Downtown Birmingham/Bloomfield

GERAK: SOCIAL SCENE • J. MARCH: THE NEW SELDEN STANDARD

OAKLAND

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS THE PLIGHT OF THOSE LIVING BELOW ENFORCEMENT RADAR CABLE TV: BIG CHANGES POSSIBLE IN WHO OWNS THE SYSTEM CRISIS HOTLINES: LOCAL RESOURCES FOR TROUBLED TIMES

BUILDER OF THE YEAR DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME The Homebuilders Association of Southeastern Michigan recognized Moceri Companies with the trifecta of its highest awards.

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The Pinecrest is a split ranch style home and is ideal for couples with adult children and grandchildren.

The elegant, open spaces are very refined thanks to intricate ceiling details, custom lighting, arched openings, hand-scraped wood flooring and the use of unique beams. — Priced at $1.8 Million

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 248-373-6200 OR EMAIL SALES@MOCERI.COM MODELS AND SALES SALON ARE LOCATED AT PINNACLE, NORTH OFF SILVERBELL ROAD, EAST OF ADAMS ROAD OPEN DAILY FROM NOON TO 6 P.M. 4911 PINNACLE BLVD., OAKLAND TOWNSHIP, MI 48306 MOCERIHOMES.COM

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DOWNTOWN01.15

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The plight of illegal immigrants There are 150,000 undocumented immigrants living in Michigan, which is basically two percent of the workforce, many of them in Oakland County.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

18

GERAK: SOCIAL SCENE • J. MARCH: THE NEW SELDEN STANDARD

Downtown Publications has reached a milestone with the January issue, the start of its sixth year of operation, and Publisher David Hohendorf reviews the mission and goals for the publishing group and monthly newsmagazine.

INCOMING

21

Our readers' opinions on issues facing the Birmingham/Bloomfield communities or their reaction to content in past issues of Downtown.

CRIME LOCATOR

23

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

Retail leasing consultant contract renewed; more concerns on Bloomfield township investments; Planet Fitness in township; gypsy month program continues; pot ordinance repealed; plus more.

BUSINESS MATTERS

97

B. May Bags; Halina Fuchs Jewelry; Alessandra Bridal Couture; Marlee's by Tapper's.

AT THE TABLE

101

IMMIGRANTS THE PLIGHT OF THOSE LIVING BELOW ENFORCEMENT RADAR CABLE TV: BIG CHANGES POSSIBLE IN WHO OWNS THE SYSTEM CRISIS HOTLINES: LOCAL RESOURCES FOR TROUBLED TIMES

MUNICIPAL

69

OAKLAND

ILLEGAL

Selden Standard in Detroit was one of the new restaurant openings much awaited in the metro area and our reviewer says diners will not be disappointed with the comfort, style, warmth and flavors.

THE COVER The Charles L. Bower School Farm on Wing Lake Road, purchased by the Bloomfield Hills School District in the mid-1960's to serve as a land laboratory for students. Downtown photo: G. Lynn Barnett.

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41 Cable television changes Although consumers won't reportedly notice any difference in service, there are major changes taking place in who controls cable TV in Oakland.

54 The crisis hotlines There are numerous local, regional and national crisis hotlines to help with suicide prevention and provide general support for those in need.

81

Liah Miller

COMMUNITY HOUSE

103

Camille Jayne, Chair of The Community House (TCH) Board of Directors in Birmingham, writes about the latest developments and events at this important community resource.

SOCIAL LIGHTS

105

Society reporter Sally Gerak provides the latest news from the society and non-profit circuit as she covers recent major events.

ENDNOTE

114

Our opinion on the newly formed Great Lakes Water Authority and the latest problems that have come to light about retirement investment funding in Bloomfield Township.

FACES

39 48 67 81 93

Ali Cheaib Meg Mathis Sarah Carrol Liah Miller Dan Dickerson

Thanks to these sponsors and patrons, along with everyone who purchased tickets, our annual fundraiser generated significant support for education and ArtAccess programs at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. These programs include Meet Me @ the BBAC AC C͕​͕ ĂŶ ĂƌƚŝƐƚŝĐ ĨŽƌƵŵ ĨŽƌ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůƐ ǁŝƚŚ ůnjŚĞŝŵĞƌ͛Ɛ͖ ArtBridge, helping underserved but

talented high school students prepare for college; and Studiio 1, providing creative opportunities for those with physical, n s a mental and emotional challenges. For more information about these programs, year-round classes for all ages and levels, our Gallery Shop, or free exhibits in four galleries, stop by or visit BBArtCenter.org.

SIGNA ATURE SPONSOR

PLATINU TIN M SPONSORS

Patty & Ken Eisenbraun GOLD SPONSOR

VALET SPONSOR

Lynn & Harvey Verbelun

WINE SPONSOR

CHAMPAGNE SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR

THE SALON

SILVER VE SPONSORS

Lois R. DeBacker Michelle Goff & Kevin Kruszewski Maggie Greene

Cap & Carolyn Hall Dave & Mary Hines Dr. Myron & Joyce LaBan Joshua & Lisa Sherbin

STROLLING SUPPER BY

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Judith & Joel Adelman Comerica Bank ůnjŚĞŝŵĞƌ͛Ɛ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚŝŽŶConsumers Energy Greater Michigan Chapter Y DaleS& Bruce Frankel Aurelia & Alvin B. Michaels, MD d Robert & Susie Citrin

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Jennifer Lepard Susan Lundal & Don Crawford Leslie Lynch Maria Marcotte Marrjorie & Robeart Mellen Ihor & Joanna Melnykowycz Amy Messano Charles M. Moore Pamela J. Newman Mark & Kristine Olson Yelena Pliskina R. Jeffrey Pollock Stacey Reeves Louise Reza Sandy & Glenn Rosin James Rosseau Sharon Suess Tim Travis & Pegsgy Kerr Ursula Warren

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B

SPECIAL THANKS TO DOWNTOWN MAGAZINE!

S celebrating art ffo or all since 1957

1516 S. Cranbrook Rd. Birmingham MI 48009 248.644.0866 BBArtCenter.org

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PUBLISHER David Hohendorf NEWS EDITOR Lisa Brody NEWS Allison Batdorff Kevin Elliott | Camille Jayne

STAFF/CONTRIBUTORS | Rachel Bechard | Hillary Brody Sally Gerak | Austen Hohendorf | J. Marsh | Kathleen Meisner

PHOTOGRAPHY/CONTRIBUTORS Jean Lannen | Laurie Tennent Laurie Tennent Studio VIDEO PRODUCTION/CONTRIBUTOR Garrett Hohendorf Giant Slayer ADVERTISTING MANAGER Jill Cesarz ADVERTISING SALES Heather Marquis GRAPHICS/DESIGN G. Lynn Barnett WEBSITE/CONTRIBUTOR 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 downtown Birmingham.

For those not receiving a free mail copy, paid subscriptions are available for a $12 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 email to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 W. Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009 WEBSITE downtownpublications.com

FACEBOOK facebook.com/downtownpublications TWITTER twitter.com/downtownpubs

Member of Downtown Publications DOWNTOWN | WESTEND | THE GUIDE

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

T

he January issue of Downtown you now hold in your hands represents a special milestone for those of us at the Downtown Publications office in Birmingham.

This edition marks the beginning of our sixth calendar year of operation as an independent publishing group, starting in 2010 with our first edition of Downtown Birmingham/Bloomfield. Not bad for a product in an industry that, to say the least, is challenged.

We would like to think that our success to this point is due in large part to the fact that we created a publication that was lacking in the communities of Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills – one that has been able to capture the interest of readers due to our editorial content and a monthly newsmagazine that has strong and growing support of local businesses, approximately 400 of whom use Downtown on some periodic basis to get their message out to local residents. Certainly the fact that some of us live here and have extensive knowledge of the communities helps with the high standard we have set for the content of Downtown, which is what matters most in our book.

Yes, I recognize that a few publications had existed prior to our arrival on the scene, but I submit that none offered the commitment to editorial quality that we have made to these special communities, nor the strong local focus of our content. And, yes, we are acutely aware that other competitors – imitators, to put it kindly – have attempted to challenge our position in the community. While we certainly take all competition seriously, we also think the residents of the Birmingham/Bloomfield area, based on phone calls and e-mails we have received and chance personal encounters, are a discerning lot, recognizing flash without substance when they see it, and they remain loyal to what has become the dominant source of news and advertising information – Downtown.

Our editorial mission for Downtown newsmagazine is simple: provide a solid editorial product each month that both captures life in the Birmingham/Bloomfield communities while at the same time offer up insight about developing trends or important issues through long-form journalism features, an art form of sorts that most other publications here and across the nation have abandoned because of the time and expense involved in exploring in more detail critical issues facing local residents.

In case you are new to our publication, or are not a regular reader of this column, we capture life in the local area through our coverage each month of important decisions by the government

bodies you elect to conduct your public business, be they municipalities or school districts. We also provide capsulized notes each month on what is happening in the local business community. Along with that, we offer personality profile features of those either living in this area or who have hailed from Birmingham/Bloomfield and have accomplished something of note or made a special contribution to the community at-large. We also offer the most detailed chronicle of what is happening in the non-profit social scene in the region because of the heavy involvement of local residents either through their donations of time and/or money. Further, we provide a guide to eating out each month and our critical view of new and in some cases established restaurants, recognizing that our followers have educated palates and an acute interest in this part of the entertainment scene.

We also feel strongly that any publication has a responsibility to assume a leadership position and offer its opinions on important issues facing the local communities, which we do each month at the back of Downtown in our Endnote page. No, we don’t expect everyone to agree with our editorial opinions on these issues. We offer them because we think we are especially qualified to help parse the issues due to our decades of experience in following and reporting on local government, while at the same time realizing that we are just one voice in the community. We hold a traditional view of our responsibility as a publication to serve as an unbiased provider of information in our news columns as part of our government watchdog role, but we also think it important to comment in the Endnote page when we feel debate needs to take place.

Beyond our monthly newsmagazine, we provide weekly updates on government news through our website at downtownpublications.com, which draws on average over 50,000 visitors each month. You can also find us on Facebook (facebook.com/downtownpublications) and Twitter (twitter.com/downtownpubs).

We provide a complete package of information through a variety of avenues, remain involved in the local communities, and take very seriously our role as a provider of information to local residents who in kind have shown their strong allegiance. For that we remain thankful as we look forward to continuing to bring our Downtown newsmagazine to the Birmingham/Bloomfield community.

David Hohendorf Publisher DavidHohendorf@downtownpublications.com

TH HE SECRET SEC CRET IS S OUTT THE

DISC SC CO COVER BIRMING M NG GHAM’S G GHAM AM’S S MOSTT UNIQUE N Q CONCEPT NC NCEPT DISCOVER BIRMINGHAM’S STORE p in and discover Mills Pharmacy Phar y + Apothecary p yy. The same g great neighborhood ghborhood store you Stop Apothecary. h d and d expanded d class l beauty b have e known k for f over 65 years, y ars, rennovated xpanded p d d featuring g world products Apothecary gourmet h Apothecar A h k Epicure. prod ducts in the y and d a gour met convenience nience market,

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FORD HONORS PROGRAM

Mariinsk Mariinsky y Orchestr Orchestra a Valery Gergiev, director V alery Ger giev, music dir ector Behzod Abduraimov, (Saturday) Behz od Abdur aimov, piano piano (Saturday) Danis Matsuev, D anis M atsuev, piano piano (Sunday) (Sunday) Saturday, 24, Satur day, JJanuary anuary 2 4, 8 pm [NOTE Sunday JJanuary anuary 25, 3 pm [NO TE START ST TAR ART TIME] Auditorium Hill A udit ditorium i m The legendary Mariinsky two off legendary M ariinsky Orchestra Orchestra return for tw o performances performances o return to to Hill Auditorium Auditorium for Russian orchestral pianist program: chestral masterpieces masterpieces ffeaturing ianist on each pr ogram: Russian or eaturing a rrenowed enowed p 24-year-old Uzbek prodigy Behzod Abduraimov Saturday's program performing 2 4-year-old U zbek pr odigy Behz od Abdur aimov on Satur da ay's pr ogram m perf ormi ming Prokofiev's No. Arbor Matsuev Pr okofiev's Piano Concerto Concerto N o. 3 and Ann Ar bor favorite favorite Denis D Matsuev on Sunday's program Tchaikovsky's piano concerto program performing performing T c chaikovsky's p iano c oncerto No. No. 1.

1.

PROGRAM PROGRAM (SATURDAY (SA SA ATURD TURDAY 1/24) 1/24) Prokofiev Concerto Major, Op. Prokofiev Piano Concer to No. 3 in C Ma jor, Op p. 26 p Shostakovich Symphony Shostak ovich Sym phony No. 4 in c minor, Op. 43 3 PROGRAM (SUNDAY CONCERT) PROGRAM (SUND AY 1/25 - FORD FORD HONORS PROGRAM PROGRAM OGR O CONCER O T) Shchedrin Concerto to for Orchestr Orchestra a No. 1 Concer Tchaikovsky Concerto b-flatt m minor, T chaikovsky Piano Concer to No. 1 in b-fla mino or, Op. 2 23 Mussorgsk Mussorgsky y Pictures a att an Exhibition (arr. Ra Ravel) vel) The Ford Ford Honors Honors Program Program rrecognizes ecognizes the llongtime ongtime and gener generous ous support o off UMS'ss Education E ducation & Community Community Engagemen Engagementt program program b by yF Ford ord M Motor otor C Company ompany F Fund. und.

SPONSORED B BY Y Mill Miller, er, Canfield, Canfield, P Paddock, addock, and St Stone, one, P P.L.C. .L.C. CONCERTMASTER CONCERTMASTER SPONSORS Bank of of Ann Arbor Arbor and U University niversity o off Michigan H Health ealth Syst System em ENDOWED ENDOWED SUPPORT SUPPORT FR FROM OM THE William R. Kinney Kinney Endowment Endowment Fund Fund and the C Catherine atherine S. Ar Arcure cure Endo Endowment wment F Fund und MEDIA PAR PARTNERS P ARTNERS

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INCOMING Troy transit center As was noted by another reader in the “Speak Out” incoming issues page of the December edition, I am also wondering why there has been no media investigation into the Troy Transit Center. It has to be the biggest waste of taxpayer funds in Oakland County history yet no journalist will cover it. How about this for a start?

In October, the Troy City Council announced that Amtrak has signed a 20 year lease with the city to operate and cover all expenses at the Transit Center. As reported by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, the Michigan Legislature has budgeted $40.6 million taxpayer dollars in the 2014 fiscal year in subsidies for Amtrak to help this money-losing rail service from going out of business. To explain that another way, each person that purchases a round trip train ticket will be getting a taxpayer subsidy of about $98.00. And now all the additional costs of operating the new Transit Center will just get passed on to you and me by diverting more taxpayer dollars to keep Amtrak running.

Lansing subsidizes Amtrak by using revenues raised from fuel taxes and vehicle registration fees, which were meant to pay for public highway construction and repair for the motorists who use them. Next time you hit a chuckhole in the road you can thank Amtrak and the new Transit Center.

John Nowak Birmingham

Future of unions Fascinating article (on unions), excellent history and future perspectives (November/Downtown).

My dad just retired from USW 8339 after 40 years and my mom was in the MEA for 20 plus years.

Josh Keagle Troy

SPEAK OUT We welcome your opinion on issues facing the Birmingham/Bloomfield communities.

Opinions can be sent via e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 West Maple Road, Birmingham MI 48009.

While we don’t have a specific word limitation, we reserve the right to edit for length.

Grass roots efforts Money won the midterm elections; plutocracy reigns.

Citizens who voted but disagreed with such tactics as gerrymandering, suppression of voting, as well as false assertions and negative ads, must become involved to help restore democracy. Grass roots efforts are needed.

In Michigan, pay attention to the attempts by GOP legislators to affect the 2016 presidential election by tampering with the electoral college.

In the congress, be aware of immigration reform. Preceding presidents, including Republicans, have pioneered and championed this cause. Other presidents have used executive powers when needed.

Democrats and Independents must voice and be proud of President Obama’s fine achievements. Sadly, they were not stressed during the midterms. President Obama is praised in other countries despite the difference in his ethnicity and background. It is too bad he is not appreciated in the U. S. as he should be.

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DOWNTOWN

21

CRIME LOCATOR

NORTH

Map key

Sexual assault

Assault

Murder

Robbery

Breaking/entering

Larceny

Larceny from vehicle

Vehicle theft

Vandalism

Drug offenses

Arson

These are the crimes reported under select categories by police officials in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills through December 12th, 2014.

Placement of codes is approximate.

How Did These Guys Reimagine The Fine Art of Buying & Selling Homes?

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Thousands of motivated buyers visit Arteva’s amazing idea ShowHouse models every month, which are exclusively staffed by Arterra. This unprecedented lead bank drives pre-qualified traffic to each of our listings.

Arterra’s global recognition and reach is strengthened by our affiliation with Arteva and its International Star Diamond Award – an honor shared by Donald Trump, Delta Airlines, Audi and other leading brands.

Call us today if you’re in the market for buying or selling a home.

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La Positano was voted the Best ideaShowHouse at the Ultimate Homearama in Oakland Township.

The 7,165 Sq. Ft. modern Italian Villa boasts 7 awesome outdoor rooms, a spectacular Great Hall, organic greenhouse and more.

Maureen Conwell 248.787.4612

La Positano is priced at $2.8 million. MLS 214101165 Inquire about $200,000 corporate lease-back option.

Only 10 heavily-wooded sites are available for custom estate building by Arteva Homes.

Homesites range from 1.01 acres up to 2.70 acres. The gated community features a 120’ long bridge overlooking Vhay Lake and a natural wildlife preservation area. Barton Hills represents the last remaining sites of their kind in the City of Bloomfield Hills.

Homes priced from $2.5 million.

George Shaheen 586.214.2106

A select number of sites are available for custom building by Arteva Homes in Oakland Township.

A professionally attended gatehouse enhances the privacy of this pristine 100-acre sanctuary with its woodlands, ponds and waterfalls.

Mike Mason 248.762.5180

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THE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS OF OAKLAND LIVING BELOW THE RADAR AS UNDOCUMENTED

BY LISA BRODY

he words are inscribed on a plaque in the pedestal in the Statue of Liberty, once the first sight new immigrants to the United States glimpsed of our country: “Give me your tired, your poor/ Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” These iconic words from the poem “New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus have long epitomized the feelings of those settling in our country from foreign lands, and remain as relevant today as when they were first penned in 1883.

We’re a nation that’s a melting pot of countries, cultures, races and colors. Our ancestors arrived on these shores seeking financial opportunities, the freedom to practice their religion, fleeing economic hardship or brutal dictatorships and wars.

Some, such as African Americans, were brought here as slaves against their will.

Fast forward to today. Those from other countries continue to flock to our borders, both legally and illegally. Whether seeking better opportunities and increased pay for highly skilled jobs, cash to fill hungry children’s bellies, or to escape intolerable situations in their native lands, the United States

T

continues to be the country where others want to live, with thousands choosing metro Detroit as the place they want to make their home.

Seen from the other side of the mirror, immigration is actually economically advantageous to the communities where immigrants reside. Global Detroit, an organization which works to revitalize southeastern Michigan’s economy and a national leader in the emerging development field centered on welcoming, retaining and empowering immigrant communities as valued contributors to regional growth, notes that while metro Detroit has a lower immigrant rate, at 8 percent, than the national average of 13 percent, the area is still a global region, just as it has been historically since immigrants first swarmed here to work in the auto industry when Henry Ford offered workers $5 a day, a huge sum at the time.

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DOWNTOWN

01.15

“Our border with Canada, international supply chain routes, and global automotive industry have all helped attract a significantly large number of foreign companies, which...number at over 900 firms from over 35 countries,” Global Detroit states. “Simply put, there are hundreds of thousands of residents in the region who were born in another country. Metro Detroit is estimated to be the home of the largest concentration of Middle East migrants outside the Middle East – larger than New York, London or Paris...The foreign born are fairly evenly spread throughout the entire region, rather than living in specific clusters. The fact that the foreign-born are a part of nearly every community and neighborhood in southeast Michigan is extremely important to understand in light of the fact that the region scores highly on national rankings chronicling black-white segregation. We believe that the dispersion of foreign-born communities throughout the region contributes to a feeling of ‘invisibility’ among ethnic groups.”

Unlike other areas of the country, where those from Mexico and Central and South America comprise the largest groups of immigrants, the largest immigrant group in metro Detroit comes from India, with a majority of those immigrants residing in Oakland County. Those from India account for 11.5 percent of the foreignborn immigrants in metro Detroit, with a little over 20,000 immigrants in Oakland County out of a total population of 1.2 million residents. There are about 41,000 Indians living in metro Detroit. Many Asian Indians live in Novi, Farmington Hills, Bloomfield Township and Troy. Indian immigrants, in general, are highly-educated and highly skilled, particularly in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics, also known as STEM, which are competitively sought after by employers. Additionally, Indians typically arrive here already able to speak and write in English, which gives them an advantage over other immigrant

“The ‘immigrant belt’ runs clearly through Oakland County, starting with Novi in the southwest and moving northeast through Farmington Hills, Bloomfield Township and into Troy, with sizable populations in other municipalities as well,” said a document from Global Detroit. “Communities to the northwest and southeast of this ‘crescent’ have considerably smaller concentrations. The Asian community is highly concentrated in this county, with significant numbers of Asian Indians, Chinese, Korean, Pakistani and Japanese residents. The Chaldean (Iraqi Christians) community has established strong ties in West Bloomfield, Bloomfield Township and Farmington Hills.”

