The Paper - August 2009

Bloomfield Hills All-Sports Lakefront

Spectacular Newer Bloomfield Hills

City of Bloomfield Hills

Bloomfield Hills Golf Course Setting

New Construction in the City of Bloomfield Hills

Sylvan Lake New Soft Contemporary

Grandeur exists in this almost 17,000 sq. ft. estate home. Over 2 acres of privacy. Guest house.

Exquisite walkout. Five car garage. $6,499,999

Estate home on almost 4 acres of manicured grounds. Casual floor plan for entertaining. Finished lower level with all the recreation you need. $2,850,000

Walking distance to Cranbrook Educational Community. Newer construction on estate size grounds.

Open floor plan for ease of entertaining. $2,499,000

This new construction is complete with first floor master. All bedrooms are suites. Finished walkout lower level. Four car garage. Bloomfield Hills schools. $1,990,000

Over 6,000 sq. ft. of custom design.

Master suite with separate lounge area. Four car garage. Bloomfield Hills schools. Free Hunt Club membership. $1,745,000

Designed with exceptional amenities.

An entertainers fantasy. All bedroom suites. Second floor game room.

Three car garage. $1,425,000

Bloomfield Village Classic Country Home

Orchard Lake Lakefront Buildable Site

Custom Newer Construction in Bloomfield Hills

Butler Ridge Beauty

In-Town Birmingham Condo

Bloomfield Village Renovation

This rare 6,300 sq. ft. manor was rebuilt with a traditional floor plan.

Master suite with dressing area. All bedrooms are suites. Lease $8,000/month. $1,399,000

First time on market. One of Oakland County’s most scenic, in-town locations. Water and sewer at road.

West Bloomfield schools. $1,370,000

Walking distance to Andover High School. Over 9,000 sq. ft. of living with walkout. Four car garage. Upper Long Lake out lot access. $1,340,000

With almost 10,000 sq. ft. of living on all 3 levels. Situated on 1.5 acres with full walkout lower level and 4 car garage. As seen in Homestyle magazine. $1,249,000

Three story complex. Adjacent to park. New York style living. Exquisite.

Fabulous views. Abundant storage.

Lease for $4,700/month. $1,190,000

Elegant redesign with function in mind. New Euro kitchen opens to family room and breakfast nook.

Formal library. Large master suite. $1,149,000

Union Lake Contemporary Masterpiece

Upper Straits Lakefront

Custom New Construction on All-Sports Lake

All-Sports Lakefront Setting

Bloomfield Hills Gated Community

City of Bloomfield 3.29 Acres Setting

Designed by award winning AZD this spectacular lakefront property was created to redefine architecture in Michigan. Over 5,000 sq. ft. of living.

Three plus car garage. $1,099,000

Estate size property with southern exposure and sandy beach. Ideal updates for entertaining. Walkout lower level. Private street. $1,099,000

Over 4,500 sq. ft. Large dual island kitchen opens to great room.

Finished walkout lower level with fireplace. 3 floors of living. $999,000

With sunset views and sandy beach.

City of Orchard Lake. West Bloomfield schools. Surrounded by multi-million dollar homes. $949,000

Over 5,200 sq. ft. with updated master suite. Finished lower level with bar. Three car garage.

Bloomfield Hills schools. $895,000

Surrounded by nature. Walkout elevation. Move in or custom build.

Bloomfield Hills schools.

Franklin Park Like 1.2 Acre Setting

West Bloomfield Rare 4 Acre

Bloomfield Hills Golf Course Setting

Birmingham New Construction

Completely remodeled with Designer kitchen opening to living areas.

Finished lower level. Three car garage. $685,000

Parcel that is a perfect opportunity to build your dream estate. Rolling topography. Water at street and sewer up Maple Road. Birmingham schools. $630,000

Quiet cul-de-sac setting. Walkout ranch with incredible views and open floor plan. Three car garage.

Bloomfield Hills schools. $599,000

Adjacent to park and walking distance to town. Euro style design and open floor plan. Exquisite master suite. $549,000

West Bloomfield Ranch Style Home

Bloomfield Hills

This one and a half story is located on private setting with many capital improvements. Open floor plan.

Private natural setting. $449,000

Completely updated ranch on large private lot. Fabulous flow. Living room and recreation room with natural fireplaces. Bloomfield Hills schools. $350,000

$785,000

K A T H Y BROOCK BALLARD Franklin Hills Golf Course Frontage

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With southern exposure and perennial gardens. Newer kitchen, family room addition and second floor laundry. Bloomfield Hills Schools. $549,000

On cul-de-sac setting. Neutral tones throughout. Open floor plan for entertaining. Three car garage.

Meticulously maintained. $499,000

Bloomfield Hills Buildable Site

Watkins Lake Waterfront

Newer Build in Pleasant Ridge

End Unit with Newer Kitchen

New on market. Close to Forest Lake Country Club and thoroughfares. A stunning, private elevation.

Bloomfield Hills schools. $295,000

With boat docking. Updated with cook’s kitchen. Walkout lower level with recreation room, billiards and bar. New low price. $287,500

Sophisticated interior with granite kitchen, high ceilings, open floor plan. New roof. Fenced yard. Turn key. $157,000

Opens to step down family room, three bedrooms, formal dining room and living room. Finished lower level.

Two car attached garage. $149,000

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■ inside / august ■ 8: THE DOWNTOWN VACANCY BATTLE Birmingham PSD taking proactive approach to stemming the growing numbes of retail vacancies in the city shopping district

■ 22-23: BLOOMFIELD PARK PROJECT The massive mixed use development, pput on hold last year, is still in limbo

■ 35: NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS A sampling of some of the neighborhoods that help make the Birmingham-Bloomfield area unique

PAPER

PUBLISHER / PRESIDENT: James W. Fancy PUBLISHER / VICE PRESIDENT: David P. Hohendorf Administrative Assistant: Carol Barr NEWS EDITOR: Tim Dmoch Staff Writers Sally Gerak, Brooke Meier, Kathleen Meisner, Leslie Owsley, Kirk Pinho, Andrew Sawmiller, Michael Shelton Contributing Writers: Eleanor Heald, Ray Heald, Mike Scott, Mark Stowers Research/Listings Assistant: Cynthia Stawick Staff Photographer: Amy K. Lockard Sales Representatives Jill Cesarz, Dan Neumaier, Jules Pickard, Linda Stickney, Ron Warwick Sales Assistants Jessica Holstein

■ 13: CRIME MAP A locator guide to specific categories of crime in the local area

INSIDE SALES MANAGER: Lori Snyder Inside Sales Representatives Rhonda Libkuman, Cindy Stawick, Leslie Timko

■ 17: MUNICIPAL The Shain Park project; library-city battle; Bloomfield Hills charter question; study of staffing changes; search for added revenue in township; city election deadline nearing; transit center funding and more

■ 31: COUNTY

GRAPHICS MANAGER: Chris Grammer Graphics Assistants Denise Jungjohan, Karen Polatka, Marcia Reimer Systems Manager: Chris Grammer CIRCULATION MANAGER: Dennis Boggs Circulation Assistant: Dan Griffin

Cooper sues state over prison release; tri-party road funding disappearing; lobbying contract approved

■ 33: BUSINESS Edward Dorian, Oliver’s Trendz, The Annex, L’Uomo Vogue, Pink Pump, Hamilton Room, Christian Grothe, Via Bella

■ 41: EVENTS CALENDAR What’s happening for the month of August

■ 43: THE COMMUNITY HOUSE Shelley Roberts on what’s coming up in the weeks and months ahead

■ 44: EATING OUT Our directory of place where you can eat in Birmingham-Bloomfield; Main Course and Quick Bites; Focus on Wine with the Eleanor and Ray Heald

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE MANAGER: Carol Barr Supervisor: Carolyn Petherbridge Accounts Receivable: Mable McCullough, Jan Morris MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014 OFFICE ADDRESS: 7196 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48327-4113 TELEPHONE: 248.360.6397 • 248.360.7355 OFFICE HOURS: Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

DISTRIBUTION: The Paper is mailed free of charge to over 29,000 homes in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills just before the start of each month. Additional free copes are available at newstand locations.

Paid subscriptions are available for $15.00 per year by phoning our distibution department at 248.360.6397.

■ 47: SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK The latest from the society and non-profit circuit SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY THE PAPER OAKLAND LAKEFRONT OAKLAND HOMES MONTHLYADVERTISER WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY

■ 54: FINAL WORD Our editorial commentary

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■ from the publisher

Welcome to The Paper for Birmingham-Bloomfield The publication you are now reading — The Paper — is making its debut with this August issue. Over 29,000 homes in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills are receiving this publication free by direct mail this week, in addition to 1,500 free copies being distributed on newsstands throughout the general area.

Obviously we are excited about the response in the business community to our latest publication from the SCN Communications Group, which has been publishing newspapers, magazines, direct mail shoppers and community directories in Oakland County for the past 50 years.

Our goal with The Paper is to provide residents of the Birmingham-Bloomfield area with a solid, concise package of news and advertising information on a monthly basis in a full-color, oversize-magazine format. Conversations with key business community members in recent months helped us determine that a monthly product, where you can find everything you need in terms of advertising and news, was the best product for the area.

Our publishing group has a strong reputation with our other publications for concise, straight-ahead presentation of important information, and we are taking a similar approach for the Birmingham-Bloomfield communities.

As publisher, and as a local resident, I am excited about what we were able to present in the first issue.

For starters, take the time to review the businesses who are supporting our publishing effort. Our advertisers are the leaders in the Birmingham-Bloomfield business community and from surrounding areas, a clear sign that we have hit a responsive chord with The Paper.

From an editorial standpoint, you’ll find anchor features each month on issues and trends in Birmingham-Bloomfield, municipal and school governance news, Oakland County government and occasional state news that has a direct impact on the local area, along with news from the local business community.

Each month we will also publish a map of crimes from the past 30 days in the Birmingham-Bloomfield communities, which allows local residents to see the approximate location of some key categories of crimes.

On the news side, we will also present each month a directory of local restaurants, features and news from the local dining world presented by Eleanor Heald, as well as a wine feature each month authored by Eleanor and Ray Heald, nationally-known writers in this field. Shelley Roberts, president and CEO of The Community House, will keep local residents updated on activities at this pivotal local institution, and each month you will find a calendar of upcoming community events.

Because the Birmingham-Bloomfield area has a long-held tradition of supporting worthy causes in the broader community, noted society reporter Sally Gerak will be updating everyone each month about events in her Social Lights column.

Our monthly edition of The Paper is also augmented by a strong website (oaklandpaper.com), which we launched several weeks ago. Everything from the print edition, both news and advertising, is available on the site in a searchable format.

Equally important is the fact that we post at least weekly, if not more often, ongoing news coverage from the local communities.

Further, we offer site visitors the opportunity to sign up for e-mail alerts on several fronts during the course of a month. Among the alerts is our Weekly Update, usually on a Thursday basis, which gives notice that we have just posted the latest government and public safety news; Breaking News e-mail alerts, of which we have already had a couple in the last several weeks; and Sally Gerak’s column which is posted to the site each Monday with numerous photos that may not always make it into the print version.

Already over 300 people have signed up for some or all of the online news update services and we expect, based on past experience with our other websites, many more will join us now that The Paper print version is arriving in local homes.

We look forward to bringing you The Paper for Birmingham-Bloomfield each month. As always, I welcome your feedback to my e-mail address listed below.

David Hohendorf Publisher davidhohendorf@thescngroup.com

The Paper photos/Amy K. Lockard

VACANCY BIRMINGHAM PSD WORKING TO STEM TIDE IN DOWNTOWN AREA

By Andrew Sawmiller and Kirk Pinho irmingham is not immune to economic realities. While the supply and demand curve may often play favorites with the upscale and vibrant community, the financial situation swirling around the state and nation has made its presence known in the city’s Principle Shopping District (PSD) in the form of ever-changing retail vacancies in the heart of the downtown area.

In light of this interesting quandary, city officials are turning to both creative and conventional ways to combat a decline, which some outside of City Hall classify as a major concern.

“Overall, our retail occupancy rate, as a percentage of total available retail space, is 94.9 percent,” said PSD Director John Heiney. “That’s down slightly from 95.7 percent in June 2008. Some businesses are moving to other locations, like the Rail District here in Birmingham. Others are closing.”

The recent closings can be attributed to a myriad of factors, according to Heiney.

“There are often many reasons retailers go out of business or close,” he said. “In some cases we have lost small operations that were struggling month to month. We have also had some long-time proprietors retire, such as Edward Dorian and Imelda’s Closet.”

And it’s not just the local businesses that are facing problems. Some of the national chains have also pulled out, or merely maintained just one presence at the nearby Somerset Collection mall.

“Some national chains have pulled out as well — Smith and Hawken was one,” Heiney said. “They have one other location at a mall in Rochester Hills. Now Chico’s plans to leave by the end of July. They do have a location at Somerset.”

Birmingham City Manager Tom Markus, a de facto member of the PSD board through his city position, deferred to Heiney as being in the best position to answer questions about retail issues.

“Readers should know that the retail and commercial leasing climate in Birmingham and elsewhere is unlike anything we have seen for many years,” Heiney said. “We are seeing downward pressure on lease rates. Property owners and entrepreneurs are striking creative deals to help fill space. The results are some unique new retailers coming to town that may not have had the opportunity before. Some of these include Via Bella, a women’s accessories store; Suhm-Thing, a gift and accessories store that is owned and operated by the owners of Oliver’s Trendz here in Birmingham; and the Annex, a women’s, men’s and home accessories store that came here from another city.”

The PSD came about after July 1992, when then-Gov. John Engler signed Public Act (PA) 146, which amended Public Act No. 120 of 1961, known as the “Redevelopment of Shopping Areas Act.” According to Heiney, the law provides much needed assistance in the organization, improvement, and promotion of the Birmingham business community.

The PSD’s adopted mission is providing “leadership in the marketing, advertising and promotion of the Birmingham Principal Shopping District. We actively work to promote a district that is active, attractive, clean, safe and pedestrian-oriented, and ensure that the entire district continues to serve as a center for business, service, social, cultural and community activities.”

Primarily funded by assessments on all commercial non-residential property in a specific area centered in and around the city’s business district, the PSD looks at building lease rates on a per-square-foot basis, according to Heiney.

“We don’t calculate an average,” he said. “Typically retail space within the central business district ranges from $20 to $35 per square foot, plus triple net charges (taxes, insurance, utilities).”

Heiney said those rates can also vary given the location of a parcel or shop in the shopping district and whether the space is first-floor retail space or second-floor and above.

“Most of the spaces in general are owned locally,” he said. “However, we do work with property owners who live or spend most of their time out of state. Typically, they have local representatives who we work with directly.”

According to Heiney, the PSD is working with a $965,000 budget for the 2009-10 fiscal year. Divided into four main expenditure categories — special events, marketing and advertising, maintenance and improvement, and business recruitment — the vast ➤

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New Stores Since August 2008 • Adventures In Toys, 250 W. Maple • Annex, 534 N. Old Woodward • Ashtanga Yoga Room, 161 Townsend • Alpha Lifestyle Center, 808 E. Maple • Be Well, 750 S. Old Woodward • Birmingham Deli, 34186 Woodward • Cafe Via, 310 E. Maple • Cheeseburger Cheeseburger, 755 E. Maple • Cold Stone Creamery, 108 S. Old Woodward • Detroit Rocks, 115 W. Maple • Forest Grill, 735 Forest • HotPop!, 233 N. Old Woodward • Leo’s Coney Island, 154 S. Old Woodward • Maalouf Salon, 387 S. Old Woodward • NuImage Med Spa, 700 N. Old Woodward • Paulina B-H Boutique, 229 N. Old Woodward • Pink Pump, 150 W. Maple • Root and Sprout, 474 N. Old Woodward • Sam and Lola, 580 N. Old Woodward • Snap Fitness, 325 N. Old Woodward • Stacey Lieuliette, 235 Pierce Street • Suhm-Thing, 120-B W. Maple • Toast, 203 Pierce • Via Bella, 141 E. Maple • Yoga Bliss, 280 N. Old Woodward

majority of the budget goes toward promotion. as a noticeable retail decline. However, he agreed the current climate is challenging.

About $288,000 is spent on overall administrative Given the challenges, he said the hiring of a costs, which includes the salaries for three partconsultant to recruit businesses is merely a comtime employees who are paid between $15 and pliment to what the PSD already does. $20 per hour and Heiney’s $75,000-$85,000 “It’s just an initiative we’re following up on, as annual salary, which he said is on par with the we have a series of programs that we do and this salary paid to other city department heads. is an additional one we’re adding to our inventory At press time, there were about 80 listings for of programs that we offer,” he said. “I wouldn’t retail and office vacancies on the PSD’s web site say there’s a noticeable decline. I think if you look (enjoybirmingham.com/lease-space). at the statistics, and you look at the actual occuGiven the retail slide and an obvious need to pancy rate year after year, we’re not down that keep attracting newer and bigger retailers, the much.

PSD, as an extension of City Hall, is reaching out “Are people being challenged? Yes,” he said. and doling out some cash to bring in an expert to “Is this a difficult economy? Yes. But we’re fortudraw some national attention. nate that we still are at decent occupancy rates Just prior to press time, the PSD’s search comcompared to our competitors.” mittee settled on a recommended candidate who Asked why time and money should be spent reportedly lives locally and spent a number of on an outside retail consultant-recruiter if things years working for the Bloomfield Hills-based aren’t all that bad, Hockman said the PSD has Taubman Centers, Inc. Specific details on the always taken pride in being proactive when it agreement weren’t available prior to press time. comes to the business community.

“The PSD board has agreed to retain a retail “I think you need to be proactive in this econleasing consultant who can help us lease some of omy and this market,” he said. “You need to the downtown spaces,” Heiney said. “This conalways be looking ahead of where you are and sultant will focus on national retailers because we look to the future. If we can bring in some addibelieve there should be a mix of national chains Closed Since August 2008 tional assistance and help, that would be a good along with the boutiques. National chains bring thing. That’s what we want to do — compliment • Ageless Remedies, 135 E. Maple name recognition and significant advertising dol• Aunt Olive’s Good Food To Go, 525 N. Old Woodward what we’re doing with some additional lars. They also serve as anchor stores, bringing resources.”

• BabyHood, 141 W. Maple additional foot traffic that supports all of our Donna Figi, a senior associate and brokerage • Baci Salon, 101 Willits stores.” services retail property specialist with CB Richard While specific details of that contract are still • Buca Di Beppo, 270 N. Old Woodward Ellis, said while times are tough, everyone is being negotiated, Heiney said the PSD board has • Dominator, 286 W. Maple going to have to give a little, including landlords, already set aside funds for an annual salary in the • Edward Dorian, 237 Pierce tenants and the city. range of $50,000, plus expenses, for such a con• Goodyear, 835 Haynes “This is my take on it. This is an ‘opportunity’ sultant.

• Gracie’s, 154 W. Maple time, especially for entrepreneurs,” she said.

“These dollars will come from the existing • Greek Boys Coney Island, 154 S. Old Woodward “You’re not going to see rates like this for a long operational budget such as marketing, special • HomeRun Deli, 215 N. Old Woodward time. Rates are way down. This is time for that events and maintenance,” he said. “No additional entrepreneurial spirit and because people have • Kuhlman, 152 N. Old Woodward dollars will be raised to fund this effort.” lost their jobs, they are looking for new opportu• Original Soup Man, 172 N. Old Woodward The PSD board consists of business owner nities and new ways to reinvent themselves.

• Shaggy Chic, 574 N. Old Woodward members and residents from areas around and What better place than to do it in Birmingham?”

• Sock It To Me, 120-B W. Maple adjacent to the PSD. The board provides overall Figi also surmises that because the PSD vacandirection and leadership to the executive director • Smith and Hawken, 284 W. Maple cy rate is higher than it has been — as she and and the PSD office. It meets monthly, usually the • This Is Me, 202 E. Maple her company have vacant spaces available in the first Thursday of the month, at 8 a.m. at the • Tropical Squeeze, 215 N. Old Woodward downtown area — people are going to have to Birmingham Community House. work together to make it through this difficult The City Commission appoints board members Moving/Moved economic period. to two-year terms. The current board members • Beal Bank, 325 N. Old Woodward “Yes, there is a high vacancy rate,” she said. include Chairman Geoffrey Hockman; Vice “You’re not seeing expansion of the national • Revive, 154 W. Maple Chairman Richard Astrein; and Robert Benkert, retailers like we once had. We are now going to • Universal Watch, 177 S. Old Woodward Cheryl Daskas, Douglas Fehan, Julie Plotnik, see more of what we call ‘mom and pop’ type • Jos. A. Bank Clothiers, 275 E. Maple Steven Quintal, William Roberts, Larry Sherman, stores opening up. Yes, the lease rates are still Peter Sobelton, JoAnna Yaksich, and City Manager high, but landlords are helping or trying to work Markus. with tenants and if they aren’t working with them, tenants are finding they The board has six active committees chaired by board members. can’t meet the lease rates and are going to find someplace else. There are Daskas, co-owner of Tender at 271 W. Maple in Birmingham, said the landlords out there that are really trying. recent steps taken to address PSD vacancies will be successful.

“The city also has to work with the landlords in assisting with tax relief,” “We’re bringing in a consultant to fill the spaces,” she said. “It’s more of a she said. “Everybody has to give. If that’s possible, this will be a perfect recruiter type of person to recruit new stores. I’m 100 percent sure that this place for opportunity.” is going to help. I think that it has to do with relationships with different Figi said she also agrees with action by the PSD board to bring in an outcompanies that can bring these people in.” side retail consultant-recruiter to leverage as many resources as possible to Daskas admits that the retail and commercial property situation in bring retailers in and spur some activity in the district.

Birmingham is challenging and may just be part of the economic cycle coming to pass.

“I think anything you can do these days, as many feet as you can put on “It’s challenging down here,” she said. “Though I do think it’s a cycle, the ground, is best, with all of them pulling in the same direction,” she said. too. I think it’s going to get better. I absolutely do. We are trying very hard “That’s great. If they can do it, fantastic. Especially if you have, perhaps, a to fill the spaces in town with the right stores. We can fill the spaces, but we company that works on or specializes in urban retail, that’s fantastic. want to do it with the right mix of stores.”

Anything they can do to help is wonderful.”

According to Daskas, some of the PSD businesses have had a hard time in Those sentiments are shared by PSD officials and Heiney, who said open the downtown area because they have been under-capitalized and have failed lines of communication are going to be key in resolving the current situation. to understand the business climate of the times.

