State of Michigan Top Luxury Homes &
City of Bloomfield Hills
Bloomfield Hills
Captivating Estate home on 3.9 private acres with stream and pond setting. Designed with a true Tuscan flare with over 12,000 square feet of custom living spaces. Plaster walls and wide plank floors embrace the décor. Walking distance to the Cranbrook Educational Community. $2,775,000
Take advantage of this newer estate home designed with entertaining in mind. All three floors with custom finishes. The walkout lower level leads to elaborate pool and spa setting. Created with every imaginable amenity. $2,575,000
City of Bloomfield Hills
City of Birmingham
Traditional classic newer construction complete old world craftsmanship. Landscaped acreage. First floor master suite with rare dual bath and walk in closets. All bedrooms suites. Finished lower level with media and exercise rooms. $2,380,000
This 6 bedroom estate newer construction home is ideally located on over 1 acre of manicured grounds. Designer perfect yet practical for entertaining and casual living. Quality craftsmanship on all 3 levels. Finished lower level recreation room. $2,295,000
Bloomfield Hills
City of Birmingham
Lakefront luxury living on acreage with professionally landscaped grounds. This French Style manor home was designed with large room and open spaces ideal for entertaining yet gracious living. Finished walkout lower level. $1,995,000
Situated on one of Birmingham’s most sought after streets this solid brick classic was designed with a first floor master and 4 upper bedroom suites. The kitchen leads to family room. Judge’s library, formal living room, multiple fireplaces, finished rec. room and 4 car garage complete the package. $1,649,000
Getting a home sold in today’s market takes teamwork. Kathy Broock Ballard of Max Broock Realtors and Real Estate One have forged a powerful partnership. Between them, they offer the latest in web exposure for your property, GPS-driven property search tools, online guides to the area, and the latest market updates. Need to find a home? Search from your mobile device using the Real Estate One app for iPhone, iPad, and Blackberry. Or sign up for e-mail and text alerts on Kathy’s website with “1st to Know”. New to the area? If so, visit the Concierge area of Kathy’s website. This connects you with local professionals and keeps you updated on what is happening around town. Wondering what the market is doing? Kathy passes all the latest information on in her blog. Visit www.kathybroock.com to learn more.
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DOWNTOWN09.11
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Who owns the Birmingham downtown The buildings in downtown Birmingham are for the most part owned by real estate developers, both local, with personal interests in the city, and national.
CRIME LOCATOR
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57: Jamie Wineman
CITY/TOWNSHIP
Nude The Salon; Roland Optics; Twisted Fruit; Happy Dino, Mattress Closeout Center, Bloomfield Galleries; and more
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.
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To really understand Townhouse, the new Birmingham restaurant that opened near the end of August, you need to get to know sole proprietor 26-year old Jeremy Sasson.
White Cottage Ranch winemaker Rudy Zuidema prefers diodynamic farming, a holistic and regenerative farming system for growing grapes.
SOCIAL LIGHTS
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Sharing services with Sylvan Lake; Quarton Lake dredging: light rail to Birmingham; new township supervisor; J. McLaughlin signs lease; nine candidates for commission.
BUSINESS MATTERS
On the anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy, an update of how prepared local governments are to handle another disaster.
FOCUS ON WINE
67: Natalie Morris
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9/11 10 years later
Happy Hour, that time of day between the end of the work day and dinner time, has become very in for restaurants once again.
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FACES
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Local Happy Hours
AT THE TABLE
A recap of select categories of crime occurring in the past month in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills, presented in map format.
27: Kevin Dietz
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THE COVER From the rooftops, a shot of the intersection of Maple and Old Woodward. Photo: Austen Hohendorf.
ENDNOTE
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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.
Our thoughts on light rail and redesigning bistro ordinances.
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.
09.11
A moment to REMEMBER
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FROM THE PUBLISHER owntown Publications is now a member of Kachingle, which its founder, Cynthia Typaldos, calls a "crowdfunding" business model for websites. Our membership is a means for visitors to help support, through micro-donations, the news efforts of Downtown Publications on our website, downtownpublications.com.
D
There is ongoing debate about how news organizations should be funding website efforts which up until recently have basically been free to visitors. A number of larger newspapers and some magazines, like the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times and Rolling Stone, have either toyed with or have launched what is now called the “paywall� model of websites. As it suggests, the paywall model for websites either requires a monthly or annual subscription fee before you can access the complete news articles on a site. The verdict is still out on whether the paywall model for websites is the answer for the ongoing and increasing costs of presenting a news organization's content on the Internet. In terms of costs, there is the actual direct costs of writing and posting stories to the website because not all stories make it into the organization's print version. Behind the scenes you also have Internet Technology or IT employees who make sure stories appear, along with maintaining other website offerings. Then, in the case of paid subscription publications, there is the hiden cost of the potential loss of subscribers who shift their reading habits to the Internet version of publications. On the flip side of the coin, moving to the paywall business model for a website introduces the risk that visitors will simply stop coming to your website, although sites like the New York Times have been successful in developing a strong online paid readership. In the case of Downtown Publications, we face a unique situation. Our monthly print product, distributed at no charge in the Birmingham/Bloomfield area, is a hybrid magazine-style publication that combines more in depth features with personality profiles, hard news coverage of key government issues, along with coverage of the business community, the restaurant scene and non-profit society events. Our print product is supported by the advertisers you see in each issue. But our news efforts are not confined to the monthly print product you receive in your home or pick up at one of our newsstand locations. We also post more immediate or breaking news to our website during the course of each week and we have ongoing expenses for this effort, which are only partially offset by advertisers on our website. We have a strong following at downtownpublications.com, with some months as many as 25,000 visitors. So it is tempting to think about the paywall business model for websites For the time being, however, the Kachingle model fits our situation best. Those who "like" or appreciate our efforts can help us underwrite our efforts by making small contributions to Downtown Publications through Kachingle. The concept of crowdfunding websites is new. Major publications in Europe, especially Germany, have embraced this business model in the last year. Crowdfunding is just beginning to catch on in this country where some of the more cutting-edge publishers have adopted this model. Kachingle asks that you donate $5 each month and your contribution is divided among all the sites you support and appreciate that belong to Kachingle as you surf the web during the course of a month. Joining Kachingle to donate is simple. The home page of downtownpublications.com has a medallion or button which can direct you to the registration page. Once registered, supporting a site is only a matter of clicking on the Kachingle button. This experiment in micro-donations will hopefully generate small amounts of contributions each month which will allow us to expand what we now are doing on this website. If you find our news efforts valuable, then we would appreciate your expression of support. As always, I welcome your feedback. David Hohendorf Publisher DavidHohendorf@downtownpublications.com
INCOMING Misfeasance by school board
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After reading your piece "Don't sign...petitions" (Endnote/August 2011), I spoke to News Editor Lisa Brody in search of the basis for stating that "state law dictates that a recall should be due to malfeasance or misfeasance...". I found your article to be fair,
400 E. Brown • Birmingham, MI 48009
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I write in response to your August 2011 editorial urging your readers to forgo signing the school board recall petitions. Generally, your basic premise that elected officials should not be recalled but for malfeasance (the intentional performance of an illegal act that interferes with official duty) or misfeasance (performing an otherwise proper act in a wrongful or injurious manner) is faulty as it ignores simple nonfeasance or negligence in discharge of official duties. Certainly we expect and deserve more than elected officials who neglect their duties? Such failures are valid grounds for recall. In this instance, it is my opinion that, with the exception of Robert Herner, Mark Bank and Jacqueline El-sayed, the present school board members are patently responsible for misfeasance. In addition to engaging in acts intended to deceive the voting public with respect to the November 2010 bond proposal, these school board members conspired to withhold existing bond sinking fund dollars from their intended purpose (upkeep and improvement of the high schools). Instead, from day one, they allowed our buildings to deteriorate while they squandered large portions of these bond funds on pet projects and on funding their ceaseless fight for a flashy new high school. This amounts to nothing less than misappropriation and abuse of taxpayer trust--misfeasance. Given their proven track record with respect to the $50 million bond sinking fund, I wouldn't trust these board members with a week's worth of school lunch money let alone hand them a blank check worth another $100 million to spend on whatever whim hits them. Gail A. Eynon, J.D., Bloomfield Township
DOWNTOWN
balanced and factual except for the fundamental stated basis for your headline and conclusion. I do not believe that state law in this state of Michigan has the requirement you state. You may think it should. The commission that approved my recall language may even think it should, but the law as far as I know states nothing of the sort. In fact I found that the legislature considered a proposal to add the requirements you quote, but the proposal was defeated. I respect the fact that you are entitled to your opinion with respect to the recall, but I find it completely inappropriate to print information that is completely, factually erroneous. Chris Fellin, Bloomfield Township (Editor's note: You are correct; we overstated our case. Michigan law does not “dictate” that malfeasance or misfeasance be the basis for a recall, although our opinion is that this should be the only basis for supporting a recall of an elected official.)
Signing recall petition Regarding your publication's "Endnote" in the August issue reflecting on the school board recall, while I have not been approached to sign a recall petition, I am always curious as to what I would do if asked. Your comments make sense and I take no emotional exception to the expressed viewpoints. That said, I am wondering just how far I am willing to go when the electorate speaks and the governance says "we are going to do it anyway". If you can't tag it as either misfeasance or malfeasance, then what word do we apply to simply ignoring the outcome of the issue that the board took to the public? Frankly, who owns the integrity and consequences of a "bloated price tag" and "poor communication"? Aren't those the responsibilities of the group we elect to guide our public school decisions? How do we get the attention of these elected representatives to stop being so "misguided" in pursuit of the end game -- that is "get what we want at all costs." In the same issue you did publish 09.11
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.
the letter from the high school junior, Michael Banerian, in your Incoming section and I thank you for giving both sides. I must admit I am curious as to just how much assistance the young man might have gotten in the formation of his very "adult" presentation as I doubt that I could have expressed the views of their side any better. I re-read both pieces this morning and I have decided that if I am approached to sign a recall petition, I will sign it. When we ignore the opinion of the majority, no matter how right, it sends the wrong message to me. Larry Grady, Bloomfield Township
True cost of shared services I am concerned with the costs to the taxpayers for "services we all want and expect" as Bloomfield Township leaders like to tell us. Earlier in August the board approved township personnel to do all inspection services for the city of Sylvan Lake for a "fee" working as "independent contractors." Then the township approved a two-year deal to do all of the assessing for Sylvan Lake for $19,000 a year, again a "fee" working as "independent contractors." There are about 1,000 properties to assess in the city of Sylvan Lake, residential and commercial. The township budget for assessing is $750,000. The costs for the building rent, utilities, computers, insurance, motor pool cars, gas and maintenance, etc. are not included as expenses in that budget. downtownpublications.com
The township claimed that no more personnel were needed, nor any other items (computers,etc.), and that the existing department could easily absorb this work in their daily routine. The Board of Review will also be involved but those scheduled meetings will need to be performed on different days at the city of Sylvan Lake. The Board of Review has expenses as well. Other departments, such as building and planning, may be needed in order to complete the data and reports required. What costs are there? The township is responsible for about 20,000 (my guesstimate) residential and commercial properties in the township. Those 20,000, plus 1000 for Sylvan Lake, properties make 21,000 properties divided into that $750,000 assessing budget, for a per parcel cost of $35.71. Doesn't sound like it costs much per property. However, multiply $35.71 by the number of properties needing assessing in Sylvan Lake and I think the township should actually be charging at least $35,710, not $19,000 per year. Our tax dollars are subsidizing another community that pays zero in millages...just "fees." Our township employees are "independent contractors" to the city of Sylvan Lake. That means Sylvan Lake is not responsible for wages, health and insurance benefits or pensions. The township is responsible for all of those costs. The township is responsible for all the legacy costs and all the costs associated with the job...vehicles, computers, building to do business from, etc. The city of Sylvan Lake has also considered a proposal by the township to have police and dispatch performed by our township employees. What will that "fee" be? How much will the township taxpayers be subsidizing for those services? Beware of future millage requests. What is your money paying for? Services for you, or them? Marcia Robovitsky, Bloomfield Township
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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 August 19, 2011. Placement of codes is approximate.
WE HONOR THESE 45 ENVISIONARIES FOR THEIR GIFTS OF $1 MILLION OR MORE Paul & Lynn F. Alandt American Heart Association ARAMARK Charitable Fund at the Vanguard Charitable Endowment Art Van Furniture, Inc. The Phyllis & Stanley Berger Family Foundation Harold & Penny B. Blumenstein The Carls Foundation CATCH CDC Foundation Margaret V. Chapman Children’s Health Fund
ENVISIONARIES, 1 DREAM In 2007 Henry Ford Health System had a vision. To take our successes and expand upon them, for the good of the communities we serve. To achieve this vision, we launched the seven-year, $250 million Envision Campaign. What came from this effort was an incredible display of generosity, accomplishment and a name for those who believed in our purpose – ENVISIONARIES. More than $180 million has been raised to date, with every gift lifting us one step closer to our goal. Here, we recognize 45 ENVISIONARIES for their generous support of our vision.
William Davidson Foundation Glenn C. Davis, M.D., & Naomi Breslau, Ph.D. Ethel and James Flinn Foundation Martha F. Ford Benson & Edith Ford Fund
Eleanor & Edsel Ford Fund
Walter & Josephine Ford Fund William & Martha Ford Fund Ford Motor Company Fund Allan D. Gilmour Nancy & James Grosfeld Mort & Brigitte Harris
Frederick A. Hessler & Kathleen A. Mundy The Gerald Jeffries Family
Learn more about becoming an ENVISIONARY at henryford.com/giving or call (313) 876-1031.
Victoria V. Kane Rita Lorraine Koncewicz Trust Estate The Kresge Foundation Florine Mark & the Mark/Lis Family Foundation Valerie & David N. McCammon Paula Perry Fair & Steven Radom The Ravitz Foundation Bob & Sandy Riney Safra Foundation Nancy M. Schlichting The Elizabeth, Allan and Warren Shelden Fund Margaret & Gary Valade The Vattikuti Foundation The Vlasic Family We are also proud to honor five anonymous donors.
HAPPY HOUR THE HAPPIEST TIME OF THE DAY BY LISA BRODY
H
appy Hour, that magical time of day between the end of the work day and dinner time, has become very in for restaurants once again. While the three-martini lunch has gone the way of Mad Men hats and lunchtime trysts, and breakfast meetings tend to be all work and no play, Happy Hours are an ideal time to get together and catch your breath before heading home for dinner. They can be a casual networking opportunity, or a relaxed way to connect with friends and colleagues. And the prices on drinks and appetizers couldn't be more right. “Happy Hours aren't as agenda driven as other times; there isn't as much networking done then as other times of day,” said Kevin Mazziotta, manager of Toast in Birmingham. “It's a more low pressure time of day. People can relax and unwind. It's that moment after work and before you go home, because we all have obligations at home.” Happy Hour is actually a marketing term for a period of time, almost always longer than an hour, when a restaurant or bar offers discounts on alcoholic drinks, like beer, wine and cocktails, and often, specially-priced appetizers. Most establishments have Happy Hours during the week as an incentive to get people in the door during a slow time of the day, well after the lunch crush is over, and before the dinner hour has begun. Some
restaurants offer Happy Hours every day, and some others return to it late at night, after 10 p.m., as an incentive to have people return to their bar area after the dinner crowd has gone home. It's believed that the term “Happy Hour,” and the idea of drinking before dinner, has its roots in the Prohibition era. During that time, people would host cocktail hours, also known as “Happy Hours” at a speakeasy before going on to eat at a restaurant where alcohol could not be served. After the Constitution's 18th Amendment, which established Prohibition, was overturned, cocktail lounges continued the trend of drinking before dinner, and in the 1950s and 1960s, it became popular to enjoy a cocktail before dinner. “TGIF's (the restaurant chain) had one of the original Happy Hours in the 1970s,” said Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar chef partner Chris Gadulka. “The idea was that you were home by dinner. It was a slow time for restaurants. The concept was of giving you something small and inconsequential, and to sell it for a quarter of the price to get you in the door.” In the 1990s, as alcohol awareness programs and antidrunk driving campaigns grew, as well as budgets for freewheeling dinners knew no bounds, Happy Hours at many restaurants met their demise.
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“In the late 1990s, early 2000s, money was no object for lots of diners. For restaurants, there was less of a need to get people in. Then, with the downturn, people were turning inwards. Now, people want to treat themselves again,” Gadulka said. And restaurants, smarting from the lengthy recession, are once again looking to get patrons into dining rooms and lounges at a time of day that is typically very quiet. “Happy Hours are important because we want to capture some of the after work crowd,” said Toast's Mazziotta. “We're an unpretentious venue, and people come and relax.” A majority of Birmingham and Bloomfield's restaurants and bistros have adopted some kind of Happy Hour, often times for customers eager to find a place where everyone knows their name. “In our area, at our restaurant, we have a pretty established clientele who come in for our Happy Hour,” said John Bertoncin, manager of Hogan's Restaurant on Telegraph in Bloomfield Township. “We have our regulars. A lot of them come in for Happy Hour, and then stay for dinner.” Hogan's owner Rick Bochenek said they tend to get between 30 to 50 Happy Hour customers a day; more people stop in for a drink and appetizers in the winter than in the summer, even though they have an outdoor deck to enjoy Happy Hour cocktails. Hogan's Happy Hour is Monday through Friday from 3:30 to 5:30, with different drink specials daily, and half-off any menu appetizer. “In the summer, a lot of people are traveling up north in the summer, especially on Fridays,” Bochenek said. “We also get a lot of teachers after work during the school year.” Bochenek has found both the economic downturn and the road construction on Telegraph the last two years have played a large role in the success of their Happy Hour. “People are really looking for value right now,” he said. “It drives people in. They come in and ask what beer is on special, and what drinks are on special. Before, people never asked about what was on special.” “Some people just want to get out of the traffic on Telegraph,” Bertoncin said. “Happy Hour is a nice break between work and going home.” He noted that their crowd tends to be a middle-aged to older crowd enjoying a drink after work.
Vera Day Rizer, general manager of Big Rock Chophouse on Eton in Birmingham, which has a Happy Hour Monday through Friday with food service from 4 to 6, and at the bar, from 4 to 7, said it has been a good endeavor for the restaurant. “We have had Happy Hours for a couple of years,” she said. “We have found it's a good way to fill a slower time of the day for us, and a good way to wrap up the end of the day for many of our customers. People like to come in to an energized place, and it's really nice to have that activity in the dining room at a dead time of the day.” Rizer said Big Rock has a rewards program, and Happy Hour drinks and appetizers, which include $2 buffalo chicken sliders with fries and ground beef tenderloin sliders and fries, and $3 salmon cakes, as well as oysters on the half shell and calamari for $4, all counting towards their rewards program. “The program (the rewards program) is free, and every dollar spent counts towards it,” she said. She said they see many of the same faces, and enjoy both their regulars and periodic drop ins. “We're packed every day. People love it,” she said. “We extend our Happy Hour to the dining room until 6, and at the bar until 7, and then at 6, we ask for those seats in the restaurant to be given up for restaurant reservations,” she said. Happy Hour socializing often spills into the dining room at Fleming's as well, said Robert Loomis, operating partner. While their Happy Hour technically starts at 5, going until 7, regulars frequently wander in as early as 4:30 to get a good seat in their bar area. “Everyone has a cocktail in the bar, and a bottle of wine in the dining room,” Loomis said. Fleming's offers their Happy Hour nightly, including weekends, where there are five special appetizers for $6, five wines by the glass for $6, and five special cocktails, including martinis, cosmopolitans and “skinny” cocktails that are only 99 calories, for $6 each. The specialty cocktails change monthly. Fleming's chef Gadulka said, “All of the appetizers on our Happy Hour menu are offered full-size in our main dining room as appetizers. The best deal of all is our Fleming's Prime Burger, which is our full-size burger, that's $6 until 7, and then is $12.” “We see the same people two to three times a
Where to go to enjoy Happy Hour
Half-priced appetizers include calamari; filet beef tips; and portabello mushrooms, $5.
umerous restaurants in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills and Bloomfield Township host Happy Hours, with beverage and appetizer specials. Some change daily, weekly or monthly; others offer regulars a familiar menu. Take a look at the local offerings, and make plans to meet a friend or business acquaintance for a relaxed, and economical, meeting.
Big Rock Chophouse 245 S. Eton, Birmingham. 248.647.7774. Monday through Friday, 4 to 7 in the bar; 4 to 6 in the restaurant. House micro brewed beers, $2 a pint; house wines, $3 a glass; signature cocktails, $5. Deep fried cornflake crusted PB&J, fries; two buffalo chicken sliders, fries; two ground beef tenderloin sliders, $2. Salmon cakes, corn salsa; oriental chicken pot sticker, ponzu sauce, $3. Three oysters on the half shell; Big Rock calamari, lemon caper sauce; port and red wine braised beef short ribs, mashed, $4.
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Andiamo Bloomfield 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township. 248.865.9300. Monday through Friday, 3 to 6. Glass of wine, $5; well martinis, $5.
week, and we welcome them,” said Loomis. “We have an engaging staff who want to be friends with the people who are here. We're thrilled to have them at that time of day, because it's in the front of the restaurant, and it shows the busyness and vibrancy of the establishment. Often, by 6, it's standing room only in here.” Susan Peabody, owner with her sisters of Peabody's Restaurant on Woodward in Birmingham, said they get a variety of people coming in each day at Happy Hour. They actually offer two different Happy Hours; one, from 3 to 6, Monday through Saturday; and a unique one on Mondays through Thursdays from 9 until close, when they offer well drinks for $3, house wines for $3.50, pints of beer for $2.50, and four appetizer specials. “We get some people earlier in the day than they would have come if we didn't have a Happy Hour, and then they stay for dinner, and then on Mondays through Thursdays, we have a great group later in the evening,” she said. “We view it as a win-win for both the bar and the kitchen.” “Our Happy Hour is very popular, especially on certain days,” said Fadi Achour, general manager of Zazio's on Woodward at Maple in Birmingham. Their Happy Hour is Mondays through Fridays, from 4 to 7. “On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, we get a lot of local business people after work coming in, socializing. We also get a lot of 'girls night out' after work, where girls meet up for martinis and appetizers.” He said there are some customers who translate into dinner, but most are there strictly for the Happy Hour. “It's a pit stop before going home,” Achour said. “Our bar is very attractive. Often, people will stay and enjoy our full menu at the bar, eating right on the bar itself. Our bar has a very fun atmosphere. Diners seem to come in to dine.” He enjoys having his Happy Hour crowd, and appreciates every customer. “Happy Hour is a space you want to fill,” he said. “Not everyone wants to come in and spend $200 or $300. Some people are on a budget, or have very limited time. Happy Hour is something else that brings people in. At another time, they may come back for dinner in the dining room or at the chef's table. And on the weekends, the bar is filled up with locals and people waiting for tables. So during the week, it's great for filling seats in the bar.”
Beau Jack's 4108 W. Maple, Bloomfield Township. 248.626.2630. Monday through Friday, 3 to 5:30. Draft beers, house wines, well drinks. Brandy's 1727 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township. 248.338.4300. Daily, 3 to 6. House beer and wine, daily drink specials, $3.75 to $4. Three kinds of sliders; fried shrimp; tenderloin tips; turkey sliders; potato skins; chicken wings; daily specials, $4.99. Cameron's Steakhouse 115 Willits, Birmingham. 248. 723.1700. Daily 4:30 to 6:30. Assorted wines by the glass, $6 to
$8. Braised short rib sliders; Cameron's burger; calamari; chicken sandwich, $8 -$9 each. Mushroom sauté, $6. Chen Chow Brasserie 280 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham. 248.594.2469. Monday through Friday, 4 to 7. Domestic beers, $3; premium beers, $4; specialty cocktails, including mojitas and martinis, $4. Selection of hors d'ouerves, $4, 5, 6. Dick O'Dow's 160 W. Maple, Birmingham. 248.642.1135. Monday through Friday, 4 to 7. Pints, $4; bottles, $2.75; mixed drinks, $4.50; $1 off all other drinks. Daily food special.
Comprehensive Eye Care • Lasik Surgery Cataract Surgery • Eye Disease • Designer Eyewear Contact Lenses • Diabetic Eye Care Northern Lakes Seafood Company 39495 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills. 248.646.7900. Monday through Friday, 4 to 6, in tavern area. All draft beer, $3; glass of wine, $4; Well mixed drinks, $4; specialty martinis, $2 off. Angus burger with homemade chips, $5; macaroni and cheese au gratin, $3; Buffalo fried oysters with blue cheese and celery, $5; Guinness battered onion rings, $3; crab cake sliders, $5.
Fox Grill 39556 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills. 248.792.6109. Monday through Friday, 3 to 6. All draft beers, $3; wine and cocktail specials. Mini burgers; calamari; steak bites; potato skins; romaine boats with chicken.
Peabody's 34965 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham. 248.644.5222. Monday through Saturday, 3 to 6; Monday through Thursday, 9 to close. All well drinks, $3; house wines, including chardonnay, cabernet, merlot and piesporter, $3.50 a glass; pints of beer, $2.50. Firecracker shrimp; sesame ginger calamari; apple jack bacon sliders; spinach artichoke dip.
Hogan's Restaurant 6450 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township. 248.626.1800. Monday through Friday, 3:30 to 5:30. Daily, Miller Lite 16 ounce cans $3.25. Monday, Pabst beer, pint $2.50; pitcher $5; Tuesday, fancy cocktails, $6; Wednesday, margarita, $5; Thursday, Long Island Iced Tea, $6; Friday, LaBatt's Blue, pint $3.25; pitcher $7; Saturday, half off house bottle of chardonnay, merlot and cabernet wines; Sunday, Bloody Mary's, $5. Daily, half-off any menu appetizer.
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Mitchell's Fish Market 117 Willits, Birmingham. 248.646.3663. Monday through Friday, 4 to 7, in lounge area. Beers, $4; Absolut drinks, $5; wine by the glass, $6. Half off selected appetizers.
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Fleming's Prime Steakhouse/Wine Bar 323 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham. 248.723.0134. Daily 5 to 7. 5 cocktails (changes monthly), $6; 5 wines by the glass, including chardonnay, pinot noir, riesling, shiraz, cabernet (changes monthly), each $6. Tenderloin carpaccio; sweet chili calamari; roasted mushroom ravioli; seared ahi tuna; wicked cajun barbecue shrimp; Fleming's prime burger; each $6.
Moose Preserve Bar & Grill 43034 N. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township. 248.858.7688. Daily, 3 to 6. 50 cents off every drink.
