knitting store Woolly & Co., formerly in downtown Birmingham, packed its bags and knitting crates at the end of August and moved west on Maple into the Village Knoll Plaza in Bloomfield Township, where it opened its newly-spacious digs next to Kroger at 3630 W. Maple Road at Lahser on September 1. Owner Aviva Susser said the COVID-19 shutdown made her realize a change of locale would be more convenient for a majority of her customers. “During COVID, we did a lot of home delivery, and we realized a lot of our customers live in Bloomfield. This location is a lot more convenient for a lot of customers, and the parking is free and available.” Susser, who lives in Birmingham and was known to walk to her previous store, just up a few steps from Toast on Pierce Street, said, “As much as I love Birmingham and being in Birmingham, it’s a move of convenience – so people don’t have to worry about meters, finding parking and downtownpublications.com

driving around the block for parking or giving up and not coming in.” Woolly & Co. features an extensive stock of yarn and supplies, and looks forward to offering a lot of workshops and classes for knitters. “I think the new store is going to be fabulous,” Susser said.

LOCAL MATTERS. municipal coverage

Kitchen designer moves After a decade in downtown Birmingham at 202 E. Maple Road, Scavolini Store Detroit moved September 1 to the Michigan Design Center in Troy. Owned by partners Niki Serras, Alisha Serras and Brian Gamache, the three opened design centers in Chicago and Boston after the success of their Birmingham showroom.

Scavolini is an Italian brand of cabinetry founded in 1961, and is custom made and imported from Italy for each client. Specializing in modern kitchens, baths, living area and closets; the team let international design trends influence their work and regularly travel to Italy and abroad for inspiration.

“There are a lot of clients and trade members who go to design centers for the purpose of specifying for their projects. We think there’s value in critical mass,” Niki Serras said, adding that Scavolini Store Detroit welcomes both consumers and trade members.

“We can work directly with a client who may not have an architect or interior designer, and we can take them through the paces,” she explained.

“Alternatively, we have clients who don’t want to be involved and leave the entire decision-making process to their designer or architect. We can take either path.” Serras said she found it convenient to partner with other MDC tenants to complete Scavolini’s showroom vignettes, as well as the center offers free and convenient parking.

Still a knock out Rebel Boxing Fitness, 6565 Telegraph Road at Maple in Bloomfield Township, is still open – that is, if Governor Whitmer gives the go-ahead for gyms and fitness facilities to open. That’s the word from Noah Dorfman, who owns the facility with his wife, Michelle Landry. He said they can’t wait to get back to offering group classes teaching the fundamentals of boxing and strength training as well as private training sessions.

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.

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PLACES TO EAT Go To Our Website For

Always Taking Reservations For Dine-In The Places To Eat for Downtown is a quick reference source to establishments offering a place for dining, either breakfast, lunch or dinner. The listings include nearly all dining establishments with seating in the Birmingham/Bloomfield area, and then some select restaurants outside the immediate area served by Downtown.

Birmingham/Bloomfield 220: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday- Saturday. Reservations.

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

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

Adachi: Asian. Lunch & Dinner daily.

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

248.540.5900.

Andiamo: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

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

248.865.9300.

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

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

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

248.626.2630.

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

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

Beverly Hills Grill: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Liquor. No reservations. 31471 Southfield Road, Beverly Hills, 48025. 248.642.2355.

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

248.594.7078.

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. Liquor. No reservations. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.6690.

Café ML: New American. Dinner, daily.

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

248.642.4000.

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

248.940.0000.

China Village: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 1655 Opdyke, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.758.1221.

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

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

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

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

248.540.7220.

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

248.792.9766.

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

248.642.1135.

Eddie Merlot's: Steak & seafood.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

37000 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.712.4095.

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

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

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

Embers Deli & Restaurant: Deli.

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

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

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

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

248.258.9400.

Greek Island Coney Restaurant: Greek.

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

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

248.712.4050.

