MCM | January 2025 Digital Edition by Lorraine-Publishing

Thetheme for this year’s three-day event is “Evolution of Racing”, a tribute to vehicle racing and the legendary vehicles, people and stories surrounding it. The Dort Financial Center lobby will have an amazing display of cars, memorabilia and much more!

Classic and custom vehicles, sports cars, muscle cars, hot rods and trucks will ﬁll the two arenas, hallways and mezzanine, with more than 50 sponsors and automotive-related vendor displays, demonstrations, concessions, live entertainment and a chance to attend our VIP Experience on Thursday night. VIP participants will get a ﬁrst glance of the event and support our Youth Scholarship Fund. It’s going to be a great time!

Brought to you by our Title Sponsor, General Motors and Sponsor Dort Financial Credit Union, with special thanks to ABC12, the Chrome & Ice™ Winter Indoor Classic Car Event will have ALL-NEW surprises including a Euchre Tournament fundraiser!

Chrome & Ice™ 2025 will be open to the public on Friday, February 7 from 12-8PM Saturday, February 8 from 10AM-7PM and Sunday, February 9 from 10AM-3PM. The vehicle awards ceremony starts on Sunday at 2:30PM.

Check out the race display in the lobby and the fantastic variety of vehicles featured throughout the arena. Visit our vendors and sponsor exhibits, and don’t miss the Toy Collectors and special area in the Tunnels. The Miss Chrome & Ice™ 2025 Show will be on stage Saturday at noon – tons of excitement is in store for this year’s event!

GENERAL ADMISSION

Tickets are $10 for adults, and $7 for youth ages 12-17. Children under 12 are FREE. Parking at the arena is $5 at the gates.

VIP Experience

Thursday, February 6

Doors open at 7PM

Back by popular demand, the VIP EXPERIENCE is on a NEW Night – Thursday, from 7-10PM. Tickets are $45 each, including parking, general admission to the show, coat check, and live musical entertainment from the SAUCECATS. PLUS, VIP ticketholders enjoy one complimentary adult beverage available at any of the several bars in the arena, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and dessert in the Exchange Hall from 7-9PM, compliments of Dort Financial Credit Union. Proceeds from Chrome & Ice™ and the VIP Experience support the Back to the Bricks® Youth Scholarship Fund.

Learn more about the Youth Scholarship Fund backtothebricks.org/collegescholarships

AsI sit down to write this letter, Christmas is just a sleigh ride away, but let me be the rst (or maybe the 27th?) to wish you a very Happy New Year! is issue kicks o with one of our most beloved features – “7 Questions with …” – and this time, we’re spotlighting Paula Nas, recently honored with the Claire M. White Art of Achievement Award. Her dedication to Greater Flint as an educator is inspiring. Find out more about her on pg. 6.

Speaking of inspiration, milestones are worth celebrating, and two Fenton businesses – Sawyer Jewelers and Fenton Winery & Brewery – are doing just that in our “Milestones” feature. ese are hands-on owners deeply invested in their community. (And let’s be honest, celebrating jewelry and wine? at’s my kind of milestone!)

On a more serious note, we also highlight Flushing resident Rob Lo’Ree and the life-changing work of STORM (Specialized Tactical Operations Relief Mobilization). Whether it’s hurricanes in North Carolina or Florida, Rob hits the road, rolls up his sleeves and gets to work where people need help the most. See his story on pg. 12 – it’s a testament to the power of faith, heart and resilience.

Now, let’s talk New Year’s resolutions. Most of us aim to live better and longer, and our “Longevity” section has you covered. From mental health to nancial tness and nutrition, we o er advice from local experts to help you crush those 2024 goals (pg. 26).

And if one of your goals involves getting t, might we suggest Cardio Kickboxing? Adam Bell of Masters & Champions Martial Arts in Grand Blanc will have you throwing punches and dodging calories like a pro. (Bonus: it’s also great stress relief.) More on pg. 38.

While I do spend my share of time at the gym, (shoutout to Powerhouse), I de nitely love to eat! is month, we celebrate the 2024 Restaurant of the Year: Spectacular Spudz. Owner Keysa Smith answers an obvious question, “Who doesn’t love potatoes?” I strongly suggest you don’t read this article hungry!