Global Detroit, in a presentation to Oakland leadership this year, statistically showed that the rates of crime among immigrants is much lower than the population as a whole, with immigration incarceration rates one-fifth the rate of those who are born in the United States. More than 40 percent of current Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children, and in 2011, 28 percent of small businesses were founded by immigrants, many in fast growing sectors of the economy, such as leisure and hospitality; transportation; health and social services; construction; and education.

In the New Economy, immigrants created 25 percent of all high tech firms nationally between 1995 and 2005. Of those high tech firms, they created 52 percent of the Silicon Valley firms, and 32.8 percent of those created in Michigan and account for 25 percent of all venture-backed firms with public offerings. “In Michigan, immigrants have entrepreneurship rates three times those of native borns,” the presentation pointed out, with 64.4 percent of immigrants of working age, while only 50 percent of native born residents of working age.

Many immigrants come to the U.S. and metro Detroit to be

After immigrants from India, the second highest documented immigrant group in Oakland County comes from Iraq. Almost 10,000 Canadians reside in the county, with 7,300 Mexicans and Chinese, each, living in Oakland. Other immigrants in the county come from Japan, Germany, Korea, the Philippines and Russia. groups who have to learn the language. Many Indians arrive at our shores as students, seeking masters and doctorate degrees; many stay and work for local automotive and supply companies, engineering firms and other companies.

But some have trouble attaining their “green card”, or permanent resident card through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or their H1-B visa, because of prioritization and tight regulations by Homeland Security, leading many to go “off the grid” and become undocumented workers. According to the Pew Hispanic Center, there are 150,000 undocumented residents living in Michigan, up from 25,000 in 1990, or a 500 percent increase. Approximately 90,000 of those workers are seasonal migrant farm workers. Statewide, undocumented workers are 2 percent of the workforce. Nationwide, it is 5.2 percent of the workforce.

“They’re undocumented so they’re living under the radar,” said Professor David Koelsch, an immigration law professor at University of Detroit Mercy law school. “Many undocumented Indians come on temporary visas or student visas and just stay (when their visas expire). Or the company they’re working for goes out of business. So they go to work for another tech start-up or a small mom-and-pop automotive supplier. They’re all up and down Big Beaver in Troy, within shooting distance of Somerset Mall. They have a higher skill level and compensation level than many other immigrants.”

But they are still illegal, or undocumented, workers.

The second highest documented immigrant group in Oakland County comes from Iraq, with about 16,000 Iraqis living in Oakland County. Almost 10,000 Canadians reside in the county, with 7,300 Mexicans and Chinese, each, living in Oakland. Other immigrants in the county come from Japan, Germany, Korea, the Philippines and Russia.

educated. Fifty percent of all new U.S. PhDs awarded in engineering are granted to immigrants; 45 percent of all new U.S. PhDs in life sciences, physical sciences and computer science; 40 percent of all new U.S. Masters degrees in computer science, physical sciences and engineering; and 25 percent of all practicing physicians in the U.S. are currently immigrants, according to Global Detroit.

Of those immigrants residing in metro Detroit, close to 40 percent possess at least an undergraduate degree. “Those immigrants have given the Detroit metro area an incredible economic contribution,” Global Detroit asserts. “Not only is metro Detroit third in the nation (among the 25 largest metro areas) for immigrant contributions to the economy, but the immigrant community contributes more to local prosperity than almost any other.”

These educational statistics contrasts to a native-born population with educational attainment levels that include 11 percent with some high school education; 28 percent who have their high school diploma or GED; 33 percent having some college and/or an associate’s degree; 17 percent having attained a bachelor’s degree; and 11 percent with a graduate or professional degree.

“Oakland County is very diverse and more diverse than other immigrant communities around the county,” said Koelsch. “Both the documented and undocumented workers are very educated and more diverse ethnically and economically.”

“Metro Detroit has a powerful impact with highly-skilled, highlyeducated, highly-entrepreneurial rates, more even than with nonimmigrants, particularly in technological areas,” said Steve Tobocman, director of Global Detroit. “From a purely economic issue, there’s a pretty widespread agreement that it’s (immigration) a winwin for everyone. There is a pretty broad consensus among champions of commerce that immigration reform would be an economic incentive, allowing for more international students and

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skilled workers to become part of our economy. It would allow for a number of aspiring workers to join the economy – there are currently 11 million undocumented workers working for lower wages, and it would give the opportunity for those folks to come above ground and join the formal economy. It would be a very good thing because they have great entrepreneurship, they would invest in their businesses, and follow greater regulations.”

The Center for American Progress concurs. The organization believes the legalization of many undocumented immigrants, an initiative recently put forth with restrictions by President Barack Obama, would economically benefit Michigan and the country as a whole by creating a 10 percent increase in wages for illegal workers that would lead to $109 billion more in local, state and federal taxes.

Their report said it would also create $392 billion extra in earning across the country.

“I’m fairly conservative, but I recognize the dynamics on this issue,” said Koelsch. “It’s a weird dynamic because they take services, so they’re a drain on services, but very minimally. It’s very difficult to access any government service from the county or the state – both have clamped down on benefits. Their kids do take public education. But they contribute back so much. They rent apartments, shop at IKEA, their kids go to public schools, and there’s a huge benefit to that. In Oakland County, we’re grayer and older than the rest of the United States. We need more life blood. If we give these kids of undocumented workers a chance, we’re creating contributors in 20 years.

“The reality is, if there wasn’t an economic reason for it (illegal immigration), it would exist,” Koelsch emphasized.

Upwardly Global, a resource for immigrants which acts as a bridge for immigrant professionals to help them reach their potential, notes that because immigrants want to establish a new

4 million of the 11 million undocumented workers in the country.

“ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has immediately started to screen individuals in our custody who may be affected by (the) executive actions. ICE will continue to focus its priorities on national security threats, convicted felons, gang members and recent illegal entrants. ICE officers have extensive experience conducting such screening, most recently in 2012 when Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals was announced,” said Khaalid Walls, Northeast Regional Communications Director/spokesman for ICE. “From November 20 through November 29 of 2014, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations released 183 individuals from detention under prosecutorial discretion,” Walls said, indicating they were individuals no longer deemed a detention or deportation case once the executive action was in place.

For individuals already in ICE custody, in order to enhance its ability to detain and remove those who pose a national security or public safety threat, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations are now proactively reviewing the cases of individuals in its custody.

For Michigan and Ohio, which the Detroit office covers, ICE removed 1,841 immigration offenders in 2014, from January through June. In 2013, there were 3,279 deportations, and in 2012, 3,851.

“One key point about the 2014 regional statistics is that approximately 70 percent of all removals from Michigan and Ohio were of convicted criminals, which represents a nearly 50 percent increase since 2008,” Walls said, when there were 2,151 deportations from the region.

In 2013, the number one country where illegal immigrants were deported back to was Mexico, followed by Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Canada, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, India, Columbia and Albania rounded out the top 10, Walls said.

For Michigan and Ohio, ICE removed 1,841 immigration offenders from January-June of 2014.

In 2013, the number one country where illegal immigrants were deported back to was Mexico, followed by Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Canada, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, India, Columbia and Albania rounded out the top 10. life, they usually have a higher sense of job loyalty and dedication and lower employer workforce turnover costs. It also creates a larger tax base. “Employing immigrant job seekers in professional positions brings about a higher income tax base,” according to the organization.

Not everyone agrees. Republican National Committeeman and former Michigan Rep. Dave Agema of Grandville, a strong conservative, said that undocumented immigration costs Michiganders money, jobs and threatens national security. When he was a state representative, Agema introduced several bills that would have cracked down on undocumented immigrants, claiming they are a huge financial burden on public education, healthcare, welfare, jails and human services.

Immigration action taken in November 2014 by President Obama is changing the conversation, as well as the repercussions. His executive action on immigration policy offers legal reprieve to the undocumented parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have lived in this country for at least five years, removing the threat of deportation and allowing many of them to apply and receive work permits. It also expands the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program for young immigrants, under 30 years old, who arrived here as children to apply for deportation deferral and are now here legally. Immigrants older than 30 can now qualify, as well as more recent arrivals.

Everyone must reapply every three years. The executive action also includes a program to facilitate visas for people who invest in the U.S and who invest in science, technology, engineering and math – those desirable STEM – degrees.

The action will not expand visas to migrant workers, help parents of DACA immigrants – those referred to as Dreamers, nor does it offer access to the Affordable Care Act. It’s estimated it covers about

The Roby Law Firm in Royal Oak has been representing immigrants and companies with immigrants working for them since 1985, as well as assisting illegal immigrants. Principal Steve Roby points out that there are many industrial, automotive and manufacturing companies located in Michigan “who rely on foreign talent just as we rely on U.S. talent. They want the best they can find. We help companies find science, manufacturing and engineering talent. There are huge shortages for highly qualified positions for all kinds of companies,” Roby said.

The Partnership for a New American Economy’s recent report, “Closing Economic Windows: How H-1B Visa Denials Cost U.S.-Born Tech Workers Jobs and Wages During the Great Recession”, shows that existing H-1B visa lottery caps for high tech worker and students disproportionately hurt U.S. workers by depressing job and wage growth in more than 200 metropolitan areas. The report emphasizes that the technology industry would have grown substantially faster post-recession if so many H-1B visas had not been denied, leaving many companies without qualified workers.

Roby works with companies, individuals and the government to procure work and permanent visas for immigrants, assist spouses in immigration and/or travel issues, immigration compliance assurance, expatriate administration and strategies, and language assistance, with Steve fluent in Spanish, and other lawyers fluent in German and French.

Besides the firm’s work with corporations and compliance, the company’s knowledge allows it to assist undocumented workers.

“We do that simply out of policy, to people without money or talent,” he said. “We offset our fees (for undocumented workers) with our corporate work.”

The Roby firm sees a great deal of Latino workers, primarily from Mexico and El Salvador, “and now there’s a rise in undocumented

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Asians,� Roby said. “They come to us because we’re fluent in Spanish, and many of them do not have good English capabilities, so they gravitate to people like themselves, and many are unskilled and less educated. They tend to go to people who are not immigration specialists and trust them only because those people speak English, they say they know immigration, and they don’t know we have a credible firm. “I often say there is nothing I can do – there is no legal solution at present,�

Roby explained of the limitations of the law presented to him by their cases. “They’re shocked. Then they search within their communities for someone with false promises. They’ll say, ‘Give me $1,000, or $3,000.’ Sadly, they’re often misled – about the importance of giving false statements and accurate documentation. We admonish our clients to always give truthful statements and accurate documentation. But, when you come from a culture where bribery is the custom, you’re more willing to do it.�

He emphasized that whether with legal or illegal workers, they work to educate their clients about the absolute importance of doing the right thing. “Sadly, the community has ground them down.�

A key piece of legislation Roby believes is particularly aimed at illegal Mexicans states that if someone has two illegal entries into the United States, and they stay more than 180 days in the U.S. each time, they are permanently barred from entering the U.S ever again. “They all want to go back and visit their mamas,� he said. “Unless there is total amnesty of this law, I have to tell them there’s nothing we can do.�

His son, attorney Tony Roby, cautions many undocumented workers who think President Obama’s action suddenly clears them that they need to be careful who they talk with. “The president’s policies have not yet been fully implemented and immigrants have to be careful because there are scammers out there.�

Tony noted that while Obama is looking to help people because of humanitarian reasons, without a question, beneath the executive action are other considerations. “The reality is the money just isn’t there. It’s not realistic or feasible to deport 11 million people,� he said.

That’s why, Tony Roby pointed out, deportations are focused on criminals. “If you’ve been brought here as a one-year-old, it only makes sense, whether you’re from Mexico or the Ukraine,� he said. “Most don’t even speak the language. It’s not right to be exiled from the only home they’ve ever known.�

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder views immigration as having the potential to invigorate the economy, bringing workers with desirable skills, talents and education to the state – those with STEM skills. Following the president’s executive action, Snyder called on the president and congress to work together to find a long-term, comprehensive solution to the immigration problem in this country. “Here in Michigan, we’ve demonstrated how we can work together to solve difficult problems. We are proud of our rich heritage of immigration, and know that there are talented people who can help Michigan become stronger.

Immigrants are proven job-creators and we should tap their entrepreneurial spirit to accelerate our recovery. We have thousands of students who are trained at our world-class universities who want to stay and be a part of our reinvention,� Snyder said. “I’m calling on Washington to act on Michigan’s request to have 50,000 visas for immigrants to put down roots and build their lives and careers in Detroit. It’s a plan supported by (Detroit) mayor Mike Duggan and other city leaders, and, together, we believe it will help the city – and all Michigan – grow and thrive.We also must never forget that we are a nation of laws. Our leaders in Washington need to make sure that our borders are secure, our employers have the ability to verify status and that those who have worked for years to follow the legal path to citizenship are treated fairly.�

The Michigan Office for New Americans, created by Snyder in January of 2014, has as its mission the goal to “grow Michigan’s economy by retaining global talent and promoting skills, energy and entrepreneurial spirit of our immigrant community and to make Michigan a more welcoming state,� said deputy director Karen Philippi. The office coordinates with other state agencies on immigrant issues. “Our office is looking at the positive economic force immigration can have, most notably with STEM jobs,� Philippi said. She noted there are more than 80,000 jobs available in the talent bank, many of them STEM jobs, “and there are not enough U.S. born candidates to fill those jobs.�

A report from Georgetown University notes that by 2018, Michigan will need 274,000 STEM jobs to be filled. “We definitely want our native-born residents to stay here, but we can’t fill all these jobs with them,� she said. “The talent needs to be supplemented.�

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Ali Cheaib titch by stitch, Birmingham tailor Ali Cheaib has worked his way from tailoring men’s clothing at the former Birmingham menswear store Maxwell to not only owning his own stop, but becoming the dressmaker to the stars.

“I’m the Superman guy,” he chuckles.

He emigrated from Lebanon 20 years ago, following in the footsteps of an older brother, where he had been sewing since he was 15. His family had manufacturing companies in Beirut, and with a degree in manufacturing and design from the French School, he helped his mother and sisters run a company that manufactured women and children’s clothing.

“It’s still there,” he said. “It survived the war. My mom and sisters, all of them do tailoring and seamstressing. With the last name Cheaib, people knew. They’d ask, ‘do you do tailoring?’”

The war in Lebanon prompted many of them to leave the country, some coming to the United States, others going to Germany and Canada.

While working at Maxwell, Karen and Cheryl Daskas of Tender, recognizing his talent, would often refer clients to him. “When Maxwell closed and I decided to go out on my own, they helped find my space and even co-signed my lease. They recommended me to everyone. Even at Maxwell, my specialty was always women’s clothing. Since, we’ve grown and grown, continuing to expand.”

In 2014, Cheaib’s hard work and talent paid off, when the producers of the “Batman v. Superman” movie asked him to do all of the suits and

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dresses for the movie over a five-month period they were filming in metro Detroit. He believes he will get credit in the movie.

“We got recommended by a customer to the film producers. They chose us from more than 100 tailors, and they said no one else was as qualified,” he said.

Cheaib and his staff of tailors worked on all of the “regular” clothing – not the Superman or Batman or villain costumes – for Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Jeremy Irons, Amy Adams, Laurence Fishburne, Jesse Eisenberg, Diane Lane, and about 20 other actors. He was called to the studio or set almost daily, working with the director of the Warner Brothers movie.

“They were very wonderful. Perfect, very nice,” he said of the cast and producers. “They so appreciated what I did for them. I even did a lot of personal clothes for Ben and Jeremy. A lot of the producers came to my Birmingham studio to have their clothes done, too.” He’s very proud of a dress he made for actress/model Gal Gadot, also.

While the hours were long, with he and his staff of about seven tailors working long into the night for the movie as well as meeting the demands of his regular customers, Cheaib recognizes what a wonderful opportunity it was, and is still excited about having had the experience. He’d love to work on another movie, if the opportunity comes their way.

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For a majority of those who live in Oakland County, their cable and Internet services are provided by Comcast. But perhaps for not much longer. Unbeknownst to many residents, a proposed merger between Comcast and fellow provider Time Warner Cable will prompt Comcast to divest itself of its Michigan cable operations in a swap with Charter Communications, which will form a new company, GreatLand Connections. GreatLand, which will be comprised of 66 percent of Comcast shareholders and 33 percent of Charter Communications, will be run by Michael Willner, a 40-year executive of the cable industry who was put in that position in May 2014 by Comcast, Time Warner Cable and Charter executives.

But what will happen to your cable TV and Internet service if and when these changes occur? Both Comcast and local cable boards assure that nothing will change for individuals and businesses.

“What will change on Day One – nothing,” said Michelle Gilbert, vice president of public relations for Comcast. “There will be service agreements in place between Comcast and GreatLand to ensure minimal disruptions to consumers.” o what is going on? And why will a merger – or actually, a corporate takeover – between two cable giants, with a third poking its head in, have any potential impact on local lives? It all comes down to money, both big money, in the form of corporate cable impact, and local franchise fees which are paid to municipalities and their cable boards. And ultimately, we, as consumers, may potentially get financially squeezed by an increase in cable fees when contracts expire, despite denials on all sides.

It all began in late November 2013, when both Comcast, the largest cable telecommunications company in the United States, sought advice on a possible bid for Time Warner Cable, the second largest American cable company. In January 2014, Charter Communications, which is currently the fourth-largest cable operator, but the tenth largest telephone provider, made three attempts to buy Time Warner Cable, offering $37.4 billion.

Time Warner Cable fought the Charter purchase, and Comcast bid $45.2 billion for Time Warner Cable; Charter fought the deal initially, forecasting difficulties with the regulatory review process. By April 27, Charter and Comcast came to a deal, entailing a swap of subscribers, and Charter dropped its opposition.

Under the current deal, if approved, according to Comcast, Comcast will acquire Time Warner Cable by exchanging each of Time Warner Cable’s 284.9 million shares for 2.875 shares of Comcast’s stock. Then, Comcast will sell 1.4 million of Time Warner Cable’s subscribers to Charter Communications for $7.3 billion.

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Comcast will divest itself of 2.5 million subscribers, including those it has in Michigan, to a new public company, called GreatLand Connections. It will be owned 66 percent by Comcast shareholders and 33 percent by Charter, which will manage its network and customers. Finally, when that is all put in place, Comcast and Charter will swap about 1.6 million subscribers with each other.

Why all the swapping? It’s for the same reason Time Warner Cable was hotly pursued.

It’s all about control of desirable cable and Internet subscribers, with Time Warner Cable the provider for New York City and its vicinity, Los Angeles, San Diego, most of Texas, and key areas in 29 states. Comcast and Time Warner Cable don’t directly compete for customers and there is not any physical overlap in their respective service areas.

Charter, which was founded in 1993 in St. Louis, has grown as a corporation through acquisitions of other cable companies and through swaps with other systems to improve the geographic clustering of its systems.

According to Forbes Magazine on April 28, 2014, Charter agreed to the swap of territory with Comcast in “an even tax-efficient exchange whose intent is to improve the geographic spread of both companies.”

In a nutshell, it’s advantageous for each of the corporations to swap because it provides them with more subscribers in contiguous territories.

But that is still all speculative, because the original deal, the Comcast purchase of Time Warner Cable, which they are calling a “merger”, is still up in the air, and may not come to pass. Currently, it is in the process of being approved by both the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) before the acquisition can be completed. Each corporation’s shareholders approved the proposed takeover in October.

The FCC and DOJ could each potentially block the sale because Comcast’s acquisition of Time Warner Cable could represent a cable telecommunications monopoly, especially since as of March 31 of 2014, Comcast had 22.6 million and Time Warner Cable had 11.2 million video subscribers, and together the two companies will serve 33 percent of paid TV customers in the U.S. Comcast has been considering selling off about 3 million more subscribers since the announcement of the sale, because that divestiture would bring Comcast’s share of the U.S market just below 30 percent, and that threshold has previously been used by the FCC as a strict limit on the TV market share for one company.

The FCC’s review of the acquisition began on April 8, when Comcast filed its public interest statement, and the antitrust division of the DOJ announced it was looking into the proposed combined company on March 6.

Furthermore, about 25 states around the country, through their attorney generals, are conducting probes of the acquisition, notably California, Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois, Florida and Connecticut. Sam Gustin of Time Magazine noted that it’s typical for a proposed merger of this size because the deal has the potential to affect millions of consumers around the country.

“There’s really nothing happening at this point. We’re still waiting,” Comcast’s Gilbert said. “The FCC recently started the 180-day clock they set for the merger to go through (on October 31). Earlier this year, they had stopped the clock in order to allow franchises to review the information provided to them.”

The FCC regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, telephone, wire, satellite and cable in all 50 states.

The 180-day timeline “represents the commission’s goal of completing action on assignment and transfer of control applications (i.e., granting, designating for hearing, or denying) within 180 days of the public notice accepting the applications. Routine applications are decided well within the 180day mark,” states the FCC. “It is the commission’s policy to decide all applications, as expeditiously as possible consistent with the commission’s regulatory responsibilities.

