Downtown Birmingham/Bloomfield by Downtown Publications Inc.

ARE YOU READY TO BE AN ENVISIONARY? FOUR YEARS AGO, HENRY FORD HEALTH SYSTEM HAD A VISION – raise $250 million to transform the way we provide care by expanding our facilities and enhancing our clinical programs. The commitment and generosity of our 23,000 employees and thousands of loyal friends have resulted in more than $176 million being raised to date – including nearly $15 million donated by Henry Ford physicians and employees. By investing in the future of Henry Ford, these ENVISIONARIES fuel our progress. And, we are just getting started. With the help of ENVISIONARIES like you, we can realize the rest of our $250 million goal. Envision what can be done with your support. Envision a life saved because of you.

Learn more about how you can become an ENVISIONARY at henryford.com/giving or call (313) 876-1031.

ENVISIONARIES Nancy Schlichting, CEO, Henry Ford Health System, and A. Joseph Garcia, M.D., Henry Ford Medical Group.

LOVE YOUR GLASSES MORE 193 W. Maple 248.645.0075

www.shadesoptical.com EYE EXAMS - CONTACT LENSES Dr. Bill Koppin

DOWNTOWN07.11

Living in downtown Birmingham Living in an urban environment can be invigorating and exhilarating, and the prime piece of urban real estate for a sophisticated urban experience is downtown Birmingham.

CRIME LOCATOR

33: Doyle Mosher

EDUCATION

One high school approved for 2013-2014 school year; recall petitions are withdrawn, then resubmitted once again.

BBAC replaces director; Fox Grill outdoor seating; two cities agree on library; Paper Source signs lease; Rusty Bucket coming.

DISTRIBUTION: Mailedmonthlyatnocharge tohomesinBirmingham,BloomfieldTownship andBloomfieldHills.Additionalfreecopiesare distributedathighfoot-trafficlocations. Forthosenotresidinginthefree mail distribution area, paid subscriptionsareavailablefora $12 annual fee. Phone 248.792.6464 and request the Distribution department or go to our website (downtownpublications.com) and click on “subscriptions”inthetopindexandplaceyour orderon-lineorscantheQRCodehere.

Subway; Great Clip; Mills Pharmacy; Brown's Barber Shop; Lvudviga Couture Boutique; Jungle Room/Double Up; and more

Bloomfield Hills Fox & Hounds, while not exactly reincarnated in the new Fox Grill, is remembered in meaningful ways.

SOCIAL LIGHTS

CITY/TOWNSHIP

A quick look at what local municipalities and school districts spent for legal services in the last twoyear period.

AT THE TABLE

73: Geoffrey Fieger

Government legal fees

Oakland County, where an early 2011 count found over 1,000 people homeless, is not immune from the problem.

FACES

Homeless in Oakland

BUSINESS MATTERS

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

25: Nick Gangadharan

17 35

THE COVER Fish sculpture in front of Quarton Lake waterfall.

ENDNOTE

DOWNTOWN P U B L I C A T I O N S DOWNTOWNBIRMINGHAM/BLOOMFIELD 124WESTMAPLEROADBIRMINGHAM48009 P:248.792.6464 downtownpublications.com facebook.com/downtownpublications.com twitter.com/downtownpubs

Publisher:DavidHohendorf AdManager:JillCesarz Graphics/ITManager:ChrisGrammer NewsEditor:LisaBrody

NewsStaff/Contributors:HillaryBrody, SallyGerak,Eleanor&RayHeald, AustenHohendorf,GarrettHohendorf, KathleenMeisner,LaurieTennent

DOWNTOWN

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

Birmingham city leaders need to make the bistro ordinance a top priority before the close of 2011 or call a moratorium.

INCOMING: Wewelcomefeedbackonboth ourpublicationandgeneralissuesofconcern intheBirmingham/Bloomfieldcommunity.The traditional Letters to the Editor in Downtown are published in our Incoming section, and can include traditional letters or electronic communication.Youropinionscanbesentvia e-mail to news@downtownpublications.com; or mailed to Downtown Publications, 124 West Maple Road, Birmingham MI, 48009. Letters must include your full name, address anddaytimephonenumberforverification.

07.11

A very special

OCCASION

MAKE IT UNFORGETTABLE...

Sterling Silver charms from $25

33366 Woodward Ave. Birmingham, M I 48009 248.723.4653 www.estateandjewelrybuyers.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER uality local new reporting is on the decline and, as a result, state and local governments are gaining more power to set the agenda for the public.

So says a federal study of the media, originally ordered by the Federal Communications Commission and released in early June. A quotation from the report, published in a New York Times story, probably captures best the state of print media in many of today's markets. Steven Walman, former journalist for Newsweek and U.S. News and World Report, author of the federal study, writes: “The independent watchdog function that the Founding Fathers envisioned for journalism--going so far as to call it crucial to a healthy democracy--is in some cases at risk at the local level.” Waldman writes further that local print publications often serve as the source for television reporting and reporters on the national level, so there are “ripple effects throughout the whole media system.” Because of economic pressure that has trimmed the size of most reporting staffs and the challenge brought by the Internet, where with few exceptions little journalism of substance is regularly produced, there is less in-depth reporting being done at the local level, which lends itself to a power shift that favors the government and institutions and not the citizenry. Frankly, it doesn't take a federal study of the health of the print media at the local level to capture the challenges now facing local publications, although the report will produce some non-binding recommendations that could help stem the tide somewhat in the future. I found the study timely for our situation at Downtown, where in recent weeks we have had our share of mild pressure from some quarters of the community which would have preferred we served more of a boosterism role rather than attempting to produce news that serves to develop an informed population while adding to transparency in government. Although no particular instance was major, nor influenced what we published, they help to illustrate the added pressures that news operations face in attempting to produce original, in-depth coverage of a local community as opposed to simply reproducing press releases, which all too often serves as “journalism” at the local level. Downtown is a hybrid publication in terms of print media. We publish monthly, have the appearance or format of a magazine but we provide a legitimate mix of hard and soft news with each issue to supply the local market with a publication that residents look forward to receiving and reading. We cover major issues of interest that other publications in this market ignore and we supply the traditional coverage of government decisions and actions each month. Downtown also prides itself on beating the competition with stories that newspapers in the area, published more frequently, have not carried. So we have chosen a path of providing news, some of it uncomfortable at times, that keeps the community informed in hopes that we are contributing to the goal of improving the local area. As archaic as it may sound, an informed citizenry is equipped to take action and influence the outcome of decisions in the local municipalities and schools. Yes, we could just fall back to an easy position of boosterism but that would only add to the shift in power balance toward the institutions and away from the citizenry, exactly what the federal study of print media found. We subscribe to the theory that we are one of many voices in the community debate. In the case of Downtown, we know that our “voice” reaches more residents than others in the debate, and we have the potential to be a galvanizing force that can advance a position, so we remind ourselves at all times that we must responsibly exercise our influence. In short, we seek to fulfill the tradition of journalists that our Founding Fathers envisioned. As always, I welcome your feedback. David Hohendorf Publisher DavidHohendorf@downtownpublications.com

INCOMING

Cost of golf courses

GIVE US YOUR BEST

SHOT Downtown Publications is seeking strong photographs of iconic scenes in the Birmingham/Bloomfield area for possible use on future covers of our monthly news magazine. We are asking local residents to submit digital photos they think strongly capture a familiar scene or facet of life in the local communities. Our covers are designed to highlight recognizable scenes from the Birmingham/Bloomfield area. If you think you have a photo that would make a great cover, send an e-mail with a high resolution full-color jpeg attachment to CoverPhotos@ DowntownPublications.com. Give us your full name, contact phone number, the community in which you reside and a brief description of where the photo was shot. If your photo is selected for a future cover, we will provide full credit for your work. This is a great opportunity to showcase your work and share in the growing community recognition for Downtown, the monthly newsmagazine for Birmingham/Bloomfield.

DOWNTOWN P U B L I C A T I O N S DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM/BLOOMFIELD 124 WEST MAPLE ROAD BIRMINGHAM 48009 P: 248.792.6464

I read your article and editorial opinion on the matter of golf courses in Birmingham and wanted to offer some perspective. One key point is that my understanding is that the courses 'absorb' some other significant city services through allocations, provide green-space to buffer rail traffic, provide cell towers for the area, host the annual fireworks and also are the permanent home to huge combined sewer overflow installations that protect the Rouge water basin. There is also what I understand to be a perpetual lease on both properties from Bloomfield Township. Some of these factors may prevent privatization and certainly impede any potential divestiture. These factors should be looked into and considered (or even mentioned) when considering these properties. Also to be considered, the courses provide a safe and healthy outlet for teens (priceless) and also for our seniors. They are the home courses for Groves and Seaholm junior varsity and varsity teams. I play many courses in the area and the Birmingham courses are well run and exceptionally well maintained, especially in the last five years. The current staff is wonderful. There may be some things that could be considered to boost revenue such as opening up play to nonresidents that might help with revenue but I think if we looked into it we might find that the courses are actually self sustaining, net of absorbing other city services. When I do the math on your quoted figure of $321,024 in losses for two years, I see that $16 per citizen in a two-year period as a reasonable cost. Jim Nelson, Birmingham

Factual inaccuracies There were several factual inaccuracies in your recent article on the four board members being targeted for a recall in the Bloomfield Hills School District. The article spoke of educational consultants, and failed to mention that this is an architectural firm that

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.

will be bringing the district an 85 percent schematic drawing to consolidate students at the Andover site. Furthermore, the firm, Fielding Nair International (FNI), was hired by the board in October 2010, about a month before the November 2010 election, not after the election as your article stated. And finally, your article spoke of turmoil around the consolidation of the high schools. As a board member, I saw, after months of discussing consolidating high schools, multiple communications and invitations to get community feedback, there was almost no one present at the board meeting when we actually voted to consolidate schools and we received very little feedback opposing this decision. Furthermore, when FNI engaged in several months of focus groups and information gathering in the school district, it did hear discontent with going to one high school. With the board's permission, it investigated this to see if this was something the community felt strongly about. FNI then went on to report to the board that once the majority of community members understood the loss in class offerings, the increase in class size, the reduction in cocurricular opportunities that would follow if the district maintained two small high schools, the majority of participants understood why the board and administration were moving to a one high school future and were supportive.

DOWNTOWN

We invite the community to read Fielding Nair's final report of its findings on the wishes of the community for the future of the high schools at: www.bloomfield.org/component/cont ent/article/780. Kate Pettersen, Secretary, Bloomfield Hills School Board

Renovate the school board It's not our school buildings that are deficient in Bloomfield Hills, it is our board of education. They claim we need “21st Century “ (a new marketing term) but they also claim our students are performing very well. The board claims our buildings are out of date and can't provide the modern educational climate needed. Bloomfield taxpayers have twice approved sinking funds since 2004 and entrusted the district with obtaining the maintenance and renovation needed for our K-12 schools. Instead, the board replaced parking lots and football fields and the two high schools remain in disrepair. The Bloomfield Hills School Board is lacking in leadership, focus and direction. They expect a $6.1 million deficit in the 2011/2012 school year, they have hired the most expensive bidding consultant ($863,000) and claimed to hold extensive "community input" sessions. Plenty of community input has been provided with a consistent message to the board from the majority of the Bloomfield community, by voting in the 2010, 2007 and 2004 elections against large tax bonds and voting in favor of sinking funds intended for upkeep of our schools. The renovation needed in Bloomfield schools is to recall the present school board and replace them with fresh, new trustees who actually live in our area, vote and pay taxes here and who put instruction before construction. E-mail recallbhschoolboard @gmail.com to get involved. Bloomfield Hills schools should be leaders, not followers. Cara McAlister, Bloomfield Hills 07.11

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Nanci J. Rands

Meredith Colburn

Associate Broker

248.701.9000

248.762.5319

Birmingham $1,695,000

Bloomfield $1,795,000

Bloomfield $1,495,000

Ralph Lauren model residence offered furnished at Woodland Villa, in-town Birmingham’s intimate residential enclave. Luxurious lifestyle and unparalleled location. Sophistication and elegance throughout 3 levels. Elevator. Three car garage.

2002 built stately custom home overlooking Wing Lake. Brazilian cherry & marble flooring. 1st & 2nd floor Master Suites. Fabulous professional Kitchen & Family Room combination. Outstanding Lower Level has Theatre, Rec & Fitness rooms, full Bath & 6th Bedroom option.

Soft contemporary with 146' of Gilbert Lake frontage on a 1.63 acre site with sandy beach. Great entertaining home with indoor pool. 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths. Spacious first floor Master. Lower Level walkout. Exquisite setting.

Building Sites Birmingham $385,000 Rare opportunity to build your custom dream home within a block of the Townsend Hotel.

Franklin $599,000 Gorgeous 1.92 acre parcel along private road in area of multimillion dollar homes.

Bloomfield Village $698,000 Great opportunity in the

Bloomfield $795,000 Harold Turner contemporary on Lower Long Lake is an architectural gem. Nearly 4,000 sq. ft. plus a walkout Lower Level. 3 Bedrooms, 4 & 1/2 Baths. Expansive lake views. Interior & outdoor spaces artfully meld utilizing pecky cypress, slate & brick. 4 car garage.

Bloomfield $725,000 Ranch home with walk out Lower Level on 1.56 acre site with gorgeous pool & spa. Sought after Chelmsleigh neighborhood. 5 Bedrooms, 2 full & 2 half Baths. 3 car garage. Also for lease at $4500/month.

Estate Area of Bloomfield Village. Site is 0.83 acres with 150' frontage. Birmingham Lakefront $995,000 Last remaining buildable site directly on Quarton Lake.

Bloomfield Hills $3,250,000 to $6,800,000 Spectacular sites on the East shore of Turtle Lake from 1.6 acres to 4 acres, in the premier gated community of Turtle Lake.

Bloomfield $1,699,000 Magnificent limestone and cedar design by architect Michael Willoughby. Superbly landscaped 1.5 acres. 170’ of frontage on Chalmers Lake. Garden and lake views from every room. Open island Kitchen/Family Room. First Floor Master. Screened Adirondack porch and large deck.

Bloomfield $795,000

Bloomfield $1,145,000

Bloomfield $625,000

Beautifully maintained & updated soft contemporary, 4 bedroom ranch. Over 4,000 sq. ft. of living space. Newer Kitchen. Luxurious Master Bath. Indoor pool converts to banquet size room for entertaining.

Beautiful colonial on nearly 2 acre hilltop setting. Spacious entertaining areas. Family Room with fieldstone fireplace & 12’ pine ceiling. 5 Bedrooms. First floor Master with Sitting Room. Deck, Terrace and Pool.

Updated ranch home on impeccably landscaped acre site in Chelmsleigh. 3134 sq. ft. 4 Bedrooms, 3 & 1/2 Baths. Surrounded by million dollar plus homes. New granite Kitchen. Move-in condition. Room to expand.

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS...PERFORMANCE DRIVEN RESULTS

Nanci J. Rands Associate Broker

248.701.9000 www.randscolburn.com Bloomfield Hills $4,950,000

Beyond a sweeping tree-lined gated drive lies PARK HAVEN, an impeccably maintained 1929 manor on 7 lush acres with a courtyard entrance. Wide bluestone terraces overlook perennial gardens and magnificent grounds. Spanning nearly 10,000 square feet of living space and designed by architect George DeWitt Mason, the estate was superbly renovated and expanded in 2006. The home features five Bedrooms and four full and three half Baths. A gracious Foyer opens to the beamed Great Room with a carved limestone fireplace. An elegant Dining Room overlooks the north lawn and terrace. The Kitchen, with a brick chef’s alcove, and adjacent Butler’s Pantry are both finished in white marble. The four-room Master Suite has a Sitting Room and dual Dressing Rooms. Evident throughout is incredible attention to detail, including intricate woodwork and decorative ironwork.

Franklin $4,250,000 Exceptional 2001 Tringali-designed 1800’s English Tudor replica on 2.48 acres nestled in the heart of Franklin. Winding gated drive opens to stunning views of the slate roofed home with pond, fountain & arched walkways. Over 10,000 sq ft of luxury with 4 Bedroom Suites, 4 full & 3 half Baths. Interior design by Dan Clancy of Perlmutter Freiwald. Refined cherry paneled two-story Library. Fabulous Kitchen with custom Chilton country blend granite island has alder wood cabinets, granite work surfaces & top-of-theline appliances. Kitchen is open to casual dining area & Hearth Room with Jerusalem stone fireplace. Screened 3-season Sun Porch has gas fireplace & built-in grill. Phenomenal Knotty Pine paneled Family Room with exposed beam ceiling. 1st floor Master Suite with prominent double door entry has serene Master Bath, and tremendous closet space. The Lower Level’s gem is a meticulously crafted 3,000 bottle Wine Cellar and Tasting Room. Impressive Exercise Facility houses a professional Dojo. Heated garages with 8 car capacity.

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

LOCAL EXPERTISE...INTERNATIONAL REACH

Meredith Colburn Associate Broker

248.762.5319 www.randscolburn.com Bloomfield $3,200,000 On a private, landscaped hilltop overlooking Wing Lake, this historic property was restored & expanded in 2001 to extraordinary elegance & functionality. Molded plaster ceilings, tumbled travertine floors, carved beams & sculptures. Over 6,000 sq ft with an additional 4,000 feet in a beautifully finished Lower Level. 3 Bedrooms, 5 Full & 2 Half Baths. Grand entry Foyer with domed rotunda. The Living Room is highlighted by a mural depicting Edsel Ford’s 1st transcontinental Model T journey. The Cook’s Kitchen features an octagonal island, spacious casual dining area and access to the 4 seasons Sun Porch. A 38-foot gallery leads to the 1st floor Master Suite with fieldstone fireplace, sitting area and serene Bath. Two fabulous 2nd story Bedroom Suites. Lower Level houses an impressive Wine Cellar with tunnel entrance, Entertainment Room and expansive Exercise Facility.

Birmingham $3,275,000

French inspired architectural masterpiece with premier in-town location provides a stunning combination of sophistication & functionality. Beyond the custom mahogany entry door is a showcase of amazing interior spaces, exquisite details & finishes. The home has nearly 9,000 sq ft of luxurious living space. Exterior is custom crafted of handmade sand mold brick & cast limestone. Dramatic entry Foyer opens to a splendid Living Room with floating panel ceiling, entertainer’s bar & fireplace with steel surround. Dining Room features an extraordinary vaulted plaster ceiling. Sleek Italian, Valcucine Kitchen has been prominently featured in Better Homes & Gardens and Dream Kitchens. Master Bedroom Suite is a luxurious retreat with Pewabic tile fireplace, private Library, spacious walk-in closets, & pure white Thesos marble Bath. Private balconies compliment all second level Bedroom Suites. Beautifully finished Lower Level with fabulous Entertainment Room, Wine Cellar, full Bath, Exercise Room & private Office. 3 car garage. Elevator.

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

READY TO DIVE INTO THE MARKET?

Make a splash! Call us to buy or sell.

Rich

Lynn Baker

Deby Gannes

Associate Broker

Realtor

248.379.3000

248.379.3003

lbaker@hallandhunter.com

dgannes@hallandhunter.com

Your Hometown Realtors selling Cottages to Castles for over five decades.

Oakland Township $799,900

Oakland Township $2,800,000

Classic and timeless describe this European style home with upgraded brick/limestone exterior. 4 bedrooms, 4-1/2 baths, 4428 sq. ft. Large private treed lot (.78 acres), 4 custom fireplaces, hardwood floors throughout, extensive crown, solid wood doors, 10 foot ceilings, upgraded tile in all baths, finished walk out with full kitchen/bar, exercise room, theatre area, bath, 2nd family room and playroom/5th bedroom. Brick patios, deck, 3 car garage, sidewalks. GOO211055917

Magnificent Estate in the prestigious gated community of Orchard Ridge. Sits high on a hill with private wooded yard, multiple decks with cement ballisters on 1.44 acres. 7,870 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms, 7 baths and 2 lavs. Dream kitchen (23 x 17) opens to family room and breakfast room. Enormous first floor master suite with sitting area and fireplace, all bedrooms are suites plus apartment with bedroom, bath, kitchen, dining room and living room with fireplace. Walkout ready to finish. 6 car heated garage. ORC210058837

Franklin $749,900 or lease for $5,000/month Opportunity of a Lifetime! Home custom designed by architect Don Paul Young in the estate section of Franklin. Almost 2 acre wooded site on a private lake to enjoy the natural surroundings. Interior is totally redone and finished to perfection. Never been lived in this 4,351 sq. ft. home has 5 bedrooms, 5-1/2 baths with a first floor master suite. CAN210124300

Oakland Township $3,499,900

Bloomfield Hills $819,900

Birmingham $699,900

Oakland Township’s architectural masterpiece. A manor home unlike any other on 2.68 acres with private rear yard (pool, jacuzzi, entertainment deck & pool house). Total of 19,684 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms, 7 baths and 2 lavs. First floor master suite with 3 closets, fireplace and morning kitchen, 4 suites up, 1st & 2nd floor laundry rooms, 2nd entertainment kitchen with pantry on 1st floor, 11 fireplaces, finished walkout, 6+ car garage & endless details, can’t be duplicated at this price. Additional lots (6) available, can be purchased to add to your gated estate. COV21023864

Original carriage house for the Chalmer’s Estate. Rich in history, renovated in 2007 with all of the details, charm & elegance to reflect the era. Oversize rooms, extensive limestone, hardwood, wainscoting and trim. First floor master plus 5 additional bedrooms, 3 baths, 3rd floor family room/ game area, 7,611 sq. ft. Private, wooded 1.25 acre estate with perennial gardens and views/privileges on Chalmers Lake. CLA211061864

Custom built home in desirable Birmingham neighborhood. Built in 1992 with all the custom features and architectural details you could imagine. 4,680 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and 2 lavs. Unbelievable master suite with 14’ x 13’ lounging area, enormous closet plus jack and jill and private suite up. Finished lower level with kitchen, bath, 2nd family room, exercise room and game room. Oversized Trex deck with spacious yard and perennial gardens. Short Sale. WES211045934

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

THE INTEGRITY OF HALL & HUNTER...THE POWER OF CHRISTIE’S

Brad Wolf

Lynda Schrenk

Vice President/ Associate Broker

Realtor

248.568.3810

248.760.6026

BradleyWolf.com

HallandHunter.com

Birmingham $675,000 A rare opportunity! This house offers an “Up North” feel in a serene private setting within walking distance of downtown Birmingham. Built in 1971 with a modern flair and today’s amenities including large rooms and vaulted ceilings. Master suite with walk-in closet and master bath. Extensive landscaping.

Bloomfield $998,000 Bloomfield $450,000 Make this house uniquely your own. This Village colonial offers 3500 square feet on a 1/2 acre plus lot. It needs renovation but has good basic structure. The split floor plan offers a first floor master suite. A fourth bedroom upstairs can be used as a teen suite or a second floor family room.

Enjoy sweeping hilltop views of Endicott Lake from this 2.74 acre lot. The land has been prepped for building the home of your dreams. Very private and wooded setting at the end of a cul de sac in the city of Bloomfield Hills within the awardwinning Birmingham school district. It is also in close proximity to the Cranbrook schools.

Troy $485,000 Completely renovated western Troy colonial on private setting. Impressive kitchen with commercial appliances & granite counters is open to 31x22 family room. Brazilian cherry flooring. Master suite includes fireplace, dual walk-in closets, jetted tub. 2nd floor laundry, 3 car garage and finished basement.

SOLD Birmingham $998,000 Saroki-designed in town home. Quality appointments throughout including 4 inch wood floors and 10' ceilings. Master suite with fireplace and French doors to balcony. Mahogany built-ins in living room plus bluestone surrounding family room fireplace. Kitchen has beamed ceiling, concrete counters and stainless appliances. Finished basement with temp controlled wine cellar. Unfinished 3rd floor offers even more possibilities.

CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

BATES

D AR DW

W W. MAPLE

284 W MAPLE 248

885-8750

M T W Th F S Sun

10-7 10-7 10-7 10-8 10-7 10-6 12-5

TRAVERSE CITY / BIRMINGHAM

CRIME LOCATOR

NORTH

Map key

Sexual assault

Assault

Murder

Robbery

Home invasion

Breaking/entering

Larceny

Burglary

Vehicle theft

Larceny from vehicle

Vandalism

Drug offenses

Arson

These are the crimes reported under select categories by police officials in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills through June 20, 2011. Placement of codes is approximate.

HOMELESS IN OAKLAND AFFLUENT COUNTY NOT IMMUNE TO PROBLEM, ACCORDING TO 2011 HOMELESSNESS SURVEY BY LISA BRODY

omelessness. By definition it describes the condition of people who do not live in a permanent dwelling. In reality, it is so much more. And Oakland County, where an early 2011 count found over 1,000 people homeless, is not immune from the problem. Homelessness can refer to the drunk sleeping in a nearby office building's alcove with newspapers covering him, or the family who has lost their home to economic upheaval and is now living in a shelter or on relative's couches. It can be a teen who has run away due to abuse, or whose family can no longer afford to care for all of their children. The homeless may be mentally disturbed, off their meds, or individuals who are suddenly unemployed, without savings, with no place to turn. Regardless of the circumstances, the end result is the same, and experts warn many local people are only one paycheck away from being in their shoes. Webster's Dictionary defines homelessness as destitute of a home. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Department (HUD) defines a homeless person as an individual or family who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and an individual or family who has a primary nighttime residence that is a supervised publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide temporary living conditions, including welfare hotels, congregate shelters, and transitional housing for the mentally ill; an institution that provides a temporary residence for individuals intended to be institutionalized; a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, regular sleeping accommodations for human beings. The homeless can include the “unsheltered,” a segment of the homeless who do not have ordinary lawful access to buildings in which to sleep. They're often referred to as “street people.” While most prefer to be unhoused, refusing to go to shelters and receive care, as of early 2011, there has been an increase of unsheltered persons dying of hypothermia, as well as other diseases. Some have families and homes to return to, but either because of mental illness, abuse, or other reasons, choose to live on the streets.

ITS NOT TOO OFTEN THAT EVERYTHING IS ON SALE BUT THIS DAY NEARLY EVERYTHING IS ON SALE! Come see us at The Purple Bear during the Sidewalk Sale Saturday, July 23, from 10am-5pm only

As always after the sale the mamabears and cubs take a much needed vacation for a few days and reopen 8/1/11.

244 E. MAPLE • BIRMINGHAM 248-645-0400 • www.thepurplebear.com

Complete Home Remodeling

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248.207.5583 arbortowneconstruction.com

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DOWNTOWN

07.11

According to HUD, a “chronically homeless” individual is someone who “is an unaccompanied homeless individual with a disabling condition who has either been continuously homeless for a year or more, or has had at least four episodes of homelessness in the past three years.” A portion of homeless people are constantly in transit, and our terminology for them is rooted in that transitional vernacular. Historically, in Europe, homeless, transitional people were shifty, shady and untrustworthy; they were gypsies, tramps, vagabonds and transients. During the Great Depression, a tramp or a hobo became synonymous with not only someone homeless, but someone lacking a work ethic, or any kind of social or personal ethics. That image remains today, hovering over the homeless, regardless of its cause.

ccording to the National Coalition for the Homeless, homelessness and poverty are often inextricably linked. Poor people are frequently unable to pay for housing, food, childcare, healthcare and education. Difficult choices must be made when limited resources cover only some of these necessities. Housing, which eats up a huge proportion of income, is the item that is dropped. “If you are poor, you are essentially an illness, an accident, or a paycheck away from living on the streets,” a July 2009 National Coalition for the Homeless report stated. It noted that in 2007, 12.5 percent of the U.S population, or over 37 million people, lived in poverty. Of that, 40 percent are children, while only making up 25 percent of the population. There are two significant factors accounting for the increase in familial poverty, eroding employment and the decline of public assistance. Factor in stagnant and falling incomes for those who still have jobs, and the reason for some homelessness emerges. Declining wages have put housing out of reach for many workers. In every state, it takes more than the minimum wage, which in Michigan is $7.40 an hour, to afford a one or two-bedroom apartment. It is recommended that 30 percent of a person's income go to housing; however, for many poor people, more than 50 percent of their salaries can go towards rent or housing costs. There are others who cannot even afford to put that towards housing, and they wind up behind on their mortgage or rent, and end up facing eviction, with no place to go. The National Coalition for the Homeless asserts that the declining value and availability of public assistance is another source of increasing poverty and homelessness. Until its repeal in August 1996, the largest cash assistance program for poor families with children was the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program. Aid to families was cut again in Michigan on May 25, 2011, when the state legislature approved, and Gov. Rick Snyder signed, Senate Bill 179, which includes major budget changes in appropriations to the Department of Human Services (DHS) for the upcoming fiscal year. Included in the bill is a 48-month lifetime limit, which is retroactive, for family independence cases. There are exemptions for having a physical or mental incapacity, caring for a disabled family member, being a victim of domestic violence, certain periods of pregnancy, or after giving birth. There is a funding reduction of $77.4 million for this line item, anticipating that approximately 12,600 cases, or 15 percent of the caseload, will have their benefits expire. It can be rightly presumed that some of these families have right-sized their financial boats, and should be cut from state welfare rolls. Yet others contend that many more of these families, especially those that are headed by single women, will drift into even deeper poverty and homelessness. Poverty is just one factor in homelessness. There are many others. Illness can be a huge source, particularly for families and individuals who are already struggling to pay the rent. A serious illness or disability, especially for those without health insurance, can create a cyclone into homelessness. It can begin with a lost job or depletion of savings to pay for the care, and leading to eventual eviction. With no safety net left, the family or individual is left homeless. Those with mental illnesses comprise a significant percentage of the nation's, and local shelters report, our local homeless population. Those suffering from severe depression can be classified in this group, as well. Approximately 20 to 25 percent of the single adult homeless population suffer from some form of severe and persistent mental illness, and about 40 percent are alcohol and substance abusers, with about 15 percent suffering both disabilities. According to James Wright of Tulane University, who has studied

the prevalence of alcohol and other drug abuse among the homeless population, 38 percent of homeless people are alcohol abusers, vs. 10 percent of the general population, and that 13 percent of homeless people are drug abusers. “From our experience, most (homeless individuals) have problems with mental illness,” said Birmingham Police Chief Don Studt. “There's no place any longer to take them. From what we have seen, it's not an economic thing, it's a mental health item.” Physical disabilities can also be a contributing cause to homelessness, as disabled individuals may be unable to work or find appropriate employment. For those receiving Supplemental Social Security (SSI), they often struggle to obtain and maintain stable housing. There are reports that veterans and those who have been exposed to severely violent situations suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which often makes it difficult for them to have a stable life, and there is a percentage of the homeless who are veterans with PTSD. Then there are those suffering from situational homelessness—as a result of a divorce, a natural disaster or fire, a falling out with a roommate, with no place to go, or as a consequence of tragedy. There are some people who become stronger in those situations, and others who simply cease functioning because their families died or were killed, they are left on their own with their children as a result of a divorce, or due to a natural disaster. The circumstances may have occurred last week, last year, or 15 years ago. Regardless of the length of time, their coping mechanisms have left them unable to deal with the hand life has dealt them, and they have spiraled down to the lowest rung, that of homelessness. Every two years, HUD mandates a Point in Time Street count of all individuals who were literally homeless at a point in time. Jill Shoemaker, HMIS Coordinator/HUD Program Director in Troy, said, “Volunteers canvassed areas within Oakland County to count folks who were literally homeless (on the street or in a place not meant for human habitation) on Jan. 25, 2011.” On that date, just five months ago, there were 476 people in emergency shelters, warming shelters and transitional housing programs in Oakland County. Another 237 were unsheltered—on the streets. Of course, there could be many more unsheltered individuals, but they are known to hide and attempt to avoid detection by authorities who are there to help them, and those seeking to either arrest them or move them to shelters or out of their communities. The count includes another 471 individuals in permanent supportive housing programs, for a total of 1,184 homeless people, including eight households that were included in the count. Shoemaker said that for people responding, 65 answered that their last permanent address was in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills or Bloomfield Township, consisting of 28 single individuals and 22 families (36 people).

wo years ago, there were 1,093 homeless people in Oakland County, an increase of 91 people. Two years ago there were 500 people in shelters, 433 in permanent supportive housing programs, and 160 unsheltered people. There were no households in the street count. “It's happening in every community in Oakland County,” said Jim Perlaki, vice president of external relations for Common Ground. “It's happening in our wealthier communities as well as our less affluent ones, because it's not due to just one issue.” Perlacki sits on the Oakland County Task Force for Homelessness and Affordable Housing, and said that one of the notable recents concerns has been the growing amount of homeless families. “We do not have enough resources for that growing population of need, and we do not have enough emergency bed space,” he said, noting that local shelters have not been prepared for this population. “It's the number one largest area of need, because of the economics and its ramifications. There have been the loss of jobs. The unemployment leads to home foreclosure, which leads to homelessness if there is not a support system, if people do not have other people, or family, to live with. Some people are struggling also with mental health issues and substance abuse, and pure and simple, people are finding themselves at the end of their rope. They've struggled and struggled and struggled, and this is it.” Families who have been renting, even if they have stayed current with their

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rent, may become victims of landlords being foreclosed upon. “Then they (the renters) become victims of homelessness,” Perlacki said. “A growing concern is that there is not enough affordable rental housing for the population's needs. It's really, really tough right now. It's why it's so important to build a community of support, because without it, when people are in trouble, they do not have any place to turn.” LaWanda Jackson, executive director of Solid Ground, a transitional housing and counseling center in Roseville, noted that “When they're homeless, they have credit issues, and they cannot get an apartment without good credit. We help them pull a credit report, and try to work with them to get their credit looking better. Some people have lost their jobs and their unemployment has run out. A lot of people just need a little time to get back on their feet.” She also pointed out that for some, what can make a difference is getting a drivers license, so that they have identification and the ability to transport themselves. They work to set up payment plans with the Secretary of State's office to accommodate individuals in need of a license. Local police departments and municipal government officials were all surprised to hear the results of street count, because they assert there is little or no evidence of homelessness in their municipalities. Yet the count reveals that perhaps people are good at hiding their circumstances. “We do not have that many. Usually they're not homeless, just vagrants passing through,” said Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne. “If we do find anyone, we take them up to the Salvation Army in Pontiac.” Bloomfield Township Police Sgt. Kurt Dudek concurred. “Anytime we run across anyone that's homeless, they're transients,” he said. “They haven't set up residence in the township. We haven't see any tents nor any evidence in foreclosed or empty homes.” He said they have not had any incidents he can recall of panhandling at any of the township's many strip centers. “Occasionally, we'll get vagrants coming off of busses who come from somewhere else to panhandle, and we'll get a complaint. We'll urge them to get back on the bus, and they comply. But I can't remember a time when I've made an arrest for panhandling or homelessness,” he said.

A son's wandering; a mother's sorrow By Lisa Brody

e can be seen wandering the streets of Birmingham, alone, sometimes quietly talking to himself. As you pass him, he is often looking off in the distance, seeing something past you. Say hello to him, and maybe he'll respond, but just as often, he might avoid you. If you're walking a dog, there are times he'll reach out to pet it. Other times, he seems unnerved by the animal, almost scared, even though the dog is small and friendly, and the dog recognizes him. He is known by two different names, the name his mother gave him, and a name that he prefers right now. It's not known where he came up with this new one. He will answer to either, if he's in the mood to answer at all. He is a handsome young African American man who is homeless on the streets of downtown Birmingham. The police know him. Many of the shopkeepers and restaurant owners know him. You may have passed him. But you may not have seen him, because like many other homeless individuals, he knows how to keep himself

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moving, to allow himself to blend in with the kids and teens and wellheeled women walking down Maple and Old Woodward and Pierce and Henrietta. Like other homeless people, he knows how to make himself invisible. And he knows how to make himself disappear. He is soft-spoken and polite. He said he likes being in Birmingham. “It's a nice place. I like being here,” he said. He said he spends a lot of time in Baldwin Library and in Shain Park, and that he walks around a lot. He said he always sleeps inside, pointing to vacant storefronts. When asked how he gets inside, he said, “I just do.” He said he never sleeps outdoors. Most mornings, he can be found in the window of Birmingham's Beyond Juice. General manager Tim Pattison and manager Ryan Torgerson said he's there waiting for them when they get there at 6 a.m. “People buy him breakfast every day,” said Pattison. “He seems very respectful,” said Torgerson, noting there had been a period when he had been having outbursts—directed only towards himself—but “he's a lot better now. His mom takes care of him.” His mother, a devoutly-religious woman who lives and works in a neighboring suburb, refuses to 07.11

Payne did remember a homeless man who had lived in a tent for many years in the Kensington/Adams/Big Beaver area, in the rear of someone's wooded property. “It was in a sheltered, wooded natural area. The neighbors knew of him, and left him alone. He lived out there in all kinds of weather. He was living a natural life, and he eventually died there. They found him in his tent,” Payne said. Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens said he had not heard of any instances of homelessness in the city. “The PSO (public safety officers) have been looking at some of the empty homes, and code enforcement has been checking to see if there are any squatters there, and then reporting back to public safety, but I haven't heard of any incidences,” Cravens said. Bloomfield Hills Police Chief Richard Matott said, “We have all of the vacant homes on house watch. We periodically drive by them, get out and check them and make sure there are no squatters, that they remain unoccupied.” While he currently is unaware of any homeless individuals in Bloomfield Hills, “A while ago we had a guy living off of Canterbury Crescent (east of Woodward, north of Big Beaver), off of the railroad tracks. We were watching him for B & Es (breaking and entering). He eventually left.” Birmingham Police Chief Don Studt noted that “it's not illegal to be homeless, so we're limited in our options. If they're in a park, we can direct them out, because the park closes at a certain hour. If they're sleeping in a doorway, it's private property, and you don't want them there. We're pretty fortunate that we don't have too many.” Being a city with a defined downtown area, Birmingham does see some homeless people. But Studt is adamant that it is not a result of the economic downturn, and that the numbers have not changed with the recession the area has been experiencing. “There's not been any difference with the economy. It's a mental health item. The people we see have mental health issues, not economic problems. A lot of them do not want the requirements (of a shelter) where they have to clean up, bathe, and follow their rules,” Studt said. “Same if they have families. They want to be here.” He said that oftentimes, to the extent that they are able to, his police believe he is homeless. “He is not homeless,” she said. “He has a home to come to. I want him home. I love him. I provide everything for him. I go and find him in Birmingham; try to get him to come home. I have everything at home, even a car I bought for him. He does not need to be there. He wants to be. I come out all of the time and beg him to come into the car.” She noted that until a few years ago, he held a good job after attending a local college for a while. “In his 20s (he is 31), he was a leader of some groups he was in. He dressed well. He wouldn't leave the house unless he was dressed really well and he smelled good,” she said. “He held a job for five years, and he made one mistake for a big client, and they fired him. After five years. And that devastated him. It hit his selfesteem, and at that point it was a downward spiral. He was 25.” She said she has gotten him help with the Easter Seals, who she said diagnosed him with deep depression and “one report said he may be schizophrenic. When I see him talking to himself, I tell him to not let the bad spirits get control. I ask the Lord for help.” She said Easter Seals had tried to help him, but that he did not like it, that he downtownpublications.com

did not like the medication. “He did not want to be judged. He likes not being accountable. It's easier not being accountable to anyone. On the streets, he's not accountable to anyone. He's on his own,” she said. She's sad and tortured and desperate for him to get help, to come back home to her. She said during the cold months of winter, he came back home and stayed with her, even letting her hug him. But any kind of conflict, and he's gone again. “I was practicing tough love. Now, I'm trying to leave him alone about a job or anything. He does not have to meet my goals and expectations. In the past, there would be a blow up before he would leave. But this spring, I came home one day from work, and he was gone.” She worries every day, and every night. “I had to come to grips with the Lord each night” so she could sleep, knowing he is out on the streets. “It worries me that he's getting older. I know this isn't it. He's just given up on life. He thinks it's easier on the streets.” She wants to help him create a life that's safe inside. She wants to help him, or for someone to help him. No one knows what he wants.

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officers take the homeless individuals to shelters in Detroit or Pontiac. “If they refuse, we try to get them to a bus stop,” he said. Some of them do return in time to the same places where they had been removed.

ommon Ground's Perlaki said that homeless teens often become homeless for different reasons than their adult counterparts. The National Coalition for the Homeless notes that one out of every three homeless people are under the age of 18, with the majority between 15 and 17. Three of every 100 runaways are under the age of 10, and 11 of 100 are between 11 and 13. Common Ground provides professional assistance to youths aged 10 to 23 in two different programs, Sanctuary, for youths 10 to 17, which is a three-week program of counseling with a goal of family reunification, and then a transitional living program for teens 16 to 23, teaching them independent living and job skills. Each offers intensive counseling. Common Ground has a 24-hour crisis hotline for Oakland County connecting youths with appropriate resources at 1-800-231-1127. “Young people become homeless often because they have been ejected from the home or they have run away,” said Perlaki. “It's usually precipitated because of a family crisis. Either they've been ejected because of a blowup between the youth and a guardian in the home, or they feel it is no longer safe for them in the home. It might be due to physical or sexual abuse in the home, from a parent, stepparent, a parent's boyfriend, a sibling, grandparent, aunt or uncle; or substance abuse in the home. It's assumed that teenagers are often substance abusers, but really teens are more experimental. It's usually the adults in the home who are often alcohol abusers, which creates a lack of stability in the home, a lack of rules, never knowing what is coming next. A young person needs to feel safe.” Statistics reveal that about half of all runaways were physically abused before fleeing from their home, and up to a third were forced to perform a sexual act against their will. A tenth of female runaways are pregnant. Half of all runaways have had a blowup with a parent, and a third will attempt suicide. “There are also a variety of mental health disorders, both treated and untreated, that create problems,” he continued. “It could be their own or the adult role model within the home. With those levels of stress escalating until there is an explosion, until the teen runs away.” Perlaki noted that Oakland County does not have as high a percentage of street kids as cities like Detroit, New York or Washington D.C., but they still exist. They are often unseen because they “couch surf.” “Most of the time, they'll end up going to a friend's house for a day or two, until their parent has had enough, then they will go to another friend's house or a grandparent's,” he said. “It's called “couch surfing,” going from home to home to home, until someone intercedes and gets them help, and contacts Common Ground or another professional.” The solutions to homelessness are systemic and societal, with as many remedies as causes. One that is by HUD is the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act programs, which award funds. Originally passed in 1987, it is a federal program which provides money for shelters. The McKinney Act originally had fifteen programs providing a spectrum of services to homeless people, including the Continuum of Care Programs: the Supportive Housing Program, the Shelter Plus Care Program, and the Single Room Occupancy Program, as well as the Emergency Shelter Grant Program. Today, the funds are granted based on a competition of availability of funds to states. The Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Programs include a Supportive Housing Program which provides housing, including housing units and group quarters, has a supportive environment and includes a planned service component. The Shelter Plus Care Program provides grants for rental assistance for homeless people with disabilities. The Emergency Shelter SCAN FOR AUDIO Grant Program is designed to help improve the quality of existing emergency shelters for the homeless, to create additional shelters, to meet the costs of operating shelters, to provide essential social services to homeless individuals and to help prevent homelessness from occurring. Jim Perlaki Yet until more facilities for the mentally ill are available where they can be comfortable and willingly take their medications; until there is a sustained economic recovery with plentiful jobs; until substance abuse and its repercussions are eradicated; homelessness will exist, and communities will have to deal with LaWanda Jackson its consequences. downtownpublications.com

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Nick Gangadharan ick Gangadharan is an information technology specialist who recently created an iPad application for Chrysler, but his aptitude for taking things apart and discovering how they work began as a child. “My mom likes to tell people about the time I took apart my crib from the inside,” said Gangadharan. “I always loved to see what makes things go. When I get a piece of equipment, the first thing I do is take it apart.” Gangadharan earned a bachelor’s degree in information technology and a master’s degree in software engineering from Oakland University, but his career in computers started long before, at Cranbrook Kingswood. “I wanted to buy something and my parents said, ‘If you get a job, you can pay for it yourself,’” he said. “My first job was actually at the Cranbrook Institute of Science. I worked as a greeter, but I helped so much with the computers, I was offered a job in IT by Tom DeCraene.” Gangadharan’s career catapulted him from there and he moved on to work for the Bloomfield Township Public Library. “That job was extra special to me because that’s my hometown library,” he said. “That was part of the reason I wanted to work there.” A Bloomfield Hills resident for over 15 years, Gangadharan was born to parents immersed in the medical field. “My dad is a cardiologist and my mom was an intensive care unit nurse,” he said. “They’ve definitely been supportive and they recognize that this is the direction I should be going in.” Having begun his career at only 17, Gangadharan has become a

successful technology manager for ES3, a company specializing in advertising, marketing, public relations, trade events and e-learning for automobile companies. A collaboration between Gangadharan’s technical skills and the creative director’s brand awareness spawned the idea for the Chrysler iPad Catalogs. “I brought up the idea to the creative director of Union Adworks (sister company to ES3),” he said. “It’s a shopping tool between the website and the dealership. You can build your own car, and it showcases and features certain aspects of the vehicle. They showed (the idea) to the marketing director at Chrysler. It was really exciting to be involved with this project. That’s huge for me.” Gangadharan is enjoying sharing his professional recognition with his family, but he also credits many life lessons to his alma mater, Cranbrook Kingswood. “You get a sense of how to be a good person at Cranbrook. The diversity of the students and faculty is very important, and you get a sense of curiosity that you may not have been exposed to otherwise.” While Gangadharan names his current job with ES3 as the current highlight of his career, his goal is to move toward software development. He isn’t likely to stop evolving. “I think you should dream big,” he said. “If you believe you can do it, you can do it. That’s how I got to where I have today.” Story: Katey Meisner

Photo: Laurie Tennent

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Birmingham has developed into a vibrant bedroom community, one of the first-tier of suburbs which ringed the industrial metropolis of Detroit. Interestingly, as Detroit plunged in both population and economic vitality after the 1967 riots, Birmingham continued to thrive and flourish, first as a home to many high-level automotive executives and their suppliers, as well as the attorneys and physicians who attended to them, and then later, to a burgeoning affluent constituency seeking to find an urban environment in the metro Detroit area which they had experienced in other cities. With downtown Detroit poverty-stricken and devoid of many public services, they turned to downtown Birmingham, reinventing it as the urban city of choice. As of the 2010 census, Birmingham has a population of 20,103 people, up from 19,291 people in 2000. According to the U.S. Census, the racial and ethnic composition of the population was 90.7 percent Non-Hispanic white; 3 percent African American; 2.5 percent Asian; 2.1 percent Hispanic or Latino; 1.6 percent reporting two or more races; 0.1 percent Native American; and 0.1 percent reporting some other race. In land mass, Birmingham covers 4.8 square miles, with 20 parks, including two municipal golf courses, public tennis courts, baseball diamonds and nature trails. The amenities of the city, particularly the strong downtown area, have become an attraction for those wanting the urban lifestyle. While there are many traditional single family home neighborhoods ringing the downtown area, the immediate downtown area offers a number of residential units above the street-level retail stores or as standalone housing complexes. Take, for instance, the 555 Building, built in 1983 at the southern edge of downtown Birmingham, where Old Woodward and Woodward meet. It was the first high-rise building in Birmingham, and caused an outcry amongst many long-time residents and then-city commissioners who felt its 14-story building was too large and contemporary for the city. The 555 Building was also one of the first buildings designed to be a mixed-use building, with numerous floors of residential units, a separate high-rise building for office space, and a few floors for retail. Now, the building is considered a southern gateway into the city, although since it was built, city ordinances have been enacted to make sure that no other mixeduse buildings are taller than five stories. Residential units in the 555 Building have always been rental. In the 1980s, it was a destination for young professionals, those who were divorced or widowed, or who had other homes and were seeking a maintenance-free life. Later, it fell out of favor as newer, fancier buildings were built, and people sought to buy, rather than rent. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the 555 Building, and it’s considered a landmark. Units

have been renovated, and as Birmingham’s downtown has thrived, so has the 555 Building. Now managed by True North Management, the building has studios, one-bedroom units, two-bedroom apartments, and three-bedroom apartments. Studios range in price from $1,060 to $1,160 per month for 608 square feet. Onebedroom apartments are $1,255 to $1,355 per month for 822 square feet. Two-bedroom units, which are 1,250 square feet, run $1,825 to $1,925 a month; and three- bedroom apartments are $2,540 to $3,040 a month, and 1,776 square feet. The apartment building offers community amenities, including a controlled entrance with an elegant lobby; 24-hour emergency maintenance; an exercise/fitness room; bike storage; Internet access; dry cleaner and laundry; and onsite maintenance. Drapes and blinds are included in each unit, and some are furnished. They offer extended stay availability, which is ideal for transferees, especially international transferees, who may not want to commit to a home purchase. However, getting in is extremely difficult today, as are most apartments in the downtown area. “The 555 Building—you can't touch it. They have a waiting list,” said Lanie Hardy Cosgrove, a real estate agent with Birmingham's Hall & Hunter Realtors. Birmingham Place, a couple of blocks north of the 555 Building on S. Old Woodward, has condos for sale, and rental units. “The rental potential for high rise condos is over the top,” said Cosgrove, noting that Birmingham Place, which she represents, has an extreme waiting list for rental. “It's because people like the turnkey lifestyle. It's also idea for those who live here part-time. They may have lots of houses elsewhere, and are here in the spring and fall. We also find there are a lot of professionals who want to live here.” She noted that a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment, all of 700 square feet, in Birmingham Place, recently went in a day, for $2,000 a month. “In the past, apartments were renting for about a $1 a square foot in town, maybe a little more, because of all of the amenities. Now, they're renting for almost $3 a square foot for in town rentals,” she noted. “People call me begging to get into rentals in town, and I have a waiting list. I get five calls a day (for Birmingham Place), but I'm booked.” The Merrillwood Arms Apartments, at 211 E. Merrill, has 51 units, ranging in size from studios to three bedrooms. Rent for a small studio, 466 square feet, is $695 a month. A larger studio, 535 square feet, is $910 a month. A small onebedroom, one-bath is $1,195; the larger onebedroom, one- bath is $1,310. The two-bedroom, one-bath rents for $1,610 a month; the twobedroom, two-bath is $1,680 a month. Both the three-bedroom, two-bath and the three bedroom, three-bath are $1,940 a month. The building has an underground garage, and all but the three-bedroom units receive one parking spot apiece; three-bedroom units receive two. Those who require extra parking can get a reasonable parking rate at the Pierce Street Garage, which management negotiates for them. If you can get into any of their apartments.