Finally, for those of us counting the days until golf season, the history of Flint Golf Club (pg. 48) will transport you to the greens. Established in 1919 by a Vehicle City “who’s who”, it’s a slice of old Flint and part of our impressive legacy.

ere’s so much more to discover in this issue, perfect for enjoying while the snow piles up outside. From all of us at My City, we wish you a year lled with health, happiness, new opportunities … and maybe a few good carbs.

W. Shiawassee Ave. Fenton, MI 48430

810.629.8000

810.262.9306

Publisher & Editor In Chief

Vince Lorraine Vince@mycitymag.com

Managing Editor

Sherron Barden

Sta Writer

Cheryl Dennison

Freelance Writer

Mark Spezia

Contributing Writers

Dr. Christopher Douglas

Vera Hogan

Alexandria Nolan

Nicholas R. Robinson, Esq.

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

Graphic designer Hailey Carriger

Contributing Artist Daria Akulova

Accounting/Circulation

Kim Davis

Account Executive

Terese Allen

COVER ART Provided by Keysa Smith

My City Magazine, Inc. 14165 Fenton Rd., Fenton, MI 48430 810.230.1783

ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, Inc., 14165 Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 48430. Canadian Mail Agreement #41971515. For back issues, inquire for availability. Editorial Correspondence: Address product information and inquiries to: Editorial Department, My City Magazine, 14165 Fenton Rd., Fenton, MI 48430, phone 810.230.1783. To authors, photographers and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photographs in this publication are the property of My City Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclusions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of My City Magazine. My City Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by sufficient firstclass postage, but the Publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material.

New Year, New You!

COMPILED BY KAREN PIACENTINI OWNER OF FENTON’S OPEN BOOK

IT’S THE PERFECT TIME TO TURN THE PAGE – LITERALLY!

Whether your goal is to eat a healthier diet, break old habits or build new ones, these inspiring reads can help you cra the fresh start you deserve. From delicious recipes to science-backed strategies for making lasting lifestyle changes, this list o ers a variety of food for thought and tips for becoming the best possible version of YOU!

EAT BETTER!

• Party in Your Plants: 100+ Plant-Based Recipes & Problem-Solving Strategies to Help You Eat Healthier (Without Hating Your Life): A Cookbook | By Talia Pollock

• The Truly Easy Heart-Healthy Cookbook | By Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDE, CDN

• Eat Better, Feel Better: My Recipes for Wellness and Healing, Inside and Out | By Giada De Laurentiis

• The Instant Air Fryer Bible | By Bruce Weinstein & Mark Scarbrough

• Sourdough Every Day: Your Guide to Using Active and Discard Starter for Artisan Bread, Rolls, Pasta Sweets and More | By Hanhan Dela Cruz

BE BETTER!

• The Power of Habit | By Charles Duhigg

• Dream First, Details Later: How to Quit Overthinking & Make It Happen! | By Ellen Marie Bennett

• Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life … And Maybe the World | By Admiral William H. McRaven

• The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance and the Art of Living | By Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman

• Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results By James Clear

Dive into these titles that could help shape your best year yet!

Second Chances Hope

Awaits at the Humane Society

MEET COCOA

This one-year-old male guinea pig is ready to find his forever home!

Cocoa came to the shelter because his previous owners discovered they were allergic, but their loss could be your gain. is little guy is as sweet as they come! He absolutely loves treats like lettuce and carrots – when it’s snack time, you can hear his delighted squeals of excitement echoing through the shelter.

Due to a cornea scratch, Cocoa is blind in one eye, but this resilient boy doesn’t let it slow him down one bit. He’s just as playful, curious and full of life as any other guinea pig.

Why adopt a guinea pig like Cocoa?

• Guinea pigs are gentle, social creatures that make wonderful pets for families, kids or rst-time pet owners.

• With their charming squeals and unique personalities, guinea pigs are highly interactive and love bonding with their humans.

• ey’re relatively easy to care for with the right cage setup, fresh veggies, hay and a little daily attention.

• Caring for a guinea pig can help children learn about pet care and responsibility in a manageable way.

• Guinea pigs o en live 5-7 years, o ering long-term companionship.