Although the commission will endeavor to meet its 180-day goal in all cases, several factors could cause the commission’s review of a particular application to exceed 180 days.

The timeline is intended to promote transparency and predictability in the commission’s process. The commission occasionally receives requests by outside parties to ‘stop the clock’ for a particular transaction. The timeline carries with it no procedural or substantive rights or obligations, but merely represents an informal benchmark by which to evaluate the agency’s progress on a particular transaction. Accordingly, stopping the clock is a decision purely within the commission’s discretion. Further, although the commission seeks to meet the 180-day benchmark in all cases, its statutory obligation to determine that an assignment or transfer serves the public interest takes precedence over the informal timeline. The commission’s failure to release an order within the 180-day benchmark is not indicative of how it will resolve the issues raised in this proceeding.” hile the telecommunications industry is supportive of the Comcast/Time Warner Cable deal, there is widespread opposition to it, including from U.S. Rep. John Conyers (D-Detroit). Conyers has been a critic of big corporate mergers in general, and said in May that a combined Comcast/Time Warner Cable would have 30 percent of the cable market, at least 40 percent of the broadband market, 19 of 20 of the biggest cable markets, a

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major Spanish-language channel, as well as movies, television shows, and sports programming, in the form of Comcast SportsNet, MLB Network, NBC Universal, New England Cable News, and SportsNet New York.

“Comcast is a cable company and a programmer. That raises a double concern with me,” said Conyers, who was unavailable for this article. “I don’t know if it’s resolvable.” ublic Knowledge, a non-profit public interest group based in Washington D.C., is interested in choice in the digital marketplace and an open standard of end-to-end Internet, and is currently sending out e-mail petitions to local individuals urging them to “Stop the Mega Comcast Coalition.”

The e-mail reads in part: “Comcast is seeking permission from the Federal Communications Commission to merge with Time Warner Cable. This would result in a giant corporation on the path to dominate the high-speed broadband market. If the merger is approved, Comcast-Time Warner Cable would control the wires in about half of the U.S households that subscribe to high-speed broadband. Its control over broadband connections, cable TV lineups, and the devices people increasingly use to access video content would give it a make-or-break power over much of the content ecosystem.”

Further, the e-mail emphasizes in bold text, “The Comcast-TWC merger threatens these ideals (a diverse American media and technological marketplace) and runs counter to our antitrust and communications laws.”

Large companies which depend upon highspeed Internet and cable access, such as Netflix and DirectTV, have been outspoken in their opposition. So have over 56 consumer advocacy and public interest groups, according to The Consumer Watchdog, including the Parents Television Council, the Writers Guild of America and the Media Alliance.

It’s still up in the air as to whether there will be a merger, but most analysts do believe that it will be approved by both the FCC and DOJ. And that means that Oakland County residents who have had Comcast as their telecommunications provider will actually have Charter providing their service, via the new company, GreatLand. Most local cable franchise organizations, which have contracts with cable providers, anticipate no change in service.

“That’s the million dollar question,” said Gary Allison, cable coordinator for the Waterford Cable Commission. “I’ve reached out to Comcast and they haven’t responded.”

While it feels like Comcast has the monopoly on cable operations, the idea that cable television was a monopoly was actually put to an end by Michigan’s legislature in 2007, when they passed Michigan PA 480, which states that any cable provider may deliver service to a community upon filing a

form with a local community. No governmental agency monitors or sets rates, channel lineups, programming or service areas. Michigan PA 480 also provides specific penalties for failure to provide service. If there’s only one cable provider in an area, the law makes clear that it’s due to business considerations on the part of a cable company, not because of franchise limitations.

Since the passage of Michigan PA 480, communities in Oakland County have seen other entrants in the cable field. “PA 480 changed the competitive playing field to statewide franchising from local franchising for new cable entrants, because it’s not just technically ‘cable’ anymore – it’s cable and telecommunications,” said Elaine McLain, chairman of the Birmingham Area Cable Board, an all volunteer organization that handles cable affairs, including maintaining revenue streams to communities, handling residents’ cable complaints, inviting competition from cable companies, and providing public, educational and governmental (PEG) programming for Birmingham, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms and Franklin.

PEG is the public access, educational and government access programming which is supported by telecommunication companies paying a percentage of their gross revenues to local communities so they can provide programming for the public good, whether it’s televising municipal meetings, school programs or other shows.

In 2007, AT&T applied for a state franchise to offer video services and was approved.

“Technically, AT&T isn’t cable. Their U-verse is IPTV, which is Internet Protocol TV, like where the Internet is controlling the TV. But their entry changed the playing field,” explained McLain.

In April 2006, Bloomfield Township adopted a resolution expressing support of local control of cable franchising and opposing Michigan Senate and House of Representatives bills, which AT&T and Verizon actively lobbied for, that would eliminate local cable franchise agreements. However, the legislature, and presumably, the telecommunication companies, prevailed, and statewide franchising became law, although individual communities continue to receive franchise fees for providing access to their community’s rightof-way. The right-of-way can be above ground on traditional telephone poles, or dug underground.

Each cable company, by state law, pays the local municipality five percent of their gross revenues in the form of franchise fees.

“Under an interlocal agreement, the communities keep 60 percent of that revenue and 40 percent is sent to the local cable board,” said McLain. “Each cable company must pay a percent of their gross revenues for

PEG fees (public, educational, and government programming), and those fees go directly to the cable board for PEG production and capital equipment that is involved in PEG usage.”

The percentage of gross revenues for PEG fees varies among local community boards.

“The stipulation in the Uniform State Video franchise law (PA 480) was that PEG fees must be at least two percent. Most of us have been receiving three percent, so we’ll likely see a drop of one percent,” Greg Kowalski, director of community relations for Bloomfield Township as well as general manager of Bloomfield Community Television, who is in the midst of negotiating Bloomfield Township’s franchise agreement with Comcast. “Our contract has expired, but it has been extended. But there’s no worry about a continuation of service to customers.

“Residents will see a name change on their bill and that’s about it,” said Kowalski.

Richard Lehmann, Huntington Woods finance director and treasurer of the Intergovernmental Cable Communications Authority covering Huntington Woods, Royal Oak, Troy, Ferndale, Clawson, Berkley, Pleasant Ridge, Auburn Hills, Oakland Township, Rochester and Rochester Hills, isn’t as optimistic. “I think that after the cable act was passed, the landscape changed. Anything is possible. Most franchise agreements, which are for 15 years, are almost up, and I think there will be a lot of changes on the PEG side.

The franchise fee is more hard-pressed. That is a payment for the right-of-way, and we all have to pay for it as consumers. These companies have to pay for the right-of-way as cable companies. PEG is different, though, so that’s where we’ll see changes.

“A lot of the baseline of the education and government portion was based on local governments using local televisions to get their information out,” Lehmann continued. “Today, we live in such a digital age that it’s not as important. They’ll make a case, I’m sure, that PEG is not as important because you’re throwing god money after bad in an era of streaming, and supporting local TV stations isn’t something they need to do. And the state could care less. It will not be good for the consumer. For local municipalities, it figures to add up to hundreds of millions of dollars.” ot every community has been as fortunate as Birmingham and Bloomfield in receiving large PEG fees. Ian Locke, executive director of Orion Neighborhood Television, said Comcast has the majority of their subscribers, with a small amount of customers in the community choosing AT&T Uverse. Their contract with Comcast expires in June 2015, and they are not yet in franchise contract negotiations. They too receive a five percent franchise fee, but only one percent annually in PEG fees from Comcast.

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Clawson, Troy, Ferndale, Huntington Woods, Oakland Township, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Berkley, Pleasant Ridge, and Waterford all receive one percent in PEG fees as well as a five percent franchise fee.

Members of the Greater West Bloomfield Cable Commission – West Bloomfield, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, and Orchard Lake – receive two percent in PEG fees in addition to their five percent franchise fee. “They won’t be any changes in PEG fees because it’s dictated by the state,” said Dave Albery, executive director of Greater West Bloomfield Cable Commission.

In western Oakland County, eight communities which are members of the Western Oakland County Cable Authority – Commerce Township, Walled Lake, Wixom, White Lake Township, Highland Township, Milford Township, Milford Village and Lyon Township – receive just one-half percent in PEG fees plus five percent franchise fees. In early December, Wolverine Lake Village voted to exit the authority.

Tom Zoner, Commerce Township Supervisor and its representative to the authority, said the total revenue of the authority is a little under $150,000 a year, with Comcast as the primary cable provider, and some communities having AT&T Uverse in some places.

“Our Comcast (franchise) agreement is up December 31. There is no new contract, so it’s falling under the statewide cable agreement, that says the existing format with the existing cable company stays the same,” he said.

Because AT&T isn’t technically cable, but uses Internet lines to provide the cable access, they do not pay franchise fees to communities.

“Those that are wireless say that they don’t have to provide this (fees) to receive the stream to communities,” Birmingham’s McLain said.

“Satellite providers do not pay any franchise or PEG fees to communities. ‘Cable’ means traditional cable TV and IP services.”

AT&T is known for their U-verse service.

AT&T U-verse uses a fiber optic technology and computer networking which they assert brings better digital TV, faster Internet and is ideal for smart phones. However, it is acknowledged by several cable board executives that their high-speed Internet is not as fast as Comcast’s.

Further, while AT&T entered Oakland County in 2007, they did so in a very tightly controlled, edited fashion. “Only about 20 percent of homes can get AT&T, and they have announced they will not build more,” said Bob Borgon, the former executive director of Birmingham Area Cable Board. “There are a lot of frustrated residents who want it but can’t get it because they use a whole new wiring that only reaches a certain amount of houses.

They’re very limited in their reach and they like to cherry pick the residents in the area they want to serve.” omcast is the most pervasive and prominent cable and telecommunications presence in Oakland County, available to consumers in every community except for Novi, Farmington, and Farmington Hills and Oxford, Oxford Township, Addison Township and Leonard Village in northern Oakland County.

Eric Angott, operations manager for Southwest Oakland Cable Commission, which provides cable and Internet for those three communities, said they have Brighthouse Cable and AT&T Uverse. Southwest Oakland Cable Commission receives one percent in PEG fees, along with five percent in franchise fees.

“We are one of the little islands in Oakland County,” Angott said. “I think we are the only area in Oakland County without Comcast. We will not be affected at all (by the change).”

“This whole change going on, we’re in calm waters because we’re already with Charter,”

said Oxford Area Cable Communications Commission Dave Kenny.

What will life be like under GreatLand Connections? Residents have Charter Communications’ past performance to go by as a gauge, and there is cause to for some concern. Charter has had an uneven history of growth and contraction, including filing for bankruptcy in 2009. They restructured and refinanced, and came out of it.

In 2007, PCWorld magazine ranked Charter’s cable Internet service as the worst among 14 major Internet providers, and in their February 2008 issue, Consumer Reports said their TV/Internet/phone bundle was the worst of all the major national carriers. According to PC Magazine, since, there have been improvements, however, it was reported by the Associated Press on Monday, January 21, 2008, that during a routine sweep of inactive accounts, Charter accidentally deleted the email accounts of about 14,000 customers, and the data could not be retrieved.

Willner, GreatLand’s incoming CEO, has assured local franchise boards that e-mail accounts will be preserved “If the Comcast/Time Warner Cable merger does go through, GreatLand will be the fifth largest cable provider in the country, and they will provide cable, Internet and phone services,” said Comcast’s Gilbert. She said customers have nothing to worry about because it is the network which Comcast has installed which provides the services, which has nothing to do with Charter. “GreatLand is in essence taking over Comcast. The name is changing. They are taking over Comcast’s assets,” she explained.

“It’s no longer entertainment,” McLain said of the telecommunication industry. “It connections for those who may have no other way to be connected to the outside world, their family, or the government.”

Cable options in local communities • Addison Township Charter

• Bloomfield Township Comcast; AT&T

• Keego Harbor Comcast; AT&T

• Oxford Comcast

• Walled Lake Comcast; AT&T

• Auburn Hills Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Commerce Township Comcast; AT&T

• Leonard Comcast

• Oxford Township Comcast

• Waterford Comcast; AT&T

• Beverly Hills Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Farmington Brighthouse; AT&T

• Lyon Township Comcast; AT&T

• Pleasant Ridge Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• West Bloomfield Comcast; AT&T

• Berkley Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Farmington Hills Brighthouse; AT&T

• Milford Township Comcast; AT&T

• Royal Oak Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• White Lake Comcast; AT&T

• Bingham Farms Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Franklin Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Milford Village Comcast; AT&T

• Rochester Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Wixom Comcast; AT&T

• Birmingham Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Ferndale Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• NOVI Brighthouse; AT&T

• Rochester Hills Comcast; WOW; AT&T

• Wolverine Lake Village Comcast; AT&T

• Bloomfield Hills Comcast; AT&T

• Highland Township Comcast; AT&T

• Orchard Lake Comcast; AT&T

• Sylvan Lake Comcast; AT&T

Compiled by Lisa Brody

FACES Meg Mathis s a child, Meg Mathis would distribute her own stories to all of her family members living in the Birmingham home where she was raised. Today, the 2006 Seaholm graduate is working at her dream job as a magazine editor at the Chicago-based lifestyle magazine, Michigan Avenue.

“I knew what I wanted to do, I just didn’t know if I would be able to do it,” Mathis said. “My parents will tell you I always wanted to be a magazine editor. Even as a child, I used to make my own and it had a distribution of about four people, so it went to my entire household, and that’s about it.”

As deputy editor of Chicago’s luxury lifestyle magazine, Mathis is part of a small editorial team that includes her editor, J.P. Anderson, and a handful of others who put out the publication eight times a year, which covers the city’s people, culture, politics, parties and other happenings. That includes the task of coming up with story conception, photos, and any other tasks that need to be completed. Among the names the magazine has profiled include Berry Gordy, William H. Macy, Melissa McCarthy, Cindy Crawford and the late Joan Rivers.

“I think it’s really glamorized in television and film.

It’s fun to watch that stuff, but that’s not what it’s like in the day-to-day world,” she said of working in an industry that’s often the basis of television shows and movies. “There are a lot of late nights here. There are a lot of perks, but at the end of the day, my job is to write and edit stories. I never want to lose sight of that.

There’s a lot of coordinating interviews and running around. It’s definitely not like ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’”

“I was able to have drinks with Berry Gordy,” she said. “That was one of those times where I felt like I had made it. I definitely had some fangirl moments.”

Mathis landed the deputy editor position about seven months ago, just before her 26th birthday, after starting at the magazine in August of 2012. Despite her success at the magazine, her start at the publication stems from a former job rejection where she met her editor. Despite not getting the job, she kept in touch with Anderson, later taking the associate editor job after running Chicago’s Hard Rock Hotel’s social media network.

“I do believe that social media is a full-time job. I still manage it for Michigan Avenue. I still use my social media skills. You can put content out there all you want, but if you’re not engaging with your audience, then what’s the point?”

While she doesn’t get back to the Detroit area and her hometown of Birmingham as much as she likes, she said she usually makes it back for major holidays, with a little extra time to grab a coney dog or visit the cider mill.

“I always have the best time when I visit,” she said.

“I’d like to retire in the Detroit suburbs. There is something magical about the Motor City.”

A

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Photo: Laurie Tennent

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CRISIS CENTER HOTLINE HELP DE-ESCALATING SITUATIONS WITH TRAINED STAFF, VOLUNTEERS THRU PHONES, TEXTING, ONLINE CHAT

BY KEVIN ELLIOTT

he holidays are over. Families and friends have left, the holiday lights have dimmed. It’s just you and lots of reruns. When people are sad, alone and desperate, feeling like they have no one to turn to, it can seem like help is out of reach. Yet, metro Detroit is full of options for those needing immediate assistance or help coping with a crisis.

More than 38,000 Americans, including 1,100 people in Michigan, die by suicide each year, according to the Michigan Association of Suicide Prevention. Recent estimates indicate that there are about 12 attempts for each suicide, with older Americans – those 65 or older – the most frequent ones making those attempts.

Younger people may be having more success in their attempts, unfortunately. In total, suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, but the second leading cause of death for people ages 15-34 years old.

For each death by suicide, it’s estimate that six to 10 survivors are left behind, or as many as 380,000 grieving loved ones across the nation, with about 11,000 in Michigan. And the trauma of losing a loved one in turn increases the chance of suicide amongst those survivors. It’s believed most suicidal people desperately want to live. However, when depression and hopelessness set in, they often can’t see alternative solutions to their problems. It is at those times when the danger is high the need for help is the greatest.

For one Oakland County resident, help came in the form of a phone call to one of the many crisis center hotlines operating in the metro Detroit area. At nearly 40, Mark (who asked his actual name be withheld due to privacy concerns), had been battling bipolar disorder for several years prior to being diagnosed with the illness. A death in the family seemingly set him into a tailspin that included a divorce filing, loss of employment and temporary homelessness. When the mother of his child voiced her concerns about child visitation due to the instability, Mark was at a loss.

“I wasn’t looking for anything to be resolved. I wasn’t looking for any insight or knowledge, really just an ear,” he said. “When I called, I felt like I didn’t want to exhaust my friends anymore.”

Out of work and off his medications, Mark said he could sense he was heading toward a crisis. Feeling that he would be criticized or ignored by friends or family, Mark reached out to a stranger and dialed the first number that appeared in an Internet search for crisis hotlines.

“They say to call for any reason, and it kind of stopped a crisis from happening,” he said. “I felt something coming on, something that could have been dangerous. It wasn’t a lark. I was asking what the line was about, and I found it helpful.”

While it’s hard to calculate figures on prevention, Mark’s personal history suggests that calling the crisis line helped to divert a crisis before it happened. A previous episode, he said, included a series of posts on Facebook which drew the attention of concerned family members. Concerned for his safety, one of his loved one telephoned the police, who then came to his home and had him transported to the hospital for his own safety. By dealing with the crisis before it became a more serious episode, Mark was able to better deal with his situation in a healthier way.

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In Oakland County, the largest and most frequently called helpline is the one operated by Common Ground, which takes about 4,500 calls per month.

Lisa Turbeville, manager of Common Ground’s crisis hotline, said staff and volunteers at the crisis center are trained to de-escalate crisis situations and help callers solve their problems.

“A big portion is just listening. That’s something that people don’t get enough of,” she said. “It’s hard for family and friends to be objective because they know their whole story.

We don’t, so you have someone to really listen to you. A lot of times they are struggling with mental illness and have exhausted their support system. Another goal is to link them up with the help they need.”

As the contracted service provider for the Oakland County Mental Health Authority, Common Ground works with nearly 300 agencies, organizations and other service providers that can assist clients with issues regarding domestic violence, homelessness, legal, relationship and family issues, suicide, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.

Founded more than 40 years ago, Common Ground provides a lifeline to individuals and families in crisis, victims of crime, persons with mental illness, those trying to cope with critical situations and runaway and homeless youths.

The organization’s crisis line, which incorporates several different hotlines, as well as an online chat and texting service, are key to Common Ground’s services.

“A lot of young people prefer that mode of communication; also it allows us to help more people. You can only talk to one person at a time, but you can text to several people at one time. On a crisis call, you can only take one call at a time,” said Common Ground Director of Communications Lenda Jackson about the organization’s text line.

As part of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Common Ground assists in handling crisis texts from all over the country. The organization also provides training on a national level.

“We are part of the National Suicide Prevention line, which is comprised of many crisis centers around the country, and we are one of those,” Turbeville said. “If someone calls the national line, it will go to the closest center to where they are calling from. If we aren’t available, it will go to the nearest one.”

The non-profit organization receives much of its funding through a major contract it holds with the Oakland County Mental Health Authority, as well as funding and grants from other counties it supports. Funding also comes from grants and donations.

Turbeville said the crisis center is staffed by a mixture of volunteers and staff. And while she said the organization would like to have about 100 volunteers available, they currently have about 65 volunteers, as well as six full-time staff members.

Common Ground holds training sessions three times a year, with each going through 96 hours of training, including nine hours of observation in

the crisis call center. She said volunteers usually put in time about once a week and are assisted by staff.

“We listen to their phone calls and guide them,” Turbeville said. “Any decision, like to call the police, the staff is here and it falls on them to make that decision.”

Volunteers and staff are taught to use a “crisis model” that employs a blend of communication skills, crisis theory and empathy, which also includes finding out what prompted the caller to make contact in the first place. The goal then is to de-escalate the situation to help guide the caller to a calmer state and help get them in touch with the resources they need to improve their situation.

“We teach them the basics of crisis intervention, and teach them how to de-escalate,” Turbeville said. “If they aren’t in a crisis, but are lonely, we teach then how to help someone in different situations, whether they are suicidal or dealing with substance abuse or other issues.”

Turbeville said the crisis center also receives many calls from family or friends of people who are going through a crisis and are seeking information or help for them.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), depression and emotional crisis often precede suicides, and in most cases, are recognizable and treatable. In fact, the foundation states most suicides are preceded by some warning of the person’s intentions. The most effective way to prevent a friend or loved one from taking their life is to recognize when someone is at risk, take the warning signs seriously and know how to respond.

