West Bloomfield, MI February 2021

F E B R UA RY 2 02 1

WELLNESS A LO CAL , U N I Q U E DAT E- N I G H T D ES T I NAT I O N

Love & Art

S T Y LE + B E AUT Y T H E M AN B EH I N D T H E WB S C U L P T U RE LI F E + C U LTU R E WB L I F ES T Y L E C EL EB R AT ES I T S FI RS T Y E AR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHERS

Maria Ragone | maria.ragone@lifestylepubs.com, Russ Ragone | russ.ragone@lifestylepubs.com

Happy Valentine's Day, West Bloomfield!

AND HAPPY ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY TO US AT WEST BLOOMFIELD LIFE-

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Danielle Alexander | danielle.alexander@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore

STYLE! I can't express how grateful I am to not only live in this city but have the

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

opportunity to cover such an amazing community of businesses and people each

Joe Lease

month. To celebrate, I sat down with publishers Maria and Russ Ragone to chat allthings magazine. Check out the interview on page 16.

If you haven't already booked an igloo or heated patio for Valentine's Day, don't worry! There are plenty of options local to the West Bloomfield area where you and your significant other can safely escape your house and spend some quality, kidfree time together. In fact, we asked Adam over at Sapphire Springs in Farmington Hills (page 12) about their couples' floats. Sign me up!

In addition to Valentine's Day, February is the month where the team at West Bloomfield Lifestyle always highlights local makers. In West Bloomfield, as well as all over metro Detroit, we are surrounded by an unbelievable amount of talent.

You know that large sculpture behind the West Bloomfield Township sign on 14

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Mile and Orchard Lake? We were able to chat with the sculptor, Scott Berels, about

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

this and other projects he's completed (page 22). Also, if you've stopped into West

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Bloomfield's Art Leaders Gallery lately, I'm sure you have noticed the eye-catching

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

paintings by Farmington Hills resident Antonio Molinari, who we caught up with,

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

as well (page 26). Last but certainly not least, Bassie Shemtov, Friendship Circle’s

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Executive Director, shared with us some information on Friendship Circle's recent purchase of Dakota Bread Company where adults with special needs now have the opportunity to become bread makers (page 30).

As usual, thank you for reading!

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ON THE COVER Mia (3) and Nora (5)

Marcus,

holding

Valentine’s

Day cookies made by their mom (Instagram: @natcookieco)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE LEASE 4

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

Proverbs 3:5-6 West Bloomfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Bloomfield area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in West Bloomfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2021 FEATURES 12 A Unique Date Idea Whether for Valentine’s Day or just because, consider a couples’ float at Sapphire Springs.

16 Happy 1st Birthday, WB Lifestyle!

WB Lifestyle co-publishers share the magazine’s “birth story” and tell how the first year went.

22 Scott Berels, Multidisciplinary Artist Meet the man who built the sculpture that sits on 14 Mile and Orchard Lake.

30 New Ownership, Same Challah Bassie Shemtov, Friendship Circle’s Executive Director, chats about

22 16

Friendship Circle’s decision to purchase Dakota Bread.

12

30

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Locally Owned

16

Back Stage

22 City Scene 26 Local Limelight 30 Hot Spot 32 Lifestyle Calendar

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7

GOOD TIMES

WB Township and WB Parks partnered to honor local veterans Veterans received a free lunch, gift bag and lots of waves curbside in November at the Recreation Activities Center where the 2020 Heroes' Appreciation event took place. "Thanks to everyone who helped make this event possible," WB Parks posted on Instagram. "And most of all, thanks to all the veterans!" Check WB Parks' Facebook page to view all the photos.

Santa made a stop to West Bloomfield in December WB Parks' "Letters to Santa" event gave local children the opportunity to safely meet Santa, give him their letters in-person and receive a goody bag from the "Big Guy." Due to reduced gathering sizes, "Letters with Santa" took place outdoors.

8

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

WB Parks hosted Winter Solstice event Local residents celebrated the most magical and darkest night of the year with WB Parks. They learned about some of the different solstice celebrations from around the world and explored WB Parks' lantern-lit trail with the help of Oakland Astronomy Club. Warm cocoa and a take-home craft were also provided.