Cocoa would thrive in a home where he gets plenty of love, treats and attention. He’s sure to be a delightful companion who brings joy and laughter to your life. If you think Cocoa could be the perfect t for your family, visit the shelter to meet him today!

Miles

BusinessesCelebrateOngoingSuccess

tones

Intoday’s demanding business world, resilience is the name of the game. Staying committed, mastering your craft and persevering through economic challenges isn’t for the faint of heart. Every day can feel like a battle, and reaching a major milestone is proof of the grit and determination it takes to succeed.

At My City, we believe such accomplishments deserve a moment in the spotlight. This month, we celebrate two Fenton success stories: Sawyer Jewelers, a cherished community xture for nearly 80 years led by the skilled hands of owner Chip Beltinck; and Fenton Winery & Brewery, where owners Matt and Ginny Sherrow honor the dedication of veteran team leaders who’ve helped the business thrive.

Sawyer Jewelers

A Gem in Fenton for 78 Years

Inthe heart of Fenton, Sawyer Jewelers is more than a jewelry store; this month, the business celebrates 78 years as a community cornerstone.

Under the guidance of owner and jeweler Chip Beltinck, the store has thrived by embracing core values of honesty, integrity and a commitment to serving customers with individualized attention. “If you don’t support your community, it can’t support you,” Beltinck states, a philosophy that has cemented Sawyer Jewelers’ place in the lives of generations of Fenton residents.

Sawyer Jewelers takes pride in its role as a “hands-on” operation, a rarity in today’s jewelry industry. Beltinck himself has nearly 40 years of experience and continues to be actively involved in crafting, repairing and designing jewelry. The business also employs two GIA-certi ed specialists and a team with over 150 years of combined expertise. This deep well of knowledge ensures that every customer receives exceptional service, whether they’re seeking vintage repairs, custom designs, or complimentary clean-

ings and inspections – regardless of where their jewelry was purchased.

The store’s enduring success can be attributed to its steadfast dedication to community involvement. Over the decades, Sawyer Jewelers has supported countless local initiatives and organizations. Beltinck’s 11-year tenure with the Fenton-Linden Chamber of Commerce involved participating in events like the Fenton Freedom Festival and Gus Macker basketball tournaments. In 2018, Sawyer Jewelers was one of only ten businesses recognized nationally with the Working Forward Small Business Award from Synchrony Financial, a testament to their impact and dedication.

Among their many charitable endeavors is GEM Charities, a 501(c)(3) founded by Beltinck after local student, Katie Wyatt, tragically died of cancer. The organization helps terminally ill young people enjoy meaningful experiences. Beyond supporting many local sports teams and fundraisers, Sawyer Jewelers also partners with initiatives like they YWCA’s “Purses for

Protection”, Adopt-A-Pet, Clara’s Hope and Snuggle Sacks, and has contributed to public art projects like “The Librarian” statue installed at the Fenton Winegarden Library.

During the holidays, Sawyer Jewelers has worked with Old Newsboys and Toys for Tots. One of their most beloved traditions is the annual “12 Days of Christmas” giveaway in partnership with 103.9 The Fox, which spreads holiday cheer by gifting 12 pairs of diamond stud earrings and a shopping spree each December.

Sawyer Jewelers’ approach to business extends beyond exceptional service and stunning jewelry. By maintaining a single location in downtown Fenton, the store has stayed true to its roots, fostering relationships with customers who appreciate the personalized touch. Beltinck explains, “Our customers come back year after year because they know the special treatment they receive.”

With nearly eight decades of history, Sawyer Jewelers remains a shining example of what a family-run business can achieve through dedication, innovation and community spirit. For Fenton residents, it’s not just a jewelry store – it’s a cherished part of their lives, celebrating their milestones and supporting their community every step of the way.

Chip Beltinck

Crafted by Dedication Celebrating Our FWB Team

AtFWB, our sta isn’t just part of the business – they are the heart of it. This year, we’re proud to celebrate the longevity of four team members whose passion and commitment embody our core values: We are passionate, we do what it takes and we are a team.