Known risk factors for suicide include: previous attempts at suicide, as between 20 and 50 percent of people who kill themselves had previously attempted to take their life; talking about death or suicide, as suicidal individuals often talk about suicide directly or indirectly; planning for suicide, as people contemplating suicide often arrange to put their affairs in order or give away possessions; and depression.

Although the AFSP states that most depressed people aren’t suicidal, serious depression can be manifested in obvious sadness, but oftentimes it is expressed instead as a loss of pleasure or withdrawal from activities.

Instructors who train phone operators to deal with crisis calls state that it’s important to determine if a caller is thinking or planning on hurting themselves, and the best way to do that is to ask. Although it may be uncomfortable to ask, it’s a common misconception that asking a caller if they are thinking about hurting themselves will increase any chance that they will hurt themselves. If the caller states that they have thought about suicide or injuring themselves, finding out if they have planned how or when they will do it also helps to assess the risk of suicide. If a caller can answer “yes” to these questions, they are at a higher risk.

Mark said part of the reason for calling the crisis hotline when he did was his attempt to get an online assessment regarding bipolar disorder.

“I got to the suicide section and I answered

‘yes’ twice to the answers,” he said. “I couldn’t keep doing the assessment. It said I had to call this number immediately.”

Outside of Oakland County, there are several crisis and helplines available for people who are coping with suicide.

The Detroit Suicide Prevention Center has been operated by the Neighborhood Service Organization since 1978. The center provides a free, 24-hour phone crisis intervention and suicide prevention and information referral service.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is available at 1.800.273.8255, is available to connect callers to a skilled, trained counselor at any crisis center in their area 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“If you feel like you are in a crisis, whether or not you are thinking about killing yourself, please call the Lifeline,” the national lifeline center states on its website. “People have called us for help with substance abuse, economic worries, relationship and family problems, sexual orientation, illness, getting over abuse, depression, mental and physical illness, and even loneliness.”

Callers who contact the national line are connected to a crisis center in the Lifeline network, which would include Common Ground in Oakland County, or other agencies for callers outside of the area. The network includes more than 150 crisis centers and provides counseling and mental health referrals day and night.

The national lifeline was launched in 2005 by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Mental Health Association of New York City.

Henry Ford Hospital hosts a 24-hour line that can connect callers to one of the facility’s psychiatrists, which is part of the hospital’s telephone and walk-in crisis counseling services.

The Dearborn Crisis Center is available to Wayne County residents who need help with a crisis, domestic violence assistance or court advocacy.

While crisis hotlines are most typically associated with suicidal callers, there are a host of other in Oakland County and the metro Detroit area that are available for help people dealing with a variety of issues.

“They don’t have to tell us their name,” Turbeville said. “We don’t even determine the crisis; they do. They don’t have to be suicidal – that is a big misconception.”

While Common Ground is able to help callers with a variety of issues, some help lines are geared toward specific causes or needs.

The national lifeline network also maintains a Veterans Crisis Line for veterans in crisis, or family and friends may also use a text service or use an online chat service. The line was established through an agreement with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental health Services Administration.

Since its launch in 2007, the Veterans Crisis Line has answered more than 1.25 million calls and made more than 39,000 lifesaving rescues. In 2008, the crisis line added an anonymous online chat service and has engaged in more than 175,000 chats. In November 2011, the crisis line

ince our conversion to Sotheby’s eight years ago, SKBK has realized steady growth in our market share throughout the area.

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Currently SKBK markets and sells significantly more homes over $1.5 million than our competitors. As the price rises so does our market share – we sold 38% of the homes over $3 million so far this year – that is three times our closest competitor.

Luxury real estate is just not local – homes must be marketed to include the global consumer. Nearly half of all the visits to the Sotheby’s International website are from outside the US. Here are a few key points about our marketing – our results demonstrate the success of this approach.

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Market Share | By Dollars SKBK MarKetS More Homes Over $1.5 Million 25.75%

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SKBK Sotheby’s International

Max Broock Birmingham

Hall & Hunter Birmingham

Higbie Maxon Agney

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SKBK SellS More Homes Over $1.5 Million 21.48%

13.70%

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5.87%

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SKBK Sotheby’s International

Max Broock Birmingham

Hall & Hunter Birmingham

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Shain Park Realtors

Berkshire HWWB

3.19%

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2.50%

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looking to speak to someone for help or guidance, Funding for the center comes mainly from introduced a text messaging service to provide there are two main helplines available to callers. another way for veterans to connect with donations from individuals, corporations and Locally, the Affirmations Helpline provides confidential, round-the-clock support, and has organizations, with about a third of the center’s peer counseling, empathy and community since responded to more than 24,000 texts. funding coming from grants. resources for lesbian, gay, bisexual and With the exception of Common Ground, “The majority tends to come from very transgender (LGBT) people. perhaps one of the most frequently called help generous individuals,” Fitzgerald said. “And there The Affirmations center, which is based in lines in Oakland County is operated by HAVEN. is never enough funding.”

Ferndale, provides volunteers who participate in HAVEN also maintains a text line and an online The Affirmations help line is staffed by two comprehensive training on LGBT concerns, chat service. part-time employees and is open six evenings per including coming out, gender identity, intimate HAVEN is Oakland County’s only week. There are also master’s level counselors partner violence, suicide prevention and more. comprehensive program for victims of domestic and volunteers available who undergo training The helpline is available Monday through violence and sexual assault. The non-profit prior to working at the center’s helpline.

Saturday, 3-8 p.m. A representative from organization provides shelter, counseling, “I’m surprised at the number of national calls Transgender Michigan is also available to answer advocacy and educational programming for about we get that don’t come locally,” Fitzgerald said. trans-specific questions on the helpline from 6:3030,000 people each year.

“It could be that someone is afraid that someone 9 p.m. Additionally, older adults and seniors are Raechel Decker, development director for local is going to know who it is.” able to speak with someone every Tuesday and HAVEN, said about 5,000 people called the Fitzgerald said as one of the longest running Friday, from 4-7 p.m. organization’s crisis line last year. programs of its kind, he is hopeful that they will John Fitzgerald, interim executive director for “It started as a sexual assault hotline, and we be able to add some new models to the program, Affirmations, said the organization’s help line is have expanded our services over the years,” particularly additional training for all its staff and the oldest, longest running program at the Decker said. “We speak with victims directly, and volunteers, including those who don’t work the organization. friends and family that are seeking resources for helpline. Currently, staff is able to transfer calls to “It actually started out of someone’s basement someone. We also get calls from adult survivors of Common Ground when someone calls the when the program started,” he said. “It was set sexual assault, maybe something that happened helpline outside the normal hours of operation. up as a model for empathy listening. Most of of as a child. We get those kinds of calls as well.”

“We want to be a resource for anyone who the calls are resource calls, but occasionally, they HAVEN’s crisis line is staffed by a mix of staff calls into the building,” he said. “We may want to try the words aloud to a stranger: ‘I am and volunteers, with staff maintaining more of a consolidate and train everyone. I think it’s a huge gay.’ Most callers, though, tend to be looking for a supervisory role, Decker said. resource that was needed in the community, and resource, or they really want someone to listen for “We do get a fair number of suicidal calls, but continues to be needed, and is probably due for a few minutes.” they are quickly evaluated and sent off to a more an update.”

When the founders of Affirmations came up appropriate agency. Some callers are homeless with the idea to form some 25 years ago, there In addition to the local Affirmations line, a and just looking for a warm bed. We do get was no place for someone in southeast Michigan national hotline is available for young people, people that are in an immediate situation. to call for help or resources in the LGBT ages 13-24, which has been available 24/7 since Perhaps they just fled a home and don’t know community, Fitzgerald said. From there, he said 1998 by The Trevor Project. where to go or what to do next. We talk to them the idea expanded not only into a helpline, but The Trevor Project was started by the creators about safety planning and options.” into a full community center, including a place for of an award-winning short film about a boy HAVEN receives about half of its funding support groups. Today, programs include “little bit named Trevor. The producers of the film realized through federal and state resources and local of everything,” he said. there was no place for people like Trevor to turn, government funding, with the remaining half “We have everything from youth programs to and they began recruiting mental health experts coming from private fundraising. older adult programming that meet here, such as to figure out how to build the infrastructure for a While some crisis lines tend to see spikes Coming Out Over Coffee to a transgender-life nationwide, 24-hour crisis line. Today, the project during the holiday season, Decker said HAVEN support group, and a ton of different 12-step offers free, confidential and secure services on the tends to receive more calls just after the holidays. programs that meet in the building.” telephone.

“We get a lot of calls in So far, the Trevor Project lifeline January,” she said. “People will receives about 36,000 calls per say, ‘if we can get through year, and educates about 15,000 Christmas, things will be different.’

• Affirmations: Operates a helpline providing peer counseling, empathy and people a year with training.

There is that sense, and the fact community resources for the LGBT community at 1.800.398.GAYS. While training may differ for that when children are in the Operated Monday through Saturday, 3-8 p.m. different kinds of hotlines, home, mom isn’t able to make • Common Ground: 24-hour crisis and resource hotline at 1.800.231.1127 for Turbeville said the crisis center these types of phone calls, so we free, confidential counseling, information and referrals.

Text line at doesn’t use any scripted materials see more of a spike in early 248.809.5550; and live chat at the website www.commongroundhelps.org. when talking with callers.

January.”

Essentially, she said they allow the • Dearborn Crisis Center: 313.823.2530.

Turbeville also said that it caller to talk and explain why they • Detroit Suicide Prevention Center: 313.224.7000 or 1.800.241.4949. seems to be a myth that there are are calling that day, which allows • HAVEN: 248.334.1274 or 1.877.922.1274 for HAVEN’s 24-hour crisis line for more calls during the holiday the crisis worker to determine those in crisis related to domestic or sexual violence or abuse. HAVEN also season. whether or not there is a crisis, and “The holidays aren’t necessarily maintains a text line at 248.334.1290 and a chat service at its website at what the problem is. However, she busy,” she said. “March and April www.haven-oakland.org. said, the crisis line isn’t intended have always tended to be the • Henry Ford Hospital: 313.916.2600 psychiatrists on call 24 hours a day. to be a substitute for therapy or busiest times of year. That’s when • Michigan Department of Community Health Crisis Hotline: other resources. the calls spike. I’m not sure why. It 1.866.289.2641.

“We get creative and try to could be the changing of the • National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1.800.784.2433. come up with other options for seasons. People have been holding • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.TALK (8255). them,” she said. “We try to get on for winter, and the school year • The Trevor Project: 1.866.488.7386. National LGBT issues line for young them a plan before they get off the begins. When kids go back to people, ages 13-24. phone or chat, or text. At least for school, we have a lot of parents • Veterans Crisis Line: 1.800.273.8255, then press the number 1. that night, we can help them come call, too.” up with solutions that will work for For young people dealing with Compiled by Kevin Elliott sexual orientation issues and them.”

Where to turn in a crisis

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FACES Sarah Carroll emember the 1960's hit television show Green Acres?

The story of a Manhattan attorney who – much to his wife's displeasure – packs up his practice and leaves the big city life behind for a small farm in rural America.

Unlike the television couple, former attorney Sarah Carroll and her husband Brian, of Birmingham, are able to have their cake and eat it, too, by keeping their Oakland County home while working Sarah's 150-year-old family farm in the Saginaw area.

"It was founded by third great grandpa, David Geddes, in 1864, and he purchased it and started farming," Carroll said. "I'm the sixth generation on the farm. My parents live on the farm. It's about 80 acres, and I lease about twoand-a-half acres that I farm."

Born and raised in Saginaw near the family farm, Carroll left Michigan in 1995 to attend Harvard. She then went on to law school at the University of Virginia before practicing education law in Virginia and the Washington D.C. area. Fifteen years later, she moved back to Michigan and worked with a law firm in Birmingham.

"I practiced at a firm in Birmingham and walked to work," she said. "I was really excited that there was a community in Michigan that was a walkable community. I wasn't aware there was a place like Birmingham. I didn't want to give up the city life of walking to restaurants, but at the same time, I was done with the hustle and bustle."

Still, Carroll continued to miss the rural life. So, a little more than two years ago, Carroll left the law firm where she had been working and decided to get back to basics on the farm. She leased just under three acres of The Geddes Farm from her family and began planting heirloom vegetables. “It might have been the birth of our son in 2013," she said. "I had talked about it, and I thought it would be really neat, but I wasn't ready to give up the city life. But it was in the back of my mind for most of my life. When my son was born, we talked about me going back to work for a few years, but I thought, 'why not now?'"

Now, seasonal produce from the farm can be had at restaurants in Saginaw and Birmingham, including The Bird and the Bread. Birmingham residents are also offered shares from the farm each season, with farm-grown tomatoes, beets, squash, carrots, garlic, and other fresh items dropped off to their homes each week.

"I'm still getting used to it," Carroll said of the change in careers. "My life and work are seasonal, in addition to my diet. I can't take a vacation during the growing season. You get up and go to sleep with the sun. You're planting, weeding, hoeing, and harvesting all the time.

"I tend to do hands-on stuff. My dad has tractors because he kept up the grounds all these years, but I use a small utility vehicle when I'm harvesting, so when I'm out there, I'm listening to the birds and bees, and it's nice and relaxed."

R

Story: Kevin Elliott

Photo: Laurie Tennent

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MUNICIPAL More concerns over investment funds

By Lisa Brody

A study session for Bloomfield Township trustees on Tuesday, December 2, to discuss the Prudential Retirement defined benefit pension plan has led to questions and concerns that the plan is underperforming for the township and is forcing the township to make significant annual capital investments to make up the shortfalls.

The meeting was called by treasurer Dan Devine to discuss the township’s fixed defined pension benefit plan, minimum fund liability, and guaranteed deposit account, with questions prepared for Prudential Retirement by Devine and supervisor Leo Savoie. A few days before the meeting, Devine discovered that Prudential would not be available for the meeting because they did not feel they would have time to prepare for it. Devine is now requesting a committee to evaluate hiring an expert to re-evaluate the township’s relationship with Prudential.

According to a document prepared in 2013, the Bloomfield Township defined benefit pension plan was established in 1961 to set aside funds to provide retirement benefits for qualifying full-time employees. The plan has covered as many as 279 active participants and 491 total participants. When the plan was closed to new participants in 2005, there were 275 active and 476 total participants. As of January 1, 2013, the plan was down to 213 active participants and 473 total participants. The invested amount is approximately $120 million.

Over the years, there have been varying rates of risk assigned to the investments. Savoie said that in 20012002, when interest rates were beginning to fall, former township supervisor Dave Payne and Devine went to the township trustees and informed them it would be best to diversify from fixed investments to equities in order to “get the best of both worlds,” he said, and they moved one-third of the investments into equities.

As early as 2004-2005, Savoie said, the fixed portion was not meeting the 7-8 percent projections Prudential forecasted as needed to fund the benefits, only coming in at 5 or 6 percent. “Prudential came back and said we’re not meeting our downtownpublications.com

Leasing consultant contract renewed

By Lisa Brody

he Birmingham Principal Shopping District (PSD) board of directors voted to renew the contract with Julie Fielder, an independent retail leasing consultant, effective January 1, 2015, for a one-year term, at their monthly meeting on Thursday, December 4.

Fielder was first hired on March 23, 2009, and her contracted has been extended and amended repeatedly since then, with her current contract set to expire on December 31, 2014.

Fielder, a leasing expert with 25 years of experience with The Taubman Companies before she established her own leasing company, was first hired to assist the PSD in acquiring quality national and regional retail establishments for downtown Birmingham. She also works with local landlords in retaining their current merchants.

Fielder is responsible for bringing lululemon athletica, the newlyopened Alex and Ani, The Paper Source, J. McLaughlin, Francesca’s, The Daily Method exercise studio, and Found Objects men’s and women’s apparel store on S. Old Woodward to Birmingham.

Fielder is paid a $4,000 monthly retainer plus expenses, as well as commissions.

Fielder has often explained to the PSD board that it can take up to 18 months from first contact to final lease for a national retailer. Fielder markets downtown Birmingham at regional and national retailing conventions, working to establish a strong tenant mix of small, locallyowned boutiques and national retailers.

T

projections, and we’re going to have to put more money in,” Savoie recounted. “An outside firm said, if you contribute $5.2 million per year for the next 20 years, your plan will be fully-funded. And that’s what our board agreed to do. It was scheduled in our budget. Then in 2010-2011, Prudential came back, and said, ‘we’re not going to make 7 percent.

The actuaries think we’re only going to make 4.25 percent. You need to contribute $10.3 million.’”

In late 2012, when Gov. Rick Snyder signed a bill to permit municipalities in excellent financial shape to borrow money to fund pension liabilities and take the money to invest, the township thought they had found the solution to their financial shortfalls. Savoie said they expected to earn, based on actuarial projections, about 9 percent over the long term, on the equity investments for the $80 million bond, invested with Gregory J. Schwartz & Company, and 4.25 percent on the fixed portion, invested with Prudential.

“When you blend the two, you earn about 6.25 percent. At that rate, the plan is fully-funded, and we did in mid-2013,” Savoie said. “Fast forward to late 2014, and we learned the fixed portion (Prudential) is only making 2.5 percent, so we have to make continued contributions on top of a lot of retirements going on.”

In 2014, 12 individuals in Bloomfield Township retired, or 5

percent of the workforce.

It was revealed at the study session that while the equity fund with Schwartz had made $9 million this past year for the township, better than they expected, Prudential’s shortfall forced them to take over $12.5 million out of that equity account and put it in their fixed account. Another $8.5 million will also be needed before the end of 2014.

Instead of compounding the money in the equity account, it is now at risk of being depleted.

“Prudential is bleeding the equity portion. It’s being taken out to fund the fixed account, and that is not meeting the goal,” Savoie said.

Devine said he thinks that Prudential makes about $890,000 a year in fees to manage the township’s account, but one independent financial advisor told Downtown it may be in the neighborhood of $2 to $3 million a year.

Devine recently sent Prudential a list with 18 questions, including requesting a list of the investments the township’s funds have been placed in. It is unknown if Devine, who has been township treasurer for 15 years, has investigated the returns of the account.

Prudential is a life insurance company and is unregulated. “We only know what they tell us collectively. We don’t know what they invest in,” Savoie said.

DOWNTOWN

As for the financial problems posed by the Prudential investment situation, Savoie acknowledged the township is facing potential critical issues. “It’s a big, big problem. It’s going to be a painful process, but it’ll be worth the pain.”

The financial advisor who spoke to Downtown said Devine was “asleep at the switch” and that the situation was “a major snowball coming downhill.”

Savoie said, “That’s an unfair characterization. Some things happened 30 years ago. He (Devine) wasn’t fighting for us proactively for the 15 years he was there. He was complacent.”

FOIA appeal filed by Downtown magazine

By Lisa Brody

An appeal by Downtown Publications of a denial a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request made to Bloomfield Township in September, seeking information relative to the pension obligation bond issue investments, was tabled by Bloomfield Township trustees on Monday, December 8.

Downtown Publications appealed the denial of a FOIA request made to Bloomfield Township on September 14, 2014, requesting information relative to the pension obligation bond issue investments, including a copy of a Miller Canfield review of the investments done in the past year, and any and all reports generated by firms subcontracted by the law firm, which the township’s legal counsel in October denied as exempt under “attorney client privilege.”

The Miller Canfield law firm was reportedly retained by Bloomfield Township Supervisor Leo Savoie to review the township investment practices, including township treasurer Dan Devine, who was entrusted with investing the township’s pension obligation bond funds, after investment fees on the 2013 $80-million pension obligation bond issue came in nearly $300,000 more than some officials thought would be paid to an outside advisor.

Investment of the pension obligation bond funds is being handled by the firm of Gregory J. Schwartz & Company.

Miller Canfield reportedly retained an additional firm to review how investments were handled and 69

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although the review opinion was referenced by trustees at a public meeting months ago, the township has refused to make the Miller Canfield documents public. Sources have suggested to Downtown Publications that some questions about investment practices were raised in the opinion.

The Michigan FOIA provides for an administrative appeal to the officials who deny a request for document and officials have 10 business days to respond to the appeal. If the appeal of the denial is rejected by the township, the publishing group can then ask the courts to overturn the denial.

At the December 8 meeting, township attorney Bill Hampton said, “Under the statute, we typically have 10 days to respond. Under law, we can extend that. I recommend tabling this considering, one, we just received this today; two, we do not have a full board; and three, we do not have any other board meetings this month. If Leo moves to table this tonight, we will have acted in compliance with the law.”

Savoie then moved to table the

appeal request until the first meeting in January, and all trustees in attendance voted in agreement.

The publishing group will have the option, under the Freedom of Information Act, to take the issue to circuit court if the appeal is denied in January.

“We feel very strongly that because of the ongoing questions about the $80 million bond issue and how investments were handled that transparency is paramount, and releasing the opinion on Bloomfield Township investment practices from Miller Canfield and firms contracted as part of this review is critical at this time,” said Downtown Publications Publisher David Hohendorf. “Further, with the most recent questions raised about the performance of other retirement funds handled by Prudential, this is not a time for the township to circle the wagons, so to speak, and close out the free flow of information to the public.”

During a recent study session for township trustees regarding the township’s separate $120 million Prudential Retirement defined benefit

pension plan, it came to light the fund has been seriously underperforming and the township has been consistently needing to infuse the fund with cash. Currently, the township is taking profits and equity from the pension obligation fund account to satisfy the requirements of the defined benefit pension plan.