“Our occupancy rate is completely full,” said residential manager Margaret Moss. Moss said many of her tenants have been with the building for many years, and she sees little turnover, other than for the studios and one-bedrooms. “Often, those are rented by executives working in the area, who are here for a year, and then they move on,” she said. “Often, in an apartment building, there is only one age demographic. In our building, there is everything,” she said. “There is such a nice blending of tenants. We have a nice variety of occupations and ages. We have young medical residents and young professionals. We have families, and we have retirees. We have couples.” She notes that the building is in a perfect location in downtown Birmingham. “We're so centrally located,” she said. “If they're working, they can easily get wherever they need to go. If they want to walk anywhere, it's so easy because we're right in the center of everything.” Downtown landlord Ted Fuller, who built a home on Pierce Street for himself and wife Dulcie, who owns the E. Maple boutique Woodward & Maple, after living in Orchard Lake for years, has two rental units above Ann Taylor Loft and Starbucks in the 151 Building. He has found the demand for his two 4,200 square foot units to be very strong. Each unit is occupied, with a waiting list. He declined to reveal the rent, “out of respect for my tenants,” he said. Each unit is a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath apartment with a living room, dining room kitchen and 900 square foot terrace. “I think the higher end rental market is so strong because the economy is so uncertain, and people do not want to make the investment back into brick and mortar, even if they can afford to,” Fuller said. “A lot of people in this situation have a place Up North in the summer and down south for the winter, and they're only here in the shoulder seasons. They enjoy just turning the key. Someone else looks after it the rest of the time. There's no maintenance.” Fuller said he believes it's not strictly an economic issue. “It's a lifestyle choice. They can afford the large homes, but they no longer want them. They want to travel or have multiple homes in different locations. They might have an apartment in New York, or a place down south, a place Up North, and no longer want the big house on the hill.” For he and his wife, they love the convenience of living in an urban environment. “I walk to work,” he said. “I enjoy the conveniences of service in a central business area. There are parks, restaurants, galleries, shops. If we had more density in downtown, with more high end residential, it would lead to getting better clothing shops and galleries again.” That may be good in theory, but in actuality, there is a threshold where people say “enough.” The 180 Pierce building is an example where a high-end rent is not (currently) being met. This

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five-story building has a three-bedroom, threeand-a-half bath, 5,652 square foot furnished apartment where the rent is $14,500 a month. As of press time, it is still on the market. The very high-end purchase market in downtown Birmingham has not been as successful in rebounding from the economic downturn as the home market or the rental market, with expensive properties languishing in the marketplace. The gateway building, Greenleaf Trust, at Woodward and Maple, has two floors of residential for sale. Reportedly it is currently only inhabited by principals of the company, from Kalamazoo. Until recently, when two unfinished units were sold at bargain prices, only one unit had been sold of the residences in the building above Fleming's and Beal Bank, on N. Old Woodward. When the building was proposed, there were deposits on all seven units. By the time the building was constructed, only one had been purchased, and remained that way until the last 60 days. The Willits, built ten years ago, before September 11, 2001, the automotive industry crash and the subsequent housing bubble collapse, has seen the value of its 58 units fall drastically. Building manager Kim Baydoun, who has been with the building since it was a shell, notes that there is currently only one condo for sale, though she acknowledges that 12 of the 58 units are leased out by the homeowners, using an independent realtor. Records show that prices in 2002 and 2003 for

most units were between $850,000 and $1.1 million—and then owners would customize and decorate them. But, like every other property in Michigan and in Birmingham (and the United States), those prices did not last. A third floor, two- bedroom, two-and-a-half bath unit sold in April 2010 for $310,000. One was recently in foreclosure, “and sold in a week's time. The people have already taken possession,” Baydoun said. The building is a full service, luxury mid-rise condominium, and is still in demand, offering 24-hour concierge service and a maintenance-free lifestyle. “Prices plummeted — that was just the market. There's still a great deal of interest in The Willits,” Baydoun said. She said the building has attracted a very eclectic group, from elderly residents to people with kids in college, a lot of empty nesters, and “young up and comers, they're in their mid- to late-20s, early 30s, and they're starting in business. We have a lot of singles, but not families,” she said. “Most of my homeowners have two to three homes, and only live here in the summer. They don't live here in the winter, only coming for doctor's appointments. We do not see them until May or

The state of real estate market ll in all, Birmingham is a pretty desirable place to live. And a very expensive one, as well. While property values have plummeted by approximately one-half from its peak in the heady days of 2007 and 2008, and sales prices reflect that with sale prices dropping by one-half to two-thirds, relative to other areas of metro Detroit, Birmingham prices are still very high, and according to realtors who specialize in Birmingham sales, are rebounding and staying strong. “For the first time in four years, the market in Birmingham is showing an increase in the price per square foot homes are getting and a decrease in the time homes are staying on the market,” said real estate agent Renee Acho with SKBK Sotheby's International Realty in Birmingham. “Also, the list prices and sales prices are coming closer together. That seems to be a trend amongst my colleagues. We're all seeing homes in Birmingham getting better prices and they're selling quicker. There seems to be a greater urgency on the part of buyers, which is great for the Birmingham market. There's better confidence in the Birmingham market, and it's beginning to move upwards.” Lanie Hardy Cosgrove, a real estate agent with Birmingham's Hall & Hunter Realtors, concurs. “We're in an uptick in buying in Birmingham,” she said. “The market is on fire right now. People recognize that this is an opportunity to buy in areas that they could not afford to buy before—it was out of their reach.” In the downtown area, Cosgrove says she sees a mix of young professionals, empty nesters, and a small amount of families with young children who enjoy walking to the city's beautiful parks. “Birmingham is a walkable community, and that's reflected in the prices,” she said. Cosgrove has noticed a new trend which she has not seen in several years, and is very excited about because of what it portends for the area, and the overall economy. “There are also investors coming back into the market,” she said. “In the past few years, we did not have a lot of investors because they did not see it as a good risk.” Acho said right now she is selling to a mix of transferees and people who are moving houses within the area. “Right now there is a combination of buyers in the marketplace,” she said.

June. They know they can travel free of worry of their home. We're centrally-located, and we take care of everything. Many of our residents move in here and say, 'I've had a big house, I'm not sure I'm going to like it here.' And after a couple of months, they love it.” Birmingham architect Chris Longe, who worked on the redesign of 250 Martin, the sevenunit luxury condominium building facing Shain Park, sees things differently, perhaps because of the lack of success of the building, which has not sold any units. Condominiums in the building start at $2.4 million. They range from 3,900 square feet to 5,000 square foot, and are all three bedrooms with private terraces. “The value of downtown living has not really caught on here like in Chicago,” he said. “As the population gets older, people gravitate to a walkable community. But luxury buildings, like 180 Pierce, 250 Martin, The Dakota (behind Salvatore Scallopini on Harmon), Ken Kojaian's townhouses on Brown, have been hard sells. People say they do not want yards, then they live in houses that are perfectly manicured.” He did acknowledge that prices for these buildings are likely an obstacle. “With the higher-end, high-rise, for purchase market in Birmingham, a lot of those projects have not been completed, and people cannot envision what they're going to look like, and they're priced too high,” said Cosgrove. “Real estate is emotionally-driven, and people have to get excited to buy. A model or a shell does not do it. It's hard to get excited for a model. “If it's overpriced, it's sitting on the market.”

“Recently, there have been a good number of transferees from Chicago and California, people who are coming from urban environments who want to recreate that lifestyle in this environment. For people from outside Michigan, Birmingham has that urban environment.” The other notable buyer she is seeing in Birmingham are people who have sold their existing home in Birmingham, and want to stay in the area. “They're just looking for a different kind of home now. They're either upsizing or downsizing.” Besides prices and price points, another key difference this spring compared to the last couple of years is the willingness of buyers to actually buy—and not just to rent. Where in the past, Birmingham was not a strong rental market, with apartments languishing unrented and prices not particularly high—more like other rental markets than a chic urban area. Today, rental rates are obscene, with apartments and rental homes difficult to get into with long waiting lists. “Primarily, people are buying, especially transferees, because people are willing to commit to staying here for a few years, and there are not a lot of rental properties on the market,” said Acho. “There has been a shift in the market, I think due to loan modifications, and acceptance of lower prices on homes. Also, there are less homes that have been built on spec (speculation), which was a big part of the rental market the last few years. Builders were renting out their specs because they couldn't sell them, and now most have sold. “Now, the rental market is very difficult,” she continued. “From the potential viewpoint of a potential tenant to find and rent someplace in Birmingham, especially downtown at a reasonable standpoint, it makes it less appealing. Now, what you can buy a home for, with interest rates low and taxes have come down, it's much more encouraging for people to buy a home in Birmingham than it's been for a while.” Cosgrove disagrees. “Rentals are strong right now because there is still some hesitation out there,” she said. “People are still not sure the Detroit market is strong, and if the uptick is here to stay. There is a huge demand for short-term rentals because people are building again, or they sold their home and they have no place to go. It is very difficult to find a short-term rental.”

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Doyle Mosher oyle Mosher, a born innovator, began his career with a business degree from Michigan State University and a passion for building his community, both literally and figuratively. “When I graduated from MSU, I made a little money in the stock market,” he said. “I bought a house in Birmingham. I went out on my own; a journey I started but didn’t necessarily know where it was going.” With an aptitude for architecture and building, Mosher co-founded Mosher Dolan, and became a successful builder. In 2006, Mosher co-founded the Collaborative Group, an organization of entrepreneurial thinkers from southeast Michigan focused on the betterment of Detroit. The gathering of thought leaders resulted in the creation of Challenge Detroit, an online reality competition that will bring 30 educated, diverse young people to the Motor City. “Challenge Detroit is really our first major initiative,” said Mosher. “We will identify 30 professionals we want to retain.” The program will be launched this fall and candidates are able to submit applications at challengedetroit.org. The selected 30 participants will live in downtown Detroit for one year and work at various businesses in southeast Michigan. “The companies come from all different industries.” Among the participating organizations are Payroll One, Trott & Trott of Birmingham, Quicken Loans and several other companies in the Detroit area. “My desire to help the city is to make it an attractive environment for young people to stay,” he said. “We’re now an underdog and a lot of people want to see us succeed. It’s exactly the right place at exactly the right time.”

Mosher’s knack for creative thought processes is something he learned from his parents, George and Doris Mosher, who founded Oakland Community College. “By far, they are the biggest inspiration of my life,” he said. “My father was the original chairman of the board and he still goes to work at 90 years of age.” A livelong Birmingham resident, Mosher’s greatest loves are his wife, Cindi, and his two children. “My drive and my passion to do (Challenge Detroit) are my kids,” said Mosher. He envisions an urban setting that would entice young people, including his own children, to want to remain near the city. “I just want to be around them.” As a family man, Mosher’s kids work with him on the Collaborative and Hired My Way, a website he co-founded that pairs potential employees with businesses. “We all work together pretty much every day. We’re very busy all the time as a family.” The Collaborative Group, Mosher Dolan and Hired My Way keep Mosher consistently engaged, but he still manages to find time to unwind. “I love to travel and I love to golf,” he said. “More than anything else, I love to socialize with people.” While Mosher has built up the aesthetic of his community through Mosher Dolan, his work with the employment landscape of Michigan is building hope and encouraging change, growth and advancement for Detroit. Story: Katey Meisner

Photo: Laurie Tennent

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LEGAL EXPENSES FEES ADD UP FOR MUNICIPALITIES, SCHOOL DISTRICTS BY LISA BRODY

perating a municipality or school district is an expensive proposition. There are salaries, health care benefits, pensions, legacy costs, disability costs, utility fees, union demands, sewer and road maintenance costs, numerous other expenses, and legal fees. Legal fees can amount to a sizable sum for a city or a school district, depending on the year and issues that may have come up which requires legal work. Cities, townships and villages often keep a lawyer or lawyers on general retainer in order to accommodate all of the municipal legal work that is generated and to provide representation at civic meetings. Legal fees are also generated for a municipality's public safety department, tax tribunals, as well as for labor issues. Often, different law firms may be used to provide independent advice and representation. William Hampton of Secrest Wardle in Farmington Hills is the attorney of record for both Bloomfield Hills and Bloomfield Township. According to its website, Secrest Wardle is a law firm which specializes in defense litigation and counsel for insurance, municipal and commercial clients. It was established almost a century ago in Detroit, and building on its strong foundation in the insurance defense area, it is now one of the largest firms in the Great Lakes area. Hampton provides municipalities with a multifaceted knowledge of the law as it affects public bodies. His past experience includes serving as an Oakland County Circuit Court Judge and in the Michigan House of Representatives, where he was both majority and minority leader. Hampton is joined by Elizabeth Kudla in his municipal work for Bloomfield Hills and Bloomfield Township. Both municipalities use Butzel Long for their labor attorneys; Malcolm Brown provides Bloomfield Hills with their legal services. Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne said attorneys from Butzel Long vary from year-to-year, depending on what services are being rendered and what legal advice is sought. Butzel Long is considered one of the country's leading law firms, first founded in Detroit in 1854, and now with offices in Bloomfield Hills, New York, Washington D.C., Mexico and China. They have over 160 attorneys, with a practice ranging from clients on the cutting edge of technology and innovation to traditional industrial and manufacturing giants. Brown works out of the firm's Bloomfield Hills office, and specializes in labor and employment law, representing management. He has substantial experience in all areas of private and public sector labor and employment law, including collective bargaining, Act 312 arbitrations, private sector interest arbitration, unfair labor practice cases, union

organizing, labor contract arbitration, statutory and constitutional issues involving public employees, civil rights, employee discharge and discipline. Bloomfield Township operates its fiscal year on a calendar year basis. For 2010, they paid $541,596 in legal fees. Thus far for 2011, they have paid $451,7123 in legal fees, seemingly far outpacing 2010. Bloomfield Township paid out $393,913 for professional services in 2010, and to date for 2011, they have paid $386,997 from the General Fund. Water and sewer expenses for 2010 totaled $76,101; for 2011, they are $19,542 so far. Public safety legal expenses were $31,212 for 2010. Fees are already $33,112 for 2011, through May 31, 2011. “Our general counsel is not a fixed amount,” said Payne. “He (Hampton) is paid for attending all of our meetings, legal opinions, reviewing contracts, ordinance reviews, and lawsuits.” He said Hampton is paid between $95 and $135 an hour for the work he does for the township. Payne said lawsuits can include situations which occur on township property, maintenance issue, zoning violations, the medical marijuana lawsuit, where two anonymous residents are suing the township seeking to have the towship's medical marijuana ordinance overturned. “If someone fails to comply with a zoning board of appeals ruling, sometimes it is necessary to go to court to get them to comply,” Payne said. Zoning lawsuits exist where a homeowner contests a zoning ruling and lost, but still fights the township. Payne said there are no lawsuits with the abandoned Bloomfield Park development. Hampton charges a similar amount to Bloomfield Hills for the same services. Bloomfield Hills' fiscal year is from July 1 to June 30. For fiscal year 2009-2010, municipal legal fees cost the city $120,206. Through May 31, 2011, for fiscal year 2010-2011, Bloomfield Hills has paid $80,138 in municipal legal fees. Bloomfield Hills uses Secrest Wardle for their public safety legal work, as well. Public safety legal matters can include prosecution of cases in the 48th District Court, fighting people who are contesting speeding tickets, and other public safety matters. In fiscal year 2009-2010, public safety legal expenses totaled $70,541, while for fiscal year 2010-2011, through May 31, 2011, public safety legal expense total $68,825.

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Labor attorney legal fees, paid to Brown at Butzel Long, were $64,580 for fiscal year 2009-2010, and thus far for fiscal year 2010-2011, they are $59,285. Bloomfield Hills City Clerk Amy Burton said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of our labor attorney legal fees relate to negotiations with department of public works, public safety officers, command and dispatch over new labor contracts.â&#x20AC;? Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens said that for fiscal year 20092010, most of their legal costs centered around rezoning and planned unit development (PUD) costs with two projects, The Plaza, by developer Arkan Jonna, at Woodward and Long Lake roads, and The Woodward, a planned assisted living development, by developer Michael Damone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There were a lot of costs involved with the negotiations with those individuals,â&#x20AC;? said Cravens. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There has been a lot involved rewriting the PUD development agreements because of various aspects of how much they were deliberated by the planning commission and the city commission. That can really run up the costs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To some extent, those costs are borne by the developers, with money put in escrow by them. Every person who comes into the city for a development review has to pay an escrow,â&#x20AC;? Cravens continued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Those escrow dollars are for consultant and legal reviews, depending on their complexity. But that money can be used up pretty quickly. When it gets low, we request that the developer replenish the escrow account.â&#x20AC;? Escrow accounts are very common in municipalities so that taxpayers do not bear all of the costs of development. ravens said legal fees for 2010-2011 represent other legal suits, as well, such as Lott v Bloomfield Hills, also known as the medical marijuana case, where a couple suffering from various ailments is seeking to have the city's medical marijuana ordinance thrown out. The city is spending money on legal fees to fight the suit. Another suit, initiated by resident Kevin Adell, is costing the city to fight him over a gate he wishes to install on his property on Martell. Adell has lost zoning appeal fights and sued the city. Cravens said the city's labor costs should go down for the rest of the year as labor contracts have largely been resolved, other than one with their dispatchers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Contracts are for three years, and so we should not have more costs for that for a while,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We're done with most negotiations right now, other than dispatch, and we only have a couple of dispatchers.â&#x20AC;? Tim Currier of Beier Howlett in Bloomfield Hills is Birmingham's city attorney. Beier Howlett, founded in 1903, serves a spectrum of clients, including individuals, municipalities, school districts and businesses of all sizes. Currier has practiced for over 25 years in municipal law, including representation of cities and school districts, and real estate, telecommunications, probate and construction law, and serves as a commercial arbitrator. His work with Birmingham has led to several groundbreaking lawsuits, including Kulak v City of Birmingham before Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2005, where he successfully defended the city's removal of a planning commission member; and Bloomfield Estates Improvements Association v City of Birmingham, before the Michigan Supreme Court in 2007, where he won in issues dealing with deed restriction issues. Currier and Beier Howlett are paid a general retainer of $11,500 a month to attend all meetings, from city commission, planning, zoning board of appeals and staff, plus any others deemed necessary by the city manager. They include night meetings, day meetings and to be available at all times by phone and in person, Currier said. Under the retainer, he reviews all city contracts, writes ordinances, reviews opinion letters, attends staffing meetings, meets with citizens as necessary, along with other regular meetings. Birmingham has a fiscal year which runs from July 1 to June 30. For fiscal year 2009-2010, Beier Howlett was paid $489,896. The breakdown included $138,000 in retainer matters; $154,092 in prosecution matters; $14,006 in issues relating to the transit center; $8,450 for work on the city's combined sewer/water system, related to the Oakland County Water Commission; $43,523 on prelitigation matters, regarding situations where people sue the city and the city has to respond. The balance of funds, which separately equal $5,000 each, were primarily Michigan Tax Tribunal cases, Currier said. For fiscal year 2010-2011 to date, Beier Howlett has been paid $511,991 by Birmingham. Of that total amount, so far, (not including June 2011 fees) $126,500 is for retainer fees; $146,102 is for prosecution work; $113,020 is related to the transit center; $13,306 is for work on the city's combined sewer/water system; $47,075 was spent on prelitigation work; $8,375 was spent by the city with the firm on a lawsuit, Bolyard v ZBA, on a nonconforming lot in the Poppleton Park neighborhood which was eventually settled in favor of the landowner; $23,585 in fighting Lott v Birmingham

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medical marijuana case, so far; and $35,000 on open tax tribunal cases. “When the economy is bad, the money we spend on development cases goes down, but the amount spent on tax tribunal cases goes up,” said Currier. “Also, prosecution cases go up. It's a direct correlation with the economy.” Currier said right now there are 126 open tax tribunal cases, which is the largest number they've ever seen, “and we could have 200 before it's all done,” he said. He noted that it used to be primarily commercial properties which would come before the tax tribunal, and now it is far more residential properties than commercial. Currier is assisted in his work for Birmingham by Jeff Kragt, a specialist in environment law; Mike Salhany, who does prelitigation work in the telecommunications field; Mary Kucharek, a prosecutor; Jeffrey Haynes, a tax tribunal and general litigation land use attorney; and Kenneth Sorenson, a pension attorney. Currier said beyond the retainer work, which has a monthly cap of hours, hourly work is generally billed out at $110 an hour, a significant reduction from the fees charged by prestigious firms to most corporate or personal clients, which can be in the several hundreds of dollars an hour. He said that tax tribunal work is charged out at $125 an hour, as is most work to school districts. etroit law firm Keller Thoma performs labor law work for Birmingham. Keller Thoma has been practicing traditional labor law since the passage of the Wagner Act in 1935. The firm provides legal advice and representation to a wide array of employers, from major corporations to small businesses, large cities to small villages, large medical institutions to small nursing homes, and local school districts to intermediate school districts. The law firm Miller Canfield routinely performs bond counsel work, tax increment work and general finance for the city of Birmingham. In fiscal year 2009-2010, Birmingham spent $2,236.50 with Miller Canfield to have them help Birmingham with tax increment financing (TIF) for the Triangle District of Birmingham, the area east of Woodward, west of Woodward, north of Lincoln and south of Maple. The work was to help establish the corridor for improvement. No money was spent with Miller Canfield in fiscal year 2010-2011 so far. Recently, the city had a specific need for legal lobbying work to be done for the proposed Troy/Birmingham intramodal transit center, in which Birmingham no longer participates. But in fiscal year 2009-2010, Birmingham spent $97,500 with Birmingham law firm Clark Hill, and $5,000 to date in fiscal year 2010-2011 on lobbying for the transit center. However, half of those legal fees were reimbursed by the city of Troy. Schools can rack up a long list of legal expenses, depending upon the year and situations which come up on any given school year. Birmingham Public Schools' fiscal year is July 1 to June 30. For the 2009-2010 fiscal year, their legal expenses totalled $202,186. For fiscal year 2010-2011, through May 31, 2011, their expenses were $214,010. Marcia Wilkinson, community relations director for Birmingham Public Schools, said the school district could not be specific because much of the legal expenses are related to student issues, and they must protect those interests. She also responded that a breakdown of the cases did not exist in a form that they could access and provide for Downtown, after the publication had presented them with a Freedom of Information Act request. Bloomfield Hills Schools also operates on a fiscal year of July 1 through June 30. They did not provide Downtown with legal costs for fiscal year 2010-2011, asserting that the summary document for the school year has not yet been prepared, and will not be until the end of the summer of 2011. For fiscal year 2009-2010, the district spent $337,458 on legal fees. Of that total amount, $222,695 was spent with Birmingham's Clark Hill; $53,305 was spent with law firm Miller Canfield; $46,408 was spent with Lusk & Albertson; $6,990 was with the Thrun firm; and $6,060 was incurred by Dean & Fulkerson. A bulk of the fees spent with Clark Hill, $236,806, was spent on legal fees to defend the school district in the Pine Lake School litigation and $43,826 of Lusk & Albertson's fees went to the same case. “This litigation was the district's primary expense for the 2009-2010 school year. The school district's total legal fees for the 2009-2010 school year were $337,458. Of this amount, $294,303 was attributable to the Pine Lake Property litigation,” said Christine Barnett, assistant superintendent for human resources and labor relations. She said the combined cases of Mushovic et al v Bloomfield Hills Schools and Fellin et al v Bloomfield Hills Schools dominated the schools' legal docket.