DOWNTOWN
South 210 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham. 248.593.8133. Daily, 2 to 7. Domestic and draft beers, $3; call its, $4; house wines, $5; martinis, $6. Black and blue burger; pork slider; chicken wings; jalapeno poppers. Toast 203 Pierce, Birmingham. 248.258.6278. Monday through Friday, 4 to 6. 10 wines by the glass, $5; margarita specials, $5; draft beers, $2. Zazios 34977 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham. 248.530.6400. Monday through Friday, 4 to 7. Daily wine and martini specials. Monday and Wednesdays, Michigan Day—wines, $5 a glass; beers, $3 a glass; Tuesdays and Thursdays, any wine by the glass, $5 and any martini from list, $5. Small plate appetizers, including pizzas, lamb sliders, mussels, calamari, trufflescented fried yukon SCAN FOR HAPPY HOUR LISTINGS potatoes, caprese with grape tomatoes, seared sea scallops, spicy olives, and breads and spreads. 09.11
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M ore Birmingham and Bloomfield homeowners choose SKBK to market their properties than any other Brokerage.
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Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Oakland Township $3,499,900 Magnificent Architectural Masterpiece on 2.68 acres with 19,684 total square footage! Solid Cherry Wood doors, imported exterior limestone and grand entry. Endless details with soaring barrel ceilings and eleven fireplaces. Entertaining is accommodated throughout with billiards room, music room and three level theater. Sparkling pool, pool house, hot tub, exterior fireplace grace the outdoors. Five bedrooms with 7.2 baths. 211081892
Bloomfield $975,000 Great family home! Custom designed, one owner home in Chestnut Run on a private street. First floor master suite with spacious master bath and private room off master suite. Lovely landscaped back yard with pond. Bricked patio plus deck. Three bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211083401
Ronni Keating
SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Birmingham $3,400,000
Birmingham $3,275,000
Exceptional style and uncompromising quality. This Longe designed and Derocher built home boasts a fabulous kitchen, enormous first floor master suite with spa bath. An amazing finished lower level. Five bedrooms with 4.3 baths. 210116511
Stunning, custom in-town residence is the epitome of style and sophistication. Offering over 9000 sq ft of functional living space with details that exceed expectations. Sumptuous master suite and gourmet kitchen as featured in a national publication as a "dream kitchen". Finished lower level, elevator and loft space. Four bedrooms with 5.2 baths. 211083923
Bloomfield $1,500,000
Birmingham $869,000
Rebuilt in 1990, stylish Contemporary tucked away from the road on two acres of beautifully manicured grounds. Boasting over 5600 sq ft of living space, this home is truly special. Generous room sizes are perfect for entertaining. Spacious master suite is over 1000sq ft with spa-like bath, dry sauna, enormous walk-in closet and morning bar. Three bedrooms with 3.2 baths. 210098519
Stylish In-Town Home! Open floor plan boasts hardwoods, beautiful moldings, architectural details and tons of windows. Master suite is very generous with spa-like bath, huge walk in closet, fireplace and cathedral ceiling. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211065986
Sara Lipnitz
SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Lake Charlevoix Frontage $11,995,000 This unparalleled 69 acres with over 3000 of lakefront footage is truly unbelievable. The property includes a barn, boathouse, covered bridge, ponds, a stream and pasture land. You will be in paradise. The exquisite log home and guest house will accommodate family and friends comfortably. Five bedrooms with 3.1 baths plus 1400+ sq ft guesthouse. 29084317. Presented by Mike Cotter
Lake St. Clair Frontage $2,175,000
Oakland Township $1,995,000
Grosse Pointe Farms Estate. Commanding views of Lake St. Clair and convenience to the majestic Grosse Pointe Yacht Club are here in this amazing 1 1/2 story brick Country French Home. First floor master suite, gourmet kitchen with seating area and fireplace. Very nicely finished lower level with theater room, bar, second kitchen and wine cellar. Four bedrooms with 4.2 baths. 211086975. Presented by Mike Cotter
Exquisite home in gated Orchard Ridge subdivision with exceptional appointments you would expect! Superb kitchen entertainment area. Beautifully articulated grounds with gardens, pond, waterfall and gazebo. Five fireplaces. Finished lower level with media room and more. Five bedrooms with 6.2 baths. 211075905. Presented by Paula Law
Mike Cotter & Paula Law
SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Birmingham $1,599,000 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. Gracious master suite with balcony. Third floor with open loft space. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211062203
Birmingham $899,000
West Bloomfield $549,900
Spectacular custom built home! Details abound, cherry cabinets with granite counters, commercial appliances, butlers pantry, Cherry floors, circular staircase, limestone bath, coffered library and three fireplaces. Finished basement with kitchen, bath and work out room. Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211073782
Sprawling Ranch with 4,000 square feet of living space. Located on a private cul-de-sac with private beach, lake and boat docking privileges! Open floor plan with elegant foyer opening to a two story great room with fireplace and white eat in kitchen. Spacious master suite. Bloomfield Hills Schools! Three bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211082375
Renee Lossia Acho
SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Bloomfield $2,495,000 Bloomfield Village home on a magnificent 1.7 acres with exceptional features. Open floor plan with gourmet kitchen and a beautiful library with stunning fireplace. Dramatic master suite with fireplace and his and her dual entry shower. Additional 2200 sq ft in lower level and extensive use of mill work. Five bedrooms with 6.2 baths. 211064507
Birmingham $1,595,000
West Bloomfield $449,000
Beautifully rebuilt by Steve Templeton. Extensive use of crown and dentil molding, wainscot, marble and hardwood floors. Kitchen with island featuring white wood cabinets, granite counter, Viking stove and sub zero fridge. Family room with limestone fireplace, coffered ceiling with French Doors to Florida room and finished basement with Media Room. Four bedrooms with 3.2 baths. 211075399
Exquisitely designed home by Don Paul Young is located on a private setting with three tiered waterfall, stream and professional landscaping. Totally updated with an open floor plan featuring a gourmet cherry and granite kitchen with top of the line appliances. A spectacular finished walk out lower level. Four bedrooms with four baths. 211083383
Cindy Obron Kahn
SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Walnut Lake Frontage $3,499,000 Spectacular Updated Walnut Lakefront Estate! An Entertainers' Delight. Gourmet kitchen, top of the line appliances, great room offers high ceiling, fantastic views of the lake and fabulous bar. Floor to ceiling windows. Possible first floor master, formal dining room, billiards room, nanny suite and your own private Night Club!! Guest house and attached garage, large enough to house five cars. Six bedrooms with 8.3 baths. 211055364 Presented by Nancy Beachum
Franklin Village $1,350,000
Metamora $899,000
Reduced! Spectacular home situated on almost two acres. Entrance into the 2 1/2 story great room abounds with light and true beauty of workmanship in moldings and beautiful Brazilian cherry floors. Large first floor master suite. Six bedrooms with 5.2 baths. 210099347 Presented by Donna Barlow
Reduced! Beautifully remodeled and expanded 6800 sq ft Hunt Country Estate on twenty five gorgeous fenced acres. Large great room with Cherry floors and fireplace, den, dining room, large custom kitchen with granite tile and high end appliances. Guest quarters and five stall horse barn. Four bedrooms with 4.1 baths. 211054349 Presented by David Busch
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Heart of the Village BLOOMFIELD This gem boasts over 5000 sq ft of living space with a finished walkout lower level. Great floor plan. Gorgeous private lot. First floor laundry. Five bedrooms with 3.2 baths. 211077874. $989,500. Jenny Turner
200' Frontage on Gilbert Lake BLOOMFIELD Enjoy the gorgeous sunsets from two patios and most rooms. Over one acre wooded grounds. Newer furnace, central air and dishwasher. Everdry lifetime basement warranty. Bloomfield Hills Schools. Six bedrooms with 2.2 baths. 211080953. $690,000. Bill Tracy
Absolutely Elegant WEST BLOOMFIELD Unit with gorgeous views of Pine Lake. Fabulous master suite balcony overlooking lake. Beautiful Brazilian Cherry floors throughout. Elevator to all three levels. Two bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211058815. $449,000. Celeste Cole
Sylvan Lake Frontage KEEGO HARBOR
Picturesque Setting BLOOMFIELD Updated kitchen with large island and breakfast bar. Huge family room with fireplace. Living and dining room with access to multi-level decks overlooking sensational yard with creek and pond. Five bedrooms with 5.1 baths. 211071035. $899,900. Carol Nystrom
Quiet and Tranquil BIRMINGHAM Condominium overlooks the Rouge River and Booth Park. Amenities include a wine cellar, two gated covered parking spaces and a third on the stree. Library or home office with French entry doors. Balcony with spectacular views. Two bedrooms with two baths. 211067673. $575,000. Michelle Christl
Exceptionally Updated BEVERLY HILLS VILLAGE Premium amenities throughout. Spectacular island kitchen with dual dishwashers, warming drawer, Chef's stove and multiple fridges Finished lower lever with new half bath and back up sump pump. Four bedrooms with 2.2 baths. 211071651. $425,000. Maureen Francis
Private 1.7 Wooded Acres BLOOMFIELD
Spacious Colonial on quiet, private street. Granite kitchen and bath and hardwood floors in living room. Newer roof, sea wall and landscaping. West Bloomfield Schools. Three bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211029249. $425,000. Susan Kissick
Nice family home in desirable Woodcrest Farms with Chalmers Lake privileges. New gourmet kitchen, carpeting and deck. Grand-fathered out building could be used for car storage. Hot Tub in Florida Room. Bloomfield Hills Schools. 211074553. $369,000. Bill Tracy & Chris Johnson
Great Charm and Character
Wonderful Detached Condo!
ROYAL OAK Reduced! 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. $349,900. Candice Cuyler
Large Corner Lot BEVERLY HILLS VILLAGE 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
BLOOMFIELD Open and sophisticated floor plan. Wonderful two story living room, 1st floor master suite and 1stt floor laundry. Updated kitchen offers double ovens, sub zero, granite counters and walk in pantry. Bloomfield Hills Schools. Three bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211078847. $349,000. Cindy Kahn
Meticulously Maintained! BLOOMFIELD 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. $299,500. Avery Weisling
Birmingham, Michigan | 248.644.7000 | skbk.com
Fantastic Opportunity! 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. $292,000. Kay Hartwell
Prestigious Vinsetta Blvd ROYAL OAK Beautiful updated Bungalow. Updates include; kitchen, kitchen eating area, first floor bath and basement bath. Exterior with new James Harding siding, paint, new porch addition and landscaping. Three bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211078600. $272,000. Kathy Haack
Gorgeous Private Lot TROY Quality built Brick Colonial! Ceramic floor in foyer, kitchen and all baths. Kitchen with beautiful Oak cabinets and newer dishwasher. Newly painted deck and new roof. Four bedrooms with 2.1 baths. 211082533. $238,800. Rosa Lau
Desirable Adams Square BLOOMFIELD Gorgeous home! Updated kitchen and bathrooms with granite counter. Family room with fireplace and door wall to patio. Hardwood Floors. New windows through much of rooms and central air. Four bedrooms with 2.1 baths 211083938. $229,000. Rosa Lau
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. 211076756. $189,000. Erin Keating-Dewald
Move In Condition! BIRMINGHAM Cathedral ceiling in great room, professionally painted, hardwood floors, newer windows and updated electric. Large deck with fenced yard. Near park and downtown. Three bedrooms and 2 baths. 211083195. $173,000. Mike Heiwig
Vintage Colonial with Charm 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 1.1 baths. 211084849. $289,000. Beverly McCotter
Open Floor Plan ROCHESTER HILLS Lots of updates. High efficiency furnace, roof gutter and guard, brand new carpet and freshly painted throughout, new kitchen and laundry floor. Large yard with circle driveway. A must see! Four bedrooms with 3.1 baths. 211053915. $250,000. Rosa Lau
Qutstanding Colonial ROYAL OAK Kitchen with new cabinet granite counter and stainless steel appliances. Wet bar with refrigerator. Metal roof, basement waterproof warranty, new plumbing, refinished hardwood floors, gas fireplace with built ins. Three bedrooms with two baths. 211082807. $229,900. Erin Keating-Dewald
Tranquil End Unit Condo! WEST BLOOMFIELD Perfection! Upgrades including granite kitchen with maple cabinets, double ovens and stainless steel appliances, abundance of storage, hardwood floors and recessed lighting through out. Fabulous master suite! Three bedrooms with 3 baths. 211077108. $219,900. Lisa Sturdevant
Great Neighborhood! BEVERLEY HILLS VILLAGE Wonderful solid Ranch with hardwood floors under carpeting. Newer windows, cove ceilings and huge sunroom. Living Room with natural fireplace. Huge basement with high ceilings. Three bedrooms with 2 baths. 211054476. $189,000. Bev McCotter
Great for Entertaining PLEASANT RIDGE Desirable Brick Ranch with 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. 211083890. $165,000. Joanne McGuire
Birmingham Footcare Specialists DMC PHYSICIAN DO YOU HAVE PERSISTANT HEEL PAIN? UNTIL RECENTLY, TENDON AND FASCIA SYMPTOMS HAVE BEEN DIFFICULT TO TREAT. MANY TREATMENTS TEND TO ADDRESS ONLY THE SYMPTOMS. NOT THE CAUSE OF PAIN. PATIENTS TEND TO ENDURE MONTHS OF PAIN BEFORE THE UNDERLYING DISEASE IMPROVES. THE ONLY OTHER OPTION HAS BEEN AGGRESSIVE INVASIVE SURGERY. INTRODUCING TOPAZ. WHICH OFFERS A MINIMALLY INVASIVE ALTERNATIVE TO SURGICAL PROCEDURES FOR THE TREATMENT OF TENDONS AND FASCIA. DR. SCHAFFER IS OFFERING THE NEW TOPAZ TREATMENT FOR HEEL PAIN.
COMPLETE PODIATRY CARE DO YOU HAVE HAMMER TOES, CORNS AND CALLUSES, FUNGAL NAILS, PAINFUL BUNIONS, INGROWN NAILS, SPRAINED ANKLES? DO YOU NEED ORTHOTICS? SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION NOW.
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Kevin Dietz evin Dietz, investigative reporter for WDIV-TV (Channel 4), has traveled to Saudi Arabia to cover the Persian Gulf War and to hurricane-devastated towns on the Florida coast. His propensity for communication became apparent early on, as a Brother Rice High School student. “My teachers would say they’re not surprised at all (that I pursued broadcasting) because I was so talkative in class,” he said. “I used to do the morning announcements at Brother Rice.” After high school, Dietz went on Western Michigan University (WMU), where he took courses needed for dental school. “My father was an endodontist and I wanted to be an endodontist, but I kept getting drawn back into the news.” Family friend and nationally-recognized journalist, Chris Hansen, encouraged Dietz to work at the radio station on his college campus. “I ended up working at the radio station and I never looked back.” Following graduation, Dietz eagerly sought a job in broadcasting. “I worked with Chris Hansen and followed him around the summer after I graduated,” Dietz said. After putting together a resume tape, he traversed Michigan looking for work. “I made 25 copies and drove to every station I could. I was going to keep going until I had a job.” Dietz took a position with WPBN-TV in Cheboygan and went to work, with every intention of returning to Detroit. “After about a year, I started to send tapes every couple months to all the stations in Detroit. I got advice on how to get better so I could get
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back to Detroit,” he said. “Finally, Channel 4 hired me in ’93.” Since his tenure with WDIV, Dietz has covered such high-profile cases as the Oakland County Child Killer and former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick's parole violation. His proudest moment, however, involved a story about 13-year-old girl accused of murdering her next door neighbor. “She was tried and convicted falsely of murder,” he said. Dietz helped uncover a medical condition in the victim that resulted in the exoneration of the accused. “They had a new trial and she was found not guilty. The next year, she was on the honor roll. It’s an incredible feeling to know that you’re helping someone. It was a great use of the job, to right a wrong.” Along his journey, Dietz met his wife Melissa and was married by his Brother Rice High School principal, Fr. Joseph Grimaldi. Dietz credits his work ethic to his years at Brother Rice. “For four years at Brother Rice, they teach you about being a gentleman, a hard worker and about being responsible.” Dietz began his career as an ambitious aspiring journalist, willing to do hard work to gain respect in the business, and he ended up right where he always wanted to be. “It’s important to me to do investigative stories in the town I grew up in and make a difference in the city,” Dietz said. “I like being out in the field, working with people and making a difference in their lives.” Story: Katey Meisner
Photo: Laurie Tennent
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A surgical clinic focusing on the correction of unavoidable changes that result from the process of aging. The individual effects of aging may not be easily recognizable but taken as a whole they become noticeable. Our comprehensive cost effective procedures are performed by Board Certified specialists utilizing multidisciplinary surgical & medical techniques. We attempt to match your goals, schedules, and other medical problems to personalize your treatment. We will answer all medical questions and provide quality consistent care that meets your cosmetic and medical needs. Our clinic is staffed by a Board Certified Surgeon trained in contemporary methods of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hand Surgery and Skin Rejuvenation using the latest state of the art devices including Fractional Laser. The Clinic provides psychological advice provided by a Board Certified Psychiatrist that has more than 40 years of experience in Metro-Detroit area. The clinic also has a large network of physicians in all specialties that are utilized for referrals. We have no waiting time.
Our appointments are scheduled by calling one of these numbers. (248) 642-3388 â&#x20AC;˘ (248) 971-2121 (855) 233-9530 â&#x20AC;˘ FAX (248) 642-0645 www.head2toeantiaging.com
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT WHAT WE LEARNED FROM THE 9/11 TRAGEDY BY LISA BRODY he sky was a startling blue, without even a whispy cloud in the sky, on a beautiful Tuesday. The kids had just returned to school, yet the morning, early as it was, already had the feel of a late summer day. Ten years ago, we woke up on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, and each one of us went about our morning routines as if it was just another day. Until we suddenly, brutally, learned it wasn't. For all of us, one of our most indelible collective images is of the New York firemen's helmets left forlorn in the World Trade Center's wreckage, a casualty not only of Al Qaeda terrorist hijackers, but of the lack of preparation of the first responders systems to allow them to communicate with one another. In the ten years since, we know that if there had been a coordinated communications plan, some lives would have been saved. Around the world, we have seen other incidents, from the recent shooters in Norway and Tucson, coordinated bombing attacks in Mumbai, India, London, Pakistan, Israel, Iraq, Indonesia, and others, and catastrophic natural disasters like Katrina and Joplin, Missouri, which have demanded emergency management responses from multiple government entities, local, state and federal. The good news is that Michigan governments have learned from the 9/11 tragedy. From the local to the county, state and federal level, government officials have now coordinated efforts to respond to catastrophes, whether natural or manmade. One of the significant things Oakland County has worked on for all police and fire departments is an 800-megahertz communications system that allows their radios to transmit from one to the other, hopefully averting the problems which occurred amongst first responders on September 11. The 800-megahertz system is dependent upon adequate cell tower antenna reach. The communication devices which use the system allow everyone in the system to monitor them, from beat cops to dispatchers to county Homeland Security officials. In the unfortunate event the cell towers fail, they can be switched to a conventional mode, which then operate like two-way walkie-talkies. They wouldn't be able to be scanned by all first responders, rendering them far less effective.
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“The communication towers make sure that all of the frequencies are compatible, so that Birmingham can talk to St. Clair Shores or Livonia. It's not just within Oakland County, but between counties,” said Ted Quisenberry, Oakland County Homeland Security manager. “We do radio tests every third week to make sure the system works. Our board works with the state and the federal government to equally and fairly distribute money throughout the region based on population needs and critical infrastructure demands, all with the goal of making the region safer in the event of any kind of emergency.” “It takes a while to work out all the bugs, and the county is still adding towers. They just added a cell tower on top of Birmingham's city hall, on top of an existing antenna. They're using taller buildings and existing antennas around the county to fill in holes and bad spots around the county,” said Birmingham Fire Chief Mike Metz. Birmingham also is serviced by a cell tower at Lincoln Hills Golf Course and another on the Top of Troy building on Big Beaver in Troy. Bloomfield Hills is currently reviewing a proposal from the county to place a tower on their department of public safety land. Metz said it costs the county approximately $90,000 for each cell site. They are needed to help with gaps in cellular communication caused by downtown density, low valleys, and the interference of tall buildings. “Once the county decides where the tower should go, they determine the frequency. Then they go to the U.S. FCC for approval, and then to the Canadian version of the FCC, because we're so close to the Canadian border, so we won't interfere with their channels. If everything is approved, they then order the equipment and install it,” Metz said. Quisenberry explained that everything, for any event, begins and ends locally. “Unless they cannot manage an incident or emergency, we allow everything to start and stay local,” he said. “If they can't handle it, or if their resources can't manage it, then we would be notified by the incident commander on the scene, such as the fire chief at a fire,and we would step in. The first call is usually for mutual aid. But since we're monitoring on the same frequency now, as soon as it goes out, as soon as it happens, we make contact with the incident commander, to see what help is needed. We've all trained together so we know what each other's needs are, and what possible problems we may be encountering. There are far too many possibilities out there that should not fall on just one person's shoulders.” Those possibilities now include things that were once only the province of intelligence novels. he federal government formed Homeland Security in 2003 as a direct response to September 11. It is considered an umbrella term for security efforts to protect states against terrorist activities, specifically, as a concerted effort to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States, and to reduce the country's vulnerability to terrorism, and to minimize the damage, and to recover from attacks, if they do occur. Homeland Security itself actually encompasses 187 federal agencies and departments, including the U.S. National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Secret Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Citizenship and Immigration Services, and the Transportation Security Administration, also known as the airport's TSA. Homeland Security provides a nexus of research and responses for more than just counterterrorism efforts; it also includes emergency preparedness and responses for both terrorism and natural disasters. Homeland Security preparation and responses include police and fire personnel, volunteer medical, and emergency medical workers. The agency's work includes domestic and international intelligence activities, largely done by the FBI; critical infrastructure and perimeter protection; border security, including land, maritime and country borders; transportation security by air and sea; biodefense; the detection of radioactive and radiological materials; and research on the next generation of security technologies. “After 9/11, the federal government instituted a massive bureaucracy which works together so that people would not just go to the site of a catastrophe and be an obstacle,” said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard, who travelled to help at the World Trade Center and to New Orleans after Katrina. Today, Bouchard is the head of government affairs of Major County Sheriffs of America, a liaison to Homeland Security which represents about 80 sheriffs around the country representing one third of the population of the country. Having done national and international counterterrorism work, Bouchard emphasizes the importance of coordinated
T
Preparations in the event of an emergency By Lisa Brody
n the 1950s and 1960s, every school child practiced nuclear attack drills, just in case the Soviet Union did the unthinkable and dropped a bomb on the United States. In Florida and along the Gulf Coast, homeowners know their evacuation routes in case of a hurricane. Here in Oakland County, we recognize the tornado siren and know to take cover in the lower part of the house where there are no windows. But today, if there were a major catastrophe, be it weather-related or manmade, would you and your family know what to do or where to go? No municipality or government entity has created an evacuation route or emergency plan for the public. Instead, it is highly recommended that each family devise a family disaster plan with each member of the family informed of where to go and what to do, working as a team. Before anything ever happens, sit down with your family and discuss what you would do and where you would go if there were a sudden emergency and you couldn't go home. Check out escape routes from your home, and figure out two ways out of each room, and make sure every family member knows all of them. “If you need to leave quickly, you need to plan in advance as a family, and figure out what you need to do,” said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard. “The emergency could be anything—it could be a train derailment with noxious fumes, a flood, tornado, power outage, an active shooter, anything. The most important thing is to plan, and to have a battery operated radio to tune into the Emergency Radio System, which would be running information and directions. It's imperative to have.” The Oakland County Sheriff's website has a thorough plan to advise residents on what to do in advance, as well as downloadable forms at www.oakgov.com/sheriff. The city of Birmingham also has a Family Preparedness Workbook which is available to anyone at the Adams Road fire station. It is recommended that everyone supply their home with enough emergency supplies to meet the needs of every family member, including pets, for at least three days. They should be stored in sturdy, easy to carry containers, such as backpacks, duffle bags, or covered trash cans. Key emergency tools include a battery powered radio, a flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries. Inside, there should be a three-day supply of water, with one gallon of water person per day, as well as at least a three-day food supply for all family members that won't spoil. There should be a change of clothes and footwear per person, because conditions you may encounter are unknown. Also include one blanket or sleeping bag per person. Be sure to have a first aid kit which also includes an extra pair of glasses and a supply of all of your family's medications, as it might be difficult to get ahold of those in an emergency. It is advisable to have a stash of sanitation supplies, as well. Be prepared with any special items you might need for an infant, an elderly family member, or a disabled member of your family. It's critical to keep a copy of important family documents in a waterproof container. It's always a good idea to check and make sure you have adequate insurance coverage. And be sure to have a reserve of cash on hand, because in an emergency a credit card, debit card and ATM machines may not work or may be invalid. It would be terrific if we each knew just where to head in the event authorities called for an evacuation of our area, and while Michigan Department of Transportation authorities have said they have top secret plans, the Road Commission of Oakland County has not made any contingency plans in the event of an evacuation. “Nothing has been designed because there is no way to know what kind of an attack it would be, and we cannot prepare for everything and anything,” said Craig Bryson, public information officer for the road commission. “We're part of a collective Oakland County response, and we do know how to get information out to the media, which is what we would do. It would depend so much on where something happened in Oakland County, what it was, and what the evacuation routes would be. I admit, we would be scrambling.” Not a very reassuring thought, but Oakland County Homeland Security Management and local municipal leaders affirm that they have thought out all possibilities. “The best advice is, in most events, it's best to stay put,” advises Bloomfield Township Treasurer Dan Devine, who leads the township's preparations. And be prepared for your own family's needs.