Downtown Publications, in a separate action, has sent a Freedom of Information Act request to the township for information on the terms, conditions and fees for the Prudential Investments contract, which dates back to 1961.

On the Miller Canfield opinion which has not been made public, Hohendorf added, “Bloomfield Township has a good track record of providing information to the public and we would hope in keeping with past practices that our administrative appeal under the Freedom of Information Act will be successful and the residents will be able to see for themselves what an outside firm had to say about investment practices involving the recent bond issue.”

24-hour Planet Fitness approved A final site plan and special land use for a 24-hour Planet Fitness facility in the former Ace Hardware location in the Bloomfield Plaza on Telegraph Road at Maple received Bloomfield Township trustee approval on Monday, December 8.

Patti Voelker, Bloomfield Township Planning Director, explained to trustees that Planet Fitness, a valueoriented fitness facility designed for everyday exercisers in a safe environment, was looking to operate a 24-hour operation in the former Ace Hardware location within the Bloomfield Plaza at 6650 S. Telegraph Road. She said that per township ordinance, any uses with hours of operation earlier than 7 a.m. or ending later than 9 p.m. require special land use approval from the township board. Planet Fitness, she said, will use all 30,116 square feet of the space over its two floors, with no exterior changes to the site or the existing facade.

“They are looking to improve the interior space, with access from the

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front door, and they will utilize the rear entrance as an emergency entrance from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.,” Voelker said. “The front parking lights will stay on, with the rear parking lights (in the rear parking lot) turning off at midnight. The applicant said they have much less traffic between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.”

The first floor will feature cardio equipment, locker rooms and bathrooms, and the lower level will be dedicated space for strength equipment, with check in on the first floor and the only 24-hour entrance on the Telegraph side.

Voelker said that within the same plaza, Sav-On Drugs is also open 24hours daily, and up the road, at Telegraph and Long Lake, Life Time Fitness is also open 24 hours, with LA Fitness, on Telegraph north of Square Lake Road open at 5 a.m. She said the township planning commission supported the 24-hour special land use, with the proviso that the back door be closed and lights turned off at 9 p.m. in consideration of the adjacent residential neighborhood.

Bryan Reif, Planet Fitness area

downtownpublications.com

developer, spoke to trustees, “The only issue I know of is the closing time of the rear door. We would like to revisit that. It’s for the members coming in, the parking, and the convenience for them. There’s a drop off after 10 p.m., and a significant drop off after 11 p.m. Between 8 and 9 p.m., there’s still a lot of traffic.

Also, there’s a shift change at 10 p.m., so that seems to be a natural change.”

Township clerk Jan Roncelli was concerned about the hours of operation. “I was at the planning commission, and you said all the franchises had to be open 24 hours,” she challenged Reif. “But I looked up several, and there are franchises all over the state that are not 24 hours, especially not on Fridays and Saturdays.”

“Our franchises are open 24-7,” Reif countered. “Some others are open 24-5.”

“My concern is because you’re so close to that residential neighborhood, and you’re admitting that it’s more of a marketing tool that it’s 24-hour, and you admit that exercising drops off,” Roncelli said. “I

agree with planning that you should close the back at 9 p.m. You’re kissing the neighbors to the southwest. Sav-On has no neighbors near them. We’re putting venues in there that are open later and later, and that neighborhood was there long before the plaza. I’m happy to have you. You’ll just have to tell people to park in the front after 9.”

Trustee Dave Buckley asked what their staffing was during the overnight hours. “In the overnight hours we have two staffers and two cleaners,” Reif replied. “We have close circuit TV in the club so we can monitor it and we have protocols in place.”

Reif said he has several other Planet Fitness locations in the metro area, including in Dearborn and Troy.

Bill Eisenberg of Grand/Sakwa Properties, leasing agents for the Bloomfield Plaza, said, “The theater has much more activity than this facility will ever have. It’s dark in back, there’s no sidewalk, and cars come around really fast. When there’s a good movie, that whole parking lot really fills up. I ask you to consider a 10 p.m. closing.”

DOWNTOWN

“I recommend we keep the back door open for people to exit to their cars given the fact that the lights are on until midnight, so someone walking around the corner isn’t a sitting duck,” said treasurer Dan Devine.

Trustee Neal Barnett agreed. “It’s locked so no one can come in. I don’t have a problem with that,” he said.

“I understand what you’re saying Dan, but then you could have people coming out at anytime,” Roncelli said.

Asked if he would consider not having a 24-hour operation, Reif responded, “It would be a deal breaker for us. We would not proceed without the 24 hours. It’s a marketing advantage over other competitors. It’s a good clean operation. Our members know when they show up, we’ll be open.”

Trustees approved a resolution for a 24-hour facility with both the rear door closing and lighting in back turning off at 9 p.m., but where members can exit after, by a vote of 4-1, with Roncelli voting against, and trustees Corinne Khederian and Brian Kepes absent.

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Surnow finalizing plan for renovations

By Lisa Brody

Preliminary plans are beginning to take shape for the new Woodward Building at the southwest corner of Old Woodward and Maple in downtown Birmingham, where David Wachler & Sons has resided for over 30 years.

Birmingham real estate developer Jeff Surnow, who purchased and renovated the former Birmingham Post Office and Birmingham Schools Administrative building, both in downtown Birmingham, purchased the building at 100 S. Old Woodward in June 2014.

While he has a history of preservation in Birmingham, Surnow is still determining whether to renovate the 1970s-era building, or to take it down and build new.

Preliminary drawings created by architect Kevin Biddison of Birmingham show a renovation of the current two-story building, lightened by removing all of the black window glass, and architecturally defining it

downtownpublications.com

through the use of organic materials, as well as creating grand entrances at both the Old Woodward and Maple sides of the building and livening up the Pierce Street side.

“I’m jazzed. I’ve got a vision of how this building should look,” Surnow said. “This is such a significant piece of real estate. If I renovate it, we need to do something exciting. I like things that are different. I want it to be a very 21st century building, with classic lines you won’t get tired of looking at, and I won’t get tired of owning.”

The first floor of the building will continue to be retail. The second floor, currently filled with office tenants, will be enhanced for them.

“What office tenants like are floorto-ceiling glass,” he noted. The current office entrance, on Maple just east of Pierce street, is innocuous, and Surnow said he wants to make a grand entrance in the same location, with glass and possibly a thin canopy above. Current designs, which are in flux pending input from the city’s planning department before going before the Birmingham Design Review Board, show a fluid-formed

metal which will rust naturally, bringing both design and color to the building as well as emphasis to the entranceway. The Old Woodward entranceway’s design has a strong black stone canopy which rises above the entrance, creating a statement of elegance and grandeur.

“Now this building is getting a personality,” Surnow pointed out.

“These materials are bringing in color and dimension. This is sharp, classic and it will last a long time.”

Surnow said the current drawings lend themselves to either new build or renovation, as well as for the possibility of building higher up, depending upon the city’s willingness for that opportunity.

“Everything we do is with the idea of how we can make Birmingham better,” he said.

Marijuana transport ordinance repealed A Birmingham ordinance prohibiting the transport of usable or medical marijuana in a motor vehicle

DOWNTOWN

was found to be unconstitutional, and city commissioners repealed the law at their meeting on Monday, November 24.

Birmingham Police Chief Don Studt explained to city commissioners that they had passed an ordinance in February 2014 prohibiting the possession, use or transport of marijuana, including medical marijuana with a medical marijuana card, in a motor vehicle or selfpropelled vehicle. Per the ordinance, the only place in a motor vehicle where the marijuana could be contained would be a case in the trunk of the vehicle.

However, Studt said that since then, “Our ordinance has been found to be unconstitutional. I am here asking for the repeal of this ordinance.”

He said that Birmingham’s ordinance was written to require medical marijuana to be in the trunk of the car and “state law does not require that, just that it is contained.”

Commissioners voted 7-0 to repeal the ordinance in compliance with state law.

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New shopping plaza for Telegraph Road A new shopping plaza with three casual food establishments, including a Starbucks with a drivethru operation, was unanimously approved for a site on Telegraph north of Square Lake Road by the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees on Monday, November 24.

Developers for the Shops at Bloomfield Place, located at 2100 S. Telegraph Road at Bloomfield Place Drive, sought approval of a final site plan for a new strip center to include the Starbucks, a Chipotle and a Potbelly, as well as a special land use permit to allow the three to operate until 10 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and the Starbucks to open at 5 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and 6 a.m.

Sundays. Bloomfield Township ordinances limit operations until from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Bloomfield Township Planning Director Patti Voelker told trustees that the developers, Oxford Real Estate Equities, are looking to take a

vacant parcel just south of the Sunrise Assisted Living facility and develop it for the three specific tenants. Voelker said the developer’s initial request included a footprint that would have impacted the adjacent wetlands to the west of the site.

“They’ve since submitted a revised site plant that does not infringe upon the wetland, nor does it impact the natural features that is required,” Voelker said. “This is a 6,200 square foot retail building with frontage on Telegraph Road, but also with frontage on the private drive known as Bloomfield Place Drive. It will accommodate three specific tenants, identified as Chipotle, Potbelly and Starbucks with a drivethru operation.”

Voelker said the plaza will have 55 parking spaces and allow for outdoor seating in patio areas at the front of each establishment.

Township Clerk Jan Roncelli said, “I’m excited to have a drive-thru Starbucks.”

Trustees voted 6-0, with treasurer Dan Devine not in attendance, to approve both the final site plan and

the special land use permit to extend the hours of operations.

Senior living facility for vacant parcels Granger Senior Living was unanimously approved for a final site plan for an assisted living and skilled nursing facility at 50 and 100 W. Square Lake Road at the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, December 8.

Bloomfield Township Planning Director Patti Voelker said Granger Development was seeking a final site plan for the northwest corner of Square Lake and Woodward, the former location of a nursing home and adjacent doctor’s home, both of which had been demolished in 2007.

The property has been vacant since, and the developer was looking to combine the two properties into one in order to build a senior living facility on the property which would have 102 residential units within a three-story building with an interior courtyard. There would also be a kitchen, lounge and other residential

services. A circular drive would lead to a covered entrance which would be large enough to accommodate emergency vehicles.

Voelker said there would be access to the facility both from Square Lake Road, and through the adjacent Kingswood Plaza, “allowing for cross access,” she said. The facility would have 71 parking spaces, and complies with all of the required barrier-free spaces.

The Granger Group of Wyoming, Michigan, has built or acquired more than 70 properties, which they develop for health care systems across the country. Greg Marx with the Granger Group told trustees, “We’re looking forward to entering the community. We believe this community will be well-served by this facility.”

He said the facility will serve primarily assisted living and memory care patients, therefore there would be very low impact on traffic.

Trustees concurred, voting 5-0, with trustees Brian Kepes and Corinne Khederian not in attendance.

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Bloomfield tree clearing concerns

By Lisa Brody

An effort by DTE to alleviate excessive power outages in the eastern portion of Bloomfield Hills and Bloomfield Township, along Kensington Road, has resulted in a wide swath clear cutting of decadeold trees along majestic streets and in backyards, outraging residents.

“They took down 47 of our trees.

It’s massive destruction. Before it was a canopy of trees, and now it’s completely gone,” said Jackie Assaf, whose home backs up to Kensington Road in Bloomfield Township, noting that contractors from Davey Tree drove onto her property and besides removing all of the trees in her backyard, which provided privacy, completely ruined her sprinkler heads. “I was in tears.”

Joe Robinson, part of the vegetation management team for DTE on site on Kensington Road, said the tree clear cutting was a very targeted plan based on nine power outages the area had experienced in

downtownpublications.com

2014. “It was one of the worstperforming areas we had, and we are marking the most unreliable areas with over-line corridor trimming or removal,” Robinson said. “This will continue for trees within the corridor.”

He described the tree removal process for trees that are above the 20-foot height level where power lines are, “or the wrong species of trees within the corridor.” Robinson said DTE had sent a letter to “everyone on the circuit letting them know about the trimming.”

Assaf acknowledged receiving a letter about tree trimming, but came out to discover nothing but stumps in her yard. So did numerous other residents, including Academy of the Sacred Heart school, south of Long Lake Road.

Many of the removed trees were enormous oak trees, among others, which had been along the corridor long before power lines were put in, Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens noted.

Cravens said Bloomfield Hills had been working with DTE for several months, through mid-November, about outages in the area “We had

been interested in meeting with them to have other options like raising power lines above the trees, or burying lines, where feasible,” Cravens said.

He said DTE received a directive from Michigan public works officials to clean their right of ways, “ and they got this directive, and a couple of days before they started, I got a call from Robinson. It appears this operation was ground-to-sky; everything from ground-to-sky was removed. A crabapple tree is not going to get in the way of lines. There was a distinct disconnect between the contractor and DTE.” “This is one of the biggest shortterm improvements we can make for long lasting improvements. This is one approach to serve our community as far as system outages is concerned,” said Robinson. “I can’t emphasize enough, just trimming will not do it this time.”

DTE hired Davey Tree to perform the tree clearing; as many as 20 trucks were sighted at various points on Kensington Road.

Bloomfield Township Supervisor Leo Savoie had not been notified by

DOWNTOWN

DTE that work would begin in that part of the township, and when residents called township hall, he contacted DTE and “got them to agree to stop cutting and only do cleanup.” They are currently removing stumps and clearing logs and limbs.

“There is a 40-foot wide stretch that has been clearcut in places,” Savoie said. On Friday, December 19, Savoie, Cravens, DTE, Tom Trice, township public works director, and Patti Voelker, township planner, were to meet on site to discuss the scope of the project, how residents can better understand it, and determine restoration and remediation for residents.

Robinson said customer reforestation is planned, at DTE’s expense, most likely in the spring.

They will work with local nurseries to provide customers with appropriate species that will not grow into power lines.

Savoie said he wants the township’s arborist and environmentalist involved as well.

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Liah Miller hile some middle school girls may be content listening to Taylor Swift or whatever Top 40 music is playing on the radio, 13-year-old Liah Miller dreams of a jam session with her band, The Imps, and heavy metal rock legends Iron Maiden.

"We are hard rock – metallish – with a tinge of other stuff," Miller, an 8th-grade student at Cranbrook Kingswood Girls Middle School said of The Imps' sound. "We change genres a little. If you think of Iron Maiden and Alice and Chains, kind of like that. We first started playing with classic rock, and it morphed into more metallish stuff."

As lead guitarist for the group, Miller learned to play her instruments by mimicking Jimmy Page and other riffs written by classic guitar legends. Now Miller and The Imps write their own music. The group consists of herself; drummer and vocalist Katelynn Corll, 15; guitarist Hanna Boissonneault, 15; and bassist Claire Davis, 16. The four girls have been playing together since the summer of 2013, and have already released two CDs available on iTunes, Amazon and CDbaby: "The Imps," and "Doing Time."

"We have been together for almost three years," Miller said of the band.

"We all write together. We have people bring in different lyrics and riffs.

Sometimes someone will come in with an idea, and we build off of it. Other songs we build randomly."

Miller said she first became interested in playing music at the age of 5.

Her mother, Lynn, had played drums, so she wanted to play guitar. By the time she was 8, she was playing bass and drums, and was enrolled in the

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Rochester School of Rock. When the fourth grade talent show came around, Miller asked her friend Katelynn if she wanted to join a band. While members came and went, the current line up has been playing together for more than a year.

"We had one band member that needed to leave because she was going to college," Miller said. "Another left because of creative differences. We are a solid band right now."

This year, the Imps won three Battle of the Bands contests, including Gorllia Music's Detroit Battle of the Bands finals. The group regularly plays live shows and events, including Arts, Beats and Eats in Royal Oak. "Sometimes it's our friends at the show, so that's not weird because they are used to it," Miller said. "Other times, the crowd is looking at us like, 'what are they doing up there,' and they underestimate us."

Katelynn's father, Jim Corll, helps the girls by managing them. Miller said Corll helps open the girls to opportunities, such as playing some of the festivals and recording sessions. Still, Lynn Miller said she and the other girls' parents have meetings and help so the girls aren't overwhelmed.

"We want to make sure they are balanced," Lynn Miller said. "The girls do direct that, and they have great leadership through Jim." "It works out pretty well," Liah Miller said. "We have rehearsals on Saturdays for about four hours. That gives us enough time for homework, but it's pretty evenly balanced. School is a priority."

Story: Kevin Elliott

Photo: Laurie Tennent

Renee Lossia Acho realtor

248.310.1414 RENEE@RENEEACHO.COM | RENEEACHO.COM

Experience the Difference between an Agent and an Expert Birmingham’s top-selling agent of 2014!

- NEW LISTING -

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $1,995,000 4 Bedrooms 4 Full, 2 Half Baths 9,638 Total Sq. Ft. MLS# 214098662

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $1,699,000

Almost 2 acres with lake Over 1 Acre views from nearly every 4 Full, 1 Half Baths room. Cutting edge design.

4,500 Square Feet Stylish chef ’s kitchen.

Master retreat. Walkout LL. MLS# 214101803

BIRMINGHAM $1,599,000

Dramatic contemporary 4 Bedrooms built in 2009 set on 1+ acre. 4 Full, 2 Half Baths Open floor plan with warm 4,634 Square Feet woods & clean lines. StateMLS# 214119860 of-the-art kitchen.

Incredible 2012 build with custom details throughout.

Dark stained floors. Oasis master suite. Stunning LL with 5th bedroom & more.

- MOTIVATED TRANSFEREE -

FRANKLIN VILLAGE $1,495,000 SMART Home Just Completed 4,536 Square Feet MLS# 214101796

Modern masterpiece on nearly an acre of privacy.

1st floor master. Salt water pool with waterfall and lush landscaping.

BIRMINGHAM $499,000 4 Bedrooms 2 Full Baths 2,000 Square Feet MLS# 214115166

BIRMINGHAM $479,900

Completely renovated 3 Bedrooms colonial close to town.

2 Full, 1 Half Baths Great open floor plan.

2,000 Square Feet Stylish sunlit granite white kitchen. Finished lower level. MLS# 214116672

Large corner lot with views overlooking Birmingham CC. Kitchen with breakfast bar. Family room opens to deck with pergola. Sleek LL.

TOP PRODUCER | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

Amy Zimmer and Tiffany Glime 248.469.6430 azimmer@hallandhunter.com

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

248.930.5656 tglime@hallandhunter.com

$1,000,000 —

Residential Median Sales Price January to November 2014

$800,000 —

Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills & Township, Royal Oak and Beverly Hills $600,000 —

$400,000 —

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BLOOMFIELD HILLS | $465,000 5068vanness.ePropertySites.com 5 Bedrooms 2 Full, 1 Half Baths 2,429 Square Feet MLS# 214093890

Move right into this impeccable and meticulously maintained colonial with many updates and renovations on a beautiful elevated setting! Fantastic kitchen with granite counters, pennisula and informal dining area.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ZimmerGlimeRealEstate 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

Kevin Conway realtor

248.330.3324 kconway@hallandhunter.com

- NEW LISTING | RESIDENTIAL OR VACANT LAND -

BIRMINGHAM | $1,225,000 4 Bedrooms 3 Full, 1 Half Baths 3,983 Square Feet MLS# 214118341

Stunning 2000-built custom home on 1/3 acre lot. Granite island kitchen with double ovens & Sub-Zero. 3 fireplaces. Master suite with luxurious marble bath. Huge private yard with patio. Attached 3-car garage.

FRANKLIN VILLAGE | $995,000 4 Bedrooms 3 Full Baths 3,760 Square Feet MLS# 214124869

Two+ acres on a hilltop setting in the estates section of Franklin Village. Expand current home or build new. Dramatic 2-story entry. Updated kitchen accesses large deck overlooking pool and tennis court. Separate studio/office over 3-car garage.

- NEW LISTING -

BIRMINGHAM | $750,000 4 Bedrooms 2 Full, 1 Half Baths 2,910 Square Feet MLS# 214117453

Landmark English cottage in prime Poppleton Park location. Spacious cook’s kitchen with fireplace. Vaulted living room with French doors to terrace and large private yard. Expansive master suite. 500-bottle wine cellar.

BEVERLY HILLS VILLAGE | $619,000 4 Bedrooms 2 Full, 1 Half Baths 3,094 Square Feet MLS# 214125671

Spacious and updated colonial in prime location in the highly desirable Nottingham Forest. Extensive renovations and improvements inside and out.

Finished lower level, circle drive and fenced yard.

Award-winning Birmingham schools.

For more information, visit HallandHunter.com 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

Nanci J. Rands

Meredith Colburn

associate broker

associate broker

248.701.9000

248.762.5319

Just a few of our 2014 SOLD listings LD O S

LD O S

LD O S

BIRMINGHAM $1,450,000

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $1,999,000

LD O S

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BLOOMFIELD HILLS $1,999,900

LD O S

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BIRMINGHAM $1,095,000

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP $995,000

LD O S

BLOOMFIELD VILLAGE $1,100,000

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $1,249,000

LD O S

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP $865,000

BIRMINGHAM $798,000

We look forward to assisting you in 2015!

