The Paper - September 2009

Suburban Cadillac in the Troy Motor Mall - part of the Suburban Collection of dealerships - is still alive and well and close to home.

One of Michigan’s largest Cadillac dealerships with a 60-year tradition of excellence.

We would like to invite you to come into our store to meet our people and learn more about why, with our state-of-the-art dealership, service department and group collision shop, Suburban Cadillac is consistently acknowledged among the premier Cadillac stores in the country.

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Call us today at 866.523.3120 or stop in anytime and get to know us. We’re located off Maple Road on Maplelawn (between Coolidge and Crooks) and open when it’s convenient for you, including Monday and Thursday nights until 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

1810 Maplelawn Troy, MI 48084 Sales: 866-523.3120 Service: 248.643.0070 www.SuburbanCadillacBuick.com

City of Bloomfield Hills

City of Bloomfield Hills

City of Bloomfield New Construction

City of Bloomfield Hills Newer Estate

Cass Lake Lakefront

Orchard Lake Lakefront

Adjacent to Cranbrook Educational Community. Newer construction boasting all bedroom suites, gracious floor plan and details, 7 fireplaces, 4 car garage. $2,599,000 Finished lower level.

Tudor style new construction. First floor owners’ suite. Almost 5,500 sq. ft. All bedrooms are suites. Optional fifth guest suite. $2,495,000

Situated on over one acre. All bedrooms are suites. Four car garage. Gated community with Country Club affiliation. $2,495,000

On private cul-de-sac street.

Uncompromised details. First floor owners suite. Lower level with extensive amenities. 4 car garage. $2,380,000

Sunset views and sprawling lakefront leading to sandy beach. Meticulously maintained and updated. Lower level rec room with private indoor pool. West $1,850,000 Bloomfield schools.

On estate sized lot with over 100 ft. of sandy beach. Classic lake home with comfortable accommodations.

West Bloomfield schools. $1,699,000

Bloomfield Hills All-Sports Lakefront

Custom Newer Construction in Bloomfield Hills

Walk to Downtown Birmingham

Newer Construction in Birmingham

Butler Ridge Beauty

Orchard Lake Lakefront

Custom contemporary. Gourmet kitchen. All bedroom suites. Finished walkout lower level. Three car garage. $1,429,000

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

Executive retreat on large, private lot with pool and grotto. Owners suite with library. Finished lower level with bedroom suite and bar. $1,280,000

With quality appointments and sophisticated details. Exceptional master suite. Finished lower level.

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

Soft contemporary on over one acre of manicured grounds. This walkout setting is ideal for today’s living or a perfect spot to build your dream house. $1,200,000

Newer Construction on Lakefront Setting

Classic Bloomfield Hills Estate Home

In-Town Birmingham Condo

All-Sports Upper Straits Lake Lakefront

Vhay Lake Lakefront

Upper Straits Lakefront

6,000 sq. ft. on almost one acre in renowned Pine Creek Ridge. First floor master suite. Finished walkout lower level. Extensive amenities. $1,199,999

On almost 2 acres. Completely remodeled in 2005. Elegant yet incorporating today’s contemporary conveniences. Five plus car garage. $1,199,990

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

Fabulous views. Abundant storage.

With fully finished walkout lower level. Situated in the City of Orchard Lake. Private dead end street location and southern views. $1,150,000

City of Bloomfield Hills. Private culde-sac location. Walkout lower level.

Live-in accommodations with separate entrance. $1,099,000

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

Private Lake Angelus

Bloomfield Hills Gated Community

All-Sports Lakefront Setting

City of Bloomfield 3.29 Acres Setting

South shore lakefront. Updated ranch with finished walkout lower level leads to patios and firepit. Casual lakefront living and sandy bottom ideal for swimming. $895,000

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

Bloomfield Hills schools. $895,000

With sunset views and sandy beach.

City of Orchard Lake. West Bloomfield schools. Surrounded by multi-million dollar homes. $849,000

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

Bloomfield Hills schools. . $785,000

New Construction in Birmingham

City of Bloomfield Hills

Almost 4,000 sq. ft. of today’s living with gourmet kitchen, eat-in, 2 way fireplace to family room. Owners suite with office, Euro bath and dual closets. Private setting. $735,000

With first floor master suite. Kitchen with eat-in, workstation and access to patio. Library. Walk to Bloomfield Hills Country Club. $619,000

$1,190,000

$1,275,000

K A T H Y BROOCK BALLARD Bloomfield Village Classic Colonial

Executive Retreat in Bloomfield Hills

With large bedrooms, 3 full baths up, Euro master suite.

Multiple fireplaces, finished lower level with 5th bedroom and bath. $785,000

Newer Arts and Crafts design with open floor plan. Private setting with tranquil views. 3 car garage.

Bloomfield Hills schools. $749,000

Birmingham Custom Remodel

City of Bloomfield Hills

Sprawling Ranch

Newer Build in Pleasant Ridge

Located on cul-de-sac setting and large private grounds. Euro kitchen.

Library. Master suite with walk-in closet. New low price. $599,999

Rare ranch style detached condo.

Large kitchen with deck. Living room with fireplace. Dining room. Library.

Finished walkout lower level. Lease for $3,000/month. $495,000

Situated on an over 1 acre wooded lot. Remodel includes kitchen/family addition with 3 car garage.

Bloomfield Hills schools. $290,000

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

248.318.4504 KATHYBROOCK@AOL.COM MAX BROOCK REALTORS 275 S. Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham, MI 48009

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

■ 29: MUNICIPAL Township looks at a single waste hauler; controversy and contract to repave Square Lake Road; filing deadline for Birmingham commission; new fire station opens; development seeks a special liquor license; debate over Barton Hills lighting; sewer rate increases; library director resigns; plus more

■ 39: EDUCATION The upcoming school election; the latest on the Pine Lake School closure lawsuit

■ 41: COUNTY SMART millage; E-Verify for Oakland; possible vacancy on circuit court; Meisner land bank; Dem party bogus letters

■ 47: BUSINESS Long Lake Market; She; Four Paws Community Center; Artloft; Clavenna Vision Institute; Bridget and Stacie; Sandella's Flatbread Cafe; Templeton Building Company; Cheeburger Cheeburger; Birmingham Home Theater

■ SNAPSHOTS ■ 27: Mike Clark ■ 53: Markus Ketty ■ 19: Joe LoDuca

■ 55: EVENTS CALENDAR What’s happening for the month of September

■ 57: THE COMMUNITY HOUSE The President and CEO of The Community House, Shelly Roberts, on what's coming up in the weeks ahead.

■ 58: EATING OUT

■8

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

DINING OUTDOORS

Birmingham set a plan in motion in 2007 to create a vibrant downtown atmosphere with outdoor dining, and the plan is paying off.

■ 62: SOCIAL LIGHTS/SALLY GERAK The latest from the society and non-profit circuit

■ 70: FINAL WORD Our editorial commentary

■ OUR COVER

■ 14: SCHOOL VIOLENCE

■ 21: MUNICIPAL FINANCE

■ 49: NAMING THE LAKES

In a post-Columbine era, what the state-mandated reports show about the Birmingham and Bloomfield districts, and how some are viewing the data.

The local municipalities are facing declining revenues and the challenge will worsen in the coming years.

The Birmingham-Bloomfield area is dotted with waterfront property. Here's a quick look at how some of these bodies of water got their names.

4

THE PAPER

Kirk In The Hills Presbyterian Church on Long Lake Road in Bloomfield Township, designed by architects George D. Mason and Wirt Rowland, graces our cover this month.

Cover art by Chris Grammer, from photos shot by Amy K. Lockard.

SEPTEMBER 2009

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THE PAPER

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Restrictions and blackout periods may apply. Itineraries may operate in reserve order and may be subject to change. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. or Celebrity Cruises Inc. is not responsible for errors that may occur due to the transfer of information from selected third parties, technical error, or human error.

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THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

■ from the publisher

T

he past few weeks have been very uplifting for the staff producing The Paper for Birmingham-Bloomfield.

We are not a large organization. Instead, we are a smaller, independently-owned media group based in Oakland County. We launched The Paper on the time-honored premise that a strong, no-holds-barred product will be welcomed by readers and advertisers alike.

So the overwhelming response to our August premier issue of The Paper was heartening. I personally received nearly two dozen e-mails from residents in the area; news staff members received phone calls and communication via our website from many of you relative to stories in our first issue; and our sales staff heard directly from the local businesses as they went about their daily rounds.

Most assuring is the continued, growing support from the business community which makes this publication possible. The September issue you are now reading contains support from nearly 60 businesses, almost twice the number of accounts represented in our first issue. We take that as a positive sign that we are on the right path to developing a product that gets read by residents in the over 29,000 homes receiving The Paper at no charge each month.

We continue to look for feedback and suggestions from the community, whether it's a personal e-mail to me at the address I list below or in letters to the editor via mail and through our website (oaklandpaper.com) It's your chance to participate.

All comments – spoken, e-mailed or written – make their way to my desk.

We will not always agree on content; some will be uncomfortable from time to time with topics we tackle; others may have to adjust to what one local official described as an "edgier approach" to our news coverage which has been lacking in the local area.

But our motivation will always be transparent: A news product that serves to provide a concise monthly package of essential information for local residents in an effort to help make the Birmingham-Bloomfield area the best it can possibly be.

–––––––––––––––––– We are pleased this issue to announce that veteran journalist Lisa Brody, a local resident, has joined the staff of our publishing group, covering municipal news and trend issues in the Birmingham-Bloomfield community for The Paper.

Lisa is well-known in the community for her past work with a number of other publications in Oakland County, both in the role of writer and editor, and I am excited that she will bring her skills and knowledge of the communities to our publication.

–––––––––––––––––– As a closing note, if you are involved with a non-profit community group that has not taken the time to sign up for free promotion on the website of The Paper, then take the time now to go to www.oaklandpaper.com, where you can find instructions on how to add your non-profit (501(c)3) group to our site.

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.

Our promotion of non-profits includes a mission statement from your group, group logo, and a link to your group's website.

It's our way of helping in any way we can to strengthen the important work that the non-profit community groups do every day.

David Hohendorf Publisher davidhohendorf@thescngroup.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY THE PAPER OAKLAND LAKEFRONT OAKLAND HOMES MONTHLYADVERTISER WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY 50th YEAR OF PUBLICATION

www.oaklandpaper.com

Background photo: Elie’s Mediterranean Cuisine. Top to bottom at left: Forté Restaurant, 220, Streetside Seafood, Dick O’Dow’s, Big Rock Chop House The Paper photos / Amy K. Lockard

BISTRO SCENE HOW BIRMINGHAM PULLED IT OFF

By Lisa Brody on the streets, and give shoppers another reason to come downtown,” he goal was to create a vibrant, eclectic, exciting restaurant scene in Heiney said. downtown Birmingham. The dilemma was how to do it.

Ecker had the idea to create a contract between the owner of the In April 2007, after much discussion, the Birmingham City establishment and the city of Birmingham, rather than the state, which Commission adopted a zoning ordinance amendment which allowed for regulates traditional liquor licenses. the development of bistro licenses for eateries in the downtown dis“There are multiple ordinances involved; some are zoning ordinances, trict. Its intent was to encourage smaller dining establishments to set some are city code amendments,” she said. up shop around Birmingham without having to acquire one of the limitMichigan Class C liquor licenses are dispensed through the Michigan ed Class C liquor licenses, which have been known to sell for upwards Liquor Control Commission, and the number available is based on the of $800,000. Because of the liquor licenses’ high prices and scarcity of community’s population. According to the Michigan Liquor Control turnover, new restaurants were rare in Birmingham, and outdoor dining Commission web site, these restrictions date back to 1930, during the was almost invisible.

Prohibition era.

“The only restaurants able to come in at that price were chains,” Birmingham’s Class C resort licenses number at 17, set in the early said Birmingham Planning Director Jana Ecker.

1970s when liquor by the glass was adopted statewide. For decades, Mitchell’s Fish Market and Cameron’s Steakhouse, both formerly of Birmingham’s elected officials held steadfast to that number, concerned the Cameron Mitchell Group of about having bars and nightclubs Columbus, Ohio, and now a part in their quiet town.

Restaurants, Bistros, Cafés with Outdoor Dining of the Ruth’s Chris Steak House “At the same time as we were chain, and Fleming’s Prime looking at attracting smaller, • 220, 220 Merrill, 248.645.2150 Steakhouse & Wine Bar all more eclectic and diverse restau• Beyond Juice, 270 W. Maple, 248.540.3354 acquired their liquor licenses as rants, the state changed its law • Big Rock Chop House, 245 S. Eton, 248.647.7774 Class C resort licenses, at a to allow liquor licenses to cities steep price. with downtown development • Brooklyn Pizza, 111 Henrietta, 248.258.6690 John Heiney, executive direcauthorities or principal shopping • Canella's Patisserie & Creperie, 300 Hamilton, 248.203.9704 tor of the Birmingham Principal districts, as long as they had • Café Via, 310 E. Maple, 248.644.8800 Shopping District (PSD), noted invested a minimum amount of that the bistro license is still a money in their downtowns,” • Chen Chow Brasserie, 280 N. Old Woodward, 248.594.2469 Michigan Class C liquor license, Ecker said. “We had invested so • The Community House Terrace Café, 380 S. Bates, 248.644.5832 but was designed through a city much money downtown, • Cosi, 101 N. Old Woodward, 248.203.9200 zoning ordinance, primarily Birmingham could have offered under the auspices of Ecker and • Dick O'Dow's, 160 N. Old Woodward, 248.642.1135 lots of new liquor licenses.”

City Manager Tom Markus. The In April of 2007, the • Elie's Mediterranean Cuisine, 263 Pierce, 248.647.2420 PSD Board of Directors, many of Birmingham City Commission • Forest Grille, 737 Forest, 248.258.9400 whom are merchants, studied unanimously adopted the unique • Forté Restaurant, 201 S. Old Woodward, 248.594.7300 and recommended the ordinance zoning ordinance amendment to before sending it on to the City allow for bistros with limits on • Java Hutt Café, 207 S. Old Woodward, 248.593.1027 Commission for approval. their liquor licenses, and outdoor • Panera Bread, 100 N. Old Woodward, 248.203.7966 The PSD, struggling with an dining in the downtown area of • Phoenicia, 588 S. Old Woodward, 248.644.3122 up-and-down retail economy, Birmingham and the Triangle competition for shoppers from District of Birmingham, just east • Qdoba, 795 E. Maple, 248.988.8941 Somerset Mall in Troy, and less of Woodward, south of East • Salvatore Scallopini, 505 N. Old Woodward, 248.644.8977 activity on Birmingham’s Maple, and north of Ruffner. With • Sandella's Flatbread Panini, 172 N. Old Woodward, 248.594.4200 streets, was anxious to revitalize that came a strict list of specificathe retail shopping district, and tions adoptees had to comply • Streetside Seafood, 273 Pierce, 248.645.9123 shopping promotions alone were with in order to receive a license.

• The Corner Bar at The Townsend Hotel, 100 Townsend, 248.642.7900 not the ticket.

Each year, the City Commission is • Toast, 203 Pierce, 248.258.6278 “We wanted to create energy only allowed to provide two bistro

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licenses to new businesses, and two bistro licenses to existing businesses without liquor licenses.

“In granting these new licenses, we felt we wanted something in return,” Ecker said. “So not only do new bistro requesters have to meet state regulations and standard LLC guidelines, they also have to meet the city’s definition of a bistro, and all of the regulations that go with it.”

Among the requirements restaurateurs must follow in order to get one of the coveted licenses is having a full-service kitchen at the bistro; a full indoor and outdoor site plan; no bistro can have any more than 65 seats total, including no more than 10 at the bar; they are allowed to have low-key entertainment; there must be tables in windows lining the street; and it’s mandatory that the bistro have outdoor seating, either on the sidewalk outside the establishment or on a patio platform in a parking space outside the restaurant.

“Outdoor dining helps bring vitality and pedestrian traffic and adds a lot of life to the street,” Ecker said, noting why she and others felt it was imperative to add that into the list of mandates. “It allows for great people watching. It’s the same with the tables in the window. It helps bring the indoors out, like window shopping. They’re both great for the merchants around them.”

Heiney concurs.

“When you look down any street in Birmingham, you see the umbrellas, you see the people out and about, enjoying lunches and dinners, and it creates excitement and enhances the entire downtown experience.”

Well into its third year, Birmingham’s bistro license initiative is a success by all current measures.

“It’s accomplished what the city sought to achieve,” said City Manager Markus. “There are more people and a feeling of energy on the streets. If Birmingham develops a reputation as a fine dining mecca, then it has a gravitational pull, and people will head our way. And the spill over will go to the retailers.”

Mayor Stuart Lee Sherman agrees.

“I thought it would be good for the city, add some diversity to the restaurants, and make the city a destination location,” he said. “And it’s worked out exactly as planned. How many cities can say on a Monday night that their restaurants are busy?”

He and the rest of Birmingham’s City Commission are constantly monitoring the bistros and the licensing process, controlling the diversity of bistros, their price points, and saturation levels.

Commissioner Don Carney wasn’t initially in favor of these new licenses, concerned that the original state limit by population was satisfactory. He also was sensitive to the concerns of the original restaurant owners who had already committed millions of dollars “under a different set of standards, paying $500,000 to $800,000 for liquor licenses.

Now we were creating a different business model in mid-stream.”

Carney came on board when Markus emphasized that because the zoning idea is principally a special land use permit with a liquor license attached, it enables the city to maintain contractual control over any future transfer of the bistro license, unlike traditional Class C liquor licenses.

“In order to transfer one of these licenses, they would have to come in front of the commission for approval all over again,” Carney said.

The bistro license model is now being copied in other municipalities around the country, according to Carney.

Besides the bistros succeeding, Heiney said he feels the retailers definitely are benefiting from their addition.

“Café Via, in a different part of town, has directly enhanced the businesses in its vicinity, like The Italian Dish and Woodward & Maple,” he said.

Now that the train has left the station, and people are waiting in lines to sit at outdoor tables and mill around the streets of Birmingham, it’s hard to believe that the bistro license ordinance would be curtailed. Yet the City Commission is monitoring its usage and determining its continuance.

“At what point do we saturate the market?” Carney asked. “The original restaurants complain all of the time that bistros are zapping their businesses, especially in a down economic market.”

The City Commission will conduct a thorough study next spring on the bistro licenses’ benefits and possible drawbacks.

“It’s brought vibrancy to Birmingham,” Mayor Sherman said.

“Birmingham is now the place to see and be seen.” ■

THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

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The October issue of The Paper.

In homes September 25.

Ad deadline September 8.

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THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

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● Sexual Assault ● Assault ■ Robbery ■ Burglary ▲ Vehicle Theft ▲ Vandalism ● Murder ★ Arson ✖ Drug Offenses ✪ Larceny From Vehicle

The latest crime locations by select categories from mid July through mid August.

SCHOOL VIOLENCE

A POST-COLUMBINE PRODUCT, SOME DEBATE WHETHER STATE CRIME STATS GIVE ACCURATE PICTURE

BY KATEY MEISNER

W

hile the Birmingham School District cited 63 instances of assault and the Bloomfield Hills School District reported 13 occurrences during the 2007-08 school year, officials in those districts — and others — warn that such statistics don’t always provide a clear picture about school crime and violence.

Those numbers come from the state’s Center for Educational Performance and Information (CEPI) web site, which annually posts various crime and safety statistics that school districts are required to report.

The center develops school crime and violence category definitions and protocols, which are open to differing interpretations that can lead to skewed statistics, according to Carolyn Claerhout, manager of district and pupil services for the Oakland Intermediate School District. For example, incident definitions under the center’s School Infrastructure Database (SID) state that vandalism in excess of $100 must be reported annually.

“Some of our books are $100. If a student writes in a book, do (the schools) have to report it? If (students) take a book, is that considered larceny?” Claerhout asked. “I doubt it. It’s not cut and dry.”

Those kinds of questions and differing interpretations by school districts are why some educators rail against the public’s penchant for using the figures to compare districts.

The state is required to collect, analyze and report all statistical data related to Michigan’s public schools. Statistics are compiled at the end of each school year by the CEPI under Public Act 102 of 1999. Currently, the law requires school districts to annually report all incidents investigated by law enforcement officials and indicate those involved in each particular incident.

The school districts must also provide a listing of authorities who were involved in responding to each case, categorize all events according to definitions established by the state, and establish protocols to address notification and reporting practices.

Claerhout said there have been some adjustments to certain incident definitions that schools must use when reporting data to the state. Required responses to certain incidents have also be modified. Among the definitions and responses that have been changed are the attempted suicide incident definition and response.

“In the threat of suicide, we were supposed to call the police,” Claerhout said. “When a kid is threatening suicide, we want to contact the parent or counseling service.”

However, contacting law enforcement could escalate the situation, according to Claerhout.

“That should not be the first response,” she said.

Also changed was the response to tobacco use. While school officials were instructed to contact law enforcement following a tobacco use incident, both school and law enforcement officials agreed that wasn’t a reasonable response.

“Police officials said ‘If you report tobacco use on your grounds, we won’t come.’ We agreed with the police that it was probably a bit extreme,” she said.

Local law enforcement officials having jurisdiction over a particular school district are required by law to report back to individual school buildings regarding any incidents that took place on school property, or within 1,000 feet of school property. That information is in turn reported annually by the schools to the state. Incidents reportedly taking place “at school” are defined as occurring in a school district vehicle, school classroom, other school property or at a school-sponsored activity, regardless of location.

School boards are required to submit a copy of the most recent crime and safety data once per semester and to make that information available to parents or legal guardians of each student enrolled in the district.

Steven Gaynor, superintendent of the Bloomfield Hills School District, said he takes issue with some components of the state’s annual Crime and Safety Statistics Report information that districts have to submit.

“The usefulness of the CEPI school safety report is limited largely by the lack of clear definition of the terms used,” he said. “For example, assault is interpreted differently between school districts, and even between schools within a district.”

These differing interpretations diminish the accuracy of the reports, according to Gaynor. Particularly troubling to some officials is the use of the report as a means to compare school districts.

“I’m always concerned when comparative data, which may be inaccurate, is used for comparison purposes,” he said. “This complicates the already existing problem of district-to-district comparisons when the demographics, needs, strengths, locations, and priorities of the districts also differ.”

While strong concerns regarding required reporting practices and the accuracy of these crime and safety reports are still being expressed by school officials, Oakland Schools' Claerhout said there are also benefits to the required reports.

"Frankly, this was all created as a result of Columbine (High School in Colorado)," she said, adding that the reports serve their purpose of perpetuating a dialogue between law enforcement and school district officials.

"I think the report was created to prove to the public that we were doing something," she said. "There has got to be some sharing between the police and schools and, in that respect, the report has done its job."

The state’s 2007-08 Crime and Safety Statistics Report, the latest available, consists of 27 separate field descriptions of crime and safety statistics.

Here are the definitions, according to the state, of the incidents reported during the school year that aren’t self-explanatory: • Student Bullying: Incidents of student bullying that have occurred during the past year on school property or at a school-sponsored activity.

• Truancy: The number of students who were truant during the past school year. A student is considered truant when he or she has 10 or more incidents of unexcused absence. An unexcused absence is defined by local school board policy.

• Disciplinary Referrals: Incidents of disciplinary referrals that have occurred during the past school year on school property or at a school-sponsored activity.

• Physical Assaults: Incidents of physical assaults between a student and another person that were reported to law enforcement and resulted in suspension or expulsion.

• Illegal Possession: The number of incidents that involved the illegal use, possession, or sale of a controlled substance, prescription drug, or narcotic.

• Trespassers: An intruder on the property without authorization.

• Vandalism: Theft, graffiti, or incidents of vandalism/destruction of school property.

• Property Damage: An estimate of the funds needed to repair vandalism.

• Weapons: Incidents when a person was in possession of a dangerous weapon, meaning firearm, dagger, stiletto, iron bar, pocket knife, or brass knuckles.

• Suicide Attempt: When a person threatens or attempts to commit suicide on school grounds. Threats can be written or verbal.

• Suicide: Suicide on school grounds or at a school event.

• Victims: Students who have been victims of violent criminal offenses at school.

Paul DeAngelis, the Birmingham School District’s deputy superintendent for educational services, said he agrees that districts may not follow exactly the same guidelines or incident definitions when reporting crime incidents to the state.

