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Gorgeous French-style newer construction on manicured 1.5 acre parcel. Five bedrooms. Spectacular views of lake and gardens. Recreational lower level. $2,999,000
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Walking distance to Cranbrook Educational Community. Newer construction on estate sized grounds. Open floor plan for ease of entertaining. $2,499,000
Lou DesRosier ranch style contemporary with walkout lower level. A visual masterpiece with the ambience of views from every room. $2,350,000 First time marketed.
With almost 9,000 sq. ft. of living on all 4 floors. Six plus bedrooms. Finished walkout with second kitchen. Sunset views. Bloomfield Hills schools. $1,987,000
Orchard Lake Lakefront Buildable Site
Bloomfield Village Classic Country Home
Butler Ridge Beauty
Walk to Downtown Birmingham
Bloomfield Village Renovation
Union Lake Contemporary Masterpiece
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
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. $1,250,000
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
Executive retreat on large, private lot with pool and grotto. Owners suite with library. Finished lower level with bedroom suite and bar. $1,199,000
Elegant redesign with function in mind. New Euro kitchen opens to family room and breakfast nook. Formal library. Large master suite. $1,149,000
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
LD O S Custom New Construction on All-Sports Lake
Classic Bloomfield Hills Estate Home
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Executive Retreat in Bloomfield Hills
Over 4,500 sq. ft. Large dual island kitchen opens to great room. Finished walkout lower level with fireplace. Three floors of living. $999,000
On almost 2 acres. Completely remodeled in 2005. Elegant yet incorporating today’s contemporary conveniences. Five plus car garage. $995,000
Townhouse style home with exquisite mill work throughout. Four stories of sophisticated living. Master suite wing with large bath and walk-in closet. $975,000
Custom built soft contemporary with fabulous southern exposure views and sandy beach. Almost 3,800 sq. ft. of living. Open floor plan. First floor master. Three car garage. $849,000
With large bedrooms, 3 full baths up, Euro master suite. Multiple fireplaces. Finished lower level with fifth bedroom and bath. $785,000
Newer Arts and Crafts design with open floor plan. Private setting with tranquil views. Three car garage. Bloomfield Hills Schools. $690,000
LD O S Franklin Park-like 1.2 Acre Setting
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West Bloomfield Waterfront Home
Completely remodeled with designer kitchen opening to living areas. Finished lower level. Three car garage. $635,000
With private nature setting, manicured grounds and patios. Three stories of casual living. Open floor plan with 2 story great room. Finished walkout. Bloomfield Hills Schools. $599,000
Quiet cul-de-sac setting. Walkout ranch with incredible views and open floor plan. Three car garage. Bloomfield Hills schools. $599,000
Estate size lot with almost 3,700 sq. ft. of living. Open floor plan. Three car garage. West Bloomfield schools. . $598,800
Forest Lake Country Club Frontage
West Bloomfield Newer Construction
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. $479,500
K A T H Y BROOCK BALLARD West Bloomfield Rare 4 Acre
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Parcel that is a perfect opportunity to build your dream estate. Rolling topography. Water at street and sewer up Maple Road. Birmingham schools. $575,000
Association condo with boat docking and boat house facilities. Three levels of casual living. All floors open to exterior. Incredible views of pond, nature trail and waterfront. $575,000
West Bloomfield Ranch Style Home
Bloomfield Hills Buildable Site
Bloomfield Hills Colonial
End Unit with Newer Kitchen
This one and a half story is located on private setting with many capital improvements. Open floor plan. Private natural setting. $449,000
Close to Forest Lake Country Club and thoroughfares. A stunning, private elevation. Bloomfield Hills schools. $295,000
Situated on large corner lot. Large rooms and open floor plan for entertaining. Bloomfield Hills schools. $235,000
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 / october ■ 9: MAIL BAG
■ 16
Clinton Baller; Ben and Vicki Craine; Genie Gerszt; Paul Mascarenas; Dave Richards; Richard C. Rollins
■ 15: CRIME MAP
HOUSING WOES
A locator guide to specific categories of crime in the local area
The Birmingham-Bloomfield market, although more resilient than others in the area, is not completely immune from the woes of the housing industry.
■ SNAPSHOTS ■ 21: Paul Miles ■ 27: Linda Wasserman ■ 41: Pete Bowers ■ 67: Charlie Mott
■ 29: MUNICIPAL Rail District resolution delayed; dog park recommendation rejected; nine candidates for three seats; new restaurant liquor permit; Best Buy coming; Single waste hauler; plus more
■ 39: EDUCATION Pine Lake school court appeal
■ 59: COUNTY Toxicology reports backlogged; 2010 "somber" budget
■ 63: STATE Ban on texting while driving; push for transportation funding
■ 65: BUSINESS NOTES She; Oakland Hills Pharmacy; Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel; Hall and Hunter Realtors; Terrance Sullivan; The Barber Pole; Bloomfield Open Hunt; Amae Plastic Surgery Center/Cosmetic Spa; My House of Style
■ 69: EATING OUT Our directory of places where you can dine out in Birmingham-Bloomfield; Main Course and Quick Bites from the restaurant scene with Eleanor Heald; Focus on Wine with Eleanor and Ray Heald
■ 72: THE COMMUNITY HOUSE The President and CEO of The Community House, Shelley Roberts, on what's coming up in the weeks ahead.
■ 73: EVENTS CALENDAR What’s happening for the month of October
■ 74: SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK The latest from the society and non-profit circuit
■ 82: FINAL WORD Our editorial commentary
■ OUR COVER
■ 10: HEAVY-HANDED 48TH DISTRICT?
■ 23: UNITED THEY ARE STANDING
■ 54: THE CYBER CRIME RACE
The 48th District Court has developed a no-nonsense reputation when dealing with minors in possession of alcohol, although some are now questioning the brand of justice.
Homeowner groups normally known for potlucks and block parties play a more important role in the communities of Birmingham and Bloomfield.
Although backlogged in terms of work, Oakland and state computer crime units are keeping pace with those using digital media to execute their crimes.
4
THE PAPER
The iconic Birmingham Theater on Old Woodward in the heart of the city, originally built in 1927 and restored in 1996. Cover art by Chris Grammer, from photos by Amy K. Lockard.
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ARBORS TRELLISES
NEW FALL YARD ART ARRIVING WEEKLY! THE PAPER
OCTOBER 2009
■ from the publisher
W
hen we first launched The Paper, we determined that rather than attempt to run a series of short pieces on the various crime incidents in the Birmingham-Bloomfield area, we would include in each issue a crime map showing major categories of crime in the communities. Readers will notice that we have made a few changes in the crime map appearing on Page 15 of the October issue of The Paper. Thanks to feedback from the Birmingham Police Department, we have added some categories of crime to better define the activity in the Birmingham, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills communities. For starters, we have discontinued our past practice of lumping in domestic violence calls with the category of assaults on the crime map. Although we could argue that domestic violence incidents are an assault, our past practice gave the erroneous impression that there were more general assaults in the communities than actually took place. Further, we have refined the crime categories that we represent on the crime map to include home invasion, break and entering, and larceny, rather than just including all of these incidents in the robbery category. • New to The Paper this issue is the inclusion of traditional letters to the editor under the banner of Mail Bag, which appear on Page 9. The Mail Bag section is a chance to highlight opinions of residents from the Birmingham-Bloomfield area on topics of interest to others in the community. We encourage readers to share their thoughts. Letters can be sent via e-mail to news@thescngroup.com, submitted through our website (oaklandpaper.com), or sent in written form to The Paper, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387. We ask that you include your name and address, along with a phone number for verification purposes. Only your name and community will be published in the print edition. • We have been asked by a number of readers about whether we will carry election coverage in our November issue. Our next edition will carry candidate interviews and endorsements for the upcoming Birmingham City Commission election. • Lastly, another push for those who have yet to either visit our website or, more importantly, sign up for e-mail alerts when we post breaking news stories during the course of each month. Our website (oaklandpaper.com) is updated at least weekly by the news staff as they attend government meetings or gather information from the police departments in the three communities. The site also contains the weekly society beat reporting of Sally Gerak, updated each Monday morning. Although the site is relatively new, at the present time we get about 10,000-15,000 visitors each month. On a number of occasions we have sent out what we refer to as e-mail blasts to those in the community who have signed up for notification when we update the website. Signing up for e-mail alerts is simple. Once you visit our website, at the top right of the index banner you will find a "news alerts" category which allows you to sign up for weekly updates to the website, breaking news alerts and notification of when we post Sally Gerak's Social Lights column to the site. Our website (oaklandpaper.com) is your opportunity to keep abreast of developing news during the course of each month, some but not all of which ends up in the monthly print edition of The Paper.
David Hohendorf Publisher davidhohendorf@thescngroup.com
B I R M I N G H A M • B LO O M F I E L D
PAPER
PUBLISHER / PRESIDENT: James W. Fancy PUBLISHER / VICE PRESIDENT: David P. Hohendorf Administrative Assistant: Carol Barr NEWS EDITOR: Tim Dmoch Staff Writers Lisa Brody, Sally Gerak, Brooke Meier, Kathleen Meisner, Leslie Owsley, Kirk Pinho, 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 INSIDE SALES MANAGER: Lori Snyder Inside Sales Representatives Rhonda Libkuman, Cindy Stawick, Leslie Timko GRAPHICS MANAGER: Chris Grammer Graphics Assistants Denise Jungjohan, Karen Polatka, Marcia Reimer Systems Manager: Chris Grammer CIRCULATION MANAGER: Dennis Boggs Circulation Assistant: Dan Griffin 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 copies are available at newsstand locations. Paid subscriptions are available for $15.00 per year by phoning our distribution department at 248.360.6397.
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY THE PAPER OAKLAND LAKEFRONT OAKLAND HOMES MONTHLYADVERTISER WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY 50th YEAR OF PUBLICATION
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■ mail bag Essential role omitted From Clinton Baller, Birmingham: In its account of how Birmingham created its bistro liquor licensing program, The Paper omitted the essential role of resident, business and legal advocates. For years, city officials had resisted pleas for more liquor licenses, insisting that allowing such licenses would open a “Pandora’s Box.” Resident advocates, working with legal scholars and local lawyers, provided a vision for the bistros and demonstrated that Birmingham could follow the lead of numerous other communities in Michigan and effectively control the licensing process through a combination of ordinances and legal agreements. Without the hard work of these advocates, Birmingham’s bistros would not exist. ■
Informative, awesome From Richard C. Rollins, Birmingham: I have had a chance to read the last couple of issues of your Birmingham-Bloomfield Paper. It is outstanding. I enjoy the detailed articles and analysis of the happenings in my hometown and the surrounding area. Having a paper with more than just advertising is great. As a resident of the city of Birmingham, I find this paper very informative and an awesome read. Keep up the good work. ■
Good job by your staff From Paul Mascarenas, Bloomfield Hills: I just read the September issue of The Paper. You were looking for some reader feedback — great job by you and your staff. Keep up the good work. I enjoyed the mix of articles on
INTRODUCING TRX FITNESS! public issues, dining in Birmingham, local history (Bloomfield lakes) and also thought the advertising content was well-balanced. I hope all goes well and I’m looking forward to many more editions. We need a good local paper like this to help bring the community together. ■
Pleasure to read Paper From Genie Gerszt, Bloomfield Hills: Just wanted to pass along our pleasure in getting and reading the new Birmingham-Bloomfield Paper. Terrific. We wish you continued success. ■
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Paper worth reading From Ben and Vicki Craine, Bloomfield Township: Bravo… Bravo… Bravo. You have created a BirminghamBloomfield Paper that is actually worth reading. Both my wife and I love the format, the stories, and, yes, even the advertising. It is well done, informational, and enjoyable… and we now look forward to receiving it each month. Again, thanks for publishing something for the community. ■
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What a surprise From Dave Richards, Bloomfield Hills: What a surprise — you put out a “newspaper,” not just a local rag to sell ads, although you look like you’re doing pretty well there. In this market, it might be the only one left in six months. It’s great to see names like Lisa Brody, along with Sally Gerak and Eleanor and Ray Heald. I can tell you one thing, it’s taking me longer to read your paper than other publications I receive. Good luck with The Paper. ■
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Talk to Birmingham-Bloomfield Your opinions are important so let us know what you think. Mail Bag provides our readers with a forum to express their thoughts on important issues. We reserve the right to edit all letters. Letters for Mail Bag should be submitted by mid-month to appear in the next issue and must include the writer’s name, address and phone number for verification. Only the writer's name and community will be printed. Letters can be sent via e-mail to news@thescngroup.com, submitted through the website for The Paper (oaklandpaper.com) or by mail to P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387. ■ www.oaklandpaper.com
THE PAPER
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9
DISTRICT COURT
48 HEAVY HANDED JUSTICE? BY BROOKE MEIER
wo teens in April 2009 filed suit in Oakland County Circuit Court against the 48th District Court in Bloomfield Township, alleging the court illegally jailed young people who were on probation for minor in possession (MIP) of alcohol offenses. The suit, which also included allegations against the 52-3 District Court in Rochester Hills, was dismissed by Judge Leo Bowman on July 16, 2009, but the question remains: When it comes to MIP offenses, is the 48th District Court too heavy-handed in sentencing? Erik Roosen was one of the plaintiffs in the suit against the 48th District Court, which serves Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, and Bloomfield Hills, among others. Roosen, according to the lawsuit, entered a guilty plea to an MIP first offense stemming from an incident in West Bloomfield Township. His case was heard before 48th District Court Judge Marc Barron. The lawsuit states Roosen subsequently submitted a guilty plea, without counsel, to contempt of court for a probation violation related to the initial MIP charge. Roosen was, as a result, sentenced to participate in the Weekend and Weekday Alternative for Misdemeanants program; however, he again stood accused of violating his probation and was, again, brought before the court on contempt charges. Weekend and Weekday Alternative for Misdemeanants is an Oakland County program created as an alternative for misdemeanor offenders where participants pay for the option to work, and the work done by participants is provided free to various community projects. Rather than pleading guilty again, Roosen enlisted James Amberg as his attorney, contested the charge, and was found not guilty of contempt of court by Barron. Several other unnamed plaintiffs were cited in the lawsuit, in which Amberg and James Williams served as attorneys for the plaintiffs. Court documents submitted by Amberg and Williams state, “These stories are a microcosm of the illegal procedures that the defendants have routinely perpetrated against the unnamed plaintiffs involved in this suit. Counsel Amberg has sat in both the 48th and 52-3 District Courts and has watched with great dismay as the defendants send minor after minor to jail for a nonjailable offense. Counsel, with a pained heart, has seen court-appointed counsel simply allow the defendants free reign to repeatedly violate the unnamed plaintiffs rights without even an objection. With repeated shrugging off of the admonishments from the Circuit Court, the defendants continue what could be the greatest miscarriage of justice the Oakland County Judiciary has ever witnessed. This begs the terrifying questions, how many children have gone to jail illegally, one hundred, one thousand?” Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Bloomfield Township each have an ordinance forbidding persons under 21 from possessing or consuming alcohol, or having any bodily alcohol content. For example, Bloomfield Township’s ordinance states: “A person under 21 years of age shall not purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic liquor, consume or attempt to consume alcoholic liquor, possess or attempt to possess alcoholic liquor, or have any bodily alcohol content, except as provided in this section. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by the following fines and sanctions.” Those fines include not more than $100 for a first violation, and that person can be ordered to participate in substance abuse prevention services or substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation services. They can also be ordered to perform community service and to undergo substance abuse screening and assessment at their own expense. If the minor receives an MIP citation following a prior conviction or juvenile adjudication for a violation of the MIP ordinance, they can be punished with imprisonment of not more than 30 days, but only if the person has been found by the court to have violated an order of probation; failed to successfully complete any treatment, screening, or community service ordered by the court; or failed to pay any fine for that conviction. They can also be fined $200 and be ordered to complete similar testing and classes as a first offender. For a third offense, a minor can be fined up to $500, jailed for up to 60 days, and have to face the same penalties and testing as a second offender. Michigan law states penalties for an MIP offense can include jail time for those convicted of more than one MIP and failure to complete probation, treatment, counseling, screening, community service, or to pay a fine; community service; alcohol screening; alcohol treatment/rehabilitation; and suspension of a driving license. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit claimed the district courts’ procedure of
bringing probation violation charges as contempt of court charges is general court policy and practice — this policy and practice, the plaintiffs claim, is unlawful. They argued that a first offense MIP charge is a non-jailable offense, and according to the Bloomfield Township ordinance, that is correct. The suit claimed the district court judges get around this by using contempt of court orders to send MIP first offenders to jail for probation violations. “The law in Michigan regarding minor in possession of alcohol is the lowest level of crime in Michigan law — it’s not punishable on a first offense by jail,” Williams said. “The local ordinances for Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, and Bloomfield Hills don’t allow jail or probation for first offense MIPs. So what the courts have done is taken these petty offenses and used probation as a way to penalize the unlucky handful of kids that are caught. With these kids, the chances that they will comply 100 percent, flawlessly with the sentences they’re given are slim. The courts were putting the youths in jail for contempt of court, which is a separate criminal charge. Some judges believe they can put these kids in jail despite the fact that it’s illegal.” In cases where the minors’ families had money to hire lawyers, the jailings could be appealed, according to Williams. However, those that don’t have the money to fight a charge with the assistance of a lawyer have to serve time. “They are requiring testing and classes,” Williams said. “For the testing it’s completely random, and you have to call in to see if your number is called. If you are a kid with an MIP away at college, and your number is called, you have to get home immediately and get tested, or you could be found in contempt of court.” A Bloomfield Hills minor, who asked to remain anonymous, said he received an MIP citation when he was 17-years-old, and was sentenced through the 48th District Court. “It was my first MIP — I had two beers and blew a 0.033 (percent bloodalcohol content),” he said. “I got a year of reporting probation, random monthly drug and alcohol tests, 25 hours of community service, I had to attend a Mothers Against Drunk Driving class, and an MIP awareness class. It cost me about $1,000 total,” he said. The blood-alcohol limit for adults 21 and older is 0.08 percent. Williams said in many cases the Oakland County Circuit Court has stepped in and granted stays preventing several minors from going to jail. “We were seeking an order to keep the district courts from jailing youths in all MIP cases, not just the hit and miss cases who had the money to appeal,” he said. “If the courts are violating the law, they should be forced to follow the law.” According to Williams, the case was dismissed by Judge Bowman because the individual district court judges weren’t named in the suit. “There was a hearing in the last week of June, and the judge ruled that he had to dismiss the case because we didn’t name the individual judges as defendants; we instead had named the courts and we couldn’t sue the courts,” he said. “Normally when that happens, the court gives you 14 days to amend the complaint — we weren’t given that opportunity. The case was simply dismissed and we have to refile. It wasn’t in any way a ruling on the argument.” According to Williams, he and Amberg are working on amending the complaint and preparing to refile the lawsuit — this time naming the individual district court judges as defendants. “I handled an MIP case in the Upper Peninsula,” he said. “The youth pled guilty and his sentence was a $100 fine, period — not probation, not community service, not a penalty. He was a 20-year-old college athlete and he had had one beer. “The courts in Oakland County think a youth caught with alcohol should be on probation for a year; spend weekends working on jail detail; breath tests between 7 and 9 a.m. for 30, 60, or 90 days; and calling in to check and see if they have to be tested again every day for a year,” he said. “You weren’t a drunk driver, you didn’t hurt anyone — you were simply charged with the petty offense of being under 21-years-old. Alcohol is legal, and drinking is legal — why treat them like a criminal? Our courts in this county have gone overboard.” The state attorney general’s office defended the 48th District Court in the lawsuit. Matt Frendewey, a spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office, said the office couldn’t comment on the lawsuit except to say that it has been dismissed. It isn’t just the two attorneys filing the lawsuit that have alleged the judges of the 48th District Court too often throw minors in jail for contempt of court following MIP first offenses. Paul J. Tafelski, a defense attorney based in Bloomfield Hills, said he has defended many youths facing MIP charges in the court. “They are more strict then most courts,” he said. “I have had at least a couple of kids that have had MIP violations. What happens is the kids get an
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THE PAPER
OCTOBER 2009
MIP, they get put on probation and if they do something wrong while they are on probation they get brought in on a violation of probation. The court, by statute, can’t punish them with jail time. The legislature has prescribed that a first offense MIP is not punishable by jail. So the judges, in some instances, would want to give jail time. Instead of a normal violation of probation they call it a contempt of the court’s order, which then allows them to, theoretically, jail someone.” “All defense attorneys familiar with the 48th District Court are concerned and upset about this,” said Patrick Barone, a Birmingham attorney. “It’s really a way to do an end run around what seems to be the clear intent of the law, which is to not provide incarceration for violations of the law.” Bloomfield Hills Police Chief Richard Matott said there were two MIP citations written by the department in 2008, and none in 2009 prior to press time. According to statistics provided by the Bloomfield Township Police Department, in 2008 there were 25 total reports of juvenile/underage drinking in the township and 27 reports filed in 2009 through July. The Birmingham Police Department’s annual report for 2008 lists 13 MIP offenses for that year, and 12 during 2007. Figures for 2009 were unavailable prior to press time. Jim Harkins, court administrator for the 48th District Court, said in 2009 to date, there have been 63 MIP cases heard in the court. “The (lawsuit) was dismissed. We were represented by the attorney general’s office, and they argued the case well,” Harkins said. As to the allegations that the 48th District Court is heavy-handed in it’s first offense MIP sentences, Harkins said he couldn’t comment. Calls to 48th District Court Judges Kimberly Small and Diane D’Agostini were not returned prior to press time. Judge Barron said the court’s sentences for first offense MIP weren’t understood well, and misrepresented in the initial media coverage of the lawsuit. “For a first offense MIP, you cannot send somebody to jail for violating their probation — the law does not allow it,” he said. “You can send somebody to jail for contempt of court, and there is a very large distinction between those two things. That was really something I felt that wasn’t spoken about and I think that’s what the issue was.” Barron said the contempt of court charge gives the MIP convictions some teeth, so minors follow through on the sentences. “Let me give you an example,” he said. “You get a traffic ticket, which is a civil infraction. You go before the judge and the judge says, ‘I’m going to fine you $100.’ You say, ‘That’s great judge, I really appreciate you fining me $100, but I will not be paying anything.’ That is a valid court order and if you don’t follow it, you will be sentenced to contempt of court punishment.” Under a contempt of court violation, a person has the right to a trial, a lawyer, and to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. “It’s a criminal action,” Barron said of failing to meet sentence provisions. “If you continually disobey a court order, then the court has the authority to enforce the order. They have to have that ability, otherwise what’s the point in having the ordinances if they can’t be enforced.” In addition, Barron said each courtroom within the court is different. “Strictness is in the eye of the beholder,” he said. “The sentences I issue for MIPs vary from case to case. No two cases are ever alike. You can have individuals that may be an MIP first offender but have other prior convictions that influence the sentencing. You can then have another minor who has had zero contact with the law and never had a drug or alcohol problem. I don’t treat any two cases alike — I would think that each individual would want to be treated individually based on the circumstances of their case. That’s what I believe I do.” According to Barron, he has used contempt of court charges to enforce court orders, including the punishment of jail time for contempt of court violations. “That does include contempt of court for whatever court order it may be,” he said. “An order of probation is a court order, so let’s say an order of probation was not to use alcohol, and the minor continues to use alcohol, or an order is to not commit any new crimes and they go out and commit an armed robbery. That’s contempt. For contempt, it also has to be a willful violation of a valid court order — if someone forgets to do something it might not be willful. “Let’s assume you are a judge and you have someone in front of you for an MIP,” he said. “You say to this person ‘I’m going to fine you $50 and 20 hours of community service.’ What would you do if that person standing in front of you said to you at the time of sentencing, ‘Judge, thank you so much for your sentence, I will not be doing one thing that you told me to do.’ What is the judge’s remedy at that point? What would be the purpose of having the statute if you can’t enforce it? You have to have a mechanism that allows you to enforce an order of the court, or there would be no purpose for it in the first place. That mechanism for us is contempt of court.” ■ www.oaklandpaper.com
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● Sexual Assault ● Assault ■ Robbery ■ Home Invasion ■ Breaking/Entering ■ Larceny ■ Burglary ▲ Vehicle Theft ▲ Vandalism ● Murder ★ Arson ✖ Drug Offenses ✪ Larceny From Vehicle
The latest crime locations by select categories from mid August through mid September.