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responses, and of communities and organizations working together. “September 11 has heightened everyone's awareness, and we're all more aware and prepared, whether it's weather related or something criminal,” said former Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne. He noted the township has its own emergency management plan, separate from Oakland County's, and its own emergency command center in the basement of its department of public works building in case of a major emergency. “We have a fully trained staff, with each department manager trained in the event of an emergency. We do mock drills as part of our training.” ationally, since September 11, 2001, Homeland Security and FEMA have become more prepared for crises, both natural and manmade, by developing policies on not only the federal level, but for states and assisting counties and local municipalities, ensuring adequate plans are in place and are validated. They work to ensure that necessary capabilities are defined to address threats, are able to provide the right amount of resources and technical assistance to jurisdictions, and work to integrate and synchronize preparedness efforts wherever it's necessary. In Michigan, the September 11 attacks and other events have created an intense focus for the state's Homeland Security on emergency preparedness and on the preventive measures being taken to protect the state's residents. The state has assigned the Michigan State Police with the task of spearheading the state government's response to a disaster. The Michigan State Police investigate suspected or potential criminal enterprises and activities, including those that involve terrorism, and work to prevent criminals from committing acts of terror in the first place. The state police, along with other police agencies, continuously prepare to respond to terrorist incidents through its emergency planning, training and exercising efforts. They work constantly with other state agencies, including the departments of environmental quality, military affairs, agriculture, transportation and community health, which all have different but equally critical roles to play if the state had to respond and recover from an emergency. The state police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (EMHS) is the division responsible for coordinating Michigan's response to a wide range of emergencies and disasters, both natural and manmade. Recognizing that the state needs to be able to respond if a terrorist event used weapons of mass destruction (WMD), the state police, along with Homeland Security, have developed a Regional Response Team Network (RRTN), which can provide quick response capability to weapons of mass destruction and terrorist incidents, such as if the “underwear bomber” on the Christmas 2009 Delta flight had succeeded in blowing up the plane over Grosse Pointe. The network also coordinates resources and expertise at local, state and federal levels, as well as any contributions from the state police canine unit, bomb squad and emergency support unit. Working with state police special teams, if needed, would be the Michigan Urban Search and Rescue (MUSAR) organization, which is a critical response asset for any kind of emergency. It is a privately funded organization which works in conjunction with fire services, local emergency management, Michigan State Police and private sector agencies. “It's very important that everyone is singing out of the same song book,” said Oakland County's Quisenberry. “There's no community, including New York City, that is large enough to be able to handle everything that is thrown at them. But if you pool all of your resources together, even across country, you have the ability to handle anything.” The Michigan National Guard, 51st WMD/Civil Support Team, is available to provide extra help to the RRTN. In the event of a suspected WMD incident, whether nuclear, chemical, biological or radiological, the incident commander would set in course the appropriate course of action to protect the local population. They also provide informational briefings, exercises, and cross training activities with state and local first responders. The Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), introduced in 1993, is an interstate agreement staffed by state police that streamlines the assistance one governor can lend another after a national disaster or terrorist attack by providing a thorough framework for flexible responses.
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“EMAC is an arrangement of the states, by the states, and for the states,” says the Michigan State Police. It addresses all the issues associated with a state requesting assistance, reimbursement of services, workman's compensation, insurance and liability in advance of a disaster. “After Katrina, there were no federal or state authorizations, and that just added to the problem. We and local police were there for several days before the feds showed up, and we were hoping we would get reimbursed,” said Oakland County Sheriff Bouchard. “My instruction to my people is to plan to deal with the situation, and if we get help or get reimbursed, it's a bonus.” “If you're at a catastrophic event, without power, like I was four days after Katrina hit for a couple of weeks, you have to figure out how to take care of your area of the world,” said Birmingham Police Chief Don Studt. “I learned you can survive without electricity, but not without water—at least until the feds and state, the calvary gets there. What that disaster taught me is how to get the calvary there in the shortest amount of time.” The Michigan Emergency Management Assistance Compact (MEMAC) is modeled after the intrastate mutual aid compacts. This is another recent development following September 11. MEMAC is designed to help Michigan's 1,776 local municipalities share vital public safety resources more efficiently and efficiently, since neither the state nor any local county, city or township can afford to acquire and maintain all of the manpower, equipment and other resources that would be necessary to respond to every possible emergency or natural disaster, especially if it were a terrorist act involving chemical, biological or nuclear weapons. MEMAC is designed to supplement rather than replace existing local mutual aid agreements that are already in place to handle routine public safety services between neighboring municipalities and fire departments. For example, Birmingham has had local mutual aid reinforcements since 1955 with Bloomfield Township, Southfield, Ferndale, Royal Oak, Madison Heights, West Bloomfield, Pontiac and Waterford. “We get and offer day to day mutual aid with these communities,” said Birmingham's Fire Chief Metz. “If we need help with a fire or any other problem, we call them first.” etz said Birmingham's involvement with MEMAC is beneficial because it's a reciprocal program with communities throughout the state. Birmingham's latest MEMAC resolution was adopted in August 2011 by the Birmingham City Commission. MEMAC would help facilitate the ability of the city to receive state or federal disaster funds through its public assistance program. “Through MEMAC, we receive grant funds from the state. It's called the emergency management performance grant, and this year Birmingham will get about $14,000 to run the program,” Metz said. “A big difference since September 11 is that there has been more funding nationwide. A lot of money has been put towards Homeland Security, training efforts, and making sure that we locals are prepared. It's changing all of the time, and it's ongoing. The most recent training and preparation we're being given in is WMD, from hazmat teams to weapons of mass destruction training. We hope nothing ever happens, but we're prepared.” A necessary—and revolutionary, especially since the tragedy of 9/11— aspect of the success of MEMAC is its adoption of a standardized incident command system for all participating agencies and jurisdictions. The system has been used effectively for a while by fire departments, and it provides a unified command structure when multiple agencies and jurisdictions must respond to a major event. For example, because the training was consistent around the country, Quisenberry noted that Michigan first responders who went down to New Orleans could be plugged in wherever they were needed because they had the same training and information. “Logistical people, finance people, operational people, everyone operates under the same system,” he said. “That's very important, especially when the power goes down and it's difficult to communicate.” Quisenberry said a main function of his office is to identify what infrastructure within the county could, or would, be disrupted by a terrorist attack, and what would be done to that infrastructure. “We look at electrical grids, rail systems, airports, sporting events, malls, like Somerset Collection and Great Lakes Crossing, The Palace of Auburn Hills, schools, and other areas where people gather, and look at how we can identify, prevent, and figure out how to respond to a monumental event,” he said.
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Oakland County has created a first responders committee made up of public and private entities, from governmental units, universities, and large companies like General Motors and Ford Motor Company, which have significant operations in the county, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;we work to determine how we can make ourselves less vulnerable to either a terrorist attack or a weather-related incident,â&#x20AC;? Quisenberry said. He said they all do full-scale mock exercises to prepare for any eventuality. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Recently, we did a mock gas line explosion. First we did it as a table top, preparing as if there was a gas line explosion near a school, and how would all units respond, including road commissions, DPWs, and school officials,â&#x20AC;? Quisenberry said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to do the tactical work first, assessing is it an accident or a terrorist attack. Then you have to secure the site. Next, you have to assess the crisis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When we identify where our vulnerabilities are, then we test them, we can work to secure them, and review them again and again,â&#x20AC;? he continued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So we are consistently working on them, whether it's a gas line explosion, an anthrax situation, or a tornado, and we know how to handle any possible situation. That way, you know when something happens that you've already worked with this police chief or that sheriff, so your relationships are secure and known.â&#x20AC;? esides local government first responders and county resources, the Michigan Citizen Corps Program helps communities prepare for and respond to local emergencies, training and engaging volunteers to help make their city or township better prepared to respond to a emergency or disaster. The support of citizen corps activities are especially valued during major disasters when first responders may initially be overwhelmed. Within the citizen corps is Oakland County's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), part of Homeland Security. The concept behind CERT is that citizens will be to better prepared to survive and recover from all hazards, including severe weather, flooding, major power outage, fire, transportation or hazardous materials incidents, weapons of mass destruction because trained and informed citizens will be better able to help themselves, their families, neighbors and co-workers in the event of a disaster. The thinking is also that CERT-trained volunteers may also be able to prevent a terrorist attack or criminal act by watching for, and reporting, suspicious people, vehicles or activities at sites such as drinking water system facilities and airports. Dan Devine, Bloomfield Township Treasurer, is a founding member of CERT, which he said FEMA encouraged so local communities could train volunteers for local emergencies after September 11. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole idea is to augment police, fire and EMS workers in the event of a large scale event, if they were tapped out,â&#x20AC;? Devine said, noting the township has about 50 trained volunteers who undergo more than 20 hours of training. They are provided with basic search and rescue gear, including a backpack, flashlight, first aid pack, a hard hat, and basic tools. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are citizens, all 18 years or older, from all walks of life. Some have medical, military or short wave radio backgrounds. We're an eclectic and dynamic group.â&#x20AC;? Devine said there is a very tight chain of command with a proper protocol. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all know we are citizen responders, not an auxiliary of the fire or police departments,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most important element of the team is that we must be called out by the fire or police department. We do not just show up at a disaster.â&#x20AC;? In the event of a natural disaster or terrorist attack, no local community has a reverse 911 system to call out to people to alert them of the calamity. All local communities said they would alert the media, and urged individuals to turn on the TV or radio. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We're going to notify the media first, so turn on your TV, turn on your radio,â&#x20AC;? said Birmingham's Metz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All information will be broadcast on local news. In the event of a power outage, we'll mount loud speakers on vehicles if we have nothing else, and we'll drive around and notify people.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have capabilities on our cable channels to run a ribbon on the bottom to inform residents,â&#x20AC;? said Bloomfield Township's Payne. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Massive power outages make things pretty crazy. Even ham radios may not work. We maintain communications with two-way radios, which all department of public works people have. And neighbors should tell neighbors.â&#x20AC;?
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Telegrap
Birmingham Bloomfield Audiology
N 696
DOWNTOWN PRESENTS
BIRM ING HAM FASH ION 9.8.2011 6-9 PM
Nearly 30 merchants in downtown Birmingham will be joining the national celebration of fashion on September 8, including the noted merchants on the following pages.
BIRMINGHAM
FASHION
9.8.2011 6-9 PM TRUE FASHION BEGINS UNDER YOUR CLOTHESâ&#x20AC;ŚOPEN LATE 9.8.11
265 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, MI 48009
248.642.2555 Monday thru Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
The
Birmingham Tailor
Thank you friends and customers for voting us
BEST OF DETROIT 2011 139 W. Maple, Birmingham, MI
248-433-3703 Looking forward to serving you in the coming year!
9.8.2011 6-9 PM
BIRMINGHAM
FASHION Wine is Fun !
Welcomes back George Gina & Lucy handbags
The Original Women’s Accessory Store 138 W. Maple Road, Birmingham
248.723.9833 LAYERSof LOVE
Starting at
299
$
14kt. White, Yellow & Rose Gold Diamonds & Colored Stones A Collection That Really Stacks Up!
248.644.1651 • 120 W. MAPLE DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM MON - SAT 10-5:30 • THURS 10-8
Online at
ASTREINS.COM
Visit WOW World of Wine, Willits Alley behind Cosi.With selections that made Simply Wine a favorite in Birmingham .... great wines under $15 - and the finest wine from around the world. Visit us on FACEBOOK (WOW World of Wine). 248.593.0913
WOW World of Wine
BIRMINGHAM
FASHION LEGACY JEWELRY AND LOAN
BUYERS SELLERS OF ANTIQUE, VINTAGE AND ESTATE JEWELRY, WATCHES, DIAMONDS, GOLD, SILVER COINS AND FLATWARE. YOU HAVE KNOWN US FOR YEARS AS THE EXPERTS IN ANTIQUE, VINTAGE & ESTATE JEWELRY. NOW GET TO KNOW US AS YOUR LICENSED AND INSURED LOAN SPECIALISTS. DON'T SELL YOUR VALUABLES WHEN ALL YOU NEED IS SHORT-TERM CAPITAL. LOANS AVAILABLE TODAY!
700 N. Old Woodward, Ste. 200 Birmingham, MI 48009
248.723.9975 Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.legacyestatejewelry.com mrlegacyjewelry@gmail.com
Wear Glasses Get Compliments
Original Unused Vintage & Exclusive Contemporary Eyewear accessories and contact lenses. EXAMS FOR MEN WOMEN & CHILDREN VSP PROVIDER DR. JOE ALES 245 West Maple Road • 248.646.6699 www.optikbirmingham.com • text OPTIK to 63636
9.8.2011 6-9 PM
WHO OWNS BIRMINGHAM? SEVERAL SIGNIFICANT LANDLORDS HOLD THE KEYS TO CITY
BY LISA BRODY
B
irmingham is an open town, inviting visitors to enjoy its shops, restaurants, movie theaters, galleries, Farmer's Market, and other special events. While traversing its steets, one might think that the shop owners they see when walking downtown actually own the buildings of the city, but that is rarely the case. Yes, someone owns the downtown. OK, not one Daddy Warbucks-type who owns the city per se, but several significant landlords who own the keys to the city. The buildings in the downtown area are owned by real estate developers, both local, with personal interests in the city, and national, who likely view them as investments, along with individual owners and family trusts. They are the ones who decide what stores we shop in, what restaurants we dine at, what businesses move in to town, and who stays and who goes. They're the movers and shakers of Birmingham, and they like to stay under the radar while they move the needle. There are tens of thousands of feet of commercial space owned and leased by local landlords with a vested interest in
keeping Birmingham a first-class city. Many live in Birmingham and Bloomfield, dine and shop locally, and have offices in the buildings they own. William Wetsman notes that he has just one building in Birmingham, but what a building it is. Wetsman has owned the building at the northeast corner of Maple and Old Woodward since 1967, and has watched as the city has morphed through different transformations. From his second story office above Panera, he has seen the corner opposite him change from Wilson Drugs to The Gap to its current incarnation as Cosi. “I don't remember why I bought here, it was a long time ago,” Wetsman said. “Mostly, I think, my office is here.” Today, the first floor retail he leases and manages includes everything from The Cupcake Station on Old Woodward, Panera at the corner, Tiger Shoe Repair on E. Maple, to Dr. Charles Boyd of Boyd Cosmetic Surgical Institute on E. Maple. “It's a good corner,” Wetsman says, the ultimate understatement. “I've never had major problems or major conflicts with the city. I haven't always agreed with them, but I haven't had problems.”
T U S H A R V A K H A R I YA DIRECT:
248.302.3921
DISCOVER A NEW LEVEL OF LUXURY IN REAL ESTATE DISCOVER THE RE/MAX COLLECTION NG
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LUXURY CUSTOM BUILT HOME IN LUXURY INNER WOODS OF BLOOMFIELD. ~8,000 SQUARE FEET OF LUXURY LIVING INCLUDING THE FINISHED WALKOUT LOWER LEVEL. $1,299,000
HERON BAY $1,485,000
HERON BAY $1,299,000
CASS LAKE FRONT $519,000 T
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BLOOMFIELD CONTEMPORARY HAMMOND LAKE FRONT HOME ON DOUBLE LOT WITH 182' FEET OF SANDY BEACH. ~5,400 SQUARE FEET OF OF PANORAMIC LAKE VIEW FROM ALMOST EVERY WINDOW. $799,000
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CLARENDON CREST $499,000
BLOOMFIELD HILLS 42717 WOODWARD AVE. BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI 48304 248-988-8888
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TURTLE LAKE $399,000
RE/MAX New Trend
CHELSEA PARK $150,000
FARMINGTON HILLS 38275 W. TWELVE MILE RD. STE. 101 FARMINGTON HILLS, MI 48331 248-553-5050
Wetsman, who said his second floor office suites are full, as are his retail spaces, would not reveal what his rental rates are. here are two James Esshakis who are enterprising Birmingham landlords; one has owned property in Birmingham for many years, beginning with the former Continental Market, which he redeveloped as the Plaza across from the Birmingham Theater, where South and Max & Erma's are, as well as many other properties across metro Detroit. The other James Esshaki is his nephew, a real estate â&#x20AC;&#x153;newbieâ&#x20AC;? who began purchasing Birmingham real estate about a dozen years ago. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We feel the community is very strong,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Between the demographics of the area, the community, the schools, and the government, there's a lot to offer here. It's like lake front propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;there's only so much of it.â&#x20AC;? The younger James Esshaki, whose company is called Esshaki Corporation (vs. his uncle's, known as Essco Development Co.) owns the Wabeek Building on W. Maple. His first floor retail includes Anthropologie, Beyond Juice, Quatrine, Adventures In Toys, and Back Country North. There are office suites in the floors above. He also owns the Maplewood Office Park at 600, 620, 630, and 640 N. Old Woodward, a grouping of primarily medical suites just north of Parking Lot 6, where Sunday mornings the Birmingham Farmer Market sets up shop. He has seen a real change in market conditions in Birmingham recently, with both retail and office conditions tightening up. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There have definitely been ups and downs in the last several years. You ride the waves. Being in town,
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I've got my finger on the pulse of the town. Things are getting better here, which is quite the contrary to across the country,â&#x20AC;? Esshaki said. Despite occasional rumors, he wants to assure shoppers that Anthropologie is not going anywhere. A few years ago, they resigned a five-year lease with another five-year option. He said their sales are consistently strong, outperforming some of their mall stores. While he knows he could fill their spot, even if he would have to break up the location into several smaller storefronts, he is relieved that they are staying, knowing what an asset they are to Birmingham's retail mix. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you get tenants or prospective tenants in that do not seem like a good fit, it's better to hold off for the right fit,â&#x20AC;? he said, noting that in the last 12 months he received at least a call a week for the former Nicole Miller spot on W. Maple, which was leased a couple of weeks ago to New York clothier J. McLaughlin. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I held out. I wanted the perfect fit for town, even though that spot had been vacant for three years. I was seeking out a national retailer. I could have had a nail salon. But that wouldn't have been right for the area. I wanted something that wouldn't compete with Tender or Linda Dresner or Anthropologie, but would complement them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some landlords don't do that,â&#x20AC;? he noted. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They'll lower their rents and fill it with whatever comes along.â&#x20AC;? Esshaki said retail leases are currently paying between $27 and mid-$30s a square foot, as are office tenants. All of his office locations are currently full. During the depths of the recession, Esshaki said he worked with tenants to fill his office space. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It's not a good idea to lower your rent too much for good
2011 Birmingham House Tour
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fear bear markets. Plan for them.
Thursday, September 15, 10am-4pm Presented by
Tour eight fabulous homes, enjoy an optional lunch buffet and complimentary informal afternoon tea at The Community House.
$30 for Tour and Tea in advance / $35 day of tour $45 for Tour, Tea and Lunch in advance / $50 day of tour
space,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So you do other things, you try to get creative. You do free build-outs, you give them free rent. But now, we do not need to do it as much. Things are definitely on the upswing.â&#x20AC;? Geoffrey Hockman, with an ownership interest in the Townsend Hotel and a position on the Principal Shopping District (PSD) board of directors, said property owners become interested in Birmingham because â&#x20AC;&#x153;Birmingham is a very unique community. It enjoys an excellent relationship with the community at large. It's a walkable community, and it's earned a lot of well-deserved awards for that. People really enjoy the after-hours entertainment. There are also many good incentives to do business because of the good relationships and healthy cooperation between the business community, residents and city government. It really creates an environment that is desirable from a customer viewpoint,â&#x20AC;? he said. Ted Fuller is probably the major private landlord in Birmingham, owning 21 buildings in the downtown area. His company, Central Park Properties, owns and manages the Wells Fargo building at 255 E. Brown Street; the McCann Erickson building, formerly Jacobson's women's store, at 360 W. Maple; Universal McCann, at 805 E. Maple; the Birmingham Theater building, at 211 S. Old Woodward; the adjacent building at 217 S. Old Woodward; the new 151 Building, also known as the Universal Watch building at 151 S. Old Woodward; the Ann Taylor Loft building, including Starbucks, at 101 S. Old Woodward; 355 S. Old Woodward, a premier office building; 690 S. Old Woodward, where Don Thomas Sporthaus is; 880 S. Old Woodward, where Prudential HWWB Realtors are; 950 S. Old Woodward, Wittock Kitchen and Bath; an office building at 1000 S. Old Woodward; 178 E. Maple,
You are invited to explore a new approach to managing your money featuring Stadion Asset Management
Date: Time:
September 12, 2011 6:30 p.m.
Location:
Oakland Hills Country Club 3951 West Maple Road Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48301
Guest Speaker: Greg Morris Stadion Chief Technical Analyst Presented by:
The Martin Iacobelli Group of Wells Fargo Advisors
RSVP to Gina Scalf at 248-433-8526 or gina.scalf@wfadvisors.com Honorees:
Denise and Chuck Little
Sponsors:
Presenting â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Hall & Hunter Realtors Invitation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Gormanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lunch â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Talmer Bank and Trust
The Community House, 380 South Bates, Birmingham, MI 48009 f KRXVHWRXU#FRPPXQLW\KRXVH FRP ZZZ FRPPXQLW\KRXVH FRP
Mutual funds are sold by prospectus. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information, can be obtained by calling your financial advisor. Read the prospectus carefully before you invest. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Š2010 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. This seminar is sponsored and financially supported by Stadion Funds. Technical analysis is only one form of analysis. Investors should also consider the merits Fundamental and Quantitative analysis when making investment decisions. CAR#1010-4455A â&#x17E;¤ Securities and Insurance Products: â&#x17E;¤ NOT FDIC Insured â&#x17E;¤ NO Bank Guarantee â&#x17E;¤ MAY Lose Value
downtownpublications.com
DOWNTOWN
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It’s your home. Why should we make all the rules? At Canterbury-on-the-Lake, residents have the chance to select their own activities, volunteer in key positions, and participate in community decision making (or not!). It’s up to you. Why not choose to live in a caring environment that also offers a true sense of freedom, independence, and security?
Call or visit Canterbury today.
248.674.9292 or www.canterburyonthelake.com Live life the way you want—in a senior living community that blends long-held traditions with new opportunities. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED ON HATCHERY ROAD IN WATERFORD.
A Better Partnership
®
From the boardroom to the courtroom, Michigan businesses rely on Warner. You can too. Business & corporate services Family law/divorce Physicians law Concierge medicine
Trusts and estates Real estate services Intellectual property Nonprofit formation & governance
SOUTHFIELD | STERLING HEIGHTS | LANSING | MUSKEGON | GRAND RAPIDS | HOLLAND
248.784.5000 46
wnj.com DOWNTOWN
09.11
including Cafe Via, Woodward & Maple, The Italian Dish, and the UPS store; 200 E. Maple, home to the Sotheby's SKBK real estate offices; 378 E. Maple, including Seegerpeople and Carol Lewis Day Spa; 235, 239 and 251 Pierce Street, home to Stacey Leuliette Gracious Living, Todd's Room, and Schecter Financial. Central Park Properties also owns and manages townhouses on Peabody and Maple, and two apartments above 101 S. Old Woodward. Fuller said he has applied his real estate focus to Birmingham because â&#x20AC;&#x153;I believe Birmingham has a sparkle that other communities just don't have. Birmingham has great schools, great parks, great shopping, great restaurants, great galleries, and is a great place to live.â&#x20AC;? He and his wife Dulcie, who owns the E. Maple boutique Woodward & Maple, live in the downtown area. His one disappointment, both personal and professional, is that there isn't more rental properties in the central business district, both because he would have liked to have owned and managed it, and he feels Birmingham is losing out from the lack of it in the long run. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Years ago, the city commissioners (at the time) turned down good apartments in the central business district. I still look at plans I have for rental apartments for behind the Birmingham Theater,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But the commissioners, especially Dante Lanzetta and Gary Kulak, were very short-sighted. The community lost out on a great thing, because it has dramatically affected our retail today, because we do not have the density in the downtown that more downtown living would have brought and it has affected our tax base as well. It's gone now, and it'll never come back. There isn't the capital now to do it.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;The central business district is where people are looking to live, and there is a shortage,â&#x20AC;? he continued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get asked all the time by people I know about living downtown. We have two apartments above Starbucks and Ann Taylor Loft, and we have a long waiting list.â&#x20AC;? He noted that after a softness in the 2008-2009 office market, it is firming up quite a bit. While he would not discuss rental rates, he did acknowledge â&#x20AC;&#x153;we are seeing pricing changes, definite improvements now.â&#x20AC;? Among all of his properties, the only retail vacancy his company currently has is the Forte' location, which is rumored to be in negotiations with the J. Alexander restaurant group for a new restaurant concept. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have zero vacancy in our office spaces right now,â&#x20AC;? Fuller said. ther landlords are seeing a tight office market. Greenleaf Trust Building at the corner of Maple and Woodward, managed by Catalyst Development in Kalamazoo, has let it be known they have recently leased all of their premium office space. Currently, other than Zazios restaurant, their first floor retail space is vacant. Some local retail and office space is owned by the retailer in their space. Richard and Gary Astrein, brothers who own Astrein's Creative Jewelry, own the building they are in, along with neighboring retailer Suhm-Thing. They also own and manage suites of offices above the stores. They also own and manage the small neighboring building which houses Oliver's Trendz. Cheryl and Karen Daskas, sisters who co-own Tender, own, with their family, the building for their store at 271 W. Maple Road. The new bistro
O
Townhouse at 180 Pierce, is owned as well as operated by owner Jeremy Sasson. Long time Birmingham favorite Frank's Shoe Repair, as well as the neighboring vacant former auto dealership, is owned by shoe repair owner Frank Carnojevic. Up Old Woodward, architect Victor Saroki owns his own building at 430 N. Old Woodward, and now enjoys having Greenstone's Jewelers as a tenant. In Birmingham, even politicians enjoy owning real estate. U.S. Senator Carl Levin (D-Michigan) and his brother U.S. Representative Sandy Levin (DRoyal Oak) own a strip of buildings on Maple which contain Dick O'Dow's, Revive, Pink Pump, Bec & Sam's, and Blu Arch Gallery. Many other properties are owned by trusts. The Kresge Foundation Trust owns the building where Roots and Lexi Drew are, and have been known to be hesitant to work out any other leases until their lease expires on the building in 2014. A grouping of retail and office space, where Comerica, Kilwins, and the soon-to-be open What's Crepe? Restaurant is also owned and managed by a trust, as is Brooklyn Pizza, Birmingham Geek, La Belle Provence, and others. There are also out-of-town landlords, who have invested in the quality of Birmingham. They include Related Real Estate, which owns 250 N. Old Woodward, where Chen Chow and the former Buca di Beppo are, the Palladium Theaters, and Barrio and Hamilton Room. Primarily New York-based, with local investors, the group also owns 34300 Woodward Avenue, known to all around here as the Borders Bookstore. Some buildings are owned by groups of investors or investment companies. What they all have in common is an appreciation of a beautiful town.
