Rx for Community Healing
THE FIVE ROSES KITCHEN COOKS UP HEALTHY HOMEMADE HUGS IN A BOWL AND MAKES MONTHLY DELIVERIES TO THE GARY BURNSTEIN COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC
Sometimes the story of how an impact organization began is just as powerful as the work they do. In 1997, after working 20 years as a cardiologist, Dr. Gary Burnstein began providing care for patients in a homeless shelter in Pontiac. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2003, but friends, family and community members honored his dream of providing care to the uninsured by establishing the Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic. Dr. Burnstein’s dream of providing free medical care for those in need began in a closet at the shelter and has grown into a state-of-the-art facility that provides top quality care by medical and dental professionals who volunteer their time.
And yes…matzoh ball soup constitutes as a Rx! (Jewish penicillin)
How do you Dosa?
SPICING IT UP AT THE FIVE ROSES KITCHEN
While chaperoning a school trip on the Interfaith Leadership Council’s Religious Diversity Journey school program back in 2016 I was honored to meet one of the most beautiful women (inside and out) during a Bollywood dance instruction. My friendship with Lalitha Ramamoorthy was instant and she has been bringing spice to my life and kitchen ever since! Lalitha has too many accolades to list but just to name a few…nutritionist, serial entrepreneur, healthcare professional, wellness coach, choreographer, incredible cook and I must mention can seriously rock a sari! Lalitha brought her passion and knowledge of her Indian culture to Detour Detroit’s home kitchen (aka The Five Roses Kitchen) for a dosa cooking demonstration and luncheon.
Cooking…Culture…Connection
Razom 1,000
HELP FOR UKRAINE CAMPAIGN
Razom is the Ukrainian word for together AND together volunteers from Temple Israel and the Ukrainian American Crisis Response Committee successfully assembled and packed 1,000 Individual First Aid Kits that were sent to Ukrainian soldiers.
The circumstances that brought our communities together were unfortunate but I was honored and humbled to volunteer alongside some of the most passionate, genuine, resourceful and kind people.
PEACE. LOVE. COMMUNITY. RAZOM
спільнота
Community is the word I needed to use to describe this detour. I am a little embarrassed to say that I did not know about the Ukrainian American Archives Museum until this world tragedy arose. BUT, the silver lining for this little gem in Hamtramack is that people beyond the Hamtramack community are desiring to learn more about Ukrainian culture, community and history.
When I called the Museum to get some information I was greeted by Executive Director, Olga Liskiwskyi, who (in the midst of running the Museum and volunteering for the Ukraine Crisis Hotline) spent over 30 minutes speaking with me and then graciously invited me for a personal tour through the museum. Olga is one of those inspiring women who embodies humility and values community.
I was able to bring two guests on this incredible detour where Olga educated us on Ukrainian art, music, literature, geography and history through a wonderfully curated tour filled with visually stimulating artifacts. We especially enjoyed learning about the Bandura (Ukrainian string folk instrument) and listening to a heartwarming song.
This was one of the most humbling detours to date and I am beyond grateful to Olga for her tireless efforts to support her community near and far.
любов = LOVE
Detroit Community Fridge
Two Wayne State University students (Alyssa Rogers and Emily Eicher) launched the grass roots initiative after seeing community fridges pop up all over the country throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. During a volunteer event organized by Repair the World I had the opportunity to visit one of the Detroit Community Fridge Locations (there are 5) and meet Alyssa. Working alongside volunteers to clean the area, restock the fridge and connect with other community members hoping to help people access free fresh and frozen foods and other necessary supplies was the best way to spend the first day of spring.
Follow and Fill the Fridge @detroitcommuniyfridge
BANDHU = FRIEND
BANGLADESHI WOMEN CULTIVATING VIBRANT AND DENSE VEGETABLES AND FRIENDSHIPS IN DETROIT NEIGHBORHOOD GARDENS
Back in 2017 I met Emily Staugaitis and Minara Begum of Banhdu Gardens on a cultural storytelling adventure through their authentic Bangladeshi pop up dinner at Rose’s Fine Foods. Bandhu Gardens recognizes the existing gardening and culinary talents of Bangladeshi women living in Detroit. As neighbors, they work together to amplify and expand economic opportunities. I relished the opportunity to build community through a shared cultural experience and make new friends.
“Our name is half Bangla and half English. Because our business is, too” - Banhdhu Gardens (I say two halves make a whole!)
REDUCE FOOD WASTE IN THE D (and beyond)
Located inside the awe inspiring Jefferson Avenue Presbyterian Church is social impact organization Make Food Not Waste, a powerhouse community of people that know food is better eaten than wasted. Founder and Executive Director, Danielle Todd, introduced me to her trailblazing team of bad ass chefs and community volunteers who were busy at work in their Upcycling Kitchen preparing meals for the community using rescued food that would otherwise end up in landfills.
