University District Inc.

Juniper Bakery Opens on Highland

Mar 05, 2001

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Sachs

Memphis, TN ?– After nearly two years of thinking, planning, development, fundraising, renovation and prayer, the Juniper Bakery is open at 524 South Highland, former site of Sweet Solomon?’s Bakery and McLaurine?’s Bakery.
?“So many people have worked so hard to make the Juniper Bakery possible,?” said Jonathan Koplin, who developed the concept and will serve as the bakery?’s general manager and project director. ?“I think everybody is going to be extremely pleased with what we have done with the space and atmosphere.?”
The Juniper Bakery has opened to the public with an introductory level of breads and pastries, as well as a selection of coffees and juices. Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. ?– 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. ?– 6:00 p.m. Tuesday thru Friday and 7:30 a.m. ?– 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
?“During the renovation, many long-time residents of the neighborhood have stopped by to learn more about the increased activity in and out of the bakery,?” Koplin said. ?“They told me how much they missed having a neighborhood bakery and I told them they would not be disappointed when we opened our doors. Now that we have opened, I hope everyone will come by and taste some of the freshest, healthiest, best baked goods you could find anywhere.?”
For anyone who has enjoyed a legendary breakfast at Brother Juniper?’s College Inn on Walker, expectations are equally high for the bakery. Koplin and his wife Pauline also own and operate the restaurant as a family business. The same attention to detail and warm, family atmosphere are migrating to the bakery, but with a slightly different twist.
?“Most people will easily see the bakery aspect of what we are doing, but I think they should also understand the other dimension to the bakery that is just as important,?” Koplin continued. ?“The bakery is also a non-profit social venture and apprenticeship program focused on developing the job skills and work habits of disenfranchised youth through the food service and hospitality industries.?”
The Juniper Bakery is built on a model that strengthens the fabric of the community by providing the baking and food service industry with skilled trades people ?– bakers and pastry chefs. Although the bakery will be a revenue generating enterprise, the non-profit bakery?’s Board of Directors will oversee the use of funds toward the ongoing training of apprentices.
The start-up phase of Juniper Bakery will employ eight apprentices. Over a sixteen-week period the apprentices will learn about baking, food handling certification, life skills and positive work habits. Upon completion of the program the bakery will assist apprentices in finding jobs.
?“My wife and I have so much faith in kids,?” Koplin said. ?“The Juniper Bakery is just something we had to do.?”