Friendship Express brings Hanukkah celebrations to local residents Friendship Express, an event series that took place Dec. 7-17, featured the Friendship Circle team who travelled to different families’ homes where there are children and adults with special needs. They set up an outdoor igloo and welcomed individuals to enter one at a time to get fresh doughnuts and cider to celebrate Hanukkah.

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

9

AROUND TOWN

DR. FIENMAN HOLDS COLORING CONTEST FOR ALL KIDS

of Clean Eats, has been helping people change the way they eat to live a healthy lifestyle for a

In honor of February’s National Children’s Dental

decade. Fresh Field Meats has formed a partner-

Health Month, Adam Fienman, DDS is excited to

ship with many local farms; together, they want

announce their first Fienman Coloring Contest!

to help people get organic and grass-fed meat

Parents are encouraged to take this opportunity

in a way that is not only sustainable, humane

to talk to their little ones about why good dental

and consistent but also safely delivered to their

hygiene is vital to living a healthy life. To download

home. Learn more at freshfieldmeats.com.

this or another coloring page and read over the contest's rules, visit fienmandds.com. Prizes include three Toyology gift cards. Adam Fienman, DDS looks forward to seeing the submissions and will be decorating the office with them as they come in.

WB BUSINESS EXPANDS TO OFFER ORGANIC AND GRASS-FED MEAT DELIVERY

10

the philosophy at Fresh Field Meats. Lena, owner

MIDDLE EASTERN/CHALDEAN COOKBOOK NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE We featured Keego Harbor resident Amira Daboul, author of Awafi!, in our October "Foodie" issue of West Bloomfield Lifestyle. Her cookbook is now available for purchase for $45. You can pick up your copy at Kashat Mediterranean

Eating real food should be more accessible

Market in Farmington Hills, Babylon Ethnic

because when we eat well, we live well. This is

Foods in West Bloomfield, Ishtar Ethnic Foods

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

in West Bloomfield, Salon Edge in West

Russ has been named the new director of West

Bloomfield, North Oaks Dental in Royal Oak,

Bloomfield Township Public Library. Russ was the

C K Fruit Market in Madison Heights and the

director of the Troy Public Library for 13.5 years

Chaldean Cultural Center in West Bloomfield.

and was honored with the 2019 Librarian of the

Or, visit amiraskitchen.com to order online.

Year Award from the Michigan Library Association.

CATHLEEN RUSS NAMED NEW WEST BLOOMFIELD LIBRARY DIRECTOR Replacing

Clara

Bohrer

who

was

West

She is excited to come to the West Bloomfield Township Public Library as she has long been an admirer of their progressive approach to service and the support of the community.

Bloomfield director for 30 years, Cathleen

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11

LOCALLY OWNED

date idea

a unique

WHETHER FOR VALENTINE’S DAY OR JUST BECAUSE, CONSIDER A COUPLES’ FLOAT AT SAPPHIRE SPRINGS. ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAPPHIRE SPRINGS

THERE’S NO DENYING THAT THIS YEAR’S VALENTINE’S DAY

to wear face masks (until you enter your

CELEBRATION PLANNING WILL NOT BE AS EASY AS THE DIN-

private float room), and temperatures are

NER AND MOVIE APPROACH THAT MOST OF US HAVE TAKEN

taken at the door. The water in the float tank

IN YEARS PAST. If you and your significant other are ready for an

has a high salt content, preventing bacteria

escape and looking for something you actually can go out and do,

and other microorganisms from surviving

consider a local trip to Sapphire Springs Flotation Therapy Spa.

within the tank; additionally, it’s filtered

Adam and Linda, husband and wife, are the new owners of Sapphire

thoroughly, zapped with antimicrobial ultra-

Springs in Farmington Hills. Sapphire Springs has the largest float

violet light and sanitized with an odorless

pods in Michigan and offers the only couples float in Michigan! In

and safe disinfectant.

addition to its mind, body and beauty benefits, Adam said floating

If this sounds like something you’d like

really does make for a good Valentine’s Day (or anytime date) activity:

to try, you can call (248)-702-0990 or

+ You’ll experience a real sense of togetherness while shutting out

simply book a day and time online at sap-

all external distractions: “Couples are able to be alone together while

phire-springs.com. Adam said Sapphire

blocking out external stimuli, including work, kids, bills, cell phones

provides all that you’ll need, including ear

and other stressors.”

plugs and towels, and each float room has a

+ You have complete control over the experience: “Inside the tank,

private shower with soap, shampoo, condi-

couples can control the lights, the music and can choose to open or

tioner and even a hair dryer.

close the tank door.”