TOGETHER WE CAN KEEP FOOD OUT OF LANDFILLS AND IN OUR BELLIES WHERE IT BELONGS
FARMACY FOOD is cooking up Detroit’s newest Rx
Having the opportunity to sit down with Chef Phil Jones, Farmacy Food’s Chief Culinary Officer and Detroit’s Chef of the Year 2021, was a detour rich in culture, community and of course culinary delight! Since 1980, Chef Jones has been transforming Detroit’s foodscape through his commitment to make healthy food more affordable and accessible. Teaming up with Kwaku Osei, CEO of Farmacy Food, this dynamic duo is on a mission to prove that food has the power to closely connect and improve communities. Farmacy Food is based inside one of the beautiful historic buildings at Marygrove Conservancy where their team of chefs and nutritionists work together to create soups, salads and entrees that not only taste great but are great for you (like mouth watering curry chicken fonio, Caribbean carrot soup, cornbread, greens and peas…yum!) Chef Jones graciously provided an insightful tour highlighting the history of Marygrove and the positive impact Marygrove Conservancy and Farmacy Food is having on the surrounding community.
This detour was a lesson in food culture and PHILosophy complete with homemade ginger turmeric tea to go!
A Taste of Marrakech
A Taste of Marrakech was the single best dining experience in Detroit! Chef Layla is one of the most passionate, genuine, fun and inspiring women I have had the honor to meet. She opened her home and heart to share her love of Moroccan tradition, family and culture through her insanely amazing culinary storytelling (complete with Moroccan serving pieces, lighting, artwork and music). The beauty of her food, depth of flavor and authenticity is beyond words.
The most meaningful part of the evening was sharing after dinner tea together where Chef Layla explained the importance of the Pakistani proverb “Three Cups of Tea” …when you share the first cup of tea you’re a stranger, with the second cup you are a friend, and with the third cup you become family.
This detour left me wanting to book a trip to Morocco (and bring Layla along to be my personal detour guide!).
FROM REFUGEES TO RESTAURATEURS
When I first heard about Hamissi Mamba’s journey from Burundi to Detroit I knew his was an inspiring story I wanted to share with others. We experienced authentic east African cuisine made from the heart and soul of his wife Nadia while Mamba shared his struggles as a refugee living at Freedom House to his triumph in opening BAOBAB FARE.
THIS DETOUR WAS STORYTELLING RICH IN FLAVOR, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
CROWN JEWELS OF THE GARDEN
Many urban farmers transform vacant land into garden areas for the community and I was lucky to connect with one superstar grower at Julia’s Apron. Tamara Toole (and her bad ass mom Barbara) spearheaded a community garden passion project. After visiting their garden they allowed me to harvest this sun kissed bounty! I went home and threw on my apron and created some culinary magic . The result…garden fresh watermelon gazpacho, eggplant and tomato dip, chopped kale and parsley salad and jars of pickled green tomatoes. Packaged in individual containers, Tamara and Barbara were able to share with their community.
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill (quoted on Julia’s Apron website)
LAX IN THE D
Detour Détroit connects Cranbrook high school students to Life Remodeled for a day of volunteer fun at Durfee Innovation Society. Five seniors on the Cranbrook lacrosse team spent an afternoon teaching summer campers the basics of playing the game. They provided the equipment and every participant received a lacrosse stick and personalized jersey to take home!
LAX to the MAX!
deTOUR of DETROIT FARMS & GARDENS
CUCUMBERS, TOMATOES AND SQUASH OH MY…even goats, chickens and pigs were seen on Keep Growing Detroit’s 23rd Annual tour.
This year’s tour highlighted four unique gardens (Earthworks Urban Farm, Georgia Street Community Garden, Julia’s Apron and Rivendell Gardens) where growers (and non growers like me) could make connections and get inspired. Attendees were offered parting gifts of homegrown vegetables!
THE DIRT IN THE D IS DEFINITELY BETTER!
DETROIT NI NYUMBANI
DETROIT IS HOME
I have been waiting over two years for this detour! Hamissi Mamba (one of the most extraordinary human beings I have ever met) and his wife Nadia Nijimbere are refugees from Burundi and co-owners of Baobab Fare. I had the opportunity to be transported to East Africa through delicious culinary cuisine created with passion, love and the yearning to connect people to East African culture.