BY LISA BRODY
O
akland County is experiencing a real estate shakedown, with 2009 home sales prices dropping 40 percent from 2008 figures — which were already almost 20 percent less than 2007’s sales prices. The value of Oakland County homes — including in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Bloomfield Township — have been realigned due to a surplus of product on the market, foreclosures, and short sales. “It’s not business as usual,” said Pat Jacobs, executive vice president of the North Oakland County Board of Realtors (NOCBOR). “It’s nothing like we’ve ever seen, and I’ve been here since 1981. It’s a short sale, foreclosure market now.” Short sales are home sales where the lender is willing to accept a sale for less than the outstanding mortgage. Foreclosure occurs when the home owner fails to pay the mortgage note for a period of months, putting them in default on the home loan. The lender, usually a bank, then lists the home on the market for sale, eager to reap whatever price it can for the property. The homeowner usually has about six months to redeem the loan once foreclosure proceedings begin by paying all back payments and penalties, bringing the mortgage loan current. Oakland County is representative of much of the country, where home sales and home values have fallen faster than anyone could have ever imagined. Throughout much of the last decade — even in auto-industry-ravaged Michigan — home values skyrocketed. People both upgraded their homes, buying bigger homes crammed with amenities previously reserved for the uber-wealthy, and used them as personal ATM machines. If a home equity loan could be arranged, many homeowners took out as much as could be had for lavish kitchens and baths, college educations, status automobiles, highend electronics, vacations, down payments on second homes, and other bigticket items. Additionally, back-loaded mortgages with nothing (or little) down and a refinancing boom allowed many people who couldn’t afford expensive homes and an extravagant lifestyle to acquire both. Between 2007 and 2008, the piper came to be paid. In 2008, when it became apparent that the posh lifestyle and homes couldn’t be sustained, houses at all ends of the economic spectrum were listed for sale in the Bloomfields and Birmingham. However, buyers were no longer able or willing to spend at previous levels. Sellers have often been mentally stuck at value levels seen earlier in the decade, or had large mortgages acquired when values were higher, and were unwilling to part with their homes at lower sales prices. That changed during the first six months of 2009. Fewer homes were available on the market, and those that were had significantly lowered their sales prices. In 2007 in Oakland County, the median home sales price was $196,800. In 2008, the median sales price dropped to $160,000, with 13,808 sales for the entire year. The median sales price for January to June 2009 fell to $107,500, an almost 45 percent decline. In Birmingham, the median sales price from January to June 2008 was $432,500; for January to June 2009, it was $255,000. In Bloomfield Township, the median sales price from January to June 2008 was $237,000; it rose slightly during the same period of 2009, to $257,450. There was a sizable uptick for Bloomfield Hills, which had a median sales price of $380,000 for the first six months of 2008; for 2009, the first six months produced a median sales price of $460,000. One reason for Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills’ apparent deviation from the downward spiral in home prices may be that $1 sales — which were often used to conceal a sale, especially a multi-million-dollar home sale — became illegal in 2009. Now, all true sales prices must be recorded. Kelly Sweeney, CEO of Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel in Birmingham, said “2007 and 2008 were the freefall days. We were losing 1 percent of value a month. We are not in freefall anymore. But I bet when we get to 2010, we’ll say we’re glad 2009 is gone.” acobs said that in 2008, there were a great deal of homes on the market, but buyers, suffering from job losses and the effects of the longlasting Michigan recession, weren’t biting. In the first six months of 2009, there were 6,000 less homes throughout the county for sale, when buyers were ready to buy, and 1,100 more homes sold. “Overall, the inventory is down about 25 percent from last year,” said Douglas Hardy, chairman of SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty. “Once the inventory gets back to a normal level, like three years ago or so, we’ll see prices stop decreasing. But I don’t have a clue how much more they’ll fall.” Jacobs said she believes this fall will bring a flood of foreclosures to the market, since foreclosures had been held in check by a congressional moratorium which ordered banks to place a 90-day hold on foreclosures. Today, those who make an offer on a foreclosed property may have to wait three to six months for the bank to respond to the original offer. Those looking for deals are counseled to have a lot of patience. “There are so many rumors that foreclosures are going up in September or October, but who knows? A lot of it is just rumors,” said Mitch Wolf, a bro-
J
ker with Cranbrook GMAC Real Estate in Franklin and Birmingham. He said he sees the current market as better than in 2007, but just slowly inching up from 2008, and continuing at that pace until spring 2010. “We haven’t seen the bounce we had been hoping for in the second half of this year,” said Dennis Wolf, owner and CEO of Hall & Hunter Realtors in Birmingham. “There are several factors preventing the bounce back. First of all is the jobless rate in Michigan. It’s very high, and until we see an improvement, we’re going to keep treading water. “Second, the government has set a stringent appraisal standard that is very unfair. The third major factor is that a lot of people who would like to sell are under water, which means they owe more on their house than it is now worth on the open market. This is clogging the system and preventing us from realizing a recovery.” To better understand how a foreclosed property devalues the properties around it, Realtors explain that — unlike in other economic cycles — in this economic downturn there are so many foreclosed homes, banks are eager to just rid themselves of the properties. To achieve that goal, they are pricing homes at their appraised value — which is usually half their assessed value. As banks price foreclosed houses at this significantly lower rate, it not only undercuts other sellers, it decreases the values of every other comparable home on the market, lowering the values to at least half the market value. “You have a street with $850,000 homes, and one in foreclosure that goes for $300,000, and then the subsequent buyers use that as the benchmark for future sales. That’s really how foreclosures impact the market,” Hardy said. “Because credit was too easy, and appraisals too easy, properties became over-valued. It’s partly what got us to where we are,” Sweeney said. “Now the pendulum has swung the other way. There’s an artificial restriction on appraisals, where they have to be compared only to sales in the last 90 days, and with less sales, there are fewer comparable sales to gauge against, serving to drive values down even more, because the foreclosures and short sales are used as comparable sales prices.” Dennis Wolf further explained that the government has set these stringent appraisal standards for cases when a buyer goes to get an appraisal or mortgage, and the lenders are under very strict guidelines on what they can base against. “Buyers have to hire a separate firm to get appraisals from, and many firms are not familiar with our area or with the properties,” he said. “They have to use sales of foreclosures and short sales, where owners owe more than the value and are negotiating with the bank to sell the house for less than it is worth, so these are the comparables being used, driving down appraised values. Then lenders come back and say the house is not coming up as appraised for as much as you want to pay, and buyers cannot get financing for it.” or the January-June 2009 period, there have been 780 foreclosures in Oakland County, compared to 405 for the same period in 2008, according to Realcomp II Ltd., a real estate listing service which keeps statistical data for southeast Michigan. Despite all of this negativity, there are bright spots. For January-June 2009, there were 7,118 sales in Oakland County, compared to just 6,012 sales during the January-June period of 2008, according to Francine Green, marketing manager of Realcomp II Ltd. “The first-time home buyer credit is playing a big part in that,” Green said. “That’s an $8,000 tax credit. There’s a lot of affordability in the marketplace, and interest rates are still good.” “The first-time home buyer credit has had a tremendous benefit of getting people into the market, and into the area,” said Doug Whitehouse, broker and partner at Prudential HWWB, Realtors in Birmingham. “We’re starting to see multiple offers on the bargain properties that are well-priced.” Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel’s Sweeney said he agrees that the largest segment of sales currently is from the entry level, first-time home buyers — which in Birmingham and the Bloomfields is at the $150,000 to $400,000 price point. “They are briskly entering the market,” he said. Around the country there is a divide between mass market and high-end real estate sales. High-end is considered homes costing above $750,000. Lower-priced home sales have been spurred around the country, including in Oakland County and Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Bloomfield Township, by the large number of foreclosed homes, and by the first-time buyers’ federal tax credit of $8,000. Mortgage rates reportedly are near 50-year lows, and the Federal Housing Administration has guaranteed mortgages for these firsttime home buyers with down payments as low as 3.5 percent. Contrast that to what is considered the high-end of the real estate market. The first-time buyer $8,000 tax credit isn’t available to single buyers whose income is greater than $75,000, or married couples earning more than $150,000. Additionally, low-interest-rate mortgages backed by the Federal Housing Administration and government-controlled mortgage companies, such as Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, are available only on mortgages
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below certain limits set by Congress, which is $417,000 in most national markets. In light of the sub-prime mortgage debacle, banks are now requiring down payments of 20 to 40 percent on high-end homes, or are even disqualifying buyers who no longer have much equity in their current homes and have seen their retirement savings accounts fall. Those who do qualify will receive a “jumbo” loan, which comes with higher interest rates. “It all depends on the bank, and they don’t want to lend. That’s the tragedy,” Hardy said. “The mid and luxury market have been the hardest hit, and we are still seeing a difficult time in the luxury market,” Dennis Wolf said. “In normal times, the luxury market is immune. But this recession is effecting people not normally effected.” Mitch Wolf said he concurs. “The top of the market is not doing well,” he said. “The $3 million to $4 million houses are history. Some houses in the millions are still selling, but their values are 35 to 40 percent less than one-and-a-half to two years ago.” “In the beginning, there was a lag in declines in the multi-million-dollar homes, but it has caught up, and now, no price point is immune,” Sweeney said. “Everything is roughly worth half of what it was.” “The higher-end market is off by 35 percent,” Hardy said. In this “Great Recession,” it’s the white-collar employees who have experienced the most substantial job losses, at the same time as their high-end home adjustable rate home loans have reset to significantly higher payments. That, in conjunction with an unusual amount of foreclosures in the high-end market, has created a perfect storm of declining property values. According to Wellsfargo.com, on Tuesday, Sept. 8, a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was available (based upon qualifications) at 5.125 percent interest; a 15-year fixed rate mortgage could be had for 4.625 percent; and a jumbo 30-year fixed rate mortgage was available at 6.25 percent. A jumbo five-year ARM was available at 5.25 percent. “Because of all of this, people are buying,” Green said. “June sales were up 25 percent.” “Homes are more affordable than they have been in 20 or 30 years,” Whitehouse said. hile there are some sales in the higher end of the market, Oakland County reflects the national trend of an overriding abundance of sales in the lower end of the market. Sales at $1, which previously were recorded to hide actual sales terms, have recently been prohibited; but there were 564 sales in Oakland County from January to June 2009 between $2,000 and $14,999. Sales between $20,000 and $29,999 in 2009 were documented at 541 by the end of June. The largest number of sales in the county through June 2009 was in the $100,000 to $124,999 category, at 586 sales. Last year there were only 178 sales between $2,000-$14,999. From January to June 2008, 620 sales were recorded in the $125,000-$149,999 range. In 2008, there were 21 sales between $1 and $2 million, and no sales above $2 million. For the first six months of 2009, there have been 20 sales between $1 and $2 million, and two sales above $2 million. The total volume of sales was 1,045 in 2008, vs. 1,208 thus far for 2009. In addition to the confluence of lower mortgage rates and lower prices, burning through the volume of housing inventory that has accumulated over the last couple of years is necessary for prices to stabilize, and then increase, and for the market to truly improve. “I think we are skimming the bottom, but we have not seen prices recovering,” said Hall & Hunter’s Dennis Wolf. “I think the market has bottomed out, and we’re on the way up, for prices at least,” said Cranbrook’s Mitch Wolf. “If a house had originally been listed at $500,000, and is now listed at $280,000, maybe they’ll take $250,000, but not any less. There are buyers who are trying to offer half of that asking price, and sellers aren’t budging, which is good.” Prudential HWWB, Realtors Whitehouse said he also believes the pickup he is seeing will be sustained. “I think we are coming out of the hard times we were in,” he said. Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel’s Sweeney is telling buyers to get off the fence. “We probably won’t know we’ve hit bottom until we see it in the rear view mirror,” he said. “But I think we’re close, or there. I’m telling buyers if you wait until you know, you’ve missed it.” The biggest holdup still remains jobs — or the lack thereof. “In southeastern Michigan, we’ve lost 40,000 jobs in the last 10 years. Virtually everyone is suffering,” Sweeney said. A University of Michigan report on Oakland County employment predicts stabilization in 2010, and a slight increase in employment during 2011. It’s an increase everyone is hopeful for. ■
W
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nyone who's spent time in Birmingham over the last decade has probably encountered musician Paul Miles, also known as "The Blues Man." Miles has become an institution in the city as a street musician, making his living through donations from passersby, gigs and CD sales. Born in 1952 and raised in Ohio, Miles has already lived more than most. "I started singing with a rock group in high school," he said. "I knew this was something I wanted to do and I knew this would be a way to get out of a small town." Miles chose to play the streets of Birmingham, in large part due to its likeness to his hometown of Paulding, Ohio. "If I took a picture of Birmingham and my hometown, they would be very similar," he said. "It's a downtown atmosphere that I've always enjoyed." Throughout his career as a musician, Miles has relied on donations as a form of income, but he uses the connections he makes on the streets of Birmingham to drum up business. "On an average day I might make $20, I might make $50, or I might make $10," he said. "It's not about how much I make there, though. I get referrals where I get hired for events."
Miles has been contracted to perform at Birmingham's "Day On The Town" annual event, the farmer's market, and various private shows. "They know what I sound like," he said. "The children love it and the parents feel safe with it." Throughout the years, Miles has not only entertained Birmingham locals, he's met celebrities passing through town. "Dustin Hoffman purchased my CDs when he was in town about four years back looking at film locations," he said. "He was having lunch at Forte and afterwards, he bought CDs for himself and his friends." With influences like Jimi Hendrix, James Brown and B.B. King, Miles has released eight CDs and won Detroit Music Awards in 2007, 2008 and 2009 for his singing, music and songwriting. Miles shows no sign of slowing down. He's scheduled to be in Memphis, Tenn. next January for the International Blues Competition and has plans to travel to France, Germany, and Italy. "I have some musician friends who want me to come to Europe and record," he said. Miles will be spending much of next summer overseas, but until then, don't forget to drop a donation in his guitar case if you see "The Blues Man" on the streets of Birmingham. — Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard
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THE PAPER
OCTOBER 2009
UNITED THEY STAND UMBRELLA HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS WEIGH IN ON COMMUNITY CONCERNS By Katey Meisner
H
omeowner groups are often perceived as being simple neighborhood groups organizing pot lucks and block parties, yet they have long held an understated role in the Birmingham and Bloomfield Township communities. When the leaders of individual associations gather and work together as an umbrella association — as they do in Birmingham and Bloomfield Township — they play an even greater role in community affairs, and provide relevant information on important and topical issues, from property tax assessments to street paving, zoning changes and aesthetic issues.
While it’s often city officials and politicians who stand out front on issues, groups such as the Presidents’ Council of Neighborhood Associations in Birmingham and the United Homeowners Association in Bloomfield Township work with the elected officials in their communities and serve as conduits of information and municipal resources. The Presidents’ Council of Birmingham has participated in a wide range of issues affecting Birmingham homeowners, according to Daniel Beyer, president of the council. “We’re involved in the property tax assessment issues,” he said. “We actually put on a property tax seminar, and we’ve been doing that in the early part of the year for the last several years.” In educating homeowners about property taxes, the assessment process, and how a property tax assessment can be challenged, Beyer said the council brought attention to an issue it deemed an area of concern. “There were wild variations on the assessment of properties, and there was great disparity about homes that were very close together,” he said. “The guidelines were not as clear as they should have been and, as a result, it was felt that a more structured and fair process began to emerge on how homes were assessed.” More recently, the council has weighed in on the Birmingham dog park issue that has been occupying the Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board for the last year. Many Birmingham homeowners are interested in where the dog park is developed. The City Commission recently rejected a recommendation to develop the dog park at the Birmingham Schools’ former bus yard on Eton, across from the city’s ice arena. “We’ve been very involved in terms of location,” said Beyer, who as council president sent a letter to various city officials this summer to outline member opposition to “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.” Additionally, the council has spoken out on ordinance issues regarding renters within the city, issues stemming from the renovation of Shain Park, tree maintenance in the city, traffic patterns, and zoning matters. “We discuss how areas should be zoned, and how particular language in the zoning ordinances are evaluated and interpreted,” Beyer said. “By bringing attention to issues, you can get people to act.” The council may not have the ability to directly change city policies or ordinances, but city officials agree that contact with the council is important to the city’s success. “The presidents’ council provides great input into many issues affecting the neighborhoods,” said Birmingham Mayor Stuart Lee Sherman. Birmingham City Manager Tom Markus also views the council as a benefit to public policy. “They’re a voice in the community that people listen to,” he said. Members of the council know city officials on a personal level and
interact with them on a regular basis, according to Beyer. “This is not so much in the capacity of the presidents’ council per se, but really all of our members are persons who participate in community affairs,” he said. Many members of the council are independently active in the community. Beyer said council member Dorothy Conrad, for example, has been involved in city sewer issues. “I think it’s the degree of dedication and the time that people take to be involved in the community,” he said of council members’ role and influence in city affairs. Beyer said he believes the council does have an influence on policy, particularly with regards to property tax issues. “Everyone who participates in the presidents’ council gets good, helpful input from the community, and can provide their own knowledge or experience about what’s going on in their neighborhood. I think it’s a really important group,” he said. “It really is very helpful in keeping all of the neighborhoods aware of the issues. The presidents’ council just enhances the city and helps to make it a better place for everybody.” Jeff Van Dorn, immediate past president of the council, served as the organization’s leader from 2004 to 2008, prior to Beyer’s election to the post. According to Van Dorn, the council dates back to 1995. “The council has accomplished a lot over these years,” he said. “It has worked closely with the city commissions and staff over the years to effect major improvements to the city.” Van Dorn still serves as a member of the council. “I represent the Mill Pond Neighborhood Association, which has 450 homes making up the northwest quadrant of the old city,” he said. Composed of eight to 12 participating members, the council appoints a president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary, according to Beyer. “The bylaws of the presidents’ council allows for an individual association to designate one of their board members to sit on the council,” he said. “The presidents’ council does not include all of the (homeowner) associations because they’re not all active.” According to Beyer, the majority of Birmingham homeowner associations do participate in the council in varying degrees. Well into his second term, Beyer began serving on the council as head of his own association. He attended the council meetings regularly, and ultimately became president of the organization. His second term will end Jan. 1, 2010. Members remain on the council as long as they wish. “There are some persons who have been president of their association for many, many years,” Beyer said. Individual associations may or may not have term limits. However, holding an office on the council is limited to a one-year term, though officers may serve multiple terms. These positions are determined and appointed by other members of the council. The council meets monthly, according to Beyer, except during the summer months, when the council takes a brief hiatus. The United Homeowners Association in Bloomfield Township, an organization similar to the presidents’ council in Birmingham, has been in existence
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for more than 40 years, according to president Richard Moxley. “It’s comprised of 60 dues-paying homeowner groups, and that number stays pretty consistent,” he said. Meeting eight times a year, the varying issues of interest for the association include deed restrictions, enforcement of housing codes, and enforcement of standards of maintenance. Maintaining vacant properties is an issue at the forefront for current association members. “No one likes to have a house that’s unoccupied, especially if the grass isn’t being mowed and the house is not being maintained,” Moxley said. “It’s an eyesore to the neighborhood, and it attracts all kinds of problems.” As a result, the association worked with the Bloomfield Township Building Department to make certain that vacant homes are reported and that action is taken to get the grass cut and other maintenance conducted. The association recently took part in a promotion of services available to citizens. The Friendship Club, a township organization sponsored by the Bloomfield Township Senior Center and promoted by the association, offers caregivers of ill or incapacitated citizens the opportunity to handle personal affairs while the service cares for the afflicted spouse, friend, or relative. “Unless people are in need of such a service, they may not look for it,” Moxley said. “But maybe they know someone down the block who is confined to the house because their spouse needs constant care.” The United Homeowners Association is coming to individual homeowners associations to talk about these types of services, according to Moxley. “We want to make sure that everyone knows what their tax dollars are being used for, and if it applies to them, they can ask questions and we’ll get the person in charge of it to talk to our group.” Moxley said township officials work closely with the association on various issues and make themselves very accessible to the association’s needs. “Too often, you can’t get answers unless you contact the township during the day,” he said. “Township (officials) are very willing to come to our evening meetings and tell us what’s available. We just have to get the audience, and they’ll come talk to us.” The township is an invaluable asset to the association, according to Moxley. “They are, without a doubt, one of the most responsive units of government that I have ever dealt with,” he said. “Whatever the issue, (Township Supervisor) Dave Payne and his staff are extremely user-friendly and proactive.” Bloomfield Township has approximately 250 homeowners associations, according to Moxley. Like the presidents’ council in Birmingham, the United Homeowners Association elects officers to its board. While not all township associations participate in the United Homeowners Association, Moxley said he finds participation beneficial in taking action on issues. “Homeowners associations become more active when there’s an incident that happens which causes concern among the residents,” he said. “If they had an active association, they could take care of it within their association without having to go to the township. That’s one of the advantages of the association.” Moxley said any association is welcome to join the United Homeowners Association. It offers liability insurance for the officers at a nominal fee, so that they don’t have to worry about individual liability when they take action regarding any incident in their neighborhood. “We have three-year terms (for officers), but if they want to serve an additional term or serve in another capacity, we encourage that, too,” Moxley said. “Some have been board members for 10 or more years.” Each fall, the association’s search committee meets to consider officer positions. Recommendations are made to the association board, and it approves individuals as a candidate for office. If they have no opposition, they are elected. Township officials say they find the organization to be an asset to the community. “They have a great impact,” said Supervisor Payne. “It helps us when there are resources like that.” Payne identifies the council as a great communication tool. “They’ll come to us with a particular issue that needs our attention,” he said. “It’s part of making a community work well together.” Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli corresponds regularly with the association, and said members are a wonderful resource of information on many current issues in the township. “It’s an invaluable organization for the township,” she said. The association is also extremely useful as a means of disseminating important information from the township back to residents. ■ www.oaklandpaper.com
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ONE OF A KIND Custom design by Alex Bogarts overlooking Forest Lake golf course. First floor master suite. Finished walkout lower level. Over 9,000 sq. ft. The finest of materials, exceptional European quality and elegance. A true masterpiece. $1,995,000 (29059730HIC) 248-626-8700
AMAZING DES ROSIER DESIGNED HOME Built by Thomas Sebold. Six bedrooms, 3 full and 3 half baths, Brazilian walnut floors, Bella Cucina kitchen, 3 fireplaces, elevator. Finished walkout lower level with endless exercise pool. Wrap attention to detail beyond compare! $1,325,000 (29119308KIR) 248-626-8700
PARKLIKE SETTING IN FRANKLIN Natural wood floors throughout. Two-story great room with skylights opens to kitchen with doorwall to tiered deck. Four bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Finished lower level with full kitchen, family room, fifth bedroom and bath with jetted tub. $539,000 (29091253GRE) 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 with deck and hot tub. Five bedrooms, 3 full and 2 half baths. $499,500 (29073850LIN) 248-626-8700
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. $299,000 (29060664KNO) 248-626-8700
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BLOOMFIELD Four bedrooms, 4 baths, newer kitchen with granite. Master suite with closets galore and attached study. Hardwood floors in most rooms. Finished walkout lower level. Four car garage. Too many fabulous features to list. $555,000 (29104660ORA) 248-283-8700
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GORGEOUS VIEW OF GOLF COURSE Wonderful Birmingham home. Over 2,300 sq. ft. of living space. Three bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 fireplaces, newer furnace and central air. Beautiful backyard with room to expand. Newer kitchen with Corian counters. Freshly painted. $199,900 (29108371CRA) 248-283-8700
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L
inda Wasserman, a trusts and estates attorney for Honigman, Miller, Schwartz and Cohn in Bloomfield Hills, is the woman behind some of the area's wealthiest philanthropic contributors. Wasserman has framed her career around helping the wealthy distribute a portion of their money toward the betterment of the community, a task that she said she finds challenging and rewarding. "I became interested in this type of law because it combined tax law with something that is very personal," she said. "The clients I work with are very philanthropic." Working with some of the area's wealthiest families can take some finesse, according to Wasserman. "I can be tough like a man or more sensitive," she said. "You have to be patient and sensitive to do estate planning." Despite her high-powered status, Wasserman said she doesn't consider herself to be a high-profile attorney. "I operate below the radar," she said. That doesn't mean Wasserman herself isn't influential in the community — anything but. As chair of the Cranbrook Schools Board of Governors, vice chair of the Detroit Zoological Society Board of Trustees, and chair of the Beaumont Foundation's Women's Leadership Initiative, Wasserman is
an esteemed philanthropist in her own right. "I wish I could do more," she said. "I would like to figure out some way that I could contribute to the recovery of the city of Detroit. I'm particularly interested in children, education and the sustainable food issue." One of Wasserman's clients is now involved in the food issue. "They wanted to get fresh food to people in under-served communities," she said. "They put a lot of money behind it." With the economic downturn, the interests of wealthy clients have been affected and, as a result, so have charitable contributions, according to Wasserman. "It'll be interesting to see if this is a short-term drop off," she said. In the meantime, she said clients are still steadily donating, but many are not increasing their contributions. "People are thinking very hard about how to give their charitable dollars," she said. Wasserman said she's optimistic that things will eventually turn around, and through a fine-tuned expertise and influence, she is determined to be instrumental in the continued prosperity of the community. — Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard
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THE PAPER
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■ municipal Rail District owners critical of sidewalks along Cole Street
Dog park recommendation rejected Birmingham officials against allocation to buy former bus yard
By Lisa Brody Birmingham City Commissioners have withheld action on an authorizing resolution introduced by the city’s Engineering Department to determine the necessity of improvements along Cole Street, including sidewalks and streetscapes. Cole Street is currently developed with a mixture of retail, office, and industrial uses. Director of Engineering Paul O’Meara said the purpose of the proposed project is to increase walkability in the Rail District. He said it is a two-phase process, and the first phase is already complete, with sidewalks put in along Eton. The second phase is the Cole Street project. It would entail using easements on some properties along Cole Street, and many parking spaces would be lost because several current parking spots are in the right-of-way. The proposed sidewalks are integrally tied into the proposed pedestrian walkway for the Troy/Birmingham Intermodal Transit Center. “The sidwalks are important to access the transit center from the neighborhoods,” said Birmingham Planning Director Jana Ecker. “It’s unlikely we could do this construction this season, due to weather, but we would most likely start it next spring,” O’Meara said. The Engineering Department reports that 100 percent of the estimated cost of the improvements is to be proportionally assessed to the adjacent property owners through a special assessment district (SAD). Members of the Cole Street community packed the City Commission’s Monday, Sept. 14 meeting, with eight property owners and tenants speaking about the project during the public comment period. Howard Atesian, a Cole Street property owner, said he’s in favor of the Cole Street improvements, but he feels that the loss of parking will cause great problems for business owners; the design of the streetscape will create a more residential than downtown feel; and he would prefer it if the city would revisit the issue in 2010 because the economy is currently hurting many of his tenants, and it will be hard to pass any special assesswww.oaklandpaper.com
By Lisa Brody
A
recommendation to develop a dog park for use by Birmingham residents and their pets in the Birmingham School District’s former transportation yard on Lincoln Road has been rejected by City Manager Tom Markus and city commissioners. Markus announced the intention to develop the proposed dog park at another Birmingham location during City Commission’s Monday, Sept. 14 meeting while officials discussed proposed improvement plans for Kenning Park. At various points, Kenning Park had also been considered by the Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board as a location for the dog park. “We really cannot afford to be buying more land,” Markus said. “And there are uses at play at Kenning that are in conflict with a dog park.” According to Markus, reaching a decision on a dog park location with be a joint effort among city staff. A decision is expected to be announced at the Monday, Oct. 12 City Commission meeting. The Parks and Recreation Board studied the issue of a dog park over the last year, and last month recommended the Birmingham School District’s former bus yard, located across from the city’s ice arena. The board’s report on the dog park issue included a history of the work it did in the last year, and of the different
ment on to them, which is what landlords typically do. A landscaping contractor who rents space on Cole Street said the $3,000 to $4,000 assessment he would have to pay for the improvements couldn’t be made up in business revenue. Randy Stevenson, owner of RMS Sound System, said he will lose all of his parking under the plan. “My clients will have nowhere to park, and I’m building a state-ofthe-art audio and post (production) studio,” he said. Jack Lauren, who has a building with offices in front and a warehouse in back, said he also would lose parking spaces, and he presented a petition against the sidewalks and streetscape project signed by tenants and building owners. “I count 33 lost spaces,” he said. “I’m very much against this.” Holly Kaiser, owner of Studio 5 and president of the Rail District, said she disagrees.