“I’d recommend people bringing their

+ You’ll come out feeling relaxed and rejuvenated: “You can

own hairbrush and any other lotion or

achieve a feeling of weightlessness and utter relaxation that cannot

hair product they’d want to apply after-

be found elsewhere.”

wards,” he said. “I’d also suggest having

+ Floating itself is unlike anything else: “It is different, which makes

something light to eat before your float

for a unique type of date night.”

but to not come in directly after a large

Sapphire Springs is committed to providing clients with a comfortable, clean and safe experience. Staff and clients are required 12

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

meal. We want everyone to feel as comfortable as possible.”

CONTINUED >

+ ex p

e rie n ce sa p p h i re t og et h e r + Locally owned and operated, Sapphire Springs Flotation Therapy Spa is at 31166 Haggerty in Farmington Hills. Visit sapphire-springs.com or call (248)-702-0990 for more information.

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

13

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

b e a l o n e to g e t h e r while blocking out e xt e r n a l st i m u l i , i n c l u d i n g wo r k , k i d s, b i l l s, c e l l p h o n e s a n d ot h e r st r e s s o r s.

14

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

mind

+ b e n ef i t

bo dy

two +

“ C o u p l e s a r e a b l e to

one +

+ b e n ef i t

Floating offers many benefits to

Floating has benefits to physical

mental health, including reduced

health, as well, such as relief from

stress and anxiety and enhanced

pain and arthritis and improved

creativity, learning and memory.

athletic performance.

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CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

15

BACK STAGE

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY JOE LEASE

HAPPY 1ST

BIRTH DAY, WB

WEST BLOOMFIELD LIFESTYLE CO-PUBLISHERS, MARIA AND RUSS RAGONE, SHARE THE MAGAZINE’S “BIRTH STORY” AND TELL HOW THE FIRST YEAR WENT.

16

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

LIFEST YL

Y

H-

LE !

BEFORE MARIA GOT LAID OFF FROM A JOB IN AUTOMOTIVE, SHE WAS NOT ONLY UNHAPPY AND FEELING LIKE THE CORPORATE WORLD WAS NOT FOR HER, BUT SHE WAS ALREADY LOOKING INTO OTHER CAREER POSSIBILITIES. “I now view the layoff as a blessing in disguise as I was already considering Lifestyle Publications,” explained Maria, one of West Bloomfield Lifestyle Magazine publishers. “I really wanted to do something where I could be a part of my community and help other businesses. Both my husband and I grew up in West Bloomfield, and we know the area well. I also wanted to have more flexibility to spend time with my family. Yes, I work at weird times of the day, and I put in a lot of hours now, but because I’m working for myself, it doesn’t feel like work.”

With West Bloomfield Lifestyle celebrating its one-year anniversary this month, we spotlighted Maria, as well as her husband and now co-publisher, Russ, to hear how year one panned out.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

17

BACK STAGE (CONTINUED)

maria ragone WHAT DOES WEST BLOOMFIELD LIFESTYLE DO FOR THE COMMUNITY? Through West Bloomfield Lifestyle we like to think that we bring our diverse community together, and we do our best to incorporate editorial that is not only focused on sharing the good news but stories that will resonate with everyone in the community, too.

HOW DO YOU AND RUSS DIVVY UP THE PUBLISHER TASKS? I handle editorial, business development and marketing where Russ takes care of ad sales and business partnership relations.

WHAT

IS

YOUR

FAVORITE

MEMORY

AS

CO-PUBLISHER SO FAR? I have two: meeting different people in the community as I never knew that I was going to have the opportunity to get to know so many and making the snowmen for our December issue’s cover. Not only were they cute, but they tasted great and made a really awesome cover photo, too!

SO, HOW IS IT WORKING WITH THE HUBBY? It’s honestly really good. I like it a lot. I think we work well together and have delegated our tasks in a good way that utilizes our strengths. We do what we know needs to get done, and ever since he’s joined on, things have been better. I’d say the only bad thing is that the magazine is all we talk about. Oh, and we also need to figure out the layout of our shared office a bit better, as it can be really loud!

