Volume 7 Issue 2 onthetown Magazine

Golfer Looks Forward to Walking all 18 Holes after Two Knee Replacements at McLaren Flint

M

ark Christenson, age 69, of Flint Township, does not plan to slow down any time soon, so when his knees began interfering with everyday activities he knew it was time to inquire about getting joint replacements.

“I had pretty persistent pain, and I was walking with a limp,” states Mark. “I could not walk long distances, and it was difficult to climb the stairs. Even a ride in the car for a long period of time was uncomfortable. Also, I really love to golf; it is my main recreational activity. It would be a big void in my life if I could not play, and the pain was affecting my enjoyment of the game.”

In early 2016, Mark spoke to his primary care physician, Jose Lopez, MD, about going to an orthopedic specialist. He was referred to Sidney Martin, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon. He was told both knees were in need of replacement. Mark chose to have the left knee operated on first. His surgery took place at McLaren Flint on April 20, 2016.

“Approximately six weeks later, I was playing golf again,” he said. “That knee felt great but, as predicted, my other one bothered me a few weeks after I got back on the course. I decided to wait until after golf season to schedule my right knee replacement. I had it done at McLaren on November 9, 2016.”

Mark is now pain free, and he was able to go on an annual golf trip with friends this spring.

“I’m pretty sure I can walk the golf course and am confident I will continue to gain even more strength in the weeks to come,” adds Mark.

For information about McLaren’s joint replacement program, please call (810) 342-4289.

401 S. Ballenger Highway | Flint, Michigan 48532

www.mclaren.org/flint

Physician Referrals 1-877-McLaren (625-2736)

Back in the game!

Avid golfer Mark Christenson tested out his new knees and his swing before an annual golf trip with close friends.

Joint replacement program meets high standards in quality and safety.

• Designated as a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Blue Distinction Center+ for Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery • Highly Experienced Surgeons – Fellowship trained in Hand, Foot, Ankle, Spine, Sports Medicine, Lower Extremity Reconstruction and Hip and Knee Replacement, and Shoulder Surgery • Dedicated Nursing and Therapy Staff with a proactive approach to patient healing and quality of care • Advanced Pain Control Regimen that allows for a quicker and safer recovery • All Private Rooms • Patient Friendly Pre-Operative Education Classes • Discharge Planning tailored to fit individual needs • Same Day Surgery Joint Replacement • The Joint Replacement Patient Care Unit is in the 90th Percentile or higher as compared to all hospitals in the Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Data Base.

MICHELLE BLAISDELL

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MEANT TO BE BRIDAL & TUXEDO SHOP Model, Anna Winkowski

As we wait for the weather to warm up, we’re thinking about what to do this spring and summer. How about heading to the greens to tee off this season? We have the perfect place for a game of golf— Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club. If you’re not a golfer, don’t despair. Warwick has many other activities on offer. Check out our cover story to learn more about this Genesee County treasure, from the beginning to today.

If your preference is for wilderness, try exploring the Shiawassee River, like David Custer and his partner did in a kayak from Fenton to Lake Ponemah. David suggests joining the Flint River Watershed Coalition to explore local waterways. If you’d rather hoof it, there are numerous trails in the area’s many parks and nature preserves. Love biking? Check out Justin Scanlon's photo essay on the Flint areaʼs bike trails. You’re off to a great start, and we’ll bring you more ideas for fun in the sun as the summer progresses.

Our issue this spring focuses on health care, one of Genesee County’s fastest-growing industries. McLaren has a new president and CEO, Chad Grant, who will focus on quality and safety. Grant talks to Michael Thodoroff about coming to McLaren after spending 20 years in health care management at the Detroit Medical Center.

And Professor Paul Rozycki takes a look at the excellent nursing programs offered by Mott, Baker, and the University of MichiganFlint.

Speaking of health, Chef Sean Gartland explores the farm-totable concept of healthy, sustainable eating in this issue. He tells us why the best food is fresh food—eaten as soon as it is picked from the ground. The key, he reminds us, is to cook what’s in season.

Nowadays that’s a bit of a misnomer, what with many kinds of indoor growing, but regardless of the time of year, try to source as much food locally as possible. It’s good for you, and good for the local economy.

There’s much more, of course. Check out our profiles of local businesspeople, and learn about the exciting innovations of some of Flint’s long-standing institutions. And as always, be seen...be heard... be onthetown!

Volume 6 Issue 6 January/February 2017

FRED HENSLER Sapphire Blue Investment Partners Volume 6 Issue 5 November/December 2016

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT Chancellor Borrego and Students Volume 6 Issue 4 September/October 2016

RON JUSTICE The State Bank Volume 6 Issue 3 July/August 2016

MIKE AND STEPHANIE IN THE MORNING The Dynamic Duo Volume 6 Issue 2 May/June 2016

onthetown 1

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Debby Molina, Chelsea Mills, Lesley Howe CONTRIBUTORS Kristen Aguirre, David Custer, Chef Sean Gartland, Ilse Lujan-Hayes, Fred Hensler, Chene Koppitz, Charlene Kowalski, Kellie McCarty-Stack, Meredith McGhan, Chelsea Mills, Debby Molina, Rich Reed, Paul Rozycki, Justin Scanlon, Lisa Szukhent COVER ART Jessica Hatter Photography PHOTOGRAPHY Michael Gleason Photography Jessica Hatter Photography PUBLISHER Kimberly Gray Global Network Publishers, producers of onthetown Magazine P.O. Box 121 | Grand Blanc, MI 48480 SEND INQUIRIES TO director@onthetownlimited.com | 810.584.7006 onthetown Magazine 8469 S. Saginaw Street, Suite 3 | Grand Blanc, MI 48439 beonthetown.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Mail check or money order for $24.99 to Global Network Publishers P.O. Box 121 | Grand Blanc, MI 48480

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K I M B E R L Y G R AY B E S E E N . B E H E A R D. B E O N T H E TOW N .

There’s a lot of growth going on in Flint and Genesee County over the next couple of months, and onthetown wants our readers to know that, as a community, we’re more than just surviving—we’re thriving. We’ve delved into some of the local accomplishments of entrepreneurs and organizations for some great examples. Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club typifies the innovative attitude of the metro Flint area, as you’ll see when reading about its ups and downs over the decades. That’s the secret to longevity, whether for a longstanding organization or a new business.

Speaking of new businesses, Kristen Aguirre interviews entrepreneur Anne Tenbusch, “The Brow Girl” of Oxford who founded and runs Pretty n’ Ink. Her eyebrow microblading business is booming so much that she’s moving it to Rochester Hills. If you’re interested in putting your best face forward, check out what Tenbusch can do.

Fred Hensler, CEO of Sapphire Blue, encourages people to save money using innovative investment tools. They're not your father’s mutual funds anymore! Kevin Kirbitz, operations manager of the reopened Durant-Dort Factory One, where Billy Durant and J. Dallas Dort built the first Flint carriages, speaks with Michael Thodoroff about the building’s renovation. MTA is also expanding.

Its mission is to assist families affected by the water crisis and “food desert” phenomenon, as well as help people get to medical appointments and to their jobs. And the beloved Flint Farmers’ Market, renowned for its shops and produce, has also become an events center. It is home to meetings, graduation open houses and more. Events manager Janell Baumgart gives us the scoop. As for local arts, Chene Koppitz profiles the accomplishments of John Henry, who celebrates his 20th year as executive director of the Flint Institute of Arts. Another venerable organization, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, raised money for Crim Fitness Foundation and Veterans to Civilians at their annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration and Pot O’Gold four-mile run.

I’m excited to bring you these stories and more, as spring gets under way and the promised May flowers start to bloom after a wet and cold April. Stay warm, stay dry and stay informed with us at onthetown.

4 onthetown

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VOLUME 7 ISSUE 2

BE SEEN 08 The Flint Institute of Music Annual Wine Dinner

16

10 An Evening of Wine & Roses 12 American Advertising Awards

30 Hurley 36th "Motown" Benefit Ball a Success BUSINESS 42 Producing More Than Produce!

44 Sapphire Blue Investment Partners Presents Grandpaʼs Handsaw

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COMMUNITY 14 This Song Has Green All over It!

38 MTA Expands Working for the Community 50 This Factory Produces Inspiration CULTURE 40 Two Decades of Transformation

20 32

EDUCATION 34 Nursing Programs At Mott,

University of Michigan-Flint and Baker Offer Great Opportunities While Tackling Challenges

28 38

FEATURE 16 Warwick Fits Genesee County to a Tee 20 A Conversation with Warwick Hills Golf & Country Clubʼs New General Manager, John “JC” Carlson, M.Ed. 24 Meet the Staff at Warwick 26 From the Staff at Warwick

FOOD & DRINK 54 Field to Fork:

Fresh Food Benefits Farmers and Foodies Alike

HEALTH & BEAUTY 32 The Brow Girl 49 Siren Salon & Spa MEDICAL 28 McLaren Flint Secures a Highly Regarded “Grant”

54 6 onthetown

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RECREATION 46 Drift Away Down the Flint River or to a Genesee County Park

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COMMUNITY MATTHEW FERGERSON, JIM PETROSKEY AND PATRICK FERGERSON

This Song Has All over It!

Green “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” is a classic song – although traditionally played throughout the wintertime holidays, it is appropriate for springtime’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations too. It signifies that warmer days and longer daylight hours will soon be upon us. And nobody sings it better than the city of Flint and its popular St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Officially started in 1982 by inaugural Grand Marshal Terrance P. Sheehan and close friends, this year’s events were presided over by Patrick Fergerson, a member of the Sullivan and O’Sullivan Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) who is currently serving as their recording secretary as well.