“I’m sure there’s a slightly different interpretation,” he said. “But, I would say that the report is fairly accurate.”

Though he said he recognizes the possibility of discrepancies, DeAngelis said he focuses his attention on his own district.

“We benchmark our information off of our previous year’s data,” he said.

“We don’t focus even a small portion of time on comparing ourselves with other districts. We just try to read each description as literally as we can and try to be as accurate as possible.”

While DeAngelis said that incidents in the Birmingham School District are significantly lower than in other districts, he said, “It’s not because we don’t report incidents; it’s because we just are fortunate not to have a high number of them.”

BIRMINGHAM SCHOOLS The Birmingham School District reported just over 8,000 enrolled students in the 2008-09 school year. The school district is composed of 15 buildings, and 13 of those are instructional buildings.

Student bullying figures have increased in the district, with 29 incidents

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reported for the 2005-06 school year, 31 reported for the 2006-07 school year, and 52 incidents reported during 2007-08.

Similarly, physical assaults have gradually increased, with 28 incidents reported during 2005-06, 35 incidents reported in 2006-07, and 63 reported for 2007-08.

In contrast, illegal possession incidents dropped from 11 incidents in 2005-06 to 10 in 2006-07, and five in 2007-08.

Also on the decline are incidents involving weapons possession, with only one incident in 2007-08 reported, as compared to three incidents the previous year. No weapons incidents were reported in 2005-06.

Larceny apparently is on the increase, with eight incidents reported for 2005-06, 38 in 2006-07, and 43 reported for 2007-08.

Nine suicide attempts were reported for the 2005-06 school year, 19 were reported for 2006-07, and five incidents were reported for 2007-08. No suicides were reported for those three school years.

DeAngelis said incidents like bullying and physical assaults may be on the rise as a result of required data reporting practices, as opposed to an actual increase in incidents.

“I think part of the reason we see a trend of increase is that we’ve made such an attempt to squelch bullying and assault that we’re qualifying things as assault or bullying that, in the past, we may not have,” he said.

As for incidents like weapons possession and suicide attempts declining, DeAngelis credits decreases in those incidents to school programs and counseling.

“It’s nice to know that our efforts in that area have been impacted,” he said. “We like to attribute that to our character education programs.”

Marcia Wilkinson, director of community relations for the Birmingham School District, said that it’s important to note that the data may vary depending on how incidents are reported and classified, especially bullying incidents.

“At the building level, we have not seen a noticeable increase in incidents,” she said. “We have seen an increase in students reporting incidents of bullying. We are stressing to students that bullying will not be tolerated and should be immediately reported.”

BLOOMFIELD HILLS SCHOOLS The Bloomfield Hills School District’s student enrollment last year was about 5,200. The district is composed of 16 buildings, with 13 of those being instructional buildings.

Student bullying decreased from 36 incidents in 2005-06 to nine in 200607, but the number went back up to 36 in 2007-08.

Physical assaults increased to 27 in 2006-07 from 25 in 2005-06, but fell by over half in 2007-08 to 13 incidents.

Illegal possession went up during the 2006-07 school year to eight incidents compared to seven in 2005-06; however, that figure fell to three during the 2007-08 school year.

Weapons possession was down to zero in 2006-07 from two in 2005-06.

In 2007-08, weapons possession increased to four incidents.

Reports of larceny are on the decline, with 57 reported for the 2005-06 school year, 22 incidents reported for 2006-07, and 18 in 2007-08.

Suicide attempts rose to three in 2007-08 from zero in 2006-07, but fell from the five reported incidents in 2005-06. Between the 2005-06 and 2007-08 school years, no suicides were reported.

“Kids don’t always know how to cope with their frustrations and I think it’s really important that we pay attention to those instances of bullying,” said Edward Bretzlaff, the school district’s assistant superintendent for instruction. “We do have programs in all of our buildings, and we are equipping kids to deal with situations where they are either being confronted with negative behavior or they are observing it.

“On the increase in suicide attempts in 2007-08, it’s such a difficult and sensitive issue when kids are contemplating self harm,” he said.

Though the 2008-09 Crime and Safety Statistics Report wasn’t available through the CEPI before press time, Bretzlaff said the district had no suicide attempts during the 2008-09 school year.

“We’re trying to intervene way before kids get that desperate,” he said.

According to Superintendent Gaynor, the statistics can be contorted depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“The numbers are influenced by the type of incident,” he said. “In any given year, for example, you could have a single fight involving several kids or several fights involving a few kids. The implications are different for each.”

In an attempt to limit school crime incidents, Gaynor said the district has changed how it utilizes hallway and parking lot supervisors over the years; and through the use of cameras, district officials have been able to better identify who’s behaving badly and diminish the number of incidents.

“Considering the total number of students we’re dealing with, the numbers represent very little variability over time, although several trends are certainly positive,” he said. ■ www.oaklandpaper.com

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oe LoDuca, known for composing the music for "Xena: Warrior Princess" and "Hercules," has 10 Emmy nominations and one win under his belt, but it will take more than the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to lure him from his Bloomfield Hills home studio.

"I love my work and living here helps me keep things in perspective," he said. "Many of the directors and producers I work with can't fathom why we wouldn't live in Los Angeles, but after a tour of Cranbrook or dinner in downtown Birmingham, they quickly come to appreciate our special corner of the world."

A University of Michigan and Wayne State University alumnus, LoDuca developed an interest in music at a young age and has found success in his often unconventional expression of sound.

"Any sound can be made into a source of inspiration, whether the stimulus is from another time or culture or whether it comes from bowing a glass cake dish," he said, adding that much of his music encompasses an organic, hand-made quality and explores sound on a very basic human level.

As a successful and award-winning composer, LoDuca revels in the

opportunity to collaborate with talent like Sam Raimi, Rob Tapert and Dean Devlin, though he said he doesn't like to limit himself to working with the same directors and producers on every project.

"As much as I love Hunter House hamburgers, you can't eat there every night," he said.

According to LoDuca, he hopes to teach the next generation of ambitious, hard-working talent and share his experiences.

"As intrinsically-rewarding as making music can be, a career in the music business isn't to be considered lightly," he said.

LoDuca will continue to compose music in his Bloomfield home studio for the foreseeable future. Currently, he's hard at work there composing the score for his next film project. He's also working on the hit TNT series "Leverage," the drama series "Spartacus," and the Disney series "Legend of the Seeker." For him, Bloomfield Hills offers the best of both worlds.

"My wife and I feel very fortunate to live in such a beautiful community," he said. — Katey Meisner The Paper photo/Amy K. Lockard

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SEPTEMBER 2009

STORM ON HORIZON? MUNICIPALITIES MOVING TO SHORE UP FINANCIAL PICTURE

By Kirk Pinho and Brooke Meier

W

hen the national economy collapsed under the weight of a mortgage foreclosure meltdown and a credit crunch, many in the United States hadn’t uttered the words “financial crisis” in decades, if at all. Yet for Michigan residents, that phrase was part of the state’s everyday lexicon well before the economic nosedive, one that spurred unprecedented government intervention in the financial sector and, some would argue, shifted the political winds decidedly in favor of President Barack Obama.

The local governments of Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Bloomfield Township — known across southeast Michigan as communities chock full of palatial estates, trendy and upscale restaurants and boutiques, and as a haven for a myriad of well-to-do residents — are now grappling with flat-lining revenue streams that are the product of declining total taxable property values, reduced state-shared revenue payments, and other economic factors over which they have little control.

Local governments are heavily reliant on property tax revenues, which are based on local millage rates multiplied by the taxable value of properties in the community. These revenues haven’t been rising at the rates that communities were used to just a few years ago because assessed property values used to calculate property tax bills have been declining.

In addition, when homeowners don’t pay their mortgage or their property taxes, the foreclosure process starts, sometimes culminating in the home reverting to lender or county ownership. As more and more homes become foreclosed upon and are sold at lower prices, the assessed property values of surrounding homes are also lowered — thereby decreasing the amount of property tax revenue local governments collect, according to Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner.

“Those revenues, as they go down, hit local governments right where they live,” he said. “It directly and immediately impedes the local community’s ability to provide vital services” such as police and fire protection.

The most recent property assessments from the Oakland County Equalization Division show that Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Bloomfield Township each experienced a decline in total taxable property value between 2008 and 2009. Birmingham’s taxable property value also dropped between 2007 and 2008.

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David Hieber, manager of the Oakland County Equalization Division, said residential property values across the county are expected to drop an average of 15 percent next year. Although he acknowledged it’s possible taxable values have bottomed out, he said he doesn’t see the declines reversing until foreclosures in the county “come back to a normal level.”

The county is on pace for over 8,000 mortgage foreclosures this year, according to Hieber.

There were over 9,000 last year.

“Obviously, southeast Michigan and Oakland County have been hit hard by the auto industry job losses, and that will directly relate to property values,” Hieber said, referring to the state’s July unemployment rate of over 15 percent. “There isn’t a community that’s immune to the real estate market. It’s the same in Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, and Birmingham.”

Meisner said there are currently 550 properties that have reverted back to the county due to failure to pay property taxes. A significant portion of those properties have been gobbled up by local units of government at auctions. Those 550 taxforeclosed properties, however, represent only a fraction of the number of mortgage-foreclosed properties in the county.

As if dwindling tax revenue streams weren’t enough, local governments are also feeling the pinch due to cutbacks in state-shared revenue payments, which are unrestricted sales tax revenues distributed to local governments.

In troubled economic times, people generally spend less money, yielding less sales tax revenue for the state and, as a result, shared revenue payments taper off — and that’s not all. Adding insult to injury, lawmakers in recent years have been prompted to slice statutory revenue sharing payments to local governments in their efforts to stem the state’s own budget woes.

Here’s how Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Bloomfield Township have been impacted by stagnant revenue streams, and how they are coping with that situation.

BIRMINGHAM The total revenues Birmingham has been collecting have dropped each budget year since fiscal year (FY) 2006-07, when the city collected $71.4 million. In the next budget cycle, that dropped to $68.2 million, followed by $61.3 million in FY 2008-09, a decline of $6.9 million. The city expects to collect $59.5 million in revenue during the current budget year, which runs until June 30, 2010.

According to the Oakland County Treasurer’s Office staff, as of mid-July, there were no tax foreclosed properties in Birmingham. However, there were 31 mortgage foreclosed properties counted in the city between April and June 9, according to the Planning and Economic Development Division’s Foreclosure Analysis Service. Between Jan. 1, 2008, and June 9, 2009 the county issued 154 sheriff’s deeds, which are essentially deeds issued to the buyer of a foreclosed home sold at a sheriff’s auction.

In concert with revenue declines, city expenditures have been cut, as well. In FY 2006-07, the city chalked up $78.4 million in total expenditures. However, the next fiscal year, that figure dropped to $61.8 million — $6.4 million less than the revenues received that year.

Expenditures increased to $70.7 million in FY 2008-09, but have leveled off for the current budget cycle at a projected $62 million.

About $10.15 million is expected to be in the city’s fund balance — which is essentially the city’s rainy day fund — by the end of the current fiscal year.

Although the state Legislature has whittled www.oaklandpaper.com

back statutory revenue sharing payments to local governments, Birmingham’s intake of state dollars has remained largely consistent over the past four budget cycles, hovering between $1.67 million (FY 2008-09) and $1.74 million (FYs 200708 and 2009-10).

Birmingham’s total taxable value, as determined by the Oakland County Equalization Division, has declined in the last year. The city’s total taxable value was documented at $1.97 billion in 2006 and $2.1 billion in 2007. Its total taxable value was again $2.1 billion in 2008, but fell to $2.02 billion in 2009.

Plante & Moran auditors, who conducted a financial forecast that was presented to city officials early this year, project that property values in the community will continue to spiral downward — all the way to $1.74 billion during FY 2012-13.

As of late July, there were no properties in Birmingham that were placed in tax foreclosure.

However, there were 32 mortgage-foreclosed

City Manager Tom Markus recently reported that a study showed consolidation could save more than $5 million in a seven-year period. properties in the city between April and June 9, according to staff in the county’s Foreclosure Analysis Service.

Finance Director/City Treasurer Sharon Ostin said the city is now operating with 36 fewer employees in City Hall by using attrition and position consolidation.

“I was the finance director before, but now I’m the finance director/treasurer now that the treasurer retired,” she said.

The city is also looking into the possibility of consolidating police and fire services with Bloomfield Township, which could save each community millions of dollars, according to Ostin.

Plante & Moran recently completed a study of the possible merger.

City Manager Tom Markus reported in a recent community quarterly newsletter that the study estimated that the possible consolidation would yield operational savings for the Birmingham Police Department of up to $5 million over a seven-year period, and an estimated $1.75 million annually after that.

“These figures include the one-time costs of approximately $3.6 million to $5.6 million for upgrading existing facilities,” Markus wrote.

Merging the two fire departments would yield a projected $4.5 million over a seven-year period THE PAPER

and then annual savings of about $1 million each year after.

The report estimated that, at current operational expense levels, the township would pay about 65 percent of the costs while the city would incur 35 percent, according to Markus’ report.

In addition, the report recommended that police operations be run out of a centrally-located facility, which could shutter the city’s downtown police station. But the City Commission has requested that strides are taken — if and when a consolidation comes about — to “retain some police presence in Birmingham’s downtown station location.”

“This will be part of the on-going discussions between the two communities and the safety of residents will continue to be a major factor,” Markus stated in his report.

Improved technology has also reduced the city’s maintenance costs, and fees for permits and applications have increased in recent years.

For example, upgrading the City Hall’s phone system netted Birmingham a one-time savings of $91,000, and will save the city $30,000 each year, according to Ostin.

The city has also reduced the amount of money it’s been setting aside for a new Chesterfield Fire Station that’s expected to be completed in 2011-12; and has halved, from $50,000 to $25,000, the amount of money it contributes annually for a heating, venting, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at the Baldwin Public Library.

“By reducing costs this year, that should help reduce the costs in future years,” Ostin said.

City Clerk Nancy Weiss said that two years ago, Birmingham went from 13 voting precincts to nine, with reduced costs playing “a big part” in that decision. Although it’s unclear how much money the consolidation will save, the move could produce significant savings.

City employee benefits have also come under the budgetary axe. New hires no longer receive retiree health care benefits. In addition, Ostin said department heads and administrative staff didn’t receive pay raises this year, and non-essential overtime was eliminated in January.

The city has only recently dipped minimally into its fund balance, according to Ostin, mostly to help pay for improvements in Shain Park.

According to the city’s 5-year financial forecast, Birmingham most likely will be able to maintain the 10 percent to 25 percent General Fund balance set as a target level through 2010.

However, that could just be the calm before the storm. If fiscal assumptions the auditors used in the projection hold water, the fund balance could be $6.26 million in the red by the end of FY 2011-12, with that figure ballooning to $14.73 million by the end of the following fiscal year.

General fund property tax revenues are expected to take a hit in the upcoming fiscal years, as well, according to the city’s auditors. In FY 201011, those dollars are projected to be $17.47 million; however, in 2011-12, the city is expecting to take a nearly $1-million hit in property tax revenues, collecting $16.51 million.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS A nearly $50-million drop-off in taxable value in Bloomfield Hills has dealt a blow to the city’s General Fund revenues, making it largely stagnant in a time when benefits and legacy costs are increasing rapidly.

This year, the community’s total taxable value was determined to be $849.1 million, while 2008’s was $897 million. Bloomfield Hills experienced increases in 2006 and 2007, when the total taxable values were $864.7 million and $889.9 million, respectively.

23

While there was only one tax-foreclosed property in Bloomfield Hills as of mid-July, there were 20 sheriff’s deeds issued between Jan. 1, 2008 and June 9, 2009. Between April 1 and June 9, there was one such deed issued, according to staff in the county’s Foreclosure Analysis Service.

General Fund revenues in Bloomfield Hills have remained largely stagnant since the 2006-07 fiscal year, according to city records. That year, the city took in about $9.05 million in General Fund revenues — nearly $279,000 in state-shared revenues — yet projected revenues for the upcoming fiscal year are expected to be about $9.13 million for the General Fund. In fact, during the current 2008-09 fiscal year, the $8.99 million the General Fund took in was less than the $9.22 million it received in the previous fiscal year.

The city isn’t expecting any significant increase in state-shared revenue payments. In the current and upcoming budget cycles, Bloomfield Hills expects to net $275,000; in the previous two fiscal years, it received a bit shy of $279,000.

Expenditures in Bloomfield Hills have likewise remained largely the same over the past few fiscal years, with the upcoming fiscal year’s General Fund spending expected to be about $9.13 million and the city expecting to dole out $9.19 million this year from the General Fund. In FY 200708, expenditures were $9.18 million and in FY 2006-07, they were $8.40 million.

Although the city has been able to actually increase its year-end General Fund balance for the past few fiscal years to $4.21 million, the upcoming budget projects it will take a $1.5-million hit, bringing it to $2.76 million by the end of the upcoming fiscal year. Estimates put the fund balance $5.67 million in the red by the end of FY 2012-13 if city officials don’t significantly change the way they do business.

In July, the City Commission authorized between $8,000 and $10,000 to pay Plante & Moran auditors to perform a staffing assessment that was expected to take between 60 to 90 days. Prompting the assessment is a projected $1.4-million budget deficit for 2012.

of this revenue will and must be in our fund balance on any given March 31 in order for the township to have sufficient operating cash to get through the first nine months of the following fiscal year. Township fund balances typically reach a low point on the Nov. 30 balance sheet. The fund balance total for the three operating funds on Nov. 30, 2008 was approximately $6 million or about 15 percent of annual expenses. This is the best estimate of township reserves, and 15 percent of expenses is within the recommended range for reserves, but on the low side within that range.”

Current revenue projections for fiscal year 2010-11 show revenues declining to $35 million.

Perkins said that’s a result of a decrease in property tax revenue by $4.5 million due to a 13-percent decline in taxable value.

“The current expenditure projection for 201011 is $37.6 million, causing a $2.6 million deficit for the year,” Perkins said. “This deficit, should it

Supervisor Dave Payne said the township wants to see residents’ reactions to the various possible solutions to the financial crisis.

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP When it comes to saving money, Bloomfield Township Finance Director Ray Perkins said all possibilities are being discussed, including consolidation of services, personnel cuts, and finding new revenue sources.

Revenues in 2007 amounted to $40.41 million and spending was documented at $37.36 million.

The city’s 2008 revenues added up to $41.15 million vs. expenditures of $40.37 million. In 2009, $39.84 million is expected to be collected against expenditures of $39.82 million.

“We have not experienced a deficit in any fiscal year since 2002-03; therefore, the fund balance has not been depleted in any of the above years,” Perkins said. “The revenue and expenditures reported above are for our three major operating funds (General Fund, Road Fund, Public Safety Fund). Expense fluctuations typically reflect change in capital outlay from one year to the next. These capital expenditures have been somewhat high in recent years as we have tackled major infrastructure needs, hopefully well into the future.”

At the end of FY 2009-10, the projected fund balance will be about $20 million in total for the three major funds, according to Perkins.

“This, however, is not to be considered excess reserves,” he said. “The reason this is not considered excess is because our fiscal year ends just after the collection of our annual property tax revenue — the township tax is required to be on the winter tax bill, which is due on Feb. 14. Property tax revenue is over $30 million, or more than 75 percent of our total operating revenue, and most 24

occur, would eat up almost half of our reserves, but the budget is not final at this time and we are still working on ways to improve the situation, hopefully with few if any layoffs. Presently the 2011-12 outlook is even bleaker as we project to lose another $1.5 million to $2 million in property tax revenue.”

The township’s total taxable value is higher now than it was four years ago, but that does little to offset community officials’ concerns. This year, the total taxable value of the township is listed at $3.87 billion, a drop of $70 million from 2008’s total taxable value of $3.948 billion. In 2006, total taxable value was $3.73 billion, followed by $3.93 billion in 2007.

Oakland County Treasurer’s Office staff said there were no tax foreclosures in Bloomfield Township as of mid-July. However, between April 1 and June 9, there were 35 sheriff’s deeds issued on mortgage-foreclosed properties in the township. There were 206 issued between Jan. 1, 2008 and June 9, 2009, according to county Foreclosure Analysis Service staff.

The township’s state-shared revenues have been declining.

“At the beginning of this decade, the township received over $4 million in state revenue sharing from Lansing,” Perkins said. “The amount has steadily decreased and stagnated, mostly through action taken by the Legislature to reduce statutory (revenue sharing) payments.”

THE PAPER

“As a quick example, the township in fiscal year 2003-04 received $762,000 in statutory revenue sharing, as compared to approximately $250,000 currently,” he said. “The conclusion is that most of our decline in state revenue sharing receipts has been as a result of reductions made by the Legislature. The recent slump in the economy is adding to our problems as constitutional payments are now decreasing also. I don’t expect we will reach $3 million in state revenue for the upcoming fiscal years, and this will take us back to the revenue sharing levels of 15 to 20 years ago.”

Bloomfield Township has taken several steps to address revenue and budget issues, including compiling a comprehensive strategic plan to ensure township officials are doing all they can to avoid or minimize a projected budget shortfall of $6 million for the 2011 fiscal year.

According to Township Supervisor Dave Payne, the plan — a five-year projection of the hardships the township is anticipating and solutions to help solve the impending financial issues — identified four areas of concern: financial, infrastructure, personnel, and community expectations. In the plan, each area of concern is analyzed and actions are laid out that must be taken to reduce costs, restore revenues, and enhance efficiencies.

In July, the township contracted with Mitchell Research and Communications, Inc. to survey residents on a number of issues, including revenue enhancement options that could include a possible Headlee Amendment override, a new millage, and collection of an administration fee.

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

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

All three options could be additional sources of revenue for the township, which is currently preparing for a 2010-11 budget shortfall, according to Payne.

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

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

In the community’s summer newsletter, Payne also announced personnel changes the township is making.

“To decrease costs by $6 million we must, among other things, decrease staff levels by approximately 45 employees,” Payne said.

“Personnel expenses account for 78 percent of our budget, so that is where we must concentrate. We have begun to lower our numbers through attrition. Already we have 11 fewer employees than we had two years ago.”

In addition, Payne said several township employees are being cross-trained in multiple areas to help cover losses.

“These are just a few examples of how we are doing more with less.” ■ SEPTEMBER 2009

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ike Clark, a Bloomfield Township resident and co-host of the "Drew & Mike" program on WRIF-FM (101.1), not only has the top-rated morning show in town, he's also a licensed pilot, to boot.

The Michigan native attended East Hills Middle School in Bloomfield Hills and Shrine of the Little Flower in Royal Oak, and became a pilot as a teenager.

"I started flying when I was 16-years-old," he said. "I became a pilot when I was 17-years-old."

The owner of a single-engine Piper Cherokee, Clark said flying is his favorite hobby.

"If I'm not flying, I'm thinking about flying," he said.

Apart from traveling throughout Michigan on his private plane, Clark and his wife of 29 years, Trish, are mainly homebodies.

"I know people probably think I'm out at events, but we like to be around the house," he said, "To me, Bloomfield feels like you're living Up North. With the beautiful trees and rolling terrain, it's just a gorgeous area."

With no formal training, Clark relied on his popular character voices and quirky personality to break into broadcasting. After Ken Calvert left in 1991, an opportunity opened up for Clark at WRIF. "They hired me and teamed me up with Drew (Lane). We were on the air, and away we went," he said. "It's kind of what you'd call a 'Cinderella story.'"

The most rewarding part of the job for Clark is the relationship he's built with his audience, though he said interviewing celebrities like Mick Jagger and Eddie Van Halen has been quite a coup for him during his career.

Although co-host Lane left the popular radio show in 2007 and only recently returned, "Mike in the Morning," Clark's show on WRIF during Lane's absence, was able to maintain a No. 1 ranking.

"The audience stayed with us," he said. "The listeners are a big family for me and I was really happy we did so well."

With Lane back on board, Clark said he's looking forward to another great run with his co-host of 14 years. — Katey Meisner

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■ municipal City gearing up for $6.4 million plan to improve roadways

By Kirk Pinho Bloomfield Hills officials and residents are preparing for a proposed $6.4-million, 2010-12 road improvement program intended to improve city thoroughfares and infrastructure, including culverts and water mains.

A recent public meeting allowed residents to view displays and have city staff answer questions. A presentation on the program and an open question session was also included.