18

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

We bring our diverse community together

AS THE OWNER OF A HOME INSPECTION

with sales as it was becoming more and more diffi-

BUSINESS, WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN THE

cult for her to get to in-person meetings. Winter is my

WEST BLOOMFIELD LIFESTYLE TEAM AS A

slow season for the inspection business, so I felt com-

CO-PUBLISHER? I initially hopped onboard because

fortable with my time allotment to join the magazine

Maria told me a lot about the magazine, and I was

business at that point.

always supportive of her starting her own business.

And, the more I talked to her, the more it sounded like it’d be a good opportunity to invest more time into. At seven months pregnant, she really needed the help

I was always supportive of

her starting her

own business

WHAT

IS

YOUR

FAVORITE

MEMORY

AS

CO-PUBLISHER SO FAR? Shooting the July cover photo of my avid wake surfing friends, Andrea and Dan Shelton, with one of our photographers, Joe Lease.

HOW HAS IT BEEN WORKING WITH YOUR WIFE? It honestly has not been as difficult as a lot of people think it would be. We definitely need to have clear defining lines of responsibility, so we don’t step on each other’s toes. Both of us are headstrong and boss-minded, but we let each other be the boss of the parts that we are each responsible for.

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ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER

CITY SCENE

SCOT T BERELS, M U LT I D I S C I PL I N A R Y A R T I S T 22

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

MEET THE MAN WHO BUILT THE SCULPTURE THAT SITS ON 14 MILE AND ORCHARD LAKE ROAD.

WHILE HEADING EAST ON 14 MILE TOWARDS ORCHARD LAKE ROAD AND NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY, I’M SURE YOU’VE NOTICED THE FAIRLY NEW WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP ENTRY SIGN. Installed in the fall of 2019, the “Gateway Monument,” which was designed in collaboration with landscape architect Tad Krear of Birmingham’s LAND Design Studio, also includes large-scale artwork built by Detroit resident and business owner Scott Berels.

“It’s representative of West Bloomfield’s nature features as the city is big on wetlands and the environment,” Berels said while describing his 30-foot tall sculpture made of metal tubes that give the appearance of reeds.

Krear said that it was a “big deal” they were able to pull off this project since the sign is in a Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) right of way, which he described as normally being “highly regulated.” However, Governor Granholm’s 2003 executive directive CONTINUED >

Scott Berels (Credit: Joe Lease)

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

23

CITY SCENE (CONTINUED)

required MDOT to incorporate Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS), a collaborative interdisciplinary approach to developing transportation projects.

According

to

michigan.gov,

under

CSS, “MDOT solicits dialogue with local governments, road commissions, industry groups, land use advocates and state agencies early in a project’s planning phase. This dialogue helps to ensure that bridges, interchanges, bike paths and other transportation projects ‘fit’ into their communities. The CSS approach results in projects that respect a community’s scenic, aesthetic, historic, economic and environmental character.”

With the go-ahead, Krear thought it’d be neat to include a piece of art in his drawings to give the sign a new dimension. He said the Township loved the concept, and Krear told them he knew “just the guy to make it” for them. “Scott is super talented and creative with a brilliant mechanical and high-tech mind,” he said.

“He also has access to a lot of people with resources and special machinery.”

Berels’ grandmother, Judy Smith, thinks the West Bloomfield sculpture is beautiful as it reminds her of nature whereas three-year-old West Bloomfield resident Gabriel Alexander refers to it as “The Noodles.” “They say that if your art has invoked a response, you’ve done well, and Scott’s work definitely has people talking,” Krear said.

Prior to the West Bloomfield sculpture, Berels had built two other permanent, COR-TEN steel sculptures: a 24-foot tall sundial gnomon in Rochester, which was designed by Franklin artist Russell Thayer, as well as Judith Hoffman’s “American Dream” house sculpture in Portland, Maine. He is also currently working on “American Dream” house sculpture in Portland, Maine 24

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

24-foot tall sundial gnomon in Rochester, Michigan

a COR-TEN steel gateway arch in Downtown

“As a multidisciplinary artist, I’m interested in

Highland but added that COR-TEN is only one of

work that displays exceptional craftsmanship,”

many materials he works with.

Berels said. “I generally enjoy work made in metal,

Berels has his own studio in Detroit called Def Fab

but I also like working in a variety of materials.

