Common Threads staffers come from varying backgrounds, but share a concern for children, a commitment to positive social change, and a love of good food and the communities food can create and sustain.
Linda Novick O'Keefe
Allison Liefer
Jillayne Samatas
Mary Ann Weprin
Jennifer Pinto
Courtney Treutelaar
Josh Katt
Linnzie Pandel
Eleanor Leichenko
Allison Liefer holds a B.S. in Communications from Northwestern University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Michigan. She comes to Common Threads from the pastry kitchens of the Custom House and Blackbird restaurants, and the French Pastry School, where she completed the L’ Art de la Patisserie certificate. Before working with food, Allison taught poetry and essay writing to elementary and college students, and worked in book publishing. She brings to Common Threads her pervasive interest in the Creative Process, as well as her devotion to the social and physical benefits of cooking fresh food and eating together. She likes to stew chutneys, bake gallettes, and cook vegetables, especially dark greens and squash varietals. And she has eaten more unfiltered Michigan honey than anyone you know.