Dexter Arts, Culture & Heritage Committee Plans Second 'Yellow Door' Art Fundraiser

Before heading out to the 40th annual this weekend, visitors can fill up on a homemade breakfast, courtesy of resident Paul Cousins, while supporting a worthwhile initiative.

Members of the village's Arts, Culture & Heritage Committee will host the second from 8-11 a.m. Friday at Cousins' home, located at 7648 Forest St.

The community breakfast includes a choice of three entrees, including creamed leeks and a poached egg over toast points with smoked trout, blueberry mascarpone stuffed pancakes, and a roasted potato and vegetable frittata. A minimum donation of $10 is requested. Members of the Arts, Culture & Heritage Committee will help prepare and serve the food.

"The whole idea is to show the village that our committee members can actively raise funds to support public art," Cousins said.

Cousins, a former chef and current member of the Arts, Culture & Heritage Committee, which oversees the selection and recommendation of public art to the village council, said he came up with the idea after attending a similar event in Chelsea.

Known as "Yellow Door" gatherings in Chelsea, the concept began two years ago to raise money for a community kitchen. Cousins was one of the local chefs who got involved in the efforts.

The event was held inside the home of residents, Todd and Janice Ortbring, who opened their house — equipped with a yellow front door — every Thursday morning for breakfast. 

"Our first fundraiser in June brought in about $1,900 after expenses," Cousins said. "All things considered, I thought it was a success. We had about 100 people attend. Everyone enjoyed the food and had a good time meeting their neighbors. We're happy to do it again for Dexter Daze."

The money raised will be used to purchase art for installation around the village. Cousins said the committee is expected to bring a recommendation before the village council at its Aug. 13 meeting for artwork at the new Mill Creek Park.

For more information about the Yellow Door fundraiser, contact the Village of Dexter at 734-426-8303 or email Courtney Nicholls, assistant village manager, at cnicholls@villageofdexter.org.