Design, which was founded in 2017. The 5,000-square

Formally, my work is organic because it’s reminis-

foot warehouse is equipped with both metal and

cent of nature and raw in its surface treatment,

woodworking equipment that are used to build vari-

but I’m interested in moving into a more polished

ous sculptures, furniture, lighting, signage and archi-

direction that involves technology and electronics.

tectural elements for businesses, residential clients,

I’d also like to push my work into a more conceptual

general contractors, municipalities and other artists

realm that deals with social commentary and the

who are looking for fabrication work. Additionally, his

human condition.”

personal art pursuits are focused in cast iron, and he

For fabrication and fine art inquiries, call him at

utilizes many of the mold-making materials to make

(248)-835-5898, email him at sberels@gmail.com

non-metal sculptures and paintings, as well.

or message him on Instagram @deffabdesign.

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

25

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

26

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ART LEADERS GALLERY

, i r a n i l o M o i n r o t e An Paint

LOCAL RESIDENT SHARES HIS STORY BEHIND BECOMING AN ABSTRACT PAINTER.

ANTONIO MOLINARI HAD JUST FINISHED DESIGNING THE INTERIOR OF THE 2020 LINCOLN AVIATOR FOR THE 2018 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW AND, AS HE DESCRIBED, “NEEDED TO LET LOOSE.” Although the Farmington Hills resident loves his work as a Creative Designer for Lincoln and cannot imagine doing anything else, the abstract artwork he started at home that evening has become a therapeutic outlet for him.

“With my automotive design work, most of my conceptual renderings start to become photorealistic or ‘too perfect’ in order to be properly interpreted by other attributes within the company,” he explained. “The freedom of no constraints and not worrying if the art is interpreted in a specific fashion is a stress relief.”

Although it’s not uncommon now to find Molinari spending his evenings with a roll of canvas and paints, this was not always the case. He had always doodled and admired the abstract CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

27

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

works of Paul Jenkins and Helen Frankethaler, and friends often told him his pieces should be on display; however, he recalled having “tunnel vision,” only really focusing his energies on car design, but soon appreciated that both his design work and abstract work helped influence each technique.

“I found myself researching galleries in Michigan, and Art Leaders Gallery [in West Bloomfield Township] stood out to me [because of its] location, size and simply the amount of talent within those walls,” he said.

Molinari recounted a time when he met a couple who had not only purchased two of his paintings, but without knowing he also worked at Lincoln, bought the 2020 Aviator based on the interior, which was also designed by him.

“There is nothing more gratifying and humbling to me than when I talk to people who have my artwork,” Molinari said. “[I love] seeing their expressions and listening to how it truly moves them. My goal as an artist is to move people, touching them emotionally through art and quenching their imagination.”

Antonio Molinari’s abstract, contemporary and large-scale paintings can be viewed and purchased at Art Leaders Gallery, located at 33086 Northwestern Highway.

l a o g “My n a s a s i t s arti ve o m o t ” … e l p o e p 28

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

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29

HOT SPOT Bassie Shemtov

ARTICLE DANIELLE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE

New Ownership, Same Challah BASSIE SHEMTOV, FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CHATS ABOUT FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE’S DECISION TO PURCHASE DAKOTA BREAD COMPANY.

IN THE APRIL ISSUE OF WEST BLOOMFIELD LIFESTYLE, WE FEATURED FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE, SPECIFICALLY THE FARBER SOUL CENTER AT 5586 DRAKE ROAD IN WEST BLOOMFIELD. Further extending its programming for adults with special needs, Friendship Circle purchased Dakota Bread Company, located at 6879 Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield, to create even more career opportunities for this population.

In December, we had the opportunity to speak with Friendship Circle’s Executive Director Bassie Shemtov about Friendship Circle’s decision to purchase the bakery and what the community can expect when they visit Dakota.

EARLIER THIS YEAR, YOU SHARED WITH ME THAT FARBER SOUL CENTER EXTENDS FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE’S PROGRAMMING INTO THE LIVES OF ADULTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS THROUGH

THE

CULINARY,

DIGITAL

AND

TRADITIONAL ARTS. SO, WHY A BAKERY, TOO?

friendshipcircle.org/dakotabread

Our Soul Cafe and Soul Cafe Training Program are

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great, but they really cut out a certain level of ability. Bakeries tend to require a lot of repetitive tasks.