Honey Tree Grille: Greek/American.

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

248.203.9111.

Hunter House Hamburgers: American.

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

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

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

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

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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 Italian Kitchen & Bar: Italian.

Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

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

248.480.0492.

Leo’s Coney Island: American.

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

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

248.646.8568.

Little Daddy’s Parthenon: American.

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

248.647.3400.

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

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

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

Market North End: Mediterranean.

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

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

248.723.0800.

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

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

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

Original Pancake House: American.

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

248.642.5775.

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

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

Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.988.8941. Also 42967 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield 86

Township, 48304. 248.874.1876 Roadside B & G: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

1727 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7270.

Salvatore Scallopini: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.644.8977.

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

248.594.4200.

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

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

248.593.5300.

Stateside Deli & Restaurant Deli.

Breakfast, Lunch, Sunday-Monday.

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

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

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

248.932.0800.

Streetside Seafood: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily.

Reservations, Lunch only. Liquor. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.645.9123.

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

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

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

248.258.9830.

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

Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor.

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

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

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

The Gallery Restaurant: American.

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

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

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

248.940.3260.

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

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

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

248.258.6278.

Tomatoes Apizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner daily. Carryout. 34200 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009.

248.258.0500.

Touch of India: Indian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 297 E. Maple

Road, Birmingham, 48009.

248.593.7881.

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

248.792.5241.

Vinotecca: European. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 210 S. Old Woodard, Birmingham, 48009.

248.203.6600.

Whistle Stop Diner: American.

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

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

6608 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.949.9999.

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

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

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

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

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

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

248.584.3499.

Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch.

Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily.

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

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

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

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

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

248.544.4749.

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

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

Due Venti: Italian. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

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

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

Howe’s Bayou: Cajun. Lunch, MondaySaturday. Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 22949 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.691.7145.

Inyo Restaurant Lounge: Asian Fusion.

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

248.543.9500.

KouZina: Greek. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

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

Kruse & Muer on Woodward: American.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

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

Lily’s Seafood: Seafood. Weekend Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 410 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak, 48067.

248.591.5459.

DOWNTOWN

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

248.584.4227.

Oak City Grille: American. Dinner, daily.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

248.544.1141.

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

248.607.3127.

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

Toast, A Breakfast and Lunch Joint: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 48220. 248.398.0444.

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

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

248.541.1186.

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

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

Twisted Tavern: American. Dinner, daily.

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

248.545,6750.

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

27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley, 48072. 248.548.7711.

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

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

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

248.280.1831.

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

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

248.853.6600.

O’Connor’s Irish Public House: Irish.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

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

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

248.619.9060.

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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.

Triple the enjoyment The former home of Mitchell’s Seafood at 117 Willits Street, Birmingham, is now housing not one, but three different and unique restaurant concepts: Sidecar Slider Bar, Shift, and Slice. All together they fall under S-3 Restaurants, owned by Stephen Simon. Sidecar and Shift opened in July, and they’re shooting for a September opening for Slice, a pizza joint that will serve Neapolitan style pies in unique flavors such as their breakfast pizza, gyro pizza, and chicken shawarma pizza. If the food at Sidecar tastes familiar, guests may have had its sandwich counterpart at a previous incarnation of Sidecar, which is still serving the same menu from when it was located on Merrill Street, but with the addition of new salads and pita sandwiches. The third concept, Shift is geared more towards small plates – Simon said they do some good additions with seafood and meats and cheeses, like salmon croquettes and goat cheese figs, that pair well with their extensive wine list – along with speciality cocktails that are made with homemade syrups that are a bit more over the top than one would find in a larger venue. As for having three concepts all under one roof, Simon said guests have really loved the new space. “People like that they can kind of check things out, have an appetizer at one space, then go over to the other place and try something different,” he said.