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CITY/ TOWNSHIP Panels discuss city bistro ordinance The Birmingham City Commission and Planning Commission met Monday, June 20 at a joint meeting to discuss and review the city's 2007 bistro ordinance, and came away prepared to study certain talking points without a set deadline. Birmingham City Manager Bob Bruner said the purpose of the meeting was to determine what the impact of the bistro licenses were that are measurable, and to see how that can be improved. Bruner also asked, as fodder for discussion, what the business mix was today in downtown Birmingham vs. in 2007, when the bistro license was created, if it was bringing in more people from a broader area, and what the consumers on the street say. Several restauranteurs, including Norm and Bonnie LaPage of Big Rock Chophouse, Sameer Eid of Phoenicia, Bill Roberts of Streetside Seafood, Mindy vonHellemont of Tallulah's and Bella Piati, Susan Peabody of Peabody's, Joe Bongiovani of Luxe and Salvatore Scallopini, a manager from 220, and a few others, were in the audience, and participated in the public hearing. Planning Board Chairman Robin Boyle, as well as several other on the planning board and city commissioners, brought up the issue of continuing to give out licenses to those who apply first. “There are some people who want to continue with first-come, first-serve. We believe that is something that can be improved upon,” Boyle said. City commissioner Mark Nickita echoed that. “I see valid concerns about first-come, first-serve. If you're rushing, perhaps you're ill-prepared, and others may be deterred because there's a two to three year wait, and many choose to go to other cities. We then lose out on the best and brightest, and the best potential users. I think we can do better than that.” Suggestions were made about having a date once or twice a year, or even quarterly, when all interested applicants could apply, and the planning commission and city commission could pick the best bistro applicants from the pool, based on idea, funding, and location of where the bistro would be going. Right now, the planning department is taking applications for bistros into 2014, with two bistro licenses a year being

disseminated. Most interested restauranteurs are not willing to tie up a location and financing that far in advance. “I'm in agreement about looking at all of the applications once or twice a year,” said commissioner Rackeline Hoff. Commissioner Stuart Sherman said, “One or two days, in concept, sounds good, but clients tell me first they have to decide on their location, then on their concept. If they have to tie up the property and wait for a date, it may be a hurdle that is too much to overcome.” Planning board member Gillian Lazar agreed, and suggested being pre-emptive. “We should be advancing the approval process. So we should be approving permits for 2012 now, and reviewing those applications for 2012,” she said. Another key issue under discussion was where to place bistros, noting that all but two bistros, which are in the Triangle District (Forest Grill and Bistro Joe's in Papa Joe's) are in a few block radius in downtown Birmingham. Luxe has revitalized the N. Old Woodward area, along with sister restaurant Salvatore Scallopini, which also received a bistro license. “We need to be thinking about bistros in the Rail District and Triangle District,” said Nickita. “We do not have an understanding of how these districts will evolve, and we need to make sure they work together and do not cannibalize each other. Also, we should remember another emerging area, the former Gallery Row, now the Market District with the redone Booth Park.” Commissioner Scott Moore expressed concern that determining where bistros go would be “social engineering.” “Do we over social engineer this thing to death, or do we let the market determine it?” he asked. He also wanted to know about the status of class C liquor licenses, and about how retail was responding to bistros. Retailer Cheryl Daskas of Tender responded that most bistros are open in the evening, when stores are closed, and that she and other merchants have not benefited from the infusion of bistros. “I'm concerned about a balance that brings people in during the day,” she said. Mayor Gordon Rinschler instructed staff to prepare a study on the appropriate number of bistros, and where they should be best located. No deadline was set for the study to be presented to the commission.

Borders to stay open for now By Lisa Brody

he Birmingham location of Borders will stay open “for the foreseeable future,” according to corporate spokesperson Mary Davis, but a potential sale of the chain is likely to put it in jeopardy. There had been questions regarding whether the two-story signature building on Woodward would remain open after Borders filed for federal bankruptcy protection on February 16, 2011. It survived an initial round of closings, but recently was on a list of 41 stores which were under discussion to be closed by July 1. Paul Magy, a principal with Kupelian Ormand & Magy PC., is an attorney working with several of the landlords who have Borders stores in their properties, although he does not represent the Birmingham store, which he said is owned by a “significant landholder in New York.” He explained that bankruptcy law imposes certain time constraints, including a deadline in which lease extensions must be agreed to by landlords or stores must be liquidated. “The initial time is 120 days from filing. Bankruptcy law allows Borders to get an additional 90 days from the bankruptcy court, for a total of 220 days, to assume or reject leases,” Magy said. He said generally a company in bankruptcy, like Borders, will not assume leases on a piecemeal plan, but on a more global plan. “They are also talking with buyers, and discussing which leases will future buyers want to hold on to, based on profitability of those stores,” said Magy. He noted that one of the biggest issues in profitability is occupancy costs. “During that 210 day period, Borders is going to all its landlords and saying, 'You're a good store, but you need to decrease the rent to keep us open.' Or, even if the rent is free, they're looking to see if their sales are not good enough to keep it open,” Magy said. Borders spokesperson Davis acknowledged this. “We would have had to close these stores if we had not received extensions on these leases,” she said. As of June 17, “we've been relieved of this requirement by our lender.” However, new information suggests that may be temporary, as Borders is negotiating with two acknowledged sellers, Alec Gores and Jahm Najafi, and they have indicated that they will submitting paperwork to begin an approval process leading to a possible auction for the chain in early to mid-July, with the entire process completed by the end of July. The new buyer would then be able to determine whether a deal can be made with the Birmingham store's landlord. If not, the new buyer would either have to assume the lease as is or have the lease rejected.The deadline for that is September 14, unless the Birmingham owner agreed to a further extension, according to Magy. Even if a new owner is able to extend the lease, they may not want to keep the Birmingham store open permanently. The book business and publishing is undergoing a realignment, and Magy points out that stores the size of the Beverly Hills store, at Southfield and 13 Mile roads, which is 14,500 square feet, may actually outperform the 30,000 square foot Birmingham store when returns on investments are calculated. “Smaller sales at smaller sites may be better than what may look like greater sales at larger stores, because what are the sales per square foot?” asked Magy. He noted that everyone, from Borders to its lenders and future buyers are trying to determine the business model for the future.

IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH BETTER HEARING

MY ROAD TO BBA: I was first introduced to Audiology at the age of two when I was diagnosed with hearing loss. After high school, I considered going into Audiology and it seemed a perfect fit. I graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Audiology and Kristin Hinderliter Speech Sciences and a Au.D., FAAA Master’s Degree in Doctor of Audiology Audiology. My journey began at Deaf Hearing and Sign Language Center, a non-profit organization in Detroit, where I managed the Audiology department for six years. In 2002 I was inspired to open a private practice with Dr. Eileen Bessega. At that time, I was also completing my Doctorate Degree from Salus University. I feel fortunate to have found a career that is fulfilling, challenging and inspiring! MOST REWARDING ASPECTS: I love my job! The most rewarding aspect is making a personal difference in someone’s life. It is very gratifying to hear patients’ honest, emotional stories of reconnecting with loved ones and experiences they used to enjoy. Patients often tell me, “I don’t know why I waited so long. I have missed out on so much.” BIGGEST CHALLENGE: The biggest challenge I face is encouraging people to take the first step towards better hearing. Many people are anxious about having their hearing tested and considering amplification. My goals are to improve their quality of life by providing hearing solutions that can help alleviate frustration, restore confidence and enhance personal relationships.

MY ROAD TO BBA: My journey actually came about as I was faced with a “fork-inthe-road” during my career. Having worked in the business sector for years after majoring in Business Administration, I was in a position where I had to make a career change after my place of employment was closing. I was temporarily employed as a teacher and I had students that were hearing-impaired. It was lifechanging for me! I became attached to my students and their families and knew that I wanted this experience in my life. So, through the next several years I returned to college at Wayne State University and “re-invented” myself in an entirely different role of academics. Some people would say I’m addicted to school, because I am still enrolled! I am presently pursuing my Ph.D. in Communication Disorders with an emphasis in the pediatric population. Eileen Bessega Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA Doctor of Audiology

MOST REWARDING ASPECTS: I certainly enjoy working with all ages of my patients that have hearing loss, but I do have a passion for – as I call them- “my little’s”! The children are very special to me. I love working with the families and those that support our children, whether it be their pediatrician, teacher, caregiver, or their favorite friend – their fluffy Mr. Teddy Bear. BIGGEST CHALLENGE: The biggest challenge I have and foresee in the future is the need for public awareness for all levels of hearing impairment and how it affects every age as well as every stage of life. Hearing loss is usually a transparent challenge others are unaware of. However, the impact can be far-reaching, whether it be in the classroom or the board room. Hearing is integral to every aspect of communication!

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Payne questioned over union contracts Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne announced at the Monday, May 23 board of trustees meeting that he had reached tentative agreement with the bargaining units of the unions in the township for sixyear contracts, which trustees unanimously approved after a couple of citizens avidly questioned Payne over the pacts. “We have been negotiating these contracts for several months,” Payne said. “Since 2005, one of our goals was to take care of defined benefits packages. We have been successful for all new employees, so that in time the township will not be burdened with legacy costs. The other major issue we have is retiree health care costs, the unfunded legacy costs that are pay as you go. They were a big criteria in these talks. Now, effective May 1, 2011, new hires will not receive retiree benefits. Retirees in HSAs (Health Savings Accounts) will now have to

contribute two percent of their base salary. New hires, when they retire, will be solely responsible for their health care costs.” He further stated that the township is currently in the third year of a pay freeze, and the contracts call for another year of a pay freeze, beginning April 1, 2012, before a minimal cost of living increase. Current employees health care is part of a health reimbursement account. Payne said the contract agreements would take effect immediately and take over some of the current contract issues which otherwise would not expire until March 2012. Resident Craig Lamiman questioned Payne, stating he was shocked and appalled, considering the financial situation of the state, that public safety workers would receive any kind of cost of living increase in the near future. He said he had negotiated several contracts for companies with more substantive health care cuts, and the township should do the same. He was also incensed that the township posted the

A Better Partnership

agreements online Thursday night, yet were voting on them Monday night after township offices were closed on Friday. He said it was an inadequate amount of time for residents to review the contracts. Lamiman's neighbor, Rick David, echoed his sentiments. “There has not been enough time to scrutinize the details of these contracts, and to see the details. Where is your transparency?” Lamiman asked the board. Trustee Leo Savoie, however, said Payne and his coworkers had negotiated a good deal for the township. “I commend you and Dan (Devine, township treasurer) for all you have done to protect the township for the next 10 to 15 years,” Savoie said. “You should be commended for being so proactive,” trustee Neal Barnett said.

Fourteen Mile at Telegraph closed The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has closed

westbound 14 Mile Road at Telegraph until early July while road crews continue work on the reconstruction of northbound Telegraph between 12 Mile Road and Maple Road. Westbound 14 Mile is closed at the intersection of Telegraph Road. During the closure, the detour route for westbound 14 Mile traffic is northbound Lahser to westbound Maple, to southbound Telegraph, and back to westbound 14 Mile Road. The roads are on the Bloomfield Township/Bingham Farms border. MDOT anticipates the intersection reopening in early July, as long as weather conditions cooperate. Craig Bryson, public information officer for the Road Commission of Oakland County (RCOC), said, “It is RCOC’s goal to conduct road improvement projects in a way that interferes with traffic as little as possible. Projects can change from day to day, and traffic delays can develop in a matter of minutes due to weather, emergency situations, etc.” The Telegraph construction projection is anticipated to be completed sometime this fall.

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Paper Source, Sanders sign leases By Lisa Brody

Paper Source, an upscale paperie and retail shop offering a unique selection of fine and artisanal papers, stationery, invitations, gift wrap, greeting cards, quirky gifts and a custom collection of envelopes and cards, has signed a lease for the former Sherman Shoes location on Maple at Pierce Street in downtown Birmingham, and Sanders will be moving to 167. N. Old Woodward, the current location of Schakolad, which reportedly will be moving and taking a larger location as they expand their business. Julie Fielder, an independent leasing consultant with the Principal Shopping District (PSD), who secured the lease with the Paper Source, said the company plans to open around Nov. 1. The store will be completely renovated prior to opening, Fielder said. According to Fielder, Paper Source has 44 stores across the country, and the Birmingham location is one of

Sudden change at top of BBAC The Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center (BBAC) suddenly replaced their director and CEO Addie Langford in mid-June with Annie VanGelderen, the chairwoman-elect of the BBAC Board of Directors. A notice said VanGelderen has been appointed Interim President/CEO by the board of directors. VanGelderen did not return messages left for her, and no reason was given for Langford's departure. Langford had been with the BBAC for about a year. The BBAC said it will begin a search for a permanent president and CEO. Relative to the appointment of VanGelderen, BBAC officials noted she has been a fixture at the arts center for more than ten years as a volunteer and board member. For the last 18 months, she has directed the Gallery Shop, and has overseen event rentals. VanGelderen was chairwoman of the center's winter fundraiser and Holiday Shop preview, Shop & Champagne, an event she initiated in 2002. It has generated more than $200,000 since it began. VanGelderen joined the BBAC's board of directors in 2003. seven or eight they will be opening this year. Paper Source was founded in 1983 by Sue Lindstrom who, inspired by the traditional paper-making artistry in Japan, opened the first Paper Source store in Chicago to showcase beautiful handmade papers from around the world and how to use them in everyday ways. John Heiney, executive director of

the PSD, noted that there is some similarity of products with neighboring store Barbara's Paper Bag, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. He said they had made owner Sue Sivac aware of their talks with Paper Source, and feel that the area is underserved for the products. “Sometimes it's good to have a destination store. It brings more people

into the area, and competition can be good. We're a very densely populated area,” said Fielder. Tiffany Van Hemm, spokesperson for Sanders, said they will soon be closing their store by Kroger's on Maple and reopening this fall. Van Hemm said the new Sanders store will be bigger, with a retro feel, featuring a classic bar stool counter and tables, as well as outdoor seating. “We need a bigger store to bring lunch back down the road,” she said. “We want to be part of the hustle and bustle of downtown.” Long-time residents will remember that Sanders for decades resided across the street from the new Old Woodward location. Fielder continues to work with other national retailers for downtown Birmingham, although details of what may be pending are not being released. There was news in April that, along with Paper Source, another national retailer had signed a letter of intent and was looking at space in the city. At that time it was rumored that a national chain focused primarily on the fashionable teenage market, with casual dresses, jeans, skirts, and inexpensive tops, was looking at locating in Birmingham.

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Two cities reach library agreement Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham's Baldwin Public Library have come to terms on a tentative contract to provide library services for Bloomfield Hills residents. According to Doug Koschik, Baldwin Library Director, negotiating teams from Bloomfield Hills and Baldwin met and came to an agreement on June 7 on a tentative contract amount of $268,681 for the first year of a three-year contract, which amounts to $180.44 per household, based on 1,489 households in the city. The contract amount in subsequent years will increase by the rate of inflation rate or 5 percent, whichever is less. On June 8, at a special Baldwin Library Board meeting, the full board approved the amount. The Bloomfield Hills City Commission considered the offer at its meeting on Tuesday, June 14, discussing several

of the provisions. If approved in July, the city will then place a millage proposal to fund the agreement on the Nov. 8 ballot. Unlike last November's library millage proposal, this millage proposal would be put on the ballot by the city commission, not as a voter-initiated proposal. “Our commissioners were looking at it within the realm of getting voter approval,” said Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens. If approved, the contract would benefit both residents of Bloomfield Hills and the library, which is facing cutbacks to service and staff. Bloomfield Hills residents have been without regular, unrestricted access to a local library since 2004, when the city and Bloomfield Township Library failed to come to terms over continuing access. Residents have been utilizing Troy's library, buying library cards for $200 each, which the city has been reimbursing. However, there are worries about Troy's fiscal solvency and the library's pending closing led city leaders to

seek an alternate library option. The contract would not permit reciprocal use at Bloomfield Township Library. Residents have had a tumultuous relationship with library services. Some residents have eagerly sought out these services, while others have been unwilling to pay for them, turning down repeated millage requests. “I hope that the proposed contract between Baldwin and Bloomfield Hills ends up getting approved since it will benefit both sides. Bloomfield Hills will obtain quality library

services for all of its residents, while Baldwin will obtain a revenue boost that will allow it to stay open more hours, purchase more reading materials, put on additional programs, and stabilize its financial situation,” said Koschik. Cravens said he is now developing ballot language, which will be presented along with the contract to the commission for approval at their July meeting. “I want to get the language for the agreement finished as well so our residents know what they are approving and voting for,” he said. If the Bloomfield Hills City Commission approves the contract and ballot language, and voters pass the millage proposal, Baldwin Library will be able to return to a full 67-hour a week schedule, which they have had to cut; finance additional programs and events; give the library the resources to buy a larger supply of reading, viewing, listening, and electronic resources; and help reduce or eliminate the operating deficit.

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Lawsuit filed over county redistricting By Lisa Brody

A lawsuit has been filed with the state Court of Appeals against the Oakland County Apportionment Commission, challenging the commission's proposed plan for redrawing Oakland's 25 county commission districts. The plaintiffs, Oakland County Commissioner Dave Potts, Troy resident Janice Daniels, and Southfield resident Mary Kathryn Decuir contend the Democratic members of the committee, which held the majority on the apportionment commission, “Intentionally and systematically designed and approved a district map aimed at effecting partisan political advantage.” The lawsuit was written by attorney Mike Bishop, former state senate majority leader, now with Clark Hill of Birmingham. “I have been around the process for many years, and had the ability to work on the process in 2000, and this map may be the most blatantly gerrymandering maps I've

downtownpublications.com

Community House names new CEO Deborah Schrot, currently executive administrator at The Community House, has been named the new executive director, replacing Shelley Roberts, who announced her retirement Jan. 31 after 13 years with the organization. “After exhaustive interviews with over 100 resumes, they came back to in-house, and really picked a star,” said Roberts. “She's not only tremendously wonderful, but a perfect fit for the job.” Schrot is the mother of three and a new grandmother. She and her husband John, an attorney, are long-time residents of Birmingham. She has been at The Community House for 16 years in a variety of positions, primarily as executive administrator, which is assistant to the executive director. Current staff, who learned of the appointment on Thursday morning, June 23, were supportive and enthusiastic, said Gigi Nichols, The Community House spokesperson. “Everyone's thrilled,” she said. Roberts said she would stay on during the transition, at Schrot's request, although she said she is certain it will be a seamless transition. “The door between our offices is always open. She knows everything about this place,” Roberts said. ever seen,” Bishop said. “It's a blatant attempt to flip power in Oakland County.” Oakland County has been a Republican stronghold for many years. Due to President Obama's coattail effect in 2008, Democrats won the majority for 2010's redistricting,

completed in May. The commission comprised Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner, Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper, Oakland County Democratic chairman Frank Houston, all Democrats, and county clerk Bill Bullard and Oakland County Republican chairman Jim Thienel, both

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Republicans. The Democrats prevailed, by a vote of 3-2, on Cooper's second amended proposed map. In their lawsuit, the plaintiffs also took issue with the way two current commissioners, Dave Potts (R-20) and Shelly Taub (R-17), had their districts combined, which would ultimately pit them against one another. Potts and Taub's terms expire Dec. 31, 2012, and they would each have to run in the newly reconfigured 16th district. There has been talk that Potts will run for the state house of representatives, as Rep. Chuck Moss (R-40) is term limited, but Potts said he has not yet made up his mind. “In the end, you have to follow the law. You have to put together a map that passes muster,” said Bishop. “I believed we followed all statutory requirements. This was not drawn to partisan advantage, like the current map is,” said Meisner. “This was a process where I sought a level of compromise, and at the last minute, that fell apart,” said Cooper. “The creation of the fourth minority district creates an extra seat at the table. I also paid attention to other areas with minority representation.”

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Ronni Keating rkeating@skbk.com

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Upper Straits Lake Frontage -Fabulous site of ten plus acres with 650 ft of lake frontage on Upper Straits Lake. Can be divided as lakefront Estate size homes or one site of pristine acreage. FHA approved helicopter pad is perfect to get you to your amazing property! Three bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 210137481. $8,000,000.

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Leadership â&#x20AC;&#x201D; For continued growth & success, every business, industry and community must have leaders who can see change that is needed, organize resources, and engage those around them. SKBK Sotheby's encourages their agents to be involved with the local, state and national association. Giving our agents the competitive edge in the marketplace. Birmingham - This Longe designed and Derocher built home boasts a fabulous kitchen, enormous 1st floor master suite with spa bath. An amazing finished lower level. Five bedrooms with 4.3 baths. 210116511. $3,400,000.