Christ Church Cranbrook Presents... September 21â&#x20AC;&#x201D;7 p.m. Hospitality Center WISDOM: Five Women Five Journeys
Please join us for a unique presentation featuring the personal stories RI ÂżYH ZRPHQ RI GLIIHUHQW IDLWK WUDGLWLRQV :,6'20 LV DQ LQWHUIDLWK collaboration formed to nurture understanding among the various faith traditions that make up our community. This will be an enlightening experience for both men and women! For more information about :,6'20 JR WR ZZZ LQWHUIDLWKZLVGRP RUJ
September 14â&#x20AC;&#x201D;4 p.m. Guild Hall Fleur de Lys String Quartetâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Salon Concert and High Tea September 27â&#x20AC;&#x201D;7 p.m. Hospitality Center â&#x20AC;&#x153;Reimagining Detroitâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Featuring author and journalist
John Gallagher
Please join us to hear author and Detroit Free Press journalist John Gallagher speak about his vision for Detroit. His book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Reimagining Detroitâ&#x20AC;? will be used as a starting point for an important conversation about regionalism and the future of Detroit. Communications expert Emery King will moderate the discussion.
Join us at Christ Church Cranbrook this Weekend Saturday at 5 PM Sunday at 8 AM Sunday at 10 AM Sunday at 6 PM Join us Mid-week
Christ Church Cranbrook 470 Church Rd. %ORRPÂżHOG +LOOV 0, 248.644.5210 www.christchurchcranbrook.org
The above events are free and open to the public. Please join us! downtownpublications.com
Holy Eucharist with music. Holy Eucharist in St. Dunstanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chapel. Holy Eucharist with music and nursery care. Lex Orandi Service with Holy Eucharist and child care. Wednesday at 7 AMâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Holy Eucharist followed by Bible study.
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SUCCESSFUL
AGENTS
CHOOSE TO REPRESENT
HALL & HUNTER. MELINDA ALLEN LYNN BAKER GAYLE BARKER PATTY BLAIR CAROLYN BOWEN-KEATING JOAN BROWN NANCY BUCK JOANN BUESSER JOANNE CARTER LOIS CASEY RON CLEM MEREDITH COLBURN JEAN COLBY KEVIN CONWAY LANIE HARDY COSGROVE EMILY DAY SANDY DEMETRIOU CHRISTINE DRINKWATER CHRIS EDWARDS GINNY FISHER FRANK FLYNN JULIE FLYNN GORDON FOX DEBY GANNES HOLLY GEYER EVA GOREN JANET GRAHAM PAM GRAY ESTER GREIG GAIL GROUT ANNA GULOYAN KRISTI HAMED KIM MINASIAN HAWES TIM HERTZLER SUSAN HILL SAL IMPASTATO GILLIAN LAZAR JO LINCOLN DONYALE MAHORN VICKIE MCASKIN ALICE MCINTYRE BILL MEADE KELLY MOODY JOY MORRIS JOHN NEWMAN ELLEN NEWVILLE GARY NEWVILLE KARIN NIHLS RITA M. O’BRIEN KRISTIN PARENT AMY PARKER MONA PARLOVE SHONDELL PATTERSON DOROTHY PERROTTA MICHAEL PERROTTA NANCI RANDS NANCY REIZEN CHERYL RIBACK JERRY SCHMIDT LYNDA SCHRENK DANA SHAGENA SUE SIMON KELLY SMALL PAM STOLER VIOLET VESTEVICH ADAM WAECHTER CHI-CHI WARD MADELON WARD TED WIDLUND DIANA WOLAK SCHMIDT BRAD WOLF DENNIS WOLF DEE WRIGHT AMY SUZANNE ZIMMER ELISE ZIMMERMANN DENISE ZUCKERMAN
W
ebster’s Dictionary defines “community” as “a social group of any size whose members reside in a specific locality, share government, and often have a common cultural and historical heritage.” While this definition is certainly correct, most of us view the communities in which we live in a much more personal way – after all, it’s where we choose to buy our homes, educate our children, work at our jobs, and socialize with family, friends and neighbors. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer to the area, a sense of “community” is a sought-after goal of most every homeowner. At Hall & Hunter, we not only understand the importance of community, but also share a commitment to “give back” to the areas in which we, too, live and work. This month, we are proud to sponsor two very special events to benefit The Community House of Birmingham and Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County:
BIRMINGHAM HOUSE TOUR Thursday, September 15 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A tour of eight unique homes ranging in style from traditional to contemporary. There will also be a lunch at The Community House from 11:30 to 1:00 and a tea from 3:00 to 4:30. Tickets for the Tour & Tea are $30 in advance ($35 day of ) and for the Lunch, Tour & Tea are $45 in advance ($50 day of ). Proceeds from the event will benefit programs at The Community House of Birmingham.
ESTATES SALE OF ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES & TREASURES Saturday, September 17 – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A one-day event in the north parking lot at Hall & Hunter Realtors, 442 S. Old Woodward in Birmingham, featuring fine furniture, antiques and other collectibles generously donated by clients and staff of Hall & Hunter, as well as the public. Admission is free. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Habitat for Humanity as they build homes – and rebuild lives – in Oakland County. We invite you to join us in these events as we strive to improve the communities which we call “home.” If you would like more information, please give us a call at (248) 644-3500. Or visit us at HallandHunter.com
Dennis J. Wolf CEO/Owner Hall & Hunter Realtors
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
Birmingham $1,750,000
Addison Township $1,500,000
Exquisite Quarton Lake home. 21 foot foyer and living room ceilings. Gracious open floor plan, bright gourmet kitchen and large hearth room. Luxurious master suite plus first-floor guest suite. The fully finished daylight lower level includes a theater room, kitchen with wine bar, billiards room and much more.
Very private lakefront estate on 2.67 extensively manicured acres with walkways, patios and brick terrace overlooking lake. Newly remodeled kitchen, smart home technology, 2 in-law/nanny suites & completely finished lower level with theater, full kitchen and bar area. Includes property and pond across street.
Bloomfield $1,500,000
Birmingham $1,499,000
Opportunity for multigenerational living in gracious Bloomfield Hills home including two gourmet kitchens and two libraries, 4 car garage and separate entrances. Hardwood floors, custom crown moldings. Finished lower level with theater room. Gorgeous landscaped lot, paver patio & covered porch.
Walk to town from this exceptional home. High quality finishes and beautiful architectural details throughout. Master suite with fireplace & huge closets. Island kitchen features granite and premium appliances opens to spacious family room with additional fireplace. All bedrooms are suites.
Bloomfield $1,150,000
Birmingham $985,000
2006 custom built behind Oakland Hills Country Club. 5" wood floors throughout 1st floor. Open gourmet kitchen with granite & pine island. Custom moldings, French doors and service entrance. Master suite has sitting area and dual custom baths. 4 car garage. Beautiful, tranquil setting.
Outstanding Derocher-built home offers an exquisite opportunity for in-town living. Beautiful interior includes large cherry kitchen, hardwood floors, much storage, mahogany library, large master bedroom suite, finished lower level with bedroom, bath & rec room. Finished 400 sq.ft. over 3 car heated & cooled garage.
Bloomfield $949,000
Birmingham $915,000
Sophisticated Bloomfield Hills estate built in 1990. Almost 6,000 sq. ft. of living space on 2+ acres of private, wooded landscape. Generous room sizes, high ceilings, neutral tones throughout. Walkout lower level includes family room with fireplace, billiard room & excellent storage. 2 decks.
“Big House-Little House” in the heart of town. Impeccably maintained with renovation & addition by Saroki & Associates Architects. Gracious 1st floor master suite. Vaulted ceilings throughout 2nd floor. “Little House” with kitchen and full bath. Building/ garage boasts 2-3 car, office with half bath and media room.
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS...PERFORMANCE DRIVEN RESULTS
Nanci J. Rands Associate Broker
248.701.9000 www.randscolburn.com
Bloomfield $3,750,000
Bloomfield $4,200,000
Prominently gracing the North shore of Wing Lake, this outstanding 2000 built New England-style stone and cedar home is beyond compare. Over 10,000 sq. ft. of elegance and style in architecture and quality. Incredible walk-out Lower Level. 6 bedrooms including private apartment.
Beyond a tree-lined gated drive lies PARK HAVEN, an impeccably maintained 1929 manor on 7 lush acres with a courtyard entrance. Bluestone terraces overlook magnificent grounds. Spanning nearly 10,000 sq. ft. of living space and designed by architect George DeWitt Mason, the estate was supebly renovated and expanded in 2006.
Building Sites Bloomfield Village $698,000 Great building opportunity in the Estate Area of Bloomfield Village. Site is 0.83 acres with 150' wide frontage. Area north of Glengarry Circle is surrounded by multi-million dollar properties. Located just minutes from downtown Birmingham and convenient to expressways.
Bloomfield Hills $3,250,000 to $6,800,000
Bloomfield $1,495,000
Spectacular sites on the East shore of Turtle Lake from 1.6 acres to 4 acres, in the premier gated community of Turtle Lake. Proposed new construction has over 10,000 sq. ft. of exquisite living space. Designed by architect Alexander V. Bogaerts and to be built by TSA. Details available on request.
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 walk-out. Exquisite setting.
PENDING
Birmingham $1,495,000 Unbelievable price for the model residence at Woodward Villa, in-town Birmingham’s residential enclave. Best value in development. Luxurious lifestyle & unparalled location. Sophistication & elegance throughout 3 levels. Elevator. 3 car garage. Just reduced $200,000.
PENDING
Franklin $599,000
Bloomfield $1,045,000
Bloomfield $699,000
SALE PENDING. Elegant French-inspired home with courtyard entrance on an idyllic acre bordering the 8th fairway of Franklin Hills Country Club. Large first floor Master Suite with spacious Dressing areas. Fantastic views. Full house generator. Franklin mailing with Farmington schools.
Beautiful colonial on nearly 2 acres in Chelmsleigh, one of Bloomfield’s most desirable neighborhoods. Majestic hilltop setting. Spacious entertaining areas. Family Room with fieldstone fireplace and 12’ pine ceiling. 5 bedrooms. First floor Master with Sitting Room. Deck, Terrace and Pool.
Gracious soft contemporary on lovely North Wabeek site. Two-story Living Room with fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows. Island Kitchen. Master Suite with great closet, Sitting Room and marble Bath. Finished Basement with full Bath.
www.RandsColburn.com
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
LOCAL EXPERTISE...INTERNATIONAL REACH
Meredith Colburn Associate Broker
248.762.5319 www.randscolburn.com
Franklin $4,250,000
Bloomfield $3,200,000
An exceptional 2001 Tringali-designed 1800’s English Tudor replica on 2.48 acres nestled in Franklin Village. Gated drive opens to views of the slate roofed home with pond, fountain & arched walkways. Over 10,000 sq. ft. of luxury. Wine Cellar & Tasting Room. Two heated garages with capacity for 8 cars.
On a private landscaped hilltop overlooking Wing Lake, this historic property was restored & expanded in 2001 to extraordinary elegance & functionality. Over 6,000 sq. ft. with an additional 4,000 sq. ft. in a beautifully finished Lower Level. Grand entry foyer. 1st floor Master Suite with fieldstone fireplace and Sitting Room. 3 car garage.
Building Sites Birmingham $385,000 Rare opportunity to build your own
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. Lower Level walk-out.
custom dream home within a block of the Townsend Hotel, restaurants and shopping. Unsurpassed in-town locale. Franklin $599,000 Outstanding Franklin build site. Incredible opportunity to build your dream home in the Village of Franklin. Gorgeous 1.92 acre site with private cul-de-sac locale. Wooded ravine setting surrounded by multi-million dollar homes. Survey available. Birmingham Lakefront $995,000 Last remaining vacant site directly on Quarton Lake. A rare offering with frontage and long views of the lake, park, and waterfall. Walk-out site with a building envelope of approx. 3,700 sq. ft. and may accommodate up to a 9,000 sq. ft. residence on three levels. Deeded access via Waterfall Lane & Waterfall Hill.
Bloomfield $1,795,000 2002 built custom home overlooking Wing Lake. Brazilian cherry & marble flooring. 1st & 2nd floor Master Suites. Professional Kitchen & Family Room combination. Outstanding Lower Level has Theatre, Rec & Fitness rooms, full Bath & 6th Bedroom option. Acre site, space for a pool.
SOLD
Bloomfield $675,000
Bloomfield listed at $1,599,000
Bloomfield $795,000
Outstanding 2000 renovation of Harold Turner mid-century modernist home on Forest Lake. Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Boomerang House”. Ideal locale with Western lake exposure neighboring country club and golf course. Finished walk-out Lower Level.
SOLD. This outstanding renovation & expansion by Alex Bogaerts & Gardella Homes has a prime location in the heart of Bloomfield Village. On a one acre landscaped site with a swimming pool, this home boasts over 5,800 sq. ft. The new dream Kitchen & Family Room are beyond compare.
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 sized room for entertaining. Center, open-air courtyard.
www.RandsColburn.com
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
FALL IS A GREAT TIME TO SELL • Interest rates are decreasing • Demand for homes is increasing • Prices in many markets are stabilizing
Lynn Baker
Deby Gannes
248.379.3000
248.379.3003
lbaker@hallandhunter.com
dgannes@hallandhunter.com
Associate Broker
Rich
Realtor
Your Hometown Realtors selling Cottages to Castles for over five decades.
Bloomfield Hills $799,900 or lease for $5,000/month
Oakland Township $849,900
Oakland Township $2,800,000
Backing to serene ponds with wildlife to enjoy. Decorator’s delight with every upgrade, former Moceri model. 5,338 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and 2 lavs, master suite has separate sitting room with dual fireplaces and private exercise room, fully paneled library, multiple fireplaces, back hall with mud room and neutral décor. Finished walkout with theatre, kitchen/bar, bath, game area and 2nd family room. One of the best developments on the billion dollar mile. WHI211084428
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. Too many custom features to mention. 6 car heated garage. ORC210058837
Oakland Township $639,900
Oakland Township $589,900
Oakland Township $749,900
Fresh, bright neutral décor. 4,686 sq. ft. colonial with 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and 3 lavs. Multiple fireplaces, marble foyer, hardwood floors, extensive crown molding, judges paneled library, great room with volume ceilings and custom window treatments. Finished daylight basement with 2nd family room, game area, lav and storage. Large .68 acre private lot with invisible fence in front and rear. 3 car garage. BAY211085153
Cul de sac location on private treed .62 acre lot. Popular Rose Terrace Model with grand 2 story foyer, sweeping staircase and 1st floor master suite with 2 walk in closets. Award winning kitchen with abundance of cabinets, hardwood floors and granite counters. Paneled library with fireplace, great room with wall of windows and fireplace. Finished walk out with family room, fireplace, bath and storage. New roof. 3 car garage. VIN211079994
Former model, move right in. First floor master suite. 3,685 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2 lavs. Hardwood floors throughout 1st floor, volume ceilings, fireplace in great room and kitchen, granite counters, library with judges paneling and 2nd floor family room. Finished walk out (2491 sq. ft.) with exercise space, game area, theatre room, full bar and bath. 2 decks, paver patio and private .50 acre lot with view of pond and fountain. 3 car garage. ADD211079987
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
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. CLA211076561
YOUR REALTOR WITH “CONCIERGE SERVICE”
Cheryl Riback Associate Broker, ABR, SRES
248.808.3112 criback@hallandhunter.com Rich
Bloomfield Village $2,950,000 “Red Oaks” – The estate home of the Indian Mound Area. Live in elegance from the era of the Auto Barons. This residence has been meticulously updated to preserve its original architectural detail with the amenities and luxury you would expect in your custom built home. 248.808.3112
Lake Angelus $2,999,000 Private tree-lined drive leads to magnificent 10,000+ sq. ft. estate home (includes finished walk-out lower level) on Lake Angelus. Two story entry, luxurious master suite, chef’s kitchen, theater room, pools and spa. 248.808.3112
Bloomfield Village $1,550,000 Completely rebuilt in 2007-08, this Bloomfield Village home features a large gourmet kitchen, morning room overlooking professionally landscaped gardens, 2nd floor laundry and finished lower level with playroom and entertainment area. 248.808.3112
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
JoAnn Buesser
Lynda Schrenk
Realtor
Realtor
248.330.3148
248.760.6026
www.Michiganhomes.bz
HallandHunter.com
Bloomfield Hills $685,000 Historical Tudor carriage house on 3.52 acres. In the heart of Bloomfield Hills in Oak Knob Farms located amongst multi-million dollar estates. This home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.1 baths. Restore or incorporate into a new build site.
Detroit sale pending
PENDING
Historical Georgian Revival colonial on 1.42 gated acres. Historically restored and maintained with cast plaster ceilings, grand staircase and custom features throughout.
Bloomfield Hills $999,000 Enjoy sweeping views from this hilltop property. A private and wooded setting at the end of a cul de sac. Plus, award-winning Birmingham schools.
Troy sale pending Elegant 4 bedroom Tudor with gracious open floor plan, new kitchen, travertine marble 2-story foyer and lavish 1st floor master suite. Extensive custom millwork. Finished lower level includes 2 wet bars, rec room and more.
PENDING
SOLD Bloomfield $830,000 Over an acre in highly desirable Bloomfield Village. Exquisite property with many beautiful mature trees. Birmingham schools.
CHRISTIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
THE INTEGRITY OF HALL & HUNTER...THE POWER OF CHRISTIE’S
Ginny Fisher
Chi Chi Ward
Realtor
Realtor
248.593.0518
248.224.9988
HallandHunter.com
HallandHunter.com
Bloomfield Hills $2,325,000
Birmingham $1,275,000 Impeccably designed in the style of a London townhome, this beautiful residence exemplifies downtown Birmingham at its most elegant, offering a gracious and easy lifestyle for the most discriminating buyer. Custom built with elevator access to all three floors, it features extensive moldings, hardwood floors, two fireplaces, floorto-ceiling palladian windows, a serene master suite with sitting room, marble bath and oversized master closet, private terrace and much more.
A perfect blend of old world charm and modern amenities. This vintage family home has been restored and enhanced by a Kellett addition. The living room adjoins a solarium with a view of the English garden, while the family room has five sets of French doors leading to the patio and pool. The master suite boasts a cathedral ceiling, palladian windows, one of the home’s many fireplaces and a balcony. The gourmet kitchen, with an AGA stove, has ample dining and a back staircase. Set on a cul de sac with a large, landscaped private lot, within walking distance of Cranbrook, this home is perfect for gracious entertaining and family living.
CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
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Jamie Wineman rom Bloomfield Hills to the coast of New Jersey, the musical stylings of Jamie Wineman (aka Jimmy Con) have evolved from a teenage interest as a Cranbrook Kingswood student to recently being featured on MTV’s hit show “Jersey Shore.” “This is definitely a milestone in my career thus far,” Wineman said. “I didn't think it was true until the contracts from MTV came in the mail. Having one's music on MTV is today's equivalent of having a song on the radio 10 to 20 years ago.” As a teenager at Cranbrook, Wineman lost his father to cancer, and the devastating loss left a lasting mark on his life. He turned to music as an outlet for his grief. “I was an angry kid and I wanted to express myself the best way I could,” he said. “Not having that male influence in my life when I needed it, music became my best form of expression.” After graduating from Cranbrook, Wineman went on to study journalism at Ohio Wesleyan University, but music beckoned him to the Windy City. “My brother was living in Chicago at the time, and he told me to come and check out Columbia College (in Chicago).” Wineman transferred there, where he studied art and music management. It was at Columbia College that he met Chuck New, who would later collaborate with him in creating the electrofunk duo Ghosthouse. “I’m a producer, first and foremost,” he said. “I sing backup to Chuck, play keys and write songs. Being able to make music with your best friend in the world, there’s nothing better than that.”
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Wineman describes their sound as ‘80s-inspired and within the realm of electronic music. “It’s taking all of the good and bad music that came out of the ‘80s, putting a new spin on it and making it your own,” he said. Today Wineman makes a living co-hosting Yo! DJ, a Chicago-based radio show on Fearless Radio, and playing at venues across the U.S. Recently, Ghosthouse played at Lollapalooza in Chicago. They have an album coming out in the fall, and will be headlining the Magic Hat Brewery local stage at the North Coast Music Festival in Chicago on Labor Day weekend. “I struggled a little in the beginning, but most recently, everything has been great,” Wineman said. “I’m doing exactly what I want to do with my life. This is awesome and it’s only getting better.” While he began in music by DJing house parties during high school, Wineman has taken his prowess for entertaining to the big stage and is earning respect as a musical artist. “I was always a class clown and constantly trying to entertain people, and that hasn’t changed.” While he doesn't intend to return to Michigan to live, he always plans to come back to his hometown, where his talent first blossomed and his number one fan still resides. “My mom still lives in the same house in Bloomfield Village and she always supported me. God love her.” Story: Katey Meisner
Photo: Matthew Reeves
Cindy Kahnâ&#x20AC;Ś an extraordinary agent providing extraordinary results Bloomfield $4,900,000 Situated on over two rolling acres in Bloomfield this magnificent estate home has over 13,000 sq ft of unparalled details. Gracious and grand steps lead you to the stone covered entrance. You are greeted by the impressive two story foyer and are surrounded by magnificent custom details. The extensive custom woodwork is spectacular, ceilings are embellished with beautiful custom plaster flourishes. The main level of the home features a lovely formal Dining Room, Living Room, Kitchen with breakfast area and door walls to terraced exterior seating area, Library, Music Room and stunning Master Suite and two lovely Bedrooms. The walkout lower level of this estate home offers open spaces with Dining Room, Kitchen and two seating areas, beautiful full service Pub, Game Room, formal Billiards Room, Sauna, Gym and nine Car garage. The two acre grounds feature a full service three Bedroom Guest / Pool House joined to the Main House by the pool area.
Franklin Village $2,900,000 One of the finest examples of contemporary architecture in Michigan this home is the very definition of understated elegance. This AIA award winning home has been featured in several publications and Metropolitan Home Magazine. Located on two acres in Franklin Village and backing to the Franklin River, designed by Kenneth Neumann with interior designed by Maxine Snider, this over 5600 sq ft home boasts four Bedrooms, soaring 26 foot ceilings and walls of glass that let in abundant natural light. The first floor Master Suite features his / her dressing areas with walk in closets and luxurious marble bath. The extraordinary Kitchen is designed to accommodate the most demanding chef and opens to the Breakfast Area. The Formal Dining Area has custom built in cabinetry and designed lighting scheme. The back of the home has floor to ceiling windows that over look the gorgeous Gardens and Pool Area.
cindykahn.com
Cindy Obron Kahn SKBK Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty Birmingham, Michigan
248.568.7309
CITY/ TOWNSHIP Light rail to area may be studied By Lisa Brody
WA3 Transit-Oriented Development Task Force, part of the Woodward Avenue Action Committee composed of representatives of communities straddling Woodward, presented a report on their goals and progress to the Birmingham Planning Board on Wednesday, August 10, including the possibility of extending Detroit-based light rail service as far as Birmingham. The task force is working on transitoriented development standards for all five communities along Woodward and comprises representatives from Birmingham, Berkley, Ferndale, Huntington Woods, Royal Oak, SMART, Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), Beaumont Hospital and the Detroit Zoo. Birmingham City Manager Robert Bruner is vice chairperson of the executive committee, and city planner Jana Ecker is on the board of directors. One focus of the task force is light rail, extending the proposed light rail service being discussed from downtown Detroit to 8 Mile Road, and seeing how it could be brought forward from 8 Mile Road to Birmingham. The group applied in July for a federal grant of upwards of $2.5 million for a study of expanded transit options for these cities. LSL Planning is instrumental in developing proposals and presentations to facilitate the process. “Light rail is just one aspect, and it's hard to say how soon that would happen,” said Birmingham City Commissioner Mark Nickita, an architect and planner who is involved with the Woodward Avenue Action Committee. “They're big items, and they're very expensive. There have been no discussions of funding of anything north of 8 Mile. Transit is just one element we're examining. We're looking at Woodward Avenue as an economic place which has hospitals, businesses, the zoo. It's an important corridor and the lifeline to so many people and places. In the past, it did not work collectively, and it did not work effectively or efficiently. Many businesses are run down; the road does not accommodate pedestrians. Thousands of cars go by each day, but nothing is happening.” Paperwork from the task force states, “Providing high capacity rapid transit along the Oakland County portion of the corridor, in coordination with the Detroit Woodward Light Rail Transit Project, is critical to the success of the region.” “We're looking to be the link
between the Woodward corridor communities,” Nickita continued. “There is great economic potential. We're examining how do we want to see Woodard evolve? We're looking at pedestrian crossings, non-motorized vehicles, parking, light rail perhaps, enhancing businesses, to find higher and better potential for a lot of run down properties. So Woodward is a thing we all work on together, as a unit, an economic driver. Transit is part of this whole idea.” “We're looking at Woodward as a linear downtown, something that all of our communities share,” Nickita said. “Transit is part of this whole idea. It's one more piece of this big puzzle.”
Supervisor looking at televising meetings Bloomfield Township Supervisor Leo Savoie is now moving closer to a recommendation to televise township board meetings, following discussion with the board. Retired supervisor Dave Payne was opposed to televising board meetings. Savoie reported to the board that he already had several meetings with Leslie Helwig, community relations director for the township, and liaison to the cable production facilities stationed on the township's campus. Helwig will come to the September 12 board meeting to report on various taping options, and what they would cost. “I'm not concerned with the content, they'll be what they'll be, but with the quality of the productions,” Savoie said. “If we're going to do it, I want it to be the best it can be. I don't want one grainy camera. But with quality there can be price. There is also the the question of timing. Can we do it it remotely, or do we have to run cable?” Savoie was met with positive feedback from both fellow trustees and the public. Trustee Neal Barnett said his main concern is audio quality. “In addition, we have to make sure we work it out so it's on demand on our website, and we publicize it to people.” Savoie assured him that would be the case. Trustee Dave Buckley said, “I think it's an issue whose time has come. I think we need to tape meetings immediately, and then figure out how to pay for it.The cost is relative to the service, especially with the number of seniors in the community.” Clerk Jan Roncelli concurred. “I think the taping is long overdue, especially since we have one of the finest studios right next door.”
New restaurant close to leasing Forte site By Lisa Brody
ublicly-traded restaurant group J. Alexander’s out of Nashville, Tennessee has made an offer for a restaurant to go into the former Forte' location on S. Old Woodward in Birmingham. Sources have confirmed that an offer was made by the J. Alexander's company, but that the offer is still in negotiations. Building owner Ted Fuller was unavailable for comment. A leasing representative said it is still a work in progress, with nothing firm. The restaurant that would go into Birmingham would be a new concept from J. Alexander's designed for urban areas, and not the same J. Alexander's that diners are familiar with from the Somerset Collection in Troy, according to local sources. J. Alexander's began in Nashville in 1991 as a casual dining restaurant. The company says they are positioned between the “heavily-themed casual dining restaurants and the fine dining white tablecloth dinner houses.” J. Alexander's is known for serving American-style food with a contemporary twist. There are currently 33 J. Alexander's nationwide, with three in Michigan, all in metro Detroit. Besides the Somerset location, there is one in West Bloomfield and another in Livonia. The company's 2010 annual report noted that all three were high performers, despite a poor local economy.
