Hour Detroit // February 2021 by Hour Media

SAY NO TO THE DRESS

BRIDAL SEPARATES THAT MAKE ELEGANCE EASY

AUTONOMY 101

WHEN WILL OUR CARS TAKE THE WHEEL?

THE CULTURE KEEPERS

6 WOMEN WHO HELM ICONIC INSTITUTIONS

PUT SOME KICK IN YOUR COCOA

WARM YOUR INSIDES UP WITH THESE ADULT HOT CHOCOLATES

THE SURREAL LIFE OF GRETCHEN WHITMER A pandemic. An SNL parody. A kidnapping plot. And mean tweets from the president. Did anyone have a more bizarre and intense 2020 than 'the woman in Michigan'? BY ST E V E F R I E S S

'NOBODY IS LISTENING'

A RESTAURANT GIANT'S MESSAGE TO LANSING

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HOUR D E T R O I T

VOLUME THIRTY

ISSUE TWO

PUBLISHER: John Balardo EDITOR IN CHIEF: Dan Caccavaro SENIOR EDITOR & DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR: Emma Klug NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR: Steve Friess DINING EDITOR: Lyndsay Green EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS: Rachael Thomas, Ashley Winn

Presents

COPY EDITORS: Emily Doran, Sydnee Thompson CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Lindsay Richards ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Kelsey Rae Parkinson EDITORIAL INTERN: Emily Roth CONTRIBUTORS: Joe Alisa, Zach Brooke, George Bulanda, Tammy Coxen, Heather Gatley, Gerard + Belevender, Kathy Gibbons, James Heimer, Ryan Patrick Hooper, Kailey Howell, Rachel Idzerda, Matthew LaVere, Christopher Porter, Rebecca Simonov, Hayden Stinebaugh, Megan Swoyer, Joe Vaughn, Martin Vecchio, Gary Witzenburg ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Jason Hosko ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Cynthia Barnhart, Karli Brown, Lauren DeBano, Donna Kassab, Mary Pantely & Associates, Molly Stelma, Angela Tisch PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Jenine Rhoades IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTIST: Robert Gorczyca PRODUCTION ARTIST: Stephanie Daniel

Join Jon Gordon as he hosts this monthly webcast featuring America’s top business minds and thought leaders.

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Go to: businessforumusa.com

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER: Caitlin Cullen MARKETING RESEARCH DIRECTOR: Sofia Shevin MARKETING RESEARCH MANAGER: Ana Potter MARKETING RESEARCH SALES COORDINATOR: Hannah Thomas MARKETING RESEARCH COORDINATOR: Georgia Iden DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS: Kathie Gorecki

John C. Maxwell

is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, speaker, coach, and leader who has sold more than 33 million books. He has been called the #1 leader in business and the world’s most inﬂuential leadership expert.

FEBRUARY 10 12PM

SALES ASSISTANT: Danielle Szatkowki PUBLISHING ASSISTANT: Kristin Mingo ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATES: Natasha Bajju, Andrew Kotzian, Katie West MARKETING INTERNS: Caitlin Farrand, Lexi Nixon MARKETING RESEARCH INTERNS: Eric Borg, Lourd Dawood DISTRIBUTION: Target Distribution, Troy HOU R M EDI A CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | PRESIDENT: John Balardo

575 0 N E W K I N G D R I V E , T R OY, M I 4 8 0 9 8 T E L E P H O N E : 2 4 8 - 6 9 1 - 1 8 0 0 FA X : 2 4 8 - 6 9 1 - 4 5 3 1 E M A I L : E D I T O R I A L @ H O U R D E T R O I T.C O M O N T H E W E B : H O U R D E T R O I T.C O M To sell Hour Detroit magazine or for subscription inquiries: 248-588-1851

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

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02.21

CONTENTS I S S U E T WO H U N D R E D E I G H T Y S E V E N

28 About

‘That Woman’

34 A driver concealed by a fake seat cover operates a Ford minivan in 2017 to test others’ reactions to a driverless vehicle. We’ve come a long way since then, but while actual autonomous vehicles are now on the road in some cities, it will be a long time before any of us get to own them.

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has inspired both virulent opposition (armed protests, a kidnap plot) and near reverence (an SNL parody, a rap nickname). She finds it all a bit surreal.

34 The

Future’s Not Now Detroit and Silicon Valley are racing to perfect autonomous vehicles, but we’re still a long way from roadways full of cars with nobody at the wheel.

COVER JULIA PICKETT CAR INTERIOR COURTESY OF FORD

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02.21

CONTENTS I S S U E T WO H U N D R E D E I G H T Y S E V E N

Up Front

S H O OT I N G T H E M O O N 14

A metro Detroit grad student is playing a key role in a historic lunar mission

M OTOW N R I S I N G 16

With one notable exception, major building projects around the city are expected to make big strides this year.

Agenda

58 C U LT U R E CA L E N DA R

Our carefully curated guide to a month’s worth of arts and entertainment.

59 PAV I N G H E R WAY

A historic Detroit recording studio reopens, paying tribute to a local legend.

60 T H E H A N D S AT T H E H E L M

Six women who are leading iconic cultural institutions through troubled times.

M A D E I N M I C H I G A N : 18 H E I D I P R Z Y BY L A

The Dearborn Heights native brings her blue-collar Michigan perspective to NBC’s news coverage.

62 M OV I N G P I C T U R E S

A U-M photo exhibit shifts the focus to the Native people on the other end of the lens.

T H E I M M O RTA L L I F E 19 O F M A L C O L M B R OW N

63 T H E K I D S O N CA S S

The U-M alum died weeks before becoming the star of a long-running Big Ten ad.

Dope, Hookers and Pavement re-examines Detroit’s shortlived hardcore punk scene.

24/Seven

Food&Drink

T H E C OV I D C U P I D 22

66 S O M E L I K E I T H OT

With singles’ options limited, West Bloomfield matchmaker Lisa Chaben finds herself in high demand.

Warm your insides up this winter with spiked hot cocoa.

67 F I G H T I N G O N

YO U A R E G E T T I N G 23 V E RY S L E E PY

The Joe Vicari Restaurant Group is powering through the pandemic — and the crushing restrictions that came with it.

A skeptical reporter has her eyes opened to the healing potential of hypnotherapy.

I N E E D M Y S PAC E : 24 PA S S I O N P R O J E C T Inside North of Grey handbag designer Caroline Groeneveld’s at-home creative zone.

Creating the perfect dinner date at home with newly engaged chefs Cameron Rolka and Sarah Welch.

P I E C E P L A N 27

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

71 G E T O N B OA R D

72 D I N N E R F O R T WO

Detroit-native fashion advocate Bryant K. Von Woodson II breaks down his own style.

Chi Walker’s Black Bottom Supper Club is ready for launch — pandemic permitting.

Five local spots that present gourmet accoutrements for easy, elegant grazing.

M I ST Y L E : L E A D E R 26 OF THE BRANDS

Laurie Underwood’s elegant separates let brides easily switch up their Big Day looks.

70 HISTORY IN THE MAKING

10 E D I TO R’ S L E T T E R

77 R E STAU R A N T L I ST I N G S 100 T H E WAY I T WA S Nacirema Club, 1924

PORTRAIT REBECCA SIMONOV BRIDAL COURTESY OF LAURY UNDERWOOD BRIDAL MICHIGAN CENTRAL PROJECT COURTESY OF FORD

02.21 From Our Readers ALSO:

Charity Crunch Holiday-season giving takes a dive

+ Dining Guide

Perk up the pandemic-weary loved ones on your list with these mood-boosting, locally sourced gifts Explore 215-plus restaurants, dishes, desserts, and more

ONE YEAR OF WEED

WHERE

E D I T O R’ S L E T T E R

Same Pandemic, Different Lenses IF YOU’RE LIKE ME, you might find yourself incredibly torn as you read this issue. You may read Steve Friess’ deep profile of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (page 28) and appreciate the plight of a well-intentioned public servant who was dealt a historically horrific hand and then rewarded for decisions she believes are saving lives with threats on her own life — and mean tweets from the now-former president of the United States. But then you’ll sit with Lyndsay Green’s discussion with Joe and Rosalie Vicari, owners of one of metro Detroit’s most consequential restaurant groups, and appreciate the fact that Whitmer’s edicts could very well destroy everything they and fellow restaurateurs have spent their lives building (page 67). With whom should we empathize? Why choose? Both thoughts can be true at the same time: Whitmer really might be doing what’s necessary to protect the public, and those actions really could crush many of the entrepreneurs whose grit led them, finally, back to success after having ground through the last worst-economic-crisis-since-the-Great-Depression. We aren’t taking sides. Whitmer is on our cover this month because nobody in this state generated more news over the past year than “the woman in Michigan,” and we wanted you to get to know her better. But while the state’s 49th governor gets plenty of room to tell her story, Friess goes to pains to give voice as well to those who are frustrated and angry over her plethora of executive actions. It’s tempting to see this as just part and parcel of our irreconcilable red-blue divide, but Charles Owens of the National Federation of Independent Business told Friess something I found clarifying and worth repeating here: “This state has been split into two factions — those who have managed to keep their jobs and those who haven’t. What I find is people who are collecting a paycheck support the governor’s policies. People who are on the verge of losing everything, not so much.” On top of the fraught politics of the moment, COVID-19 made reporting a serious profile of Whitmer much trickier than usual. “Usually, for a cover story like this, a magazine writer would spend as much time as possible with the subject, possibly over several days, to catch unguarded moments or telling details that illuminate a personality,” Friess tells me. “Whitmer gave me more than an hour, in a few segments, via Zoom, which was generous under the circumstances but still challenging.” On Zoom, you see, the most variable detail — what a person’s background tableau might say about them — is also the easiest for the subject to manipulate. Whitmer’s shelves weren’t filled with her favorite or best-read books, for instance; they were, she told Friess, just books about Michigan or by Michigan authors that people had sent her way. I hope the juxtaposition of stories in this issue gives us all a chance to think more fully about the challenges we’ll face together as a state for the remainder of this pandemic, and to see each other, regardless of our individual politics or perspectives, with both greater nuance and more empathy.

THERE’S SMOKE … Michigan’s recreational cannabis industry is on fire, raising thorny questions as Detroit tries to open up its enormous market without leaving locals behind FEATURING:

Ask a Budtender Pot pros share a bit of weed wisdom

Lab-Certified Inside a cannabis testing operation

“The longer Detroit waits, the more neighboring communities who already have open dispensaries get paid. (‘Will Detroiters Get Their Share of the Recreational Cannabis Market?’) Trust me, they don’t mind that Detroit is dragging its feet.” —Roz Jeter Sanders Davis, Facebook “It was an honor to be featured. Thank you for shedding some light on great topics in the industry and featuring some great dispensaries!” (“Have a Cannabis Question? These Pot Pros Have Answers”) —Robin Uicker, Liv Ferndale, @ruickerrrr, Instagram “We can’t wait to eat [at Olin Bar & Kitchen] in person.” (“What It’s Like to Open a New Restaurant During a Pandemic”) —@maryanndeters, Instagram “[Standby is] my favorite place! (‘Metro Detroit’s Top Spots for Carryout Cocktails’) Love the drinks and their yummy, one-of-akind menu!” —@jeanineshazzer, Instagram “[Bre’Anna Johnston] is amazing. (‘Blck Cocoa Bakes’ Bre’Anna Johnston Whips up Creative, Vegan Desserts’) All her items are delicious!” —@spunsugar.detroit, Instagram

Hourdetroit.com Digital Extra

Paczki Day is coming! For fans of Detroit City Distillery, that means eagerly awaiting the release of its popular Paczki Day Vodka. The limited-edition craft potato vodka is distilled with dozens of raspberry paczkis from the historic New Palace Bakery in Hamtramck. Paczki Day is Feb. 16. Sales start Feb. 8. Visit hourdetroit. com for more on this sweet spirit and other Paczki Day happenings around town.

DAN CACCAVARO , ED I T OR

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

PHOTO BRAD ZIEGLER

PROFESSIONALS

Cosmetic & Dental Implant Specialists

t’s a typical day at the Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak. A patient comes in, concerned that their existing dentistry has been slowly breaking down, and they’re looking for an alternative to dentures. They’ve come to the right place! In just one day their treatment is completed, including removing the decayed teeth and replacing them with fixed bridges on dental implants. What was once a source of discomfort and embarrassment is now a beaming smile of pride. The Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak is the only multispecialty dental practice in southeast Michigan with both a fully licensed prosthodontist and a board-certified periodontist and implant surgeon on staff. All aspects of dental treatment, from implants to smile makeovers, are performed in one location utilizing the most up-to-date technology. Combined with the latest advances in

sedation dentistry, treatment can be completed as comfortably and efficiently as possible. Dr. Chady Elhage, co-founder of the Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak, is a prosthodontist — a dental specialist in implant, cosmetic, and prosthetic dentistry. Dr. Elhage, who earned his Bachelor of Science degree and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan, then completed an additional three years of extensive specialty training in prosthodontics. During his residency, Dr. Elhage obtained a Master of Science degree for his research focused on CAD/CAM dentistry. He’s also the vice president of the Michigan chapter of the American College of Prosthodontics and has lectured extensively on the topics of CAD/CAM dentistry, dental implants, and “Teeth in a Day.” Dr. Elhage leads a team of specialists who

provide patients with customized solutions to solve problems they’re experiencing. His training has led him to master the latest advancement in the dental world: the “Teeth in a Day” procedure. This enables patients who are facing the loss of their teeth to avoid wearing removable dentures while they heal, and offers a natural-looking, permanent solution to tooth loss. While the Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak specializes in implants, their work and expertise extend far beyond replacing missing teeth. Their unique practice specializes in care of the entire mouth — and patients notice the difference as soon as they walk through the door. The Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak offers complimentary consultations, including a CBCT scan, to determine a patient’s needs, and then creates a plan that best fits their goals and budget. “Not only do we want our patients to feel comfortable as soon as they arrive, but we want them to understand every option that’s available and how we’ll go about treating them,” Dr. Elhage says. “We offer a multispecialty team approach in one facility that’s unique to this area. We work together to provide the best in streamlined care and cutting-edge technology, and we go at a pace the patient is comfortable with. We knew there had to be a better way, and the Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak is that better way.” Patient Testimonial: “Professional, proficient, inspiring. They lend hope for those with dental distraught.”— Kathy

Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak 4251 Coolidge Hwy. Royal Oak, MI 48073 248-949-2076 dentalimplantcenterofroyaloak.com

02.21

Behind the Scenes

THE SAME CRISIS THAT made Gov. Gretchen Whitmer a household name forced news and features editor Steve Friess to interview her via Zoom. Her background is a curated mix of political props — all of the books are about Michigan — and family mementos. That paint-by-numbers rendering of Kevin the dog is the output of one of her daughters, who was bored during the COVID shut-in, Whitmer says. Kevin’s Twitter handle, FYI, is @MIFirstDogs.

CONTRIBUTORS

Tammy Coxen

WROTE OUR BEVERAGE COLUMN ON P. 66 “My favorite thing about winter? Going for a walk at night after a freshly fallen snow when the lights are reflecting off of the snow and everything is quiet and sparkly.” As chief tasting officer of Tammy’s Tastings, Coxen offers online classes for cocktail connoisseurs. She also appears on Michigan Radio’’s cocktail segment Cheers!, and is the coauthor of the book Cheers to Michigan: A Celebration of Cocktail Culture and Craft Distillers (University of Michigan Press, 2019).

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WINTER IN THE MIDWEST?

Zach Brooke

Gary Witzenburg

“My favorite connection to the season used to be snow days and the excuses they provide to hunker down at home. But now I look forward to every sledding and sidewalkshoveling opportunity as I wait for the dive bars to become safe again.” Brooke is a freelance writer who has lived through winters in three separate Midwest states.

“I could say ‘nothing,’ but let’s go with occasionally being able to get away to warmer places where we can choose to dine indoors or outdoors.” Witzenburg, a former U.S. Navy officer, auto engineer, race driver, and advanced technology vehicle development manager, has been writing about automobiles, auto people, and the auto industry for 32 years. The author of eight automobile books, he’s currently a contributing editor to Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com) and Collectible Automobile, and a contributor to a number of other auto publications.

WROTE ‘MOTOWN RISING’ ON P. 16

WROTE ‘THE FUTURE IS NOT NOW’ ON P. 34

SCREENSHOT COURTESY OF STEVE FRIESS TAMMY COXEN LESTER GRAHAM ZACH BROOKE COURTESY OF ZACH BROOKE GARY WITZENBURG COURTESY OF GARY WITZENBURG

02.21 NEWS, NOTES, AND PERSONALITIES

Up Front D EVE L O PM E N T

PROGRESS REPORT

Detroit construction projects are — with one major exception — expected to make big strides in the coming months p. 13

S C I E N C E p.1 4 D EV E L O P M E N T p.1 6 M A D E I N M I C H I G A N p.1 8 S P O RT S p. 19

CONTSTRUCTION SITE COURTESY OF FORD

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Up Front  Dalton Korczyk of Farmington Hills handles components of the revolutionary camera he's helping to build for a rocket to the moon.

How did you get involved in EagleCam?

My older brother had been working on his master’s here at Embry-Riddle, and I was in the lab helping him one day when Dr. Henderson came in to speak to him. I didn’t even know Dr. Henderson knew my name at the time, but he looked at me and asked, “Dalton, you want something cool to do?” I told him I’d love that, and he asked me to figure out how to use the lab’s thermal vacuum chamber — a very cool, very expensive piece of hardware that nobody knew how to use. Then, work began on EagleCam while I was doing my own master’s, and Dr. Henderson approached me. He said, “You’re a good student, and you successfully figured out the vacuum chamber when others couldn’t. So, I’m offering you a lead position on this project.” And of course, I took it.

DETROIT DIGITS

-21˚F

The coldest temperature ever recorded at Detroit Metro Airport. The date was Jan. 21, 1984.

You’re the structures lead. What does that entail?

I’m working to build the structure, externally and internally. So, I have to ensure all the components are going to fit and that, when we land on the moon’s surface, everything will remain intact. SCIENCE

SHOOTING THE MOON

A metro Detroiter is playing a key role in a historic lunar mission BY ASHLEY WINN

A YEAR AND A HALF AGO, Intuitive Machines — a commercial partner of NASA — approached Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, with a unique proposal. The company offered Embry-Riddle students the opportunity to create the first student project ever to be sent to the moon. A student-built camera system called EagleCam, intended to capture the first-ever images of a spacecraft as it touches down on the lunar surface — essentially spacecraft selfies — will be sent to the moon aboard the Nova-C Lunar Lander, which is set to launch this fall. Farmington Hills native Dalton Korczyk, one of 20 participating students, is leading the structures team for the project. We sat down with the 22-year-old aerospace engineering master’s student to hear about his involvement in this historic mission.

How did you become interested in this field?

I first became attracted to engineering when I participated in the Robohawks club at Harrison High School in Farmington Hills. Then a couple of space movies came out while I was in high school that got me interested in aerospace. One of them was Interstellar, which I thought was a fantastic film.

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

“There’s more to [it] than just the math and the science.” —DALTON KORCYZK

How is that different from your typical coursework?

In undergrad, you do so many projects on paper that never go anywhere. Now, I’m making something I get to watch actually become a physical object. It’s been really cool to see the project actually come to life.

When will the project be completed?

Intuitive Machines will need to integrate the system into Nova-C before the launch, so the EagleCam team here at Embry-Riddle is handing over our work this spring. We’ve still got to test all the components before then, so I think we’ll be working down to our deadline.

What have you gained from your involvement? I’m getting real-world experience, learning the inner workings of the industry and how to communicate with others in it. There’s more to engineering than just the math and the science.

What’s most exciting about this project?

24.5"

The most snow dumped on Detroit in a single storm. The date was April 6, 1886.

The number of people who died of heart attacks in metro Detroit while shoveling snow after 19.2 inches of the white stuff fell in December 1974.

2014

The snowiest winter on record in Detroit, with 94.9 inches of snow.

We get to work on something that’s going to fly to space and land on the moon. That’s something a lot of people dream about doing in their career. So, to have this opportunity while at university is awesome.

What are your plans after grad school?

Before EagleCam, I was more interested in orbital dynamics, but I was put on structures for this project and I began to enjoy combining the two. So, I expect to get a job in aerospace engineering, hopefully doing something like what I’m doing currently.

What draws you to that type of career?

Dynamics involves a level of abstraction, as opposed to, say, civil engineering, in which everything is still. I like things that move, and that’s what dynamics is all about.

The average number of days when temperatures stay below freezing in a Detroit winter. Sources: National Weather Service, The Oakland Press

PHOTO COURTESY OF EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY LINE ART ISTOCK

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Up Front

DEVELOPMENT

MOTOWN RISING

Long-touted construction projects are (mostly) expecting big advances 2021. And then there’s the Packard Plant. Here’s an update. BY ZACH BROOKE ILLUSTRATION BY HEATHER GATLEY

PROJECT:

GORDIE HOWE INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE

DEVELOPER: Windsor-Detroit

Bridge Authority VISION: A modern crossing to Canada that

spans 1.5 miles over the Detroit River, flanked by two of the largest ports of entry in North America. ESTIMATED COST: $4.4 billion ESTIMATED COMPLETION: 2024 BACKGROUND: The need to supplement the aging Ambassador Bridge, built in 1929, became apparent at least 20 years ago. Its four lanes were no longer enough for future traffic projections, and design limitations prevented hazardous materials from being trucked across. A decade-plus of approval seeking in two countries culminated in a plan to build a bridge with six lanes and a pedestrian path that would rank as one of the top five longest in North America. Final green lights were granted in 2014, and construction began in 2018. 2020 NEWS: Crews cleared eight smaller bridges crossing over I-75 in preparation for linking the interstate to the American port of entry near Fort Wayne. Concrete pours to secure the future 722-foot-tall towers began in the fall. Preparations for the land allotted to the Canadian port of entry are almost completed. COVID delays have been minimal. Officials note that 70 percent of all construction is not scheduled to begin until this year. Developers dispersed grants to nine nearby charities, part of their plan to distribute about $390,000 to community groups by 2024. Finally, the death of Ambassador Bridge owner Matty Moroun in July could help the project move along as the billionaire was a major source of opposition.

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

BRIDGE COURTESY OF GORDIE HOWE INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE PROJECT MICHIGAN CENTRAL COURTESY OF FORD PACKARD PLANT ISTOCK

Up Front

PROJECT:

PACKARD PLANT RESTORATION

A rendering of how transformative the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park will be to the downtown Detroit landscape. 

DEVELOPER: Fernando Palazuelo VISION: Mixed-use development, with the specifics

being a bit of a moving target, at points including apartments, senior housing, storefronts, offices, light industrial, art galleries, a brewery, a nightclub, and a go-kart track. ESTIMATED COST: $350 million ESTIMATED COMPLETION: Abandoned BACKGROUND: Once the site of the most modern automobile manufacturing facility in the world, the 3.2 million-square-foot assembly plant has sat abandoned at the east edge of downtown since 1958. Peruvian businessman Palazuelo bought the property at a 2013 tax foreclosure auction after the first- and secondplace bidders could not finance their pledges. Palazuelo was quick to make big promises, but restoration was slow and suffered a permanent setback two years ago when the building’s well-known brick bridge collapsed onto East Grand Boulevard. 2020 NEWS: In October, Palazuelo finally bowed to what many suspected was inevitable, acknowledging that his vision wasn’t going to happen. Saddled with back taxes (which Palazuelo pledged to pay by the end of 2020 or risk foreclosure), he enlisted a new brokerage firm to hunt for industrial tenants. Renovations are now slated to begin later this year, with 2022 penciled in as the earliest anticipated occupancy date. Much of the property is now expected to be razed and replaced with modern industrial facilities, though it’s hoped that the former administrative building and iconic water tower can be spared. PROJECT:

HUDSON’S SITE

DEVELOPER: Dan Gilbert VISION: Replace the former site of the world’s

tallest department store with a worthy successor in the form of a dynamic, mixed-use tower-andblock complex. ESTIMATED COST: $909 million ESTIMATED COMPLETION: 2024 BACKGROUND: The city has waited for a suitable replacement at 1206 Woodward Avenue ever since the remains of Hudson’s were dynamited in 1998. Quicken Loans’ Gilbert secured rights to the space in 2007, though it would be another decade before his development company, Bedrock Detroit, unveiled plans for a new skyscraper. The project officially kicked off at a December 2017 bulldozing ceremony. 2020 NEWS: COVID and construction hurdles tripped up the timeline. Navigating chunks of the old foundation buried underground proved a time-sucking chore. Then, the pandemic halted construction for more than 40 days at a crucial HUDSON SITE COURTESY OF BEDROCK DETROIT RALPH C. WILSON JR. CENTENNIAL PARK COURTESY OF MICHAEL VAN VALKENBURGH ASSOCIATES

point just as cranes arrived in early April. These and other delays pushed the completion date back at least two years. The design itself also underwent a rethink. Gilbert once boasted the tower would climb more than 900 feet to become Michigan’s tallest. However, a March revision cut its height down to 680 feet, second to the Renaissance Center. Other updated specs for the tower and an adjacent squat block building include 150 residential units, a 200-plus-room hotel, 400,000 square feet of office space, a 1,200-person event space, and 18,000 square feet carved out for retail. One key detail still to come: a name for the property. PROJECT:

MICHIGAN CENTRAL PROJECT

DEVELOPER: Ford Motor Co. VISION: Revive the iconic former train station

and return Detroit to the cutting edge of automotive innovation. ESTIMATED COST: $740 million ESTIMATED COMPLETION: 2023 BACKGROUND: Michigan Central Station’s closure 32 years ago left Detroit with yet another ghost of its grand past to haunt its present. What to do with the huge Beaux Arts structure was a hot topic throughout the 2000s. Both demolition and housing the Detroit Police Department headquarters were debated, but neither happened and the building was used mostly as a location for Hollywood filming. Its future evolved overnight in 2018 when Ford Motor Co. chose the site as the nerve center for its ambitious “mobility” push. 2020 NEWS: A November update revealed more of Ford’s plans, which go beyond just Michigan Central Station. They include a four-building, 1.3 millionsquare-foot campus. Five thousand employees are expected to work on-site, half belonging to Ford and half to other companies. Many will strive to perfect the self-driving car, making use of a repurposed elevated platform that will, if all goes according to plan, attach to an autonomous-car lane stretching to Ann Arbor. Yet the campus won’t be a walledoff, top-secret test site. The public will be invited to explore new bike paths and walking trails that will crisscross Corktown, and blueprints include space for cafés and retailers in a bid to amp up the surrounding density. Ford also shed some nearby land to outside entities to build 150 homes.

Beyond the Big Four ... The quartet to your left are the projects that grab the big headlines. Here are six more projects to keep your eye on.

1 Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park Formerly known as the West Riverfront Park, the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy renamed it for the late Michigan business titan whose foundation kicked in $40 million. The 22-acre rec area is on pace to open in 2023 with a network of trails to connect Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle.

2 Detroit Center of Innovation A $300 million, 190,000-square-foot research and education facility built for the University of Michigan is due to break ground in Greektown this year, the anchor of what is envisioned as a 14-acre array.

3 Wayne County Criminal Justice Complex A new five-building, $600 million courthouse-jail complex located east of I-75 is slated to be completed by next year. Dan Gilbert’s firm is building the project in exchange for acquiring the downtown property where the earlier new jail project was expected to rise.

4 Silverdome Site Amazon’s $230 million warehouse in Pontiac should be done by early this year.

5 Motown Museum Expansion A $50 million expansion has begun with a 50,000-squarefoot building that was due to open in 2020 but was delayed by the pandemic.

6 The Mid Two mixed-use skyscrapers have been scaled back amid cost overruns. Future hazy.

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Up Front

from Michigan State University before heading to Washington, D.C., to embark on a two-decade career in print media. In 2018, she leaped to TV full time. Przybyla talked to Hour Detroit about how her working-class background informs her work, how covering presidential races has changed, and what it was like to need security to cover the 2020 election in Michigan.

Heidi Przybyla’s blue-collar Michigan upgringing informs her reporting as a correspondent for NBC News. 

How does being from Michigan help you as a journalist?

MADE IN MICHIGAN

HEIDI CHRONICLES Dearborn Heights native Heidi Przybyla brings her Midwest perspective to NBC News coverage

BY STEV E FR I ES S ILLUSTRATION BY RACHE L IDZER DA

FOR THOSE OF US frustrated that the national media focus far too much on news about the coasts, Dearborn Heights native Heidi Przybyla is a muchneeded antidote. She’s an NBC News correspondent who routinely breaks news on Capitol Hill, but she also constantly returns to her earliest stomping grounds for reports that help make sense of the mood and tempo of so-called “flyover states” for bewildered coastal denizens. The 47-year-old Przybyla, who lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with her husband, cardiologist Jeff Trabb, and their children, Phoebe and Dylan, graduated with a degree in international affairs and German

Our life experiences can’t be separated from how we go at stories and the inner voice that leads us. For me, that’s where I come from. My dad was very much blue collar — he moved furniture for a living for Corrigan Moving Systems in Farmington Hills. My mom was stay-at-home until I was much older, and then she was a secretary for Ford Motor Co. We were a typical family living in Dearborn Heights, living on a mover’s salary. I very often think about the fact that my parents were able to do something that is so hard for families today — to get by with those kinds of jobs and those kinds of salaries. I didn’t have Jordache jeans. I didn’t have a Cabbage Patch doll. Our vacations were wherever we could get in our station wagon. That was hard for me growing up, but today it’s the thing that I cherish the most because it grounds me.

In May, as the pandemic and presidential campaign revved up, you lost your father to a non-COVID-related ailment. How did that shape your coverage?

NBC was really great. They made it so I could go back to Michigan and report not just on the election but everything that was going on. I did some reporting from downtown Detroit about the protests that came up around busing children to summer school. I did some stories on education secretary Betsy DeVos and how she was camped out in Michigan as schools were struggling with some pretty significant questions about how to reopen and whether to reCO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 95

SCIENCE MITTEN

Intriguing findings from researchers across Michigan By Steve Friess

KIDS’ INFORMATION AT RISK IN APPS FOR CHILDREN Minors whose parents don’t have college degrees are two to three times more likely to have private data hoovered up while using online platforms, according to a paper published in JAMA Pediatrics by Dr. Jenny Radesky of Michigan Medicine’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Radesky’s

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

research team analyzed 450 popular apps used by kids under 5 and found two-thirds of the apps had indicators that they were harvesting information for third-party databases. Much of that information is used to market products to children, she says. The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act prohibits such data transfers for children under 13, but enforcement has been limited. What accounts for the disparity? More-highly educated parents are likely to be more digitally savvy than less-educated parents and may do more research about kids’ apps before installing them, researchers say.

WHAT MIGHT MAKE YOUR KID BECOME A HACKER? An analysis of self-reported information from more than 66,000 kids in middle school and high school around the world shows that the most serious underage computer criminals have suffered trauma, bullying, or isolation, according to a paper published in the journal Criminal Justice and Behavior and co-written by Thomas Holt, chair of the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University. Other factors contributing to adolescents looking to commit online crime include impulsivity or being heavily influenced by peer pressure. Holt and co-author Bryanna

Fox of the University of South Florida say recognizing these triggers could help parents and school officials intervene and identify what kind of psychotherapy could help rehabilitate the offenders. COLLEGE STUDENTS ACTUALLY HEED WARNING LABELS ON POP CANS Slapping a caution message in a yellow triangle on soda beverages informing people that the high sugar content within “contributes to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay” helped reduce consumption by nearly 15 percent, according to a study in the Journal of Nutrition conducted by researchers at

RADESKY’S RESEARCH TEAM ANALYZED 450 POPULAR APPS USED BY KIDS UNDER 5 AND FOUND TWO-THIRDS OF THE APPS HAD INDICATORS THAT THEY WERE HARVESTING INFORMATION FOR THIRD-PARTY DATABASES.

the University of Michigan and the University of California, Davis. The labels were deployed at a U-M cafeteria for one semester, and 840 students responded to generalized surveys about the food service that also included questions about sugary soda consumption. More than 20 percent said they reduced their consumption of 100 percent fruit juice, too, even though those beverages were not labeled. Such warning labels “are a potential tool to reduce their consumption that should be tested in other populations and other settings,” says co-author Julia Wolfson, a professor in the U-M School of Public Health.

Up Front

IT’S A QUICK 30 SECONDS of peppy music and a kaleidoscope of social media photos featuring fans of the 14 teams that make up the Big Ten, but there is one indisputable star: Malcolm Gunson Brown. The lifelong University of Michigan fan grins broadly under a block-M hat and over his maizeand-blue birthday cake as the music hits its crescendo — a final, triumphant, and lasting image. That shot was taken on Brown’s 91st and final birthday in April 2018. The lifelong Michigander and retired Presbyterian minister, who at the time lived in an assisted-living facility, died that August. Weeks later, the Big Ten ad began airing during all manner of televised U-M sporting events — and never stopped. It has turned Malcolm into a bit of a folk hero, with U-M fans shouting his name in fondness when he pops up during the ad. More than two years after his death, his family still tunes in to Big Ten sports in part to see that moment. “It was a really nice moment, and now it’s a wonderful part of his legacy,” says his eldest daughter, Deb Wallin, of Mount Pleasant, who notes Brown, a diabetic, had been especially giddy because her mother rarely allowed him such sweet treats. “The legacy is that smile and friendliness that comes across in that picture. He loved his God, he loved his family, he loved serving people, and he loved U of M.” The photo made its way into the ad courtesy of the league’s ad firm, TeamWorks Media, which conceived of a spot titled “B1G Life” highlighting people wearing team merch from babies to teens to old age, says Robin Jentes, the Big Ten’s assistant commissioner for branding. One of the first photos they knew they had to use was the one of Brown and his cake, which had been posted on Wallin’s Instagram page with the hashtag #goblue. Wallin says she got $50 for it and then forgot about it as her father’s final months took their toll on the family.

“It was a really nice moment, and now it’s a wonderful part of his legacy,”

SPORTS

The Immortal Life of Malcolm Brown The U-M alum died weeks before becoming the star of a long-running Big Ten ad BY STEVE FRIESS

in Muskegon, enrolled at U-M after serving in the Navy during World War II. He even marched in the Rose Bowl parade twice as a clarinet player, and at college met his future wife, Marjorie, who was a classmate. They’d been married for 68 years when Brown died. After U-M, he attended Princeton Seminary in New Jersey, became a pastor, and served at First Presbyterian in Ann Arbor in the 1960s. Wallin remembers she and her brother sneaking into Michigan Stadium to ride their bikes around the field during that stint. Brown served at a church in

Mount Pleasant for several years before closing his career in the 1980s at Covenant Presbyterian back in Ann Arbor. “When we were kids, he would play records of the Michigan fight song so we would all march around the living room with each other,” Wallin says. “During the last months of life, he still had a record player and that would be one of the records that he would enjoy us playing for him.” (It may have been too much exposure; none of Brown’s kids or grandchildren attended U-M.) The ad’s creators and the league knew none of that, nor that he died weeks before the spot began appearing in fall 2018. Wallin, her two sisters, and her brother decided not to say anything. “Everybody thought, ‘You know what? He was such a huge fan of U of M, he would be so happy to have that picture in the ad,’ ” Wallin says. “It also made us very happy to see the commercial and to see him smiling whenever we were watching Big Ten sports.” Wallin, whose Instagram account is otherwise a sedate collection of sunset, flower, and cookie photos, says she always knows when the ad has popped up because new visitors stop by to like that picture or leave a comment about it. “A lot of times people are telling me this picture is on a commercial as if I have a need to be informed of that fact,” she says tartly. “But people who knew Dad often contact one of us to say, ‘We so enjoyed seeing him in the ad.’ ” The Big Ten gang might have pulled the ad by now if not for the chaos of COVID-19 — they usually create a new spot every year — but Jentes says she’s glad it endures. “He’s such a vibrant person in that photo, and it comes across so well in our commercial,” she says. “To know his family loves seeing that spot — This post gave U-M devotee it’s nice to hear. It’s exactly what Malcolm Brown we hoped would happen.” posthumous fame in a TV ad. 