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Bloomfield - Rebuilt in 1990, stylish Contemporary tucked away from the road on two acres of beautifully manicured grounds. Over 5600 sq ft of living space and perfect for entertaining. Three bedrooms with 3.2 baths. 210098519. $1,500,000.

Birmingham - Prime, in-town location that has been COMPLETELY renovated. New hardwoods, drywall, kitchen, baths, paint and more. Charming details with sun filled rooms. New landscape package includes sod, plantings and sprinkler system. Three bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211051898. $439,900.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

The real estate market continues to show signs of revival! Homes are selling more quickly with an average days on market of 90 days. As inventory has continued to decline, there is now a more balanced market. Great homes which are accurately priced are selling fast and are in demand. Lupton - Lodge resembles one from the late 1800s with its massive Douglas fir timber truss system, stone columns and field stone exterior. Interior is a blend of wood and stone, decorated to perfection. 800 acre enclosed preserve consists of hardwood forest, wetlands, lakes and big rolling hills. Five bedrooms with nine baths. 210109240. $10,900,000.

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Bloomfield Hills - "Barton Hills' this new gated community is exquisitely located within the city of Bloomfield Hills. Architectural, construction review and approval are required. Some architectural concepts are available for consideration. Development is beautifully treed, has wonderful contour and grand views. 29129575. $775,000 - $1,400,000.

Turtle Lake Frontage - Located on "The Ridge" of Turtle Lake, this lake front property has spectacular views. Lot is perfect for a walkout lower level. Build the home of your dreams in a prestigious, private, gated community with private lake, boathouse, stables, nature preserves, open spaces and concierge service. 210114952. $825,000.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Birmingham - Elegant home within a short distance to everything Birmingham has to offer! Featuring large open family room with built ins, custom trim throughout and gorgeous white kitchen with stainless appliances opening to breakfast room. Third floor with open loft space. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211062203. $1,599,000.

The Sotheby’s Realty Mobile application (SIR Mobile) allows consumers to view properties based on GPS location, address, city or zipcode. The application displays detailed property information including price, bed/baths, taxes, estimated mortgage, features, maps, high-quality photos and more. When you’re ready to see a property hit the “call” feature and you’ll be immediately connected to a Sotheby’s International Realty sales associate. Go to Sothebysrealty.com to download the app.

Renee Lossia Acho renee@skbk.com

248.644.7000

Birmingham - Newly redecorated Gem in the Heart of Town! Transitional floor plan with 12-foot ceilings. Gourmet kitchen with floor to ceiling cherry cabinets opening to family room with French doors to patio. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211048752. $1,275,000.

Birmingham - Impeccably remodeled center entrance Colonial in Fantastic Holy Name area. Nantucket inspired décor with walnut floors throughout. Crisp white chef’s kitchen opens to sun filled breakfast nook and spacious family room. Master suite with vaulted ceilings, his and hers walk in closet and marble baths. Finished lower level. Four bedrooms with 5.1 baths. 211048755. $1,275,000

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Bloomfield - Exquisite Bloomfield Estate built by artisans from around the world. This estate home is situated on over two acres with a walkout setting. Stunning manicured grounds feature elegant pool and a 2300 sq foot guest house. The walkout lower level has second kitchen, dining and family rooms, billiards room, sauna, steam shower, full service bar, elevator, gym and six car garage. Five bedrooms with 6.1. 211055673. $4,900,000.

Franklin Village - One of the finest examples of Contemporary architecture in Michigan understated elegance fills this magnificent home which ties in beautifully with the surround 1.82 acres backing to the Franklin River. A Kenneth Neumann design. Expansive walls of glass offer beautiful views of the gorgeous pool area. Four bedrooms with 3.3 baths. 211059954. $2,900,000.

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SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com

Birmingham, Michigan

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Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Lake Angelus Frontage - Fabulous newer construction on all sports lake. Breathtaking views from every room from this South facing transitional home. Over 9800 plus square feet of living space. First floor master suite with marble bath. Finished walk out lower level. Four bedrooms with 5.1 baths. 211010061. $1,795,000.

Lake Angelus Frontage - Fabulous Sunsets from this beautiful Lake Angelus Estate with over 150' of lake frontage. Three +acres and three bedroom, two bath (grandfathered) Guest House (not included sq. ft). Up to date home has views from every room in Main House. First floor mater bedroom. Walkout with sauna and hot tub, family room with second kitchen. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211010071. $1,499,900.

Lake Orion Frontage - Fabulous Newer Construction! Built on a "no wake" zone. Exquisite views of Lake Orion! Interior decorator's own home. Gourmet Kitchen. Second kitchen in lower level. Deck, paver patio and dock. Custom upgrades throughout. Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211047442. $849,900.

Lee Embrey

SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com

Birmingham, Michigan

248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Farmington Hills - Private Estate with highest regard to quality and craftsmanship on 5.14 acres. Custom island kitchen with door wall to deck, great use of granite and marble. First floor master suite. Walk out lower level has full kitchen with fireplace, exercise room, sauna and great room opening to patio. Private guest house, six car garage, putting green and in ground pool. Six bedrooms with 5.2 baths. 211058189. $1,590,000 Dee Brooks.

Bloomfield Village - Captivating interior renovation! This reconfigured floor plan is absolutely perfect. French doors lead guests from interior living spaces to beautiful brick terrace and yard. Five bedrooms with 4.3 baths. 210137579. $1,595,000. Darlene Jackson.

Walnut Lake Frontage - Magnificent property with 125' of lake frontage. DesRosiers designed and rebuilt in 1995. A great cook's kitchen, beautiful cabinetry and lovely finishes throughout. Birmingham Schools. Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths 211046761. $1,295,000. Candice Cuyler.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Oakland Township - For individuals use to the very best, a fantastic opportunity to put your finishing touches on this spectacular French Normandy home with over 14,000 sq ft of living space on four acres. Four bedrooms with 5.3 baths. 210125581. $7,500,000. Jim Casey.

Grosse Ile - Serene, private three home Executive Compound on five acres with Detroit River frontage is completely gated. Main House and Guest House are of Museum quality. Four bedrooms with 4.3 baths. 211060520. $5,375,000. Ronni Keating.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Orchard Lake Frontage - Lakefront Estate in Private Gated Community of North Bay. Over 13,000 sq. ft. of living space. Three levels with Magnificent Views of Orchard Lake. Gourmet kitchen with additional back kitchen, lower level kitchen, three story Atrium, wine cellar, sauna. Expansive ceilings, Pella windows and decks frame the lakeside. 135 ft. of lake frontage with a panoramic views. Beautiful pool, decks and landscaping. Five bedrooms with 6.3 baths. 211049109. $3,995,000. Michelle Yurich.

Franklin Village - Expansive custom Ranch nestled on 2.79 wooded acres in heart of Franklin, overlooking the Rouge River. Home boasts 9,000 sq ft with additional 4500 sq ft in finished walk out lower level. Center island kitchen with granite counters, Gaggenau cook top and Thermador double ovens. Three car attached garage, brick paver heated driveway and gated entry. Four bedrooms with 4.2 baths. 211045273. $2,599,000. Avery Weisling.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Bloomfield - Transitional soft Contemporary master piece designed by Dominic Tringali. Extraordinary architectural details. Six bedrooms with 6.3 baths. 210138060. $2,290,000. Marjorie Hirschfield

Oxford - Beautiful 5,000 plus square foot home on 60 secluded acres with you own private lake. Large dining and family room, library and chef's kitchen with maple cabinets, granite and stainless steel appliance, perfect for entertaining. Four bedrooms, 3.2 baths. 211038664. $1,600,000. David Busch.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Birmingham - Stylish and Elegant Townhouses! Adorned with high end contemporary finishes. Features include large living room opening to dining room and stunning kitchen. Minutes from downtown. 211055969. Three units. $1,300,000 - $1,650,000. Renee Lossia Acho

Birmingham - Updated home on magnificent acre lot on one of Birmingham's most sought after streets. Beautiful first floor master, elegant living room and private, sophisticated den. Five bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 210108151. $1,399,000. Kris Barich & Molly Henneghan.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Birmingham - Exceptional quality and craftsmanship enrich this 5,000 sq ft home. Chef's granite kitchen opens to breakfast room and spacious family room with fireplace. Luxurious master suite with fireplace. Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 210143091 $1,299,999. Marjorie Hirschfield.

Lake Angelus Frontage - Over 3,100 sq ft on 6.26 acres with 140' of Lake Angelus frontage and an additional 1,400 sq. ft in finished lower level. Horse barn, Pole barn, Tack room, fences and corrals. Four bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211010079. $1,198,000. Lee Embrey.

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Spectacular Colonial! INDEPENDENCE TOWNSHIP Great room with fireplace. Two designer kitchens with high end appliances. Built in 2002 with the finest materials. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 210047461. $999,000. David Busch

Beautiful Sunsets KEWADIN Owners are extremely motivated. Enjoy the views on East Grand Traverse Bay. Large loft area on the second floor. Three bedrooms with four baths. 211058234. $874,900. Bob Thom

Completely Updated WEST BLOOMFIELD Elegant and Gracious home in a CulDe-Sac location. Blue Stone walkway and patio with Mahogany front door. Huge lot with pool and waterfall. Five bedrooms with 4.2 baths. 211028954. $689,000. Andrew Teitel

Spectacular 1.73 Acres BLOOMFIELD Unsurpassed beauty and "up North" feeling with breathtaking views. 125' of frontage on private Gilbert Lake. Wellbuilt home with many upgrades. Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211038153. $630,175. Bill Tracy

Authentic Cape Cod BIRMINGHAM A surround patio facing the Rouge River and enhanced by mature trees. Privacy but just a few steps from downtown. There is a guest house adding 961 sq ft. to the living space. Two bedrooms with two baths. 29116090. $595,000. Betty Pince

Enjoy the Privacy FRANKLIN Open European style floor plan provides for easy family living and entertaining. Updated kitchen with granite, cherry and high end appliances The lower level boasts an additional 2000 sq. ft. Five bedrooms with 4.2 baths. 210130681. $524,900. Jenny Turner

Hunt Country Estate METAMORA Expanded 6,800 sq ft home on 25 gorgeous fenced acres. Large great room with cherry floors and fireplace. Five stall horse barn. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211054349. $975,000. David Busch

Peaceful and Prestigious BLOOMFIELD HILLS Live the lake front lifestyle in Bloomfield Hills. 350 ' of lake frontage on Forest Lake. Near Forest Lake Country Club. Three bedrooms with two baths. 211062840. $699,000. Dan Gutfreund

Gated Community BLOOMFIELD Wonderful updated home in the Hills Of Lone Pine. Family Room with natural fireplace and door wall to deck. Walkout lower level could be separate living area with full kitchen, bedroom and bath. Home theater room. Five bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211055007. $659,000. Jim Casey

Newer Construction OAKLAND TOWNSHIP Top of the line quality custom home with hardwood floors and granite kitchen. Walkout basement and dual zone heating. First floor master suite. Five bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 210036856. $599,900. Donna Barlow

Beautiful and Charming BIRMINGHAM Great room with amazing built-ins, cozy fireplace and French doors leading to gorgeous back yard with slate patio. A Must See! Three bedrooms and 2.1 baths. 211054926. $595,000. Kris Barich and Molly Henneghan

Newer Construction BIRMINGHAM Builders own home with focus to detail and finishes! Gourmet kitchen with top of line cabinets, granite, stainless steel appliances. Kitchen overlooks family room with fireplace and built-ins. Three bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 210066068. $499,000. Erin Keating-Dewald

Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com

Prime Bloomfield Village Location! BLOOMFIELD Large great room opens to gracious living room with adjoining Florida room. Lovely dining room with large bay window. Fireplace in library, living room and basement. Three bedrooms with 2.2 baths. 211062208. $499,000. Kathy Smith

Great Charm and Character ROYAL OAK Beautiful 1925 home, professionally updated. Three car heated garage, landscaped double lot with patio and built-in grill, completely enclosed back yard for a lovely private setting. Three bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211028135. $359,900. Candice Cuyler

Large Corner Lot

Gorgeous Brick Home

BEVERLY HILLS VILLAGE

BIRMINGHAM

Beautifully updated. Newer roof, Pella windows and lovely remodeled white kitchen. Remodeled baths with charm of old. Professionally landscaped. Five bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211063969. $339,000. Kathy Smith

Great Curb Appeal BIRMINGHAM

Over 2,000 sq ft with hardwood floors. Granite and cherry kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Large family room with fireplace. Spacious back yard with paver patio. Four bedrooms with two baths.211062582. $325,000. Dan Gutfreund

Private, Wooded Lot BLOOMFIELD

Exceptionally updated Colonial on a great tree lined street. Gorgeous hardwood floors, stylish decor, stunning baths and updated kitchen. Three bedrooms with 1.1 baths. 211036991. $319,900. Sara Lipnitz

Large kitchen boasts center island, maple cabinets and granite counters. Family room with natural fireplace and door wall to paver patio and serene landscaped backyard. Four bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211055570. $316,900. Avery Weisling

Meticulously Maintained!

Vintage Colonial with Charm

BIRMINGHAM Newer kitchen with stainless appliances, gorgeous hardwood floors and newer fixtures. Charming front porch and spacious back deck. Three bedrooms with 1.1 baths. 211057554. $299,900. Sara Lipnitz

Fantastic Oppotunity! WHITE LAKE Custom built, transitional home on extra large lot overlooking Brentwood Golf Course. Kitchen with maple cabinets and granite open to solarium gathering room and dining room. Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211064110. $299,000. Kay Hartwell

Charmer PLEASANT RIDGE All mechanicals are updated. Hardwood floors throughout. New roof/gutters, new driveway and landscaping. Updated kitchen and eat in nook and second floor bath. Three bedrooms with 1.1 baths. 211026597. $194,000. Erin Keating-Dewald

BIRMINGHAM Sophisticated interior with hardwood floors, custom designed mantle and bay window in living room. Updated kitchen with granite and stainless steel appliances. Large yard. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths.211062239. $299,000. Beverly McCotter

Wonderful Lake Views TROY Great opportunity to live in Emerald Lake Village with views of Pebble Lake. A new quartz kitchen with all new stainless appliances. Family room has fireplace. three bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211065063. $197,000. Donna Barlow

Perfect Floor Plan! PLEASANT RIDGE Desirable Brick Ranch! Great for entertaining, paved patio, fire pit and bbq area off all season, bright family room. Beautiful large living room with fireplace. Swimming pool association, new fitness spa, parks and tennis court. Three bedrooms with 1.1 bath. 211064972. $179,900. Joanne McGuire

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Outdoor seating for Fox Grill considered

Rusty Bucket taking over Bennigan's

feet of restaurant space, inside and outside. There are two tenants of The Plaza which qualify as restaurants— Fox Grill, at 3,632 interior square feet, and Bruegger's Bagels, at 2,084 interior square feet, for a total of 5,716 square feet. That leaves just 534 square feet available for

restaurant usage. The city's building department has recommended fencing a 19-foot by 28-foot outdoor area for dining, which would be 532 square feet. “But Mr. Jonna would have to agree to include outdoor seating in the overall square footage,” Cravens said.

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The owners of The Plaza, at Woodward and Long Lake roads, have requested to have temporary outdoor seating for their restaurant, Fox Grill. The Bloomfield Hills City Commission discussed the possibility at their meeting on Tuesday, June 14, determining that Arkan Jonna, the owner of The Plaza, will need to agree to certain city provisions in a letter and then apply for a building permit for fencing for outdoor seating, as any other restaurant with a liquor license in the state does. The key issue between the city and Jonna, who did not attend the city commission meeting nor send a representative, is a disagreement over square footage, said Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens. The Plaza was developed under the strict guidelines of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) agreement, and according to the PUD, The Plaza is permitted a total of 6,250 square

The Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern, a family-oriented neighborhood restaurant out of Columbus, OH, was unanimously approved for a final site plan by the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees for the former Bennigan's location at 42874 Woodward, just south of Square Lake Road. Patti Voelker, township planning director, said the restaurant will remove the wood porch Bennigan's had, and have an exposed brick facade. The main entrance will be reoriented towards the south elevation, and the restaurant requested seasonal outdoor seating on a patio which would flank the front elevation. Metal awnings and canopies will be added to the structure. She said the restaurant increased the number of parking spaces to a total of 140. Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern is a part of the Cameron Mitchell restaurant group. There are two other Michigan locations, in Novi and West Bloomfield, on Orchard Lake south of Pontiac Trail. Restaurant items include hamburgers, fish and chips, salads, wings, Philly Cheese Steak, reuben, Old Bay shrimp, and an extensive children's menu. Jason Brown, regional director for Rusty Bucket, said it is “a family restaurant which gets very involved with schools and high school groups. We're not a sports bar, but we do have a lot of TVs.”

“Fencing for outdoor areas is required by the state liquor control commission.” Jonna has been disagreeing with the city over their requirement that the exterior dining space be included as part of the overall restaurant space. “He does not want to include the outdoor space as part of the restaurant square footage,” said Cravens. A few months ago, Jonna proposed a carryout pizza parlor for another retail location within the development, but withdrew it from consideration upon learning that it exceeded the restaurant space allowance. Cravens said that if Jonna does exceed the PUD's restaurant space allowance, he would be required to provide a traffic and parking study, which he is reluctant to do. If Jonna agrees to the 19-foot by 28-foot fenced outdoor seating area in a letter to the city, and then provides plans for a building permit application for approvals, “the Fox Grill could have outdoor seating,” said Cravens.

Lincoln

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BLACK BOOK OF NON-PROFITS

Downtown Publications, publisher of Downtown Birmingham/Bloomfield, proudly presents the first annual Black Book of Non-Profits, a glossy-stock, full-color directory of the charitable organizations and their major fund-raising events for the period of November 2011 through October 2012. This annual guide is intended to serve as a road map for the next year to the major charity events for the non-profit organizations that contribute to the quality of life in the immediate local area and the region. This first issue of the Black Book of Non-Profits, 30,000 copies, is being distributed by mail to the majority of homes and businesses in the Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills and Franklin areas of Oakland County where the residents have demonstrated their commitment, both as volunteers and major donors, to the various groups helping to improve the quality of life for so many. A limited number of copies will also be available for sale outside the mailing area. The Black Book of Non-Profits provides a unique environment for your business message to an affluent segment of the population and helps demonstrate your commitment to the community. This is a first-ofits-kind directory in the region. Produced in an upscale, glossy stock magazine format, the Black Book of Non-Profits will be consulted all year long for important decisions on giving, social event scheduling and purchasing decisions. Our goal with the annual Black Book of Non-Profits is to assist the non-profit organizations in their annual fund-raising efforts by providing profiles of the groups and their events. In addition to information on the major charity events for the groups, the annual directory will also provide an annual charity events calendar and comprehensive listings of the non-profit groups serving the area. Ad sales for the Black Book of Non-Profits are now underway! Premium positions are expected to go fast, so don't delay. A Presenting Sponsorship opportunity is also available. Early commitment discounts are also being offered. So for further information or space reservation, call now. Advertising Manager Jill Cesarz Office: 248.792.6464 Ext. 600 Cell: 248.860.8414 E-mail: JillCesarz@downtownpublications.com A special publication of DOWNTOWN PUBLICATIONS

EDUCATION Andover, Lahser to merge fall 2013 By Lisa Brody

The Bloomfield Hills School Board, Thursday June 16, authorized the administration to go forward and take the necessary steps to form one high school at the start of the 2013-2014 school year. The administration and school board have said the merger will be an annual cost-saving measure in light of continued state funding cuts, declining enrollment, and excess high school capacity. Betsy Erickson, schools' spokesperson, reports that “Consolidation on two campuses is an interim plan until the district can locate all students at the Andover site, potentially saving $2.5 million. The current total high school enrollment is about 1,800 students, but the present Andover facility cannot accommodate more than about 1,100 students. By fall 2015, BHS expects to enroll about 1,650 high school students.” An administrative team has begun detailed planning for the consolidation. Areas of study include curriculum; assessment; athletics and co-curriculars; special education; technology; the transition of high school students, staff and parents; the transition of middle school students; human resources; transportation; and food service. Their short-term options for housing high school students in fall 2013 include placing grades 9 and 10 on one campus and grades 11 and 12 on the other, or grade 9 in a freshman academy with grades 10-12 on the second campus. The administration will recommend grade level configurations to the board by fall 2011. That night, the board also authorized architects at Fielding Nair International, educational and architectural consultants, to further develop the high school facility known as “Expand Within,” to 85 percent schematic design. “This option is a hybrid of 30 percent renovation and 70 percent new construction,

and would get all high school students on one campus,” said Erickson. The current Andover facility, opened in 1954, has seven additions and nine elevations. Traffic circulation throughout the building is poor, administrators contend, with some areas out of compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Twenty three percent of the facility has been rated in poor condition by engineers at SHW, determined in need of immediate maintenance and repair. The project objectives, according to the district, are to reduce costs for building operations, staff and administration; provide an environment that facilities 21st century learning and supports the schools' comprehensive curriculum; provide state of the art co-curricular spaces to support programming excellence; and minimize disruption to students and length of the project. The total estimated cost for all three phases is $79 million. Total high school capacity would be reduced to 310,000 square feet from the current 425,000 square feet with Andover and Lahser combined. The board was informed that if students are moved from the site for the duration of construction, the entire project could be accomplished in 34 months, and costs would be reduced by 2-3 percent, according to Barton Malow. “We’re trending in the direction of asking voters for the money up front for phases one and two, so we don’t get caught without important features like a properly-sized auditorium,” said Rob Glass, BHS superintendent. “We’re hearing people say, ‘watch the money’. They don’t want us to spend money we have on hand for phase one, then immediately come back for more. They don’t want to feel like we’ve done some work and then are pressing them for more money to finish the project.” The construction will only occur if voters in the district approve a project bond. Otherwise, Erickson said, if a bond fails, the district will continue to operate indefinitely as one high school on two campuses.

Board recall petitions refiled By Lisa Brody

an McClorey, a Bloomfield Township resident who previously filed recall petitions against four Bloomfield Hills Schools board members, only to drop the recall over improper filing details, has refiled recall petitions against the same board members. McClorey filed the new petitions along with Chris Fellin and Bloomfield 2020, a grassroots organization which has been opposed to the district's plan to combine Andover and Lahser high schools into one school. Those named in the recall are board president Ingrid Day; vice president Ed Ford; treasurer Cynthia von Oeyen; and secretary Kate Pettersen. Von Oeyen's petition may have to be held until July 1, as she is not eligible for recall before that date because she was reelected in November and her term started January 1. An elected official is not eligible for recall until they have served six months in office, regardless of how many terms they have been in office. She has been a board member since 1998. McClorey learned that “you cannot go back in and recall her for things she did in her last term. There must be new reasons for recall.” The new petition lists the reason for von Oeyen's recall as: “She did not recognize district concerns and did not act in the best interest of the students nor the district taxpayers when she voted yes to: A) authorize Fielding Nair International to proceed with development of a plan to combine Bloomfield Hills Lahser and Andover onto the Andover site, B) authorize the Bloomfield Hills School administration to finalize a contract with SHW (architect/Engineer) and Barton Malow (construction manager) to provide professional services for the plan to combine Lahser and Andover onto the Andover site.” The Bloomfield Hills district has been mired in controversy for the last year, the result of a decision by the board to consolidate their two high schools, Andover and Lahser, into one high school on the Andover campus. McClorey, Fellin and other members of Bloomfield 2020 will need to acquire 5,266 signatures per board member within 90 days of filing the petitions in order to recall them.

