Dexter Residents Plan 'Yellow Door' Breakfast Fundraiser to Benefit Public Art

In an effort to raise money for public art in the Village of Dexter, Paul and Pat Cousins are asking residents to open up their palates (and wallets) for a unique fundraising endeavor.

The Cousins will host a community breakfast at their residence, 7648 Forest St., from 8-11 a.m. June 2 to help raise money to fund public art in the village.

Paul Cousins, a 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.

"The idea is to bring people together for some good food and camaraderie," Cousins, a former chef said. "Hopefully my skills haven't waned away over the years."

Cousins said guests will have a choice of three entrees along with muffins, coffee cake, juice, coffee, and tea to complete the breakfast. A minimum donation of $10 is requested. Members of the Arts, Culture & Heritage Committee will help prepare and serve the food.

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. The meal was prepared using local chefs and fresh farm produce.

In keeping with the tradition, Cousins will transform his burgundy door into a yellow door, and plans to purchase produce from local farmers markets.

"We'll use locally made cheeses, vegetables, meat and whatever we are able to get," Cousins said. "We're taking a chance with the 'Yellow Door' concept in Dexter. I hope people will come out and support us."

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

Cousins is planning a second breakfast on Aug. 10 in conjunction with Dexter Daze.