—DEB WALLIN “We really wanted to see that circle of life – babies, kids going to first games with their parents, and then we just loved that photo of Malcolm with that smile celebrating his life,” Jentes says. “There was a huge amount of posts that we went through and then narrowed them down to capture all of that. But we always saw ending the spot with him.” They could hardly have chosen a more bona fide Wolverine. Brown, born in Detroit and raised VIDEO STILL COURTESY OF BIG10 NETWORK

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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02.21 MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE IN METRO DETROIT

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24/Seven  The pandemic prompted Lisa Chaben to turn her matchmaking knack into a business.

You’ve been fixing people up for decades. How did it come about?

I’ve always fixed people up organically. I didn’t charge them; it was just my passion to connect people who were serious about finding real love, lasting love. Honestly, nothing makes me happier.

Tell us about your methodology.

By nature, I’ll meet people and say, “Oh, my God, she’d be so cute with him.” I’m a people person. I’m a people connector. I fix girlfriends up with girlfriends — somebody to go to a movie with or lunch. But I talk to them a lot. I’ll give you an example. Someone [a guy] says to me, “I work out two hours a day and I only like to snowshoe and ski and blah blah blah,” and a girl says, “I hate any outdoor activities. I don’t like to work out. I don’t like movies, don’t like theater.” [They are probably not going to be a good match.] I only fix up people I think should be together and soulmates. I’m not a match.com or Tinder or Bumble that you swipe.

How did COVID change things up?

When the pandemic began in mid-March, my phone started ringing off the hook, and it hasn’t stopped. Singles, who I either know or who are referred to me from their friends, have become increasingly lonely, isolated, are afraid to date — or don’t know how to date anymore — and more scared than ever that they will never meet “the one.”

What’s it been like for singles during the pandemic — especially if they wanted to be dating? The mindset among the singles I’m hearing from isn’t the same as before the pandemic. They’re in a funk. They feel like they have no options, no way to meet people since they can’t go out to the bars or parties. They literally don’t know where to turn. RELATIONSHIPS

THE COVID CUPID

With singles’ options limited, a West Bloomfield match-maker finds herself in high demand BY KATHY GIBBONS PHOTOS BY MATT LAVERE

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

IT TOOK A PANDEMIC for Lisa Chaben to make it official. The West Bloomfield 56-year-old says she’s informally set up “hundreds of successful marriages over more than three decades.” She’s fixed up everyone from friends and acquaintances to a woman who worked at one of her doctors’ offices (Chaben connected the woman with her own widowed father-in-law, and they married). She’s even played matchmaker for her ex-husband. Now Chaben is expanding her reach with Match with Lisa, a service through which she analyzes clients’ online applications to identify their priorities, preferences, values, and interests. Then she follows up with an interview and background check before handpicking potential matches — and subsequent others if needed. The service costs $500. And it all came about because of COVID-19. If singles can’t get out and meet each other, Chaben figures, she offers another way to connect. Living through a pandemic is lonely enough, let alone doing without having someone to be socially distanced with.

Do you offer them any advice?

I tell people, “Go to Birmingham, to Royal Oak, to the zoo.” There are so many things you can do outdoors; you don’t need to be stuck in your house. You can still go to the DIA [Detroit Institute of Arts]. I give people a little bit of hope of where they can go and where they can meet people.

What about people who are trying to build a new relationship during the pandemic?

Some people right up front aren’t even comfortable going on a date right now. They can talk on the phone. [Or if trying a Zoom date,] make sure you shower and look cute even though you’re at home. Make it fun. Have a wine night. Eat dinner together.

Other thoughts on love in the time of COVID?

Stay positive. Love is the strongest thing there is, honestly, and it will get you through anything. Everybody says to me that they’re never going to find anyone. I say there’s a lid for every pot. There really is. Everybody will have a soulmate.

24/Seven

I HADN’ T GOTTEN pre-interview jitters since college, but then, I’d never done an interview quite like this. As someone with anxiety and what my family calls “control issues,” I wasn’t particularly enthused to be hypnotized. As a curious journalist, however, I was intrigued. So, I tried to ignore the zero-gravity feeling in my stomach as I logged into my video call with David Wright. The 55-year-old counselor and hypnotherapist is the clinical director at Counseling and Therapy Associates mental health and hypnosis clinic in Taylor. My only previous experience with hypnosis was second-hand. I watched — cynically — from the back corner of my high school auditorium as a showman hypnotized fellow graduating seniors at our all-night party. I remembered the man’s claim that hypnotizing someone reluctant to be hypnotized due to fear, skeptical stubbornness, or other reservations was impossible. “That counts me out,” I thought. Yet here I was — fearful, skeptical, and stubborn — offering myself up for hypnosis for the sake of this story. Hypnosis is clearly Wright’s specialty, but it isn’t what first drew him to the field of mental health. His interest began at age 17, when he got a job as a counselor at a youth summer camp. He oversaw a cabin of teenagers who would often confide in him. After hearing of their various struggles, Wright decided to pursue a career working with adolescents. This led him to Wayne State University, where he earned a master’s degree in counseling in 1992. Now living in Woodhaven, he’s been practicing mental health counseling for nearly 30 years and is well known locally, in part for his hypnosis stage shows as The Motor City Hypnotist. Last summer, he started a podcast of the same name. Upon entering my virtual meeting with Wright, I found him to be cordial and approachable. (I wouldn’t realize until midway through our interview that that all-night-party showman had been none other than David Wright.) He began, as he does with each of his clients, by defining hypnosis. “It isn’t magic,” he said. Instead, he compared hypnosis to meditation. He described it simply as a quieting of the mind that allows one to tap into the subconscious. In this state, he said, one is more receptive to suggestion. “I can’t just zap people and change them,” he said. “People who come to me have already decided to change. I just guide them down that path.” With some of my doubts having resulted from my misconception of hypnotism as some sort of supernatural feat, I found my mind opening to the possibilities — maybe this could work after all. Wright started the process by asking me to stare at my webcam light, then led me through a series of muscle-relaxation directives. When he began

HEALTH

YOU ARE GETTING VERY SLEEPY … A skeptical reporter has her eyes opened to the healing potential of hypnotherapy BY ASHLEY WINN ILLUSTRATION BY JAMES HEIMER

describing the heaviness of my eyelids, I was surprised to find myself struggling to keep them open. Mercifully, he soon instructed me to let them fall closed. Still, my true bewilderment came when he told me that, upon attempting to open my eyes, I would find this act impossible. From far beneath my deep state of relaxation, some part of me scoffed. But when Wright directed me to do so, it was as though my bottom and top eyelids were superglued together. Wright continued, leading me deeper and deeper into my subconscious and performing other tests that demonstrated the extent of my submersion. Finally, he called me back to reality. Upon surfacing, I felt fully awake, but more relaxed than I’d been in years. Not a single muscle was tense, and my usually restless mind had quieted. Until this time, I’d only barely registered my own astonishment. With my conscious mind back in the building, I felt somewhat silly for ever having been doubtful. My skepticism now gone, I was fascinated to know how hypnosis could be used to treat mental illness. Although chemical depression is caused by an imbalance in the brain, which may benefit from medication, Wright said, hypnotherapy can be used as a holistic treatment for conditions including anxieties, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and situational depression. “For most people, these issues are indicative of the brain overreacting to stimuli. In these cases, hypnotherapy seeks to plant suggestions that change a person’s thinking pattern.” Wright gives the example of a client who has lost a loved one. While situational depression is often part of the normal grieving process, some people may have difficulty moving on from this pain. “It’s a matter of altering the client’s frame of reference so they’re able to move forward with a healthier mindset,” he said. Hypnotherapy as a treatment for SAD and anxiety disorders is similar, he said. For SAD, the therapist makes suggestions to reshape the brain’s reaction to the change of season, as well as some practical suggestions to promote overall health and well-being, such as eating a healthy diet and keeping a regular sleep schedule. One of hypnotherapy’s main advantages is its capacity to produce immediate change, Wright said. Traditional treatment using talk therapy to uncover the roots of a patient’s emotional pain has its place, but it can take years. “For me, the reason isn’t as important as the behavior you want to change,” he said. “If we can alter the patient’s thinking and allow them to change their behaviors in as little as one session, I think that’s fantastic.” F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

24/Seven

 To a degree: Groeneveld says she absolutely had to frame her CCS degree and hang it in a prominent spot near her work area. “I loved going to that school. That time was one of the best times of my life.”

 Story time: Her sons “pop in and out” of the studio regularly. Sometimes Mom reads to them from a book called The Dangerous Book for Boys (upper shelf).“I met a woman in Plum Market who had triplet grandsons. We became friends, and she’d come to the house to see my triplets and gave us this book.”

 Lady in red: A glass Kosta Boda figurine of a woman in a hat (lower shelf) takes Groeneveld back to a day when she and her mother were shopping. “My mom was fixated on that little glass object,” the designer says. “But she wouldn’t let me buy it for her, so I went back another time and purchased it for her birthday. It sat near her fireplace in England, and she loved it. After she died, I brought it back here. My mom is a big inspiration for me. She drives me.”

 Practically floored: “Interface carpet tiles (a commercial line) is amazing for this space,” she says. “If anything spills, you just whip a tile out and replace with a new one. The company has great colorways and great style.”

“I wanted to create items that lots of people can enjoy and use.” —CAROLINE GROENEVELD

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

24/Seven  Light touch: A Charles Paris lamp (to right of Groeneveld) made of white bronze is one of the designer’s favorite accent pieces. “It’s from a Baker sample sale. It’s a numbered, limited-edition lamp, and actually [my husband] Arie first pointed it out. It looks very automotive, and we both appreciate automotive design.”

 British accent: The British flag, in the form of a tapestry created by designer Vivienne Westwood, adorns one wall. Purchased in Chicago, it arrived in a “super huge crate,” Groeneveld recalls. “I had told my husband about the piece and how the saleswoman talked me into having it shipped. When the massive crate arrived, it was hard to imagine returning it; we laughed about it and kept it — glad we did.”

 Pleasing palette: “I love fresh and crisp looks, so the room is mostly whites and blacks with pops of color. I’ve got to have pops of color,” she says. The walls are painted in her all-time favorite shade of warm white, Benjamin Moore’s White Dove.

 Healthy choice: Groeneveld’s Vari desk adjusts and can go as high as about 80 inches. With a history of back challenges, Groeneveld says she doesn’t want to be sitting at a desk all day.

 Pack a bag: Groeneveld’s luxury handbags feature Italian calf leather, suede details, and English bridle leather. The ones shown here are $1,600.

I NEED MY SPACE

PASSION PROJECT

A successful handbag designer fashions a creative space that fuels her love of design BY MEG A N SWOY ER PH O T O BY MA RTI N VECC H I O

AFTER CAROLINE GROENEVELD gave birth to triplets some eight years ago, not only did home life change but so did her career. She no longer wanted to be the interior designer she had been for several years. It wasn’t that she wanted to say goodbye to the design world entirely; in fact, she had just finished renovating her own home in Bloomfield Hills. “Working on our home was the first time I felt like I got to do what I wanted to do without client input,” Groeneveld says. “I thought: What if I could put this much energy into products that I want and that I could mass produce?” So in 2019, she poured her passions into melding beauty with practicality and launched a handbag business called North of Grey (northofgrey.com). “I wanted to create items that lots of people can enjoy and use. I wanted to get into manufacturing,” says the designer, who grew up in Liverpool, England, and came to the United States in 1991 to take an in-home nanny position. In 1998 she enrolled at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit and earned a degree in interior design. Recognizing that the luxury handbag market was saturated, she needed a new niche, which came to her as she went about the daily goings-on of life — running a household and taking on a few design projects here and there. The result: a handbag that can transition from being a busy woman’s catchall for everything from iPads to snacks for the kids when pulling over for some park time (she calls this the “gray” hours — “not mundane, but certainly the things we do in life every day”) to a smaller container for a woman’s free time, “the north of gray, the heart of the bag,” she says. “A mom and/or career woman wants to meet girlfriends, or go on a date, or shop, or go to a museum, and that’s when you use the smaller part of the bag,” she explains. “It’s for the woman who is on the go all day long, and who needs organization.” The company logo tells Groeneveld’s story. It’s reminiscent of the two liver bird sculptures that sit atop renowned buildings in Liverpool. “One faces the sea and the other the city,” she says. “I love them and had a sense that they were like me. I’m looking back to England and looking toward America.” Here, Groeneveld takes us to the place where her design passion flourishes. Amid fabrics and samples, sketches, and CAD drawings, she shares how her home-studio surroundings inspire creativity. F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

24/Seven

“My mission is to make sure that everyone knows that they’re destined for greatness.” BRYANT K. VON WOODSON II

 Von Woodson serves up effortless style — and an infectious smile.

MI STYLE

LEADER OF THE BRANDS

An advocate for fashion labels big and small on what goes into his own personal look BY R ACH A EL THOM AS P H O T O BY JO E ALISA

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

BRYANT K. VON WOODSON II exudes a beautiful blend of elegance and charm, determination and relatability, and a distinct air of high fashion. This is clear to anyone who follows him on Instagram, and it was unmistakable during a recent Zoom call. A Detroit native, the 25-year-old fashion publicist now lives and works in New York as a VIP account executive for the communications and brand development agency Chapter 2. There, he works with an impressive roster of clients, including L.A.-based agender label No Sesso, Canadian online luxury retailer Mr. Saturday, and the iconic sportswear brand FUBU. Von Woodson advocates for emerging talent in Detroit as well; as a consultant, he bridges the gap between the local and national fashion industries for his personal clientele of emerging local brands, including Détroit is the New Black and luxury eyewear brand Godnii. Here, Von Woodson dishes on what goes into his own style, his travel essentials, and how his background as a trained dancer has shaped his life.

Personal style: When I’m getting dressed, I’m thinking about, “Is this opulence? Is this elegance? Is it regal? Is it an experience?” That’s the first thing. The second thing is, “Is it comfortable and relatable?” And I think those two elements meet hand in hand, and then I go from there. I’ll wear something like a fur piece, blazer, turtleneck, denim, but then I’m throwing on a sneaker to give it the comfort edge. Go-to local shops and brands: Obviously, Détroit Is the New Black. I love some of the brands that [founder Roslyn Karamoko] has inside her shop. I think Ken Walker is amazing. … I think [Walker] is creating himself to be the Sean John of Detroit. He’s, you know, the streetwear go-to velour sweatsuit in Detroit. Flo Boutique is another store that I’m in love with. Flo Boutique has a lot of different Black designers curated by [owner Felicia Williams-Patrick]. And it’s a full experience. You go in and you feel that Detroit love. I love Carhartt for the utilitarian wear. Simply Casual in Detroit on Livernois — I used to shop there as a kid, and it still is a statement store. Travel essentials: A trench coat. No matter if it’s hot or if it’s cold, a trench coat looks great. It’s a statement piece. A fashionable sneaker that’s trendy, looks good, and could be worn with anything. Unforgettable travel experience: Before I even entered into the fashion world, I trained as a ballet and contemporary modern dancer. I went to The International Association of Blacks in Dance conference in Los Angeles, and I think that was when I was first introduced to a world of Black dancers. I was like 14. All of who I am today comes from my dance background, which also comes from that L.A. trip. And so now I just try to project Black excellence in the best way — and also just authenticity.

24/Seven  The Kalah Bishop Sleeve Bodysuit ($475) and the Dina Trumpet Skirt ($685) designed by Laurie Underwood (pictured below).

BRIDAL

PIECE PLAN

Laurie Underwood’s elegant separates let brides switch up their Big Day looks BY R ACH A EL THOM AS

WHILE THE PANDEMIC has complicated the way couples say “I do,” designer Laurie Underwood is making sure the bride’s wedding look is the least of her worries with a new line of interchangeable separates from her brand, Laury Bride. Underwood, a Project Runway veteran and Detroit native who’s now based in Chicago, released The Forever Collection last October. Comprising 14 pieces and accessories ranging from $125 to $725, the line embodies the classic beauty of traditional bridalwear but adds updated twists. The pieces cater to the bride who wants multiple looks that are easy to swap as she transitions from the ceremony to the reception to whatever else her big day might hold. The Asha and Camari strapless bodysuits feature detachable mesh and puff sleeves, with side zipping and snap closures for easy changing. The Penny midi skirt features an airy, detachable capelet train, while the Dina and Ellie skirts provide all the traditional bridal flair of a flowing train. The edgy yet elegant Mona pant — one of Underwood’s favorites — is a one-legged pant with a culotte short and a peplum waistline. All the interchangeable pieces are made of a matte satin fabric that makes them easy to mix and match. For the finishing touch, brides can slip on the Charlotte double bow mule and then transition to the reception in comfort in the LB trainer, a vegan leather floral sneaker. From the moment Underwood decided to design bridalwear, she knew she wanted to think outside the box; the idea for The Forever Collection came to her a couple of years ago, but

The Perfect Match A local jeweler gives couples the power to create the ideal engagement ring BY ASHLEY W INN

LAURIE UNDERWOOD COURTESY OF LAURY BRIDE RINGS COURTESY OF ELAINE B

when the coronavirus hit and radically altered couples’ nuptials, she knew the time was right for separates that many women would find more realistic than an elaborate formal gown. “Now you can really do these interchangeable [pieces], because weddings are more intimate. They're smaller,” Underwood says. “Brides are like, ‘I need something quick because I don't know what's going to happen in the

future, and I just want to get married.’ So, the interchangeable pieces work with that vibe of this smaller, intimate wedding. If you want to have this big, extravagant wedding, the interchangeable [pieces] can work with that as well. So, when COVID came along, I got on to the opportunity to create the collection. And here it is, it's here.” Shop The Forever Collection at laurybride.com.

Out of a sunlit, Bohemian studio in downtown Ferndale, Elaine B’s allwomen team fashions ethically sourced materials into fine handmade jewelry. Much like its storefront, the brand’s everyday pieces draw on natural and architectural influences that evoke an air of refined effortlessness. Crafted from yellow gold as well as sterling

the brand’s signature minimalistic sensibilities while incorporating an additional dose of glamour. The result is equal parts modern and elegant. Last fall, the brand launched its latest line of alternative engagement rings and wedding bands. Each piece in the Skylight Collection is fully customizable, allowing customers to select their

and oxidized silver, Elaine B’s simple necklaces and earrings are thoughtfully designed with clean lines and geometric shapes. Their lightly hammered surfaces are adorned with natural pearls and roughcut stones in myriad shades. These pieces speak of a wearer who is sophisticated, determined, and creative. Elaine B also produces bridal jewelry that maintains

preferred stones, metal, and band style. The uniqueness and sentimental value of a personalized ring are enough to thrill any brideto-be, but Elaine B’s ethical practices make its pieces a particularly fitting choice for the socially or environmentally conscious. Elaine B, 22961 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; elainebjewelry.com F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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BY STEVE FRIESS PHOTOS BY JULIA PICKETT

GRETCHEN WHITMER AND OUR YEAR FROM HELL

ONE MEASURE

of just how long, painful, and exhilarating — but also terrifying — the past year has been for one Gretchen Esther Whitmer is what finally, after more than an hour of interviews over the course of a week, prompts a real laugh. With the more than 12,000 COVID-19-related deaths in Michigan, a horrific alleged plot by right-wing kooks to kidnap her, constant legal and political attacks on her authority, and a wrecked state budget and economy, the 49th governor of Michigan has found precious little to make light of lately. But then our topic turns to the massive, mostly maskless rallies Donald Trump held across the state in the waning days of his losing presidential reelection bid, events that violated the state’s restrictions on large public gatherings as well as the advice of medical experts. Why were they allowed to take place? “Uh, Steve, what am I gonna do? Arrest the president of the United States?” When I reply with a deadpan grin, “It’d be fun to watch,” she emits a real guffaw and takes a few seconds to be amused by the mental image before bringing herself back to the point. “I’m being facetious, but one of the things that’s been hard throughout 2020 is people always want to know, what is the enforcement? What is the punishment? How do we make everyone do the right thing?” she says. “Governors across the country, Republican and Democrat alike, are struggling with that. None of us have unlimited resources and police forces to descend on every violation of every order that we issue. But the orders are important because people understand what’s happening and the majority of people follow them. That’s the most important value in them.” That’s just one of many paradoxes in Whitmer’s life in the COVID era. She’s frequently accused of turning the state into, as Lions QB Matthew Stafford’s wife, Kelly, put it before apologizing, a “dictatorship” by shutting down sectors of the economy by fiat even as she knows her real influence lies in getting the public to voluntarily obey those orders for their F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

own safety. She’s drawn some of the most virulent, violent, and vicious opposition — armed protesters at the Capitol hanging her in effigy, say — of any leader navigating the pandemic while, at the same time, inspiring a folklore about “the woman in Michigan” that includes a rap nickname (Big Gretch), a Saturday Night Live parody, and a Muskegon-brewed craft beer. And she’s perhaps the most famous new face to emerge on the national political scene in the past year, what with her fending off personal attacks by Trump and forging a powerful friendship with President Joe Biden. Yet, owing to her own personal lockdown at the governor’s mansion in Lansing with her husband, dentist Marc Mallory, and her teen daughters, Sherry and Sydney, she says she only knows of her prominence because people like me tell her about it all the time. “I don’t know what life is like for me now because I’m staying home to stay safe,” she says early in the first of our conversations, all via Zoom, that nasal upper Midwest twang and cadence that was lampooned on SNL by Cecily Strong in full evidence. “That’s the weird thing about this moment, when people say, ‘Oh, you’re nationally known now.’ And I’m like, ‘Am I?’ I mean, I haven’t been into an airport or walked through a restaurant, even. I wouldn’t know if that’s true or not. I don’t feel like I’m any different. … My life hasn’t changed that much other than that I’m doing all my meetings by Zoom and I’m just not out and about in public like I ordinarily would be, which I miss a lot.”

 O N A P R I L 3 0 , Whitmer peered out the window

of her second-floor office at the Romney Building across from the Michigan Capitol to see a sea of angry protesters, most unmasked, some brandishing huge guns, Trump 2020 banners, and Confederate flags — and a nude Barbie doll converted into her effigy, hanging from a noose. “I wasn’t mad. Was I fearful? I was not afraid. Was I sad? That was the emotion I felt,” she says. “It was sad because we’re working so hard to try to keep people alive, to try to keep our hospitals from being overwhelmed.” Whitmer’s sister, Liz Gereghty, was on the phone that day from her home in upstate New York listening to Whitmer’s description of the scene in similar shock and bafflement. Yet by then the moment was of a piece with a string of stranger-than-fiction events neither woman could quite comprehend. Weeks earlier, the sisters were talking when Trump tweeted, “LIBERATE MICHIGAN!” by which he implied that Whitmer’s COVID restrictions were figuratively, or perhaps literally, imprisoning her residents. “We were like, ‘What’s happening? Has Canada invaded?’” Gereghty recalls. “It’s ridiculous to think that the head of the republic was calling for the liberation of a member state of that same republic that had not been invaded by any foreign government. There was so much … ridiculousness that she and I just looked at and thought, ‘What on Earth is happening now? Like, how is this real life?’” Indeed, the path to that surreal existence would have seemed impossible to imagine a year ago, when Whitmer expected 2020 merely to bring continuing

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Whitmer models anti-COVID behaviors in the stairwell at the state Capitol.

WHAT AM I GONNA DO? ARREST THE PRESIDENT?” — G O V. G R E T C H E N W H I T M E R

economic expansion, more stalemates with the GOP-run Legislature over road funding and other initiatives of her 2018 campaign, and a white-hot spotlight for swing-state Michigan in a sure-to-becontentious presidential election. The highlight, she figured, would probably be her Democratic response to Trump’s State of the Union address on Feb. 4, an assignment fraught with political risk for many who’ve dared to try it. Whitmer’s aim was to avoid “a big mistake that would be newsworthy.” She made it through those 10 minutes unscathed — it was a serviceable if unmemorable speech that name-checked Trump just twice and with anodyne criticism — and was feeling good: “I did the State of the State and then I did that, and then I presented my budget and I thought, ‘The hard part of 2020 is over. I can relax now.’ And, of course, life turned upside down, and that’s like a distant memory now.” Of course. It’s hard to remember now, but Michigan was among the last big states to record official cases of COVID-19, on March 10, after 36 other states. But soon thereafter, the Detroit area became an epicenter for transmission, over-capacity hospitals, and death such that through April and May, only New York and New Jersey rivaled the misery playing out in Michigan. The cascade of unprecedented closures began quickly — public schools and most universities went online by March 12; Whitmer shut down theaters, indoor dining, and casinos on March 16; and then she ordered all nonessential workers to shelter at home starting March 24. She enjoyed an unusual level of bipartisan support, including from Republican National Committee Chair Ronna Romney McDaniel, a native Michigander, who told the Associated Press, “I am rooting for Gov. Whitmer. I think she’s done good things.” Then she went public with complaints that the White House was not providing enough equipment and support for Detroit’s besieged hospitals, and that drew her into Trump’s crosshairs. In late March, the president referred to the then-48-year-old on Fox News as “the young, a woman governor, you know who I’m talking about, from Michigan,” nicknamed her “Gretchen Half-Whitmer” on Twitter, and, at a March 27 news conference, said he had told Vice President Mike Pence, “Don’t call the woman in Michigan” because she hadn’t been sufficiently “appreciative” of the administration’s efforts. (Pence, head of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, nonetheless praised her as “leading her state through all of this with great energy.”) “Oh, I think [Trump] probably knew my name,” Whitmer told me in early April. “I sat right next to him at the state dinner during my first National Governors Association conference last year. Our interactions have been just fine up until a few tweets and a few remarks from his press conferences. I take it all with a grain of salt because people might not appreciate how dire the situation here in Michigan is and understand why I’m being so persistent.” Soon, though, that grain grew far heavier and more toxic. In late April, as questions about closures and crowd-size restrictions became contentious, the Legislature refused to extend Whitmer’s executive authority as was required under the 1976 law she invoked to start her COVID counteroffen-

sive in March. Still facing a rampant pandemic, she turned to a little-used 1945 statute that she and Attorney General Dana Nessel believed gave governors virtually unrestricted power in ongoing emergencies such as this. A flurry of lawsuits followed challenging the constitutionality of the 1945 law as well as various specific executive orders, and in October the state Supreme Court ruled 4-3 that Whitmer had inappropriately used the 1945 statute. The high court voided her executive orders, but days later Whitmer found “alternative sources of authority” to reimpose rules requiring masks, social distancing, and reduced crowd sizes by having them issued by the state’s Department of Health and Human Services and Occupational Safety and Health Administration. While polls showed her decisions were popular across the state, thousands of Michiganders — from barbers to bar owners — chafed in fury and, in some cases, openly violated Whitmer’s restrictions as the forced interruptions shoved their enterprises toward bankruptcy. Small-business groups called out the seemingly nonsensical contradictions in Whitmer’s edicts — marijuana dispensaries could stay open, but Home Depot was not allowed to sell gardening products? — and spotlighted the crushing impact on families around the state. Whitmer insists her orders were guided by what public health scientists said would help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and that her family, too, struggled under them. Then she found herself apologizing in late May after the owner of a dock company said on Facebook that her husband had tried to use his stature to get their boat in the water. Whitmer says he was making a “bad joke,” but her critics still routinely

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SHE SURROUNDS HERSELF WITH ADVISERS THAT ARE VERY PARTISAN.” — CHARLES OWENS, NFIB

The governor’s newest Aussiedoodle, Doug, offers moral support as Whitmer reviews some papers at the official residence in Lansing.

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cite the incident as proof of hypocrisy and self-dealing. “She’s being very partisan; she surrounds herself with advisers that are very partisan, and it’s clear she felt that she had this power and she was going to use it and make decisions unilaterally,” says Charles Owens, Michigan director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). “She claims that she’s reached out and tried to include the Legislature. If you discuss that with the legislative leadership, you wouldn’t find agreement on that. This state has been split into two factions — those who have managed to keep their jobs and those who haven’t. What I find is people who are collecting a paycheck support the governor’s policies. People who are on the verge of losing everything, not so much.” Whitmer says she has called meetings every other week via Zoom with the Republican and Democratic leaders of the House and Senate to talk about her COVID plans and that she provides texts of her administration’s orders to them before they’re released. House Speaker Lee Chatfield and Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey skipped many of those meetings and are being disingenuous when they claim to be surprised by her orders, the governor says. “No one was blindsided; no one was left out of the conversation,” she insists. “But the nation’s governors are the front lines because there hasn’t been a national strategy. And moving quickly and being nimble when lives are on the line is crucial, and that’s what the executive office is designed for. The Legislature is important, but they are not designed to be nimble. They are important as part of the conversation, but at the end of the day, the buck has to stop with the governor.” Chatfield declined to be interviewed for this report, and Shirkey’s office did not return messages seeking comment. But Owens says Whitmer’s approach was lazy and detrimental to the state and herself. “Doing things unilaterally is a lot easier than trying to get some agreement with other people,” he says. “Acting unilaterally also makes you totally responsible. That is a very heavy burden considering what we’re dealing with here. That is a very heavy responsibility for anyone to bear, and she doesn’t have to.” All of this took place against an increasingly nasty public debate over the nation’s response to COVID, over the science of wearing masks, and over how to balance economic and civic disruption against who was actually most likely to fall seriously ill or die. Overlay upon that the 2020 presidential race in which Whitmer started out as a national co-chair for Biden’s campaign and by spring had become such a serious vice presidential contender that she appeared on the debut episode of Biden’s campaign podcast. “Her fight with the Legislature, Michigan being particularly hard hit, and the pretty strong disagreements over how to handle COVID in the state, then her being considered for VP, then the president attacking her — all those things helped lead to a national profile for Gov. Whitmer and a lot of focus,” says Jarrett Skorup, spokesman for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a conservative think tank that has sued Whitmer and voices opposition to her decisions. “You began seeing a lot of media profiles out of that, and I’m not criticizing her for that — it’s obviously notable. It makes sense why she was going to get a national profile.”

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The biggest, most bizarre shock of all was yet to come. On Oct. 8, the FBI and state law enforcement announced more than a dozen arrests in connection with an alleged conspiracy by a paramilitary group known as the Wolverine Watchmen to kidnap Whitmer and possibly storm the Capitol to commandeer the Michigan government. Whitmer laid the blame at the feet of her political enemies, especially after Trump refused to condemn the suspects and Chatfield criticized her for not informing him of the potential threat to the Capitol. The Watchmen, she said on CBS’s Face the Nation, find “comfort and support in the rhetoric coming out of Republican leadership, from the White House to our state House.” Even months later, the incident and the response

her father, who ran the Michigan Commerce Department under Republican Gov. William Milliken, and her mother, who for several years was assistant attorney general under Democrat Frank J. Kelley. After a brief flirtation with the notion of being a sportscaster, Whitmer earned a law degree at Michigan State University in 1998 and won her first elective office, representing a Lansing-area district in the state House, two years later at age 29. After two terms in the House, she won the first of three terms in the Senate, where in 2011 she became the Democratic caucus leader. Born in Lansing, Whitmer spent her adolescence in Grand Rapids with her mother and two younger siblings after their parents divorced when she was 10.

to it baffle the governor. “The heightened rhetoric and vitriol sent my way increased with Trump’s actions about Michigan or about me,” she says. “Obviously, nobody thinks the natural extension of that is a kidnapping and murder plot, but you also see how that has happened, right? The scariest part of it is that there aren’t more people of stature on both sides of the aisle that are calling it out.” These moments have been rough, too, on her family, Gereghty says. When she and I spoke in mid-April, Gereghty was tickled by the prospect that her sister could be Biden’s running mate. Now she’s glad it didn’t happen: “This has been such a hard year, and it has been harder on her than so many other governors. And once we inaugurate a new president, it doesn’t mean that all of this stuff goes away. She was so much the focus of so much vitriol, I’m happy that she doesn’t have an even bigger magnifying glass on her.”

Whitmer appears regularly before the media to explain her controversial COVID-19 restrictions.

 T H O S E C L O S E to Whitmer say she always

seemed bound for leadership. From a young age, Gereghty recalls, the governor acquired a strong sense of bipartisan duty to public service from both

Her mom, Sherry Whitmer, remains a huge, looming presence as a role model nearly two decades after her death from brain cancer. “Gretchen always took charge and figured out how to get things done,” Gereghty recalls, noting how her sister, then a freshman legislator with a newborn daughter, took a primary role in their mother’s end-of-life care in 2002. “My mother was such a good role model for us because nothing stopped her. She could do anything she set her mind to, and she was an inspiration for both of us.” The governor, who invoked her mother’s memory frequently on the campaign trail in her 2018 gubernatorial run while advocating for women’s rights or expanded access to health care, says she’s been “dreaming about her like every night” during the COVID-19 crisis. “Maybe it’s the touching stories I hear about people losing loved ones or the stories of people saying goodbye over an iPad, but this has really hit a nerve,” Whitmer says. “My mom was a trailblazer, and when her back was up against the wall, she smiled through it. She gritted her teeth, but she had a smile on her face. I’m hopeful that I’m teaching my daughters the same, that you gotta be

tough and you gotta get through the hard times, and if you can even do it with grace, it’s really important.” Nessel, no stranger to sassy tit-for-tats with Trump, says she’s impressed by how Whitmer has kept her calm as much as she has for the good of the state. “Privately, the governor swears like a sailor,” the attorney general says. “That’s nothing that you’ll ever see on her Twitter feed, but she’s hilarious. She’s a really funny person. I’m sure there are things that she would like to say out loud. She’s not because she’s just too smart for that. The things Gretchen doesn’t say, believe me, I say.” That public restraint was Whitmer’s calling card long before Trump’s insults. This is, after all, a woman who months into her tenure contended with a Detroit TV station airing a story about derisive social media reactions to a tight-fitting dress she wore for her first State of the State address. Five years before that, as the Democratic leader in the Michigan Senate, the married mother of two had to rebuke a fellow senator who sidled up to invite her out on his boat to “sin or swim.” And more than a decade ago, the self-amused (male) wags of Lansing mockingly nicknamed her — to her face — “The Ocho” because Maxim magazine had listed her as the world’s eighth sexiest politician. “She currently serves in four standing committees — Judiciary, Finance, Education, and Agriculture — and could very well add more as soon as we get our Leering Committee finalized,” the laddie rag sniggered. Virg Bernero, whose state Senate seat Whitmer won in 2006 after he vacated it, says her ability to choose her moments to disarm her opponents with humor or candor is her greatest political talent. Case in point: her handling of the comments about the 2019 State of the State dress. In a series of tweets at the time, wrote, “Boys have teased me about my curves since 5th grade. My mom said, ‘Hold your head high and don’t let it bother you.’” Then, a year later, she opened her State of the State with a withering rebuttal. “This year, I want to get one thing straight — this is not the red carpet,” she said with a smirk. “So please, I urge you — focus on the substance of my speech. It’s about issues, not appearances. I mean, I don’t care how distracting Sen. Shirkey’s outfit is. I mean, cut him a break.” All eyes then turned to Shirkey, seated in a dark suit behind her, who seemingly had no choice but to stand up and hug his political nemesis. Still, the remarks continue to come — and not just from random internet trolls. Attorney Geoffrey Fieger, the 1998 Democratic nominee for governor, disparaged her on Detroit talk host Craig Fahle’s podcast in February. “Who is Gretchen Whitmer?” Fieger asked, more than a year after her landslide victory. “I don’t know who Gretchen Whitmer is, and I’m more knowledgeable than about 99.9 percent of people in the state of Michigan in terms of state government. … I know she was in the Legislature. And I know they said, ‘Well, we’ll get a woman because people will vote for a woman,’ which is true. And so we have Gretchen Whitmer. Now, she’s not bad. She’s not a dumb person. I like her coat. I like the way she wears her leather.” Whitmer says she can’t respond to all of the slights

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PRIVATELY, THE GOVERNOR SWEARS LIKE A SAILOR. THAT’S NOTHING YOU’LL EVER SEE ON HER TWITTER FEED.” —AT T O R N E Y G E N E R A L DANA NESSEL

— and nor should she have to. “It’s a reality for a lot of women that people get distracted by non-substantive things,” she says. “It’s exhausting. You spend a lot of energy figuring out every time something like that happens, do I take it on? Do I educate this person about kind of the flaw in their behavior? Do I pretend that I didn’t hear it? Do I laugh it off like a joke? It’s always the recipient of the aggression that has to do all of these mental gymnastics.” That’s not to say she hasn’t brought fire and anger when she felt it necessary. Her most significant such moment as a legislator came in 2013 when she came out as a sexual assault victim in an unsuccessful attempt to persuade the Republican-led state Senate to drop a measure that now requires Michi-

gan women to buy a health insurance rider to be covered to terminate pregnancies even in cases of rape or incest. “There are people in this chamber who have lived through things you can’t even imagine,” a voice-crackling Whitmer said then, veering from prepared remarks. “Over 20 years ago, I was a victim of rape. And thank God it didn’t result in a pregnancy because I can’t imagine going through what I went through and then having to consider what to do about an unwanted pregnancy from an attacker. … I’m not the only woman in our state that has faced that horrible circumstance. I am not enjoying talking about it. It’s something I’ve hidden for a long time. But I think you need to see the face of the women that you are impacting by this vote today.”