“The PSD will continue to work with the retailers, property owners and “It’s a little of both,” she said. “I think they are under-capitalized and also other stakeholders to help restore and revitalize our downtown shopping disthink they are under-staffed. The other thing is today in retailing it’s like a trict,” Heiney said. “Birmingham has a lot to offer a potential retailer, includglobal economy; you can’t just think it’s cute to open a store and expect it to ing a very affluent shopper, a beautiful downtown shopping area, and many be successful. You have to really work at it. You have to know your business events to support the retail climate. We are confident that these assets, comand know your customer.” bined with our new leasing consultant, will position Birmingham well for an PSD Board Chairman Hockman, an owner of the renowned Townsend influx of new retailers, once the national retail scene improves.” ■ Hotel at 100 Townsend Street, said he wouldn’t classify the current situation

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■ snapshot

mikki gardner

M

ikki Gardner, a Birmingham native and owner of Mood Events, recently earned acclaim after turning her growing catering operation into an allinclusive events planning business based in Birmingham. As a result of her impressive work and creativity, Gardner has been named Best Up-AndComing Special Events Planner by “Michigan Meetings and Events” magazine.

“I have a food and beverage background,” Gardner said. “I have always loved food, wine and everything around it. But I found I like working the entire event.”

Gardner attended Lake Forest College in Chicago before heading west to the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco to earn her associate’s degree in culinary arts. Ultimately, family and friends brought Gardner back to Michigan.

“I wanted to build a business and I felt the best way would be to come home where I have family, friends and a network of people,” she said.

Gardner had owned a successful catering business before opening Setting the Scene, an events planning business, with partner Holly Roemer

in 2005. Now, as sole owner of Mood Events, Gardner is serving the Birmingham community and beyond.

“I have a good, loyal group of clients in Birmingham and Bloomfield,” Gardner said. “I enjoy working in this area because my clientele are very sophisticated and well-traveled which extends me a wonderful challenge to create unique, fresh events that exceed their expectations.”

Gardner plans a wide variety of events, from children’s birthday parties to bat mitzvah and charity functions.

For Gardner, the opportunities are never ending.

“My goals are to grow my business and client relationships, both existing and new, by continuing to create fresh, innovative, chic events in this challenging economic climate,” she said.

Recently married, Gardner lives in Birmingham, where she hopes to continue to expand Mood Events locally, as well as nationally.

— Katey Meisner CREDIT: Our thanks to Blossoms in Birmingham for use of the store as a photo backdrop. The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard

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■ municipal Revenue sources subject of new resident survey

Birmingham election Commission filing deadline Sept. 15

By Brooke Meier

By Kirk Pinho

Bloomfield Township officials have approved an $8,900 contract with Mitchell Research and Communications, Inc. to survey residents on a number of issues including revenue enhancement options that include a possible Headlee override, a new millage, and collection of an administration fee.

All three options could be additional sources of revenue for the township, which is currently preparing for a 2010-11 budget shortfall, according to Township Supervisor Dave Payne. The township faces a projected shortfall of at least $6 million by the start of the 2011 fiscal year.

“We’ve had a lot of experience with Mitchell and his organization,” said Bloomfield Township Treasurer Dan Devine. “We find him to be accurate in his surveys and to go forward we want to make sure that we have the most reliable information.”

The survey will be similar to others conducted by Mitchell in the past. The sample size will be approximately 300 residents and no question will be asked without approval from the township.

“The questions have yet to be determined by the committee that’s charged with community expectations,” Devine said. “We want to make sure that anything we bring to the public, as far as potential millages or other revenue stabilization, is in sync with what the residents expect.”

Mitchell Research and Communications, Inc. is a Lansingbased consulting and polling firm.

“We have in the past conducted surveys to determine the viewpoints of Bloomfield Township’s residents and given the tremendous economic turmoil that exists within the state of Michigan, we met with the representative of the committee involved and have proposed to take a survey on the critical issues facing the township to see what residents think the township ought to be doing,” Mitchell said.

The survey will help to shape the ever-changing strategic plan developed by the township in March 2009. The plan is a five-year projection of hardships the township is anticipating and solutions to help solve the impending financial issues.

“Our strategic plan is two pronged — it’s a combination of cutting expenses and looking at the

Birmingham citizens interested in running for a City Commission seat during the Nov. 3 election have until 4 p.m. on Sept. 15 to file a petition with the city Clerk’s Office.

The terms of Commissioner Donald Carney, Mayor Pro Tem Rackeline Hoff, and Mayor Stuart Sherman expire on Nov. 1.

Hoff said she hasn’t made up her mind about whether she will run for re-election.

“I have a couple months to decide,” said Hoff, who was first elected to the commission in 2001.

Sherman was first elected in 2005 and served as mayor pro tem in 2006. Carney was appointed to the commission in January 2001 and elected in November 2001. Neither Sherman nor Carney returned calls from comment prior to press time.

As of Friday, July 17, no candidate petitions had been pulled or submitted, according to staff in the Clerk’s Office.

City commissioners, who serve four-year terms, are paid $5 per meeting. The mayor and mayor pro tem positions rotate among commission members, with changes made each November.

People interested in filing for candidacy must submit a candidate petition with no less than 25 voter signatures, and not more than 50 signatures, according to Clerk’s Office staff.

In addition, city voters will decide who will serve on the Baldwin Library Board of Directors, as well as the Birmingham Public Schools Board of Education.

The terms of Library Board of Directors Secretary Ileane Thal and members Andrew Harris and Ronald Vander Molen expire this year.

Candidates for the library board also have a Sept. 15 filing deadline, by which they must submit no less than 25 and no more than 50 voter signatures. Members serve four-year terms and are not paid for their service.

Board of Education President Lori Soifer’s term expires this year.

According to staff in the Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Elections Division, a candidate can either pay $100, or submit a petition with a minimum of 40 and maximum of 100 voter signatures to get their name on the ballot.

As of Friday, July 17, Soifer was the only candidate to file for the election. The filing deadline for that post is Aug. 11.

Board of Education members receive no pay, and serve four-year terms. ■

www.oaklandpaper.com

possibility of restoring lost revenues,” Payne said. “It isn’t like we won’t be cutting costs. To raise revenues, those are the three options we have.”

Headlee Amendment tax overrides could restore current millage rates to levels approved by voters at the time of their most recent renewals.

“There are some laws that govern how far back you can go,” Payne said of override actions. “For all the millage rates we have there would be variables there.”

The Headlee Amendment to Michigan’s 1963 Constitution requires taxing authorities to annually rollback millage rates so tax revenues don’t increase from one year to the next, except for additional revenue generated by new construction and renovation. The amendment provides for so-called override votes, whereby voters can decide whether to “override” the provision barring increases in annual millage revenue

collections.

The millages that would be considered for Headlee overrides are four public safety millages, a road millage and the township’s general operation millage; however, if revenue restoration is needed, only the Headlee override requests necessary to make up for revenue shortfalls would be placed on a ballot for voters to decide.

“We’re only going to ask for what we need, we wouldn’t ask to raise all of the millages,” Payne said.

If the township were to decide a Headlee override was the best way to increase revenue, the overrides up for consideration would have to be placed on a ballot for a public vote.

Each Headlee override request would be a separate issue on the ballot.

The second option, a new general operation millage, would also have to be placed on a ballot for voter approval.

Any new operation millage would

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have to be less than or equal to 1.33 mills, according to Payne. This could bring in approximately $4.5 million a year.

A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which generally is equal to half a property’s market value. The owner of a township property with a taxable value of $150,000 ($300,000 market value) would pay almost $200 a year in property taxes under a 1.33-mill levy.

The third option being explored is the addition of a 1-percent administration fee. There are 27 cities, villages and townships in Oakland County that charge an administration fee for property assessment and collection of taxes, according to Devine.

If Bloomfield Township applied a 1-percent fee to the collection of summer and winter taxes, it could gain an addition $1.5 million in annual revenue.

“These three options are things we’re going to consider in combination with cutting expenses,” Payne said. “We may not have to restore revenue but that’s something we are looking at. We want to be prepared.”

“We want to see what our residents think of these options and see what their overall perception of township services are,” he said. “We want to know what they feel is important so we can get a pulse on the community about a number of issues related to the financial dilemma that every municipality is going to face here in the next couple of years. It’s a way to stay in touch and communicate.”

Payne said the three revenue enhancement options are merely being discussed.

“I don’t want people to think we are just running out and asking for more money, because that’s not the case,” he said. “We have an obligation, in order to maintain our service levels, to look at all possibilities.

Once we gather all of the information and gather how our property values are impacted, then we can make adjustments.

“If, suddenly, the housing market picks up and the market hasn’t dropped as low as we’ve predicted it may, there may be no need to ask for restoration of lost revenues,” Payne said. “There are a lot of things that need to happen before we get to that point.”

Revenue restoration options and potential expense cuts are detailed in the township’s strategic plan. To view the plan, visit www.bloomfieldtwp.org. The plan will be updated on a regular basis and any public comment is welcome, according to Payne. To leave comments on the plan, call 248-433-7708. ■ 17

■ municipal Assessment of staffing to counter looming deficit

By Kirk Pinho Looking down the barrel of a projected $1.4-million budget deficit for 2012, the Bloomfield Hills City Commission has authorized the Plante & Moran auditing firm to conduct a staffing assessment that is expected to cost between $8,000 and $10,000.

The commission unanimously approved the measure on Tuesday, July 14, with all members of the city’s governing body voting in favor.

The assessment, which will look at efficiency and staffing across the city, examine cost containment strategies, and provide various options for the commission’s consideration, is expected to take between 60 and 90 days to complete.

The assessment would review the current operations of the Bloomfield Hills government, such as the offices of the city manager, city clerk, and city treasurer and finance director; the public safety and public works departments, which, among other things, would have overtime history reviewed, and enhanced mutual aid and collaboration and outsourcing options assessed, according to a letter Plante & Moran sent to Mayor David Kellet, Treasurer/Finance Director Carolyn Lorenz, and City Manager Jay Cravens.

“So we are looking at the aspect of what we need to do for staffing,” Cravens said. “About 33 percent of our budget really goes for retirement health care and other pension obligations, so (we are asking) what do we do to address those with current staffing.”

Earlier in the year, the city tapped Plante & Moran to conduct a fiveyear forecasting model, which determined the city would be facing a structural deficit by 2012, according to Cravens.

Currently, the city employs 41 people, 29 of which are public safety workers. The remaining employees include six city administration workers and five employees in the Department of Public Works (DPW).

There is also one part-time code enforcement employee.

Cravens said Plante & Moran is currently working on “the groundwork,” including “getting the job descriptions, organizational charts, and things like that.”

Plante & Moran also is looking into the feasibility of combining Birmingham and Bloomfield Township’s police, fire and dispatch services. ■ 18

$100,000 bump for Shain Park Design change spending approved by council

By Andrew Sawmiller and Kirk Pinho The Birmingham City Commission has authorized close to an additional $100,000 in spending as part of what is now a $2.9-million improvement project for Shain Park that’s scheduled to be completed by the end of 2010.

The park improvements are expected to be finished by the end of this year, and road improvements are slated to be done by the end of next year, according to Birmingham Mayor Stuart Sherman.

Work began inside the park on Monday, July 13, said City Engineer Paul O’Meara. Crews began incorporating portions of municipal Parking Lot No. 7 into the park, and the removal of Merrill Street.

The City Commission voted 6-0 on Monday, June 29, in support of two separate motions to revise the park improvement plan. Commissioner Scott Moore was absent from the meeting.

The commission authorized Albert Kahn Associates to proceed with changes to the project designs at a cost of no more than $40,300. The changes to the plan relate to its geometry, trees, corners of the park, lighting of the Marshall Fredericks statue, a reading area, a flag pole, lighting of the park’s war monuments and lighting for flower baskets that are expected to be installed along a reconstructed Merrill Street.

An added $50,000 was also

approved to cover increased construction costs.

In addition, the commission approved spending $13,300 for design changes for the north pergola, the park lighting system, and preparatory work for updated parking meters in Parking Lot No. 7.

Approximately $500,000 of the $2.9-million overall project is for design costs, O’Meara said. The balance of that figure is for actual construction. The revised cost of the project is well under the $3.5 million estimated cost.

“The project came in substantially under budget, so ... these are well within expectations,” Sherman said, stressing that the money for the project is coming from park improvement bonds, not the city’s general fund.

“It’s important to note that we’re not using General Fund money for this,” Sherman said.

“We’re using park bond money.

That’s money that can only be used for the betterment of our parks and that’s what we’re doing.”

Among the expected park improvements are a reconstituted children’s play area near Martin Street, with the playground equipment to be purchased separately.

Also, installation of a large water fountain is planned.

WWII and Civil War monuments currently located at the Birmingham municipal building will be moved to the park grounds. A complete reconstruction of Merrill Street through the park is planned,

THE PAPER

as well as relocating the Marshall Fredericks statute. Accompanying all of these improvements is a planned installation of a performance stage.

Due to all of the specified work, nearby city Parking Lot No. 7 will be reduced to nearly one-third of its existing size.

Shain Park is located in the Civic Center area between the City Hall and library. The current park is flanked by Martin, Merrill, Bates and Henrietta streets.

The City Commission voted in June to select Braun Construction Group to complete the project.

It’s been said by some city officials that the park project has been in the works for almost 82 years.

“This has been going since before the city was set up,” Sherman said. “I’m very please we’re moving forward. After all these years of talking about it, we’re finally at a point of moving it forward to develop the park that the residents have asked for over all these years.”

“This is part of a comprehensive plan for improvement, part of what they call the 2016 plan, which is a planning effort that brought the entire community together in terms of upgrading the whole town square and downtown area,” said City Manager Tom Markus. “This was one of the key projects in that plan. There had been steady work on implementing that whole plan, and this is one of the elements of the plan.” ■

www.oaklandpaper.com

Dog park in city moves closer with potential sites

By Kirk Pinho A subcommittee of the Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board is closer to coming up with one or more sites for a potential dog park in the community.

The Dog Park subcommittee, which met Wednesday, July 15, has narrowed a list of over 25 possible sites down to about five or six potential sites where a dog park could be built, according to Bob Fox, Birmingham’s assistant director of public services.

Asked about sites being considered, Fox said a member of the subcommittee told him it would be “a little premature to start putting exact sites out there (in the media).”

Walkability and parking availability were some of the key criteria for whittling the site list down, according to Fox, among others. Costs for developing a dog park could vary, but it appears fencing or gating would be the most substantial costs.

Fox said the fencing for a former dog park in Birmingham — which was essentially dismantled by the Michigan Supreme Court in 2007 under a legal challenge from the Bloomfield Estates Improvement Association — was around $14,000, although a significant portion of that was fencing related to a local golf course that abutted the park.

The subcommittee would have to make a recommendation to the Parks and Recreation Board, which would in turn make a recommendation to the City Commission for final approval of a dog park site.

Fox said he expects a recommendation from the subcommittee by the end of the year.

Not everyone is thrilled with the idea.

Daniel Beyer, president of the Presidents’ Council of Neighborhood Associations, said he has reservations. His organization recently fired off a missive to a number of city officials outlining council member concerns. “(The dog park proposal) is something that’s been discussed for a number of months, and the letter was an effort by the Presidents’ Council to reach a general consensus among members as to what we thought the significant issues were and had to be addressed,” Beyer said.

In the letter, the organization cites “questions that remain unclear,” including the criteria for determining possible dog park sites, those which were considered during the vetting process, what standards were used to rule out potential dog park sites, and what standards were used to “retain an identified site ➤ www.oaklandpaper.com

Square Lake road work Chain-link fence becomes issue on state project

By Brooke Meier The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees has approved a contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to repave Square Lake Road, contingent upon a request by the township that MDOT leave up an existing chain-link fence.

In addition, township Engineering and Environmental Director Wayne Domine has received authorization to discuss with MDOT officials the possibilities of a contract change, including the elimination of a sidewalk along Square Lake Road.

While Domine can discuss the changes with MDOT, it’s possible that MDOT will reject the changes and move forward with the project as originally planned without the support of the township. A contract has to be submitted by the township to MDOT by Monday, July 27. If the new contract is accepted by MDOT, then a special meeting will be held for township officials’ approval.

“We are trying to utilize the stimulus money through MDOT to best satisfy the needs of all township residents,” said Bloomfield Township Treasurer Dan Devine. “Unfortunately the funds aren’t providing a solution to every problem presented.”

The project was originally scheduled for 2011; however, the opportunity arose to use stimulus funds and the project was expedited to begin on Aug. 3.

Because of the stimulus funds, the township was able to take advantage of the project and ask MDOT to cover the cost of median repairs and installation of a decorative three-rail fence to help beautify the corridor.

“We will start on Aug. 3 most likely,” said MDOT Spokesman Rob Morosi. “We are going to resurface both directions between Telegraph Road and Woodward. The maintaining of traffic is essential. We will have two lanes open in each direction.”

At times there will be restrictions on turns onto certain streets, but residents will still be able to get into their subdivisions, according to Morosi.

“Sometimes if you were westbound and want to go southbound you may have to wrap around the eastbound side to get southbound,” he said.

Fencing replacement, median curb and gutter work, as well as signal upgrades are also included in the project for a total cost of $5 million.

“It’s a very good price for what we are going to get out of this,” Morosi said. “You’re looking at improved ride quality, modernized and updated signals, new decorative fencing and repairs to the median.”

Construction is slated for completion, barring any unforeseen problems, by late November.

“I think it’s a win-win situation for the township, us and the motorists,” Morosi said. “What you’re doing is including everything in one project and getting it all done at once.”

Ajax Paving, an Oakland County business, will be doing the project.

“We want MDOT to work with the individual residents as to the status of their fence,” Devine said.

“The sidewalk was part of our Master Plan for safety paths; however, the proximity to the roadway was the issue and our current position is that as presented we are not interested in that sidewalk at this time. The

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key is safety. We want whatever transpires to be as safe as possible.”

Many residents who live in the neighborhoods on either side of Square Lake Road attended a Monday, July 13 Board of Trustees meeting to voice their opinions on the project. They were all against the township approving the contract and discussed numerous problems ranging from the safety of installing a sidewalk to road debris and traffic noise.

Area resident James Connarn objected to the township entering into the contract.

“I think communication was poor,” he said. “I am one of a number who have been residing in that area for 20 years, trying to have both safety and noise abatement addressed. Nothing has ever been accomplished.”

According to Township Supervisor Dave Payne, a study was conducted in the 1990s by MDOT and concluded any noise abatement structures would be costprohibitive.

“Some homeowners, I know, requested a sound wall but that didn’t meet the criteria for sound wall installation,” Morosi said.

Other residents, like Norman Parsons, were against the removal of an existing MDOT chain-link fence along the roadway. Several others shared Parsons’ opinion that the removal of the fence would result in several safety problems.

“I have grandchildren that play in my yard, and a three-rail fence will not stop them from running out into the road,” Parsons said. “The first two comments I get when I talk to people is they don’t want the three-rail fence, and the second is they want a fence like the one at Square Lake Road and Opdyke.”

“We’ve heard that there are some residents who have expressed some concern about the fence,” Morosi said. “We are willing to work with the township. They are the ones who are paying the extra cost for the decorative fencing. If the township wants to appease those individuals then we are very inclined to work with them. This is not to throw the township in front and say it’s their decision. What we have determined on this project is that we will work with the township. The township has concerns — rightly so — about this new decorative fencing and I am sure we can find a remedy for this situation.”

“We are still working on getting an answer from MDOT on the contract changes,” Devine said. “We are confident that they will work with us to reach some sort of solution that benefits everyone; but — and it’s always a big but — it’s their contract and their project. They have been very good to work with us but they don’t have to. If push comes to shove they can do what they want. They are running the show, not us.”

If the chain-link fence is left in place, the decorative three-rail fence will be placed as close as possible in front of that fence and the township will look at ways to repair or paint the chain link fence to continue the beautification of the Square Lake Road corridor.

“We are trying to coordinate between MDOT and the residents to take advantage of a situation to make whatever improvements we can to that road, but we are under a really tight time frame. We don’t want to put the project in jeopardy,” Payne said. ■

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■ municipal for additional consideration or recommendation.”

“Recognizing all Birmingham residents share your goal of perpetuating and enhancing the quality of life (service, safety, environment, education, community) we have made every attempt to be part of the process,” the letter states, adding that the Presidents’ Council “in general supports the pursuit of a possible dog park in a non-residential or vacant area of the City.”

However, the council opposes “any site that would be located within a neighborhood or is in immediate proximity of any residence,” pets being allowed off their leashes in “any public park with playground equipment that prevents the users of the park from enjoying the use of the park or causes health or safety concerns,” and “any pet being off leash in any park, well site or otherwise identified nature conservatory without playground equipment.”

Under park rules, dogs are not allowed in Birmingham parks, thus necessitating such an area for canines, Fox said. ■

Charter amendment going before voters in Bloomfield Hills Bloomfield Hills voters will be asked in November to approve a City Charter amendment giving the city added flexibility in the special assessment district (SAD) billing process.

City commissioners seek a change in an existing charter provision that requires SAD bills to be paid within 30 days of an assessment roll’s confirmation. The proposed charter amendment would allow the City Commission to determine when the billing process begins.

“We’ve found the 30 days to be a little bit problematic for an existing special assessment district that we have going on for a road paving project,” said City Manager Jay Cravens.

“The problem is assessing people for an improvement that hasn’t happened yet. That doesn’t make sense.”

The proposed charter amendment language states, in part, “All special assessments shall be payable in such number of approximately equal installments, not exceeding twenty (20), as the commission may determine. The due date of the first installment and each subsequent annual installment for each special assessment district shall be determined by the commission at the time the assessment roll is confirmed.”

The ballot language, which will be known as Proposition A, will be forwarded to the Governor’s Office and Attorney General’s Office for final review before placement on the Nov. 3 ballot.

SADs are used to pay for public projects benefiting a limited number of parcels in a given area by charging a special assessment only to the owners of properties benefiting from the project. ■ www.oaklandpaper.com

Library opinion expected State attorney general asked to decide city dispute

By Kirk Pinho Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox’s office may soon issue an opinion on issues related to the ongoing spat between the Baldwin Public Library Board of Directors and the Birmingham City Commission.

The library board and commission have been battling over which group of elected officials has governance and financial control over the library, and a library millage increase that was shot down by the commission in May. The library board wanted to hike an existing 1-mill levy to 1.35 mills to help the library with its approved $3.54-million budget for the 2009-10 fiscal year, which runs from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010. City Finance Director Sharon Ostin said revenues are projected at about $3 million.

A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which is generally equal to half a property’s market value. The owner of a city property with a taxable value of $150,000 ($300,000 market value) pays $150 a year in property taxes to support the library under the 1-mill levy. The owner of the same property would pay $202 a year in property taxes for the library under a 1.35-mill levy.

Baldwin Public Library Board of Directors President Ann Conigliaro said the shortfall “requires a spending down of the fund balance.”

She said the fracas is “not just over the budget,” but more about the City Commission’s role in library oversight. She also said that the library board had considered a lawsuit against the commission, but took that measure “off the table at this juncture” due to the attorney fees that would be racked up.