locations the board looked at for developing a dog park in the city. Initially, there were as many as 25 sites under consideration. The sites were then whittled down to five or six, and then to two finalists — the school district’s former bus yard, and the northeast area of Kenning Park, at the corner of Lincoln and Eton roads. The city gave the Parks and Recreation Board criteria to consider in developing a dog park site recommendation. Requirements included that the park must be within the city, be a walkable location, be accessible to vehicular parking, and be large enough for a dog park. The board offered no site layout, funding sources to acquire or rent the bus yard site from the school district, or costs to redevelop the site into a dog park. Currently, it’s a fenced-in asphalt lot. City commissioners made it clear on Sept. 14 that they had no appetite for spending more money on another park project at this time. “There are no more park bonds, and based on the economy, the commissioners have no intention of issuing any,” Markus said. “There are higher and better uses for the bus yard in the private sector.” Markus emphasized that there are parks in Birmingham that are perfectly capable of supporting a dog park, with wide accessibility and availability to the public, and without any incumbent costs. ■
“I would like to bring up the caliber of the Rail area,” she said. “Parking would be very difficult, but we want the area to improve. There is a lot of pedestrian traffic now, with mothers walking baby strollers in the street. There is no safe place to walk in the district. I’m all for anything to increase pedestrian traffic and business in the area.” Planning Board member Robin Boyle said the Cole Street project is the culmination of a long-term plan. “Congestion is a good thing,” Boyle said. “We have been trying to get people to use the Cole Street area, and now they are. This area is vital to continued development and the proposed transit center. I’d like to see this done tomorrow.” Birmingham City Manager Tom Marku said that for those people that don’t want the transit center project to move forward, the project will give them a reason to deny easements. For those inclined to support the project, “tell people we’re going to go ahead, and give
THE PAPER
staff leeway to do their job. We’ll make it the most feasible and attractive we can.” “It’s in all of our interests as citizens of Birmingham to see this area succeed,” said Commissioner Scott Moore. “But the timing is not right.” Commissioner Rackeline Hoff concurred. “If the transit center goes in, the need is greater than ever for sidewalks,” she said. Concerned over the cost to property owners and tenants who are currently experiencing economic hardships, Hoff said her recommendation was to postpone adoption of the resolution for a year. Markus told commissioner they could take no action at this point, which essentially acted as a postponement on the resolution’s adoption; and that he would look into the Cole Street situation again next year. No action was taken on the resolution by the commission. ■ 29
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OCTOBER 2009
■ municipal Commissioners back liquor license for new restaurant
Commission candidates Nine file for three open seats
By Lisa Brody The Birmingham City Commission has unanimously endorsed a liquor license transfer for a new restaurant with a dance-entertainment permit in the downtown area. The new restaurant and a bar, called South, will occupy 210 S. Old Woodward, Suite 100, across from the Birmingham Theater. The 2009 Class C liquor license had been placed in escrow by Essco International Restaurants, LLC. It had previously been in use at Alban’s Bottle & Basket. It was transferred to Woodward Tap, LLC, doing business as South. The new owners of South are experienced restaurant and bar owners and managers. Steve Puertas owns Main Street Billiards in Rochester, and Joseph Spadafore is his manager. They will co-own and run South. The menu will feature Mexican and Southwestern food and drinks. Mayor Stuart Lee Sherman said the commissioners did little questioning of the owners’ attorney, Kelly Allen, or the owners, and had no discussion amongst themselves because “they come with a good track record. They were amenable to everything we requested. They had done all of their homework, and they were prepared. Their packet was complete, and the attorney had done her job. “Also, it’s a great new concept for Birmingham,” he said. City Manager Tom Markus said he believes economic considerations also came into play. “They had the feeling that it’s been a vacant space for a year-and-ahalf, and we need to fill it, let’s help the community,” he said. “The space had originally planned to be the twostory restaurant and nightclub, Crave. There’s a shift towards getting economic development passed.” The developer, James Esshaki of Birmingham, owns the building the restaurant will occupy, and his company transferred the liquor license to Woodward Tap and South. The restaurant will have 200 interior seats and two bars, one with 27 seats and the other with 16 seats. There will be a patio for outdoor dining, accommodating another 30 patrons for a total of 273 seats. “It was presented as more subdued than Crave, as more of a fine dining restaurant, rather than a nightclub,” Markus said. Commissioner Rackeline Hoff asked which other restaurant in Birmingham may be as large, and Allen said Big Rock Chophouse, and the new Quattro restaurant and www.oaklandpaper.com
By Lisa Brody
A
field of nine candidates will compete for three open seats on the Birmingham City Commission during the city’s Tuesday, Nov. 3 election. The candidate filing deadline for the election was 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 15. Incumbents running for reelection include Mayor Stuart Lee Sherman and Mayor Pro Tem Rackeline Hoff. Commissioner Don Carney didn’t file paperwork to seek re-election. Hoff is finishing her second term as a commissioner, while Sherman is finishing his first. Others running for a seat at the commission table are Edward Lichten, Mark Nikita, David L. Wisz, Christina Fleischer-Casper, Andrew Meyer, Gordon Thorsby, and Dulcie Fuller. “We haven’t had nine people run for City Commission in a long time,” said clerk-designate Laura Broski. With three of seven commission seats to be filled, the Nov. 3 election could significantly change commission membership for the first time in several years. Many of the current members have
Hamilton Room nightclub, combined. Additionally, South will be open for dancing and entertainment on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with a dance floor and disc jockey. “They did have a dance permit when it was transferred from Alban’s,” Markus said. Main Street Billiards periodically offers charity poker games, which has not previously occurred in Birmingham. Allen assured the commission that South will not have any charitable gaming, which is authorized through the Lottery Bureau, not the City Commission. Birmingham police approved both the transfer of the liquor license and the MLCC Police Investigation Report, investigating the owners and their Rochester business. No negative findings were reported. “We know the chief of police in Rochester; he used to be a commander in Birmingham. He recommended the new owners to us, said that he has had no problems with them, and he recommended them highly,” Sherman said. “What more do you want?” Sherman said that often commissioners extensively question restau-
served on the commission for multiple terms. Carney was appointed to the commission in January 2001 to fill a seat left vacant by Chuck Moss, who left the commission at that time to serve in the Michigan House of Representatives. Carney was then elected to serve the remainder of Moss’ unexpired term in November 2001, and was elected to a new four-year term in November 2005. Birmingham City Commission elections are non-partisan. Commissioners serve four-year terms and are paid $5 per meeting. The commission generally meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month in the City Hall. Sept. 15 was also the filing deadline for candidates seeking one of three open seats on the Baldwin Public Library Board of Directors. Three candidates filed petitions, and will run unopposed for the four-year terms. They are incumbent Andrew M. Harris, Hermann Fleischer, and Frank Pisano. Library board members don’t receive compensation for their service. ■ rateurs when they are concerned about their ability to succeed. “We either work with them, or we do not give them a license. We do not want a restaurant to come and go. It’s not good for downtown, or for the residents.” “Welcome to filling this space,” Commissioner Tom McDaniel said following the commission’s unanimous approval. ■
Bloomfield Hills considers televising city’s meetings By Lisa Brody Bloomfield Hills officials are considering whether to televise municipal meetings on cable television, including City Commission meetings. The commission was presented with plans to televise their meetings by Bloomfield Community Cable Services on Tuesday, Sept. 8. Leslie Helwig, Bloomfield Township’s community relations director, explained that the City Commission could easily get the meetings televised on community
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access channels, providing easy access to Hills residents on Comcast Cable channel 15. Public education and government fees already paid by Comcast Cable alleviate the need for the city to pay any additional money to record meetings, unless the commission chooses to have more sophisticated camera options. In addition to City Commission meetings, planning board and Zoning Board of Appeals meetings could be televised. Helwig said that most area municipalities do televise their municipal meetings, including Birmingham, Beverly Hills, Franklin, Troy, and Rochester Hills, among others. Bloomfield Township has opted not to televise municipal meetings. Township Supervisor Dave Payne, who was at the Sept. 8 City Commission meeting, said the township chose not to televise meetings “because most meetings don’t last that long, and if there is a major point, we tape that part of the meeting and show it on cable. It’s not worth the money, in our opinion,” he said. According to Helwig, there are three options for Bloomfield Hills officials. She said the first is very simple, and wouldn’t cost the city anything. “A staff member would set up a camera on a tripod, and point and shoot,” she said. “You get a fair result.” Under this option, meetings would be taped and broadcast on cable the next day. The second option would be to bring in two to three cameras, cameramen, and a director to tape a meeting. Before televising the meeting the next day, graphics would be added to provide a more sophisticated look. The most sophisticated — and expensive — option is to add a control room with a direct fiber optic network in the city offices. “Both Beverly Hills, in ‘01, and Birmingham have gone with this approach,” Helwig said. The cost was approximately $75,000 for those municipalities. She added that this approach may not be feasible, considering the age and layout of the city offices. Helwig said there are pros and cons to televising the municipal meetings. She said while televising meetings would be a service to those in the community who enjoy watching community meetings from beginning to end, there are some residents who want to be on TV and may come out to speak at the meetings, making the meetings drag on longer. Mayor David Kellett asked City Manager Jay Cravens to look into the issue further, and the commission will re-examine it at a future meeting. ■ 31
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■ municipal No action taken on change to single waste hauler By Lisa Brody The Bloomfield Hills City Commission revived the issue of switching to a single municipal waste hauler system during a Tuesday, Sept. 8 meeting, but decided to take no formal action. The issue, which was extremely contentious when last discussed two years ago, deals with the possibility of replacing individual home and business owners’ selected waste haulers with one chosen by city officials to service the entire community. Most municipalities have chosen a single municipal waste hauler, which typically saves residents and business owners money, minimizes wear and tear on local roadways by eliminating numerous daily trips up and down roads by multiple garbage trucks, and bolsters aesthetics by reducing the frequency of garbage and recyclables being placed along curbs. Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne reported to the City Commission that in the early 1990s, the township was in a similar position. “Everyone was on their own and there was five days of garbage collection each week, and everyone had their own favorite (hauler),” he said. The township then explored a single municipal waste hauler, Rizzo, and instituted a change that provided weekly unlimited collection of regular trash, commingled recyclables, garden waste, and bulk item pickup. Twice a year, there is pick up of household hazardous wastes. “From an economic standpoint, it has had great benefits, with less wear-and-tear on the roads, and less unsightliness,” Payne said. “We have met all of the residents’ needs. We incorporated in-garage pickup, based on a user fee, so those people pay twice the fee. We have a limited number of multi-family structures, and we incorporated that into the fee structure, as well.” Payne said Rizzo bills homeowners directly. Homeowners are required to pay for the service. Under a township ordinance, any unpaid collection fees are added up at the end of the year, and the sum becomes a lien placed on the property. “Initially, there were some people who were upset, but we worked them through it,” Payne said. The single municipal waste hauler system has provided the same or much better service, for the same or less money, according to Payne. A single hauler system would save residents approximately $40 a quarter. Commissioner Pat Hardy and Mayor www.oaklandpaper.com
Kenning Park plans City seeking firms to help draft proposals By Lisa Brody
A
resolution directing staff to draft a request for proposals (RFP) from planning, architectural, and landscaping firms to help develop conceptual ideas for Kenning Park improvements was passed last month by the Birmingham City Commission. Kenning Park is located at the corner of Lincoln and Eton roads. It currently is a “pocket” park, according to Birmingham Parks and Recreation Director Bob Fox, because it is an undeveloped, grassy site. The Birmingham Little League and Brother Rice High School baseball programs began a discussion regarding park plans by claiming they can come up with $1 million, plus money for a sinking fund for replacement fees, in order to have a home field for baseball games. “I believe they will deliver if given the opportunity,” said City Manager Tom Markus. The city is seeking proposals from firms experienced in facilitating public charrettes, or community visioning sessions, in order to develop conceptual plans for the park. The sessions would solicit community input on how Kenning Park should be equipped and how it should look. City staff, in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Board, will draft the RFP, detailing the requirements the city is looking for, what kind of a plan it is seeking, and how they should go about creating a plan that incorDave Kellett said they were pleased with Payne’s input, but Commissioner Mike Zambricki said he doesn’t believe the commission should tell people how to save their own money, and that many residents are happy to select their own waste hauler. “We don’t know how many are happy with the way things are, we just hear from a vocal minority,” Kellett said. “I feel strongly that this makes all the sense in the world. I don’t want to be swayed by a few vocal people.” Zambricki responded by saying that there are certain areas of private life that the government need not regulate. Mayor Pro Tem Michael McCready suggested that the city conduct a survey of residents, which Hardy agreed would be a good idea. City Manager Jay Cravens said he would send out a newsletter to resi-
porates conceptual ideas for Kenning Park. Birmingham architect Kevin Hart of Kevin Hart Associates has rendered a design for the park that includes jogging paths, pavilion space, two promenades, bocci ball, shuffleboard, two sand volleyball courts, and four reconfigured baseball diamonds. Several City Commission members are concerned about proceeding with any additional park redevelopment projects. “By asking for public input, it’s saying we’re going to spend the money,” said Commissioner Tom McDaniel. “We’re not issuing any more park bonds.” Markus responded that there is a risk in not creating a plan for the park, because it allows the opportunity for others to create one instead. “Part of what is driving this process is we do not know what we can or cannot do without a more complete master plan,” Markus said. “We’ve all been against things. Now, we have to decide what we are for. If we do not take it out to the public, it will never be resolved.” Markus made it clear that there will be no more park bonds issued in the near future; and, because there is no more taxpayer money available, when it is time to redevelop Kenning Park, it will need to be done in phases. The commissioners then unanimously approved the resolution authorizing staff to draft an RFP, subject to their review. ■ dents to outline the issue. Commission members agreed not to take any action, and to wait for further research and input from residents before pursuing the matter at a future meeting. ■
National search for Baldwin Library director expected The Baldwin Public Library Board of Directors will likely conduct a national search for a new library executive director to replace Martha Custer, who will leave the position on Nov. 30. Ann Conigliaro, chairwoman of the library board, said board members have not yet met to discuss what they are looking for in a new director. The next board meeting is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. on
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Monday, Sept. 21 at the Baldwin Public Library, and the public is invited to attend. The board will be discussing what criteria they will seek in a candidate, and a timetable for finding a new executive director. “Our preference would be to hire somebody local, but we don’t know if we can find what we want and need locally,” Conigliaro said. “We will have to have a national search.” Conigliaro announced on Aug. 20 that Custer would leave her post, and that the decision was mutual. Conigliaro said at that time that the library board would use the transition as an opportunity to review its partnerships, community outreach, and operations as board members continue to address the diverse needs of the community. ■
Best Buy gets final approval from township board By Brooke Meier Bloomfield Township will soon be the home of a new Best Buy store, joining the likes of Costco and KMart in a shopping complex located on northbound Telegraph Road between Square Lake and Orchard Lake roads. Final plans were approved by the township Board of Trustees in late August. The Best Buy store will take over the space vacated by a Circuit City store after that company recently filed for bankruptcy. The Best Buy store plans include a signature sign and blue facade, as well as an addition to the back of the building. All plans were approved by the township Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Design Review Board prior to the Board of Trustees’ approval. In addition, two variances were granted to accommodate the Best Buy sign, which will exceed the maximum allowed area for signs and extend above the building’s roofline. “We had a sizable vacancy in that shopping center, and I think having a good store like Best Buy, with a good reputation, will really help that center out,” said Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne. “Best Buy has been very successful, so I think having another big anchor retail outlet in that shopping center would be a plus.” Township Treasure Dan Devine agreed. “It’s a great addition to the retail offerings on North Telegraph,” he said. “I think it shows that our township is unique, in that it continues to prosper during these tough times, as far as retail business. We seem to be a magnet for commerce, with the Costco, Target, and now the Best Buy. They are all high-quality stores with good service, so it’s really a draw for the township.” ■ 33
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■ municipal MDOT to install path along west side of Telegraph By Brooke Meier staff writer
Bloomfield Township has entered into a contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to install a safety path on the west side of Telegraph Road from Klingensmith Road to Humphrey Avenue, north of Square Lake Road. Like the last MDOT sidewalk installation, the pending project is part of a series of projects that have been put on the fast-track with the infusion of federal stimulus funding. In a memo to the township Board of Trustees, Wayne Domine, the township’s director of engineering and environmental services, said the project is one of several Telegraph Road projects that include a safety path element and will be completed over the next several years. The project is cited in the township’s Master Safety Path Plan. “Our plans are to complete the proposed path along Klingensmith Road this year,” he said. “MDOT has agreed to our request to complete the path from Klingensmith Road to Humphrey Avenue, as part of their
work in 2010, at no cost to the township.” According to Domine, having MDOT construct the 0.35 mile stretch of safety path along Telegraph Road will save the township at least $63,000. The contract with MDOT states the township will take ownership of the Telegraph Road path at the completion of construction. This MDOT contract was met with no opposition. “The path won’t abut any residential properties — it’s all commercial properties,” said Township Treasurer Dan Devine. As a result, there wasn’t the same level of concern about the project as there had been in August with a similar safety path project along Square Lake Road. “This will connect to our system and allow people in the township to walk to some of our retail areas,” Devine said. In addition, Telegraph Road will be repaved in that area, according to Devine. “The state is going to complete the (Telegraph repaving project) all the way to Orchard Lake Road,” said Township Supervisor David Payne. “It will be just like the Square Lake Road project without the fence problem — it’s all commercial property. This is all being done by the state and they are picking up the cost for us, which is fine by us.” ■
Contractors picked for township’s new gateway signs By Brooke Meier The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees has selected contractors to install and landscape around two of three new gateway signs. The board chose contractors for the projects after considering bids on Monday, Aug. 24. The installation of a sign on Woodward Avenue near Hadsell Road was awarded to J.W. Christmas, for $69,914. Sign construction work by Renaissance Design at $30,550 will bring the total cost of the first new sign to $100,464. J.W. Christmas was the lowest bidder on the sign installation work. Township Community Relations Director Leslie Helwig said the company has experience working with the township. “They were awarded the contract for the first gateway project,” Helwig said. The gateway sign to be erected at the Township Hall site will be installed by Landscape Gardens for $29,321. They were the lowest bidders for the job. Sign construction
by Renaissance Design will cost $31,500, bringing the total cost of the second sign to $60,821. A third sign is slated to be installed next year, to be placed on Telegraph Road at Orchard Lake Road. Installation will be delayed until 2010 because of ongoing road construction in the area, according to Helwig. No action was taken on that project at this this time. Each sign will be customdesigned to fit the size of the respective road medians. Extensive landscaping, including the planting of trees, will be done around the signs to make the medians and Township Hall site more attractive. Money had been set aside for the signs in the township’s 2009 budget. In addition, the township will receive a $10,450 reimbursement grant from the Woodward Avenue Action Association to help defray costs. Helwig said total 2009 and 2010 expenses for the three sign projects will be $228,698, including sign construction, installation, and consultation fees. “These will be custom-made signs,” she said. “They’re really very distinctive signs that we feel will represent Bloomfield Township well.” ■
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■education Bloomfield Hills district appealing Pine Lake decision By Katey Meisner The Bloomfield Hills School District is appealing an Oakland County Circuit Court judge’s ruling to place Bloomfield Hills students back in the Pine Lake Elementary School, and has been granted an emergency stay by the Michigan Court of Appeals. As a result of the stay, Waterford Kingsley Montgomery students will temporarily remain at Pine Lake Elementary School, which is being leased by the Waterford School District during the 2009-10 school year for $250,000. Kindergarten through third-grade students from the west side of the Bloomfield Hills district will attend Lone Pine Elementary starting Tuesday, Sept. 8. Students in the fourth- and fifthgrade will start the new school year at an upper elementary school in West Hills Middle School. “The hope is that the appeals court will overturn (the circuit court ruling) and allow the district to make the decision about its property,� said Betsy Erikson, communications and community relations director for the Bloomfield Hills School District.
The Pine Lake Elementary School property was originally donated to the school district in 1955 by Mae Callow, with the stipulation that the land be used only as a school for Bloomfield students. With a charitable trust in place for the property, Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren recently ruled that the leasing of the property to the Waterford School District and transfer of Bloomfield Hills students to another school was a breach of the charitable trust. While the school district argued that the property was originally sold by Callow to the district for $18,000, it was decided that the property was given to the district for $1, according to Terrence Hall, an attorney for the parents of Bloomfield Hills students who challenged the district’s plan to close Pine Lake Elementary School. The emergency stay and appeal are not in the best interest of Bloomfield Hills students, according to Hall. “I think it’s appalling that they’re appealing a charitable trust and they’re going to spend taxpayers’ money (on an appeal),â€? said Donna Halstead, the mother of Bloomfield Hills students. Hall said he expects the Court of Appeals decision to be expedited and for a ruling to be released by the end of the 2009-10 academic year. â–
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pete bowers
rom spinning records to downloading music onto his hard drive, Pete Bowers has come a long way since signing on as station manager of the Bloomfield Hills School District's award-winning radio station. The Bloomfield Hills native has been with WBFH-FM (88.1) — known as The Biff — since its inception on Oct. 1, 1976, and continues to run the radio station 33 years later. "Back in the early days, we had recording tape. We literally had to cut the tape and splice it together," said Bowers (shown in the foreground with Ron Wittebols, remote supervisor/program director in the center; and Randy Carr, assistant manager/chief engineer). "It's very rewarding to see what my students are capable of doing today with technology. They never cease to amaze me." The Biff boasts 24/7 broadcasting and a format that Bowers calls "The best of the old; the best of the new." When the station isn't broadcasting live, a computer system allows it to continue broadcasting. "We also stream on the Internet," he said. "Anyone with a computer around the world can listen to us."