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J. McLaughlin store coming to Birmingham owntown Birmingham will welcome another unique boutique to the mix this fall with the signing of national clothing retailer J. McLaughlin to the former Nicole Miller location at 268 W. Maple. The new store plans to open by Nov. 1, in time for the holiday season. J. McLaughlin, known for its high-quality, classic American clothing, will be the first Michigan store for the 45-store retailer, said retail leasing consultant Julie Fielder. Fielder, who was hired by the Principal Shopping District (PSD) in 2009 to help bring in national and regional retailers, announced the signing of J. McLaughlin at the PSD's monthly board meeting in early August. “Until last year, all of their stores have been up and down the east coast,” Fielder said. “Last year, they opened two stores in Chicago to great reception, and one in St. Louis. I first spoke with them in March 2010. They prefer to go into neighborhood locations, and Birmingham is ideal for them.” J. McLaughlin, which first opened on New York's Upper East Side in 1979, is known as a classic American brand featuring a flair for bold colors and signature prints. They offer approximately 70 percent women's clothing and accessories, and 30 percent men's. Typical price points range from $100 to $300. Items include dresses, skirts, pants, shorts, sweaters and tops for women, and polos, sweaters, shorts and pants for men. Their appeal is a bit broader than Brooks Brothers, with a flair similar to Tory Burch, noted Fielder. She said their clothing is high quality, the result of a vertical operation. “They design and produce their own branded apparel,” she said. The company website says of its stores, “Located in friendly neighborhoods where shoppers can easily stroll, each store is designed to become woven into the fabric of each tight-knit community while maintaining the distinctive J.McLaughlin look. Inside and out, the stores are architecturally inspired by the community, evoking a vintage atmosphere, and invitingly decorated with fine woodwork, antiques and comfortable furniture upholstered in bright florals, soft tweeds, animal prints and other distinctive fabrics.”
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Bistro application changes considered By Lisa Brody
Birmingham City Commissioners decided Monday, August 22 to change the application process for bistros in the city, based on recommendations from the city's planning board and discussion with planning director Jana Ecker and planning board chairperson Robin Boyle, to include an as yet to be developed pre-application presentation by potential bistro owners to the commission. A joint planning session in June between the city commission and planning board addressed ways the existing bistro ordinance, first developed in 2007, could be tweaked. At the meeting, Birmingham City Manager Bob Bruner said the purpose of the meeting was to determine what the measurable impact of the bistro licenses were and to see how that can be improved. Neither the planning board, nor planning department staff members, came back with any information on any impact to the city from bistros. The biggest critique was over the first-come, first-serve application process for the two licenses granted each year for bistros. Ecker said the planning board suggested changing the application process to a deadlineoriented system, which would allow several applications to be reviewed at one time. This system would give the planning board and city commission the opportunity to select the best applications in a given year. Already, the planning department has received four bistro applications for 2012, Ecker noted. The planning board's recommendation is that October 1 would be the due date for all bistro applications for the following
Liquor license rules altered for city irmingham city commissioners, at their meeting Monday, August 22, unanimously amended two sections of a city ordinance regarding liquor license renewals, as well as the ability to revoke a liquor license, based on cause. City attorney Tim Currier said he had met with Birmingham Police Deputy Chief Mark Clemence to determine reasons for non-renewal or removal of a liquor license in Birmingham. Liquor licenses are reviewed and renewed annually in March by the city commission. Currier informed commissioners that grounds for commissioners to not renew or to revoke a liquor license would be numerous serious police calls; lack of adequate supervision; nuisance; immediate health and safety dangers; drunk and disorderly calls; assault complaints; complaints from neighbors; among other reasons. While not directly addressed at the meeting, the ordinance changes were made due to numerous incidences at some local bars and restaurants, including a major brawl recently at South, where security staff members were stabbed by patrons. In mid August a drunk guest at Chen Chow stabbed someone with a broken beer bottle. Currier said non-renewals can only be done in March, but a revocation can be done at any time, if there is cause, with a public hearing. “With a non-renewal, the restaurant still owns the liquor license,” said Currier. “With a revocation, they lose the license, and cannot get it back for two years.” The Michigan Liquor Control Commission follows up with their own hearings after the city makes a decision on a license.
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year, with the second scheduled planning board meeting in October set up to review up to three bistro applications. At the first scheduled planning board meeting in November, they would look at up to three more bistro applications, if there are that many. Then, at the first planning board meeting in December, the planning board would rank all of the bistro applications, and send them on, with their recommendations, to the city commission, for review in January and February, with final decisions made by the end of February. If necessary, a second round of bistro applications could be submitted by April 1. Ecker said that all applications submitted would go on to the city commission. However, commissioners did not like the recommendations, with
commissioner Mark Nickita noting that “it changed the first-come, first-served to a competition. It would change the dynamics, what they would need to present to us, how they come to the table. We have to make this as fair as possible for everyone to play at the same table.” Commissioners decided they would like to see all applicants in a preapplication process that was not an elaborate presentation but was more about concepts and likely locations, and then send up to two a year back to the planning board for the regular approval process, and then back to the commission for final approval. Commissioners advised Ecker to put out a call to all potential applicants, as well as the current four who have put in bistro applications, to be prepared to
come before the commission sometime after October 1, when applicants would have to apply. Ecker will return to the commission with revised recommendations in the near future.
Nine candidates vie for commission Nine candidates have filed to run for the Birmingham city commission in the November 8 election as of the official candidate filing deadline on Tuesday, August 16. Four seats are up for grabs in the November vote, including the posts now held by mayor Gordon Rinschler, Tom McDaniel, Scott Moore and George Dilgard. The four incumbents all filed to run for re-election. Besides the incumbents, also filing to run for the city commission are Dr. Doug Weaver, a Henry Ford Hospital cardiologist; Steve Knox, an attorney specializing in business and entertainment law; James Foxley, owner of Detroit Welding & Fabricating; Nicole Blank, an assistant prosecutor with the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office; and Vicki Walsh, also an assistant prosecutor with the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office. None of the non-incumbent candidates have any previous Birmingham government experience. The city's library board filing deadline was also August 16 and four candidates are running for three available seats for Baldwin Library's Board of Directors. They are incumbent David Underdown, James Suhay, Ruth Ploski, and Robert Tera. Also up for election in November are two open seats for the Birmingham School Board. Running for re-election are incumbents Christopher Conti and Robert Lawrence. Challenging them is John Connelly.
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Savoie elected new township supervisor By Lisa Brody
Bloomfield Township trustee Leo Savoie was appointed by the township board in late July to serve as supervisor beginning August 1. The vote for Savoie's appointment was 4-2, following a rancorous and bruising meeting before an overflow crowd where challenger Dan Devine, the township's treasurer, was publicly pilloried by outgoing supervisor Dave Payne. Payne announced his resignation on June 27 after 41 years with the township, citing health concerns. Following Payne's resignation announcement, both Devine and Savoie announced they were interested in applying for the supervisor position. By state statute, the board had 45 days following the resignation date to appoint someone to the position, and the board made a motion to appoint someone from within their board ranks. Both Devine and Savoie presented Powerpoint presentations to the board and audience relative to their qualifications for the job, and how they would move the township forward. Devine, an attorney, is a University of Notre Dame graduate with a law degree from Detroit College of Law, who has been township treasurer
since 1999 and has been active in Republican politics. His initiatives would have been to televise trustee meetings, developing dog parks for the township, preparing a resident survey of expectations, and developing a senior strategic plan. Savoie, a trustee since 2004, said he began to look into the position 18 months ago, divesting himself of his businesses, assuming Payne may not run again in 2012. Payne's retirement has just sped up the process, Savoie said, and he is prepared to start immediately. An Indiana University graduate, he is a designated member of the Appraisal Institute. He said his main business has been Apex Appraisers, and hopes to continue doing occasional appraisals on weekends, although not for anything related to the township. He also has owned Land Title Holding, which closes loans; Elm Street Financial, a purchaser of loan portfolio packages from around the country; and Zone Data Systems. “I've been a director of people,” he said. As supervisor, he said he would seek to preserve the quality of services in the township, to maintain the quality police and fire departments, and to work on maintaining the aging physical infrastructure, particularly the roads in the township, which are reaching the end of their lifespan.
“This is about leadership, trust, innovation and consensus,” he said. While Payne could not vote for his own successor, he was still in charge of his final meeting, and spoke first during board comments, seeking to clear the air over attacks and misperceptions strewn during the three-week campaign. “A smooth succession is essential. Board members have traditionally worked for the good of the community, and not for personal gain,” he said, saying that one member had been lying about Payne's plans after retirement. “Allegations have been made that are patently false. Dan Devine and I have worked together for 12 years, and I am deeply disappointed that he has gone on the attack. He was the first board member informed of my retirement. He then gave me a document, and his real intention became crystal clear, about the threats he would make against me— which have happened, by his own hand, because he did not have the four votes to be appointed. He suggested a consultant job before any other board member knew I was retiring. If the board feels I can help, I would like to help. If the board would like me to do it voluntarily, I would consider it. People know they can trust me, and I would never jeopardize that at the close of my career. I will retire and stand by my
Dredging project for Quarton Lake in 2011 By Lisa Brody
t looks like Quarton Lake may be getting it's act cleaned up with a dredging project, the first for the lake since 2002. The dredging work was on target to begin in August so that it is completed by this October, according to a memo Birmingham city engineer Paul O'Meara presented to the parks and recreation board in early August.. O'Meara reported that the city has already applied for a permit with Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DMEQ). “A survey of the sediment conditions was conducted by our consulting engineer, Hubbell, Roth, & Clark, early in 2009. At that time, it was suggested that removal of the sediment at that time would be almost $300,000. Due to the focus on other projects, as well as funding issues, we were not able to move forward on a sediment removal project until now. Using fund balance, we expect to be able to obtain the funds needed to complete this project this October, the
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optimum time of year for this work,” O'Meara reported. It is not anticipated that the project this year will be as massive as the 2002 dredging, which was a major silt removal project. Prior to 2002, Quarton Lake, which is actually a tributary and retention basin of the Rouge River, had not been dredged since the 1970s. “When the work was completed in 2002, a silt trap was built at the north end of the lake to encourage future sedimentation to occur in that area, rather than having it flow into the entire lake,” said O'Meara. In 2002, the dredging was done from the Lakeside Drive side of the lake, but since several trees that were planted have now been established, an open grassy area on Lake Park
principles that I did not compromise my integrity. I have no obligation to risk my health for the political aspirations of another.” Savoie commented, “Everything has been done in the self-interest of one individual. I'm here for the interests of everyone in Bloomfield Township.” In desperation, Devine made a motion to to be interim supervisor for the remainder of Payne's term while keeping his treasurer's position, with the caveat that he would not run for supervisor in next August's primary. Township attorney Bill Hampton, despite Devine's objection to his opinion, said the state's Charter Township Act states that all legislative boards must be seven positions, including supervisor, treasurer, clerk, and four elected positions. “If you combine two positions, you reduce the voting power, which is not the legislative intent. There's supposed to be a set of checks and balances,” Hampton said. Devine insisted his motion go forward, but it failed by a vote of 4-2, with only himself and trustee Dave Buckley supporting it. Trustee Neal Barnett then made a motion to appoint Leo Savoie supervisor, which passed 4-2, with Savoie, Barnett, Roncelli, and trustee Brian Kepes voting yes, and Devine and Buckley voting no.
will be used. The dredging contractor will bring equipment that will float on the lake water's surface and suck sediment up from the lake floor to drying bags on shore. It is anticipated that almost 4,000 cubic yards of sediment will be removed and pumped into the drying bags. The bags will be set up in a fenced off area, where they will be stationed for about a month while the water leaches out the silt. Then the contractor will break open the bags, load the sediment onto trucks, and haul the silt to a landfill. Once that is completed, the trail system on Lake Park will be restored and opened to the public. As grass will likely be damaged, and it will be late fall, seeding of the area will occur in spring 2012. “Once the project is complete this year, staff recommends that steps be taken to conduct annual dredging,” O'Meara said, in a much smaller area, which could be contained on Lake Park north of Oak, hedged by evergreens and shrubs from sidewalk and street visibility. He suggested it be a fall project, and built into the budget, with an annual maintenance contract established for five-year periods.
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Cell tower request under consideration Bloomfield Hills is considering a request from American Tower, a leading provider of wireless and broadcast towers worldwide, to build a cell phone tower which the city would lease out to a cell phone provider and rent space to an Oakland County's public safety communication program called OPNET. OPNET is a community system for police and fire departments to allow for communications between departments and between each other. Bloomfield Hills has had problems with reception areas for both public safety and individuals with cell phones. “We have a problem in Bloomfield Hills by Woodward and Long Lake and Cranbrook roads because we're in a bowl,” said Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens. “We have a problem with cell phone systems and communications systems being dropped or not being heard. This (tower) would help alleviate the problem.” Cravens said they are open-minded about the proposal from American Tower, which wants to place a tower on public safety department land, but city commissioners have some concerns over the exact location of the proposed tower and its height. “They're showing us three different locations but commissioners are concerned about how it would look from adjoining properties,” Cravens said. “Last I heard they were talking to Bloomfield Hills Country Club, but I don't know where they are with them. We haven't heard a thing from them in a few weeks.” Commissioner Sarah McClure said she recognizes the need for better communication transmission in the
Applications sought for trustee position loomfield Township had accepted about 16 applications at press time for an open trustee spot on the township board, following the appointment of a trustee to the supervisor position, and will meet at a study session Monday, August 29 to review and discuss applicants. At their meeting on Wednesday, August 10, board members decided to post and advertise the position to any resident of Bloomfield Township, 18 years and older who is registered to vote. Application packets were available on the Bloomfield Township website or in the township supervisor's office. All applications had to include a letter of interest, resume, and responses to a questionnaire returned to the supervisor's office by Thursday, August 25. By state statute, the board must fill the trustee position by Sept. 15, which is 45 days after the August 1 date that former trustee Leo Savoie became supervisor. Township clerk Jan Roncelli said the trustees would like make their appointment by their first September meeting on September 12. If necessary, they will hold a second study session. Roncelli said in the past they have had 12 to 25 applications for open trustee seats. She was not certain how many applicants had applied. Board members were to receive packets of the applications by Thursday evening, August 25 or Friday morning, August 26, to review over the weekend. Trustees reviewed questions for the questionnaire, and decided on 12 questions, including asking candidates how they perceive the role of trustee; past township involvement; what kinds of skills and attributes they bring; experience on fiscal and budget issues; and their view on local control on land use issues. The term of office for the trustee position expires November 2012.
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city, and wants to work with Oakland County, if American Tower makes an offer for public safety land. “Our public safety department is part of Oakland County's CLEMIS, so I support that we need to do something. We know the county would like us to do it so communities can communicate better. We want to look at what is the best way to solve the problem,” she said. “We're still at the information gathering stage, looking at what is best. We're just wondering if the tower is the best design for us, and what kind of tower it would be, what size, how tall it would be, exactly where it would be located on the public safety land. We want to see schematics and more information to understand all of the details.”
CONTENT
Bloomfield providing service to Sylvan By Lisa Brody
Bloomfield Township will now be providing both property assessing services and building inspection services to neighboring Sylvan Lake. In late July the township board approved providing building inspection and permit services for the city. The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution for the township's building department to provide those services to the city of Sylvan Lake. Planning department director Patti Voelker presented information to the
board, noting that for 2010 Sylvan Lake had a total of 125 building permits pulled, vs. Bloomfield Township, which had 3,500 building permits pulled in 2010, or about 67 permits a week. Sylvan Lake has 1,753 residents while Bloomfield Township has 41,000. “We do not believe it will impact the services or the residents of the township to provide these services,” Voelker said. “The building department will be able to absorb the extra work without any difficulty, and it will allow the building department to collect these fees.” The building department is a completely self-funded and selfsustaining department. Former township supervisor Dave Payne said this is a way for the department to increase its revenue. “This has been part of the township's strategic plan, to look for areas of consolidation, and it's something the Governor (Rick Snyder) has encouraged. I applaud Patti for finding this and working on this with Sylvan Lake,” Payne said. Bloomfield Township also agreed in early August to provide assessing services Sylvan Lake. Trustees unanimously supported the agreement brought before them by township assessor Bill Griffin, which will have Sylvan Lake paying $19,000 a year for two years to assess their approximately 1,000 properties. Resident Marcia Robivitsky asked the board if this will tax the assessing department, and if the amount will cover costs. Newly appointed township supervisor Leo Savoie responded, “Sylvan Lake is the equivalent in size of one extra neighborhood. It will not be any extra work or extra expense for the township. We are not hiring anyone else, but we're not letting anyone go, either.”
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FACES Natalie Morris he is 22-years-old, beautiful, and a rising cover model, but for Natalie Morris the road to her current success has been bittersweet, and anything but easy. “As a child, I would end up at HAVEN (Help Against Violent Encounters Now),” said Morris. HAVEN offers help against domestic and sexual abuse. “It was a tough experience for me and it definitely humbled me.” While family difficulties were a source of pain, living with a bipolar parent, the hardship only made Morris fight harder to become independently successful. “I work twice as hard when someone tells me that I can’t have something,” she said. “Having a terrible childhood drove me to be the monster that I’ve created for myself.” Morris’ modeling career began early, when she was featured in print advertisements for Gerber and Huggies as an infant. “My mom was super duper involved because she was a model when she was younger,” Morris said. “She always wanted her little girl to follow in mama’s footsteps.” Morris went on to appear in runway events for Hudson’s and Fashion Bug as a young girl. “I was a ham as a child,” said Morris. “I was always out modeling.” While Morris was drawn to the profession throughout childhood, her father favored a more stable career and encouraged her education. “I need that structure where I’m constantly learning something and I’d much rather make my own way.” Morris took her father’s advice and invested her earnings into pursuing a trade. She went on to study myomassology, a type of massage integrating different technique styles, but still pursued her goal of working as a full-time model. As Morris matured, her striking persona was recognized by many high-profile modeling outlets. In 2010, she was a Michigan Maxim magazine Hometown Hottie semi-finalist and caught her break modeling for Playboy Swimwear at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas. “They gave me a multi-million dollar location,” Morris said. “We shot at the Hugh Hefner Sky Villa. I stayed at the Palms for five days and met Hugh Hefner. It changed everything. After this shoot, everyone lined up to work with me.” Recently, she donned the cover of VN Beauty magazine in New York City and has been traveling across the U.S. on modeling jobs. When she is not at her Bloomfield Hills home, Morris has places in New York City and Los Angeles for business purposes. Presently, Morris is earning a living appearing as a club host in Los Angeles and Las Vegas and her modeling career is taking off, but she has never forgotten the sacrifices and what she has endured over the course of her life. “I’ve done charity runway shows in Birmingham for HAVEN,” Morris said. “I think that it’s important that (HAVEN) is there for people.” Although Morris is not looking to slow down her career, her ultimate goal is to settle down with a family in the only state she calls home. “I couldn’t be happier. I don’t ever want to leave Michigan for good,” Morris said. “This is always going to be my home and I’m grateful for everything.”
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Photo: Laurie Tennent
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REAL ESTATE TODAY The effect of short sales and foreclosures LQ %LUPLQJKDP %ORRPĹš HOG Written by Robert Taylor, Residential Real Estate Concepts & Consultants, Associate Broker
PG 70
What are short sales and foreclosures? Robert Taylor, past president of the Michigan Association of Realtors, gives us some surprising news about how short sales and foreclosures are impacting our local real estate market today.
Chestnut Run: something for everyone Written by Nancy Browning,
Associate Broker
PG 71
Nancy Browning loves Chestnut Run, and it shows. In her career, she has been involved in some 60 transactions in this neighborhood. In her article, Nancy shows you what makes Chestnut Run so attractive to buyers - and sellers.
Turtle Lake: live like a rock star Written by Steve Cole, Associate Broker
PG 71
7XUWOH /DNH LV RQH RI WKH VHOHFW IHZ JDWHG FRPPXQLWLHV LQ %ORRPĹš HOG +LOOV DQG EH\RQG WKH JDWHV OLHV D PDJQLĹš FHQW YDULHW\ RI KRPHV DQG ODQG ZLWK FRQFLHUJH VHUYLFHV WKDW JR way beyond the norm. Steve Cole gives you an inside view.
A lake vacation at your doorstep Written by Kendra McConnell Hurd, Realtor
PG 72
Why spend your vacation time taking the long drive up north to luxuriate by the lake? Kendra McConnell Hurd will convince you that there are plenty of spectacular lake homes for sale just around the corner! And if you think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expensive to buy a local lakefront home, read on!
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The effect of short sales and foreclosures in Birmingham/ %ORRP¿ HOG by Robert Taylor
Foreclosures and short sales: you’ve seen and heard these terms bandied about in the media. These terms have almost become synonymous with the market free fall. That may have been true in the past, but today, look locally, and you’ll see that just the opposite is happening. First Let’s Define Foreclosure and Short Sale Foreclosure – a process in Michigan whereby a lender retakes ownership of a home when a borrower has stopped making payments on the mortgage. It can take close to a year for a lender to acquire ownership of a home once an owner stops making payments. (This includes the redemption period.)
Lenders are beginning to realize that facilitating a short sale will minimize their loss over a foreclosure resale. Short sales sell at an average discount of 10%. Foreclosures sell at an average discount of 35%. Fortunately, a decrease in the number of foreclosed resales and the improvement in the short sale process have produced great improvement in our market. The number of distressed properties for sale has fallen to an average of 4.4% for the last year and the number that sold declined to an average of 19.7% of all sales from June 2010 through March 2011.
Short Sale – a sale on a property where the sale price is less than what is needed to pay off the balance due on the mortgage loan.
Foreclosed Resales as a Percentage of all Homes "For Sale" in Birmingham/Bloomfield
The Impact of Short Sales and Foreclosures on Traditional Sales
25.0% When the number of short sales and foreclosures in a market is significant, the impact on “traditional sales” is devastating.
20.0% 15.0%
This occurred between December 2008 and April 2009 when short sales and foreclosed resales accounted for 53.2% of all homes sold. During this same five-month period, the average sale price for our area fell 19.3% as traditional sellers were forced to compete for buyers obviously on the hunt for bargains.
10.0% 5.0% Jun-11
Apr-11
Feb-11
Dec-10
Oct-10
Aug-10
Jun-10
Apr-10
Feb-10
Dec-09
Oct-09
Jun-09
Data provided by RRECC, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The number of all sales in the last four months has increased. The number of homes for sale continues to decline and the number of distressed sales remains low (11.7%). It is very possible that in the third quarter of 2011 distressed sales will account for less than 10% of all homes sold, adding further stability to our market and the prospect of value increases imminent.
Average Sales Price of Bank Owned vs Non Bank Owned Homes in Birmingham/Bloomfield Foreclosures
Aug-09
For the next 13 months, distressed sales would average 40.5% of all sales; average sale prices would drop another 17.9%.
Apr-09
Feb-09
0.0%
Non-Bank Owned
700000 600000 500000
What does all this mean?
400000 1.
300000 200000
2.
100000 0
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011 ytd
Data provided by RRECC, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
3. 4. 5.
Initially, short sale prices had little resemblance to true value as lenders urgently worked to get distressed mortgages off their books. Today, short sale prices are much closer to true value as lenders try to keep from leaving money “on the table.”
What the national media has to say about the housing market is not relevant to what is happening here in southeast Michigan. With the number of distressed sales at recent historic lows, their direct influence on general market value for the area has been significantly reduced. Now is a good time to put your home on the market as good listings are selling quickly. If you’re looking to buy, you may want to do so sooner than later. You should always consult a trusted real estate advisor with specialized knowledge of your local market.
These figures include new construction, existing homes, condominiums unless noted otherwise. Historical sold data includes all “dollar sales” within these communities and is derived from all relevant sources. Analysis and charts are the sole property of RRECC, Inc.
Robert Taylor welcomes your comments: 248-433-5432 | rtaylor@cbweirmanuel.com
CBWeirManuel.com | 248-644-6300
Chestnut Run: something for everyone
Turtle Lake: live like a rock star by Steve Cole
by Nancy Browning
Chestnut Run in Bloomfield Township is a highly desirable neighborhood for buyers searching in this area. I speak from experience: I have personally assisted buyers and sellers with some 60 transactions in Chestnut Run over the past 22 years. I’ve gotten to know the area exceptionally well and am not surprised that it’s weathered the market downturn. One reason is the great variety of styles and sizes of homes available. When Chestnut Run was devloped, some 150 lots were sold to a number of different builders. This resulted in a subdivision that showcased each builder’s aesthetic: buyers could choose from multiple styles, including contemporary, ranch, Tudor, Colonial – something for everyone. Another reason for Chestnut Run’s popularity is the many beautiful settings from which to choose. There are homes backing to Heather Lake in Chestnut Run North and to Orange Lake in Chestnut Run South for those who enjoy the lake lifestyle. But if lake living isn’t your thing, there are also homes on private cul-de-sacs or nestled within the neighborhood but easily accessible to Lahser Road or Hickory Grove Road. Many are also attracted to the sense of community. Chestnut Run provides social activities for its homeowners throughout the year. It’s no surprise that it draws those who enjoy a close-knit, supportive, community lifestyle. Tony and Susan Bongiovanni, who have lived in Chestnut Run for 24 years, rave about the community: “It has always been a great place to live, raise a family, enjoy a walk or chat with a neighbor. We’ve participated in many neighborhood activities throughout the years. Our children grew up here, and we feel it was a perfect environment for them.” The icing on the cake is that home prices have remained consistent even during the downturn in the housing market, so that makes Chestnut Run a great investment. In June, a 6782 square foot property with five bedrooms and four full and two half baths leased for $6500 per month. A five bedroom, five full and two half bath home sold for $1,275,000 in April. A five bedroom, five full and two half bath Tudor is sale pending and was listed for sale at $1,649,000.