In requesting the attorney general opinion, the library board is seeking a determination on the following two questions: • “If the Library was lawfully established in 1907 pursuant to the Act, and the Village was later incorporated as a Home Rule City, can the City by its Charter contravene the independent budget and governance authority vested in the Library Board by (Public Act 164 of 1877, the City, Village and Township Libraries Act)?”

• “If the Library’s governance is controlled by the Act, is the City Commission legally obligated to assess and collect the millage reported by the duly elected Library Board as necessary for the support and maintenance of the Library, so long as that millage is within the voted limitation, or does the City Commission possess discretion to unilaterally reduce the Library millage?”

State Sen. John Pappageorge (R-Birmingham, Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills) has received the formal request for an attorney general opinion from the library board, according to Conigliaro and Birmingham City Manager Tom Markus.

Michigan law requires that requests for attorney general opinions be submitted by either chamber of the state Legislature, the governor, or “any other state officer.”

Any formal attorney general opinion issued would be non-binding, according to Conigliaro.

It appears a legal precedent on the issue already exists, according to staff in Pappageorge’s office.

In 1996, former Attorney General Frank J. Kelley concluded in a case involving a different community

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and library that state statutory “language makes it abundantly clear that it is the library board, and not the city council, that determines the amount of money to be raised for library purposes within the library tax rate approved by voters.”

“It is my opinion, therefore, that the library board of directors has the authority to determine the final annual budget of a city library established under 1877 PA (Public Act) 164,” the Kelley opinion states.

However, some city officials have said that opinion doesn’t tell the entire side of the story, arguing that Kelley’s opinion addresses libraries that were approved by voters, whereas the Baldwin Library was established by a vote of the Birmingham Village Council, the community’s governing body before it was incorporated as a city. Some contended that state statute deems the City Commission would have millage authority, not the library board.

Mayor Pro Tem Rackeline Hoff said she didn’t want to speculate on what, if anything, would change if the opinion came down in favor of the library board’s interpretation of its autonomy.

“I don’t know what the commission would do. I don’t know what the next step is, legally,” she said.

Library Executive Director Marti Custer’s recent financial report to the library board outlined two possible solutions for the budget shortfall: • A combination of service reductions, staff eliminations, closing for one or two days a week and reducing collection allocations; or • Using portions of unrestricted and capital fund balances, as well as searching for other cost-saving measures “that would have a minimal impact on services.”

Conigliaro said finding cost-cutting measures is an “on-going process” and that the library’s fund balance is “dangerously low.” There have been no wage increases for staff, some of which have gone from fulltime employees to part-time, she said.

Hoff said the squabble has “only come up in the past few years,” before which the City Commission and the library board worked together “very cooperatively.”

She sought to quash any indication that the commission’s decision to reject a 1.35-mill library millage levy — which was a split vote — was somehow a display of discontent toward the library. Instead, she said the commission’s vote was based solely on maintaining budgetary discipline.

“I don’t want to give the impression that the commission doesn’t support the library,” Hoff said. “We think our library is wonderful. But we think, in these difficult economic times, they have to tighten up their budget, cut where they can, and look for cost savings just like the city is doing.”

In another potential blow for the library budget, the Beverly Hills Village Council has voted to tentatively opt out of Baldwin Library services, a decision which would save that community about $522,000 a year, according to Village Manager Chris Wilson.

However, the council has until Dec. 31, 2010 to rescind the vote.

He added that the move was “completely unrelated” to the disagreement between the city commission and library board. ■ 21

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he skeleton of the $350-million Bloomfield Park development juts across the horizon of the Pontiac-Bloomfield Township border, its bare-bones structures a result of the economic downturn and a lack of proper capital to complete the 600,000square-foot project.

It’s hard to say what’s in store for the project that was once ranked as one of the top six developments in Oakland County.

While permits for the property have been renewed with Pontiac and Bloomfield Township, Betsy Keck, director of public relations and corporate communications for Developers Diversified Realty (DDR), said there has been no change in the decision to shut down the Bloomfield Park project, a major mixed-use development.

“We don’t have any updates, and that’s all I have permission to tell you,” she said. “Nothing has changed since the shutdown but you are welcome to give me a call in another couple of months if you want to check in.”

Construction was halted on Nov. 5, 2008 after DDR’s partner failed to provide the equity required to complete the project that was just less than 50 percent complete at the time of the stoppage.

The property was being developed by DDR and Coventry Real Estate Fund II, known as “the fund.” The fund was formed with equity capital commitments from several investors and Coventry Real Estate Advisors served as the investment manager.

In an agreement signed by Coventry and DDR, Coventry was held responsible for providing 80 percent of the funding required for completion of the project. At the time of the construction shutdown, Coventry hadn’t committed the capital per the agreement.

DDR is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment fund operating as a fully-integrated real estate company that acquires, develops and leases shopping centers. Coventry is a Delaware-based limited liability company. Its principle place of business is in New York, N.Y. “They basically didn’t have enough committed leases and their financing dried up on the project so they suspended construction until they are able to obtain credit and leases, which all depends on the economy,” said Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne.

The project was to be built in two phases. Phase I was designed to contain 18 buildings with approximately 533,556 square feet of retail space, 127,823 square feet of office space, 60 residential condominium units, three parking structures, and various ameni-

ties, including two lakes, walking paths, three parks and a fountain to be converted into an ice rink during winter.

Phase II of the project was to contain approximately 1 million additional square feet of retail and office space and approximately 1,000 residential units.

In 1992 the project developers began to assemble approximately 90 acres of land in Bloomfield Township and the city of Pontiac for the construction of Bloomfield Park.

The project proposal came before the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees in December 2000. Craig Schubiner, the managing member of Harbor Companies, presented the board with project plans and requested that the board make the necessary amendments to the zoning ordinance in order to allow the development.

According to minutes from the Dec. 6, 2000 meeting, Schubiner described the project as a new type of suburban development. He said, “Bloomfield Park will offer places for people to work, live, shop and play by combining office buildings, apartments, retail stores, a health club, a luxury hotel, public spaces with courtyards, parks, benches and areas for festivals and cultural displays.”

He cited Meisner Park in Boca Raton, Fla.; Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, Calif.; and Reston Town Center in Washington D.C. as similar developments that offer the same look and feel as the proposed Bloomfield Park.

Charles Leman, the township’s planner in 2000, addressed the township board following Schubiner’s presentation and listed four implications of the development that he wanted officials to consider: • The proposed zoning amendment for Bloomfield Park contemplated development that is so inconsistent with the township’s Master Plan that it would effectively undermine the basic foundation of the Master Plan; • The existing zoning of the site would permit reasonable development and use of the property. However, the proposed zoning amendment for Bloomfield Park represented a policy change of major proportion. The development was contrary to the core aesthetics and functional character of the community and was contrary to the basic manner in which residential and non-residential development had been dispersed within the township in order to promote the township’s objectives in planning and zoning. The

BLOOMFIELD PARK: F MAJOR MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT

O

existing land use plan had resulted in one of the most beautiful townships in the state; • Consideration of the proposed zoning amendment for Bloomfield Park shouldn’t proceed unless the board determines that it’s dissatisfied with the current conditions of the township, taking into consideration that the proposed development would require a basic rethinking of the policies responsible for the development of the township in its present condition; and • The proposed amendment for Bloomfield Park, if adopted, would result in the creation of a new urban area of significant proportion and correspondingly, could result in a significant decline in existing urban areas within Oakland County, such as Southfield and Troy. Likewise, such a new urban area could have an adverse impact upon the city of Birmingham, which had long served as a downtown or urban center for Bloomfield Township. The net effect of the new urban center, therefore, would amount to urban sprawl.

As a result of the public hearing held at the meeting, the township board voted unanimously to deny a text change in the township’s zoning ordinance to accommodate Bloomfield Park.

Several board members, including Payne and Clerk Janet Roncelli, stated that the developer, Schubiner, could work with the township to develop plans that fit within the township’s Master Plan and zoning ordinance.

“Initially the project was brought to the township in 2000 as a concept by Schubiner,” said Bloomfield Township Treasurer Dan Devine. “He wanted to totally bypass the township’s zoning ordinance as it related to (building) height, density and parking restrictions. In essence, he wanted to build a city within the township. At that time our height restrictions were 32 feet (2.5 stories) and he wanted to build multiple 20-story buildings. In defense of our zoning ordinance and Master Plan, we said no to his initial concept.”

According to Devine, the township then negotiated a compromise that would have allowed Schubiner to build four- and fivestory buildings at a greater density than the zoning ordinance allowed.

“We knew that there was a threat, that he made clear that he could attempt to annex the property (into Pontiac),” Devine said.

“The township never owned the property, we simply had jurisdiction.”

The deal was negotiated through Schubiner’s attorney. Devine said the township was waiting for the blueprints to move forward when officials read in the newspapers that Schubiner had gone to Pontiac and initiated the annexation process.

“The annexation of the property was approved through an election in Pontiac, then a series of lawsuits resulted out of that,” Payne said.

“It then became a court battle that went on and on and on,” Devine said. “It entailed Bloomfield Township, Oakland County and Pontiac. It ultimately went to the Michigan Supreme Court. On the eve of their decision in the case, we were in court-ordered facilitation through the Oakland County Circuit Court and were able to come to a compromise, so we didn’t lose all jurisdiction.”

“We then reached an agreement with Pontiac,” Payne said. “If the property were to be annexed, we’d have no standing in the project at all. Since we were successful in negotiation an agreement, we do get some input and do receive some (tax) revenue, but not a whole lot because it’s a brownfield and they receive tax abatements.”

A Pontiac City Hall clerical assistant who asked to remain anonymous confirmed that the development was a brownfield project when construction began.

Brownfield redevelopment authorities provide access to financing incentives, in some cases through Oakland County. Those incentives are a Michigan Business Tax (MBT) Credit and tax increment financing (TIF). The MBT credit is available at up to 12.5 percent of the eligible investment hard costs made on an eligible property by a qualified taxpayer. With TIF, anyone who incurs eligible costs under an approved brownfield plan is entitled to reimbursement with TIF revenues.

The city of Pontiac collects property tax revenue from four of the parcels that make up Bloomfield Park. These parcels have a total assessed property value of approximately $12.8 million, and carry a taxable value of approximately $11.4 million, according to Eric Dunlap, an appraiser with the Oakland County Equalization Division.

The taxable value of the Bloomfield Park property located in Bloomfield Township is $403,800.

“We created a 425 agreement with Pontiac that ostensively blocked the annexation,” Payne said. “As a result of that we ➤

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signed a 425 agreement, which is a conditional transfer of land agreement, with the city of Pontiac. That’s what the property is governed over at this time.”

“We felt that 20-story buildings on our doorstep would really have been a detriment to the surrounding residential community and neighbors that had been very much against the concept,” Devine said.

As part of the compromise, eight-story buildings were allowed to be erected toward the back of the development. The buildings tapered down to two-story structures along Telegraph Road.

The settlement created a unique governing body for the development.

“It’s really the only instance in Michigan history — it’s called the Joint Development Council,” Devine said.

The council was designed to oversee the development and ensure that the developers followed all of the rules and regulations as laid out in the settlement.

The council is compromised of Devine, serving as Bloomfield Township’s representative; Madhu Oberoi, Pontiac planning administrator and Pontiac’s representative; and neutral member Kay Stanfield-Spinks, one of the court-ordered facilitators.

“The developers had come to the city and submitted the same plans they had submitted to the township,” Oberoi said. “After being rejected by the township, the developer pursued annexation.

An election was held to approve the annexation and the property was annexed by the city and became a part of Pontiac. After the annexation the city had jurisdiction to approve the plans.

However, an agreement was formed with Bloomfield Township to create the council.”

Anytime the developer needed plans approved, they were brought before the council for consideration.

“The developers were able to comply with most of the requirements, but he was having a lot of trouble complying with the traffic elements of the agreement because it required enormous amounts of traffic flow on Telegraph Road,” Devine said, adding that Schubiner eventually brought DDR into the development project.

“They had the financial wherewithal, architectural experience, and management needed for a development of this size,” he said.

Eventually DDR stepped in and moved the project along. Schubiner, according to Devine, was either bought out by DDR or accepted a package allowing him to step out of the project.

“In the meantime, during August or September of 2008, simultaneous with the final approval of all of the building plans, the market went down the proverbial hole and the financing was put on hold with DDR through their financial arm, Coventry,” Devine said. “The project has essentially been put on hold since that time.”

“That’s where the project stands now,” Devine said. “We at the township are hopeful that the project will be taken off the mothballs and put back in full swing. It’s a matter of timing and financing on DDR’s part. It appears to us that they do have the financial wherewithal to do it, it’s just a management decision on whether or not they are going to treat it as a going concern or an abandoned project. They have had a new infusion of capital since February 2009 with some international monies.”

Like many big companies, when the economy tanked, so did DDR’s stock. DDR suffered like many others, according to Devine.

“It isn’t a specific failure related to any one person or anything,” he said. “It was just a creature of the credit crunch and unfortunate timing.

It’s ready to be finished; someone just has to come along and pick it up from here. We do hope it can be finished. It’s really a unique opportunity.”

If the project is ever finished, the hope, Devine said, is that it will contain all of the elements submitted in the plans, including a state-of-theart movie theater, a multi-story hotel, as well as up-scale restaurants and high-end retailers similar to those at the Somerset Collection.

According to Oberoi, the project, as it stands today, is less than 50 percent complete.

“There is no plumbing or anything; just the

Simultaneous with final approval of the building plans, the market went down the proverbial hole and financing was put on hold structures have been put up,” he said.

If the buildings stand vacant and incomplete for too long, they may have to be torn down.

Oberoi has visited and inspected the site since the construction shutdown.

“There are some things, right now, that we are asking of the developers at this point,” Oberoi said. “They need to protect the structures so that (demolition) situation won’t occur. There is structural steel in some places that seems to be rusting and there are some beams and rebars that are exposed and rusting. It’s only been vacant for a year but if it turns out to be long-term, they may have to be torn down.”

According to Payne and Oberoi, no performance bonds were submitted by the developers so that the project could be finished by the township, city or another developer.

“It’s a private project; it’s up to them (DDR) to fund it,” Payne said.

There are no roads constructed within the development. However, according to Oberoi, some off-site utility work and Telegraph Road work was completed by DDR. According to Devine, Schubiner, the original developer, has since filed a lawsuit against DDR for not living up to contractual agreements.

Two lawsuits have been filed against DDR and Coventry by two Michigan-based limited liability companies, BP1 and BP3.

The lawyers representing the plaintiffs in both cases, David Fink and Darryl Bressack, didn’t return multiple calls for comment prior to press.

“I don’t know whether it’s a valid lawsuit or not. Schubiner is probably just trying to protect his interest in whatever the deal was,” Devine said.

The court complaint alleges that DDR and Coventry didn’t properly perform their duties and had materially breached their agreements. The document states that if DDR and Coventry had complied with terms of the agreement, “Phase I of Bloomfield Park would have been completed in the Fall of 2009 and soon would be providing significant economic benefits to Oakland County and to the entire Detroit metropolitan area. Had DDR properly marketed the project and diligently processed leases and pursued retailers, the project would have been insulated from the recent economic downturn.” The court documents state that with DDR’s failure to proceed in a commercially reasonable way, Coventry’s failure to fully fund the needs of the project, and Coventry’s failure to hold DDR accountable, the project’s momentum has been destroyed and there is no realistic hope that BP1 will receive any of the economic benefits it bargained for when it entered into the agreements with Coventry/DDR. BP1 has sustained significant damages due to the defendant’s wrongful conduct, the documents state.

The BP1 lawsuit is centered on five counts.

The first claims DDR and Coventry breached the Owner L.L.C. Operating Agreement. The second is a derivative claim for breach of project development and management and leasing agreements with DDR. The third claim is a breach of joint venture agreement with DDR and Coventry. The fourth claim is tortious interference with contract with Coventry. The fifth claim is fraud in the inducement against DDR, Coventry and Coventry/DDR. With each claim, the plaintiff, BP1, is seeking a judgment in favor of whatever amount it is found to be entitled to, together with interest, costs and attorneys’ fees or any other relief, equitable or otherwise, the court deems appropriate.

The BP3 lawsuit alleges the same as the BP1 suit against Coventry and DDR. The claims are as follows: breach of contract, owner L.L.C.; breach of contract, DDR; tortious interference with contract, Coventry, DDR, Coventry/DDR; and promissory estoppel, Coventry, DDR, Coventry/DDR. With each claim, the plaintiff, BP3, is seeking a judgment in favor of whatever amount it is found to be entitled to together with interest, costs and attorneys’ fees or any other relief, equitable or otherwise, the court deems appropriate.

Both the BP1 and BP3 lawsuits were filed on April 3, 2009 and a trial date for both cases has been set for March 9, 2010 before Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren. ■

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■ municipal Transit center may become reality for neighboring cities

By Kirk Pinho Birmingham and Troy residents may have improved access to regional bus routes, rail service, taxis and other modes of transportation if a new transit center that’s proposed for Doyle Drive comes to fruition.

Representatives from both municipalities have been hard at work, holding design charrettes, planning and working to garner more funding for the project, which has an estimated price tag of about $7 million.

Local officials have also ventured to Washington D.C. to further pursue the transit center project.

Birmingham and Troy have set aside $1.6 million total, with another $350,000 reportedly being chipped in by the Michigan Department of Transportation.

A design charrette was held in mid-June and produced “lots of feedback” from the “couple hundred” individuals who attended over the two-day event, according to Carrie Zarotney, president of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce.

The transit center itself is slated to be constructed on Doyle Drive, with the entire transit-oriented district itself being located between Adams and Crooks roads to the west and east, and Maple and Lincoln roads to the north and south, respectively, said Jana Ecker, planning director for the City of Birmingham. The two cities have roughly the same number of parcels in the district.

The center is expected to be approximately 2,500 square feet, but the possibility of expansion exists, should the need arise, according to Zarotney. She said it was intentionally planned to handle the existing need.

Room for about four or five kiosks will be available for rental car providers and relevant enterprises.

“We also kind of want it to serve as a technology showplace,” Zarotney said, adding that the center is expected to “be able to evolve and support future technologies.”

Zarotney said “there are all sorts of studies” that conclude, in some areas where a similar center exists, the immediate quarter-mile radius around it sparks property value jumps of 30 to 40 percent, plus the added tax base increase that accompanies such a development.

Ecker, Zarotney and other interested parties met in Washington D.C. with U.S. Sens. Carl Levin (D-Detroit) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing), and the United States Department of Transportation, to discuss potential federal funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the stimulus package signed into law in February.

Zarotney said both senators expressed support for the project during their Wednesday, July 8 meetings. www.oaklandpaper.com

Senior center opens New structure result of bond issue

By Brooke Meier The new, state-of-the-art Bloomfield Township Senior Center opened it’s doors on June 29, providing an array of equipment and opportunities to community residents age 50 and over.

The new building replaces the Senior Services facility which was previously located in a former Bloomfield Hills Schools elementary school leased by the township.

“The move to this new center is long overdue,” said Bloomfield Township Clerk Janet Roncelli. “We were in a limited facility — an elementary school that was being used by senior citizens.

“This building we’re in now is made for the senior population,” she said. “Everything about it is conducive to those 50 and up that want to use the center, whether they are an individual with a disability or someone without a disability who wants to come in and exercise or attend a class — it’s all made for their comfort and convenience.”

The new structure is the result of a 2006 voter-approved, 25-year capital improvement bond issue.

Some of the features of the new building include a therapeutic pool, a walking track, fitness equipment and craft and meeting rooms.

In addition, the Adult Day Service, previously located in a separate facility, will be incorporated into the new senior center.

While the facility is open, the staff is still moving things in, according to Roncelli.

“It’s 24,269-square-feet, and two-stories,” she said. “It’s very big.

The pool is heated and has a ramp so people in wheel chairs can access the pool. There will also be water aerobics and water therapy classes offered.”

“They offer a ton of different programs for seniors,” said Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne. “It’s really a very beautiful facility.

Getting a new facility was very necessary. The elementary school was designed for small kids, not seniors, and didn’t have any of the amenities needed.”

The official ribbon cutting and grand opening took place at the new Senior Center, located at 4315 Andover Road, on July 14. Guided tours of the facility are available by appointment, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ■ “They are looking to assist in moving forward,” she said.

A subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee recently approved a $1.3 million project funding recommendation that U.S. Rep. Gary Peters (DBirmingham, Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills) had requested, according to Cullen Schwarz, Peters’ communications director.

Schwarz said the proposed allocation could be taken up by the full U.S. House as early as late July. The U.S. Senate also needs to approve the funding.

“I’m extremely pleased that federal support for the transit center is making progress in Congress,” Peters said. “This is a vital project that will create local jobs, spur business growth and provide more transportation options for local residents. Endeavors like this that yield a high return in economic growth are exactly the sort of targeted investments we need in Oakland County right now. I’ll keep fighting to ensure that this investment makes it across the finish line so that the transit center and the jobs

it will bring with it can become a reality.”

Michele Hodges, president of the Troy Chamber of Commerce, said stakeholders are “very committed” to the project. ■

Property code to help deal with more foreclosures

By Brooke Meier A new international property maintenance code has been adopted by the Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees.

While the township already has a code to address property maintenance in the community, a new code was deemed necessary to more clearly define violations and give the township more power to handle the increasing number of foreclosed and abandoned properties.

“Hopefully it will help us to expedite the process when necessary to get compliance,” said Township Supervisor Dave Payne. “It’s more

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comprehensive and clearer in its definitions.”

According to a memo to Payne by Patricia Voelker, the township’s Planning, Building and Ordinance Department director, the new ordinance is in response to complaints from residents about an increase in the number of properties lacking adequate building and site maintenance.

“We want to make sure there is a clear understanding of the ordinance,” Payne said. “Right now the code says the property has to be in good repair. With this code it says exactly how that property must be maintained.”

“The current provisions don’t provide the detailed requirements or enforcement capabilities to adequately address the physical condition of existing buildings and premises fallen under disrepair,” Voelker stated in the memo.

According to statistics provided

by Voelker, there has been a 25 percent increase in property maintenance complaints in the township over the last year.

In 2006, 13 properties were maintained by the township at a cost of $23,787; and 42 properties were maintained by the township in 2007 at a cost of $37,395. In 2008, that number grew to 84, costing the township $55,574. There are 64 properties being maintained by the township thus far in 2009. There is no cost estimate available on that maintenance, as invoices for the work are pending.

Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield and Commerce townships are among the area communities that have adopted the same kind of code.

Voelker’s memo states the new code allows the township to address building maintenance issues, both interior and exterior, and maintain consistency with other building and site regulations. It includes provisions for storm drainage to be maintained on the premises and not create a public nuisance; an administrative fee to be established by the township board and the costs incurred to seek compliance with the code to be paid by the property owner; and an appeals procedure before the township’s Construction Board of Appeals.