 I N E A R L Y A U G U S T, Whitmer flew to Delaware to meet with Biden as he winnowed his VP list. She was surprised to still be on it — one reason being the popular expectation that he would choose a woman of color — but she submitted to the vetting and showed up when beckoned. “Why do you want to be vice president?” Biden asked her. Her reply: “Joe, I’m here because you asked me to be here. I love my job. I love being in Michigan. There’s nowhere else I want to go. But I’m here because you asked me to be. And if you asked me to do this with you, I will do it, and if you don’t, I’ll be thrilled to keep my dream job in my home state near my family and have a new best friend in the White House.” Nobody can really know a politician’s truest ambitions, and it’s uncouth for most to be overt about them anyway. But it is believable that Whitmer would prefer to stay in Lansing to see through the recovery from COVID and firm up her political power by winning a second term. In our interview, as she sits in an ensemble that seems deliberately color-coordinated with the Michigan license plate on display over her right shoulder in front of a library of Michigan-themed books, she goes further, though. “I’ve never been interested in going to Washington, D.C.,” she says. “I’ve said it a million times. I don’t know why people don’t believe me, because I’ve never wavered on that. I’ve been recruited to run for Congress or the U.S. Senate, and I just — Michigan is my home. I’ve got three generations of my family here. I love this state. I’ve always lived here, and I plan to always live here.” She goes on to say she spurned Biden when he asked if she wanted “to play some sort of role in his cabinet.” Yet, even in this reply she doesn’t quite shut the door to loftier ambitions — which may explain why people don’t quite believe her. “I want to continue on as governor for so long as I have the opportunity,” she says. “I want to see this through to the end, and we’ll see where life takes me. My husband is 11 years older than I am, and he’ll support me no matter what it is I want to pursue, but we’ll see where I am at the end of all that. I suppose it’s always a possibility, but it’s certainly not something I pine for or that I spend any energy thinking about right now.” F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

DE T R OIT AN D SI LI C O N VAL L E Y AR E R A CI N G TO CR E AT E SELF -D R I VI N G C AR S, B U T HAVE THE Y

THE

SE T E X P E C TATI O N S TO O HI G H?

FUTURE IS NOT NOW BY G AR Y W I T Z EN B U R G 34

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

The Cruise AV is designed to operate safely on its own, — with no driver, steering wheel, pedals, or other manual controls.

ILLUSTRATION ISTOCK CAR INTERIOR COURTESY OF GM

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investing billions of dollars in autonomous vehicle development on the presumption that AVs will be ideal for ride-sharing, ride-hailing, and deliveries — and that the driving public will ultimately embrace them for personal use, too, once they’re available and affordable. But considerable challenges remain, not the least of which is that many drivers actually enjoy driving and aren’t eager to relinquish control. So how long will it be before we all start letting our cars drive themselves? Perhaps not as soon as some of us might hope and/or fear — nor as soon as safety advocates and auto execs would like.

M O T O R C I T Y H A R D AT W O R K

eady for a family outing to the mall and then dinner, you call your car. It backs out of the garage and waits in your driveway. All of you pile in and sit wherever you want, since no one will be driving. You face front while your spouse and kids swing their seats around to face each other. You’ve told the car where to go, so it chooses the quickest route, obeying all stops and speed limits, keenly aware of what’s happening around it. Someone steps off the curb ahead and the car slows, ready to stop if necessary. Its front-facing motion sensors eye a dog cavorting on one side of the road. You’re catching up on emails, your spouse is texting, and the kids are playing video games. The car lets you out at the mall, then zips off to park. When your shopping is done, you call your car to pick you up and take you to your favorite restaurant. After dinner, you catch a few winks on your way home. That’s the sort of scenario most people envision when they think of self-driving vehicles. And indeed, automakers and technology firms are

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The Cruise Origin, a fully driverless vehicle built to be shared by multiple riders, is being tested on the streets of San Francisco and will be produced at GM’s Factory ZERO in Hamtramck.

Here in Detroit and around the world, automakers are busy testing and developing AVs on both closed tracks and public roads while governments at all levels scramble to establish rules and regulations for safe AV operation. General Motors’ Cruise LLC subsidiary has been testing Chevrolet Bolt electric-vehicle-based Cruise AVs in San Francisco and elsewhere while also, in a partnership with Honda, developing a fully autonomous — no driver, no controls — Origin AV for urban passenger and delivery service. Unveiled in January 2020, the self-driving, sixpassenger Origin has production approval, and development prototypes are being tested at GM’s Milford Proving Grounds. “We feel that Cruise has all the building blocks in place to lead in self-driving vehicles,” GM President Mark Reuss says. “And the first ones will be built right here at Factory ZERO, our DetroitHamtramck assembly facility. In October, Cruise received a permit from the California [Department of Motor Vehicles] to remove human backup driv-

CRUISE ORIGIN COURTESY OF GM/CRUISE

ers from its self-driving cars. That means Cruise can send its cars out onto the streets of San Francisco without anyone at the wheel.” In fact, Cruise should have Bolt-based driverless AVs running around San Francisco by the time you read this. GM’s bold commitment to no-driver AVs, focusing first on city transportation, is one major element in its ambitious vision of a world with “zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion.” “This is our moonshot,” Cruise CEO Dan Ammann says. “The chaotic, gritty streets of San Francisco are our launchpad, and it’s where over 2 million miles of city testing will truly hit the road for the first time: an electric car, driving by itself, navigating one of the most difficult driving cities in the world.” In addition, Walmart plans to start testing automated deliveries using Cruise AVs in Scottsdale, Arizona, early this year. Ford, in partnership with technology developer Argo AI, has been testing its own AVs (with safety drivers) on Michigan Avenue and around Michigan Central Station. The company has established AV terminals, command centers, and high-resolution mapping for ride-hailing and deliveries in Austin, Texas, Miami, and Washington, D.C., beginning in 2022, and is also testing in Pittsburgh and Palo Alto, California. The Ford/Argo AI team will assess the need for a safety driver and make a decision on when to operate without one based on the regulatory environment, safety performance data, and an appropriate level of community acceptance. “We are very focused on Level 4 [see automation levels sidebar],” says Ford Autonomous Vehicle Technologies director John Rich, “removing the driver from the equation and operating autonomously within a geonet.” A geonet, he explains, is not the same as a geofence, which requires that the vehicle be able to drive anywhere within a metropolitan area. “Within a geonet, we will choose not to drive some places within that area, but our geonet will expand as we move forward,” Rich says. Similarly, Cruise AVs “will not go into areas that we haven’t mapped,” Cruise Origin chief engineer Jason Fischer says. And while current Cruise AVs retain their steering wheel and pedals so a driver can take control if needed, the Cruise Origin does not. “There will be no ability to take control of the vehicle,” Fischer says. “The autonomous driving system will always be in control.” Ford/Argo AI’s fourth-generation self-driving vehicles are Escape Hybrids equipped with the latest advanced sensing and computing technology. “We have upgraded our sensing suite with even more advanced lidar [like radar, but using laser light], higher-resolution cameras, and more capable radar sensors,” Ford Autonomous Vehicles chief engineer John Davis says. “Combined, this helps improve detection of fixed and moving objects on all sides … providing a blind-spot curtain, detecting things like a passing car or bicyclist in a nearby bike lane.” FCA, meanwhile, has partnered with self-driving

LEVELS OF AUTONOMY THE NATIONAL Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) foresees a future in which fully automated vehicles are integrated onto U.S. roads and highways. To get to that point, though, they will have to progress through six levels of technological advancement — from no automation at all to full autonomy. Here’s how the NHTSA defines those six levels:

Level 0

No Automation. Zero autonomy. The human driver does all the driving.

Level 3

Conditional Automation. The human driver is necessary but not required to monitor the environment. An automated driving system (ADS) in the vehicle can perform all aspects of the driving task under some circumstances, but the driver must be ready to regain control at any time at the ADS’ request. In all other circumstances, the human driver performs the driving task.

Level 4

Driver Assistance. The vehicle is controlled by the driver, but an advanced driver assistant system (ADAS) in the vehicle can sometimes assist the human driver with either steering or braking/accelerating, but not both simultaneously.

High Automation. An ADS in the vehicle can perform all driving tasks and monitor the driving environment — essentially do all the driving — in certain circumstances. Human occupants need not pay attention in those circumstances but may have the option to control the vehicle.

Level 2

Level 5

Level 1

Partial Automation. An ADAS in the vehicle can control both steering and braking/accelerating simultaneously under some circumstances, but the human driver must continue to pay full attention at all times and perform the rest of the driving task.

Full Automation. An ADS on the vehicle can do all the driving in all circumstances. The human occupants are just passengers and need never be involved in driving but may have the option to control the vehicle. — GW

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

technology company Waymo. Launched in 2009 as the Google Self-Driving Car Project, Waymo has developed a Level 4 Waymo Driver system that powers Waymo One, a ride-hailing service, and Waymo Via for trucking and deliveries. The partnership claims to have logged more than 20 million miles of autonomous driving on public roads in 25 U.S. cities and 15 billion miles of simulation testing. It’s now offering AV rides to the public in Phoenix. “Our now-four-year partnership with Waymo continues to break new ground,” FCA CEO Mike Manley says. “By incorporating the Waymo Driver — the world’s leading self-driving technology — into our Pacifica minivans, we became the only partnership actually deploying fully autonomous technology in the real world, on public roads.” FCA is also testing Waymo Driver in Ram ProMaster vans for deliveries, and it plans to expand the technology across its product line. Michigan has become a major hub for AV testing and development by multiple automakers and oth-

“94 PERCENT OF SERIOUS CRASHES ARE DUE TO HUMAN ERROR.” —N AT I O N A L H I G H WAY TRAFFIC SAFET Y ADMINI S T R AT IO N (NH T S A )

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans equipped with Waymo Driver technology are now operating on public roads, the first real-world deployment of Level 4 autonomy.

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

ers. Two Michigan facilities — the American Center for Mobility next to Willow Run airport in Ypsilanti Township, and the 32-acre mock city called Mcity on the University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus — are dedicated to this ongoing work. Meanwhile, an ambitious “connected corridor” linking downtown Detroit to Ann Arbor and Metro Airport along some 40 miles of Michigan Avenue and I-94 is in development. The initial vision calls for one dedicated interior lane for both the east and west sides of Michigan Avenue, which will need barriers at first to separate AVs from general traffic, including pedestrians. Crosswalks will be needed, traffic lights will need to be coordinated, and all manner of hardware and software will be required to connect GPS satellites, cellular arrays, Wi-Fi systems, sensors, and underground fiber cables. The project will be managed by Cavnue, a subsidiary of New York-based Sidewalk Infrastructure Partners, working with Michigan’s Department of Transportation, Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, Economic Development Corp., and the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, along with state and local partners, stakeholders, and communities. It will evolve to meet more transportation needs, but in the beginning, it will accommodate linked buses and shared mobility vehicles such as vans and shuttles. It will later expand to other connected and autonomous vehicles, such as freight and personal vehicles. Phase one is targeted for completion in the second half of 2022.

ROADBLOCKS AHEAD

While self-driving vehicles hold the promise of eventually being much safer than those with humans at the wheel, significant challenges lie in their path to ubiquity. “Automated vehicles’ potential to save lives and reduce injuries is rooted in one critical and tragic fact: 94 percent of serious crashes are due to human error,” the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) contends in a report outlining the advantages of an automated-auto future. “Automated vehicles have the potential to remove human error from the crash equation, which will help protect drivers and passengers as well as bicyclists and pedestrians.” One of the chief missions for AVs will be to provide much-needed mobility for the elderly and disabled, though ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are already serving many Americans. “Roads filled with automated vehicles could also cooperate to smooth traffic flow and reduce traffic congestion,” NHTSA contends. “With automated vehicles, the time and money spent commuting could be put to better use. … In many places across the country, employment or independent living rests on the ability to drive. Automated vehicles could extend that kind of freedom to millions more.”

WAYMO PACIFICA COURTESY OF FIAT/CHRYSLER

The Ford Fusion Hybrid is a third-generation test vehicle that Argo AI is now deploying in collaboration with Ford in six cities, including Detroit, where Ford is expanding testing beyond Dearborn.

FUSION COURTESY OF FORD

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

To be as safe as envisioned, however, AVs will need to see, understand, analyze, and react to everything around them through a complex system of sensors, radar, and both visual and thermal cameras. All of that will add a lot of cost. And how effective will those systems be in darkness and nasty weather? When dirt covers their lenses? When snow blankets lane markers and road edges? “Inclement weather is a challenge,” GM’s Fischer says. “We are working with suppliers on advanced cleaning systems that will help us solve those problems.” Adds Ford’s Rich, “All varieties of weather are being tested, and there will be a learning curve, with capability expansion over time.” Will AVs be programmed to protect their occupants at the expense of others? Which way will they dodge if they can’t stop to avoid a pedestrian when the alternative may be an oncoming vehicle, a tree, a lake, or a cliff?

INTERIOR REDESIGN

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

Most recorded AV accidents so far have been minor, often when other vehicles hit the AV. But the few fatalities have been widely reported: An Uber test AV hit and killed a pedestrian in Arizona when its “safety” (human) driver was distracted. A Tesla on “Autopilot” killed its driver when it drove under a semi-trailer that it didn’t detect. Another Autopiloted Tesla killed a passenger, and a third killed two people in another car in other incidents. Tesla CEO Elon Musk contends self-driven Teslas are safer than those under human control but that their Autopilot can enable extended lapses of driver attention. As of September, NHTSA had investigated 23 crashes involving vehicles using “automated assistance” systems, 14 of them Teslas. Such incidents, though rare, inevitably reduce peoples’ trust in self-driving vehicles, and recent studies show that only about half of Americans say they are willing to ride in one.

DESIGNING the cabin of a fully autonomous vehicle poses a different challenge than a conventional car or truck interior. Think about it: With no driver, no steering wheel or pedals, and no need for awareness of what’s

“We have to make these vehicles better than humans,” Rich says, “constantly alert with better reflexes and better ability to avoid an accident. They may never be perfect, but if they are considerably better than humans, we almost have a moral imperative to put them on the road because we will be saving lives.” Another fear is that AVs will be rolling roadblocks, obeying all posted speed limits while everyone else swerves around them? “The vehicles are programmed to obey the law,” Rich points out. “We won’t be able to speed or do a lot of things you see human drivers doing today.” And when someone inevitably is hurt or killed despite everyone’s best efforts, who will be liable? The vehicle’s owner? The manufacturer? The software programmer? The town or city where the incident occurs? All of the above? “Initially, the lawyers will sue everyone involved,” says Carla Bailo, CEO of the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) in Ann Arbor. “As these cases are settled and precedent established, it will become more clear.”

T H E S TAT E O F T H E A R T

While that family-outing scenario of Level 5, aka “Full Automation,” for privately owned vehicles looks to be a long way off — if it ever arrives at all — “Level 4 is essentially here now,” CAR’s Bailo says. “Level 5 is later, pending many other nontechnical parameters such as regulation, public policy, legal, and insurance.” No current AV is intended for private ownership. “They will be able to move goods and people in a controlled environment,” Rich says, “but you will not be able to go out and buy one. They are difficult to manage and will require professional service to run.” Adds veteran auto journalist and AutolineTV host John McElroy: “Autonomous cars that can

going on outside, its occupants will be able to sit wherever they want. But they’ll still need to buckle up for safety, and their seats will have to hold them in position for belts and airbags to be effective. General Motors’ Cruise team has won production approval for its fully autonomous Origin vehicle, so we asked Stuart Norris, GM’s director of design for Advanced Mobility and Experience Studio,

about what to expect inside an Origin. “Developing the interior for the Origin has been a really interesting journey,” he says. “It's a cool product for us since we've been used to designing interiors for personal vehicles, and getting our heads around the rational and emotional needs of customers using a shared autonomous vehicle took some work.” A self-driving vehicle, Norris says, “throws out

SIMULATION COURTESY OF FORD ILLUSTRATION ISTOCK

drive anywhere and that you can buy at a dealership will not be available this decade. Maybe next decade. Tesla claims otherwise with its Full Self Driving, but it’s up to them to prove it, since it’s been delayed multiple times. That said, 2020 [was] really the year of autonomous vehicles. They’re on the streets and running now. The technology is available, and it works. It’s expensive, but the cost is coming down fast. For now, AVs are relegated to geofenced areas that have been 3D-mapped, but those fence posts keep moving.” The good news is that Level 2 , aka “Partial Automation,” is available to the driving public today. Many new vehicles, even at affordable prices, offer Adaptive Cruise Control, which adjusts speed to maintain a set gap behind the vehicle ahead, and Lane Keeping Assist, which keeps your vehicle in its lane. That combo allows hands-off cruising for a few seconds in scenarios where road edges and lane markers are clearly visible to the vehicles’ cameras. Some systems work better than others, you must pay full attention and be ready to take control at any time, and the systems tell you when to take the wheel. If you don’t, they shut off. One of the best available systems is Cadillac’s Super Cruise (available on some models now and being expanded to more), which will soon add a feature by which it can change lanes itself. GM says its ultimate Super Cruise vision is to offer hands-off driving capability 95 percent of the time when the vehicle is on “enabled” — that is, precisely GPS-mapped — roads. While we may be a long way from a world where all vehicles drive themselves, the not-too-distant future may well bring a potentially worrisome mix of driverless AVs sharing the roads with a large majority of human-driven cars and trucks. The AVs will be capable of communicating vehicleto-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure to avoid

the typical constraints of needing to look forward and have control and being able to see signs and traffic lights and people on the side of the road. The vehicle is doing all of that for us.” So, GM pushed the seats out to a “campfire” position, the rears facing forward, the fronts facing rearward, “like you're sitting around a campfire with a social space in between. That creates an environment where it's easy to see

CAR INTERIOR COURTESY OF FORD

and communicate with the other people when you don't have to drive and think of safety and maneuverability of the vehicle.” Because the electricpowered Origin will have no engine, transmission, or driveline, and its battery pack will hide under its flat floor, designers made it very spacious for legstretching room without the risk of bumping feet. Yet, Norris says, the Origin is small enough

The University of Michigan’s Mcity facility allows Ford to test its Level 4-capable autonomous vehicles in a simulated urban environment that presents scenarios such as traffic in intersections, pedestrians in crosswalks, different traffic signals, and bicyclists. Shown in purple below and at left: a simulation of what the Ford Fusion Hybrid Autonomous Research vehicle sees as it navigates the roadway and identifies obstacles.

to be maneuverable and “somewhat cozy” inside. Large sliding doors on both sides provide huge openings for getting in and out, even for people in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, “and we worked very hard to make sure the stepin is low and the whole interior is smooth, clean, and open with no structural elements or trip hazards bulging up above the floor.” And because the Origin is intended as

a high-use passenger shuttle or ride-sharing vehicle that may be in almost nonstop service, designers used materials that create a warm, inviting environment yet will hold up to heavy wear and tear. “It has a residential furniture feel in the design and use of materials and colors,” Norris adds, “and overhead lighting gives both good task and good ambient lighting to create a nice, warm atmosphere.”

conflicts with each other but will still have to continuously monitor everything around them and make assumptions (as alert drivers do) about other vehicles’ expected behavior. Will you trust a vehicle with no driver or controls to shuttle you around, or will you prefer a human-driven Uber, Lyft, or taxi? Or will you continue piloting those trips behind your own wheel for as long as you can? If you’re not yet AV-ready, perhaps you will be when your own capabilities someday diminish.

With typical airbag and seat-belt provisions, the Origin will be fully compliant with government safety requirements, and passengers will need to be seated and buckled in before it will drive away. Situational awareness screens will show you where you are, where you're going, and your estimated time of arrival. The cabin will seat up to six, but four or fewer can sit in the

corners and swing large armrests down over the center seats to create comfy armchairs. The bad news is that the seats’ backrests are fixed for crash safety — they won’t recline. “But we did a lot of work to get to an optimum position for that backrest angle,” Norris says. “We had to balance the desire for reclining seats with the safety considerations and other needs for a shared vehicle.” —GW F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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WOMEN LEADERS BASED UPON A SURVEY OF THEIR PEERS These LEADING LAWYERS have been recommended by their peers to be among the TOP LAWYERS in Michigan Jennifer M. Grieco Jacqueline Asher Kelly Sharon M. Woods Monica Rossi Baylis Sheryl A. Laughren Cheryl A. Bush Alison H. Rodney Karen Libertiny Ludden Lynn Capp Sirich Eugenie B. Eardley Laura E. Eisenberg Mekel Sebestyen Miller Amy M. Spilman Kari M. Gocha Julie A. Greenberg Barbara Lynn Mandell Ann Marie Uetz Kellie S. Devito Elizabeth A. Favaro Kara S. Ferrara Keela P. Johnson Victoria S. Lehman Sandra User Green Patricia A. Stamler Sarah E. Kuchon Lisa Sommers Gretchko Susan E. Padley Regina Goyette Staudacher Shirley A. Kaigler Hon. Mary Beth Kelly (Ret.) Michelle D. Bayer Jorin G. Rubin Leila Freijy Sara L. Cunningham Paula K. Manis Michelle C. Harrell Kathleen H. Klaus Julie Beth Teicher Irika N. Mellin Kristen L. Robinson Keri Middleditch Amy M. Johnston Sonal Hope Mithani Leigh D. Moss Linda G. Burwell Deborah L. Brouwer Susan D. Koval Patricia M. Nemeth Stephanie P. Ottenwess Linda D. Kennedy Anthea E. Papista Patricia Kefalas Dudek Katherine Smith Kennedy Harriet B. Rotter Nancy Komer Stone Kari B. Schlaff Kerry Lynn Rhoads Dina M. Ferrari Linda M. Garbarino Sabrina Shaheen Cronin Renee K. Gucciardo Roquia Kamal Draper Nazli G. Sater Donna Marie Medina

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Connecting, supporting, and empowering women in business throughout metro Detroit. The year 2020 was like no other and, for women, the challenges of daily living became even greater. Mothers able to work from home found that their school-age children were new officemates with their own set of demands. Women whose essential jobs took them outside the home dealt with the stress of potential daily exposure to infection, and those who found themselves suddenly underemployed or unemployed scrambled to ensure they could meet the basic needs of themselves and their families. As they always do, women rose to the challenge and continued to move forward. On the following pages you’ll learn about

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“The DOBI Difference” isn’t a slogan or headline or advertising campaign; it’s a blueprint that helps make DOBI Real Estate not only successful, but special in a highly competitive business. And they’re quite successful. Founded in 2018, DOBI Real Estate grew its sales volume by 268 percent and broke through to the Top 30 in sales volume on Realcomp’s brokerage rankings in its first 11 months. “The DOBI Difference is the experience that people have here,” CEO Simon Thomas says. “It includes our approach to how we service our agents on a daily basis, and the trainings that we offer to help our agents grow. It’s something you feel when you walk through the door. The DOBI Difference is a combination of each of these things and everything in between that we do to elevate our agents’ business.” More than half of the agents at DOBI are women, and each of them has the highest integrity, a fierce work ethic, a passion for what they do, and the ultimate goal of helping their clients not only reach, but exceed, expectations. Together, DOBI’s agents encompass more than 100 years of experience and are top producers in metro Detroit. The DOBI team believes it’s important to be active in the community they serve and contribute in many different ways to make a difference where they work and live. Agents are members of the Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors, and the Women’s Council of Realtors. One is a board member at Empty Bowls Detroit, and another is a dance team coach. Still others are scout leaders, as well as church

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In the seven years since Temeria Heard founded Corporate 52 Marketing Group, she’s helped corporations increase their brand visibility. “I got into this business because I used to purchase promotional branded items for a former employer and every time I received (the items), I had suggestions on how they could be better,” she says. Heard was the 2016 recipient of the Jackie Robinson MVDBP (Most Valuable Diverse Business Partner) award, given by the Detroit Tigers and Major League Baseball to minority-owned and women-owned businesses. The recognition elevated her business to a new level and gave her the drive, fortitude, and confidence not only to survive, but to thrive. Heard was the first black woman to receive the award. Heard’s firm is poised to meet the needs of its clientele with efficient, exceptional service. “We pride ourselves on being available to our

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Cristina Crescentini became a divorce attorney because of her passion to help those who refuse to let divorce define their family. Her vast professional experience extends to some of America’s greatest trial lawyers, family law attorneys, judges, and law professors, and has learned the dynamics and techniques of being a lawyer who represents and cares for each client. Her clients include everyone from the head of Fortune 500 companies, celebrities to main street America. In opening her own firm, Crescentini united her experience in mediation with more than 12 years of family law experience. The result is CMC Law Group. As an attorney in both California and Michigan, Crescentini has seen firsthand that mediation is an imperative first step in co-parenting. Emotions often drive the decisions you’ll make during the divorce process, and that

can impact how long your divorce will take, how much it will cost, how often and where you’ll see your children, who will be awarded debts/assets, and even where and when you can take your children on vacation. However, dealing with the emotional residual of divorce is manageable with the help of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. Even when it’s challenging to talk directly with each other, CMC Family Law can help open the door to positive and productive problemsolving discussions, leading to workable resolutions that are best for you and your family. Contact CMC Family Law Group. They’ll help you protect what matters most.

Cristina Crescentini, Esq. Founder and Managing Partner

CMC Family Law Group, PLLC 255 S. Old Woodward, Ste. 310 Birmingham, MI 48009 Los Angeles | Detroit | Grand Rapids 855-558-8250 cmcfamilylaw.com admin@cmcfamilylaw.com

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With more than 20 years of experience based largely in the Detroit area, Nicolette Martin has built her company, Nicolette Design Group, into a trusted and valuable resource for clients, other designers, and builders. Martin founded her business on a passion for building interiors and a talent for interpreting her clients’ desires. Over time, her innate interest in fine cabinetry, furniture-making, and millwork led to an expanded expertise in all aspects of interior architecture. Nicolette Design Group has become a licensed builder, collaborating with other trade specialists in the area, with Martin in the role of lead project manager for interior remodels and new builds. Martin has taken a unique approach with Nicolette Design Group. She displays her work in an open-to-the public studio located in downtown Northville, which also serves as a central hub where designers, builders,

tradespeople, and architects meet and collaborate. Martin specializes in customizing to the spaces within which she works, both aesthetically and dimensionally. She personally designs, sends for fabrication, and oversees installation of luxury cabinetry, furniture, and interior layouts for her clients. Her team’s projects vary from updating home furnishings to kitchen or bath remodels, and she works side-by-side with other builders to provide enhanced design for the construction of a new home. Collaboration with other small local businesses is an important element of Nicolette Design Group’s philosophy. As Martin says, “Our craft includes, but goes beyond, interior furnishings. We aim to transform our clients’ homes into spaces they can be proud of, and spaces that enhance their lives.”

Nicolette Martin Founder & CEO

Nicolette Design Group 114 W. Main St. Northville, MI 48167 248-924-2681 nicolettedesigngroup.com

Generations of brides have trusted Harp’s Lingerie to fit them for the most important day of their lives. Since 1947, when Elizabeth “Betty” Harp opened the first Harp’s on Chene in Detroit, it’s been the place for expert fittings and one-on-one personal service. Betty’s granddaughters, Lisa Hardy Hamill and Kim Hardy Hickson, continue to honor that tradition in their Birmingham location by providing knowledgeable service and extraordinary lingerie for that special day — and other occasions, too. Knowing that what you wear underneath your gown is just as important as the gown itself, the expertly trained staff at Harp’s first takes your measurements to ensure an ideal fit. Your comfort and silhouette are of utmost importance, as are looking and feeling your best. At Harp’s Lingerie, you’ll experience excellent

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customer service and will be fitted perfectly for undergarments that accentuate your loveliness and the splendor of your wedding gown. No appointment is necessary, and you’re welcome to bring your dress or work off a photo to determine the best selection. Harp’s offers a variety of intimate apparel for everyday wear and special occasions, and also carries nursing bras. Hard-to-fit sizes, including band sizes from 32-54 and cup sizes from AA-N, are Harp’s specialty. Bring the entire bridal party if you wish, as the difference a professional fitting makes can be uplifting for all. Gift certificates are available and make great shower or bridesmaid gifts. Harp’s is committed to making customers feel beautiful. Come experience the joy of a perfect fit!

Lisa Hardy Hamill & Kim Hardy Hickson Owners

Harp’s Lingerie 265 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009 248-642-2555 harps-lingerie.com

3/12/21 3:55 PM

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Aya Restrepo makes a promise to each and every patient who walks through the doors of her Bloomfield Hills Med Spa, and it’s a promise she takes very seriously. “My power is my sensitivity to people and their perception of themselves,” she says. “My duty is to help patients celebrate their individual beauty.” Restrepo, who is Johns Hopkins surgically trained, follows specific guidelines that help give the face a more youthful, contoured natural appearance without looking puffy or overfilled. Restrepo says she considers herself “an artist with a medical degree.” “When my patients look in the mirror and I see their eyes brighten with new found confidence, my soul lights up and I feel like I have empowered them.”

Aya Restrepo M.S., PA-C

Aya Restrepo Med Spa 36880 Woodward Ave., Ste. 101A Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248-410-1704 ayarestrepo.com aya@ayarestrepo.com

For 33 years, Alternatives For Girls has helped homeless and high-risk girls and young women avoid violence, teen pregnancy, and exploitation. With the assistance of AFG, girls and young women are able to explore and access the support, resources, and opportunities necessary to be safe, grow strong, and make positive life choices. AFG started as a volunteer-run, five-bed emergency shelter for young women. Based in southwest Detroit since its founding, the organization has evolved to serve 6,000 homeless and at-risk girls, women, and families annually through Prevention, Housing, and Outreach programs. AFG’s CEO, Amy Good, says, “It’s a joy to be part of a team of awesome women (and a few men) who enable the girls and women we serve to overcome obstacles and become Detroit leaders and movers themselves.” To donate or volunteer, contact alternativesforgirls.org.

Amanda (Amy) L. Good CEO Alternatives For Girls (AFG) 903 W. Grand Blvd. Detroit MI 48208 313-631-4000 alternativesforgirls.org

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Leading an award-winning human resources team that supports 27,545 colleagues across a statewide health system, from home, during a global pandemic is no easy feat; but Ane McNeil, Chief Human Resources Officer for St. Joe’s (and Trinity Health Michigan, Georgia and Florida), does so with grace by striving for balance. “My job has many challenges, especially in trying times. It’s an honor to support our frontline colleagues and our teams working around the clock and behind the scenes. I’m in awe of what everyone’s doing to keep the hospitals safe and open for our patients. It’s humbling work.” In an effort to seek balance, McNeil turned to fitness four years ago. It became her outlet, and is something she looks forward to daily. “Finding balance through fitness has been one of the greatest gifts I’ve given myself,” she

says. “I’m healthier and more clear-minded. It’s my time to work off stress and center myself for my colleagues and my family.” A mother of two, McNeil feels empowered by being a working mother, and she’s drawn to St. Joe’s for many reasons, one of which is because it’s like a family. “We have an expert team of clinicians; they inspire me to be my best. It’s such a great place to work, and in times like these we come together even more. That’s something that sets St. Joe’s apart — it’s truly a family atmosphere.” McNeil encourages anyone considering a career in health care to visit stjoeshealth.org/careers.

Ane McNeil

Chief Human Resources Officer Trinity Health Michigan (Mercy Health + St. Joe’s) 1600 S. Canton Center Rd. Canton, MI 48188 800-231-2211 stjoeshealth.org

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Jackets for Jobs, which helps low-income individuals dress to impress, then find and keep a job, has been recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in Detroit. For two decades, Jackets for Jobs has assisted more than 30,000 Detroit job-seekers, thanks to the support of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation. The organization’s founder, Alison Vaughn, says Jackets for Jobs’ goal is to eliminate clothing insecurity by outfitting people for life or work. For more information, visit jacketsforjobs.org.

Alison Vaughn

Victoria Morin, of Cryospa Detroit, combines the grit and determination of the Motor City with the spirit and intuition of a customer-centric entrepreneur. Her business has become an established community presence, providing relief from stress and chronic pain to professional athletes, health enthusiasts, and ordinary people. Morin’s motivation, passion, and charisma are evident in every customer interaction, creating a unique experience. Her drive has catapulted the growth of Cryospa Detroit, now expanded into a second location in Rochester Hills.

Victoria Morin

Jackets for Jobs

Jackets for Jobs Inc. 5555 Conner, Ste. 2097 Detroit, MI 48213 313-579-9160 313-579-9180 (fax) jacketsforjobs.org

Owner/Operator Cryospa Detroit

32828 Woodward Ave. Royal Oak, MI 48073 248-591-4418 2607 S. Rochester Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48307 248-515-5929

cryospadetroit.com

A few years ago, Laurie Bolach transformed a Ferndale “diamond in the rough” into a floral shop, garden center, and gift shop. Olive’s Bloombox is named after Bolach’s grandmother, who had a passion for plants and enjoyed spreading kindness and positivity. Olive’s Bloombox features “out of the box” floral arrangements and delivers throughout southeast Michigan. It also handles floral events and weddings, and hosts workshops. Bolach recently launched a mobile floral cart, which travels throughout metro Detroit.

Laurie Bolach

Stephanie Wineman is a go-getter and problem-solver. She’s always moving and innovating, and never takes no for an answer. These characteristics are what have shaped GACO Sourcing into a highly successful business over the years. In 2020, Wineman’s fierce determination was the guiding force that helped her business overcome every obstacle thrown at it. GACO Sourcing focused even more on teamwork, fostering relationships, communication, women’s empowerment, and philanthropy. Wineman is definitely a woman who moves Detroit.

Stephanie Wineman

Owner and Florist Olive’s Bloombox 1011 Livernois Ave. Ferndale, MI 48220 248-794-3652 olivesbloombox.com

Founder

GACO Sourcing 2254 Cole St., Ste. I Birmingham, MI 48009 248-633-2656 gacosourcing.com

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“I couldn’t imagine a more pleasant homebuying experience. With limited time to househunt in a neighborhood with few listings in our price range, Jenn and her team were able to make it happen. We moved from out of state and she handled every aspect and put us at ease. A true professional who has leveraged her experience to create the best home-buying experience.” ~ Indian Village Buyer For more than 20 years, Jenn Chimienti has been building her residential real estate resume with a passion for mastering the precise desires of each client. Whether you’re purchasing a starter condo in the city, upgrading to a suburban fenced-in yard for the family pup, or selling your parents’ estate, you can be confident of her expert attention to every detail. “My concierge-style service

means you’re assured the care you deserve from a trusted professional adviser who’s protecting your interests above all else”. Sellers can expect impeccable photography, engaging videography, exquisite staging, and a comprehensive individualized marketing plan so your home presents at its absolute best and affords you the greatest return on your investment. Buyers can expect aggressive strategies to win in a competitive environment, a team of professionals who are an extension of Chimienti, and a realistic vision that grasps the potential and opportunity behind every door. Chimienti has extensive knowledge of the southeast Michigan housing market and its communities, so when it’s time to create fresh memories under a different roof, She and her team promise the devoted, intentional guidance you owe yourself.