It’s the suburban version of living in the penthouse of a New York City luxury hotel, where doormen, staff, housekeepers and bellmen cater to your every whim. But unlike Manhattan, your home is a gorgeous, sprawling estate on the lake or hidden in a natural environment, far from the bustle of the city – but really just minutes away from downtown Birmingham. As the one few private, gated lake communities in Bloomfield Hills, Turtle Lake living is truly the definition of “turnkey,” with its concierge service able to provide you with everything, including music tutors, cooking lessons, in-home spa treatments. Need a research paper written? Your auto detailed? Your pet groomed? The concierge is available to take care of your every need while you relax in a deck chair, sipping a Margarita and watching the lake sunset. I’ve been involved in the sales of homes in this magnificent community for some years now, and I have to say that I haven’t found anything Turtle Lake doesn’t have, except for city noises, traffic congestion and stress! The development consists of 107 single-family estate lots spread out over 256 acres of rolling topography and terrain in eight separate neighborhoods. While each neighborhood offers different characteristics like lakefrontage on all-sports Upper Long Lake, all feature beautiful natural settings. Eight homes sold in 2010, in the range of $800,000 to $2,260,000. In 2011, two have already sold, at $1,200,000 and $1,500,000. Turtle Lake remains the ultimate in luxury, but lots and homes for sale are more affordable than ever. Currently there is one Turtle Bay home available for sale. It is a country French estate listed at $2,495,000 with 6883 square feet, four bedrooms, five full and two half baths. It is nestled in a beautifully wooded, rolling area with lakes and preserve. There are 18 buildable lots for sale, ranging from $200,000 to $5 million. This last is actually a double lot, with a spectacular view of Turtle Lake, is in a highly secluded area of The Ridge, backing up to nature trails. The home that will be built on this lot will most likely become the crown jewel of Turtle Lake.
Currently there is a 3000 square foot house available for lease at $3800 per month and two homes in the 4000 square foot range available for sale at $975,000 each. Scan to view
Scan to view available Turtle Lake properties
available Chestnut Variety of home styles, lakes, wonderful locations, Run properties community and price stability all add up to a highly desirable Bloomfield Township choice for buyers and sellers.
Nancy Browning welcomes your comments: 248-701-7119 | nbrowning@cbweirmanuel.com Steve Cole welcomes your comments: 248-914-0008 | scole@cbweirmanuel.com
CBWeirManuel.com | 248-644-6300
A lake vacation at your doorstep by Kendra McConnell Hurd
2Q 2DN ,VODQG 'ULYH LQ :ROYHULQH /DNH frontage. It offers three good sized bedrooms and two full baths. Listing price? $359,900. Like Union Lake? Check out the 4500 square foot home with 52 feet of frontage, four bedrooms and four baths being offered in the mid $600,000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Did you vacation up north or drive over to Canada this summer for that treasured week or two on the water? Do you hit the highway every weekend and drive hours to get to your little slice of heaven on a lake? Or, are you among those who have dreamed about having a cottage on a lake but just felt it too expensive - or the long drive too inconvenient? Well, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good news for lake aficionados. You can buy a vacation home right here in Oakland County, and at a price to suit your budget. Whether you want a tiny cottage or a lakefront estate, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find great values. Lake by Lake If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got your mind set on a particular lake, here are some examples of what you can find. A couple of weeks ago I showed clients properties on six â&#x20AC;?all-sportsâ&#x20AC;? lakes. (These are lakes where all types of watercraft are allowed, from motorboats to jet-skis.) I was impressed and pleasantly surprised at what value these choices offered. Asking prices ranged from $150,000 for a 911 square foot, three bedroom, two bath home, with 60 feet of frontage on White Lake, to $359,000 for a 3098 square foot, three bedroom, two and one half bath home, with 50 feet on Watkins Lake. On 470-acre Lake Orion, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a listing for a sprawling ranch of some 2300 square feet on almost three-quarters of an acre with 90 feet of
2Q /RQJ /DNH LQ %ORRPÂż HOG +LOOV
Sylvan Lake and Otter Lake are connected and offer a total 530 acres of water to enjoy. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find homes for sale there that range from $249,900 to $699,900. At the lower end of the price range youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have 100 feet of frontage, and a 2000 square foot, three bedroom, two and one half bath home with a finished walkout basement. In the $700,000 range, you can buy a 4500 square foot, five bedroom, four and one half bath home with 50 feet on the water. An Amazingly Broad Spectrum Of Pricing Just a few months ago, the former Ford Family estate on Middle Straits Lake (just 15 minutes from downtown Birmingham!) sold for $820,000. The 6000 square foot home, with five bedrooms, six full and two half baths, sits on more than an acre of land with 109 feet of lake frontage. Yet, on the same lake, a charming 1300 square foot lakefront cottage with 58 feet of lake frontage, three bedrooms and three baths, sold for just $120,500 in July. You may be surprised to know how affordable it can be to have a getaway on your favorite lake. There are 55 homes on the market right now in Oakland County priced under $200,000. A 900 square foot home with two bedrooms, one bath, and 64 feet of lake frontage on Lake Orion lists for $64,900 and a 2904 square foot, five bedroom, three-and-one-half bath home on two acres on Upper Silver Lake, with 331 feet of frontage, is offered at $199,000. From $200,000 to $400,000 there are 92 listings. A 1600 square foot, four bedroom, two-andone-half bath home on Dixie Lake is listed at $205,000. It offers seven feet of frontage. A 2235 square foot home on Commerce Lake with four bedrooms, three baths and 66 feet of frontage, is listed at $400,000.
CBWeirManuel.com | 248-644-6300
2Q 1DFRQD LQ &RPPHUFH In the $400â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, there are 15 lakefront properties on the market. On Walters Lake youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a unique home on a three-quarter acre lot made up of two connected log cabins, with 6000 square feet of living space. All this plus eight bedrooms, four baths and 30 feet of lake frontage for $429,000. On Cooley Lake thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a 2400 square foot, three bedroom, three bath home listed for $484,000. This home offers 80 feet of frontage. There you have it: a wide variety of homes on our loveliest lakes just waiting for you and your bathing suit. But if you buy later and miss out on the warm weather, think about your getaway when the snow begins to fall, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crackling fireplace time. The skis can be waxed, ice skates sharpened and snowmobile fired up to enjoy our winter wonderland. It All Adds Up To A Great Opportunity What would it cost to live on the lake? Just to give you a quick calculation, if you put down 25%, and finance $100,000 over 30 years at 4.5% interest, the monthly payment for principal and interest would be about $506. Add about $300-400 a month for taxes, and approximately $60 a month for hazard insurance, and you have a $125,000 getaway for under a $1000 a month with drive time so short you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to bring along games to occupy the kids! Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking into a small cottage or a large estate, you have a wonderful opportunity to make the lake vacation home dream come true - and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a few minutes away.
Kendra McConnell Hurd welcomes your comments: 248-494-1562 kmhurd@cbweirmanuel.com Scan to search available lakefront properties
Birmingham: Incredibly charming 1930 Connecticut Colonial situated on a magnificently landscaped 450 foot deep lot. Exceptional architectural details and decorative elements abound. Front and back staircases. Extensively renovated and expanded in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;97 to include a gourmet kitchen w/premium appliances, pine paneled library, 1st floor laundry, bedroom and bath over garage, cedar roof and siding. Remodeled master bath 2010. Lovely pool. Premier Birmingham location. $1,499,000
ROBERT DUNDON 248-433-5443 rdundon@cbweirmanuel.com
Oxford Twp: Fabulous equestrian farm w/14.66 picturesque acres. Spectacularly renovated and expanded for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s living. Incredible attention to detail throughout. Heated indoor arena w/observatory; outdoor arena, stables, paddocks; run-ins; wooded riding trails; luxurious swimming pool; garages for 8 cars. Immaculate. $1,350,000
DEIDRE ETUE 248-433-5406
detue@cbweirmanuel.com
Bloomfield Village: True Bloomfield classic Colonial, perfect for family living, elegant entertaining w/spacious rooms for entire family. Situated on premier street in Bloomfield Village on oversized corner lot, 3 car garage, custom designed landscaping leading from a circular drive. Beautiful custom crown molding, built-ins, 3 fireplaces and bay windows on the main floor add character galore. Enjoy a cozy evening in the family room using the fieldstone fireplace. Must see. $975,000
VERONICA ISAACS 248-433-5434
visaacs@cbweirmanuel.com
Bloomfield: Enjoy upscale living in the gated community of Heron Woods. Unique features include two story foyer and great room, coffered ceilings, hand crafted wood entertainment center and library, luxurious master suite w/tray ceiling & wet bar. Theatre, exercise & steam rooms, wine and humidor storage, three season porch and picturesque yard backing to nature preserve and pond. Two additional bedrooms and two full baths in fully finished lower level. $949,900
KATHLEEN MERLO 248-433-5469
kmerlo@cbweirmanuel.com
Birmingham: Gaze at this lovely French Tudor from the street and step into a world of modern chic/old world charm as you enter this gorgeous home. Just three houses from Poppleton Park, home boasts character galore w/custom features throughout. Bay windows, beautiful hardwood floors, crown moldings, top notch appliances, lovely screened-in porch, custom landscaping. Attic can be finished for bonus room. Nothing else like it on market. Home reinvented by owner/designer. $949,500
LORRAINE YALMAN 248-433-5431
lyalman@cbweirmanuel.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD - list price $237,500
BLOOMFIELD HILLS - list price $329,000
CBWeirManuel.com | 248-644-6300
BIRMINGHAM - list price $795,000
Bloomfield Village: Incredibly charming 1930â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Colonial situated on a half acre of beautifully landscaped grounds in prime Bloomfield Village location. Extensive use of hardwood flooring and vintage moldings. Spectacular family room addition features high ceiling, expansive door walls, built-in cabinetry, and fireplace. Large formal living room w/bay and marble fireplace. Updated kitchen open to family room. 16 x 9 glassed porch overlooks deck. Master bath remodeled in 2009. $895,000
ROBERT DUNDON 248-433-5443 rdundon@cbweirmanuel.com
Birmingham: Exceptional architectural details & decorative elements abound in this newer home w/4310 square feet of living space, including the studio apartment above the garage. Full brick exterior w/limestone accents and copper gutters. High ceilings, intricate millwork, three fireplaces, gourmet kitchen w/butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pantry, master w/tray ceiling and luxurious bath. Finished lower level includes theater room, wet bar, fourth bedroom and full bath. Extraordinary quality! $815,000
SOLD
ROBERT DUNDON 248-433-5443 rdundon@cbweirmanuel.com
Royal Oak: A spectacular home located on one of the premier streets the city can offer. This wonderful home has awesome space but does not overwhelm you and it includes high-end amenities one would want. Other features include the finished 3rd floor, 2nd floor laundry, high ceilings on the first floor and a master bedroom suite that will make a tough day go away. Relax on the patio or take a stroll down one of the streets everyone wants to live on. $700,000
TIMOTHY HOLDEN 248-433-5494 tholden@cbweirmanuel.com
TIMOTHY HOLDEN 248-433-5494
LORRAINE YALMAN 248-433-5431
tholden@cbweirmanuel.com
lyalman@cbweirmanuel.com
Royal Oak: Cool and modern best describe this newer construction that is a true walking distance to downtown. This fabulous home offers everything you want and so much more. Entertain from the gourmet island kitchen or relax by the full bar in the living room. Also has two gas fireplaces, 10 foot ceilings, gorgeous hardwood floors, second floor laundry, finished basement, three car garage and private, professionally landscaped yard. $595,000
WEST BLOOMFIELD - list price $237,500
Birmingham: Stunning newer built home. Bright & airy great room w/ designer touches, high ceilings & open floor plan. Granite kitchen opens to dining room & great room, perfect for entertaining. master w/ cathedral ceiling, fireplace, master bath w/over-sized shower, jetted tub & custom tile work. Every faucet & fixture is top of the line thru-out. 2nd floor laundry. Gorgeous landscaping & custom stone work in front, paver patio & garden in back. Attached garage makes this beauty a rarity in Birmingham.. $549,900
BLOOMFIELD HILLS - list price $329,000
CBWeirManuel.com | 248-644-6300
BIRMINGHAM - list price $795,000
Birmingham: Gracious updated Colonial w/ rare three car garage within a short walk to Quarton Lake and downtown Birmingham. Freshly painted interior and recently refinished hardwood flooring. Formal living room w/ fireplace and wall of built-in cabinetry. Updated white kitchen. $499,000
ROBERT DUNDON | 248-433-5443 | rdundon@cbweirmanuel.com
Birmingham: Exceptional lot! Situated on lovely culde-sac, this extra large piece of land (1-1/2 actual lots) is the perfect setting for your dream house. Close to downtown, parks and schools. What a beautiful place to call home. Survey available upon request. Existing plans to build can be available to you, or just start with your imagination! $299,500
LORRAINE YALMAN | 248-433-5431 | lyalman@cbweirmanuel.com
Birmingham: Stylish bungalow near Pembroke Park. Updated and beautifully maintained. Hardwood floors. This move-in ready home is waiting for you to spend the rest of your summer barbecuing on the lovely deck & lounging in the sunny backyard. Master suite w/5-star bath. Nicely finished lower level. $239,500
Birmingham: Interior designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own home which has been extensively renovated. Enjoy the warmth and charm of a Cape Cod along with high-end architecturally designed updates, some with contemporary touches. Fabulous English gardens in which to spend a summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s evening. $419,000
DEIDRE ETUE | 248-433-5406 | detue@cbweirmanuel.com
LORRAINE YALMAN | 248-433-5431 | lyalman@cbweirmanuel.com
SOLD
Beverly Hills: Extensively updated 3542 square foot sprawling ranch situated on almost an acre of beautifully landscaped private grounds. Newer kitchen w/granite and stainless steel appliances open to spacious family room addition featuring fieldstone fireplace and beamed ceiling. Updated baths. Three car garage. $399,000
ROBERT DUNDON | 248-433-5443 | rdundon@cbweirmanuel.com
WEST BLOOMFIELD - list price $237,500
Birmingham: Wonderful updated Colonial within a short walk to town. Fabulous family room addition with 10 foot ceiling, gas fireplace, wet bar and built-in cabinetry. Extensive use of hardwood flooring and moldings. Formal living room with large bay and fireplace. An extremely well maintained home at a great price! $299,000
ROBERT DUNDON | 248-433-5443 | rdundon@cbweirmanuel.com
BLOOMFIELD HILLS - list price $329,000
CBWeirManuel.com | 248-644-6300
BIRMINGHAM - list price $795,000
Stunning setting in Bloomfield on gorgeous quiet Wing Lake. Large, open lot w/deck perched right on the lake. Expansive panoramic views. Flexible floor plan. Must see-possibilities are endless. $639,900
Experience Matters Buying or selling a home, even under the best of circumstances, can be a stressful and complicated undertaking. So with the real estate market we find ourselves in today, choosing an experienced professional to represent your interests is even more critical than ever.
Awesome 2000 re-built Colonial on premier street, walking distance to downtown Birmingham. Granite kitchen, spacious family room w/fireplace. Master w/fireplace. $499,000
In my 24 years as one of the top real estate professionals in Birmingham and Bloomfield, I have conducted business in all types of market conditions. I can help you price, stage and market your property to maximum advantage, as well as give you advice on financing, appraisals, and short sales.
PENDING
Move right in to this wonderful end unit condo on the 9th green of the North course of Oakland Hills Country Club - spectacular views! New white kitchen. $299,000
Rebecca Meisner 248-408-2212
RMeisner@CBWeirManuel.com | RebeccaMeisner.com
PENDING
1st lot West of N. Old Woodward. Gorgeous property - downtown Birmingham. Surrounded by million dollar homes. Tons of possibilities! Priced to sell. $289,900
Stately brick Pleasant Ridge Colonial on gorgeous tree lined street offers gleaming hardwood floors, coved clngs, spacious room sizes, new â&#x20AC;&#x153;gourmet kitchenâ&#x20AC;?, finished lower level. $399,000
WEST BLOOMFIELD - list price $237,500
Stunning Saroki designed Templeton built extensive renovation, richly appointed & walking distance to downtown Birmingham. Quality details thru-out. $799,000
BLOOMFIELD HILLS - list price $329,000
RebeccaMeisner.com | 248-408-2212
BIRMINGHAM - list price $795,000
BUSINESS MATTERS Nude The Salon Nude The Salon is gearing up to open at 245 Hamilton Row in Birmingham. “We’re hoping to open by the end of August, beginning of September,” said owner William Corfield. “We’re starting with hair services; cut, color, highlight, styling and Keratin treatments,” he said. “It’s possible that I’ll take on a makeup artist in the near future.” The salon will have 12 chairs, but Corfield is starting out with five stylists, “They’re from Birmingham and I’ve trained all of them,” he said. Corfield has worked out of Birmingham for over 10 years and was ready to venture out on his own. “I felt like I had kind of hit the ceiling where I was at and it was just time for me to do my own thing and bring my own visions to life. A lot of my clients expected me to do this a lot sooner.” The salon décor is a modern, organic vibe and Corfield said he is trying to create a warm and comfortable environment. “I want it to be simple and raw inside, but warm. It’s exciting and I can’t wait to get in there at this point.” Corfield came up with the salon’s moniker by looking up the definition of “nude” in the dictionary. “It had a lot to do with shape and form,” he said. “My approach to hair is to put a solid shape in the hair first, before I dress up the hair. It’s a form-before-flash approach.”
Twisted Fruit The healthy yogurt craze has hit the township. Twisted Fruit, a self-serve frozen yogurt shop, has opened at 3630 W. Maple at Maple and Lahser roads in Bloomfield Township. Owner David Ward, a Bloomfield Hills resident, previously owned the Blue Martini and City Cellar in Birmingham. “I know this area very well. It’s where I grew up,” he said. “I used to ride my bike over here when I was a kid and my son is a freshman at Andover, and we have local ties in the community. This is where I want to stay.” Ward chose the space for its proximity to nearby schools. “The Kroger next door is a definite draw, too. It’s a good location.” Every day, Twisted Fruit will offer 10 different flavors of yogurt. “We’ll have an opportunity to choose from 30 different flavors and it’ll switch throughout the month,” he said. “It’ll downtownpublications.com
be seasonal. In the fall, we’ll have pumpkin.” The new shop will offer a selection geared towards a healthconscious clientele.
Roland Optics coming After over 30 years at their 29983 Northwestern Highway location in Southfield, Roland Optics is moving to Bloomfield Township by the end of the year. The eye care professionals will be occupying the space at 6523 Telegraph Road on the southeast corner of Telegraph and Maple roads, where The Gap clothing store used to stand. “That’s where we really feel our clientele is,” said manager Katie Weishaus. “It’s a more desirable location and I’m hoping to grow the practice.” The new store will occupy 4,800 square feet, 1,000 square feet larger than their Southfield location. Roland offers comprehensive eye exams and specializes in contact lenses and frames.
Smoky's anniversary Smoky's Fine Cigars is celebrating its 10-year anniversary at its Bloomfield Hills location at 42919 Woodward Avenue. The cigar shop, located at Square Lake Road and Woodward Avenue, is owned by brothers Paul and Pete George. “We chose Bloomfield Hills because we were looking for an affluent area that would attract a good customer base,” said Paul George. “Through the years, we’ve developed a lot of friendships. Customers come in, buy their cigars and hang out.” Besides selling cigars, Smoky’s offers lockers for rent and two lounges. “There are very limited areas where you can smoke cigars, and it’s a fun hangout.” Smoky’s has a humidor, a VIP lounge for locker members and a second lounge for the general public. “It’s a fun place with beautiful woodwork and furniture,” he said. “We even do Monday night football events.” Smoky’s, a family business, also has locations in Ann Arbor, Livonia and Northville.
Play care center Happy Dino play care center will be moving into 375 Hamilton Row in Birmingham by summer’s end. “We’re trying to finish (the build-out) before the school year begins,” said contractor John Gauthier, Aaa Building Company. The 2,000 square foot space will feature an indoor playground and a dance space. “It is a licensed, day care after school program,” said owner Holly Lin. In addition to day care, Happy Dino will offer school enrichment programs.
“It’s not just sit there and play; the kids will play with purpose.” The center is geared towards children aged 30 weeks to 12-yearsold and will offer martial arts, core training, dance, drawing and crafts. “I thought I could make a program that could do more than one thing under one roof,” Lin said. “Kids can be dropped off so parents can go to the movies, shopping or to meet someone for coffee or dinner. When parents go out to have fun, the kids will have fun too.” Lin is looking to bring nearly a dozen jobs to the community. “We’re looking for state certified early childhood teachers, and we’re looking for teachers for the enrichment programs.”
Mattress Closeout Center Mattress Closeout Center has opened a new, 10,000-square foot location at 1605 Telegraph Road, south of Orchard Lake Road in Bloomfield Township. Owner Greg Yatooma opened his premier location in Wixom in 2010. “We started selling (mattresses) on Craigslist, literally out of a warehouse. The new business offers high-end beds at extreme discounts,” Yatooma said. “Where the economy is now, everyone is looking for a deal. We get people in beds they normally wouldn’t be able to afford.” The space has a warehouse feel and steers away from the typical retail displays. “We have a low overhead and a different sales approach. If you pick a bed on the floor, that’s the bed you buy. It’s not your Art Van or Gardner White.” The center has a kid’s room with a PlayStation to keep children occupied while their parents shop. Yatooma, 31, is an attorney by trade, but sought a more relaxed occupation. “I’m not a suit and tie kind of guy and I’d much prefer being in this element.”
Fine Arts Framers leaving After 14 years at its storefront at 2450 Cole Street, Fine Arts Framers is leaving the Rail District in Birmingham and will be operating out of 4922 Delemere Avenue in Royal Oak by September 1. According to owner Jim Yaw, a Birmingham resident, his lease is up and the landlord is selling the building. “I wanted to stay in an area close by,” said Yaw of the decision to relocate to Royal Oak. Fine Arts Framers offers
DOWNTOWN
full service picture framing and Yaw said he has been in the business since 1962.
Bloomfield Galleries If you're looking for art, check out Bloomfield Galleries, a new art gallery which has opened just west of Woodward Avenue at 79 W. Long Lake Road in Bloomfield Hills. The gallery offers modestly priced hand-painted artwork. “It’s really pretty oil and canvas art without the glass,” said Karen Carlton, owner and Bloomfield Township resident. “It’s for people who don’t want to spend thousands, but want beautiful artwork.” The price point at the gallery is $40-$500 and the paintings are equipped to be hung immediately. The gallery features the work of little-known international artists. According to Carlton, this type of artwork has become popular on the east and west coasts. “We want to bring this trend here,” she said. “People seem excited about it. The summer months may be not as busy, but we’ve had quite a few people in the store.” The gallery offers a variety of styles from contemporary to traditional.
Physical therapy facility Accelerated Health Systems, offering pain relief for the back, neck, shoulder and knee, has opened at 1940 S. Telegraph Road, located in the Bloomfield Market Place Plaza, north of Square Lake Road in Bloomfield Township. “We’re a physical therapy facility,” said Sarah Giroux, physical therapist and facility manager. “We (treat) any kind of chronic pain. I also do a little bit of women’s health.” Giroux offers treatment for pelvic pain, incontinence, pre and post-natal care. “We offer a lot of one-on-one personal care.” Giroux said they chose Bloomfield Township for its location and potential nearby clientele. “We can be seen by the road and there are a lot of doctors in the area,” she said. “And we take most insurances.” The facility features an open gym setting and offers bikes, treadmills, weights and therapy beds. 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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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. Bangkok Thai Bistro: Thai. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 42805 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield township, 48304. 248.499.6867. Barrio Tacos & Tequila: Mexican. Lunch, Monday-Friday; Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 203 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.6060. Beau Jacks: American. Lunch, MondaySaturday; 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, Monday-Friday. 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. Brandyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Cameronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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, Monday-
Saturday. No reservations. Beer. 877 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.540.7220. Commonwealth: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily. No reservations. 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.9766. Cosi: American. Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Beer & wine. 101 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.9200. 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 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Elieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;neighborhood favoriteâ&#x20AC;? - Zagat
Award of Excellence Wine Spectator 2011
273 Pierce Downtown Birmingham 248.645.9123 www.streetsideseafood.com
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AT THE TABLE New Birmingham Townhouse challenges familar menu items By Eleanor Heald
olives, sweet onion, truffeled capers with a poached quail egg. It’s tableside, but you get to mix the ingredients! Imported Burrata, $22, is a spin on a traditional Caprese Salad with heirloom tomatoes, micro basil, balsamic vinegar, a crostini and of course, burrata in place of the traditional mozzarella di bufala. Other standouts include a Lobster Roll Sandwich at market price – a trip to the New England coast in your mouth. Red Wine Braised Brisket Meatloaf, $25, is two comfort foods in one. Grandma’s brisket set up in the middle of her meatloaf. Plate garnishes include potato dumplings, wild mushroom gravy and well-battered blue corn onion rings. Not pub grub, fresh Atlantic cod Fish ‘n Chips, $18, is jalapeno beer battered and served with vegetable chips and tomato puree. An item “in the box” is Crispy Miller Farms Chicken Breast, $22, with fingerling potatoes, wild mushrooms, zucchini and chicken jus. There’s also Obligatory Caesar Salad, $10, with the slight twist of pickled jalapeno in the vinaigrette. Townhouse offers a new Saturday and Sunday Birmingham Brunch option. Lobster Benedict, $17, reads deliciously from the menu. Creamed spinach hollandaise and bacon, accompanied by buttermilk fried chicken, dill pickle, cole slaw and crisp waffles. English muffin? Not with this Townhouse original!
o really understand Townhouse, the new Birmingham restaurant that opened near the end of August, you need to get to know sole proprietor, 26-year old Jeremy Sasson, formerly working in real estate management. Now, he’s bent on destroying your conceived notion of familiar menu items throughout his seasonal menu offerings. He’s a Bloomfield Hills native and now a Birmingham resident who earned a University of Miami, Fla. finance degree. “Warm, inviting and individualistic,” Sasson says. “What you see at Townhouse is me.” And what you find on the menu may be called bistro style and contemporary American, a specialty of executive chef Jay Gundy, late of Birmingham’s Café Via. Décor is cool; very cool and makes a big impression on its flower laden Martin and Pierce corner location with a 58person capacity patio, over-sized red umbrellas, white table tops and comfortable black chairs. A total of 14 hightops and 10 bar seats make up most of the 54 interior seats. “For all menu items,” Sasson maintains, “I’m intent on delivering what I believe people will enjoy. We have a Quenching thirst great product and I’ve hired people A one-page wine list features icons who care.” Yet, all that doesn’t scratch and trophy brands, especially among the Townhouse surface. Gundy offers its red wines. Names like Paul Hobbs, another glimpse of Sasson. “He loves to Ramey, Groth, Shafer, Caymus, eat.” Quintessa and Gaja light up the page. Sasson admits his ideas stem from In general, wines by the glass range $8 his favorable impressions of two to $22 and by the bottle $30 to $60, with Manhattan bistros. Pastis is a French trophies going above that. bistro located in Manhattan's meatGuinness is on draft and craft brews packing district and Balthazar on such as Bells 2 Hearted with intense Manhattan’s Spring Street serves tradi- Townhouse owner Jeremy Sasson. Downtown hop aroma yet malt balance and SS tional bistro fare from breakfast photo: Laurie Tennent Oatmeal Stout are premium pours. through late-night supper. Talking to Sasson, it’s easy to note that he’s a restaurant hound and Townhouse, 180 Pierce St., Birmingham, 248.792.5241. No foodie who admits to eating out twice daily. reservations. Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Bar menu 3-5 p.m. Dinner
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Townhouse distinction Deconstruction has become chef-speak. To be honest, I don’t get it. When sauce components are reassembled after deconstruction, it’s still a sauce. But I do get Townhouse philosophy of taking your taste buds further in a familiarly named dish. It’s “out -of-the-box” menu item destruction. Although Townhouse is far from a burger joint, the Townhouse Burger, $19, is the house specialty. “It eats more like steak than a burger,” Gundy says. A daily-prepared proprietary blend of 28-day dry-aged steak cuts is hand pattied to order. It’s served on an eggy-yellow brioche bun made with Plugra European-style butter. The menu reminds that it is best served medium rare with house bourbon glazed onion, Cabot aged white cheddar and fries. It’s on the menu at both lunch and dinner. Items below are on the dinner menu, but may also be offered at lunch under a slightly different moniker and price reflecting a smaller portion. For an appetizer dubbed Date with a Pig, $13, dates are stuffed with sweet gorgonzola cheese, wrapped in bacon, and complemented by extra-virgin olive oil toasted Marcona almonds and finished with a balsamic reduction. Steak Tartare, $14 is composed of Black Angus beef tenderloin,
5-11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday brunch 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Parking: Pierce and Martin Street spaces or parking structure at Pierce and Merrill streets.