“More than a restaurant, Baobab Fare is a gathering place where all are welcomed and embraced. You are not only our guest, you are our family. Thank you for being here as we share our East African fare, culture and community” - Mamba & Nadia
Giving Groceries with Love
DEEP CONCERN. HUMANITY. COMMITMENT
Detour Detroit partnered with Temple Israel to help feed Detroit families during the Covid pandemic. Grocery items were purchased with donations made Temple Israel members and distributed to families served by Brilliant Detroit and Durfee Innovation Society.
Cycle & Stone
HEADSTONE THAT IS…
Detour Detroit partnered with RiDetroit for a socially distant bike ride through the streets of Detroit. Highlights included curated tours through B’nai David Cemetery (circa 1898) and Simmons & Clark Jewelry. Our detour concluded in Corktown where the owners (and Detroit natives) of Michigan & Trumbull Pizza literally provided a taste of Detroit with slices of “Packard Pepperoni”, “Bagley Chorizo” and of course the “Woodward”.
I WHEELIE Love a Community Collaboration!
Members of the Temple Israel community safely donated over 100 bikes at our drive up and drop off event hosted by Temple Israel. Free Bikes For Kidz (FB4K Detroit) and RiDetroit will refurbish these bikes and donate to Detroit kids and essential workers in need of transportation. My heart is as full as this U-Haul!
BICYCLE RECYCLE
For a community dependent on public transportation, Detroit was hit especially hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Detour Detroit has partnered with RiDetroit in an effort to provide bikes to essential workers and residents in the city of Detroit. Detour Detroit collects unwanted adult/children’s bikes and RiDetroit provides free tune ups and delivery.
OVER 400 MEALS SERVED TO FRONTLINE WORKERS
Thank you for the overwhelming support to my friends, family and business network for donating to my initiative to provide meals to our heroes! Meals were purchased from Thyme & Honey (@_thymeandhoney_) and Simply Good Kitchen.
Meals were delivered to Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, DMC Sinai Grace, Detroit Henry Ford Hospital , PACE Southeast Michigan, St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor Hospital, Charlevoix Hospital and Detroit Police Department 10th Precinct.
WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER - STAY SAFE & HEALTHY!
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BUBBLY & BRUNCH
THREE WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS BRING QUALITY PROVISIONS, VEGAN COOKING AND WOMEN’S FASHION TO DETROIT’S NEW CENTER
This exciting detour began with coffee and conversation with shop owner Brigid Beaubian at Urbanum. Urbanum is a curator of distinctly Detroit and city-driven design with merchandise combining the familiarity of industry with the comfort of found objects for the home.
With energy and passion Chef Quiana “Que” Broden prepared a delicious vegan brunch right before our very eyes in her chic demonstration kitchen (aka THE KITCHEN) where vegans and meat eaters co-exist!
The detour ended at Ferne Boutique, home to the latest trends in women’s contemporary fashion. Owner, Laura Horwath, shared her journey from Detroit pop-ups to being awarded a Motor City Match grant helping her to open Ferne Detroit.
CHEERS TO A SUPER FUN INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY IN THE D!
EXPLORING JEWISH ART AT THE DIA
Before being offered to the general public, DIA docent extraordinaire Barbara Madgy Cohn led a group of women from Knollwood Country Club on a tour she created for the Jewish Historical Society.
Barbara shared stories of the many Jewish artists and the history of featured works. Each work of art has a special Jewish connection and highlights included art that was once confiscated by the Nazis.
Following the tour we enjoyed a specially prepared gourmet lunch featuring local ingredients at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails.
Yemen culture at Sheeba
FAMILY DETOUR TO DEARBORN
Sheeba makes a great culinary experience amazing with it’s over the top customer service! We experienced DELICIOUS authentic Yemeni cuisine with traditional Yemen music playing in the background. We had the pleasure of being served by Awad our personal culinary tour guide who helped us choose items from the all encompassing menu (oh the choices!). The owner, Ismael, treated us with home made pastries and authentic Yemen coffee and tea while sharing stories of his family history and Yemen culture.
SHEEBA PROVIDES FLAVOR, CULTURE & CUSTOMER SERVICE FIT FOR A QUEEN
HEART 2 HART DETROIT
The start to 2020 was all about spreading some love by connecting with Detroit’s homeless community with an organization unlike any other. Together with Heart 2 Hart Detroit, we gathered at Hart Plaza to hand out lunch, hats, gloves, socks and other life-sustaining items. We spoke with and learned the backgrounds of some of Detroit’s homeless people. It was a humbling experience to engage with people facing extreme struggles but continue to smile and laugh (and hug). True Detroit Spirit!
StockX
CALLING ALL SNEAKER LOVERS!
StockX is the world’s first stock market for things - a live “bid/ask” marketplace. Buyers place bids, sellers place asks and when a bid and ask meet, the transaction happens automatically. This high energy detour was led by the Senior Manager of Experience and began with a behind the scenes tour of the StockX headquarters and Q & A with the Senior VP of Business Development. Then we were transported to the StockX authentication factory where we watched how the team authenticates each item. Do you think you could tell a real from a fake?