Special assessment districts (SADs) would be required for two of the planned projects: the paving of Brady Lane in 2010, and the paving of Ridgewood, Country Club, and Pembroke in 2011. Those projects would only take place if residents support the respective SADs, under which the owners of property benefited by the projects pay for project costs.

The city’s road improvement program first took off in 2007. City officials expect the three-phase initiative to continue through 2015. It’s been funded through bonds, city general fund money, state gas tax revenues, water fund and sewer fund dollars, and special assessments.

Next year work is expected to be completed along East and West Lone Pine Roads, Cranbrook Court, Linda Lane, Linda Knoll, Linda Court, and North Cranbrook Road. In addition, bridge and culvert work is expected to improve bridges along Lone Pine, North Cranbrook Road, and Brady Lane; and culverts under Lone Pine and Cranbrook Court. The water mains along Linda Lane, Linda Knoll, and Linda Court are expected to be replaced, as are water mains along East and West Lone Pine.

Improvements to North Orchard Ridge Road, Epping Lane, and Conge Drive are slated to take place in 2011, as are repairs to the North Orchard Ridge culvert. The city also plans to replace water mains on Epping Lane and Conge Drive, as well as conduct sanitary sewer rehabilitation.

In the final year of the second phase, Chestnut Drive, Chestnut Circle, Chestnut Court, Woodwind Drive, Renton Court, and Manorwood Drive are expected to be improved.

The Hickory Grove culvert also is slated for work that year. Of the $6.4-million price tag for the second phase of the road improvement program, just under $5.1 million will be covered by road improvement bonds.

Another $1.3 million will come from www.oaklandpaper.com

Square Lake Road work starts Fencing dispute with residents on roadway resolved

By Brooke Meier

C

onstruction is now under way along a stretch of Square Lake Road in Bloomfield Township under a contract between the township and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

The project includes repaving Square Lake Road between Telegraph Road and Woodward Avenue, median improvements, and the installation of a sidewalk and a decorative three-rail fence.

The Board of Trustees had previously voted to change the terms of a proposed contract to exclude the sidewalk and place the new decorative fence as close as possible to any existing chain-link fence in the project area.

These changes were brought back to the board by MDOT with the stipulation that the township take responsibility for both fences, including any future maintenance.

Following testimony from several residents during a public hearing portion of the July 27 meeting, the board changed a previous resolution to reflect what both board members and those in attendance wanted, trying to achieve a winwin resolution and make a majority of area residents happy.

As a result, the township approved a resolution to sign the contract with MDOT. That contract stipulates a sidewalk will be installed along Square Lake Road, the repaving will take place, and a decorative three-rail fence will be installed. The township and a representative from MDOT agreed that any chain-link fence could be left in place on properties where security is an issue, provided the fence is in good repair.

Township workers will be going door-to-door with MDOT contractors during the project to determine what sections of chain-link fence will remain in place. In addition, Bloomfield Township Supervisor Dave Payne said a fence contractor will also be in the project area to provide cost estimates to residents who want to install their own fence for security. Payne and fellow board members also decided that those residents wanting to purchase their own fence can participate in an expedited permit process to ensure a fast and the city’s water and sewer funds.

Overall, the city’s roadway

easy path to having a new fence installed.

Under the approved contract, the township will be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the three-rail fence. Residents who want to keep an existing chain-link fence will be responsible for fence upkeep and repairs. If a chain-link fence isn’t kept in good repair, the township will take action to have the fence removed.

The vote to approve the resolution concerning fencing wasn’t unanimous. Township Clerk Jan Roncelli and Trustee Leo Savoie voted against the measure.

“We’ve signed the agreement and sent it to MDOT,” Roncelli said. “I voted against the measure because I think the three-rail fence against the existing fence is a contradiction. If this is for a beautification project, then putting it against a fence that’s rusty and dilapidated contradicts beautifying the area. We have to work with those who want to keep the (existing) fence up and make sure they can repair it in some way.

It’s, in most cases, in disrepair.”

The Square Lake Road repaving project was originally scheduled for 2011; however, an opportunity arose to use federal stimulus funds and the project was expedited to begin in early August. Because of the stimulus funding, the township was able to ask MDOT to cover the cost of median repairs and installation of the decorative three-rail fence to help beautify the corridor.

“I’m all for the project — I think the project is important,” Roncelli said. “Putting that decorative fence up and leaving the current fence up in certain locations and not other locations is going to detract from the beauty of what the project was intended to do. We will have to work very closely with the people in the field to ensure the fence gets repaired.”

Payne said neglected fences will not be allowed to stay in place.

“We’re trying to do what we can,” he said. “Another letter will be going out to residents to let them know what we decided and that if they want to keep their fence they will have to contact our engineering and environmental services department.”

Those interested in keeping their existing fence can call 248594-2800 and ask for Lance Scram.

“It was such an expedited process, we normally don’t handle business in that manner, but because of the severe time constraints, it made it more difficult to sort through everything,” Payne said.

“We are going to resurface both directions between Telegraph Road and Woodward,” said MDOT Spokesman Rob Morosi of the project. “Maintaining traffic (during the project) is essential. We will have two lanes open in each direction.”

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

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

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

Construction is slated for completion by late November.

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

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

Overall, Payne said he and the township board members are relatively happy with the way things turned out.

“I think residents were very articulate about the project and their opinions,” Payne said of residents who appeared before the board to discuss the work.

“Everybody remained very professional. It was a very civil, democracy-in-action kind of meeting.

“We were trying to come up with a win-win proposal and I think, in the end, we will be there,” he said. ■

improvement needs will cost $18 million to $22 million in 2009 construc-

tion costs, according to engineers with Hubble, Roth & Clark. ■

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■ municipal Bloomfield Hills mulls switch to single waste hauler

By Kirk Pinho The Bloomfield Hills City Commission may be giving new legs to an issue that recently had many residents up in arms.

Mayor David Kellett said at a recent meeting that the commission will be “seriously considering” implementing a single waste hauler system, an issue that has triggered a level of public outcry when it was considered in the past.

Kellett appeared to downplay community backlash if the city decides to go with one hauler, saying that while concerns would be expressed and some residents would be angry, “another Michael Jackson will die” and they would forget about the issue within “six months.”

City Manager Jay Cravens said the idea of pursuing a single waste hauler system in Bloomfield Hills is “more exploratory at this point.”

“I don’t think I would say that it’s serious other than the fact that they (the commission members) are willing to look at the situation,” he said.

One of the things spurring the issue is the damage garbage trucks can inflict on local roads, which is exacerbated when there are multiple haulers providing services throughout the week, according to Cravens.

“That’s one great reason for having a single trash hauler,” said Commissioner Patricia Hardy.

However, on the other side of the coin, Hardy said she has a problem with possibly losing the trash hauler that her family has used since they moved to Bloomfield Hills in 1973.

“In our case, you develop a personal relationship,” she said. “They aren’t just waste haulers. They’re not just strangers. They become people in your life.”

Bloomfield Hills has approximately seven waste haulers that operate in the city. In order for them to do business there, Cravens said they must fulfill city licensing requirements that stipulate that their trucks receive safety inspections from the state and that they have liability insurance, among other things.

Cravens said if the City Commission buys into the idea of having a single waste hauler, officials will consider having the commission review a proposed ordinance that would address the issue. www.oaklandpaper.com

Baldwin Avenue bridge Construction complete in November

By Lisa Brody

C

onstruction has begun on a new Baldwin Avenue bridge just north of Maple Road near Birmingham’s Mill Pond neighborhood.

Baldwin Avenue is closed from Maple Road to the north side of the bridge during the construction project. Signs are posted informing drivers to use Lake Park Drive as a detour route.

Demolition work has begun, and all construction work is being conducted by Dan’s Excavating of Shelby Township.

In the past 10 years, the city of Birmingham has acted proactively to demolish and rebuild aging bridges before they collapse or injure drivers or pedestrians. The old Baldwin Avenue bridge, which Birmingham Director of Engineering Paul O’Meara estimated to have been built before 1920, was made of reinforced concrete and “was beyond repairs.”

If the city eventually decides to go with a single waste hauler to provide service to the entire community, Cravens said he believes the city would implement “some sort of lead time” before the single hauler would take over, and that the city would probably just let existing hauler licenses expire.

A few years back, the city attorney brought the issue before the City Commission, but members were “really somewhat lukewarm about it” because the city’s governing body considered the matter a decision that should be left up to property owners, according to Cravens. Public outcry from residents expressing “emotional ties”

Birmingham Mayor Stuart Lee Sherman said the city has been right to work towards rehabilitating and rebuilding all of the bridges in the city.

The new bridge will be consistent with other new bridges in the area, including those along Lincoln Road and on Lakeside.

Cut stone will be used on the sides of the bridge, which will employ an arch-style design. A new 5-foot-wide sidewalk with metal railings will be built on one side of the bridge so people can walk to and from the Mill Pond neighborhood.

A tributary of the Rouge River flows beneath the bridge.

The project is expected to cost approximately $550,000, according to O’Meara. Money for the project was allocated by the Birmingham City Commission in June.

O’Meara said he expects the bridge and Baldwin Avenue to reopen in November. ■ to their waste hauling services also was critical in the commission turning down the idea when it was previously considered. ■

Township’s new central fire station nearly completed

By Brooke Meier Firefighters and central administration for the Bloomfield Township Fire Department are preparing to move into new facilities in midSeptember, a couple weeks later than expected.

The new central fire station will

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be located at the same location as its predecessor, at the corner of Exeter Street and Andover Road in the newly-renovated Bloomfield Township civic campus.

The new station was originally scheduled to open at the end of August; however, Fire Chief Dave Piche said the building isn’t yet ready to be used.

Bloomfield Township Clerk Jan Roncelli said the project is a part of a capital improvement bond project.

“It really brings the building up to date and makes it a state-of-the-art facility,” she said.

In 2006, township voters approved a 25-year bond proposal to provide funds for capital improvements. These funds are designated only for this purpose and cannot be used for any other expenses.

Construction of the new station began on Oct. 1, 2008.

“The original station was built in 1965 and was 15,000-square-feet in size. This new building cost $2.9 million and is 21,027-square-feet in size,” Roncelli said.

The portion of the old fire station that housed fire trucks wasn’t demolished, and the new building was constructed on the footings of the old structure.

“We saved about 20 percent of the old building,” Piche said.

While the fire station won’t be too much bigger than the previous one, Piche said the new layout is what makes the difference.

“The building was built in the 1960s, and the layout they built then just wasn’t working for the needs we have now,” he said.

The new building will house central administration, currently located in the basement of the 48th District Court building, and firefighters who are now being housed in trailers near the fire station site, according to Roncelli.

“This building will have things like a training center and a beautiful emergency operations room,” she said.

The emergency operations room is where the emergency response team will assemble and train.

“This is where the department would gather to respond to any kind of emergency or disaster that requires various stations to gather,” Roncelli said. “The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will also train there.”

The CERT is an organized group of trained citizen volunteers that can respond in the event of a disaster or imminent threat of disaster.

The new training rooms will also include new video conferencing, technology that will allow the department to set up video conferences room-to-room, as well as to train with other departments using the technology. ■ 31

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■ municipal Golf club taking action following spill that killed fish

Abandoned homes New ordinance gives greater leverage

By Lisa Brody A Bloomfield Hills golf course cited by the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has informed the department of the actions it is taking in response to a turfgrass product release that killed more than 500 fish in a tributary of the Rouge River.

The Stonycroft Hills Club, a private nine-hole golf club, has told the DEQ the employee who accidentally caused the spill has been reassigned, and a new employee who has been certified by the state Department of Agriculture for pesticide application is now handling turf care.

The club itself is taking steps to become certified in a program run by the Department of Agriculture called the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program.

As requested by the DEQ, the golf course is also preparing a spill prevention and reporting plan.

When finished, the DEQ will review the plan.

“They have finally indicated they will be implementing a staffwide training program to get everyone up to speed on the proper handling of chemicals,” said DEQ Spokesman Bob McCann. “This is a good first start. We’re going to still keep working with them to make sure these plans are followed through on, and to determine if any further action on our department’s part is necessary.”

A Bloomfield Hills resident discovered the dead fish in a headwaters section of the river on July 28.

The site, located north of Long Lake Road and east of Woodward Avenue in Bloomfield Hills, is 6 feet deep and 10 feet wide. The tributary flows into the Cranbrook Educational Community, although no dead fish were found on Cranbrook’s grounds.

According to Jeff Braunscheidel, a fisheries biologist with the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the report from the resident was forwarded to the DEQ, which has primary responsibility for investigating all environmental incidents.

Braunscheidel was called in to determine the impact on fish resources in the area.

“Basically, all of the fish were dead in this stream and the small pond nearby,” he said. www.oaklandpaper.com

By Kirk Pinho

W

ith a spike in vacated or abandoned homes in Bloomfield Hills cited as the impetus, the City Commission has given its blessing to a new vacated property ordinance that seeks to give the community greater leverage in addressing the problem.

The ordinance took effect in mid-July, according to City Clerk Amy Burton.

City Manager Jay Cravens said the ordinance, which is mostly geared towards the community’s 27 or so “distressed” properties, allows Bloomfield Hills to provide notice to the mortgage holders, or “any institution that we may be able to contact,” of the property’s condition so it can be brought up to meet the standards of the International Property Maintenance Code.

“We already have a property maintenance code that’s been around for several years, and this (new ordinance) just works with that,” Cravens said.

The ordinance applies to properties that have been vacant for 30 or more days and fall within any of the following criteria: • Provides a location for loitering, vagrancy, unauthorized entry or other criminal activity; • Has broken or boarded windows; • Has disconnected or unused

utilities; • Is partially complete and is “not fit for human occupancy” and there are no active building permits for the property; or • Is not in compliance with building regulations, the fire prevention code, or solid waste regulations.

Vacant property owners are now responsible for registering with the city; if the owner doesn’t register the property, that responsibility falls on the lender.

The ordinance stipulates that abandoned vacant properties are required to be kept free trash, junk and debris, as well as building materials, among others. It also requires the property to be free of graffiti, that visible front and side yards are maintained properly, that pools and spas be kept in working order, and that it be “maintained in a secure manner so as not to be accessible to unauthorized persons.”

Violations will be municipal civil infractions that would require the persons responsible to pay fines. The fine for a first offense or failure to file a registration affidavit or failure to maintain current information on file with the city is $200, while the fine for all other violations won’t exceed $500.

Costs associated with repairs and remedies are paid by the persons responsible, as well. ■

efit the Principle Shopping District as a whole.”

She also said the amount of “very nice restaurants” and salons, for example, in the PSD is leading her in the direction of pursuing other types of businesses.

“Fashion and home furnishings are two of our key categories,” she said.

Her focus will be bringing in well-capitalized retailers with name recognition who would benefit the existing businesses in the PSD. Fielder’s contract became effective July 2. She will be paid a $4,000-per-month retainer for the next 18 months, according to John Heiney, the PSD’s executive director.

The PSD board went through a request for qualifications process “a couple of months ago,” Heiney said, and selected Fielder based on her qualifications after two days of interviews with several different candidates.

Fielder, Heiney said, will be doing most of her work with national retailers to bring them in as “sort of mini-anchors, if you will, for the downtown and help the other businesses along, as well.”

However, her work won’t be limited strictly to national retailers, according to Heiney.

Fielder worked for 25 years in retail leasing for Taubman Centers, which she called the “foremost retail development company in the industry.” ■

Commissioners revise water and sewer rate changes

By Lisa Brody

The club contacted the DEQ on July 28 and reported an accidental release of Daconil Ultrex Turf Care dissolved in solution from a chemical sprayer that had malfunctioned.

The release was to a driveway at the club which then led to a storm drain that ultimately leads to a tributary of the Rouge River running through club property.

Daconil, a product created by Sygenta Professional Products for use on golf course tees, fairways, greens, and for non-residential turfgrasses, is extremely toxic to fish and aquatic life, and runoff can be hazardous to aquatic organisms in neighboring areas, according to the manufacturer’s web site.

This is the first violation Stonycroft Hills Club has received in the club’s 48-year history, accord-

ing to club manager Tom Cook.

The club had not been fined or otherwise penalized prior to press time. ❏

Fielder retained to bring new retailers to Birmingham PSD

By Kirk Pinho The Birmingham Principle Shopping District (PSD) Board of Directors has brought long-time Taubman Centers retail leasing consultant Julie Fielder on board to serve in a similar capacity.

Fielder said she is going to be working to bring in retailers into the PSD and working with landlords and the business community to “develop a plan that will really ben-

THE PAPER

The Bloomfield Hills City Commission has approved an amended sewage rate resolution based on a look-back adjustment from the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office.

The water and sewer rates paid

by Bloomfield Hills residents will climb about 3 percent at the end of the month, which City Manager Jay Cravens said is one of the smaller increases residents have seen in the last several years.

Metered users will pay a minimum of $27.52 per one thousand cubic feet of water, with a minimum charge of $55.04 a quarter. For those without meters, there is a flat rate of $137.12 per unit, or one thousand cubic feet of water, per quarter.

At a June City Commission meeting, members approved a slightly different set of water rates for service. ➤ 33

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Oakland County’s Premier Bathroom Remodeling Specialists 34

THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

■ municipal “We’ve been waiting for accurate numbers from the city of Detroit to pass,” Cravens said. “The June numbers were engineer’s estimates.”

“Industrial surcharge rates were developed late by the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, after the June meeting, and rather than just tack it on, we wanted to keep it on one resolution. We amended it into a new resolution for the commission to adopt,” said Jamie Burton, city engineering consultant with Hubell, Roth & Clark.

Cravens said Bloomfield Hills receives maintenance and billing from the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office, “and we often get some of our information from them.”

While the rate increases are considered small, city officials say they would have been much higher if the city had stuck with Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) service instead of switching this year to the Southeastern Oakland County Water Authority (SOCWA) as a wholesale water supplier for the 2009-10 rate year, beginning July 1.

According to a memo forwarded to city commissioners by engineers at Hubble, Roth and Clark, “the SOCWA deal will save the city $6.64 per (1,000 cubic feet of water), $279 per customer per year, or approximately $450,000 for the system as compared to the DWSD (water) rate component only.”

Staying with the DWSD would have meant a nearly 20 percent increase in rates on July 1, according to city officials. ■

Exterior lights prompt complaints from neighbors

By Lisa Brody A developer is trying to resolve concerns and complaints lodged by residents living adjacent to the Barton Hills neighborhood in Bloomfield Hills, who say new exterior lights are having a negative impact on their homes.

Concerned residents recently came before the Bloomfield Hills City Commission to complain about the issue.

The residents are upset about developer Ed Mancini, of Mancini Enterprises of Sterling Heights, installing 10 street lights in the Barton Hills development. Mancini is in the process of building Barton Hills, a gated community of 11 site www.oaklandpaper.com

Special liquor license?

Greenleaf Trust requests consideration

By Lisa Brody

A

Kalamazoo development company is asking the Birmingham City Commission to create a new category of liquor license — an economic development license — that would benefit their new building at the corner of Woodward and Maple in downtown Birmingham.

Greenleaf Trust of Kalamazoo is erecting the Greenleaf Trust Building as a mixed-use building, with two floors of offices and two floors of residential use. The first floor is planned to house Zazios Modern Italian Grille, an upscale Italian restaurant. There is a successful Zazios in Kalamazoo; this would be the second one. The Birmingham restaurant is expected to open in September 2010.

The problem Greenleaf Trust has encountered is that the Zazios’ concept is much larger and different than can be accommodated by the city’s bistro license concept, which requires no more than 65 seats, of which no more than 10 can be at the bar. It also mandates outdoor dining.

According to Birmingham Planning Director Jana Ecker, the Zazios in Kalamazoo, which is the model for the proposed Birmingham restaurant, is a large restaurant with open dining.

“It has an area with a chef’s table, and a demonstration kitchen where they bring in guest chefs. It’s very unique,” she said.

“In 2007, when the City Commission considered adding liquor licenses, they looked at two categories, the bistro license and the economic development license,” said City Manager Tom Markus. “They each have their own ordinances,

condominiums, which are individual single-family homes in a condo setting.

with unusual investment requirements. The commissioners didn’t want to jump into both at the same time, and they approved the bistro licenses.

They liked the urban, eclectic, diverse approach to dining, with the outdoor dining aspect, that the bistro offered.”

An economic development license would require a minimum level of development and a certain amount of investment by a business, as specified by the Birmingham Planning Board and the City Commission.

Hypothetically, Greenleaf Trust could acquire a traditional state Class C liquor license, of which the state has apportioned 17 for Birmingham. It doesn’t appear that any of those licenses are currently available. That doesn’t mean in the next year, before Zazios is slated to open, one couldn’t become available for purchase.

Greenleaf Trust has approached the City Commission during two recent meetings, requesting members to revisit the economic development license ordinance proposal. The commission had yet to take any action on the requests prior to press time.

“Most cities don’t pass ordinances for one company,” Markus said. “They want the license just for themselves.

Most commissioners felt it was inappropriate at this point. We want to look at this for the general community’s benefit. Now, if there were five buildings developing multi-million dollar buildings all needing this ordinance, I’m sure we would discuss it. But not just for one company.”

Markus said he believes this conversation will come up again in the future. Other city officials also indicated the issue would resurface just after press time. ■

The new community is set on the former Barton Farms location off East Long Lake near Eastways,

THE PAPER

adjacent to an existing neighborhood. All of the complaints have come from residents in the adjacent neighborhood, many of whom have lived in their homes for decades.

A letter written to Mayor L. David Kellett, Sr. and city commissioners by Mary Juras, representing the residents of the area adjacent to Barton Hills, states, “You are breaking the traditions of our city of Bloomfield Hills. We are different from any other city in Oakland County. That is why we moved here. Bloomfield Hills does not have street lights… We feel there should be no street lights at all, but we are asking for this reasonable request… Please have the lights deflected downward onto the streets of the Barton Hills development.”

Two of the installed street lights have two bulbs; one has three bulbs; and the rest have just one bulb. Initially, each of the light bulbs were 300-watts.

After receiving complaints last winter from neighbors that their homes were illuminated all night by the newly installed light fixtures, Mancini replaced the previous bulbs with 100-watt bulbs.

Area residents remain upset.

“This is wasted energy, and these lights are in our house all night long,” Juras said. “I trust our police force to protect our homes.”

Juras invited City Commission members to visit her home any evening and see how the nearby lights impact her home. Kellett and Mayor Pro Tem Michael McCready said they planned to visit her home after the commission’s Aug. 11 meeting.

Mancini said the lights are on from dusk until dawn, as they are automatically turned on and off by light sensors.

Because there is no specific Bloomfield Hills ordinance regulating exterior residential lights, area residents have asked that Mancini fabricate a screen for the fixtures to direct the light downward, toward the street.

Mancini reportedly installed metal shades over each of the street lights to reflect the light to the ground on Aug. 12.

“We’re trying to work with the neighbors as much as possible,” he said. “We don’t want to upset them.”