QUICK BITES Zazios (34977 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, 248.530.6400) welcomed Executive Chef Jamie Kalmus as new Executive Chef and Alex Lucier as Sous Chef. Kalmus is late of Northern Lakes Seafood, Bloomfield Hills, where he was Executive Chef for six years.
Restaurants earn 2011 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence: among them are Big Rock Chop House (245 S. Eton St., Birmingham); Cameron’s Steakhouse (115 Willits St., Birmingham); Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (323 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham); Northern Lakes Seafood (39495 N. Woodward, Bloomfield Hills); Streetside Seafood (273 Pierce St., Birmingham); and Zazios (34977 Woodward Ave., Birmingham). 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.
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. 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
CHEERS TO 80 YEARS!
Let the Battle Begin… Competing Chefs
to be announced!
Check it out at
Celebrate the Train Station’s 80th birthday with our 80 dollar price fixed menu for two.
ironchefevent.com
Hosted by Presenting Sponsor
Baker Tilly Iron Chef A culinary competition to benefit
Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan Thursday, September 22, 2011 6:30 pm doors open – 7:00 pm competition
SEPTEMBER 2011
Bordine’s greenhouse ‘Kitchen Stadium’ 1835 S. Rochester Rd., Rochester Hills
First Course (Choice of One)
Calling the play by play action of this culinary competition Roop Raj, FOX2 News Reporter Jay Towers, Fresh 100.3 Morning Host and FOX2 News Weekend Anchor
Cajun Steak Bites, Chop Sauce
Tickets $50 Featuring restaurant tastings, a ‘Fan Vote’ opportunity and silent auction
Crispy Calamari, Citrus Buerre Blanc
Become an Iron Chef Event Sponsor! Sponsorship Opportunities are available starting at $150
Chop Salad, Bacon, Bleu Cheese, Tomato and Bleu Cheese Dressing
For tickets or to sponsor visit www.ironchefevent.com. Or contact shohendorf@gcfb.org or 313.923.3535 X 243
Second Course (Choice of One) Grilled 8 oz. Filet Red Skin and Butter Milk Mashed Potato, Broccoli and Chop Sauce
CONTENT It's a simple fact of publishing life:
Togarashi Salmon Stir Fry Vegetables, Basmati and Ponzu Sauce
CONTENT IS KING. For your message to resonate in the market, you need to know that local residents are reading a product.
Third Course (Choice of One)
The October issue deadline for Downtown Birmingham/Bloomfield: Wednesday, September 14.
Sanders Hot Fudge Cream Puff Ray’s Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Contact Jill Cesarz. Office: 248.792.6464, ext. 600 Cell: 248.860.8414 JillCesarz@downtownpublications.com
Cheese Cake, Berry Sauce Wine Selections (One Bottle - Choice of Red or White)
OPEN LABOR DAY WEEKEND
St. Francis Winery, Sonoma County Offer valid for dine-in only and does not include tax. A 20% tip will be added to the total of your bill. Reservations suggested. This program is not valid with any other rewards, promotions or incentives and is valid for a limited time only. For more information or to make your dinner reservations, please call 248.647.7774.
With the purchase of
$24.95 or More
Buy One Dinner & 2 Drinks Get 2nd Dinner of Lesser Value 50% Off
Present this coupon when placing order. Excludes all other specials and offers. Expires 10/1/11. DTN
6646 Telegraph at Maple Bloomfield Plaza
DINE-IN OR TO GO Excludes all other specials and offers. Present this coupon when placing order. Expires 10/1/11. DTN
CALL DRIVE-IN/CARRY-OUT/CATERING
www.stevesdeli.com downtownpublications.com
248-932-0800
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FOCUS ON WINE Biodynamics guide California winery By Eleanor and Ray Heald
hat does it tell a wine lover when a California winery sells much of its wine in only three states, Iowa, Nebraska and Michigan? During our dinner interview at Birmingham’s Big Rock Chop House, White Cottage Ranch winemaker Rudy Zuidema explains that California is crowded with wineries and small producers focus their marketing outside that state in order to sell their wines. That’s an advantage for us since White Cottage wines are readily available in the metro Detroit area. Located on Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, Calif., near the town of Angwin at 1,700 feet elevation, White Cottage Ranch has been around for over 20 years. Owners now have enough confidence in the wines they produce to seek a broader market. White Cottage Ranch has 28 acres of certified organic and biodynamic vineyards on a total of 70 acres, planted in a mosaic of many small blocks to 90 percent cabernet sauvignon with smaller amounts of merlot, cabernet franc, and petite sirah.
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Biodynamic emphasis To grow grapes, Zuidema prefers biodynamic farming, which according to Demeter, an international certifying agency, is a holistic and regenerative farming system focused on soil health, integration of plants and animals and biodiversity. It seeks to create a farm system that is minimally dependant on imported materials, and instead meets its needs from the living dynamics of the farm itself. It is the biodiversity of the farm, organized so that the waste of one part of the farm becomes the energy for another, that results in an increase in the farm’s capacity for self-renewal and ultimately makes the farm sustainable. Zuidema says that under biodynamic practices vineyard soils are healthier and more alive, grapes ripen uniformly and his fermentations
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,
go smoothly. He uses a variety of cover crops between the rows which act as an insectaria and when ploughed under enrich the soil. “When we prune during a rising moon,” Zuidema explains, “the plants will bleed because of the increased pressure and this depletes the plant of nutrients, so we wait until after the full moon to prune. As the moon falls, pruning wounds dry up quickly and the plant loses nothing. We try to do vineyard work when the vines react positively.
is an entry-level cabernet blend, with bright cherry fruit and soft tannins. “Risa” means to laugh or smile and that’s the reaction you should have drinking it. “Howell Mountain” 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon $69 (less than 500 cases produced) is intense and focused with currant, cassis, coffee, chocolate and black pepper highlights. A rich, generous cabernet blend of 30 to 35 separate picks and fermentations each add different textures, spices and deep flavor profiles. Cabernet Franc 2006 $60 is rich, ripe, concentrated and delicious. An outstanding wine.
“Howell Mountain is known for making big, rich cabernet sauvignon and that’s the White Cottage Ranch specialty. We want to create a cabernet with elegance rather than one that’s big, viscous, super earthy and tannic. We love the power that Howell Mountain can produce, but we want our wines to be a bit more playful and easier to drink. We want clean, crisp, juicy wines that can be enjoyed at the movies, in the yard watching the kids or at a four-course meal. Some wines bite you back. Ours hug you back.” White Cottage Ranch wines to buy “Elena” 2009 Rosé $24 is 100 percent cabernet sauvignon in a dry style. Totally stainless steel, light, dry and crisp with refreshing raspberry notes. It’s serious pink. Sauvignon Blanc 2009 $24 is grown in three vineyards located in Oakville, Rutherford and Calistoga. Elevated aromas of lime and citrus with good weight wake the palate.
Michigan's Best Wines In early August, 24 judges, including us, evaluated 367 wines from 53 of Michigan’s 84 wineries. To be eligible for entry into the annual Michigan Wine Competition, wines must be produced from grapes grown in Michigan and made at a licensed Michigan winery. A list of winners follows. Best of Class Dry White: Chateau Fontaine 2010 Dry Riesling Dry Red: Fenn Valley Capriccio Rosé: Forty Five North 2010 Cabernet Franc Rosé Fruit: Garden Bay Raspberry Wine Sparkling: L Mawby Cremant Classic Semi-Dry White: Tabor Hill 2010 Gewurztraminer in tie with Fenn Valley 2010 Riesling Dessert: Black Star Farms 2008 A Capella Ice Wine Double Gold Brys Estate 2010 Pinot Grigio Chateau Fontaine 2010 Pinot Gris Chateau Grand Traverse 2010 Dry Riesling Cherry Creek Summer Breeze Tabor Hill 2009 Valvin Muscat
“Risa” 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon $36
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.
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. Qdoba: Mexican. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.988.8941. 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. 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. Wednesday-Saturday. 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 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. Townhouse: American. Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. Liquor. 180 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.792.5241. Village Coney Island: American. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, daily. No reservations. 653 S. Adams. Birmingham, 48009. 248.593.7964 Whistle Stop Cafe: American. Breakfast & Lunch, daily; Dinner, Monday-Friday. No reservations. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.5588 Zazios: Italian. Lunch, Monday-Friday; 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.
THE COMMUNITY HOUSE eptember is one of my favorite months of the year. When I was young I looked forward to going back to school in September, to see my friends again and to share my stories of summer adventures. It goes without saying that as a mother I looked forward to each September so that my children could go back to school and see their friends again. The new school year was always exciting and filled with opportunities to learn new things, study foreign languages and cultures and expand my horizons beyond the immediate. Life is funny as it circles round. It’s my turn Debbie Schrot again and now I look forward to September when fall classes at The Community House begin and the many educational, cultural and social opportunities are in full swing after a somewhat relaxed summer. Now that the concerts in Shain Park are over for the summer, I’ll be attending classes on eating healthy foods and renewing my enthusiasm for my workout class at TCH after a summer of walking and bike riding. On September 7 at 9:30 a.m. the Birmingham Bloomfield Newcomers Club welcomes “new” Newcomers and old friends to a Welcome Coffee where you can learn more about the varied interests and activities available and meet other club members. If you enjoy a well told tale, join the StoryTellers Guild on September 8 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. when Connie Illmer, Youth Services Department Head at the Baldwin Library, will share some of the best new titles in children’s literature. Visitors and guests interested in membership are welcome to join the StoryTellers for this entertaining and informative presentation. The StoryTellers Guild is a sponsored group of The Community House and meets monthly from September to June. All programs are free with the exception of fundraising events. The StoryTellers Guild calendar can be found on our website at www.communityhouse.com
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Join us that evening, September 8, to honor Shelley Roberts for thirteen years of wonderful service as President and CEO of The Community House and also as recipient of the 2011 Community Service Award. The Community House initiated the Community Services Award in 1988 to recognize those people who have made extraordinary contributions through their professional careers. Its purpose is to express gratitude to those who have gone beyond the normal duties of their jobs to enhance the lives of people in the metro Detroit area. Shelley has contributed much to The Community House and to the community at large during her career. She was Chair of The Community House Board of Directors and also chaired the Child Care Advisory Board, the House Tour and has been involved as a volunteer in all the special events at The Community House long before she became President. A tribute fund to further the activities of The Community House has been established in honor of Shelley. The reception is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and the program takes place at 6:30 p.m. On Thursday, September 15 The Community House will host its 24th annual Birmingham House Tour. The event, presented by Hall & Hunter Realtors, runs from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and the cost per person is $30 in advance, or $35 the day of the tour. Advance reservations are recommended as the event does sell out. Tickets can be purchased online and at The Community House. This year’s tour presents eight spectacular homes which showcase the best of Birmingham and Bloomfield. The homes range in style from traditional to contemporary. Among the homes featured this year are a sophisticated intown London-style town home, an Aspen-inspired family home in which the natural materials bring the outdoors inside, and a classic 1920s Tudor with a unique modern appeal. There are so many opportunities for things to do this fall at The Community House and not enough room to mention them all here, so be sure to visit www.communityhouse.com to learn more. Debbie Schrot is Executive Director of The Community House.
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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.
Champions for the Kids VIP Dinner/Auction
Champions for the Kids VIP Dinner/Auction There were lots of powerbrokers among the 225 supporters of Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids at the VIP party at the Townsend, but the star of the Sally Gerak show was the young woman who received the 2011 Bridge to the Future award. A single mom with three children, Taneka Tate took in her three siblings to raise when their mother died of a heart attack. “Yatooma Foundation is like my extended family,” said the 24-year-old now raising six children. She noted that the foundation’s support (with rent, utilities, a van and gas) has enabled her to make lots of plans that include community college and, a surprise gift for the kids revealed at the party, a much anticipated trip to Cedar Pointe. The event also honored WJR’s Paul W. Smith, for his unflagging support of the foundation since its founding, and featured a live auction that raised more than $70,000. This includes the $6,000 someone paid for a BBQ for 50 in Norman and Nicole Yatooma’s back yard and the $20,000 Hoot McInerney paid for a business building package of WJR advertising and Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications services. Two days later at Oakland Hills Country Club, an event sponsor Capital Grille’s team of John Kelly, Kevin Muir, Jim Harris & Chad Ellege won the golf tournament with a score of 60. Kelly also won the men’s longest drive title and Erin Gust won the women’s longest drive title. Event chair Mike Fezzey was the closest to the pin winner. Actually, the big winners are the children and families served by Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids. The sixth annual two-day Champions for the Kids event raised nearly $300,000. Art Meets Technology “Bunny (Barbara Kratchman) wanted to be sure I got it – that this should be a big fun party with a purpose,” explained Next Energy CEO Ron Gardhouse. He was speaking to the sold out dinner crowd (300) at the Friends of Modern & Contemporary Art’s fundraiser hosted by his non-profit firm located in the heart of mid-Detroit’s TechTown. All knew the purpose – to raise the funds needed for the conservation of Tony Smith’s iconic “Gracehoper” sculpture installed on the north lawn of the Detroit Institute of Arts. By the end of the evening, there was no doubt that the mission was definitely accomplished. The fun was non-stop from the time a guest entered the revolving door where there was an interactive sound installation (“Grace Harper” by Joel Patterson), to continual screenings of video art in the auditorium and the dancing by performance artists, as well as guests inspired by the music of DJ Prevu. There was also a lot of buzz about the food - like Nicoise tuna salad in Bumble Bee Tuna cans and the yummy savory (sweet and sour eggplant, crispy chic peas, feta cheese and basil paint) on a paint brush - to name but two of the 14 passed offerings. We were pleased that event planner Mikki Gardner Mood took us backstage to meet the oh so creative chef Zack Sklar. Check out his web site at . And all guests, including the 25 Gracehoper Dessert ticket holders who joined the party at 9 p.m., got gold coins to use for voting in the Mixology Competition. When they were counted, Jason of Centaur bested mixologists from Motor City Brewing Company, Vinology and Slows Bar BQ. And when the money was counted, $90,000 had been raised for the sculpture conservation. This included the extra $100 that 125 of the 300 dinner guests paid for Patron tickets ($250). They are invited to a special event Sunday, Sept. 11 on the North Lawn of the DIA during the “Gracehoper” restoration project. SKY Foundation’s Girlfriends Gathering Sixty-five gal pals and three guys convened at architect Irv Tobocman and Barbara Mazer’s Birmingham home to support Sheila Kasselman’s SKY Foundation. It is dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for the early detection of pancreatic cancer. Kasselman founded it because her own downtownpublications.com
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1. Champion for the Kids honoree & emcee Paul W. Smith (left) of Grosse Pointe with foundation founder Norman Yatooma of Bloomfield. 2. Nicole Yatooma (center) of Bloomfield with event chairs Suzy & Mike Fezzey of Farmington Hills. 3. Sarah Cuyler and sponsor Art Van Elslander of Bloomfield. 4. Renee & foundation board member Michael Acho of Birmingham. 5. David (left) & Laura Gorosh of Birmingham and Pastor Ed Murray of Washington. 6. Hoot McInerney (left) of Bloomfield with Won Chae of Waterford and John Cueter of Ypsilanti. 7. Pam Good (center) of Birmingham with Jack Krasula (left) and Don Tocco of Bloomfield. 8. Ted (left) & Joanne Lindsay (right) with Brad & Debbi Stanley of Oakland.
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5 1. Event co-chair Barbara (Bunny) Kratchman of Bloomfield with Susu Sosnick and Marcia Nodel of Birmingham. 2. Committee member Janice Steinhardt (left) and Arnold Weingarden & his wife Joanne Danto of Birmingham. 3. Honorary chairs TechTown’s Randal Charlton of Grosse Pointe and Next Energy’s Ron Gardhouse of Birmingham. 4. FMCA board members Evie Wheat (left) of Birmingham and Lila Silverman of Bloomfield. 5. Gary (left) & committee member Elizabeth Fields of Franklin, Stephen & committee member Nicole Eisenberg of Bloomfield and David Klein & his wife Kate Ostrove of Birmingham. 6. Lead sponsors Rebecca (left) & Alan Ross with Marcia Freedman of Bloomfield, committee member Izegbe N’Namdi of Detroit and Christine Welch of Beverly Hills. 7. Karen Klein (center) of Pleasant Ridge with Tobey & Sam Haberman of Birmingham. 8. Carol Roberts (left), Fair Radom and Maureen D’Avanzo of Bloomfield with the DIA’s Barbara Heller of Birmingham.
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK pancreatic cancer was discovered early enough that she has survived it for almost four years. One of the guests, Pat Frye, has not been so lucky. She described her battle since being diagnosed in February with stage-4 pancreatic cancer. She emphasized the absence of symptoms and the importance of finding an early marker. Event chair Judy McClelland also paid tribute to “our hero”, Nancy Cosgrove, who lost her battle in the late spring with several cancers including pancreatic. Guests at the pot luck cocktail affair divided their socializing between the art-filled, contemporary great room and the inviting terrace beyond. The friendly gathering raised $3,200. And Kasselman announced that because November is pancreatic awareness month, the next SKY Foundation fund-raiser, the third annual brunch, is Sunday, Nov. 6 at The Reserve. Niki Gallaudet and Judy McClelland are the co-chairs. They’ve planned silent and live auctions, along with a research update. For tickets ($50) call . Go to for more information about the foundation.
SKY Foundation’s Girlfriends Gathering
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1. Event chair Judy McClelland (left) and Gayle Roberts of Birmingham and Joyce Roberts of Bloomfield. 2. Ginger Oxley (left) of Bloomfield, Pat Frye of W. Bloomfield, Kay McGlynn of Bloomfield. 3. Event hosts Barbara Mazer (left) & Irv Tobocman of Birmingham with Sandy Scholnick of Beverly Hills. 4 Betty Ruddy (left) of Birmingham, Julie Fries of Beverly Hills and foundation founder Sheila Kasselman of W. Bloomfield. 5. Sisters-in-law Lanie & Julia Cosgrove of Birmingham and Maureen Cosgrove of Bloomfield. 6. Joan Bowes (left), Carole Peck and Fran Dietz of Bloomfield. 7. Sara Donaldson Hofman (left) of Ferndale, Soozan Mendel of Birmingham and Pat Sullivan of Bloomfield.
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BBAC’s ArtBlast! The Fun & Games theme proved to be a winner at the annual fireworks party hosted by the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. Among other activities the 350 guests of all ages made jewelry out of Scrabble pieces, Picasso Potato Head hand puppets out of burlap, party hats out of newspapers and artful mini collages out of playing cards and game pieces. The theme also inspired creative table centerpieces and huge Monopoly card replicas for saluting the event sponsors. Good chow and good music before the fireworks and brownies and “Betty Boop” cartoons afterwards rounded out the evening. But the city fireworks display over the neighboring Lincoln Hills Golf Course was the raison d’être for the party and it was judged better than ever by all. The event raised about $15,000 to support BBAC educational programming.
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BBAC’s ArtBlast!
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1. Dr. Myron & Joyce LeBan of Bloomfield with event chair/interim director CEO Annie VanGelderen of Commerce. 2. Co Abbatt (left) of Beverly Hills with Carolyn & Cap Hall and their grandson Ross of Bloomfield. 3. Event sponsors Joel (back right) & Judy Adelman with their daughter Marcy Grant and grandsons Myles (left front) & Logan of Birmingham. 4. Jonathon Abbo (left) with Alex & his parents Dr. Mark & Tracey Burstein of Bloomfield. 5. Dan & board member Elaine McMahon of Birmingham. 6. Richard Wesley (left) of Bloomfield with his daughter Jennifer Wesley and her children Tess & Chase Wayland of Chicago, IL. 7. Eileen & Jack Harned of Bloomfield. 8. Gary (left), Lisa & Bronson Ellis with Lisa’s parents Paula & Brad Cherenzia of Birmingham.
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Catch the Fireworks with Cass The 250 supporters of Cass Community Social Services who watched the 53rd annual Target Fireworks display over the Detroit River from the Coach Insignia restaurant atop the Renaissance Center sipped champagne on the 72-floor elevator ride. Then they socialized, bid in a silent auction and savored fine wine, cocktails and signature Matt Prentice cuisine like succulent lobster corn dogs. Following a live auction of three items ($8,050) conducted by Ed Hingelberg, CCSS director the Rev. Faith Fowler described how guest celebrity actor Blair Underwood made the program participants feel like celebrities when he spent the afternoon with them. She also mentioned that he 09.11
had made a generous donation ($2,500). For his part, the handsome Underwood thanked CCSS “…for babysitting me” and added, “The time I spent at Cass was incredibly inspirational.” Corrin Barnett, wife of Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan Barnett, and her band kept a lively beat going all during the party but a musical highlight was Barnett’s beautiful singing of “God Bless America” just before the fireworks began. And thanks to sponsors like the Ford Fund, AT&T, The Suburban Collection and Charity Motors, the event raised more than $150,000 to help CCSS make a profound difference in the lives of those it serves. Parade Company’s VIP Rooftop Party The guests at the above-mentioned fundraiser could look down on The Parade Company’s VIP Rooftop Party across the street. That more casual family fundraiser featured the feel of summer in northern Michigan complete with twinkling fire flies, white lights, a sandy beach and sailboats. The 2,000 guests included the mayor and the governor. All enjoyed live music by Jill Jack, Annabelle Road and the Sun Messengers, food by Andiamo, games, giveaways and, of course, the fireworks, From this vantage that display is as good as it gets. Thanks to sponsors like Charter One, the presenting sponsor, the annual event raised more than $200,000 for the Michigan Thanksgiving Parade Foundation. Mark your calendars now for Hob Nobble Gobble, the foundation’s other fantastic family party. It’s Friday, Nov. 18 at Ford Field. PAST > FORWARD Campaign Speaker Series Ann Greenstone, Kevin Broderick and David Nicholson are chairing the Detroit Historical Society’s $21.6-million capital campaign which is being pitched to various community groups at a series of educational socials. The Bob Schostaks and Mark Shaevskys recently chaired one such evening. In addition to a cocktail party in the museum’s lower level Streets of Old Detroit, it featured a showing of films shot in Austria in 1938 and Warsaw in 1939. Both films offered non-Jewish views of early Nazi Germany. Stanley Baker, who was 16 when his parents shot the Austrian footage, shared some fascinating memories of that year he was there because his father was a university science instructor. Schostak reminded the 100 guests of “…our families’ humble Detroit beginnings as immigrants from eastern Europe.” And Nicholson noted the legendary generosity of Detroit’s Jewish community and the important Detroit Historical Museum mission – to preserve the community’s stories. He also declared that “…the road to Detroit’s renewal is down Woodward Avenue through the arts and cultural district.” downtownpublications.com
Catch the Fireworks with Cass
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1. New Coach Insignia general manager Patrick Floch (left) of Birmingham with event co-chair Ford Motor Fund’s Jim Vella of Canton. 2. Actor Blair Underwood of Los Angeles, CA with Ford Motor Fund’s Jim Graham of Birmingham. 3. Neil (left) & Marsha Wester with the Reverends Brian & Monica Williams of Birmingham. 4. Judy (left) & Jack Harnish of Birmingham with Lee Gillett of Troy. 5. Dr. Larry Walsh (left) & Bonnie Jobe (right) of Bloomfield with Renee Grodin & her husband Inmart Group’s Scott Ferguson of Farmington Hills. 6. Mary (left) & Bob (right) Feldmaier of Bloomfield with Tony Gillett of Troy.
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PAST > FORWARD Campaign Speaker Series
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1. Stan Baker (center) of Pentwater with event co-chairs Bob Schostak (left) and Mark Shaevsky of Bloomfield. 2. Campaign co-chairs Ann Greenstone (center) of Bloomfield and David Nicholson (left) and Kevin Broderick of Grosse Pointe. 3. David (left) & Rose Handleman of Bloomfield with DHS CEO Bob Bury of Grosse Pointe. 4. Sheldon (left) & Bobbi Toll and Bruce & Rosie Rosen of Bloomfield. 5. Jeff Schostack & Rachel Prinstein of Birmingham. 6. Norm (left) & Harriet Rotter of Bingham Farms with Arlene & Bill Barris of Bloomfield. 7. Sharyl (left) & Alan Ackerman of Bloomfield with Bill Danhoff of Lansing. 8. Shel & Harriett Fuller of Bloomfield. 9. Robert Greenstone of Bloomfield with Cathy Broderick (left) and Kristin Nicholson of Grosse Pointe. 10. Mark Schostak (left) of Huntington Woods and Steve & Phyllis Strome of Bloomfield.