Once they have it down, individuals with special needs are happy to do something over and over and can typically stay super focused while doing it. Also, they’d have the option to not be right in front of the 30

DAKOTA BREAD COMPANY

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

DAKOTA BREAD COMPANY

customers, and they won’t feel as rushed. The Soul

reap the benefits of being with adults who have spe-

Cafe baristas, for example, have a lot of pressure on

cial needs. You become a better person when you

them, so the bakery is a great space to be able to give

learn, and the program allows all people to be a part

opportunities to people with special needs.

of this world now.

THE

BAKERY’S

TRAINING

PROGRAM

FOR

SO,

WHY

DAKOTA

BREAD

COMPANY

ADULTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHES THEM

SPECIFICALLY? Ron Hodess, one of our board

LIFE SKILLS, INCLUDING TIME MANAGEMENT,

members who has two adults with special needs,

ORGANIZATION,

AND

was pushing us to do a bakery for a while. Howard

MORE, SO THAT THEY CAN BECOME EMPLOYEES

CUSTOMER

SERVICE

Schwartz of Howard Schwartz Commercial Real

IN THE FUTURE. HOW IS THE TRAINING GOING

Estate asked us why we were looking into starting a

SO FAR? So far, especially with Covid, we’ve been

bakery from scratch when we could take over the best

testing out the training program with a handful of peo-

bakery: Dakota Bread Company. It turned out that the

ple. We are constantly checking in with ourselves: how

owners of Dakota were wanting to retire. Definitely

are we progressing? Do we have enough visuals? Is

a divine providence. Everything worked to what we

the environment calm enough with them? Hopefully in

dreamt would be possible.

a few months we’ll be able to run more pilots.

I KNOW THE WELL-KNOWN CHALLAH BREAD WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF THE TRAINING

RECIPE HASN’T CHANGED, BUT WHAT CAN THE

PROGRAM? First, we want to give opportunities to

COMMUNITY EXPECT TO BE DIFFERENT? Well,

(hopefully many) adults with special needs. We want

first of all, everything is now Kosher. We also feel we’ve

them to have a place where they’re excited to come

changed it into more of a community bakery/family

to, where they can be productive at and where they’re

space. We decided to set up a display of Soul Studio’s

proud to call home. Second, we want the public to

art that we’ve paired with our baked goods, too.

T h e b a k e r y i s a g r e at space to be able to give opportunities to people with special needs.

CityLifestyle.com/WestBloomfield

31

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

4

14

BIRMINGHAM RESTAURANT WEEK

BOWERS FARM WINTER PARK

Until Feb. 7, Birmingham restau-

in Bloomfield Hills)

VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE: VALENTINE CONNECTIONS

rants are going above and beyond

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to provide a safe dining experience

come solo! Enjoy some outdoor fun

personal story to share? Virtually,

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with the new Glow Tubing adventure,

Greater West Bloomfield Historical

curbside pickup, carry-out, outdoor

which will be part of the Bowers Farm

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dining, delivery and more.

Winter Park 2021. Winter Park 2021

Send your stories by email or video

is open Thursdays, Fridays and

link by 2/11/21 to cory@gwbhs.

2

Saturdays

VIRTUAL KIDS COOKING CLASS

the Farm Kitchen and bonfires!

Downtown Birmingham

Bowers Farm (1219 E Square Lake Rd

through

Virtual Event

27,

org. They'll also see and consider

2021; it will also feature ice skating

February

1930s children’s Valentine’s Day

(weather permitting), tasty food from

cards through today’s perspec-

A virtual kids cooking class is a safe and fun winter activity. For more information or to register, visit registration.wbparks.org.

4 MOMMY AND ME HIKE

11 FREE STORMWATER 101 PRESENTATION Virtual Event

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14 SNOWSHOE WITH YOUR SWEETIE (ADULTS ONLY) Recreation Activities Center (4640

Rochester and The Clinton River

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tion will teach you about the watershed,

sweetie this Valentine's Day out

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your individual connection to it and how

in the great outdoors. For more

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you can make changes that directly

information or to register, visit

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registration.wbparks.org.

ister, visit registration.wbparks.org.

lution and promote healthier watershed.

To register, email contact@crwc.org.

32

tives. Visit gwbhs.org/events for log-in information.

Virtual Event

West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

CONTINUED >

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West Bloomfield Lifestyle | February 2021

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