The administrative fee is $75 per occurrence. The fee would only be assessed to a property owner after they have been properly notified by the township and they refused to comply. Property owners who comply with a notice won’t be charged the fee.

“The Construction Board of Appeals is made up of residents who are versed in that discipline and building issues,” Payne said.

Under the new code, civil infractions for a first violation will draw a $100 fine plus costs. Subsequent violations would prompt a $200 fine plus costs. ■ 27

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■ county Tri-Party road plan may well be cut by Oakland County

By Leslie Shepard-Owsley Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson’s proposed 200910 fiscal year budget won’t include an allocation for the Tri-party Program that provides participating municipalities with funding to conduct modest road improvement projects.

The Tri-party Program has been in effect since 1989. It allows local communities to annually choose and implement road projects funded through equal contributions from the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), the municipality, and the county government. The program usually funds minor projects, such as widening intersections, adding turn lanes and widening roads. Money is allocated to participating communities based on road mileage and the number of accidents occurring annually in the municipality. Because some areas receive minimal program funding based on those statistics, participating communities are allowed to accumulate monies over a number of years in order to tackle larger projects.

The county allocated $2.25 million to the Tri-party Program for the current fiscal year, according to Deputy County Executive Robert Daddow.

As county officials worked on the 2009-10 budget proposal, they faced a decision between laying off employees or scaling back expenditures on road improvements in order to keep the budget balanced.

“It’s discretionary money, first of all,” Daddow said. “Otherwise, I’d have to make cuts elsewhere, like about 30 heads. It comes down to roads or services. We’re actually down to that decision right now.

“We’re not going to recommend the Tri-party program in the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1,” he added.

“We will be cutting future (Tri-party) funding from the county on a temporary basis until we can (resolve) budget issues.”

Patterson’s proposed budget for 2009-10 had to be submitted no later than June 30. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners has until Sept. 30 to finalize a budget for the fiscal year that begins on Oct. 1.

According to Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Bill Bullard, Jr. (R-Highland), the county board will seriously weigh all the pros and cons before deciding whether to eliminate the program.

“We intend to listen to the citizens on what their priorities are, as well as our local officials,” he said.

“The county executive is going to recommend many valuable programs be cut to balance the budget, but we will have several committee hearings www.oaklandpaper.com

Prisoner release lawsuit Cooper wants information from state

By Kirk Pinho Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper has filed a lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Corrections for what she calls a “blatant refusal to provide ... critical information” regarding 3,000 to 5,000 prisoners slated for early release in October as a cost-saving measure.

Cooper said she, as well as Wayne and Macomb county prosecutors, recently traveled to Lansing to meet at Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s office to discuss the thousands of inmates who are expected to be paroled by either October or December.

However, the prosecutors’ informal requests for a list of inmates that will be considered for early release were rebuffed, and a subsequent Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was filed. Cooper said the Department of Corrections responded that the requested list doesn’t exist, and that she takes issue with the reasoning for the department not providing a list.

A lengthier, more detailed FOIA request was then filed, but the department didn’t respond in time, according to Cooper, prompting the lawsuit.

Russ Marlan, public information officer for the department, said the person in the department in charge of responding to FOIA inquiries had submitted a request for a response extension; under that extension, the department had until July 6 to respond to Cooper’s second FOIA request, according to Marlan.

He added that it’s his understanding the department will be providing a list of people who are up for parole between now and the end of August, because the state’s Parole and Commutation Board doesn’t have parole information for the entire year at its disposal, only information it will need for cases it will consider a few months in advance.

Cooper said she believes Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy and Macomb County Prosecutor Eric Smith will also file lawsuits seeking the potential early prisoner release list.

When asked if the lawsuit was requesting a list of all 3,000 to 5,000 inmates that may be released early, or if she just wants a list of those likely to come to Oakland County, Cooper said if it’s a full list she receives, she would be able to work with it.

“We know who our people are,” she said.

While acknowledging that sometimes the minimum sentence may be appropriate for certain convicted criminals, Cooper said it’s inmates like those who have been convicted of violent crimes — such criminal sexual conduct — who in all likelihood need to serve the maximum range of their sentences.

Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Nancy Grant will be the presiding judge in the case. The state has 21 days from the date the lawsuit was filed to provide a formal response to the complaint, according to Cooper. ■ prior to adopting a budget on Sept.

24, so there’s a lot of opportunity for people to share in the discussions.”

Unlike cities and villages, townships have no authority to tax property owners for road construction and maintenance, and therefore have no jurisdiction over public roads within their boundaries. The RCOC maintains jurisdiction over all public roads in townships.

However, townships are authorized to levy up to a 1 mill for road construction and maintenance with voter approval; otherwise, they rely on the RCOC to build and maintain roadways.

According to RCOC Spokesman Craig Bryson, a road millage may be

the route to go in the future for some communities. Although he said he knew the Tri-party Program would probably be eliminated, he said he’s hoping that won’t come to fruition.

“If it does happen it would be unfortunate because the communities are able to fund projects that have little chance to be funded any other way, while selecting which roads take priority,” he said. “It’s a great and popular program. Virtually everyone participates. We certainly understand where the county is coming from, however. This is an unprecedented time and cuts are being forced upon them that they don’t want to make.”

According to Daddow, the county

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intends to honor project commitments dated through September 2009.

“Construction projects take longer to complete with all the engineering and building components that go into them,” he said. “They may take longer than the fiscal year to appropriately launch a project; therefore, we will honor $2.25 million through September 2009. So, for example, if work isn’t done until November, we’d still appropriate the funding because it was committed earlier.”

Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne said he isn’t surprised to see the county considering elimination of the Tri-party Program.

“The Tri-party Program is one of the most successful programs that the county has issued because it’s enabled communities to accomplish a lot of road projects that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to do,” he said. “I’m disappointed but not surprised that they’ve had to suspend the program given the economic times.”

For Bloomfield Township, elimination of the program would mean the type of road improvements the township has been able to accomplish in the past won’t occur in the future.

“It won’t affect our operating budget but it will impact improvements in the township,” Payne said.

“I totally understand why they are doing it. It’s probably the right move for them.

“Most of the funds that we had accumulated through the program were used to redo Cranbrook Road,” Payne said.

Bloomfield Township is one of the few townships in the state to levy a dedicate road millage. The township’s voter-approved road millage is currently levied at the rate of 0.74 mills, generating just over $3 million in 2009.

A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which is generally equal to half the property’s market value. The owner of a Bloomfield Township property with a taxable value of $150,000 ($300,000 market value) will pay $111 this year in property taxes under the current road millage rate.

According to Bloomfield Hills City Manager Jay Cravens, eliminating the program would probably have minimal impact on the city’s roads, though he said he’s disappointed the program may be slashed.

“We’re not a big user of the Triparty funds because of the size of the community,” he said. “It’s nice to have the money, it really is. I’m not trying to downplay the impact, but it’s not a substantial portion of our budget, if you will, for road improvement projects. I understand why they are doing it. Obviously the economic times are dictating that more than anything else.” ■ Staff writers Brooke Meier and Andrew Sawmiller contributed to this report.

31

■ snapshot

kathe koja

L

ifelong Michigan resident and author Kathe Koja has evolved from a young writer into an award-winning novelist. Shifting from adult novels to young adult works in 2008, Koja’s novel “Headlong” takes place at a fictitious private school.

While the novel is not based on Cranbrook of Bloomfield Hills, Koja was able to use the institution in her research.

“Cranbrook is one of the independent schools where I did some interviews with teachers,” Koja said. “Fortunately, I know some of the staff from having spoken there before.”

Koja utilized Cranbrook, as well as other private schools, to provide a realness for the book’s setting. “It’s taking little pieces of life to kind of adding to the school that I had already built in my mind,” she said, adding that she learned early on that, without proper research, a story can be spoiled for an invested reader.

“It was a lovely place to do some of my research,” Koja said of Cranbrook.

In the novel’s acknowledgement page, she thanks faculty members Karen Hand, Beth Holland, Eric Linder, Carla Young and Scott Hedges.

Koja grew up in Roseville and began writing at an early age.

But it was the Clarion Workshop that really helped her take her talent seriously enough to pursue a professional writing career. Having fellow writers encourage her and recognize her talent became a watershed moment that gave her the confidence and drive to succeed.

Koja isn’t limiting herself to any particular genre in the future. She has a historical adult novel called “Under the Poppy” coming out in the fall.

“I’m going to follow my nose and go back and forth,” Koja said. “Who knows what comes after that.”

Koja currently resides in Berkley with her husband, artist Rick Lieder, who has done many of Koja’s book covers.

— Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard

■ business After 20 years in business, Edward Dorian at 237 Pierce in Birmingham, is closing its doors.

The lease is up July 31, though Nancy Paley, owner of the women’s clothing store, has decided to extend it through August in an effort to sell off current inventory. In addition to clothing, Edward Dorian offers shoes and accessories from names such as Alexis Bittar and Nanette Lepore.

Paley points to a need for a change of pace as a reason for closing, though she admits that, with the economic conditions, the closing comes at a convenient time.

“I want to do some traveling,” she said. “I’d like to visit friends and family in the south of France, New York, and California.”

Paley has even considered enrolling in a culinary arts school. As a long-time member of the Birmingham community, she has created strong ties to local residents and said she will miss her Edward Dorian patrons.

“People weren’t just customers; they became friends,” she said. “It was just a great, great 20 years.”

dollars with customers. He is also working to organize other businesses to promote the same message.

“When you shop with the local businesses, it keeps the community going,” he said.

Oliver’s Trendz specializes in handbags and accessories, and the two owners say they want to bring affordability to a high-end community.

“Fashion doesn’t have to go to the highest bidder,” Collins said.

“Our business plan was to keep our prices reasonable.”

Collins and Zawicki recently added home goods store Suhm-Thing, located at 122 W. Maple, to their Birmingham business ventures.

■

The Annex accessory boutique has moved to downtown Birmingham from Royal Oak. Owners Doug Schwartz and Annie LeBlanc originally wanted to open

■

Michael Collins and David Zawicki, owners of Oliver’s Trendz at 138 W. Maple in Birmingham, have now taken up the cause of raising awareness with customers and other local businesses about the value of shopping locally with independent businesses.

As a Birmingham resident, Collins said he believes strongly in investing his own dollars in local, independent businesses and counts on others to

Zawicki and Collins at Oliver’s Trendz

do the same. Involved in the 3/50 Project, a nationwide organization that encourages consumers to keep dollars in the community, Collins promotes the idea by handing out flyers and discussing the power of their www.oaklandpaper.com

the shop in Birmingham, but a suitable space wasn’t available. The rental prices have come down on Old Woodward, LeBlanc said, and the perfect opportunity and storefront presented itself for the move to 534 N. Old Woodward.

“It’s been much busier in Birmingham,” LeBlanc said. “There’s a lot of foot traffic.”

The boutique, categorized by LeBlanc as mid- to high-end in price, carries hats, belts, scarves, handbags, jewelry, coffee table books, and knickknacks.

According to LeBlanc, they’ve had a wonderful reception from Birmingham.

“Everyone’s been super friendly,” LeBlanc said, “and the city is really helpful.”

Not only has she enjoyed a positive reaction from her neighboring businesses, but LeBlanc said shoppers have been pleased with The Annex, as well.

“We’ve seen people come in and then come back with their friends,” she said. “It’s been really great.”

■

Independent fashion boutique L’Uomo Vogue was recently featured in the TNT reality show “Wedding Day” after providing designer fashions for a June 23 episode.

Footage was filmed inside the boutique, located at 6520 Telegraph Road in Bloomfield Hills, which offers dress attire, sportswear, premium denim and luxury items.

“They said they were looking for the best of the best in the Michigan area,” said co-owner Mike Goldman.

“DreamWorks Production did their homework and located the best high-end boutiques they could find.”

L’Uomo Vogue has been in business since 1979 and has operated out of Bloomfield Hills for the past nine years.

“Bloomfield Hills is great and we love providing high-end fashion to local individuals who appreciate it,” Goldman said. “I know it sounds kind of bizarre, but we really enjoy making people look great.”

■

The Pink Pump shoe store, formerly known as Shoe Envy, opened in late June at 150 W. Maple in Birmingham, with a wide variety of shoes suited for a broad range of incomes.

With designer labels such as L.A.M.B., Michael Kors, Hunter, Ugg, and Betsey Johnson, owner Tawny Thieu certainly has something for the designer shopper. However, according to Thieu, the Pink Pump offers footwear from $30 to $400.

“I know what it’s like. Growing up we didn’t have a lot of money,” Thieu said. “It can be intimidating if you walk into a store and can’t afford anything.”

In addition to footwear, the boutique offers shirts, hoodies, handbags and wallets. A grand opening was slated for Thursday, July 23, complete with DJ La Femme and shoe-inspired art by local artists on display and available for purchase.

■

Christian Grothe, 28, salesperson for Max Broock Realtors of Birmingham, recently made “Realtor” magazine’s “30 under 30” section following a surprisingly successful year in a particularly difficult market. Grothe credits his success to his brand of customer service.

“My full-service approach to highend real estate goes above and beyond what other agents do,” he said.

Having been at Max Broock only two years, Grothe said he is pleased with the honor.

“It feels great,” he said. “It took a lot of hard work.”

■

Joey Gatliff, 22-year-old Italian entrepreneur, opened Via Bella, a European fashion boutique, in May 2009 at 141 W. Maple in Birmingham. The boutique specializes in European shoes, jewelry, bags and will soon offer lingerie and accessories.

Gatliff’s vision was to bring high European fashion to Birmingham at affordable prices.

“Birmingham is great,” he said.

“My family has two stores in Europe and I wanted to do something here.”

Via Bella is a family affair, with Gatliff’s mother, Gina, baking fresh

■

Eric Doelle, the owner of Chen Chow Brasserie, will soon bring two new businesses to downtown Birmingham.

The Hamilton Room, an exclusive lounge, and Quattro, an upscale Italian restaurant, are scheduled to open within the first two weeks of August at 201 Hamilton.

Doelle characterizes the Hamilton Room as a “VIP access, reservationsonly venue.” The lounge will feature live entertainment and nationally renowned DJs. Quattro will offer a high-end setting with classic Italian fare.

Birmingham has been a great market for Doelle thus far.

“It’s probably the best restaurant market in Michigan,” he said. “We love Birmingham. It’s very affluent with savvy clientele.”

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Tara, Joey and Elisa at Via Bella

pastries for browsing customers while his sister, Elisa, and girlfriend, Tara, manage the store.

Despite a less-than-ideal economic climate, Gatliff’s boutique is thriving in downtown Birmingham.

“Business has been great,” he said. “A lot of our customers have either come back or sent their friends.”

The family makes regular buying trips to Europe to stock the boutique with the latest European trends.

33

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NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS Area retains its lofty status and unique character

By Mike Scott As metro Detroit’s suburbs began to grow in population at the start of the 20th century, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills quickly became some of the most highly desirable communities in the state.

Today, even with the state’s economy in the midst of a severe recession, these communities have retained their lofty status in the minds of area residents. And what sets the Birmingham and Bloomfield communities apart is the large number of notable neighborhoods located there.

Each neighborhood, from Echo Park to Quarton Lake to Chestnut Run, has its own features that appeal to residents and homeowners.

That each neighborhood is a bit different, offering its own unique character, is a tribute to the communities’ local planners, who provided residents with a little bit of everything.

“The thing about Birmingham is that it can satisfy the masses,” said Kathy Broock Ballard of Max Broock Realtors. “You have pockets of communities within a community. They have all different feels to them.”

It would be impossible to feature every neighborhood and there are likely some notable ones that may not be mentioned here. But perhaps that’s what makes the Birmingham-Bloomfield area so attractive — the variety and sheer scope of notable neighborhoods in these communities alone is remarkable.

The Role of Planning Great city and urban planning is largely the reason behind the Birmingham and Bloomfield communities developing into some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the state.

However, there have been some geographical influences, as well, according to Bill McElhone, executive director of the Birmingham Historical Museum and Park.

What is now Birmingham sat along the Saginaw Trail, which later became Woodward Avenue in the late 1800s. Railroad and trolley train tracks followed along that route to transport the population from Detroit to Oakland County locales.

The Rouge River was an important body of water that made it feasible for early residents to build their homes near a large source of fresh water. As some residents began to build their homes in the Birmingham and Bloomfield communities, the city of Birmingham built a downtown with a strong commercial district in the late 1800s. Town organizers began to promote the city as a great place to live and work.

McElhone said virtually all major growth in Birmingham occurred in the 1920s, when the city expanded from 1 to 4 square miles. The city hired nationally-known city planner Arthur Comey to establish some growth guidelines for the community.

“Preservation of residential quality and the need for traffic control were two of the major goals of (Birmingham’s) long-term city plan,” McElhone said. “You still see those qualities built into any city plans that we have moving forward today.”

Birmingham and the Bloomfields were also perfectly situated between the large cities of Detroit and Pontiac with their thriving commercial and shopping districts. And the many inland lakes

in and around Birmingham and Bloomfield brought an added exclusivity to the area that other communities couldn’t match.

For example, as part of Birmingham’s longterm plan in the 1920s, Echo City, an area of about 720 residential lots near what is now 14 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, was developed for laborers and middle managers in the automotive and other growing industries. Nearby Quarton Lake Estates was planned as an area with larger lots — houses had to be built on at least two to three lots. That neighborhood attracted families of a higher social status.

“As transportation evolved, the growth of the two communities continued,” McElhone said.

Eventually stricter development standards were created in both communities to preserve a rural, non-industrial feel, while still providing the many services desired by modern households.

Present Home Values Like all areas of not just southeast Michigan but across the country, home values in Birmingham-Bloomfield have experienced precipitous drops over the last few years.

Bloomfield Township Assessor William Griffin said home values clearly have dropped, but properties are likely to retain their value more over time in high-end neighborhoods. Still, each of the last three years have seen double-digit property value drops, and values continue to fall by as much as 1 percent a month, according to Griffin.

“The one good sign that I’m seeing is that there is more absorption and more sales of some of the homes on the market,” he said.

“Foreclosures are still a significant issue but if we can reduce (the inventory) on the market, hopefully that will help out.”

Two of the more notable neighborhoods in the Bloomfield area are the Judson Bradway neighborhood in Bloomfield Village, where home values range from $250,000 to $2.5 million. Griffin said perhaps the highest home values in the township are in the Turtle Lake subdivision, with values ranging from $1.3 to $8.1 million.

While home values have fallen, Griffin said he hopes the bottom will soon be found; and as the automotive industry’s uncertainty settles, some of these notable neighborhoods in Birmingham and Bloomfield may be some of the first to rebound.

“Right now it’s a bit depressing but there’s still residual value in these homes and once the economy recovers, the outlook is good for such areas,” Griffin said.

in many sections of the country because with the cold winters we spend more time down there than most,” Browning said.

Ronni Keating, a Realtor with SKBK Sotheby’s in Birmingham, said many of the area’s current home sites were occupied by cottages many years ago. Homes on Quarton and Turtle lakes were often smaller with more land on the shore, even for residents who lived there full-time.

But as the population of the area migrated further from Detroit, these “cottage” regions also migrated north. Smaller structures on the lakes were torn down and rebuilt by new owners.

Bloomfield Township became a community where middle-aged couples with older or grown children moved when their household incomes rose.

“These became the areas where older, more (financially) established homeowners would live in their second or third homes,” Keating said.

“Some of the younger families lived in communities bordering Birmingham and Bloomfield.”

Then in the last 10 to 20 years, that trend changed again. For a time, rising property values and loose lending standards made it possible for younger people to afford homes in these communities. Those with growing incomes then began the trend of again tearing down and building up new homes, often to emphasize indoor living space and reduce the amount of open land on their property.

“You saw younger families starting out in Birmingham and Bloomfield, which had never been the case before,” Keating said.

Notable Neighborhoods Here’s a sample of some of the unique neighborhoods in the Birmingham and Bloomfield communities that offer class and character. The demographics of each neighborhood may vary slightly, but all of the neighborhoods are considered highly-desirable locations with strong school districts in safe areas of the region.

Bloomfield Village Bloomfield Village covers an area of approximately 1 square mile, from Quarton Road on the north to Maple Road on the south and from Lahser Road on the west to the city of Birmingham on the

Neighborhood Features Many of the interior and exterior features of homes in these neighborhoods are similar, said Nancy Browning, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Schweitzer in Birmingham. Homeowners in these communities prefer granite tabletops, particularly in the kitchens, and stainless steel appliances. If they are renovating or updating their homes, quality windows are another important feature.

“With any of the rebuilds or other updates you see a desire for more natural light,” she said.

High ceilings are also among the more common rebuild requests, and brick pavers as part of driveways and sidewalks are fairly common in some of these neighborhoods, according to Browning.

Finished basements are a virtually necessity.

“We have more finished basements here than

east. There are nearly 1,000 homes in the neighborhood, which has become one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the entire state.

Judson Bradway established Bloomfield Village in 1924 as a non-political entity within Bloomfield Township. Area residents formed the Bloomfield Village Protective Association at the beginning of World War II as a civilian defense measure to provide fire and police protection. The association incorporated in April 1942 as a non-profit Michigan corporation. ➤

NO R

TY UN

OAKLAND CO TH

Great Gifts

®

BO

AR

RS

®

NOCBOR D O F R E ALT O

Best of luck and good wishes from the REALTORS® of North Oakland County and member affiliates, mortgage brokers, title companies and home inspection companies!

We know based on our past experience with your publishing group that The Paper will provide the Birmingham-Bloomfield community with a strong option to the nonpaperless world – a genuine opportunity for readers to receive important information through a print product –

GREENSTONE’S

Pat Jacobs Executive Vice President North Oakland County Board of REALTORS®

Creators of Fine Jewelry Since1925 528 NORTH OLD WOODWARD U BIRMINGHAM

248.642.2650

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The September issue of The Paper.

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36

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Many of the homes within Bloomfield Village have been valued at or well above $1 million.

Some of the homes have been rebuilt in recent years and cover more than 20,000 square feet, and many have indoor pools, outdoor tennis courts and an array of other features.

down and rebuilt in recent years. Located northwest of downtown Birmingham, Quarton Lake

“Up North” feel. It also has unique winding streets that aren’t as common in some parts of Oakland County.

Little San Francisco Wedged into a pie-shaped piece of land between Woodward and Old Woodward, just south of Oak Street, lies a Birmingham neighbor-

hood that has been nicknamed Little San Francisco. Many area residents might not even be aware that it exists, partly because it’s comprised of only about six streets.

Little San Francisco received its name largely because of its winding, hilly streets. It has large houses with spacious yards. It’s safe to say that the hills are not as noticeable or tall as they are on the West Coast, but for southeast Michigan the area is comparatively hilly.

