MCM April 2023 Digital Edition

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DEAR READERS,

Can’t you almost smell the amazing greenness of this cover? By the time you get this issue, we could be seeing some flowers starting to pop up ... Springtime in Michigan! April is Home & Garden time – our annual special section featuring great tips from local experts starts on p.42.

Along those lines, our “My Community” pieces highlight two groups dedicated to helping residents beautify their communities and improve the quality of life for future generations. Read about the Neighborhood Engagement Hub: a “catalyst for positive neighborhood change” (p.10) and Keeping Genesee County Beautiful (p.26), supporting residents who volunteer their time to add value to their neighborhoods.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and when it comes to impacting lives, those who are dedicated to helping children, especially those who have suffered abuse, are certainly worthy of recognition. One such person is Claudnyse Holloman, President & CEO of Voices for Children Advocacy Center. She is a very busy woman and took some time to answer our “7 Questions” – check it out on p.8.

One subject we can always count on to be popular is history; Greater Flint has a million stories! Just ask Gary Fisher, President of the Genesee County Historical Society and passionate historian. The earliest reference to the GCHS is in 1915 – it was organized by key players including C. S. Mott and Walter P. Chrysler. You can become a member of the Society – read more about the group starting on p.18.

From history to the future: we have pieces on two Flint natives making names for themselves in the entertainment industry. Brandon Corder has brought events to Flint including the successful Beats x Beers festival on his path to becoming a media mogul. He has big plans for his brand and a new concept he’s working on – read more on p.22. Also pursuing a dream is Kristian Nunn (aka CheeseStixx), a self-described “goofy kid” on a journey to stand-up comedy greatness. You can check him out on p.30, and on April 20 at the Capitol Theatre in the “4/20 Jokes & Jams” show.

Rounding out the content are Health, Food, Style, Fun, our great contributed columns and much more. Springtime gets us thinking about getting outdoors, maybe pursuing a new healthy hobby, getting fit and ready to enjoy another Michigan summer – do that! And I hope you will also spend some time with My City.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR

Sherron Barden

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WRITER

Peter Hinterman

STAFF WRITER

Cheryl Dennison

FREELANCE WRITER

Mark Spezia

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Caudell

Dr. Christopher Douglas

Vera Hogan

Marc Janca, AIF

Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

ART & DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Hailey Worrell

Daria Akulova

PHOTOGRAPHY

Katy Kildee

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTING/CIRCULATION

Kim Davis

SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Terese Allen

Thanks for reading, 14165 FENTON RD., FENTON, MI 48430 810.230.1783 - MYCITYMAG.COM

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 first-class postage, but the Publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material. Copyright© 2023. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

Finding the “Wins” Whaley Children’s Center

BY CHERYL DENNISON

Whaley Children’s Center is a venerable facility that has provided many kids with a childhood they would not have otherwise had. And finding the “wins” for the kids at the Center is very important to Mindy Williams, CEO/President, and the entire Whaley staff. “The work we do here is not easy, but finding the ‘wins’ each day, regardless of how big or how small, helps us all continue to show up and keep working toward the goal!” she exclaims.

According to Williams, when working with foster children who have experienced trauma, it’s important to recognize and celebrate the small wins each and every day. “These wins may seem small, but they can make a big difference in the child’s life and can help build trust, self-confidence and a sense of security,” she states. “Trauma can have a profound impact on a child’s life and can affect their behavior, emotions and ability to form relationships.” Williams also says it can be challenging to work with children who have experienced trauma, as they may be resistant to trusting others, feel anxious or overwhelmed in new situations, or struggle with emotion regulation.

Finding small wins each day can help create a positive and supportive environment for the child. This

can include celebrating when the child completes a task, makes progress toward a goal or shows kindness to others. “By recognizing and celebrating these small wins, we can help them feel valued, supported and encouraged to keep trying,” Williams adds.

It’s important to remember that progress may be slow, the CEO/President points out, and setbacks may occur. “However, by focusing on the wins, you can help create a positive and hopeful environment for the child, which can make a big difference in their healing and growth,” she notes. “It also provides the amazing people who work at Whaley with the strength to show up each day.”

Sometimes, it’s hard to stay positive when you are surrounded by trauma, child abuse and neglect, behaviors reflective of pain, Williams shares. “A win can be for our kids, staff, community and ourselves and when a ‘win’ comes, all’s right with the world.”

Members of the dedicated Whaley staff shared examples of the many “wins” they have experienced at Whaley Children’s Center.