Flint native Patrick Fergerson is the store manager at Direct Tools Factory Outlet in the Birch Run Premium Outlets and has been faithfully involved in the AOH organization for 10 years. He is astute when it comes to the venerable process of nominating and electing a person to preside as the Flint St. Patrick’s Day grand marshal.

“When I was first approached about being the grand marshal, I was stunned and humbled,” he says. “It is an incredibly overwhelming feeling to be chosen by these fine people, all past grand marshals.” In addition to selecting the grand marshal,

14 onthetown

// BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF //

they name the Irish father and mother of the year. This year’s mother honor belongs to Margaret Daly, spouse of the 1985 grand marshal, Dick Daly. The Irish father holds a special place in the heart of Fergerson as Jim Petroskey, this year’s honoree, is his grandfather too. “Jim is a longtime AOH member and is the one person who influenced me to be involved with AOH,” Fergerson proudly says.

Another part of the Flint St. Patrick’s Day customs is the Miss Hibernia pageant.

Narrowed to three candidates, this year’s awards go to first runner-up Madeline Rasberry, a 2016 Davison High School graduate, and second runner-up Francine Staudacher, a senior at Powers Catholic High School who resides in Fenton.

2017’s Miss Hibernia is Jenna Holt, a 2013 Davison High School graduate.

The Flint St. Patrick’s Day festivities are as traditional as the holiday itself, commencing at the 12:02 p.m. (because the Irish are always late!) Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church followed by the Irish Family Walk to downtown’s McFarlan Park. From this gathering, the faithful traveled to St. Matthew Catholic Church for the official St. Patrick’s Day party. Rounding out the revelries for the more adventurous was the Pot o’ Gold 4-mile run/walk starting at the Masonic Temple on Saginaw Street in downtown

PATRICK FERGERSON AND CODY VANNORMAN

Flint. This flat and scenic 4-mile course ran through the University of MichiganFlint campus, the Mott Estate and Flint Cultural Center and looped around to finish at the Masonic Temple. Proceeds went to the Crim Fitness Foundation and Veterans to Civilians. Any participant could go over the Flint Farmers’ Market and enjoy free admission to Townsquare Media’s St. Paddy’s Beer Fest.

As Patrick Fergerson reflects on his memorable day, he respectfully appreciates sharing the day with family and friends along with his dedicated involvement with the AOH. “There is a long line of wonderful people who make our AOH organization function,” he says. “I have been working diligently to make sure that I represent them in a way that makes them proud and carries on the traditions that they have all worked so hard to set. It is wonderful to be able to support Christian charity in the Flint and Genesee County area and display our motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity. It is even more amazing to represent them on the same year my grandfather is Irish father of the year. I can’t really find words to do justice to how special that is to me. This is an honor I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

FEATURE

WARWICK

FITS

GENESEE

COUNTY

16 onthetown

TO A TEE // BY MEREDITH MCGHAN //

I

n 1955, Flint was a thriving factory town, and prosperity led to the Flint Country Club exceeding its membership limits. Demand led to opportunity, and on a winter Saturday, five golf enthusiasts met in a house on Blanchard Avenue to hash out the details of creating a second golf club to serve the Flint area.

Chuck Kelly was the host, and guests were Homer Strahle, Bill Gregor, Ed Titus and Vic Ryden. Bob MacDonald, a lawyer, was there to advise. The small group put their heads together and came up with a list of potential investors. They succeeded in attracting 65 people who each invested $2,500 in the golf club venture, enabling the group to incorporate as Warwick Realty in 1956.

onthetown 17

T

THE FARM

he next step was to find the perfect spot for an exceptional golf course with all the amenities – a generously sized, cleared piece of land in a great location. After investigating several options, they found all that and more in a 320-acre farm a few miles southeast of downtown Flint in Grand Blanc. And it happened to be up for development.

The property had belonged to Germanborn Arnold Lenz, a vice president of General Motors and general manager of the Pontiac Motor Division who had died in an automobile accident in 1952. It was still called the Lenz Farm. Most of the 65 stakeholders bought one lot apiece on the property from developer Pete Sharp. In addition to the lot price of $3,000, each of them pledged $1,620 for a membership in the burgeoning club. The property hadn’t yet been platted. When Bud Aikman of Gould Engineering divided the property, it came to light that some of the members wanted the same lots, so a lottery took place to portion them out.

Warwick Realty, Inc. hired acclaimed Pennsylvania golf course architect James Gilmore Harrison to design the course, and he worked diligently and finished the plans in two months. Overseeing the course building was Lauren Shook, in the position of club professional. The property was christened Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club. Building started in the summer of 1956 and a year later, the first foursome inaugurated the course with a tee-off at what eventually became the 10th hole. As Chuck Kelly remarked years later, “It may not have been one of the greatest courses, but it was a golf course.”

A large Tudor mansion had been home to the Lenz family for years. Since the property was a farm, there were accompanying stables. Both buildings lent themselves beautifully to serving the golf course – the home as the main structure and the stables as the Pro Shop, Pine Room dining area and locker rooms.

Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club was born.

THE FUTURE 18 onthetown

I

FIRE OF AUGUST 1977

BLUEPRINT OF THE LENZ MANSION FIREPLACE

n 2008, the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame honored the Buick Open by inducting it for its commitment to golf and to community service and charity. The event received the first Special Award given by the Hall of Fame. The following year, the Buick Open and Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club received the Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award. And in 2013, the American Junior Golf Association awarded the Media Award to the organizers of the Randy Wise Junior Open, which took place at Warwick. The Randy Wise Junior Open also

D

espite the enthusiasm of the original stakeholders, in the following year membership sales decreased. The solution was to bring in public relations director Waldo McNaught of Buick Motor Company, a golf lover. It was his idea – inspired by watching the 1957 Carling Open at the Flint Golf Club – to sponsor a PGA tournament, which he offered to Buick as a partnership opportunity. Rather than fully sponsor the tournament, Buick said Warwick could use the company’s name to attract people – but not tread on its advertising territory. Because of McNaught’s success at recruiting new members, he was made the first president of Warwick Hills, served in that role from 1957 to 1959 and is now viewed as the club’s founding father.

Despite the lukewarm support from Buick and a snarky comment in a Detroit newspaper about the course being in “a swamp near Flint,” a meeting with PGA secretary Dan Carter led to the PGA choosing Warwick as a tournament site with a $52,000 purse – double the going

gives scholarship money to young golfers in the Flint area, leading to opportunities for them to play with some of golf’s leading luminaries.

The Grand Blanc High School golf team practices at the course weekly. Warwick’s Women’s Associates host a Breast Cancer Pink Par-Tee Party Tournament every year, donating to Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute. Also, Warwick Hills members

THE FAME rate at that time. (That’s $442,058.59 in today’s dollars. PGA star Billy Casper won the first prize of $9,000 – and the prize was up to $900,000 by 2008 with a $5 million purse).

With a keen eye toward generating revenue, the core group decided to charge $1 for admission to the tournament (equivalent to about $8.50 today). The low price brought a large audience. This proven success led to Buick’s upper echelons deciding to sponsor the Buick Open at Warwick for the next decade. The Open was Buick’s entry into professional golf sponsorship as well as the PGA Tour’s first time with a corporate sponsor, and this was the genesis of the custom of naming events after their supporters – something we take for granted today. The Buick Open became the first long-running professional golf sponsorship.

In 1967 and 1968, the course underwent a serious redesign and was completely transformed, with some of the holes being filled and others added, as well as incorporating some gently undulating hills to augment the course. The whole endeavor

donate to Toys for Tots each year. Warwick Hills members hosted a Super Bowl fundraiser this past February, donating to FISH of Grand Blanc, a pantry. Brody’s Golf Shop hosts a coat drive for the Old Newsboys of Flint each winter. Finally, many community fundraisers are held at Warwick Hills.

“I think a big role that Warwick plays in our community is providing an elegant

Source: Warwick Hills's Club History page, http://www.warwickhills.org/Club-History

cost about $180,000 (or $1.5 million in today’s dollars), which was considered a sweet deal, according to current Warwick architect Joe Lee. However, another low point came in 1969, when Buick canceled the Open. Again Warwick had to adapt.

They did so by restructuring into a stock corporation in 1972, after which a period of growth commenced. Golf memberships doubled during the early ’70s. The club introduced recreational and social memberships in 1976 and was thriving throughout the recession.

Just two years later, the Buick Open was resurrected and ran for another 31 years at Warwick, until General Motors dropped it again to focus on increasing auto sales. It was a boon to the area every year it was in existence, bringing consumer dollars into the county and showcasing golf stars like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. The event, over the years, raised nearly $10 million for charities, such as the American Red Cross, the American Lung Association, Easterseals, and the Whaley Children’s Center in Flint.

and sophisticated venue for outside events,” says administrative assistant Jamie Denison. “Now that the Buick Open is no longer around, business meetings, parties, and weddings are part of what we do as well as serving our membership. I think Warwick Hills will continue to evolve as the years progress. We’ve been seeing a lot of younger families joining, so I think the future looks bright.”

onthetown 19

A conversation with

WARWICK HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB’S New General Manager, John “JC” Carlson, M.Ed. Championing with encouragement, JC is focused and wholeheartedly set out to define Warwick’s next chapter. // BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF // PHOTOS BY // JESSICA HATTER PHOTOGRAPHY

O

n October 1, 2016, the venerable Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club confidently ushered in a new adventure through the hiring of its new general manager, John “JC” Carlson, M.Ed. Coming from a previous 17-year successful career, his first priority was to place an astute handwritten sticky note in prominent sight in his office stating, “Take Warwick Hills from being good, to being GREAT!” With that encouragement, JC focused and wholeheartedly set out to define Warwick’s next chapter.