The City Commission will consider enacting an exterior light ordinance to prevent this type of problem in the future. ■ 35

Woodland Villa Development - BIRMINGHAM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

tŽŽĚůĂŶĚ sŝůůĂ͕ Ă ƉƌŝǀĂƚĞ ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƟĂů ĞŶĐůĂǀĞ ŽĨ ĞŝŐŚƚ ĞdžƚƌĂŽƌĚŝŶĂƌLJ ŚŽŵĞƐ͕ ŝƐ ƋƵŝĐŬůLJ ďĞĐŽŵŝŶŐ ŝƌŵŝŶŐŚĂŵ͛Ɛ ŵŽƐƚ ĐŽǀĞƚĞĚ ĂĚĚƌĞƐƐ͘ ZŽŶĂůĚ >͘ ,ƵŐŚĞƐ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ĞdžƋƵŝƐŝƚĞůLJ ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞĚ ďLJ ůĞdžĂŶĚĞƌ s͘ ŽŐĂĞƌƚƐ Θ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚĞƐ͕ ĞĂĐŚ ǀŝůůĂ ŽīĞƌƐ Ă ůƵdžƵƌŝŽƵƐ ůŝĨĞƐƚLJůĞ ĂŶĚ ƵŶƉĂƌĂůůĞůĞĚ ůŽĐĂƟŽŶ͘ ƵƐƚŽŵŝnjĞ ŽƵƌ ƉůĂŶƐ Žƌ ďƵŝůĚ ƚŽ ƐƵŝƚ͘ sŝůůĂƐ ƉƌŝĐĞĚ ĨƌŽŵ Ψϭ͕ϵϵϱ͕ϬϬϬ

dǁŽ ƐƉĞĐƚĂĐƵůĂƌ ƐŝƚĞƐ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ĞĂƐƚ ƐŚŽƌĞ ŽĨ dƵƌƚůĞ >ĂŬĞ ;ĞŶƟƌĞ ϰ͘Ϭϱ ƉĂƌĐĞů ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞͿ͘ ŶũŽLJ ƐƵŶƐĞƚƐ ĂŶĚ Ăůů ƚŚĞ ĂŵĞŶŝƟĞƐ ŽĨ ƚŚŝƐ ƉƌĞŵŝĞƌ ŐĂƚĞĚ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͘ Ψϯ͕ϮϱϬ͕ϬϬϬ Θ Ψϯ͕ϯϵϯ͕ϬϬϬ

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

FRANKLIN

&ŝƌƐƚ ƟŵĞ ŽŶ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ͘ džƚƌĂŽƌĚŝŶĂƌLJ 'ĞŽƌŐŝĂŶ ƐƚĂƚĞ ŚŽŵĞ͘ DĂũĞƐƟĐ ŚŝůůƚŽƉ ƐĞƫŶŐ ŽŶ ϭ͘ϲϱ ĂĐƌĞƐ͘ ϱ Z͕ ϱ ĨƵůů Θ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͘ ϵ͕ϲϱϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ŽĨ ůŝǀŝŶŐ ĂƌĞĂ͘ ϰͲĐĂƌŐĂƌĂŐĞ͕ƉŽŽů͕ϯƌĚƐƚŽƌLJůŽŌ͘ Ψϯ͕ϮϱϬ͕ϬϬϬ

^ŽƉŚŝƐƟĐĂƚĞĚ ŚĂůŵĞƌƐ >ĂŬĞ ĚĞƐŝŐŶ ďLJ DŝĐŚĂĞů tŝůůŽƵŐŚďLJ ǁŝƚŚ ϭϳϬ͛ ŽĨ ĨƌŽŶƚĂŐĞ͘ ϯ Z͕ ϰ͘ϱ ͕ ϭƐƚ ŇŽŽƌ ŵĂƐƚĞƌ͘ ϰ͕ϱϬϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ^ƉĂĐŝŽƵƐ ƌŽŽŵƐ͕ ϴϬϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ƚĞƌƌĂĐĞ͘ hƉĚĂƚĞĚ ŬŝƚĐŚĞŶ͘ ΨϮ͕ϮϱϬ͕ϬϬϬ

ƵŝůĚĞƌ͛Ɛ ŽǁŶ͕ ĐƵƐƚŽŵ ƐƚŽŶĞ Θ ĐĞĚĂƌ ĞƐƚĂƚĞ ŚŽŵĞ ŽŶ ϭ͘Ϯϴ ĂĐƌĞƐ͘ ϱ Z͕ ϰ ĨƵůů͕ ϯ ŚĂůĨ ďĂƚŚƐ͘ ϲ͕ϮϬϭ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ƉůƵƐ ϯ͕ϱϬϯ ŝŶ ĮŶŝƐŚĞĚ ůŽǁĞƌ ůĞǀĞů ǁͬ ĞdžĞƌĐŝƐĞ ƌŽŽŵ͘ ϰͲĐĂƌ ŐĂƌĂŐĞ͕ ƉŽŽů͘ Ψϭ͕ϵϵϱ͕ϬϬϬ

FARMINGTON HILLS

METAMORA

FRANKLIN

^ƉĞĐƚĂĐƵůĂƌ dŽďŽĐŵĂŶ ĐŽŶƚĞŵƉŽƌĂƌLJ ŽŶ ϯ ĂĐƌĞ ŽǀĞŶƚƌLJ >ĂŬĞ ƐĞƫŶŐ͘ ϯ Z͕ ϯ ĨƵůů Θ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͕ ŽǀĞƌ ϴ͕ϬϬϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ŽĨ ůŝǀŝŶŐ ƐƉĂĐĞ͘ 'ƌĞĞŶŚŽƵƐĞ͘ ůŽƐĞ ƚŽ &ƌĂŶŬůŝŶ͘ Ψϭ͕Ϯϵϵ͕ϬϬϬ

,ŝƐƚŽƌŝĐ ϮϰͲĂĐƌĞ ZĞĚ ,ŽƵƐĞ &Ăƌŵ͘ ZĞŶŽǀĂƚĞĚ ŵĂŝŶ ŚŽƵƐĞ ǁͬŵŽĚĞƌŶ ĂŵĞŶŝƟĞƐ͘ ϯ Z͕ ϯ ͕ ϰ͕ϮϱϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ϯ Z ŐƵĞƐƚŚŽƵƐĞ͘ Ϯ ďĂƌŶƐ͕ ϭϯ ƐƚĂůůƐ͕ ŽƵƚďƵŝůĚŝŶŐƐ͘ WŽŽů Θ ƚĞƌƌĂĐĞ͘ Ψϭ͕ϭϱϬ͕ϬϬϬ

ůĂƐƐŝĐ dŽďŽĐŵĂŶ ĐŽŶƚĞŵƉŽƌĂƌLJ ŽŶ ϭ͘ϲ ĂĐƌĞƐ ďĂĐŬŝŶŐ ƚŽ ZŽƵŐĞ ZŝǀĞƌ͘ ϱ Z͕ ϯ ĨƵůů Θ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͕ ŶĞĂƌůLJ ϳ͕ϬϬϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō ŽĨ ƚŽƚĂů ůŝǀŝŶŐ ƐƉĂĐĞ͘ &ŝŶŝƐŚĞĚ ůŽǁĞƌ ůĞǀĞů͕ ϯͲĐĂƌ ŐĂƌĂŐĞ͘ Ψϵϵϵ͕ϬϬϬ

FRANKLIN

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

'ŽƌŐĞŽƵƐ͕ ϭ͘ϵϮ ĂĐƌĞ ƐŝƚĞ ǁŝƚŚ ƉƌŝǀĂƚĞ ĚƌŝǀĞ ƚŽ ĐƵůͲĚĞͲƐĂĐ ůŽĐĂƟŽŶ͘ tŽŽĚĞĚ ƌĂǀŝŶĞ ƐĞƫŶŐ͘ ^ƵƌƌŽƵŶĚĞĚ ďLJ ŵƵůƟͲŵŝůůŝŽŶ ĚŽůůĂƌ ŚŽŵĞƐ͘ ^ƵƌǀĞLJ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘ Ψϱϵϵ͕ϬϬϬ

ĐŚŽ ZŽĂĚ ĂƌĞĂ͘ ϰ Z͕ ϯ ĨƵůů Θ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͕ Ϯ͕ϵϯϱ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ĞĐŬƐ Žī ĞŶƚƌLJ ĂŶĚ ϮŶĚ ŇŽŽƌ͕ ŐƌĞĂƚ ǀŝĞǁƐ ŽĨ ǁŽŽĚĞĚ ƐŝƚĞ͘ ϯͲĐĂƌ ŐĂƌĂŐĞ͘ KƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚLJ ĨŽƌ ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ ƐŝƚĞ͘ Ψϰϵϱ͕ϬϬϬ

KƵƚƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚLJ ƚŽ ďƵŝůĚ LJŽƵƌ ĚƌĞĂŵ ŚŽŵĞ͊ EĞĂƌůLJ ϭ ĂĐƌĞ ƐŝƚĞ ŝŶ ďĞĂƵƟĨƵů ĂƌĞĂ͘ ^ĞǀĞƌĂů ŵŝůůŝŽŶ ĚŽůůĂƌ ƉůƵƐ ŚŽŵĞƐ ƌĞĐĞŶƚůLJ ĐŽŶƐƚƌƵĐƚĞĚ͘ ŝƌŵŝŶŐŚĂŵ ƐĐŚŽŽůƐ͘ ΨϮϴϵ͕ϬϬϬ

BLOOM

EĞǁ ŶŐůĂŶĚ ƐƚLJů ƚŚĞ ŶŽƌƚŚ ƐŚŽƌĞ Ž Ō͘ ŽĨ ůƵdžƵƌŝŽƵƐ ůŝǀ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ Ɖƌŝǀ

BLOOM

DĂŐŶŝĮĐĞŶƚ ƐŽŌ ŽŶ 'ŝůďĞƌƚ >ĂŬĞ͘ ϭϰ Θ ϴ͕Ϯϱϭ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ ŽĨ ƉŽŽů͕ ϰͲĐĂƌ ŐĂƌĂŐ

BLOOM

džƋƵŝƐŝƚĞ ƐŝƚĞ ĐŽŶĚ ďLJ ĂǀŝĚ ^ĞůůĂƌĚƐ ϰ Z͕ϰ͘ϱ ͘ϱ͕ϱϯϭƐ ŵĂƐƚĞƌ͘ &ŝŶŝƐŚĞĚ Ě

FR

>ĞĂƐĞ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚ sŝůůĂŐĞ͘ ŚĂƌŵŝŶŐ ĂĐƌĞƐ͘ ϱ Z͕ ϰ ĨƵůů͕ Ϯ ǁŝůů ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶ ůĂǁŶ

MFIELD HILLS

ůĞ͕ ƐƚŽŶĞ ĂŶĚ ĐĞĚĂƌ ŚŽŵĞ ŽŶ ŽĨ tŝŶŐ >ĂŬĞ͘ KǀĞƌ ϭϬ͕ϬϬϬ ƐƋ͘ ǀŝŶŐ ƐƉĂĐĞ͘ ϲ Z͕ ϱ ĨƵůů͕ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ǀĂƚĞ ĂƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ͘ Ψϰ͕ϮϱϬ͕ϬϬϬ

MFIELD HILLS

ĐŽŶƚĞŵƉŽƌĂƌLJ ŽŶ ϭ͘ϲϯ ĂĐƌĞƐ ϰϲ͛ ůĂŬĞ ĨƌŽŶƚĂŐĞ͘ ϱ Z͕ ϰ͘ϱ ͕ ůŝǀŝŶŐ ƐƉĂĐĞ͘ &ĂďƵůŽƵƐ ŝŶĚŽŽƌ Ğ͕ ďŝŐ ŐĞŶĞƌĂƚŽƌ͘ Ψϭ͕ϳϵϱ͕ϬϬϬ

MFIELD HILLS

ĚŽ͕ ŽǀĞƌůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ƉŽŶĚ͕ ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞĚ ǁͬŝŶƚĞƌŝŽƌƐ ďLJ ĂŶŝĞů ůĂŶĐLJ͘ ƐƋ͘Ō͘ƚŽƚĂůůŝǀŝŶŐƐƉĂĐĞ͘ϭƐƚŇŽŽƌ ĚĂLJůŝŐŚƚ ůŽǁĞƌ ůĞǀĞů͘ Ψϵϴϱ͕ϬϬϬ

RANKLIN

ƚLJ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŚĞĂƌƚ ŽĨ &ƌĂŶŬůŝŶ Ő͕ ϭϵϮϬƐ ĞƐƚĂƚĞ ŚŽŵĞ ŽŶ ϯ͘ϯϳ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͘ ϰ͕ϰϲϬƐƋ͘ Ō͘ >ĂŶĚůŽƌĚ Ŷ Θ ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞ͘ Ψϯ͕ϰϵϬͬŵŽŶƚŚ

Exclusive Affiliate of CHRISTIE’S GREAT ESTATES BLOOMFIELD HILLS ϮϬϬϵ 'ĂƌĚĞůůĂ ďƵŝůƚ dƵĚŽƌ ǁŝƚŚ ϭϮϵ͛ ŽŶ >ŽǁĞƌ >ŽŶŐ >ĂŬĞ͘ džƋƵŝƐŝƚĞ ĐƌĂŌƐŵĂŶƐŚŝƉ ĂŶĚ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ͘ ϳ Z͕ ϳ ĨƵůů Θ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͕ ŽǀĞƌ ϭϭ͕ϬϬϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō ŽĨ ůŝǀŝŶŐ ƐƉĂĐĞ͘ Ψϯ͕ϱϬϬ͕ϬϬϬ

FRANKLIN >ĂŶĚŵĂƌŬ &ƌĂŶŬůŝŶ ĞƐƚĂƚĞ ŽŶ Ϯ ŐůŽƌŝŽƵƐ ĂĐƌĞƐ͘ ϱ Z͕ ϰ ĨƵůů Θ Ϯ ŚĂůĨ ͕ ϱ͕ϮϮϬ ƐƋ͘ Ō͘ EĞǁ :ŽŚŶ DŽƌŐĂŶ ŬŝƚĐŚĞŶ͘ ^ƵƉĞƌŝŽƌ ĮŶŝƐŚĞƐ͘ dĞƌƌĂĐĞ͕ ŝŶͲ ŐƌŽƵŶĚ ƉŽŽů͕ ĞdžƋƵŝƐŝƚĞ ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉŝŶŐ͘ Ψϭ͕ϰϵϵ͕ϬϬϬ

BLOOMFIELD HILLS ƐƚĂƚĞ ĂƌĞĂ ŽĨ ůŽŽŵĮĞůĚ sŝůůĂŐĞ͘ 'ƌĞĂƚ ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚLJ ŽŶ ͘ϴϲ ĂĐƌĞƐ ǁŝƚŚ ϭϱϬ͛ ĨƌŽŶƚĂŐĞ͘ ƌĞĂ ŶŽƌƚŚ ŽĨ 'ůĞŶŐĂƌƌLJ ŝƌĐůĞ ƐƵƌƌŽƵŶĚĞĚ ďLJ ŵƵůƟͲŵŝůůŝŽŶ ĚŽůůĂƌ ƉƌŽƉĞƌƟĞƐ͘ Ψϴϱϵ͕ϬϬϬ

is pleased to welcome

Meredith R. Colburn Associate Broker mcolburn@hallandhunter.com (248) 762-5319

Nanci J. Rands Associate Broker nrands@hallandhunter.com (248) 701-9000

As the newest members of

Hall & Hunter Realtors – Michigan’s Exclusive Affiliate of CHRISTIE’S GREAT ESTATES – Meredith and Nanci offer more than 50 years of combined experience coupled with extraordinary achievement. Together with CHRISTIE’S, they will continue to provide the highest level of client service excellence.

•

hallandhunter.com BLOOMFIELD HILLS hƉĚĂƚĞĚ ĐŽŶĚŽ ŽŶ ŚŝŐŚ ďĞĂƵƟĨƵůůLJ ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞĚ ƐŝƚĞ͘ ^ƉĂĐŝŽƵƐ ŽƉĞŶ ƉůĂŶ͕ ŚĂƌĚǁŽŽĚ ŇŽŽƌƐ͕ ŚŝŐŚ ĐĞŝůŝŶŐƐ͘ EĞǁ ĐƵƐƚŽŵ ŬŝƚĐŚĞŶ͘ ϯ Z͕ Ϯ͘ϱ ͘ ϯ͕ϯϴϰ ƐƋ͘ Ō͕͘ ϭƐƚ ŇŽŽƌ ŵĂƐƚĞƌ͘ Ψϯ͕ϬϬϬͬŵŽŶƚŚ

442 South Old Woodward Birmingham, Michigan 248.644.3500

Beaumont

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Orchard Lake Road

Our prime location offers easy access and convenient parking for patients traveling from any direction.

W. Maple Road

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■ municipal Board moving closer to decision on dog park site

By Lisa Brody Birmingham officials are closer to making a decision on where, or if, a dog park will be developed in the city.

Keith Vosburgh, chairman of the Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board, a seven-member board of Birmingham residents appointed by the City Commission, said the board should have a decision at their Sept.

1 meeting.

Initially, there were as many as 25 sites under consideration for dogs and their owners to romp, play, and visit. The sites were then whittled down to five or six sites, and now there are two under consideration.

Once the Parks and Recreation Board makes a decision, it will be sent to the City Commission to make the final decision.

The two sites under consideration are the old Birmingham Schools bus yard, across the street from the Birmingham ice arena on Lincoln Road. An advantage to this site is its close proximity to the ice arena and its restrooms and snack bar, the large amount of land available there, and that it would not disrupt a current park. On the other hand, the city doesn’t own the property, and would

have to work out a deal with the current owner to acquire the site.

The other site under consideration is Kenning Park at the corner of Lincoln and Eton roads.

Birmingham architect Kevin Hart of Kevin Hart Associates has rendered a design for a new park there that would include jogging paths, pavilion space, two promenades, bocci ball, shuffleboard, two sand volleyball courts, and four reconfigured baseball diamonds. There are plans for Birmingham Little League, a men’s senior league, and Brother Rice High School to use the baseball diamonds.

“It’s the antithesis of the dog park,” he said of the plan.

The Parks and Recreation Board is looking at the possibility of taking one of the baseball diamonds, in the northeast area of the park, and fencing it in to create a dog park as part of the overall Kenning Park design. It would be about 1 acre in size.

“My concern is that a dog park, like in Lake Orion or Clarkston, has about 13 acres to cycle through to clean up,” Hart said. “That’s asking a lot for one acre.”

Hart, who has donated his renderings to the city, has listened to residents’ concerns about the placement of baseball fields, jogging paths, and pathways, and said he feels his design would create a gateway to the Rail District. ■

Challenger files paperwork to seek commission seat There may be a new face on the Birmingham City Commission following the Nov. 3 election, with at least one challenger already filing paperwork to appear on the ballot.

The terms of Mayor Stuart Sherman, Mayor Pro Tem Rackeline Hoff, and Commissioner Donald Carney expire on Nov. 1. None of the three incumbents have filed candidate paperwork to seek re-election, nor have they announced whether they will be running for re-election.

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

The Clerk's Office in Birmingham has received only one candidate petition so far, from Dr. Edward Lichten.

"He was the first one to file," said Deputy City Clerk Laura Broski.

Hoff has said she hasn't made up her mind about whether she will run for re-election. She was first elected to the commission in 2001.

Sherman was first elected in 2005 and served as mayor pro tem in 2006. Carney was appointed to the commission in January 2001 and elected in November 2001.

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

In addition, city voters will decide who will serve on the Baldwin Library Board of Directors on Nov. 3.

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

Baldwin Library director leaving at end of November Baldwin Public Library Executive Director Martha Custer will be leaving her post effective Nov. 30, according to Ann Conigliaro, chairwoman of the library's Board of Directors.

Conigliaro said the decision was mutual.

"The job became more stressful than what (Custer) expected, especially with ongoing issues with the city," Conigliaro said.

"We will use the opportunity to look anew at our partnerships, community outreach, and operations as we continue to meet the diverse needs of our community," Conigliaro stated. ■

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■ county Transit advocates seek countywide SMART millage

E-Verify for Oakland Tracking undocumented workers

By Leslie Shepard-Owsley Regional transportation advocates intend to approach the Oakland County Board of Commissioners about placing a question on the August 2010 ballot for voters to decide on a countywide millage to support bus service through the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART).

Currently, Oakland County gives each municipality an opt-in/opt-out provision for SMART participation.

Those who choose to participate are taxed through a SMART millage.

According to Megan Owens, director of Transportation Riders United, a transportation advocacy group, the SMART millage must be renewed every four years in the communities that participate. SMART’s current millage is up for renewal next year.

“Since the millage is coming up for renewal, it’s a natural time to give voters the option to come on board,” Owens said. “Ultimately, it’s up to the voter to decide whether or not to provide bus service. Right now, Oakland County follows Wayne County’s model and leaves it up to the communities to decide. We’d like to adopt the Macomb County model where it’s done on a (countywide) basis.”

About 70 percent of voters in Macomb County supported a 0.59mill property tax in 2006, providing SMART bus service in every community in the county.

A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which is generally equal to half the property’s market value. The owner of a property with a taxable value of $100,000 ($200,000 market value) pays $59 a year in taxes under SMART’s 0.59-mill levy.

According to SMART Spokesperson Beth Dryden, SMART’s policy prohibits advocating for or against a millage.

“Some advocacy groups believe that 2010 would be the best appropriate time to forward a ballot initiative; however, SMART can’t advocate either way for a millage,” Dryden said.

While SMART policy is driven by its Board of Commissioners, the Oakland County Public Transit Authority (OCPTA) and Wayne County Transit Authority (WCTA) are the acting fiduciary boards for transportation services in Wayne and Oakland counties.

Owens cites hikes in the senior citizen and disabled populations as www.oaklandpaper.com

By Kirk Pinho

I

n less than two months, most county contractors will be required to register with, participate in, and utilize the federal E-Verify system, after the Oakland County Board of Commissioners voted to approve that requirement.

E-Verify is a free Internet-based system that determines “employment eligibility of new hires and the validity of their Social Security Numbers,” according to the system’s web site. The system is used to verify that employees are legally documented workers.

Oakland County Commissioner Jim Runestad (R-White Lake), sponsor of the E-Verify system proposal, said he was “ecstatic” that commissioners unanimously approved the resolution he helped shepherd through the committee process.

“In the last few days, the commissioners got almost 200 emails (supporting the proposal),” Runestad said. “They begged me to stop people from e-mailing them.”

By law, the E-Verify system can’t be used on existing employees, although there is a bill in Congress that would allow that, Runestad said. Instead, after signing a contract for work with the county containing a clause stipulating the system must be utilized, the contractor will have to use the E-Verify system on all new hires.

The policy requires county

administration officials to complete an analysis within one year of implementing the system, detailing any snags in the program. Also, the resolution will have to be reauthorized a year from its effective date.

Specifically, the resolution states, “every future services contract (including both new and renewing contracts) between Oakland County and service contractors/vendors shall require the contracts/vendors contracting with Oakland County to register with, participate in, and utilize the E-Verify Program (or any successor program implemented by the federal Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration) when hiring their employees.”

The resolution goes on to establish that the county will not enter into future contracts with those that don’t follow the guidelines outlined in the E-Verify Program.

In addition, a provision is also included that gives the county executive the ability to “exempt individuals who are contracted to perform legal, medical, consulting, or other professional services on behalf of Oakland County.”

Runestad said he also will be going to Wayne, Livingston, and Genesee counties soon to trumpet the system, and that there’s considerable support for a similar measure being adopted by state government, as well. ■

choice to tax themselves for the program or not,” he said. “I don’t personally see any reason to change it.”

SMART routes are currently designed to stop at community borders that have opted-out of the program. If each community came on board with SMART, users would be able to travel throughout the county.

“If the initiative passes countywide, users can go anywhere in the county or tri-county area,” Owens said. “It’s much more efficient. There are riders who currently can’t get to a job because the next community over doesn’t participate and there are seniors who must go to the doctor, for example, outside their jurisdiction who are stuck.”

According to Dryden, 2.5 million people live within one-quarter mile of a SMART bus route.

The SMART Community Partnership Program (CPP) provides communities with access to funding and SMART resources to help operate community transit programs.

SMART provides each community partner with funding through Community Credits in which a portion of the transit property tax revenue is returned to local communities for operating and/or capital purchases.

SMART also acts as the fiduciary agent for the State Municipal Credit Program. Approximately $6.5 million annually has been redistributed by SMART via municipal and community credit programs to the area’s community-based transit programs.

Currently, there are 70 participants operating 366 vehicles throughout the tri-county area. ■

Circuit judge’s post could remain open under cutback plan

By Kirk Pinho

reasons to provide a countywide transit program.

“Over the next 10 years, we are going to realize a steep incline in senior citizens and the disabled,” she said. “This program helps them continue to be active members of society. In addition, SMART is realizing record numbers (of riders) since people see a cost savings in riding the bus for commuting back and forth for work.”

Of Oakland County’s 61 communities, voters in 21 have authorized a SMART millage collection to receive bus services, with Bloomfield Township and Birmingham being the area communities participating in the SMART system.

“Our community partnership program serves 600,000 yearly and the

SMART connector service serves 450,000 annually,” Dryden said.

According to a ridership survey conducted in 2008, 70 percent of SMART riders use the bus system to commute to work, while 20 percent use it to for transport to educational institutions.

If Oakland County commissioners agree to place the millage proposal on a countywide ballot and it’s approved, all communities in the county would have access to SMART bus transportation.

According to Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Bill Bullard, Jr. (R-Highland), no formal ballot question request has been submitted to the county board.