New York may have Wall Street but Detroit has StockX!
Letterpress Revival in Detroit’s Eastern Market
This detour featured a curated tour led by Director, Lynne Avadenka, at Signal-Return, a Detroit nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and teaching traditional letterpress printing, and building a community center for art, craft, design and collaboration.
STOP THE PRESSES and take a detour to learn about this lost art!
Luxury Historic Inn in Detroit’s Brush Park
This detour led me to The Cochrane House, a restored 18th century mansion in the heart of Detroit, where I was warmly welcomed by innkeepers, sisters and Detroit natives Roderica & Francina James who clearly love to host guests! These sweet and spicy sisters pounced on a real estate opportunity and with vision and passion created a retreat filled with history, art and luxury. Exploring every detail of this hidden gem was an experience in history, culture, architecture and extreme hospitality!
Relax and enjoy at this spectacular B&B IN THE D!
Storytime in Sherwood Forest
The story of Sherwood Forest (circa 1917) came to life on this detour through a 100 year old neighborhood in Detroit known for its architecturally distinctive homes and quiet and winding streets. Beginning with with a cocktails and appetizers in the backyard garden of a Sherwood Forest resident and ending with a book talk and home tour of author and “official historian”, Gail Rodwan.
Happy Centennial Sherwood Forest!
“All through our history, we’ve had a very dedicated and tenacious group of neighbors. Because whenever a challenge arose, people seem to feel strongly that this is a neighborhood they really wanted to keep.” Gail Rodwan
Historic Indian Village Detroit: Home & Garden Tour
Our tour began at the Albert Kahn designed Detroit Waldorf School where we were greeted by an older gentleman dressed in his Sunday best seersucker suit! Our guide, an Indian Village resident led us down tree lined streets and through stunning large scale selected homes designed by some of Detroit’s most distinguished architects. We meandered through gardens in full bloom dating back to 1895 and viewed antique cars on display.
Indian Village is an eclectic neighborhood rich in history, beauty and elegance.
Fun Fact: One of the homes we toured was featured in the movie Hoffa filmed in Detroit in 1992.
333 Midland | Onnes
333 Midland is a large industrial site in Highland Park (within the borders of Detroit). We met with New Zealand native artist/owner Robert Onnes for a tour of this historic factory, formerly the Lewis Stamping Plant. Extensive space is offered to artists and sculptors who wish to create large scale works. The Annex Gallery at 333 midland is open as an artist run showcase of the Detroit and Highland Park community, emerging and established artists.
Following the studio and gallery tour we traveled minutes to Hamtramack where we dined at Polish Village Cafe and enjoyed authentic Polish cuisine (dill pickle soup and pierogis…yum!).
Our detour ended at an inviting Parisian shop in the heart of Hamtramack called Le Detroit Macaron. The colors…the flavors…oh my! It was a difficult decision choosing just one…so I choose a box 12! Le Detroit Macaron is a charming little gem! Those of you with a sweet tooth…this is the place for you.
New Zealand - Poland - France…This was a detour filled with cultural diversity and authenticity!
Whiskey & Wisdom
Two James is located in Corktown, Detroit’s oldest neighborhood, and is the first licensed distillery in Detroit since prohibition. Temple Israel’s Empty Nesters enjoyed a tour and overview of the origins of the distillery, the materials used in the tasting room and a history of the building. Highlights included a first hand view of the 500 gallon custom made Copper Pot Still, tastings of their signature spirits and a strolling dinner served right in the production facility.
We felt the SPIRIT of Detroit on this detour…most likely from the Whiskey!
FLINT INSTITUTE OF ARTS
Flint Institute of Arts is the second largest art museum in Michigan and one of the largest museum art schools in the United States.
Guests were given a fascinating and engaging private tour of this wonderful museum by the charming Executive Director, John Henry. Highlights included an up close look at one of the largest contemporary glass collections and Isabelle de Borchgraves’s breathtaking exhibit Fashioning Art from Paper where she created life-size renditions of historic clothing created completely from artfully painted, pleated, crumpled and manipulated paper.
From Flint with love
Don’t Yell Fire
Guests walked through the original, historic red doors of former Fire Department headquarters and experienced the renaissance with a behind the scenes tour of the Detroit Foundation Hotel.
Barbara Madgy Cohn, author of The Detroit Public Library: An American Classic discussed her book and her curation of the hotel’s book collection located in the uniquely designed Lincoln Lounge.
Following the tour, Michelin chef Thomas Lents served up a modern American cuisine lunch in the Apparatus Room private dining space.