Many of Bowers' students have gone on to a career in broadcasting. Former students JoAnne Purtan and Heather Catallo, reporters for WXYZChannel 7, are just a couple of former "biffers" who have cultivated broadcasting careers. "It's pretty cool to wake up in the morning and hear former students on the news," Bowers said. "It's very rewarding." Bowers' deep roots in the community include attending Bloomfield Hills schools from kindergarten through high school, and being a resident for 52 of his 56 years. He now teaches electronic media and radio broadcasting at Andover and Lahser high schools, and also hosts the community show "Bagley's Corner" on The Biff while still serving as station manager. With two sons in college and a love of broadcasting, he said he isn't likely to retire anytime soon. "It's a crazy, kooky world of broadcasting," Bowers said. "And, it's never boring. That's for sure." — Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard
To Our Customers and Neighbors, The dramatic changes taking place in the real estate industry and economy these days are historic in scope and proportion. And as you may know SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty is one of the most respected and successful brokerages in the metro-Detroit area. You may be asking yourself, “What does this mean for me as a SKBK Sotheby’s customer?” The answer simply is – it is business as usual. That’s because perhaps never before in our company’s 80-year history has SKBK Sotheby’s enjoyed a greater reputation for strength, security, financial discipline, and doing what’s right for the customer than it does today.
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The community trusts us with its business and continues to give us even more of it – last year we had nearly a 10% increase in sales volume – that beat the market averages by nearly 40%. We’re attracting more customers and earning more business from our current customers like you because many of our customers rave about us to their families, friends and business associates. We’re known and admired for our conservative, diligent approach and timetested business model, and it succeeds because you trust us to do what’s right for you, the customer. Currently SKBK Sotheby’s offers worldwide exposure to all of our listings and with more buyers searching online that presence is no longer a luxury but a requirement to help market our client’s homes effectively – no other boutique brokerage has recognition outside their immediate market. Our results speak for themselves with nearly a 30% overall market share in the BirminghamBloomfield market and well over 40% when focusing on homes over $1.5 million. We still focus, as always, on what got us here – building lifelong relationships with our customers and communities. Our team works hard to know you, understand your complete real estate picture, listen to you, provide you value and reward you for doing even more business with us. We put you at the center of everything we do. And we work together to decide locally how we can help support the communities in which you – and we – live and work. Thank you for entrusting us with your past and future business. With respect,
248.644.7000 Douglas H. Hardy, MD Chairman
M ore Birmingham and Bloomfield homeowners choose Snyder, Kinney,
Bennett and Keating to market their properties than any other Brokerage.
248.644.7000 SKBK.com 248.644.7000 skbk.com 2
THE PAPER
OCTOBER 2009
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THE PAPER
OCTOBER 2009
Bloomfield Hills $1,995,000 Fabulous New Construction in gated Bloomfield Hills Hunt Club. Designed by Alex Bogaerts, Built by Deneweth. First floor Master Wing features his and her closets, dressing room, bath suites and private access to library. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room. All bedrooms are suites with walk in closets. 29091598 Presented by Ronni Keating
Bloomfield $699,000
Birmingham $649,900
One of the most desirable streets in sought after Bloomfield Village! Lovely, large private backyard. Updated family home. Master suite features fireplace, newer bath, washer and dryer. Large room over garage used as office or bedroom suite. 29065642 Presented by Ronni Keating
Spectacular new build in Downtown Birmingham! Exceptional quality with custom carpentry, gourmet kitchen, fabulous master suite with tray ceiling, second floor laundry, 10’ ceilings in basement, professional landscape with sprinklers. No expense has been spared! Built by PBC Homes. 29096296 Presented by Erin Keating Dewald
Ronni Keating & Erin Keating Dewald
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Bloomfield $2,495,000 Extraordinary Village home. Meticulously built with modern details and features. Home boasts 6 bedroom suites, 7.2 baths and 9300+ sqft of finished living space. Gourmet kitchen. Finished lower level with 2nd kitchen, rec room and private entrance. 3+ car garage. Pebble-tec pool, extensive landscaping and hardscape. 29001502 Presented by Sara Lipnitz
Franklin Village $1,695,000
Birmingham $1,195,000
Once in a life time opportunity to secure one of Franklin’s greatest homes. Mt Tom sits high atop a 4+ acre hilltop property. Meticulously updated mechanically and cosmetically. Grounds are breathtaking. 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, 4,581 sqft. 28164472 Presented by Sara Lipnitz
Situated in the highly desired Quarton Lake Estates neighborhood, this treasure offers 4 ample bedrooms, 3.1 baths with classic curb appeal and a well thought out floor plan. 3 car attached garage and generous large yard. Thick millwork, beautiful hardwoods, premium appliances, gorgeous stone and granite, it has it all! 29056914 Presented by Sara Lipnitz
Sara Lipnitz
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000
Lake Charlevoix Frontage $11,995,000 Lake Charlevoix Estate nestled on more than 3,000 feet of sandy lake frontage and 70 acres. The hand scribed log home, guest house and stables are all tastefully appointed and completed to the highest standards available. The property includes a barn, boathouse, covered bridge, ponds, stream and pasture land; a true serene paradise! 29084317 Presented by Mike Cotter
Birmingham $2,390,000
Lake Michigan Frontage $2,975,000
Grand new construction with over 5,200 sqft and 1,400 additional sqft in finished lower level. 4 bedrooms, 4.1 baths. Domed ceiling in foyer, fabulous staircase. Wood paneled library and family room. Master suite with walkout deck and his/her closets. A true must see! 29117427 Presented by Mike Cotter
Magnificent 7 bedroom, 5.1 bath beach house is exquisitely maintained. Located on 1/4 acre wooded site on Sleeping Bear Bay beach. Within walking distance of the pool, tennis courts, golf and ski slopes. Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor. Yours to enjoy year round! 29083790 Presented by Mike Cotter
Mike Cotter
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Bloomfield Hills $6,500,000 Grand masterpiece situated on 4 acres with an awe inspiring design reminiscent of both a palace and retreat. Dramatic entry with cascading staircase and palatial ceilings adorned with the finest details set the tone for the impressive yet inviting ballroom size spaces. 7 bedrooms, 8.3 bathrooms, 12 fireplaces. Walkout lower level with kitchen and spa. The ultimate in luxury. 29054151 Presented by Renee Acho
Birmingham $3,150,000 Absolutely exquisite New England style home! Features stately foyer with dramatic center staircase, chef ’s kitchen with white cabinetry, windowed breakfast room and family room with fireplace. Lower level complete with theater room, bar and bedroom. Private backyard with multiple patios. 29100582 Presented by Renee Acho
Renee Acho
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000
Pine Lake Frontage $2,395,000 Welcome to the “Ginger Bread Cottage” with 175 feet of frontage on private Pine Lake. Landmark home designed by William Kuni (Ford Mansion). Loads of charm and updates including brand new kitchen currently under construction. Nine fireplaces. Five car garage. 29062772 Presented by Bill Tracy
Grand Blanc $2,499,000
Independence Township $1,200,000
Live in the beautiful country in this exquisite French Chateau. Only the finest materials from around the world were used to build this magnificent home. Only a twenty-five minute commute to Auburn Hills. 29067813 Presented by Bill Tracy
Spectacular four year old custom built home on 10.7 wooded acres. Tall ceilings, granite, travertine tile and wide plank wood floors. Luxurious master suite. 29046531 Presented by Bill Tracy
Bill Tracy
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Grosse Ile $6,900,000 Imagine walking to the magnificence of a five-acre waterfront estate, complete with richly appointed executive residence and an exquisite corporate retreat. Glorious grounds of the gated estate unfold to reveal the Detroit Riverfront. 29122472 Presented by Kathy Lyons
Spectacular Indoor Olympic Size Pool
Elegant Conference Room
Enjoy the glass enclosed pool lined with historic Pewabic and silver tile or relax in the hot tub.
An architectural showpiece of handcrafted glass, marble, granite and mahogany has hosted United States Presidents.
Kathy Lyons
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com Equal Housing Opportunity
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000
Bloomfield Hills $1,499,000 A slice of heaven in the City of Bloomfield Hills on 1.45 acres. Updated walk-out Ranch with cedar shake roof and open floor plan. 5 bedrooms, 3.2 bathrooms, 3,800+ sqft. Finished lower level boasts an additional 2,687 sqft. Hardwood floors throughout first floor. Magnificent landscape includes ornamental pond and pathways. 29067874 Presented by Maureen Francis & Dmitry Koublitsky
Stunning Kitchen
Inviting Great Room
Kitchen features white cabinetry and black granite counters. Charming sky-lit breakfast room with cathedral ceiling and fireplace. Exceptional.
Great room with magnificent views from three walls of windows. Vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting and neutral dĂŠcor. Amazing Views.
Maureen Francis & Dmitry Koublitsky
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Bloomfield $1,995,000 Featured in Detroit Home Autumn 2009 Issue! Gorgeous kitchen, breakfast room w/fireplace and sitting area. Spacious master suite with fireplace, spa like bath and custom dressing room. 5 bedroom suites, finished basement with high end kitchen, billiards and exercise room. The lush landscaped lot features swimming pool and multiple patios. 29067292 Presented by Renee Acho
Rochester Hills 1,750,000
Walnut Lake Frontage $975,000
Spectacular estate in gated community! Professionally decorated and landscaped with fountain. Large gourmet kitchen with hearth room. 1st floor master suite, 3 bedroom suites up with separate family room and exercise room. Marble, granite, soaring ceilings, music room, 4 car heated garage. 29061852 Presented by Donna Barlow
Gorgeous sunsets of Walnut Lake. This 5,500 sqft “Castle” on all-sports Walnut Lake with Birmingham schools. 101 ft of lakefront and 103 ft of canal front. Gourmet kitchen, great room with wall of windows, first floor master suite, 2nd floor in-law suite, loft, solarium, 3rd floor rec room and more! 29107052 Presented by Karen Atchoo
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Cass Lake Frontage $1,675,000
Lotus Lake / Maceday Lake $1,875,000
Extraordinary lakefront with detailing reminiscent of a European Villa. Enjoy beautiful views of Cass Lake. Premium finishes throughout, rosewood, limestone and marble. Walkout lower level with temperature controlled wine cellar. Perfect blend of style and quality captures the essence of lakeside living. 27143420 Presented by Darlene Jackson
Hidden jewel in Oakland County! Imagine a custom built Contemporary nestled on a 1.5 acre secluded private island, hardwoods, pines and decking to view all sports lake! Endless windows, stone interior walls, three levels. 28166792 Presented by Donna Barlow
Grosse Ile $3,900,000
Metamora $879,000
Magnificent waterfront Estate on over three acres. 5 bedrooms, 9.1 baths, 11,000+ square feet. Tennis court with tennis house, vanishing edge pool/spa, covered boat well with hoist for 57 foot yacht. Fabulous view of water, also treed beauty in front. 28174329 Presented by Joanne McGuire
Historic country house remodeled with the finest materials. 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, state of the art kitchen with granite. Exceptional home on 20 beautiful landscaped acres. Historic barn, pole barn, 4 car detached garage, heated workshop, toy barn and 4 board fenced pastures. 29117304 Presented by Dave Busch
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
Bloomfield Hills
Birmingham
Bloomfield
Gorgeous custom built by Gardella Homes. Gourmet kitchen opens to family room, top of the line appliances. First floor master. 29113696 $2,900,000. Kathy Lyons
Stunning home featuring unparalleled custom trim, coffered ceilings, gourmet kitchen, paneled library & 5 fireplaces. Generous closets. Fully finished lower level. 29026740 $2,300,000. Renee Acho
Amazing custom features and highest end amenities. Beautiful stunning staircase and elegant Foyer. First floor Master Suite. 29080178 $1,149,000. Lisa Sturdevant
Bloomfield Hills
Bloomfield
Bloomfield Hills
Family Tudor with every amenity. Huge master bedroom, family room opens to kitchen with fireplace. Fully finished lower level including full kitchen. Wine Cellar. 28161316 $1,999,000. Mike Cotter
Beautiful mahogany circular staircase, first and second level master suites, tiered theater room, mahogany library, central vacuum, sound & alarm system. 29117936 $1,999,000. Lisa Sturdevant
Totally remodeled Colonial with high-end amenities is situated on private hilltop cul-de-sac. Large room sizes, first floor master suite or guest quarters with second floor master suite and huge master closet and bath. 29048046 $1,495,000. Ronni Keating
Birmingham
Bloomfield
Birmingham
Absolutely the best in downtown Birmingham. You will find unmatched custom craftsmanship and detail in this Victor Saroki design. Three floors of sophisticated living space with 3 bedrooms and 3.1 baths. 29096779 $1,399,000. Jenny Turner
New construction. Arts and Crafts architectural masterpiece. First floor master suite with two large walk in closets. MJT Development. 28062804 $1,995,000. Ronni Keating
Almost brand new construction. Beautifully constructed of the finest materials and features. Exquisite kitchen, premier baths. Gorgeous first floor master. 29107403 $1,790,000. Mike Cotter
Birmingham
Bloomfield
Bloomfield
Large living, dining room, stunning custom kitchen, bluestone patio, and elevator. Master suite with custom dressing room and marble bath with jetted tub. Finished LL. 29074015 $1,795,000. Renee Acho
Spectacular setting on prestigious Island Lake with direct view of Kirk In The Hills Church. Gorgeous sunsets. Elevated terrain with sandy lakefront. 29046044 $1,600,000. Ronni Keating
Captivating interior renovation! Reconfigured floor plan is absolutely perfect. Kitchen w/fireplace features Bosch, Subzero, Miele & Thermador stainless steel appliances. 29016329 $1,495,000. Darlene Jackson
SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty skbk.com
Birmingham, Michigan
248.644.7000 Equal Housing Opportunity
THE CYBER CRIME RACE COUNTY AND STATE FORENSIC UNITS BACKED UP SIX MONTHS TO ONE YEAR By Leslie Shepard-Owsley
W
hile the proliferation of technology has paved the way for criminals to use digital media as a clandestine means to execute their crimes, law enforcement is keeping pace by using the services of forensic computer crime units. Both the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department and the Michigan State Police employ computer forensic specialists capable of decrypting and uncovering sensitive information buried in computers without altering the original evidence. The units have gained ground in recent years, earning recognition and status for their exemplary conviction rates. They are routinely sought out by agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Secret Service for assistance or training. Cyber crimes are currently among the fastest growing crimes in the nation, and computer crimes units are flooded with cases, resulting in significant backlogs. The sheriff’s department computer crime unit currently has a six-month backlog of computer forensic exams, with 20 more waiting in the wings. The department’s computer crime unit, formed in 1999, currently employs two computer forensic specialists and one Internet investigator. During 2006, the unit conducted 68 computer forensic examinations that included 305 pieces of evidence. In 2008, the unit investigated 66 cases. So far in 2009, the unit has completed 25 computer forensic exams. The unit expects to exceed last year’s numbers by a significant margin. Four investigations are conducted simultaneously. Exams vary in length and intensity due to the type of case, the amount of media brought in, and what type of information is being examined; but it generally takes two to three weeks to complete one computer forensic exam because computer hard drives have dramatically increased in size over the years According to Detective Carol Liposky, CFCE of the sheriff’s department computer crimes unit, standard protocol begins with investigators handing over computer media to the department with instructions on what he/she may be looking for. A specialist then makes a forensic copy of the computer hard drive in a sterile environment. “We never work on the original,” she said. “Rather, we take out the hard drive, make a copy and replace the hard drive for evidence. We work solely off the copy. It takes time to make a forensic copy and then conduct the analysis. We conduct file signature searches during the exam. A picture, for example, could take less than a day, but it takes longer for documents.” The case officer may require an examination of various computer media, including instant messaging, pictures, video, spreadsheets, or financial records. Cell phones are also commonly examined. In other cases, investigators may ask the unit to specifically search for e-mails, child pornography, or evidence of online chats between the suspects and/or victims. No crime is immune from the computer forensic specialists’ expertise, but child pornography cases are the most prevalent, according to Detective Sgt. Joe Brian, the county computer crimes unit Internet investigator. “My job is to investigate child predators and assist other agencies in executing search warrants or taking over cases when the Internet is involved,” he said. “We do a lot of child pornogra-
www.oaklandpaper.com
phy (investigations) but the team also investigates a wide range of crimes, including identity fraud, homicide, financial theft, eavesdropping, auto theft, and narcotics cases. We take more cases now than ever. People are using computers more and more; therefore, cops are bringing us more to investigate.” Computer forensic specialists are savvy enough to recover a computer’s deleted files, but that is interdependent on how the information is used, the type of operating and file systems the computer uses, and the size of the computer’s hard drive. “There are a lot of ‘ifs’ when it comes to deleted files,” Liposky said. “We recover items through forensic software, but sometimes we can’t. It just depends on the situation.” The unit also uploads decrypting software to break user passwords. At times, stronger measures are needed, such as interviewing a suspect or gaining insight into background information to crack codes. “Every once in a while a perpetrator makes an excellent attempt at thwarting the investigation,
Computer investigations include child pornography, identity fraud, homicide, financial theft, eavesdropping, auto theft and narcotics cases.
or may pitch the hard drive and install another,” Liposky said. “If the hard drive is gone, there is nowhere to get the evidence. And then once in a while we’ll run into an (information technology) guru or a programmer, but if the information is on their computer, we’ll find it.” When a computer forensic exam is completed, the specialist prepares a CD or DVD for the investigator in charge with a narrative of what was uncovered. The investigator and the computer forensic specialist then discuss the case and whether the recovered evidence can be used. Computer forensic specialists must undergo stringent training prior to certification. Typically, they attend a highly intensive two-week conference through an agency such as the Internal Association of Computer Investigative Specialists, where they learn the methodology behind the job. They learn various computer operating systems, how to recover deleted objects, and how to extract artifacts such as temporary Internet and link files. At the next level, a rookie is assigned a coach that takes the trainee through a series of six hypothetical scenarios that must be passed THE PAPER
before taking a 125-question final exam for certification. The process takes about two years. Every three years specialists must be retested to stay current with rapidly changing technology. “The only thing constant about technology is that it’s always changing,” Brian said. Hard facts and pictures speak volumes; therefore, computer forensic exams often have the ability to get a solid conviction. “A lot of the time, these exams are the only reason we can get a conviction,” Brian said. “Though we can’t quantify the numbers, we are realizing many more pleas if one of our specialists is involved, and that means less cases go to court. Let’s face it: If a father is abusing his child, but continually denies it, and then we lift the pictures off his computer, he’s not going to go to trial, he’s going to cop a plea.” Since Internet use is international, all law enforcement agencies get involved and collaborate to solve computer-based crimes. “Everybody’s fingers are on computer crimes, including local, state, and federal agencies,” Brian said. “If the case doesn’t meet a certain threshold, another agency might jump in to assist. For example, if the FBI begins a case, but might not pursue it because it doesn’t end up fitting their criteria, they may bounce it back to us. Depending on what we find we could hand it back to the feds or keep it for state charges, or we could split the charges. In a rape and child porn case, there is no federal rape statute, so we would prosecute the rape and let the feds handle the child porn if it crosses state lines. We have a great working relationship with the feds.” In 2003, the county’s computer forensic crime unit was responsible for the arrest of 21 perpetrators who molested 64 victims. Clarkston resident Guy Lendrum allegedly chatted online with an informant about wanting to trade his son for sex. Lendrum was taken into custody and his computer was examined, leading law enforcement to the apprehension of 23 more child molesters through an international investigation. The trail continued, leading agencies to the arrest of a man in charge of the child porn site called Star Kids. By the time the investigation ended, law enforcement had incarcerated a Saginaw resident who was sexually molesting his own twin sons and had compiled a 300-person buddy list of trading partners, including an Illinois foster caretaker. “That investigation has grown even more by now,” said Liposky, who has the details of the investigation plotted out on a chart above her cubicle to remind her of how many seedy perpetrators she’s helped put away. One example occurred in western Oakland County earlier this year, when former Walled Lake Schools Assistant Superintendent for Labor Relations Craig Aleo was charged with possessing and producing child pornography. On March 26, Aleo and his wife were stopped at the border between Canada and New York for a secondary inspection by U.S. Customs agents who reportedly found a laptop computer, memory cards, and two thumb drives containing 13 apparent child exploitation images and one movie file. The graphic images and video all allegedly contained pre-pubescent females performing sexual acts. Following his arrest, a warrant was obtained to search Aleo’s home. The search reportedly uncovered two computers, multiple optical disks, 55
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and other forms of stored electronic media, including two cameras, allegedly containing more than 100 images of child pornography. The CDs and DVDs recovered also allegedly contained child pornography videos. Like the county unit, the Michigan State Police Computer Crime Unit provides computer-related investigative expertise and hand-in-hand assistance to law enforcement agencies across the state. The department has two computer crime units covering the east and west regions of the state. Ten computer forensic specialists are dispersed between five satellite offices located in Livonia, Lansing, Midland, Grayling, and Grand Rapids. Unlike the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department, the State Police employ three civilians as specialist and the rest are state troopers. According to Michigan State Police Computer Forensics Specialist Charlene Gilbert-Warner, computer crimes continue to climb in number, and the need to stay abreast of technology is paramount to staying a step ahead of perpetrators. “There are underground groups of very savvy perpetrators whose goal is to obstruct us and to protect illegal endeavors or sell to those criminals,” Gilbert-Warner said. In 2008, the state computer forensic unit conducted 850 exams. This year the unit has already conducted 580 exams, and expects to complete 1,200 by the end of the year, according to Gilbert-Warner. The unit currently has a one-year backlog of cases. “We are talking about terabytes of information that can take a couple months to examine,” Gilbert-Warner said. “If the information is burned or deleted, it could take even longer. Cyber crimes are growing. I’ve been here 10 years and see that as technology expands and society ingrains itself further, these types of crimes will continue. So much communication is transacted through digital devices.” The state computer crime unit personnel operate strictly according to the search warrants executed. “If it’s a child porn case, for example, unless we think they are selling pictures or videos, we don’t have the right to investigate financial records,” Gilbert-Warner said. “Everything must be justified in accordance to the type of case and what the search warrant covers.” Like the county unit, the state unit utilizes training, but will take on FBI and Secret Service agents to work on a computer forensic task force so each law enforcement agency is uniformly trained. “We bring others on board so we learn to do things the same way, so each person can pick up a report and see what each has done and be able to interpret it,” Gilbert-Warner said. “We learn from each other and have multi-jurisdictional cases that we need to collaborate on. The FBI comes in if we have to take an investigation to a national level. The Secret Service can conduct investigations into crimes related to child porn, trafficking, homicides, and terrorism. We are one of the few agencies nationally that is setting the standard and doing as many forensic exams as we do.” The state unit attributes its high success rate to networking with other people and/or agencies. “By working along with other law enforcement agencies, we have gained notoriety in our field,” Gilbert-Warner said. “It’s rare that we encounter www.oaklandpaper.com
a case that we can’t crack. In only two cases, the persons used encryptions and we were unable to retrieve the passwords.” The state unit routinely receives grant money used to train officers in cyber crimes. According to Gilbert-Warner, the cost of multiple types of software, high-end computers, and training up to the point of certification can add up to $30,000 — and that’s just the beginning. “Trainees undergo basic, intermediate, and advanced training,” she said. “That’s why it takes so long, but we want to make sure they’re ready. “We’ve sent the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department deputies to training with grant money,” she said. “All agencies in Michigan remotely involved in computer crime investigations network together.” Both the state and county computer crime units educate communities about Internet safety. “We do stewardship for communities through Internet Crimes Against Children, for example,” Gilbert-Warner said. “Our outreach goes far because the Internet can go anywhere.” The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department has
Like the county unit, the state unit utilizes training, but will take on FBI and Secret Service agents to work on a computer forensic task force so everyone is uniformly trained. hosted 32 Internet safety presentations this year alone, mostly with school and parent-teacher association groups. The following is a look at how the Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, and Bloomfield Hills police deal with computer-savvy criminals.
BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP Bloomfield Township police rely on the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department computer crimes unit when a computer is seized as part of a criminal investigation. “They assist us in our investigations,” said Captain Scott McCanham. “The number of times we use them in a year varies, but we have had to use them from time to time for various types of cases. Usually, we will seize the computer and hold it until it can be examined by the experts.” McCanham said officers in Bloomfield Township can do some basic investigations on computers, but they aren’t trained as experts. “We don’t have enough of those cases for our people to be trained,” he said. “It’s one of those skills where you use it or you lose it. We are very confident in the county and have had a great THE PAPER
working relationship with them. They assist us at the drop of a hat.” As computer crimes continue to rise, McCanham said it’s possible an officer within the department will be trained as a computer forensic exam expert. “I would never say never,” he said. “It’s certainly a possibility.”