“Years ago it was determined that each community would make the

THE PAPER

The Oakland County Circuit Court would temporarily operate with one less judge after Dec. 31, 2010, under a measure included in the county’s proposed triennial budget for fiscal years 2010-12 stipulating that the county won’t fill the bench seat now held by Judge John McDonald, who can’t run for re-election next year due to age restrictions for judicial candidates.

“The county is not going to eliminate his (seat),” said Commissioner Shelley Taub (R-Bloomfield Township). “They are going to try not to fill it for the next two to four years.”

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SEPTEMBER 2009

■ county Prosecutor’s Office, according to Taub. The state of Michigan reimburses the county for circuit court judge salaries, so the state would save that amount for the two to four years McDonald’s seat remains vacant.

Approval from not only the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, but also the state Legislature and the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) is required to “keep open” McDonald’s seat — which he’s held since 1993 — said SCAO Spokeswoman Marcia McBrien. She added that the state court administrator “supports it in concept” if the remaining Oakland County Circuit Court judges feel they can pick up the slack.

Oakland County’s proposal — along with a similar one in Macomb County — is somewhat unique.

“We haven’t really dealt with this precise situation before,” McBrien said.

Oakland County Chief Circuit Court Judge Wendy Potts said her fellow jurists have agreed to the measure and feel the circuit court bench can handle the increased caseload “for a short period of time,” until the economy rebounds and the seat can be filled.

“Our dockets are in very good shape,” Potts said. “We don’t think we could do it for a long time because the State Court Administrative Office says we are actually short of judges,” she added, referring to a 2005 report recommending that Oakland County bring on two additional circuit court judges.

State Rep. Eileen Kowall (R-White Lake) said Potts has spoken with her about the proposal. Kowall said she suspects county officials will ask a Republican state senator and a Democratic state representative to draft legislation authorizing the move, because the senator and the representative would be in the majority in their respective legislative chambers.

Kowall said she would support such legislation.

“They are trying to be very proactive and responsible, as far as the budget challenges go, so they are asking that the 19th judgeship be suspended at this time,” Kowall said.

Circuit court judges are paid $139,919 annually, according to McBrien, and serve six-year terms. A person isn’t eligible to seek a circuit court bench seat if they are over 70years-old on election day.

McDonald’s current term expires on Dec. 31, 2010.

Five other circuit court judges’ terms also expire on Dec. 31, 2010.

The filing deadline for candidates seeking a circuit court bench seat in the 2010 election is April 27, 2010. ■ www.oaklandpaper.com

Meisner land bank Treasurer pushing plan to buy up property

By Kirk Pinho

M

oving ahead on a platform issue from the 2008 campaign, Oakland County Treasurer Andy Meisner is pushing a proposal to create a land bank to buy, maintain and rehabilitate, and subsequently sell some of the county’s foreclosed properties.

Meisner, a Democrat, may have an uphill battle selling the plan to other countywide executive officials and the county’s Board of Commissioners, which has a GOP majority.

“I liken the land bank to an incubator for sick real estate,” Meisner said. “You transfer the deed to the property into the land bank. Once the deed to the property is transferred, there are a number of tools that are available to help speed the return of that property to productive use. That’s the goal.

“The strategy behind a land bank is to work with the private sector, the non-profit and faith communities, to work with partners in county, state, and the fed-

Democratic Party responds to bogus letters by interns

By Kirk Pinho The Oakland County Democratic Party has sustained a political black eye after at least two bogus letters were written by party interns and sent to County Commissioners Shelley Taub (R-Bloomfield) and Jeff Potter (R-South Lyon), prompting an e-mail apology from party Chairman Mike McGuinness.

Both letters were intended to persuade the commissioners to support a county indigent health care proposal that would cost $1 million, money that eventually would be reimbursed by the state. Taub has criticized the proposal, saying that there’s no guarantee the county would get the money back because there’s no contract involved.

The letter Taub received on July 9 was purportedly from a West Bloomfield mother who couldn’t afford to pay for health care for her ill son, making her feel like a failure as a mother. Taub, who spent 30 years managing her husband’s medical practice, said the letter tugged

eral government to make sure those properties are rehabilitated, maintained, and in some instances, demolished in order to make sure an appropriate use for that property is put forth.”

Start-up funding for the program wouldn’t exceed $50,000, according to Meisner. In addition, federal funding through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program is available to bring such a program to fruition.

The number of properties that could be purchased through the program “depends on resources,” Meisner said.

“We’ll take the resources we get from the federal government, and we’ll just have to prioritize,” he said. “Fortunately, the federal government has made a huge investment in this ... this is an area where we don’t have to use county funds, we can use federal funds.”

Meisner said he is still in the process of “building support” for the proposed land bank program, adding that he spoke with County Executive L. Brooks Patterson last

at her heart strings.

“The thing that got me right in the gut was that she felt like a failure as a mother because she was not able, in any way, shape or form, to take care of her son’s illness,” Taub said.

After several unsuccessful attempts to follow up and try to help the woman, Taub eventually learned that the letter writer was a University of Michigan student from Fraser who was interning with the Oakland County Democratic Party.

The intern’s mother told Taub that her daughter doesn’t have a child, nor is she married.

Taub said she spoke with the intern, who reportedly cried and apologized during the conversation.

The letter sent to Potter, a retired Ford Motor Co. employee, was written by someone claiming to be a retired General Motors worker who has no health care insurance. While Potter said he hasn’t done any “detective work” to determine the authenticity of the letter, his belief is that it’s fraudulent because Potter’s attempts to get in touch with the writer have been unsuccessful.

A paid party employee — who has been suspended without pay and officially reprimanded because of the

THE PAPER

week about the matter.

Deputy County Executive Robert Daddow said the proposal is “more of a concept paper” than a “business case” because it lacks concrete financial information.

“It leaves a great deal to be desired, in terms of the type and nature of things we do here in Oakland County,” Daddow said. “It may be acceptable elsewhere, but it’s not acceptable here.”

In addition, Daddow said there is no distinction between properties that have been foreclosed upon due to tax delinquency vs. failure to pay a mortgage.

“The mortgage-foreclosed properties here have involved the loss of upwards of $40 billion in value,” Daddow said. “I’m not sure, specifically, how much we can throw at it, given that we are cutting our services substantially as it is.

“The financial business case needs to be really, really put together well to determine why I am going to have to probably cut other services to fund this effort.” ■

dust up — apparently gave the interns template letters and told them to “make them more personal,” according to Taub.

Both Taub and Potter said they believed their letters were tailored to their own backgrounds to elicit more of an emotional response.

Both also stressed repeatedly that they don’t believe any Democratic county commissioners were involved in or even knew of the fake letters.

“Misleading anyone and misrepresenting any issue or position is not within the scope of the Oakland County Democratic Party’s mission or practices,” McGuinness stated in an e-mail to Republican county commissioners. “We are disappointed and shocked by this incident and extend our apologies to those impacted.”

The e-mail also states the party is implementing an internship program code of conduct, as well as an internal office standard of ethics.

“It isn’t that I’m not happy with it,” Taub said of the apology e-mail.

“To me, to use any means necessary to achieve a goal is absolutely the wrong thing we are teaching young people. That’s not acceptable morally or ethically, to me.” ■ 43

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■ education Pine Lake school parents win battle against closure

By Katey Meisner Though the parents of Pine Lake Elementary School students recently prevailed in their legal fight to save the school from closure, it’s still unclear as to when the school will reopen to Bloomfield Hills School District students.

Following a July 31 ruling in Oakland County Circuit Court, a request by the Bloomfield Hills School District to suspend that decision on the basis of a possible appeal was denied. The suspension of the ruling would have made it unlikely that students would return to Pine Lake Elementary School on Sept. 8, the first day of class for the 2009-10 academic year.

Both the defendant and plaintiffs’ attorneys were given one week after the judge’s latest ruling to brief the judge on their recommendations for the school. Follow up response briefs were expected to be filed after press time; and, following any oral arguments that may be presented, a final order on the school’s fate is expected to be released by the end of August.

“We are extremely disappointed to report that the judge in the Pine

Lake lawsuit has ruled that the district violated the Callow deed restriction when it closed Pine Lake and leased the building to Waterford Schools,” said Martin Brook, president of the Bloomfield Hills Schools Board of Education, in a letter to the public.

According to Terrence Hall, an attorney for the parents who challenged the school closure, the Waterford School District should now vacate the premises.

“Their lease was arranged so that if the (judge’s) decision was in the parents’ favor, they would be moving to Hickory Grove school instead of Pine Lake,” he said. “At least we know that they have arrangements to leave Pine Lake and go elsewhere within the district, and that needs to be done as soon as possible so that we can get children in the Pine Lake community back into the school.”

Nick Mushovic, who has two daughters that will eventually attend Pine Lake Elementary School, said he is pleased with the judge’s ruling in the lawsuit.

“I’m glad that they’re upholding the deed restriction,” Mushovic said.

“I’m still unsure of what’s going to happen, but I’m happy that at least it’s been stopped.”

The 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, Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren ruled that the leasing of the property 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 Hall.

“The judge was wrong in the facts and, therefore, wrong in the law,” Brook said. “Central to this case is evidence from the district’s financial and board records from the 1950s proving that the district paid near or actual fair market value for the Callow property. Based on these facts, there is no evidence that a charitable trust was created because the property was purchased and not donated. Accordingly, the district fervently disagrees with the judge’s decision and will vigorously and immediately pursue all its options in this matter.”

Though Hall said the terms of the exchange of land from Callow to the district were unclear, “There was no receipt for payment as there had been with payment for the option and there was no canceled check.

There was, however, a lack of tax stamps on the deed.”

All those elements, according to Hall, led to a conclusion that the Pine Lake Elementary School proper-

ty was donated, not sold, to the school district. ■

Incumbent faces challenge in Nov. 3 school board race Incumbent Lori Soifer is being challenged by Katie Reiter for a seat on the Birmingham Schools Board of Education.

Candidates seeking to have their name appear on the Nov. 3 ballot had to file paperwork by Aug. 11.

Only Soifer and Reiter filed the necessary candidate paperwork to appeal on the ballot.

Soifer has been a board member since May 2005, and has previously served as the board’s secretary and vice president, and is currently president of the Board.

Reiter, a former student and parent of Birmingham Schools students, is a Southfield resident. She is currently the owner of Healthquest Enterprises, a health and wellness management consulting company.

She attended the University of Michigan for her undergraduate degree and the American University in Washington, D.C. for her master’s degree studies.

Board of Education members serve four-year terms and receive no pay for their service. ■

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SEPTEMBER 2009

■ business Following three months of remodeling, Long Lake Market at 1075 W. Long Lake in Bloomfield Hills has completed building renovations and now offers

“We’re just hoping to grow as quickly as we can,” she said.

■ Artloft moved from 203 E. Maple to 123 W. Maple in Birmingham, according to owner Rachael A-Woods. The store, specializing in global, functional art has been a staple in Birmingham for about

110 Couture, which features formal and cocktail wear.

“We just wanted to have something for every woman and her child,” Sagmani said of their three Birmingham boutiques. She said she considers her trio of stores a one-stop-shop for stylish moms. “You never have to go anywhere else.”

■

prepared foods for take out. After 49 years in business, the market recently added an on-site kitchen while taking the opportunity to upgrade the building. With the addition, they have been able to broaden their commodities to include gourmet pizza, whole-cooked salmon, homemade soups and other dinner entree items. According Alice Currier, daughter of owner Bud Phelps, the customers are very excited that the market has extended their product line to include more prepared foods.

“Customer’s are continually looking for ways to simplify their lives, and by offering them prepared foods, healthy entrees and side dishes, we can make their dining experiences at home easier and delicious,” Currier said. “Several customers have already remarked that they would like to contribute their own favorite recipes.”

■ Bloomfield Hills designer clothing and accessory boutique She is now offering 49 Square Miles, a new line of designer handbags. “The handbags are a soft, leather, cool, casual style,” owner Sharon Eisenshtadt said. “They’re fabulous.” She, located at 4076 W. Maple, celebrated their one year anniversary August 11 and have trunk shows planned for September.

■ Linda Travis, owner of Four Paws Community Center at 2244 Franklin in Bloomfield Hills, opened the doors to her kennel, grooming and training facility in early July. Four Paws is Travis’ first business endeavor, but it’s something she’s always wanted to do and, after being laid off from a position in the auto industry, the time was right.

“It’s been kind of a dream for a long time,” Travis said. Having worked at a kennel as a teenager, she’d taken an early interest in animals and was ready to fulfill a lifelong goal. Currently, Travis is busy trying to get the word out. www.oaklandpaper.com

12 years, A-Woods said. “It’s a good time to get a good deal.” she said. “We got a little bit more space for better money. “Situated next to empty spaces, A-Woods was not reaping the benefit of foot traffic at her previous location and was ready to re-energize the store.

“It’s a wonderful space,” she said. “It’s more breathing room.”

■ Clavenna Vision Institute is hosting the second annual trunk show for the Birmingham Lions Club 32nd annual walk for Leader Dogs for the Blind. The event will take place Tuesday, September 15, from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The trunk show, featuring a wide variety of designer eye wear, will be held at 600 S. Adams, Suite 200 in Birmingham, and participants are encouraged to bring old glasses in for donation. A percentage of all proceeds from the event will be donated to the Birmingham Lions Club.

■ The women’s store Bridget & Stacie opened in July at 580 N. Old Woodward in Birmingham.

Co-owner Bridget Sagmani said that the store features”women’s sexy, weekend, Saturday night wear.”

Offering brands such as Beyond Vintage, Blaque Label, Nolita and Nuvella, there is something for everyone at Bridget & Stacie, Sagmani said. Co-owner Stacie Maier and Sagmani also own Birmingham children’s store Sam and Lola, as well as

Sandella’s Flatbread Cafe at 172 N. Old Woodward in Birmingham was opened in late July by husband and wife team Kelly and Joseph Brown. Joseph has a restaurant industry background, while Kelly is in advertising and marketing.

“My husband and I do not own any other businesses,” she said. “We are both employed full-time and have hired a manager to run the daily operations of the store.” After researching the area, they felt that Birmingham was a perfect fit for their target market. “We are pleased thus far with our location and our clientele,” Kelly said. They served as an official restaurant sponsor of the Woodward Dream Cruise this year.

Sandella’s is a casual cafe that concentrates on offering a wide variety of health-conscious menu options.

■ This Labor Day weekend, Ben and Kate Templeton will be moving into the first remodeled home in Michigan to achieve green certification by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) National Green Building Program. As vice president of Templeton Building Company, located at 735 Forest Avenue, Suite 204 in Birmingham, Ben is an NAHB certified green professional with a passion for environmentally conscious building.

“Our company is built around being green because it’s the right way to build, so it was a natural fit for my home to be remodeled by Templeton Building Company to the highest green building standards,” Ben said. The 1955-built Bloomfield Township home is a modest 1,400 square foot ranch near Fifteen Mile and Cranbrook Roads.

Templeton Building Company replaced wood siding with more energy efficient vinyl siding, replaced windows and doors, updated plumbing fixtures to low-flow models and installed a new air conditioning system.

The Templetons chose to do a 70 percent remodel, though Ben said you don’t have to go to those lengths to be environmentally friendly. “Many people simply focus on improving the insulation in their homes,” he said. This winter the Templetons won’t be dreading the arrival of the energy bills like many homeowners. “I’m actually looking forward to seeing these improvements pay for themselves,” Ben said. “For now,

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my wife and I feel good that we are doing our part to make our home healthier and more environmentally friendly.”

■ Cheeburger Cheeburger at 755 E. Maple Street in Birmingham reopened with new owners Sherry Howard and her daughter Jessica Cohen. Howard and Cohen opened the 50s and 60sstyle diner on August 4.

As a lifelong Birmingham resident, Howard said she always liked Cheeburger Cheeburger, and after the previous owners closed, Howard wanted to bring it back with better service and management.

“We have a lot of fun,” Howard said.

“If a child eats a half pound burger or an adult eats a ‘pounder’, they get their picture taken and put on the wall.”

According to Howard, the diner already has quite a few participants. “People like coming in and seeing their picture up,” she said.

While they offer burgers, fries, onion rings, shakes and malts, they also have turkey and veggie burgers for the health-conscious diners and pride themselves in the integrity of their ingredients. “Our hamburgers are allnatural beef,” Howard said.

“Everything is made fresh everyday.”

Not only is Howard hoping to feed the Birmingham community, she and Cohen aim to help the community through fund-raising. “In October, we’re going to do a breast cancer month,” she said. “ We’re also going to try to pick out someone in the area who needs some help and try to do some fund-raising for them.”

It appears as though Birmingham has welcomed Cheeburger Cheeburger back since the reopening. “Business is picking up a little more every day,” Howard said.

A grand opening is tentatively scheduled for early September.

■ After 34 years in business, The Gramophone, specializing in home theater installation, recently moved from 33535 Woodward to 2294 Cole in Birmingham and changed names to the Birmingham Home Theater. The new space is more conducive to the nature of the business and, in the process of moving, owner Rick Howard made the decision to modernize the name. “The name ‘Gramophone’ didn’t have any bearing on the modern world,” Howard said.

According to Howard, plans to build a new showroom are in the works.

Business items from the Birmingham-Bloomfield community are reported by Katey Meisner.

Fax (248.360.1220) or e-mail (kateymeisner@thescngroup.com) but must be received three weeks prior to publication month.

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SEPTEMBER 2009

NAMING THE LAKES HOW WATER BODIES GOT THEIR MONIKERS

By Brooke Meier

T

he rolling hills and luscious lakes of Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, and Birmingham were once considered part of an uninhabitable forest choked with blood-draining mosquitoes and unruly vines, discouraging early settlers of Michigan from putting down roots in the beautiful area many now call home.

It took the work of former Territorial Governor Lewis Cass and his crew of courageous men to beat a path north from Fort Detroit through the swamp that was Royal Oak, and stumble upon Oakland County’s most beautiful and abundant jewels — the lakes.

For many riparians, lake names may mean nothing more than a place where their home is located. However, for those trekking along the foreboding trail into the area hundreds of years ago, the names were synonymous with lands of opportunity, family, and friends.

In the 1976 book “Bloomfield Blossoms,” author Kay Smith wrote, “The geological formation of Michigan and particularly of Bloomfield presents a complex picture.”

According to Smith, beginning several billion years ago, the area was covered with four different advancing and receding glaciers.

As the last great glacier melted away, Smith said, “A huge lake, Lake Maumee, covered Bloomfield. In its ancestral stage, it was the parent of Lakes Huron and Erie, and in its middle periods, ice obstructed the natural outlet of the lake to the east and caused the waters of the two great lakes to extend far beyond their present boundaries.

“Pockets of water or bays from the lake were left as the water receded, forming not only our 30-odd lakes and ponds, but the gravel pits in the northeast end of the township as well,” Smith wrote.

After the retreat of the glaciers, the area was inhabited in approximately 700 A.D. by the mastodon-hunting PaleoIndians, known for their fluted arrowheads; the Old Copper Indians, the first to mine copper metal; the Woodland Indians, who first made pottery; and the Hopeswell who farmed, hunted and fished, according to Smith.

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In more recent history, a number of other native American tribes lived in the area. In the book “History of Oakland County,” Samuel Durant wrote, “Here, as everywhere in the vicinity of fish-producing lakes, was a favorite resort of Indians; it was their hunting homes and hunting ground before the white man came and, for years after their expulsion, when they made their semiannual journeyings to Detroit to receive their government annuities, they made their camps on the shores of the lakes or in the wooded bottoms along the margin of the Rouge.”

Tribes in the area included members of the Chippewa or Ojibwa, Potawatomi, Ottawa, Miami, Saulk, Fox, and Mascouten tribes.

Smith states that some could have also been Wyandots or Hurons who had been driven out of Ontario by the Iroquois.

In his book “Images of America: Birmingham,” Craig Jolly wrote, “Oakland County must have seemed like a sylvan paradise to Native Americans who settled here. With 400 to 500 lakes and many streams, the area was ideal for hunting, fishing, and agriculture ... State Archeologists have found evidence of Native Americans in Birmingham as far back as 1,000 years ago.”

Various historical documents, which include past newspaper accounts, portray only a scattered history of some of the area lake names.

Unfortunately, numerous gaps exist in the records and it’s not known how, when or by whom many of the lakes were named.

One version of “The History of Oakland County,” published by Mary Power in 1877, states many county lakes were named after pioneers who were the first to settle or purchase land along the pristine shorelines.

Aleise Hagund, an intern with the Birmingham Historical Museum and Park, said the U.S. Congress passed a law in 1812 requiring a total of 6 million acres — 2 million in each of the designated territories of Illinois, Louisiana and Michigan — to be surveyed and set aside so they may be given freely to veterans of the War of 1812.

“Once the area was surveyed and appropriated, the land in the Michigan territory, present-day Oakland County, was excluded as it was reported to be uncultivable,” Hagund said. “The land survey report, called the Tiffin Report, dismissed the land because of the great number of lakes and marshy areas they encountered.”

The Tiffin Report was written by Edward Tiffin, who was the surveyor-general for the Northwest Territory.

According to Smith, the report read, “Not one acre out of a hundred, if there be one in a thousand, would in any case admit of cultivation or it is worth the expense of surveying. It is an area of swamp and lakes in between stretches of sandy loam on which scarcely any vegetation grows, except small scrubby oaks.”

Smith said the Tiffin Report was so widely circulated in the east that in the school geography books at the time, the words “interminable swamp” were written across maps of the interior of Michigan.

“In all fairness to Tiffin, he didn’t survey the land himself, but had others do it and as far as Royal Oak, there was a swamp, well known for its impassability and its clouds of mosquitoes which made passage through it almost impossible.

Every writer of the period mentions the terrible mosquitoes which could so drain men and animals of blood that they would drop from weakness,” Smith wrote.

While such reports may have seemed daunting and frightful, one man — Gov. Cass — wanted to take matters into his own hands and explore the area himself.

According to Hagund, the group, which included Major Oliver Williams, Rev. John Monteith, David McKinstry, Austin E. Wing, Benjamin Head, and Cass, set out from Detroit on Oct. 9, 1818.

“Cass’ report could not have been more favorable,” Hagund said. “He hoped to stress the advantages of the area, rather than the disadvantages highlighted by the Tiffin Report, and focused on the natural beauty of the area. This can be seen in the names (the Cass party) designated for the lakes, which were given to reflect their natural beauty and attract prospective settlers.”

Such names include Island Lake, Long Lake, Orange Lake, Turtle Lake, Square Lake, and Cranberry Lake — now known as Wabeek Lake.

In addition, Cass and his expedition named several lakes after themselves, their wives, and friends.

Hagund said Gilbert Lake was likely named for the original landowner Joseph Gilbert, who purchased 160 acres of land on the lake in 1823.

The Gilbert Lake Farm House is the oldest house still standing in the area.

According to Smith, only three rooms remain from the original farmhouse, which has been added onto many times.

In addition, Gilbert Lake is also home to one of the oldest graveyards in Bloomfield Township, according to Smith.

“The 1877 County History notes the existence of a private cemetery on the southwestern side of Gilbert Lake. It notes that the first internment was that of Joseph Gilbert’s wife, Nancy.”

Wing Lake was named for Austin E. Wing, Hagund said.

“He was a part of Gov. Cass’ expedition, and owned a 160-acre lot on the southeast shore of Wing Lake, recorded in Sept. 8, 1821,” He said.

“Elijah Bull was the assignee of Wing to the land, and he built a home that remains there today. It’s counted among the county’s oldest homes.”

Smith wrote, “Today the six-inch planks of white pine on the floors and the old huge fireplace with its brick oven are about the only portions of the original house remaining. Still, it does qualify as one of our oldest houses.”

In 1872, Thomas Drake wrote a report on the Cass Expedition for the Oakland Pioneer Society.

In his report he wrote, “We will not undertake to describe the shouts of joy which burst from their lips as they looked upon the lovely landscapes which were presented to their view. They were enraptured with the scenery. The plains and openings were covered with new and brilliant flowers. After making as full an investigation as their means would allow, having gathered as many flowers and shrubs as they could carry as evidences of the fertility of the soil, they returned to Detroit, after an absence of three or four days.

“The exploration made by this party was the theme of conversation and it undoubtedly led to the formation of the Pontiac Company which held its first meeting November 5, 1818, with the purpose of selling land,” Drake wrote.

Alexis Charles Henri Clerel de Tocqueville was a French statesman and writer who visited the Bloomfield area 11 years after it was settled, along with his friend Gustave de Beaumont, to see what real wilderness looked like, according to Smith.