Jenn Chimienti

Associate Broker Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS 1193760 Dwellings Michigan 487 Forest Ave. Plymouth, MI 48170 313-530-5200 (direct) 844-DWELL MI (office) jennc@dwellingsmi.com yourhomecollective.com

WOMEN’S HEALTH Q&A

Make Your

Health a Priority

February is American Heart Month. It’s the perfect time to have a heart-to-heart talk with yourself, especially if you’re a woman. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease causes 1 in 3 women’s deaths each year. It strikes more women than men, women of all ages, women who are fit, and those who have no symptoms at all. Heart disease and other threats to women’s health aren’t inevitable. In fact, many can be prevented if you adopt healthy lifestyle habits. For

example, make time for recommended health screenings and schedule appointments with your physician and dentist. Manage your blood sugar, control your blood pressure, and lower your cholesterol. Include exercise and activities that you enjoy in your daily routine. Protect your immune system by using healthy methods to control stress. Maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke, and eat a nutritious diet limiting foods high in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar. Simple preventive measures will make a dif-

ference in your life, and metro Detroit health professionals can help. Learn about the latest screening technologies for heart health, treatment methods for incontinence, and exercise and movement practices to lessen stress. When you feel healthy and more youthful, you’ll want to look the part. Give yourself the gift of a beautiful smile, an age-defying facial treatment, or cosmetic procedures for a bikini-ready body. You deserve it! ■

WOMEN’S HEALTH Q&A Q:

What’s your New Year’s resolution?

A: To help you feel healthy and take care of your body, Basha Diagnostics offers CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring. It’s inexpensive and helps in knowing your heart condition. If you have a question about your heart health, an echocardiogram or stress echo can be done to evaluate heart function. Basha Diagnostics provides

pockets of fat that won’t go away with dieting and exercise, liposuction can remove the localized areas of fat through a small, thin canula. This procedure will slim down and contour the abdomen, waist, flanks (“love handles”), and the inner and outer thighs to preserve a more defined feminine shape. For a protruding abdomen, a tummy tuck can contour and flatten the abdominal area by removing

Basha Diagnostics, PC Dr. Yahya M. Basha Founder & President 30701 Woodward Ave. Royal Oak, MI 48073 248-288-1600 248-288-2171 (fax) bashaopenmri.com info@bashaopenmri.com Advertisement on page 89

excess fat and skin, and repairing stretched abdominal muscles. If you’re self-conscious about sagging or drooping breasts, a breast-lift will restore a firmer, youthful breast position by lifting the tissue and removing excess skin. Renuvion is a solution for loose and sagging skin in the arms, abdomen, flanks, thighs, legs, and buttocks. Plasma energy is directed underneath the skin through a small incision, resulting in a more toned,

rejuvenated appearance. Cutera Excel HR provides a safe and comfortable permanent hair reduction experience. This cuttingedge laser hair removal technology can eliminate hair on the arms, underarms, legs, and bikini area, leaving you with smooth, soft, and hairless skin. Call Dr. Ellen Janetzke’s office to learn more about treatments that can help you achieve a more youthful and beautiful bikini-ready body.

Dr. Ellen Janetzke, M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 60 West Big Beaver Rd., Ste. 100 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248-220-6760 drellen.com info@drellen.com Advertisement on page 98

Can Pilates and Gyrotonic reduce stress?

A: It’s no secret that the chronic stress many of us are experiencing during this pandemic has taken a toll on our bodies. Stress can manifest in headaches, digestive issues, pain, and even skin disorders. It can also disrupt sleep, create tension, compromise our immune system, and lead to weight gain — none of which leave us feeling healthy or beautiful. That’s why managing stress is crucial.

can provide same-day or next-day appointments, as well as immediate test results. Get a prescription from your primary care doctor and call 248-288-1600 to schedule an appointment or check pricing. If the exam isn’t covered under insurance, visit bashaopenmri.com for specials and the most affordable prices in the area.

I’m looking forward to warmer weather, but I’d like to feel more confident wearing a swimsuit. What types of procedures can help me get a bikini-ready body?

A: If you’re bothered by small

excellent care in patient safety, quality of images, accessibility, and affordability. The technology they use is state-of-the-art. Their highly credentialed interpreting physicians are board-certified, and all of their facilities are accredited by the American College of Radiology. With multiple locations, they

So, where do you start? Exercise and movement are key in giving the mind a space to focus on the present moment. “Keeping the body in shape with safe practices like Gyrotonic and Pilates can ease stress,” says Ron Jegadeesh, Pilates instructor, physical therapist, and owner of Pilates Fitness & Physical Therapy Center in Southfield. “The intentional movement and breath

sequences in both the Gyrotonic system and Pilates give the body permission to release tension, relax, and rejuvenate.” The breath oxygenates the blood and creates a physiological response in the brain that signals it to be calm. This, along with movement, naturally decreases the levels of stress and anxiety experienced in the whole body. Why not see how Pilates and Gyrotonic can help you manage stress?

Pilates Fitness & Physical Therapy Center Ron Jegadeesh, PT, MBA Certified PMA, Polestar Pilates, Stott Pilates, Gyrotonic, and Gyrokinesis Instructor 17418 W. 10 Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48075 248-552-1012 pilatesfitnessevolution.com ron@pilatesfitnessevolution.com Advertisement on page 96

My baggy lower eyelids make me look tired and older. Is there a treatment that can fix this problem?

A: Minimally invasive lower eyelid surgery is a no-stich “bag” removal that dramatically improves the appearance of the area around the eyes. Ophthalmic and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Evan Black says the outpatient treatment rarely involves a skin incision. “It’s a 30- to 40-minute procedure with local anesthesia and sedation for comfort. Since we’re not cutting or removing any skin, surgery

risks are significantly reduced. We also use a fractional CO2 laser to diminish wrinkles, improve the tone, and tighten up the delicate skin in the lower eyelids. After surgery, patients have swelling and bruising around the eyes for a few days to about a week.” Typically, lower eyelid bags are the result of genetics and aging, but it’s not unusual for some people to notice bags under their eyes at

a younger age. “We see patients in their early 30s to the 80s. Lower eyelid surgery is our most popular aesthetic surgery for both men and women,” Dr. Black says. “It’s a permanent solution that can turn back the clock and help you maintain a natural, youthful look.” If you’re tired of living with drooping lower eyelids, call today to schedule a consultation with an expert facial plastic surgeon.

Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery, PC 248-357-5100 facialworks.com Advertisement on page 99

WOMEN’S HEALTH Q&A Q:

Sometimes when I sneeze, I leak urine. Is that a normal part of aging?

A: Incontinence is common and isn’t inevitable because you’ve had children or grown older, but it should be addressed if you experience symptoms. Stress incontinence is associated with losing control when laughing, sneezing, and coughing, or during physical activities. Urge incontinence is a sudden need to urinate, with difficulty getting to the bathroom on time. Incontinence can be related to a surgical procedure, an injury, a medical condition, childbirth, hormonal changes, or

system for strengthening weak pelvic floor muscles. Therapists also provide behavioral education and training that allows patients to take control into their own hands. This may involve athome exercises, scheduled voiding, or changes in diet. Incontinence can be embarrassing and inconvenient, but it’s not OK. Contact Team Rehab to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy for the treatment of incontinence.

Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy We have a clinic near you! Sharla Buza, MPT, ACE, Cert PT Pelvic Health Mentor team-rehab.com Advertisement on page 97

Is there a minimally invasive procedure to correct receding gums?

A: With the Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Technique®, receding gums are typically treated with no cutting, no stitches, and virtually no pain. Periodontist Dr. Joseph Nemeth was the first gum specialist in Michigan to be certified in the use of this minimally invasive technique. “When gums recede, your teeth look much longer and your smile looks older. This condition also can lead to tooth sensitivity, decay, and bone loss,” Dr. Nemeth explains.

weakness in the pelvic floor muscles. Team Rehab physical therapists who specialize in treating abdominal and pelvic health conditions create treatment plans to restore a patient’s normal function and help them avoid a recurrence of symptoms. Working on a personal and confidential level, therapists use treatment methods including manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, postural retraining, therapeutic exercise, electrical stimulation, and the Pelvic Wave Chair — a bioelectric magnetic

“Using the Pinhole Technique, we make a small pinhole in the gum above the teeth to be treated. With special instruments we loosen up the gum tissue, and gently bring it down over the receded areas where it should be. This improves the smile tremendously.” Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is placed through the pinhole. A membrane derived from the patient’s own blood, PRF increases the blood supply in the gums,

speeds healing, and further enhances the result. “The Pinhole Technique offers many advantages over traditional gum grafting, including no incisions, less discomfort, a faster recovery, and prevention of further gum and bone recession and loss,” Dr. Amar Katranji says. “It’s a great technique. Patients do well and are extremely happy to have a healthier, more attractive smile that changes their life.”

Joseph R. Nemeth, D.D.S. & Associates Joseph R. Nemeth, D.D.S. Amar Katranji, D.D.S., M.S. Periodontics, Dental Implants, 248-357-3100 The Richter Center – Halitosis Treatment 248-357-3213 Toll-free: 877-783-7374 29829 Telegraph Rd., Ste.111 Southfield, MI 48034 drnemeth.com jrn@drnemeth.com Advertisement on page 5

I have multiple dental problems that are affecting my quality of life. What is full-mouth rehabilitation?

A: When teeth have broken or worn down, are decayed, or are missing, you may have difficulty chewing, in addition to experiencing pain, embarrassment, and depression that can have a negative impact on your life and overall health. It may seem difficult to know where to begin after enduring many years of dental problems, and the term “full-mouth rehabilitation” may feel unfamiliar and intimidating. At the Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak, they specialize in rebuilding patients’ bites and transforming their smiles. Dr. Chady Elhage and his team are committed to taking the time to get to know you and your goals, so they can customize a treatment plan to address all of your concerns. With full-mouth rehabilitation performed in their specialty office, the Dental

Implant Center of Royal Oak can give their patients gorgeous smiles and restore a functional, comfortable bite — sometimes in just one day. You’ll be able to talk, eat, and laugh with the confidence you may not have had in years! If you have loose, decayed, or missing teeth, or if you struggle with ill-fitting dentures, the All-On-4™ dental implant procedure can provide a full upper and lower arch of replacement teeth in one visit. While you’re comfortably sleeping through the procedure, dental implants are placed in each jaw. Temporary restorations are then attached to the implants, so you can leave with brand-new teeth in one day — there’s no need for dentures during healing! After a few months of healing, you’ll return to the office

so they can fine-tune the bite and smile design. Because the Dental Implant Center has an in-house laboratory, they can customize your restorations and give you a beautiful smile you’ll want to show off. Another type of full-mouth rehabilitation involves placing all-ceramic crowns and veneers on worn, chipped, or discolored teeth. With the most recent advances in digital smile design, a preview of the final outcome can be created in just a few minutes. The Dental Implant Center is committed to helping you achieve a smile that’s perfect for you. Sedation is available for your comfort throughout your dental visits. Full-mouth rehabilitation restores beauty, comfort, and function, which leads to a better quality of life. The results are truly life-changing.

Dental Implant Center of Royal Oak Chady Elhage, D.D.S., M.S. 4251Coolidge Hwy. Royal Oak, MI 48073 248-547-3700 dentalimplantcenterofroyaloak.com info@dentalimplantcenterofroyaloak.com Advertisement on Inside Back Cover and page 11

02.21 ARTS, CULTURE, AND OTHER THINGS TO DO

Agenda C U LT U R E CA L E N DA R p.5 8 M U S I C p.5 9 L E A D E R S H I P p.6 0 P H OTO S p. 62 F I L M p.6 3

MUSI C

PAVING HER OWN WAY

The reopening of the historic Masterpiece Sound Studios is a tribute to pioneering Motown songwriter Sylvia Moy p. 57

PORTRAIT GETTY IMAGES/GILLES PETARD

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Agenda

Culture Calendar FEBRUARY 2021

Our carefully curated guide to the month in arts and entertainment BY RYA N PATRICK HOOP E R

 Shock-rocker Alice Cooper takes a trip back to the Motor City on Detroit Stories, his 21st solo album.

American artist Rashid Johnson’s piece “River Crossing, 2011” is part of Experience & Expression, an exhibit revisiting works in the DIA's collection of contemporary art. 

ART

MUSIC

As you might have noticed, the Detroit Style: Car Design in the Motor City, 1950-2020 exhibition at the Detroit Institute of Arts (on display through June 27) completely took over the suite of contemporary art galleries at the museum. For art fans who don’t necessarily care about cars, the DIA is unveiling Experience & Expression, which pulls from the museum’s collection of contemporary art pieces acquired over the past decade. The exhibit will feature works by Hernan Bas, Yoko Ono, Marina Abramović, McArthur Binion, and many others. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit; through Oct. 3. Visit dia.org.

Alice Cooper might have been born in Detroit, but he’s been calling Phoenix his home for quite a while. With his 21st solo album, however, Cooper is ditching the desert and digging up his Motor City roots for a collection that’s rife with homages to the city that helped craft his signature sound. Detroit Stories, which drops Feb. 26, reunites Cooper with longtime producer Bob Ezrin (who produced early Cooper classics like the proto-punk masterpiece Killer in 1971) and brings in storied Detroit musicians, including MC5 guitarist Wayne Kramer, Detroit Wheels drummer Johnny “Bee” Badanjek, and bassist Paul Randolph. Don’t expect anything sonically groundbreaking; this is more about an iconic

A New ‘Experience’ at the DIA

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

Alice Cooper Comes Home

homegrown musician looking back fondly on his Detroit glory days. BOOKS

Rebellious Rosa Parks — for Kids

When we think of Rosa Parks, one story stands out — her refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus that kicked off an epic, 381-day bus boycott. But her role in that pivotal civil rights moment is just a fraction of her 60-year career as an activist both in the South and

 The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks has been updated for younger readers.

ART

BOOKS

What’s it like to see the world through another’s eyes? One of Detroit’s oldest art institutions, The Scarab Club, hopes a new mixed-media show in its main gallery can help patrons do just that. The Souls of Black Folk exhibition is named after W.E.B. Du Bois’ 1903 book of the same name — a groundbreaking study of sociology and of being Black in America. “In a year like 2020, looking deep into what Blackness is and what racism causes in Black Americans’ lives

What happens when the working class takes on the largest industrial corporation in the world in Flint, Michigan? That’s the epic story behind the new book Midnight in Vehicle City: General Motors, Flint, and the Strike That Created the Middle Class by journalist and historian Edward McClelland, who chronicles the Flint sit-down strike of 19361937 with great detail and gripping narrative. The BBC would later dub it the “strike heard ’round the world,” as it swelled United Auto

‘The Souls of Black Folk’

here in Detroit. More than a decade before the boycott, Parks was integral to a rape investigation that helped expose widespread sexual assaults against Black women in the South. Nearly a decade after Montgomery, she was in Detroit fighting against housing discrimination. Originally released in 2013, Jeanne Theoharis’ The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks helped tell the civil rights icon’s remarkable full story and was hailed as the most complete biography of Parks to date. A new young readers format, out this month, aims to reach the next generation of readers with the vastness of Parks’ contributions. Author Jeanne Theoharis will host a virtual talk at the Detroit Historical Society on March 18 at 6 p.m. See detroithistorical. org for details.

is crucial and is best told by Black artists,” says project director Donna Jackson. The exhibit will feature work from artists Asia Hamilton, Désirée Kelly, Ralph Jones, and Rachel E. Thomas, among others. Programming for Souls of Black Folk: Bearing Our Truths will include a virtual exhibition and brief videos from participating artists talking about their practices and the theme of the exhibit. The Scarab Club, 217 Farnsworth St., Detroit; Feb. 3 through March 6. View the exhibit online at scarabclub.org.

Inside the ‘Strike Heard ’Round the World’

Workers’ membership from 30,000 to 500,000 within a year. History buffs won’t need much convincing to read this title, but even those on the fence will be glad they let this tale of byforce factory takeovers, standoffs between workers and police, and spies within the ranks take them to school. Author Edward McClelland will host a virtual talk at the Flint Public Library on March 4. See fpl.info for details. Ryan Patrick Hooper is the host of CultureShift on 101.9 WDET Detroit’s NPR station (weekdays from noon to 2 p.m.).

ALICE COOPER JENNY RISHER PAINTING COURTESY OF DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS BOOK COURTESY OF BEACON PRESS

Agenda

 At Sylvia Moy’s 2006 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Stevie Wonder recounted how, as a writer for Motown, she rescued his career.

MUSIC

THE HITS ROLL ON

Songwriting pioneer Sylvia Moy’s legacy continues at her Detroit recording studio BY AS H L EY WINN

SYLVIA MOY was born into a musically inclined family from Detroit’s Conant Gardens in 1938. Along with her eight brothers and sisters, she performed regularly in church choirs from the moment she could hold a tune. Moy’s sister Celeste Moy says their mother would later reminisce about teaching a young Moy the ABCs — a near-impossible feat, she says, until she tried teaching Moy the alphabet song. Now, 83 years later, Moy’s siblings are striving to build on the remarkable musical legacy that grew from those roots. Moy was performing professionally by the time she reached her twenties, headlining local venues including the Caucus Club and London Chop House. One night in 1963, the now-legendary founder of Motown Records, Berry Gordy, happened to be in the audience. Impressed by Moy, he offered her a recording and songwriting contract with the label. Despite her strong voice and exceptional range, Moy’s singing was not the talent that would lead to her success. She was soon diagnosed with stomach ulcers — an affliction that, at the time, was commonly attributed to stress — and doctors told Moy she must avoid nerve-racking activities such as performing. But with no shortage of vocal talent at Motown, Gordy was satisfied to keep her on as a songwriter alone. In fact, she became the label’s first female songwriter. But as such, Moy couldn’t follow the industry’s traditional path to success. While her male coworkers were each assigned their own musicians to write for, she was not initially allowed to write independently. Instead, she was relegated to writing in partnership with Motown’s male songwriters — an arrangement that Celeste says meant Moy received only as much credit for her work as the men decided to allow her. But less than a year into her employment at Motown, Moy saw an opportunity. Gordy recounts an anecdote in his autobiography, To Be Loved, in which he assigns Moy direct responsibility for reversing Motown’s decision to drop an adolescent Stevie Wonder from the label. Wonder’s AWARDS GETTY IMAGES: L. BUSACCA/WIREIMAGE FOR SONGWRITER’S HALL OF FAME

Cue Up Some Sylvia Moy For a sense of Sylvia Moy’s songwriting prowess, cue up these R&B favorites, cowritten with other influential Motown alums, such as Hank Cosby, Stevie Wonder, and Richard Morris. 1. “Uptight (Everything’s Alright),” Stevie Wonder 2. “This Old Heart of Mine (Is Weak for You),” The Isley Brothers 3. “It Takes Two,” Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston 4. “I Was Made to Love Her,” Stevie Wonder 5. “I’m Wondering,” Stevie Wonder 6. “Love Bug Leave My Heart Alone,” Martha & the Vandellas 7. “Honey Chile,” Martha & the Vandellas 8. “Shoo-Be-DooBe-Doo-Da-Day,” Stevie Wonder 9. “My Cherie Amour,” Stevie Wonder 10. “(We’ve Got) Honey Love,” Martha & the Vandellas 11. “Never Had a Dream Come True,” Stevie Wonder 12. “Forget Me Not,” Martha & the Vandellas 13. “With a Child’s Heart,” Michael Jackson

voice had begun to change due to puberty after he released “Fingertips” in 1963, and executives didn’t think there was room in the music scene for two blind, Black men — Ray Charles was already well established. Moy thought this was a mistake. She approached Gordy with a proposition: She would write for Wonder, and if the song she penned was a hit, Motown would keep him on and assign her as his solo writer. Gordy accepted, and in 1965, Wonder released “Uptight,” which topped the Billboard R&B Singles chart for five weeks and earned Wonder his first two Grammy nominations. Moy continued her work with Motown until 1973, after the studio relocated to California. While she followed the label for a while, Celeste says, “She just couldn’t adjust to California. She really was a Detroit girl.” So, with a number of hits — including Wonder’s “I Was Made to Love Her” and Martha and the Vandellas’ “Honey Chile” — now under her belt, Moy opted to launch her own recording studio in the city she loved. Following in Gordy’s footsteps, she opened Masterpiece Sound in the basement of her home at 1611 Webb. She would go on to write and produce more than 100 additional songs at Masterpiece, for which she earned six Grammy nominations and 14 BMI Awards from performing rights organization Broadcast Music Incorporated. She was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2006. At the ceremony, Stevie Wonder made a speech in which he told the story of how she’d saved his career. But music wasn’t only an important part of Moy’s own life. She made consistent contributions to the musical enrichment of others. She did this on a small scale, by providing encouragement to children of her friends who expressed interest in music, and on a large scale. When cash-strapped Detroit schools began making cuts to arts programs, she founded and largely self-funded the Center for Creative Communications, which provides free music education to local children. Moy lived in Detroit until her death from complications of pneumonia in 2017. At that time, her estate — including Masterpiece Sound and all of her artistic works — went to Celeste and their seven other siblings. They agreed to commit all these resources to the preservation of Moy’s legacy — an endeavor they began by remodeling the studio’s facilities and expanding its services. With renovations still in progress, the studio held a soft reopening in October. The fully revamped Masterpiece Sound Studios will have its complete launch sometime this year. In honor of Moy’s dedication to music education, Masterpiece is also collaborating with Michigan State University. The partnership aims to help local musicians by holding music courses, taught by MSU professors, at the Detroit studio. Students of the program will receive MSU certificates of completion, providing the credentials they need to access high-quality industry jobs. “We hope Masterpiece is a success in every way,” Celeste says, “something the city of Detroit can be proud of — as a tribute to our sister.” F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Agenda

C U LT U R E K E E P E R S

The Hands at the Helm These six women are guiding some of Detroit’s most important cultural institutions through the pandemic — and paving the way for a new, more diverse generation of arts leadership BY RYAN PATRICK HOO PER

MUSEUMS ACROSS the country and here in our own backyard are working to rebound in 2021 after in-person attendance — and budgets — withered last year. It will pose a tricky challenge for those at the helm. The six women profiled here are part of a national trend: More women than ever hold executive roles at museums, according to a survey released in 2018 by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. But diversity is stagnant. The number of people of color in similar positions grew from just 11 percent to 12 percent between 2015 and 2018, when data was most recently available. All the women profiled pointed to mentorship as a possible remedy. For our annual Women’s Issue, we asked these metro Detroit cultural leaders about their career paths, their upcoming challenges, and the women who inspired them along the way.

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Robin Terry CHAIRWOMAN & CEO OF THE MOTOWN MUSEUM

Anne Parsons PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Robin Terry’s connection to Motown runs through her bloodlines. Motown founder Berry Gordy is her great uncle; Esther Gordy Edwards, who founded the museum in 1985, is her grandmother. Terry is following in those footsteps and pursuing her own vision by leading an ambitious $50-million expansion of the landmark museum. “In my life — and certainly throughout the history of Motown — strong, independent women were present and visible in far greater numbers than average,” Terry says. “Being around visionary women like my grandmother and the dozens of other women who profoundly influenced the legacy of Motown is a unique privilege, and I’m so thankful to be able to tell their stories in a meaningful way at Motown Museum.” That doesn’t mean the work to get more women into leadership roles within cultural institutions is done, she says. “Opportunity and access are critical components for women — especially women of color — and it is imperative that women have other women in positions of influence to reach for the next role and take on a new challenge to build experience and, ultimately, lead.”

When COVID-19 put the crunch on in-person events, Anne Parsons and the DSO were well ahead of the competition with their digital assets. Under Parsons’ leadership, live streams became the norm. As one of the oldest orchestras in the country, housed in a facility that boasted at least 300 events a year, it was an impressive pivot that has kept the DSO in touch with its audience through the pandemic. Parsons has also continued and expanded the DSO’s decadeslong legacy of reaching out to diverse audiences through classical music — an art form that still struggles to build a sustainable pipeline for longneglected minority audiences. Looking ahead to the rest of 2021, Parsons says there is “great hope for being able to come together again, connect, and heal through shared experiences.” One of the biggest management changes she says she’s seen over the years is a wider acceptance of a life/work balance as being a general problem, not just a “woman’s issue.” “This had been a serious barrier for women aspiring to CEO positions,” Parsons says. “More and more, I’m happy to see that it has become a shared value for men and women alike.”

A Woman Who Inspires Her: Vivian Pickard, president & CEO of the strategic consulting firm the Pickard Group. Formerly the president of the General Motors Foundation, Pickard was appointed to the Michigan Women’s Commission in 2020 by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “Through her personal and corporate philanthropy, Vivian invests in people and important cultural institutions throughout this country, particularly in Detroit,” says Terry. “She is passionate about the arts and creating equal opportunity for women and people of color.”

A Woman Who Inspires Her: Chacona Baugh, director emeritus at the DSO and an early supporter of the Classical Roots Celebration, which aims to increase awareness of the contributions of the DSO’s African-American composers and musicians. “I was always struck by her grace, intelligence, compassion, curiosity, and love for life,” says Parsons, “while at the same time admiring her capacity to take on huge tasks, working hard to accomplish goals, create progress and enable positive change.”

PORTRAITS COURTESY OF ROBIN TERRY; ANNE PARSONS

Agenda

Laura A. Hughes INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART DETROIT

Diana Abouali DIRECTOR OF THE ARAB AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

There’s nothing typical about Diana Abouali’s journey to becoming director at the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn. Her Ph.D. in history and Middle Eastern studies from Harvard took her on the teaching route to Dartmouth College before she sought professional fulfillment elsewhere. Her role as head of research and collections at the Palestinian Museum in Birzeit in the West Bank taught her “how to present history when you’re in a classroom” and, she says, how museums work. “The museum field in the U.S. remains largely white, and the face of museum leadership is mostly white and male,” she says. “A lot more work needs to be done to make the museum profession more diverse and inclusive.” After a challenging 2020, Abouali is focused on building back her staff and focusing on the museum’s core mission by resisting trends that emerged during the pandemic. “I think the challenge will be to not fetishize the digital turn in a way that distracts from the real work that we need to do — producing new knowledge about Arab Americans that is interesting, engaging, relevant, and meaningful to our audiences.” A Woman Who Inspires Her: Ladan Akbarnia, curator of South Asian and Islamic Art at the San Diego Museum of Art. “She is at once brilliant, humble, generous, and incredibly productive — a leading scholar in her field, and the creator of world-class exhibits,” Abouali says. “She makes it a priority to mentor her younger female colleagues, which is something I admire a lot in her.”

The former director of the Ruth Ellis Center, a homeless and runaway shelter for LGBTQ+ youth in Highland Park, Laura A. Hughes says an introduction to vogueing — a dance form that emerged out of Harlem’s Black queer community in the late 1970s — helped her understand the power of self-expression through arts, culture, and resilience. “I learned what it means to be an ally, to know that sometimes your voice can open a door, but it isn’t your voice that should be the lead,” Hughes says. In her new interim leadership role at MOCAD, she’ll steer a marquee contemporary art institution that fired its longtime executive director last summer after former employees orchestrated a public campaign to address a toxic workplace culture. “I have watched from a board seat as young, amazingly talented female curators have been devalued, plugged in without autonomy or the investments in their work that would enable them to thrive,” says Hughes, who served on MOCAD’s board for two years before taking on her current role. “The cultural sector should understand and be a beacon for the complexity of voice and experience. I’m delighted that 2020 brought a reckoning with racial justice and that the courageous voices of Detroit activists, artists, and makers are demanding more from our institutions. It is beyond time that we respond.” A Woman Who Inspires Her: Tonya Allen, the former president and CEO of Detroit’s Skillman Foundation, a philanthropy organization dedicated to creating opportunities for children in Detroit. “She operates at the intersection of neighborhoods, the corporate sector, and private industry, and no matter what room she’s in, always reminds us to ask, ‘How are the children?’ ” says Hughes. “If cultural institutions held ourselves to these same standards — if what we exhibit and program always asked, ‘How is Detroit?’ — what would we look like?”

PORTRAITS COURTESY OF DIANA ABOUALI, LAURA A. HUGHES, PATRICIA E. MOORADIAN, ELANA RUGH

Elana Rugh PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Patricia E. Mooradian PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE HENRY FORD

Patricia E. Mooradian says the jump from the for-profit world to the nonprofit Henry Ford was a decision that “literally changed my life.” It changed the museum forever, too. Mooradian’s vision has reshaped The Henry Ford into one of the most original cultural attractions in the country. During the pandemic, online visitation from outside of Michigan rose by 26 percent over the previous year. Its ambitious Invention Convention Worldwide has connected with more than 120,000 K-12 student inventors as part of a larger push to support “innovation, invention, and entrepreneurship regardless of backgrounds and barriers,” says Mooradian. But re-establishing prepandemic in-person attendance numbers is critical for the success of the museum, which saw layoffs last year due to the attendance decline. Transparency and diversity in hiring will be key, too. “While nearly half of museum directors across the country are women, I truly believe there is so much more to be done in terms of diversity and equity for all,” Mooradian says. “We need to continue to make progress in creating opportunities that attract diverse talent at all levels of an organization.” A Woman Who Inspires Her: Mariam Noland, president of the Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan. “The strategy and growth she’s accomplished during her career and the role she’s played in supporting the entire community deserves recognition.”

Elana Rugh emerged from a career in the nonprofit realm to take over the Detroit Historical Society in 2018, which includes the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle. It was a new challenge for Rugh, who had never operated a museum before but adored them as a patron. This year, Rugh will guide the museum through its centennial as only the second woman to lead the cultural institution. “Gender and ethnic equity is an issue throughout the museum community globally, as is the gender pay gap,” Rugh says. “But there is a growing number of female leaders and leaders of color in Detroit’s cultural sector, and I am proud to be part of such a diverse and talented group.” Looking ahead, Rugh foresees a need for more financial support to cover basic operating costs, as well as difficulties in monetizing digital experiences that have become a necessity for the entire cultural sector. “As we come out of the fog of these COVID times, times of great stress and political divide and racial unrest, we have a responsibility here at the Historical Society to ensure that we have collected the stories about this time,” she says, “and that we work to create Detroit’s museum for the next 100 years.” A Woman Who Inspires Her: Anne Parsons, president & CEO of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Rugh says she was the only leader of any Detroit cultural institution to welcome her when she first got the job. “I have particularly appreciated our candid conversations about leading through crisis — and about being a successful leader while also being a mom,” Rugh says. The friendship has led to collaborations between their institutions, and Rugh now sits on the DSO’s Board of Trustees. “Anne represents many of the best traits I aspire to have as I evolve as the leader of the Historical Society.”

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Agenda

 These circa 1890 portraits by George H. Bonnell show Chief David Shopp-en-a-gon of Grayling, Michigan, in traditional attire (inset) and dressed in European garb.

PHOTOGRAPHY

MOVING IMAGES

A U-M photo exhibit shifts the focus to the Native people on the other side of the lens BY CH R I S T O PHE R P ORTE R

AS I LOOK OUT over a pond that’s rippling gently under falling snow, the pine trees and fields covered in white, I’m writing this column in my Christmas-light-bright house, which rests on Bodéwadmiké (Potawatomi) land that was ceded through a coercive treaty. A similar sentence begins “No, not even for a picture”: Re-examining the Native Midwest and Tribes’ Relations to the History of Photography, an online exhibition produced for the William L. Clements Library by two University of Michigan students with American Indian ancestry. Undergrad Lindsey Willow Smith (member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians) and Ph.D. candidate Veronica Cook Williamson (Choctaw ancestry, citizen of the Chickasaw Nation) used materials from the Richard Pohrt Jr. Collection of Native American Photography to explore ideas of consent, agency, and representation. “No, not even for a picture” is succinct in its presentation — around 50 photos and documents — but its impact on me was enormous. Perhaps that’s because I’d felt a deepening combination of empathy and anger during a year that was an unmitigated disaster for nearly all but the wealthiest Americans, with minorities, including American Indians, enduring a disproportionate amount of suffering during the pandemic— as they did pre-COVID and likely will continue to do after everyone has been vaccinated. What struck me most while viewing these photos of the Anishinaabe people — from the Great Lakes region and stretching through the upper and far West of North America — was how Native peoples were routinely offered incentives from the government, but always in the form of unequal treaties that were then torn up almost as quickly as they were written. This precarious state of existence left some Great Lakes Natives from the “Three Fires” of the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi) open to exploitation, whether by having their lands “bought” for almost nothing, or by having their photos taken against their will for the titillation of a slack-jawed nation that wanted to gorge on

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“otherness.” Some Native Americans went along with the program, taking up Christianity or willingly posing for photos in European garb — or half-Euro, half-Native outfits — while many others, such as groups of Indian children being rounded up and sent to boarding schools, had no choice. Some photos in the exhibit are in the form of postcards with descriptive text on the back, and other images are accompanied by writings that originally appeared with the pictures. In almost every case, there’s some kind of moralizing, some kind of othering, some kind of deception in the text — or in the case of the photo that gives the exhibit its name, outright deceit. Photographer John Wentworth Sanborn persuaded a reluctant Native man to stand at a corn-pounding machine — women’s work then — by promising not to publish the picture. Of course, the photo was published in 1891’s The International Annual of The Photographic Bulletin. Sanborn’s prose explaining how he photographed this adult man uses the same tone modern parents might use when talking about coaxing their reluctant children to pose for social media content. It’s the textual equivalent of patting the kid’s head while throwing a knowing wink to other parents — and it’s utterly insulting to a fellow human. One of the most affecting parts of “No, not even for a picture” doesn’t feature images of people. The Displaced Portraiture section begins with photos of the Prairie Band Potawatomi, who were forced,

due to a de rigueur treaty fracture, to relocate from Indiana to Kansas on a two-month march that came to be known as the Potawatomi Trail of Death. But the next photos in the section are of vacation cottages in Burt Lake, Michigan — home of the popular Camp Al-Gon-Quian summer camp. Because forced removals were becoming more common, the Anishinaabe started buying up their own lands in the 1800s in a bid to keep the U.S. government at bay. The Ottawa and Chippewa in the Burt Lake area bought more than 300 acres and registered the ownership titles with Michigan’s governor. Even so, in 1900, a land speculator was able to buy the grounds out from under the Anishinaabe because of unpaid taxes. On Oct. 15 of that year, the new owner, enthusiastically assisted by the local sheriff, drove away the Anishinaabe, seized the land, and burned their homes. The land was then parceled out for non-Natives to buy and build on, which is one reason the area is now filled with idyllic cottages. The 1920s postcards in this exhibit show lovely little homes, all built on the charred remains of a civilization that had been driven away by European American greed and ruthlessness. “No, not even for a picture” left me seething and needing to channel that anger into action. But how? One small step is to acknowledge that an issue exists, which is why I — and the exhibit’s curators — began our writing by acknowledging that where we live isn’t our land to claim. Find the exhibit at clements.umich.edu. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RICHARD POHRT JR. COLLECTION OF NATIVE AMERICAN PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN’S CLEMENTS LIBRARY

Agenda

FILM

THE KIDS ON CASS

Dope, Hookers and Pavement re-examines Detroit’s short-lived hardcore punk scene

An Epic, 624-Page Homage to Cranbrook

BY CH R I S T O PHE R P ORTE R

OTTO BUJ’S DOCUMENTARY Dope, Hookers and Pavement: The Real and Imagined History of Detroit Hardcore starts with a series of interviews that all but say the music wasn’t that important. It may seem odd to undercut a core element of the scene you’re documenting — in this case, the speedy, harsh style of punk known as hardcore — but director Buj has a reasonable explanation. “To me, the relevance of the story is less about the music and more about how these kids pulled together from all over southeast Michigan and Windsor to build their scene/community and an environment to create their music when one didn’t exist for them,” Buj says. “As Ian MacKaye [of Washington, D.C.’s Minor Threat and later Fugazi] says at the conclusion of the film, the ‘music was just a currency.’ ” “The scene is what happens outside the gig,” MacKaye says in the documentary. “That’s where the real social fabric is being knit. I think there was an enormous amount of really thoughtful people — men and women, boys and girls — who were sitting on the curb making this sort of scene something that was more connected than most people realize. Detroit rock city, right?” MacKaye describes Detroit at the time as a central energy hub that helped fuel the rest of the country’s hardcore scenes with its DIY spirit. Dope, Hookers and Pavement focuses primarily on 10 months spanning 1981-1982 when that musical currency was exchanged in dive bars such as Windsor’s Coronation Tavern, the Endless Summer Skateboard Park in Roseville, and Detroit’s The Freezer Theater at 3958 Cass Ave. The Freezer became the clubhouse for early Detroit hardcore because anybody could get in, an important detail since a large share of the audience and the bands themselves were teenagers. The building was a dilapidated, empty box with no plumbing or electricity — an electric cord was run into The Freezer from a nearby business. But people such as Corey Rusk, who initially played bass with Necros and later turned Touch and Go Records into one the greatest American independent music labels, pitched in to build a stage and turned The Freezer into a short-lived hardcore hub. Buj’s documentary features reminiscences from Negative Approach’s John Brannon (later of Laughing Hyenas and Easy Action) and The Meatmen’s Tesco Vee, as well as members of Necros, Bored Youth, The Fix, and other people who were POSTER COURTESY OF OTTO BUJ

By Ryan Patrick Hooper

part of Detroit’s early hardcore scene, which wasn’t well documented because, Buj says, “I think it all just happened so fast. ... Documenting anything for posterity was not top of mind amongst all the kids involved.” But while digging through old home movies, Buj stumbled across a silent film his older brother had shot of The Fix playing The Freezer, the only known footage inside the venue. That discovery is what prompted Buj, a Windsor-based filmmaker, to begin the two-year process of making Dope, Hookers and Pavement, which is what Brannon jokes in the film were the only things in the Cass Corridor at the time. The doc, which premiered at the 2020 Freep Film Festival and is now available to stream at detroithardcoremovie.com ($10), shows the transition of Detroit’s underground music scene from punk to hardcore and its eventual splintering as negative forces such as drugs and Nazi skinheads made things a little more dangerous. With 70-plus interviews, Buj had plenty of talking-head material to work with, as well as show flyers and photos to capture the spirit of the moment even without the benefit of concert footage. “During that early period,” Buj says, “the Detroit hardcore kids were setting the mold, establishing the template for what was to follow in the city after they had all moved on to other things. It was a scrappy, magical, and intensely creative and resourceful time. ... Other than what was happening in California and Washington, D.C., at the time, there really wasn’t much of a precedent for what the Detroit hardcore kids were doing in 1981.” Dope, Hookers and Pavement helps document an overlooked part of Detroit’s music legacy and helps place it in the company of Motown, The MC5, techno, The White Stripes, and other sonic exports. While Detroit hardcore never achieved the same level of musical influence as groups from D.C., New York City, and Southern California, Buj admits some of those Motor City bands do stand the test of time. “Today, there’s absolutely no reason I can’t esteem Negative Approach the same way I esteem The Kinks or Bad Brains,” Buj says. “They’re all just great variants on rock ’n’ roll produced under different circumstances and a range of skill sets, yet wholly authentic, without pretense or polish.” Sounds a lot like Detroit.  The documentary makes the case that hardcore belongs alongside Detroit’s better-known musical exports.