When the north end of downtown Birmingham was redeveloped from department stores like the now defunct Crowley’s and Jacobson’s with a theater, restaurants and luxury condominiums, Little San Francisco became even more prized. It benefits from being next to the new Booth Park, the Birmingham Farmers Market, and the shops and eateries along Old Woodward.

The homes on the market today in Little San Francisco are diverse, and range in price from $250,000 to well over $1 million.

Poppleton Park Located north of Maple and east of Woodward, Poppleton Park is a charming neighborhood with many homes that have been renovated and updated. Residents love the charm of this area, which is within walking distance of downtown Birmingham.

The enclave was “always considered kind of an artsy-craftsy kind of spot,” said Broock Ballard.

The streets are tree-lined and include many larger homes built some 50 to 70 years ago.

There haven’t been as many teardowns and rebuilds in this neighborhood as other parts of Birmingham, because many of the homes were already large and there isn’t as much available land to build on as there is in other neighborhoods. Each home generally offers its own unique look and design.

Estates offers charming, tree-lined streets with wide sidewalks and lake access for all residents.

However, given the number of rebuilds in the area in recent years, the types of home designs seen in the neighborhood virtually run the gamut.

“Whatever homeowners want in a house they can usually find in Quarton Lake,” Keating said.

“Many of the neighborhoods wouldn’t be recognizable to someone who hadn’t seen it in 30 years, but the quality of construction and the number of features these homes offer is remarkable.”

There are a number of Tudors and two-story homes within Echo Park, located south of Long Lake Road and west of Andover Road in Bloomfield Township, just south of Andover High School.

Holy Name With a wide variety of architectural stylings, the Holy Name neighborhood in Birmingham can’t be “pigeonholed,” according to Lou Sabatini of Max Broock Realtors. Part of the reason for this is because some of the smaller, older homes have

Heronwood There are a number of newer homes in this neighborhood, which has easy access to I-75. It’s located north of Square Lake and west of Telegraph in Bloomfield Township. This neighborhood is gated 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The entire perimeter is fenced.

“Homeowners like Heronwood because the entire neighborhood is in the West Bloomfield School District and very close to the International Academy,” Browning said.

Chestnut Run According to Browning, Chestnut Run — located around Long Lake Road between Woodward and Telegraph — is now populated with many homeowners who have school-age children. It’s located close to many Bloomfield Hills schools.

“People love the fact that they are within walking distance to many of the schools,” Browning said.

There are also a variety of house styles in the neighborhood, from ranches and two-story colonials to Tudors and more contemporary homes.

Some of the homes in Chestnut Run are near the Bloomfield Hills Country Club.

Turtle Lake Located south of Square Lake Road and west of Club Drive, Turtle Lake is a gated community with larger lot sizes and a variety of home styles.

It’s located near the Forest Lake Country Club and many of its residents are members there.

The majority of the homes in this neighborhood were built earlier this decade and many offer dramatic elevations and sweeping vistas.

Estate parcels range up to 20 acres in size, and the beauty of the neighborhood’s outdoor features are emphasized. The neighborhood was developed by Auburn Hills-based Victor International, which has won many national awards for work at Turtle Lake, Bay Harbor (between Petoskey and Charlevoix) and for other regional developments.

The total area of the Turtle Lake neighborhood exceeds 250 acres. Approval was given to develop more than 270 houses on the site, but only about 100 were built so that the area’s natural beauty could be highlighted.

Quarton Lake Estates

Echo Park

Browning said this subdivision in Birmingham surrounds Quarton Lake and includes many homes that have been renovated and/or torn

Echo Park is a smaller neighborhood but it stands out because of it’s wooded look. It boasts a variety of tree types, lending a rural, forested,

been torn down and replaced by more lavish structures. Sabatini said even the smaller homes are desirable because owners in this area are consistently putting in additions and making other improvements.

The neighborhood is a “real blend of old and new,” according to Madelon Ward of Hall & Hunter Realtors. “It’s a real community, and a real diverse community, both in terms of household income and the kinds of people who choose to live there.

“I’m a real fan of the Holy Name area because I like the idea of being able to walk to church and kids being able to walk to school,” she said, adding that “there’s a lot of Wallace Frost (influence in the style of homes there),” referring to the architect who died in 1962.

The neighborhood takes its name from Holy Name Parish on Harmon Street, with Maple Road to the south and Old Woodward to the east. Ward said homeowners in this enclave have residences that vary in price from $350,000 to $3 million.

Triangle District While Sabatini stopped short of referring to this area — which has Woodward and Adams as its western and eastern boundaries, respectively, and Maple as its northern boundary — as a notable Birmingham neighborhood, he did say that, in the future, “it’s going to be.”

Broock Ballard echoed similar sentiments, saying that she doesn’t consider it “notable yet.”

“Maybe 10 years from now, when we have more people living in the mixed-use buildings,” she said.

The city envisions the area as becoming a mixed-use neighborhood with homes and retail outlets, Woodward flanked by trees, parking structures replacing surface parking, and public gathering spaces and art attractions being added. ■ (Kirk Pinho contributed to this article.)

CHRYSLER-JEEP DEALER IN WALLED LAKE!

Bob Shuman Owner

Joe Zeigler General Mgr.

Chris Brough General Sales Mgr.

Kim Borgeson New Car Sales

Amy Brown Lease Manager

Gary Cooper New Car Sales

Chuck DuFort New Car Sales Mgr.

John Karnes New Car Sales Mgr.

Larry Curcuru New Car Sales

Joe Nicles New Car Sales

Nicole Pommerville New Car Sales

John Rossi New Car Sales

Cindy Schlussel New Car Sales

Eric Walton New Car Sales

Jeremy Cheaney New Car Sales

Sally Kean New Car Sales

If You’ve Seen These Faces, You Got a Great Deal!

Chris Quackenbush Lease Retention

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38

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Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

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■ snapshot

charlie bell

I

ronically, “Close, but no cigar” is not a phrase that could be used to describe life-long Bloomfield Hills native Charlie Bell’s efforts on TV’s Wheel of Fortune. In fact, that’s the idiomatic expression that helped the 21-year-old Michigan State University (MSU) student majoring in construction management take home a whopping $69,000 on a recent episode of the game show.

A 2006 graduate of Bloomfield Lahser High School who returns during the summer to work for Birmingham-based Sachse Construction & Development Corp., Bell initially started his efforts to be on the show with an audition in Dearborn as “a complete joke” with some of his buddies.

“I actually thought it was pretty funny,” Bell said of his reaction after receiving a call during a class at MSU notifying him that the show’s producers wanted him on the long-running Pat Sajak and Vanna White spin-athon. “Really, it was just a joke at first,” he said.

A true come-from-behind kid who plays in “a couple hockey leagues”

and hangs out with his friends on Waterford Township’s Watkins Lake when he’s in town, Bell was about $15,000 behind his Wheel of Fortune opponents going into the last round, during which he won the $24,000 that put him in first-place.

“I wasn’t too pumped until I realized exactly what had happened,” he said during a lunch break from his summer job.

So, we ask, what is he going to do with about $70,000? Maybe throw a kegger? Take a trip to Cabo San Lucas? Buy a new car and trick it out?

Nah, he said. It’s sitting in a bank — with the exception of the fraction of his winnings he spent on tickets to watch the Detroit Red Wings square off against the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 7 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Finals. “I’ll wait until after school to see what comes around.”

— Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard

G TIN LIS

W NE

GORGEOUS CHESTNUT RUN HOME Completely remodeled in 2007. Dramatic great room overlooks gorgeous pool and unbelievable landscaping. Italian porcelain, marble, hardwoods, moldings and crystal fixtures are but a few of the fabulous amenities. Dream kitchen.

Finished walkout lower level.

SOPHISTICATED IN-TOWN BIRMINGHAM Contemporary private oasis. Magnificent 4,400 sq. ft. house built with finest materials. Open floor plan allows for elegant entertaining, enormous great room leads to fabulous pool.

Huge first floor master with spa bath. TRUE GOURMET KITCHEN! Too many features to list.

$1,695,000 (29063390VAI) 248-626-8700

$1,300,000 (29085347WAL) 248-626-8700

SO AL

BLOOMFIELD HILLS RANCH High on a hilltop on an acre of land. Beautifully updated and remodeled with granite kitchen.

Five bedrooms, 3 full and 1 half baths. Living room with fireplace and formal dining room.

Finished walkout lower level with library and family room with fireplace. First floor laundry. $529,000

(29059440GRI) 248-626-8700

D CE DU E R

BLOOMFIELD Very detailed executive style sprawling ranch on nearly 2 acres in highly sought Charing Cross Highlands! Gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances; newer carpet; freshly painted throughout; upgrades throughout; 2 tier paver patio; finished walkout with fireplace; 2 car attached garage. $499,900 (29063350EVA) 248-283-8700 G TIN LIS

BLOOMFIELD Half acre lot with front courtyard. Open floor plan. Marble surround fireplace in living room with built in lighted screen and hidden bookcases. Family room overlooks backyard with in-ground, solar heated swimming pool/spa. Master has 3 walk-in closets and marble bath with whirlpool. $374,900 (29081931STU) 248-283-8700

W NE

G TIN LIS

WALK TO BIRMINGHAM Irresistible charm. Updated brick Poppleton Park ranch. Living room with custom built-ins and fireplace. White kitchen with garden window.

Hardwood floors, recessed lighting, professionally landscaped lot. Two car garage.

TURN-KEY CHARING CROSS ESTATE RANCH Huge great room addition, kitchen with new granite, new carpet, some hardwood, updated baths (heated floors). Newer furnaces, windows and more! All the work has been done! Three car heated garage. Gorgeous lot with pond and waterfall.

$309,900

$279,900

(29060664KNO) 248-626-8700

UPPER LONG LAKE CANAL Half acre lot. Five bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half baths, upgraded granite kitchen off family room with wall of windows. Living room with fireplace overlooks the canal. Master with 2 walk-in closets, shower, separate tub and separate workout room. Walkout lower level with bedroom and bath. $989,000 (29089775LON) 248-626-8700

BIRMINGHAM GEM! Electronic gate opening to a private courtyard.

Beautifully renovated with exquisite finishes. First floor master suite, 2-story living room with fireplace, dining room and butler’s pantry.

Library with built-ins, designer kitchen and lower level theatre and game room. Wine cellar for the serious collector. $735,000 (29067876SOU) 248-626-8700

COMPLETELY UPDATED WALKOUT RANCH Extensive use of granite and limestone.

Professionally decorated and landscaped.

Beautiful brick paver entry. Dramatic foyer with skylight. Master bedroom with deck and hot tub.

Five bedrooms, 3 full and 2 half baths.

BLOOMFIELD Beautiful home on approximately 1 breathtaking acre overlooking gorgeous landscaping and double decks. Hardwood floors. Year round sun room has spectacular views of gardens! Four bedrooms, 3 baths, one lav. Wonderful family room with wet bar, great master suite plus a terrific gym. $449,000 (29069084STU) 248-283-8700

SE EA RL O F

W NE

BLOOMFIELD HILLS SCHOOLS Fabulous ranch with lower level walkout in popular Chambord. Enjoy views of Simpson Lake from the kitchen. Expansive 5,400+ sq. ft. of living space. Master bath with jetted tub and separate shower. Huge walk-in closet. Lower level has 2 bedrooms, 1 full and 1 half bath AND a full kitchen! $394,900 (29076796MON) 248-626-8700

D CE DU RE

(29080308TUL) 248-283-8700

$499,500

(29073850LIN) 248-626-8700

D CE DU RE

GORGEOUS WEST BLOOMFIELD HOME Four bedrooms, 2 full and 2 half baths, hardwood floors, fabulous sunroom, newer stainless steel appliances in the granite kitchen, great room with fireplace and wet bar, beautiful library with built-ins, newer roof and Andersen windows.

TROY Beautiful home on large treed corner lot. Nearly all new, roof, carpet, appliances, cabinets, bath fixtures, light fixtures, granite/marble counters.

Hardwood floors. Large deck features gazebo and step down paver patio area.

$365,900

$324,900

(29089768PIC) 248-626-8700

(29084099DEN) 248-283-8700

D CE DU E R

BLOOMFIELD Stylish Colonial on private half acre treed lot.

Lovely hardwood floors including bedrooms.

Newer light oak kitchen with premium appliances. Family room with fireplace and access to patio. Updated baths. Birmingham Schools. All new windows and doorwall. Also for lease. $199,900 (29090229ROB) 248-283-8700

RARE 3 BEDROOM FOUR SEASONS CONDO Park-like setting. Beautifully updated.

Professionally decorated with open and functional floor plan. Closet organizers, quality appointments throughout. Association fee includes water and gas. Secure underground garage with dumb waiter access. Pool, clubhouse, tennis. $145,000 (29077474WOO) 248-283-8700

■ events calendar 1 Saturday Hatching The Past: Take a rare and exciting look at the life of dinosaurs through their eggs, nests, and embryos in this interactive, hands-on exhibit.

“Hatching The Past” may be seen now through Sunday, Sept. 6, at the Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills. The exhibit is free with museum admission. For more information, call Cranbrook at 248-645-3200.

4 Tuesday Tuesday’s At The Movies: Enjoy the Tony award winning musical, “Sunday in the Park with George,” at 2 p.m. at the Bloomfield Twp. Public Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, this fictionalized story of artist George Seurat is reputed to be one of the more fascinating bio-picks of all time. Admission is free.

For more information, call the library at 248-642-5800.

5 Wednesday Books At Lunch: Come and share what you’ve been reading. Bring your lunch and the library will provide tea and coffee. This program is especially geared for adults.

“Books at Lunch” begins at noon at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. For more information, call the library at 248-647-1700.

The Sun Messengers: The house band of the Detroit Pistons, The Sun Messengers will be performing classic Motown, rock, and old school funk at 7 p.m. in Booth Park located on Old Woodward next to Salvatore Scallopini’s in downtown Birmingham. Admission is free. The In the Park Summer Concert Series is sponsored by the City of Birmingham Park’s & Rec Department. . For more information, call 248-530-1642.

more information, call the library at 248647-1700.

Alexander Zonjic: A syncopated evening of jazz with Alexander Zonjic & Friends will be held at 7 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m. at The Community House located at 380 South Bates Street in Birmingham. For more information, call The Community House at 248-644-5832.

7 Friday Summer In the City: Summer in the City Children’s Theatre with local children’s performer Kevin Devine will be held at 6:30 p.m. this evening on the steps of city hall in downtown Birmingham. Admission to this family oriented event is free and is sponsored by the Birmingham Principal Shopping District. For more information visit www.enjoybirmingham.com/events or call 248-530-1200.

Dave McMurray: A syncopated evening of jazz with outstanding jazz artist, Dave McMurray will be held at 7 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m. at The Community House located at 380 South Bates Street in Birmingham. For more information, call The Community House at 248-644-5832.

15 Saturday The Birmingham Cruise Event: Held in conjunction with the Dream Cruise, the Birmingham Principal Shopping District is holding its own Birmingham Cruise Event from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. with over 300 cars parked on Old Woodward for visitors to look at and enjoy along with live entertainment, special children’s activities, and of course delicious summer time foods. Admission is free. For more information, call 248-530-1200.

8 Saturday

16 Sunday

Big Used Book Sale: For the serious book and media shopper, this is the place to be with over 200 feet of shelves, five or more shelves high, filled to the max with thousands of items. The Bloomfield Township Public Library will be holding its Super Saturday Sale from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. The first hour is reserved for the members of the Friends of the Bloomfield Township Public Library – membership is available at the door. For more information, call the library at 248-642-5800.

Socrates Café: Join this group for a scintillating discussion from 2-3 p.m. at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. Topics are chosen by those attending and coffee is provided. For more information, call the library at 248-6471700.

12 Wednesday

6 Thursday

Stewart Franke: Offering a unique blend of soul & rock, well known Detroit singer and song writer Stewart Franke will be performing live at 7 p.m. in Booth Park located on Old Woodward next to Salvatore Scallopini’s in downtown Birmingham. Admission is free. The In the Park Summer Concert Series is sponsored by the City of Birmingham Park’s & Rec Department. . For more information, call 248-530-1642.

Baldwin Ice Cream Social: Celebrate summer reading at Baldwin Public Library’s Summer Spectacular Ice Cream Social that will be held at 6:30 p.m. at 300 West Merrill Street in Birmingham. The Saline (Michigan) Fiddlers Re-Strung will provide great live music and the summer reading prizes by the Adult Services Department will be drawn this evening — you do not need to be present to win. For

Writer’s Rendezvous: Be a part of this ongoing writer’s group and share the creative process with others at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, Aug. 12 and 26 at the Bloomfield Township Public Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. No registration is necessary. For more information, call the library at 248-642-5800.

www.oaklandpaper.com

13 Thursday

19 Wednesday The Ralph Bowen Orchestra: Enjoy the sounds of the Big Band era as the Ralph Bowen Orchestra combines forces with talented vocalist Julie Cochill and keyboardist Matt Michaels at 7 p.m. in Booth Park located on Old Woodward next to Salvatore Scallopini’s in downtown Birmingham. Admission is free. The In the Park Summer Concert Series is sponsored by the City of Birmingham Park’s & Rec Department. For more information, call 248-530-1642.

20 Thursday Shlitz: A syncopated evening of jazz with a very unique sound may be heard as Shlitz and the Urban Jazz group will perform at 7 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m. at The Community House located at 380 South Bates Street in Birmingham. For more information, call The Community House at 248-644-5832.

21 Friday Summer in the City: Summer in the City Children’s Theatre with Ron Coden will will be held at 6:30 p.m. on the steps

THE PAPER

of city hall in downtown Birmingham.

Admission to this family oriented event is free and is sponsored by the Birmingham Principal Shopping District . For more information, enjoybirmingham.com/events or call 248-530-1200.

Serenity & Delight: The Architecture of Minoru Yamasaki exhibition opens today at the Birmingham Museum & Park located at 556 W. Maple Road in Birmingham.

The museum is open from 1-4 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday and can be reached by calling 248-530-1928.

26 Wednesday Birmingham Movie Night: Sponsored by the City of Birmingham, “The Princess Bride” will be shown on the big screen at 7:30 p.m. at Booth park located on Old Woodward in downtown Birmingham, next to Salvatore’s Scallopini’s. Admission is free. For more information, call 248-530-1642.

27 Thursday Metro Jazz: One of the more popular jazz groups, the Metro Jazz Voices, may be heard at 7 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m. atThe Community House located at 380 South Bates Street in Birmingham. For more information, call The Community House at 248-644-5832.

29 Saturday Reel Summer Time: The “drive in” movie experience has returned with fun for the whole family. The Birmingham Unitarian Church will be showing the movie, “Cars,” from 7-10 p. m. and those attending are invited to come dressed as they would as if they were going to the drive- in; pj’s for children are encouraged.

Bring your own snacks or picnic — popcorn and water will be provided. The church is located at 38651 Woodward and may be reached by calling 248-647-2380.

Admission is by donation.

Items for the Events Calendar can be submitted via fax to 248.360.1220 or to cindystawick@thescngroup.com.

Events must based in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township or Bloomfield Hills to be included in the Events Calendar. Items must be submitted by the eighth of the month preceding the issue in which they will be published.

41

OAKLAND

COMMUNITY

COLLEGE

Performing Arts Calendar of Events September 2009 – March 2010 Sponsored by Student LIFE - Tickets available at all OCC Raiders Stores

Thursday, September 17 - PHOENIX STRING QUARTET Sponsored by ALI. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre / 10:00 am.

Admission: Free and open to the public Friday, September 18 - CODY SHULER AND PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD Bluegrass Series. Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater, 7:30 pm.

Admission: $20. Visit the website at www.pinemountainrailroad.com For more information contact Stacey Jackson 248.246.2586 or e-mail snjackson@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, September 18 - PEOPLE DANCING - Dance Performance.

Orchard Ridge Campus / Smith Theatre, 7:30 pm Admission: $15 Photo credit: Glenn Bering.

For more information contact Ken Faulk 248.522.3666 or e-mail kpfaulk@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, September 18 - BUY THE WHOLE BLUEGRASS SERIES. Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater, 7:30 pm Admission: $110 To receive the series discount, you must purchase your tickets on or before September 18, 2009.

The series will include the following acts: •Cody Shuler and Pine Mountain Railroad Sept.18, 2009 •The Grascals, Oct. 16, 2009 •Dailey and Vincent, Nov. 13, 2009 •Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, Jan. 22, 2010 •Nothin' Fancy, April 23, 2010 •J.D. Crowe and the New South, date For more information contact Stacey Jackson 248.246.2586 or e-mail snjackson@oaklandcc.edu.

Thursday, September 24 - A MORNING WITH LOUIS NAGEL Sponsored by ALI. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre 10:00 am.

Admission: Free and open to the public For more information contact the Adult Learning Institute Patricia Limbird 248.476.1107 or e-mail Birder5434@aol.com Thursday, October 1 - VOICES OF THE HOLOCAUST Sponsored by ALI. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre,10:00 am.

For more information contact the Adult Learning Institute Patricia Limbird 248.476.1107 or e-mail Birder5434@aol.com Friday, October 2 - CONCERT FOR TOLERANCE - All Proceeds to benefit Focus Hope. Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater 6:00 pm Adm: $10 The Concert for Tolerance is designed to bring awareness and support to the issues surrounding our diversity in Metro Detroit.

For more info contact Stacey Jackson 248.246.2586 or e-mail snjackso@oaklandcc.edu.

CHRIS COLLINS AND THE WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY Collective - Chris Collins, Director. Sponsored by ALI. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre 10:00 AM. Admission: Free & open to the public For more information contact the Adult Learning Institute Patricia Limbird 248.476.1107 or e-mail Birder5434@aol.com Friday, October 9 - JOHNNIE BASSETT AND THE BLUES INSURGENTS DOWN HOME BLUES. Highland Lakes Campus - Student Center Arena, 7:30 pm. Admission: $14 For more information contact Velma Jones 248.942.3243 or e-mail vjjones@oaklandcc.edu.

Thursday, October 15 - SWINGING STRINGS AND ANGEL’S WINGS THE JAZZ HARP OF CHRISTA GRIX Sponsored by ALI. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre , 10:00 am. Admission: Free.

For more information contact the Adult Learning Institute Patricia Limbird 248.476.1107 or e-mail Birder5434@ aol.com Friday, October 16 - THE GRASCALS BLUEGRASS SERIES Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater, 7:30 pm Admission: $20 Visit the website at www.grascals.com.

For more information contact Stacey Jackson 248.246.2586 or e-mail snjackson@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, October 23 - 6th ANNUAL MARIACHI NIGHT featuring MARIACHI CORA. Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater, 7:30 pm Admission: Adults: $10. Students & children under 15: $5.