Nobody yelled fire…but this is definitely a “hot” spot to obtain a taste of Detroit history!
Sanctuary for the Senses
FLAVOR & FRAGRANCE ARE INEXTRICABLY LINKED…yet rarely are both approached simultaneously.
Castalia at Sfumato is located inside a Victorian mansion in Midtown Detroit. In this intimate space designed for conversation guests enjoyed a multi-sensory dinner paired with cocktails inspired by Sfumato’s entirely natural fragrances. The highlight of the evening was the MIRACLE BERRY tasting. When eaten, the miracle berry causes sour foods subsequently consumed to taste sweet. And yes…miracle berry is it’s actual name!
All that glitters…circa 1925
This was a gem of a night for members of the Jewish Historical Society of Michigan. We began the evening with third generation owner, Michael Simmons, who shared the historical and architectural highlights of his family business, Simmons & Clark Jewelers. Then we walked just a few steps around the block to experience a behind the scenes tour of Element Detroit at the Metropolitan, once home to Detroit jewelry manufacturers. The evening ended at the Monarch Club where world class cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed on the rooftop lounge. Panoramic views of the city were dazzling!
Murals in the Market
Murals in the Market returned for the 5th consecutive year, bringing more than 25 local and international artists to Detroit’s Historic Eastern Market. Jason Hall, Detroit Ambassador, cofounder of Slow Roll and founder of RiDetroit, curated a walking tour including stops at Wasserman Projects and Keep Growing Detroit.
Inspired by seasonal items and influenced by her travels and previous life in Algeria, France and Asia, chef Warda Bouguettaya hand crafted a sophisticated lunch at her modern pâtisserie Warda Pâtisserie located inside Trinosophes.
Do Good Date Night
What do you get when you combine 20 couples, 1 Rabbi, 2 fresh cut flower farmers and Thyme & Honey’s kick ass chef (cooked the entire meal over an open flame)…Detroit blooming from within!
A dedicated group of volunteers committed to supporting the mission of Detroit Abloom worked in the garden and enjoyed a scrumptious vegetarian dinner under the stars.
Fruits of Our Labor
Keep Growing Detroit and FoodLab Detroit co-developed the Fruits of Our Labor Dinner Series showcasing the powerful role that women and non-binary chefs and farmers play in Detroit’s food system.
On a beautiful summer evening guests sat at an extended table in the fields of Keep Growing Detroit farm in Eastern Market. The table was adorned with farm fresh flowers, whimsical table settings and personal mementos. Chefs and farmers led us on a storytelling and culinary journey complete with a family-style five course dinner and dessert of course!
Detroit dining À La Mode!
The Daytrippers Get Down and Dirty
These lovely ladies who call themselves the “daytrippers” spent the morning volunteering at Keep Growing Detroit tucked away in Detroit’s Historic Eastern Market.
Algerian born, local chef and owner of Warda Pâtisserie served a farm to table lunch prepared with seasonal ingredients from the garden and discussed her world travels.
A Little Utopia in a Magical Corner of Detroit
Down Telegraph Road – where the Rouge River runs through Ridge Road in the Riverdale neighborhood – is Kibbutz Detropia. On 1.5 densely wooded acres, it’s the home base for a growing Jewish nonprofit. Cofounder Sky Brown and her young son gave a heartfelt tour around their little utopian garden while discussing the many benefits of the various species of plants and herbs.
DPL After Dark
A group from Temple Israel called the Empty Nesters enjoyed a docent led tour of the Detroit Public Library highlighting the architecture of Cass Gilbert, American craftsman and artist. A strolling dinner was enjoyed in the Fine Arts Music Room and guests had the rare opportunity to step outside on the loggia for a picturesque view of the city and admire the seven mosaics underneath the loggia windows, each depicting quotes from Shakespeare’s “Seven Ages of Man”.
Labour De Amour
The first thing that makes for a harmonious match between fashion-art duo Ruben and Isabel Toledo and the collection at the Detroit Institute of Arts is the shared baseline value of beauty rooted in labor. The majority of the DIA’s world-class collection was funded by the rise of the automotive industry — articulated most literally in the famed interior frescoes by Diego Rivera, the Detroit Industry Murals — and the Toledos have similarly built a bespoke fashion empire out of working-class Cuban immigrant roots. Their intensely collaborative process, combination of art and design, and hands-on attention to materiality shine through in Labor of Love, an ambitious and unprecedented exhibition of original garment works, interspersed with and responding to pieces on display in the DIA galleries.
Guests enjoyed a private curated tour of this breathtaking exhibit followed by an authentic Cuban lunch at Vincente’s. Mama Vincente even prepared her “secret family” appetizer as a surprise addition to the meal.