After hosting the Buick Open, the popular Professional Golfers Association (PGA) golf tournament from 1958 to 2009, Warwick Hills seemed to have lost its identity after the successful tournament was not renewed by Buick or the PGA due to deflating economic conditions. Warwick’s leadership recognized this situation and after a few years of discussion decided to reach out in a different direction for its general manager. They wanted a local person firmly established in the community, a person who is well versed in building relationships within that community and a family-oriented person with high values.

Enter JC.

20 onthetown

“It’s a good thing they didn’t look at my golf game!” he says with a hearty laugh. “But this truly is an honor and I’m going to treat this place with the reverence it deserves.”

Carlson was asked to create an environment post Buick Open. “Danny Brady (2016 Warwick president) encouraged me to dream and then let’s see what happens,” Carlson recalls.

To formulate his strategy, JC’s first priority was to meet with all the employees at the same time, in the same room. With three distinct departments totaling over 50 people, this was not an easy task. But Carlson turned this challenge into an opportunity.

All the employees appreciated having a voice heard over all departments as the feedback fueled Carlson’s formulation of a model for member and service excellence (see sidebar), which was soundly sanctioned by Warwick’s nine-member board of directors.

“This will set the tone for the entire organization, no matter the position of responsibility,” Carlson says with confidence.

Along with the excellence model, Warwick’s mission, vision and philosophy were defined too.

THE OFFICIAL REOPENING OF THE CHAMPIONS CLUB Carlson admitted Warwick has always been known for weddings, special events, and of course, world-class golf but initially went after a fresh approach to the culinary environment. In January of this year, Chef Anthony Guiett, Warwick’s new executive chef, and JC worked in tandem to initialize a total revitalization of the long-standing President’s Club restaurant. The complete and modern makeover included changing the eatery’s name to the Champions Club in reverence to the Buick Open while the menu was completely revised to emulate the trending gastropub movement. A gastropub venue combines imaginative, upscale cooking techniques, including a farmto-table concept, with the casual dining experience of a traditional pub.

“Our menu is short and sweet but always changing and evolving on a monthly basis,” Carlson adds. To his point, records show the number of covers (food orders from the menu) is up 60% this year from January through March as compared to the same period last year. And once renovation plans to bolster the fine dining experience for the adjacent Member Grille are put into action, members will appreciate two distinct culinary experiences.

JOHN “JC” CARLSON, M.ED.

onthetown 21

At the official reopening of the Champions Club, Carlson shared a personal story of some guidance his late father gave him. His dad advised him “to live your life with blurred lines, not with sharp corners. There is a sheer joy to live life with blurred lines that not even a photograph can capture,” Carlson recalls. “What I was trying to say is regardless of why you are a part of a country club, it is about relationships,” he states. “Remember the blurred lines are why we do what we do.” According to Carlson, this created hours of conversation among the membership because they could honestly relate.

CUSTOMER SERVICE, COMMUNITY

CULTURE

&

Carlson subscribes to Steve Jobs’s (legendary cofounder of Apple) philosophy that says, “Identify what your customers want before they know it.” To that end and as part of forming a fresh culture, Carlson has, for example, formed a partnership with The Whiting and is working with a wine purveyor for pairing events along with working with professional instructors to hold dance classes in Warwick’s ballroom. “We will still maintain our traditional events but will continue to pursue other unique events too,” he adds.

Carlson says he will continue to work with Warwick’s amazing staff to freshen the overall membership value by offering

THE NEWLY RENOVATED CHAMPIONS CLUB PHOTO BY // BRAD HICKS

22 onthetown

members and their guests a new summer enrichment program for children called Camp Warwick. Further developments include a specific smartphone app so that members can preorder items from the menu along with a new high-tech point of sale system. A redesigned website is also in the works. And the members seem to be responding favorably. With the average age

of members now hovering around 46, more families are joining for the entire family experience. “We still have the passionate golfer but with our distinct social and recreational memberships, there is more to offer a family. And you don’t have to be a golfer to be a member,” he notes.

As JC Carlson reflects on his and Warwick Hills’ new adventure, he affirms, “I made a commitment to myself to lead with my values and I will not sway from those values. Any person I bring in to be a part of our team will be the best as they can be and will have similar values as far as work ethic, resolve and strength of character. Above all, we will do things the right way. After all, I want to make Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club the best part of your day!”

REGARDLESS OF WHY YOU ARE A PART OF A COUNTRY CLUB, IT IS ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS. – John “JC” Carlson –

A Strategic Vision ...

WARWICK World Class Golf | Arts & Entertainment | Recreational Interests for Adults | Weddings & Special Events Interpersonal Relationships | Culinary, Hospitality & Facility Excellence | Kids & Family Programming

onthetown 23

MEET THE

STAFF

JOHN CARLSON General Manager

CHRIS CASLMON

Assistant General Manager

AT WA R W I C K

JAMIE DENISON

Administrative Assistant

DAVID COWAN

Golf Services Manager/ Caddy Master 24 onthetown

LIZ LISSNER

Business Services Director

DARREN HUSSE

PGA Apprentice Professional

DOUG BRODY

PGA Head Professional

ANTHONY GUIETT Executive Chef

JEN BRODY

Teaching Professional

JEANNA PAULSEN

Membership Services Director

PHIL OWEN

Golf Course Superintendent

JENNIFER MARCHAND Hospitality Services Director

CAROLE SCHULTZ

Event Services Director

JOEL HOFFMAN

PGA Assistant Professional

onthetown 25

FROM THE

STAFF AT WARWICK

i feel that warwick in 10 years will be even more steeped in its already rich history, and still the pinnacle in the private country club experience.”

ANTHONY GUIETT / EXECUTIVE CHEF

i enjoy not only the landscaping and greenery of warwick hills, but the homes surrounding the course.”

LIZ LISSNER / BUSINESS SERVICES DIRECTOR

26 onthetown

Warwick is special ... not only for its Buick Open legacy and world-class golf, but for its member delight ... amazing families, deep friendships, exceptional social, culinary and recreational experiences and a wonderful place to unwind and LET GO!” JOHN CARLSON / GENERAL MANAGER

WHAT MAKES THIS JOB DIFFERENT FOR ME ARE THE PEOPLE I WORK WITH. THEY CARE ABOUT THEIR JOB AND ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO ACHIEVE THE SAME GOALS.” PHIL OWEN / GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT

Spring is my favorite time of year, watching the grounds come to life after a long winter. The view changes daily, and is more beautiful each passing day!”

JEANNA PAULSEN / MEMBERSHIP SERVICES DIRECTOR

working here, i feel like i am home. i’m proud that warwick is the host of so many community fundraisers.”

CAROLE SCHULTZ DIRECTOR

/

EVENT

“The atmosphere in the Champion’s Pub makes me want to relax and have a cocktail or visit the Halfway House, to enjoy a world-famous Warwick hot dog!”

JAMIE DENISON / ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

SERVICES

I LOVE THAT WARWICK IS THE HOME COURSE TO THE GRAND BLANC GOLF TEAM. I THINK IT IS GREAT THAT WE ARE TAKING AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE LOCAL STUDENT ATHLETES.” JENNIFER MARCHAND / HOSPITALITY SERVICES DIRECTOR

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MEDICAL

McLaren Flint

Secures a Highly Regarded “Grant”

Q

// BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF // PHOTO BY // MICHAEL GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY

uality and safety. Every business and organization strives for these attributes no matter the industry. However, for McLaren Flint’s new president and CEO, they are a way of life and an enduring commitment. Chad M. Grant assumed this vital position effective January 30 this year, following the retirement of Donald Kooy and his 23 years of service with McLaren Health Care.

“We will be successful because we continue to focus on the quality and safety of our care,” Grant emphasizes. “This sets the tone for everything we do – it’s always my first agenda item.”

Along with his bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine and a master’s degree in health services administration, Grant has earned the distinction as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, signifying board certification in health care management and indicating expertise, experience and commitment to continuing education and professional development. He joined McLaren Health Care in late 2014 as president and CEO of McLaren Oakland. Prior to this role, he enjoyed a successful 20-year career in health care management at the Detroit Medical Center, culminating in the position as chief operating officer of Children’s Hospital of Michigan. With his vast experience and understanding of the health care field, including its operational challenges, he is enthusiastic yet

28 onthetown

emphatically looking forward in forming McLaren Flint’s next chapters.

Initially he is looking forward to building and establishing relationships: in particular, relationships with the medical staff, employees and all constituents, including the public community. “Because we are involved in health care,” Grant reasons, “we are a community asset with a direct responsibility to serve the needs of our community. Personally, I want to understand what those needs are so we can build relationships.”

However, coinciding with building rapport is the crucial aspect of getting to understand the culture of the organization, especially for an incoming CEO. Philosophically, hospitals can be referred to as mini ecosystems because something affecting one aspect will definitely make changes to some other facet.

“So, being cautious of understanding the culture and how we are doing in respect to the service we provide here is very important. I need to understand the perspectives from the various constituents so I can shape an appropriate plan moving forward,” Grant says.

Part of this strategy will undoubtedly continue to leverage the inherent strengths of his organization. Grant believes McLaren Flint is the absolute leader in the community for its key service areas. Among McLaren Flint’s centers of excellence is the Karmanos Cancer Institute on the hospital campus. The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is a National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center: one of only two centers in Michigan and 47 nationwide to earn this prestigious designation.

Other centers of excellence for McLaren Flint are its heart and vascular services; neurosciences, including certification from the Joint Commission as a Comprehensive Stroke Center; orthopedic services, including award-winning hip and knee replacement programs and spine surgery; women’s services; bariatric and metabolic

surgery and other comprehensive surgical services, including robotic and minimally invasive procedures.