In an account of his travels to Bloomfield, de Tocqueville wrote, “As we proceeded, we gradual-

ly lost sight of the traces of man. Soon all proofs even of savage life disappeared, and before us was the scene that we had so long been seeking — a virgin forest.”

In 1833, according to Jolly, brothers Josephus Young and John J. Young built a sawmill west of Birmingham along the Rouge River. An earthen dam was also created at the south end of a ravine from what was once called Millpond and later renamed Quarton Lake.

The size of Millpond was increased, its name changed to Quarton, and a heavy concrete dam was built at the south end of the old pond in November 1918. The owner of the mill and property at the time was Niles Hansen. It was sold in 1918 to make way for Quarton Lake Estates.

Quarton Lake was named after Fred Quarton and his family, who purchased the Watkins Poney Farm in 1906 from Gilbert Watkins. This land, along with the mill and property from Hansen, was then subdivided and built into Quarton Lake Estates.

According to Jolly, in the days before refrigeration, Quarton Lake was Birmingham’s source of ice.

“Large blocks were packed in sawdust and stored in the barn at the south end of the lake.

The ice-cutting operation was owned by William Olsen until 1916, when Quarton Lake Estates was planned. A modern ice plant was later built just south of Maple Road, between Elm and Worth Streets.”

Fran Wilson, an Oakland County Pioneer and Historical Society librarian, said other small lakes along the Rouge could have been formed through dams, as Quarton Lake was formed.

“Vhay Lake, which runs parallel to Long Lake Road, east of the railroad tracks and south of Long Lake Road, was on property owned by the Vhay family. I don’t know whether they dammed the river to create the lake or not but there was probably some kind of mill at the dam site,” Wilson said.

According to Jolly, several gristmills and sawmills were constructed in the Birmingham area in the 1820s to serve the needs of farmers and settlers.

“Farmers from miles around brought their crops to the mill to be ground,” Jolly said of the Quarton Lake mill.

Jumping ahead in time, it’s not known — or at least not recorded — how Sodon Lake received its name — but it does have an interesting history.

“Sheltered from the wind, and just 5.7 acres in surface area, it is still 60 feet deep, and surface winds and variations of temperature don’t effect that lower cavern where is stored the evidence of vegetation of each interim between glacial periods,” Smith wrote.

Because the lake’s water at the lower level doesn’t mix with the upper level, the lake is a rare phenomenon.

In fact, it was this uniqueness that prompted Dr. Curtis L. Newcombe, of the Cranbrook Institute of Science, to suggest to the American Association for the Advancement of Science that Sodon Lake be used as a depository for nuclear waste — a suggestion that was not accepted, according to Smith.

Whether a lake’s history has been documented or not, Wilson and Hagund agree that other lakes in the area like Chalmers Lake, Haines Lake, Hammond Lake and Kingswood Lake were most likely named by families owning land near those waters. ■

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THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

â– snapshot

markus ketty

M

arkus Ketty, a fashion designer and Season 1 contestant on Bravo's "The Fashion Show," may be cultivating his career in Miami, but he's still a

Michigander at heart.

The youngest of seven children, 33-year-old Ketty, shown here with Jillian Lourdes Sanz wearing all Markus Ketty Design 2006, attended grade school at St. Hugo of the Hills Catholic Church in Bloomfield Hills, and spent a great deal of his early years growing up in Birmingham. It was there that he acquired much of his interest and inspiration in the realm of fashion.

"Two big influences on me growing up in Michigan were Ron Rea and Linda Dresner," Ketty said.

While living in Michigan, Ketty worked for Rea, an award-winning restaurant designer. Ketty also points to Dresner as a huge fashion inspiration.

"Linda Dresner is absolutely incredible and I hope that when my line is up and running I will sell at her store," he said of Dresner's downtown Birmingham store.

Ketty's career has taken him all over the country and abroad, but he

returned to his roots to tap Katrina Malota from Luigi Bruni Salon in Birmingham to do hair and makeup for his 2006 London fashion show.

"She's a constant source of inspiration," Ketty said. "She's amazing."

Having just returned from California after filming the finale of "The Fashion Show," Ketty recalls his experience on the reality show.

"It helped me in a lot of ways," he said. "I'm quite a private person."

Having to live with strangers, though nerve-wracking, took him out of his comfort zone and allowed a larger audience to become familiar with his name.

Through talent and a television presence, Ketty is internationally-known and his pieces are shown and worn by celebrities such as Kelly Rowland, co-host of "The Fashion Show." But friends and family will likely bring him home for the holidays.

"I may have left my hometown, but I still have a lot of ties and connections to Michigan," he said.

Suffice it to say that Ketty is going places but won't soon forget where he came from. — Katey Meisner

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 September 2009 – December 2009 Sponsored by Student LIFE – Tickets available at all OCC Raiders Stores and online through PayPal at www.oaklandcc.edu/entertainment

September 17 – October 9, 2009 - Time: 7:00 pm OUR PERSPECTIVE: National Women’s Art Exhibition Presented by the OCC Womencenter.

Contact: Arlene Frank, 248.522.3642 Thursday, September 17 PHOENIX STRING QUARTET Sponsored by Adult Learning Institute (ALI) Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre - 10:00 am - Admission: Free

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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.

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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, September 18 CODY SHULER AND PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater - 7:30 pm - Admission: $20 Bluegrass music. Visit the website at www.pinemountainrailroad.com

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, 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.

Friday, September 18 PEOPLE DANCING - PERFORMANCE Orchard Ridge Campus - Smith Theatre - 7:30 pm - Admission: $15 Visit their website at www.peopledancing.org

Friday, October 16 THE GRASCALS Royal Oak - Lila Jones Theater - 7:30 pm Admission: $20 Bluegrass music. Visit the website at www.grascals.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.

Friday, September 18 PURCHASE THE ENTIRE BLUEGRASS SERIES Royal Oak Campus - Lila Jones Theater - Series price: $110 To receive the series discount, purchase your tickets on or before September 18, 2009. The series will include the following acts: • Cody Shuler and Pine Mountain Railroad, September 18, 2009 • The Grascals, October 16, 2009• Dailey and Vincent, November 13, 2009 • Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, January 22, 2010• Nothin’ Fancy, April 23, 2010 • J.D. Crowe and the New South, May 14, 2010 Thursday, September 24 A MORNING WITH LOUIS NAGEL Sponsored by Adult Learning Institute (ALI) - Orchard Ridge Campus -Smith Theatre - 10:00 am - Admission: Free 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.

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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.

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 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.

Monday, November 2 HBO’s TONY DEYO Auburn Hills Campus Room G-240 6:30 pm - Open to the public Students will display comedic wit and timing working directly with HBO comedian Tony Deyo.

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.

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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.

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.

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, 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.

SEPTEMBER 2009

■ events calendar / september 3 Thursday Pizza & Pages: Enjoy a special nosh while discussing your favorite book at 7 p.m. at the Baldwin Public Library located at 300 W. Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham.

This event is great for those in grades 6 and up and registration is requested. For more information, call the library at 248-647-1700.

6 Sunday Soul of a People: Presented by the Baldwin Public Library, “Soul of a People-Welcome to the 1930s” brings up the question of “How did people get through the Great Depression?” and may offer some interesting perspectives relative to today’s economic situation. This adult program, “Soul of a People...” will begin at 2 p.m. at 300 West Merrill Street in downtown Birmingham.

Registration is encouraged by calling the library at 248- 647-1700.

7 Monday Franklin Village Festivities: Historic Franklin Village, “The town that time forgot,” will be celebrating Labor Day with its 65th annual Round Up, featuring a parade, Midway Games, a petting farm, pony rides, giant inflatables, a raffle, magician, jugglers, a classic car show, Rescue Dogs for adoption, a LEGO city, bake sale, Kettle Corn, roasted almonds, Sandy Candy, great food, exhibitions by the Historical Society and Garden Club, Art in the Village fine art fair and much more. The Round Up runs from 10 to 4 on Monday, September 7, in downtown Franklin. In addition, the historic Franklin Cider Mill opens for the fall season Labor Day weekend. For more information, visit www.franklinartinthevillage.com or call 248-626-2231

11 Friday The Mousetrap: Billed as the longest-running play ever with good reason, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” will have audience members glued to their seats, even if they’ve seen it before. This is classic Christie with a homicidal maniac on the loose and a group of strangers snowed in at a guest house.

Presented by The Village Players, “The Mousetrap,” will begin at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Sundays, Sept. 11-20, at 34660 Woodward in Birmingham.

For tickets and more information, www.birminghamvillageplayers.com or call 248-644-2075 Book Lovers Delight: Over 30,000 books in 28 categories will be availwww.oaklandpaper.com

able for sale this weekend at the Birmingham Masonic Temple located at 37357 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills. This event begins with tonight’s Preview Sale that will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. — there is a $10 (tax deductible) admission charge; on Saturday the general sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – free admission; and Sunday’s free admission clearance sale and bag day will be held from 11 a.m-3 p.m.

Sponsored by the Birmingham Branch of the AAUW or the American Association of University Women, funds from its 83rd annual Used Book Sale will be used for scholarships, fellowships, and community projects. For more information, visit www.aauwbirmmi.org.

12 Saturday Genealogy Workshop: Get started on tracing your ancestors or pick up hints from the experts at this drop-in workshop beginning at 10 a.m. at the Bloomfield Township Public Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. Come anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and talk with the experienced researchers from the Piety Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Bring any records you might have with you. For more information, call the library, at 248-6425800 or visit www.btpl.org.

15 Tuesday Birmingham House Tour: Sponsored by Hall and Hunter Realtors, this every popular event will offer an introduction to the many diverse design styles of some of the area’s most prestigious homes. The 22nd annual Birmingham House Tour will be held today from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with refreshments in the afternoon at The Community House, located at 380 South Bates.

Admission is $30. For more information, call 248-644-5832.

20 Sunday Run For The Blind: Under the auspices of the Birmingham Lions’ Club, the 32nd annual Leader Dog Run for the Blind will begin at 9 a.m. on the corner of Merril and Pierce in downtown Birmingham. With many divisions for all ages, men and women, this fun 10K & 5K run and one-mile walk will go through many of the more picturesque residential areas. For entry fees and registration, call Total Runner at 248-354-1177.

College is Yours: Join Patrick O’ Connor, an award-winning author

and Director of College Counseling at Roeper School for his presentation, “College is Yours: Choosing and Visiting a College.” Designed for teens and parents, this event on finding that college with a “perfect fit” will be held at 1 p.m. at the Bloomfield Township Public Library, located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. Two 90minute sessions are available and registration is required. For more information, call the library, at 248-6425800 or visit www.btpl.org.

21 Monday Books & Bites: Vera B. William’s “Stringbean’s Trip to The Shining Sea” will be discussed at 6:30 p.m. at the Bloomfield Township Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield. Accompanied by their favorite adult, children in grades 2 and 3 will express their views on the works of this popular children’s author. Registration is requested. For more information, call the library, at 248-642-5800 or visit www.btpl.org.

22 Tuesday Little Foodies- After School Snacks: Hosted by the Bloomfield Township Public Library, little ones ages 4-7 are invited to join in the fun and laughter with all sorts of stories and easy recipes at 4:30 p.m. at 1099 Bloomfield Township Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. Registration is required and adult supervision is requested. For more information, call the library, at 248-642-5800 or visit www.btpl.org.

23 Wednesday Writer’s Rendezvous: Would be writer’s of all ages are invited to be a part of the ongoing group, sharing the creative process with others at 7 p.m. at the Bloomfield Township Public Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. No registration is necessary. Details on the group are available the the library by calling 248-642-5800 or visit www.btpl.org Vine & Dine: Presented by the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce, the sixth annual Vine & Dine festival will offer guests an outstanding selection of domestic and imported wines, a strolling buffet featuring the finest restaurants and caterers, glittering fashions and musical entertainment. This gala festival will be held from 6-9 p.m. at the Cranbrook Institute of Science located at 39221 Woodward in Bloomfield

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Hills. A portion of the proceeds will go toward the Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan.

Tickets are $65 per person and corporate pricing is available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.vinendine.com or call 248644-1700

26 Saturday Art in the Park: One of the premier outdoor art fairs in the area, “ Art in the Park,” will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday in the Bates Street Parking lot located adjacent to the North Old Woodward Parking Structure. Sponsored by Common Ground,this juried event, having swelled considerably over the past 35 years, now offers the works of over 200 artists, a silent auction, lots of delicious foods and a special children’s art area under the direction of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Admission is free. For more information, visit www.commongroundhelps.org or call 248-451-3735.

Saturday Afternoon Musicale: ❐ The highly talented students from the Orchard Lake School of Music may be heard in recital at 3 p.m. at Bloomfield Township Public Library located at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills. The many different forms of music presented will be sure to please people of all ages. For more information, call the library at 248642-5800 or visit www.btpl.org

29 Tuesday Student OUR TOWN Exhibit: Featuring an exciting assortment of noteworthy artwork from students of all ages, The Community House will present its Student OUR TOWN Exhibit now through Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 380 South Bates in downtown Birmingham. Admission is free.

For more information, call The Community House at 248-644-5882.

Book Munch Bunch: Presented by the Bloomfield Township Public Library, this event will feature a lively discussion of the book, “Diary of a Wombat,” by Australian author,Jackie French at 6:30 p.m. at 1099 Lone Pine Road in Bloomfield Hills.

Escorted by their favorite adult, children in kindergarten and first grade are sure to enjoy this armchair adventure to the “land down under,” as well as the crafts, games, snacks and music. Registration is required. For more information, call the library at 248-642-5800 or visit www.btpl.org 55

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248-624-0400 *All Payments are plus tax and calculated for a 39-month, 39,000 mile lease, with approved tier zero credit thru US Bank North America. Total due at lease inception is $2675.00 which includes first payment, acquisition fee, tax, title and transfer of plates.

Security deposit waived with approved credit. Lessee must be A or Z plan eligible, Volvo Loyal {for S80 OR XC70}. Offer expires 9/30/2009

THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

■ the community house

A

lthough I never look forward to the end of summer, I have never been more excited about fall at The Community House. Our fall catalog is out in print and on our website, and registration is open for the term that begins this month.

This fall we have lots of brand new and unique programs: •On September 24, Dr. Eva Feldman will speak at the Influential Women Series breakfast meeting.

She is the director of the A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute at the University of Michigan. She will discuss the role of women as leaders in academic medicine. I look forward to reconnecting with Eva because my 21-year-old son Shelley Roberts and her son grew up together.

•On September 29, C.H.A.R.T., Community House Active Retirees Together, will present An Evening with Jeffrey Zaslow, Wall Street Journal columnist. He will share the inside stories behind his two New York Times bestsellers, “The Last Lecture” and “The Girls from Ames,” while offering a humorous and heartfelt look at the life transitions we all face. There is no charge but RSVP’s are requested.

•Classes that active retirees may wish to take include our Well Balanced Workout; The Good, the Bad, the Ugly: Women in Art; Wine Exploration Series; eBay for Beginners; Yoga; Tai Chi and Taking Control of Arthritis.

There is something for everyone!

•Along with our always popular fitness classes, we have some great new offerings including Morning Boot Camp and Prenatal Yoga.

•If you have children who have an interest in acting, make sure that on September 11 or 12 they audition for our fall Sara Smith Productions Youth Theatre play, Guys and Dolls Jr. When my now 21-year-old son was 8 years old, he became a Community House actor. He loved it, and it was a great way to build his self-confidence.

•The Community House Ballet & Jazz School is a venerable community

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institution in its own right. We offer Creative Dance for three-year-olds to Classical Ballet IV/ Pointe and everything in between, including all levels of ballet and an adult Ballet Workout, tap, jazz, modern dance, jazz/hip hop and more.

•During September, we have two great day trips. Join us to see “The Phantom of the Opera” at the Detroit Opera House on Sunday, September 13; for shopping in Shipshewana, Indiana on Tuesday, September 15; for a fantastic tour of Detroit’s many facets on Thursday, September 17 and for a Wannabee Foodies tour to culinary school and Northville on Friday, September 25. Don’t forget to sign up for Jersey Boys by September 10.

In addition, for last minute travelers, we have three great trips in September: “Erin Go Brea” Northern Ireland and Belfast; Yellowstone, Grand Tetons and Mt. Rushmore and an unforgettable Venetian cooking and cultural experience.

•Be sure to mark your calendars for the 22nd Annual Birmingham House Tour scheduled for Tuesday, September 15. The event is presented

by The Community House and Hall & Hunter Realtors, Nanci J. Rands and Meredith Colburn, Associate Brokers of Hall & Hunter, and Paramount Bank. This year our Honoree is Patty Ghesquiere who has provided longstanding support to The Community House as a board member, chair of the Our Town Art Show and Sale and chair of the House Tour.

The Tour offers seven unique homes in Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills and Bloomfield Township, ranging in style from traditional to very contemporary. The tour hours are 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and the cost per person is $30 in advance or $35 the day of the tour. Advance reservations (248.644.5832) are recommended as the event does sell out.

All House Tour attendees are invited back to The Community House from 3 to 4:30 p.m. for a complimentary informal afternoon tea sponsored

by Eagle Nationwide Mortgage. In addition, a delicious salad buffet luncheon will be offered from 11:30 a.m.1 p.m. on the Van Dusen Terrace of The Community House for $15.

As always, I look forward to seeing you at The Community House. ■ Shelley Roberts is president and CEO of The Community House.

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Phenomenal views! Open floor plan, eat-in kitchen with new granite countertops! Lovely living room with fireplace and tons of windows to enjoy the awesome views of the Detroit River and Canadian shoreline. Huge master suite with fireplace.

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Large living room with soaring ceilings and two story windows for panoramic views of the river and Detroit skyline. Four bedrooms, 4.5 baths, beautiful grounds, deep water dockage with hoists. Incredibly priced at $996,000 Visual Tour mbarealty.com (#280P)

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Deep water dockage. Wow! $2,900,000 Visual Tour - mbarealty.com (#572P)

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Spectacular in every way! Four bedrooms, 5.5 baths. Theatre and exercise rooms. Billiard room and 6 fireplaces. Game room with bar and wine cellar. Gourmet kitchen with Thermador appliances. Slate and brick entryway. $2,900,000 Visual Tour - mbarealty.com (#433P)

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57

■ 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 take-out orders. If an establishment serves beer(B), wine(W) or liquor (L), the listing indicates such. Likewise, if breakfast (B), lunch (L) or dinner (D) is served, we indicate by code and then the days it is offered.

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

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

Andiamo: Andiamo’s offers Northern Italian decor amid a chic dining spot. A favorite among many area celebrities.

Featuring traditional Italian dishes in an elegant dining room or live music in the lounge.

An extensive wine list and selection of desserts. B, W, L. L & D, daily. 6676 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Township, 48301. 248.865.9300.

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

248.626.2630.

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

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

Big Boy: Big Boy features its classic diner burgers, breakfast specials and popular dessert menu. With its famous Big Boy sandwich and soup and salad bar, its a hometown diner for the whole family. B, L & D, daily. 6675 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301. 248.642.0717.

Big Rock Chophouse: Big Rock Chophouse’s 4-star, award-winning menu offers flavorful recipes centered around enormous, hand-cut aged steaks, lamb chops and fresh seafood. Featuring an onsite 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, MondaySaturday. 245 S. Eton Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.647.7774.

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

Bloomfield Deli: With a large selection of sandwiches and wraps, Bloomfield Deli also offers several different varieties of grilled cheese sandwiches, grilled chicken wraps and breakfast sandwiches. Also offering fresh salads and a salad bar with 20 different vegetables and fruits. B & L, MondayFriday. 71 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.645.6879.

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

248.334.5559.

Brandy’s Steakhouse: A cozy ambiance, private dining room and traditional dishes can be expected at Brandy’s. Offering salads, seafood, pastas and Brandy’s signature steaks. B,W,L. L, Monday-Saturday; D, daily. 1727 South Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.338.4300.

Breakaway Deli: Breakaway Deli features a variety of house sandwiches as well as a meat-free zone for vegetarians. B & L, Monday-Saturday; D, Monday-Friday. 71 West Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.642.2900.

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

111 Henrietta Street, Birmingham, 48009.

248.258.6690.

Cafe Via: A high-end downtown eatery featuring an elegant setting as well as a patio courtyard. Grilled salmon, roasted chicken, crabcakes and lambchops are some favorites at Cafe Via. B, W, L. L & D, MondaySaturday. 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, TuesdaySunday. 300 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, 48009. 248.203.9704.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, MondaySaturday. 877 W. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.540.7220.

Forte Restaurant: With beautiful decor and lavish cuisine, Forte offers a complete dining experience, including an extensive wine list. Renowned chefs present a complete breakfast menu as well. B, W, L. B, L & D, daily. 201 South Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham, 48009. 248.594.7300.

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.

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.

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.

Fuddrucker’s: With simple recipes and made-from-scratch buns, Fuddrucker’s offers burgers, chicken, fish, salad, and a kids menu. B, W. L & D, daily. 42757 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Township, 48302. 248.333.2400.

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

58

THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

■ main course MAIN COURSE

Showcasing hip and cool: Café Via

By Eleanor Heald

becoming passé around the U.S., not simply due to the sputtering economy, but diner desire for casual settings and straightforward yet delicious cuisine.

Well edited menu

table indoor eatery, spread among a bar and three rooms joined by a common hallway, doubles in size. Since Café Via does not take reservations, if you’ve not been yet, go before long wait lines form again on chilly weekend evenings. Unless you don’t mind waiting, before 6 p.m. is your best time slot.

Café Via “works” in Birmingham, which over the years has added the word chic and stylish to its suburban restaurant culture without acquiring the label “fine dining,” which is

Seated at a table in one of the many casually comfortable chairs, the evening diner finds a tightly-edited menu of six appetizers ($10-$16), six soup and salad offerings ($6-$16), three pastas ($16-$20), nine main dishes ($10-$29) with steaks running $28 for an 8-oz tenderloin and $38 for a 16-oz bone-in ribeye, both with frites and a cognac-peppercorn sauce. Dishes are well garnished and sensibly sized to satisfy.

The lunch menu has many of the same offerings, however it omits pastas for some gourmet sandwiches ($9-$15), including a Reuben, Tuna Salad and Grilled Flatbread with arugula, brie and tomato.

Executive Chef Jay Gundy has a knack for making some American café favorites special. His experience at both the Whitney in Detroit and Tribute in Farmington Hills honed his skills.

Gundy’s Chicken Liver Terrine appetizer conjures up thoughts of bloc de foie gras in a Paris bistro.

Caesar Salad has a creamy-lemony dressing rather than one that’s garlicky. Frisee Salad is French inspired, but with a fried egg instead of the traditional poached. Salad Nicoise features perfectly seared sushi grade tuna slices and not a flaky canned imitation.

As a pasta, the Linguini, Shrimp, Mussels and Sausage complemented by tomato, basil, garlic and lemon is a choice that hits the spot not just for the pasta, but seafood and tasty meat component. Pillow light ricotta gnocchi forms a delicious bed for Pan Roasted Alaskan Halibut. Yet, Gundy notes, the stacked Grilled Salmon with grilled sourdough, tomato salad and basil pesto is another best seller.

A two-page wine list includes a mix of domestic offerings and of-shore bottlings, both by the glass ($8-$14) and bottle ($28-$70).

A short list of seasonally available made in-house desserts creates a

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.

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.

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.

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.

O

pen now for six months, Birmingham’s Café Via continues to attract as a hip and cool place to eat in a Euro-inspired American bistro atmosphere, designed by Ron Rea of Ron & Roman Design LLC in Birmingham.

Located inside a contemporary Maple Road storefront, Café Via is accessed through a long entranceway to a 65-seat courtyard where the main door is located adjacent to a stone patio.

With courtyard patio seating in warmer weather, the 65-seat, 15-

Hunter House Hamburgers: Featuring high quality, gourmet hamburgers. Recently voted Number One Burger in Michigan by

www.oaklandpaper.com

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.

happy meal ending.

General Manager Carol Cahalan, who is a partner in the restaurant with Ted Fuller, owner of Central Park Properties LLC and a major Birmingham landlord, checks on patron satisfaction by “working the floor.” Her 14-year management experience at 220 Restaurant in Birmingham does not go unnoticed.

Owner on premise makes a huge difference in consistency, an important element in continuing success in a diner-fussy suburb. That’s not a negative connotation, but wording inscribed in the book of good things.

