Shane Pliska
President of Planterra Conservatory
Planterra.com
PlanteraEvents.com
Why have you chosen to build your business and raise your family in West Bloomfield? What makes this community special to you?
Our roots in West Bloomfield run deep. Planterra is a family business founded by my father in 1973, and in 1983, he relocated the company here after acquiring Johnson’s Gardens – a historic greenhouse complex dating back to the 1930s. Some have even said the Planterra property is one of the oldest continuously operating business sites in the Township. I grew up on the Planterra property, catching frogs in the creek as a kid and later working in the greenhouse. West Bloomfield isn’t just where we do business, it’s where our story began and continues to evolve.
As a leader, what example do you hope to set for others in West Bloomfield?
I believe in setting a standard of excellence. At Planterra, we aim to deliver exceptional customer experiences at a world-class level. That commitment to quality, consistency and pride in our work is something I hope serves as a model for others.
What is something about you that most people wouldn’t know?
I enjoy oil painting.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy most?
Cooking and travel. Both are outlets for learning.
Leonard (Len) Fox
Owner, The Back Nine – Clarkston & West Bloomfield
Franchise Owner, The Back Nine Golf
thebackninegolf.com/west-bloomfield-mi
Why have you chosen to build your business and raise your family in West Bloomfield? What makes this community special to you?
West Bloomfield represents a unique blend of community, quality of life, and opportunity. It’s a place where people value experiences, relationships, and growth. From a business standpoint, it’s the ideal environment to introduce a concept like The Back Nine—where golf, networking, and entertainment come together. From a personal standpoint, it’s a community where you can build something meaningful and see the direct impact.
As a leader, what example do you hope to set for others in West Bloomfield?
I believe in leading through action and consistency. For me, that means showing up, building relationships, and creating opportunities not just for myself, but for others around me. I want people to see that you can build something at a high level while still staying connected to the community and giving back along the way.
What advice would you give to others who want to make a positive impact in the West Bloomfield community?
Get involved and be visible. Impact doesn’t happen from a distance—it happens through relationships. Whether it’s partnering with local businesses, supporting community events, or simply showing up consistently, those small actions compound into something meaningful
over time.
What is something about you that most people wouldn’t know?
Most people don’t know that I played college basketball and only started taking golf seriously a couple of years ago. That journey has been a big part of why I’m so passionate about helping others improve and enjoy the game in a different way.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy most?
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, golfing, riding my motorcycle, and giving back to the community. Being from Flint, Michigan, I’ve always believed that the real impact comes from what you do for others.
Shawn St. Andre
President, Covenant Consulting Services
covenantconsultingteam.com
Why have you chosen to build your business and raise your family in West Bloomfield?
I was first introduced to the community through a previous organization that was opening a new location here. At the time, I had no established relationships or resources in the area, so I leaned into a simple principle. Care for your neighbor. Many of the community’s leaders took notice and invited me to collaborate alongside them. Within a year, I found myself working closely with the Greater West Bloomfield Chamber Board. We’re fortunate to have an incredibly strong Chamber, led by Executive Director Suzanne Levine. It continues to be one of the most valuable resources for business owners in West Bloomfield and the surrounding communities.
As a leader, what example do you hope to set for others in West Bloomfield?
I believe the most valuable form of capital is often overlooked. Relationships. There’s a well- known African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” My goal is to model a leadership style that prioritizes trust, collaboration and long-term connection over short-term wins.
What advice would you give to others who want to make a positive impact in the West Bloomfield community?
In a world that often emphasizes calling people out in disagreement, I encourage others to focus on calling people in to collaboration. The strength of any community lies in its diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and ideas. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and be willing to engage in conversations that move things forward, not just to prove a point.
What is something about you that most people wouldn’t know?
Ten years ago, my life looked very different. I made a series of poor decisions that damaged many of my relationships. I share that not for sympathy, but as a reminder change is always possible. No matter where you are, it’s never too late to rebuild, grow and lead differently.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy most?
Outside of music, I’m an avid outdoorsman – hunting, fishing, boating and riding dirt bikes and four-wheelers. These are hobbies I learned from my father, and today I’m grateful to share them with my family.