Grant honestly admits his assertiveness but deems it is essential in constantly striving to provide higher quality.

“Whether I speak to new employees or our management, I always emphasize to be better than we were yesterday; even if we think we are the best on a given day, we must strive to get better – that’s our business.”

And he absolutely recognizes the unprecedented changes going on in the health care business. He expounds on the fact that decisions now made in Washington, D.C., can go into effect immediately – nevertheless, hospital organizations must be flexible and embrace those changes while being fiscally responsible. He sees hospitals moving at a high operational tempo and noted McLaren Flint will leverage its advancement in technologies when it is possible to expand its opportunity to provide care for a greater number of patients. He sees a great use of technology at McLaren Flint but rationally understands that technology is only as good as the people who operate it.

Grant notes when he was working in the southeast Michigan area, he saw a rapid consolidation of independent physician practices switching to hospital-based practices. Since he has been in Flint, he has seen the trend continuing but not nearly at the rate of southeast Michigan.

“I have observed the physicians here are independent but very forward thinking,” he notes. “The primary care physicians do a great job of managing patients’ care in this community. And while we are always looking to employ physicians when appropriate, I am totally fine working with independent physicians.” He trusts they can still find ways to partner with them.

“One size does not fit all,” he observes.

“I want to create a situation that is good for the hospital, the physician and for patients.”

Grant realizes he is now a part of the community as well as the CEO of an organization that is two years shy of 100 years of continuous operation. Specifically, McLaren Flint is a 404-bed tertiary teaching facility that has a legacy of providing a wide range of highly specialized and complex medical and surgical services to meet the health care needs of residents in greater Genesee County extending to the mideastern part of Michigan. McLaren Flint annually provides more than $30 million in free and uncompensated care to people unable to pay for services. In other community benefit services, the hospital contributes an additional value of $10 million in free and reduced-cost community-based programs for the marked objective of improving the quality of life in its community. And caring for our community for almost 100 years is quite an accomplishment.

Laurie Prochazka, vice president of marketing/communications, says a centennial committee has been formed and McLaren Flint will have a celebration.

“There is a lot of pride in this organization and of our legacy of providing high-quality health care to our community – we want to capitalize and showcase that fact,” she says.

In the meantime, Chad M. Grant will be engaging in collaborative efforts all in the spirit of improving the health and wellness of Flint and Genesee County.

“We all own a piece of health care and the quality of the outcomes,” Grant says.

“That is why partnerships with the various community organizations, community physicians, our physicians and employees as well our patients and their families are so important. At the end of the day, we will be proud of the care we provide. While I don’t personally take care of patients, I will set tone for what we do in patient care.

To me, there is no greater calling than of being trusted to take care of somebody’s loved one.”

For more information regarding McLaren Flint, visit http://www.mclaren. org/flint

onthetown 29

O U T O N T H E TOW N

Hurley 36th “Motown” Benefit Ball a Success FLI NT, M I CH I GAN M AR CH 4, 2017

Mike Burnett, Melany Gavulic, Christopher Flores

The 36th Annual Hurley Benefit Ball was held on Saturday, March 4 at the Holiday Inn Gateway Centre in Flint. 425 guests enjoyed a black tie, Motown evening filled with a cocktail hour, entertainment from the Motown Imitators, fine dining, a silent auction and lots of dancing! The proceeds benefited Hurley Medical Center’s Senior Services, which provides the care and vital measures that lift the spirits and combat the risk of decline that exists for senior patients.

Drs. Bobby Mukkamala and Nita Kulkarni

Dr. Kirk & Mary Stucky Sandra Pastori, Heather Rubio

Dr. Nusrat & Faiza Javaid

Willie & Anita Turner

Camille & Kyle McCree

Casey Schlinker, Dave Echols, Ellen Brothers

Neil & Ilene Cantor

Dr. Douglas & Margie Congdon

Judge Joseph Farah and Andrea Legendre

Matt & Lindsay Clark, Terra & John Garrett

30 onthetown

O U T O N T H E TOW N

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha & Elliott Attisha

Alisa Craig, Steffany & Paul Hillis

Jenny Ludwigsen, Nicole Sterling, Carrie House

Tucker & Laura Jasso, Jen Pike Tucker & Laura Jasso, Jen Pike

Tracy Strange & Commissioner Bryant Nolen Tracy Strange & Commissioner Bryant Nolden

Christopher & Pamela Flores, Philip Shaltz Christopher & Pamela Flores, Philip Shaltz

Gloria & Clarence Pierce

Melany & Andrew Gavulic

Jean & Paul Newman

Lavanya Cherukuri Dr. Dominic Borgialli, Dr. Levanya Dr. S. Kiran, Dr. AppaRao Mukkamala

Dr. Sidney & Pam Martin, Brad & Becky Fogleman onthetown 31

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The

Brow Girl // BY KRISTEN AGUIRRE //

PHOTOS BY // MICHAEL GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY

They come in all shapes, sizes and colors. If you don’t have them, you want them. And when you have them...they can change your whole look.

I’m talking eyebrows...the new trendy handbag for women everywhere.

So if you’re in the market for a new set of brows, whom do you turn to? The Brow Girl, Anne Tenbusch.

But don’t think you’ll find hot wax or tweezers when you visit her. She specializes in microblading. It’s semipermanent makeup that uses a manual tool with blades to implant pigments, stroke by stroke, under your skin. It may sound intense, but Tenbusch says it’s basically painless and any discomfort is worth it.

“Eyebrows can change your life,” she says. “When [women are] not feeling good about themselves it just gives confidence... guys would never understand,” she says.

Tenbusch sure does.

“I swear when I go to the grocery store, that’s all I see...eyebrows,” she says with a laugh.

She has created the market for microblading in mid-Michigan with her business, Pretty n’ Ink by Anne. “Some of them cry and say, ‘You don’t know the confidence this has given me,’” she says.

Her clients come from as far as Battle Creek, and she’s booked six to eight weeks out, seeing five to seven clients a day.

“They walk through the door and I can already see the eyebrows I’m going to do on them,” she says.

The process takes a little less than two hours, costs around $350 and lasts almost a year.

“It’s about enhancing what you already had, not trying to make it look fake.”

But her booming business today is far from where she started a year ago. After a microblading apprenticeship in Chicago, she found herself back home in Oxford.

“I wanted to make it my craft,” she says.

“I knew after going out there I wanted it to be my career.”

But first she needed clients. Luckily, her friend saw an opening at a Grand Blanc medical spa. Tenbusch called them, got an interview and started work.

Her first clients were family, friends and coworkers.

ANNE TENBUSCH

“I would have only one person a day but they kept saying, ‘No you’re going to build,’” Tenbusch says. Her family and friends were right.

“I got on Facebook and started running some specials,” she remembers. Those specials paired with her before and after microblading pictures helped spread the word about her business.

“I would get six to 10 phone calls after a post,” Tenbusch says. “That’s your biggest thing right there. If you can get people to tell other people for you. That’s what happened here.”

Now, she has five-star rating on Facebook and nearly 2,000 followers who are constantly posting pictures and videos in support of her. “Put yourself out there, do a good job,” she advises. They’re going to tell 10 of their friends.”

SOME OF THEM CRY AND SAY, “YOU DON’T KNOW THE CONFIDENCE THIS HAS GIVEN ME.” – ANNE TENBUSCH –

32 onthetown

Now, it’s time for Pretty n’ Ink to expand again. “I always saw this as a stepping-stone,” she says.

Tenbusch is moving the business to Rochester Hills. “The unknown is scary,” she says. “I didn’t know if it would happen and now looking back at it, yeah, I’m really proud of myself. I’m a single mom and I’m making it happen.”

She hopes to keep making it happen in the future. Tenbusch sees herself one day owning her own space and training other permanent makeup artists to microblade.

“I think it’s an art,” she says. “I never realized what an impact this could make on people.”

NICHOLE GARDNER

And for women in search of perfect brows, that impact goes far. “I know it sounds silly...eyebrows,” she says. “But it changes some of their lives.”

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onthetown 33

EDUCATION

Nursing Programs

At Mott, University of Michigan-Flint and Baker Offer Great Opportunities while Tackling Challenges

F

// BY PAUL ROZYCKI //

lint and Genesee County have seen many economic transitions over the last century and a half. We have gone from being a lumber town to a carriage town and spent much of the 20th century as an auto town. Now the future is taking us in a new direction, and today the health care area is one of the largest and the fastest-growing parts of the Genesee County economy. In 2010, 17.4% of the Flint workforce had health care or social assistance jobs, reports the Detroit Regional Chamber’s online data center. According to the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget’s report “Demographic and Labor Market Profile: City of Flint,” while many other occupations have been declining in Flint, health care and associated occupations increased 34 percent between 1990 and 2015.

And one of the largest and most important elements of the medical community is nursing. Many local nurses found that their career paths began at one of three higher education institutions in Genesee County – Mott Community College, the University of Michigan-Flint or Baker College.

MOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Mott Community College’s nursing program is, by most measures, the oldest of the area’s three major nursing programs.

It began in 1956 after absorbing much of the old St. Joseph Hospital’s nursing program. Fourteen students were admitted that year and they graduated in 1958. Since that time, Mott (or Flint Junior College) has seen over 4,500 nurses graduate from its program. In its earliest years, the Mott program provided 80 percent of the nurses in the area. Currently, there are about 300 students enrolled in the nursing program. The program admits about 80 new students twice a year, says Janet Westhoff, director of Mott’s nursing program.

Westhoff sees the career opportunities for nurses growing significantly in the future. She feels that the most students are challenged by the intensity of the nursing program and the level of commitment that is required. Westhoff says that “Mott takes pride in the strong clinical background that it offers to its students.”

