The Water Station plans health food store in Palmer Park

Located across from Palmer Park on Woodward at Goldengate, the Water Station deals primarily in the business of H20. Specifically, ionized alkaline mineral water, which is said to promote wellness and better hydration.

"In 1977, I was diagnosed with the beginning stages of cancer," says Dr. Keefa Weatherspoon, founder of The Water Station. "That led me on a quest to really know how to be well. And during that 34-year journey, early on, I found out how important water is."

Just a few houses away on Goldengate, she's expanded beyond water to teach wellness to an ever-growing member network at the SanKofa House, a retreat and learning center. The mansion currently offers classes ranging from Pilates to healthy cooking for members and operates as a 501(c)3. To further promote healthy eating in the community, she plans to open a new cafe inside for members this year.

If Weatherspoon has her way, she'll be promoting health and wellness on a much larger scale in the next few years, with the construction of a wellness village along Woodward. Weatherspoon confirmed that The Water Station has leased a parking lot on Woodward with the option to buy. While they negotiate a sale with the owner, Weatherspoon says, they are drawing up plans for a 12,000 sq. ft health food store and cafe. Weatherspoon says she hopes to break ground in 2012.

"I researched Trader Joe's around the country, and 10,000-12,000 sq. ft. is the optimal size," she says. "Having a cafe inside means that, not only will people be educated on food at the health store, but they can then go over to the cafe and taste it, and know how to prepare it, as well."

The Water Station is located at 18710 Woodward Avenue. Visit waterstation.us for more information.

Source: Dr. Keefa Weatherspoon, founder, The Water Store
Writer: Ashley C. Woods
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