BIRMINGHAM The Birmingham Police Department has an officer trained in and dedicated to rooting out problems involving computer crimes. “We have an officer, Chris Busen, who has gone to a lot of training in computer forensic exams,” said Detective Ron Halcrow of the Birmingham Police Department. Halcrow is also the school resource officer for Seaholm High School and Derby and Berkshire middle schools. The department’s primary areas of computer investigation are Internet porn, Internet soliciting of a minor, ID theft, harassment, and fraud. The department examines hard drives to view information encrypted on the computer. “Anyone going into law enforcement today needs these skills,” Halcrow said, adding that having a specially-trained officer in the department is a relatively new development. In the past, Birmingham police would seek out the expertise and investigative power of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department or the Michigan State Police. For extremely complicated cases, those agencies are still available to help Birmingham police. “For a small department, we have the capability to investigate computer crimes, should the need arise,” Halcrow said. Over the last five years, Birmingham police have dealt with only a handful of computer crime cases, according to Halcrow. One area in which Busen has spent some time, on a small scale, is called “perverted justice.” “It is where he has gone online in chat rooms, pretending to be a minor, and has been solicited as a minor,” Halcrow said. “It has led to some investigations and arrests.”
BLOOMFIELD HILLS The Bloomfield Hills Police Department leave computer forensic exams to the experts in the Michigan State Police or the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department. According to Police Chief Richard Mattot, there is rarely a need for a computer forensic exam in such a small city as Bloomfield Hills, and it has been a long time since he can remember the last time the department required either agency to conduct an exam. He said he doesn’t anticipate training anyone in his department to conduct computer forensic exams in the near future. “In the current economic conditions, we would continue to go to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department or the State Police,” he said. “They have people trained to do this. For the few occasions we have the need for it, we couldn’t afford to do it and keep it up. It’s training-intensive, and you have to maintain those skills. It’s not costeffective for a small community like Bloomfield Hills.” ■ Lisa Brody and Brooke Meier contributed to this report. 57
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Commercial and Residential
248.593.5592 OCTOBER 2009
■ county Toxicology report backlog prompts concerns, study
2010 road commission budget plan Officials unveil ‘somber’ spending plan for the next fiscal year
By Lisa Brody Complaints regarding the length of time toxicology reports are taking to come out of the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office are prompting concerns and investigations by Oakland County officials. “I received a complaint where a report took six months to get done,” said Oakland County Commissioner Steve Schwartz (D-Farmington Hills). “I don’t know what the industry standard is, but I know that is too long.” Toxicology reports are required during autopsies when it’s believed that prescribed medication or illicit drugs have been ingested. A medical examiner’s report, culminating in a cause of death and a final death report, can’t be issued until a complete toxicology report is finished. “There is a burden on our toxicology department because prescribed medication or illicit drugs are more abused than ever before,” said Dr. Ljubisa Dragovic, Oakland County’s medical examiner. “We have to come up with a very accurate determination of the death, and then accurate levels for the time of the death.” Compounding the problem is that Oakland County has sustained substantial budget cuts in the last year, and a cooperative agreement with Genesee County to work together, sharing staff and revenue, fell apart after Genesee officials decided to do their own autopsy and toxicology work. “In an attempt to minimize costs, we changed our lab, and attempted to do the majority of lab work inhouse,” Dragovic said. “It’s a tedious process, and we only have one forensic toxicologist for a county of 1.3 million people.” Dr. Gary Kunsman, Oakland County’s forensic toxicologist, didn’t return calls for comment prior to press time. Dragovic said that in the past, his office would send out toxicology samples to the National Reference Center in Willow Grove, Pa., a commercial toxicology center which many counties around the country use. The center employs between 40 and 70 toxicologists. “The (center’s) costs have increased, and have been too high for us to use presently,” Dragovic said. In addition to Kunsman, there are two other toxicologists and five forensic pathologists who examine bodies, perform autopsies, and determine time and cause of death if they can without the forensic toxicology exam results. www.oaklandpaper.com
By Leslie Shepard-Owsley
T
he Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) Board of Road Commissioners unveiled a somber 2010 budget proposal at a public hearing held Thursday, Aug. 27 in the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Auditorium. The budget proposal doesn’t include funding for road improvement projects in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, or Bloomfield Hills, although $2.3 million in safety intersection improvement funds have yet to be designated to specific projects. “There is just no way to honestly discuss our budget situation in positive terms,” said RCOC Managing Director Brent Bair. The proposed budget teeters over $105 million and includes plans for approximately $31.1 million in road improvement projects and work toward future road improvement projects. The budget represents an increase of $6.9 million over the $98.2 million 2009 budget adopted last September. The 2010 budget proposal is greater than the 2009 budget primarily because of the $13 million the RCOC received in federal “stimulus” funding for 13 resurfacing projects and one gravel road paving project. According to Bair, the federal dollars won’t mitigate the looming costs ahead. “The RCOC was fortunate enough to receive just over $13 million in stimulus funds primarily for resurfacing projects in 2009 and 2010,” he said. “Obviously, the $13 million we did receive barely scratched the surface of the needs on our roads. In fact, as part of our biennial Strategic Planning process in which we meet with the leaders of virtually every community in the county, we identified more than $2 billion worth of road improvements that are either needed today or will be needed over the next 10 years.” While the project-specific federal funds allocated to the RCOC are expected to increase in 2010, the RCOC anticipates less state revenue than in any budget cycle since fiscal year 2000. Federal funding is tie-barred to specific road construction projects and can’t be used for routine maintenance operations. The state revenue that is the main funding source for the RCOC’s operating budget consists primarily of the agency’s share of state-collected fuel tax and vehicle registration fee revenues, which is expected to decline in 2010. This will be the fourth straight year of declining operating revenues for the RCOC, following 10 years in which revenues were essentially flat. State-collected gas and diesel tax and registration fee revenues continue to decline due to the production of more fuel-efficient automobiles, which results in motorists paying less fuel taxes per mile driven. In addition, Michigan’s high unemployment rate means Dragovic acknowledges there are problems with the current system, but said his office is only seven months into it. “Things are beginning to shape up, but there are delays, and we can’t pull a rabbit out of a hat,” he said. “It will take six to nine months for our lab to get caught up.”
fewer people are driving, which is driving down fuel tax revenues even more. Bair said the road commission is forced to cut back on services, which more than likely will impact motorist safety. “All these factors add up to only one conclusion: We have no choice but to continue to reduce the level of service we provide for the residents and motorists of Oakland County,” he said. “That’s a real tragedy, not only because of the inconvenience that motorists will experience due to more frequent potholes. The real tragedy is the potential impact these changes are likely to have on our ability to ensure motorist safety.” Bair said fewer full-time snow plow/salt truck drivers will be on the roads this winter, and it will take the agency longer to patch potholes and resurface roadways. In addition, the RCOC has no plans to hire staff and is currently operating with 72 fewer employees than it had in 2007. “That’s a reduction of nearly 13 percent in our staff, with all the reduction through attrition,” Bair said. According to RCOC Board Chairman Richard G. Skarritt, the budget proposal represents the agency’s efforts to redline items wherever possible with the least amount of impact on service. “We are no longer filling any positions that are vacated unless it’s absolutely critical,” he said. “As a result, we are calling on our employees to continually try to find ways to do more with less, or at least to maintain the same level of service with fewer resources and less staff.” The RCOC operating revenues for 2009-10 are pegged at $105 million, with the bulk coming from state fuel tax and vehicle registration fees ($57.75 million); traditional federal funding for road improvement projects ($11.15 million); and state highway maintenance contracts ($11 million). Expenditures are proposed at $105 million and include operating expenses of $71.2 million; traffic signal projects at $2.6 million; and a road improvement program of $31.1 million that includes only projects that will be constructed in 2010, not those where design or right of way work is planned. The RCOC would spend $11.4 million on safety widenings; $2.3 million on intersection improvements; $1.8 million on paving gravel roadways; and $3.85 million on bridge replacements. Of the federal stimulus funding, $9.6 million will be appropriated to repairing, rehabilitating, and resurfacing roads; and $1.2 million will go toward rural overlays. The RCOC fiscal year runs from Oct. 1 through Sept. 30. Final approval of the 2010 budget was pending at press time. ■
He said it takes one hour to get carbon monoxide test results; a couple hours for alcohol test results; “quite a long time” for heroin and opiate results; and six to eight months for abused prescription drug test results. Schwartz and Oakland County Commissioner Jeff Potter (R-South Lyon) are looking to resurrect the
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autopsy contract with Genesee County. “The contract allowed us to have wider staffing for less costs,” Potter said. Oakland County Deputy Executive Robert Daddow is also taking a look at the toxicology report backlog. “We’ve got a plan, and ... we’ll share that at a Finance Committee meeting,” he said. ■ 59
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OCTOBER 2009
■ county Oakland designated a recovery zone following squabble
Employee wage reductions 2.5 percent rollback expected to be implemented for 2010
By Lisa Brody Oakland County commissioners have declared all of Oakland County a recovery zone in order to qualify for federal funding and reimbursement on economic development bond interest payments, but not before some partisan wrangling. The Board of Commissioners voted Wednesday, Aug. 19 to designate the entire county as a so-called “recovery zone” under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. About $104 million in bonds could be used to finance infrastructure projects, and another $156 million could be used for fixed asset projects in the private sector, according to Dan Hunter, Oakland County’s planning and economic development manager. At the county board’s Aug. 19 meeting, Republican and Democratic commissioners squared off over how each caucus wanted federal funds spent. The Republicans believe all of Oakland County qualifies as a recovery zone; the Democrats wanted to give funding preference to projects in communities in the bottom end (below 50 percent) of various statistical categories such as property values, foreclosure rates, bankruptcy rates, high unemployment, and poverty. “It’s a laudable idea, but not a workable one,” said Commissioner Jeff Potter (R-South Lyon). “We all work in each other’s communities. (Limiting the) location of the facilities (receiving federal funding) is arbitrary. Also, the timeline we are dealing with is very short, from 15 to 18 months.” “The stimulus money was designated by the federal government to develop or redevelop distressed communities, those with greater than normal foreclosures, unemployment, and poverty, and we have many of those in Oakland County,” said Commissioner Marcia Gershenson (D-Bloomfield Township). “Our intention was never to turn anyone away, we just wanted to follow the stimulus designation and advocate for those communities that needed it more than others.” “It’s a lose-lose proposition if we limit (funding to projects in) specific communities,” said Commissioner Shelley G. Taub (R-Bloomfield Township). “Perhaps there isn’t a factory eligible in Hazel Park, Ferndale, or another community with higher unemployment, and then Novi or Wixom is out, and that person or business would leave the community, county or state.” Another aspect of the resolution is qualifying for federal government reimbursement of 45 percent of each www.oaklandpaper.com
By Lisa Brody
O
akland County employees would have to shoulder a 2.5 percent pay cut during fiscal year 2010, beginning Oct. 1, 2009, under a county budget proposal now under consideration. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners’ Finance Committee voted last week to endorse the wage cut for the new fiscal year, and another 2.5 percent cut in the following fiscal year. The overall budget proposal is expected to come before the full Board of Commissioners for a vote on Thursday, Sept. 24. “It’s very painful,” said Commissioner Shelley Taub (R-Bloomfield Township). “We’re in tough times. But in order to keep everyone working, we’ve got to do this.” “We have been cutting $5 million to $20 million every year since 2003 to keep services on an even level,” said Oakland County Deputy Executive Bob Daddow. “Despite comments to the contrary, this wasn’t the first thing we have done. I can assure you this was the last thing we have cut.” By April 2009, budget cuts had been recommended in various county departments. Then in May, according to Daddow, both the state and the county’s financial position worsened unexpectedly with the release of a final 2009 equalization report on county property tax collections, which are now expected to be much less than expected. On June 1, Daddow had to scramble to submit a balanced budget by June 30. Having cut so much in recent months and in past years, the choice was either to lay off employees, or institute a pay cut. As of Oct. 1, there will be 4,320 full- and part-time Oakland County employees. “Fifty-eight percent of the (county tax) revenue going to the state comes back to the county,” Daddow said, adding that with less going to the state, less comes back to the county. “We’re between a rock and a hard place,” he said. Furthermore, in May, several corporations in Oakland County filed for bankruptcy — from Chrysler interest payment on any recovery zone economic development bonds. “Not every municipality will have the money to pay the bonds back,” Taub said. In the end, the Republicans prevailed, passing the resolution with no stipulations on the use of the recovery fund dollars. ■
The Fridge needs replacement; won’t be open this winter By Lisa Brody The Fridge, an above-ground refrigerated toboggan run inside the Waterford Oaks county park in Waterford Township, won’t be in operation this winter. Operated for the last 15 years by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Department, The Fridge was the first refrigerated toboggan
Corporation and General Motors to Visteon and Lear. “That will affect us for years,” Daddow said. The across-the-board wage cuts for every full- and part-time county employee will generate $5.8 million in savings during the 2010 fiscal year. The additional 2.5 percent cut in fiscal year 2011, resulting in an overall 5 percent wage cut, will generate $11.7 million in savings. “That $5.8 million saved equals 75 jobs that will not have to be cut,” Daddow said. “In the Finance Committee, Democrats made a move to delay the pay cuts by one year, which would basically eliminate the pay cut for 2010,” said Commissioner Bill Bullard, Jr. (R-Highland), chairman of the Board of Commissioners. Bullard said that while non-union employees will have the pay cuts imposed on them, “unions will have to accept the pay cuts or accept layoffs.” Under a separate resolution Bullard has sponsored for a vote on Sept. 24, county commissioners’ compensation would be reduced at the same rate as county employees’. “We work with employees in all different departments,” Bullard said. “How can we sit with employees and look them in the eye and not take a sacrifice like they are?” Daddow said he is hopeful that between all of the different cuts, a hiring freeze, attrition, and human resources working to remap people into different positions, most employees will retain their jobs. “(Oakland County Executive L.) Brooks (Patterson) feels it’s very important to keep people,” Daddow said. “It’s all very sad, but a 5 percent cut is not 100 percent,” Taub said. “It’s been a long and arduous effort, but our future planning will show the public we will still be able to provide them with stable services as we restructure,” Daddow said. ■
run in Michigan. While there are several other tubing parks in the state, only Kalamazoo has anything similar, according to J. David VanderVeen, director of Central Services for Oakland County. “Now it needs major repair and replacement,” he said. “Staff has been using Band-aid approaches, and now it needs major surgery — costing upwards of $1 million.” “Unfortunately, the No. 1 thing is that time has taken its toll,” said Oakland County Commissioner John Scott (R-Waterford), who serves on the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. “The troughs that the toboggans go down have seen a lot of expansion and contracting from the hot and cold changes that are normal (with Michigan) weather.” An added problem that contributed to continual maintenance issues is that when The Fridge was originally constructed it was situated
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facing westward, toward the setting sun, unlike most ski slopes, which face north. “We didn’t even put out engineering for bids (on repair or replacement work),” Scott said. “We have a fiduciary responsibility to spend taxpayer money wisely, and to rebuild and replace The Fridge it would cost almost $1 million.” Dan Stencil, executive officer for Oakland County Parks and Recreation, said it’s a disappointment to have to keep The Fridge closed this winter. He said the facility’s closing may present a new opportunity for the county to create a fully-developed winter recreation center that offers multiple winter recreation opportunities. A master plan is being developed for Waterford Oaks with ideas such as creating a small lake/large pond that would be stocked with fish, a tubing hill, a mini-luge program, as well as refurbishing The Fridge. ■ 61
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■ state Legislator wants prohibition against texting while driving By Lisa Brody Michigan drivers would be prohibited from texting while driving if legislation recently introduced in the state House of Representatives is enacted. House Bill (HB) 4394 was introduced by state Reps. Gino Polidori (D-Dearborn) and Lee Gonzales (DFlint) to prohibit any driver from reading, writing, or sending a text message on a wireless two-way communication device that is located in the person's hand or lap while operating a motor vehicle that is moving on a highway or street. Global positional systems (GPS) and navigation systems affixed in vehicles would be exempt from the prohibition. In addition, the texting while driving prohibition would not apply to a person who used a wireless two-way communications device to: • Report a traffic accident, medical emergency, or a serious road hazard; • Report a situation where the person believed his or her safety was in jeopardy; • Report or avert a crime (or potential crime) against another person; or • Carry out official duties as a police officer, law enforcement official, member of a paid or volunteer fire department, or operator of an emergency vehicle. The bill specifies that law enforcement officers could not pull over a driver for texting; a violation would have to be cited as a secondary offense when a driver was pulled over for another violation. Violations would be a civil infraction, with no points assessed to the driver's record. HB 4394 also states that if a local unit of government adopted an ordinance substantially similar to the bill's provisions, that ordinance would have to include the secondary enforcement provision. According to a House Legislative Analysis Section summary of HB 4394, enacting the bill's provisions as drafted would have an indeterminate fiscal impact on the state's judiciary. Any fiscal impact would depend on the number of civil infraction violations and any increase in administrative and court costs for processing the violations. The legislation isn't expected to have a fiscal impact on the Department of State, according to the legislative analysis. The bill has been referred to the www.oaklandpaper.com
Transportation funding shortfalls Commission asks lawmakers to act on recommendations By Leslie Shepard-Owsley he State Transportation Commission is urging the Michigan Legislature to take action to address projected state transportation funding shortfalls. The commission voted unanimously on Thursday, Aug. 27 to adopt a resolution urging legislative action. The commission is asking legislators to execute the Transportation Funding Task Force recommendations submitted last November. The commission is the policy-making body for all state transportation programs. It’s comprised of six members appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the state Senate. “We are $320 million in the red to just maintain current state highway conditions,” said Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Spokesman Bill Shrek. The commission resolution states MDOT projects won’t have enough state revenue to match all available federal highway funding beginning with the department’s 2011 fiscal year. The state revenue shortfall will result in the loss of as much as $2.1 billion in federal aid over the four-year period from 2011 to 2014, including the loss of nearly 30,000 jobs that would have been sustained by that revenue. According to Carmine Palombo, transportation program director for the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), the state can’t afford to lose out on $2 billion in federal funding between 2011 and 2014. “We’ll lose a bunch of money if they don’t act quickly,” Palombo said of lawmakers. “The federal money coming in requires a 20 percent match, and we would run out of match money by 2011. They’ve been given several options to raise revenues, but they haven’t
T
House Transportation Committee. Polidori reportedly is looking to change the bill in committee to make a violation a primary offense, with a $100 fine and two points added to an offender's record. He said that 13 other states already have laws banning texting while driving. State Rep. Gail Haines (R-Lake Angelus) said she supports the bill. "As a mom, there are times when a family member needs you, and you are tempted (to text while driving), but I pull over," she said. "Everyone is prone to misjudgment,
allowed for them to be implemented. If the Legislature lets this lie, the money will go to other states.” The commission’s resolution cites the task force report stating that Michigan needs — at a minimum — to double its current investment in transportation to prevent a loss of up to $1 billion in federal funds each year and to adequately maintain Michigan’s highways, roads, bridges, passenger transportation, freight transportation, and aviation systems. The report also states that investing in transportation will create jobs and drive economic activity, attract businesses, increase revenue, and provide better transportation services to Michigan taxpayers. “We stand behind the solid recommendations of the (task force) report and ask legislators to act quickly before this transportation crisis becomes a calamity,” said commission Chairman Ted B. Wahby in a recent press release. “Right now the Legislature is in the middle of its budget,” said Shrek, who added that he doesn’t anticipate any movement on transportation funding until the state’s 2010 Fiscal Year budget is adopted in Lansing. The commission’s resolution notes that while demands on the state transportation system are projected to increase dramatically in the future, state revenue available for investment in aviation, highways, and transit are declining. Gas tax revenues dropped by $100 million in the last five years, while the cost of constructing roads and bridges in Michigan has increased five times the rate of overall consumer prices from 2003 to 2008, further eroding the purchasing power of motor fuel tax revenues. In addition, projected fuel economy increases threaten to further diminish motor fuel tax revenues. ■
and there have been too many misjudgements, so we have to pass this bill." State Rep. Hugh Crawford (RNovi) said he also supports the bill. "It makes sense to me," he said. "Even though I've done it in the past, it's not a good practice." Not all lakes area state representatives are supportive of the bill. "I'm undecided at this point," said state Rep. Eileen Kowall (RWhite Lake). "Careless driving is careless driving. There should be a law against stupid driving. But I shy away from a 'nanny' govern-
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ment telling us what to do." According to state Rep. Chuck Moss (R-Birmingham, Bloomfield), he is firmly on the side of those opposed to the bill. "Anybody who texts while driving is a moron," he said. "But does every moronic behavior need to have a law? There are really dumb things we all do. We have a budget crisis, and we need to get a budget done. We've got so many serious problems, and we need to be spending our time on fixing the budget. If we ban texting, it won't bring any jobs to Michigan." ■ 63
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■ business The women’s boutique She at 4076 W. Maple in Bloomfield Hills, is celebrating its one-year anniversary. “To help celebrate the success of a year, we invited Jodi Arnold, the designer of Mint (clothing line), to visit and have a personal appearance for all,” owner Sharon Eisenshtadt said. The event will be held on Oct. 12 and 13. Arnold and Eisenshtadt wanted to build the event around a charity and chose the Children’s
Sharon Eisenshtadt
Tumor Foundation. “We are donating 10 percent of sales back to the charity,” Eisenshtadt said. “I am grateful to be celebrating a year and I look forward to many fantastic anniversaries ahead.” ■ Oakland Hills Pharmacy at 2520 S. Telegraph in Bloomfield recently opened inside the 2520 medical building at Square Lake and Telegraph. The pharmacy is independently owned by David Sakstrup, Robert Harb, and Ed Ghannam, and according to chief pharmacist Jeff Bennett, reopened after the Bloomfield Pharmacy closed at the location. “Bloomfield was our primary choice for a location,” Bennett said. In the competitive world of pharmaceuticals, Bennett said that “individual service, the ability to find medications that are difficult to obtain and the ability to make medications that are not commercially available” is what keeps Oakland Hills Pharmacy competitive with the larger chain pharmacies. “We have to offer that specialized service that no one else does,” Bennett said. Besides prescriptions, Oakland Hills offers a full line of vitamins, over-the-counter products, snacks, candy, coffee, and soft drinks. www.oaklandpaper.com
■ Independent Michigan real estate firm Weir Manuel Realtors has merged with Coldwell Banker Schweitzer Real Estate to form Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel. Headquartered at 298 S. Old Woodward Ave. in Birmingham, Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel is owned by CEO Kelly Sweeney, Tom Balames and David Trott. Former CEO of Coldwell Banker Schweitzer Paul Schweitzer will serve as chairman emeritus. The new company is comprised of 465 sales professionals and 11 southeast Michigan offices. A combination of the economy and a possible power team helped solidify the decision to merge. “It’s no secret what the Michigan economy has been like for the past four years,” Sweeney said. “There has been a contraction in profitability and a huge contraction in the real estate market.” The goal of the newly formed team is to take the two firms and fold the combined expertise into a new business platform, Sweeney said. “We have this vision and we wanted take that vision over a larger geographic range and bring it to the public in a way that we think will create huge success for us and better service for the consumer,” he said. ■ Hall & Hunter Realtors, exclusive affiliate of Christie’s Great Estates, at 442 S. Old Woodward in Birmingham is welcoming two new agents. Associate brokers Nanci J. Rands and Meredith R. Colburn are a mother-daughter team bringing over 50 years of combined experience to the luxury residential market. Rands is honored to be a part of the company, she said. “The extraordinary reputation that Hall & Hunter has in the upper segment of
