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“HOT OFF THE PRESS” Dry Cleaning News
(248) 543-0340 | www.janetdaviscleaners.com 27607Woodward Ave., Berkley, MI 48072 | 3645 Maple Rd., Bloomfield, MI 48301
APRIL 2018
THE VALUE OF AWFUL CUSTOMER SERVICE
The absolute worst occurrence still makes me angry to think about. I was taking a quick lunch, and I needed to make eight deposits into the business account. I didn’t have a lot of time on my hands, so I pulled into the drive-through with my fast-food lunch on the passenger seat. After sending my deposits up through the pneumatic tube, the teller promptly shot them back to me. She said eight deposits was too many for the drive-through, and I needed to come inside. Annoyed, I wondered how eight could be too many if she was able to send them back to me, but I parked and went inside.
After I handed my deposits over, the teller took them to the drive-through window — the same one I supposedly couldn’t use earlier — and started to place the money into the account. However, every time someone came through the drive-through, she put my deposits aside
“Eventually, I left the bank with a cold lunch and an awful mood.”
and took care of that customer first. Shocked, I asked for a manager. After telling her the whole story, I asked her, “Why are you punishing your customers with a lot of deposits?” She said, “We aren’t trying to punish anyone! But we especially don’t want to punish those who have very few deposits.” I looked at her, dumbfounded. What sense did that make? Why would you not take care of each customer in the order they came into the bank, and why would you make a customer with a somewhat large deposit seem like an inconvenience? Eventually, I left the bank with a cold lunch and an awful mood. From that moment, I knew we had to switch banks. Looking back at this experience, I have to wonder, “Is there any process or policy that makes my customers feel undervalued?” Are we punishing our customers? It’s not my customers’ duty to know all of our policies. Their role is simply to bring us dirty clothes to be dry cleaned. That is why I try my hardest to listen to feedback we receive, making sure there is no way my customers leave our business feeling the way I did when I left the bank. We pride ourselves on our service, and we are always looking for ways to improve it.
Like most people, I have experienced some truly great customer service in my life, and I’ve been subjected to awful service, as well. Unfortunately, the instances when we are treated badly tend to stick out more in our minds than the times service was impeccable. As a business owner, I look at bad service differently than some people do. The times I experience bad service can actually be of value to me and my business model, since these instances are prime examples of the thing we don’t want to do at Janet Davis Cleaners. When I was 16, I opened a checking and savings account with the same local bank that my dad used for the business. I enjoyed working with the bank employees, because they always knew my name and face. They treated me like a valued customer. After a while, that bank was bought out, and their service went completely downhill. Several times over the ensuing years, this bank subjected me to the worst service I have ever received in my life.
–Kyle Matthews
1 (248) 543-0340
After spending a winter cooped up inside with your family, there might be a little tension between everyone. Fortunately, it’s spring, and the warm weather, melting snow, and blooming flowers offer a good way to ease restlessness. This season, why not bring your family closer together by starting a family garden? Gardening: BRINGING FAMILY TOGETHER Why You Should Consider Investing in a Family Garden
A LEARNING EXPERIENCE
WHY DRY CLEANING MAKES YOUR CLOTHES LAST LONGER
Nearly every step in the gardening process can be a learning experience for kids and parents alike. Begin by discussing where you should start and why, what supplies you’ll need, and the types of plants you want to grow. Gardening also offers opportunities to learn about science, ecology, and nutrition.
COLLABORATION
Certain articles of clothing, like pants, suits, and dresses, don’t do well with the high temperatures and detergents associated with at-home washers and dryers. However, you don’t have to choose between soiled dress clothes and damaged fabric. Thanks to dry cleaning, you can keep your dress clothes clean and even add years to their wear.
Gardening gives your family a chance to collaborate. When you’re stuck inside for long periods, you may be spending time together, but it’s usually not quality time. Working in a group to create and maintain a garden is a hands-on experience for everyone. It’s a chance to get the whole family involved with a single project, and you can literally share the fruits of your labor.
HOW DRY CLEANING WORKS
As you probably assume, dry cleaning does not involve water. A dry- cleaning machine works in principle much like a front-loading washing machine, except that it uses a solvent that is not water-based.
HOW DRY CLEANING ADDS YEARS TO YOUR CLOTHES
Water is the most common solvent, but it can also be very harsh. Have you ever seen what happens when a paper napkin makes it into the washer? In a dry-cleaning machine, that same napkin comes out intact. Some fabrics swell when exposed to water in the washing machine. Once these fibers are swollen, the heat and mechanical action of the washing cycle can permanently damage the fibers, especially if they are delicate materials. Thankfully, none of this happens when you use dry cleaning.
DECIDING ON PLANTS
WHAT ABOUT TOUGH STAINS?