Detroit’s Oldest Luxury Social Club
Originating in 1882, the Detroit Club is rich in history of culture, iconic membership, and service excellence. Guests viewed the meticulous restoration and renovations on a private tour and experienced world class cuisine in the Grille Room.
Tour & Tapas Team Bonding
DTE employees enjoyed a curated gallery tour showcasing the work of Detroit artists at Galerie Camille and worked hands on with owner and artist Adnan Charara in his private studio to create a collaborative art piece inspired by themes of DTE’s corporate culture.
They toasted the day with sangria and savored the flavor of authentic Spanish tapas at La Feria. Owner Elias Khalil shared his personal story as a Cass Corridor resident who later traveled to Seville, Spain, prompting his passion of bringing the joy of Spain to Detroit.
Birthday Celebration:
Gallery Tour & Taste
These fabulous ladies boarded a limo bus and celebrated a milestone birthday Detour style! Artist meet and greet at Next Step Studio & Gallery and Simone DeSousa Gallery. Guests enjoyed a private tour showcasing the ingenuity and unparalleled design of Shinola Hotel including original artwork curated by Library Street Collective. The celebration concluded with a special chef’s lunch in San Morello’s private dining space, complete with birthday cake and candles!
Friends are at the heART of any celebration!
The Heat: A Kitchen (R)evolution
It takes a brazen personality to excel in the competitive and male dominated world of professional cooking. A woman can only ascend the ranks if she can take the heat.
Guests enjoyed a special screening at the Detroit Freep Film Festival inside a tent at Beacon Park, followed by a Q & A with Detroit powerhouse chefs Kiki Louya and Rohani Foulkes (Folk), Sara Welch (Marrow), Gabby Milton (Lumen Detroit) and Emmele Herrold (Hazel, Ravines & Downtown). These women are on fire!
IGLOO’S are not just in Alaska
Detour to Detroit for a unique wintertime experience inside a festively decorated and heated igloo at Lumen Detroit. Chef and general manager Gabby Milton curated an illuminating lunch complete with cocktails and snuggly blankets.
Cheers to Detroit eskimos!
Can’t Find it…Ask a Librarian
Temple Israel Sisterhood enjoyed a docent let tour showcasing the history, architecture and fine art at the Detroit Public Library. Highlights included special access in the rare book collection and an intimate discussion with the Development Director of the Detroit Public Library Foundation.
“Good mood food “ was prepared by chef Douglas Hewit at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails where guests dined amidst the botanicals.
RISE AND SHINOLA
This Google team detoured all the way from Ann Arbor. Behind the scenes tour at Shinola Hotel, cold weather comfort food at San Morello and connecting with Bruce Schwartz, Ambassador of Detroit, for an insightful walk in and around Bedrock properties created a memorable team bonding experience.
GALLERY TOUR & TAPAS
Guests enjoyed a behind the scenes tour inside Galerie Camille owner and artist Adnan Charara’s private studio space. Artists Doug Cannell and Elizabeth Youngblood personally curated a tour of their artwork on exhibit and joined our group for tapas at La Feria. Owner Elias Khalil took us on a culinary journey inspired by his travels to Seville, Spain. One lucky guest was surprised with an autographed copy of Adnan’s book The World I Found and Reconstructed.
SHOPS ON TOP
Panoramic views of Eastern Market from the Shops on Top are incredible!
The Shops on Top are a hidden gem in Detroit’s Eastern Market. It’s your one stop shop for all things Detroit fashion and the space can be rented out for events! We were greeted by dapperly dressed owner Deron who offered us a cup of coffee to sip on while we strolled through the vast array of contemporary fashions for men, women and home.
Y NOT Check out Shops (and view) On Top!
Reflections
For the last 30 years, Detroit artist Lisa Spindler has shown her work in solo and group exhibitions throughout the world. This detour provided a rare opportunity to have an intimate conversation with her at the opening reception of Reflections // An Instillation by Lisa Spindler at the Detroit Foundation Hotel.
Commonflower Gathering
This detour landed us “together at the table” at Whitdel Arts to enjoy moody art vibes and vibrant culinary creations. Commonflower Gatherings carefully curates a space that is meant for connection and creates a memorable pop up dinner experience. Guests enjoyed a three course dinner by candlelight underneath a stunning floral canopy designed by Willa Rose Floral. No evening is complete without a sweet ending… Australian native Chef Karlee of Karlee’s Kupcakes created a dessert display that was almost too beautiful to eat….i said almost!
Nothing Common about this gathering!