Café Via, 310 E. Maple Road, Birmingham, 248.644.8800. Reservations not accepted.

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m.

QUICK BITES The August 31, 2009 Wine Spectator awarded the following restaurant wine lists in the BirminghamBloomfield area with its Award of Excellence: Big Rock Chop House, Birmingham (245 S. Eton St. 248647-7774), Cameron’s Steakhouse, Birmingham (115 Willits St. 248723-1700), Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Birmingham (323 N. Woodward 248-723-0134), and Northern Lakes Seafood Company, Bloomfield Hills (39495 N. Woodward 248.646.7900). Northern Lakes received an additional commendation for featuring inexpensive wine pricing.

■

Early in August, McDonald’s launched the Angus Third Pounder ($3.99) using for the first time 100 percent USDA-inspected Angus Beef. There’s Deluxe (750 calories), Bacon and Cheese and Mushroom and Swiss.

This is the first new burger since the Big N’ Tasty in 2001. (2209 S. Telegraph, near Square Lake, Bloomfield Hills).

crusted filet mignon, a choice from two sides and a dessert. (323 North Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham 248.723.0134).

■

Birmingham’s Streetside Seafood sports a new outdoor dining patio platform – 16 seats and two umbrellas perfect for the last warm days of summer and those in early autumn. A front-of-the-restaurant facelift that added two large French doors gives Streetside a whole new look. Snag patio seats before they’re stored at the end of October for the winter.

(273 Pierce St., Birmingham 248.645.9123).

■

Birmingham Papa Joe’s is enlarging and adding mezzanine space to create a new Ron Rea–designed restaurant called Bistro Joe, with an outside café and seating 60 indoors. With a prepaid card for a wine dispenser, customers can get pours from a list of 50 wines. According to owner Tony Curtis, plans are for a late November 2009 opening. (34244 Woodward Ave., Birmingham 248.723.9400).

■

Welcome autumn with a Napa Valley Celani Family Vineyards five-course wine dinner hosted by owners Tom and Vicky Celani, Tuesday, September 22 at Big Rock Chophouse. A 6:30 p.m. reception with passed appetizers and Celani 2008 Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon begins the evening.

Reservations at $150 per person can be made by phoning the restaurant.

(245 S. Eton St., Birmingham 248.647.7774).

■

■

Plan ahead for Crush Birmingham 2009 Wine & Food Classic, Saturday, October 3, $250 per person at the Townsend Hotel, an opportunity to savor the finest food and wine to benefit Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan. More information and tickets at crush2009.com.

At Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar through September 22 you can order Summer Prix-Fixe Menu for $39.95 per person, excluding tax or gratuity. There’s a choice from two appetizers, one of three main courses, including a 6-ounce peppercorn

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.

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.

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

248.647.3400.

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.

THE PAPER

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

59

■ eating out 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.

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• Lunches from $6.95 with Soup or Salad Served Mon-Fri • Full Bar • Carry-Out/Catering • Private Parties

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 Chicagostyle deep dish pizza. L & D, daily. 4036 Telegraph Road, Ste.106, Bloomfield Hills, 48302. 248.540.7722.

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SEPTEMBER 2009

■ focus on wine Eric Solomon Wines of Spain: Mantra of Place Before Process

By Eleanor and Ray Heald

W

ine importer Eric Solomon says “Wine is transporting; it takes you places you would like to visit.”

hooked up with the wine giant Heublein and began calling on some of Manhattan’s best restaurants and retail shops. He continued to travel to France and realized he preferred the wine cellar to wine business. He had become adept at recognizing and sorting out good wines from the not so memorable.

In 1989, after 10 years pounding the streets of New York City, he quit his job and started European Cellars which imported French wines exclusively. “I loved,” he said, “the food, wine and diversity of France – especially southern France. I enjoyed discovering wines from unknown grape varieties, regions and producers.”

Transition

Solomon’s bevy of Spanish wines is remarkable. Recently, we met with him for a three-hour tasting of his wines available in the metro area.

Solomon entered the wine trade by a circuitous route. At age 18, he was invited to understudy with the London Symphony Orchestra.

Needing to support himself, he found a job in a London wine bar, where he was included in many wine tastings.

Noting Solomon’s interest and wine tasting ability, he was sponsored for the British Masters of Wine program which he passed. During this time, he also had opportunity to work several grape harvests in France.

Solomon returned to the U.S. in 1979 at age 24. Being wine savvy and interested in the business, he quickly gave up a career in music,

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 oven-toasted 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.

www.oaklandpaper.com

Solomon’s transition to Spanish wines occurred while tasting through a backlog of French review samples.

In the midst of 80 wines, one stopped him in his tracks. He noticed the outstanding wine was not French, but from Priorat, a Spanish region he had never heard of and a producer he didn’t know, Clos Erasmus. Immediately drawn to Spanish wines, he began importing them. European Cellars now imports the wines of over 100 producers, 65 percent of which are Spanish, 30 percent French and five percent Portuguese.

Solomon’s mantra is “Place Before Process.” He’s interested in wines of a place and is not a proponant of cookie cutter winemaking. His wine portfolio focuses on terroir. He wants to know why wines from neighboring vineyards have different tastes. He loves finding wines made from native grape varieties like macabeo, godello

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, Monday-Friday; D, MondaySaturday. 42656 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, 48304. 248.333.3887.

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

248.258.9830.

The Corner Bar: Part of the Townsend Hotel complex, The Corner Bar offers a

or xarello. He’s willing to promote an unknown grape variety, an undiscovered region or a gifted winemaker working in obscurity.

WINE PICKS FROM ERIC SOLOMON SELECTIONS (ESS) SPANISH WHITE WINES • Sitios De Bodega, Con Class 2008 $10 like a fresh New Zealand sauvignon blanc with stone fruits, lime and grapefruit • Bodegas Rafael Palacios, Louro 2007 $20 lean and clean with fresh citrus and apricot notes • Pazo De Senorans, Albarino 2006 $25 steely and cleansing with dry finish • Ossian 2007 $48 very dry with zesty lime notes to accompany oysters, scallops and shrimp • Bodegas Rafael Palacios, As Sortes 2007 $50 Chablis-like with mineral hints

WINE PICKS FROM ERIC SOLOMON SELECTIONS (ESS) SPANISH RED WINES • Evodia 2007 $9 made from old vine grenache, it’s full of great fruit and notes of coffee and cocoa • Artazuri 2007 $11 red raspberry and cherry aromas and flavors make this wine a role model for grenache • Espelt, Saulo 2007 $13 has good structure and concentrated aromas and flavors • Artadi, Vinas de Gain 2006 $32 coffee aromas, great structure with red and black fruit flavors • Mas Doix, Salanques 2005 $45 full bodied and rich with notes of licorice and spice

lighter fare from 5-7 p.m. that includes sliders and salads. B, W, L. D, WednesdaySaturday. 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, Monday-Saturday. 203 Pierce Street, Birmingham, 48009. 248.258.6278.

THE PAPER

• Closa Batllet, Tinto 2005 $50 big fruit impression and full mouthfeel Bodegas Aalto, Aalto 2005 $60 big tannins, big oak notes and long finish • Quinta Sardonia 2005 $75 This is a WOW wine with big fruit and big, rich tannins • Artadi, Pagos Viejos 2006 $85 big, rich and smooth with black fruits and notes of mocha

MICHIGAN WINE COMPETITION SWEEPSTAKES AWARDS With a record 395 entries from 42 Michigan wineries, two dozen judges (including us) awarded the following wines “Best of Class” in the 32nd annual competition on August 4: • Dry White: Left Foot Charley 2008 Pinot Blanc “Island View Vineyard” — Semi-Dry White: Bel Lago 2008 Gewurztraminer • Rosé: Forty-Five North 2008 Pinot Noir • Dry Red: Gill’s Pier Vineyard & Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc/Merlot • Dessert: Fenn Valley 2008 “42” Ice Wine • Fruit: Longview NV Reserve Cherry Wine • Judges Merit Award: Black Star Farms 2008 Arcturos Dry Riesling • Double Gold, Gold and other award wines are listed on the website michiganwines.com.

Eleanor & Ray Heald are contributing editors for the internationallyrespected Quarterly Review of Wines and AppellationAmerica.com, among other publications. Contact them by e-mail at focusonwine@aol.com.

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 eat out. Send your information via fax (248.360.1220) to Katey Meisner or e-mail to kateymeisner@thescngroup.com.

61

■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Midsummer Night’s Dream

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 columns and photos are archived on the website for The Paper.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Midsummer Night’s Dream

Left: Events co-chairs Marlies Castaing(left) of Bloomfield, Linda Dresner of Birmingham and Kay Cowger of Bloomfield with DSO board chair Jim Nicholson of Grosse Pointe. Right: Honorary co-chairs Marianne and Alan E Schwartz of Bloomfield

Left: Judge Jim (left) and Lynn Alexander and honorary co-chair Maggie Allesee of Bloomfield with Music Hall’s Vince Paul of Grosse Pointe. Right: Mark(left) and event committee member Lois Shaevsky of Bloomfield and Avern and Lois Cohn of Birmingham

Smart folks down there at Orchestra Hall. They invited unemployed autoworkers to a concert free of charge and nearly 1,000 accepted.

They joined other music lovers for the performance preceding dinner at the Midsummer Night’s Dream Gala, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s major yearly fundraiser. And even though there were 1,500 in the hall, the concert, which included Cole Porter love songs and Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March”, seemed almost intimate as mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade and maestro Leonard Slatkin revealed their longstanding mutual admiration.

Following the concert 60 guests ($250) enjoyed an informal strolling dinner in the Herman and Sharon Frankel Donor Lounge, while 350 ($500$10,000) dined formally in the Music Box. Kudos to the co-chairs Marlies Castaing, Linda Dresner, Kay Cowger and Danielle Karmanos and their committee: Phyllis Strome, Lois Shaevsky, Maureen D’Avanzo, Bonnie Larson, Pat Nichol and Laura Mackiewicz for the aesthetic decisions - handsome square tables centered with naturescapes.

Likewise the menu which included herb crusted sole roulade with lemon beurre blanc, saffron risotto cakes and stuffed zucchini.

Karmanos wasn’t at the soiree due to the pending birth of twin sons Socrates and Leonides, who were born six days later. (Congratulations to the new parents.)

However, her mother Gail Majcher was a friendly representative for her daughter.

The congenial crowd did lots of table hopping between courses and the affable Slatkin, who was concluding his first year as DSO conductor, got his share of bear hugs.

Detroit Zoological Society’s Sunset at the Zoo

Left: Marilyn Pincus (left) and Host Committeee members Mort and Brigitte Harris of Bloomfield. Right: Nancy and Bud Liebler of Bloomfield

■ Sunset at the Zoo

The rain predicted for the evening prompted some (300) ticket holders to stay home, and many of the remainder (1,350) toted rain gear, but Sunset at the Zoo got off to a comfy start. Nearly 250 benefactors and patrons ($600-$300) first socialized in the Ford Education Center, where student art was displayed throughout. Other partygoers ($150) enjoyed a champagne welcome before all strolled the animal exhibits, Dinosauria and the tents where generous restaurants and bars were dispensing tasty fare. Offerings ranged from Big Rock’s poached shrimp to Cameron’s shaved beef tenderloin sliders to Beyond Juice Birmingham’s fruit smoothies.

About the time Dan Stall was getting the live auction started, thunder began rolling in, and shortly there after, the action was moved inside the main tent. Even so, folks bid $110,000 in the live auction. This includes the $6,400 pledged for Day at the Zoo sponsorships, the $5,000 two people each paid to name the zoo’s two new lionesses who were rescued from ramshackle quarters in Kansas and the $5,500 two people each paid for a fall hayride and twilight zoo tour for 12.

A silent auction of 40 items, including David Wachler and Sons Jewelers’ donation of a Dinasauria cable charm bracelet and the papier-mache animals created by College for Creative Studies students, brought in more than $14,000. Likewise the Sunset Keys raffle, which gave away nearly 150 donated goodies, each worth at least $50, for $25 raffle tickets. Since the rains were drenching the un-tented dance floor, the party, one of the most festive of the summer, ended early.

Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance Next Generation Mixer

Clockwise from upper left: Sally (left) and Fred Marx with benefactors / event co-chair Lois and Mark Shaevsky of Bloomfield. J (left) and Lynn Ferron of Bloomfield, Julie Herman of Birmingham and event co-chair Jill and Delphi’s Steve Miller of Oakland. Sponsor Strategic Solutions’ Amy Vasquez (left) and her husband Francisco of Atlanta, GA and Sharima Bulchak with her husband Adam of Bloomfield. RJ King (left) of Detroit, zoo advisory board member L. Brooks Patterson of Clarkston and benefactor Ken Way of Bloomfield.

Benefactors Beverly Segal (left) and her daughter Carol Ziecik of Bloomfield. Benefactors Cathy and Jim Rosenthal of Bloomfield

62

The Next Generation Mixer attracted nearly 100 to the Grand Court at Somerset North July 16. Folks socialized, studied the vintage cars on display and noshed on Brio’s Matt Long’s crab and shrimp cakes.

Matt Bloschi said he was there because he is a “future” car collector. Danielle Wetzel said she was there “to network.” But Larry Moss, who heads up the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance Car Selection committee, came with a message. “I want to see 10,000 people at Meadow Brook on Sunday. I want to show the world that Detroit is not dead,” he declared.

Father Tony’s 70th birthday celebration Monsignor Anthony M. Tocco, who has served St. Hugo of the Hills in Bloomfield Hills for 24 years, was the center of attention for two days surrounding his recent 70th birthday. At a celebratory Saturday afternoon mass, homilist Cardinal Edmund Szoka received a standing ovation from the 900 in attendance. People were also talking about the beautiful music, including a Bach concerto performed by eight MSU string musicians and the splendid floral arrangements Richard and Theresa Mazur donated.

Following mass, 200 people who had made donations to the St. Hugo Endowment Fund in honor of Father Tony, as he is known, proceeded to the Palazzo di Bocce in Lake Orion for an Italian birthday celebration. Guests played bocce ball, shared childhood memories of Italian traditions and enjoyed a Tuscan dinner buffet.

But the birthday cake was deemed too beautiful to desecrate.

The gift of Suhail and Carol Shaya, it was created by Gisha’s Cakes in Northville and featured Della Robbia-style fruits and flowers crafted of sugar. A paste replica THE PAPER

SEPTEMBER 2009

of a St. Anthony plaque from Rome adorned the top. The cake was transported back to St. Hugo’s to be the centerpiece of Tocci’s second celebration at the parish picnic the following day.

Reportedly, it was devoured six minutes after it was cut.

Among those at the first party were the honoree’s remaining siblings (he was the 12th of 13 children). The accomplished and indefatigable Sue Nine, who is not a member of the parish, chaired the festivities, which enriched the St. Hugo School endowment fund by approximately $20,000.

■ Meadow Brook Concours Next Generation Mixer at Somerset

BBAC ArtBlast!

Along with the City of Birmingham’s fireworks display, jewelry artist Robin Servo’s make and take project studio was the big attraction at ArtBlast. It attracted about 400 folks of all ages to the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center last month and most of them stood in line to craft handsome necklaces using nuggets of beach glass and wire.

Rochester artist Susan Jager was one of the first to make one and hers was a great advertisement for the project as she surfed the center throughout the evening. From the youngest, like event sponsor Alex Burnstein, to the oldest, Cap Hall, who recently turned 93, everybody seemed to take pride in their creations. Tie die t-shirts were another popular project. They required “baking” overnight in a plastic bag so lots of people were spotted toting same around the center.

The beach theme provided inspiration for decorations, like the signpost which listed the actual miles from the BBAC to distant seaports and the picnic table decorations. We’re talking Barbie dolls and mini surf boards in mini sand boxes. The yummy picnic chow was served up by chef Randy Smith and his crew who have al fresco catering down to an art.

Everybody was impressed with what seemed to be the unusually high quality of the city fireworks display, especially for a small town and the current economic condition. Overheard on the subject: “Well, this is Birmingham. What else would you expect?”

While the traffic cleared after the pyrotechnics, most ArtBlasters hung around to watch Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello cavort in Beach Blanket Bingo on a large screen. The event, which capitalizes perfectly on the resources of the BBAC, raised approximately $20,000.

A graffiti exhibit, work by the Great Lakes Beadworkers Guild and the paintings of Mark Piotrowski, were the featured exhibits at the center through Aug. 21.

Left: Car selection chair Larry Moss (left) of West Bloomfield, model Laiying Williams of Sylvan Lake and Concours veteran / board member Terry Adderly of Bloomfield. Right: Detroit Rocks’ Robert Demptser (left) and broadcast legend Bill Bond of Bloomfield with Concours executive director Matthew Delarcinese of West Bkloomfield

■ Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center’s ArtBlast

Left to right: Bill Schroer (left) of Battle Creek with event chair Gwen Rosseau of Birmingham and event patrons Glenn and Annie Van Gelderen of Commerce.

Bobbie Carrie of Commerce with event patron Amy Kantgias of Birmingham. Lisa Sarkisian (left), her daughter Chloe and husband Ralph Sirlin of Birmingham.

Left to right: Vicki Miller (left) of Bloomfield, Rhonda Sabatini of Rochester Hills and Paige Radtke of Norhtville. Deedee (left), Ian, Audrey and Tim Anglum of Bloomfield. Contrasting beach fashion statements; Bonnie Jobe (left) of Bloomfield and BBAC vice president of programming Cindi Mills of Beverly Hills.

■ Catch the Fireworks with Cass (Community Social Services) at Coach Insignia

Fireworks at Coach Insignia Honorary chair Magic Johnson created some fireworks of his own at the Cass Community Social Services benefit held at Coach Insginia the night of the Target Fireworks. He offered an auction package including a passel of sportsrelated perks. When it sold for $5,500 and some bidders were disappointed to lose out, Magic said he said he’d do the same package for all who’d pay the same amount. Five more people anted up and the excitement produced by the www.oaklandpaper.com

Clockwise from top left: CCSS board chair Laura Beachum (left) of Birmingham and director Rev. Faith Fowler of Detroit. Don Manvel (left) and Suburban Collection’s Myra Moreland of Birmingham, Karen Emily and GM’s Fritz Henderson of Bloomfield, Mikk Carr of Lake Orion. Lissie Rassell Wright of Bloomfield, Coach Insignia catering manager Samantha Sher and Cooley Law School student Jordan Scheinfield of West Bloomfield, Dawn Rassell of Bloomfield. First United Methodist Church of Birmingham CCSS advocates Nancy Keesee (left) of Beverly Hills, Judy Harnish, Ruth and Ann Littleton and Angie Oyer of Birmingham and Gayle McGarvah of Bloomfield.

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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Target Fireworks VIP Rooftop Benefit for the Parade Foundation

Left: New Parade Company CEO Tony Michaels of Rochester Hills, his wife Clarice, and children Maddy, Emily and Joey with Mike Taylor of Rochester Hills. Below from left: Parade Foundation vice chair Charter One’s Sandy Pierce of Milford and board member Comerica’s Elaine McMahon of Birmingham. Alison (left) and Linda Orlans with new US citizens Marie Remboulis and her husband Pierre Corriveau of Birmingham.

■ Teen Pool Party Benefiting Bottomless Toy Chest

total $33,000 made Magic’s trademark smile bigger than ever.

Some 275 people attended the party at Matt Prentice’s superb restaurant atop the Renaissance Center. One group from Birmingham’s Methodist church came in support of CCSS director Rev. Faith Fowler who made lots of local friends when she was a youth minister in the area. All dined casually on such fare as scrumptious lamb chops and seafood offered at stations around the circular room. They also donated $3,000 at the Make A Difference table for CCSS activities, like tanks of gasoline for homeless outreach travel and moving a family into a new home. They dropped nearly $10,000 in a silent auction for donations from the likes of The Heathers Club of Bloomfield, The Townsend Hotel, Café Via, The Forest Grill and Wachler Jewelers. And of course, they had a bird’s eye view of the fireworks display over the Detroit River.

The event raised approximately $185,000 for CCSS, whose programs provide emergency, vocational, nutritional, educational and medical services to at risk people of all ages.

Benefit for the Parade Foundation The VIP Rooftop party benefiting The Parade Company attracted 1,800 people including the Distinguished Clown Corps Grand Jester Bill White. New Parade Company CEO Tony Michaels kept very busy welcoming all to the important fund raiser for the Thanksgiving Day tradition. There was something for everyone to do. While awaiting the pyrotechnic show, people roamed between the Patriotic Piano Bar, the Michigan Lottery’s Stars and Strips Casino, Charter One’s Kids Craft area and the dance floor. Making and eating s’mores was popular with the kids in the Great Outdoors area. But the Target Fireworks show was the raison d’etre for the party. It did not disappoint.

Bottomless Toy Chest Pool Party

Top: Trish Keiser of Bloomfield, Meghan Davis of Lake Orion, Bailey Tucker of Birmingham, Christine Roualet of Bloomfield. Bottom, left to right: Jessica Tifft (left) of Auburn Hills, Joe Cueter, Gracie and Annie Calvanesco of Bloomfield, John Schuele of Troy and Rachel Shattuck of Southfield. Liz Suchocki and Jack DeCerchio of Bloomfield, Claire Husaynu of West Bloomfield. Whitney Coulson holding Mia DeCerchio, Mia’s mother Mickey Guisewite and Rosalyn Calvanesco of Bloomfield.

■ Biggby’s Anniversary Celebration Benefit for Variety FAR Conservancy for the Arts Left: Biggby co-owner Rose Glendinning (right) of Bloomfield and her mother Biancha Glendinning of East Lansing. Right: Loretta Dub (left) and Ronni Tischler of Sylvan Lake and Cheryl Leggett of West Bloomfield.

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Rosalyn Calvanesco’s college internship with the Bottomless Toy Chest has had a rippling effect. Not only did it lead to her part-time job with the non-profit that supplies arts, crafts and interactive toys to hospitalized kids who are fighting cancer, it also introduced her younger twin sisters Gracie and Annie to the cause. They raised $400 at a benefit pool party they hosted at the Fox Hills club pool. More than two dozen teens splashed away the summer evening, pausing to eat pizza and socialize. The twins, a You Tube sensation, also donate their time to sing and play guitar at a monthly BTC fund raiser at Troy’s Caribou Coffee, 1333 Coolidge Hwy

Conservancy for the Arts Benefit Here’s a hopeful Michigan business story. Rose and Joe Glendinning are two young professionals who left lucrative careers in law and business in the bustling city of Chicago to start a business in their home state of Michigan.

When they purchased the Biggby Coffee franchise on Telegraph Road, they also joined the Birmingham/ Bloomfield Chamber and wanted to do their opening for a non-profit that was part of the chamber. Since the siblings both love SEPTEMBER 2009

the arts, the Variety FAR Conservatory for the Arts’ mission to provide enrichment through the arts for those with disabilities appealed to them.

Since then, not only has the business flourished, Rose has joined the FAR board and designated FAR as the beneficiary of Biggby’s recent first anniversary weekend event. They contributed 10 percent of the weekend sales proceeds and encouraged a FAR Bazaar of student-made merchandise, which brought in $400, as well as concerts by FAR student musicians featuring songs ranging from Hannah Montana to the Beatles. The Glendennings also plan future open mike evenings with FAR talent at their coffee shop. FAR director Arlene Kass is thrilled that Rose and Joe Glendining came back to Michigan and have befriended her very special participants.

■ The Garden Party Foundation’s First Annual Benefit

Foundation’s First Annual Party Take heart, all of you who used to look forward to the now defunct Cranbrook Gala de Cuisine and the St. Vincent and Sarah Fisher Center Garden Party. There is now another al fresco wine and dine event on the summer calendar. And it’s a winner.

It attracted more than 400 people to the tented playing fields at the Academy of the Sacred Heart on a warm, sunny Sunday afternoon. The majority of the women wore great hats. Volunteers at 23 different wine tables, including Tom and Vickie Celani’s Celani Family Vineyards, poured more than 100 wines. Thirty restaurants - including 220, Forest Grill, Phoenicia, Beverly Hills Grill and Fleming’s - served everything from paella (Zinc Brasserie and Wine Bar), roasted bison sirloin (Andiamo) and lobster mashed potatoes (No.10 Chophouse) to Swirlberry smoothees (Plum Market).