Meredith Colburn
Nanci Rands
the market was a tremendous attraction for Meredith and me,” Rands said. Rands, who served as president of the Metropolitan Consolidated Association of Realtors (MCAR) and is a director of both the Michigan and the National Association of Realtors, was named to the Crain’s Detroit Business list of
“100 Most Powerful Women.” Also named Michigan’s “Realtor of the Year” in 2007, Rands is a chairman on the National Board of Directors for Project Interchange, a non-political, non-profit organization that provides American and international leaders opportunities to experience Israel firsthand. Colburn serves as vice president and board member of the Franklin Hills Country Club and has been involved in numerous charitable activities. “It’s been a seamless transition and we have settled into our day-to-day business of continuing to provide service excellence to our clientele,” Colburn said. “We are thrilled and honored to have Nanci and Meredith as members of our firm,” said Dennis J. Wolf, CEO of Hall & Hunter. “Their expertise, commitment to service and experience in the luxury home sales market are an asset to both Hall & Hunter and the Christie’s brand.” ■ Birmingham resident and clothing designer Terrance Sullivan is opening his own boutique in downtown Birmingham on Oct. 3. The Terrance Sullivan boutique will be located at 2245 Cole Street in Birmingham’s Rail District. “It’s a charming area,” Sullivan said of Birmingham. While his boutique will primarily feature denim, he said it will quickly expand beyond that. “We will have a ready-to-wear collection of designer jeans,” he said. Launching his denim collection in December 2007, Sullivan’s self-titled label has spread from the U.S. to the United Kingdom, France, and Canada. Sullivan studied fashion at Detroit’s Cass Tech High School and went on to New York to cultivate his trade under designers like Maurice Malone. An open house is planned for Friday, Oct. 2. ■ The Barber Pole at 164 S. Old Woodward in Birmingham is celebrating their 60th anniversary on Oct. 10. They will be hosting an open house that day with haircut giveaways and a barbershop quartet performing around noon. According to owner Stephen Trachsel, the longevity of The Barber Pole can be attributed to the close knit Birmingham community. “Everyone knows each other and the Barber Pole is a place you can meet up with your neighbors,” he said. ■ The 16th annual October Family Fall Festival at Bloomfield Open Hunt will be held on Oct. 4 from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The public is welcome and the event will feature
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family entertainment, free cider, donuts, and a tour of the stables. The Bloomfield Open Hunt is located at 405 E. Long Lake Road in Bloomfield Hills. Contact 248-644-9411 or visit www.bohclub.com for more information. ■ The Amae Plastic Surgery Center and Cosmetic Spa at 43940 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in mid-October. Over his 10 years in Bloomfield Hills, Dr. Ali has performed breast reconstruction and cleft palate surgeries for charity. He also performs general cosmetic procedures. ■ My House of Style, a custom design jewelry store, will be opening at 574 N. Old Woodward in Birmingham the second week of October. Owner Diane Harris creates her own designs and features the jewelry designs of up-and-coming designers. “With a storefront now in Birmingham, I’m hoping to do different trunk shows and bring in some young designers,” Harris said. While she designs and sells lavish pieces, her jewelry ranges in price from $35 to $5,000. “I have a lot of items under $100,” she said. Having run her business out of her home for the past four years, Harris said she was thrilled when the perfect spot Diane Harris opened up in Birmingham. “I can’t envision myself anywhere else in the state,” Harris said. “That part of Birmingham lent itself to what I envisioned of my business.” In addition to jewelry, My House of Style will carry some home accessories. “I’m carrying a line of candles that are encrusted with semiprecious stones, as well as some beautiful lacquer jewelry boxes.” Additionally, Harris does design work for charities. As a friend of actor and singer Jennifer Hudson, Harris designed a bracelet charm benefiting the Hudson-King Foundation for Families of Slain Victims. A grand opening for My House of Style is slated for mid-November. Business items from the Birmingham-Bloomfield community are reported by Katey Meisner. Faxes (248.360.1220) and e-mails (kateymeisner@thescngroup.com) must be received three weeks prior to publication. 65
â– snapshot
charlie mott
T
hough most people think of milkmen as a thing of the past, Charlie Mott is proving that there's still a place for them in the 21st century. The owner of Mott Distributing, Mott took over the business his father started back in 1948. "I'm one of the very few (milkmen) left," he said. It takes a special kind of man to earn his way into the hearts and homes of Birmingham and Bloomfield residents. Mott has earned his clients' trust through impeccable reputation and service. From regular or organic milk to cheese, butter, eggs, ice cream, and even chicken, Mott personally stocks his clients' refrigerators. "I have over 100 keys to people's houses," he said. "I even have garage and alarm codes. I'm not a stranger to them. I've gone to (clients') weddings and, unfortunately, funerals." Mott works his way through the community solo, picking up his products from three different sources each day. "It takes me a couple hours in the morning to get my supplies," he said, adding that he then travels the same route his father did decades ago, delivering dairy products to his loyal clients. According to Mott, the industry has all but vanished due to the evolution of modern society. "In the '40s and '50s, most families only had one car," he said. "Mom didn't go anywhere and dad took the car to work." Now that convenience marts and even gas stations sell milk, he said business has slowed over the years. Yet Mott said his prices are comparable to those charged at local supermarkets. "Some things I can price even cheaper," he said. His milk products are a bit more expensive, but since he picks them up personally, he said they're very fresh and he can save clients a trip to the market. People who don't use Mott's services just aren't used to it or aren't aware of it, he said. Like most Michigan business owners, Mott says he's feeling the pinch these days, but, at 64-years-old, he said he has no intention of retiring just yet. "I'm in good health. I plan to work into my 70s," he said, adding that he has an optimistic outlook on the future of milkmen. "I think there is a need and I think there will always be a need." — Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard
Campus Locations Auburn Hills - Student LIFE, ph. 248.232.4290 2900 Featherstone Rd, Auburn Hills 48326 AH Raiders Store, ph. 248.233.2729 Highland Lakes - Student LIFE, ph. 248.942.3243 7350 Cooley Lake Rd, Waterford 48327 HL Raiders Store, ph. 248.942.3020 Orchard Ridge Student LIFE ph. 248.522.3595 27055 Orchard Lake Rd Farmington Hills 48334 OR Raiders Store, ph. 248.522.3422 Royal Oak Student LIFE ph. 248.246.2586 739 S. Washington Royal Oak 48067 RO Raiders Store ph. 248.246.2426 Southfield Student LIFE ph. 248.233.2586 22322 Rutland Drive Southfield 48075 SF Raiders Store ph. 248.233.2729
Tickets available at all OCC Campus Raiders Stores
Performing Arts Calendar of Events October 2009 – December 2009 Sponsored by Student LIFE – Tickets available at all OCC Raiders Stores and online through PayPal at www.oaklandcc.edu/entertainment
Thursday, October 1 VOICES OF THE HOLOCAUST Sponsored by ALI Orchard Ridge - Smith Theatre - 10:00 am -Admission: Free - A program of works by Jewish composers. Friday, October 2 CONCERT FOR TOLERANCE Royal Oak - Lila Jones Theater - All Proceeds to benefit Focus Hope - 6:00 pm - Admission: $10 This is designed to bring awareness and support to the issues surrounding our diversity in Metro Detroit. Wednesday, October 7 WINONA LaDUKE - SPEAKER SERIES - Royal Oak Campus Theatre 6:30 pm - Admission: Free. Discussion on issues of climate change, renewable energy, and environmental justice. Thursday, October 8 CHRIS COLLINS AND THE WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY COLLECTIVE Chris Collins, Director - Sponsored by ALI Orchard Ridge - Smith Theatre 10:00 am - Admission: Free Program of jazz. Friday, October 9 JOHNNIE BASSETT AND THE BLUES INSURGENTS DOWN HOME BLUES Highland Lakes - Student Center Arena 7:30 pm - Admission: $14. Tuesday, October 13 STUDENT LIFE LIVE! COMEDY SHOW with SHOWTIME’S WHITE BOYZ IN THE HOOD - with STEVE HOFSTETTER Auburn Hills Campus Student Center Building Room G240 Admission: FREE for all students (at least 16 or older) - $20 for community member - 6:30 pm An author, columnist and comedian, Steve Hofstetter is a cult hit on college campuses. Thursday, October 15 SWINGING STRINGS AND ANGEL’S WINGS THE JAZZ HARP OF CHRISTA GRIX Sponsored by ALI - Orchard Ridge Smith Theatre - 10:00 am - Admission: Free. Harpist Christa Grix for this program will be jazz musicians Kurt Kraknke on bass and Pete Siers on drums. Friday, October 16 THE GRASCALS Royal Oak - Lila Jones Theater - 7:30 pm Admission: $20 Bluegrass music. Visit the website at www.grascals.com. Friday, October 23 6th ANNUAL MARIACHI NIGHT- FEATURING MARIACHI CORA Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater - 7:30 pm Admission: Adults: $10. Students and children age 15 and under: $5. A benefit sponsored by the Global Edu. Committee to raise scholarship money for students to study in Oaxaca, Mexico.
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Thursday, October 29 PATRICK BURNS - PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS - SPEAKER SERIES Highland Lakes - Student Center Arena - 7:00 pm - Admission: Free. Is there an afterlife? Does the human soul continue after death? These are questions to be discussed. Friday, Oct. 30 - 7:00 pm and Saturday, Oct. 31 - 12:00 and 2:00 pm BEANIE AND THE BAMBOOZLING BOOK MACHINE By Bob May, Roy C. Booth, and Cristopher Tibbetts Children’s Theatre Prod. Directed by Diane Hill - OR - Smith Theatre Adults/students: $5. Children under 12 years accompanied by adult: $2 Beanie Boren has invented a book-reading machine for the science fair. ADDED SPECIAL FREE PERFORMANCE for ALI members and their guests Thursday, October 29 - 10:30 am
THORNETTA
BETH STALKER
HOTEL SAVARINE SOCIETY
OAKLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE®
November 14 STEVEN DUNN-PULITZER PRIZE WINNER Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre 7:00 pm - Admission: Free November 20 BETH STALKER Auburn Hills Campus Room G-240 7:30 pm - Admission: $10 Contemporary music. Visit her website at www.bethstalker.com Friday, December 4 OCC JAZZ BAND - Led by Director Tom Dennis Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre - 7:00 pm Admission: Free. An exciting program that features a variety of styles for “big band” and small ensembles.
Sunday, November 1 - 2:00 pm BEANIE AND THE BAMBOOZLING BOOK MACHINE by Bob May, Roy C. Booth, and Cristopher Tibbetts Children’s Theatre Prod. - Directed by Diane Hill - OR - Smith Theatre Adults/students: $5. Children under 12 years accompanied by adult: $2 Beanie Boren has invented a book-reading machine for the science fair.
Friday, December 4 OCC COMMUNITY BAND WINTER CONCERT Lead by Director Fred Junod Highland Lakes Campus Student Center Arena - 8:00 pm - Admission: Free. The band consists of students and community musicians who also play for OCC’s commencement.
Monday, November 2 HBO’s TONY DEYO Auburn Hills Campus Room G240 - 6:30 pm - Open to the public Students will display comedic wit and timing working directly with HBO comedian Tony Deyo.
Tuesday, December 8 BILL BARKELEY - SPEAKER SERIES Auburn Hills Campus - Student Center, G240 - 6:00 pm Admission: Free. Bill Barkeley has Usher’s Syndrome (Type 2), the leading cause of deaf-blindness in the world.
Thursday, November 5 THE TREBLEMAKERS AND BACKBEAT Mary Kay Pryce, Director - Sponsored by ALI Orchard Ridge Campus Smith Theatre - 10:00 am - Admission: Free. A cappella ensembles from Northville High School. Friday, November 6 HOTEL SAVARINE SOCIETY Great Music and Dance of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s Highland Lakes Campus - Student Center Arena - 7:30 pm - Admission: $14 Accompanied by the Pleasant Moments Vintage Dancers of Ann Arbor. Friday, November 6 FRENCH CLUB TALENT SHOW Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre - 7:00 pm - Admission: Free. Friday, November 13 DAILEY AND VINCENT Royal Oak Campus Lila Jones Theater - 7:00 pm - Admission: $20 Bluegrass music. Visit the website at www.daileyvincent.com. November 13 OCC SINGING IDOL FINALS Orchard Ridge Campus Smith Theatre - 7:00 pm - Admission: Free. OCC students compete for the honor of being the OCC Singing Idol of 2009.
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Thursday, December 10 MUSIC STUDENT SHOWCASE Led by Director Tom Dennis Orchard Ridge Campus Smith Theatre - 7:00 pm - Admission: Free A variety of talented music students take the stage to share their musical gifts. Friday, December 11 ORCHARD LAKE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA Led by Director Sue Mutter (Collaborative Concert Series)Orchard Ridge Campus Smith Theatre - 7:30 pm - Admission: Adults: $10, Seniors: $7, Students: Free. OCC music students perform with the Orchard Lake Philharmonic Society Community Orchestra. Friday, December 11 THORNETTA DAVIS AND HER BLUES BAND DOWN HOME BLUES Auburn Hills Campus - Room F-123 7:30 pm - Admission: $14. Blues singer known for her strong and sassy songs about love, life and justhaving fun.
OCTOBER 2009
■ focus on wine Worlds apart, wines have common theme – discover it By Eleanor and Ray Heald
W
hen California’s unoaked chardonnays entered the wine scene about a decade ago, they did not have the flavor profile they do today. Unoaked versions tasted a knee jerk away from oak-amped-up, big, alcoholic, fat styles created by uber-ripe grapes. West Coast wine producers considered chardonnay a rather neutral variety. They thought oak-aging and malo-
lactic fermentation were needed for character. White Burgundy (chardonnay) had become their model. What they failed to work into a fruit-forward equation, now in favor with consumers, was the fact that Burgundy is much cooler and grapes ripen with lower sugars, therefore lowering alcohol in the finished wine. Chardonnay from Burgundy has high acidity and tightgrained French cooperage is ideal for aging it. Malolactic fermentation was needed to tame harsh acidity. Chablis (chardonnay from the northern Burgundy region of the same name) is the classic example for unoaked
chardonnay. Traditionally, these wines are fermented in stainless steel tanks or in combination with previously-used, neutral oak cooperage. Chablis does not have the buttery, vanilla or toasty notes associated with oak-fermented and barrel-aged chardonnay. However, no-oak chardonnays are often impacted by winemaking techniques, such as time on the lees for a creamy texture and malolactic fermentation which tames overt acidity when needed.
New Zealand figures it out Unafraid to change course, New Zealand winemakers took advantage of their climate to make some of the finest unoaked chardonnays, put the breaks on overtly-grassy sauvignon blancs and plant pinot noir in places like the Awatere Valley. The Crossings is one of a small group of pioneering Awatere Valley (Marlborough sub-region) winegrowers that gets it. The Crossings winemaker Matthew Mitchell says “it’s all about the fruit source. Unique soil attributes of our Medway Vineyard (one of three winery owned), a dry climate and low yields enhance vibrant tropical fruit flavors of our unoaked chardonnay, underpinned with fresh acidity.” Worldwide, value-conscious wine producers have eschewed barrels because of their high cost. The New Zealanders were first to embrace the no-oak chardonnay style on a broad scale. Floral, ripe peach and pineapple dominate aromas and flavors of the delicious 2008 The Crossings Unoaked Chardonnay, $17. We also liked The Crossings 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, $15; and the 2008 Pinot Noir, $21. All showcase great fruit and elegance at sensible prices.
Calfornia gets it now “An unoaked chardonnay,” maintains Sebastiani winemaker Mark Lyon, “shows nothing but pure varietal character without any oak attributes to mask the fruit’s qualities and nuances.” For Sebastiani 2008 Russian River Valley Unoaked Chardonnay, $19, Lyon has a long-standing contract with Dutton Ranch in order to secure some of the appellation’s best low-yielding chardonnay. Other producers have espoused oak-free chardonnay. In fact, that’s the moniker St. Supery chose for its Chardonnay, $25. Acero (steel in Spanish) is the name Marimar Estate, $32, uses. Other favorites are Morgan Metallico, $20, and 2008 Valley of the Moon Unoaked Chardonnay, $16. Unoaked chardonnays are delicious with any seafood or spicy Asian dish.
Wine picks Domaine Alfred Chamisal Vineyards newly released wines are the finest collection of Edna Valley wines we’ve tasted so far this year. Try: • 2008 Stainless Central Coast Chardonnay, $18: pineapple, white peach, ripe, fresh flavors. • 2007 Chardonnay Edna Valley, $24: seven different clones offer Meyer lemon zest, pineapple enlivened by vanilla and toasty oak. • 2007 Califa Chardonnay, $38: exciting citrus, apricots and ripe golden delicious apple. • 2008 Edna Valley Pinot Gris, $24: peach, pineapple with brown spice hints. • 2007 Edna Valley Pinot Noir, $38: nine clones offering black cherry, dark berry and savory spice. —2007 Califa Pinot Noir $60: black
fruit, cherries, plum, chocolate, subtle oak spice
Best values from France Leave it to Robert Kacher Selections to never disappoint with French wines at $15 or less. The following are some bargain recent releases from “Bobby.” You may not know the producer, but you will remember the name Kacher! • 2008 Domaine Tariquet Chardonnay, $13: citrus, apple, pear, elegant with a zingy finish. • 2007 Mas de Guiot Grenache/Syrah ,$11: dark juicy fruits like blackberry. • 2007 Domaine de Gournier Merlot, $11: generous red fruits, drinkable and flavorful. • 2006 Domaine Sainte Eugenie Corbieres Rouge, $12: elegant red fruits from carignan, grenache and syrah blend. • 2007 Chateau Grande Cassagne, $12: grenache, syrah blend – dark fruits with hint of toasty oak in finish; rich and plush. • 2006 Mas Carlot Les Enfants Terribles, $13: blend of 50-50 mourvedre and syrah with gobs of rich red fruits. • 2005 Mas Carlot Cabernet-Syrah $15: black fruits, plum cassis, cedar, brown spices, good length in finish. If your wine retailer is not stocking these wines, ask that they be ordered for you from National Wine and Spirits. Eleanor & Ray Heald are contributing editors for the internationally-respected Quarterly Review of Wines, among other publications. Contact them by e-mail at focusonwine@aol.com.
■ eating out The Eating Out directory for The Paper is just that, a guide to dining establishments where patrons can go to eat. Many, if not most, of these eateries also allow for takeout 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, Monday-Saturday. 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
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Saturday. 245 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774.
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, MondaySaturday; 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-
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 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.338.4300.
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Breakaway Deli: Breakaway Deli features a variety of house sandwiches as well as a meatfree zone for vegetarians. B & L, MondaySaturday; 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. Café 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 Café 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 crêpes. Also offering special occasion and wedding cakes. B, L & D, Tuesday-Sunday. 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.9704.
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■ main course Quattro Cucina Italiana: upscale Italian style
in Birmingham, 248.593.6060. Reservations suggested. Hours: Monday-Saturday 5-11 p.m. Sunday 3-9 p.m. Bar only cigarette smoking. Valet parking $7. Check average $15-$40, excluding beverage).
by Eleanor Heald
A
bout two-and-a-half years ago, Eric Doelle, owner of Birmingham’s Chen Chow restaurant, recognized an Asian-fusion culinary lack in Birmingham. He amended that. Then he realized there was a similar void in authentic, traditional Italian in the city’s broadening restaurant scene. Doelle and three silent investors in the Dali Group opened Quattro Cucina Italiana on Sept. 8, in the $2 million renovated location of the former City Cellar. A step inside reveals a dazzling new design by Eric’s wife, Carrie Doelle, in cooperation with Birmingham’s Ron Rea of Ron & Roman Design LLC. Not evoking Italian, it showcases a New World Euro style similar to Manhattan’s A Voce, which to borrow a phrase from the New York Times restaurant critic Frank Bruni, “turns out food with grace and gusto.” Since Quattro Cucina and Chen Chow are nearly a stone’s throw from one another, isn’t this internal corporate competition? “No,” remarks Corporate Executive Chef Benjamin Meyer. “Each restaurant satisfies a different market. The corporate aim is diversity and we’ve achieved that. Close proximity allows us to utilize our top chefs efficiently. Because of my culinary background (trained in French cooking techniques as a graduate of the College of Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University), I oversee both restaurant kitchens.” Similarly, Corporate Pastry Chef Eric Voigt (who apprenticed under the much heralded pastry master Michael Laiskonis, formerly with Tribute and now at Manhattan’s internationally acclaimed Le Bernardin) makes the breads and desserts for both eateries. Chef di Cuisine Joseph Cosenza has the sole responsibility for the execution of Quattro Cucina Italiana’s menu.
What’s on the menu The palate thrill at Quattro Cucina lies in its unique selections such as Insalata di Asparagi with burrata (made from fresh mozzarella and cream), guanciale (unsmoked Italian bacon) and
Cheeburger Cheeburger: The diner makes the decisions with the “Invent Your Own” option for cheeburgers, chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese, salads, shakes and malts. With a wide variety of toppings, Cheeburger Cheeburger offers endless combinations to please every diner and the ambiance is fun and festive. L & D daily. 755 E. Maple, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.6900. 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.
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QUICK BITES
Executive Chef Benjamin Meyer, Corporate Pastry Chef Eric Voigt, and Chef di Cuisine Joseph Cosenza (from left to right) of Quattro Cucina Italiana.
asparagus brightened with citrus. Insalata di Finocchi consists of fresh, crisp fennel, walnuts, orange and mint. For antipasti, order Salsiccia per la Famiglia (especially if there are four or more at your table). It’s rope sausage, roasted peppers, cippolini onions and tomato-based gravy are unique. Four pastas are made in house: potato gnocchi, tagliatelle, ravioli and lasagna sheets. Ordering one of these is the way to go. For the most unusual, try Gnocchi al Ragu di Cinghiale (real wild boar) with red wine, tomato and fontina cheese. If you’re familiar with Italian seafood specialties, you know that Branzino al Sale is a treat but expensive. Quattro Cucina’s preparation is the whole fish baked in a salt crust ($70 per two diners). It is festively boned out tableside by talented Maitre d’ Zoran Smolcic. Halibut Acqua Pazza, with tomato broth, red pepper, crostini and swiss chard is also special. On the Carni (meat) side, Chef Cosenza’s specialty is Osso Buco, a braised veal shank with saffron risotto, sofritto (sautéed mixture of chopped onions, celery, carrots and seasonings) in a veal reduction. If you’re looking to eat light (think dinner and a movie next door at the Palladium), there are four Napolitanastyle pizzas (eight slices at $12). There’s the always popular Margherita,
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.
but also one with a charcuterie topping, and another with four cheeses (taleggio, ricotta, fontina and parmesan). A perfectly executed tiramisu is among desserts, but Chef Voigt recommends his gianduja (chocolate cake and hazelnut crunch) or panna cotta with macerated seasonal fruit.
Wine list Sommelier Daniel Filipeck has assembled a list of international small producers. His Italian selections by the glass and by the bottle express the list’s strength. Per bottle prices range from $35 to three figures. However, there are a number of not-to-be missed values, such as the following whites: Moris Farms 2007 Vermentino from Tuscany’s Maremma region; $38, Barone di Valforte Passerina 2008, Abruzzo, $34; and Argiolas 2007 Castamolino, Sardinia $38. Among reds, Allegrini 2004 Palazzo dell Torre, Veneto, $42, has benefited from aging. Another Moris Farms gem is 2007 Morellino di Scansano, Maremma, $32. Morellino is the local name for sangiovese and Scansano the location. Another find on the list is Di Majo Norante 2003 Ramitello from the lesser-know Molise region, $39. It’s 80 percent prugnolo (local name for sangiovese) and 20 percent aglianico. (Quattro Cucina Italiana, 201 Hamilton
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.
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In mid-November 2009, Culinary Institute of America’s wine program graduate Mindy VanHellemont plans to open Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro at 155 S. Bates, Birmingham. “Our emphasis,” VanHellemont says, “will be food and wine pairings in a full-service 65-seat eatery.” She dubs the food style as New American with local and organic cuisine options. And Tallulah? That’s VanHellemont’s grandfather’s pet name for her. ■ Getting burgers your way has enhanced meaning again as new franchisee partners Sherry Howard and her daughter Jessica Cohen reopened Cheeburger Cheeburger (755 East Maple, Birmingham 248.594.6900). The 50’s style eatery offers more burger size options than just about any other operation. They range from (before grilling) the 5.5-ounce “Classic” to the 20ounce “Pounder.” Thirty different toppings are available at no extra charge. For weight-conscious burger lovers, one-third pound turkey and veggie burgers are on the menu. ■ A Moment with the Masters, Friday, October 2, 6:30 p.m., $500 per person to benefit Children’s Leukemia Foundation (CLF). is scheduled at Forest Grill (735 Forest, Birmingham). Chef/proprietor Brian Polcyn and CRUSH Birmingham Food & Wine Classic celebrate the collaborative culinary skills of three renowned chefs, including Polcyn in a five-course dinner with wine pairings. For more information and ticket purchase, contact Meagan Wilson of CLF at 248.530.3011 or mwilson@leukemiamichigan.org. ■ Eleanor Heald is a nationally-published writer who also writes the wine column in a double byline with her husband Ray for The Paper. Suggestions for this feature and specifically for the Quick Bites section can be e-mailed to quickbites@oaklandpaper.com.
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. 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. Embers Deli & Restaurant: Pita sandwiches, soups, burgers, hot dogs and melts available. An extensive breakfast menu includes egg specials, breakfast roll-ups, omelettes, breakfast sandwiches and sides. B &L, daily. 3598 West Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.645.1033.
OCTOBER 2009
■ eating out 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. Forté 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.
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. 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.
Fuddrucker’s: With simple recipes and madefrom-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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, Monday-Friday; D, daily. 183 North Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.644.2181.
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. 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. 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, 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.