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07.11

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Geoffrey Fieger hile he has become known for representing high-profile cases such as Dr. Jack Kevorkian and the Jenny Jones Show trial, Geoffrey Fieger's life path, as a nationally-acclaimed trial attorney, did not become clear until his college years. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from University of Michigan, he sought to continue his education. “I never planned on being a lawyer,” he said. “But I still wanted to stay in school.” Fieger thought briefly about going into the theater, but decided instead to go to law school, and discovered he had an innate aptitude for the profession. “It was like trying a food I had never tasted before and I liked it.” Although Fieger had maintained an open mind about his career, law and debate were in his blood. Fieger’s father, Bernard Fieger, had worked as a union and civil rights lawyer. As a child, the Fieger dinner table was consumed by issues of the day. “We debated within the family,” he said. “My parents were very outspoken and progressive people. I had to speak up or forever hold my peace.” Fieger’s success as a trial lawyer has earned him a name throughout the U.S., but it is not his high-profile cases that he qualifies as most noteworthy. “I live in the present and I look forward to the cases I’m handling now,” he said. “The most memorable case is the one I’m working on, and I never lose the drive or desire.” Working out of his Southfield office,

Fieger said he is able to be selective about the clients he chooses to represent. “I can’t handle cases I can’t believe in,” Feiger emphasized. “It’s the fiber of my being to care about the underdog. I’m not going to represent the powerful against the weak. The law is set up for the power structure; the law is not set up for the people. I care about the people I represent.” Dr. Jack Kevorkian, arguably Fieger’s most influential client, remained in contact with him until shortly before his recent death. “I am, of course, sad about his passing,” said Fieger. “He will be looked upon as a hero and martyr in history because he was right.” While Fieger continues to take on new cases, he finds repose at his Bloomfield Hills home with his three children, who attend Academy of the Sacred Heart in Bloomfield Hills, and his wife, Keenie. “She is the greatest mother in the world,” he said. “We have lived in Bloomfield Hills since 1997. I fell in love with the house we live in. Working on my home is probably my only hobby.” Although he has achieved eminence and prosperity through his work as a trial lawyer, Fieger is perpetually seeking personal growth. “As a person, I want to be a more loving, gentler, understanding and sweeter Geoffrey. Ultimately, love and kindness are the most important qualities of life,” he said. “You don’t have an infinite amount of time to accomplish what you want to accomplish.” Story: Katey Meisner

BUSINESS MATTERS Mills Pharmacy Pierre and Hany Boutros, the new owners and pharmacists of Mills Pharmacy on Maple Road at Chesterfield in Birmingham, are in the process of expanding and renovating their space at 1740 W. Maple Road, having taken over the former Quarton Market location. The new Mills Pharmacy incorporates a four-pronged concept which includes a retail pharmacy, compounding lab, which is used to custom make medications, a full market and a café. “It’s a unique concept,” said Pierre. “There are very few in the whole nation.” “We expanded from 3,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet,” he said. “In the lab, I have about 2,000 square feet dedicated to nursing homes and assisted living. We can deliver to them. I specialize in geriatrics & diabetics.” While the market and café will not be complete until August, Boutros is looking forward to offering a place where neighborhood kids can continue to come in to buy candy and ice cream and patients can stop by to ask their local pharmacist about a product. “The café will be a coffee bar with coffee, tea and smoothies,” said Boutros. “The market will have all gourmet-type foods, wine, cheese and liquor.” The market will be in the former Mills location. The Boutros brothers envisioned a community neighborhood pharmacy that would adhere to the needs of customer of all ages. “It’s like a dream come true to me and we made it happen.” Boutros has worked in unison with his brother Hany since 2003 and he said he has enjoyed the partnership. “We pretty much complement each other. We think differently, but it creates a synergy and we share that loyalty to the customer.” Their goal is for both of them to work out of the Birmingham pharmacy. They also operate pharmacies in Clinton Township, Lake Orion, Lambertville and Madison Heights.

New Great Clips A new Great Clips location has recently opened at 2207 S. Telegraph Road in Bloomfield Town Square at Square Lake and Telegraph. “We just opened on May 28,” said Jenny Pascoe, the salon's manager. “It’s a select service salon and we offer 74

haircuts, shampoo, styles and conditioning treatments; pretty much everything besides color.” According to Pascoe, the location was optimal for another branch of the business. “We have seven stores already, so we’re just trying to grow our business more.”

Business closings Root and Sprout, a baby gear and furniture boutique, at 474 N. Old Woodward in Birmingham has closed their business after two-and-a-half years. “The business had been struggling to make ends meet for the last year and was unsuccessful in obtaining the financial backing needed to make it through the slower winter months while maintaining inventory levels necessary to satisfy customer needs,” said owner Susan Kelke. After trying several different avenues of reducing overhead, Kelke said they needed to reduce their rent, and are currently seeking a smaller, more affordable space very near the Birmingham area. “We are searching daily and hope to reopen Root and Sprout before the end of summer.” Another vacancy has opened up on Hamilton Row. Nino’s Custom Shirts, located at 391 Hamilton Row, has closed. The owner of the clothing shop could not be reached to determine the reason for the closure.

Lyudviga Couture After 25 years in the fashion industry, owner and designer Lyudviga Shneyders is bringing her own unique fashions to Birmingham. Lyudviga Couture Boutique recently moved to 105 Townsend Street in Birmingham. “It’s an excellent location for any kind of exposure for celebrities staying at the Townsend,” said Shneyders. “I’ve been working in fashion for over 25 years and I thought it was time. I’m confident enough to get my name out there. This is me, this is my line and this is what I can bring to people.” Shneyders considers Birmingham to be “high society,” and is looking forward to catering to clients who appreciate clothing that is well-designed and fits to perfection. “I’m very detail oriented,” she said. “I like everything to be in the right place and it has to be comfortable to wear.” Shneyders designs evening, business and casual wear for women of all sizes. “My floor samples are sizes four to eight, but I’m a designer and I can fit anybody. People can come to me and tell me they have an event to go to and they want to look beautiful. I design for any woman who comes to my store.”

Neuman Anderson Neuman Anderson, a growing law firm specializing in complex commercial litigation, has moved into the Birmingham Place building at 401 S. Old Woodward Avenue from their 29100 Northwestern Highway in Southfield. “For me, the attraction was the Birmingham lifestyle,” said managing partner Ken Neuman. “And we’ve added more square footage to accommodate our growth. I don’t know how big I want the firm to get, but we definitely have capacity for growth over the next five or six years.” Neuman said the full-service building and variety of services available served as an attraction. Neuman Anderson opened its doors in 2008 and has doubled in size and revenue year-over-year since its inception, Neuman said.

Brown’s Barber Shop Looking for a classic haircut and shave? Brown's Barber Shop has moved into the Hollywood Bloomfield Hills Center at 1587 Opdyke Road in Bloomfield Township from its Auburn Hills location at 631 S. Opdyke Road. “It’s a bigger space, more desirable and closer to our clients and residential areas,” Don Brown, Jr. said. Brown’s, located on the southeast corner of Opdyke Road and South Boulevard, was originally opened in 1970 by Don Brown, Sr. and is now operated by his son. The new shop boasts 1,500 square feet and offers free Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs for clients to enjoy as they wait for a cut. “We’ve been around a long time and we cut any kind of hair, young, old, mop tops,” he said. “It’s a real relationship-driven business and I’m trying to build a positive experience for people coming into Brown’s Barber Shop.” Brown said he tries to keep a diverse staff and caters to men and women. Brown said what he appreciates most is the tradition of owning a barbershop and building relationships. “We have good neighbors, good friends and it's always positive here. We want to keep the standards of an old-time barbershop.”

Antonino Salon & Spa Antonino Salon & Spa is bringing cruelty-free fashion feather extensions to its salon at 191 Townsend Street in Birmingham. “(Feather extensions) are the hottest thing right now and my staff wanted to carry them,” said Anthony Marsalese, co-owner of the salon. “When we looked into carrying them, we found these feathers are

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taken from the Saddle Hackle Rooster and the feathers are harvested. I don’t believe in just raising something for adornment, so I found a source for these cruelty-free feathers. They do not kill the birds for these feathers.” The salon recently began offering Fairie Feathers, a nokill alternative. “(The trend) is really popular with junior high and high school girls, and that is a group who is very concerned with being cruelty-free, and they have no idea that (birds) are being killed for these feathers.” Antonino Salon will be giving 10 percent of their proceeds for this service to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. Marsalese and Jeff Davison have owned the Birmingham salon for 25 years. In addition to feather extensions, Antoninos offers haircuts, color, style, facials, waxing, massage, manicures, pedicures and make-up application.

Day On The Town Day On The Town, the day that Birmingham goes on sale, will take place Saturday, July 23 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., rain or shine. It is sponsored by the Principal Shopping District (PSD) , which supports the retail environment and local businesses in the downtown community. Downtown Birmingham streets will be closed to traffic, and stores from around town will come outside with phenomenal sales. There will be stages set up with live entertainment, kids activities, concerts, a bike parade, and tons more activities. Parking at all parking decks throughout the city will be free the entire day. For more information, contact the PSD at (248) 530-1200.

New Subway shop Said Elia, owner of The Elia Group of Birmingham, has leased out the space at 126 S. Old Woodward (formerly Charlie's Patisserie) in the McBride Building to Subway. According to Elia, the sub shop is slated to open at the Birmingham location in August. “Subway is going to be a great asset.” Subway used to be in Birmingham on E. Maple, but has not been in the downtown area in the last few years.

Changing merchants Petco, a pet supply store at 2129 S. Telegraph Road just north of Costco in Bloomfield Hills, closed May 7. “It’s not a relocation,” said Brooke Simon, 07.11

spokesperson for Petco. “I can’t say beyond that why it closed, but our customers still have plenty of choices if they are looking for quality pet supplies. Our Troy location is only about six miles away and we hope that they will continue to shop with us.” The store was located in Bloomfield Town Square. According to Jan Roncelli, Bloomfield Township Clerk, Dick’s Sporting Goods is slated to occupy the space by spring 2012. “(Dick’s Sporting Goods) will be a new anchor store for us,” said Roncelli. “It will really make a nice addition to that shopping center.” The new business will create 60 to 65 in-store jobs, said Roncelli. “It will also create numerous construction jobs as they begin construction and that’s significant. We are looking forward to it.”

Clavenna Vision Institute The Clavenna Vision Institute of Birmingham has donated eyeglass finishing machinery to VOSH International (Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity), an organization providing vision care worldwide for people who cannot afford or obtain care. The equipment, donated by Drs. Carl F. Clavenna and Gregory B. Fitzgerald of Clavenna Vision Institute, will be given to the Wasi Clinic in Coya, Peru. Clavenna is currently taking eyeglass donations at their 600 S. Adams Rd. location in Birmingham for VOSH. They are especially seeking line bifocal glasses.

Salon H2O2 coming Longtime Birmingham residents Denise and Anthony Salvo are hoping to bring the art of hair and the science of color to their new business, Salon H2O2, which is slated to open in midJuly at 383 Hamilton Row. “My husband has worked in Birmingham for 30 years,” said Denise. “He’s worked at Bardha Salon as a colorist.” The couple also owns a home and run a small boutique in downtown Sonoma, California, but they are now looking to remain in Michigan full time. “We decided that we’d been so successful at running our other business, that we’d open a salon for my husband.” The Salvos have recruited other stylists from around the area and are looking to build on their artistic and scientific vibe. “It’s modern with clean lines. The styling stations are gray lacquer. We have modern black chairs with a mineral wood floor and granite countertops.” downtownpublications.com

The salon will offer a water bar with complimentary cappuccino, espresso, water and tea. “It gives you a comfortable place to sit and read magazines or art books.” The salon will concentrate solely on hair. “We’ll offer cut, color, style and blow-out,” said Denise. “We’re just looking to provide really professional and high-customer service to Birmingham, and with all these vacancies, we decided we should do something here. We want to give back to our community and help the economy in Michigan.” The Salvos will staff eight to 10 stylists.

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Jungle Room, Double Up Ray Colville, owner of the Jungle Room and Double Up of Birmingham, has recently moved both his Birmingham shops to new locations in the downtown area. The Jungle Room, a high-end exotic glass and art boutique for the smoker, has moved from the McBride Building at 124 S. Old Woodward to its new space at 205 Pierce Street. “The building sold to The Elia Group,” said Colville. “They gave me this excellent opportunity. They gave me the downstairs space for Double Up and I got into a new lease at 205 Pierce Street for the Jungle Room. The new space for Double Up is superior to the old space.” Double Up, a sneaker boutique is in its fourth year of business, has moved from to its new downstairs location at 128 S. Old Woodward. “(Double Up) is the fastest growing sneaker boutique in the Midwest,” said Colville. “We also have locations in East Lansing and Oak Park.” The store offers clothing, sunglasses, watches, hats, T-shirts, high-end denim jeans and sneakers. “We have Nike and Adidas coming soon, and we just received our Converse order. Everybody is excited.” The changes on the two stores took place in just one month’s time. “We did two leases, two tear-downs and two build-outs in 30 days,” he said. “We were able to put all these deals together really quickly and both stores are open.” Colville said that now that the dust has settled, he is pleased with the moves and both stores are doing a lot more business at their new locations. Business Matters for the BirminghamBloomfield area are reported by Katey Meisner. Send items for consideration to KathleenMeisner@downtownpublications.com. Items should be received three weeks prior to publication.

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Great Room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace, formal dining, family room with fireplace, wet bar and glass French doors leading to sunroom. Kitchen, with island, granite counters, sub zero refrigerator and walk-in pantry. Custom Finished daylight basement with full bath. 4 bedrooms and 3.1 baths. 211016868. $374,900

This prime estate is completely updated with custom amenities & spectacular views of 5 acres. New hardwd. Flrs. Limestone, granite, crn molding, cabinetry. Dining rm. Library. Atrium. Lg. Liv rm. Gt rm. Limestone fp.bright kit. W/ granite, gen-air. 211049501. $579,900

Sophisticated architectural design. Darby Lake privileges. 2 story foyer, bright open floor plan, sun filled kitchen with Island, family room with fireplace, huge Master Suite with shower and walk-in closet, 2 tier deck leads to Mission Spring Preserve, finished lower level. 4 bedrooms and 2.1 baths. 210056617. $375,000

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Bright and open ranch on beautiful deep lot. Great room with fireplace and skylight. Vaulted ceiling. White kitchen with granite tops opens to breakfast with skylights and door to full deck. 2nd master in finished basement with full bath. Lots of storage space. Library and more. 4 bedrooms, 3.2 baths. 211026982. $340,000

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PLACES TO EAT The Places To Eat for Downtown is a quick reference source to establishments offering a place for dining, either breakfast, lunch or dinner. The 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, MondaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 220 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.2150. Andiamo: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.865.9300. Beau Jacks: American. Lunch, Monday-Saturday; Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 4108 W. Maple, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.626.2630. Beyond Juice: Contemporary. Breakfast & Lunch daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. 270 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7078. Big Boy: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.642.0717. Big Rock Chophouse: American. Lunch & Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 245 South Eaton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774. Birmingham Sushi Cafe: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.8880. Bloomfield Deli: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, MondayFriday. No reservations. 71 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.645.6879. Boston Market: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily.

No reservations. 42983 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.334.5559. Brandy’s Steakhouse: American. Lunch, Monday-Saturday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 1727 South Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.338.4300. Brooklyn Pizza: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6690. 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. Chen Chow Brasserie: Japanese. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 260 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.2469. China Village: Chinese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. 1655 Opdyke, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.758.1221. Cityscape Deli: Deli. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. No reservations. Beer. 877 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.540.7220. Commonwealth: Coffee Shop. 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. Crust Pizza and Wine Bar: Pizza. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 6622 Telegraph, Bloomfield, 48301. 248.855.5855. Deli Unique of Bloomfield Hills: Deli. Breakfast

& Lunch, daily. No reservations. 39495 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.646.7923. Dick O’Dow’s: Irish. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 160 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.1135. 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, Monday-Saturday. No reservations. Liquor. 263 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.2420. Embers Deli & Restaurant: Deli. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 3598 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.645.1033. Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 323 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.723.0134. Forest Grill: American. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9400. Forte Restaurant: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 201 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7300. Fox Grill: American. Lunch, Monday through Friday; Dinner, daily. Sunday brunch. Reservations. Liquor. 39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304. 248.792.6109.

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12” (8 slices) $15.79 1 Artichoke Pizza Mixture of artichokes, fresh spinach, plum tomatoes, walnuts, ricotta and fontina cheese. 2 Blackened Chicken Pizza Blackened chicken, scallions, monterey jack cheese and our own fresh herb tomato sauce. 3 Portabella Mushroom Pizza Fresh sliced portabella mushroom, roasted garlic, a hint of crispy bacon and fontina cheese on our house made garlic spread. 4 Black Bean Pizza Mixture of black beans, smoked fresh corn, cilantro, scallions, our own fresh herb tomato sauce and monterey jack cheese. 5 Pesto Pizza Fresh broccoli, pesto, fresh tomatoes, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. 6 Low-Fat Mozzarella Pizza Roasted garlic, fresh tomatoes, fresh basil and our own fresh herb tomato sauce on whole wheat crust. 7 Fresh Spinach Pizza Fresh spinach, fresh garlic, gorgonzola and mozzarella cheeses. 8 Vegan Pizza* Artichokes, fresh plum tomatoes, fresh spinach, walnuts and our own fresh herb tomato sauce on whole wheat crust. 9 Vegan Pizza* Black beans, smoked fresh corn, fresh plum tomatoes, cilantro, fresh spinach, scallions and our own fresh herb tomato sauce on whole wheat crust. 10 Seafood Pizza Low-fat cream cheese spread, Feta cheese blended with fresh basil, scallions and crab meat.

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Vegan Pizza* Pesto, fresh broccoli, fresh plum tomatoes, roasted garlic, our own fresh herb tomato sauce on whole wheat crust.

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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. Hogan’s Restaurant: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 6450 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.626.1800. House of India: Indian. Tuesday-Sunday; Lunch & Dinner. Reservations. 1615 Opdyke Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.451.0201. Hunter House Hamburgers: American. Breakfast, Monday-Saturday; Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.7121. 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. Kirk’s Open Pit Bar B Que: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Tuesday- Sunday. No reservations. 33766 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.7010. La Feast: Mediterranean. Lunch & Dinner, daily. 297 East Maple, Birmingham, 48009. 248.731.7768. Leo’s Coney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 154 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.9707. Also 6527 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.646.8568. Little Daddy’s Parthenon: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 39500 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 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. Max & Erma’s: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 250 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.1188. 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, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. No reservations. 183 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.2181. Northern Lakes Seafood Co.: Seafood. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 39495 North Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.646.7900. Olga’s Kitchen: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 138 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.2760. Also 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, MondayFriday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 588 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.3122. Pita Cafe: Middle Eastern. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 239 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.6999.

AT THE TABLE New Bloomfield Hills Fox Grill offers smart casual comfort By Eleanor Heald

estaurant legends don’t fade. And so it is with Bloomfield Hills renowned Fox & Hounds, not exactly reincarnated in the new Fox Grill in the legend’s location, yet remembered in meaningful ways. Atop the menu, a graphic of the original Fox & Hounds complex attracts the eye. New-to-the-area diners may not catch the significance, but long-time area residents will. They may also wonder: is the celebrated New England Clam Chowder on the menu? It is. The original recipe was contributed to the owners by Fox & Hounds proprietor Kevin Downey. Developer and landowner Arkan Jonna not only built the new complex, at Woodward Avenue and Long Lake Road, as a modern-day tribute, but also introduced Fox Grill owners who formed a partnership and opened their 124-seat restaurant May 16. Mark Aichele worked with Illitch Ventures group in various positions within Little Caesars and played a role in launching the American Pizza Café concept. Nigel Barnett’s family pub in Great Britain drew him into an understanding of casual eating. They are joined by former marine Steven Pehrson, managing partner with nearly two decades of restaurant experience, including owning his own Chicago eatery. “I love to cook and entertain at home,” he says. “That’s dinner parties to large family groups. Certain personalities are suited to owning and managing restaurants. Others aren’t. I believe I am.”

top restaurants and clubs. All menu steaks are Prime except for the filet, which is standard as Choice. Served with house zip sauce or cabernet demi-glace, seasonal vegetable and choice of potato, they range $26 to $32 and, depending on cut, 8 to 22 ounces. Pizzas are “New York Style.” Or if you prefer Neapolitan, meaning you can pretend you’re in either Brooklyn or Naples and fold your slice in half and have at it. Small to large, prices range $8 to $12 for cheese only with additional toppings priced according to pizza size. Sandwiches $8 to $11 are served with a choice of soup, Fox sea salt fries, individual house salad or cole slaw. Cooler than Cool A wine list presented on iPads using Uncorkd, a Webbased app, enables diners to choose a wine by name, price, varietal or as a match for specific menu items. It’s a metro Detroit first and cooler than cool for app lovers. If you’re not, there’s a hard copy. In addition to a chalkboard with daily specials, Stepp believes the variety of core menu options will draw not only locals, but also destination diners to Fox Grill. Pehrson says WISP will. W stands for the unique chilled and filtered water service; I represents iPad beverage list; S points to Stock Yards beef and P for peanut oil – that’s the cooking element for Fox fries.” Notice the difference. Fox Grill, 39556 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 248.792.6109. Open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday until 11 p.m. Saturday 4 to 11 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays with brunch served until 3p.m. Parking: on site. Reservations recommended.

QUICK BITES Recently, Big Rock Chophouse Creative Décor brewmaster Dan Rogers received two Design architect Ilia Marko of SerraGold Medals for his brews. White Cap Marko & Associates in Troy “created a Wit, Belgian Farmhouse Ale bested the space where people would feel warm, competition at the 2011 International not only from the food, but from the Beer Fest and Red Rock Flanders Red design materials, a combination of natAle impressed judges at the 2011 World ural stone, wood and colors.” Guests, Fox Grill executive chef Jimmy Stepp Expo of Beer. Both styles are featured at Downtown photo: Laurie Tennent he explains, are greeted by a light conBig Rock (245 South Eton Street, temporary interior in contrast to the Tudor style of the build- Birmingham, 248.647.7774) on draft or available to take ing’s exterior. Ceiling lines switch directions and represent home as beer growlers. the “X” in Fox Grill, tying the restaurant name to interior design. Zazios (34977 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, 248.530.6400) is All this sets the scene for an attractive bar/lounge area now open for lunch 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday. with both bar stools and several high tops. A combination of The menu features some of the dinner menu favorites, but tables, booths and banquettes in pleasing earth tones are most offerings focus on lighter fare such as main course salenhanced by table settings with unique glassware, comple- ads, pizzas, sandwiches, fresh seafood and house-made pasmenting Fox Grill’s use of well-chilled filtered water – a tas. Freshly squeezed lemonade of the day is another new desirable “green” aspect. feature.

Under the Cap Not toque. It’s too tall for Executive Chef Jimmy Stepp’s stature. He keeps bumping his head on the stove hood! This 47-year-old Culinary Institute of America grad wears a baseball cap and brings 20 years of kitchen experience to Fox Grill. In addition to favoring steaks, Stepp likes roasting and brazing to bring out rich flavors. Although Stepp and kitchen staff wear baseball caps, smart casual is the desired guest attire. “Our menu is well rounded,” Stepp says. “It spans steaks to pizzas and includes a large selection of main course salads, $7 to $12.” Although not technically a steakhouse, steak lovers will be attracted to the Stock Yards beef, a brand that sizzles in

Chef news: Mindy VanHellemont, proprietor of Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro (155 South Bates, Birmingham, 248.731.7066) has named Kyle Grabowski as new Chef de Cuisine. She also announced that Daniel Campbell, late of the Michael Mina restaurants Saltwater and Bourbon Steak at the MGM Grand in Detroit, will, as of July 2, be her Corporate Executive Chef at both Tallulah and the soon-toopen Bella Piatti in Birmingham as well as all future projects. Eleanor Heald is a nationally published writer who also writes the wine column in a double byline with her husband Ray for Downtown. Suggestions for Quick Bites section can be e-mailed to QuickBites@DowntownPublications.com.