The Cranbrook Academy of Art is telling its story in a big way this month with the release of a massive new hardcover book. With Eyes Opened: Cranbrook Academy of Art Since 1932 is a limited-edition, 624-page epic documenting this storied cultural institution and its “radical experiment in the education of artists.” About 200 artists and designers across nearly 90 years are featured in a sweeping survey illustrated with nearly 500 color, black-and-white, and duotone images. Founded in 1932, the Cranbrook Academy of Art has shaped contemporary design in America like few other institutions. This summer, it will celebrate with one of its largest self-examinations in decades. As the book is conquering coffee tables, the Cranbrook Art Museum will be prepping for a huge exhibition of the same name that, beginning June 18, will bring the story of Cranbrook to life on its gallery walls. More than 250 works across a variety of fields — architecture, ceramics, design, fiber, painting, photography, sculpture, and more — will be featured. With Eyes Opened: Cranbrook Academy of Art Since 1932 ($125) will be available exclusively at the Cranbrook Art Museum. Preorder at cranbrookartmuseum.org.

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2021 FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGERS

Who will be named? Find out in a special section inside the June issue. To share your opinion, go to

fivestarprofessional.com/wmconsumerfeedback

02.21 AN EPICUREAN’S GUIDE TO THE REGION’S DINING SCENE

Food&Drink R ETA IL

GREAT PLATES Meet the food entrepreneurs crafting charcuterie boards as artful as they are ambrosial p. 71

D R I N K S p. 66 R E STAU R A N T R E P O RT p.6 7 P R O F I L E p. 70 R E TA I L p. 71 H O M E C O O K I N G p.7 2 R E STAU R A N T L I ST I N G S p.7 7

PLATE GERARD + BELEVENDER

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Food&Drink  Play up your cup of hot chocolate at home with cocoa bombs from Sarah’s Cookie Jar in Huntington Woods (sarahscookiejar.com for orders) and The Home Cakery in Novi ($5-$7 each).

DRINKS

SOME LIKE IT HOT

Warm up this winter with spiked beverages BY TAMM Y COXEN PHOT O BY JOE VAUG H N

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WHAT COULD BE more comforting than hot chocolate? Not much, especially if that hot chocolate comes in a hot cocoa bomb. This confection is made up of a decorated hollow chocolate shell filled with hot cocoa mix and other flavorings and packed with mini marshmallows. Pour hot milk or water over the top, and the marshmallows blossom into your cup. This cupful of delight was invented in 2019 by Eric Torres Garcia in Boise, Idaho, and rocketed to popularity thanks to TikTok, with the videofocused social media platform being the perfect way to show off his creation. While the hot cocoa bomb trend started in Idaho, it quickly spread around the country, with many small businesses creating their own versions to meet demand. In metro Detroit, that included Detroit Sugar Cookie, So Delish in Livonia, and Homestead Kitchen in Westland. Holiday demand

was so hot that many shops had a hard time keeping the coveted bombs in stock, and with Valentine’s Day on the horizon, demand will likely tick up again. If you can get your hands on a cocoa bomb (or just a mug of regular hot cocoa), consider indulging both your inner child and your grown-up self by spiking your beverage. Tip in a little whiskey from Motor City Gas in Royal Oak or Detroit City Distillery. Cabresto Tequila would be a great addition to a peppermint-flavored hot cocoa bomb. Or, spice things up with some Ginger Devil from Rusted Crow Spirits in Dearborn Heights. Another surprisingly delicious addition to hot chocolate is Green Chartreuse. The monk-made French liqueur is key to one of Detroit’s most iconic cocktails, The Last Word, invented at the Detroit Athletic Club in 1916. That drink is great for summer, with an equal-parts formula of gin, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice joining the herbal complexity of Green Chartreuse. But if you have a bottle of Green Chartreuse lingering in your liquor cabinet, a steaming mug of Green Chaud is a more season-friendly way to enjoy it. It’s a common aprèsski drink in the Alps, so imagine yourself in a ski lodge and take a trip in your glass. Closer to home, Berkley Common has created its own winter lodge experience. You can book a heated igloo for private dining or snuggle up with lodge-provided blankets around the fire on the restaurant’s “winter wonderland” patio. Sip on Grandma’s Hot Chocolate, featuring white chocolate and raspberry liqueur, or — for the rare few who don’t like chocolate — mulled wine. If you’re feeling warm enough from the fire or your igloo heater, you could also indulge in the Bandit, a bacon fat-washed old fashioned served in a smoke-filled dome. The Monarch Club also has private igloos available for reservation at the Club’s rooftop location in downtown Detroit. The Xocolate Bar harks back to the original chocolate drink from Mexico, with the addition of sweet and spicy Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur. Spiked hot chocolate isn’t the only alcoholic way to keep warm, of course. Michigan-based Cask and Kettle makes pods that fit into a Keurig machine to create an instant mug of spiked coffee, with varieties including Irish, Mexican, and Mint Patty. With so much of our socializing moving outdoors this winter, hot beverages — spiked or not — are more essential than ever to keep hands and insides warm. They’re also just comforting at a time when lots of people are looking for, well, comfort. Tammy Coxen is chief tasting officer of Tammy’s Tastings, offering online classes for cocktail connoisseurs. She appears on Michigan Radio’s cocktail segment Cheers! and is the co-author of the book Cheers to Michigan: A Celebration of Cocktail Culture and Craft Distillers (University of Michigan Press, 2019).

Food&Drink

A stone fireplace anchors the empty dining room at Andiamo’s Bloomfield Township location.

R E STAU R A N T R E P O RT

Is Lansing Listening? The pandemic and state restrictions place even food industry giants at mortal risk. The Joe Vicari Restaurant Group — metro Detroit’s largest restaurant group — however, is up for the fight. BY LY NDSAY G R EEN | PH O T OS BY H AY D EN STI NEBAUG H

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Food&Drink

 (Clockwise from top left) Rosalie and Joe Vicari pictured at Joe Muer Seafood in Bloomfield Hills, one of 25 restaurants that make up the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group; At Joe Muer, an 8-oz. Char-Grilled Chairman’s Reserve Filet Mignon is served with a 5-oz. South African Lobster Tail and whipped potatoes; Joe says the key to JVRG’s longevity is sourcing only the freshest ingredients.

THE JOE VICARI Restaurant Group made headlines for a number of reasons last fall. In September, the group announced a January opening for The Statler Bistro, a French-American restaurant and market at the highly anticipated City Club Apartments development in downtown Detroit. In October, it issued a press release detailing the addition of three new local restaurants to its portfolio — with 25 eateries now under its umbrella, JVRG became the largest independent restaurant group in metro Detroit. And it made headlines again in midNovember, when the family-owned business rallied troops to fight against the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ pandemic order suspending indoor dining for a second time. The restaurant group best known for from-scratch pastas at its chain of Andiamo restaurants and for its

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succulent lobster and dry-aged steaks at Joe Muer Seafood, had pivoted quickly to adapt to the state’s first lockdown. The team curated carryout menus for both food and cocktails, launched cooking lessons with Executive Chef Jim Oppat, and later, introduced virtual wine tastings with guest sommeliers. Co-owners Joe and Rosalie Vicari, like many restaurateurs, masterminded new and untraditional revenue streams for the business. During the five-month stint when indoor service was again permitted, the Vicaris say, the restaurants diligently operated in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines. All employees were expected to wear masks and gloves at all times, tables were situated more than 6 feet apart, and temperature-scanning kiosks were even installed to prevent anyone who might have been

running a fever from entering the premises — a $30,000 investment. For the Vicaris, the renewed restaurant clampdown was difficult to reconcile, considering the extensive precautions the industry had taken for the safety of guests as well as scientific data that they felt did not justify the decision. The week Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the new “three-week pause” on indoor dining and some other services — between Nov. 18 and Dec. 8 — restaurants and bars accounted for 5.5 percent of reported outbreaks in the state, prompting the Vicaris to ask: What about the remaining nearly 95 percent? According to Michigan’s outbreak reporting data, there were a total of 141 new outbreaks in bars and restaurants in the state (47 in metro Detroit) between Aug. 20 and the week of Nov. 12. In the same time span, there were at least 286 new outbreaks in Michigan K-12 schools, and 152 during social gatherings such as birthday parties, funerals, and weddings. On Dec. 18, Whitmer announced that high schools, which had also been shut since mid-November, could return to in-person learning. Two-household gatherings as well as funerals limited to 25 people were also deemed acceptable. The ban on indoor dining, however, would be extended well into January. These decisions centered on one simple fact: Diners cannot eat or drink while wearing a mask — a key element in preventing the spread of COVID-19. When news of the second restaurant shutdown order broke in November, restaurant owners were disheartened and angry, many unsure their

Food&Drink  Seared Sea Scallops at the Andiamo Bloomfield Township location are served atop a Peruvian purple potato purée and Brussels sprouts.

businesses would survive another extended lockdown. At the Vicaris’ establishments, approximately 700 employees were laid off between March and November. The pandemic was also a contributing factor in the group’s decision to put its summertime hotspot Brownie’s on the Lake up for sale, and the Vicaris predict they will have no choice but to close other locations if severe restrictions on indoor dining are prolonged.

Readying for Battle

“How can it not be your first instinct to say, ‘There’s no way we’re going to shut down again — our businesses won’t survive,’ ” Rosalie asks. Initially, in a letter shared with fellow local restaurant owners, the Vicaris encouraged restaurateurs to defy the order if the “pause” was extended past Dec. 8. Then, Joe says, calmer heads prevailed. “We made a decision that it wasn’t the right thing to do. You’d lose your liquor and food licenses, and it would cost thousands of dollars to get them back.” (In fact, the Vicari Group soon made headlines again — for just what Joe warned other restaurateurs about. In mid-December, the state suspended Andiamo Warren’s liquor license for violating the ban on indoor dining by reportedly hosting a wedding with more than 60 guests in attendance. The Vicaris declined to comment on these reports.) On Dec. 3, the Vicaris held a virtual meeting where representatives from more than 400 restaurants were invited to voice their concerns over the shutdown. “The message that we gave was that we need to work together with Lansing to figure out how to safely reopen our restaurants,” Rosalie says. Based on their conversations, the Vicaris believed fellow owners would have been willing to adhere to requirements that would have allowed them to operate with limited services. Joe points to regulations in states such as Pennsylvania, where restaurateurs placed a limit on diners’ alcoholic beverages to keep guests from becoming neglectful of social distancing and other safety precautions as stiff cocktails kicked in. “There’s more protocol that we could do to stay open, and I think that restaurants would be happy to abide by those,” Rosalie says. “It’s just, nobody is listening to us.” The Vicaris say they reached out to Whitmer’s office to present ideas that were discussed during the Dec. 3 meeting but, as of press time, they had not received a response.

Anatomy of a Restaurant Magnate

Joe Vicari, a chemical paper supplier by trade, opened his first restaurant in 1989. He credits the success of Andiamo to the late Aldo Ottaviani, a master chef he hired early on, who laid the foundation for the restaurant’s traditional Italian recipes and ultimately for the principles that guide the chain to this day. “We have purveyors ask why we hand-make our pastas when there’s equipment that’s cheaper

“We’re a very hands-on family business. We work side by side with our employees. They’re not just a number on payroll.” —ROSALIE VICARI

and quicker — and makes pasta that’s almost as good,” Joe says. “But it’s not the same. That’s why we continue the legend of Aldo, and we insist on it.” Today, there are six Andiamo restaurants in the Detroit area — and one eatery at Detroit Metro Airport — as well as an Andiamo Italian Steakhouse based in Las Vegas. In addition to the Andiamo empire, Joe opened Joe Muer Seafood, a white-linen restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and hearty meats. Though the concept was his own, he says his wife took the brand to the next level. In 2004, Rosalie joined the group as co-owner, elevating the design and service to the level of fine dining guests experience at Joe Muer today. “I’m the queen of the details,” she says. “If there’s a spot on a glass, I’ll see it from across the room.” It could be argued that JVRG is the type of business that will weather the storm of the pandemic and that the defiant approach the Vicaris took when

the November pandemic order was announced was gratuitous. In addition to its restaurant entities, the group operates one of Michigan’s largest catering and event management companies, providing meals for the area’s biggest events, including the annual Detroit Grand Prix. “Yes, we personally, will be fine, but this was for our employees,” Rosalie says. “We’re a very handson family business. We work side by side with our employees. They’re not just a number on payroll.” She and Joe, she insists, never intended to jeopardize anybody’s health with their opposition to state restrictions. The goal was only to advocate for an industry that they care about deeply. It was for the line cooks and bussers, servers, dishwashers, and hosts who’ve lost their jobs because of the extended suspension of indoor dining. Says Rosalie: “Anyone who thinks, ‘You guys are just worried about money,’ you don’t know us.” F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Food&Drink  “I want us to help each other win,” says BBSC founder Chi Walker. “That’s the end game.”

HISTORY IN THE MAKING PROFILE

Pandemic permitting, Chi Walker will introduce the first iteration of the Black Bottom Supper Club dinner series just in time for Black History Month BY LYNDSAY GR EEN PHOT OS BY RE BE CCA SIMONOV

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

IT WAS DURING her former career working with nonprofit organizations that Detroit native Chi Walker discovered the role food could play in community development. As a senior associate for a homeowner loan program in Washington, D.C., she traveled across the country to help train various organizations. “We wanted to be able to contribute to these communities that we were visiting to help stimulate the economy,” Walker says. “In effect, every time we visited a city, we were bringing 2,000 to 3,000 people with us, which could generate 1 to 2 million dollars of revenue for a week.” Walker would take it upon herself to curate itineraries of small, local businesses — mainly restaurants — for her team to patronize during their travels. “I thought, ‘I wish I could do something like this in Detroit.’ ” Soon enough, she was back home running Slightly Burnt, a food blog chronicling her dining experiences at Detroit-area mom-and-pop establishments — particularly Blackowned businesses. “I always felt like Black-owned restaurants and Black chefs don’t get enough recognition. They don’t get the highlight, the love, the support that their non-Black or white contemporaries get. I wanted to create a space for them.”

Over the next few years, Walker would fully immerse herself in the food world, honing her cooking skills, hosting intimate dinner parties out of her apartment, and eventually launching a boutique catering company, specializing in pop-up dining experiences. Under Wildflower Hospitality, she’s partnered with Detroit chef Nik Cole to launch Test Kitchen Tuesday, a weekly dinner series designed for local creatives. Today, Walker curates cannabisinfused culinary experiences for local diners This month, Walker plans to realize the dinner series of her dreams, aiming to foster development within the Black community through food. “The majority of the restaurants in Detroit are Blackowned, but we only hear about 10 or 20 restaurants in the city — and they are not owned by people who look like us. I want to do my best to change the narrative,” she says. Through Black Bottom Supper Club, Walker will host quarterly dinners held at local Black-owned businesses, hosted by Black community leaders, and featuring menus curated by Black chefs and mixologists. Her mission? To provide a space for up to 30 creatives to gather and share ideas that will ultimately uplift the Black community. “I think that a lot of the changes that come out of the community are inspired by art and artists,” she says. “And food is an art.” While the Harlem Renaissance is well known, Walker says many people are unfamiliar with the same types of activism that occurred in creative communities in other major cities across the country. Locally, Walker says, the most productive meetings of the minds happened in Detroit’s Black Bottom, an area where she herself has roots. “My grandparents and great aunts and uncles moved there during the Great Migration to find jobs,” she says. “My mom talked about all of the businesses being Black-owned and how they didn’t have to go outside of their community for anything.” Though she plans to give guest chefs the creative freedom to come up with innovative menus for their dinners, when it’s her turn to step into the kitchen for a Black Bottom Supper Club event, Walker will draw inspiration from the restaurants that were most popular in the area. “I’m going to pull from what was on the menus back then,” she says. “They’re super traditional dishes, like beef Wellington, so that’s kind of my lane. I’m not super fancy, but I’m very intentional about what I put in my meals, and I try to make everything with love.” Regulations placed on the food industry during the pandemic present challenges for dinner parties of this size. Still, Walker is working toward a Feb. 14 launch as her love letter to the city of Detroit. “We’re operating under a whole new level of safety and concern and fear that I’ve never experienced, but we’re going to keep pushing forward,” she says. “I want everybody to win, but I need people who look like me to win, and I want to create a space in which that could happen.”

Food&Drink

Customize Thyme & Honey boards with sweet and savory bites of your choice. 

Get on Board RETAIL

Charcuterie, artisan cheeses, fruits, and nuts — these five local businesses preciously present these accoutrements for easy grazing BY LYN DS AY GREEN PH O T O BY GERA RD + B ELV EN D ERE

The Cheese Lady

Whether you’re crafty or simply frugal, there’s really no way to mess up a cheese board so long as you’re using quality ingredients. The Cheese Lady can help. The company, founded in Muskegon, Michigan, has grown into what founder Kathleen Fagan Riegler calls The Cheese Lady Sisterhood, with eight franchises across the state and a ninth expected to open this year. Choose among a selection of more than 200 artisan cheeses, crackers and breads, condiments, and pâtés locally at shops in Rochester, Farmington, and Fenton. The Cheese Lady, thecheeselady.net for locations

Cheese to Please

Presentation matters. Not only are Cheese to Please’s gourmet grazing boards packaged in charming, eco-friendly wooden rounds with wooden utensils tied with a brown paper bow, but founder Missy Stines is known to make her deliveries in a classic Volkswagen Beetle convertible with the top down. In November, Stines also introduced virtual grazing board workshops. Sign up for a course in charcuterie design via Zoom for company team-building or as a fun activity for you and a group of loved ones near and far. Cheese to Please, cheesetoplease.com

Grazie Board Co.

A number of Instagram-only charcuterie and grazing table businesses have cropped up around the Detroit area. But one stands out. Unlike

other social media-centric companies that provide various catering services, Grazie Board Co. offers boards and only boards. In addition to traditional boards made with blends of cheeses, meats, fresh and dried fruits, olives, nuts, and crackers, clients can also try a brunch board, s’mores board, hot chocolate board, or even a candy board if you’d like. Grazie Board Co., @grazieboardco on Instagram for orders

Lit Boards

Unexpected accoutrements, from-scratch jams, and fresh herb garnishes light up the platters created by Lit Boards. We’re talking uniquely flavored cheeses — such as blueberry goat cheese, rose white cheddar, and lemon ricotta — white truffle popcorn, everything bagel olives, and pickles. You can also support this Black-owned business by purchasing a wooden Lit Board complete with a four-piece cheese knife set. Lit Boards, lit-boards. business.site

Thyme & Honey

Thyme & Honey’s meal prep service delivers clean, healthconscious meals directly to your door — the catering company’s dishes are free of refined sugars, starches, and carbs, and all meat is Amish and halal. With the brand’s charcuterie boards, however, there’s room to play. Add a sinful touch to any board with sweet treats, such as chocolate-covered pretzels, meringues, and miniature jars of hot honey or preserves. Thyme & Honey, thymeandhoneyfood.com

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

Food&Drink

 Chefs Cameron Rolka and Sarah Welch (both pictured bottom left) prepare a dim sum dinner, featuring dumplings, stir-fried cauliflower and baby oyster mushrooms, and pork buns with sides of chili oil, kimchi, and pickled vegetables.

HOME COOKING

DINNER FOR TWO

At home with newly engaged chef duo Sarah Welch and Cameron Rolka BY LY N DS AY G RE E N P H O T O S BY R E BE CCA SIM ONOV

“IT WAS NOT necessarily love at first sight,” Cameron Rolka says with a laugh as he describes his first impression of his now-fiancée, Sarah Welch. At the time, the two chefs worked in the kitchen at Mani Osteria and Bar in Ann Arbor, with Rolka serving as a line cook and Welch a sous chef. “I was his boss and apparently, I was brutal to him — I don’t remember that,” Welch adds. Gradually, things evolved from a working relationship to a friendship to a romantic relationship, and in June, nine years after the couple started dating, Rolka, executive chef at Mink in Detroit, proposed. “Fundamentally, I never loved the idea of committing to somebody for life because you have no idea who you’re going to be in 20 years, but that was functioning in competition with my want to spend the rest of my life with Cam,” Welch says. Rolka’s original plan for a grand gesture surrounded by friends was ultimately derailed by the pandemic. Instead, he brought the ring — which he spent months customizing with a Chicago jeweler — along for a quick camping trip to Charlevoix, Michigan, and surprised himself with an impromptu proposal in the great outdoors. “The mood was right, the sunset was going — I didn’t know I was going to do it until I did it,” he says. To celebrate, the two did what they do best — they cooked. A ribeye steak from Marrow, Welch’s Detroit restaurant and butcher shop, sizzled over a fire as they celebrated the moment. “I’m a relatively private person, so it was nice to be able to have that experience with just him,” Welch says. “COVID has made a lot of people realize that they don’t like spending time with their loved ones as much as they thought they did. But for Cam and I, it’s been

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

Food&Drink

 Welch and Rolka on kitchen prep at their Hamtramck home.

a respite. We thought, if we can get through a global pandemic and love each other’s company even more, this is probably the right call.” Rolka and Welch are looking forward to having a fun, leisurely wedding that will allow them to enjoy a full weekend with their friends and family, ideally in August. “We don’t want it to just be one night, because then it feels like we’re planning an event for someone else. We’re really excited about shutting the restaurants down and renting out a summer camp for the weekend and spending quality time with people without the pressure of returning to work,” Welch says. However, they’re managing their expectations, as the evolution of the pandemic can be unpredictable. “If COVID is still a thing by then, we may need to move things to 2022.” In the meantime, the two say they’ve used some of their newfound downtime to create space for work-life balance — a luxury that they didn’t have much of prior to the pandemic. Quality time in the Rolka-Welch household is spent learning new hobbies or playing games like cribbage into the wee hours of the night. Normal dinners

‘Snack Dinner’ & Chill

Setting the scene for a night in The Main Dish When they’re not building a usual grazing table stocked with an assortment of tin fish, specialty sauces, artisan cheeses, and fresh fruits, Rolka and Welch look to Asian accoutrements for snacking. “We love going to 168 Asian Mart [in Madison Heights] and picking up a bunch of things from the prepared area,” Rolka says. The couple recommends items, such as frozen dumplings, bao, kimchi, and seaweed salads. “It’s really fun and you can’t mess

it up,” Welch says. “All you have to do is steam stuff — that’s the easiest thing to do.” Beverages Rather than craft cocktails, Rolka and Welch tend to opt for Basque ciders or dry wines to pair with their dishes. “We also like drinking IPAs as far as beer goes. We like the bitterness and the grapefruit side of it.” Dessert “For dessert, we’re pretty no-nonsense,” Rolka says. A simple pint of Ben & Jerry’s does the trick. ’90s Movies When they’re not playing games or bingewatching sitcoms, Rolka and Welch enjoy watching nostalgic films from the 1990s as they pluck dumplings from their snack table setup. The latest: 10 Things I Hate About You. “They’re low investment and you know exactly what’s going to happen,” Welch says with a laugh.

feature hearty proteins with a vegetable side dish. Date nights, though, are for grazing. “When we’re really trying to have a date night at home, we tend to lean toward the snack-y, graze-y kinds of foods,” Rolka says as he begins to describe “snack dinners,” a term they’ve coined for their special meals in. As chefs, they say they’ve become strolling eaters. “In the restaurant business, you learn to eat when you can, so the idea of sitting down to eat a full meal feels like something that isn’t for our kind of people,” Welch says. Instead, they’ll make a charcuterie board large enough for a full meal, stocked with meats, cheeses, crackers, breads, jams, mustards, and, well, “everything basically,” Welch says. “We always really enjoy it because you can just hang out and eat all night,” Rolka says. Given that their work has overlapped lately, Rolka adds that the goal for date night is to reconnect on a level outside of work. “Date night is like a safe space,” Welch says. “We both know that we’re setting this time aside to enjoy each other’s company and allocate a special time to be a couple. It’s a time for decompression, for sure, but it’s also just about being friends instead of co-workers and remembering what it’s like to have fun together.” F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

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Restaurant Guide Wayne

Brooklyn Street Local $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • This Corktown spot serves breakfast, lunch, and brunch with fresh, locally grown, and organic ingredients. It lists its sources on a chalkboard and offers plenty of dishes that are vegan and vegetarian-friendly. Poutine — hand-cut fries, cheese curds, and mushroom or beef gravy — is the tip-off that the proprietors are from Canada. 1266 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-262-6547. B,L Tue.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun.

Al Ameer $$ LEBANESE • This Lebanese restaurant is a recipient of the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award. The Al Ameer platter is perfect for sharing: two grape leaves, two fried kibbeh, chicken shawarma, tawook, kabob, kafta,and falafel. 12710 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn;313-582-8185. 27346 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-5659600 L,D Mon.-Sun. Amore da Roma $$ ITALIAN • Guy Pelino, Roma Café’s chef, took over the ownership reins of this restaurant on the edge of the Eastern Market. He retained the menu, adding a charcuterie board and updating the wine list, and didn’t change the character of the old-school restaurant, known for its steaks and pastas. 3401 Riopelle St., Detroit; 313-831-5940. L,D daily. Antonio’s Cucina Italiana $$ ITALIAN • The Rugieros have impressed restaurant guests for decades with authentic cuisine. Signature dishes include Gnocchi Rita and Chicken Antonio. There’s a full bar and a very extensive wine list. 2220 N. Canton Center Road, Canton; 734-981-9800. 26356 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 313-278-6000. 37646 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-994-4000. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun. Apparatus Room $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • The Foundation Hotel’s restaurant, the Apparatus Room, once housed the Detroit Fire Department headquarters. The cooking of chef Thomas Lents, who earned two Michelin stars while at Chicago’s Sixteen, is refined and highly skilled. A separate Chef’s Table restaurant offers a pricey but delicious option. 250 W. Larned St., Detroit; 313-800-5600. B,L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Atwater in the Park $ GERMAN • At this casual spot, traditional German-style beer is the beverage of choice. Chef Chris Franz’ noteworthy menu is compatible with such additions as a platter of local bratwurst and other sausages teamed with housemade red cabbage and sauerkraut, plus amazing potato pancakes and daily soups. 1175 Lakepointe St., Grosse Pointe Park; 313-344-5104. L,D daily. Avalon Café and Bakery $$ ORGANIC BAKERY • The bakery’s mini-empire includes a café on Woodward Avenue in Detroit. Its bread is also the basis for dishes such as Avocado Toast with tahini, thinly curled cucumbers, lime, and chili flakes. Vegetarian fare includes a frittata oozing with goat cheese. Meatier highlights include the pork shoulder, a steak sandwich, and a trout Reuben. There’s also a handful of thin-crust pizzas. Salads are sized to be main dishes. Beer and wine are part of the package (there or to go). 1049 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-2858006. B,L,D daily. Babo $ NEW AMERICAN • This all-day café settled into the Midtown Park Shelton building in June 2019, serving elevated comfort food made from local, small-batch producers. The self-described gourmet diner offers espresso drinks and such dishes as Avocado Toast, Chilaquiles, Pasta al Limone, and the Babo Burger, which features a challah bun from Avalon Bakery. 15 E. Kirby St., Ste. 115, Detroit; 313-974-6159. B,L,D daily. Baker’s Keyboard Lounge $$ SOUL FOOD • This iconic lounge serves soul food: beef short ribs with gravy, creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet cornbread muffins. 20510 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-345-6300. L Tue.-Fri., D daily.

Family-friendly

Dog-friendly

Valet

YO U R C O M P R E H E N S I V E RESOURCE FOR DINING OUT IN METRO DETROIT

COVID-19 UPDATE

Bucharest Grill $ MEDITERRANEAN-AMERICAN • This bustling sandwich shop, now with five locations, is a cult favorite with its fresh Mediterranean fare, notably the best chicken shawarma wrap sandwiches in town. We’re serious. See bucharestgrill.com for locations and hours.

Many establishments are still finding their footing in the COVID-19 era. Please call the numbers listed here to verify hours and space availability.

Cadieux Café $$ BELGIAN • This eastside institution was like a slice of home for early Belgian immigrants. They serve up four varieties of mussels, and a wide range of hearty dishes such as Belgian Rabbit, but there also are classic sandwiches. 4300 Cadieux Road, Detroit; 313-882-8560. D daily. Café Nini $$$ ITALIAN • This intimate spot offers well-prepared food that includes eight appetizers, a half-dozen pasta dishes, and five main plates, notable among which are tournedos di vitello — medallions of veal filet in a fresh mushroom sauce. The wine list is impressive as well. 98 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-308-3120. L Mon.-Fri., D daily. Cantoro Italian Market and Trattoria $$ ITALIAN • A restaurant inside the market serves great traditional Italian food. Do not miss the tagliatelle alla Bolognese: wide pasta with a meat sauce made of ground veal, beef, sausage, and pancetta. A delicious Italian feast you can conveniently pick up on your way home. 15550 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth; 734-420-1100. L,D Mon.-Sat., L Sun.

Bash Original Izakaya $ JAPANESE • A new Japanese pub from the proprietor of Canton’s popular Izakaya Sanpei opened its doors in Woodbridge in January. Occupying the former home of Katsu, Bash maintains much of that eatery’s Asian-inspired décor, such as hanging lanterns and bamboo shades. Bash’s drink menu focuses on Japanese craft beer, while the food menu of small plates and sashimi includes Gyoza, Tempura Udon, and fried octopus balls called Tako Yaki. 5069 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-788-7208; D Tue.-Sun. Besa $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This modern fine-dining eatery takes its name from Albania — where the owners trace their heritage — and means “pledge of honor.” Choose from starters suchas honey-roasted rutabaga, pastas like ramen noodle raviolo, and entrees like Michigan-raised lamb belly porchetta. 600 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313315-3000. D Mon.-Sat. Bobcat Bonnie’s $ GASTROPUB • The menu is eclectic, with fried goat cheese, Korean beef bowl, vegan tacos, and chicken fingers coated with Cap’n Crunch. The weekend brunch with a Bloody Mary bar and all the classics is a hit. See bobcatbonnies.com for locations and hours. Brome Modern Eatery $ BURGERS • This healthy spin on a classic serves never-frozen, grass-fed, antibiotic-free, organic burgers. There’s beef, chicken, haddock, and vegetarian dishes — but no pork, as the restaurant is halal. There’s also a cold-pressed juice bar. 22062 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-996-5050.L,D Mon.-Sun.

Reservations

E N T R É E P R I C ES

Capers $ STEAKHOUSE • This is the type of place longtime Detroit natives describe like an old friend.On Gratiot Avenue between Seven and Eight Mile roads, this place has been packing them in for nearly 35 years. There’s a massive a-la-carte menu, but the main draw is steak by the ounce, at market price. 14726 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313-527-2100. L,D Mon.-Sat., D Sun. Caucus Club $$$ TRADITIONAL AMERICAN • The reborn spot emphasizes service and a traditional steak and seafood theme, with such tasty signature dishes as dry-rubbed and wood-grilled ribs, prime rib, and steaks. 150 W. Congress, Detroit; 313-965-4970. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat. Central Kitchen & Bar $$ CREATIVE COMFORT • The space facing Campus Martius is done up in gray and white under industrial light fixtures. Crowd-pleasers include buttermilk fried chicken, shrimp and grits, burgers, and salads. 660 Woodward Ave., Ste. 4A, Detroit; 313-963-9000. L,D Mon.Fri., BR, D Sat., BR Sun. Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails $$ NEW AMERICAN • Generally, there are five “cold” starters, five offerings from the “vegetables”category, and six “hot” items that could be considered main dishes, including duck confit and Lake Superior whitefish. The wine list is brief and esoteric. 15 E. Kirby St., Detroit; 313-818-3915. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun. Chili Mustard Onions $ VEGAN • This is Detroit’s only Coney Island with a plant-based menu. Choose from a selection of traditional favorites including the

$ Affordable (less than $12)

$$ Moderate ($13 to $20)

$$$ Expensive ($21 to $30)

$$$$ Very Expensive (more than $30)

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1

RECIPE

COOP CARIBBEAN FUSION COCONUT CURRY SHRIMP WITH RICE P H O T O BY K AI L EY H OW E LL

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

INGREDIENTS:

2 lbs. jumbo shrimp

CILANTRO-INFUSED JASMINE RICE:

1/4 cup curry powder

1 bunch cilantro, chopped

1/2 cup coconut milk

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1 Tbsp. butter

salt

1 tsp. fresh ginger

1 cup jasmine rice

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1/2 cup red radish

1/2 bunch cilantro 1 Tbsp. garlic Salt and pepper to taste

RICE DIRECTIONS:

DIRECTIONS:

Season shrimp with half of curry powder and sauté over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. Add remaining ingredients, lower to a simmer, and cook for 3 minutes. Serve with CilantroInfused Jasmine Rice and garnish with cilantro and red radish.