For more information contact Stacey Jackson 248.246.2586 or e-mail snjackson@oaklandcc.edu.

Thursday, October 29 - BEANIE AND THE BAMBOOZLING BOOK MACHINE

By Bob May, Roy C. Booth and Cristopher Tibbetts Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre, 10:00 am Admission: Free and open to the public For more information contact the Adult Learning Institute Patricia Limbird 248.476.1107 or e-mail Birder5434@aol.com

Friday, October 30, 7:00 pm & Saturday, October 31, 12:00 pm BEANIE AND THE BAMBOOZLING BOOK MACHINE A Children’s Theatre Production - Directed by Diane Hill.

Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre Admission: Adults & students: $5.

Children under 12 yrs. old & accompanied by an adult: $2.

For more information contact Ken Faulk 248.522.3666 or e-mail kpfaulk@oaklandcc.edu.

Sunday, November 1 - BEANIE AND THE BAMBOOZLING BOOK MACHINE A Children’s Theatre Production - Directed by Diane Hill Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre / 2:00 pm Admission: Adults and students: $5.

Children under 12 yrs. old & accompanied by an adult: $2.

For more information contact Ken Faulk 248.522.3666 or e-mail kpfaulk@oaklandcc.edu. Tickets available online.

Friday, November 6 - HOTEL SAVARINE SOCIETY Music From the 20’s, 30’s & 40’s. Highland Lakes Campus - Student Center Arena 7:30 pm. Admission: $14. More to come.

For more information contact Velma Jones 248.942.3243 or e-mail vjjones@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, November 13 - DAILEY AND VINCENT Bluegrass Series Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater, 7:00 pm Admission: $20. Visit the website at www.daileyvincent.com.

For more information contact Stacey Jackson 248.246.2586 or e-mail snjackson@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, November 20 - BETH STALKER Auburn Hills Campus - G-240 / 7:30 pm Admission: $10. More to come.

For more information contact Jess Newman 248.232.4290 or e-mail jlnewman@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, December 4 - OCC JAZZ BAND - Under the Direction of Tom Dennis Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre, 7:00 pm Admission: Free and open to the public.

For more information contact Dr. Tom Dennis 248.522.3681 or e-mail tadennis@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, December 4 - OCC COMMUNITY BAND WINTER Concert - Lead by Director Fred Junod. Highland Lakes Campus Student Center Arena, 8:00 pm. Admission: Free and open to the public.

For more information contact Fred Junod 248.391.3390 or e-mail fpjunod@hotmail.com Thursday, December 10 - MUSIC STUDENT SHOWCASE Under the Direction of Tom Dennis. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre 7:00 pm Admission: Free and open to the public For more information contact Dr. Tom Dennis 248.522.3681 or e-mail tadennis@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, December 11 - THORNETA DAVIS & HER BLUES BAND DOWN HOME BLUES. Auburn Hills Campus - Room: F-123 7:30 pm. Admission: $14. For more information contact Jess Newman 248.232.4290 or e-mail jlnewman@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, January 22 - RUSSELL MOORE AND IIIRD TYME OUT Bluegrass Series. Highland Lakes Campus - Student Center Arena 7:30 pm Admission: $20. Visit the website at www.IIIrdtymeout.com For more information contact Velma Jones 248.942.3243 or e-mail vjjones@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, February 5 - SERIEUX - All Motown Review Orchard Ridage Campus Smith Theatre Friday, February 19 - 5th Annual OCC and EMU - PERFORMANCE STUDIES FESTIVAL “POETRY, PLAY AND PERFORMANCE. Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre / 12:00 pm Admission: Free.

This free two-day festival explores performance, writing and editing issues for performers and writers. To see our schedule & look at past schedules see the links at www.oaklandcc.edu/studentlife/Forensics.htm For more information contact Ken Faulk 248.522.3666 or e-mail kpfaulk@oaklandcc.edu.

Friday, March 19 - BLACKTHORN - IRISH FOLK MUSIC Highland Lakes Campus - Student Center Arena, 7:30pm Adm: $15.

For more information contact Velma Jones 248.942.3243 or e-mail vjjones@oaklandcc.edu.

Fri., March 26, 8:00pm - Sat., March 27, 2:00pm - Sat., March 27, 8:00pm Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer - A Comedy directed by Diane Hill Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre Adm: Adults: $10, Srs & Students: $5 For more information contact Ken Faulk 248.522.3666 or e-mail kpfaulk@oaklandcc.edu.

For more info contact: Auburn Hills Campus, 2900 Featherstone Road - Auburn Hills, MI 48326-2845- Jessica Newman 248-232-4590 jlnewman@oaklandcc.edu Highland Lakes Campus, 7350 Cooley Lake Road - Waterford, MI 48327 - Velma Jones, 248-942-3243 vjjones@oaklandcc.edu Orchard Ridge Campus, 27055 Orchard Lake Rd. - Farmington Hills, MI 48334-4579 - Dusty Rhodes 248-522-3595 lprhodes@oaklandcc.edu or Kenneth Faulk 248-522-3666 - Smith Theatre Email: kpfaulk@oaklandcc.edu Royal Oak Campus, 739 South Washington Royal Oak, MI 48067-3898 - Stacey Jackson 248-246-2586 snjackson@oaklandcc.edu

OAKLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE®

■ the community house Have you heard the news? Despite the construction in Shain Park, a new version of Jazzfest will continue at The Community House.

The newly created Jazz Masters Series will take place under the tented Van Dusen Terrace at The Community House every Thursday evening in August.

Merrill Street will also be available for open seating between Bates and Chester (Guests are asked to bring their own chairs). Just like Jazzfest, the concerts are free and open to the public. The jazz entertainment will be arranged by Alexander Zonjic, who will also perform on the series’ inaugural evening on Aug. 6.

Each performance will include two sets, from 7 to 8 p.m. and from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Entertainment includes: • Thursday, Aug. 6: Alexander Zonjic and Friends with special guests The Motor City Horns; • Thursday, Aug. 13: Dave McMurray Show; • Thursday, Aug. 20: Shilts with The Urban Jazz Collection; and • Thursday, Aug. 27: Metro Jazz Voices.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. and space is available on the Terrace on a first-come, first-served basis, with the exception of our reserved tables for sponsors. Food and drink, including adult beverages, will be available for purchase on the Terrace.

Please help keep the tradition of summer jazz and our community alive by becoming a Jazz Masters Series Sponsor. Sponsorship levels are available at $5,000, $2,500 and $500. Of course, we accept and welcome any donation amount to help defray the costs of this wonderful free community event. If you have questions or want to become a sponsor, please call me at 248.594.6409, or Kathie Ninneman at 248.594.6403.

Also, if you want to have a special summer event, our Terrace is the perfect place, and we are already taking reservations for private and corporate holiday parties. Book your reservation today by contacting our Banquet and Catering Department (248.644.5832) to plan your party.

Now that summer is well under way, are any of you tired of hearing your kids ask, “What are we going to do today?” If your answer is “yes,” there is still time to sign up for a session of our great Theatre Camps. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Our unique four-day Grandparent/Grandchild Camp from Aug. 24-27 will be a great experience for grandparents and grandchildren 5 to 9 years of age to enjoy time together. Each session will have a different theme: Wonders of Pastels, My Planet Earth and Me, Hands-On Cooking for a Fresh and Healthy Lunch, and Yoga for Grandparents and Children.

Please see our website, www.communityhouse.com or call 248.644.5832 for additional information or to register.

Also, if you’d like to take a brief vacation, join us for one of these trips: • Aug. 14-15: Take this one night trip and see Meijer Gardens, the Gerald Ford Museum and Saugatuck; • Oct. 2-4: Visit Mackinac Island and stay at The Grand Hotel; and • Oct. 24-25: Spend one night in Cleveland on this art and architecture trip with Michael Farrell.

Call now and reserve your tickets for Jersey Boys! We will be attending the matinee on Sunday, Dec. 20 and having brunch at The Whitney; and on Saturday, Jan. 16 with lunch at Palette Dining Studio at the MGM Grand Hotel.

See our website or call 248.644.5832 to reserve your spot.

Finally, we are busy planning our always popular Birmingham House Tour and still need a few more special homes. If you know of a possibility, and it is located in reasonably close proximity to The Community House (Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, Beverly Hills, Troy, etc.), please call Kathie Ninneman at 248.594.6403. ■ Shelley Roberts is president and CEO of The Community House.

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■ eating out The Eating Out directory for The Paper is just that, a guide to dining establishments where patrons can go out to eat. Many, if not most, of these eateries also allow for take-out orders. If an establishment serves beer(B), wine(W) or liquor (L), the listing indicates such. Likewise, if breakfast (B), lunch (L) or dinner (D) is served, we indicate by code and then the days it is offered.

220: A one-of-a-kind Birmingham restaurant specializing in steaks and fresh seafood with an Italian flair, complemented by a fine selection of distinguished American, Italian and global wines. Located in the historic Edison Building in the heart of downtown Birmingham. B, W, L. L & D, MondaySaturday. 220 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.2150.

Akshay Indian Cuisine: Featuring Indo Chinese, South Indian, Northern Indian and Tandoori (Clay Oven) dishes. Spicy flavors compliment the relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Reasonable pricing makes Akshay Indian Cuisine a local favorite. L & D, Tuesday Sunday. 1615 S. Opdyke Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.858.2315.

Andiamo: Andiamo’s offers Northern Italian decor amid a chic dining spot. A favorite among many area celebrities. Featuring traditional Italian dishes in an elegant dining room or live music in the lounge. An extensive wine list and selection of desserts. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.865.9300.

Beau Jacks: Known for its superior whitefish and popular salads, Beau Jacks offers certified black angus beef as well as vegetarian and heart-conscious items. The menu features chili, onion loaf, baked spinach and artichoke dip, croissants and wraps. B, W, L. L, Monday-Saturday; D, daily. 4108 W. Maple, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.626.2630.

Beyond Juice: Offering Meal-in-a-Cup creations, sandwiches and a variety of desserts.

Greek, seasoned chicken, tuna and garden salads also available, along with homemade Belgian waffles and jumbo muffins. B & L, daily; D, Monday-Saturday. 270 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7078.

Big Boy: Big Boy features its classic diner burgers, breakfast specials and popular dessert menu. With its famous Big Boy sandwich and soup and salad bar, its a hometown diner for the whole family. B, L & D, daily.

6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.642.0717.

Big Rock Chophouse: Big Rock Chophouse’s 4-star, award-winning menu offers flavorful recipes centered around enormous, hand-cut aged steaks, lamb chops and fresh seafood. Featuring an on-site brew house, the restaurant also boasts an extensive wine cellar, complete with more than 400

fine wine and champagne selections. B, W, L. L & D, Monday-Saturday. 245 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774.

Birmingham Tower Deli: Gourmet delicatessen located in downtown Birmingham features Boars Head meats and cheeses, soups, salads, burgers and pizza. Catering available. B, L & D, Monday-Friday. 280 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Ste. 105, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.9730.

Bloomfield Deli: With a large selection of sandwiches and wraps, Bloomfield Deli also offers several different varieties of grilled cheese sandwiches, grilled chicken wraps and breakfast sandwiches. Also offering fresh salads and a salad bar with 20 different vegetables and fruits. B & L, Monday-Friday. 71 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.645.6879.

Boston Market: Features sirloin, beef brisket, turkey, meatloaf and rotisserie chicken. Boston Market offers soup, steamed vegetables, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and casseroles to pair with a main dish. L & D, daily. 42983 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.334.5559.

Brandy’s Steakhouse: A cozy ambiance, private dining room and traditional dishes can be expected at Brandy’s. Offering salads, seafood, pastas and Brandy’s signature steaks.

B,W,L. L, Monday-Saturday; D, daily. 1727 South Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.338.4300.

Breakaway Deli: Breakaway Deli features a variety of house sandwiches as well as a meat-free zone for vegetarians. B & L, Monday-Saturday; D, Monday-Friday. 71 West Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302.

248.642.2900.

Brooklyn Pizza: Brooklyn Pizza features New York-style pizza by the slice, homemade cookies and ice cream. L & D, daily. 111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.6690.

Cafe Via: A high-end downtown eatery featuring an elegant setting as well as a patio courtyard. Grilled salmon, roasted chicken, crabcakes and lambchops are some favorites at Cafe Via. B, W, L. L & D, Monday-Saturday.

310 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.644.8800.

Cameron’s Steakhouse: Featuring dry aged and prime steak with an impressive wine list.

Cameron’s is a classic steakhouse. B, W, L. D, daily. 115 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.723.1700.

Cannella Patisserie: Offering an array of authentic croissants and French pastries and featuring light meals from a selection of French crépes. Also offering special occasion and wedding cakes. B, L & D, Tuesday-

Sunday. 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.9704.

Chen Chow Brasserie: The decor and menu selection at Chen Chow Brasserie create a most elegant dining experience. Main courses include Pan Seared Tofu, Tamarind Glazed Salmon, Miso Sea Bass, Steamed Halibut, Dashi & Udon and more. Extensive wine list. B, W, L. D, daily. 260 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.594.2469.

China Village: A warm environment featuring China Village’s famous sesame and General Tso’s Chicken. L & D daily. 1655 Opdyke, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.758.1221.

Cityscape Deli: Cityscape offers homemade soups and a wide variety of custom carved sandwiches, pasta salads, bean and couscous and Hungarian beef goulash. Homemade healthy sides compliment fresh deli sandwiches. B, L & D, Monday-Saturday. 877 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302.

248.540.7220.

Cosi: With a signature flatbread, sandwiches, melts, soups, salads and a kids menu, Cosi offers options for all diners. B, W. B, L & D daily. 101 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.9200.

Crust: An upscale restaurant, with an open kitchen and dining room decor with natural wood elements. Full menu includes Neapolitan, thin crust pizzas, salads, sandwiches and small plates. B, W, L. L and D, daily. 6622 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield, 48301. 248.855.5855.

Deli Unique of Bloomfield Hills: A menu featuring eight different deli sandwiches and an extensive breakfast menu. B & L, daily.

39495 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.646.7923 Dick O’Dow’s: Offering Irish classics and home cooking, including stuffed chicken, wild Irish salmon and, of course, shepherd’s pie. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 160 West Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.1135.

breakfast sandwiches and sides. B &L, daily.

3598 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.645.1033.

Forest Grill: Forest Grill’s seasonal menu showcases house-made charcuterie, raw bar, clay oven-baked pizzas and traditional bistro dishes. Influenced by French, Italian and contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on simplicity and flavor. Extensive wine list, including a number of regional wines from boutique vinters and Michigan vineyards. B, W, L. L, Monday-Friday; D, Monday-Saturday.

735 Forest Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.9400.

Forte Restaurant: With beautiful decor and lavish cuisine, Forte offers a complete dining experience, including an extensive wine list.

Renowned chefs present a complete breakfast menu as well. B, W, L. B, L & D, daily.

201 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7300.

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: An American steakhouse with a contemporary flair featuring aged prime beef, market fresh seafood and an award-winning wine list.

B, W, L & D, daily. 323 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.723.0134.

Fuddrucker’s: With simple recipes and made-from-scratch buns, Fuddrucker’s offers burgers, chicken, fish, salad, and a kids menu.

B, W. L & D, daily. 42757 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.333.2400.

Greek Island Coney Restaurant: Featuring sandwiches, salads and Coney Island classics.

Breakfast is available anytime. B, L & D, daily.

221 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009.

248.646.1222.

Hogan’s Restaurant: Casual atmosphere and homemade fare, Hogan’s offers steak, seafood, burgers, a vegetarian and children’s menu. A tavern-type environment is also available to patrons. B, W, L. L & D, daily.

6450 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.626.1800.

Einstein Bros. Bagels: Featuring a huge assortment of bagels, sandwiches and specialty coffees. B & L, daily. 176 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.594.9888.

Hunter House Hamburgers: Featuring high quality, gourmet hamburgers. Recently voted Number One Burger in Michigan by Food Network Magazine and “20 Burgers You Must Eat Right Now” in June 2009 Gourmet Magazine. B, Monday-Saturday; L & D daily.

35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.7121.

Elie’s Mediterranean Cuisine: Lebanese dishes from stuffed grape leaves to taboulee and humus. B, W, L. L & D, Monday Saturday.

263 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.647.2420.

IHOP: From creatively flavored pancakes to steaks, sandwiches and salads, IHOP is best known for its breakfast fare. B, L & D, daily.

2187 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.333.7522.

Embers Deli & Restaurant: Pita sandwiches, soups, burgers, hot dogs and melts available. An extensive breakfast menu includes egg specials, breakfast roll-ups, omelettes,

Kerby’s Koney Island: Kerby’s offers a special chili recipe, lean meats and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties. B, L, & D, daily. 2160 N. Woodward Avenue,

%UHDNIDVW 'LQQHU /XQFK 201 S Old Woodward Avenue ƒ Birmingham MI 48009 248.594.7300 ƒ www.forterestaurant.com 44

THE PAPER

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■ main course Bloomfield Hills. 248.333.1166.

Kirk’s Open Pit Bar B Que: Serving barbecue ribs that are slow cooked and covered in a smoky sauce, Kirk’s also offers barbeque and broasted chicken, seafood, homemade macaroni and cheese, peach and apple cobbler, and sweet potato pies. B, L & D, Tuesday- Sunday. 33766 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.7010.

Leo’s Coney Island: Greek specialties, burgers and coneys are offered along with omelettes, breakfast specials, soups and salads. B, L & D, daily. 6527 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301 (248.646.8568) and at 154 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.646.8568.

Little Daddy’s Parthenon: Featuring Greek fare, like hand-carved gyros, Little Daddy’s Parthenon offers oven roasted turkey, gourmet sandwiches and house-made food. B, L & D, daily. 39500 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.647.3400.

Maple Leaf Cafe: Offering a variety of breakfast dishes, salads, lunch plates and burgers are also available. B & L, daily. 297 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.723.1222.

Rugby Grille enhances the neighborhood feel

By Eleanor Heald Varying eye appeal, creating a more modern atmosphere and seeking to remove an English Country Club look are the principal reasons Director of Restaurant Operations Keith Schofield offers for recent updates at the Rugby Grille in Birmingham’s Townsend Hotel.

Is this a rebranding? “No,” Schofield says. “Rugby Grille has cachet. Quality and excellence are brand images. These have not changed. True, we are looking to attract younger neighborhood din-

Max & Erma’s: Features a family-friendly environment with a variety of burgers, an assortment of salads and a signature tortilla soup, plus steaks, ribs and fajitas. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 250 Merrill Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.1188.

Mitchell’s Fish Market: Accepting daily delivery of a wide variety of fresh fish flown in from all coasts, the atmosphere is that of an upscale seafood restaurant. Also features a lively bar area. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 117 Willits Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.646.3663.

Mountain King: Chinese restaurant serving fried rice, sesame chicken, General Tso’s chicken and standard Chinese favorites. L & D, daily. 469 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.2913.

New Bangkok Thai Bistro: Featuring a Thai atmosphere and variety of Thai specialties such as duck, noodles, seafood and curries. Also offering soups, salads, fried rice and appetizers. B, Monday Thursday; L, MondayFriday; D, daily. 183 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.2181.

Northern Lakes Seafood Co: Serving a signature lobster reuben for lunch and a Chilean sea bass for dinner. The seasonal menu includes a soft shell crab, lobster bisque and Columbia river king salmon. B, W, L. L, Monday-Friday; D, daily. 39495 North Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.646.0370 Olga’s Kitchen: Olga’s offers fresh and unique flavored appetizers, sandwiches, soups and salads. Grilled to-order Olga bread available. L & D daily. 2075 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.451.0500 and at 138 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009.

248.647.2760.

Peabody’s: With rustic beams and subtle lighting, Peabody’s offers unique sandwiches and salads, along with fresh seafood, house prime rib, signature steaks and pastas. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 34965 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.5222.

Pancake House: Best known for breakfast fare, the Original Pancake House has a varied menu. B, L & D, daily. 33703 South Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.642.5775.

Panera Bread: A variety of soups, sandwiches and desserts., plus an on-site bakery. B, L & D, daily. 100 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48309. 248.203.7966

ers. Now, we’ve observed more 35 to 50-year-old diners at our tables.

Yet we believe we have not disappointed our long-time neighborhood regulars.”

Art aficionados will notice new artwork from some of metroDetroit’s finest artists. Glass-blown sculptures are crafted by a “fazzoletto” process, where glass is blown free-form. New, principally vibrantlycolored paintings grace the walls.

All pieces came from Park West Gallery in Southfield and offer a balance between contemporary and traditional.

The heavy book-like menu folder has been changed to a paper stock format. New stainless flatware with simple, clean, yet elegant lines has replaced formal-looking silverware.

White tablecloths remain, although in coming months they may change to a subtle hue — all part of the tweaking Schofield expects to continue.

Menu Innovations “Local and fresh; contemporary American,” are descriptors 35-yearold Executive Chef Jim Bologna uses for his food style. Bologna earned a Michigan State University

School of Hospitality degree, then a second degree in culinary arts from Schoolcraft College. He is the former Capital Grille and Holiday Market Catering Executive Chef.

“I’ve always loved the instant gratification of diners,” Bologna says. “I view guests at the Rugby Grille as diners in my home. They’re putting their feet under my table.”

The menu is straightforward and well-explained. Bologna suggests beginning with one of two popular starters: Tuna Tartare, composed of day-boat tuna, Hass avocado, fresh horseradish, olive tapanade and fresh citrus salad ($18); or Hydro Bibb Salad with peach berry vinaigrette, cheddar cheese, dried cherries and toasted pinenuts ($12).

For principal plates, the Townsend Classic Dover Sole served Tableside ($44) is far and away the most popular. Braised Halibut, with paysanne cut vegetables, couscous, crimini mushrooms and fine herbs ($35), has caught on with diners.

Scottish Salmon ($34) with citrushorseradish dust, sweet pea mash, pea shoot and heirloom carrot salad is another favorite among fish lovers.

With beef aficionados, Rugby Grille steaks, 8-oz Tenderloin ($38), 14-oz New York Strip ($42), and 16-oz Bone-in Ribeye ($48) go unchallenged.

Although health-conscious eating doesn’t blast from the overall menu, it’s there subtly. Bologna has moved away from heavy sauces and chosen broths as evidenced by Pan Roasted Miller Farms Chicken with consommé ($28). Vegetarians will find palate delights. And a modern era, now nearly-obligatory Burger ($18), served with caramelized piperade, bacon, cheddar and Townsend Sauce on a challah roll with a side of Reggiano fries has found its place on the menu for more casual moments.

Every Sunday evening, a threecourse dinner menu at $35 per person presents a moderately-priced option.

An extensive wine list of Old and New World favorites offers a range of prices. And for a special wine brought from a personal wine cellar, a $25 corkage is modest.