Last summer, Operations Manager Oliver Hackney marked ten years with FWB, while Taproom Manager Cindy Koerber celebrated eight years on the team. Production Manager Randy Alexander recently hit an impressive 12-year milestone and this February, Head Chef Chris Koskinen will reach 11 years of sharing his talents with our customers.

What sets these individuals apart? Their passion for hospitality shines through in every interaction, whether creating unforgettable customer experiences or fostering a supportive environment for their colleagues. They are dependable, collaborative and always ready to go the extra mile.

Both Oliver and Cindy began their journeys with FWB as parttime servers. Over time, they immersed themselves in various roles, mastering the intricacies of the business. Their initiative and dedication have not only shaped their current roles, but also allowed the owners to focus on strategic growth while entrusting daily operations to capable hands.

Rooted in the local community they grew up in, our team nds deep meaning in their work. From welcoming Taproom guests to crafting lifelong memories in our wedding venue, their e orts enrich every moment shared at FWB. Their tenure is a testament to the values that guide us and the culture we’ve cultivated together.

Cheers to Oliver, Cindy, Randy and Chris – and to the entire FWB team for making every day memorable.

OLIVER HACKNEY

CINDY KOERBER

10th Annual African American Film Series

Engaging the Community Through Cultural Outreach

BY SHERRON BARDEN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CFI

The African American Film Series returned to Flint this November, marking its milestone 10th season. Hosted by Communities First, Inc. (CFI) in partnership with the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA), this free monthly event has become a cherished part of the local arts scene, showcasing lms that educate, inspire and empower the community.

Essence Wilson, CFI Chief Strategy Officer, emphasizes the series’ role in fostering discovery and celebrating Flint’s diversity by exposing attendees to fresh perspectives and thought-provoking stories.

Part of CFI’s Culture Shock program, the series is supported by the FIA, Genesee Health System, Gary and Carol Hurand, Lynne Hurand, the Nartel Family Foundation, Glenn and Essence Wilson, Mid-Michigan NOW, and the Ananich Legacy Foundation. While donations are encouraged, admission to the screenings remains free.

Each event begins at 5:30 PM with complimentary dinner and live music, along with the opportunity to explore FIA’s galler-

ies. Films start at 6:45 PM and are followed by engaging discussions led by subject-matter experts, delving into the films’ themes and societal impact.

The 2024-2025 season opened with Butterfly in the Sky, a documentary celebrating the enduring legacy of PBS’s Reading Rainbow and its contributions to literacy. In December, attendees viewed Farming While Black, a compelling exploration of the challenges and triumphs of Black farmers reclaiming their heritage and land.

CFI President and CEO Glenn Wilson commends Flint residents for their decade-long support, which has allowed the series to thrive as a platform for amplifying the voices of African American directors, actors and creatives.

A Flint-based nonprofit, Communities First, Inc. continues its mission to build vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. For more information, visit communitiesfirstinc.org.

The 2024-25 lm series continues with the following:

MLK/FBI

An investigative documentary examining the FBI’s surveillance of Martin Luther King Jr. and its implications for Black activism.

THIS IS MY BLACK

A vibrant portrayal of Black youth using art and music to navigate their identities while confronting systemic challenges. 1/9 2/13

LONG EVITY

ASwe step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on living better and feeling your best. From maintaining mental wellness and building financial security to embracing a nutritious lifestyle, our local experts offer advice to help you thrive at every age. Let’s make 2025 a year of vitality, growth and the pursuit of longevity!

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUR FAMILY

For many people, the process of cremating a loved one is a mystery. At Swartz Funeral Home, our ten-step process guarantees that your loved one is well cared for at all times.

1. CODE OF ETHICS

We adhere to a strict code of ethics and procedures while your loved one is in our care. We only use Genesee Cremation Center, a member of the Cremation Association of North America, who we know and trust to uphold these ethical standards.

2. SAFEGUARDING PERSONAL IDENTITY

A personal I.D. tag is placed on your loved one the moment they are transferred into our care.

3. UNIQUE TRACKING SYSTEM

Upon arrival at the crematory, your loved one is logged into a tracking system and assigned an I.D. number, which is stamped into a stainless steel tag to track every phase of the cremation process.