Thankful For Our Neighbors
2nd ANNUAL THANKSGIVING EXCHANGE AT BRILLIANT DETROIT
Turkeys, potatoes, green beans, cranberries, dinner rolls and pumpkin pies were donated to Brilliant Detroit families so they could enjoy cooking with their families. After volunteers assembled these items in laundry baskets they enjoyed an authentic Mexican lunch prepared by Brilliant Detroit moms! Volunteers and Brilliant Detroit families created a community mural with local artist and owner of Galerie Camille, Adnan Charara.
Gobble & Give with Neighbors
Sukkah’s in the D
Sukkah x Detroit was presented by the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue. Since biblical times, the sukkah-a temporary structure giving thanks for the fall harvest and commemorating the Exodus from Egypt-has served as the centerpiece of the eight-day Jewish holiday of Sukkot. As part of Detroit Month of Design, five sukkahs, selected through Detroit’s largest international design competition were displayed in Detroit’s historic Capitol Park.
Charles T. Fisher Mansion Designer Show Home Tour & Taste of Italy
The historic Charles T. Fisher mansion, largest home in Detroit’s Boston Edison neighborhood underwent an interior redesign. A record 39 interior designers took over the home for the 2018 Junior League of Detroit Designer’s Show House. Designers from six states re-imagined 44 rooms and a private docent showcased the transformation on our group tour.
A feast for the eyes was followed by a feast for the stomach at Shewolf Pastificio & Bar. While sipping Aperol spritzers, Chef Anthony Lombardo curated our contemporary Italian luncheon. Pasta deliziosa!
MODEL T MAGIC
As the birthplace of the Ford Model T car, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is recognized as one of the most significant automotive heritage sites in the world. An Ambassador for the Motor Cities National Automotive Heritage Area led a remarkable private tour of this historic site.
Hitting the Streets of Brooklyn
BROOKLYN STREET LOCAL IN CORKTOWN, DETROIT THAT IS
Brooklyn Street Local hosted the Women of Color Collaborative Pop-Up dinner featuring Ederique Goudia of Gabriel Hall, Brittiany Peeler and Le’Genevieve Squires from Relish Catering, Viana Rickett of Simple Goodness and Lauren Daniels of Sumptuous Spirits. Guests enjoyed a scrumptious four course dinner and conversation with the chefs. This was a unique opportunity for guests to experience their food and hear their stories.
LOCAL Sense of Community!
African History Told Through Beads
Dabls Mbad African Bead Museum is one of Detroit’s treasures. It’s an unusual museum that draws on African history and customs filling an entire block with vibrant outdoor installations. Spending time with artist and visual storyteller Olayami Dabls inside his bead museum was a delight. So many beautiful beads on display (and for purchase) with many of them from around the world having a unique history.
TOGETHER WE GROW
Detour Detroit set up an arts and crafts table at Brilliant Detroit’s Osborn Open House where families in the community made paper hand cut outs and wrote a special message. Thanks to the generous support of Galerie Camille and creativity of owner and artist Adnan Charara a beautiful message of community was placed in the Osborn backyard garden.
GOBBLE & GIVE
This is what community support looks like! We built relationships in new communities by coming together to sponsor Brilliant Detroit families in need of Thanksgiving dinners. Detour volunteers helped assemble Thanksgiving dinner packages and Brilliant Detroit families prepared an authentic Mexican lunch for volunteers and community members to enjoy.
100 FAMILIES RECEIVED THANKSGIVING PACKAGES!
BRILLIANT Things Happening in Detroit
We walked through a bright orange door to meet CEO and Co-Founder, Cindy Eggleton for friend raiser to learn about the incredible work Brilliant Detroit is doing to help kids, families and neighborhoods in Detroit. After a heart warming and inspiring education, Cindy joined us for an intimate rustic Italian lunch at Ottava Via.
Brilliant Detroit is where friends from different zip codes connect!
DETROIT DESIGN 139
Fans of Detroit architecture, design, landscaping and city planning-rejoice!
Attending the Detroit Design 139 exhibit coinciding with the Detroit Design Festival allowed guests to view 38 innovative development ideas. Docents were onsite at 1001 Woodward to answer questions and various events engaged the community in the future of Detroit design.
DETROIT SHAPES DESIGN
FARM TO TABLE
DEFINED & EXPERIENCED
Sitting at a community table in the middle of Keep Growing Detroit’s expansive garden in the heart of Detroit as the backdrop felt like utopia! We celebrated women chefs behind Detroit’s amazing food system. Dynamic chefs Allison Heeres from Coriander Kitchen & Farm, Kezia Curtis from Under the Rainbow Catering, Bekah Galang from Avalon International Breads and Jess Hicks from Astro Coffee created a culinary feast for guests to enjoy while instilling a sense of community.
The eating experience that supports the economy while inspiring a mindful meal…mission accomplished!