Bring 1 ½ cups of water to a boil over medium heat. Add cilantro, olive oil, and salt to taste, then add in rice and stir. Once rice absorbs water, lower heat and place lid on pot. Allow to cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, then remove from heat.

PHOTO KAILEY HOWELL

R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 Coney Dog, Southwest Nachos, and chili fries, all complete with owner Pete LaCombe’s secret vegan “cheeze” sauce. 3411 Brush St., Detroit; 313-462-4949. L Mon.-Sat. City Kitchen $$ AMERICAN • The emphasis is on fresh fish and seafood here, but also on the locals — especially lake perch. There are also such dishes as Cajun tenderloin tips and a few good angus burgers. 16844 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe; 313-882-6667. L Mon.-Fri., D nightly. Cliff Bell’s $$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • This restored Art Deco hotspot offers small plates such as duck wings “a l’orange,” and savory merguez meatballs and artisinal burrata. Large plates include shrimp and grits and steak frites. Jazz prevails on the bandstand. 2030 Park Ave., Detroit; 313-961-2543. D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun. Common Pub $ GASTROPUB • Fans of Atlas Global Bistro, which shuttered in 2013, should be happy to learn that some of the principals may be found at this spot in the Belcrest Apartments. The well-edited menu includes duck rangoon and a burger. 5440 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-285-8849. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat. Cork & Gabel $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • Corktown’s newest eatery takes the form of a 4,450-square-foot renovated beer hall and is an ode to filling European staples. Try the crispy braised chicken wings slow-cooked in house spices and served with blue cheese. Simply delicious! 2415 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-638-2261. D daily. Cuisine $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • Cuisine offers a romantic, white-linen experience with the level of food, service, and ambience one might call more “timeless” than “trendy.” Examples of the expertly prepared fare include lobster bisque with lump crab and variations on duck — a coriander honey roasted breast is served with a confit leg. 670 Lothrop Rd., Detroit; 313-872-5110. D Tue.-Sun. (Note: not wheelchair accessible.) Dakota Inn Rathskeller $ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The sausages are the kind that snap when you cut them. The combo plate features one bratwurst and one knack-wurst, served with hot German potato salad and sauerkraut. And yes, sing along with the schnitzelbank song. 17324 John R St., Detroit; 313-867-9722.L Wed.-Fri. D Thu.-Sat. Detroit Club $$$$ FRENCH-AMERICAN • The formerly shuttered Detroit Club was magnificently restored before reopening in 2018 — and now, the public is invited. It now operates as a boutique hotel, serving a light breakfast and full lunch and dinner. The old dining room, known as the Grille Room, looks very much as it did more than three decades ago. The food is excellent, as is the service. 712 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313338-3222. L,D Daily. Detroit Shipping Company $ FUSION • This bi-level destination, created out of shipping containers, offers a variety of food options ranging from the Caribbeanfusion dishes at Coop to chipotle-roasted grasshopper at Brujo Tacos + Tapas to Thai fare from Bangkok 96 and more. 474 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-462-4973. L,D daily. Detroit Soul $ SOUL FOOD• A hidden gem on the city’s East Side. Detroit Soul serves its namesake with a healthy twist. Owners Sam Van Buren and Jerome Brown draw from the recipes of their grandparents, who relocated to Detroit from Alabama in the 1940s. The turkey and collard greens are savory standouts and yams are a sweet treat. This is the kind of place that every soul-food lover must visit. 2900 E. Eight Mile Road, Detroit; 313-366-5600. L,D Tue.-Sun. Detroit Vegan Soul $ VEGAN • The popular spot offers your classic soul food favorites but with plant-based twists — mac and cheese, maple-glazed yams, collard greens, and interpretations of catfish and pepper steak. 8029 Agnes St., Detroit; 313-649-2759. L Tue.-Sun., D Wed.-Sat. 19614 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-766-5728. BR Sun.

Dime Store $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • This popular breakfast and lunch spot adds just the right retro touch to a contemporary American menu typified by fresh, hearty omelets and Benedicts early in the day. 719 Griswold St., Ste. 180, Detroit; 313-962-9106. B,L Mon.-Sun. Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe $$$ GASTROPUB • A jazz club with top guest musicians and an American bistro menu in a traditional interior. Starters include crab and salt cod cakes, pan-fried calamari with chorizo and Korean beef rib. 97 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-882-5299. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sat. Eatori Market $-$$ SPECIALTY GROCERY • This stylish spot overlooking downtown’s Capitol Park. The menu has steamed mussels with leeks, garlic, and fresh oysters. International flourishes abound with truffle aioli for the burger. 1215 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-395-3030. L,D daily. El Asador Steakhouse $$ MEXICAN • A concentrated cuisine with little modern flairs that also stays faithful to traditional Mexican cooking. Don’t miss the Camarones en Salsa de Langosta: breaded shrimp stuffed with cheese, fried to a golden dark brown, and topped with a lobster cream sauce. It’s a delicious dinner spot you don’t want to miss and an unassuming Latin-American find in Detroit’s Springwells Village. 1312 Springwells St., Detroit; 313-297-2360. L,D Tue.-Sun. El Barzon $ MEXICAN-ITALIAN • Norberto Garita prepares Italian and Mexican cuisines alongside his wife, Silvia Rosario Garita. Authentic Mexican entrees include mini tacos with beef, chicken, steak, barbecued goat, or sausage, and mole poblano, while the Italian influence takes the form of spaghetti carbonara and Suppa di pesce (seafood soup). 3710 Junction Ave., Detroit; 313-894-2070. D Tue.-Sun. Empire Kitchen and Cocktails $$ NEW AMERICAN • This relaxed Cass Corridor eatery with patio seating serves artisan pizzas and new American bistro fare. Highlights include scallops, Empire Burger, and white pizza. A range of inventive craft cocktails abound here, too. 3148 Woodward Ave.,Detroit; 313-315-3131. empirekitchenandcocktails.com Evie’s Tamales $$ MEXICAN • This Mexicantown restaurant makes some of the best tamales around. Pork or chicken is jacketed with sturdy masa, a dough of ground corn, and then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. Eat in or order a dozen for later. 3454 Bagley St., Detroit; 313-843-5056. B,L,D Mon.-Sat., B,L Sun. Fishbone’s Rhythm Kitchen Café $$ NEW ORLEANIAN • New Orleans dishes including jambalaya, and fried catfish beignets. Come for breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, or carry-out. 400 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-965-4600. 29244 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-351-2925. 23722 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-498-3000. B,L,D (downtown), L,D Southfield and St. Clair Shores. BR at all three. Flowers of Vietnam $$ VIETNAMESE • Chef and owner George Azar transformed a former Coney Island into an industrial-cool destination, but the neighborhood joint vibe remains. The menu is shaped around Azar’s appreciation of Vietnamese food, with a very personal twist. 4430 Vernor Hwy., Detroit; 313-554-2085. D Wed.-Sun. Folk $ AUSTRALIAN • A charming Corktown storefront dishing up an allday brunch menu. It’s an offshoot of the Farmer’s Hand grocery and farmers market. The menu focuses on beautifully plated dishes like salads, quiche, meat pies, all beautifully plated and nutritious. Infused milks and frothy lattes are well sought after, too. 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-290-5849. BR Wed-Mon. Ford’s Garage $$ BURGERS • Henry Ford’s legacy is celebrated on Dearborn’s main thoroughfare. There are at least 12 variations on the classic American burger here. Try the Ford’s Signature, featuring a half-pound of grilled black angus beef, aged sharp cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon,

and bourbon BBQ sauce. Other appealing dishes include lobster mac and cheese, and chicken wings. 21367 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313752-3673. L,D daily. Frita Batidos $ CUBAN • Since opening in 2010, Ann Arbor’s Frita Batidos has been cherished for its spicy Cuban-influenced chorizo burgers and tropical milkshakes made with fresh fruit. Now owner and Top Chef: Las Vegas alum Eve Arnoff has opened a second location in downtown Detroit. The casual eatery is the mirror image of its older sibling — bright and urban, with white walls, picnic tables, and exposed ductwork. Also featuring a full bar, the restaurant offers local craft beers, tropical cocktails, and the option to add a splash of rum to your milkshake. 66 W. Columbia St., Detroit; 313-725-4100. L,D daily. Giovanni’s Ristorante $$$ ITALIAN • This old-school Italian restaurant offers housemade pastas, including an outstanding lasagna. Elaborate veal and seafood dishes and desserts like orange Creamsicle cheesecake round out the delicious menu. 330 Oakwood Blvd., Detroit; 313-841-0122. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat. Grandma Bob’s $ PIZZA • If you’re wondering what that psychedelic building on Corktown’s Michigan Avenue is, it opened last March as a pizzeria known as Grandma Bob’s. Executive chef Dan De Wall, previously of Wright and Co., offers a small, delicious menu of pies, including sausage and pistachio with mascarpone cheese and thyme. Or try the Big Mack — the vegan pizza version of the popular burger. 2135 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-315-3177. L,D Wed.-Sun. Grand Trunk Pub $ NEW AMERICAN • Breads from Avalon Bakery and meats from Eastern Market anchor the hearty fare, which pairs well with a selection of Michigan beers. Staples include a reuben with Poet Stout Kraut and the Ghettoblaster beer-battered fish and chips. 612 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-961-3043.; L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. The Greek $ GREEK • Plaka Café was a presence on Monroe Avenue for years, and now its space is in the hands of the founders’ children. Notable dishes include spinach pie, grilled salmon, lamb chops, and New York strip steak. 535 Monroe Ave., Detroit; 313-209-6667. L,D daily. Green Dot Stables $ NEW AMERICAN • The menu of sliders — with 20-plus eclectic bun toppings, including Cuban, Korean, and “mystery meat” — packs in fans. Local beers are spotlighted along with chicken paprika soup, a nod to the neighborhood’s Hungarian origins. 2200 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit; 313-962-5588. L,D daily. Grey Ghost $$ NEW AMERICAN • The cuisine at this Brush Park hotspot isn’t easily defined, but the results are original and well-prepared. For example, the miso glazed cedar plank salmon, and lump crab cake served with a honey mustard remoulade sauce from their Ghost To-Go pickup menu. 47 Watson St., Detroit; 313-262-6534. D daily. BR Sun. Highlands $$$ STEAKHOUSE/NEW AMERICAN • Occupying the top two floors of the Renaissance Center, Highlands comprises three separate concepts. A steakhouse of the same name provides a high-end dining experience, while the more casual Hearth 71 serves locally sourced dishes cooked over an open fire. The third concept within the space is the appropriately named High Bar, where guests can choose from a vast collection of spirits and decadent desserts. 400 Renaissance Center, Floors 71 and 72, Detroit; 313-567-3126; D Mon.-Sat. The Hill Seafood & Chop House $$ TRADITIONAL AMERICAN • The menu is balanced between seafood and meat, with an emphasis on premium ingredients and organic produce. Swordfish, prime New York strip, and Colorado lamb chops are signatures. 123 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313886-8101. L,D Mon.-Sat. The Hudson Cafe $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • The fresh, well-prepared fare from the

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R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 including a number of elegant pastas like the Lasagna Alla Bolognese. 1224 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-962-8821. L,D daily.

kitchen of this breakfast/lunch spot has creative takes on the eggs Benedict theme, pecan-banana pancakes, and apple-walnut stuffed French toast, as well as lunchtime sandwiches and salads. 1241 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-237-1000. B,L daily.

Le Culture Cafe $$ SOUL • Eastern Market’s Le Culture Cafe is bridging fine-dining with comfort food. Start with the Maryland crab cakes, then the Mamba Chicken Pasta or the Lobster & Crab Grilled Cheese. 1452 Brush St., Detroit; 313-285-8137. D Tue.-Sun.

Hungarian Rhapsody $$ HUNGARIAN • This Downriver restaurant offers authentic Hungarian dishes, such as chicken and veal paprikas, beef goulash, and palacsinta (crêpes). 14315 Northline Road, Southgate; 734-283-9622. L & D Tue.-Sun. Ima $ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Japanese-inspired fare with a Midwest emphasis. Ima tacos trade the traditional shell for a slice of jicamastuffed spicy shrimp, roasted tofu, or garlic chicken. Appetizers include edamame, dumplings, and clams. 2015 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-502-5959. 4870 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-883-9788. 32203 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-781-0131. L&D Daily

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Iridescence $$$$ UPSCALE AMERICAN • A stylish white-linen restaurant, with a 16-story view from the top of the MotorCity Casino Hotel. The menu varies with the seasons. Check out the glass-fronted mechanical wine vault and the huge Dale Chihuly-like glass panels flanking the open kitchen. A place for a special evening. 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-237-6732. D Wed.-Sun. Ivy Kitchen and Cocktails $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This Black-owned restaurant was founded by Nya Marshall to bring fine dining to the East Jefferson Corridor where she grew up. The spot serves New American fare with international influences in a modern, elevated space bathed in neutral tones. The Mezcal Wings with pickled jalapeño and cilantro bring a Mexican kick, while dishes like the Shrimp Linguine Pomodoro contribute European flavors. 9215 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-332-0607; D Daily

Japanese-inspired fare with a Midwest emphasis. Ima tacos trade the traditional shell for a slice of jicamastuffed spicy shrimp, roasted tofu, or garlic chicken. IMA

Detroit & Madison Heights

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Joe Muer Seafood $$$$ SEAFOOD • This reborn Detroit legend is stellar for a romantic evening or a quiet business lunch or dinner. Located on the main floor of the GMRenCen, it has sweeping views of the Detroit River and a menu that walks the line between old-time favorites and hipper Asian-influenced seafood, sushi and raw bar. There’s also a Bloomfield Hills location. There are reminders of the past as well: white-bean relish, smoked fish spread, creamed spinach, and stewed tomatoes. A true Detroit classic. 400 Renaissance Center, Ste. 1404, Detroit; 313-5676837. L Mon.-Fri., D daily, BR Sun. 39475 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills; 248-792-9609. L,D Mon.-Sat., BR,D Sun. Johnny Noodle King $ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This noodle shop offers bowls topped with pork belly, confit chicken, and tofu as well as seaweed salad and gyoza. There are several fusion bowls as well like the Southwest topped with shredded chicken and housemade crema. 2601 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-309-7946. L,D Tue.-Sun. Jolly Pumpkin $$ BREWERY • Jolly Pumpkin’s brews rule the offerings, along with other Northern United Brewing Co. beverages, such as North Peak and Grizzly Peak beers and “Civilized Spirits.” Pizzas with creative toppings abound. 441 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-262-6115. 419 S. Main St., Ste. 9, Royal Oak; 248-544-6250. L,D daily. Karl’s $$ AMERICAN • The luncheonette is part two of the Siren Hotel’s partnership with Lady of the House Executive Chef Kate Williams. Inspired by the East Side bakery of the same name that Williams’ great-great grandparents once owned, the menu features diner staples. 1509 Broadway St., Detroit; 313-855-2757. B,L,D daily. Karl’s Cabin $$ AMERICAN • Dishes from their currently rotating drive-through menu such as pecan crust whitefish and beef tenderloin medallions

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

with sautéed shrimp and bearnaise sauce surpass typical roadhouse food. 6005 Gotfredson Rd., Plymouth; 734-455-8450. L,D daily. The Kitchen by Cooking with Que $$ VEGAN • This eatery created by Detroit-based cooking blogger Quiana Broden serves lunches of smoothies, salads, and sandwiches. Broden also often offers live cooking demonstrations. 6529 Woodward Ave., Ste. A, Detroit; 313-462-4184. L Tue.-Sun. Kuzzo’s Chicken and Waffles $ SOUTHERN COMFORT • Several recipes, including a signature thin waffle, are family-owned at ex-NFL player Ron Bartell’s spot. Think comfort food kicked up a notch: fried catfish, salmon croquettes, shrimp and grits, and biscuits. Drink the Kool-Aid, too. 19345 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-861-0229. B,L,D Tue.-Sat., B,L Sun. La Dolce Vita $$$ ITALIAN • Traditional Italian cuisine is key at this Palmer Park hideaway. Recommended is the lake perch in white wine sauce, the veal scaloppine with artichokes, and the lasagna. 17546 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-865-0331. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., BR,D Sun. Lady of the House $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This Corktown restaurant combines subtle Irish influences with hyper-localized ingredients. Each meal begins with a seasonal tea-and-cracker service, followed by a menu featuring snout-to-tail butchering, housemade charcuterie, and shareable entrées. 1426 Bagley, Detroit; 313-818-0218. D Tues.-Sun. La Lanterna $$ ITALIAN • The founder of Da Edoardo, the first Edoardo Barbieri, started it all in 1956 with a restaurant called La Lanterna. Now his grandchildren have revived it. Although the white and red pizzas — like Margherita, Liguria, and Bellagio — dominate, there’s more,

Leila $$$ LEBANESE • The restaurant from the proprietors of Birmingham’s Phoenicia is named after the owner’s mother — just one facet of the establishment that pays homage to family traditions and heritage. The menu includes various Lebanese dishes, from falafel to Leila’s Bolognese, featuring spaghetti, pine nut, and basil. Other menu items include sujuk — a spicy Armenian sausage — and tabbouleh made of parsley, cracked wheat, and spices. The beer and wine lists offer plenty of options to accompany any meal. 1245 Griswold St., Detroit; 313816-8100; D Sun., L&D Mon.-Sat. London Chop House $$ STEAKHOUSE • The kitchen turns out classics such as oysters Rockefeller, French onion soup, and sautéed perch. This is the place to come when you need to satisfy a craving for steak in elegant surroundings with hospitable service. 155 W. Congress St., Detroit; 313962-0277. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat. Lovers Only $ BURGERS • The star at Lovers Only, located in downtown Detroit’s Capitol Park, is pasture-raised beef from Ferndale’s Farm Field Table, used to make its standout burgers. Other key ingredients, including baked goods, are local as well. There’s also craft cocktails and beer. 34 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-986-1174. L,D daily. Lucy & the Wolf $$ SPANISH • This Anglo-sounding restaurant offers very good Spanish-inspired tapas dining. Standouts include ceviche, double charred chicken wings, and a grilled flank steak in chimichurri sauce. 102 E. Main St., Northville;248-308-3057. D Mon.-Sat. Lumen Detroit $$ NEW AMERICAN • A contemporary American menu and a Victor Saroki setting make the restaurant overlooking downtown’s Beacon Park one of the best of recent entrants onto the scene. Appetizers such as freshly made pretzels prelude main courses such as salmon with chimichurri herb sauce. 1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-6265005. L,D. Closed Mon. Mario’s $$$ ITALIAN • This Midtown Detroit classic dates to 1948. Linen-covered tables, framed paintings on wood-paneled walls, expert waiters clad in black tie, and tableside preparation survive here. Italian dinners always begin with an antipasto tray and continue through soup, salad, pasta, and entree. 4222 Second Ave., Detroit; 313-832-1616. L,D daily. Marrow $$ NEW AMERICAN • This West Village restaurant and butcher shop hybrid is an ode to meat, especially unusual cuts. Diners must walk through the butcher shop, bypassing cases of pastrami and sausage, before entering the restaurant. Offerings include seasonal pork yakitori and local duck breast as well Mapo Mushroom. 8044 Kercheval Ave., Detroit; 313-652-0200. D Wed.-Mon. Maty’s African Cuisine $$ WEST AFRICAN • A small storefront in the Detroit Old Redford neighborhood is decidedly Senegalese. Fataya, a deep-fried pastry with savory fillings, are reminiscent of an empanada. The star of the show is the whole chicken with yassa. 21611 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-472-5885. L,D daily. M Cantina $ MEXICAN • Nuevo Latino street food is the premise at this surprising spot where everything from the tortilla chips to the salsas are made in-house in the open kitchen. Juices are freshly squeezed and the menu of tortas, tacos, tapas, and salads from the kitchen of Heidi and Junior Merino from Hawaii and Mexico is distinctive. 13214 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-399-9117. B,L,D daily.

R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 Mercury Burger & Bar $ BURGERS • This Corktown joint seats 70 around the zinc-covered bar set with Mercury (Liberty) dimes. The burger is available in a variety of iterations, such as Southwest Detroit with a chorizo slider, jalapeno, Müenster cheese, tortilla strips, avocado, and pickled spiced carrots. 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-964-5000. L,D daily. Michigan & Trumbull $$ ITALIAN-AMERICAN • After a successful four-month run at Fort Street Galley, Michigan and Trumbull left the nest in January, making it the latest in a long line of Detroit-style pizza joints to open in the area. Not your traditional carryout joint, Michigan and Trumbull is housed in a sleek, refurbished car-repair garage. The menu features square, deep-dish pies with Detroit-inspired names, such as Packard Pepperoni and Vernor Vegan. 1441 W. Elizabeth St., Detroit; 313-6374992; L&D Mon., Wed.-Sat.; D Sun. Mi Lindo San Blas $$$ MEXICAN • Heaping platters of seafood such as shrimp, octopus, and scallops, tell the story at this spot that brings a corner of Mexico’s seaside Nayarit region to southwest Detroit. On weekends when live music is added, the tables are often pushed back to create a dance floor. 1807 Livernois Ave., Detroit; 313-789-5100. L,D daily. Monarch Club $$$ NEW AMERICAN • At the 14th floor of the revamped Element Detroit Hotel located at the Metropolitan is the Monarch Club. It’s one of the most recent rooftop bars to open in metro Detroit and serves a variety of delicious small plates along with classic cocktails. 33 John R St., Detroit; 313-306-2380. D daily. Mootz Pizzeria & Bar $$ ITALIAN-AMERICAN • Bruno DiFabio, a six-time World Pizza Games champ, rejects the label New York-style for his fare. “It’s authentic New York pizza,” he says. In a hurry? Grab a slice from Side Hustle, Mootz’s by-the-slice counter next door. 1230 Library St., Detroit; 313243-1230. L,D daily. Motor City Brewing Works $ BREWERY • Just 10 mostly nontraditional pizzas on excellent, chewy crust, and the option to build your own pie with various toppings. Plus, salads from locally grown greens to accompany the housebrewed beers. 470 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-832-2700. L,D daily. Mudgie’s Deli $ DELI • Seats are often filled in search of the O’Leary (pastrami, Swiss, and greens) or the Brooklyn (beef brisket, bacon, and beer cheese). The dinner menu features meat and cheese boards as well as buildyour-own pasta and meat and potato options. It’s a delicious place for a meal any time 1413 Brooklyn St., Detroit; 313-961-2000. L,D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Nico & Vali $$ ITALIAN • This eatery offers favorites with unexpected twists. The artichokes and chilies appetizer boasts battered and fried artichokes with Fresno and jalapeno peppers, tossed with fresh basil in white wine. Popular choices include Vermouth Lamb Porterhouse. It’s a classic Italian spot with an update that’s worth a visit. 744 Wing St., Plymouth;734-207-7880. L,D daily, BR Sun. Norma G’s $ CARIBBEAN • Lester Gouvia, the Trinidadian chef who brought us the famed food truck, opened a full-service restaurant under the same name. Stop in for a plate of Chicken Pelau: a tasty blend of rice, diced chicken, squash, peppers, and golden-brown baked chicken. 14628 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-290-2938. D Tue.-Sat. Nosh Pit $ VEGAN • This vegan staple in Hamtramck, and its roving food truck, have been dishing up delicious plant-based takes on classic deli sandwiches for years. Try their latkes with banana jam, the house made Coney Carrot Dog with all the traditional toppings — like diced onion and yellow mustard. It might best the original! 2995 Yemans St., Hamtramck; 313-486-0777. L Tue.-Thu., L,D Fri., B,L Sat. Ottava Via $$ ITALIAN Chef Ariel Millan sends out great thin-crusted pizzas as well

as interesting small plates typified by bruschetta, calamari, roasted garlic, and whipped goat cheese to be spread on paper-thin crostini. 1400 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-5500. L,D daily.

where there aren’t too many. 2990 Yemans St., Hamtramck; 313-874-5726. L,D daily. Not wheelchair accessible.

Pao Detroit $$$ FUSION • Visit this upscale Pan-Asian fusion restaurant for Asianthemed cocktails and dishes, such as fried oyster, charred octopus, filet mignon, and Alaskan king crab legs. Based in the former Michigan Oriental Theater, the interior combines new and old. 114 W. Adams Ave., Ste. 200, Detroit; 313-816-0000. D Mon.-Sat.

Portofino $ ITALIAN • This big waterfront spot in Wyandotte is both a local hangout and a restaurant with a menu that’s surprisingly ambitious. It offers a number of fish and seafood dishes, from lake perch to coconut shrimp and fried calamari, as well as steaks. Nearly every table in the restaurant has a river view. 3455 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte; 734-2816700. L,D daily. Br. Sun.

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Parc $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Excellent food, exceptional service, and a crisp and formal but distinctly unstuffy atmosphere set this Campus Martius gem apart. Appetizer highlights include a bright and fresh tuna tartare and wood-roasted oysters. Mint gremolata and lemon chili oil add a zippy touch to oysters on the half shell. Main courses are exceptional, including an interesting blend of Italian food, woodgrilled whole fish, and organic Scottish salmon. There’s also a large selection of dry-aged gourmet steaks, wood-grilled and served tableside. The wine selection is impressive and caters to a diverse set of price ranges and wine drinkers, so you won’t be disappointed with any bottle here. 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-922-7272. L,D daily. BR Sat.-Sun. Park Grill $$ MEDITERRANEAN • Mediterranean fare gets a Balkan spin. The menu offers tasting plates, pita-wrapped sandwiches, and salads, as well as entrees including chicken and beef shawarma, beef and pork kafta, lemon-pepper pork tenderloin, and lamb chops. Service is friendly and informal. 15102 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Park; 313264-1997. L,D daily. Parks & Rec Diner $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • Breakfast and lunch are the focus, from a single menu that offers traditional breakfast dishes and sandwiches, as well as dishes such as shrimp and grits with harissa and chili atop a cornbread waffle. Standards such as buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy are also available. To drink, there are boozy floats, too. This spot is a classic for whenever you crave brunch food. 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit;313-446-8370. B,L daily. Pegasus Taverna $$ GREEK • The cry of “opa!” resounds in St. Clair Shores at the second edition of the longstanding Greektown restaurant. The resturant boasts an extensive menu, from moussaka and spinach pie to gyros and roast lamb. 24935 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-772-3200. 558 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-964-6800. L,D daily. The Peterboro $$ ASIAN-FUSION • A contemporary take on American-Chinese fare gives new life to the cuisine with robustly spiced dishes, including an “absurdly delicious” cheeseburger spring roll and a take on almond boneless chicken. 420 Peterboro St., Detroit; 313-833-1111. D daily. Pho Lucky $ VIETNAMESE • This charming Midtown Vietnamese spot serves authentic fare emphasizing pho. Bowls of spicy broth with noodles, round steak, and meatballs come in several variations. Other noteworthy dishes include summer rolls and crisp spring rolls. Look for Asian beers and robust Vietnamese coffee. 3111 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-338-3895. L,D daily except Tue. when it’s L only. PizzaPlex $ ITALIAN • This pizza isn’t just authentic, it’s certified. PizzaPlex earned the title of Vera Pizza Napoletana, or real Neapolitan pizza, from Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in Naples. Try the Margherita. Topped with mozzarella, basil, and EVOO, there’s nothing like a classic. 4458 Vernor Highway, Detroit; 313-757-4992. D Wed.-Sat. Polish Village Café $ POLISH • The “Polish plate” includes stuffed cabbage, pierogi, kielbasa, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes and gravy. The dill pickle soup and city chicken are standouts, too. A Polish staple in Detroit,

Prime + Proper $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • Downtown Detroit dining gets a major shot of glamour with this over-the-top steak and seafood emporium on the corner of Griswold and State streets. Although red meat, from prime dryaged Tomahawk ribeye to Wagyu strip is the focus — and yes, there’s a burger made with a dry-aged butcher’s blend — oysters, king crab, and caviar are not far behind. An elegant white and gold setting backgrounds it all. The niceties are maintained by an impeccably dressed staff. 1145 Griswold St., Detroit; 313-636-3100. D daily. Prism $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Greektown Casino-Hotel’s renamed eatery is located off the main casino. ,The menu features local ingredients, steaks, and fresh seafood. 555 E. Lafayette St., Detroit; 313-309-2499. D Tue.-Sat. Rattlesnake Club $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant on the river remains one of the most appealing spots in town. The casually elegant space offers a range of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Dishes that typify its style include seared diver sea scallops, an 8-ounce filet, and a 24-ounce porterhouse. 300 River Place, Detroit; 313-567-4400. L,D Tue.-Fri.,D Sat. Red Dunn Kitchen $$ NEW AMERICAN • The Trumbull and Porter hotel’s spiffy restaurant is an ambitious undertaking, offering three meals a day. Chef Jay Gundy’s style is best experienced at dinner, with a la carte offerings such as foie gras-stuffed quail, smoked and marinated salmon collars, braised lamb leg, and bacon-wrapped duck breast with polenta. 1331 Trumbull Ave., Detroit; 313-887-9477. B,L,D daily. Red Smoke Barbeque $$ BARBEQUE • Hickory and applewood-smoked ribs, pulled pork, Amish chicken, and classic sides are served in one of the most attractive two-story buildings still left on Monroe Street. 573 Monroe St., Detroit; 313-962-2100. L,D daily. Republic $$ NEW AMERICAN • This tavern offers rich and bold dishes befitting its castle-like home in the renovated Grand Army of the Republic Building. The locally sourced menu showcases Old World preservation methods and nose-to-tail cooking. While the menu may be meatcentric, vegetarians won’t feel left out. 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313-446-8360. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sun. Roast $$$ STEAKHOUSE • Meat is the main focus at chef Michael Symon’s restaurant at the famous Westin Book Cadillac Hotel, as underscored by the rotisserie slowly roasting the “beast of the day.” There’s much more on the a la carte menu, including dry-aged steaks, branzino, pork, and reginette. 1128 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313-961-2500.D daily. Rocky’s of Northville $$ NEW AMERICAN • Menu includes sea scallops and Gulf shrimp. At dinner, look for grilled rainbow trout. 41122 W. Seven Mile Road, Northville; 248-349-4434. L,D daily. Roman Village $ ITALIAN • The Rugiero family has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1964. They’ve launched three additional Antonio’s Cucina Italiana locations. Roman Village is the original and features their signature gnocchi Rita. 9924 Dix Ave., Dearborn; 313-842-2100. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.-Sun.

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R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 Rose’s Fine Food $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • The menu is straightforward, based mainly on fresh ingredients and from-scratch preparation. Breakfast eaters can choose from a variety of egg dishes, such as the ESD (egg sandwich of the day). For lunch, there’s a selection of creative sandwiches. 10551 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit; 313-822-2729. B,L daily. Rusted Crow $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • Mussels marinated in white wine and lemon sit alongside spinach artichoke dip. Craft cocktails utilize house spirits. Try the Rosemary’s Baby, made with Detroit Steam vodka and ginger beer. 78 W. Adams Ave., Detroit; 313-782-4751. L Tue.-Sun., D daily. San Morello $$$ ITALIAN • This Italian gem serves pizzas, pastas, and wood-fired dishes that draw inspiration from the coastal towns of Southern Italy and Sicily out of the Shinola Hotel. Think Tartufi Pizza with fontina and black truffle, handcrafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. 1400 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-2094700. D daily. The Sardine Room $$$ SEAFOOD • A seafood restaurant and raw bar, The Sardine Room is fresh, fun, and energetic, with a clean-line décor and a menu full of surprises. For starters, there are New England lobster, oysters, sashimi tuna, and shrimp cocktail. Worthwhile is a porchetta slider of slow-cooked pork served on a brioche bun with arugula, pickled onions, and a salsa verde. And don’t forget the signature fresh Portuguese sardines grilled in butter. 340 S. Main St., Plymouth; 734-416-0261. D daily, BR Sun. SavannahBlue $$ SOUL FOOD • Highlights at this upscale soul food restaurant include the twice-dredged fried chicken and the shrimp and grits. Accompaniments and appetizers include yam casserole, catfish fritters, and a Georgian Hummus that substitutes black-eyed peas for chickpeas. There’s also a great bar. 1431 Times Square, Detroit; 313-926-0783. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Savant $$$ FRENCH • This addition to the Midtown restaurant scene made headlines with its “caviar bumps” — bite-sized portions of caviar intended to be eaten off the back of one’s hand — when it opened in September. In a cozy-yet-upscale interior with leather couches and an open kitchen, Jordan Whitmore and Rebecca Wurster, formerly of Apparatus room, serve up rotating European-inspired menu items, including Champagne Chicken, Foie Gras Clair, Calamari, and — for vegan diners — Ratatouille Confit. 51 W. Forest Ave., Detroit; 313-2859294.D Tues.-Sat., L Sun. Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips $ SEAFOOD • Head to this Brightmoor spot for perfectly prepared fish and chips. The key to Scotty’s longevity is the batter that coats the cod, perch, shrimp, chicken, onion rings, and frog legs. 22200 Fenkell St., Detroit; 313-533-0950. L,D Tue.-Sun. Second Best $ RETRO AMERICAN • The talents behind nearby Grey Ghost have unveiled a second, more casual spot with a retro spin in Brush Park. The menu of lighter dishes includes deviled eggs, ramen noodle salad, and fried chicken sandwiches that accompany drinks that were popular more than a few years back. 42 Watson St., Detroit; 313-3153077. D nightly.

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Selden Standard $$$ NEW AMERICAN • What sets Selden Standard apart is that it is moving Detroit into a new era in which upper-end dining with starched linen and tuxedoed waiters doesn’t hold much interest anymore. Chef Andy Hollyday, a multiple James Beard semifinalist, does farm-to-table scratch cooking with ideas borrowed from around the world. A key to his cooking is the wood-fired grill. This spot has garnered national attention. 3921 Second Ave., Detroit; 313-438-5055. D daily, L Mon.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun. Seva Detroit $$ VEGETARIAN • Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet

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potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian. There’s also a full bar as well as a juice bar. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. 66 E. Forest Ave., Detroit; 313-974-6661. L,D daily.