“This event was the vision of two people,” said Great Lakes Wine & Spirits’ Syd Ross as he saluted honorees Eddie and Julie Jonna, The Jonnas, who sold their highly regarded Merchant of Vino emporium to Whole Food Markets several years ago, were original participants in the Gala de Cuisine and founders of the Sarah Fisher benefit.

By contrast to the successful kick off of Ross and his wife Eizabeth’s foundation’s event, Eddie recalled, “We had a 150 people at our first,” adding that it grew to 1,200 people and raised $1 million over the course of its life. He predicted similar success for The Garden Party. Ross gave the Jonnas a piece of art glass from the Epiphany studio. He also gave good sport Margaret Brennan, wife of Detroit Athletic Club chef Kevin Brennan, a birthday cake because her husband volunteered to work on her birthday.

The Garden Party Foundation’s mission is to support multiple local charities and aims to make The Garden Party the finest and most prominent food and wine event in the state. Ross, as Michigan’s largest statewide wine and spirit distributor, seems poised to do just that. The 2009 inaugural event netted $20,000 for the Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan and $20,000 for Oakland Community College’s Culinary Studies Institute. www.oaklandpaper.com

Clockwise from far right: Event founders Elizabeth and Great Lakes Wine and Spirits’ Syd Ross of Bloomfield. Marc (left) and beneficiary Children’s Leukemia Foundation board chair Cindy Kahn with honorary co-chair Julie Jonna of Bloomfield and her son Garden Party Foundation board member Marc and Evyenia Jonna of Birmingham. Honorary co-chair Eddie Jonna (left) with Herb Abrash of Bloomfield. Host committee members Celani Family Vineyards’ Tom and Vicki Celani of Bloomfield. Michelle (left) and Matt Jonna and Michelle Jonna Saroki of Birmingham.

Clockwise from top left: Danyelle and Celani Family Vineyards’ Gary Burkart of Bloomfield. Roger Ludin (left) of Troy with 220 Restaurant’s Judi Roberts and Garden Party Foundation board member Bill Seklar of Bloomfield. Big Rock Chop House owner Norm Le Page(left) of West Bloomfield, his chef Brian Henson of Berkley and Phoenicia owner Sameer Eid of Bloomfield. Forest Grill’s David Gilbert (left) of Birmingham, Dylan and his father Brian Polcyn of Milford aand Emilia Juocys of Rochester Hills. Mon Jin Lau owner Marshall Chin and his daughter Rachel of Bloomfield with Matt Brown who co-owns red Coat Tavern and Zinc Brasserie and Wine Bar. At right: John Carlin (left) of Orchard Lake, host committee member Great Lakes Wine and Spirits’ Rick Lopus of Plymouth, architect Victor Saroki of Birmingham and Erhard Dahm of Orchard Lake.

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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Franklin Garden Walk

Franklin Garden Walk Left: Lucy Sabbagh(left) of Franklin, Florence Merz and luncheon chair/club president Susan Chambers of Bloomfield, Cathy Serbin of West Bloomfield and Marge Chraska of Franklin. Below left to right: Committee members Georgia Charnas (left) of Bloomfield and Susan Stokes of Birmingham with Seglinda Pritchard of Franklin, event co-chair with Enid Brown (not pictured). Docents Karen Dewald (left) of West Bloomfield, Cindy Chelovich of Bloomfield and Kim Elliott of Farmington Hills.

Garden owner Bonnie Hough (left) of Bingham Farms with tourists Dianne Sennett of Bloomfield and Marjorie Smith of Birmingham.

■ Cranbrook House & Gardens Auxiliary’s Beyond the Garden Gate

The 24th annual Franklin Garden Walk was an organizational challenge for co-chairs Seglinda Pritchard and Enid Brown and their committee, especially docent chairs Judy Adelman and Lynn Choudhury. The event, which offered day and evening touring, included expanded artisan boutiques around the village gazebo, walking tours of the Franklin Village Historic District and through four gardens, as well as guest artists, designers and naturalists dispensing advice on “gardening that sustains us.” It is expected to net more than $10,000 for the garden club’s educational and outreach projects.

Nearly 1,000 people bought tickets ($10-advance, $12-tour day). Some of them (223) were lucky enough to get tickets ($10) for the salad luncheon prepared and served in the Franklin Community Church by members of the garden club. Officially the club is the Franklin Branch of the Women’s National Farm & Garden Association.

We missed the Berkshire Middle School Victory Garden and artist Mary Wright and Gordon Housworth’ hillside woodland because there was just so much to absorb at Stacey and Ted French’s classic Italianate in-town Birmingham estate and Bonnie and David Haugh’s sprawling Bingham Farms spread. There was even a nest of new-born bunnies hiding among the colorful flowers in one of the Houghs’ beds.

Beyond the Garden Gate

Left to right: Event chair Randy Forester (left) of Birmingham with Mary Young and Lois Thornbury of Bloomfield. Ann North (center) of West Bloomfield with H&G Auxiliary chair Julie Ritter (left) and Susie Lynch of Bloomfield. Fair Radom (left) of Bloomfield and Betsy Laboe of Birmingham flanked by matching planters in front of Jim and Patti Prowse’s home.

■ Scott L. King Serving Aces for Sarcoma Benefit Dinner

Clockwise from left: Birmingham natives Keith King of Grosse Ile and his sister Julie King of Bloomfield with photo of their brother Scott whose memory the event honors. The event namesake’s wife Julie Link King (center) with her parents Ozzie and Ellie Link of Bloomfield. Committee members Susan Reid who coordinated the auction and her husband Bill Reid of Bloomfield. Bill did the invocation before dinner.

Jamison Faliski (left) and Christer Aikens of Bloomfield with Christer’s mother/committee member Linda Aikens of West Bloomfield. Committee member Susan Post (center) of Birmingham with Martha and John Quay of Bloomfield. Jim (left) and Kristin Link of Bethesda, MD with event sponsors Dick and Pam Kaspers of Birmingham.

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Two stunning private estate gardens, the 40-acre Cranbrook House gardens and the Brookside Children’s Garden were the stops on the auxiliary’s third Beyond the Garden Gate walking tour chaired by Randy Forester. It attracted 125 ticketholders ($20) and raised nearly $2,500 for restoration and preservation projects.

Since Social Lights had recently described Stephen and Bobbi Polk’s magnificent gardens when they hosted the Sunset at the Zoo Benefactor Party, we focused on the other private estate.

From the elevated playhouse where a 10-year-old hosts sleepovers for six to the covered outdoor living room complete with fireplace where his parents host al fresco dinner parties, Patti and Jim Prowse’s gardens blend informality with the beauty of formal beds and symmetry. The outdoor room overlooks the oval swimming pool which mirrors a perfectly carpeted green mound on the opposite side of the house. According to Patti, a trained fashion designer, they spent five years building the house and landscaping the grounds with such naturals as hydrangeas and wooly thyme.

Suffice it to say, perfection reigns in this environment.

Seven years of Ann North’s life have gone into coordinating the Brookside Children’s Garden at Cranbrook School Brookside. Some of the 50 plus native plant species, the instructional reading areas and the plazas and benches are visible from the stone bridge railing at Lone Pine and Cranbrook Roads, but from up there one is not able to read Henry Booth’s Psalms of Thistleonia etched in the 26 granite blocks placed among the 520 pathway tiles impressed with nature images.

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On the beginning block: “Whether or not there is an end to the Divine Way, We seek to travel it throughout our earthly days.” On the final one: “Thankful for what has been bequeathed to us through countless years; We pay tribute to all who left blessings to generations that were yet to be.”

Booth’s writings encompass his philosophy of learning and giving back to that which gives to you. His personal icon,the bee, is also referenced in the beehive shape of what must surely be the state’s most handsome compost storage bin, its bricks accented with Pewabic tiles.

The charming Brookside Children’s Garden is one of the efforts that enabled the school to attain Emerald Status as a Michigan Green School this past spring.

Speaking of things environmental, the Bay Harbor Foundation recently set the Guinness world record for the largest electric car parade in history. All the cars were Chrysler GEMs (Global Electric Mototcars), a perfect vehicle for getting around the 1,200 acre luxury resort community that extends for five miles along Little Traverse Bay. Tom and Ann Stallkamp’s was one of the 218 vehicles. “Lots of fun and excitement. Sort of like a huge tailgate event but with moving parts,” reports Ann. Additionally, Bay Harbor developer David Johnson, who is now developing the Oil Nut Bay community near his Biras Creek Resort in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, received the inaugural GEM Visionary Award. It recognizes his outstanding contributions to the application of alternative fueled vehicles in planned communities.

The weather was perfect for the July 6 kick off of the Jazz Master Series at The Community House. Event sponsors like the John Aubreys, Carl Clavennas and Bud Rosenbergs were in the crowd on the Van Dusen terrace. So were Jackie Sefferman, Carol and Keith Deyer, Susan and Tom Sweeny, Sherry and Abe Singer, Barbara and George Miller and Dolly and Bill Johnson, to name a few. The lawn throng spilled over Merrill Street to the library steps to listen to Alexander Zonjic and Friends. Zonjic selected the musicians for the free series.

■ Project HOPE League’s Midsummer’s Dream Night

Grand Kids Foundation Benefit

Handbag designer Cathy Healy (left) of Birmingham, FGI co-director Susan Howes of Royal Oak, Contessa Bannon of Beverly Hills

The pairing of Detroit Tiger Curtis Granderson’s Grand Kids Foundation and the non-profit Detroit Wine Organization was grand slam for the two education-focused organizations.

Some 250 people, including the VIP’s who first sampled pours from Curtis Winery in Big Rock’s Got Rocks upstairs lounge, flocked to The Reserve for the soiree. They had more than 250 wines from all over the globe available for sampling, plus Yellow Tail Shiratinis, Big Rock beer and Valentine, a new, made in Michigan vodka. There was also a silent auction ($3,100) and Michael Ogurek’s exhibition of Thomas Arvid’s giclee art depicting wine subjects.

But most of them seemed to be there to get up close and personal with Granderson and his teammates like Maggli Ordonez, with his wife, Dagly, Bobby Seay, Gerald Laird, Ryan Perry www.oaklandpaper.com

Clockwise from left: League president Gerri Molnar (center) of Auburn Hills with event cochairs Barbara Brunackey (left) of Livonia and Jerry Parks of West Bloomfield, who was also the host. League board members Jerry Lenius (left) of Livonia, Irwin Epstein of Bloomfield, Jack Schoenherr of Washington, David Molnar of Auburn Hills, Jim Serafino and Andy Molnar of Troy. Joy Johnson (left) of Grosse Pointe with board member Sydrena Epstein of Bloomfield.

■ Fashion Group International’s Vintage Reconstruction Scholarship Challenge

Above: Leslie Pilling (left) wearing a Cynthia Lamaide design and past FGI director Grace Keane of Bloomfield. Below: Model (left) wearing design of Eboni Miles (right) of Wixom, an IADT student.

Left to right: Model (left) wearing honorable mention design of Katie Barth (right) of Ann Arbor, an IADT student. Model (left) wearing the design of Quanitra Terry (right) of Pontiac, an IADT student.

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■ social lights / sally gerak ■ Sweet Night Out at Schakolad Chocolate Factory

Left: Winning Trivia team: Pat Lencioni (left) of Rochester Hills, Kathy Barich of Beverly Hills, Melissa Powers of Troy, Judy Rapp of Bloomfield and EDE board member Craig Chamberlain of Troy. Below, left to right: Shop owner Doug Cale (right) of Birmingham with Christina Thomas (left) of Farmington Hills and EDE board member Eileen Drenikowsk of Bloomfield. Steve Rapp (left) of Bloomfield and Dave Furey of Ann Arbor.

■ Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance Gala

Clockwise from left: Fine Arts Models’ Gary Kohs of Birmingham and Laura Scaccia of Troy with Garth Gooding of Santa Monica, CA, who will auction their model Bugatti at the Pebble Beach Concours. The Best of Show – European 1939 Delahaye 165 Cabriolet by Figoni et Falaschi. (left) and the Best of Show – American 934 Packard V-12 Sport Sedan by Dietrich. Savonna Adell (left) of Bloomfield and her cousin Gabrielle Cowen get the winner’s trophy.

Edwin Jackson and manager Jim Leyland.

Granderson happily posed for pictures with a long lineup of fans. And then there was the live Bachelor Auction with comedian Jeff Dye doing the honors. Perry sold to Nancy Vermeullen for $2,000. Jackson sold to his good sport landlord John Hanna for $3,500. And Granderson, who has a four-year college degree, sold twice for $6,500: to Sara Visintainer and to LaShawna Carter. The spirited event raised between $40,000 and $50,000 for Granderson’s foundation. It provides needy children with school and sports supplies.

Concours d’Elegance Gala A large portrait of Meadow Brook Hall founders Matilda Dodge Wilson and Alfred Wilson placed on an easel just inside the entrance silently greeted guests as they arrived at the historic home for the MB Concours d’Elegance Gala. Like the vintage car show the next day, the Saturday night Gala featured the Best of Detroit. Following an alfresco buffet dinner, viewing of several unique cars and a hula hoop contest, Motown’s Contours had many of the 400 guests rockin’ and rollin’.

There was also a mini auction conducted by volunteer auctioneer/car collector Bill Parrfitt. He got Jennifer Fischer to buy the first item, a holiday at Bay Harbor, and concluded by getting Paul and Tom Devens to pay $16,000 for the 2009 Concours poster original art by Gary Whinn. In all, the auction raised $26,000 for preservation projects at the hall.

The next day, nearly 10,000 strolled the Meadow Brook grounds to see the 230 collectors’ cars from 25 states and Canada that were selected for the show.

The field ranged from drag cars to Duesenbergs and also included a vintage motorcycle class. Judges gave top honors to a 1934 Packard V-12 Sport Sedan by Dietrich and a 1939 Delahaye 165 Cabriolet by Figoni et Falaschi. The latter also won the People’s Choice award. The “Best of Show - Motorcycle” was awarded to a1938 Brough Superior SS-100.

Bill Golling’s 1938 Packard and Lawrence Hill Markey’s 1929 Rolls Royce Phantom won Best in Class.

Other area award winners included: Dennis Dow’s 1931 Cadillac, Bill Rachwal’s 1947 Cadillac, Greg Ornazian’s 1956 Ford Thunderbird, Terry Trasatti’s 1954 Kaiser Darrin, Jerry Romano’s 1959 Triumph Bonneville Motorcycle, and Michael Jackson’s 966 BSA Motorcycle.

“Sirens of Chrome” author Margery Krevsky produced the fashion display that paired models in vintage dresses with the vintage cars. And when the show concluded, Concours pioneer Terry Adderly hosted the Kelly Services After Party for 400. Guests included the Larry Smiths, Dick Kughns, David Fischers, Keith Crains, long time chair Don Sommer, car selection chair Larry Moss, sponsors and exhibitors. All saluted the glorious weather and the 30th annual world class event.

Ophthalmology Institute Benefit Earlier in the summer the 22nd annual Eyes on Design car show kicked 68

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off with a Friday night designers’ event at the Chrysler Museum and the Saturday night Vision Honored soiree. It began with a roar as 2009 honoree Harley-Davidson’s chief stylist Willie G. Davidson led 50 bikers from the ABC Harley-Davidson dealership in Waterford to the GM Heritage Center Sterling Heights.

Leading designers from Toyota, Honda GM and Chrysler were also in the crowd of 200 at the Creative black tie party but Willie G, as he is known, and his family were the congenial stars of the evening. In addition to Willie G’s tribute by honorary chair Chrysler’s Frank Klegon and Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology president Dr. Phillip Hessburg, his daughter Karen Davidson produced an after dinner fashion show. And in the small world department, it was noted that when she was in college at Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, Karen’s fashion design teacher was nun who happens to be Dr. Hessburg’s sister.

The following day 150 attended the brunch on the terrace at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House before joining the 3,500 who strolled the estate grounds overlooking Lake St. Clair to view the 200 vintage cars on display.

Major award winners included George Arakalian’s 1937 Cord 812 Phantom, Ted Stahl’s 1938 Mack, Jr., Greg Ornazian’s 1935 Auburn 851 Boat Trail Speedster, Paul Stanford’s 1966 Corvette, and Craig Sheffley’s 1967 Mustang Shelby 500. Some of the other award winners from this area included: Mike Welch’s1968 Corvette Convertible, Paul Gallo’s1965 Corvette, Diran Yazajian‘s1954 Chrysler Town & Country, Jeffrey Schultz’s 1928 HarleyDavidson JD, Greg Cockkert’s 1960 Buick LeSabre Cobertible, Kurt Ewaid’s 2007 Nissan 350Z, Keith Seymore’s 1965 Pontiac GTO Hardtop Coupe and Bill Lethernon’s 1958 Edsel Pacer Convertible.

All funds raised at Eyes on Design support the non-profit DIO’s services to those with impaired vision.

■ Detroit Wine Organization’s Grand Kids Foundation Benefit

Clockwise from top left: Barb (left) and Chuck Evans of Beverly Hills with Craig and Tanya Bell of Royal Oak and John Hanna of Bloomfield. Event host Norm LePage (left) of West Bloomfield, Jim Rein of Bloomfield and DWO board member Judy Dunn of Commerce. Nancy Groves (left) of Bloomfield and her fiancé Bill Girardot of Berkley with Tiger manager Jim Leyland of Detroit. Detroit Tiger Magglio Ordonez and his wife Dagly of Birmingham. Detroit Tiger Curtis Granderson (left) of Royal Oak with 2007 Playmate of the Year Sara Underwood and comedian Jeff Dye of Los Angeles, CA.

■ Eyes on Design benefiting Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology

Clockwise from top left: Irene (left) and event chair Marcus Shelley with Betsy and DIO president Dr. Philip Hessburg of Grosse Pointe. GM Heritage Center’s Larry Faloon and his wife Madeline of Birmingham. Event veteran Rich Parks (center) with event cochairs Bernadette Lussier of Grosse Pointe and Amy Zimmer of Birmingham. Mika (left) and event sponsor Toyota’s Sander Toreki of Birmingham and Chrysler’s Ralph Gilles of Leonard.

Earthquake Relief Benefit Commissione Giovani is a national organization for young Italian Americans. It staged a cocktail party in the Maserati, Lamborghini, Rolls Royce and Bentley showrooms at The Suburban Collection in Troy to raise money to rebuild schools affected by spring’s devastating earthquakes near Rome. Some 300 supporters turned out to socialize, nosh on Penna’s cuisine and check out such serious rides as the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, Spyker LM85, Lamborghini LP 560, Rolls Royce Phantom, Maserati Quattroporte S and Maserati Granturismo. They also watched artist Dave Santia paint and models mingle in Italian fashions from Roma Sposa. The stylish event netted about $10,000 for earthquake relief.

Send ideas for this column to: Sally Gerak, 28 Barbour Lane, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 or e-mail samgerak@aol.com or call 248.646.6390. www.oaklandpaper.com

■ Commissione Giovani’s Earthquake Relief Benefit

Left to right: Event chair Antony Apone (center) of Shelby Twp. with models Samantha Reas (left) and Rachelle Haidar wearing gowns from Birmingham’s Roma Sposa. Rose Fritsch(left) of Royal Oak. Giorgio Avara (left), Damiano DiMercurio and Kristie Lozon of Shelby Twp, Antoinette DiLorenzo of Rochester and event stylist Luigi Bruni of Birmingham.

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■ final word Weathering municipal revenue storm

M

unicipal leaders in Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, and Bloomfield Hills have faced and are continuing to face some serious challenges related to the financial picture in each of the communities.

As everyone is aware, Michigan, and in particular the southeast area of the state, has been battered by national economic trends for the past couple of years, which has been complicated even further by the reliance in this area on the auto industry — a segment of the economy that has its own set of problems.

At the root of the situation is the bursting of the housing bubble, which has helped to drive down property values in southeast Michigan and the resulting municipal tax revenues that are derived from property tax collections.

Birmingham, for example, has experienced some serious revenue declines over a three-year period; and Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills are facing budgetary pressures now and will continue to in the future. This scenario is being repeated at all levels of government across the state.

Fortunately, local municipal leaders have been proactive in recent years by cutting expenditures and looking for cost-saving measures that can help the communities weather the storm.

The local communities have taken a number of actions, from eliminating staff positions and reducing benefits for new employees to eliminating pay raises and

looking at the consolidation of services with neighboring municipalities. One community is attempting to determine whether there is public support for increasing fees and taxes in the short-term future. In each of the three communities, leaders have wisely maintained fund balances or rainy day funds to help get through this tough period, although those funds will likely be under severe pressure in the next few years.

The challenges now facing these and other local communities are more than likely to change the face of local government as we know it.

At a minimum, local governments will have to look further at consolidation of services with neighboring communities, in essence changing the current definition of local service that is provided.

Birmingham and Bloomfield Township officials are meeting to hash out possible service consolidation opportunities that could save each community some money, following completion of a study through the Oakland County Capital and Cooperative Initiatives Revolving Fund program. The county fund provided money for Plante & Moran to investigate potential consolidation options and their benefits.

Studying possible consolidations is a relatively easy step. Taking action and implementing changes is another matter altogether, and that’s the real challenge these communities now face. Collective bargaining agreements can complicate any consoli-

dation effort. In addition, overcoming parochial interests can be extremely difficult. After all, these are local governments created and operated to look out for their constituents’ bests interests, not the interests of those in a neighboring community.

Yet the notion of neighbors merging departments and sharing personnel to provide essential services is the new reality.

Municipal officials — and the people, businesses, organizations, and institutions they serve — have to make some compromises and sacrifices to make consolidation initiatives work.

Unless communities can find a way to work together, there may have to be severe cutbacks in services provided in order for the local governments to maintain balanced budgets. Residents may have to change their expectation level on what they get from government, be it at the local, county or state level.

There are no immediate solutions to the revenue problems developing for local communities. Most government managers agree that it will be several years before improvements can be seen in the local economy, housing values, and therefore tax revenues.

Certainly the days of simply going to the taxpayers for additional funding have long past. So city and township leaders will have to look at creative approaches to fulfilling their obligations because the road back to recovery will take a number of years. ■

Retain state school bus inspections

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tate law mandates the annual inspection of all school buses in Michigan, with the state historically providing funding for a statewide inspection program. However, proposed state spending cuts for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 would eliminate the state funding for school bus inspections. Lawmakers must find another area of the budget to whittle back and leave funding in place for this critically important program.

Michigan’s school buses are inspected each year during a period beginning every Sept. 1 and ending each Aug. 31. Buses undergo a 198-point inspection. Vehicles found to have at least one item that has either the potential to cause a break down or pose a passenger safety hazard must be repaired before being placed back in service.

The State Police Motor Carrier Division’s Bus Inspection Unit is currently responsible for the state-mandated annual inspection of every public, private, denominational, parochial, and charter school vehicle transporting pupils to or from school or a school-related activity.

The state Senate Appropriations Committee

has recommended eliminating the $1.4 million typically allocated to the annual school bus inspection program.

Paul Wegmeyer, co-chairman of the Michigan Association for Pupil Transportation’s Legislative Committee, said that due to budgetary constraints, school districts’ fleets will only continue to age, making the state bus inspection program more important than ever.

He said if the inspection program funding is eliminated, the association will ask legislators to seek an attorney general opinion to see if the Headlee Amendment would require the state to maintain funding.

The Headlee Amendment, which added several provisions to Michigan’s 1963 Constitution, prohibits the state from reducing funding to cover the necessary costs of any existing activity or service that state law requires of local governments.

Michigan has about 17,000 vehicles transporting more than 850,000 students over 10 million miles each year. That’s far too many people transported by buses over too many miles to cut state funding for bus inspections.

Student and staff safety must be a priority, even when declining revenues make for difficult budget decisions. Really, that’s the essence of drafting a budget: It’s all about setting priorities and doling out available funding based on those priorities. Surely there’s something else in the state budget that’s not as crucial as student safety.

Priorities aside, there’s value in having an outside agency come in and inspect each bus in a district’s fleet. Having outsiders check over buses minimizes or eliminates any questions or doubt about the thoroughness of inhouse inspections — or whether they occurred at all. That’s not meant to impugn any of the area school district transportation departments. However, there are always some who will doubt local officials’ performance, and forcing the districts to inspect their own buses would only fuel suspicions along those lines.

State officials found a way to preserve the bus inspection program back in 2005, when making inspections a voluntary effort was considered as a way to save the state some money. They need to do the same again now. ■

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