Tacos in the township At 18-years-old, Ramon Moreno-Diaz saw there was a need in Bloomfield Township for true, authentic Mexican food. But he waited and worked for a food truck for the next five years before he finally took the leap to open up a true Mexican restaurant in the area. “Even though we’re in the middle of a pandemic, I’m very optimistic,” he said about his summer opening. MorenoDiaz described the limited menu at Mor Tacos – located at 2442 Franklin – as modern, yet also antique. Their chicken taco, which uses dark meat and has the skin left on, is on track to become a restaurant staple already, and is one of the many types of tacos he offers. But don’t expect it to be topped with cheese, lettuce, or sour cream like you would find at many another Mexican restaurants. “I was so tired of my culture being disrespected with all cheese and all that Tex Mex,” he said. “To me, it was extremely disrespectful, and that’s where the whole ‘respect the corn’ thing comes from. So you either eat what I give you or you don’t eat, and I’m totally fine with both.” The restaurant’s name is a play off his own last name and how people will come to the restaurant for more tacos.

A taste of the sea While the menu at Oak & Reel – 2921 E. Grand Boulevard, Detroit – is primarily focused on seafood, there will be lots of opportunities to enjoy other dishes, too. “If somebody comes in and they are a carnivore…we’re going to have some really great prime beef,” said manager Pete Franklin. As for everyone else, there will be plenty of seafood and coastal Italian cuisine when the restaurant opens in mid-September, with Franklin noting that the swordfish they plan to serve will be particularly special. Franklin is excited for all the pasta dishes coming out of the kitchen from Chef Jared Gadbaw, who helped earn Marea, a New York City restaurant with similar flavors, two Michelin stars when he ran the kitchen. Oak & Reel is developing a list of signature craft cocktails to go with their 84 wines and beers, the latter of which are primarily Michigan brews. “I guess the way I describe it is this is a high-end restaurant, food and service-wise, but we are very approachable.

We’re casual,” Franklin said. “We want to be welcoming to the entire community.” The restaurant plans to emphasis recycling and composting, with hopes to work with local farms next spring.

American brasserie with flair Even though there’s still this COVID thing going on, Holly McClain has been trying not to focus on it as she and her group put the finishing touches on her new restaurant, Olin, 25 E. Grand River Avenue, Detroit. “I’m just trying to focus on making the restaurant and the food and the service the greatest that

Kruse & Muer on Main: American.

Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

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

Loccino Italian Grill and Bar: Italian.

Lunch, Monday-Friday, Dinner, daily.

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

The Meeting House: American.

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

248.759.4825.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

248.816.3424.

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

248.375.9200.

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

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

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

3303 Rochester Rd., Troy, 48085.

248.524.1944.

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro: Chinese.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations.

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

248.816.8000.

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

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

248.614.5390.

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

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

306 S. Main St., Rochester, 48307.

248.651.2266.

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

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

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

248.652.4500.

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

248.453.5291.

Bigalora: Italian. Weekend Brunch. Lunch, Monday-Friday. Dinner, daily. No Reservations. Liquor. 29110 Franklin Road, Southfield, 48034.

The Fiddler: Russian. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Thursday-Sunday. Reservations.

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

248.851.8782.

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

6239 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.538.7081.

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

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

Nonna Maria’s: Italian. Dinner, daily.

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

248.851.2500.

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

Prime29 Steakhouse: Steak & Seafood.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6545 Orchard Lake Rd., West Bloomfield, 48322. 248.737.7463.

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

248.865.0500.

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

248.626.8585.

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

Liquor. 33210 W. Fourteen Mile Rd., West Bloomfield Township, 48322. 248.

538.8954.

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

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

248.855.6622.

Yotsuba: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 7365 Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield, 48322.

248.737.8282.

West Bloomfield/Southfield

Clarkston Union: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 54 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346.

248.620.6100.

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

248.634.5208.

Kruse's Deer Lake Inn: Seafood. Lunch & dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 7504

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.

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.

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

48992 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, 48393.