GIVE BACK AND GROW
YOU DON’T NEED TO BE A SURGEON TO PERFORM A TRANSPLANT!
The garden god and goddess at Keep Growing Detroit taught us the art of transplanting Detroit-grown seedlings and onion bulbs. After working hard in the greenhouse we headed to Rose’s Fine Foods to enjoy made from scratch food with quality local ingredients.
Nourish the Mind, Body & Soul
Is this a Library or a Museum?
WELL….BOTH!
Detroit Public Library docent led us on an enlightening tour through this magical institution packed with Michigan history, architecture, art and of course books! Our tour began at the bottom of the Grand Staircase made entirely out of marble leading to an arched Italian Renaissance ceiling, painted windows and murals. We viewed Detroit historical murals, six special collections and the breathtaking Pewabic Tile Fireplace. We concluded our tour amidst the botanical garden decor at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails enjoying a luncheon specially crafted by “vegetable wizard” Chef Doug Hewitt.
If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need. - Marcus Tullius Cicero
Red Bull Quenches the Thirst for Art in Detroit
Red Bull Arts Detroit is a hidden gem in Detroit’s Historic Eastern Market. It’s a unique venue offering dynamic educational and public programming and is the home of a curatorial fellowship, local micro-grant initiative, and artist in residency program, which provides housing and studio space each year for 9 emerging artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. Red Bull’s gallery director curated the exhibition, led the group on a tour through the Eastern Market highlighting the Murals in Market, and made stops at local businesses and art spaces.
“Nothing brings us more joy than a great meal with great friends” is the motto of Selden Standard. Chef Andy Hollyday designed a family style lunch showcasing flavors born in local Detroit farms.
Nothing standard about this day!
City-Wide Tour of Detroit Gardens & Farms
Guests hopped on a bus for Keep Growing Detroit’s Annual Tour of some of Detroit ‘s urban gardens and farms. The tour concluded with a reception at Shed 3 in Detroit’s Eastern Market which included food prepared by local chefs.
Fun Fact: There are over 1,400 urban gardens in Detroit!
We Carrot about Detroit!
These little sprouts spent an afternoon volunteering at Keep Growing Detroit, an urban farm in the heart of downtown Detroit. They learned the importance of food sovereignty and had fun harvesting baby carrots!
Did you ever stop to taste a carrot? Not just eat it? You can’t taste the beauty and energy of the earth in a Twinkie - Astrid Alauda
Voyageur College Prep is providing Detroit students the tools to set sail!
We had the privilege to intimately sit with Detroit charter school leader and visionary, Doug Ross and a panel of his students to discuss the Detroit public school system and the unique mission of Voyageur College Prep.
Ross holds graduate degrees in economics and public policy from the London School of Economics and Princeton University, respectively. He has spent the last four decades forming economic and education policy as a state Senator, director of the Michigan Department of Commerce, U.S. assistant secretary of labor and chief innovation officer for the Detroit Public Schools.
NOURISHING VOLUNTEER WORK…No gardening experience necessary!
This detour brought a group of suburban youth to help build a water catchment system at Hubbard Farms Community Garden.
Hubbard Farms is a neighborhood and historic district in southwest Detroit. It is located on one of the old plots which used to be a ribbon farm along the Detroit River.
SUPPORT THE DETROIT LANDSCAPE
Got Weed?
NO, not that kind of weed! This is the kind of high you feel when you spend the day doing good ole fashion community work. These ladies got their hands down and dirty at Keep Growing Detroit picking weeds to help beautify this emerald urban farm.
SERVICE is a great way to get to know and support Detroit’s urban agriculture community!
A Day with @DetroitBruce
THE CITY CAME ALIVE ON THIS ALL ACCESS TOUR WITH “AMBASSADOR OF DETROIT” FOR THE ROCK FAMILY OF COMPANIES, BRUCE SCHWARTZ
Bruce is known for leading insightful tours of downtown Detroit and greeting the icons and celebrities that venture into the city for various business endeavors so this group of suburban gals were enthused at the opportunity to get a look inside some of Detroit’s newest redevelopments and hear highlights of Detroit’s progress, it’s plans for expansion and the projects that are underway.
Best part of the tour was a stop inside a secret speakeasy…Cheers!
SERVING DETROIT AT ST. LEO’S SOUP KITCHEN
With the belief that all men and women are gifts from God, St. Leo’s Soup Kitchen is a non-profit, non-denominational organization that strives to provide sustenance and other social services as needed to less fortunate members of the Detroit community provided at no cost to all who come.
Thank you to these beautiful ladies who came in hats or hairnets with open hearts and helping hands to share in the daily work of the kitchen!
SOUPer Women!