Like many nursing programs, Mott has a simulation laboratory where students can work on computer-simulated patients who can be programmed to display medical symptoms one might find in a real hospital or clinic. The goal of the laboratory simulations is to give students the ability to respond to a crisis and to work as a team with other medical professionals, without putting a patient at risk.

Westhoff says that the rapid growth of the medical field presents a new dilemma for many college nursing programs. As demands increase for nurses, colleges and universities are facing greater pressures to graduate more nurses. However, as nurses retire and the need for nurses grows in hospital and clinics, nursing schools 34 onthetown

are facing a new challenge – finding enough new nurses and faculty to teach them.

According to Westhoff, many of the students who earn their associate’s degree in nursing at Mott go on to pursue a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) at other institutions, and one of the advantages she sees in the Mott program is that students can work as an RN while continuing their education. The nursing students at Mott are encouraged to continue their education and complete the BSN degree. With that in mind, Mott has partnered with a number of area colleges and universities where students can continue their education without duplication of courses.

THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT The U of M-Flint, Genesee County’s second-oldest nursing program, grew out of Flint’s oldest nursing program. Hurley Medical Center offered the first nurse training program in the area with a diploma program that began in 1909. In the early 1970s the U of M-Flint provided off-campus programs for the Ann Arbor campus. After Hurley’s last class graduated in 1995, its staff collaborated with the U of M-Flint to offer a full baccalaureate nursing program. Within the last few months the program has transitioned from a department of nursing to a U of M-Flint School of Nursing.

There are about 1,100 students enrolled in a variety of nursing degrees. The U of M-Flint offers BSN, master of science in nursing (MSN) and doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degrees as well as post-master’s specialty certificates. In the past 46 years there have been about 3,000 graduates. In a typical year, more than 300 students earn their BSN degrees at the Flint campus.

In an October 2016 report to the U of M board, U of M-Flint

U OF M-FLINT BAKER

MOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE onthetown 35

Chancellor Susan E. Borrego said that more than 19 percent of the students at the Flint campus were enrolled in a nursing or pre-nursing program.

According to Margaret Andrews, interim dean of the School of Nursing, the Flint campus received recognition from U.S. News and World Report as one of the Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs and as one of the Best Online BSN Programs from CollegeChoice.net.

NURSING

IS A VERY RIGOROUS PROGRAM AND REQUIRES FOCUS AND COMPLETE DEDIC ATION.

Andrews says that many people think nursing is only for women, but in fact about 15% of the nursing students are men, who often bring a military medical background to their nursing career.

– RENEE GILBERT –

As with the Mott program, one of the most impressive aspects is a high-tech simulation lab, where students can work on realistic, high-tech robots, which can be made to simulate a wide variety of medical conditions and crises. Led by Dr. Carman Turkelson, associate director of the Nursing Simulation Center and assistant professor of nursing, students have the opportunity to learn in a safe environment, where no one is injured because of mistakes. They also learn to work as a medical team in a realistic environment.

and long-term/rehabilitation facilities hire RNs, but there are multiple opportunities, such as public health, schools, case management, insurance companies, administration, education, forensics [and] advanced practice. The opportunities are endless!”

Yet, for as impressive as the computer-generated simulations were, what was probably more remarkable (at least to this outsider) were the discussions that followed in the debriefing room after a simulation. Led by faculty members, the student analyzed and discussed what was done right and what was done wrong in the simulation. Not only were the medical lessons examined, but also students learned to work as a medical team in dealing with complex problems. The dedication and commitment to their simulated patients was obvious as the students analyzed their handling of various medical problems and crises.

BAKER COLLEGE OF FLINT Baker College became the third institution of higher learning to offer a nursing degree in the area when it first offered an associate’s degree program at its Flint campus in 2002. By 2015 it had announced a transition to offering only a bachelor’s degree in nursing. As was the case with all area colleges, Baker felt it was in the best interest of students to offer the degree that was becoming the preferred one for those entering the nursing profession. Baker’s final associate’s degree class graduated in March of this year.

There are about 700 Baker nursing graduates working in the area and about 100 students in Baker’s BSN program. Baker, like Mott and the U of M-Flint, sees a bright future for those going into nursing.

According to Renee Gilbert, director of nursing at Baker College of Flint, “Nursing is such a diverse field that one can find a job in almost anything that interests them. Obviously hospitals

36 onthetown

Those opportunities come with many challenges. According to Gilbert, “The most common difficulty for new students when beginning a nursing program is time management! Nursing is a very rigorous program and requires focus and complete dedication.

The coursework is intense and abundant, plus they must juggle labs and clinical rotations.”

But a nursing career offers both unique challenges and opportunities. “I also believe that most people, including students considering nursing careers, do not realize the amount of responsibility that nurses carry every day. It is only during their education that they learn this. Nurses are leaders in communication about caregiving and education for patients. A nurse works in the best interest of the patient, helps manage a patient’s care and is an integral part of the medical team,” says Gilbert.

“And, many students do not realize how the working schedules of nursing positions impact their personal lives. Employers need nurses 24/7, which means nurses work holidays, weekends and times when most others are sleeping. There are benefits to a nurse’s schedule, too. Many schedules are flexible, so one can work longer hours per day and have more days off in a week,” she says.

The rewards are also great. Gilbert says, “There’s no doubt that the most rewarding aspect of a nursing career is the impact on patients and their families. For educators, our most rewarding aspect of our jobs is the impact we have on our students and the future of health care.”

Clearly the three premier institutions of higher education in Genesee County are leading the drive for better health for all our residents with their nursing programs. But they are also leading the drive to improve the economic health of the area as we move from the economy we have known for the last century to a healthier future.

RODIN:

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Selections from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Collections

May 6 – July 30, 2017

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COMMUNITY

MTA Expands Working for the Community

O

// BY CHARLENE KOWALSKI // DIRECTOR, MARKETING/CUSTOMER SERVICE, MTA

ver the past 40 years, the Mass Transportation Authority has been the agency supplying transportation services to the people of Genesee County. But, within the last year, the MTA has taken on new projects, which are providing new kinds of service to the community. Faced with a community water crisis, the MTA has played a significant role, offering multiple services aimed at improving the life of residents. From providing water to Flint residents at the transportation center to daily transporting 216 workers who are involved with visiting homes in the Flint community to provide water filter installation or replacement, the MTA has continued to take part in assisting those in need.

A different type of need came about in 2015, when grocery stores in the community started to close, creating what is known as “food deserts.” The MTA developed the Rides to Groceries program for those in our community affected by store closures and the onset of those food deserts. In 2016, the program was expanded countywide and has received national attention.

to groceries,” says Ed Benning, MTA general manager/CEO. “We wanted to make sure that people have options for shopping, which is why we will provide the transportation to various stores.” The aim today is to make sure that people have a way to access groceries as many individuals are isolated in their homes and have no way to get to grocery stores that have moved to the outlying suburbs.

“The Mass Transportation Authority exists for the purpose of providing essential services that address the changing needs in our community, including access

Because of this, MTA knew there were other services that were desperately needed in the community. Through working with health care officials, the MTA developed

38 onthetown

multiple programs addressing Rides to Wellness, including Non-Emergency Medical Transportation rides and Rides to Wellness routes linking fixed route services to multiple medical facilities.

In September of 2016 the MTA expanded its Rides to Wellness service providing same day demand response.

This service, provides medical trips within 30 minutes of the request. In December of 2016 this new same day medical service provided over 2,000 trips and was estimated to exceed 4,500 trips in March 2017. Future expansion is expected

THESE NEW SERVICES WILL PROVIDE INCREASED RIDERSHIP, JOBS AND ECONOMIC GROWTH TO OUR AREA AND MTA PLANS ON BEING A PART OF IT ALL. – ED BENNING –

to provide 1,000 same day trips per day

by June 2018 and 2,500 trips per day by October 2019. The MTA has received a tremendous amount of positive feedback regarding this new program.

In addition, the MTA has expanded its Rides to Work program, adding new service to Lansing and additional routes to Livingston County, to address the 1,000–1,500 workers filling open positions in these areas. This expansion was possible due to the development of primary and secondary stakeholder consortiums bringing multiple partners

to the table, including representatives from the governor’s office, Michigan Department of Transportation, local Chambers of Commerce, businesses and the metropolitan planning organizations from adjoining counties.

The MTA has developed a number of partnerships, which include local colleges, businesses, social services and hospitals, among others. The MTA has also partnered with Consumers Energy for the expansion of the MTA’s Grand Blanc alternative fueling facility. In this effort, Consumers Energy will utilize

some consent decree funds to build an expanded public/private station at the MTA Alternative Fuel Facility.

“We are very fortunate to be in a place where partnerships with organizations, agencies and businesses can all work together for the betterment of the community,” Benning says. “These new services will provide increased ridership, jobs and economic growth to our area and MTA plans on being a part of it all.”

For more information, contact Ed Benning, MTA general manager/CEO, at 810-780-8813.

onthetown 39

CULTURE

Two Decades

of Transformation // BY CHENE KOPPITZ

PHOTOS BY // MICHAEL GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY

One word comes up frequently when speaking about Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) executive director John Henry: vision. Upon his 1996 appointment, Henry’s vision, shaped by the suggestions of staff, board members and patrons, created the FIA of 2017.

Over two decades ago, the museum needed creative reimagining. Manufacturing, once the backbone of the U.S. economy, had continued to decline, as an industry and source of steady employment, in Midwestern cities. While some, like Toledo, had already begun their new-millennium metamorphosis, Flint, along with its art museum, had not yet chosen a path for its future.

Enter John Henry. The challenges the museum and its city faced, although daunting, were opportunities for a man focused on possibilities, not problems.

Former FIA board president and attorney Mike Behm says an innovator like Henry was then, and remains, the leader the FIA needed.