Rugby Grille at The Townsend Hotel: 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham (248.642.5999 for recommended reservation). Breakfast 6-11 a.m.; lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; and dinner 4-11 p.m. Check averages per person: breakfast $20, lunch $25, and dinner (excluding beverage) $17-45.

QUICK BITES Birmingham’s Hunter House Hamburgers received upbeat ink in

“Gourmet” magazine’s June 2009 issue. “Tasty as a gourmet slider may be,” editors wrote, “its soul is déclassé, which is why we cannot think of a more suitable place to eat them. Topped with grilled onions and pickles and, if desired, cheese, and served on steamy little buns, they are slightly bigger than White Castle’s but small enough that two to four make a meal.” Established in 1952, Hunter House is the longest continually-operating restaurant in Birmingham. Burgers are $1.80 each; $2 with cheese. (35075 Woodward Avenue, Birmingham.

248.646.7121).

■

Each Monday evening, Birmingham’s Forté restaurant goes retro with talented front-of-thehouse man Louie Weidemann doing two tableside flaming desserts, Bananas Foster and Berries Jubilee, $6 each. New in the main kitchen is Executive Chef Steve Jalbert, formerly with the Ritz-Carlton and Orchard Lake Country Club. (201 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham.

248.594.7300).

■

Late of Greektown Casino, native Michigander and Certified Executive Chef (CEC) Tim Enfield is now Bloomfield Open Hunt Club’s new private dining room executive chef.

With extensive experience fusing different cultures and tastes into his menu offerings, his special interest is using organic products from local Michigan farms. (405 East Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills.

248.644.9411).

■

“A casual place to get good food” is the way owner Larry Bongiovanni describes his new restaurant venture. Stepping out from the Salvatore Scallopini image with the non-smoking Deluxe Bar and Grill, he plans to open in the former Aunt Olive’s Good Food To Go Birmingham location on Old Woodward. Ron Rea of Ron & Roman Design LLC in Birmingham echoes that with “clever, small, friendly, active with an open kitchen.

Overall, 50 seats, 10-seat stainless steel bar in a classic style from the 1940s to 1960s. Black and metallic gold tile flooring and accenting columns will enhance dark wood details.” Opening is predicted in 120 days or less. Stay tuned. ❏ Eleanor Heald is a nationally-published writer who also writes the wine column in a double byline with her husband, Ray, for the The Paper. Suggestions for this feature and specifically for the Quick Bites section can be e-mailed to: quickbites@oaklandpaper.com.

■ focus on wine Summer’s coolest wine, welcome Rosé

By Eleanor and Ray Heald You know the saying, a rose is a rose. Yet when it comes to wine, you can’t conclude that a Rosé is a Rosé.

An explanation gets a little technical, but hang in there with us

because details will lead to fuller enjoyment of summer’s coolest wine, which according to data released by The Nielsen Company and reported by the CIVP/Provence Wine Council (France), Rosé sales soared 42 percent in the 52-week period ending April 4, 2009.

With a few exceptions, Rosé wine is made by a method known as saignée (sen-YAY), which involves removing a juice portion (bleeding) from a fermentation tank after only a short period of contact with the skins of red grapes, which were picked intentionally for red wine.

Essentially, it’s a wine by-product, yet one we’ve come to enjoy.

In the southern France region of Provence and some other areas (like the California wines with an * mentioned in Wine Picks), a Rosé is not

a wine by-product made by the saignée method. Grapes are grown with the sole intention of making a pink (or often salmon-colored) wine.

They are picked earlier and when whole-cluster pressed before fermentation, yield a lighter color than a saignée Rosé. They are also more delicate, less astringent and less tannic. The process continues more like white wine making than red.

Some saignée Rosés are too dark.

The darker the color, the more astringent the wine. That’s understandable since the grapes were grown to make a dark red wine and were picked riper. “Bleeding” is intended to concentrate a resulting red wine.

Preference for wine made by one method rather than the other is not only a matter of taste, but also of a food match. Both styles may be considered as a choice between white and red wines.

Delicacy of lighter-colored Rosés match lighter, white-fleshed fish, as well as summer salads. Darker-colored Rosés can stand up to grilled salmon, charcuterie, pasta with tomato-based sauce, where a lighter style matches a creamy non-tomato sauce. Vegetarian pizza (peppers and onions), mushroom preparations and soft cheeses are also delicious with a lighter-colored Rosé.

World Rosé Wine Picks • 2008 La Vieille Ferme (France) $8 • 2008 Marques de Caceres (Spain) $9 • 2008 Louis Jadot Beaujolais Rosé (France) $11

and at 2125 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.253.9877.

Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.

248.540.7722.

Phoenicia: A special dining experience, Phoenicia offers all the traditional dishes of Lebanon. 588 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. B, W, L. L, MondayFriday; D, daily. 248.644.3122.

Salvatore Scallopini: Salvatore Scallopini offers fresh prepared daily Italian dishes, appetizers and a variety of desserts. B, W. L & D, daily. 505 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.8977.

Pita Cafe: Middle Eastern fare featuring chicken shawarma, sweet salad, fattoush, Greek salad, lambchops, seafood and taboulee. Pita Cafe is known for its fantastic garlic spread. L & D, daily. 239 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.645.6999.

Steve’s Deli: Classic and popular deli featuring a wide variety of soups, sandwiches and deserts. B, L & D, daily. 6646 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.932.0800.

Pizza Papalis & Rio Wraps: Full menu includes rio wraps, pizzas, salads, soups, pasta and desserts; known for its Chicago-style deep dish pizza. L & D, daily. 4036 Telegraph Road, Ste.106, Bloomfield Hills, 48302.

248.540.7722.

Qdoba: A one-of-a-kind Mexican grill restaurant, Qdoba features tacos, salads, nachos, quesadillas and more. L & D, daily. 795 East Maple Avenue, Birmingham, 48009.

248.988.8941.

Rio Wraps: Features burritos, salads and deli wraps. L & D, daily. 42805 Woodward

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Streetside Seafood: Streetside has developed a reputation for fresh fish, oysters and other seafood on a seasonal menu B,W,L. L, Monday-Friday; D, daily. 273 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.645.9123.

Sushi Hana: Sushi Hana’s menu includes tempura, teriyakis, yakitori, fried egg, seafood, vegetables and more. Offers traditional Japanese fare as well as some Korean dishes. L, Monday-Friday; D, MondaySaturday. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.333.3887.

Sy Thai Cafe: A casual dining atmosphere, Sy Thai serves orange duck, noodle dishes, stir-fried mussels with onions and all the usual Thai classics. L & D, daily. 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9830.

• 2008 El Coto Rioja Rosato (Spain) $12 • 2008 Paul Jaboulet Parallele 45 (France) $13 • 2008 Centine (Tuscany) $13 • 2008 Red Cote (California) $13 • 2008 Bonterra, Organically Grown (California) $14 • 2008 La Scolca Rosa Chiara (Italy) $14 • NV Lamberti Rosé Spumante (Italy) $15 • 2008 Pietra Santa Rosato (California) $15 • 2008 Bowers Harbor Vineyards Pinot Noir Rosé (Old Mission Peninsula, Mich.) $15 • 2008 Wild Rock Vin Gris (New Zealand) $17 • 2007 Brys Estate Pinot Noir Rosé (Old Mission Peninsula, Mich.) $17.50 • 2008 Beckmen Grenache Rosé (California) $18 • 2008 Forty-Five North Pinot Noir Rosé (Leelanau Peninsula, Mich.) $18 • 2007 Swanson Rosato, Oakville, Napa Valley $18 * • 2008 Chateau d’Aqueria Tavel (France) $19 • 2007 Prieuré de Montezargues (France) $20 • 2007 Etude Rosé of Pinot Noir Carneros Estate (California) $20 * • 2007 Domaine de Terrebrune Bandol Rosé $23 • 2008 Robert Sinskey Vineyards Carneros Vin Gris of Pinot Noir (California) $24 * • 2007 Azur Wines California Rosé $24 *

• 2008 Tablas Creek Vineyard (California) $27

Tooting State’s Rosé Horn Michigan’s 2008 Forty-Five North, Leelanau Peninsula Pinot Noir Rosé is an unparalleled success. It was awarded the Best Rosé at the 2009 Pacific Rim Wine Competition.

Yolanda Daly, director of the competition, wrote the following to winemaker Shawn Walters: “Your wine certainly knocked the feet out from under the judges and caused a great stir. They were so impressed by your wine that we were forced, for the first time ever, to create a Best Pacific Rim Rosé category. Beautiful wine!”

Best For The Deck There’s a lot of warm weather left and for an easy-to-serve value wine, you can’t beat the 3L pack of Andes Peaks Select Chardonnay, Chile, $19 (equal to four standard bottles at less than $5 per bottle).

A slim pack design with an easy-touse spout fits in a refrigerator and remains fresh for two weeks. The recyclable packaging represents a 55 percent reduction in carbon footprint over traditional glass bottles.

There’s also Cabernet Sauvignon at the same price. (Available at Hills Fine Wine & Spirits, 41 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills. 248540-8200). ❏ Eleanor and Ray Heald are contributing editors for the internationally-respected Quarterly Review of Wines and AppellationAmerica.com, among other publications. Contact them by e-mail at focusonwine@aol.com.

The Corner Bar: Part of the Townsend Hotel complex, The Corner Bar offers a lighter fare from 5-7 p.m. that includes sliders and salads. B, W, L. D, Wednesday-Saturday.

100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.647.2958.

Tokyo Sushi & Grill: A cozy sushi bar offering sashimi, soba noodle dishes, teriyakis, tempura, all the traditional Japanese dishes, and, of course, sushi. L & D, daily. 225 E. Maple Rd., Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6501

The Gallery Restaurant: Family restaurant in an art gallery environment offering full menu. American fare includes omelettes, sandwiches and a variety of salads. B, L & D, daily. 6683 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.851.0313.

TOPZ: Offering homemade fare, featuring Michigan vendors and local Michigan products, TOPZ prides itself on its air-baked, nonfried fries, nuggets, onion rings, burgers, chili and soups. L & D, daily. 327 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.220.1108.

The Moose Preserve Bar & Grill: The Moose Preserve features a full menu, including fresh fish, barbecue ribs and certified black angus steak. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 2395 S. Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.858.7688.

The Rugby Grille: Conveniently located inside Birmingham’s Townsend Hotel and offering a luxury dining experience. B, W, L. B, L & D, daily. 100 Townsend Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.642.5999.

Toast: With a modern retro style, Toast offers American dishes with a touch of southwestern taste, including signature breakfast food to burgers. B, W, L. B & L, daily; D, Monday-Saturday. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278.

THE PAPER

Whistle Stop Cafe: Voted among the best diners in America by Good Morning America, this eatery boasts of its local roots and feel. B & L, daily; D, Monday-Friday. 501 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.5588.

Want your eating establishment listed?

There is no charge for this directory in The Paper but there are a couple of rules.

An eatery must be located in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township or Bloomfield Hills and must have tables where patrons can eat out. Send your information via fax (248.360.1220) to Katey Meisner or e-mail to kateymeisner@thescngroup.com.

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■ social lights / sally gerak Here is the update on the social scene from the past month. Social Lights is posted each week on The Paper’s site at oaklandpaper.com, where readers can sign up for an e-mail alert when the latest column is posted. Many more photos from each event appear online each week.

■ Belle Isle Legacy Luncheon

Belle Isle Legacy Luncheon Hats were a story at the fifth annual Polish the Jewel Belle Isle Legacy Luncheon. Strategic Staffing Solutions founder, president and CEO Cynthia Pasky, who received the Legacy Award, said she got her royal blue-and-white straw in New Orleans. Event chair Valerie Belle Ellis said her hat and ensemble were the work of Jules Joyner Designs of St. Clair Shores. Ellis’ 23-yearold daughter Ellisse Rutkofske, who chaired the silent auction that raised more than $15,000, created her own confection with a whimsical, flattering, wavy brim.

Pat Hardy said her flower bedecked straw will always have a place in her heart because it was a gift from its maker, Sandi Pape.

But Jill Miller made the big hat news by winning the “Most Beautiful Hat” title with the same hat that had won the title earlier in the month at the Suite Dreams Project’s Hats Off luncheon. She offered to auction it to benefit the Women’s Committee. The winning bidder ($400) was 88-year-old artist Patricia Burnett Siler, who, four days earlier, had received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from the College for Creative Studies.

The luncheon itself was in a tent adjacent to the Belle Isle Casino where the 400-plus guests first socialized, networked and bid in the silent auction.

Settling at her table, Linda Morrow compared the day to previous Legacy Luncheons: “I’ve been to hot ones and rainy ones. This one is perfect.”

When she welcomed all, BIWC founder Sarah Earley cut to the chase. ” Our mission is simple. We are dedicated to raising funds for the restoration of Belle Isle on a project by project basis.” The nearly completed restoration of Sunset Point is the first project. The $293,000 raised by the 2009 event brings the total to $1.5-million.

In a hat she made, auction chair Ellisse Rutkofske (left) and her mother, event chair Valerie Belle Ellis of Grosse Pointe with BIWC founder Sarah Earley of Bloomfield

Betty Bright (back ground left) and Patricia Burnett of Bloomfield with Jill Miller of Oakland after Burnett bought Miller’s hat

Rosemary Bannon (left) of Beverly Hills, Phyllis Marra and Irma Elder of Bloomfield

Event honorary chair Maggie Allesee (left) of Bloomfield with Linda Juracek-Lipa of Birmingham

Colleen Monahan (left) and Betty Desmond of Bloomfield, Noreen Keating of Auburn Hills

■ Prechter Research Benefit

Prechter Research Fund Benefit Wally Pechter packs a lot of determination into a tiny frame. And much of it is directed to the foundation she established to find a cure for the disorder that caused her dynamic husband Heinz to end his life.

She not only promised to match every dollar spent on tickets to the benefit Etro fashion show Saks Fiifth Avenue hosted, she also bought SFA gift cards for each guest. Not surprisingly, the event late last month was sold out (200-plus) with power brokers galore lining the runway and the Prechter fund making $270,000.

Before the show, Prechter thanked Saks, Etro, the event sponsors and the guests. She also introduced her children Stephanie Prechter and Paul and Paige Prechter from Ft. Lauderdale before introducing Dr. Melvin McInnis. The lead investigator of the Prechter Repository at the University of Michigan gave an update on the genetics research, neuroimaging and neuroscience that will help individuals with Bipolar live a high quality life.

The Etro collection included colorful prints, beads and velvet, as well as the ever-popular black. A tiered, black silk

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Clockwise from lower left: Honorary co-chair Julie (left) and Bobby Taubman of Bloomfield with SFA’s Kim Nye of Troy. Al Taubman of Bloomfield and Fund founder Wally Prechter of Grosse Ile. Etro’s Marco Pievani (center) of NYC with honorary committee members Dr. Jane Werner of Ann Arbor and Dr. Luisa Di Lorenzo of Birmingham. Diane Farber (left) of Bingham Farms and Tavi Fulkerson of Bloomfield

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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Gilda’s (Club) Adventures

cocktail dress was paired with a red printed princess topper. “That’s a great look,” agreed Judie Sherman and Bobbi Toll.

Gilda’s (Club) Adventures Gilda Radner would have loved the wacky 2009 version of Gilda’s Big Night Out. It attracted nearly 300 Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit supporters, including relatives of club co-founder the late Geri Lester, to the Troy Marriott. Party planners were inspired by Lewis Carroll to put the fun in fund raising for the club that provides support, the kind that Radner relished when she was fighting her losing battle, to people living with cancer and their families and friends.

Smile-provoking nonsense included fantasy-size flowers, an upside-down cake and an Alice in Wonderland lookalike carrying a puppy in a teapot. In the live auction the puppy sold to Botsford Inn’s new cancer center head Ted Tennenbaum for $1,150 and will be a therapy dog for patients there. Bet Gilda would like that.

She would also have loved the Unbirthday Cakes created and donated by Flower to Flour, Mrs. Maddox Cake Shop, The Sweetest Thing, Hermann’s Bakery, Marty’s Cookies, Patisserie Ci and the Pinwheel Bakery. Their generosity, the live auction income of $18,000 and sponsorships helped the event to net $85,000.

Founders Junior Council’s ArtSeen

Clockwise from lower left: Birmingham native Matt Morin and Lauren Cavanagh of Detroit. Tina Aquirre (left) of Bloomfield with Gilda Radner’s brother / event platinum sponsor Michael Radner of Southfield. Pat Connelly (left) of Troy, Lynn Watson of Berkley and Bill Mulvihill of Birmingham, with cake created by Ann St. Pete of Pinwheel Bakery.

Christine Alix Focus: Detroit Photography Benefit for Focus:HOPE As a work study program concluding her senior year at Detroit Country Day School, award-winning art student Chris Alix photographed Detroit. Big time. More than 20,000 photos. Her subjects included everything from hopeful hookers and hopeless homeless persons to soaring Comerica Park and abandoned factories.

An exhibition of 150 of her photos attracted 700 viewers to a temporary gallery in Birmingham earlier this month. They bought some 300 images. Several, like her poster of the Michigan Depot, sold more than a dozen times. She also created three collages that brought in $600 in a silent auction.

Alix had determined that 100 percent of sales proceeds and any donations an anonymous person agreed to match, would go directly to Focus: HOPE. The nationally-regarded center has worked since 1968 to overcome racism, poverty and injustice in Detroit.

When the show concluded, Alix was able to give Focus:HOPE $30,000. Not too shabby for a high school project. Alix, who may be contacted at HYPERLINK “http://www.thumbprintphotog.com” www.thumbprintphotog.com, will study photography at the University of Pennsylvania this fall.

■ FJC ArtSeen

Stephen (left) and FJC vice president Nicole Eisenberg of Bloomfield with Amanda and David Posch of Grosse Pointe

Nicole Eisenberg, David Posch and Nicole Wagner cleverly designed the FJC’s ArtSeen event that attracted about 150 to the Detroit Institute of Arts. Because American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell was the featured exhibition, the design trio dug into their childhood memories for food and toys from the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Tinker Toy constructions, baseball cards and Animal Crackers adorned tables where guests ate sliders, hot dogs and Ding Dongs. Some sipped Faygo red pop. All took home a Slinky toy, generously donated by Ray Dallavecchia’s Poof-Slinky, Inc. The social was not a fundraiser, but FJC president Rick Bone and his board were pleased that it did generate 10 new council memberships. And if any young professionals reading this are considering joining the FJC, you should know that it can be a great connection. Witness that Posch and Amanda Moncour, who met through the group, attended ArtSeen even though they were getting married the next day. “I thought this was more important than a bachelor outing,” Posch noted.

Birmingham architect Michael Poris with Yolanda Garfield (left) of Lake Orion and Inez Garfield of Farmington Hills

■ Focus Hope Benefit

Cranbrook Art Museum/Art Academy’s - A Serious Moonlight Moon-like, giant, white balls dwarfed the 400-plus guests cavorting around them under the peristyle at the Cranbrook Art Museum for the ninth annual version of Serious Moonlight. The creation of CAA ’09 architecture graduate Quynh Vartu, “The Spheres” made people smile, as did ’09 sculpture grad Paul Outlaw’s “The Big Time Adventure Tours”. That work comprised a train station and working mini-train that took guests on tours around the party.

Many guests said that the party was probably the most fun in the series of benefit summer soirees. It was also the first held primarily inside the museum, which closed immediately following for an 18-month renovation project. In addition to playing with the artful toys, guests enjoyed comestibles donated by Slow’s BarBQ, Bonnie’s Kitchen, Canape Cart, The Cupcake Station; Zingerman’s, Infinity & Ovation Yacht Charters and Forte Belanger. They also danced until midnight to the music of Thonetta Davos.

All Moonlights have featured auctions of art donated by Cranbrook-connected artists.

This year’s included work by Beverly Fishman, Harry Bertoia, Mark Newport and Daniel Libeskind, to name a few. The silent auction of 18 objects generated nearly $15,000 and the live auction of six items brought in nearly $11,000 for museum programs. People also donated cash ($3,500) for disadvantaged students’ bus transportation and admission to the upcoming Artology exhibition at the Cranbrook Institute of Science.

SKY Foundation Mother & Daughter Friend Raiser Social

Main photo: One woman exhibit photographer / DCDS ’09 Christine Alix of West Bloomfield with her proud father Jay Alix.

From top: DCDS student Amanda Fakih of Bloomfield writing up the order (seven prints) by Jack Aronson of Bloomfield. Aronson said he interrupted a bike ride to attend. Nancy Hodari (left) of Bloomfield, holding Oliver, and Jane Shulak of Birmingham.

Focus HOPE CEO William Jones, Jr. (left) of Birmingham and his son DCDS alum William Jones, III, an MSU student.

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Sheila Kasselman is one of the lucky ones. Because her pancreatic cancer was discovered very early, she survived and thrives. She is also passionate about helping others. Thus, she has established the SKY (Kasselman’s maiden name) Foundation to fund research to identify an early blood test to detect pancreatic cancer.

Judy Mc Clelland, a foundation board member, invited old friends and their daughters to learn more about the foundation. Sixty guests flocked to a cocktail party at architect Irv Toboccman’s gem of a Birmingham home which he shares with Barbara Mazur.

Some of the younger women had not seen each other for many moons so there was much socializing before Kasselman explained the foundation mission.

She also told them about the foundation’s first planned fund raiser – Sky Sessions Sunday Nov. 8 at Seldom Blues. SKYY Vodka will be the featured beverage and Alexander Zonjic and Thonetta Davis the featured musicians.

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Breast Care and Wellness Party

■ A Serious Moonlight

Speaking of mothers and daughters, 175 of them, plus friends, turned out for the annual luncheon Patron Party Saks Fifth Avenue hosted for the Francee & Benson Ford, Jr. Breast Care & Wellness Center. They socialized and enjoyed madeup sessions at Guerlain stations. They also heard about amenities at the new West Bloomfield Hospital and saw a fashion show featuring SFA’s “Want It” trends.

The latter was notable for Cheryl Hall Lindsay’s commentating of the fashion presentation, a departure from the customary choreographed show accompanied by loud music.

Thanks to the patrons’ commitments, the fifth annual event has already raised $92,000, even before the main event Wednesday, Sept. 30 at Shenandoah Golf, Banquet and Country Club. It will feature Ambassador Nancy Brinker, who founded the Susan G. Kormen Foundation in memory of her late sister. To get an invitation, call Gloria Sirosky at (313) 874-6139 or email her at gsirosk1@hfhs.org.

The Leukemia Ball 2009 More than 200 people celebrated the glory and grandeur of Detroit in the 1950s at the Leukemia Ball. The soiree at the Detroit Institute of Arts was chaired

by Marcia Fornaugh Avis to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society which she serves as board president. Kate Patterson, a leukemia survivor who was honored at a past ball, provided the cocktail hour entertainment.