4. FAMILY IDENTIFICATION

Our staﬀ properly encases your loved one in the cremation container selected; then, we verify identity by comparing I.D. bands from the hospital or nursing home. In the case of a death at the family home, positive I.D. occurs when we arrive at the residence.

5. CHECKS & BALANCES

A crematory technician and licensed funeral director reviews all cremation paperwork and permits. Once all documentation is veriﬁed, the technician starts the cremation process.

6. CREMATION LOG BOOK

Immediately prior to the cremation process, your loved one is taken to the crematory and their personal I.D. is logged containing the name, date, I.D. number and crematory operator’s name. It is dated and initialed by a cremation technician before and after the cremation.

7. DURING THE CREMATION

The crematory checklist and I.D. card are placed on the outside of the cremation chamber during the cremation process. The metal I.D. tag is present in the cremation chamber during the process.

8. POST-CREMATION DETAILS

After cremation is complete, the remains are placed with the stainless steel I.D. tag into an urn. The I.D. card and cremation certiﬁcate are placed into our permanent ﬁles.

9. RETURN OF REMAINS

Our staﬀ will notify you to schedule a time for picking up the cremated remains.

10. CELEBRATION OF LIFE

To appropriately celebrate the life of your loved one, we assist you in planning a funeral or memorial service either before or after the cremation.

We are happy to answer any other questions you may have about our cremation process, and the commitment we have to every family we serve.

THE NEW YEAR! KICK OFF

Fitness training may be a good start

BY VERA HOGAN

Feeling a bit sluggish and weighed down after indulging in too many holiday goodies? Or perhaps, you’re looking for ways to relieve stress and build conﬁdence. If so, then the New Year is a great time to shed some of those excess pounds, get back into shape and learn some self-defense skills. There are many options available to do just that.

Among the options is kickboxing – the popular activity provides a total body workout, builds lean muscle, burns calories for weight loss and helps relieve stress. It keeps participants mentally sharp and helps them reach health and ﬁtness goals.

Adam Bell, Owner of Masters & Champions Martial Arts in Grand Blanc, is among those who have successfully turned a passion since childhood into a thriving academy.

“ is is the school where I started my martial arts training at age 11 in the late 1980s,” Bell explained. “I have moved up through the ranks of this martial arts style to the current rank of Fi h Degree Master Instructor. I also hold the rank of First Degree in Taekwondo, and have held ranking in several other martial arts over the years.”

In 2006, Bell was able to purchase the business from his instructor and has been the sole owner and head instructor since then.

“Our school started teaching Cardio Kickboxing in the mid90s, when the Tae Bo craze was happening, and we jumped on the bandwagon, so to speak,” he said. “Just like Billy Blanks did during that time, we were teaching an aerobic exercise program with martial arts.”

Blanks is an American actor, martial artist and tness personality. A nationally ranked competitor, he won a bronze medal at the 1981 World Games, before creating the Tae Bo exercise program.

Bell said those who taught the Cardio Kickboxing class had to be instructors in the traditional martial arts programs so that when punches, kicks and more were performed, they were taught properly and not just “randomized in the air” with music blasting.

“I have been instructing the Cardio Kickboxing class now for almost 30 years and teaching martial arts for around 35 years.” Bell started Cardio Kickboxing in his late teens while training at his martial arts school, had achieved the level of black belt and was already instructing classes.

“My instructor asked if I would be interested in teaching the Cardio Kickboxing classes, as well,” he recalled. “I have the coordination of a rock at times, so I wasn’t sure if I could. But with my other instructors’ help and time, it is now like second nature to me. It is a great workout, and you get to practice some skills you learn in the traditional class along with self-defense techniques. Yeah, who wouldn’t want to try that? Students also get to do a variety of di erent things like heavy-bag work, free weights, partner drills, focus mitts – it’s not a boring class, to say the least.”

Masters & Champions Martial Arts originally opened in the mid-80s under the Grand Blanc Taekwondo Academy. More than 3,000 students have come through its doors over the years, most in the traditional martial arts program, but since the mid-to-late ‘90s when they introduced the Cardio Kickboxing class, a new world was opened to students who attend to get a great cardio workout and later,

want to try martial arts. Currently, the school has 50 to 60 students actively training, about 15 of whom train in Cardio Kickboxing.