Responsible for both a major renovation, and an expansion of the museum and its Art School in less than 15 years, Henry’s prescience reinvigorated Michigan’s second-largest art museum, which had seemed at rest – like the city of Flint itself. Renewal is nothing new for Henry, whose planning and building skills are evident in the Mississippi Museum of Art as well as the

40 onthetown

Vero Beach Museum of Art, his previous professional homes.

As he did in Vero Beach, where Henry was involved in nearly every aspect of museum operations, he touches each part of the FIA, from its collection to its Education Department, its Art School – now among the 15 largest art schools in the United States – to its special events.

His two decades of transformation exhibit innumerable high points: a 40% increase in the museum’s world-renowned collection; nearly tripling the FIA’s endowment to over $28 million and the on-time and under-budget 2009 expansion, which brought eight new galleries, a state-of-theart theater and a sculpture garden to midMichigan.

With arts funding in public education dwindling since the early 1990s, Henry has also focused on the accessibility of arts instruction. The FIA Education Department serves 30,000 children and 17,000 adults yearly, and he has fostered innovative partnerships with the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Kettering University, Mott Community College and Baker College, adding to the museum’s reputation for collaboration, scholarship and innovation.

Henry’s desire to innovate, Behm says, defines the FIA’s executive director.

“When I think about working with John, I remember his openness to new ideas, his ability to simply say, ‘Sure. Why not?’”

Behm recalls multiple moments in Henry’s leadership in which his cando spirit created new happenings, such as the Flint Print Fair and the Art of Collecting exhibit, both of which foster connoisseurship and art collecting. Behm also points to the expansion of the FIA Art School, in square footage, curriculum and class offerings. Spreading out – whether in terms of the building’s physical space, additions to the collection or FIA’s reach into the community, through special events and programming – has always been at the top of Henry’s mind and in his strategic plan for the museum.

Like Behm, Louis Hawkins, HAP community relations administrator and longtime Community Gala chair, has been on hand as Henry’s farsightedness has initiated countless diversity programs to bring all members of the Flint community into the FIA. “During his entire tenure at the FIA, John has actively sought to increase the utilization of the FIA by those who have historically underutilized it,” Hawkins says.

Henry’s vision helped create the Community Gala, which coincides with the museum’s first large-scale exhibition of each year. This year’s exhibition, Women of a New Tribe, not only displayed the work of an African American photographer, Jerry Taliaferro, but also emphasized the physical and spiritual beauty of Flint’s African American women. Although Taliaferro’s work has shown nationwide, the scale of the Flint exhibition was larger than anywhere else, partly because of Henry’s ability to actualize the needs of this vibrant, multicultural region. The Gala celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2017.

Current FIA board of trustees president Dean Yeotis, an attorney as well as the owner of Flint’s Totem Books, recalls that when Henry arrived 20 years ago, the FIA had potential to become a superlative museum, but myriad factors impeded it.

Under Henry’s leadership, Yeotis says, the museum actualized itself. “True leadership is timeless. John has that quality – the drive to excel, the desire to make the museum the best it could be.”

That vision everyone seems to mention when Henry’s name enters the conversation is what Behm and others connected to the FIA see as his greatest gift to the museum. “With almost any idea…John is willing to try it,” Behm says.

“Where can you do that? Not at work, not at any other museum. That’s what makes the FIA so special, and John Henry so important – it’s his vision. The museum, its collections, its members and our city benefit from that vision every day.”

onthetown 41

BUSINESS

Producing

MORE THAN PRODUCE! // BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF //

With the winter doldrums behind us, it is presumably a strategic time to look into the planning of summertime events, such as a graduation open house, a milestone birthday party, a retirement celebration, holiday parties or the perfect wedding. Locally, there are many venues to choose from that will indeed satisfy any theme or size of group to meet any budget. While the traditional banquet hall naturally comes into initial discussions, there is another local venue that in just two years of existence is rapidly gaining in popularity primarily due to its unique setting and word-ofmouth rave reviews; it is our own Flint Farmers’ Market!

Surprised? Janell Baumgart isn’t. As the events manager for the Flint Farmers’ Market, she has the responsibility of scheduling and coordinating all events at the Market, a responsibility that has rapidly increased since the Market has occupied its new location.

Baumgart is very connected to the Market’s ever-increasing event activity and says, “How truly honored and fortunate the Market feels to be able to open up our building for private events for folks around the city as well as surrounding suburbs. It is very humbling that families choose to spend some of their most memorable moments right here at the Flint Farmers’ Market.”

Baumgart has been with the Flint Farmers’ Market since the summer of 2013 and was part of the new Market location transition team. She clearly recalls the old location was very limited on space and could conduct only summertime events with those events being restricted under a tent.

“When the new building was in the planning stages, events were not a high priority,” she remembers. “The facility’s main purpose was to provide a home to farmers, new business entrepreneurs and be a true center for health in our community.” She readily admits nobody foresaw the events would catch on and succeed as they have today.

42 onthetown

During the Market’s first year in its new location at 300 E. First St. (site of the old Flint Journal press building), the main events from the previous location were kept, such as the Barbecue CookOff and Flower Days. Baumgart reasons being in the new location attracted more people due in part to its proximity to the downtown business area. She initially rented out the Ramsdell Room, a 2,520-square-foot space, because it had professional audiovisual equipment available. Since there is not a downtown meeting space of this size, many of the businesses, for example, The Crim Fitness Foundation and Hurley Medical Center, utilized the Ramsdell Room for meetings, as it is very convenient and provides the capability of having lunch in the same facility.

As a result, Baumgart mentioned she started receiving rental inquiries and slowly began booking the Market for high school graduation open houses. She soon noticed many people followed up with emails giving glowing compliments. From there, she started taking deposits for anniversary parties, children’s birthday

GENESYS BALL

parties, retirement parties – basically, any themed party imaginable. Baumgart publicizes it is a great experience renting the Market as weddings have become very popular recently.

However, she is quick to point out, “If you are looking for a typical banquet space, the Market is not for you. After all, this is still a market. But if you want something nontraditional and memorable, the Flint Farmers’ Market can deliver!” While the capacity for weddings is up to 200 people, a full market rental for public events can readily oblige up to 1,200 people. It includes the exclusive use of the Ramsdell Room, the 2,640-square-foot atrium, the second floor and Rooftop Terrace area along with access to the Market Tap room serving its fine selection of craft beers and ciders. Baumgart asserts they can accommodate any rental request as evidenced by a past Food, Beer & Wine event sponsored by Townsquare Media. It coincidentally occurred on the same day as the University of Michigan vs. Michigan State University football game. Townsquare organizers brought in actual grass sod that covered most of the entire atrium area, giving a genuine

IF YOU WANT SOMETHING NONTRADITIONAL AND MEMORABLE, THE FLINT FARMERS’ MARKET C AN DELIVER! – JANELL B AUMGART –

backyard feel to the event, including street-style lamp posts and yard games, all culminating in a mammoth video screen.

When it comes to the execution of most of the events, the Market has a great partnership with Townsquare Media, Cumulus Media and Black Tie Productions, all local companies. And for the past two years, the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has joined the Market’s partners to help present one of the most popular and entertaining New Year’s Eve celebrations in the area, known as the Flinttown Countdown.

For the 2017 event, two live, local bands performed in the Ramsdell Room while a DJ entertained in the atrium. There was seating around the atrium as some of the Market’s vendors, such as B-Dogs and MaMang, served food while the local Domino’s brought in pizza. The secondfloor Market Tap room featured a full bar and highlighted Michigan’s finest beer, wine and spirits. The Market Tap, of note, is owned and operated by Blackstone’s, ensuring top-quality beverage and culinary fare. In addition to the video screens in the Ramsdell Room, a huge portable video screen was positioned for all Flinttown Countdown guests to watch the famous Times Square New Year’s Eve countdown and ball drop. Additionally, the DDA sponsored an amazing fireworks show only a block away, giving prime viewing for everybody at the event.

Baumgart adds the attendees’ wardrobe ranged from jeans and T-shirts to formal tuxedos and gowns. “There was an ideal mix of attire where nobody felt uncomfortable,” she says. With

overwhelming positive feedback from the 450 people who attended, she is already working on better things for the 2018 New Year’s Eve celebration.

While Baumgart continues to schedule events, she points out the regular schedule of activities that can be found on the Market’s website. As an example, cooking classes are scheduled approximately twice monthly and conducted by the Market’s culinary director, Chef Sean Gartland, and his Feast Cooking School. These informative and fun classes are held in the Market’s specifically designed demonstration kitchen, which is sponsored by Dort Federal Credit Union and can accommodate private group cooking classes too.

She also is aware that all the success of the events is primarily due to the exceptional cooperation among her team of Market personnel. “I am blessed to work with the best of the best when it comes to event operations and logistics,” she says. “Even in the summer when our events are in full swing, many of us work the normal market day on Saturday, then come back in the evening for cleaning and setup for the Sunday parties. I just can’t say enough about them. We truly operate as team and are always there to make sure nothing is left on one person’s shoulders.”

For more information, contact Janell Baumgart: Janell1502@aol.com or 810232-1399.