248.960.7771.

North Oakland

Dixie Highway, Clarkston, 48346.

248.795.2077.

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

Liquor. 15 S. Main Street, Clarkston, 48346. 248.297.5833 Via Bologna: Italian. Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor. 7071 Dixie Highway, Clarkston. 48346. 248.620.8500.

Union Woodshop: BBQ. Dinner, Monday – Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday – Sunday.

No reservations. Liquor. 18 S. Main St., Clarkston, 48346. 248.625.5660

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

2684 E. Jefferson, Detroit, 48207.

313.965.3111.

Cliff Bell’s: American. Sunday Brunch.

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations.

Liquor. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit, 48226.

313.961.2543.

Cuisine: French. Dinner, 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, TuesdayFriday. Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday.

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

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

Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor.

400 Monroe Street, Detroit, 48226.

313.965.4600.

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

Liquor. 330 S. Oakwood Blvd., Detroit, 48217. 313.841.0122.

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

2200 W. Lafayette, Detroit, 48216.

313.962.5588.

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

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

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

Reservations. Liquor. 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit, 48243. 313.567.6837.

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

2601 W. Fort St., Detroit, 48216.

313.309.7946.

Mario’s: Italian. Dinner, daily.

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

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

Liquor. 4710 Cass Ave., Detroit, 48201.

313.974.7669.

Motor City Brewing Works: American.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Beer & Wine. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit, 48201. 313.832.2700.

1917 American Bistro: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 19416 Livernois Ave., Detroit, 48221.

313.863.1917.

Prism: Steak & Seafood. Dinner, TuesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 555 E. Lafayette St, Detroit, 48226.

313.309.2499.

Red Smoke Barbeque: Barbeque. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor.

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

313.962.2100.

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.

St. CeCe’s Pub: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 1426 Bagley Ave., Detroit, 48216.

313.962.2121.

Tap at MGM Grand: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

Liquor. 1777 Third Street, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1234.

Taqueria Nuestra Familia: Mexican.

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily.

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

The Block: American. Sunday Brunch.

Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

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

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

313.964.4010.

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

511 W. Canfield, Detroit, 48201.

313.831.9470.

24grille: American. Sunday Brunch. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, 1114 Washington Blvd, Detroit, 48226.

313.964.3821.

Union Street: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 4145 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201.

313.831.3965.

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

Dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations.

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

Vivio’s Food & Spirits: American.

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

313.393.1711.

The Whitney: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & High Tea, Monday-Friday. Sunday Brunch. Dinner, daily. Liquor.

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

Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina: Italian. Dinner, Wednesday-Sunday.

Reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third St, Detroit, 48226. 313.465.1646.

Wolfgang Puck Steak: Steak & Seafood.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1777 Third St, Detroit, 48226.

313.465.1411.

Wright & Co.: American. Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 1500 Woodward Ave Second Floor, Detroit, 48226. 313.962.7711.

I can,” said McClain, a veteran restaurateur and member of McClainCamarota Hospitality, which previously opened Highlands at the Renaissance Center. There’s a lot to be excited for, such as its September opening. There weren’t many menu details McClain was ready to divulge, but she described it as an American brasserie with a lot of Mediterranean and Spanish influences. A few menu items she was willing to share include their cheese program, octopus with chorizo, and steak frites. McClain described the interior as warm and they kept some of the building’s original elements, like the tile floors and back brick wall, a nice contrast to the murals Detroit artist Lisa Spindler created for the space. Olin –which is an Olde English word for evergreen or holly – will share an alley with the Shinola Hotel, where Olin’s takeout window will feature a separate concept that serves warm, soft pretzels, ice cream floats and cocktails to-go.