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SheWolf Pastificio & Bar $$$ ITALIAN • Chef Anthony Lombardo takes fresh and housemade to a new level with this Midtown restaurant that serves only dinner from a menu inspired by Italian cooking specific to Rome. Milling all of his own flour for his pastas, breads, and polenta in house, Lombardo, well known as the former executive chef at Bacco, serves a selection of simple but elegant regional Italian dishes. 438 Selden St., Detroit; 313-315-3992. D Tue.-Sun. Slows Bar BQ $$ BARBEQUE • The brick-and-wood original in Corktown gained a following for its pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. They expanded with a “to go” spot in Midtown, as well. This is a true Detroit classic in every sense of the term. Corktown location: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-962-9828. L,D daily. Slows To Go in Midtown: 4107 Cass Ave., Detroit; 877-569-7246. L,D daily. Smith & Co. $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This Cass Corridor bar and restaurant is housed in the old Smith Welding Supply & Equipment Company building — hence cement ceilings and exposed brick that evoke an industrial vibe. The menu features small plates, sandwiches, and entrees such as Mushroom Toast; Michigan Pork Belly; the Fried Chicken Bowl with sweet sesame sauce and kimchi; and the Smith Burger, soy-ginger marinated and topped with a fried egg. Beverage options include craft beer, wine, and fresh takes on classic cocktails. 644 Selden St, Detroit; 313-974-7100. L&D Mon-Sat., B,L,&D Sun.

sports memorabilia. The menu features comfort food and pub classics: burgers, wings, and fried mac and cheese. Pizza and more upscale entrees are also available, as are more than 50 beers. Bring your family and friends for a very entertaining night on the town. 1777 Third St., Detroit; 313-465-1234. B,L,D daily. They Say $$ GASTROPUB • Many folks pass right by on their way to Atwater Brewery, Andrews on the Corner, or the Rattlesnake Club. But Chene Park regulars know They Say does triple duty as a great place to grab dinner before a show. The food is grouped into “opening acts, intermission, and encores.” 267 Jos Campau Ave., Detroit; 313-446-4682. L,D daily. Traffic Jam & Snug $ GASTROPUB • Michigan’s first officially designated brewpub is fresh and eccentric. The menu is diverse, and somewhat slanted toward vegetarian diners with such veggie-forward dishes as spinach lasagna, quiche, and portobello mushroom soup. No worries, there’s meatloaf and crabcakes, too. 511 W. Canfield St., Detroit; 313-8319470. L,D daily. Trattoria Serventi $$ ITALIAN • The brick pizza oven turns out an array of thin-crust pizzas and there’s an interesting daytime menu that offers a real bargain. In the evening, such dishes as veal Tosca, and manicotti alla trattoria, recalling chef Aldo Ottaviani — who was instrumental in setting up the original Andiamo menu — typify the style. 20930 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods; 313-886-9933. L,D daily. Union Street $$ NEW AMERICAN • The extensive dinner menu includes such tasty highlights as fried calamari, pistachio-encrusted salmon, a J.L. Hudson Maurice salad, filet mignon, beer-steamed mussels, fish tacos, chicken wings, and several vegetarian options. 4145 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-831-3965. L,D daily.

Standby $$ NEW AMERICAN • The libation menu — categorized by spirit — is longer than the food menu, but both food and drinks are equally emphasized. The fare ranges from small plates of chicken liver mousse and duck confit ravioli to entrees such as a waygu strip steak and red duroc pork belly. 225 Gratiot Ave., Detroit; 313-736-5533. D daily. Not wheelchair accessible.

Urban Ramen $$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Urban Ramen serves bowls of steaming broth filled with house-made, springy ramen noodles topped with fixings like bamboo, egg, pork chashu, and sesame seeds. The menu also includes sushi, poke, and sides such as garlic edamame and Japanese fried chicken. 4206 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-285-9869. L,D Mon.-Sat.

Street Beet $ VEGAN • The popular vegan pop-up Street Beet has landed a permanent spot at Midtown’s 3rd Street Bar, serving up plant-based riffs on quintessential fast foods. Try the Kentucky Fake Chicken sandwich, with fried tofu, pickles, and spicy mayo, or the Taco Hell Crunchywrap, with walnut chorizo and cashew nacho cheese. These faves and additions like the Phony Cheesesteak are available via counter service, carryout, and online ordering. 4626 Third Ave., Detroit; 313-312-4669; L&D Sun., D Mon., D Tue.-Sat.

Vertical Detroit $$$ WINE BAR • This wine-centric restaurant puts the focus on pairing Chef Matt Barnes’ innovative cuisine with owners Jim and Rémy Lutfy’s nationally recognized wine program. The menu emphasizes locally sourced protein, seafood, and produce. A must-try for any wine enthusiast. 1538 Centre St., Detroit; 313-732-9463. D nightly. Not wheelchair accessible.

Supino Pizzeria $$ ITALIAN • Relax with one of the town’s best thin-crust pizzas — they come in more than a dozen variations, with or without red sauce. A few dishes from the La Rondinella menu made the list as well, such as paninis, salads, and small plates such as polpette and fagioli. Beer, wine, and cocktails add to the appeal. 2457 Russell St., Detroit; 313567-7879. L,D Tue.-Sat. Sweet Soul Bistro $ SOUL FOOD • The large menu includes homages to Detroit musicians, from Stevie Wonder Wonderful Wings to Aretha Franklin Catfish Bites. Also notable are the crab cakes. In the evening, the bistro transforms into a club. 13741 W. McNichols Road, Detroit; 313- 8627685. L,D daily.

Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine $$ CUBAN • An evening at this lively spot is more than just Cuban and Spanish dining. Appetizers and tapas include the outstanding Tapa de la Casa, pork leg marinated in mojo; a Spanish chorizo and fresh mushrooms concoction with flambéed sherry wine; and empanadas, a Cuban turnover filled with ground beef or chicken. 1250 Library St., Detroit; 313-962-8800. L,D daily. Vivio’s Food & Spirits $ SANDWICH/DELI • This Eastern Market classic has been run by the Vivio family for more than 40 years. Sandwiches and burgers are mainstays, but diners also appreciate the steamed mussels. 2460 Market St., Detroit; 313-393-1711. L,D Mon.-Fri., BR,L,D Sat., L,D Sun.

Takoi $$ THAI • Thai-Laotian fare might seem out of place in Corktown, but virtually everything on the menu has distinction. There’s a depth, concentration, and balance between heat and coolness, the range of spices, the delight of moving from one superb bite to the next. 2520 Michigan Ave., Detroit; 313-855-2864. D Mon.-Sat.

The Whitney $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • The historic 1890s mansion is still going strong. The menu is typified by classic beef Wellington, wrapped in spinach, prosciutto, and pastry; and pan-roasted Scottish salmon. Tableside cooking, by reservation only, is an optional feature. Don’t forget The Katherine McGregor Dessert Parlor for a sweet treat.4421 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-832-5700. L Mon.-Fri., D and high tea daily, BR Sun.

Tap at MGM Grand $ SPORTS BAR • More than 40 HD flatscreen TVs for sports fans, plus

Wine Dotte Bistro $$ WINE BAR • This interesting wine bar and restaurant offers a view of

R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 Beverly Hills Grill $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Breakfast near noon is compatible with the Grill’s dawn-to-dark schedule. Fare includes crab cake Benedict, corned beef hash with poached eggs, and omelet du jour. There are plenty of lunch and dinner options, typified by black bean chili, Caesar and spinach salads, and a notable burger. 31471 Southfield Road,Beverly Hills; 248-642-2355. B,L,D daily.

the Detroit River. The menu includes shrimp scampi, lobster tails, tenderloin medallions, and lamb chops. The wine is displayed in a cabinet across one wall and it’s the main focus. 2910 Van Alstyne St., Wyandotte; 734-556-3195. L,D Tue.-Sat., BR Sun. Wright & Co. $$ NEW AMERICAN • The collaboration between chef Marc Djozlija and Dave Kwiatkowski of the popular Corktown craft cocktail bar Sugar House gives new life to the second-floor space in the vintage Wright Kay building. Small plates such as tuna tartare with pickled pears and wontons, and pork tenderloin with goat cheese purée are the focus. 1500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-962-7711. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. Yum Village $ AFRO-CARIBBEAN • The former food truck opened a full-service restaurant in the North End in April. The space is bright and fun with wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and a colorful, geometric paint job. And the food is just as bold. The restaurant serves up piquant dishes like Lemon Pepper Jerk Chicken. 6500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-686-2839. L,D Tue.-Sat.

Oakland 168 KTV Bistro $$ PAN-ASIAN • Don’t judge by 168 KTV Bistro’s unassuming strip mall location. It’s a unique experience that meshes food, karaoke, and pop party culture into a one-stop destination. The dining room offers dishes blurring the lines. Standouts include stir-fried snow pea leaves with garlic and stir-fried udon. The traditional Korean noodle dish chap chae is a strong option. 32415 John R Road, Madison Heights; 248-616-0168. D daily. 220 Merrill $$$ NEW AMERICAN • The menu includes apps and small plates as well as crispy Key West shrimp, pan-roasted sea bass, and fried calamari. There are heartier entrees as well, like the braised beef short ribs. 220 Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-646-2220. L,D Mon.-Sat. BR Sun. Adachi $$$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • Heading the kitchen is Lloyd Roberts, who has trained in the kitchens of celebrity chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Nobu Matsuhisa. Here, soy truffle broth is ladled over pork dumplings reminiscent of coin purses, and miniature tacos are filled with lobster, tuna, or vegetable pickings. 325 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham. D daily, L Mon.-Fri. Ale Mary’s $$ GASTROPUB • There’s no mistaking that the name of the game here is beer, and the bartenders can help with narrowing down the options. There’s a separate vegan menu, plus such highlights as Cajun shrimp tacos, Southern fried chicken, creative burger options such as one with a mac-and-cheese bun, and a lot of whiskey. Come hungry, ready to drink, and you will not be disappointed. 316 S. Main St., Royal Oak;248-268-1939. L,D daily. BR Sat.-Sun. Andiamo Restaurants $$ ITALIAN • Steak and Italian pasta are the focus, but dessert is also impeccable. The more casual but as just delicious spots are known as Trattorias. Flagships: 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit; 313-5676700. 21400 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-359-3300. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township; 248-865-9300. 7096E. 14 Mile Road, Warren; 586-268-3200. Fenton Trattoria. D daily. Anita’s Kitchen $ LEBANESE • With pita pizzas and lamb chops, the Lebanese food here is some of the best around. And there’s vegetarian and gluten-free fare, too. Healthy, nutritious, and delicious. See website for locations; anitaskitchen.com Antihero $$ JAPANESE-INSPIRED • This Izakaya — a Japanese pub-style bar or eatery — opened in fall 2018. Its food is focused on small plates along with an endless array of craft cocktails, beers, and more. 231 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-307-7383. D Wed.-Sun.

Bi Bim Bab $$ KOREAN • Though sushi and a small selection of Japanese entrees share the bill here, it’s Korean food at center stage — on barbecue grills, on which meat and seafood are grilled to order. Or come for the restaurant’s namesake. 43155 Main St., Novi; 248-348-6800. L,D daily.

With pita pizzas and lamb chops, the Lebanese food here is some of the best around. And there’s vegetarian and gluten-free fare, too. Healthy, nutritious, and delicious. ANITA’S KITCHEN Metro Detroit

Assaggi Bistro $$$ ITALIAN • Seasonal offers encompassing rustic Italian, country French, and authentic Lebanese are all created in the open kitchen. Standouts include Moroccan duck legs, porcini-dusted day boat sea scallops, and cioppino (seafood stew). 330 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-584-3499 D Tue.-Sun. Bacco $$$ ITALIAN • Chef-owner Luciano Del Signore’s pastas are like pure art. Try the Strozzapreti Norcina: Italian sausage, truffles, tomato, and white wine, tossed in hand-rolled pasta. From local grass-fed beef to sustainably farm-raised sea bass to a fresh caprese, the ingredients are top-end. Based in the heart of Southfield, Bacco is a true Italian gem in the suburbs. And the desserts, are not to be missed. 29410 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-356-6600. L Mon.-Fri., D Mon.-Sat. Beans & Cornbread $$ SOUL • Upscale soul food is the premise at Beans & Cornbread: wings, Hoppin’ John, catfish, and a gravy-smothered pork chop. Tempura-battered fried shrimp comes with a choice of cocktail or spicy BBQ sauce, and there’s a notable Louisiana-style gumbo to boot. 29508 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-208-1680. L,D Tue.Fri., D Sat.-Sun. BR Sun. Bella Piatti $$ ITALIAN • The location right across from the Townsend Hotel has inspired a number of visiting celebrities, professional athletes, and film crews who stay there to check out the Italian fare at this restaurant. The menu of such dishes as Gemelli pasta with fresh tomato sauce, salmon baked with spinach, kalamata olives, white wine, and tomatoes, and tagliatelle Bolognese stands on its own. It’s one of our true favorites in the area in terms of Italian restaurants. 167 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248-494-7110. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat.

Bigalora: Wood Fired Cucina $$ ITALIAN • The pizza concept from chef Luciano Del Signore, a fourtime James Beard Award nominee, features small plates, fresh pastas, wood-roasted meats, and a range of distinctive Neopolitan pizzas. See website for locations; bigalora.com Big Rock Chophouse $$$ STEAKHOUSE • This old railroad station is a great setting. Portions range from a dainty filet to a huge porterhouse. There are also a variety of small plates to choose from, including tuna tartare, crab cakes, mac and cheese, and more. 245 S. Eton, Birmingham; 248-647-7774. L,D Mon.-Sat. Bistro Joe’s $$$ GLOBAL • Part of Papa Joe’s Gourmet Market, Bistro Joe’s is in a mezzanine overlooking the open kitchen and market. There is an eclectic list of dishes like Spicy Tuna “tacushi,” steamed mussels, and tasty flatbread pizzas. 34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-594-0984. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sat.-Sun. Café Cortina $$$ ITALIAN • Selections include prosciutto di Parma stuffed with greens and mozzarella; squid sautéed with fresh pomodori; gnocchi with porcini mushrooms; and meaty prawns finished with lemon, white wine, and herbs. For dessert, try the crepes 30715 W. 10 Mile Road, Farmington Hills; 248-474-3033. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat. Café ML $$ NEW AMERICAN • Café ML is contemporary, both in décor and its “globally inspired food.” Such dishes as short rib steamed buns, Chinese chicken salad, Singapore street noodles, and Korean fried chicken share the menu with burgers, steak frites, and fresh seafood. Garage door-style windows open onto the patio on warm days. 3607 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Township; 248-642-4000. D daily. Capital Grille $$$ STEAKHOUSE • Hand-cut, dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood dishes are the stars at Capital Grille. The restaurant’s outstanding wine list features over 350 labels. The setting is appropriate for both business lunches and social events and includes well-appointed private dining rooms. 2800 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy; 248-649-5300. L,D Mon.-Sat., D Sun. Churchill’s Bistro & Cigar Bar $$$ TRADITIONAL • You can buy your cigar and smoke it, too. Plus, there are dry-aged steaks, pan-roasted sea bass, seasonal East Coast oysters, and lamb chops, among other options. A full bar boasts a large selection of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon — and plenty of wine. 116 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham; 248-647-4555. L Mon.Sat. D daily. Como’s $$ NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale favorite reopened in May 2019 under the ownership of Peas & Carrots Hospitality with a trendier, fresher look. The warm, homey feel is still intact, but it’s ditched the old menu for — among other things — chef Zack Skylar’s square, deep-dish, Detroit-style pizza that’s leavened from a sourdough starter as opposed to commercial yeast. 22812 Woodward Ave., Unit 100., Ferndale; 248-677-4439. L,D daily. Crispelli’s Bakery Pizzeria $ ITALIAN-INSPIRED • This hybrid offers artisanal pizzas from a brick oven, salads, paninis, and soups. A bakery offers crusty breads,

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RECIPE

ALE MARY’S WALNUT OLD FASHIONED PHOT O BY K AILEY HOW E LL

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

1 orange slice

Muddle orange slice and Luxardo cherry in a rocks glass with simple syrup or a sprinkle of turbinado sugar and several dashes of orange bitters. Be sure to only muddle the flesh of the orange, avoiding the peel. Add ice to your glass. Pour rye (or bourbon) into glass and add Nocino liqueur. Stir and enjoy!

1 Luxardo cherry 1/4 oz. simple syrup (or sprinkle turbinado sugar) Orange bitters 2 oz. Sazerac Rye (or bourbon) 1/4 oz. Long Road Distillers Nocino liqueur

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R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 desserts, and meals to go. Two patios add to the appeal. See website for locations; crispellis.com

restaurant.Diners can choose to sit behind one of the two bars, a cozy café, or in the 245-seat dining room all decked in colorful textiles. At Gran Castor, the dining room is equally as decadent as the food and drinks served. Grab a $5 margarita between 4 p.m.-6 p.m. daily. 2950 Rochester Road, Troy; 248-278-7777. D Mon-Sun.

Culantro $$ PERUVIAN • Native Peruvian Betty Shuell brings a taste of her home to Ferndale. The casual, homey, seat-yourself establishment is named after an herb that is often used in preparation with the more familiar cilantro. An especially notable dish is Pollo a la Brasa, marinated chicken served with French fries, rice, and a variety of Peruvian dipping sauces. 22939 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248632-1055. L,D daily.

Hazel, Ravines & Downtown $$ ECLECTIC • This is an inventive, casual and fine-dining eatery, graband-go market, and bar all in a 10,000-square-foot space in downtown Birmingham. The restaurant itself offers three menus. Hazel focuses on comfort food. Ravines is for the seasoned traveler. While Downtown appeals to food-trend-followers. HRD is the ultimate neighborhood hangout. 1 Peabody St., Birmingham; 248-671-1714. B,L,D daily.

Diamond’s Steak & Seafood $$$ STEAKHOUSE • Now with a second location in Royal Oak, this Howell-based restaurant is the perfect location for New York strip steak, fresh gulf shrimp, or a classic cheeseburger. The Royal Oak location also sports the highly anticipated lush rooftop bar called Pinky’s that opened this spring. Aptly named, it’s painted in rosy hues and features a whimsical floral mural. There’s a buffet-style brunch at both Diamonds locations on weekends. 100 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-291-5201. D daily; 101 W. Grand River Ave., Howell; 517-548-5500. D daily.

Honcho $ LATIN FUSION • From the owners of Vinsetta Garage and Union Woodshop, this restaurant can be described as “Latin food that speaks with an Asian accent.” Menu items include a chicken burrito fried and tossed in a soy fish sauce and Korean pork tacos, featuring Woodshop pulled pork tossed in Korean BBQ sauce and topped with toasted sesame seeds and Malay radish slaw. 3 E. Church St., Clarkston; 248-707-3793. L,D daily.

Due Venti $$ ITALIAN • Everything is precise and balanced at this northern Italian gem: food, service, and atmosphere. Try the “fritelle” of sliced cauliflower fried in olive oil or the gnocchi with 14-hour braised lamb shank ragu. Desserts include affogato, a flourless torta with chocolate cake and raspberry mousse, and biscotti — everything is completely delicious. 220 S. Main St., Clawson; 248-288-0220. D Tue.-Sat.

Hong Hua $ CHINESE • One of the best area restaurants dedicated to Asian food offers some rare delicacies — shark’s fin and bird’s nest soups, fresh abalone — as well as more customary items. One signature dish is stir-fried yellow grouper fillet with vegetables. 27925 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills; 248-489-2280. L,D daily. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • This plush modern steakhouse offers dry-aged prime and Kobe-style wagyu beef in a fun, clubby setting. An extensive wine list accompanies the restaurant menu that also features platters of chilled fresh seafood. 201 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-594-4369. D daily. 17107 Haggerty Road, Northville Twp.; 248-679-0007. D Tue.-Sat.

Eddie’s Gourmet $$ NEW AMERICAN • Chef Eddie Hanna’s gourmet diner is a simple concept that works to perfection. The menu offers standard selection of breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, and lunch specials, but the real draw is the counter-side gourmet and pasta specials. Offerings include Veal Marsala and Chicken Milano 25920 Greenfield Road, Oak Park; 248-968-4060. L,D Mon-Sat.

Imperial $ MEXICAN-INSPIRED • The brief menu offers California-style tacos on soft tortillas, including lime-grilled chicken, carnitas, and marinated pork, as well as slow-roasted pork tortas, and guacamole, 22828 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, 248-850-8060. L,D daily, BR Sun.

Elie’s Mediterranean Grill/Bar $$ LEBANESE • The lamb and chicken shawarma, shish kafta, kibbee nyeh, and other Lebanese dishes are emphasized by the décor, including photomurals of old Beirut and strings of blue beads cascading from the ceiling. A fun place to frequent for a quick lunch or a night out with friends. 263 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-647-2420. L,D Mon.-Sat.

J-Bird Smoked Meats $$ BARBEQUE • Offering wood-smoked meats served with the traditional sides of cornbread, buttermilk slaw, and mac and cheese, popular dishes include the Three Meat Sampler and JBird Gumbo, as well as St. Louis Ribs and old-fashioned JBurgers. If you love meat, this is your place. 1978 Cass Lake Road, Keego Harbor; 248-681-2124. D daily. BR Sat.-Sun.

The Fed $$ GASTROPUB • An attractive restaurant with great food and a delightfully refreshing atmosphere. The menu crosses boundaries, from tacos and wood-fired dishes to assorted flatbreads and fresh sushi rolls. The bright and airy bohemian-chic interior is also Instagrammably beautiful. 15 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-297-5833. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. The Fly Trap $ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This “finer diner” typifies fashionable Ferndale with its tin ceiling, red-topped tables, and counter with swivel stools. It offers sandwiches, salads, pastas, and omelets. 22950 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-399-5150. B,L Tue.-Sun., D Tue.-Fri. Forest $$$ EUROPEAN-INSPIRED • The menu is brief but designed to let the kitchen assemble sharp flavors from various farm and market ingredients. Try the delightful Mandilli pasta with pistachio pesto and Tuscan kale, and the understated “Farm Egg.” 735 Forest Ave., Birmingham; 248-258-9400. D Mon.-Sat. BR Sat. Garage Grill & Fuel Bar $$ NEW AMERICAN • The car-themed rooms of a former 1940s gas station are as fresh and appealing as the dishes themselves. The kitchen serves up a variety of seafood starters and “full-size sedan” entrees, as well as pizzas. 202 W. Main St., Northville, 248-924-3367. L,D nightly, BR Sat.-Sun. Gran Castor $$ LATIN STREET • From the duo behind hit spots like Vinsetta Garage and Union Woodshop comes this vibrant Latin-American café and

One of the best area restaurants dedicated to Asian food offers some rare delicacies — shark’s fin and bird’s nest soups, fresh abalone — as well as more customary items. HONG HUA

Farmington Hills

Kaizen Ramen $ JAPANESE • A downtown Royal Oak space with exposed ductwork, orange booths, and a lively, floor-to-ceiling, black-and-white robot mural may not seem like the obvious choice for authentic Asian noodles. But this casual spot offers a variety of vegan and meat-based ramen dishes, as well as gyoza, poke, spring rolls, and karaage — Japanese-style fried chicken. Don’t skip out on desserts like mochi ice cream and cheesecake tempura. 411 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak; 248-677-1236. L,D Mon.-Sat. Kruse & Muer $$ SEAFOOD • The menu features seafood — lobster and shrimp in saffron cream — and pastas, pizzas, and sandwiches. There’s also beef, chicken, and a children’s menu. 327 S. Main St., Rochester; 248652-9400. L,D daily, BR Sun. There’s also: Kruse & Muer Roadhouse, 801 S. Lapeer Road, Lake Orion; 248-814-9500. L,D daily; Kruse’s Deer Lake Inn, 7504 Dixie Hwy., Clarkston; 248-795-2077. 134 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills; 248-375-2503. L,D daily; and the latest addition, Kruse & Muer on Woodward, 28028 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-965-2101. L,D daily. Lao Pot $$$ CHINESE • In early December, the owners of Madison Heights’ international market 168 Asian Mart opened Lao Pot, which specializes in Chinese Hot Pot cuisine. Hot Pot is a traditional method of cooking, using a pot of simmering broth, which sits in the center of the dining

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 table. Lao Pot allows diners to customize and cook their meals right at their tables, combining great food and a memorable experience. 32707 John R. Road, Madison Heights; 248-689-9888. L,D daily.

and housemade potato chips with a hot Jarlsberg dip. Or, try the roasted carrot risotto made with house labneh, pistachio, pomegranate gastrique, and Za’atar. 301 S. Main St., Rochester; 248-759-4825. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun.

La Strada Dolci e Caffé $ ITALIAN • A slice of European elegance offers an impeccable little menu of Italian dishes and rich coffees and espresso. Paninis, delicious fresh green salads, hearty minestrone soup, pastas, pizzas, and decadent and artistically crafted pastries are prettily served and very tasty. 243 E. Merrill St., Birmingham; 248-480-0492. B,L,D Tue.-Sat., L,D Sun.

Mesa Tacos And Tequila $ MEXICAN-AMERICAN • The two-story setting includes balcony seating in a big, open room where the bar gets equal time with the kitchen. The pop-Mexican menu — which includes guacamole, burritos, and the titular tacos — is backed up with an array of tequilas. 312 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-545-1940. L & D daily.

Lelli’s Inn $$ ITALIAN • Dinners begin with an antipasto tray, creamy minestrone, salad, side dish of spaghetti, and then — nine times out of 10 — a filet mignon with zip sauce. 885 N. Opdyke Road, Auburn Hills; 248-3734440. L Mon.-Fri. D daily.

R ESTAU R A N T O F TH E Y EA R 2 0 0 8

Mon Jin Lau $$ ASIAN-FUSION • Explore such dishes as Singapore noodles, combining chicken, shrimp, chilies, and curry with angel-hair pasta; Mongolian beef; or seared scallops with corn chili sauce and a side of fried taro. The patio opens up and the dining room transforms into a dance floor for weekly events. 1515 E. Maple Road, Troy; 248-689-2332. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

Loccino Italian Grill $$ ITALIAN • Loccino is a “family-friendly” yet upscale Italian restaurant. Choose from fresh seafood, steak, chicken, and veal dishes, plus traditional pastas, pizzas, salads, and more. They also offer happy hour specials from 3-7 p.m. weekdays. A great special occassion place or delicious workday lunch spot for whevener you need a break from the office. 5600 Crooks Road, Troy; 248-813-0700. L Mon.-Fri., D daily.

The Morrie $$ NEW AMERICAN • Music and munchies can be a great combination when served in the right proportions. Such offerings as the smoked chicken wings, Teriyaki salmon and Baja sweet potato tots, as well as the requisite burger and steak, appeal to a wide demographic. The rock’n’roll-themed eatery also brought its much-loved American dishes and cocktails to Birmingham in 2019. 511 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-216-1112. D daily. 260 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-940-3260. L,D Mon.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun. BR Sat.-Sun.

Lockhart’s BBQ $$ BARBEQUE • The heart of this joint’s authentic barbecue is the dryrubbed meat smoker, which can smoke up to 800 pounds of meat at a time. Choices such as pork ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, burnt ends, and chicken are served atop butcher paper on metal trays for the true experience. 202 E. Third St., Royal Oak; 248-584-4227. L,D daily. BR Sun.

New Seoul Plaza $$ KOREAN • An all-in-one spot for Korean eats that opened in fall 2018, New Seoul Plaza offers a dish for every craving. Try Daebak KBBQ for Korean barbeque, Jinji for traditional dishes or Myomee Coffee & Dessert Café for something sweet. 27566 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield; 248-996-8922. L,D daily.

Loui’s Pizza $ ITALIAN • Sure, you can now get a Michigan craft beer, but not much else has changed. And that’s a good thing. Parties dine on square pizzas with crisp crust that’s faintly charred around the edges. Hailed by food critics and Detroiters alike as arguably one of the most classic Detroit style pizzas in the city — so it’s well worth a trip. 23141 Dequindre Road, Hazel Park; 248-547-1711. L,D Wed.-Sun. Luxe Bar & Grill $$ NEW AMERICAN • The simple menu at this Grosse Pointe Farms joint offers burgers on brioche buns and interesting salads and sides, as well as entrees typified by wild-caught salmon, prime filet, and Greek-style lamb chops. 525 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-792-6051. 115 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-9245459. L,D daily. Mabel Gray $$$ NEW AMERICAN • Chef James Rigato produces some masterful dishes on this tiny menu, which does not miss a beat. The menu includes a multi-course tasting option, as well as a daily listing of changing items that never disappoint. It’s a fine dining experience that is certainly worth a visit. 23825 John R Road, Hazel Park; 248398-4300. D Tue.-Sat. Mad Hatter Bistro, Bar & Tea Room $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • The whimsical setting inspired by Alice in Wonderland welcomes far more than the tea-sipping set with burgers and sandwiches, rabbit Porchetta, truffle risotto bites, and baked brie with pistachio, honey, and pomegranate. There are also pastries and other sweets, of course. 185 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248540-0000. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Tea by reservation. Lower level not wheelchair accessible. Market North End $$ AMERICAN • Joe and Kristin Bongiovanni opened this eatery just across the street from the family’s other two restaurants, Salvatore Scallopini and Luxe Bar & Grill. It represents a younger, casual alternative with a serious kitchen that offers American dishes with hints of global influences. 474 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-7124953. L,D daily. The Meeting House $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • This eclectic American menu includes lobster fettuccini, steak frites remarkably close to those at Paris bistros,

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Oak City Grille $ NEW AMERICAN • This downtown Royal Oak spot bridges the gap between bar food and upscale dining. Order a dressed-up sandwich or burger, or elevate your dining experience with an 8-ounce filet mignon or lamb chops. The friendly price range makes anything possible. 212 W. Sixth St., Royal Oak; 248-556-0947. D daily.

Chef James Rigato produces some masterful dishes on this tiny menu, which does not miss a beat. The menu includes a multi-course tasting option, as well as a daily listing of changing items that never disappoint. MABEL GRAY Hazel Park

Ocean Prime $$$$ SEAFOOD • An upper-end steak-and-fish place and a popular business lunch site. The menu features naturally harvested fresh fish and prime aged beef. Don’t miss the chocolate peanut butter pie or the carrot cake. A tried-and-true metro Detroit spot. 2915 Coolidge Hwy., Troy; 248-458-0500. L Mon.-Fri., D daily. One-Eyed Betty’s $$ ECLECTIC AMERICAN • Picnic-style tables and blackboards lettered with scores of brew choices add a beer-hall sensibility to this popular spot. The kitchen delivers New Orleans-themed dishes such as po’boy sandwiches and Cajun chicken and sausage as well as a mouth-watering bacon burger. Weekend brunch features delicious housemade doughnuts. 175 W. Troy St., Ferndale; 248-808-6633. D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Otus Supply $ NEW AMERICAN • This Ferndale stunner has delightful food, superb service, and one wild look. The menu offers eight main courses and shared plates, as well as pizza and sandwiches. Can’t-miss: The housemade rigatoni made with Italian sausage and shredded boar. There’s also a concert venue called The Parliament Room. 345 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-291-6160. D Mon.-Sat. O.W.L. $ MEXICAN-AMERICAN • This Royal Oak spot offers 24 hours of sustenance. Step up to the counter and order from the letterboard menu before grabbing a stool at the counter or along the window ledge. Dishes here include such diner musts as eggs, sausage and potato hash, burgers, and chicken wings as well as tacos and nachos served from the open kitchen. 27302 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-808-6244. B, L,D daily.

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RECIPE

BAD BRAD’S BBQ BANANA CREAM PIE P HOT O BY K AILEY HOW E LL GRAHAM CRACKER CRUST:

1 ½ cup Graham Crackers, finely ground 1/3 cup sugar 2 oz. butter, melted 9-in. pie shell container (or 4 smaller individual shells) Place Graham Crackers and sugar into a bowl and add butter. Mix using hands until well incorporated. Butter pie pans so that crust does not stick. Place Graham Cracker mixture into pan, starting at the bottom and working your way up around the pie shell — make sure that it is same thickness throughout. If making individual pie shells, divide the graham cracker mix equally into all pans. Bake at 350 degrees and cook for 12 minutes and set aside.

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PASTRY CREAM:

SALTED CARAMEL:

BANANA CREAM PIE:

1 cup whole milk

1 ½ cup sugar

1 cup heavy cream

3 oz. water

3 bananas (ideally diced right before eating)

1/3 cup sugar

1 oz. corn syrup

2 egg yolks

1 cup heavy cream

1 whole egg

3 Tbsp. butter

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 Tbsp. salt

3 Tbsp. butter 1 tsp. vanilla extract Using a heavy sauce pot, add milk, heavy cream, and eyeball half of the sugar and bring to a simmer. In a bowl, add all eggs, cornstarch, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract and whip until well incorporated. Once the milk is hot, add roughly a half cup of the hot liquid and add it to the egg mixture. Immediately whisk to incorporate. Then, add egg mixture back into the pot with the milk and leave on low heat and whisk until the mixture thickens. Place mixture into a bowl, place plastic wrap on top, and place into the refrigerator to cool.

In a sauce pot, add water, corn syrup, sugar, and salt and start reducing. Once it becomes a dark golden brown, turn the heat off and immediately add your heavy cream. Add butter and salt and allow to cool.

Whipped cream Cover bottom of pie crust with small amount of caramel. Place diced bananas inside of the pie shell and spread evenly to the edge. Scoop pastry cream and place on top of the bananas. Add until the pie shell is full and spread even. Right before consumption, add whipped cream — start at the outside and work your way towards the center. Drizzle more caramel and Graham Cracker crumbles on top for garnish. Slice and enjoy.