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Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.988.8941. Quattro Pizzeria & Wine Bar: Italian. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 203 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.6060. Quiznos: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 185 N Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.540.7827. Salvatore Scallopini: Italian. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & Wine. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.8977. Sandella’s Flatbread Cafe: Deli. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 172 North Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4200. South: Mexican. Lunch, Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 210 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.8133. Stacked Deli: Deli. Lunch & Dinner, MondaySaturday. 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, MondayFriday; Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.9123. Sushi Hana: Japanese. Lunch, Monday-Friday; 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. WednesdaySaturday. Reservations. Liquor. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.2958. The Gallery Restaurant: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. 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 Phat Sammich: Deli. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 34186 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.723.0860. The Rugby Grille: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.5999. Toast: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Dinner, Monday-Saturday. Reservations. Liquor. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278. Tokyo Sushi & Grill: Japanese. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 225 E. Maple Rd., Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6501. Village Coney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 653 S. Adams. Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.7964 Whistle Stop Cafe: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.5588 Zazios: Italian. Dinner, daily. Reservations. Liquor. 34977 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, 48009. Phone: 248.530.6400 Zumba Mexican Grille: Mexican. Lunch, Dinner, Monday-Saturday. No Reservations. 163 W. Maple Rd., Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.2775.

FOCUS ON WINE Leelanau’s outstanding 2010 white wine year By Eleanor and Ray Heald

lack Star Farms winemaker Lee Lutes says, “Vintage 2010 was a great white wine year. It was an ideal growing season. Just as we thought the weather was getting too warm, it quickly cooled off and let the fruit slowly complete ripening and achieve a perfect balance. It postponed the harvest of white varieties and the harvest of red varieties extended to October and early November. Leaves stayed on the vines until the first frost in December. Our quantity is down, but the wine quality is excellent.” Quantity is very reduced. “The May Day 2010 frost was widespread throughout the region,” explains Shady Lane Cellars winemaker Adam Satchwell, “but it hit in random pockets. Every vineyard was affected to some degree. The result of all of this is our quality is excellent, but the quantity is miserable. We harvested about 45 percent of average. Our red quantities are good, but our whites are low.” Bel Lago Vineyard & Winery winemaker Charlie Edson advances the thoughts. “I had great fruit maturity with balanced acidity in both red and white varieties. This increased ripening period explains higher alcohol levels in the wines. This is OK because we have the fruit to balance it. As chardonnay ages in barrel and lees are stirred, results have started to impress me. Chardonnay will continue in barrels until August and the pinot noir until October.”

New Wineries Michigan's 81 commercial wineries produce more than 1.3 million gallons of wine annually, making Michigan 13th in U.S. wine production. Wineries are popular tourist destinations, attracting more than 1 million visitors annually. The wine industry contributes $300 million annually to Michigan's economy. Bolstered by a concerted effort in grocery and restaurants encouraging purchase and use of Michigan-made products, the winery boom continues. The number of Michigan wineries has tripled in 10 years – 10 new wineries in just the last year. French Road Cellars is a new state-of-the-art winery owned by Doug Matthies, Chateau Fontaine vineyard manager, that acts as a custom crush facility where Shawn Walters is the consulting winemaker and makes wine for eleven different labels. They include Chateau Fontaine, new Boathouse Vineyards and Verterra, which opened a new tasting room in the old Leland Library Building. Boathouse Vineyards will open a tasting room in Lake Leelanau in November 2011. Jane and David Albert who grow the grapes own Boathouse Vineyards and Walters makes the wine. Wines from their first harvest have already earned gold and double gold medals at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. Boathouse Vineyards 2010 Pinot Grigio $16 (double gold) boasts attractive floral, pear, and melon aromas and flavors that make both the Alberts and Walters justly proud. The 2010 Dry Riesling $16 (gold medal)

shows lovely apple, floral, citrus and orange blossom notes with good palate breadth. Verterra Winery is a joint venture of owner Paul Hamlin and vineyard owner Skip Telgard from Leland, Mich. Verterra 2010 Pinot Blanc $18 is a fruit driven wine with attractive floral aromas, balanced flavors and long finish. Verterra 2010 Gewurztraminer $18 with 2.5 percent residual sugar is intensely rich and concentrated. It shows a broad palate presence. Wonderfully attractive spice notes keep a taster coming back for more. More bests from 2010 Shady Lane Cellars: Semi-dry Riesling $13. Intense fruit, great mouthfeel, simply lovely. Black Star Farms: Arcturos Pinot Gris $15.50 is fruit-forward and delicious with vibrant pear notes. Arcturos Sur Lie Chardonnay $15.50 (unoaked) is made from Acappella Vineyard grapes grown in gravelly soil. It showcases nice minerality, good body without malolactic fermentation or oak aging-fresh and refreshing on the palate. Sporting apricot, apple and pear notes, Arcturos Riesling $15.50 is medium dry (notice the riesling scale on the back label). It has the correct balance of sugar and acid to accompany food. Bel Lago: Auxerrois (oh-zher-WAH) $16 has huge citrus and pear aromatics with good body and finish. You’ve got to try this wine! Pinot Grigio $14 with pear, apple and floral notes is dry with attractive mineral hints. Chardonnay $22 is aged in new and seasoned French oak. A blend of eight Dijon clones. Powerful aromatics and broad palate in a Burgundian style. Semi-Dry Riesling $15 highlights floral, apple and mineral with balanced fruit and acid. Chateau Fontaine: Woodland White $16 with lovely apple aromas, honeydew melon and white peach flavors; perfectly balanced White Riesling $16 and a superb Gewurztraminer $18. Try it with Asian cuisine. Preview of 2010 Leelanau Reds Unless specified, these wines will not be released until late 2011 or in 2012. In most cases, price has not yet been determined. Shady Lane Cellars: Pinot Noir aged in 50 percent new and seasoned puncheons (large barrels). Dark cherry aromas and flavors with a note of smoky oak. Blu Franc is 100 percent blaufrankisch with intriguing aromas and flavors. The only producer of this variety. Franc ‘n Franc is a synergistic blend of cabernet franc and blaufrankisch. July 2011 release. Bel Lago: Pinot Noir (multi-clonal). Loads of dark cherry fruit and rose petal aromas with mushroom notes. Pinot Noir (all Dijon clones). Aged in 40 percent new French oak with big cherry-berry aromas and flavors. Outstanding! Eleanor & Ray Heald are contributing editors for the internationally respected Quarterly Review of Wines among other publications. Contact them by e-mail at focusonwine@aol.com.

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THE COMMUNITY HOUSE

Beauty Collective is walking for the cure.

here is no such thing as a quiet time at The Community House, and the middle of summer is no exception. We have something for everyone! Many of you have missed the lunches and dinners before Music in the Park on our beautiful Van Dusen Terrace. Now that construction of Shain Park and the surrounding streets is complete, I am pleased to tell you that plans are in the works for one of our preferred caterers, Lakeland Manor, to provide lunch and dinner on the Terrace on Wednesdays. I am not sure of the commencement date so stay tuned. One special July program is our TCH Dance Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2nd Annual Adult Ballet Workshop Weekend, July 22, 23 and 24. This unforgettable weekend of ballet, including exceptional technique classes, repertoire and more, is designed for the adult ballet dancer who enjoys the elegance and grace of ballet class and would like to immerse themself in an in-depth study of the classical art form. Sign up for our five session class series on Balance/Fall Prevention which begins on July 17. One of our staff members with an aging parent told Shelley Roberts me how much these classes helped her mother. Join us on July 20 and July 27 for our class Meditation for Stress Management, Better Health and Higher Awareness. Learn simple, effective ways to calm and clear your mind and recharge yourself with fresh energy and ideas. We have several great programs for parents of teenagers. On Monday, July 11, we will host a program with AAA, Dare to Prepare for Teens and Parents. This is a pre-permit seminar that takes parents and young teens through the steps necessary to obtain a permit and driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license. On July 27, we will translate the everchanging college application process for you in our class Top Tips for Parents of College Bound Students. Leave this session confident about your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s college application process. For parents with children from 2-12, we have an important new class, Peaceful Parenting: Tips and Techniques to Decrease Power Struggles and Increase Family Connection on July 26. This interactive class will teach you proven strategies to decrease tantrums, outbursts and defiance and increase cooperation and positive connections between you and your child. Just for your own pleasure and enrichment, sign up for our new series of lectures on Post-Impressionism French Art 1886-1905. In these lectures, we will explore the artists after the impressionists who tended to retain the vivid impressionistic colors but wanted to go beyond the attempt to describe a purely visual experience. These painters include Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Georges Seurat, Paul Cezanne, Vincent van Gogh, Odilon Redon and Paul Gaugin. Finally, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss our Green Breeze eco-fair. We are very excited about this year's Green Breeze, taking place on July 23 and the great exhibitors that will be on hand showcasing their eco friendly products and services. Here is just a sampling of vendors: Biscuit Bob's Gourmet Dog Treats - all natural homemade gourmet dog treats, no wheat, corn or soy; Creation Farm, Inc. - Alternative health & beauty products from herbs grown at Creation Farm in Frankfort, MI; Crushed Healthy Smoothie Bar - Healthy smoothies made fresh to order. No artificial ingredients or sugar; Door to Door Organics - they deliver fresh, certified organic produce and natural groceries to your door; Dynamic Life Chiropractic - natural healing for a healthy posture; Ecotelligent Homes - home energy auditing company, helping home owners prioritizee energy efficiency improvements; Four Seasons Garden Center & Custom Landscape Services - specializing in organic fertilizer, soil amendments and alternative treatments to chemicals for the garden; Goldy Rocks - jewelry designs composed of natural gemstones; Kenco Energy Services - insulation of new and used houses and businesses ; L.J. Enterprises, LLC - handmade bird houses, bat houses and owl houses; made from Michigan cedar and covered with natural birch bark harvested from fallen birch trees; Magic Dry Carpet Cleaning - products are green seal rated; Marmalade Hills - soaps, lotions, lip balms, cleansers and candles made with natural ingredients; Maxi Container, Inc. - repurposed food grade plastic barrels for rain barrels and compost tumbler kits; Vegmichigan - promotes education of vegetarianism for health, environment and animal compassion; You will find the Green Breeze exhibitors located on N. Old Woodward, from Brown St. to Maple Rd. and west on Merrill St. We are collaborating once again with the Principal Shopping District's Day on the Town sidewalk sales. We still have space for more vendors and great sponsorship opportunities, so contact Kathie Ninneman at 248.594.6403 or kathien@communityhouse.com for more information. I look forward to seeing you at The Community House and at Green Breeze!

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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Here is the update on the social scene from the past month. 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.

Suite Dreams Project’s A Fashionable Affair

Suite Dreams Project’s A Fashionable Affair After last year’s Friday night Shoetini girls dance party, Suite Dreams Project supporters Sally Gerak returned to the luncheon format of their first nine years for the 11th annual spring fundraiser. As opposed to the previous Hat’s Off theme, they put the accent on fashion, but some in the crowd of 300 still donned chapeaux. The fashion angle developed because Diana Johnson offered the use of her collection of vintage costume sketches. These were used to create calendars which were given to all who bought a $25 raffle ticket. All 300 printed calendars were sold and Kelley Samberg won the huge basket of goodies. The beauty of the event was again assured by Emerald City Design’s David McKnight, who has donated the décor every year. Gorgeous hydrangeas were also available for sale, thanks to grunt work by Kris Appleby and crew. A moving video depicting a happy recipient of a SDP room redo was the highlight of the brief program emceed by Rhonda Walker. The popular event at the Townsend raised approximately $50,000 to create healing environments for seriously ill children.

1. Event chairs Evyenia Jonna (left) and Janone Shaman of Birmingham. 2. SDP director Jayne Taormina (center) of Rochester with SDP founders Kay Ponicall (left) & Kris Appleby of Bloomfield. 3. Emerald City Designs’ Kathleen Reid (left) of Novi and David McKnight and Nicole Beaudoin of Northville. 4. Stacy Kruger (left) and Danyelle Burkart of Bloomfield. 5. Karen Shapiro (left) and Diana Johnson of Bloomfield with Kathy Broock Ballard of Orchard Lake. 6. Bailey Burkart (left), MacCall Appleby, Emily Ponicall and Bailey Luce of Bloomfield. 7. Cindy Denha (left) of Bloomfield and Jane Synnestvedt of Birmingham. 8. Heidi Kamber (left) and Lois Miller of Bloomfield, Pam Good of Birmingham and Naomi Margolick of Franklin. 9. Jen Holman (left) and Liz Johnson of Bloomfield. 10. Ronnie Dahl (center) of Keego Harbor with Mike Ponicall (left) & Ben Earl of Bloomfield. 11. Cheryl Hall Lindsay (left) of W. Bloomfield, Renee Godin of Farmington Hills, Monica DelSignore of Bloomfield and Alecia Gerosa of Novi. 12. Lynn Terry (left) of W. Bloomfield and Bonnie Piceu of Birmingham. 13. Mary Vamos of Oxford and Sandra Pape of Bloomfield. 14. Nicole Yatooma (left) and Kay Ponicall of Bloomfield. 15. Kris Appleby (left) and Lynn Bentley of Bloomfield with Sally Erickson Wilson of Birmingham.

Wine Tasting at the Lark A sold out band (nearly 60 at $75 per person) of International Visitors Council supporters and wine lovers trekked to The Lark restaurant on one of the few balmy evenings earlier in May. Event chairs Jonathan Swift and Connie Hogan planned no program, just socializing, music in the garden, 20 grand wines at three stations generously stocked by A.H.D. Vintners and superb cuisine by chef John Somerville. Crowd favorites included Rack of Lamb Genghis Khan Satays, Crab Cakes with Sriracha Aioli, Salt-Baked Shrimp and Vegetable and Lobster Tempura, to name a few of the passed appetizers. Discounted bottle wine prices for the evening accounted for brisk sales before guests departed. Colette Surhal was one of the citizen diplomats at the party. She and her husband John and Barb & Rick Browne are co-chaired the annual IVC Gala on June 10 at a private club in Grosse Pointe. 12

Grace Centers of Hope’s Women Helping Women More than 630 people ($85 tickets) attended Grace Centers of Hope’s 13th annual Women Helping Women Luncheon & Fashion Show at the Royal Park Hotel. Diversions included a silent auction, a Deck of Cards raffle ($20 tickets) with three great prizes and, the event highlight, the show of Naeem Khan fashions commentated with engaging flair by stylist for the stars Birmingham native Mary Alice Stephenson. The event raised $165,000 for the Women’s Programs at Grace Centers of Hope. The Pontiac-based nonprofit provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at overcoming homelessness, addiction, neglect, poverty and spiritual emptiness. Donate Life Coalition’s ALIVE! 2011 ALIVE! 2011 attracted about 300 to the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center where viewing the art, sampling donated spirits and comestibles, a silent auction, Treasure Chest raffle, music by the Lying Dogs and serious socializing were the order of the evening. All paused for the program in which coalition chair Karen Moray presented two awards. One went to Fox 2’s Deena Centofanti, whose health reports put a powerful spotlight on the need for organ donors. The other was accepted on behalf of Detroit Tiger Brandon Inge and his wife Shani by 11-year-old heart recipient Tommy Schomaker. His special friendship with the couple originated with their volunteer work at C.S. Mott Children’s hospital. Secretary of State Ruth Johnson was another special guest, cheered by the crowd because

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she recently instituted a simple but effective donor registration policy at all the SOS branches. Guests also saluted the dedication of volunteers Sherry Johnson, a heart recipient, and Cathy Wilson. The life affirming spirit of the event makes it unique. To become a registered organ and tissue donor go to www.giftoflifemichigan.org. Civil War exhibit Preview Party Two hundred guests attended the May 19 preview party of the “Discovering the Civil War” exhibit at The Henry Ford. They supped and socialized before a brief program that included board chair Evan Weiner’s welcome, president Patricia Mooradian’s introduction of U.S. archivist David Ferriero, and the ceremony in which event chair Bill Ford, Jr., a Civil War history buff, used an actual Civil War sword to cut the exhibition entrance ribbon. Gwen Weiner, Elena Ford, Michael Kramer, Ann and Steve Templeton and Helene and Michael Predhomme were in the crowd that then toured the exhibit. It combines great original treasures and engaging touch-screen interactives. The traveling exhibit from the National Archives commemorates the sesquicentennial of the war. It runs through Sept. 5. Check it out at www.theheryford.org. HAVEN’s Promenade of Hope Over the years Oakland County’s domestic violence shelter HAVEN has held its big fundraiser, Promenade of Hope, in hotel ballrooms, a country club, the Palace of Auburn Hills, office building atriums and Meadowbrook Hall. But never in a furniture store. Until last month when Art Van Furniture hosted the event in its Royal Oak store. It was a good call. Not only could the nearly 500 guests find a comfortable place to sit, the company was also most generous. In a brief program before the small live auction, company founder Art Van Elslander attributed that beneficence to following the advice event coordinator Jaime Rae Turnbull gave him two years ago when Art Van was planning how to celebrate 50 years in business. “Give away your money,” she told him. The soiree has always featured good food and drinks and Diana Lewis has always been the emcee/hostess, but in the early years, rather than auctions and a raffle, the event featured a Linda Dresner fashion show with local notables as moddowntownpublications.com

Wine Tasting at the Lark

5 1. Event chairs Jonathan Swift and Connie Hogan of Bloomfield. 2. Adrian Lark (left) of W. Bloomfield and IVC Executive director Julie Oldani of Birmingham. 3. Jeanne Heyner (left) & Conrad Heyner of Bloomfield with Josie & Freddie Sosa of Southfield. 4. Erick & Susan Reickert of Bloomfield. 5. Kay (left) & Bill Cline of Birmingham, Patti Oldani of Royal Oak, Emil & Phyllis Jakab of Dearborn. 6. Karen Mitchell (left) & Ed Wolf of Beverly Hills with IVC board president Fern Espino and her husband Tom Short of Dearborn.

6 Grace Centers of Hope’s Women Helping Women

2 1. GCoH’s Shannon Grace Sokol (left) of Oakland Twp. with Birmingham native / stylist Mary Alice Stephenson now of NYC. 2. Dr. Robert & Mary Geo Stephenson of Birmingham.

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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK HAVEN’s Promenade of Hope

els. Think the likes of Lynn (Mrs. Isiah) Thomas, Susu Sosnick and Guy Gordon. When the runway show was dropped, the name still worked – both as a reference to the parade of loyal supporters in attendance and to the hopes of those honored at the event. During the VIP reception, Gary Van Elslander noted his personal passion for the success of HAVEN’s teen dating violence prevention program, and platinum sponsor attorney Henry Baskin explained that a client’s murder by her abusive husband motivated his dedication to HAVEN’s mission. The tragedy inspired his fight to get a personal protection order law passed by the state legislature. When he looked at his thank you gift of art created by a HAVEN youngster, Baskin was unabashedly touched by the young artist’s statement of hope on the picture tag: “Home is safe.” The annual event is expected to net more $230,000 for HAVEN’s programs.

1. Event co-chairs Lori Mazurek (left) of Fenton, Meg Gordy of Beverly Hills and Deborah Roelofs of Troy with executive director Beth Morrison of Oxford. 2. Judy Tapper (left) with event sponsors Henry Baskin of Bloomfield and Art Van’s Gary Van Elslander of Grosse Pointe. 3. Anne Doyle (left) of Auburn Hills with sponsor Art Van’s Art Van Elslander & Sarah Cuyler of Bloomfield and Brad Simmons of Birmingham. 4. Gregg (left) and board member Carole Brumm of Bloomfield with sponsors Huntington Bank’s Mike Fezzey of Farmington Hills and Art Van’s Gary Van Elslander of Grosse Pointe. 5. Event co-chair David Sokol (left) & his wife Shannon Grace of Oakland with auctioneer Charles Wickins of Birmingham. 6. Helaine Zack (left) of Huntington Woods with judges Wendy Potts of Birmingham and Ed Sosnick of Bloomfield. 7. Marrja (left) & Jerry Norris of Bloomfield with Jason & Jennifer Braun of Birmingham. 8. Julie & Steve Henes of Birmingham. 9. Sponsor HFHS’s Susan Burns (left) of Detroit & Susan Foley of Birmingham with Sandy & sponsor St. John Providence’s Donielle Hudson of Grosse Pointe. 10. Megan Mirza (left) and Jeanne Towar of Bloomfield, sponsor GM&H’s Rosemary Gilchrist of Clarkston and Glenda Price of Detroit.

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Pour Les Enfants Fashion with a Passion Christ Child Society president Shondell Patterson told the 240 luncheon guests at Pine Lake Country Club that “…B.C., before children, I was a fashion professional in New York City.” Thus, she loved the event chairs’ decision to add a fashion show to the traditional boutique shopping and lunching plans. That the show featured the work of three successful, local designers made it especially notable. They are Adriana Pavon (www.pavonadriana.com), Bonnie Foley (www.christianelarue.com) and Cyndi Umphrey (www.sixluxe.com). And we later learned that one of the 15 boutique vendors, Stacey Leuliette, bought a Foley (Christiane Larue) signature lace dress to wear to the Founders Junior Council’s fundraiser she co-chaired eight days after the CCS event. Other event activities included a raffle and silent auction. The latter featured big glass vases hand painted by the boys who live and heal at Christ Child House. They are the reason for the society’s volunteer and fundraising efforts. The annual Pour Les Enfants event raised nearly $18,000 for the cause. Preservation Bloomfield’s Beehive Ball IV History was in the auction spotlight at the Friends of Preservation Bloomfield’s fourth annual Beehive Ball. The live auction, conducted with pizzazz by Ed Cherney, Duffy Wineman and Nancy Boos, offered 07.11

an original watercolor of the Fox & Hounds turret by Lou Demaris and a Delft fireplace surround tile rescued by Katie Kiyo from the building before it was torn down. The owner of the new building on the Fox & Hounds site, Arkan Jonna and his wife Renne, were the winning bidders for the treasures. The silent auction offered, among other things, framed cover art reproductions from a monthly magazine that chronicled Bloomfield society during the mid1920s, when rich Detroiters had country homes here. Bee Engelhart chaired the event with Lisa Yamin and Patti Jessup. It attracted 130 to the Village Club where master music maker Rennie Kaufmann had them singing and dancing to Bob Seger tunes. It raised more than $35,000 for the Barton Farmhouse Project at the Charles L. Bowers School Farm. Among those pleased with the most successful ball to date were committee members Nancy and John Marshall, Judy Kelliher. Pam Budde, Tressa Mucci, Mary Lou Kopmeyer and Joan Cleland and sponsors Pat and Tom Hardy, Mia and Stan Materka, Paul and Sue Nine and Carol and Suhail Shaya. For Friend of Preservation Bloomfield membership information, contact Cleland at (248) 540-7053 or by email to Jcleland12@comcast.net. For information about Preservation Bloomfield go to www.preservationbloomfield.org. Saluting Patriotism Kudos to Oakland County Circuit Judge Michael Warren. He was honored with the Women’s Bar Association Distinguished Jurist Award at the Oakland County Region’s annual awards dinner at the Townsend May 18. Also, he and his daughter Leah are on a winning track with the state legislature. The Michigan Senate approved their plan for permanently recognizing Patriot Week, 9/11 – 9/17. It celebrates the things that make America a great nation. Patriot Week is anchored by the anniversary of the terrorist’s attacks and the anniversary of the U.S. Constitution signing. Go to www.patriotweek.org for details about PatriotWeek.org the father/daughter creation and passion. Variety’s Gala Grand Opening of Emagine Paul Glantz’s new, two-story, 71,000-square-foot facility that includes 10 movie theaters and 16 lanes of upscale boutique bowling downtownpublications.com

Pour Les Enfants Fashion with a Passion

1. Event chairs Jean Fay (left) & Kim Fortin of Bloomfield and Linda Wilson of Beverly Hills. 2. Christiane LaRue designer Bonnie Foley (left) of Birmingham, emcee Colleen Burcar and designer Cyndi Umphrey of Bloomfield. 3. CCS president Shondell Patterson (center) of Huntington Woods with Mary Jo Dawson (left) and Pam Gray of Bloomfield. 4. Décor committee member Leilani Jones & her helper/daughter Alaina of Bloomfield. 5. Patty Ward (left) & committee member Mary Dakin of Birmingham. 6. Christine Provost (left) of Birmingham and committee member Jo Lincoln of Bloomfield. 7. Mari MacKenzie (left) of Birmingham and Joanne Vordehberg of Bloomfield. 8. Karen Brown (left) of Troy, Jean Porter of Beverly Hills and Sally Versace of Bloomfield. 9. Champagne Baubles’ Gwen Lund of Bloomfield. 10. Pam Hildebrand (left) of Birmingham and Debbie Gerard of Rochester. 11. Fifty-plus year CCS member Helen Allen (left) of Farmington with Nancy Donohue of Redford and past president Molly Robinson of Bloomfield. 12. Denise Ilitich Design’s Amy Liesveld (left) of Bloomfield, Lauren Brady of Rochester and Rachel Prinstein of Birmingham.