Coffee and commitment Coffee might be in its name but The Gathering Coffee Co. – 2831 E Grand Boulevard, Detroit – is about much more than a cup of joe, even though they definitely provide plenty of it. “We’re passionate about coffee, but we’re more passionate about our community,” said owner Emily Steffen. The space includes a lot of communal settings, like a recording and video studio, and photography area. They also plan on hosting community events like spoken word nights. The staff, who are all women artists who have never worked in the industry before, are making everything from classic espresso-based drinks with house made syrups, like their maple whiskey and chocolate ganache, and a variety of loose leaf teas, to a few house specials, like the Bee Sting, which is honey and cayenne over iced espresso.

Another in-house speciality drink is a build-your-own where guests are provided with science beakers to pour all the ingredients of their drink into their own mug. “It’s meant to visually show them what are the parts that go into this drink,” she said. The Gathering will have multiple types of toasts, and doughnuts and pastries from Rose’s Fine Food. Being able to open in late August was part of a nearly three-year journey for Steffen, who said they now have a walk-up window where guests can order with their app if they don’t want to go inside.

Zoom & dine The groundbreaking at M1 Concourse, 1 Concourse Drive, Pontiac, for their new event center and restaurant facility, finally happened on September 1, which is scheduled to officially open next September. Chief Executive Officer Jordan Zlotoff said that the original concept for their development always included a restaurant, but due to timing of construction, development, and all the administrative approvals needed to move forward it took them a bit longer than planned to break ground. “We’re finally ready to do it,” he said.

The restaurant will sit right along the track and have a second floor rooftop patio that overlooks all of the driving activity. Sticking on-brand for the area – M1 is on what used to be a General Motors manufacturing plant and is a state of the art road course for car enthusiasts – the restaurant will be Motorsports themed and have two full-service bars. Zlotoff said the elements of the decor will probably play to that, as well as Detroit’s history of automobiles. “We want to have something…that’s essentially a celebration of all things automotive,” he said. As for the food itself, they’re currently talking to a number of different local restauranteurs, who will be very influential in the upcoming menu that will be executed out of their fullservice kitchen.

Bites Brooklyn Pizza Bar at 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, reopened with their menu full of authentic wood-fired pizzas. Now a full service bistro, beer, wine, and signature craft cocktails are also available both in the newly renovated space and to-go. The coronavirus has taken out another restaurant, Magnet, 4842 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, as well as the hospitality group behind it.

Top Young Hospitality is dissolving, with Chef Brad Greenhill and investor Philip Kafka cutting ties as business partners. For those who love their other restaurant, Takoi, 2520 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, the restaurant has plans to reopen for indoor dining on September 15, with Greenhill retaining sole ownership.

ENDNOTE

In-person or absentee – be sure to vote he November general election will have a lot on its ballot, from who is choosen to be the next president, senator, congressional representatives, state and county leaders as well as some local municipal officials. According to Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, there could be as many as five million ballots cast in the state, with possibly three million of those by absentee ballots.

In November 2018, Michigan voters overwhelmingly supported Proposal 3, 67 percent to 33 percent, to bring same-day voter registration, no-reason absentee voting, automatic voter registration and other changes to Michigan's election law. The ballot issue also restored straight-ticket voting, which the state legislature in 2015 abolished after being allowed for 127 years.

Michigan is now in line with 37 other states and Washington D.C. which permit voters to obtain an absentee ballot with no reason needed. Numerous other states also already allow same day registration as long as a voter has photo ID and proof of residency. The state of Idaho, for example, has encouraged same day voter registration as far back as 1994.

Security and sanctity of individual votes is not a concern to election experts nor local municipal clerks. Michigan utilizes paper ballots, so there is back up for all votes. All voters, whether in person, where signatures

T

are verified at the precinct, or on absentee ballots applications and then on the absentee ballot envelopes when they are returned, have voter signatures verified against what clerks have on file. Oregon, where they have had only mail-in voting, which is the same as absentee ballots, since 2000, has had only 12 cases of voter fraud out of 100 million ballots cast – a rate of .00001 percent.