The real difference in Real Estate

RandsColburn.com 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

Kathleen Jardine realtor

248.755.4710 kjardine@hallandhunter.com

BLOOMFIELD VILLAGE | $389,000 A great value and investment opportunity in the Village! Wonderful 1536 sq. ft. condo alternative with beautiful paver patio and enclosed porch for entertaining. 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths with hardwood floors throughout. The 3rd bedroom currently being used as a den. Whole house generator. MLS# 214116659

W ishing you a New Year rich with the blessings of love, joy, warmth and laughter!

- SALE PENDING -

ROYAL OAK | $177,000 Tenants will appreciate the location of this extremely low-maintenance rental unit close to downtown and I/75. The 2-bedroom unit has hardwood floors, fireplace and a beautiful enclosed porch to add living space. The upper 1-bedroom unit has its own shade-covered deck. Tenants will enjoy parking in the garage during snowy weather! Brand new water heaters and furnaces. Newer air conditioners. MLS# 214109136

For more information, visit HallandHunter.com 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

442 South Old Woodward Avenue Birmingham, Michigan 48009

248.644.3500

Melinda Allen

Erin Keating DeWald

realtor 248.505.5834

realtor 248.259.3544

mallen@hallandhunter.com

ekdewald@hallandhunter.com

- SALE PENDING -

BIRMINGHAM | $399,000 3 Bedrooms 2 Full Baths 1,887 Square Feet MLS# 214100680

Perfect condo alternative offers soaring ceiling in great room, plus large master bedroom with huge bath and deck. 3rd bedroom currently being used as library. Hardwood flooring throughout. Low-maintenance landscaping.

- SALE PENDING -

BLOOMFIELD HILLS | $749,000 4 Bedrooms 3 Full, 1 Half Baths 6,090 Total Sq. Ft. MLS# 214108240

Newer, all brick home with view of Square Lake. 1st floor master suite with spa bath.

Granite island kitchen with large breakfast area. Huge bonus room over garage (28’ x 13’). Full finished basement, kitchen and bar.

ROYAL OAK | $349,900 4 Bedrooms 2 Full, 1 Half Baths 1,950 Square Feet MLS# 214122176

Charming Tudor on a lovely tree-lined street close to town. Hardwood floors throughout, original leaded glass windows and dining room doors. Natural fireplace in living room. New master bedroom addition. Finished basement.

For more information, visit HallandHunter.com

442 South Old Woodward Avenue Birmingham, Michigan 48009

248.644.3500

Joanne Carter

Vickie McAskin

associate broker 248.321.3471

realtor 248.821.7225

jcarter@hallandhunter.com

vmcaskin@hallandhunter.com

BLOOMFIELD HILLS | $749,000 2 Bedrooms 2 Full Baths 2,038 Square Feet MLS# 214122168

Chelmsleigh mid-century on extraordinary 1.81 acre lot. Picturesque views of nature and pond. Ready for updating or complete renovation. Or build your dream house surrounded by multi-million dollar properties.

BIRMINGHAM | $650,000 3 Bedrooms 3 Full Baths 1,816 Square Feet MLS# 214092289

Sophisticated 2013 renovation maintains charming details of the 1920’s. State-of-theart chef ’s kitchen with Carrera marble and 10’ island. Stunning marble baths. Office on 1st floor. Finished basement. Many updates.

For more information, visit HallandHunter.com

Ginny Fisher realtor

248.593.0518 gfisher@hallandhunter.com

Thank you to my clients for placing their trust in me in 2014.

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

- ALSO FOR LEASE AT $3900/MONTH -

IN-TOWN BIRMINGHAM $2,200,000 5 Bedrooms 6 Full, 1 Half Baths 4,913 Square Feet MLS# 214117258

French Manor home with dramatic elliptical staircase. 1st floor master.

Beautifully detailed LL. Gated yard & paver patio.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $775,000 5 Bedrooms 4 Full, 2 Half Baths 3,848 Square Feet MLS# 214125231

Private setting deep in sub.

Great room opens to patio with stone amphitheaterstyle seating. Expansive master suite. Finished LL.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $1,699,000 4 Bedrooms 4 Full, 2 Half Baths 7,385 Total Sq. Ft. MLS# 214050438

Private, gated enclave on ravine setting. Finished walkout with possible 5th bedroom. Lower paver terraces. 4-car garage.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS $995,000 5 Bedrooms 3 Full, 1 Half Baths 4,694 Square Feet MLS# 214121370

Acre+ setting minutes from Cranbrook. Oversized kitchen. Screened Florida room. Finished walkout LL. Renovate or enjoy as is!

- RESIDENTIAL OR VACANT LAND -

- SALE PENDING -

FRANKLIN VILLAGE $749,900

BIRMINGHAM $220,000

3 Bedrooms 3 Full Baths 2,791 Square Feet MLS# 214101479

Renovate or build your dream home on 3+ private acres. River at far back, pond & barn. Existing home is solid mid-century modern.

2 Bedrooms 2 Full Baths 874 Square Feet MLS# 214123844

First floor condo in the heart of town. Newer wood floors, carpet & paint. Inunit laundry. New furnace and AC. Priced to sell!

For more information, visit GinnyFisherHomes.com 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

Lynn Baker & Deby Gannes 248.379.3000 CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

lbaker@hallandhunter.com

248.379.3003 dgannes@hallandhunter.com

Realtors for every season of yourLife Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!

ALL-SPORTS WALNUT LAKE WEST BLOOMFIELD | $2,499,000 5 Bedrooms 6 Full, 1 Half Baths 8,294 Total Sq. Feet MLS# 214077282

Gated 2.3 acres with 226’ 4 Bedrooms of lake frontage and dock/ 5 Full, 2 Half Baths beach. 1st floor master.

7,672 Total Sq. Ft. Walkout LL with family MLS# 214068444 room, kitchen, 2 BRs/baths.

NEW LISTING | TROY $974,900 4 Bedrooms 3 Full, 3 Half Baths 6,727 Total Sq. Ft. MLS# 214121017

OAKLAND TOWNSHIP $1,199,900

Bailey's Vineyard sub with Bloomfield Hills Schools.

Sweeping staircase. 2-story great room. 1st floor master suite. Finished walkout LL.

Goodison Place backing 4 Bedrooms to woods & Wyngate Golf 3 Full, 2 Half Baths Club. 1st floor master suite.

6,497 Square Feet Finished walkout LL. Blue MLS# 214093656 stone decks & water feature.

FRANKLIN VILLAGE $924,900 4 Bedrooms 4 Full, 1 Half Baths 3,794 Square Feet MLS# 214114918

CLARKSTON $1,195,000 East Coast brownstone estate on 1.3 acres. English garden entry. Amazing design elements. Master suite with sitting area.

OXFORD TOWNSHIP $559,900

Cul-de-sac backing to woods.

4 Bedrooms 2-story living room. 1st floor 4 Full, 1 Half Baths master. Finished LL with 5,177 Total Sq. Ft. kitchen, bedroom & family MLS# 214073754 room with 106” screen.

Private cul-de-sac backing to woods. 1st floor master suite. Spectacular finished walkout LL with exercise & theatre rooms. 3-car garage.

For more information, visit LynnandDeby.com 442 South Old Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, Michigan 48009

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Your local agent insures your

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FarmBureauInsurance.com

Igor Yakovlev iyakovlev@fbinsmi.com

280 N. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham

248-792-8767

FACES

Dan Dickerson e smiles as recalls listening to Detroit Tiger’s games on the radio when he was a youngster at the formerly Derby High School. Today, Dan Dickerson, who used to live in Birmingham, can be heard doing the team’s play-by-play himself.

“The games were on during the school day,” he said. “I remember listening to them on the playground.”

Currently a resident of Clarkston, Dickerson said he didn’t get interested in radio broadcasting until after he graduated from Cranbrook Kingswood High School and began attending Ohio Wesleyan University, where a friend of his brother’s took him on a tour of the university’s radio station. He was hooked immediately.

“The great thing about a university radio station like that is, if you show up, you basically get air time,” he said. “It was a 10-watt radio station, and it maybe covered the outskirts of Delaware, Ohio. But I did my first play-byplay of a football game, and I thought it was the most fun of anything you could possibly do. I remember thinking, ‘I love dee-jaying, but I can’t picture doing this when I’m really old, when I’m like 40.’”

After earning his degree from Wesleyan, Dickerson returned to Michigan and began an eight-year stint in Grand Rapids, where he mainly worked as a news anchor, but was also able to cover some high school sports. He then returned to the Detroit area and joined the WWJ news team as a general assignment reporter. It was during that time that Dickerson also began hosting a post-game call-in show for the station’s Detroit Lions broadcasts.

“I got to be known as a sports guy, so I was a news-sports hybrid for the first 15 years of my career,” he said. “That was a dream, going from news

H

to sports. Let’s face it, a good day in news is when something bad happens. In sports, it’s fun, and it should be fun.”

In 1995, Dickerson switched stations and went to WJR where he had several positions, including co-hosting a weeknight call-in show and doing some play-by-play for the Michigan Wolverines football and basketball. In 1999, Dickerson was invited to join legendary Tigers announcer Ernie Harwell in the WJR booth for the team’s last game at Tiger Stadium.

“I did one inning of play-by-play with Ernie,” he said. “It worked out perfectly. We were on the air until midnight. That was just one of those special days.”

The following season, Dickerson joined the Tiger’s radio broadcast team.

In 2002, he took over as lead play-by-play announcer following Harwell’s retirement, working with former Tiger’s catcher Jim Price.

Dickerson said the fact that he was able to sit in with Harwell after joining the broadcast team allowed for a smooth transition. As a result, he said fans got a chance to get to know him before replacing Harwell.

“They probably did it the right way, not just because it was me, but they tried (replacing Harwell) before, and brought in two people that fans weren’t familiar with,” he said. “To bring in two unfamiliar people when you let a legend go – the fact that I was known certainly helped. People like their own guys.

“The year after Ernie retired, that was the year they lost 119 games, so I don’t think a lot of people were listening. At one point, the Tigers were 80 games below .500. It was like you could thank some of the listeners individually.”

Story: Kevin Elliott

Photo: Laurie Tennent

YOU JUST BLEW $10,000.

Buzzed. Busted. Broke.

Get caught, and you could be paying around $10,000 in fines, legal fees and increased insurance rates.

Buzzed driving is drunk driving. buzzeddriving.adcouncil.org

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Cindy C indy O Obron bron Kahn A An nE Extr Extraordinary xtrraorrdinarry Agent...Providing Agen nt...Providing E Extr Extraordinary xtrraaor orrdinarryy R Results esults

$40 Millon Sold in 2014 T

1241 Club | Bloomfield

3338 S. Shore | West Bloomfield

388 Warren Court | Birmingham

36 Pine Gate | Bloomfield Hills

376 Townsend | Birmingham

1536 Kirkway | Bloomfield

5495 Shadow Lane | Bloomfield

817 Vinewood | Birmingham

26740 Irving | Franklin

3499 Sutton Place | Bloomfield

3794 Pine Lake Knoll | West Bloomfield

26039 German Mill | Franklin

544 Wallace | Birmingham

727 Maple Hill Lane | Birmingham

1939 Cedar Hill | Bloomfield

4787 Brafferton | Bloomfield

2706 Tyler | Berkley

1903 Bates | Birmingham

1826 Pierce | Birmingham

1252 Smith | Birmingham

348 Wellesley | Birmingham

1375 Glengarry | Birmingham

550 Chester | Birmingham

2358 Ferndale | Keego Harbor

2418 Heronwood | Bloomfield

639 Westwood | Birmingham

42160 Woodward | Birmingham

3327 Dogwood Court | Bloomfield

250 Chesterfield | Bloomfield Hills

1100 Orchard Ridge | Bloomfield Hills

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248.568.7309 568.7309 Cindy@CindyKahn.com C indy@CindyKahn.com CindyKahn.com C indyKahn.com

442 S. 442 S O Old ld W Woodwar Woodward ood oodwar dwarrd dA Ave. ve. | Bi ve.

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Birmingham $1,399,000 Birmingham $1,549,000 Exquisite Details and Craftsmanship 4433 Sq Ft, 4 BR, 4.2 BA 2 Car Attached Garage

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Birminghan $1,260,000 D

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Birmingham $839,000

Marketing a home requires unique skills, knowledge and resources that SKBK Sotheby's International Realty offers its clients. I would welcome the opportunity to offer you a confidential marketing analysis.

Birmingham $959,000 Gorgeous New Construction 2850 Sq Ft, 4 BR, 4.1 BA 2 Car Detached Garage

Royal Oak $670,000 Stunning Craftsman 2 Story 3190 Sq Ft, 4 BR, 3.1 BA 2 Car Attached Garage

All Star

Christine Drinkwater 248-283-8315

415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009

cdrinkwater@skbk.com

BUSINESS MATTERS B. May store opens

Theya Fossett

B. May Bags

Counseling office opens

3D technology company

Marcy Adams Sznewajs

GTechnologies Thriveworks

Michael Chris Williams

Sherman

Marlee’s at Complex Complex

Barbara May,

Marlee’s by Tapper’s

Marla Tapper Leora Goldman

Natural body products Renew Bath

Jeweler retiring

and Body Rhonda Akers

Halina Fuchs Walter Halina Fuchs Jewelry Del

Tom Akers

Bridal shop opens Alessandra Bridal Couture Alessandra Sbrocca

downtownpublications.com

DOWNTOWN

97

PLACES TO EAT The Places To Eat for Downtown is a quick reference source to establishments offering a place for dining, either breakfast, lunch or dinner. The complete Places To Eat is available at downtownpublications.com and in an optimized format for your smart phone (downtownpublications.com/mobile), where you can actually map out locations and automatically dial a restaurant from our Places To Eat.

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.

Andiamo: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

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

248.865.9300.

Bagger Dave's Legendary Burger Tavern: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 6608 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301.

248.792.3579.

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.

Beyond Juice: Contemporary. Breakfast & Lunch daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. 270 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7078.

Big Rock Chophouse: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 245 South Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774.

Bill's: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Daily. Reservations, lunch only. Liquor.

39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.646.9000.

Birmingham Sushi Cafe: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor 377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009.

248.593.8880.

Bistro Joe’s Kitchen: Global. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Sunday brunch. Liquor Reservations. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.0984.

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

248.645.6879.

Brooklyn Pizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6690.

Café ML: New American. Dinner, daily.

Liquor.

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

248.642.4000.

Cafe Via: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

Reservations. Liquor. 310 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.644.8800.

Cameron’s Steakhouse: American.

Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 115 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.723.1700.

China Village: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 1655 Opdyke, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.758.1221.

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

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

downtownpublications.com

Tradition... MOVING FORWARD

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.

Cosi: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & wine. 101 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.9200.

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. Alcohol. Reservations. 37000 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.712.4095.

Einstein Bros. Bagels: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 176 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.9888. Also 4089 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301.

248.258.9939.

Elie’s Mediterranean Cuisine: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Liquor. 263 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.647.2420.

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

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

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

Forest Grill: American. Lunch, MondayFriday; Dinner, Monday-Saturday.

Reservations. Liquor. 735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9400.

Fuddrucker’s: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No Reservations. Beer & wine.

42757 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.333.2400.

Greek Island Coney Restaurant: Greek.

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

Griffin Claw Brewing Company: American.

Liquor. Dinner, Tuesday-Friday, Lunch & Dinner, Saturday and Sunday. 575 S. Eton Street, Birmingham. 248.712.4050.

Hogan’s Restaurant: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6450 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301.

248.626.1800.

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.

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.

Leo’s Coney Island: American. Breakfast,

34965 Woodward Ave Birmingham 248 644 5222 peabodysrestaurant.com

Recipient of the 2014 A.C.F. Award of Excellence

PRIME TIME HAPPY HOUR

Big Rock Chophouse introduces its new Late Night Happy Hour, Monday through Thursday, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Main Bar. Enjoy half-off our regular menu appetizers, $5 draft beer, 9 oz. wine pours at the 6 oz. price, and signature cocktails starting at just $8.* Our regular Happy Hour is still available Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. *Certain restictions apply. Main bar only.

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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, 48301. 248.647.3400.

Luxe Bar & Grill: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily; Late Night, 9 p.m.-closing.

No reservations. Liquor. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.6051.

Mad Hatter Cafe: Tea Room. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. No reservations. Liquor.

185 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.540.0000 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.

Mitchell’s Fish Market: Seafood. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 117 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.646.3663.

Mountain King: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 469 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.644.2913.

New Bangkok Thai Bistro: Thai. Breakfast, Monday-Thursday; Lunch, MondayFriday; Dinner, daily. No reservations.

183 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.2181.

Nippon Sushi Bar: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner daily. No reservations. Liquor 2079 S. Telegraph, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.481.9581.

Nosh & Rye Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, daily.

No reservations. 39495 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.646.7923.

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

Original Pancake House: American.

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

248.642.5775.

Panera Bread: Deli. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 100 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.7966.

Also 2125 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.253.9877.

Peabody’s: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 34965 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.644.5222.

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

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

248.644.3122.

Pita Cafe: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 239 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.645.6999.

Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.988.8941.

Also 42967 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48304.

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

1727 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield

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Hills, 48302. 248.858.7270.

Rojo Mexican Bistro: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 250 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.792.6200.

Salvatore Scallopini: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.8977.

Sanders: American. Lunch, daily. No reservations. 167 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.3215.

Social Kitchen & Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations, parties of 5 or more. Liquor. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4200.

Stacked Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, Monday-Saturday. Delivery available. No reservations. 233 North Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.5300.

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

248.932.0800.

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

Reservations. Liquor. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.9123.

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

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

Sy Thai Cafe: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9830.

Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro: American.

Dinner. Monday-Saturday. Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor. 55 S. Bates Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.731.7066.

The Corner Bar: American. Dinner.

Wednesday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.2958.

The Bird & The Bread: Brasserie. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 210 S. Old Woodard, Birmingham, 48009.

248.203.6600.

The Gallery Restaurant: American.

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

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

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

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

The Stand: Euro-American. Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor.

34977 Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.220.4237.

Toast: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations.

Liquor. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278.

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.

Village Coney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations.

653 S. Adams. Birmingham, 48009.

248.593.7964.

Whistle Stop Diner: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; No reservations. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.566.3566.

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AT THE TABLE wise it was poorly seasoned and just flat. The Quail came next. Not sure if it was because it was the end of the night or if intentional but the quail was prepared overly charred.

By J. March At the suggestion of our server, we had After what seemed like an epically long Chocolate Sorbet that turned this nonwait, Selden Standard in Detroit opened in chocolate loving girl into one who thinks November. And though I was absolutely about that particular dish at least twice a dying to go the first week, my better judgeday since. My friend had the cheese plate ment told me to give it awhile so, you know, all the kinks were worked out. Only after with stilton, Camembert and goat. Simply going did I realize that waiting for Selden to delicious in the sense that, like most of get it together was like waiting for James what Selden does, it was simple and deliBrown to get some soul. Ridiculous, unneccious. essary and a waste of time since some peoThe cocktail list is spot on and, in my ple were just born with “it”. mind, about as perfect as one gets. Once “It” in this case is a downtown Detroit again, simplicity shines with base spirits restaurant that has combined comfort, style, like gin and rye combined with few ingrewarmth and flavor. And all four of those things are found in the service, the décor dients to achieve balance. Absinthe, and the food.

Cocchi Rose, Cardamarro and Aperol all White brick, cedar, slate grey walls, metal make appearances (herbaceous, heavily chairs and ceramic plates that are not only flavored liquers) along with shrubs and all made by Detroiters, but also perfectly fresh citrus, all of which lend to each comembody the city in which they reside. A city ponent having its moment in the sun. The that can go from light to dark in a flash, but beer list is eclectic and offers locals as well always draws you in with its simplicity and as those from around the world. promise.

The wine list threw me for a loop. Price This is especially true in the food. Taking points are on but at first glance was a tad a pass on trendy, Andy Hollyday has instead intimidating. With options like Blaufrankish taken his 20 years of experience from and Abbazia Kerner, it read showy and France, California, Toledo and Detroit and unapproachable. I mean really, who could put it to good use. With this he has created a even know most of these wines? Luckily I menu that mirrors the desired “quality, cretook some time and read the descriptions. ative, fun” that the trio wanted. Partner Evan For every word you can’t pronounce on the Hansen and general manager Mike list, there are three that make it really easy Eisenberg round out Selden Standard with a to know what you are ordering. Words like friendly approachable staff, beverage prorich, full, dry, crisp, fruity all follow the botgram and marketing duties. Sports fans, tle offerings and are once again, you consider this: these three represent Ohio, guessed it, simple. The website says that East Lansing and Ann Arbor yet have still Vegetable Carpaccio, SquidInk Chittara, Lamb Meatballs Downtown photo: Laurie Tennent they take beverage seriously and that their managed to collaborate beautifully. things come together this well.

I was pretty sure goal is to feature “hands-on small producers” and Astounding, I say. Not only were these guys talthat nothing would outdo that dish and then the “uncommon offerings”. And I had to admit that the ented, but they were the kind of guys you want to Kale Ceasar came. Kale at its freshest, tossed with boys have once again hit the mark. work for, with and alongside. Humble, thoughtful a bright dressing, sourdough croutons and crispy With what seemed like a preconceived reputaand integral, they are what I like to think of as the chicken skin. Bitter, creamy, acidic, fatty, rich and tion that would be impossible to live up to, Selden Dream Team of the restaurant world. Less like the best thing we ate all night.