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 and at 2125 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.253.9877. Phoenicia: A special dining experience, Phoenicia offers all the traditional dishes of Lebanon. 588 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. B, W, L. L, Monday-Friday; D, daily. 248.644.3122. 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. 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. Quiznos: A signature toasting style creates crisp edges, melted cheese, sizzling meat and warm bread. Choose from over 20 oventoasted subs, five flatbread chopped salads, 10 sammies, five torpedoes & bullets and soups. Offering a full children’s menu and new, on-site catering. L & D daily. 185 N Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.540.7827. Rio Wraps: Features burritos, salads and deli wraps. L & D, daily. 42805 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.540.7722 . 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. Sandella’s Flatbread Cafe: A casual cafe offering health-conscious options. Grilled paninis, sandwiches, grilled flatbreads, chopped salads and quesadillas are featured. L & D daily. 172 North Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.4200 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. 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, MondayFriday; D, Monday-Saturday. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.333.3887. Sy Thai Cafe: A casual dining atmosphere, Sy Thai serves orange duck, noodle dishes, stirfried mussels with onions and all the usual Thai classics. L & D, daily. 315 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.9830. 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. 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. 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, MondaySaturday. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278. 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 TOPZ: Offering homemade fare, featuring Michigan vendors and local Michigan products, TOPZ prides itself on its air-baked, non-fried fries, nuggets, onion rings, burgers, chili and soups. L & D, daily. 327 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.220.1108. 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 dine in. Send your information via fax (248.360.1220) to Katey Meisner or e-mail to kateymeisner@thescngroup.com.
%UHDNIDVW 'LQQHU /XQFK 201 S Old Woodward Avenue ƒ Birmingham MI 48009 248.594.7300 ƒ www.forterestaurant.com
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■ the community house
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Beauty Collective Salon would like to invite you and a friend for a night of beauty on Wednesday, October 7th, 2009 from 5-8 p.m. Our event is sponsored by Sebastian Professional Hair Care Products. The Fun Night Out Includes • Complimentary deep conditioning treatments • A blow-out lesson • Hair Care Products at a discounted price • Chance to win one of three door prizes • Drinks and appetizers Please call the salon to schedule your appointment or feel free to stop in on the night of our event! 248-792-6563 256 S. Eton • Birmingham
KEEP IT SIMPLE One deadline. One concise monthly, full-color package of ad and news information. Reach over 29,000 Birmingham-Bloomfield homes free by direct mail, plus 1,500 copies free on newsstands. Eliminate the hassle of daily or weekly ad deadlines. Don't wonder what type of editorial environment surrounds your message. Know who your ad will reach. The November issue of The Paper. In homes October 28. Ad deadline October 13. Contact Jules Pickard. Office: 248.360.7355 • Cell: 248.891.9024 julespickard@thescngroup.com. It's that simple.
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eptember has been a great month at The Community House. Although I hated to go away, I took a short trip with five of my high school friends from Shreveport, Louisiana whom I last saw for one hour at a high school reunion 22 years ago. Although I faced the trip with a great deal of trepidation, I had a wonderful time. Even though we had all changed and matured (thank goodness), it was if no time had passed. We spent five days in a log home in Grand Lake, Colorado and caught up and reminisced while enjoying the spectacular scenery. With great pride and amazement, I hiked seven miles in the mountains, but the highlight was seeing herds of elk and their bulls doing mating calls. I left the trip a day before the others to attend our annual Birmingham House Tour which, as usual, Shelley Roberts was wonderful. The House Tour was a great community effort. My thanks to our sponsors Hall & Hunter Realtors and their Associate Brokers Nanci Rands and Meredith Colburn, Paramount Bank, the Michigan Design Center, Eagle Nationwide Mortgage and the homeowners for making the event possible. Also, I am most appreciative of our dedicated volunteers, from chairs Maureen Evans and Kristen Armstrong and their talented committee to those more than 300 volunteers who volunteered during the day in the homes. A very special thank you to super volunteer Linda Wilson who obtained, scheduled and trained the volunteers. There is so much going on at The Community House that I don’t know where to begin! We have something to appeal to every age group and every interest: • On Thursday, September 29 at 7:00 pm, Wall Street Journal columnist Jeffrey Zaslow will share the inside stories behind his two New York Times bestsellers, “The Last Lecture” and “The Girls from Ames,” as well as look at the life transitions we all face. Although this program is a kick-off for C.H.A.R.T., Community House Active Retirees Together, all are welcome. There is no charge but RSVP’s are requested. • For the many art lovers in our community we have Student Our Town and the OUR TOWN Art Show and Sale. The Student Our Town exhibit is from September 30 through October 7 and includes free children’s art workshops on Saturday, October 3. The Our Town Opening Night Party is on October 14, so be sure to get your tickets for this fun and special event. The exhibit and sale are open to the public free of charge from October 15 through 17, and this is a great time to buy original, affordable art while supporting Michigan artists. We are most grateful to the DeRoy Testamentary Foundation for funding these two important programs. • Have you ever wanted to know how lobbyists work and what they really do? If so, don’t miss a new program titled “The Ins and Outs of Lobbying in Congress,” Thursday, October 10 from 7:00-9:00 pm. The cost is $25. • Join us on October 6 at 6:30 pm for the third program in our series on Successful Job Strategies titled “Career Coach and Building Your Personal Image.” There is a nominal fee of $5. Come back on October 27 for the final program titled “Successful Networking.” • Begin and end your day at The Community House on Thursday, October 22. At 8:00 am, our sponsored group, The Race Relations & Diversity Task Force, will present a fascinating program on “Recognizing Privilege: Confronting Racism in the 21st Century,” which is free of charge. At 7:30 pm, Miller Canfield is sponsoring David Cole, Chairman of the Center for Automotive Research, who will discuss the timely topic “The Impact on the U.S. Economy of a Major Contraction of the Detroit Three Automakers.” There is a $10 charge. • Young adults won’t want to miss our TUG group’s fun event, the Boo Blast Road Rally on October 23. • Be sure to register for our fun, new class “Interior Design and Decorating Trends for 2010” which will be held on Monday, October 26. • Are the changes in Medicare causing you confusion? If so, come to our Medicare 2009 program from 9:30-11:30 am on Tuesday, October 27. There is no charge, but RSVP’s are requested. • Don’t forget to buy tickets for you and your young friends to see “Guys and Dolls Jr.” on November 7 or November 8. These sell out fast, and you won’t want to miss it. • Check out our travel programs. “Jersey Boys” tickets are still available for January 16 only. On October 5, at 7 p.m. we will present a preview of our Amalfi Coast trip. We have added a new Starbright Christmas Show, Saturday, November 28 in Sarnia with lunch at the Thomas Edison Inn in Port Huron for $115 per person. For additional information about the above and other Community House programs and services, please see our website, www.communityhouse.com or call 248.644.5832. Enjoy this beautiful month, and come to your Community House! As always, I look forward to seeing you at The Community House. ■ Shelley Roberts is president and CEO of The Community House. THE PAPER
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■ events calendar / october 1 Thursday Celebrated Birmingham Architect: Birmingham’s place in the world of significant architects and architecture is once again highlighted in the exhibition, “Serenity & Delight: The Architecture of Minoru Yamasaki,” that is now on display through Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Birmingham Historical Museum located at 556 W. Maple at the intersection of Maple and Southfield Roads. Seattle born Yamasaki (1912-1986) was the chief architect of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towners (designed in part from his Birmingham office located at Maple Road, near Adams). As one of the most prominent architects of the 20th century, this exhibit explores Yamasaki’s Birmingham connections, and the diversity he overcame as a second generation Japanese-American. The exhibit features many national and international images of Yamasaki’s projects taken by world renowned photographer/architect Balthazar Korab. The museum is open for public tours from 1-4 p.m Wednesday through Saturday. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for seniors, students, and Birmingham Historical Society members. For more information, call 248-530-1928 or email at museum@ci.birmingham.mi.us.
4 Sunday Gothic Glory: This exciting Baroque musical event co-sponsored by Kirk in the Hills Presbyterian Church and the Detroit Chamber Winds and Strings will take place from 3-5 p.m. in the Kirk sanctuary located at 1340 West Long Lake Road in Bloomfield Hills. The guest organist is Glenn Miller, director of music at Kirk in the Hills. For tickets and more information, call the church 248626-2515.
5 Monday Mother/Daughter Book Club: Enjoy great discussion, activities, and a snack provided by the Friends of the Baldwin Library. For young women in grades 4-6 and their moms, this month’s title, “The Rising Star of Rusty Nail” will be “expressed” at 7 p.m. at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. Registration is required. For more information, call the library at 248-647-1700.
6 Tuesday Poetry Slam-Tacular: Perfect for those who like to write, perform in front of a group and are highly competitive, Baldwin Public Library’s “Poetry Slam-Tacular!” is just what the doctor ordered. Each month, the library hosts a practice where you can write, perform and receive feedback. Then in December, come prepared for an open mike and a regular poetry slam. Perform or dramatize your poetry or someone www.oaklandpaper.com
else’s with music, costume, or just your voice. Designed for grades K-8 and adults, Poetry Slam-Tacular! will begin at 7 p.m. at the library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. Registration is required for performers. For more information, call 248-6471700.
7 Wednesday Business After Hours: Join the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber and other business professionals and visit the historic downtown Village of Franklin from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Franklin Grill and Tavern located at 32760 Franklin Road in Franklin. Enjoy complimentary seasonal appetizers and a cash bar is available. Registration is limited to 50 people and admission is $10 for members and $20 for non members. For more information, call the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber at 248-644-1700 or visit www.bbcc.com. Live Bats: Discover the most fascinating features and adaptations of many nocturnal animals including bats, flying squirrels, owls and more in a multimedia program presented by the Organization for Bat Conservation. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth with this live investigation of ecosystems. Suitable for grades 2 and up, this event will be held at 4:15 p.m. at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. Registration is required. For more information, call the library at 248-647-1700.
8 Thursday Prime Time Stories: First a Broadway play, then a feature film and now a special story time that is perfect for all ages, “Where the Wild things Are,” will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. Registration is required. For more information, call the library at 248-647-1700.
13 Tuesday Adult Arts & Crafts: For those who enjoy craft making with beads, well known guest speaker Christine Reilly will discuss “Bead Working” at 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church located at 1589 West Maple. Sponsored by the Needle Work & Textile Guild of Michigan, this event is will be open to those at all levels of expertise. Admission is $5. Following this lecture on Tuesday and Wednesday, there will be a workshop on the making of beaded hand bags. Those attending the workshop must register in advance and there is a $55 fee. For further details. call 248338-3011 or email compusew.aol.com.
14 Wednesday Our Town Art Show: The ever popular “Our Town Art Show and Sale” begins at 5:30 p.m. with a glamorous opening night fundraiser and strolling dinner at The Community House located at 380 Bates Street in downtown Birmingham. Tickets for this particular event are $200 or $75. This show will feature the works of close to 200 artists and artisans from all over Michigan. It will be open to the public on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and admission is free. For more information, call The Community House at 248644-5832.
15 Thursday Scary Movie Night: Teens of all ages will enjoy dinner and the animated film “Caroline.” Dinner starts promptly at 6:00 p.m. with the movie starting as soon as you are served at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. For more information, call the library at 248647-1700.
16 Friday Rock Opera Classic: “Rent,” the 7th longest-running show on Broadway will be presented Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16-31 and on Monday, Nov. 1, at St. Dunstan’s Theatre Guild of Cranbrook. This award winning rock opera follows a year in the lives of seven friends in New York’s East Village as they search for hope and acceptance while struggling with poverty, AIDS and addiction. It is also a celebration of art, friendship and love. This production is not for children as it does contain adult themes and situations. For tickets and more information, visit stdunstanstheatre.com or call 248-737-3587.
17 Saturday Birmingham History Tour: The Birmingham Historical Museum will present its annual pioneer tour of Greenwood Cemetery at 2 p.m. at Greenwood’s east gate on Oak Street located just west of Old Woodward in Birmingham. Many stories about the pioneers who founded the area will be shared, along with the gruesome tale about a double homicide in 1825 that led to the founding of this cemetery. Tickets are $5 per person and all those attending are asked to preregister. Fresh cider and donuts will be served. For reservations and more information, call the museum at 248-530-1928.
20 Tuesday Synagogue Architecture Explored: The Birmingham Historical Society will present “A Layman’s Retrospective of Minoru Yamasaki’s Synagogue Architecture” at 7 p.m. at Temple Beth El located at 7400 Telegraph Road in
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Bloomfield Hills. Through special arrangements with Temple Beth El, this tour and lecture will take a layman’s approach to synagogue design in general and to the artistic, humanistic and religious influences that Yamasaki applied to his synagogue masterworks. For tickets and more information, call the Birmingham Historical Museum at 248530-1928,
21 Wednesday Super Small Business Conference: Join the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber and other business professionals in “Super Brain Food To Go” that will be held from 7:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Birmingham Conference Center located at 31301 Evergreen Road in Beverly Hills. Robert Wolfe, chief creative and chairman emeritus, Moosejaw Mountaineering will be the keynote speaker and breakfast and lunch is included. Admission is $55 for members and $75 for nonmembers. For more information, call the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber at 248-644-1700 or visit www.bbcc.com.
25 Sunday Pumpkin Patch: Children of all ages will be delighted by this spooky adventure sponsored by the Junior League of the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce. The search for that perfect Jack O Lantern begins at 9 a.m. at the “Pumpkin Patch” followed by the ever popular Halloween Parade which will be held from 3-5 p.m. at Shain Park in downtown Birmingham. For more information, call the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce at 248-644-1700. Afternoon of Song: Presented by the Cancel Choir of Kirk in the Hills Presbyterian Church this highly treasured musical event will feature both secular works and modern popular songs at 4 p.m. in the Kirk refectory located at 1340 West Long Lake Road in Bloomfield Hills. For more information, call 248-626-2515.
29 Thursday Soul of a People: “Looking Back at Michigan and Birmingham in the 1930s” will be held at 7 p.m. at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham. Professor Greg Sumner will describe the state of our state during the Great Depression and Bill McElhone, director of Birmingham’s Historical Museum, will give a snapshot of Birmingham at the same time. For more information, call the library at 248-647-1700. 73
■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Forgotten Harvest’s Champagne Preview of Dream Cruise
Here is the update on the social scene from the past month. Social Lights is posted each week on The Paper’s website 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, and past column and photos are archived one the sebsite for The Paper.
Forgotten Harvest’s Champagne Preview The word is out. Westborn Market’s tented parking lot is a great spot for viewing the Friday night Woodward Dream Cruise action. The seventh annual Champagne Cruise benefiting Forgotten Harvest attracted a sold out crowd of 600. This included folks from sponsors like UPS, Andrews Brothers, PVS Chemicals, Hoot McInerney, Next Tee and Versacom, plus FH board members like Paul Bringer, David Nicholson, Jennifer Shroeger, Jon Woods, Maggie Allesee, Joseph Kearney, Alice Osburn, Jane Shallal, Lisa Vallee-Smith, John Carter, Klaus Entenmann, Rob Cohen and Jackie Sellers. Sellers, a Clark Hill attorney, co-chaired the event with Westborn owner Mark Anusbigian. In addition to bidding $14,885 for silent auction items, donating $670 to fill delivery truck Harvey’s gas tank and supporting the 52-card raffle ($200 per card) in which Craig Maass won Bill Larkin’s donation of a round trip flight for eight, people ogled the cars, socialized and danced to the Sun Messengers music. They also supped and sipped big time starting with a sparkling glass of Pommery Brut Royale Champagne (hence the event name). The generous restaurants had fun creating such drive-in fare as salmon sliders (Mitchell’s Fish Market), lobster sliders (The Henry Ford) and beef sliders (Bastone Brewery). Guests also devoured mounds of Westborn’s giant chilled shrimp, Beans & Cornbread’s ribs, Brio’s steak bruschetta, Maggiano’s sausage pasta, the Ritz-Carlton’s shrimp and sausage bruschetta and PF Chang’s lettuce wraps. Divine desserts came from Blazo’s, The Cupcake Station, The Gazebo, Party Cakes, the Rainbow Cafe and Pointe Dairy Services’ (individual Tiramisu). That chefs created food for people whose dollars will buy meals for the hungry is a good thing. And Forgotten Harvest estimates that the beneficence of all Champagne Cruise supporters will deliver nearly 840,000 meals to the needy.
Bloomfield Township’s Charity Car Show
Clockwise from upper left: Event co-chair Westborn’s Mark Anusbigian of Birmingham and his wife Donna. Allison and Kevin Larson of Bloomfield. Nidal Daher (left) and Lisa Ribaudo of Bloomfield with sponsor Cauley Ferrari-Maserati’s Tim Hyland and his wife Michelle of Warren. Cindy (left) and retired judge Barry Howard of West Bloomfield and circuit court judge Jim and Lynn Alexander of Bloomfield. Paul (left) and Trish Bringer of Troy with sponsor attorney Ed Dawda of Bloomfield. Jeff (left) and Maria Anusbigian of Novi, Koko and Elizabeth Soknayan of Novi, Sona Manzo of Farmington Hills and her brother Andrew Shoushanian of Northville. Crystal Treok (left) of Ferndale and Treger Strasberg of Birmingham. Stacey (left) and Elliott Lerner of Beverly Hills with FH board member Maggie Allesee of Bloomfield. Forgotten Harvest director Susan Goodell (left) of Birmingham, event sponsor UPS’s Jennifer Shroeger of Northville and Jon and Marcia Woods of Bloomfield. Theresa Selvaggio (left) of Grosse Pointe and Denise Abrash of Bloomfield.
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It’s not a big fund raiser but Bloomfield Township’s fifth annual Charity Car Show was surely a swell place for viewing the Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise and for getting up close and personal to some stationary beauties. Car owners paid a small registration fee to exhibit their classics in front of Mercedes-Benz of Bloomfield. Some 30 vehicles were parked there plus another three dozen next door in the Comerica parking lot. Township Community Relations director Leslie Helwig credited Bill Wells, Tom Coddington and Dan Gorney for steering the successful event. Cars ranged in age from Donald Rezanka’s 1929 cream colored Mercedes Gazelle to Lawrence Technology University’s 2009 Formula SAE. In between the other gems were a half dozen Corvettes, Ken Way’s 1957 Chevy Bel Air, which hasn’t missed a show, and Larry Smith’s traffic-stopping 1936 aluminum Stout Scarab, one of nine that was produced. The first auto without a running board, it was designed by William Stout an aeronautical engineer who also designed the Ford Tri Motor airplane for Henry Ford. Volunteers and spectators like the David Buckley clan and Jim and Helen Holmes did not have to go far for sustenance as the Marian Dad’s Club was selling hot dogs, pop and bottled water. Volunteers included members of the Community Emergency Response Team as well as the Optimist Club, the township’s firefighters and Oakland Family Services. The three latter groups will share in the modest ($4,000) proceeds.
Moonlight & Diamond Dreams Gala The 2008 Miss America Kristen Haglund was one of several convincing speakers at the Michigan Classic Ballet Company’s 20th Anniversary Gala. “Ballet is a wonderful foundation for whatever you pursue. It had a tremendous impact on my life. I attribute much of my success to Mrs. Geiger and Michigan Classic Ballet Company,” said the MCBC alumna. WDIV’s Ruth Spencer also spoke of lessons she learned in ballet, notably “…to be cool under fire.” Wayne County Prosecutor Kim Worthy spoke as a mother who had been playing “Russian ballet roulette,” attempting to find training that did not include recitals for her young daughter. She was incredulous when she discovered the Bloomfield Hills studio. Not only was the training classical, the studio cared about community outreach. It actually went into Detroit schools and was creating a bond between suburb and city. “It’s a company truly trying to make a difference giving back,” said she.
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MCBC founder Mary Geiger, whom visiting ballerina Olga Pavlova described as an amazing artistic director, explained that the company’s outreach programs are designed for Detroit school children to see what the (ballet) magic is all about. The anniversary celebration was a fund raiser ($20,000) for those programs. It attracted 200 to the Radisson Kingsley and included a small silent auction, vocal performances by a Mosaic Youth Theatre ensemble and Haglund, a superb video capturing highlights of the company’s 20 years and dancing until midnight. Supporters at the party included board members like Katherine Shensky, who, at 60, admits to being the oldest dancer in Geiger’s school program, and Kal Goren, who has been in MCBC’s The Nutcracker for 20 years “…and my feet have never left the stage,” he quipped. Board members who are also alumnae included jewelry designer Danielle Vivo, who is expecting her second baby, and Katey Moses, who is the general manager of Matt Prentice’s Deli Unique in the Radisson Kingsley.
■ Bloomfield Township’s Charity Car Show
Good Samaritan Gala One hundred ten supporters of Canterbury on-the-Lake attended the 13th annual Good Samaritan Gala at the residential center on 45 wooded acres in Waterford. Before dinner they checked out the auction items, socialized and saluted honorees 9Maggie and Bob Allesee and The Very Rev. David Dieter. The Allesees are noted philanthropists. Dieter is the former CEO of Canterbury. Following dinner, magical funnyman Chris Linn kept them chuckling and guessing. The event raised almost $16,000 to support the Good Samaritan Fund. It supplements the resources of residents who might otherwise be unable to stay in their Canterbury digs. Canterbury offers independent and assisted living apartments as well as a health center.
Top row: Jac (left) and Nadine Reijmer with Fran and Larry Smith of Bloomfield and the Smiths’ aluminum 1936 Stout Scarab. Veteran event exhibitor Ken Way (left) of Bloomfield with his 1957 red Chevy Bel Air and his grandchildren Paul, Charlie and Kate Holman of Bloomfield. Middle row: Focus On You Photography’s Jan(left), Ryan and Pam Woznick of Bloomfield. Bloomfield Township emergency volunteer Cheryl Schiller (left) and event volunteer / exhibitor Don Gorney of Bloomfield. An LTU racer flanked by P J (left) and Jack McEligot of Rochester, MN (who happen to be the photographer’s grandsons). Bottom right: Event volunteer / exhibitor Tom Coddington with his 1971 Dodge Challenger.
■ Michigan Classic Ballet Company’s Moonlight & Diamond Dreams 20th Anniversary Gala
Big Wine Classic Golf Event “You’ll have the best wine ever,” promised Dave Provost as he and event chair Bart Tinsley were going over committee matters before the 116 golfers finished playing the Birmingham Country Club course on Aug. 31. He referred to the important bottle of wine that each participant brought for post-play tasting. While the golfers played, Holiday Market’s Brian Croze grouped the wine and made display boards for each group. Following a day of golf with good food and wine in the company of friends was something the late Rob Schuele enjoyed. He also once confided to Tinsley that his dream was someday to “rock someone’s world.” To that end, the Robert A. Schuele Scholarship Fund was born. Tinsley, Provost, Tom Violante, Curtis www.oaklandpaper.com
Clockwise from upper left: MCBA founder and artistic director Mary Geiger (left) of West Bloomfield with visiting ballerina / teacher Olga Palova, former Bolshoi ballerina, now principal dancer of the Metropolitan Classical Ballet in Texas. MCBC pioneers Katherine Shensky (left) of West Bloomfield and Kal Goren of Bloomfield. MCBC board members and alumna Danielle Vivio (left) of White Lake with alumnae Jen Ball of Royal Oak and Miriam Goren of Bloomfield. Event emcee WDIV’s Ruth Spencer and her husband Jerry Aaron of Bingham Farms. Mitchell Wagner (left) and MCBC alumna and board member Katey Moses of Berkley and Erin Ladd of Bloomfield. MCBC board members Rich (left) and Melissa Schreck of Troy with Mary and Dix Geiger of Bloomfield. Dix Geiger (left) with event speaker / committee member / mother of an MCBC member Kim Worthy, Wayne County Prosecutor and Debbie Dingell of Dearborn. Dingell is Mary Geiger’s cousin.
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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Canterbury on the Lake’s Good Samaritan Gala
Canterbury on the Lake executive director Susan Diembic with honorees Maggie and Bob Allesee of Bloomfield. Cindy Maxwell-Philips and her husband John Philips of Bloomfield.
■ Robert A. Schuele Scholarship Fund 2009 Big Wine Classic
Top row: Committee member Dave Provost (left) of Birmingham with Laura and event chair Bart Tinsley of Beverly Hills. Schuele’s widow Lori Polakowski (center) of Birmingham with scholarship awardees Ginni Reiter (left) of Ferndale and Christie Low of Royal Oak. Clockwise from upper left of 2nd row: Terry Barr (left) and Creighton Forester of Bloomfield, Johnn Antakli of Sylvan Lake and Holiday Market’s Tom Violante of Troy. Celani Family Vineyards’ Tom Celani (left) of Bloomfield and committee member Steve Ortale of Birmingham. Phil Keila (back left) of Beverly Hills, Peter Root of Birmingham, John Cunningham (front left) of Harrison Twp. and Scott Steigerwald of Bloomfield. Longest woman drive winner Catherine Ronnisch of Bloomfield. Valerie Gill (left) of Rochester, Jerry and Mary Ann Lievois of Bloomfield. Tom and Katie Prior of Birmingham. Tom Prior (left) and Steve Ortale of Birmingham.