Preservation Bloomfield’s Beehive Ball IV 1. Friends committee members Ann Kucera (left), Pat Hardy, Linda Kmit, Carol Hanzl, Judy Vidici, Carol Zuzenak, Bee Engelhart, Joan Cleland, Mary Lou Kopmeyer, Cynthia von Oeyen, Sue Nine, Nancy Marshall. 2. Friends committee members Carol Shaya (left), Karen Anderson, Joyce Koreman, Pam Budde, Lisa Yamin, Pam Williams, Patti Jessup, Joan Gaston, Shirley Maddalena, Carol Lee Markley.

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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK (Star Lanes) in Royal Oak is creative and impressive. It has larger-than-life photographs and murals on the front lobby walls (think Detroit icons like Faygo pop, Kowalski sausage and Better Made potato chips). But during the program at the A Star is Born Grand Opening benefiting Variety, The Children’s Charity, Glantz told the crowd of 625 that “…this is not the Paul show.” He then praised the building’s artisans and credited Variety with the idea for the Celebrity Hall of Fame that will be permanently housed in the second level atrium. Variety president Kelly Shuert introduced the first two inductees – broadcast legend and past Variety president Bob (Allison) Allesee and award-winning writer Mitch Albom. In addition to being famous, both also have, as Shuert noted, a true sense of philanthropy. And, although Allesee’s wife Maggie is equally well known for her philanthropy, most in the crowd got to meet Albom’s wife Janine Sabino for the first time because the party was on the couple’s 16th wedding anniversary. Another highlight of the evening was Henry Baskin’s presentation of the Variety Philanthropy Award to Doug Meijer, who accepted on behalf of his family’s retail stores. In a way, they resemble Shuert’s description of Variety: “…small enough to listen, large enough to make a difference.” The Emagine/Star Lanes chef did not skimp on the cuisine for the soiree. In addition to splendid passed hors d’oeuvres, guests selected lobster tails, crab claws, jumbo shrimp and oysters on the half shell from the bountiful raw bar, peppercorn crusted Angus beef tenderloin served with slider buns from the carving station and traditional favorites from the sushi and taco stations. Elegant ice sculptures centered the stations. People also watched films and the Bob Anderson Las Vegas floor, bowled, danced and listened to music. And, because Mary and Paul Glantz were incredibly generous, the event raised $150,000 for the 20,000 children Variety supports annually.

Variety’s Gala Grand Opening of Emagine

1. Event hosts Mary (left) & Paul Glanz of Lake Angelus with Pamela and event chair Len Dillon of Bloomfield. 2. Board member Henry Baskin (left) of Bloomfield, Variety president Kelly Shuert of Bloomfield, emcee WXYZ’s JoAnne Purtan & Variety Philanthropy Awardee Doug Meijer of Ada. 3. Celebrity Hall of Fame inductee Mitch Albom (left) & his wife Janine Sabino of Franklin with Celebrity Hall of Fame inductee Bob Allison/Allesee of Bloomfield. 4. Sponsor Shuert Technology’s Lyle Shuert of Bloomfield. 5. Benefactor’s / Sponsor Huntington Bank’s Bruce & Debbie Kridler of Bloomfield. 6. Charlie (left) & Arianna Kughn of Pleasant Ridge with honorary committee members Richard & Gayle Burstein of Bloomfield. 7. Honorary committee members Jim & Dana Selis of Birmingham. 8. Amy (left) & Chris Burford of Novi with honorary committee members Robin & Mike Deighan of Birmingham. 9. Benefactor Adele Acheson (left) of W. Bloomfield with Kris Appleby, Diana Johnson and Kay Ponicall of Bloomfield. 10. Honorary committee members Penny & Rick Persiani with Scott Grant of Birmingham. 11. Asia Vieprawska & David Iafrate of Bloomfield. 12. Gordy & Katie Colman of Bloomfield. 13. Andy (left) & Roger Anderson and Bill Myers of Bloomfield with Niki Gallaudet of Beverly Hills. 14. Beckie & John Lanesky of Bloomfield (on 11th wedding anniversary). 15. Danny Weiner of Birmingham and Michellle Ellis of W. Bloomfield.

DOWNTOWN

Catholic Social Services Puttin’ on the Glitz Planners of the CSSOC annual spring gala gave a nod to a snazzy Hollywood theme and some 320 guests, the largest number ever, turned out for the event at the Townsend Hotel. Before being seated for dinner they sipped, socialized and bid nearly $20,000 on 100 silent auction items. Then they applauded the testimony of gratitude from two agency clients. A brief (nine items) live auction raised approximately $13,500. Fund the Mission pledges added another $11,000, bringing 07.11

the event total to approximately $113,000. WCSX sportscaster Jamie Samuelsen and his wife Christy McDonald, former WXYZ newscaster who just covered the Mackinac Policy Conference for Detroit Public Television, emceed the upbeat program which may or may not be the last of its kind for CSSOC. Detroit’s new archbishop Allen Vigneron has ordered a restructuring of the six county human service agencies into one – Catholic Charities of Southeastern Michigan. Thus, the organization will change but, as CSSOC board chair Msgr. Charles Kosanke, who also chairs the new CCSM board, noted, “People who need help (will continue to be) the primary mission.” DSO Volunteer Council Musical Feast One of the enticing Musical Feasts in the DSO Volunteer Council’s series was hosted June 1 by Brigitte and Mort Harris in their contemporary Wallace Frost home overlooking Endicott Lake. Before the performance of Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D Major and the feasting on Peter’s Palate Pleaser cuisine, past VC president Gloria Nycek welcomed and thanked the 20 guests, the hosts and the musicians. Michigan Animal Rescue League’s Yappy Hour A sold out crowd of nearly 250 humans and some 100 dogs partied the evening of June 2 on the Paint Creek-side lawn of the Royal Park Hotel. In addition to “pup-tails” and “hound-d’oeuvres,” cochairs Kathy Shelton, MJ Wright and Lynn Carr had arranged for good music (The Corrin Barnett Band), specialty boutique shopping and a great silent auction. The latter included a show stopping custom dog house and raised $4,500. Honorary co-chair Jim Hiller brought Lilly, one of his two dogs that were canine co-chairs. All guests got a red carpet photo of themselves with their pooches and the Michigan Animal Rescue League got $45,000 to help with its mission. Go to www.michigananimalrescueleague.org to learn more about the MARL mission. Belle Isle Women’s Legacy Luncheon Detroit loyalists at the seventh annual Polish the Jewel Belle Isle Legacy Luncheon got a nice surprise when a New Yorker did NOT bash the Motor City. Indeed, Mistress of Ceremonies MSNBC’s Alex Witt, niece of event cochair Shery Cotton, went out of her way to praise Belle Isle, noting that it “….is bigger than Central Park.” Both parks were designed by legendary landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. downtownpublications.com

Catholic Social Services Puttin’ on the Glitz

3 1. CSSOC president Margaret Huggard (left) of Rochester Hills with committee member Gina Forbes of Bloomfield. 2. Larry (left) & Donna Duffield of Birmingham with Alice & Marty McLoughlin of Bloomfield. 3. Committee member Trish Mervenne with Chip & Mary Jo Dawson of Bloomfield. 4. Walt (left) & Leslie Czarnecki of Birmingham and Dave Mervenne of Bloomfield. 5. Jenny (left) & board member John Keegan of Bloomfield with Annette & Tom Liike of Wixom. 6. Chuck (left) & Jane Greening of Birmingham with UD Jesuit’s Fr. Karl Kizer of Detroit. 7. Tawnya & Tom Bender of Bloomfield. 8. Maureen & Frank Jerneycic of Bloomfield.

DSO Volunteer Council Musical Feast

1. Joan (left) & Bob Jampel and event host Mort Harris of Bloomfield. 2. Saul (left) & Marjorie Saulson of Franklin, Stan & Gloria Nycek of Dearborn and event hostess Brigitte Harris of Bloomfield. 3. Greg Pond (left) of W. Bloomfield, Barbara Diles & Nancy & Bud Liebler of Bloomfield (painting in background by Simbari).

DOWNTOWN

SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Another surprise for some among the 530 guests was Belle Isle Women’s Committee founder Sarah Earley’s mention of the plan to form a conservancy comprising the four existing non-profits that advocate for the gem in the Detroit River. She also noted that the 2011 event would raise $280,000, plus the income from the garden boutique, a raffle and the live auction of two Jane McFeely’s Belle Isle paintings that Witt conducted. The BIWC has already raised $2.3 million and completed the renovation of Sunset Point. Now, it’s on to the renovation of the island’s historic Horse Stables.

Belle Isle Women’s Legacy Luncheon

6 1. Event co-chairs Shery Cotton (left) & her daughters-in-law Nancy & Lindsay, all of Grosse Pointe. 2. Leslie Murphy (left) & WC founder Sarah Earley of Bloomfield with actress Erin Cummings of Los Angeles, CA and Grace Keros of W. Bloomfield. 3. Linda Jura-Lipa (left) of Birmingham with life members / committee members Betty Bright and Patricia Hill Burnett of Bloomfield. 4. Close up of board member Dawn Rassel of Bloomfield (in Mr. Hi hat from her daughter’s collection). 5. BIWC life members Judie Sherman (left), Valerie Straith and Eleanor Gabrys of Bloomfield with Ellen Rogers of Birmingham (in a hat she bought in Paris). 6. BIWC member Sandra Pape of Bloomfield (in a Gena Conti hat). 7. Honorary committee members Charli Podowski (left) & Marilyn Way of Bloomfield (among the few hatless guests). 8. Patti Prowse (left) and Kim Reuss of Bloomfield. 9. Kathy Broock Ballard (center) of Orchard Lake with Diane Johnson (left) and Karen Shapiro of Bloomfield. 10. Sponsor Henry Ford Health System’s Renee Peck (left) of Chesterfield Twp and Susan Foley of Birmingham (holding donated art by Jane McFeely, who also donated two large works for live auctioning).

Founders Junior Council’s Cirque

1. Event co-chairs Stacey Leuliette (left) of W. Bloomfield, Bill Burdett of Detroit and Rebecca Donnini of Birmingham. 2. FJC president Nicole (left) & Ted Wagner of Birmingham with Merrily & Kenny Gechter of Royal Oak. 3. Ryan (left) & Maya Marsh and committee members Stephanie & Peter Schwartz of Bloomfield. 4. FJC board member Dante (left) & Suzi Cerroni of Bloomfield with DIA curator Yao-Fen You of Detroit. 5. Cathy (left) & Gene Boyle of Grosse Pointe with committee members Lori & Pat Stillwagon of Bloomfield. 6. Susan Lundin (left) and Bill and Pamela Gerber of Bloomfield.

DOWNTOWN

Founders Junior Council’s Cirque The current leadership of the Founders Junior Council is certainly focused on fundraising, the Detroit Institute of Arts and the local scene. They not only staged their Cirque event at the DIA for the first time last month, they are also staging their annual Fash Bash August 18 at the museum for the first time in its 35-year history. The Cirque event attracted 320, including a sold out VIP segment of 100, for noshing on quintessential Detroit fare like mini sliders and mini bumpy cakes. Event cochair Stacey Leuliette even bought her dress from a local designer (Christiane Larue’s Bonnie Foley). Funky lighting and Detroit sounds by DJ Captn20 and percussionist Jared Sykes got people dancing, and they departed with iconic Detroit snacks for the ride home - Better Made potato chips and Faygo pop.Lauren Rakolta and Lindsay Huddleston are chairing Fash Bash. Plans include a Neiman Marcus “Art of Fashion” show in the DIA’s Great Hall with pre- and postshow partying on the front steps. Go to for Fash Bash tickets ($500-per Couture Couple includes $100 NM gift card; $150per person; $75 after glow). Bottomless Toy Chest Baby Shower An extensive silent auction, arts and crafts stations, and cookie decorating were popular diversions before and after tea service at the Baby Shower staged by the Bottomless Toy Chest. It attracted 240 to Bloomfield Hills Country Club. Many brought interactive toys, crafts and art projects for the cancer patients who enjoy selecting them from the chest that makes the rounds at local hospitals. Dr. Chuck Main reported that the toy chest is so popular at Beaumont that some of his little patients even put toys in “layaway” for their next chemo stay. Two patients’ moms told the guests how much their support is appreciated. The Sunday afternoon event raised more than $36,000 for the non-profit organization founded by Mickey Guisewite following her son’s cancer battle. 07.11

Three weeks later some 150 mostly 20something Bottomless Toy Chest supporters also flocked to Fresard Buick GMC Showroom in Ferndale for the Summer Lovin Date Auction. There were two dozen guys and gals available for a date in the auction conducted by 96.3 WDVD’s Blaine Fowler and Alison Martinek. WSU special ed major Emily Bregier brought the highest bid ($215), but Kimmy Fallows brought the most unusual from a mom in the audience. She “bought” Fallows for a Skype date with her son who is serving in Afghanistan. The fun fling raised more than $8,000 to help hospitalized kids going through cancer treatments forget their pain. BEF Spring White Party at Toast More than 120 supporters of the Birmingham Edcuartion Foundation trekked to Toast Birmingham for the Spring White Party generously hosted by owners Regan and Thom Bloom. It featured yummy food prepared by Chef Jeff Rose paired with 12 white wines, served up by guest bartenders, silent auction action, a raffle, dancing to the music of DJ Powdr Blu and lots of socializing. In the mini silent auction, BEF Trustee Stuart Jeffares and his wife Dr. Kim Coleman were the top bidders for a dinner party for six at their home prepared by Chef Rose with wine pairings by Advance Sommelier Michelle DeHayes. Teacher Candi Wanicke, who happened to be celebrating her birthday, won the raffle of red wines. The friendly event raised more than $9,000 for the enrichment programs of the Birmingham Educational Foundation. Robot Garage Grand Opening On Friday, May 20, Sarah and Jonathan Jacobs, with help from their children Jane, Kate and Thea, welcomed more than 300 friends, well wishers and Lego buffs to their new venture in Birmingham’s Rail District – The Robot Garage. In addition to inspecting impressive Lego creations on exhibit, they also watched young robotic teammates demonstrate their imaginative skills and learned about the entertaining and educational summer camps, programs, parties and drop-ins available at the garage. Before the weekend concluded, more than 1,000 had checked out the new facility located at 637 South Eton Street. Sales proceeds for the openings were earmarked for the Michigan Engineering Zone, which aims to encourage Detroit youth to pursue engineering and technology careers. The Robot Garage is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Send ideas for this column to Sally Gerak, 28 Barbour Lane, Bloomfield Hills, 48304; email samgerak@aol.com or call 248.646.6390. downtownpublications.com

Bottomless Toy Chest Baby Shower

1. Foundation founder / event co-chair Mickey Guisewite (left) of Bloomfield with guest speaker Dr. Charles Main & his wife Rhonda of Beverly Hills. 2. Committee member Ann Heath Templeton (left) of Birmingham and event co-chair Terry Hughes of Bloomfield. 3. Committee members Jacqui Andreae (left) and her daughter Patricia Coulson with Lucia Zurkowski of Bloomfield. 4. Volunteers Gracie & Annie Calvaneso of Bloomfield. 5. Reagan Beatty (left), Patty Ghesquiere and her niece Lauren Kupelian of Bloomfield. 6. Elise Spreitzer (left), Hope Still and Lina Berman of Birmingham with Mia DeCerchio of Bloomfield.

BEF Spring White Party at Toast

1. Rebecca (left) & Alan Ross with Birmingham mayor Gordon & BPS board member Geri Rinschler of Birmingham. 2. Celebrity bartenders Fox-2’s Roop Raj (left) of W. Bloomfield, Lions coaches Todd Downing of Birmingham & Danny Crossman of Bloomfield and Toast owner Thom Bloom of Pleasant Ridge. 3. Katie Conti (left) and Melanie Feles of Birmingham. 4. Foundation executive director Laura Cougar (left), board president Jerry Rito of Beverly Hills and Miriam & Larry Imerman of Bloomfield. 5. Beverly School principal Jennifer Martella (left) of Farmington Hills with Geoff & BPS board member Susan Hill of Birmingham. 6. Ron Rosenberg (left) of Birmingham and Ingrid Mayer of Bloomfield with Gregiry Kelser of Franklin and Marshelia Belyue of Grosse Pointe.

Robot Garage Grand Opening 2

1. Rex,IV, Rex.III Janelle & Gabe Boyce of Birmingham (with Lego Leaning Tower of Pisa). 2. Ozzy (left), Missy & Lucas Borman with their cousins Hannah & Hilary Borman of Birmingham. 3. Erik & Andrea Morganroth of Birmingham with their children Max (left) & Emma. 4. Matt & Lori Fricke of Birmingham (with Lego Taj Mahal).

DOWNTOWN

4 93

ENDNOTE

Bistros: work to complete before 2012 e hate to beat the same drum too often, especially since the recent joint planning commission and city commission workshop to discuss the future of bistros was so encouraging. But this is an important issue for the city and there are a number of questions yet to be answered, poste-haste. By most accounts, Birmingham's 2007 bistro zoning ordinance has been a success. Bistros were designed to activate the streets, bring people into Birmingham 365 days of the year, and create a vibrant, eclectic and exciting restaurant scene in downtown Birmingham. Where before there were either quick dining spots or larger, fine dining establishments with class C liquor licenses, the bistro ordinance set out to create smaller, more unique dining spots throughout town. Now, four years into the ordinance, there are numerous new bistros dotting Birmingham's landscape, from Tallulah's Wine Bar and Bistro, Luxe, Cafe Via, Toast, and the upcoming Bella Piatti, Townhouse and Churchill's Cigar Bar. Existing restaurants Elie's and Salvatore Scallopini were revitalized with bistro licenses. What is not known, however, is whether the bistro ordinance truly revitalized the retail portion of the downtown area and, equally important, whether we have reached a saturation point in the central portion of the city where most of the bistros are now located and if the existing dining market is now simply being re-carved into smaller pieces without any true gain in business. In 2006, there were 16 establishments with liquor licenses; today there are 31. Leasing agents contend it is difficult for retailers to find spots for retailers, and retailers contend that bistros have not brought more business to the city when they are open, during the day. These are the important questions that must be answered before more licenses are issued. So let's take a look at the work that needs to be completed: Proper balance of businesses: Malls determine their makeup of soft goods v. entertainment based on a formula to determine the proper balance of restaurants, shoe stores, children's stores, clothing stores, and the like. The correct mix of businesses satisfies shoppers who are more likely to be repeat visitors. The Principal Shopping District (PSD), at a recent board meeting, discussed looking at what formulas malls may use, along with data from comparable communities in other areas of the country to see if they use a similar formula to control the mix of their downtown areas. It

would be wise for a jointly funded study by the PSD and city to include this issue so the city does not just develop a reputation as an entertainment mecca as opposed to a wellbalanced downtown with entertainment and retail opportunities for visitors. The application process: Bistro licenses are currently approved on a first-come, first-serve basis, meaning an operator who finds a site and obtains financing later in the year when the standard two bistro licenses have been issued is out of luck. The suggestion has been made at the joint session that there should be a different application process, one that involves at least two review deadlines during the year to allow planners and city commissioners to look at all proposed new bistro options for the city. Because of leasing and build-out logistics for restaurants and landlords, it probably makes sense to have two-three application deadlines during the year which would allow groups of applications to be reviewed and the better of the concepts be awarded a bistro license, if any deserve to be issued in a given review period. Further, if studies indicate that the bistro effort should continue, the city should look at the current limit of two licenses that may be issued each year. If the demand is there, and we think it is, then the cap should be lifted. There is now a two or three year wait for a license, possibly causing restauranteurs to pursue opportunities in other towns. We know of parties which have looked at the former Root & Sprout location on N. Old Woodward for a restaurant location, and they have been told it would be 2014 before a bistro license could be considered. They determined that was too long, and too expensive, a wait. A spot further north on N. Old Woodward caught the eye of a successful restauranteur who wanted to have a second location of his restaurant, and he too was told it would be two to three years, and he too walked. Refined rules for bistros: There needs to be a refinement and definition of what constitutes a bistro and some sort of understanding of what the city is trying to accomplish in terms of a varied dining scene in the city. Not everyone who applies should be granted a bistro license. This will be a tougher part of the review, but there must be some direction so that not everyone in line gets a license at the expense of those with a concept that would be of more benefit to the city's goal of attracting business, not only to the restaurants but also to the retail segment in the city. Bistros as development tool: For several

years there has been talk about regenerating the Rail District and Triangle District. Bistros could be an important tool in this effort. City commissioner Scott Moore spoke of his concern over â&#x20AC;&#x153;social engineeringâ&#x20AC;? by determining where bistros should go. The chicken is already out of the coop on that. Bistro licenses were used as a social engineering tool to drive business to Birmingham. This is just the next step, one that can be considered part of proper urban planning. So there needs to be a move to use bistro licenses in these two areas, and the North Old Woodward shopping area, formerly known as the Gallery District, where Luxe has already proven the impact a bistro can have in this part of the city. Retail business cooperation: One of the goals of the bistro effort was to bring people into Birmingham to help revitalize the retail business community. But we are not sure the retail business community has responded in kind. The PSD or the merchants association needs to begin a discussion now with retail stores in the downtown area on what retail outlets can do to further the cause, specifically in terms of hours maintained by stores. Few retail stores maintain hours beyond 5-6 p.m., even though a large number of visitors are drawn to the downtown by dining establishments in the evening hours. Perhaps it has been discussed in the past, but if everyone is calling for a wholesale review of bistros and the business climate downtown, then this issue should also be on the table and part of any market study that is conducted to determine if limited shopping hours are a hindrance to attracting shoppers. Deadlines and possible moratorium: A glaring error of omission in the recent joint panel bistro discussion was the city panels' failure to set any deadline or time table for completing their review and possible rework of the bistro ordinance. For the benefit of the city's restauranteurs, retailers and future entrepreneurs, it is imperative that a study is done quickly and commissioners act upon it before the calendar year is up. Too much is economically at stake for the city, existing restaurants, retailers and those who would like to open bistros in Birmingham, and once the city is too far down the road on this issue, there is no coming back. Failing a review by year's end, then the city commission should place a moratorium on issuance of further bistro licenses until this important work is complete and everyone understands the impact of the bistro effort in the city.

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