In addition to the DIA’s Norman Rockwell exhibition, guests like the Steve Stromes, Mark Shaevskys, Ken Whipples, Richard Gabryses and John Kamins could also view an LLS-owned collection of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis photos from her days (1961-1963) in the White House. The highlight of the event was Shelly Burton’s moving speech about her little Nicole’s leukemia and how grateful the family has been for support from the LLS. The event raised $100,000 to continue providing support to patients and their families.

Clockwise from top left: Bob (left) and Nancy Vlasic with their son Paul and his wife Adriana of Bloomfield. Dominic and Erin DeMarco of Bloomfield. Linda Murphy and Bob Ziegelman of Bloomfield. Ben Motyl of Troy and Jessica Persichini of Birmingham. Brian Meer (left) of West Bloomfield and Bobby Taubman of Bloomfield. Artist Judy Eliyas (left) of Ferndale, Anne Benson of Lake Orion and Susan Lundin of Bloomfield.

■ SKY Foundation

Run For The Ribbon The first annual Run For The Ribbon to raise funds for prostate cancer awareness, treatment and research was really two events. The Night on the Townsend attracted nearly 250 people ($125 tickets) to the Birmingham hotel ballroom on Friday, June 19 for auctions, a strolling dinner and award presentations.

Former Detroit Lion Mike Lucci accepted an award in memory of Nick Pietronsante, who died in his early 50s of prostate cancer, and Bob and Maggie Allesee were honored for their benevolence to many community organizations.

Some in the audience were the Joe Vicaris, Duke Scarfanoes, Art Millers, Ed Deeb, former NFL stars Paul Horning, and Ron Kramer and National Coney Island’s Jimmy Giftos, who provided Coney dogs for the afterglow.

On Sunday, which was Fathers Day, more than 4,000, including 1,500 registered runners and walkers, participated in the 5K Run for the Ribbon at the Detroit Zoo. The prostate cancer survivors among them wore blue MIU caps. Killian Smith,18, of Shelby Township (time of 16:50) and Tracey Rizer, 37 (time of 20:45) of Sterling Heights were the top male and female finishers.

Run for the Ribbon founder Dr.

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Left to right: Event co-hosts Barbara Mazer and Irv Tobbocman of Birmingham. Event chair Judy McClelland (left) of Birmingham and SKY Foundation founder Sheila Kasselman of West Bloomfield. A family affair for Fran Dietz (left), Maria Dietz Scott, Suzanne Dietz, Diane Dietz and Kelly Dietz of Bloomfield and Missy Dietz of Troy. Late arrival not pictured - Alia Dietz

■ Mother, Daughter, Sisters

Left to right: Event chairs Sally Orley (left), Pam Orley Feuereisen and Diane Orley of Bloomfield. Shari Barouch(left) and her sister, main event co-chair Francee Ford of West Bloomfield. Amanda Orley (left) of Bloomfield with main event co-chairs Florine Mark and Lisa Mark Lis of Farmington Hills.

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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Night for Sight

Alphonse Santino was thrilled that the inaugural effort netted nearly $60,000.

Eighth annual Night for Sight

Clockwise from lower left: Dr. Geoffrey Gladstone gets a close look at the technique of Bacco Ristorante owner chef Luciano DelSignore of Bloomfield. Event hostess / psychologist Benora Gladstone (left) of West Bloomfield with her partner psychologist Freda Lerman of Franklin and Christine Beck of Bloomfield.

Honorary vintner Fine Estates from Spain’s Jorge Ordonez (left) of Dedham, MA, Alliance for Vision Research board chair Dr. Luisa DiLorenzo of Birmingham with Dr. Rick Bendel and George Jones of Jacksonville, FL. Mark Serafimovski (left) of Dearborn, David and Betty Vandeputte of Bloomfield.

■ Winston Canine Cancer Benefit

Left to right: Featured speaker / cancer researcher Dr. Nick Duesbery (left) of Grand Rapids with foundation founders Paul and Mindy Richards Dunbar of Beverly Hills. Girls night out for Michelle Widerstedt (left) of Bloomfield, Hilary Vallone and Camille Purdie of West Bloomfield, and an event sponsor Candy Sebold of Birmingham. Pepi Chapuseaux of Commerce and Lisa Andoni of Bloomfield.

■ Safari at the Zoo

Left to right: Event co-chairs Ryan and Lindsay Dembs of Franklin with their daughter Harrison. Event co-chairs Marc and Stacey Wittenberg of Franklin with their sons Sam (left), Zach and Jonah. Stacey and Peter Schreiber of Birmingham with their children Maya and Jackson.

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THE PAPER

The second largest charity wine auction in Michigan is an eye opener of sorts.

It benefits the Alliance for Vision Research, which was founded by ophthalmologists Frank Nesi and Paul Fecko.

This year they honored Beaucanon Estate of Napa Valley‘s Louis de Coninck, Pride Mountain of Napa Valley’s Stuart Bryan, Stelzner Vineyard’s Tim Dolven, Fine Estates from Spain’s Jorge Ordonez, and Suttons Bay’s Black Star Farms Don and Marylou Coe. The evening before the main event there were winemaker dinners for sponsors and big check writers. These were hosted by Ed and Jodi Barbieri, John and Nancy Vespe, Frank and Susan Sovis and Geoffrey and Benora Gladstone. Social Lights attended the one at the Gladstones’ new, art-accented home overlooking Walnut Lake.

It was notable for the hosts’ extraordinarily warm hospitality, the superb Spanish wines the very congenial Ordonez had selected from among the 48 Spanish estates whose wines he imports and the cuisine personally prepared by award-winning Bacco Ristorante’s owner chef Luciano DelSignore.

The next evening, 350 wine lovers attended the Night for Sight at the RitzCarlton. It was chaired by long-time supporters Deloitte Tax LLP’s Scot Morrison and his wife Beth and Dr. Peter Savini and his wife Marie. A highlight of the live auction bidding was a last minute donation by Ordonez. It was an all-expensepaid, 10-day trip for four through Spanish wine country. The lot sold for $18,000, bringing the event total to more than $250,000. This will support MetroDetroit area vision-preserving research projects.

Winston Canine Cancer Benefit There were two main stories at Winston Canine Cancer Foundation’s annual fund-raiser at Oakland Hills Country Club. One was the importance of Paws with a Cause dogs and other service dogs to the people they assist. This message was relayed with the force of compelling personal testimony by Ann Manning, Donna Hebel and Jennifer Swearingen. One of Swearingen’s dogs was able to get radiation treatments thanks to the Winston Foundation and is still working as a therapy dog with special needs kids.

The other message was contained in Dr. Nick Duesbery’s presentation about vascular tumor research. The Van Andel Institute researcher made the point that although soft tissue cancer is rare in humans, it is not so in dogs. Thus dogs are invaluable in this field because they provide useful genetic material. “I want your blood, sweat and tears and your dog’s DNA,” Duesbery declared.

Dr. Lucy Henney, Dr. Barbara Kitchell, sponsor Dr. Mark Burnstein, the John Percivals, Stanley Szosteks and Camille Purdie were some in the audience of more than 100. Purdie mentioned she supported the foundation because her two small dogs died of cancer, as did Paul and Mindy Richards Dunbar’s dog Winston, who was the inspiration for the foundation.

The party format was agreeable - a strolling dinner before the program and make your own sundaes at your table during the program. Before and after the pro-

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■ social lights / sally gerak gram guests socialized and checked out a silent auction. The event raised approximately $15,000 for the foundation.

■ Community House Green Breeze

JARC’s 2009 Safari at the Zoo When JARC moved its important SpringElation children’s division fundraiser to the Detroit Zoo last year, supporters knew they had a tiger by the tail. Last month 1,500 supporters of all ages trekked back to the zoo for the 11th annual event to help hundreds of children with any disability and their families. The Berkley High School Jazz Band greeted them at the zoo entrance.

In addition to visiting the animal exhibits, activities included a treasure hunt, face and arm painting, a scavenger hunt with prizes, tram and Tauber Family Railroad rides and dancing to Strar Trax music. And Matt Prentice’s picnic fare included a birthday cake saluting JARC’s 40th anniversary.

The Quicken Loans and Somerset Collection sponsored event raised more than $300,000. This pleased JARC loyalists like Scott and Carolyn Werner, Stephanie and Josh Freedman, former executive director Joyce Keller and her successor (since 2008) CEO Rick Loewenstein and his wife Dana. Rick was also enthusiastic about the upcoming joint Somerset Collection/JARC 40th anniversary celebration Oct. 17 at Somerset Collection South.

Community House Green Breeze

Left to right: Publishers of “edible WOW, celebrating the abundance of Southeastern Michigan season by season” Kate and Robb Harper of Bloomfield.

Cooking with Dawn’s Dawn Bause (left) of Commerce signs book for Kathie Ninneman of Bloomfield

■ Champions for Kids VIP Dinner

The first green living fair and house tour event attracted 100 to tour five Bloomfield-area gardens and a constant drift of visitors to the booths of 50 ecofriendly vendors at the Community House one Saturday in June. Among other goodies and info, folks could get copies of green cleaning product recipes from Studio 5, which specializes in sustainable design, and copies of Kate and Robb Harper’s wonderful quarterly “edible WOW”. It spotlights, season by season, the bounty of Southeast Michigan. Some also attended free lectures given by The Detroit Garden Works’ Deborah Silver, Four Seasons Gardening Center’s Glen Goldberg, In the Garden’s Alison MacKinder, Studio 5’s Holly Kaiser and Discover Hyperbaric’s Greg Harris. The event was sponsored by Charter One.

Antiquing for Alzheimer’s Judy Frankel celebrated the 10th anniversary of her Antiques Center of Troy by hosting a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association. More than 150 attended Antiquing for Alzheimer’s: Preserving Memories for Those Who No Longer Can. They perused vignettes presented by Ron Povlich, Dale Ross, Janet Long, Dr. Bob Burnstein and Mark Fritz and savored cuisine by Savoire Faire Catering. Many brought objects for free appraisals by David McCarron. The twohour event raised approximately $10,000

Halloween in the Summer JJ Benkert and Sharon DeAngelis, collectors of friends and non perishables for food banks, are now collecting gently used Halloween costumes for the 70 Pontiac youngsters they help tutor in the Bound Together program. These children are ages 5 – 13 and most have never had a Halloween costume. Drop off contributions at the Claymore Shop, 908 South Adams in Birmingham or at DeAngelis’ front door, 345 Golfview, Birmingham.

Champions for Kids VIP Dinner al

Clockwise from top left: Host committee co-chair Richard Leebove(left) with event co-chairs Norman Yatooma of Bloomfield and presenting sponsor WJR’s Mike Feezy of Farmington. Hoot McInerney(left) of Bloomfield with Candice and event title sponsor Prototype Systems’ Jeff Feltrin of Oakland Township. Jack Krasula(left) with Pam Good, event co-chair Nicole Yatooma and Julie Keating of Bloomfield. Linda Orlans (left) of Birmingham, Brooks Patterson of Clarkston, Dave and Lisa Gorcyca of Troy.

Event co-chairs Steven and Tara Grekin of Bloomfield.

Despite the economy, the fourth annutwo-day fundraiser for Norman

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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Community Service Award

Yatooma’s foundation that honors his father’s memory began with a sold-out (350) gala at the Townsend. Guests socialized, schmoozed and bid $25,000 in the silent auctions before dinner, but what happened after dinner made the Sunday evening notable.

When he accepted the Champion Award for his unparalleled support ($100,000 per year through 2011) of Yatooma’s Foundation For The Kids, title event sponsor Prototype Systems’ Jeff Feltrin explained why - he knew from the experience of his mother’s death that survivors have immediate needs when a parent dies.

Then a video featuring the devastating tragedy that caused Kim Newberry and her three children to need help from Yatooma’s Foundation For The Kids was followed by the young widow’s personal report of their progress. She received a standing ovation when Yatooma gave her the inaugural Bridge to the Future Award.

These moving moments were followed by a live auction with Dan Stall encouraging the bidders to part with $140,000.

You’ll not likely be surprised that Feltrin and a friend bid $43,000 of that total on one item - coach Tom Izzo’s donation of a trip for two to an away game with the MSU basketball team. But given the current condition of the car business you might be surprised to learn that Feltrin’s friend is a car dealer. That is unless you know of Hoot McInerney’s legendary generosity.

Combined with the next day’s golf tournament, Yatooma’s Foundation’s Champions for the Kids 2009 grossed nearly $600,000. This brings to more than $2-million the four-year total of dollars raised to ameliorate the grief that can overwhelm a family when a parent dies.

Community Service Award

Top to Bottom and left to right: Event co-sponsor Chris (left) and Therese Longe with city commissioner Tom McDaniel and J.C. Cataldo of Birmingham. Birmingham jeweler and past honoree Richard Astrein (center) of Huntingtopn Woods with event co-sponsors Tender’s Cheryl (left) and Karen Daskis of Birmingham. Presenter State representative Chuck Moss with event co-sponsor Ted Fuller of Birmingham. Karen Jacobson (left) with Anna and honoree Ron Rea of Birmingham. Current Birmingham mayor Stuart Sherman (left) and past mayor Don Carney of Birmingham. Newlyweds Maria and restaurateur Bill Roberts of Bloomfield.

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THE PAPER

Nearly 100 Birmingham civic leaders and downtown boosters gathered last month on the tented Van Dusen Terrace at The Community House to salute designer Ron Rea, the 2009 Community Service Award winner. The Community House Board of Directors makes the award, as board chair Carole Deyer noted when she presented it to Rea, to recognize people who have gone beyond the normal duties of their jobs to enhance the quality of community life.

From his first Birmingham restaurant for Herb Schmidt in the former Edison building at 220 Merrill to his newest, Café Via on Maple Road, Rea’s designs have given a signature panache to restaurants and commercial projects all over the globe. But he became a Birmingham legend when he applied his talent and vision to Shain Park, which was, at the time stuck in a quagmire of conflicting opinions. And he did so anonymously at no charge, delivering the unsigned design in the middle of the night. “(This) is very humbling,” Rea said, adding that being recognized by ones community “…is just phenomenal.” Along with his family, friends and Ron and Rea associates, some of the 20 previous award winners were in the cocktail supper audience that applauded Rea and his sincere expression of appreciation. These included 1988’s honoree Shirley Bryant, 1997’s Geoff Hockman, 2004’s Carol and John Aubrey and 1992’s this reporter.

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Pre-‘60s Concert Benefit Picnic

■ Pre-‘60s Concert Benefit Picnic

“I lived all of this…it was sort of my life,” noted Leni Currie as she strolled through the current exhibition at the Birmingham Historical Museum. The Voices of Change, The 1960s: Birmingham, Michigan, The World exhibition explores the local scene during an era that was shaped by major political, social and cultural events. It features, music, clothing, furniture and an expansive time line from the 1960s. It runs through Aug. 1.

Currie was among the 60-plus society supporters who each anted up $19.60 to attend the picnic before the July 8 Concert in the Park. They walked past a static display of three, bright red, classic cars from the decade. Some, like June Taylor McGregor, wore ‘60s attire. “These Levis are 40 years old and it took me 20 minutes to get them zipped,” she confided.

The picnic fare was donated by Krogers, Leo’s, Franks Ana’tra, the Cupcake Station and board president Pam DeWeese, whose strawberry shortcake was a big hit. She also passed out door prizes generously donated by Detroit Rocks, Kilwins, Panera, Cupcake Station, Astreins Jewelers, Trader Joes and Tom Wall and Mary Partridge.

The old fashion social raised more than $1,000 for the BHS endowment fund.

Music Hall Cars & Stars Unlike the past several years at the Cars & Star soiree, there was no walking back and forth across Madison Avenue between the Detroit Athletic Club and Music Hall this year. All the action, beginning with the cocktail party backstage for 161 patrons ($500), occurred inside the historic (1928) theatre.

And, while 120 supporters ($125) cocktailed in the Tina & Leland Bassett Lounge, patrons dined at tables set on a three level platform built over the theatre seats. “Simple and delicious” is how Pat Nickol described the cuisine by Edwards Catering of Northville and presented buffet style. It included star-shaped, puff pastry accented beef tenderloin and stelline lobster macaroni.

The supporters sat in the mezzanine seats while patrons stayed at their tables for the show. And what a show it was.

Savion Glover tap danced non-stop for more than an hour, with such energy that he seemed to morph into an instrument in Jeff “Tain” Watts’ ensemble. Their warmup act – Denzel Jackson, Zhane Stalling and Shadonn Jenkin from Music Hall’s educational programs – also wowed the crowd.

Following the show everybody flocked to the main stage for dancing and desserts. Hiram Jackson and Marvin Beatty won the $100 raffle drawings for a theatre and restaurant package and the trustee/Holiday Market donated wine collection.

The event saluted the past generosity of Chrysler Foundation, Ford Motor Company Fund and the General Motors Foundation, but there was no partying on their largesse this year. Even so, it still raised more than $50,000 for the preservation of Music Hall’s jazz, dance and theatre programs.

Clockwise from top left: Leni Currie of Birmingham looking at ‘60s fashion display loaned by The Village Players. Historical society board president Renee DeWeese (left) and board member Elaine Morse with Pat Olson of Birmingham. Architect Jim Ryan of Birmingham and his 1960 Corvette..

■ Music Hall Cars & Stars

Left to right: Patti and Jim Prowse of Bloomfield. Suzanne Paul (left) of Farmington Hills, Helen Forman of Bloomfield, Charlie Paul of Farmington Hills, Saul Forman and Bob and Paulette Koffron of Bloomfield.

Send ideas for this column to: Sally Gerak, 28 Barbour Lane, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 or email samgerak@aol.com or call 248-646-6390 www.oaklandpaper.com

THE PAPER

53

■ final word Right course of action on vacancies

T

he city of Birmingham, through its Principle Shopping District (PSD) office, is taking the correct, aggressive approach to combating the rising retail vacancy rate in the downtown area, and none too soon.

The PSD office as part of City Hall is basically funded by merchants to the tune of about $1 million annually. Most of that budget goes toward promotion of the shopping district, which is what gives the city of Birmingham its character. The governing board for the PSD consists of local businesses appointed by the City Commission.

PSD members have been discussing rearranging the current budget and contracting with a search firm to help solicit retail businesses of a national scope to lease space in downtown Birmingham. As the logic correctly goes, a couple of national retail anchors would help stabilize the downtown shopping scene and add to the daily foot traffic, all to the benefit of the existing merchants, whether they are part of a larger retail group or an independent retailer.

As this issue was going to press, a search committee for the PSD board had zeroed in on a final candidate to take on the chore of recruiting national retail firms to look at Birmingham. Based on scant information available at press time, with the final details of the contract to be worked out, the applicant recommended by the search committee is a local resident who has spent over two decades with the Bloomfield-based Taubman mall group.

We are also told that this final candidate has the right focus for the task. The city certainly has a strong entertainment base, so

more restaurants are not necessarily needed.

Likewise, Birmingham has its fair share of salons and spas and sufficient professional offices. The focus of the search will be on retail businesses with a national base.

Yes, there is some difference of opinion among members of the business community as to whether national retail firms in downtown Birmingham is the solution. In an ideal world, you could build a strong downtown just from independent retail merchants and let the national chains populate the mall developments.

But independent retail outlets have a track record of not withstanding downturns like the one we are now experiencing and Birmingham already faces its fair challenge from the Somerset Collection just outside its border. So a mix of strong independent retail outlets and stores as part of national chains makes the most sense in terms of attracting the largest number of shoppers to the city. Adding foot traffic to the city streets is good for all those in the business community.

It would also appear that the direction of the national search is on target in terms of the type of business the city’s downtown needs.

More fashion outlets will be the key here. A strong base already exists in most other categories of business in the city, so a balance must be struck so the downtown shopping district offers the correct array of businesses to attract even more shoppers.

Frankly, everyone has their own take on how serious of a problem the climbing retail vacancy situation is in Birmingham. While city numbers suggest that there is just slightly

more than a 5 percent storefront vacancy rate in the city, a windshield survey of the main downtown shopping district leaves one with the impression that the situation is not healthy. And given that appearances are one of the key factors in the success of a downtown, the vacancy rate, no matter how small, is a serious problem.

There are a number of reasons for the retail storefront vacancies. It goes without saying that no community, Birmingham included, is immune from the economic downtown in the nation, state and region. Along with that, some of the vacancies naturally occur because some businesses are simply under-capitalized, no matter what the economic climate.

The current situation in Birmingham is a good lesson for everyone.

The health of the downtown business district in Birmingham is critical to the overall well being of the community at large. The shopping district in the city is what makes Birmingham unique. At the same time, a strong business district provides employment and a good tax base from which the schools operate and the city provides services.

Further, a healthy downtown Birmingham helps maintain the homeowner property values in the city. So residents and the business community are tied together in the effort to keep a strong shopping district downtown.

While the merchants underwrite a national search for retail business to join the landscape in downtown, local residents must remember that their support of the existing businesses in the city is a critical element in keeping Birmingham the unique community that we have all come to call home. ■

Cooper correct to challenge state

O

akland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper has taken the relatively rare action of filing a lawsuit against the state government to learn which state prison inmates are being considered for early release this year as a state Department of Corrections cost-cutting initiative. With previous informal and formal attempts to gain that information rebuffed, Cooper is justified in taking her information-gathering effort — which really amounts to an attempt to ensure the public’s safety — to court.

Cooper has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Corrections for what she calls a “blatant refusal to provide ... critical information” regarding 3,000 to 5,000 prisoners slated for early release in October.

Cooper said she, as well as Wayne and Macomb county prosecutors, recently traveled to Lansing to discuss the thousands of inmates who are expected to be paroled by either October or December. However, the

prosecutors’ informal request for a list of inmates that will be considered for early release was rejected, and a subsequent Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was filed. Cooper said the department responded that the requested list doesn’t exist.

A lengthier, more detailed FOIA request was then filed, but the department didn’t respond in time, according to Cooper, prompting the lawsuit. A Department of Corrections spokesperson states the department has requested an extension to address the second FOIA request.

Cooper’s lawsuit strikes us as a reasonable approach to a legitimate end. She had hoped to obtain a list of potential early parolees before their release, so that she might be able to share information with state corrections officials to help avoid the release of dangerous individuals back into the community.

Although her argument — that the correc-

tions department must have a list of prisoners being considered for early release, or else the department wouldn’t know how many inmates may be released early — may or may not be accurate, we think she did the right thing by taking her fight to court.

Current Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson did much to define the role of county prosecutor when he held that position decades ago. He took the notion of the prosecutor post being one responsible for ensuring citizens’ safety to new heights: If that means sometimes having getting aggressive with Lansing, that’s what must be done.

We’re not sure Oakland has always had that since Patterson left that office.

Cooper appears to embrace that view. She states that it’s unfortunate that her office must resort to formal litigation to obtain information about early inmate releases, but that it’s her duty to protect the public. She’s exactly right. ■

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