When it comes to deciding which plants you want in your garden, there are many variables to consider. Do you want to grow edible plants, ones that have magnificent blossoms, or ones that are easy to care for? Flowers are a good start if you want a plant that grows a little faster; plus, they lend a pop of color to your garden. Growing vegetables is also rewarding, as the kids will take great pleasure in eating what they’ve grown. Other possibilities include sunflowers, blackberries, peas, and lettuce. You might be surprised at how willingly children eat their greens when they’ve had a hand in growing them.
Dry-cleaning solvent plus a little bit of soap is typically enough to remove stains in most fabrics. However, if the stain persists, we have a number of professional cleaning agents ready for this specific task. After all the spots and stains are removed, special equipment makes garments look new by getting rid of wrinkles in the fabric.
WRAPPING UP
Your typical washing machine can damage nicer clothing. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality for cleanliness! Thankfully, dry cleaning is a safe and affordable alternative for your more delicate garments. Ask us today how we can help you preserve your clothing.
Family gardens can bring something new and fresh to your home. So, get outside, enjoy the sun, and discover the joys of plants and gardening.
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Janet Davis Cleaners’
NEW REFERRAL PROGRAM!
At Janet Davis Cleaners, we are honored that so many customers love our service enough to recommend us to friends and family. We can’t possibly express how much these referrals mean to us, but with our new referral program, we’ve come close. Now, each time you refer a new customer to Janet Davis Cleaners, both parties will receive a $10 dry cleaning certificate, and you will be entered into the grand prize drawing, which takes place at the beginning of July. In order to qualify for the referral program, the referred customer must be new and sign up for route service. Customers entered into the grand prize drawing will have a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to Joe Muer Seafood as well as a five-hour limo service! You have from now until the end of June to refer friends and family. Each new referred customer qualifies you for one entry into the grand prize drawing. If you have questions about the referral program, please give us a call. SUDOKU
ROASTED ASPARAGUS With Lemon Breadcrumbs
Spring is the height of asparagus season. This dish, which features the crunch of breadcrumbs and a refreshing splash of lemon, is the perfect way to highlight the natural flavors of the vegetable without overwhelming them.
INGREDIENTS
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 pounds asparagus
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1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped
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1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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2 teaspoons lemon zest
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Kosher salt
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Juice of one lemon (not packaged lemon juice)
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Freshly ground pepper
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2 garlic cloves, minced
DIRECTIONS
heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add breadcrumbs and cook for 5 minutes,
1. Heat oven to 425 F. Toss
asparagus with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on baking
stirring frequently. Remove from heat and fold in parsley and lemon zest. 3. Transfer asparagus to serving platter, drizzle with lemon juice, and top with breadcrumb mixture. 3 (248) 543-0340
sheet and bake for 20–26 minutes, turning asparagus halfway through. 2. When asparagus is nearly
done, heat remaining olive oil in a small skillet over medium
Recipe inspired by Food and Wine Magazine
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
Monday – Friday 7am–7pm Saturday 8am–5pm
(248) 543-0340 www.janetdaviscleaners.com INSIDE THIS ISSUE
27607Woodward Ave. Berkley, MI 48072
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Bad Service Is a Learning Opportunity
Gardening: Bringing Family Together
Think At-Home Washing Is More Efficient? Think Again!
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Have You Heard About Our Referral Program?
Roasted Asparagus With Lemon Breadcrumbs
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3 Awesome Ways to Create Lasting Memories
Family Time
IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Family adventures are a great way to grow closer and develop meaningful connections. But with lodging prices rising and the logistical nightmare that traveling with the entire family can be, many Americans are looking at a new option: ditching the beaches and resorts and heading to the great outdoors. Actually, we know this option isn’t new at all. Spending time outdoors with family may very well be one of the most time-honored traditions ever.
have children or grandkids who aren’t up for the challenge of an arduous daylong trek, there’s sure to be a shorter scenic trail. If nothing else, you can always turn around and backtrack the way you came.
CAMPING
FISHING
Lodgings and flights are expensive, so going on a family vacation can cost thousands of dollars — and that’s just for the basics! But camping only requires a tent, a fire, picnic food, and water. Rather than scarfing down fast food between flights and dealing with airport security, departure delays, and long flights, take a deep breath and roast marshmallows over the fire with the people you love.
Fishing is a great way to get out and do something relaxing yet challenging. It doesn’t require a lot of skill or investment. All it takes is the willingness to learn and the desire to connect with nature. This is why fishing is the perfect activity for youngsters of all ages. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your rod and reel and head to the nearest lake or river. While these are all great stand-alone options, together they form an amazing three-headed monster for your next family outing. By combining camping with a hike to a river or lake where you can go fishing, you are sure to create lasting memories with your family that will draw you closer together. Ditch the lines at the airport and the stress of travel. Unleash the possibilities of adventure in the great outdoors.
HIKING
A hike with family is an easy way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. All a hike requires is a trail and a sense of adventure. The best part of hiking is that you can tailor the distance to fit your family’s needs. If you
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