Standard has done it. And the beauty of it is that Kobe, Shaq and Wade and more like Jordan, Meat and Fish were listed next. Tuna Crudo they have done it without smoke and mirrors. Local Thomas and Bird. came along with Beef Tartar. The tuna itself was product, seasonal menus, small plates with few The only spot available was at the Chefs beautiful but the radish, blood orange and lemon ingredients, thoughtful beverages and a warm, Counter offering a view of the kitchen and right on oil were bland, leaving me wanting a pinch of salt. inviting space and staff. A beautiful concept that is top of the grill and oven. We sat, had three cockBeef tartar with a quail egg on top was creamy and worth the drive, the wait, the hype. Good news is tails and ordered food immediately. Vegetables and rich but heavy on garlic and some other source of Selden Standard should enjoy success for years to Such are listed on the menu where most would heat killed my palate before I could appreciate all come because the offerings are simple and the have “Starters”. Considering the bounty that of its beefy richness. Duck Sausage with persimboys have made this their standard.

Michigan has to offer and Selden’s commitment to mon, fish sauce, brussel sprouts and fried shallot preparing it, this makes total sense. was plated sadly and overcooked but flavorful still.

Selden Standard, 3921 Second Avenue, Detroit Vegetable Carpaccio with lemon, caper and Lamb Meatballs with tomato, yogurt, olive and 48201. 313-438-5055. Lunch, Monday – Friday, parmesan came out. Beautifully sliced and seamint came at the request of my dining partner. She 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; dinner ($8 – $11), Mondaysoned carrots, celery root and beets with a burst of insisted I try it and I’m so glad I did. Although not Sunday, 5 – 10 p.m. Brunch hours coming soon. acid from the lemon and capers. Grilled Scallions listed, there was cilantro on the dish as well and it Casual dress. Though walk-in business greatly with Romesco were green and smokey and the worked deliciously with the yogurt and mint and accommodated, reservations available.

Romesco was texturally perfect but without the was mind-blowing good. Celery Root Agnolotti Handicap access. nutty flavor I expected. Frito Misto that fried perwith Short Rib was the dish that started my love fectly and had the addition of lemon wheels that affair with Chef Hollyday at the very first Young J. March has 25 years experience in the restaurant industry we absolutely loved. After the first three dishes, Guns. I was so excited to see it but sadly, outside in southeast Michigan, including certification as a sommeliof perfectly cooked fresh pasta, this dish was a one thing was becoming clear, the chef likes acid. er. If you have short restaurant items for our Quick Bites miss. The Agnolotti was cooked perfectly but other- section, e-mail to QuickBites@downtownpublications.com.

And in all the best ways possible.

The new Selden Standard in Detroit worth the drive

Acid is delicious, important and present in some way shape or form in almost every dish – the cauliflower included. Creamy tahini, bright lemon, savory cilantro and pickled peppers with charred cauliflower. Not since The Jacksons have five

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THE COMMUNITY HOUSE TCH’s “Seal of Approval” Reaches Wide It’s amazing how often people refer to The Community House as this community’s “Good Housekeeping” seal of approval. And with good reason, because we choose very carefully who we “put in front of the community.”

I was actually thinking about this as I looked at my reflection in the mirror. It occurred to me that people expect TCH to deliver on the “TCH Seal of Approval” when they learn from our class teachers, keynote speakers, expert panelists, seminar speakers and supplement authors. At TCH, we carefully select who we present to the community, as we tout all these people as the absolute “best of the best.” It is easy for TCH to say this with conviction when you look at their expertise, track record and standing in the community. In fact, many of us at TCH personally frequent the professional advisors, doctors, restaurants, and/or use the products of the vendors who support our events.

Camille Jayne

Let us help you get home - worry free.

So why did this occur to me when I was looking at the reflection of my face in my mirror? Because I had just gone to Dr. William J. Vasileff of Vasileff Medical Group. Having attended Dr. Vasileff’s seminars here at TCH, he was the only plastic surgeon I trusted to treat me with the new Voluma filler recently – something different for me to do. And I am thrilled with the results – 100 percent living up to the “TCH Seal of Approval!”

Chad Whistler NMLS ID 140091

THE BIRMINGHAM GROUP:

275 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 birmingham@johnadamsmortgage.com Company NMLS ID 140012

CONTENT It's a simple fact of publishing life: For your message to resonate in the market, you need to know that local residents are reading a product.

PNC Bank is another of our corporate banks, and they give back more to the community charitably than many banks much larger than they. PNC also has a place on our board, and their Regional President, Ric DeVore, wanted to be the first to sign on as one of TCH’s expert panelists for our new October 1, 2015 “Master Class Evening with Top Business Leaders.” Talk about impressive, and we’re just getting started to pick that prestigious panel.

Huntington Bank is another “best of the best” as Presenting Sponsor for Michigan’s “Lemonade Day” for entrepreneurial kids, and TCH’s Farm to Table Block Party Food Fest. A true partner, Huntington introduced us to our March 2015 Annual Gala Grand Honoree Dr. Herman Gray of DMC’s Children’s Hospital of MI. And Children’s Hospital is bringing their best of the best pediatrics’ expertise to Troy soon.

Last but not least, Talmer Bank, named for the two grandfathers of the founders, cares deeply about family and is the Presenting Sponsor our 90 & Beyond luncheon that honors those over 90 years old.

The February issue deadline for Downtown Birmingham/Bloomfield: Wednesday, January 16.

Contact Jill Cesarz.

Office: 248.792.6464, ext. 600 Cell: 248.860.8414 JillCesarz@downtownpublications.com

David W. Potts J.D., PLLC*

DIVORCE? www.davepottsjd.com

The best of the best? No question. We thank all who help TCH remain this community’s “Seal of Approval.”

New at TCH: February 3rd, “Nothin’ but Net” Speaker Series: “Building Your Brand from the Ground Up” with guest speaker, James Cristbrook, Co-Founder, Shain Park REALTORS. This monthly series is all about net profits and networking. Noon-1 p.m. $20 includes box lunch. Register: www.tchserves.org or 248.644.5832.

Remember, call Dave Potts….. before your spouse does.

(248) 594-4999 divorce@davepottsjd.com

Camille Jayne is Chair of The Community House Board of Directors downtownpublications.com

Troy Bergman NMLS ID 140061

Call us today for a free preapproval or mortgage analysis!

248.283.8500

Best of the Best Reaches Wide: But my face aside, the point is that this applies to all TCH partners. As evidenced by the keynote speakers TCH has had in the past few years, such as Allan Gilmour, Stephen Polk, Linda Orlans, Mike Duggan, Congressman David Trott, and soon at our March 2015 Annual Gala, Faye Alexander Nelson – who can argue that these community leaders are not the “best of the best?”

TCH as an organization has a number of financial institutions, law firms, health organizations, universities, real estate companies, jewelers and media organizations as our annual corporate partners – all of which, we feel, qualify as the “best of the best” in many ways. Just to pick the banking industry as an example: Bank of Birmingham is one of TCH’s corporate banks, and their President & CEO, Rob Farr, was just named the “Business Person of the Year” by the Birmingham/Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce. We’re also delighted that Rob is Vice Chair of TCH’s Board of Directors.

Toni Thwaites NMLS ID 291301

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SKBK Sotheby's International Realty

Congratulates

Maureen Francis On Her 2014 Achievements Women's Council of Realtors 2014 Realtor of the Year 2014 President, Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS National Association of Realtors Leadership Academy

maureen@maureenfrancis.com miOaklandCounty.com

415 S. Old Woodward | Birmingham, MI 48009

248-961-0801

SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK The Opera Ball

Here is the update on the recent social scene.

Many more photos from each event appear online each week at downtownpublications.com where readers can sign up for an e-mail notice when the latest social scene column is posted. Past columns and photos are also archived at the website for Downtown.

Michigan Opera Theatre’s Opera Ball Electricity was in the air at the Detroit Opera House the night the 2014 Opera Ball launched the Sally Gerak three-day Opera Weekend Spectacular. The 44th MOT season opener – Strauss’s Greek mythology-based opera “Elektra”inspired the co-chairs’ decision to put a Mediterranean spin on the décor and the menu. The latter was even catered by the Greek Kokas family’s Opus One. The 315 beautiful people in the dinner crowd ($600 ticket) socialized, sipped and smooched before adjourning to the platform constructed over the theater seats while the OPA! party for the younger set (300; $100 ticket) proceeded in the balcony boxes. Before dinner Dan Stall conducted a spirited live auction of nine items that raised a not too shabby $72,400. After dinner MOT founder David DiChiera thanked lots of people, including presenting sponsor Ford Fund’s Jim Vella and opera lover Elaine Fontana who sponsored superstar soprano Christine Goerkes appearance in all four Detroit performances.

Standing Os were accorded DiChiera and the six co-chairs – Gretchen & Ethan Davidson, Elanah & Rick Hunger and Karen & Rick Williams. Then Ben Sharkey and his musicians commandeered the stage and made dance music until midnight. The ball raised more than $580,000 for MOT. Two opera performances and Family Sunday backstage tours rounded out the weekend.

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5 6 1. Co-chairs Rick & Elanah Hunger of Sylvan Lake, Gretchen & Ethan Davidson of Birmingham, Karen & Rick Williams of Bloomfield 2. David DiChiera of Detroit, Sandra Seligman of Bloomfield 3. Maryann Cromwell (left) and Elaine Fontana of Bloomfield 4. Cabaret singer Carole J. Bufford of NYC, Cabaret 313 founders Allan Nachman of Bloomfield and Sandi Reitelman of Birmingham 5. Gordy (left) & Katie Coleman of Bloomfield, Barbara Bowman & Ham Schirmer of Birmingham 6. Julia and Steve Cosgrove of Birmingham 7. Sarah Jackson (left) of Bloomfield, Barbara Brown of Beverly Hills, Felicia Shaw, Ruthie Seltzer and Karen Gaudette of Birmingham 8. Peter Strumbos of Birmingham, Christine (left) and Cate Strumbos of Bloomfield 9. Victor and Michelle Saroki 10. Marta & John Schaefer of Birmingham

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Cabaret 313 On Saturday night, the centerpieces from the Friday Gala Opera Ball were used to decorate the tables in Detroit Opera House’s Boll Hall for Cabaret 313.

It followed the opening night performance of Strauss’s horror-filled tale of murder and revenge and attracted 175 music lovers. MOT president Wayne Brown warmly welcomed them, suggesting that cabaret founders Sandi Reitelman and Allan Nachman consider the opera house their second home.

The show starred Carole J. Bufford, one of the rising cabaret superstars, in her show “Shades of Blue.” She was accompanied by NYC pianist Nate Buccieri and legendary Detroit bassist Marion Hayden. Among those giving them a standing ovation were the Bud Leiblers, Rich Hombergs, Shelley Taubers, Bob Allesees, Joanne Danto & Arnie Winegarden, Barbara Van Dusen and Hillary Brody. The next Cabaret 313 is Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Marlene Boll Theatre in the Downtown YMCA. It will star Giada Valenti in her show “From Venice With Love.” For more information and tickets, go to cabaret313.org.

Camp Mak-a-Wish Cookies n’ Dreams A camp founded in 1991 by Sylvia and the late Harry Granader, who donated 87 acres of their Montana ranch plus seed money for a sick kids camp, enjoys strong local support. Some of that devotion is in memory of late board member Dr. Tony Jacob, who was passionate in his support of Camp Mak-aWish. Five hundred of those supporters attended the annual cookie contest/camp fundraiser at Somerset Collection North chaired by Jacob’s daughter and son-in-law Cathy and Nate Forbes. The scene is a real happening as children squeal and frolic with their friends sampling cookies, getting their faces painted, eating hot dogs, doing crafts, dancing with Star Trax, watching performers from Detroit Circus and getting their pictures taken with Cookie Monster. They also voted for several different cookie categories.

Designer Dough won Best Tasting, Celebrity Choice and Favorite Camp Cookie; Lil’ Monica’s won Healthiest; Cookie Cool Cookie Company won Most Unusual & Creative; Eskimo Jacks and Market Basket tied for Most Indulgent.

The event raised $130,000, which will enable Michigan children and young adults with cancer to spend a carefree week cost free at the medically supervised camp in Gold Creek, Montana.

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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Key to the Cure Kick Off Saks Fifth Avenue kicked off four days of shopping to benefit the breast cancer fight with an evening of fun stuff. More than 400 guests were greeted with pink martinis served up by a Signature Bar and Grill waiter and progressed throughout the store’s first floor for hors d’oeuvres, beauty treatments, entertainment and shopping. A percentage of the local sales will support Henry Ford Health Systems’ two cancer centers.

In the 15 years since the Key to the Cure inception, SFA has raised over $35 million nationwide for cancer research.

Camp Mak-a-Wish’s Cookies n’ Dreams

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3 1. Cathy Jacob Forbes and Connie Jacob of Franklin, Peter’s Palate Pleaser’s James Shepard 2. Josh Pearlman (left), Jonathon Abbo, Alex Burnstein and Stephen Kristl of Bloomfield 3. Paige Cupelis (left) of W. Bloomfield, Chandler Basch of Bloomfield and Caitlin and Aaron Forbes of Franklin 4. Asa Lester (left) of W. Bloomfield, Gabby Krnjaja of Huntington Woods, Solomon Kwartowitz and Michael Sawula of Bloomfield 5. Ashleigh & Justin LaRocca of Bloomfield

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Key to the Cure Kick Off

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Tea at the Townsend with Madeline The Townsend Hotel hosted a tea to celebrate the 75th anniversary of popular storybook character Madeline. Ninety guests ($35 tickets), including several three-generation family groups, attended. They savored traditional and child friendly tea fare, an unlimited candy station, a Madeline reading, and the children had their pictures taken with Baldwin Library volunteer Danielle Center costumed as Madeline. The event raised $350 for Baldwin Library’s outreach services.

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1. Dr. Bob Chapman (center) with his daughter Carla (left) and wife Gail White of Bloomfield 2. Laura Mercier’s Mary Riley (left) of Farmington Hills, Susan Hall and Judy Slivinski of Bloomfield 3. Jack Christian and Bonnie Jobe of Bloomfield 4. Signature Grill’s Tae Cole serving Shelly Najor (left) and Diane Roelant of Bloomfield 5. Stephanie Austin (left) of Bloomfield, Dior’s Ala Bujdoun of Detroit and Mary Shellabarger of Armada

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Oakland Literacy Council’s Ex Libris

1 1. Judy Lindstrom (center) of Bloomfield, John Searles (left) of NYC, Bob Gaylor of Rochester Hills 2. Kuma Lee (left) of Troy, Sandy Nahm of Bloomfield 3. Mary Rosenbusch (center) of Rochester Hills, Jay & Carol Herbst of Bloomfield 4. Hajum Lee (left) of Troy, Diane & Joe Walsh of Bloomfield 5. Midge Lusardi (left) and Shelly Gach-Droz of Huntington Woods, Judy Bryce of Farmington Hills, Camille Breen of Bloomfield

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Christ Child Society’s Night of Angels Sarah Kepic and Kelly Eberlein chaired Christ Child Society’s annual Night of Angels that attracted more than 200 ($175 & up tickets) to The Townsend. During the cocktail hour people sipped, socialized and shopped the very appealing silent auction ($20,000) that Megan Jones coordinated. Getting people to sit for dinner was no problem because the savvy event planners had the Notre Dame-Florida State football game on large screens in the ballroom. Before the live auction which Laura Keziah chaired, she painted a warm, glowing picture of the quiet generosity of the 2014 honorees – Craig and Randy Rubin, founder owners of Crypton Fabrics. When Randy accepted the Mary Virginia Merrick award she told the CCS members, “What you are doing is working. You’ll always have our support.” And during the live auction, which Christopher Anslanian conducted, the Crypton Fabrics’ donation of a trip for six via the company’s private jet to the Kentucky Derby sold for $17,000. This brought the total live auction proceeds to $50,000.

Splendiforous desserts and dancing 01.15

in the promenade capped off the evening.

Counting dedicated giving ($17,600), two raffles, sponsorships and donations, the event netted more than $100,000 to support the residential program for boys who live at Christ Child House and other CCS programs.

Oakland Literacy Council Ex-Libris Dinner “Judy (Lindstrom) has been our stalwart and you have been our best audience,” Bob Gaylor told the 90 supporters ($125 & up tickets) gathered at the Village Club to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the council benefit. It began five years after Gaylor, an OU associate professor at the time, founded the free adult literacy program. The event always features a celebrity speaker (this year it was author and book critic John Searles), a tutor and a student. The latter - tutor Sandy Nahm who had nominated her student Kuma Lee as the “student of the year” – got a standing ovation. Kuma did not speak English when she and her husband arrived four years ago from South Korea where she had been a high school teacher.

She said her life was lonely and isolated until she met Sandy three years ago. The two women shared their story of learning and shopping together. Sandy said that being Kuma’s tutor has made a tremendous difference in her life: “I have been given another daughter.” Kuma said that Sandy was a friend, counselor and mentor. “Thank you for giving this huge love to me.” The event, which was also a milestone for the Nahms because they moved to Williamsburg, VA the next day, raised $34,000 for the tutoring program.

St. Hugo Altar Guild‘s Ladies Night Out For the second year, the St. Hugo Altar Guild, with the leadership of co-chairs Judi Juneau and Karen Seitz, has eschewed the traditional midday luncheon in favor of a Razzle Dazzle Club evening party to raise dollars for the parish’s charity programs.

This year 175 supporters ($60, $160-benefactor) convened at Pine Lake Country Club.

The crowd included a number of two generation sets like Juneau and her two daughterin-laws Heather & Katie, Eileen Jones & Kathleen Pieroni, Dee Orlando & Jeannine Gundle and Sandie Knollenberg & her daughter-in-law, Lori. They shopped at 19 vendor booths, devoured splendid strolling dinner offerings and bought blinking rings and a chance for a diamond necklace prize.

It was won by Trudy Mohan.

Arthritis Foundation’s Tribute to Excellence Some 450, including 125 automotive and racing industry big wheels, were at The Henry Ford Museum to salute event honoree and civic philanthropist Roger Penske. Fox Sports’ Mike Joy emceed the program that featured remarks by Keith Crain and Ford’s downtownpublications.com

Christ Child Society’s Night of Angels

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1. Craig & Randy Rubin of Bloomfield with CCS president Elaine Szot of Troy 2. Sarah Kepic (left) and Kelly Eberlein of Birmingham 3. Megan Jones (left) of Birmingham and Laura Keziah of Bloomfield 4. Marla Green (left) and Sarah French of Birmingham 5. Bill (left) & Joanne Roney and Claudia & Patrick Duerr of Bloomfield 6. Rudy & Tina Stonisch of Birmingham 7. Jen & Scott Holman of Bloomfield 8. Patrick Duerr, Jr. (left) and Lauren Duerr Northrup of Bloomfield, Amy Horkey of Beverly Hills 9.

Robert (left) & Lodia Runco and Chris & Jenny McCuistan of Birmingham 10. Barry & Lynn Connelly of Bloomfield

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St.Hugo Altar Guild Ladies Night Out

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1. Judi Juneau (left) and Karen Seitz with Joan Page of Bloomfield 2. Nancy Jo Brown (left) and Lisa Wilson of Bloomfield 3. Mary DeBarsio (left) of Royal Oak and Sandie Knollenberg of Bloomfield 4.

Mary Jo Joseph (left), Barbara Finn and Carol Seemann of Bloomfield 5. Heather Juneau (left), Amy Drouillard and Carolyn DeMattia of Bloomfield

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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Joe Hinrichs. But the most touching moment was when 13-year-old Logan Bry recited a poem he wrote about what it’s like to have arthritis. For his part, Penske said, “We win a lot of trophies, right, but to get this honor from the Arthritis Foundation – it goes right to the top… Tonight for me is about the disease…and what we can do to help find a cure.” The evening added $1 million to toward that goal.

ChildSafe’s Ultimate Motown Experience

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ChildSafe’s Ultimate Motown The night after the two red carpet openings of “Motown, The Musical” at the Fisher Theatre, 125 ChildSafe supporters ($200 ticket) continued the celebration. They first toured Hitsville U.S.A., the modest duplex on West Grand Boulevard that Berry Gordy turned into a musical assembly line. A docent told stories as people studied equipment, record covers and images of all the Motown greats – from Diana Ross & the Supremes to Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and Lionel Richie. As all applauded a rendition of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine”, someone spotted Jeremy Irons wiggle through the tourists. (The British actor was reportedly in Detroit for filming his scenes for “Batman v Superman”.) The ChildSafe philanthropists, 70 of them on the chartered busses they had boarded in Birmingham, continued to the Fisher for a strolling supper before the performance. It contained scenes from Hitsville U.S.A. to Berry Gordy’s house in Los Angeles and dozens of the great Motown sounds from “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” to “You’re Nobody ‘Til Somebody Loves You”. During a bit in which an actress interacts with members of the audience, she unknowingly picked Kid Rock, who just happened to be in a front row. He was willing to take charge of the moment but she told him, “This is my show.” The whole evening was quintessential Motown and lots of fun. It also netted $12,000 for ChildSafe’s adoption, foster care and mentoring programs.