Despite desperate allegations by some politicians, there is no reason to worry about voting absentee, nor about having your ballot counted. It will be counted. It just might take a few days.

And that is the real concern for local clerks, both county and municipal. State legislators can help them, and they can – and should – do it right now. State Sen. Ruth Johnson (R-Holly), who for eight years was Oakland County Clerk, and then for another eight years was Michigan Secretary of State, has sponsored two desperately needed bills, both of which are stalled by Republican legislators, claiming they will cause a “severe burden” on voters. Let's just say that Johnson, a fellow Republican, knows what she's talking about. And she says that it will actually make life better for everyone.

Senate Bill 756, would permit shifts of election workers to work. The other, Senate Bill 757, would allow municipal and county clerks to open the outer envelope of absentee

ballots on the Monday prior to the election to expedite processing on election day.

Currently, once election workers enter a precinct or absentee voting counting area, they cannot leave until all ballots are counted – which some clerks believe could take 48 hours or more. As West Bloomfield Clerk Debbie Binder said, “It's inhumane to keep people that long. You're dealing with human beings.”

That bill passed the state Senate in June, but has been held up by House Majority Leader Lee Chatfield in that chamber.

Senate Bill 757, to permit the opening of the outer envelope of absentee ballots only on the Monday before election day, in order to get them ready to be fed into voting machines, would greatly speed up the process without compromising the privacy of voters, clerks said. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake) has prevented the bill from coming to the full floor of the state Senate for a vote.

Absentee ballots will arrive around October 1. If you're choosing to vote absentee this year, be sure to fill it out early, and drop it in the mail at least 15 days before November 3, or drop it in your community's voter drop box. Or else make it to your local precinct on Election Day. Whatever you do, whichever way you choose, just be sure to vote.

Outdoor expansion a win for restaurants ust as no one could have anticipated the COVID-19 pandemic and its ensuing lockdown and economic fallout, currently no one has a crystal ball to tell how long it will last, and when we'll all be able to go back to what we all term “life as normal” – our lives pre-March 13, 2020.

In lieu of that foresight, we have to praise the city of Birmingham and its city commission for working hard to come up with creative inducements to entice shoppers and diners to the city – first, by putting all onstreet and structure parking on hiatus – onstreet parking was reinstated July 1, but by a recent resolution, all parking will stay free at all of the city's parking lots until the end of the year. Businesses with monthly permits – which cost between $35 to $70 per permit a month – are asked to pay $100 for the four

J

months in order to keep their accounts active.

Staff and the city commission have also been proactive in expanding the city's outdoor dining scene, and now, in permitting it to exist, in some way, shape or form, all winter long. Yes, we live in the snow belt.

Restaurants who want to keep their outdoor dining open will need to acquire heaters, likely blankets, and get very creative with enclosures for our blustery winter days. Some diners may not see those enclosures as substantially different than eating indoors.

But the fact that they can stay open, rather than closing in early November, is an opportunity for dining establishments to hopefully make up some revenue they would have otherwise lost as many diners choose not to eat indoors during this fraught period.

Interior spaces in restaurants must cut

their dining capacity by 50 percent; Birmingham is permitting them to take that 50 percent and put it outdoors, with a permit and the fee waived.

Economists estimate it may take nine to 12 months for many restaurateurs to make up for revenue they lost during the lockdown; many are still struggling with sustainability, and there is a loss to the industry in skilled and talented labor. Others may be shutting their doors for good. Let's not allow it to be our neighbors.

If you're going out this fall or winter – think local.

If you're choosing instead to order take out – think local.

And hopefully, many of these outdoor establishments will create some delightful hot toddy recipes to warm us all.

AUGUST 31, 2020

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K AT H Y B RO O C K

M ICHIGAN â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S #1 R EALTOR | T EN C ONSECUTIVE Y EARS

248.318.4504 kathy@maxbroockhomes.com www.kathybroock.com 275 S Old Woodward, Birmingham, MI 48009