For information regarding the Flint Farmers’ Market Events: www. flintfarmersmarket.com/events/

WEDDING

FLINT FARMERS’ MARKET UPCOMING EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Comedy Night - once a month MAY Flower Daze, May 20 & 27 JUNE Flint Feastival, June 10 JULY Edible Flint Garden Tour, July 26 OCTOBER Flint Local 432 Mixdown Fundraiser, Oct 13, & Halloween Party, Oct 21 DECEMBER Flinttown Countdown NYE Party, Dec 31 For a complete listing of monthly events, visit www.flintfarmersmarket.com/events/

onthetown 43

BUSINESS

Special Promotional Section

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44 onthetown

Special Promotional Section

Grandpa’s Handsaw // BY FRED HENSLER //

M

y grandfather was a master cabinetmaker. He learned his trade as a young man in Germany and brought it to the United States in the early 1900s. Grandpa had accumulated a large assortment of hand tools that he proudly used to complete his cabinetry work. (They were the tools of his trade.) Handsaws, planes and hand drills along with countless other gadgets that only a master cabinetmaker would know how to use.

My grandfather passed away in 1963 and the bulk of his possessions went to be stored in the basement of his daughter, my aunt’s house.

The circle of life continued and my aunt passed. As we were going through her belongings, I came across boxes and boxes of my grandfather’s old hand tools – most of them wearing the honorable badge of “genuine antique.”

As I went through each of the tools, I reminisced how hard it must have been in those days to build a quality cabinet with such primitive tools, especially when compared to my own collection of power drills, electric saws and automatic planers that pretty much guarantee a perfect fit and finish. It was then that I realized how obsolete my grandfather’s tools really were and how innovative ideas had changed so dramatically the history of woodworking.

As I continued to ponder the moment, I reflected on how positive change had affected all of us over the years. My grandfather saw the technological wonders of his day in the first primitive car and airplane. The evolution of both the auto

and aerospace industry allow us to travel to farther destinations with greater speed and safety. Airplanes fly around the world in ever-increasing comfort and everdiminishing times. What a difference time can make.

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onthetown 45

RECREATION

Down the Flint River or to a Genesee County Park

D

o you ever carry something around the store only to put it back right before you leave? I am notorious for being an indecisive shopper.

However, I am proud to say one of the best decisions my partner, Dan, and I ever made last year was purchasing a couple of inexpensive kayaks.

This area we call home is packed with hiking, biking and river adventures. Our inaugural kayak voyage had us floating down the Shiawassee River in downtown Fenton all the way to Lake Ponemah.

It was peaceful and serene. We found ourselves winding through desolate areas and friendly neighborhoods, and I even snapped some photos of what remained of an old bridge still over the river.

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// BY DAVID CUSTER //

The Shiawassee River from downtown Fenton was perfect for our first trip, but it still presented a bit of a challenge. It wasn’t due to fast-moving rapids or sharp turns. This section of river was very shallow in parts, so much so that your abs might ache the next day from the constant shimmying inside your kayak to get it moving after bottoming out. I would suggest always having a nice pair of water shoes on board.

If you want to get your vessel in the water but you don’t know where to start, Genesee County has a great group of folks who meet twice a week throughout the summer to explore our waterways. They are part of the Flint River Watershed Coalition. I met them last year by participating in the Flint River and Community Cleanup.

The coalition has made it their mission to change the perception of the Flint River, which is often blamed for the ongoing water crisis plaguing the city. However, it was a lack of corrosion control to treat the Flint River water that led to the tragedy.

Several species of animals, from bald eagles to several kinds of turtles, call the Flint River home. The river spans several counties and is picturesque in many spots.

The coalition offers guided tours or a day of paddling with your friends, but with the security of being in a larger group. You can find an interactive map and schedule on the coalition’s website at flintriver.org.

We put a lot of mileage on our kayaks last summer. We kayaked the Platte River in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. We “shot the tube” (floated

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through a culvert under a bridge) in the beautiful waters of the Crystal River in Leelanau County. We made memories with a large group on the Manistee.

Yet, our favorite moments were the spontaneous trips where we threw the kayaks in the back of the truck and never ventured farther than 10 miles.

If kayaking isn’t your thing, you can always break out your bike when you get the itch to be one with nature. You can make a day of it for you and your fourlegged friend in Davison Township. The

Black Creek Nature Trail is one of my favorites. The paved trail winds along a small creek where I’ve seen a plethora of wildlife. Near the trail is a great dog park to allow a little socializing for your pup.

If your dog is shy, like my pug, Mona, the dog park also has areas where your dog can stretch its legs by running around in its own fenced-in area.

This trail ends in a great park with picnic tables, tennis courts, playground equipment and the Lake Callis Recreation Complex. This place is great for any age.

You can even rent your own kayaks and paddleboards, as well as do a little fishing.

I encourage you to take advantage of all the parks, rivers and trails in Genesee County, but remember to take your shoes off just as you would in anyone else’s home. Our parks are beautiful only because of the people who volunteer their time to allow you to enjoy them. Don’t be indecisive. Start planning your day trips now. You won’t regret it. I’ll see you on the river soon!

OUR FAVORITE MOMENTS WERE THE SPONTANEOUS TRIPS WHERE WE THREW THE KAYAKS IN THE BACK OF THE TRUCK AND NEVER VENTURED FARTHER THAN 10 MILES.

48 onthetown

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COMMUNITY

This Factory Produces

INSPIRATION // BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF // PHOTOS BY // MICHAEL GLEASON PHOTOGRAPHY

O

verheard at a downtown eatery recently, a small group of local educators were passionately engaging in philosophic discussions until a stark realization drew sudden amazement and hush. “Our current students may never fully appreciate or understand Flint’s deeply rich heritage and contributions to the industrialization of America – and the world – because it is simply not scholastically prioritized in our current system.” The silence was justified. However, this glaring outlook all changed on May 1 due in part to the official grand opening of the newly restored Durant-Dort Factory One at 303 W. Water St. in Flint’s historical Carriage Town district. Hosted by General Motors (GM), this celebration of Factory One will connect the industry’s past, present and future, illustrating how innovation and technology have always led the way, right here in Flint, Michigan. Factory One’s operations manager (a.k.a. plant manager) Kevin M. Kirbitz astutely claims, “I see this as a place where children and people of all ages can come to learn about the incredible rich and industrial history of Flint, GM and the Billy Durant (legendary founder of GM) story. It will be a lasting reminder of what can be achieved while not preserved in a time capsule.”

KEVIN M. KIRBITZ OPERATIONS MANAGER DURANT-DORT FACTORY ONE

ORIGINAL CHAIR FROM WILLIAM C. DURANT'S OFFICE

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The GM preferred architectural firm of SmithGroup JJR, with Detroit roots tracing back to 1855, was the lead company in executing Factory One’s revitalization goals. “We wanted to maintain and preserve the building’s classic structural design – that is the historical piece,” Kirbitz explains. “However, we also want to showcase the building with a modern and functional office layout.” He adds, “We were not looking to duplicate the time period for the office arrangements.

Even though this is an authentic historical building, it is now a modern, hightech, functional facility – and it coexists beautifully.”

Holbrook or Garrison Keillor. And he speaks with authority. With a master’s degree from General Motors Institute/ Engineering Management Institute (now, Kettering University), the 34-year GM engineer is Flint born and bred, while writing and publishing many historic editorials regarding Buick, GM and Flint as a hobby. He is continuing an extensive line of local historians who have long documented and kept stories alive of our city’s rich industrial history. Even his business card emphasizes his new role as it states: “Operations Manager a.k.a. Head Custodian, Chief Storyteller and Keeper of the Flame.”

To hear Kirbitz chat about the eminent history of “his” new building is a near entrancing experience in itself. His FM radio voice along with his facial and hand gestures allure his audience in a way reminiscent of renowned orators Hal

According to Kirbitz, the first brick of the storied Factory One building was laid in 1880 by the Flint Woolen Company as an extension of its original location just around the corner on Grand Traverse Street. By 1886 the building sat idle as

DURANT-DORT CARRIAGE COMPANY OFFICE. LISTED IN THE NATIONAL REGISTRY OF HISTORIC PLACES IN 1975.

William C. (Billy) Durant and J. Dallas Dort took advantage of the “spacious” facility by setting up and launching their Flint Road Cart Company in Factory One, growing it into one of the world’s largest carriage manufacturers. From there, Durant began managing Buick, founded General Motors, then later formed Chevrolet, all in Flint, and it all started with Factory One. Over the years, the building has survived thanks to various degrees of restoration attempts, including retail, deli restaurants and antique malls, but things took a positive turn in 2012. Kirbitz is a member of the Durant-Dort Carriage Foundation Board of Trustees. This organization is tasked with owning and maintaining the historic office building at 316 Water St., which is also designated on the National Historic Registry. During a fundraising campaign, Kevin reached out to fellow engineer Mark Reuss, whom he worked alongside for many years. They kept in touch over the years as Mark progressed through roles of increasing responsibility in GM engineering, eventually earning the position of president of GM North America. With strong roots and ties to Flint, Reuss was definitely interested in not only supporting Durant-Dort Carriage Foundation but also Kirbitz’s vision for the historic office building. At a visit to that office in November of 2012, Reuss asked about “the building across the street.” Kirbitz escorted Reuss through the old factory while explaining its significant history. In January of 2013, Reuss phoned Kirbitz to inform him GM would purchase the old carriage factory and later that

ORIGINAL FLINT ROAD CART COMPANY BUGGY BUILT IN THE FACTORY ONE BUILDING

year, publicly announced GM’s intentions at a United Way meeting in Flint.

Kirbitz was asked to join the factory’s restoration planning meetings by sitting on a dedicated committee. In 2015, GM reaffirmed its commitment to the project by announcing the “new” Factory One would house the prestigious and priceless Kettering University archives. Later that year in December, Kevin M. Kirbitz was asked to serve as the plant manager for the Durant-Dort Factory One. “When I got the assignment of Factory One’s operations manager, I felt like I must be the luckiest guy in the world,” he says with a smile. “This is my dream job. I am proof that if you continue to pursue your dreams, even though those dreams may not specifically align with your chosen career, be true to what your passions are.

I continued to pursue my passions on the side for years and it ultimately led to my dream job.”