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8 1. Dennis & Barbara DeClerk of Bloomfield 2. Char Terry (left) of Bloomfield, Ivana Kalafatic of NYC, Guru Narayan of Birmingham 3. Julie Fries (left) of Beverly Hills, Jim Wolfe and Jim Contos of Ferndale, Cleo Coulacos of Bloomfield 4. Niki Gaulladet (left) of Bingham Farms, Bill Myers and Katy Proctor of Bloomfield 5. Joe Saker (left) and Katie Valenti of Bloomfield, Tim and Kathy DeClercq of Royal Oak 6. Judy McClelland (left) and Julia Hourigan of Birmingham 7. Tom Kuslits of Birmingham, Betsy Reich of Sylvan Lake 8. Lynne McLeod (left) of Chicago, Hailey Parent of Bloomfield, Grace Knapke of Rochester Hills 9. Glen Brown of Bloomfield, Colleen Bellinger of Rochester 10. Don Ridge and Judy Monaghan of Bloomfield

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CARE Night Charity Ball

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1. Event honoree Mark Davidoff of W. Bloomfield with event co-chairs Alicia Boler-Davis (left) of Rochester and Lisa Payne of Bloomfield 2. Dave (left) & Kappy Trott and Dana & Jim Selis of Birmingham 3. Pat Rosen (center) of Troy, David (left) and Jeffrey King of Birmingham 4. John and Deborah Schrot of Birmingham 5. Larry & Nolia Lloyd of Bloomfield 6. Chuck & Joanne Ciuni of Bloomfield 7. Dr. Denise Shuttie of Bloomfield and Jeff Moelich of W. Bloomfield

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CARE Night The GM Heritage Center museum was a perfect venue for CARE House of Oakland County’s annual big fundraiser. Not only was GM’s Alicia Boler-Davis an event cochair, GM’s foundation also gave CARE House $25,000 in 2014 and gave CARE House the proceeds from the auction sale of the 2015 Corvette Stingray with the VIN number 001. Watching a video of the Jackson Barrett auction was exciting and the 300 guests all cheered when it garnered $400,000. Other post dinner program highlights included co-chair Lisa Payne’s introduction of decidedly deserving honoree Mark Davidoff and Briel Neel’s moving description of playing with the abused kids that come to CARE House each day. She 01.15

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1. Linda O’Brien (left )of Orchard Lake and Ana Vangelena of Birmingham, Florine Ministrelli of W. Bloomfield 2. Lois Shaevsky of Bloomfield with Steve Kalczynski of Birmingham 3. Cis Kellman (left) of Southfield and Harriett Fuller with Bobbi Toll of Bloomfield 4. Carol Ziecik (left), Kayla Demiro of Rochester Hills, Karen Clancy and Meryl Sakwa of Bloomfield 5. Alice Aikens (left), Jane James and Barbara Ghesquiere of Bloomfield 6. Ruthie Seltzer (center) of Birmingham, Contessa and Rosemary Bannon of Beverly Hills 7. Drs. Luisa DiLorenzo (left) of Birmingham and Sue Lin of Troy

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SKY Foundation’s Bistro

inspired pledges that totaled nearly $25,000.

Combined with Dan Stall’s spirited live auction (nearly $81,000), sales of April Wagner’s blown glass centerpieces, ticket sales and the Corvette, CARE Night 2014 raised $720,000. New board president Kappy Trott and Maria Roberts are chairing the next CARE House fundraiser - the 19th annual Circle of Friends Luncheon Wednesday, Jan. 28 at the Townsend. The featured speaker is Mia Farrow. She will also be the guest of honor the preceding night at the Preview Party, which will be hosted by the Roberts Restaurant Group at CARE House. For tickets ($125 & up), go to carehouse.org or call executive director Pat Rosen at (248) 332-7173.

Heart to Heart Florine Ministrelli, Cis Kellman, Harriett Fuller and Lois Shaevsky were smiling broadly as a sellout crowd of 300, the largest since the event was launched at the Ghesquiere’s Mercedes-Benz showroom in 2006, flocked to the Somerset South Rotunda for the Hearty fundraiser they chaired.

People networked and perused the 44 items in the chance raffle, which raised $4,000.

Following the savory luncheon catered by Brio Tuscan Grille, all trekked to Saks Fifth Avenue for the Pamella Roland fashion show. In the brief program that preceded the show, Beaumont Foundation president Margaret Cooney Casey thanked the committee, led guests in a round of “Happy Birthday” to Shaevsky and said that the event proceeds would provide help to Ministrelli Women’s Heart Center patients who needed it. Dr. Pam Marcovitz explained how other hospitals have used the center as a model for their own. Then her name was one of 10 drawn at random to win a $150 SFA gift card. The show that followed featured gorgeous special occasion dresses and others that recalled 1950s silhouettes. Thanks to ticket sales ($150 & up), sponsorships and donations, the ninth annual Heart to Heart event raised $100,000 for patient treatment.

2 SKY Foundation’s Bistro “It’s been an amazing six years…and I’ve been cancer-free for seven,” Sheila Sky Kasselman announced to the 325 SKY Foundation supporters ($85 & up tickets) gathered at the Townsend for the sixth annual fundraiser. They had first socialized, sipped, perused the basket bazaar, bought raffle tickets and savored bistro fare before settling in for the program. A video featuring a reporter on the WSU campus interviewing people about the pancreas was a humorous way show how ignorant people are about the pancreas and to include one of the foundation grantees, Dr. Rafael Fridman. Then

3 1 1. Sandy Schwartz (left) of Bloomfield, Sheila Kasselman of W. Bloomfield 2. Denise Baldwin (standing left) and Judy McClelland of Birmingham, Barbara & Dennis DeClerk of Bloomfield 3. Miranda Burnett (left) of Bloomfield, Jan Bird and Marsha Wester of Birmingham 4. Dan Stall (left) of Birmingham, Sheila Kasselman of W. Bloomfield, Bill Powers of Bloomfield 5. Laura Brown (left) and Pam Callan of Bloomfield, Shirley Dylewski of Bingham Farms

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Karmanos’ Cancer Institute’s Dr. Philip Philip reported that, compared to 10 years ago, there are younger doctors, optimism and enthusiasm in the field. U-M’s Dr. Diane Simone concurred and added, “… there is a groundswell of change… collaboration is the key…Sheila Kasselman is a source of inspiration… her passion is contagious.” Dan Stall then conducted a lively auction ($30,700) and Dan Glasser offered to match pledges. The latter raised another $51,600 to add to the $700,000 the foundation has raised since it was established.

Every dollar supports research targeting an early pancreatic cancer detector.

Alzheimer’s Association’s Chocolate Jubilee The 30th Chocolate Jubilee anniversary fundraiser, which was sponsored by Quicken Loans, attracted 675 supporters to the MGM Grand. Co-chairs Mari Barnett and Mary Wilson’s crew had transformed it into a 1930s-style speakeasy which inspired the fun of the Roaring 20s rather than the gloom of the Depression. The program honored Alzheimer’s Association visionaries representing the Past, (the late Ralph Wilson), Present (Dr. Ronna Shatz and Audrey and Bill Farber) and Future (Richard Holloway).

Following dinner and giving pledges, guests strolled the display of donated sweets-forthe-taking which has been the event hallmark for all 30 years. Thanks to the Farbers, who generously underwrote the event, 100 percent of the proceeds ($1.3 million) will benefit the programs and services of the Alzheimer’s Association.

DCDS Scholar-Athlete Award Dinner Detroit Country Day School’s Blue and Gold Club was founded in 1978 to support the school’s athletic program. It adheres to the school’s Latin motto, which translates as “A Sound Mind In A Sound Body.” One of the club founders, retired banker Sam Greenawalt, was in the crowd of 150 at the club’s 19th award dinner at The Reserve and he got a standing ovation when president Don Nystrom wished him a happy 87th birthday. Nystrom also noted that the school’s 100th birthday will be celebrated next March. But the real spotlight was on the 25 students recognized for excellence in academics, athletics, character and leadership, plus the guest speaker – Californiabased racing sailor Andrew Campbell. A member of Oracle Team USA, which won the 2013 America’s Cup, he shared racing stories and gave the students advice, including “…the hardest thing to do is show up every day.” Proceeds of the dinner will support the school’s five-year-old intramural sailing program for students in grades 6 -12.

Its home dock is at the Pontiac Yacht Club. downtownpublications.com

Alzheimer’s Association’s Chocolate Jubilee 1. Barbara Fisher (left) and Mary Wilson of Grosse Pointe, Richard Burstein of Bloomfield 2. Gary & Becky Sakwa of Bloomfield 3. Jennifer Lepard (left) of Royal Oak, Jeff & Jennifer Farber of Bloomfield 4. Mari & Ken Barnett of Bloomfield 5. Jeff Morganroth (left) and Bill Emerson of Bloomfield 6. Lisa & Roger Kasle of Birmingham 7. Marlene Emerson (left) of Bloomfield with Stephanie Perry and Rebecca McDonald

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DCDS Scholar-Athlete Award Dinner

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1. Don Nystrom (left) of Bloomfield, Andrew Campbell of San Diego, CA, Glen Shilling of Bloomfield, Mitch Henderson of Birmingham 2. Blake Burstein (left) of Birmingham, DJ Bailey and Rishabh Nayak of Bloomfield 3. Amy Erjavac of Commerce and Sam Greenawalt of Bloomfield 4. Don (left) and Cheri Bailey, Nina Nayak and Miriam Samani of Bloomfield 5. Jackson Hartje (left) of Birmingham, Emilio Sosa of Bloomfield Hills

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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Cranbrook Academy of Art’s CRANDEMONIUM The invitation promised an evening “…when anything was possible” and it did not disappoint. The soiree attracted 255 guests ($500, $250, $150 tickets). Many followed the suggestion to wear black & white attire and some were meeting new CAAM director Chris Scoates and his wife Fiona Ragheb for the first time, although Chris did get his MA at CAA in 1986. In addition to the silent auction of 30 works of art donated by 12 CAA alums, (all 30 pieces sold) event co-chairs Maureen D’Avanzo, Pamela Gerber and April Wagner had commissioned Leslie Pilling to design the other party diversions. Masked and costumed characters welcomed arrivals. Detroit musician and singer Nicole New impressed with jazz and other vibes throughout the night. Two Warhol go go beauties did a “Laugh In” type show. And CAA alum Jeff Pubantz headed a coterie of costumed Morph people who performed around white benches placed in the shape of a question mark. But everybody was buzzing about the Dizzy Dames burlesque dancers who took it almost all off on the elevated stage in the Larson Gallery. Forte Belanger catered savory fare: hearts of palm salad, shrimp & parmesan grits, braised short ribs, and Portobello-stuffed ravioli. Benefactors ($500 ticket), who had been saluted at a pre-party hosted by the Dan Gilberts, enjoyed table service while others dined on the stroll. Proceed figures were not released but are earmarked for programs which bring Cranbrook’s spirit of innovation and creativity to underserved areas in the region.

CRANDEMONIUM

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S.A.Y. Detroit Radiothon Kudos to writer / broadcaster Mitch Albom. His third annual S.A.Y. Detroit 15-hour Radiothon more than doubled its previous totals, raising $812,000. He was joined at Somerset Collection North by more than 50 national and local celebrities, including Matthew Stafford and Bloomfield native Tim Allen. S.A.Y. Detroit is an umbrella organization for seven charities aimed at helping Detroit’s neediest. Every dollar raised goes directly to those in need because, thanks to Albom, there are no administrative costs.

8 1. Dom DiMarco (left) and Pam Gerber of Bloomfield, Nick Cave of Chicago, IL 2. April Wagner (left) of Franklin, Greg Wittkopp of Huntington Woods, Allan Rothfeder of Birmingham, Maureen D’Avanzo of Bloomfield 3. Chris Scoates with his wife Fiona Ragheb (left) of Bloomfield and Leslie Pilling of Detroit 4. Lynn & Bharat Gandhi of Bloomfield 5. Alan Kaufman (left) and Alan Ross of Bloomfield 6. Tom Dart (left) & Beatrice Rousselot and Jean Maliebay-Vacqueur of Bloomfield, Maeve Mosquet and Jeff Davison of Birmingham 7. Brian Hughes (left) of Rochester Hills, Karen Swanson of Bloomfield, Jennifer Wheat of Philadelphia, PA and Evie Wheat of Birmingham. 8. Bud (left) & Nancy, Ann & Patrick Liebler of Bloomfield 9. Kathy Huber (left) of Rochester and Aimee Lanciault with Margarite Fourcroy of Bloomfield 10. Erin DiMarco (left) of Bloomfield, Mark and Pam Thomas of Birmingham 11. Bernadette Lussier (left) of Grosse Pointe, Amy Zimmer of Bloomfield, Kristin Lusn of Birmingham, Suzanne Lussier of Chicago, IL

Distinguished Women Awards In 1970, years before Title IX was codified, Northwood University began honoring women exceptional in business and private and public community service. This year’s class of seven from all over the country included two local residents – Lynn Stinson and Laurie Cunnington. They were in the spotlight for a weekend of activities in the Palm Beach area that included a forum with students at the NU West Palm Beach campus, a cocktail reception at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Largo Club (the Donald stopped by) and a breakfast symposium with Lt. Col. Allen West who impressed with his answers to questions about America’s goodness. But the apex of the weekend was the Saturday night Awards Gala, a scholarship fundraiser that attracted 160 ($350 & up ticket) to the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa. Stinson’s fan club included her NU alum son Christopher, now a Quicken Loans mortgage banker, past DWs Lorraine Schultz and Susanne Forbes Dicker who nominated her, plus colleagues from her years on the NU Michigan Governors Board. Cunnington’s coterie included her husband Tom, granddaughter Emily, son Patrick and his family, Peter and Ann Pretorius who came from South Africa, and Bloomfielders the Steve Reads, Mike McCarthys, Nathan Conways and Robert Fishers. The honorees’ introduction by students and their acceptance speeches are worth viewing on YouTube. The dominant theme, as expressed by NU president Keith Pretty, is that the women are role models for NU students, the future business leaders of a global, free enterprise society.

Send ideas for this column to Sally Gerak, 28 Barbour Lane, Bloomfield Hills, 48304; call 248.646.6390 or email samgerak@aol.com.

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ENDNOTE

Growing concern on township financials ast month, we pointed out that it would be advisable for Bloomfield Township Treasurer Dan Devine to seize upon the wisdom and wealth of experiences many township residents who work, or have worked in, the financial services industries, and are willing to volunteer their time to sit on an investment advisory committee which would work with the treasurer and review, recommend and advise the township board of trustees on pensions and other financial matters. That was in light of concern by some officials that investment fees on the 2013 $80million pension obligation bond issue came in nearly $300,000 more than several board members thought would be paid to the investment advisory firm hired by the township, Gregory Schwartz & Company.

Between its equity fund managed by Schwartz and a defined benefit pension plan first put in place for the township in 1961 and now managed

by Prudential Retirement, Bloomfield Township currently has over $210 million in pension and other investments. They also have a growing pool of retirees who are vested in the pension plan, with 12 employees retiring in 2014. A report states the obligation to pay retirement benefits to retirees will likely extend beyond the next 50 years.

In December came the disclosure that investments in the township’s Prudential Retirement defined benefit pension plan are drastically underperforming, and have been since at least 2004-2005 with the knowledge of trustees,

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forcing the township to contribute millions to the fund annually out of township operating funds to keep it fully-funded and available to retirees. From 2010 until 2014, Bloomfield Township was budgeting $10.3 million each year to add to the Prudential plan. Recently, they learned Prudential’s shortfall forced them to take over $12.5 million out of that equity account with Schwartz and put it in their defined benefit plan.

Another $8.5 million will also be needed before the end of 2014 to maintain it. That’s $21 million dollars more to a $120 million pension fund that has the potential to tap out the better- performing equity fund – reducing it to $68 million.

“The short-term performance by Prudential in failing to meet its own actuarially assumed rate of return on the GOA is of concern as it relates to the long-term sustainability of the Defined Benefit Pension Plan as projected by Prudential in 2013,” wrote Devine in a historical perspective for a study session of trustees on December 2. At the December 2 study session, Devine requested a search committee to find a consultant to conduct a sustainability study.

In e-mail correspondence from 2013 included in the study session packet, Devine, township supervisor Leo Savoie and former township finance director Ray Perkins express concerns regarding changes in Prudential’s actuarial assumptions which show they had thought about adding more money to the equity portion when they issued pension obligation bonds in fall of

2013 in order to achieve a more favorable rate of return. Yet as early as 2004, to our minds, Devine, as the financial steward of the township, should have analyzed Prudential’s chronic underperformance. That’s at least 10 years of consistent multimillion dollar infusions from the township’s budget to meet pension obligation shortfalls – it’s staggering to think of both the amount of money, as well as what else that taxpayer funds could have gone to pay for that would have benefitted residents.

We recognize that trustees consistently approved all allotment requests over the years, but the financial responsibility of the township rests in the hands of the township treasurer, and to a lesser extent, the supervisor. Savoie has only been supervisor since 2011, and since at least 2013, according to e-mails, he has been working on how to fix the actuarial shortcomings in Prudential’s defined benefit plan. Devine has been the township treasurer for the last 15 years. While he did raise some questions and suggested changes in the 2001-2002 time period, we are not convinced he has focused on this problem as he should have.

Beyond the question of how to address the latest investment problem in the months ahead, an equally important issue is how well the treasurer has performed the duties of his elected office, a question that the public will ultimately have to decide.

Regional water authority good first step ust a year after a proposal to lease the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) infrastructure was labeled “dead on arrival”

by Oakland County officials, the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) last month held its first organizational meeting with representatives from Detroit, Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

While Oakland County Deputy Executive and water authority board member Robert Daddow said there are still a number of issues to address before the authority is officially up and running this coming spring, we are pleased to see months of negotiations have finally created a regional water authority that provides fair representation for all ratepayers, and provides a means to address some of the largest problems in the aging water and sewerage system.

Daddow, who was appointed to the regional water board in October by Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, said initial proposals by former Detroit Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr and advisors with law firm Miller Buckfire were unsatisfactory. Specifically, the proposal would have had suburban communities pay about $9 billion into the system over 40 years, with no guarantee that money would stay in the system to pay for infrastructure and operations.

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Further, Oakland County officials stressed the importance of setting up a regional authority that would provide fair representation for each of the suburban communities paying into the system.

However, Daddow said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan entered the discussion and agreed that money paid into the system should stay there and be used to support operations and infrastructure, rather than be used to provide added income to the city of Detroit’s general fund.

Of the some 4 million people who receive services from the (DWSD), about 1.22 million are in Oakland County, with another 1.2 million in Wayne and 850,000 in Macomb County. In total, suburban communities provide about 80 percent of the department’s revenues, which total more than $750 million annually. Yet, suburban representation on the DWSD’s current sevenmember Water Board of Commissioners has been limited to three members since 1960.

Under the new authority, the GLWA will be operated by a six-member board, with three members representing the counties, two representatives from the city of Detroit, and one representative for areas served by the DWSD outside of Detroit and the three other counties, who will be appointed by the governor’s office.

The GLWA will lease the regional assets from the city for 40 years at the rate of $50 million per year.

Under the agreement that allows the GLWA, all lease payments must stay within the system to fix the city’s failing infrastructure. Detroit must use the $50 million annual lease payments only for capital improvements to the system and may not use them to support payments to its general fund.

The agreement also requires the city of Detroit to be responsible for paying for its local system operating costs. Further, the agreement establishes a $4.5 million Water Resources Affordability Fund to assist those most in need throughout the entire GLWA area.

Although there are bound to be some wrangling among the new authority’s members during the due diligence period, we are pleased to see 15 months of negotiations, including five months of federal court-ordered confidential mediation, result in an agreement that has been needed for nearly 40 years. And we feel confident that the players involved in the GLWA will continue to work together in the best interest of ratepayers and the structure that has allowed the metro Detroit region to grow and flourish as a region since the late 1950s.

It’s an excellent start that is long overdue.

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6,000+ Sq. Ft. of quality craftsmanship & materials including 2 impressive story stone fireplace.

Exclusive lot offering in the City of Bloomfield.

Surrounded by distinguished estates embracing sweeping lawns & exquisite mature trees, it enjoys a multitude of development options.

K A T H Y BROOCK BALLARD 248.318.4504 KATHY@MAXBROOCKHOMES.COM

Old World Tudor w/ modern day conveniences steps from Downtown Birmingham.

This classic residence embraces fine millwork, wrought iron details & more.

Classic 1920's estate perched on 3+ acres of sprawling lawns. The ideal opportunity to renovate or build your dream home in the Village of Franklin.

$1,145,000

$1,095,000

$1,049,000

$995,000

Take the opportunity to pick out your own treatments for this new construction in Birmingham. 4 bedroom 3 full and 1/2 bath. Natural setting with private yard.

Private gated entry residence with over 5,400+ Sq. Ft. of sophisticated space for everyday living. Many custom details throughout.

Designer perfect Rochester Hills colonial w/ 4,000+ Sq. Ft. of flowing space. Chef’s kitchen with oversized granite island ideal for entertaining.

West Bloomfield colonial with wonderful floor plan.

Formal foyer with curved staircase and hardwood entry. Many recent updates.

$899,000

$859,000

$699,000

$449,000

kathybroock.com 4th Generation Realtor

275 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009

OVER 70 MILLION SOLD IN 2014