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R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 Park 600 Bar + Kitchen $$ EUROPEAN INSPIRED • Seating includes the central bar, in front of the blazing pizza oven, at a communal table and conventional tables, and on the terrace overlooking Paint Creek Trail. The menu has an array of small plates and sandwiches at lunch along with intriguing dinner entrees. Royal Park Hotel, 600 E. University Drive, Rochester; 248-453-8732. B,L,D daily and afternoon tea ($39 per person) Thurs.Sun. by reservation. Phoenicia $$$ LEBANESE • This long-standing upscale Lebanese eatery has clean, contemporary lines that complement the French door-style windows. Don’t miss the morel mushrooms or roasted garlic cloves with tomato and basil as an appetizer. The menu expands to unexpected items such as baby back ribs and single-serving-sized local whitefish. 588 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-644-3122. L Mon.-Fri., D daily. Polka Restaurant & Beer Café $$ POLISH • Servers in traditional garb greet you near original murals, and light woodwork is enhanced with painted floral panels. Try the dill pickle soup, city chicken, and beef short rib, plus other favorites like pierogis, schnitzel, stuffed cabbages, and several kielbasa styles. 2908 E. Maple Road, Troy; 248-817-2601. D Tue.-Sun. Pop’s For Italian $$ ITALIAN • It doesn’t sound fancy, but this Ferndale restaurant serves well-prepared, Italian dishes paired with an ambitious wine program. The fairly brief menu starts with a list of Neapolitan pizzas, then moves to pastas, but has all the classics to hit the spot. There are charcuterie boards and Italian desserts, too. 280 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-268-4806. D Tue.-Sun. Prime29 Steakhouse $$$$ STEAKHOUSE • The 29-day aged prime beef, including the 24-ounce tomahawk bone-in rib-eye, still stars here. There’s also Chilean sea bass, Loch Duart salmon, and lamb chops with lobster fried rice. The service is notable, as is the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. 6545 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield; 248-7377463. D daily. Public House $$ SMALL PLATES • This Ferndale classic once known for its sliders recently received a menu update courtesy of executive chef Nick Erven and head chef Jasmine Hughes. While old favorites like deviled eggs are still present, they’ve been updated with pork rind, and the restaurant now offers “Fancy Ass Hash Browns” with caviar and fried chicken with spicy tomato ranch. The desserts are really worth a try. 241 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-850-7420. L,D Mon.-Fri, B,L,D Sat.-Sun. Quán Ngon Vietnamese Bistro $ VIETNAMESE • This gem of a bistro in a hand-some space adds to the local Vietnamese offerings. Dishes such as cha gio (elegant little eggrolls), bun bo nuong sa (grilled steak atop angel-hair rice noodles), and banh mi made with fresh ingredients. 30701 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights; 248-268-4310. L,D daily. Redcoat Tavern $ BURGERS • The half-pound choice beef hamburger is always atop the list of local favorites. But a low-fat, high-flavor Piedmontese beef one is tastier than the original. This is the place for your burger craving. 31542 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak; 248-549-0300. 6745 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-8650500. L,D Mon.-Sat. Rochester Chop House $$ NEW AMERICAN • Two restaurants in one; Kabin Kruser’s and the Chop House. There’s a throwback roadhouse-style feeling about the Chop House, which has a menu divided between red meat and fresh fish and seafood. Signature dishes include calamari, Maryland jumbo lump crabcakes, and a large selection of aged steaks, rack of lamb, and steak/seafood combinations. 306 S. Main St., Rochester; 248651-2266. L Mon.-Fri., D daily Ronin $$ JAPANESE • The sushi menu, ranging from spicy tuna rolls to yel-

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lowtail and salmon eggs and well beyond, is augmented by a concise menu of cooked fare. Front windows open onto the sidewalk, making the cocktail lounge open-air during the warm months. 326 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-546-0888. D daily. Rugby Grille $$$$ NEW AMERICAN • At the Townsend Hotel’s upscale restaurant, the classics remain, including boned-at-the-table Dover sole and hefty steaks. The eatery also introduced a new menu last year. Michigan-produced ingredients from local farmers and ranchers are still a focus here. 100 Townsend St., Birmingham; 248-642-5999. B,L,D daily. Sal’s $$ ITALIAN • Formerly known as Salvatore Scallopini, this old-school Italian eatery in Birmingham has long been known for its classic handmade pastas. Still, more recent menu additions — bold seafood dishes that reflect the Bongiovanni family’s Sicilian heritage — hold up just as well. 505 N. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham; 248-644-8799. L,D daily. Silver Spoon $$ ITALIAN • This quintessential slice of Italy features excellent food, knowledgeable staff, and friendly service. Try the bucatini made with pancetta, onion, red wine, and fresh tomato sauce. Also worth trying: saltimbocca alla Romana, or veal scaloppini sautéed in white wine. A truly delicious place for any kind of outing. 543 N. Main St., Rochester; 248-652-4500. D daily. Social Kitchen & Bar $$$ NEW AMERICAN • The energetic Birmingham spot allows guests a view of the kitchen action. It has a creative and varied menu typified by falafel lettuce wraps, fried chicken sandwiches, crispy Brussels sprouts, and salmon with braised lentils, crispy kale, and a mustard vinagrette. 225 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-594-4200. L Mon.Fri., D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. Streetside Seafood $$ SEAFOOD • Small and cozy yet sophisticated, the restaurant has a pared-down menu of fresh fish and seafood on a seasonal menu. There are always two soups: a bisque and a chowder. Favorites include the smoked whitefish melt at lunch. A delicious restaurant for all palates to enjoy and feel comfortable in. 273 Pierce St.Birmingham; 248-645-9123. L Mon.-Fri., D daily. Take Sushi $$ JAPANESE • Crisp salads, miso soup garnished with the tiniest dice of tofu, sashimi and sushi, oversize bowls of soba or udon noodles, and all the familiar — and some not-so-familiar — entrees, combine together to make this spot special. 1366 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248-652-7800. L Mon.-Sat., D daily. Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro $$ WINE BAR • Understated décor and a pared-down menu of seasonal dishes make this spot a Birmingham classic. The kitchen turns out dishes like Lamb Belly Ragu with housemade pasta; and Alaskan Halibut with mushroom ragu and asparagus. Wine is served by the glass, the pitcher, or bottle. 155 S. Bates St., Birmingham; 248-731-7066. D Mon.-Sat. Three Cats Restaurant $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • Formerly a small café serving customers of the boutique Leon & Lulu, Three Cats is now a full-fledged restaurant and bar. Located in the former Clawson movie theater next door to the shop, the spot serves small, simple plates, including vegetarian and vegan options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The beverage menu features local selections, such as vodka from Ferndale’s Valentine’s Distilling Co. and wines from grapes grown on the Leelanau Peninsula. Patrons can even take home the colorful, quirky chairs or tables they’re dining at, as most of the furniture at Three Cats Restaurant is available for purchase. 116 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson; 248-288-4858. L,D Mon.-Fri., B,L,D Sat.-Sun. Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint $ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH • It’s fun, it’s breezy, and the food at Toast, A Breakfast & Lunch Joint is very, very good. The house specialty smothered burrito has plenty of fans, as does huevos rancheros: fried eggs

upon corn tortillas, pintos, and cheese. Toast, a Neighborhood Joint, the spinoff of the Ferndale original has a more elaborate setting pairing ’50s retro with sleek contemporary in a pair of rooms. The new menu features twists to comfort food. 23144 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248398-0444. L daily, B Sat.-Sun. 203 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-2586278. B,L Mon.-Sat., B,L Sun. Toasted Oak $$$ BRASSERIE • The menu revolves around the charcuterie — crispy pork belly, live paté, beef short rib, etc. — sold in the market next door and a list of hot grill items, such as grilled steaks with béarnaise sauce. In 2019, the restaurant earned a Wine Spectator magazine award for its outstanding wine program. Plus, just across the lot is Twelve Oaks Mall, should you fancy an evening of shopping and dinner. 27790 Novi Road, Novi; 248-277-6000. B,D daily, L Mon.-Fri. Townhouse $$$ NEW AMERICAN • This popular Birmingham spot has several exceptional offerings on its menu, such as the specialty 10 ounces of 28-day dry-aged beef hamburger on brioche. 180 Pierce St., Birmingham; 248-792-5241. L,D daily, BR Sat.-Sun. 500 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-723-1000. L,D Mon.-Sun. BR Sun. Union Woodshop $$ BARBEQUE • Part of the ever-growing Union Joints restaurant group, this is a self-described wood-fired joint, where pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and beef brisket come from the smoker, and Neapolitan-style crisp-crusted pizzas from the wood-burning oven. And definitely check out the mac and cheese. There’s also a delicious kid’s menu for any youngsters in your party.18 S. Main St., Clarkston; 248-625-5660. D Mon.-Fri., L,D Sat.-Sun. Vinsetta Garage $$ NEW AMERICAN • This restaurant in a vintage car-repair shop offers well-prepared comfort-food classics such as burgers on pretzel buns, macaroni and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs, pizzas, and roast chicken. A restaurant that pays true homage to Detroit. 27799 Woodward Ave., Berkley; 248-548-7711. L,D daily. Voyager $$ SEAFOOD • Fresh seafood with emphasis on oysters is the premise in this hard-to-find location. The space entails convivially close quarters for such dishes as peel-n’-eat shrimp, chili crab spaghetti and grilled swordfish. The premium bar offers short but notable lists of beer and wine as well as craft cocktails. 600 Vester St., Ferndale; 248-658-4999. D Tue.-Sat. Yotsuba Japanese Restaurant & Bar $$ JAPANESE • The semi-circular sushi bar is the center of this estaurant. Sushi chef Bobby Suzuki has a loyal following for his precise nigiri rolls. There are also tatami rooms and conventional seating. 7365 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township; 248-737-8282. 2222 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor; 734-971-5168. L,D daily. Zao Jun $$ ASIAN FUSION • Adachi chef Lloyd Roberts has brought his refined yet imaginative Pan-Asian cuisine to Bloomfield Township. More casual than Roberts’ first local outpost, Zao Jun boasts an eclectic menu, influenced by traditional East Asian traditions as well as New Age techniques. Alongside an extensive drink menu of wine, beer, sake, and Asian-inspired cocktails, Zao Jun offers creative dishes such as Duck Macao, Kani Crab and Green Apple salad, and Mongolian Beef. 6608 Telegraph Road., Bloomfield Twp.;248-949-9999. D daily.

Macomb Bad Brad’s $$ BARBEQUE • The rustic setting at Bad Brad’s is just right for the menu of St. Louis ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. See website for locations; badbradsbbq.com Butter Run Saloon $ GASTROPUB • Solid American fare that’s beyond bar food (although their burgers are certainly noteworthy). There’s escargot, perch,

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R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1

RECIPE

SLURPING TURTLE DUCK FAT-FRIED CHICKEN P H O T O BY K AILEY HOW E LL INGREDIENTS:

1 cup soy sauce 1/2 cup sake 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1 Tbsp. minced ginger 1 Tbsp. sugar 2 Tbsp. sesame oil 1 4-in. piece lemongrass 8 boneless chicken thighs 6 cups duck fat 1 cup corn starch Salt to taste

NAPA CABBAGE SLAW INGREDIENTS:

SRIRACHA AIOLI INGREDIENTS:

8 leaves Napa cabbage, stemmed and thinly sliced

1 cup mayonnaise

1 medium carrot, peeled and julienned 2 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced on a diagonal 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced In a mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, and onion and mix thoroughly. Set aside and chill.

1 Tbsp. Sriracha 1 tsp. minced garlic Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir until creamy and well incorporated. Set aside.

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, and a pinch of pepper. Set aside. Using a sharp knife, separate the thighs from the drumsticks between the joint. Cut the thigh in half lengthwise along the bone. Using a cleaver, chop the piece with the bone in half, resulting in three similar-sized pieces. Chop the drumsticks in half. Repeat with the remaining chicken legs. Add the chicken to the marinade; cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. In a small pot, combine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sake, sesame oil, sugar, and lemongrass. Place on medium-high heat until the marinade beings to simmer. Prepare chicken thighs by cutting into three to four pieces per thigh. Combine marinade and chicken, cover and chill for at least 2 hours. Heat duck fat in a medium Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350 degrees. While the duck fat is heating, place the corn starch in a large bowl. Toss the chicken in the corn starch until every piece is evenly coated. Fry the chicken in two batches until crisp and golden brown or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the largest piece of the thigh reads 165 degrees, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer to a wire rack placed over a paper towel-lined sheet tray. Season the chicken with salt while hot. To serve, divide the chicken evenly on plates and serve with slaw. Drizzle the Sriracha aioli over the slaw and a small portion on the plate for the chicken.

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JUICE

R E STAU R A N T L I STI N G S 0 2. 2 1 steaks, and a huge whiskey selection — 900 at last count. 27626 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-675-2115. L,D daily. Da Francesco’s Ristorante & Bar $$ ITALIAN • Da Francesco’s has been around for more than 15 years, but its massive new facility is packing in the crowds offering an upbeat modern twist to traditional Italian dining. 49521 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-7544. L,D Tue.-Fri., D Sat., L,D Sun. Detroit Fish House $$ SEAFOOD • This restaurant feels like a true coastal eatery, serving an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood in a well-designed setting. Choose from a wide variety of fresh fish and meaty seafood, ranging from salmon to Lake Superior whitefish. 51195 Schoenherr Road, Shelby Charter Township; 586-739-5400. L,D Mon.-Sat., D Sun.

Shelby Township; 586-991-6104. L,D Mon.-Sat. Waves $$ SEAFOOD • Seafood covers most of the menu at this Nautical Mile favorite. It’s a tough task choosing between such popular appetizers as Cuban-spiced crawfish tails, crispy grouper nuggets, and plump steamed mussels. Entrees include al dente pastas and several choices from “over the wave,” such as lamb chops and New York strip steak, plus lump crab cakes, and beer-battered cod. 24223 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-773-3279. L,D daily.

Washtenaw

Gaudino’s $$ ITALIAN • The trend toward combining a food market with a restaurant has a good example at this spot. It offers imported pastas and sauces, plus a butcher counter with sausages and a wine assortment. The menu offers pasta and pizza, salads, and entrees, including a Chicken Milanese. 27919 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-879-6764. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Black Pearl $$ SEAFOOD • This seafood and martini bar is especially popular during patio season. But step inside for a host of craft cocktails, then stay for dinner. A seafood-dominated menu includes a notable roasted scallop dish. The Pasta Gone Bayou is also worth a try, with shrimp, chicken, andouille sausage, and a Cajun cream sauce. And make sure to order dessert. The Sweet Potato Beignets and glutenfree Black Pearl Molten Cake are exceptional. 302 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-222-0400. D daily.

J. Baldwin’s Restaurant $$$ NEW AMERICAN • The menu showcases talented chef Jeff Baldwin’s contemporary American food: cedar-planked salmon, chicken fettuccini alfredo with pesto, and herb-crusted chicken, with housemade breads. The desserts include chocolate bumpy cake, spiced carrot cake, apple cobbler, chocolate mousse layer cake, and banana foster bread pudding. 16981 18 Mile Road, Clinton Township; 586-416-3500. L,D daily, BR Sun.

Blue LLama Jazz Club $$ CREATIVE AMERICAN • Come to this swanky jazz club for the music, which includes headliners such as the Grammy-nominated Ravi Coltrane Quartet, but stay for Chef Louis Goral’s delicious food. Try the crispy foie gras PB&J with Marcona almonds and strawberry jam. There is also a delicious Sunday brunch with decadent orange blossom beignets and strawberry pancakes. 314 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-372-3200. D Wed.-Sat., BR Sun.

Mr. Paul’s Chophouse $$$ STEAKHOUSE • This bastion of red meat as well as classic dishes is still going strong. Try old-school tableside presentations such as Chateaubriand and Caesar salad. There’s a solid selection of fresh seafood and pasta, too. The founding family still runs the place and emphasizes great hospitality and a heckuva good time. 29850 Groesbeck Hwy., Roseville; 586-777-7770. L,D Mon.-Fri., D Sat.

The Blue Nile $$ ETHIOPIAN • The real treat of the meal at this Ferndale restaurant is that it’s scooped up with a spongy bread called injera, and all the lentils, often seasoned with an Ethiopian spice mixture known as Berber, and vegetables are equally delicious. 221 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor; 734-998-4746. D Tue.-Sun.545 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-547-6699. D daily.

Sherwood Brewing Co. $ GASTROPUB • Quality local ingredients raise Sherwood’s fare to well above “elevated pub grub.” Some notable choices include the hearty House Beer Chili, savory Better Made-crusted fish and chips, and spicy Buffalo Mac. Homemade extends to dessert, including Cashew Outside Cookies. This isn’t just bar food, it’s elevated bar food. 45689 Hayes Road, Shelby Township; 586-532-9669. L,D daily.

Cardamom $$ INDIAN • Check out the Hyderabadi Biryani — chicken, goat, and vegetable dishes, in which the rice is first cooked then baked. All the Indian favorites are available at Cardamom, such as Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Rogan Josh, and warm, fluffy, made-fresh garlic naan. It’s the ideal spot for those times when you’re craving the classics. 1739 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor; 734-662-2877. L,D Tue.-Sun.

Steakhouse 22 $$ STEAKHOUSE • The late Nick Andreopoulos once spent time as a “broiler man” at London Chop House. His family stays true to those roots at this American steakhouse with a casual, neighborhood feel. They offer an array of well-prepared angus steaks, plus seafood and pasta dishes. With the sizable lunch and portions offered at Steakhouse 22, good luck saving room for dessert! 48900 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township; 586-731-3900. L,D daily. Testa Barra $$ ITALIAN • The newest spot from talented chef and restaurateur Jeffrey Baldwin and his wife, RoseMarie, offers modern Italian fare in a lively, upbeat setting. Pastas are made in-house. 48824 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb Township; 586-434-0100. D nightly D Tue.-Sun. Twisted Rooster $$ SPORTS BAR • This “Michigan-centric” chain (Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and Belleville) has takes on classics, with mac & cheese variations and steaks with “zip” sauce. 45225 Marketplace Blvd., Chesterfield; 586-949-1470. L,D daily. Vast Kitchen and Bar $$ NEW AMERICAN • Chef Nicole Justman heads the kitchen at this fresh spot that brings a touch of Birmingham to Shelby Township. A contemporary menu at Vast Kitchen and Bar includes ginger-crusted salmon and filet mignon. 52969 Van Dyke Ave.,

H OUR DE T R O I T.C O M

The Common Grill $$ SEAFOOD • Owner and chef Craig Common’s skilled work has drawn the attention of the now shuttered Gourmet magazine and the James Beard House — as well as the Purple Rose Theatre crowd. This mainstay is best known for fresh oysters and seafood, but all the fare at The Common Grill is expertly prepared. A tried-and-true foodie destination with a range of desserts, including coconut cream pie, lemon pudding cake, and cherry cobbler. 112 S. Main St.,Chelsea; 734-475-0470. L,D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun. Grange Kitchen and Bar $$$ NEW AMERICAN • If the charm of the brownstone storefront brought you in, regionally sourced ingredients will make you stay. From fried pig head to pig-ear salad, every scrap of the hog is used, reflecting a philosophy of sustainability. 118 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-995-2107. D Mon.-Sat., BR Sun. KouZina Greek Steet Food $ GREEK • The Greek “street food” at this popular Ann Arbor spot comes in lamb and beef, and chicken. Try the lentil soup for a delicious lunch or go for something more filling like falafel. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this excellent spot. 332 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-997-5155. L,D daily. Mani Osteria & Bar $$ ITALIAN • This popular casual restaurant infuses freshness with lower prices than most osterias. It’s a well-rounded blend of modern,

eclectic Italian with classic standbys. The pizzas are hot, fresh and perfectly executed to suit your tastes. 341 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-769-6700. L Tue.-Fri., D Tue.-Sun., BR Sun. Miss Kim $$ KOREAN • This spinoff from the Zingerman’s mini empire comes courtesy of chef Ji Hye Kim and is a go-to spot for healthy Asian eats. Kim often incorporates ancient Korean culinary traditions, such as rice syrup and plum extracts, into her dishes. Some of the restaurant’s standouts include the Wasabi Sugar Snap Peas and Korean BBQ Ssam Plate — just to name a few of them. 415 N. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-275-0099. L,D Tue.-Sun. Paesano $$ ITALIAN • With a friendly waitstaff and decked in vibrant colors, this lively restaurant is not to be missed. The innovative menu changes seasonally. Must-tries have included the pasta carbonara, featuring shrimp, duck bacon, and Italian greens, as well as beet and ricotta gnocchi with brown butter. 3411 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-9710484. L,D daily. Seva Ann Arbor $$ VEGAN • Seva offers such dishes as black bean and sweet potato quesadillas, gluten-free options, and colorful stir-fries — some vegan as well as vegetarian. There’s also a full bar as well as a juice bar serving smoothies and shakes, fresh-squeezed juices, and mocktails. Choose from one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in the area. 2541 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-662-1111. L,D daily. Shalimar $$ INDIAN • Offering North Indian, Tandoori, and Mughlai dishes, Shalimar is suitable for carnivores and herbivores alike. Standouts include the Tandoori Lamb Chops marinated in yogurt, ginger, and garlic, which is best eaten with the restaurant’s flavorful garlic naan served fresh and hot. 307 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-1500. L, D daily. Slurping Turtle $ JAPANESE • This fun, casual Ann Arbor restaurant owned by celebrity chef Takashi Yagihashi offers plenty of shareable dishes, such as hamachi tacos and duck fat fried chicken. But the star at Slurping Turtle is the noodle (Yagihashi’s “soul food”), which is made in-house daily on a machine imported from Japan. 608 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-887-6868. L,D daily. Vinology $$$ ECLECTIC • Natural brick walls blended with dark-wood booths and tables lend warmth to the dining room at Vinology, while tall ceilings contribute to the restaurant’s spacious feel. The menu draws on assorted cuisines to produce dishes such as Vegan Dumplings, Short Rib Tacos, Fig and Gorgonzola Flatbread, and Filet Mignon with black truffle garlic butter and burgundy reduction. As implied by the name of the venue, the wine list here is incredible. Try a bottle off of its New or Old World Cellared Collection. 110 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-222-9841. L Mon.-Fri. D daily. Zingerman’s Delicatessen $ SANDWICH/DELI • Zingerman’s Delicatessen is a must-try staple in Ann Arbor. The temptations at Zingerman’s are endless: fresh breads and a menu of filling sandwiches, olive oils and housemade balsamic vinegars, chilies, and mustards. 422 Detroit St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3354. B,L,D daily. Zingerman’s Roadhouse $$$ CLASSIC COMFORT • This eatery celebrates American food from various cities across the country. From fresh Maryland crab cakes to the delicious delicacies of New Orleans, every last bite of the country is represented here. The buttermilk biscuits are beyond-this-world. 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-663-3663. B,L,D daily.

All restaurants are reviewed anonymously, all expenses are paid by Hour Detroit, and the listings have no relationship to advertising in the magazine. All restaurants are handicapped accessible unless otherwise noted.

CO NTIN U ED F ROM PAGE 18

open. But it also did give me a considerable amount of time to help my mother over the summer.

You were busy when Michigan became a focal point of baseless claims of election fraud, too.

It was really meaningful and personal to me to have showcased Michigan at a time when my home state was on the frontlines of defending democracy. Being physically present at the TCF Center after Election Day meant I could explain to our viewers what was actually happening: COVID rules were being violated and the police had to intervene. Also, on election night, when the numbers seemed to be going sideways, our anchors brought me in to reset the conversation and explain that the surprise shift toward Trump was a “red mirage.”

How has covering presidential elections changed since your first one in 2000?

Well, nobody was tweeting anything from the Gore plane. It used to be all-consuming, and you had to be away from your family for such long stretches because you couldn’t cover it any other way. It was more of a mix of older men who were able to not have as many family responsibilities and women who had yet to have children. And that’s what I was. For many years I wondered how I would ever continue to do this, given that I also wanted to have a family, but what I found when I covered Hillary Clinton’s campaign for USA Today was that it is completely doable because we had correspondents constantly tweeting and putting out footage of the

day-to-day things. I could just do my feature pieces or special reports. Many of the working moms who were on Hillary’s plane felt the same way.

What made you go into a career in media?

This is going to be a funny admission, but if I trace it back to the earliest days, I wanted to be Lois Lane because she was the first brunette heroine I saw. Back then, nearly all the Barbie dolls were blonde. I decided not to study journalism because I was also interested in foreign languages and international affairs. After MSU, I cold-called my way into Washington. My first job was working for a German correspondent as his assistant, and I got it because I could speak German and I knew how to write. That was really where I started.

Did your Michigan bona fides make you more valuable after the national media missed Donald Trump’s surge in the 2016 election?

You’d have to ask my bosses that. I know they really appreciate the Midwestern perspective. I did have some relationships with some members of Congress who were trying to sound the alarm about that.

Debbie Dingell in particular, right?

There you go! And I could see that many people I knew growing up were either Bernie Sanders or Donald Trump voters. Bernie’s having won Michigan in the 2016 primary should have been a wake-up call. I was also on the Clinton plane the day before the election when we were told we were going to

Grand Rapids for one of our final stops. I knew something was really off that they were adding that in at the last minute. But I could see it from my own community, that things weren’t necessarily what the polls said. There was a lot of support for Trump out there, particularly among working-class Americans.

Given how Trump attacks the media, did you feel unsafe covering him?

I didn’t, but I wasn’t a lead reporter going to all the rallies or traveling around with the president. Every administration I’ve covered has had some adversarial relationship with the press. George W. Bush used to call us “the filter” and the Clintons had a famously tough relationship with the media. But Trump told us he was going to have an adversarial relationship with us and told us, “Look, I’m doing it to discredit you so no one will believe anything critical.” I mostly have had good experiences talking to people out at Trump rallies and covering polling locations. But this was the first year I needed security to do my job on Election Day.

The Trump administration is known for being super leaky. Will covering Biden be harder?

Yeah. The Biden campaign was certainly a lot less leaky, but it’s harder when they get in and there are these sprawling agencies that now come into play with many, many more players. But it’s going to be harder. Most likely there won’t be as much turnover in key positions, which also leads to leaks. So yeah, it’ll be less leaky.

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 1

PROFESSIONALS

How You’ll Benefit From Doing Pilates Before and After Spinal Surgery

ue to working from home, many of us are spending a lot more time sitting and hunched over these days. Add to that the weekend warrior mentality when it comes to working out and relieving stress, and we’re wreaking havoc on our spines. In some cases, people are even causing injury to the point of needing surgery. Spinal surgery is usually a last resort when it comes to dealing with back and neck pain, but if it ends up being your only option, you can take heart in knowing that introducing Pilates into your pre- and postsurgical plan can help speed up recovery. Doing it correctly is key, though, so be sure to enlist the expertise of highly-trained and professional instructors. You may think of Pilates as an “exercise” to get a more toned body, but it’s far more comprehensive than that. There are six main principles involved with every movement in this system. The first is concentration. Pilates requires you to focus on your entire body, to ensure smooth movements. The second principle is control. Every movement should be done with intention and control. The third is centering, which means being aware that all movement originates from your center. The fourth principle is flow. Pilates focuses on interconnected exercises that emphasize economy of movement and thoughtful transitions. The fifth is precision. The aim here is for precise movement that will eventually become second nature and carry over into your everyday life. The sixth principle is breathing. Each movement

is executed with specific attention to breath while engaging the muscles in your center. If your injury or condition hasn’t completely immobilized you, you’ll want to work with a skilled professional before surgery to introduce yourself to the Pilates practice. Mat and reformer exercises are often effective for those suffering from uncomfortable spinal symptoms and conditions. With the guidance of an instructor, these exercises will help you become aware of the movement habits you’ve formed over time that may have had a negative impact on your spine. The exercises will focus on increasing the flexibility of the spine and hips, while strengthening the trunk and hip muscles. Any exercises that help to build strength in the muscles that support the spine will make recovery post-surgery that much easier. Plus, you’ll be familiar with the movements when it comes time for rehab. “Doing Pilates post spinal surgery will help to strengthen the core muscles of both the spine and the trunk,” says Ron Jegadeesh, Pilates instructor, physical therapist, and owner of Pilates Fitness & Physical Therapy Center in Southfield. “All of this leads to spinal stabilization.” You’ll learn how to use stabilization exercises to increase strength and mobility while grasping the importance of a “neutral spine” — the safest position for someone who’s recovering from back surgery. In all likelihood, your rehab program will begin with a physical therapist. Working with a physical therapist with a Pilates background

is advantageous. When a patient comes to the Southfield facility for physical therapy, sessions are covered by insurance — even if the therapy includes Pilates or Gyrotonic®. Depending on the type of surgery you had, you’ll typically move into a modified Pilates program somewhere between eight and 12 weeks post-surgery. Over time, Pilates can restore motor control of deep and local muscles in the abdomen and the spine. At the same time, it will strengthen muscles in the pelvic floor, buttocks, and hips. All of this contributes to your ultimate long-term goal: a healthier spine.

Pilates Fitness & Physical Therapy Center Ron Jegadeesh, PT, MBA Certified PMA, Polestar Pilates, Stott Pilates®, Gyrotonic®, Gyrokinesis® Instructor 17418 W. 10 Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48075 248-552-1012 | 248-552-0657 (fax) pilatesfitnessevolution.com info@pilatesfitnessevolution.com

PROFESSIONALS

Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy Promoting Pelvic Health and Care

eam Rehabilitation Physical Therapy consists of highly educated, skilled, and dedicated therapists who go above and beyond to help their patients. With 50 locations in southeast Michigan, Team Rehab specializes in many different physical therapies and treatments, including pelvic and abdominal health for women and men. This specific therapy addresses pain and musculoskeletal conditions in the pelvic and abdominal regions, including sexual dysfunction, loss of bladder and bowel control, and conditions that appear during pregnancy and post-partum. Patients are treated for a variety of symptoms including incontinence, pain, difficulty sitting, and gait changes. Sharla Buza, MPT, the Team Rehab mentor for this specialty, holds quarterly meetings at the company training center. “It’s my personal goal to help guide, as well as learn from, our amazing group of therapists, and to continue to increase

the number of PTs who specialize in pelvic health because there are so many people in need of our services,” she says. “Our company’s mission and treatment plans are centered around the patient. All of our PTs have the common goal of providing quality, comprehensive, and effective care in a supportive and comfortable environment.” Buza, who has been treating pelvic and abdominal health patients for nearly 20 years, is passionate about meeting each patient where they are, educating them, providing effective intervention, and helping to facilitate healing and the restoration of function. Team Rehab Physical Therapy offers a variety of treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific condition. Some of the modalities include biofeedback (which improves the patient’s ability to control their pelvic floor and activate the muscles) and electrical stimulation (to decrease pain and promote circulation

and healing). Their newest therapy system, called the Pelvic Wave Chair, is an FDA-cleared bioelectric magnetic therapy system. “Pelvic Wave provides noninvasive therapy by simply sitting on a chair fully clothed,” Buza explains. “The magnets in the seat stimulate pelvic floor muscle contractions up to 4 inches into the pelvis. This contraction creates communication between the motor nerves in the pelvic floor muscles and the brain, which strengthens the neuromuscular connection. In combination with other therapies, this device can greatly improve or eliminate incontinence, pelvic pain, hemorrhoids, and sexual dysfunction.” Team Rehab currently offers Pelvic Wave therapy at Shelby 2, Clinton Township, and Battle Creek. They also have plans to offer it at Novi 1 and other locations in the near future. Bhavani Rangan, MSPT, clinic director and part owner/partner of the Team Rehab clinic in Battle Creek, has 30 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. “I feel honored to be part of a group of skilled therapists specializing in pelvic floor rehab,” says Rangan, who completed her first training course in women’s health/pelvic floor rehabilitation in 2003. “We’ve been able to share and glean more information about different treatment strategies, especially in challenging or complicated cases.” One of those challenges is dealing with patients who feel uncomfortable or reluctant about discussing their private issues or participating in a program that involves the pelvic region. “Many of my patients have found the experience life-changing,” says Rangan, who recently added the Pelvic Wave Chair to further enhance treatments. “One of our patients called my clinic to inform my patient administrative coordinator that she woke up that morning with no pelvic pain for the first time in many years. That gave me a lot of satisfaction as her therapist.” Shannon Stermer, DPT, a therapist at the Team Rehab location in Clinton Township, quickly built up her own caseload of pelvic floor patients after graduating from the University of Findlay in 2015 with a doctorate in physical therapy. “It’s nice to be with an organization that promotes continued growth in areas of interest, and has a group of therapists who are equally as passionate and meet on a regular basis to share ideas,” says Stermer, who joined Team Rehab in June 2018. “I’ve found that with this patient population, when they experience changes, there can be such a profound improvement in the quality of their life, which can be so rewarding.”

Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy “We have a location near you!” team-rehab.com (See website for convenient locations and phone numbers)

Featured Physicians

Ellen A. Janetzke, M.D., PC A trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon since 2001, Dr Ellen Janetzke — or “Dr Ellen,” as she’s known to her patients — uses her exemplary surgical skills to perform a full range of cosmetic and nonsurgical procedures. Known for her extreme safety and efficiency in the operating room, Dr. Ellen is able to reduce a patient’s time under anesthesia and decrease their costs in the process. Breast- and body-contouring are her surgical specialties. Dr Ellen is known for the ever-popular “Mommy Makeover,” a stomach and breast improvement procedure that’s a great way for mothers to feel like themselves again. “Whether you’re a new mother or an empty nester, these procedures can make all mothers look and feel their best,” she says. Dr. Ellen takes pride in educating her patients regarding any procedures and treatments before they’re done. With tools such as Crisalix, a digital breast enhancement simulation, patients are able to see 3-D imaging of their breast enhancement before going into surgery. In recent years, she says, there’s been an increase in the number of patients seeking minimally invasive procedures. Whether it’s NeoGraft hair restoration, skin restoration such as BroadBand Light (BBL) laser or Halo laser, or injectable fillers and Botox, there are nonsurgical treatments to please all patients. The number of men seeking help is on the rise, Dr. Ellen reports. Her male patients favor both surgical and nonsurgical treatments to rejuvenate and restore the face and body. Many men are interested in liposuction for their chest, abdomen, and waist. Also on the rise is the number of people seeking skin reduction after extreme weight loss. Recommended body-contouring procedures for these patients include arm-lifts, lower-body lifts, tummy tucks, neck-lifts, and breast-lifts, reductions, and/or enhancement. Dr Ellen performs surgery at four safe, accredited locations, including Royal Oak and Troy Beaumont hospitals, UnaSource Surgery Center in Troy, and Beaumont Macomb Surgery Center. “With all the wonderful options we have, why not make yourself look and feel better by taking advantage of what plastic surgery and Envee Aesthetics have to offer?” Dr Ellen asks. ■

Ellen A. Janetzke, M.D., PC 60 W. Big Beaver Rd., Ste. 100 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248-258-5100 drellen.com

Featured Physicians

Evan Black, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.C.S. Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Dr. Black completed his ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at William Beaumont Hospital and the Kresge Eye Institute. Ophthalmic plastic surgery is a subspecialty within ophthalmology that involves extensive training in the delicate areas around the eyes. “This is particularly important because the eyelids are not only important aesthetically, but their proper functioning is essential to the health and performance of the eyes,” says Dr. Black, who has successfully completed thousands of procedures on the eyelids, brow, and forehead. In addition to common cosmetic procedures such as lower eyelid blepharoplasty, brow and forehead lifting, and upper eyelid blepharoplasty, Dr. Black also recommends many nonsurgical interventions such as Botox and fillers to reduce the signs of aging. Deciding between surgical and nonsurgical intervention is often a question patients have, and Dr. Black takes the time to discuss this. “There are problems, like lower eyelid ‘bags,’ excess upper eyelid skin, and drooping of the eyelids or brows that cannot always be treated effectively without surgery,” he says. “It is a balance between what the patient would like to do, what their expectations are, and what the physician is able to accomplish with nonsurgical, surgical, or combination techniques.” Voted one of the Best Doctors in America for more than a dozen consecutive years, Dr. Black is also a researcher whose interests include advances in eyelid surgery, tearing eye treatment, and botulinum toxin investigations. He has published numerous articles and lectures both in the U.S. and internationally. ■

When cosmetic or reconstructive surgery involves the eyes, it only makes sense to consult the experts at Consultants in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery, PC. Dr. Evan Black, an ophthalmic plastic surgeon, and his colleagues Drs. Nesi, Gladstone, Nesi-Eloff, Schlachter, Kahana, Beaulieu, and Physician Assistants Lindsay El-Awadi and Sara Turner, specialize in procedures of the eyelids, brow, and forehead. Dr. Black and his partners work with patients who

have eyelid tumors, including cancer and reconstruction, as well as patients with drooping upper eyelids, lower eyelid malpositions, and any diseases that affect the areas around the eyes and eye sockets. Dr. Black is also a professor of ophthalmology and the section head for oculoplastic surgery at Oakland University’s William Beaumont Hospital School of Medicine, and associate professor of ophthalmology at the Wayne State University School of Medicine. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at

Evan Black, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.C.S. Consultants in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery, PC 800-245-8075 29201 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 324 Southfield, MI 48034 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Ste. 101 Troy, MI 48084 theeyelidexperts.com

1924

THERE WAS A TIME — AND IT WASN’ T REALLY SO LONG AGO — when social clubs were not only exclusive, but exclusionary. Minorities, including African Americans, Asian Americans, Latinos, Jews, and Catholics, were often barred from the most prestigious clubs, no matter their social standing or financial status. Women, too, were routinely denied membership. Exclusion was often implicit rather than explicit. Bylaws didn’t always transparently state the exemption of certain groups, but the implication was clear. For instance, a 1927 Detroit Club booklet states that membership at the downtown establishment “shall be confined to the male sex and each member shall be not less than twenty-one years of age.” There was no explicit mention of race or religion, but it’s not a wild guess that membership in the 1920s was far from diverse at the Detroit Club, Detroit Athletic Club, Detroit Golf Club, the Country Club of Detroit, or at any of several other such places in metro Detroit. Minorities may have been snubbed, but they weren’t deterred; many groups started their own clubs. That’s how the Nacirema Club, an organization of Black male professionals (women were offered membership decades later), got its start in 1922-23. This image shows well-dressed members and likely their wives, many donning cloche hats, which were fashionable in the ’20s. The Nacirema Club was the first African American social club in Michigan and still stands today. It’s no coincidence that the name Nacirema is “American” spelled backward, likely a tongue-in-cheek reference to the fact that regardless of how the broader society viewed them, members were nonetheless Americans. The club, built in 1920-21 as a two-story brick home at 30th and Milford streets, was in a neighborhood off the Tireman corridor that came to be known later among African Americans of a certain age as the “Old Westside.” Blacks began moving there in the ’20s, as the great migration north made the lower eastside African American neighborhood known as Black Bottom too crowded. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. —George Bulanda

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The Way It Was

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BURTON HISTORICAL COLLECTION, DETROIT PUBLIC LIBRARY

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