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Burstein, Steve Ortale, Dave Lychuck, Scott Steigerwald, Bernie Ronnisch, Terry Thomas and Chris Lievois oversee the fund. And the Big Wine Classic that raises the dollars to grant full-ride college scholarships. More than 60 people joined the golfers for the informal but bountiful dinner. There were lamb chops, roast beef and grilled vegetables to go with the reds. And seafood, fruits and cheeses to pair with the whites. There was also a 52-card raffle ($100 per ticket) for 3 Magnums of Celani Family Vineyard wine and five luck-of-the draw winners that won either 3L bottles of wine or a bottle of BIG Red. Not surprisingly, the golf trophies were also bottles of wine. Winning the first place lot were Tom Violante Sr., Craig Mangold, Dean Rondy and Dick Moore. Winning second place were Steve Ortale, Craig Ortale, Tom Prior and Ed Globe. Winning third place were Steve Mancuso, Bruce Soderberg, Mike Carty and Todd Williams. Catherine Ronnisch won the longest drive for a woman and Jeff Petherick won longest drive for a man. Schuele’s widow Lori’s new husband John Polakowski played golf and Lori joined him for dinner and the program In addition to the awards, it featured updates by the two scholarship holders - Christie Low, who goes to U of M and Ginni Reitee, who is transferring from Oakland U to College for Creative Studies to study photography. “You guys are such a big part of my life and my future,” Reitee said to the assembled. Tinsley told them that the proceeds from the 2009 Big Wine Classic would enable them to award another full-ride, four-year scholarship next spring. To inquire about RAS scholarships, go to www.bigwineclassic.com
Karmanos Partners Golf Classic The Partners, the young professionals Karmanos Cancer Institute support group, attracted a sold out registration (142) of golfers for the scheduled afternoon play at Franklin Hills Country Club on Aug. 24 so they added space for 28 more in the morning. Some players bought mulligans ($3,210). When play concluded, about 150 guests lingered on the tented terrace behind the Albert Kahn-designed club house to applaud the prize winners. The men’s first place score of 54 was carded by Martin Deatch, Doug Wood, Dan Pohl, and Kevin Michalik. In second place (55) was the Residential Home Health Foursome of David Curtis, Michael Lewis, Mario Nanos and Grant Williams. Dave Thewes and Jane Schwartz landed their balls closest to the pin on a designated green and Derek Bildstein and Kelly Dreske hit the longest drives when they were being measured. People also sipped, supped, heard from Stephen P. Ethier, PhD about OCTOBER 2009
some basic research going on at KCI, bid ($4,796) for silent auction items and bought $5,550 worth of raffle tickets. The raffle winner will be drawn Saturday night at the second part of the Partners event – The Night, at Somerset. The first raffle prize is a $5,000 Somerset Collection gift certificate. Karmanos VP of Development Nick Karmanos was the program emcee and happily announced that Barbara and Fred Erb will match the first $125,000 the Partners raise at the two-part event.
■ Karmanos Partners Golf Classic
Champions for the Kids Following a Sunday night gala at the Townsend, 180 golfers turned out the next day at Oakland Hills Country Club for the Yatooma Foundation’s Golf Tournament. Rain threatened, but unlike the 2008 tournament when a power outage challenged the club staff, the weather was not a factor. The awards program highlighted the post golf socializing, sipping and supping scene. It was bumped up a few decibels when Thomas Carroll, winner of the putting contest, donated his prize - a trip to Los Cabos - back to the foundation for Paul W. Smith to auction to the highest bidder. After some spirited back and forth, Mario Sciberras bought it with a bid of $1,500. John Muir hit the longest drive when it counted on the North Course. Jack Krasula won the same title on the South course. Ed Noyola was closest-to-the-pin on the North Course. Don Stone did it on the South Course. First place team on the North Course, sponsored by Saline Lectronics, included Mario Sciberras, Rich Hahn, Ron Taulton and Mike Dennis. Second place team on the North Course, sponsored by National City, included Mike Kell, Scott Cebul, Dave Morrison and John Scollin. Third place team on the North Course, sponsored by Charity Motors, included Freman Hendrix, Stephen Hendrix, Sherman Larkins and John Donigan. First place foursome on the South Course, courtesy of a scorecard playoff, included Bill Dorough, Soren Christensen, Chris Brandemihl and Mark Merucci. This team was sponsored by The Advanced Strategies Group, Inc. Second place foursome on the South Course, sponsored by News/Talk 760 WJR, included Mike Fezzey, Jack Krasula, David Boyle and Ben Boyle. Third place winner on the South Course, sponsored by the Detroit Red Wings Alumni Association, included Greg Stefan, Shawn Burr, Doug Brown and Wayne Presley. Counting the proceeds of the Sunday night party, the 2009 Champions for the Kids event raised nearly $600,000 to assist families impacted by the death of a parent. Birmingham attorney Norman Yatooma founded the Yatooma www.oaklandpaper.com
Clockwise from upper left: Event co-chair Burton Brodsky of Bloomfield with Partners co-founder Eunice Ring of Franklin. Event co-honoree Sid Forbes (left) with past honorees Gary Sakwa of Bloomfield and Alan Schwartz of Franklin, who also chairs the Karmanos board. Karmanos men: Jason left) of Wake Forest, SC, Peter III of Birmingham, Peter,Jr. of Orchard Lake and Nick of Bloomfield. Event co-honoree Maddie Forbes (left) and honorary co-chair Jennifer Forbes of Bloomfield with Marilyn Wolpin of Farmington Hills. A happy team: Bob and Bluma Schecter (left) and Erwin Madorsky of Bloomfield and his daughter Andrea of Stamford, CN.
■ Yatooma Foundation’s Champions for the Kids Golf Tournament Clockwise from right: Event co-chair Nicole Yatooma and her youngest child Sophia of Bloomfield. The Red Wings Alumni team Doug Brown (left) of Bloomfield, Greg Stefan of Farmington Hills, Wayne Presley of Novi and Shawn Burr of St. Clair Shores. The team that tied for low score but came in second due to a scorecard tie-breaker: Ben Boyle (left) and WJR’s Jack Krasula of Bloomfield and Mike Feezey of Farmington. Not pictured National City’s Dave Boyle. Honorary event co-chair Red Wings legend Ted Lindsay (center) of Rochester with Suburban Collection’s Tony Fayne (left) of Birmingham and Morgan Stanley’s Greg Schink of Royal Oak and a 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder in the background. WJR’s Paul W. Smith of Grosse Pointe with Capital Grille’s John Kelly of Troy.
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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ 18th Annual Rose Hill Golf Foundation Invitational
Foundation to honor his late father, a victim of deadly violence. In four years the foundation has raised more than $2 million.
Rose Hill Foundation
Left to right above: Rose Hill founders Dan (left) and Rosemary Kelly of Bloomfield with event honoree Adam Cardinal Maida of Plymouth and his gift – a TaylorMade R9 driver. Event coordinator Gayle Flannigan of Rochester with event chair Greg Schwartz, Jr. of Birmingham. Golfers Kathy Larkin (left) of Bloomfield and Judy McDonald of Birmingham. Marianne Walsh congratulates her husband Dick of Bloomfield and sons Dan of Southlake, TX, Mike of Farmington Hills and Pat of South Bend, IN for having the lowest team score. The Douglas team: Edmond (left) of Canton, Mark of Detroit, Walter and Retha of Bloomfield.
■ Birmingham Educational Foundation’s Golf Outing
BEF Golf Scramble
Left ro right: Winning team: Rick Pifer (left), Rob Lawrence and David Larson of Birmingham and Paul Wills of Ferndale. High scorers: Robyn Freeburg (left) of Commerce, Carol Adamczyk of Troy and Michael Fenberg and Greg Boudreau of Birmingham. Volunteers Raenette Palmer (left) of Commerce, Laura Couger of Franklin and Cris Braun of Birmingham.
■ Children’s Charities Coalition’s Golf and Bridge to Benefit Kids
Clockwise from upper left: Judy Cassidy (left) and golf co-chair Felicia Palazzolo Shaw of Birmingham. Honorary co-chair Cathy Weissenborn (left) of Bloomfield with her mother Marilyn Anderson of Lake Orion and Donna Duffield and Mary Dakin of Birmingham. Honorary co-chairs Connie Beckett (left) of Troy with her mother, Carol Runno visiting from Wisconsin and Kelly Shuert with her mother-in-law Joyce Shuert of Bloomfield
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The Rose Hill Foundation golf fund raiser attracted 90 golfers to Bloomfield Hills Country Club on a perfect summer day. Thanks to sponsorships by Hoot and Jack McInerney, Dan and Rosemary Kelly and the Penske Corporation, the event should net around $35,000 for the residential treatment center that serves adults with a mental illness. Adam Cardinal Maida was the most famous of the golfers, but not the best. The best score was carded by Dick Walsh and his three sons. In second place was the team of Wayne Gwizdala, Larry Kazanowski and Dave McCammon. Third place was won by Greg Schwartz, Jr., Greg Schwartz Sr., Mike Murray and Joe Young. There were four holes that figured into closest to the hole honors. Those went to Reggie Boerger, Brandon Horrocks, John Basford and Greg Schwartz, Jr.. The longest drive on two holes was hit by Calvin Rye and Jan Luedtke. Greg Schwartz, Sr. hit the straightest drive. All guests were really winners because each got a lush rose bush cultivated by the gardeners at Rose Hill Center.
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Nobody won the bright red Ford Fusion that Dean Sellers Ford offered for a hole-in-one at the Birmingham Educational Foundation’s Golf Scramble, but thanks to 138 golfers and a silent auction and raffle, the 13th Annual Golf scramble raised more than $44,000 to support exceptional educational programs in the Birmingham Public Schools. It was chaired by Laura Couger, Robyn Freeburg, Mark Ceo and Linda Hatfield. The winning team included Superintendent Dr. David Larson, school board member Rob Lawrence and Plante & Moran’s Rick Pifer and Paul Wills. Although most golf events do not celebrate the most strokes, this one does. The team of Carol Adamczyk, Robyn Freeburg, Greg Boudreau and Michael Fenberg earned those honors. Dave Andrejko and Jason Fettig won the most accurate drive contest. Lindsey Rem was the longest woman driver; John King the longest man driver. Rob Carson was closet to the pin when it counted. All agreed that the weather and the Wabeek Country Club course were exceptional.
Golf and Bridge to Benefit Kids The Children’s Charities Coalition’s second Golf and Bridge to Benefit Kids attracted 60 golfers and 26 card playOCTOBER 2009
ers and another 25 for lunch on a drizzly day at Pine Lake Country Club. The event honored Connie Beckett, Kelly Shuert and Cathy Weissenborn for their yeoman efforts that made the coalition’s Kids Helping Kids, One Step at a Time event such a success. Karen DeKoker’s team of Carol Denton, Lisa Glock and Kathy Mehnert turned in the best score. Thanks also to sponsors Kroger, Shuert Industries, and Mckinac Partners, the event raised $41,000. That will be shared by Variety The Children’s Charity, The Community House, Care House of Oakland County and Orchard Children’s Services.
■ ORT Studios Rub-A-Dub
ORT Studios Rub-A-Dub Rob Colburn and Marty Katz’s 2009 Rub A-Dub committee capitalized on Michigan’s burgeoning film industry for the decorating theme of the Aug. 20 event benefiting ORT America Michigan Region. The party attracted 300 supporters of the world’s largest nongovernmental education and training organization to Franklin Hills Country Club. Amid film posters and movie paraphernalia, guests bought raffle tickets, bid in auctions and dined on bountiful buffet offerings that included oh so sweet perch from the grill and the club’s famous handmade potato chips. They also heard a compelling testimony from Michael Stocker, who not only changed his life thanks to Hermelin ORT’s Better Job Opportunities computer program but now tutors there. He also made a donation to the evening’s silent auction which raised $19,000. Brian Hermelin, the son of Rub-ADub founders Doreen and the late David Hermelin, again served as the live auctioneer. He got someone to pay $5,500 for the Cartier Ballon Blue watch Steve Tapper donated, $4,200 for the four tickets to a Tigers playoff game that Stuart Borman donated and $4,000 for a week’s stay at the Snowmass condo his mother donated. In all, the live auction garnered $35,000. This included what Scott Ferguson and Renee Godin paid to lease a Jaguar for three months next summer. They subsequently learned that the Gary Kligmans, who bought the Elder Automotive Group donation last year, liked the car so much they have decided to buy it. There was also a raffle in which Maureen Gallagher won the top prize of a $5,000 Somerset shopping spree and Rochelle Meyer, who was attending Rub-A-Dub for the first time, won the second prize, a collection of fine wine donated by nine ORT supporters. Howard Eisenshtadt won the door prize, a $500 gift certificate to L’uomo Vogue. Thanks to the sponsorship of companies like Noah’s Naturals, owned by former West Bloomfield resident Noah www.oaklandpaper.com
Clockwise from upper left: Event chairs Marty Katz (left) and Rob Colburn of Bloomfield. Millie Pastor (left) of Bloomfield, host committee members Elyse and sponsor Honigman’s David Foltyn of Birmingham with sponsor Jaguar’s Irma Elder of Bloomfield. Betsy (left) and Keith Lubin of West Bloomfield who was silent auction co-chair with Pam Nodel of Orchard Lake and live auction cochair Richard Winkelman of Bloomfield. Hall and Hunter’s Meredith Colburn (left) of Bloomfield and her daughter Lauren, an event volunteer, with committee member Glen Fisher of West Bloomfield. Sponsor Title Source’s Howard and advisory chair Sharon Eisenshtadt of Bloomfield. Morris (left) and Rhonda Brown and Helen Katz of Bloomfield. Robb and Debbie Lippitt of Bloomfield. Raffle chair David Gans (left) and committee member Craig Singer of Bloomfield. Below: Rob Nusbaum (left) and his father Irving Nusbaum of Franklin.
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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Motor City Lyric Opera’s UnMask Your Passion
Bremen who continues his ORT support from the west coast, the fundraiser should net some $200,000 to enable ORT to educate people who are seeking training in record numbers due to unemployment.
UnMask Your Passion WJR’s Mike Fezzey said it exactly right when he emceed the Motor City Lyric Opera’s UnMask Your Passion show Aug. 27 at Detroit Country Day’s Seligman Performing Arts Center. During the first intermission, after Caitlin Elizabeth Lynch and Jonathan Lasch had sung some Mozart selections, Fezzey observed, “(Wasn’t that like) an exclamation point to God’s creation?” The audience of 250 applauded in agreement. Violinist Sonia Lee, pianist Karl Shymanovitz and the MCLO Children’s Chorus also earned enthusiastic applause. The evening began and ended with receptions beautifully catered by Maryann Atchoo’s new Elegant Events company. In addition to sipping and snacking, guests vied for the 18 donated artful masks that were displayed for silent bidding. The masks created by Caitlin’s aunt Mary Tata and her brother Paddy Lynch garnered the two highest bids and brought the total bids to $3,200. Thanks also to the beneficence of sponsors Hungry Howie’s, Letica Corporation and The Private Bank, the delightful evening netted about $20,000 to enable MCLO to take the joy of music to disadvantaged students.
Anti-Defamation VIP Reception
Left to right, top to bottom: Stars of the show: Birmingham native soprano Caitlin Elizabeth Lynch, now of Cincinnati and baritone Jonathan Lasch of Cincinnati. Event co-chairs Sarah Jackson (left) and Dr. Mary Fisher of Bloomfield. Patrick Lynch (left) of Bloomfield, Birmingham native Mary Tata and her husband author Thomas Lynch of Milford. Bob Koval (left) of Troy, honorary chair Jack Krasula and Francine Grace of Bloomfield. Patrick Callaghan (left) of Bloomfield, Annie Noonan of Birmingham, her mother Mary Noonan of Bloomfield. MCLO founder/artistic director Mary Callaghan Lynch (left) of Bloomfield with Martha Reeves of Detroit and Beverly Ross of Oakland. Kathy Callahan Callaghan (left) and artist Carol Black of Bloomfield with Black’s mask. John (left) and Nancy DeAngelis and sponsor Hungry Howie’s Steve Jackson of Bloomfield studying Mary Tata’s “Teahouse of the August Moon” mask.
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The Anti Defamation League is also planning to bounce a fund raiser off Michigan’s new film industry activity. A VIP reception for 90 at the Townsend earlier in the summer preceded a presentation by Mitch Albom and hometown writer/producer/actor/comedian Mike Binder about the importance of the state tax incentives to the movie industry and the subsequent jobs it will create. High unemployment often triggers an increase in hate crimes, which the ADL battles. Pamela and Richard Nodel are chairing the main event - Lights, Camera, ADL Takes Action Wednesday, Oct. 14 at the Townsend. Their committee includes Leonard Sahn, Lois Shaevsky, Wendy Linehan, Susan Borin, Pamela Ayres, Evelyne Beninson, Margaret Hall, Sharon Lesnic, Jeff Sakwa, Eli Scherr, Elaine Sturman, Judy Tann, and Cory Hamilton. The honorary chairs are Todd and Joi Wagenberg. In addition to Binder, the event will also honor producer Gary Gilbert, producer/director Harry Winer, actress/ OCTOBER 2009
Kinsgwood alumna Selma Blair, Purple Rose Films’ producer Bob Brown and long time Michigan film studio Grace and Wild’s Harvey Grace. There will be a super silent and live auction, including walk on movie parts, signed film paraphernalia, trips and experiences. For tickets ($200, $118 –under 35 years,) call (248) 353-7553.
■ Anti-Defamation League’s VIP Reception
Angel’s Place Family Fun Day The threatening weather broke and the sun shined on Angel’s Place’s annual Family Fun Day Aug. 29. It brought about 800 of all ages to Detroit Country Day School’s West Maple Road campus for food, music and such activities as putt putt golf, face painting, floor hockey, hoop shooting and carnival games. The Bloomfield Township police and fire departments were also on the scene. Kids could climb on a fire truck and get fingerprinted. The biggest waiting lines were often at the rock climbing tower. The event is planned by the Angels’ Friends Committee of young professional supporters of Angels Place, which provides quality care for life to adults with disabilities. It raised about $35,000.
Left to right above: Special guest Mike Binder (center) of Los Angeles with his mother Judy Trumbull (left) of Beverly Hills and ADL fall benefit co-chair Pam Nodel of Orchard Lake. Bruce and Rosie Rosen of Bloomfield. Vivian Pickard (left) of Bloomfield, Ron and Christine Bonatz of Northvile. Below: Linden (left), Michelle, Ariella and Sandy Nelson of Bloomfield. Stacey Kaplan (left) of West Bloomfield and benefit committee member Lois Shaevsky of Bloomfield.
Vatican Museum Arts Reception Tony and Suzanne Rea hosted a dessert gathering Aug. 28 for supporters of the Michigan Chapter of The Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums. The featured speaker was noted art historian Liz Lev, who spoke about the true meaning of Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment”. Among the 80 guests were chapter chairman Frank Stella and Jennifer Nasser, Tom Monaghan, Irma Elder, Bev Moore, the Michael Kowalskis, Chris Reas, John Hales, Joe Harts, Harry Kemps and Msg. Terrance Hogan. Hogan, North American Chaplain to the patron chapters, described the Michigan Chapter’s recent project – restoring the 18th century candlesticks in the Pope’s private chapel. About 20 of the 100 Michigan Chapter patrons ($500 per couple annual dues) will be traveling to Rome in early November for a privileged art tour. It will include private guided tours of the restoration labs and museums, private dinners and a reception with the new American Ambassador to the Vatican. Prospective chapter patrons are also welcome to register. Call Eileen at (313) 565-8888, ext. 174. Send ideas for this coumn to Sally Gerak, 28 Barbour Lane, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 or e-mail samgerak@aol.com or call 248.646.6390. www.oaklandpaper.com
■ Angel’s Place Family Fun Day
Left to right: Angels Place residents Pat Molony (left) and Michael Olshefsky (right) flanking event co-chairs Tom MacLean of Birmingham and Kathy Kupelian of Bloomfield. Lilly (left), AP board member Mark and Amy Carroll of Birmingham with host committee chairs Janet and AP board member Jim Rivard and their son Charlie. Susan Hall (left) of Birmingham and Patty Dugan of Bloomfield. Margie, Lindsay, Kim, Katie and Mike Kell of Birmingham. Katie Kell getting fingerprinted by Bloomfield Township officer Pete Matejcik.
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■ final word Refile lawsuit on 48th District Court
T
he long-standing complaints about how justice is meted out in the 48th District Court when dealing with minor in possession (MIP) of alcohol charges finally bubbled to the surface earlier this year when a lawsuit against the court was filed in Oakland County Circuit Court. Although that lawsuit has since been dismissed on a technicality and could be refiled, the issue of how the judges in the 48th District Court treat defendants will not go away without some remedy. Forty-eighth District Court judges for years have had a reputation for being tough on drunk drivers, which is all well and good. But at the same time, the judges of the court — Kimberly Small, Diane D'Agostini, and Marc Barron — have gained an equally tough reputation for how they handle the MIP cases that come through the court. As the common complaint goes, a minor charged on an alcohol possession case in the 48th District Court will usually end up with the maximum sentence allowed under local ordinance and state law, which is not always the case in other district courts in the county and state. One local ordinance, for example, allows for fines of not more than $100 for a first violation and the defendant can be
ordered to participate in substance abuse prevention services or treatment, ordered to perform community service, and undergo substance abuse screening at the defendant's expense. In many cases we have followed, the judges in the 48th District Court generally apply the maximum allowed under local ordinance. But here's the rub. Judges of the district court have also, in some cases, jailed first-time MIP offenders, using an end run around local ordinances and state law which don't allow for the jailing of firsttime offenders. What the judges do is issue sentences for first-time offenders and when the defendant slips up and doesn't meet all the conditions of the sentence, the judges bring the youth back into court under contempt of court charges, which allows the judges to hand out jail time. Yes, we understand that violation of a court order allows for contempt of court charges and therefore jail time. But we are not talking about some major criminal act in these cases. An MIP charge and conviction is considered one of the lowest level crimes on the books, and in many areas of the state are disposed of with a simple fine and not the additional requirements of classes, rehabilitation, community service, and the like.
Instead, in the 48th District Court, defendants generally get the maximum allowable sentence and in some cases eventually face jail time. That may well be good politically for the judges, some of whom made the reputation and gained office by campaigning on how tough they would be on drunk drivers and other alcohol-related cases. But we think eventually a heavy-handed system of justice also breeds contempt for the system, which is tragic when one considers the very minor nature of this offense. As far as a solution, our first reaction is to call for some type of state legislation that prevents a judge from using contempt of court charges as a maneuver to jail first-time MIP offenders. But that probably would raise a host of other legal problems and is probably not practical. So the public's only hope would be that the attorneys who filed the original lawsuit will follow through and refile their complaint this year with the circuit court. The first legal action was dismissed when the presiding circuit court judge ruled that the complaint could not be heard because legal counsel sued the court itself, rather than naming the individual district court judges as defendants. We say, name the judges in an amended lawsuit and take this issue back to a higher court. ■
Recovery zone designation for county
A
proposal to designate all of Oakland County as a recovery zone to implement new economic development and business recruitment tools was expected to be quickly approved by the county Board of Commissioners at a recent meeting. However, Democrats and Republicans engaged in a nearly one-hour debate on some Democrats' desire to channel the funds to certain communities. In the end, Republicans were able to use their board majority to thwart the Democratic proposal. We're grateful the GOP commissioners held their ground and had the entire county designated as a recovery zone, thereby enabling the federal funds to be used in any county community. The Board of Commissioners voted in late August to designate the entire county as a recovery zone under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. About $104 million in bond funds could be used to finance infrastructure projects, and another $156 million could be used for
fixed asset projects in the private sector, according to county staff. Areas designated as a recovery zone also qualify for reimbursement from the U.S. Treasury Department of 45 percent of each interest payment on recovery zone economic development bonds. Republican and Democratic commissioners sparred over guidelines on bond funding allocations. Republicans held that the whole county qualifies as a recovery zone, given the recent General Motors and Chrysler bankruptcies, the county unemployment rate, and the number of foreclosures in the county. Democrats wanted to give funding preference to projects in communities in the bottom end of various statistical categories such as property values, foreclosures, bankruptcies, unemployment, and poverty. The Republican approach makes more sense for a few reasons. While county communities with the highest unemployment rates, and greatest
number of foreclosures and bankruptcies surely could benefit from recovery zone funding, there's no guarantee that those communities are being targeted with infrastructure or development projects that qualify for the funds. In addition, not all municipalities will want to increase their debt obligation, even with the federal reimbursement pledge. Designating the whole county as a recovery zone provides maximum flexibility in doling out the funds, and helps ensure that all of the money available to the county is used by the end of next year. The concept of a "borderless" county has merit when it comes to economic development issues. If one community can have infrastructure improved or secure a developer for a significant project, the greater county community benefits through job creation and a bolstered county tax base. Limiting those opportunities by restricting bond fund allocations based on statistical data related to specific geographic areas would be foolish. ■
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