Kirbitz has been working in the building since January of this year and has a short-term priority to get the facility fully operational. Also on the agenda is to get the Kettering Archives settled in because Kettering University will be the “public face” of the building. Conference meetings for internal GM business have already been taking place at Factory One thanks to a 30-person high-tech room complete with global video/audio conferencing capabilities and dynamic lighting throughout – highlighted in high-resolution GM blue! Kirbitz wants to grow their conference and exhibit space but initially will serve only closely aligned external groups, such as the local chamber

of commerce along with GM’s internal operations. “There will be no weddings, graduations, proms nor other similar events in the near future,” Kirbitz says.

“However, we will remain community focused.”

As Kirbitz looks out from his secondfloor corner office, he has a clear view that overlooks statues of Billy Durant and J. Dallas Dort and humbly reflects, “Durant and Dort did not know they were going to get into the automobile manufacturing business; they just wanted to do next best thing. And to think, it all happened right here. It is entirely possible for some child to come here and get inspired to do the next best thing too. With the formalization of Factory One, GM has secured Flint as a community partner. Even in a perceived shifting face of the corporation, there will always be a part that says GM was born in Flint. And for a long time, Flint has been considered just a place for GM factories.

Now, I want people to know, Flint is special in the history and heritage of GM, and should be near and dear to us all.”

GLIMPSE OF KETTERING ARCHIVES' ARTIFACTS

onthetown 51

RECREATION

FLINT RIVER TRAIL IS A REFLECTION ON AND OF FLINT // BY JUSTIN SCANLON //

H

aving spent the last 25 years in New York City, the most bicycle unfriendly place in the universe, I am not a natural candidate to discuss bicycling. It is with no small sense of delight that I should find myself writing about the Flint River Trail (FRT) and its paths, bypaths and extensions, all of which I have explored.

If you are someone for whom even one mile is a literal, as well as figurative, milestone, I can recommend the FRT to anyone who wishes to get out of the house, unplug the devices and take a miniadventure. If you are a dedicated non-bicycle user, you might start using the FRT as an inexpensive way to get from your house to downtown Flint.

52 onthetown

The recent additions to the trail, courtesy of the educational institutions like Kettering and Mott, have increased its utility value enormously. One can now easily travel from downtown Flint all the way to the shopping on Corunna Road in Flint Township. If I wanted to write a handbook on how to be poor in Flint and still have a good life, there would have to be a section on the FRT. It would be a good example of how quality of life does not have to depend on a price-tag-driven, consumerist standard of living.

The trail is better suited for mountain bikes, not because of any difficult grades, but for rough patches here and there, which makes tough tires a necessity. Recently there have been about 15 miles worth of upgrades, however, and the future looks very good indeed.

Some stretches of the Kettering extension are certainly road bike quality.

Nestled in the heart of Genesee County, the FRT has progressed to the top of my list of places to introduce a first-time visitor. Despite all the bad press about tap water, the Flint River itself remains a supple ecosystem supporting plenty of wildlife, some of which you are almost guaranteed to meet along the way. Although the trailʼs head begins downtown at the University of Michigan campus, as one gets acquainted, one will find numerous access points along the way, which makes it an incredible north/south path to Flintʼs developing downtown scene.

Up until Utah Street, the trail runs on both the east and west banks of the river, although ultimately the westerly trail runs much farther. North of the Utah Street Bridge, the east trail terminates at some garden apartments and a basketball court.

The Friends of the Flint River maintain the following site devoted to regular social activities on the trail: http://flintriver. org/blog/calendar/. This is invaluable for those who want to ease their way into the cycling experience. Their rides are very nurturing experiences, and you might come out of the experience with some lovely new friends and acquaintances.

The Flint River Trail is a gold mine for the beginning and intermediate bicyclist. There are few grades, so the riding experience

is relatively level. However, for the adventurous cyclist, willing to fully explore the trail, there are reasonable challenges. Going north of the trail head, below is a view of the downtown Flint dam from the east side of the river, just south of the bike and pedestrian bridge over to the west side trails. Amazingly, I have often seen some intrepid folks defiantly fishing here.

You get quite a number of miles that can be typified by this shot. Bike trails provide a remarkable opportunity to experience a wonderful interaction between nature and human artifice. The path invites, but it is clear that within this environ, the artificial is subordinated, if not outright besieged. The other artifice, the bicycle itself, is a relatively recent development. Consider that Europe had circumnavigated the planet with ships bearing sophisticated cannons more than a century before a bicycle was even conceived.

Within a half a mile along this stretch on the east trail, one can begin to experience detachment from our often tormented internal chatter and hear the voice of nature. Often I have found the resolutions to the petty contradictions within my own life, even as they dissolve before the ineluctable face of nature and the wonder that it educes.

Where the road ends, the rest of the trail continues.

The Utah Bridge was my introduction to the trail. Watch out for broken glass. However, I noticed something that seemed paradigmatic of Flint, and even America itself. All I had to do was turn 90 degrees and see a perspective that diminishes the blight to nothingness. The picture below was shot from the same spot.

Less than four miles north of that very same bridge, on the eastern trail, this vision awaits the cyclist. I love this view and even used this picture as the background for my soundcloud.com track, “Paradise.”

Apprehending the silence that the rush of water evokes, I am reminded that words are mere carrier waves for meanings and information transmitted by the tone of oneʼs voice. All this and more is lost in the digital, device-driven environment our minds seem to like to call home. There is no better time to reclaim that than now, and few places better than this.

onthetown 53

FOOD & DRINK

TO

Fresh Food Benefits Farmers and Foodies Alike // BY CHEF SEAN GARTLAND //

54 onthetown

I

magine standing in a walk-in cooler at 9 a.m. on a Friday, and you are tasked with finding space for 2 bushels of scarlet runner beans, a case of duck eggs and 3 whole freshly harvested lambs. This is a dreamscape for an avid diner, a foodie who fancies a farm-to-table menu and someone who values fresh seasonal food. To a young sous chef faced with a full reservation book, an understaffed kitchen and a 700-cubic-feet walk-in cooler, it can be a nightmare.

’TIS THE SEASON!

One of the biggest challenges to any restaurant ambitious enough to pursue the farm-to-table philosophy is keeping up with the ever-changing inventory. Fitting it all into an undersized cooler is one of the most daunting tasks. As a diner you must be able to appreciate the ever-changing menu that cooking seasonally provides. Entrees and their accompaniments may change weekly, daily or even hourly based on the availability of the freshest ingredients.

By all accounts, a tomato picked in

Chefs across the country are embracing this natural style of cooking, and their customers have finally come around to expect the rather unpredictable nature of a seasonally changing menu. For the novice foodie this ideology may take some adjustment. You will need to keep an open mind when arriving at your favorite Saturday night haunt, only to find that the artichoke dip you’ve always enjoyed has been replaced by a more seasonally appropriate dish.

to-fork philosophy is to cook with the

August is far superior to one picked in December and shipped in from thousands of miles away. Thus one of the most hallowed tenets to maintaining the farmingredients that are currently in season.

By “in season” note that it doesn’t count if that particular vegetable is currently in season in Venezuela or Costa Rica. It means in season right here at home. This can seem like a daunting task living in a

HERE ARE SOME INSIGHTS INTO THE MIND OF A FARM-TO-FORK CHEF: THE INGREDIENT IS KING (OR QUEEN).

LOCAL. LOCAL. LOCAL. The distance from harvest to feast makes a

Some credit Alice Waters, of Berkeley,

huge difference in both the quality of the

California, with introducing the farm-

ingredient as well as the taste. Imagine if

to-table concept to American diners in

you will an ear of Peaches and Cream corn

the early ’70s at her restaurant, Chez

plucked from the stalk in mid-August.

Panisse. Truth be told, she was just doing

The heat of the day has forced the plant

what came naturally to her, cooking

to produce a ton of natural sugars, and

in an environment that provided fresh

the plump kernels are full of flavor. Now

seasonal ingredients 12 months out of the

as soon as you pick that ear of corn, those

year. Instead of falling prey to the heavy

natural sugars begin to turn to starch. So

French continental style of cooking born

the faster you can get it from the field

out of the nouvelle cuisine of the ’60s, she

to the kitchen, the better it will be. This

embraced a rustic peasant style of cooking.

rings true for almost any vegetable or

Her menus were very vegetable forward

fruit. So look for food that you know is

and full of natural flavors that allowed the

grown and harvested close by.

ingredients to speak for themselves.

YOU C AN BET THAT AN HEIRLOOM TOMATO GROWN AND HARVESTED IN AN AB ANDONED C AR PARTS FACTORY IN DETROIT IS GOING TO TASTE FAR BETTER THAN A MEALY, UNRIPE ROMA SHIPPED IN FROM MEXICO.

climate such as Michigan’s. But do not despair. Farmers have been making great strides with hoop house growing, which uses materials to create greenhouse-like environments for plants, and are now able to stretch the growing season for most vegetables well into the winter months.

The advent of vertical indoor farming and the proliferation of hydroponic technology have also made it possible to harvest tomatoes well into January and February.

So is this truly seasonal? That’s debatable, but you can bet that an heirloom tomato grown and harvested in an abandoned car parts factory in Detroit is going to taste far better than a mealy, unripe Roma shipped in from Mexico.

Now as a diner and home cook, you must ask yourself if keeping a strict farm-to-fork practice alive and well in your own life is worth the struggle. The taste will be worth the hard work. The nutritional benefits will pay off in spades.

One important note to consider as you mull it over: Every dollar you spend on a locally grown vegetable is a dollar that helps support a small farm right in your area. You can pat yourself on the back every time you pick up your Community Supported Agriculture share of produce. onthetown 55

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