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK Somerset Collection CityLoft Opening Speaking of Woodward Avenue, a section of it was blocked off the evening of July 27 for a block party at 1441 and 500 invited guests turned out. ‘Twas for the preview of Somerset Collection CityLoft - an initiative of the Forbes Company. It will present mini boutiques of Somerset’s upscale stores the last weekend of the month through September in a 4,000-square-foot space on the first floor of Merchants Row. Plans also include shuttle service in Cadillac Escalades, gift coupons, fashion shows, music, food and donations to a Detroitimprovement charity. Just maybe this retailing venture will be the beginning of something big for Detroit by the generation whose fathers made suburban retailing something big.
DIA Bal Africain annual celebration
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1. Event honorees Maureen (left) & Roy Roberts of Bloomfield with event chair Roxane Whitter Thomas and her escort, judge Craig Strong of Detroit. 2. Kedrick (left) & Lynette Adkins and Janice & Jim Bridges of Bloomfield. 3. Marianne (left) & DIA board chair Gene Gargaro of Grosse Pointe with FAAAA board member GM’s Vivian Pickard of Bloomfield. 4. Roz (left) & Mark Baughman, Ken Harris and Donna & Al Cheesebrough of Birmingham. 5. Rod & Linda Gillum of Bloomfield. 6. Priscilla Perkins (center) of Troy with Walter & Retha Douglas of Bloomfield. 7. Jan (left) & Boyd Savoy and Yvonne & Horace Rodgers of Bloomfield. 8. Former state Senator Jack Faxon (left) of Birmingham with Katherine Ross of Windsor and FAAA board members Margaret Demant of Huntington Woods and Ellen Kahn of Franklin.
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1. Benefactors Randy & Rochelle Forrester of Birmingham. 2. Joe Weiss and Marilyn Shapiro of Bloomfield. 3. Joanne (left) & Rodger Rooney of Bloomfield with Ena Brown & Ray Lundsten of Birmingham. 4. Dave & Julia Baumhart of Bloomfield with Judy Schaffer of Ortonville. 5. Ellen Stewart (left) and Marcia Pilkiewicz of Bloomfield. 6. Dr. Larry Walsh & Bonnie Jobe of Bloomfield. 7. Barb (left) & Don Straith of Northville, Nancy Boos of Bloomfield and Shelia VanDerMarck of Huntington Woods. 8. Fonzie Smeltekop of Shelby Twp, Mary Marvel & Paul Nelson of Bloomfield, EC member Maxine Donlon of Dearborn and past auxiliary chair Julie Ritter of Orchard Lake.
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DIA Bal Africain annual celebration The 47th annual Friends of African and African American Art’s Bal Africain attracted 300 to the Detroit Institute of Arts. Many of the women embraced the Caribbean Splendor theme by wearing tropical hued gowns. During the brief dinner program, Mayor Dave Bing looked out over the handsome, diverse crowd that had settled at tables accented with colorful linens and exotic flowers in the Great Hall and said longingly, “I wish media from all over the world could be here tonight.” Indeed. The scene was the antithesis of the press Detroit frequently garners. It was also the perfect setting for Roy Roberts, event honoree with his wife Maureen, to explain why the couple had given the DIA a seven-figure gift. His remarks included: “We all have the responsibility to solve Detroit’s problems…the DIA is one of the finest art museums in the world...(we want it to be here) 40 years from now for our four kids and six grandsons…we have to do the hard work…we have to give back…my father was on welfare.” The proceeds of Bal Africain will be used to sponsor educational programs and to acquire works of art for the DIA’s African and African American art collections, some of which will henceforth be exhibited in the Maureen and Roy S. Roberts Gallery. Cranbrook Music in the Gardens What a difference a year makes! When the Cranbrook House & Gardens Auxiliary Endowment Committee staged its Music in the Garden event last summer, a torrential rain chased guests inside the historic Booth home. By contrast, this year the weather was as perfect as the 40 acres of gardens originally designed by George Booth, now devotedly tended by auxiliary members, and the music. It was provided by classical guitarist Michael Bryce, flutist Dennis Carter, harpist Ruth Myers, clarinetist Theresa 09.11
Jenkins, violinist Janet Sullins and piper Donald Ross. When not touring, the 100 guests supped, sipped, socialized and considered their good fortune that such a splendid setting is accessible to all. The enchanting event raised about $11,000 for the H&G endowment fund. Auxiliary membership is open to all. Go to or call (248) 645-3149. Vine & Dine benefiting Gleaner’s The Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce moved its annual spotlight-onBirmingham Bloomfield businesses from fall to summer and from the Science Institute at Cranbrook to the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. Based on all we interviewed, the move was a good call. The logistics at the center enabled the generous food and beverage purveyors to set up more easily and the 300 guests could more easily find each other in the large, art-filled galleries. The Hubble Street Jazz musicians paused during the brief program and then made way near the end of the evening for dancers from the Fred Astaire Dance Studio to lead some fun line dancing. Volunteers from Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan also smilingly sold raffle tickets for six, great donated packages. The lucky winners were Cynthia Hill, Diane Koory, Dr. Joe Talbert, Frank Hale, Jeff Farber and Fox 2’s Jackie Paige, who had emceed the program. The raffle raised $3,200 for Gleaners. The popular event also supports the BBCC’s business advancement and networking missions. Serving Aces for Sarcoma Benefit Tennis scoring includes the term “love” to denote zero. But at the Scott L. King Sarcoma Research Fund Benefit dinner and auction that attracted 120 to the Birmingham Athletic Club, a side story centered on the more traditional definition of the word. Not only did King’s widow Julie Link King, event co-founder with Scott’s brother Keith, introduce event exhibition participant Kurt Streng as her new fiancé, but Kurt’s father Bill was with his new wife, Anne Mark Streng. The senior Strengs, both widowed, had their first date at the 2010 King benefit. Because Scott was a tennis champion who loved working with kids, Keith and Julie founded the three-part event to find a cure for the disease that took Scott’s life in 2008. And school day friends of Scott have supported it from the get go. “Scott played at Cranbrook and I played at Rice and he beat my butt,” recalled event sponsor Bill Harahan. At the dinner, folks socialized, bid in a silent auction and dined. The next day, many watched a tennis exhibition and the finals of a kids’ tennis tournament. Sixty-five 10 and under players competed in the USTA event. It used the QuickStart format - smaller courts and racquets and slower balls. downtownpublications.com
Vine & Dine benefiting Gleaner’s
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1. Event sponsor Center for Financial Planning’s Dan Boyce (left) of Prescott, AZ, Melissa Joy of Dexter and Tim Nyman of Bloomfield. 2. Event sponsor Ameritrade’s Kurt Meyers (left) of Fenton with Kori Coffey of Birmingham, Gleaner’s president DeWayne Wells of Southfield and Mary & Paul Glantz of Lake Angelus. 3. Lisa Seneker (left) and emcee Fox 2’s Jackie Paige of Bloomfield with sponsor Huntington Bank’s Betsy Reich of Birmingham. 4. BBCC board member Jon Greenawalt of Bloomfield and president Joe Baughman of Livonia. 5. 220’s Judi Roberts (left) of Bloomfield and Frank Tillman of Birmingham. 6. Nancy (left) & Molly Varbedian of Birmingham with Pat Burke & her husband Lew Eads of Franklin. 7. Debbie & John Schrot of Birmingham. 8. Gleaner’s Suzette Hohendorf (left) of Birmingham with Cathy & Chuck Krause of Beverly Hills.
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4 1. Julie Link King and her fiancé Kurt Streng. 2. Julie King (left) of Bloomfield, her brother Keith & his wife Amy King of Grosse Ile. 3. Bill & Rebekah Harahan of Birmingham. 4. Susan (left) & Tim Luken, Jenny Rheaume and Griffin Nienberg of Birmingham and Tom Balames of Bloomfield. 5. David (left) & Cathy Howe of Beverly Hills and Patty & C.J. Ghesquiere of Bloomfield. 6. Ellie Link (left) of Bloomfield, Liz & Brad Edwards of Troy and Francie Oehrlein of Bloomfield. 7. Veteran player/coach Ted Jax (left) of Warren with Anne & Bill Streng of Bloomfield. 8. Bob & Marilyn Rauth of Bloomfield. 9. Ryan & Kerry King of Bloomfield. 10. Jason Gikas and Kara Koppinger of Bloomfield.
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK When the competition concluded the flight winners were: JJ Etterbeek, Ethan Scher, AJ Zako, Jason Zeng, Stephen Cibulas, Drew Nystrom, Helena Formentin, Isabelle Kouzmanov, Whitney King, Olivia DeConick and Kendall Belanger. But the real winner was sarcoma research at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center because the third annual event raised approximately $50,000 for the Scott L. King endowment fund there.
Dancing with the All Stars
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1. Kathy Martin (left) & event chair Karrie Ross of Bloomfield and Sally Mezey of Birmingham. 2. Jack’s Place founders Jim (standing) & Lisa Price of Washington, MI with Marian (seated left) and Mike Ilitch of Bingham Farms and Al & Louise Kaline of Bloomfield. 3. Annelisa Avila (left) of Sterling Hgts., Darbi Dombrowski of Bloomfield, Sabrina Szott of Birmingham. 4. Chuck (left), Cheri & Jay Taunt of Bloomfield. 5. Tigers president/CEO/GM Dave Dombrowski & his son Landon of Bloomfield. 6. Emily Caradonna of Birmingham and Fox Sports’ Ryan Field of Clawson. 7. Sabrina Mayhew (left) of Birmingham, Bernadette Maggio of Shelby Twp. and Natalka Cap of Farmington Hills.
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Dancing with the All Stars Performances
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Dancing with the All Stars Retired Detroit Tiger catcher and current broadcaster Jim Price and his wife Lisa got a lot of support for the non-profit they founded seven years ago, Jack’s Place for Autism, to help families like themselves impacted by autism. Five hundred people (450 VIPs for dinner and the show, 75 for the show only) trekked to Joe Louis Arena for Dancing with the All Stars Aug. 1. When Jim and event chair Karie Ross, wife of Tiger president Dave Dombrowski, took center stage for the program, the broadcaster referred to the pair as “beauty and the beast.” He then spoke briefly about his son Jackson, who, at 16, is like many with autism “…very smart and says what he thinks...when he was introduced to Mr. Ilitch and Mr. I asked him what he thought of the Tigers, he said, ‘I hate the Tigers…because you take my daddy away.’” A powerful video gave the audience a close up view of the challenges of autism before the live auction of a single item – a VIP trip to ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” – which Dave Dombrowski bought for $6,500. Young Darbi Dombrowski then launched the evening’s entertainment by singing Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now” before “Dancing with the Stars” cast members Anna Trebunskya and Jonathon Roberts led off the dancing. It always amazes this reporter how the folks at Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Bloomfield Hills can make people look like professional dancers. With the exception of infielder Ramon Santiago, coach Rafael Belliard, pitcher Jose Valverde and former NFL wide receiver Ron Bellamy, who performed with professional partners from the studio, most of the All Stars were in the audience watching their wives and girlsfriends dance with Fred Astaire dancers. People were invited to vote for their favorite couple with dollars for Jack’s Place. The winners, with $900 in votes, were hip hop dancers Tigers Alex Avila’s sister Annelisa Avila and her partner James Volke. These voters’ donations helped boost the event proceeds to $235,000. Greenleaf Trust’s Outdoor Sculpture Greenleaf Trust celebrated its first anniversary at the corner of Woodward and Maple with the dedication of a bronze Kirk Newman sculpture. Titled “L.O.L”, it is 09.11
prominently installed near the entrance to Zazio’s at the corner of Peabody and Maple and equally visible from both streets. The sculptor said that the site was a challenge and that the name, with more than one meaning, was inspired by text messaging. Both the title and the sculpture relate to the fast pace of contemporary life. The 85-year old artist also told the invited crowd of 100 that it was fun to see so many people who like art. “It’s not always an easy sell,” he noted. However, the building’s managing director Patti Owens said that the Birmingham Public Arts Board had been very helpful and thanked them profusely for facilitating the installation of the sculpture, which is on long-term loan from Greenleaf Trust. She later noted that all the commercial space in the five-story building is leased and that construction will begin on five luxury apartments in September. Following the dedication program, people enjoyed the wealth management company’s hospitality in Zazio’s. It featured creative cuisine by the restaurant’s new chef Jamie Kalmus. A Sock Hop at the Roostertail Tom and Diane Schoenith tossed a party Aug. 7 at their 53-year-old Roostertail Party Palace and lots of people from this area were in the crowd of 250. Many wore colorful socks for testing out the new dance floor while a DJ played rock and roll. The buffets were stocked with such retro offerings as classic vichyssoise, London broil, grasshopper pie and make-your-own Bloody Marys. A snazzy new pavilion at the river’s edge was much admired as was the ladies powder room whose 1958 décor has been redone with classy traditional furnishings. And speaking of tradition, Tom mentioned that Nico Gatzaros is planning to reopen the old London Chop House in the fall. The legendary, award-winning downtown eatery, which opened 20 years before the Roostertail, was the place for powerbrokers and charity events before it closed in 1991. For a certain social set, if the Chop House is reborn it might truly symbolize that Detroit’s renewal is doable. Women’s Association’s Club Canteen The scene on the terrace at Orchard Lake Country Club the evening of Aug. 9 was idyllic – exactly what can make summer in Michigan quite perfect. Members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Michigan Women’s Association and their friends were gathered to socialize, dine on selections from an especially appealing buffet and raise some money for the clubs. One of the guests, Michael Smith now of Grosse Pointe, was quite at home at the club. It not only was his boyhood playground, “…my parents (Dodie and Bruce Smith) met here,” he recalled. The informal fun was interruptdowntownpublications.com
Greenleaf Trust’s Outdoor Sculpture
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7 1. Sculptor Kirk Newman (center) with Greenleaf Trust’s Bill Johnston (left) of Kalamazoo and Mark Jannott of Bloomfield. 2. Maggie Jannott (left) of Bloomfield and GT vice-chair Ronda Stryker of Kalamazoo. 3. Debbie & John Schrot of Birmingham. 4. Susan (left) & George Dilgard of Birmingham, Cheryl Verran of Ferndale and Andrew Harris of Birmingham. 5. Eileen Sherman (left) of Birmingham and Dana Loewenstein of W. Bloomfield. 6. Lois Shaevsky (left) and Julie & Sally Marx of Bloomfield, Anne Mervenne of Royal Oak and Anne Masterson of Grosse Pointe. 7. Glynette(left) and Barry Wolk of Farmington Hills and Paul & Pat Seibold of Birmingham. 8. Greenleaf Trust’s Sarah Johansson (left) of Portage, Gabrielle Contesti of Kalamazoo and Annie Johnston of Birmingham. 9. Building commercial realtors Bailey Schmidt’s Drew Schmidt (left) of Beverly Hills and Birmingham native Peter Noonan of Royal Oak. 10. Glenn (left) & Annie VanGelderen of Commerce with Water Street Gallery’s Maryjo Lemanske of Douglas. 11. West Bloomfield Schools superintendent Michele Ureste of W. Bloomfield with photographer Jenny Risher of NYC.
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SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK ed only briefly for two vocal selections by 15-year-old club member Jasmine Buckley and for WA chair Kathy Martin to pitch membership in the group that supports the 23,000 kids who call the clubs “home away from home.” Not only were the centerpieces colorful basket of healthy snacks but funds raised by the party will be used to supply healthy snacks for the canteens at all the clubs.
Women’s Association’s Club Canteen
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5 1. WA chair Kathy Martin (left) of Bloomfield with B&G member Jasmine Buckley and event chair Katie Markley of Rochester Hills. 2. Gordon (left) & Maureen Rains of Bloomfield with Missy & Tom Mark of Birmingham. 3. B&G board member Kirk Martin (left) and past WA chair Judie Sherman of Bloomfield with B&G board member B&G board member Chris Markey of Rochester Hills. 4. WA board member Anita Dauch (center) of Bloomfield with Michael & Nancy Smith of Grosse Pointe. 5. Valerie Straith (center) of Bloomfield with past WA chairs Pat Steffes (left) of W. Bloomfield and Mary Nunez of Orchard Lake. 6. Marie & Marty Gabriel with their daughter / WA chair Kathy Martin of Bloomfield. 7 David & WA board member Beth Eberly of Bloomfield with Tricia & Michael Hoen of W. Bloomfield.
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Our Town Committee Social Our Town Art Show & Sale 2011 chair Rebecca Sorensen and her husband Rich hosted a delightful supper party meeting for committee members last month. There was lots of buzz about this year’s honoree – legendary nonagenarian artist Patricia Hill Burnett – and the show’s juror, Jane Dini, who is the new assistant curator of American Art at the DIA. Many also fondly remembered the colorful collaborative painting that Rachelle Nozero coordinated last year for a raffle prize at the opening night gala. Nozero has agreed to design the souvenir tile for Benefactors at this year’s Opening Night Party. It is Wednesday, Oct. 13 at The Community House. Miranda and Bill Burnett are the Benefactor Chairs. The show of Michigan artists’ work in all media runs through Saturday, Oct. 15 with free admission. Chaldean-Jewish Building Community Initiative Culinary Event What began more than a year ago as networking between publishers of the Jewish News and the Chaldean News has evolved into the Building Community Initiative. It comprises both newspapers’ readers on cross-cultural committees that have visited each other’s cultural institutions and landmark architectural structures and shared business and medical ideas in encounter groups and roundtable discussions. Topics discussed have included shared historical roots and similar immigrant paths in Detroit. “We’ve learned a lot about each other, including many similarities,” noted Arts & Culture Committee co-chair Barbara Kratchman. She co-chaired the recent A&C Committee’s Festive Food-Tasting at The Vineyard’s Marketplace in Farmington Hills. Nearly 200 people attended. They eagerly sampled Najat George’s Takretha (meat pies) and Bertha Cohen’s beef brisket; Firyal Yono’s Arook (fried veggie & bulghar patties) and Shirley Bloom’s Latkes (potato and egg pancakes); Mary Romaya’s sweet and nutty Baklava and Annabel Cohen’s Schneckens (snail-shaped nutty sticky
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buns) to name but a few of the lovingly handmade with pride buffet offerings. Mark Kassa was grilling chicken and vegetarian Kufta (cigar-shaped kabobs) on an outdoor grill, and the aroma attracted a constant gathering. Members of the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity were also selling their new cookbook, “Ma Baseema” (How Delicious) containing more than 200 recipes. It may also be ordered online at . Judging from the enthusiastic appreciation of the cuisine at the Festive Food-Tasting event, the Building Community Initiative is well on its way to making a difference. Village Club Epicureans The Epicureans, one of several interest groups at The Village Club in Bloomfield Hills, is headed by Barbara Ballantyne and Anita Terry. One of the members is Jeanette Keramedjian, who co-chaired with Dolly Matoian and Linda Tiffany, a unique Armenian dining experience for the Epicureans at St. John Armenian Church. The special event also included a private tour of the sanctuary conducted by Archpriest Father Garabed Kochakian, an art historian who spoke about the architecture, the mosaics and the Zubel Kachadoorian painting “Mother and Child,” and they viewed the collection of centuries old art and artifacts in the Alex & Marie Manoogian Museum. But food, in conjunction with the new Armenian Cookbook “Armenian Cuisine, Preserving our Heritage”, was the raison d’etre for the gathering and it was prepared by creators of the book. The labor intensive menu included Eetch (fine bulghur mixed with crushed tomatoes, onions, parsley, dill and mint), Lahmajoon (mini flatbreads with ground meat and spices), Yalanchi Sarma (vegetarian stuffed grapeleaves) and Imam Bayeldi (stuffed eggplant appetizer), to name a few of the dishes from the cookbook. These dishes, along with 5,000 Kharpert Cuftas (twice stuffed meatballs) and 150 trays of Sou Beoreg (a layered cheese and pasta delicacy), will also star at the upcoming Armenian festival at St. John’s Armenian Church in Southfield, September 23 – 25. The cookbook will be available at the festival. It may also be ordered online at . 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
Our Town Committee Social
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1. Connie McEwan (left), Barbara Heller & Carol Aubry of Birmingham and Janice Degen of Bloomfield. 2. Rich Sorensen (left) of Bloomfield, Karen Blackwood of Beverly Hills, Michelle Otzen of Bloomfield and April Turner of Birmingham. 3. Vicole Gopoian (left) of Birmingham, Gail Pope-Rashid and Carol Marshall of Bloomfield, Rachelle Nozero of Novi. 4. Kathie Ninneman (left) & event hostess Rebecca Sorensen of Bloomfield, Judie Helmuth of Grand Blanc and Stacey Trosell of Berkley. 5. Gigi Nichols (left) of Birmingham, Theresa Falzone of Royal Oak and Debbie Schrot of Birmingham.
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Chaldean-Jewish Building Community Initiative Culinary Event
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1. Kosher caterer Shirley Bloom (left) of Southfield, Mary Romaya of Farmington Hills, Barbara Kratchman of Bloomfield and event host Ron Asmar of W. Bloomfield. 2. Bertha & Alberto Cohen of Bloomfield. 3. Linda Kovan (left) of Novi, Annabel Cohen of Bloomfield and Judy Solomon of Birmingham. 4. Stacey Crane (left) of Birmingham, her daughter Sarah of Farmington Hills and Mike George of W. Bloomfield. 5. Najat George (left) and publisher Arthur Horwitz of W. Bloomfield. 6. Mark Kassa (left) of Northville, Jerry Yono of Orchard Lake and Natig Elia of Bloomfield.
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ENDNOTE
Take light rail concept before community here is a lot of community discussion taking place currently regarding a light rail system to be built in the city of Detroit, from downtown up Woodward Avenue to 8 Mile Road. But did you know that there is a committee working on bringing light rail up Woodward all the way to Birmingham? It's an idea that could prove revolutionary to metro Detroit, connecting the city of Detroit to suburban areas, and revitalizing older inner ring suburbs. For decades, there has been talk of varying kinds of mass transit for the metro area. Unfortunately, all have come to naught, including on two occasions when voters have flatly rejected mass transit tax requests dating back several decades. We love the general idea of a light rail system, and all of the potential, from the economic and social to demographic benefits that it can bring. What we are concerned about is where it is coming from, relatively out of the blue. Before anything can, or should proceed, there needs to be a public discussion on Birmingham's City Commission level to determine if this is something that Birmingham wants to pursue. Because light rail, while revolutionary for the metro area, will not come cheap, no matter how many promises of federal funding we hear. Remember the Birmingham/Troy
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transit center? It came with a terrible price, including ultimately not being built, although Troy may pursue a much scaled down version on their own land. We became aware of plans when the WA3 Transit-Oriented Development Task Force, part of the Woodward Avenue Action Committee composed of representatives of communities straddling Woodward, presented a report on their goals and progress to the Birmingham Planning Board in early August, as well as a proposal for transit-oriented development. The task force comprises representatives from Birmingham, Berkley, Ferndale, Huntington Woods, Royal Oak, SMART, Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), Beaumont Hospital and the Detroit Zoo. Birmingham City Manager Robert Bruner is vice chairperson of the executive committee, and city planner Jana Ecker is on the board of directors. The group applied in July for a federal grant of upwards of $2.5 million for a study of expanded transit options for these cities. Ecker said she does not know when they will hear if they will receive the grant. She said the funding would be enough to pay for a study on light rail for the Oakland County communities. Our concern is that a committee, without a public hearing or public knowledge on the part of
residents of Birmingham, has gone forward requesting public funding for a study. Before that happened, or happens in the future, it is imperative city commissioners discusses whether they want the city to be part of a commitment towards light rail, both conceptually and financially. Residents need to be informed of the city's commitment, and invited to participate in the public discussion. It is terrific that Birmingham's two administrators are involved in the Woodward Avenue Action Committee and Transit-Oriented Development Task Force, and their knowledge and enthusiasm is surely well-appreciated by others on the committees. But it is not acceptable to have them represent Birmingham without the community providing their commitment to go forward on such a major endeavor. Once upon a time, in the not too distant past, many believed the Birmingham/Troy intramodal transit center would be a major, logical and necessary step towards reconciling the area 's 21st century's transportation issues. Ecker was a significant catalyst on that project, and we acknowledge her visionary role in mass transit issues. But proper protocol and procedures must be followed, or a vision can become an expensive folly. And Birmingham can't afford to have that happen again.
Decisive bistro process review overdue e thought by now there would have been a plan, some decisions, somethingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;over how to redesign giving out bistro licenses in the city of Birmingham. First requested by the Principal Shopping District last February, the process appeared to be kick started in June at a joint meeting of the Birmingham City Commission and Planning Board, where they discussed the current criteria for bistros and what possibly needed to change. The result of the meeting was staff was directed to come back with recommendations for improving the process. Yet at the most recent city commission meeting, planning director Jana Ecker, reflecting the planning board's direction, lobbed a softball towards the commission and basically told them to do it themselves. Bistros have been allowed in Birmingham since 2007 under a special land use permit, which is a zoning ordinance. It permits up to two bistro liquor licenses to new businesses in the Central Business District (the downtown area), the Triangle area, or the Rail District, and up to two licenses to existing businesses in the same areas each year.
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A bistro must conform to very specific criteria. There may be no more than 65 seats in the establishment, including no more than 10 seats at a bar. They must have a full service kitchen, and they can offer low-key entertainment. There must be outdoor seating, either on the sidewalk or on a raised platform in a parking spot, which is purchased through the city. The bistro must also have windows lining the street. The purpose of the outdoor seating and the windows lining the street is to activate the streets of Birmingham, highlighting the walkability of the city, and creating color and vibrancy for the sidewalks and streets. Since the ordinance was enacted, the city has awarded 12 bistro licenses to restauranteurs and most have proven to have sparked added activity in certain areas. Elie's Mediterranean Bistro and Salvatore Scallopini are thriving with new licenses. New restaurants like Forest Grill, Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro, Cafe Via, and Luxe have invigorated dormant areas of town, and Pierce Street is bustling with the additions of Toast and the new Townhouse. Birmingham City Manager Bob Bruner said the purpose of the June meeting was to
determine what the impact of the bistro licenses were that are measurable, and asked staff to report back on that. They have not done that yet. A recurring complaint has been over the application process, and it's first-come, first-serve system. A recommendation was made for the planning board to see all of the applicants at once, in the fall, and rank their ideas, and then have them presented to the commission. Commissioners didn't like that idea, and recently came up with the concept of a pre-application system to review all applicants at once. That idea is back with staff to fine tune. But other issues, such as locations of restaurants, as they are strong economic catalysts for the area; saturation concerns in the central business district; development concerns for the Triangle and Rail districts; and what the appropriate number of bistros are, were sent to staff to study and feedback. Unfortunately, these have not been addressed, despite being critical issues that should not be overlooked. It is essential that staff and the commission address all of the bistro concerns before going forward and issuing any more bistro licenses..
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