“First and foremost, we are a traditional martial arts school,” Bell explained. “We welcome students from four years old to 94 years old, or older. at is my life’s passion! We are one of the rst schools in the area to o er a free two-week trial for anyone who walks through

Masters & Champions Martial Arts studio is located at the intersection of Grand Blanc Rd. and Dort Hwy.

Adam Bell gives personalized instruction to each one of his kickboxing students.

our door. I want people to try our programs before they pay anything for it. e martial arts and working out has so many options, I want to make sure people like what we teach before they put a dime into our programs.”

e Cardio Kickboxing program is for people 14 years old and older. “In a nutshell, it is an aerobics program. e di erence is that you will learn basic martial arts and self-defense, all while getting a workout and having a great time.”

“It is amazing how many people come into the class and cannot even make a proper st,” said Bell. “We will make sure that not only will you have a great punch, but also learn multiple ways to use

that punch, learn di erent kicks, combinations, nd muscles you didn’t even know existed. Each of our instructors brings their own strengths to the table.” All of the instructors have trained in martial arts for years.

Masters & Champions o ers classes with lower-impact training and more focus on movement, stretching and basic skills. Others are designed to allow students to learn at their own pace.

“I teach many drills at di erent levels, so those wanting a hard workout can do one version while others can do a more toned-down version to make sure they are not overwhelmed,” Bell informed. “ is class will improve coordina-

tion, stamina, con dence and will teach you to be more self-aware. In today’s world, the self-defense aspects are priceless.”

Bell says martial arts have always been a fantastic activity for people with physical challenges.

“A good instructor will be able to teach and succeed despite a student’s physical limitations,” he stated. “It is understandable that some won’t be able to perform a jump or spinning kick. Heck, I have had students who struggled to stand up for more than 20 minutes at a time. If they are willing to try and learn, we will do everything we can to teach them what we know.”

Bell reports that Cardio Kickboxing will help with stamina, exibility, speed, stretching and a bit of strength training.

“Starting this month, our school will resume o ering the Tai Chi program for those who want a workout but are limited or nervous about the impact training of the cardio class. If you have ever wanted a low-impact workout, Tai Chi is the class for you. It is amazing how much you will work with

Adam’s daughter Genevieve is a regular attendee of kickboxing classes.

so little movement – or what you think is so little movement.”

Over his 35 years of training/ teaching, Bell has enjoyed many success stories. He shared two, one about a traditional martial arts student, and one from the Cardio Kickboxing class.

curious, some have struggles in life and hope this will help, and some are kids with a parent who wants to help them in some way or another. e second story ts that category. I was still a young teacher when a boy around 10 or 11 years old came to the school.

“We are here to help people learn what they can achieve with hard work, patience and perseverance.”

“ e cardio story is funny and not funny at the same time,” he said. “About 20 years ago, a very dedicated student in her mid-to-late 40s had trained in our cardio program for just over a year, when she traveled with friends to a large city out of state. e next week, she came running into class excited and jumping to tell me something. I asked her what was going on and she said, ‘I was mugged!’ My rst reaction was, ‘Are you okay? Did you call the police?’ She explained that she and her friends were walking down the street when a man approached her from the front, grabbed her by the collar and demanded money. She said her instincts from training kicked in – she immediately kneed him between the legs, then did a combination learned in class: jab-jab, cross, hook, elbow. She squealed with excitement, ‘I broke his nose and he got arrested!’

“ e martial arts story is more of a success story. I have had many students who wanted to learn martial arts – many are

Adam Bell

He was very shy, kind of clumsy, not sure of himself at all. I kept having to tell him, ‘When you talk to people, look them in the eyes, or at least at their forehead. e ground will not hold the answers to what you want to know.’

“Over the years, he progressed through the ranks, gaining condence and strength,” Bell continued. “His personality started to come alive in class and eventually, he wanted to help teach. He not only achieved the level of black belt, but is still training with us today. Now in his early 30s, he recently became a Fourth Degree Master Instructor. Arthur Kessie is a devoted instructor and like a brother to me. It has been truly amazing to watch him, and many others start so young and grow up to achieve the goals in their lives and the club.”

Happily married for 23 years, Bell has two teenage daughters, and tness is a family a air.

“Genevieve is 19 and a First Degree Black Belt. She has told me she wants to run the school one day, but we’ll see if her mind

Masters & Champions Martial Arts is located at 3100 Grand Blanc Rd., Grand Blanc. For more info about the school and the classes offered, call 820.695.6245, visit MastersandChampions.net or email abell@mastersandchampions.net.

changes as she gets older and lives life. She also attends Cardio Kickboxing classes once or twice a week, as well. My youngest, Gwendolyn, is 17 and so busy with school sports, she stopped her martial arts training at orange or purple belt level.”

Bell said his school is not the biggest for martial arts or aerobics, but has a group of highly-dedicated instructors who want nothing more than to teach and be there for the students. “We are Genesee County’s oldest-running martial arts school. We like to make sure that our students not only learn the

techniques, but also understand them and why they are used.

“Some schools promote students to ranks as long as they pay tuition and put in the time,” Bell added.

“We make sure students do not promote to the next belt level until they understand what and why they are doing these motions. Martial arts is not about violence and aggression; the exact opposite, in fact. One of our chief rules we teach is, ‘Run rather than hurt.’ We are here to help people learn what they can achieve with hard work, patience and perseverance.”

Greater Flint Area SPORTS Hall of Fame

CLASS OF 2024 INDUCTION CEREMONY

Genesys Conference & Banquet Center | 12.7.2024

PHOTOGRAPHY BY UNITED PHOTO WORKS

Held annually on the rst Saturday in December, this event celebrates the unsurpassed history of Flint area athletic achievement and community service. Nearly 500 attendees enjoyed dinner, followed by an awards ceremony emceed by GFASHOF Board Member, Bill Troesken.

e Class of 2024 includes: Anthony Hamm - Flint Northern High School Distance Runner, Olympian and Big Ten Champion (MSU); Mark Weber - Pitcher, Swartz Creek High School and University of Michigan; Shawn Cronin - Flushing High School and NHL Hockey; Cathy WylieFlint Northern and Central Michigan University So ball; Deanna Nolan - Flint Northern Basketball Champion, WNBA All-Star and MVP; Lou Giampetroni - Flint Journal sports writer, National Paddleball Association Champion; Mike Gatza - Flint St. Michael High School Multi-Sport Athlete and Western Michigan University Baseball; Flint Northern State Champion Girls Track & Field Team (1981), and the 1978, 1979 & 1980 Fenton High School State Champion Girls So ball Teams.

Also receiving recognition were Male Athlete of the Year Grant Garman - Powers Catholic Baseball; Female Athlete of the Year Katelyn DeWitt - Grand Blanc So ball; and Coach of the Year Je Vanier, Kearsley Girls Bowling. is year, the GFASHOF also broke new ground by inducting an organization, honoring the Flint Olympian and CANUSA Games with a Distinguished Service Award.

e 2024 inductees bring the GFASHOF membership total to 318 individuals and 89 teams. Congratulations to all!

64th Annual Flint MOTORCYCLE CLUB

Indoor Ice Races

Dort Financial Center | 12.7.2024

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN FAY/MADCAP IMAGING

Kicked o on December 5 with the annual pre-party fundraiser at Scooter’s Bar & Grill, this exciting event supports Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flint and Genesee County.

e event featured a patriotic opening ceremony and moving memorial tributes to two special supporters of both BBBS and the Greater Flint motorcycle community. John Zwerican, a lifetime AMA member, served as a rider rep and as president of Lucky umb Motorcycle Club, and was involved with Big Brothers/Big Sisters Ice Racing Series. Robert “Bob” Bois was a Big Brother for over 34 years, sel essly giving his time, wisdom and heart to six Little Brothers who, thanks to him, grew up with someone who believed in them. Bob’s dedication didn’t stop there; he joined the Board of Directors in 2006 and worked tirelessly to strengthen the organization, always advocating for what was best for the kids and the community he loved so much. He was a longtime supporter of the Flint Motorcycle Club and the indoor ice races.

Exceeding last year’s turnout, over 2,400 attendees enjoyed the camaraderie and racing action.