Mindy Williams CEO/President

“A new child came to the Center during the height of the pandemic, a time when we were regularly in lockdown. We were having a movie night, and as I entered the room I was saying ‘hi’ to each kid and giving hugs. This child put her hand up and said ‘I don’t hug.’ We high-fived and went on about our night. Over time, we would have small conversations, eat lunch together, play

playground, she would stop in my office. We ended up having a really great relationship. When the day came when she was leaving the Center, I was trying to sneak out to my car, teary-eyed, when I heard her yell my name as she was running toward me. She gave me the biggest bear hug and said, ‘I’m really going to miss you, I love you and I’m a hugger now, too.’

“During our first Roof Sit Campaign, a community member heard me on the radio talking about taking the kids shopping for school clothes and mentioning Nike shoes. After the event, the person followed up with me to shame me for spending money on high-dollar items for ‘those kids.’ It was an in-depth conversation, as I explained to her that ‘those kids’ are ‘my kids’ and deserve the same things as ‘any kids.’ I emphasized that no child wakes up one day and decides they want to be in foster care, let alone live in a residential facility. They have done nothing to deserve living in their current situation and while they are at Whaley, they are loved and treated like family – which includes having new clothes and shoes to help them feel good about themselves on the first day of school. Two weeks later, we received a check to purchase ten pairs of name-brand shoes.”

Amber Walton Residential Manager

“One moment that will forever be engraved in my memory is when we had a little girl who was in constant crisis, day in and day out, despite who she was around. One day, she and another youth were feeding off each other’s behaviors and not responding positively to anybody in the unit. She was projecting her inner trauma outwardly, being physically and verbally aggressive. I called her over to me by name and she stomped over and asked, ‘What do you want!?’ I looked in her eyes and told her all I wanted was a hug. She gave me a hug and I asked her, ‘You know what? I love you.’ She gasped, looked up at me in amazement and said, ‘Ms. Amber! I’ve never heard you say that before!’ I told her that there are a lot of things that I feel but don’t say. She hugged me tighter. After that day, that little girl responded differently to me every single time she saw me. Magic happened that day and it was all because I saw a hurt little girl who just needed someone to love her despite her behavior.”

Amy Anderson Director of Human Resources & Agency Operations

“I have developed a close relationship with one of our youth who has significant cognitive delays. She is 16, but presents herself more as a six or seven year old. While she very much enjoys one-on-one time together, she struggles significantly when that time must end. In the past, she has reacted with such behaviors as locking herself in the bathroom, screaming and crying, refusing to leave my office, throwing things, cursing at me, etc. Recently, she was brought to my office by a staff member, at a time when I knew I could not

devote much time to her. I worried that my need to be somewhere in five minutes would result in a huge struggle. I explained the situation, but told her I would really like to see her later. When the struggle started to surface, I asked her about a picture she was going to color for me. She responded, ‘Oh no, I forgot,’ so I suggested she go back to her unit with the staff and work on it, and I would come see her and get my picture after my meeting. She immediately turned to the staff and said, ‘Let’s go – I have art to make.’ I now am the proud owner of a special, hand-drawn purple unicorn masterpiece! I look at the picture on my office wall often when I need to remember to celebrate the small wins.”

Marcus

Dean Maintenance Supervisor

“A teen-aged male who was placed at Whaley for about 18 months always enjoyed spending time with the maintenance team. He often offered to assist on projects or tasks whenever he was allowed. Because we had built that bond, when his birthday arrived and I asked what he wanted to do, he said he wanted to go fishing. When the day came, he was so excited! While spending time at the lake, he said it was exactly how he wanted to spend the day and how peaceful it was to have time away from all the other kids. We finished the day with steak dinners. It was great to see him so grateful for what many of us would easily take for granted.”

Jen Koester Director of Independent Living

“Working in residential is challenging, to say the least. Our kids have been through unthinkable trauma and have lived in several places during their young lives. The patience and

understanding it takes from our staff to help these kiddos can take a toll, both mentally and physically, and it can dim our light. After four years on the job, one of our most dedicated staff members was feeling just that. Exhausted by the secondary trauma of working through the emotional turmoil of our youth, she was looking for new work when a position opened in our new Independent Living program. She interviewed and was offered the position with hopes of finding a new way to help our kids overcome the unfortunate circumstances life has handed them. A new chance to be a difference-maker re-ignited the light in her. She saw an opportunity to impact change in kids who are working toward a brighter future – to teach and model independence and be a part of changing the narrative. She dove into the position with a new fire, excited to come to work again. She challenged herself and our kids to do better, do more, to write their own stories. Every day feels like a ‘win’ to her with the spark and opportunity to impact change. She found her light again in the form of four teen-aged boys wanting and needing a chance, knowing she has the ability to help them find their happily-ever-after.”

A Catalyst for Change

The Neighborhood Engagement Hub

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Since 2014, neighborhoods in the City of Flint have relied on the help and support of the Neighborhood Engagement Hub (NEH) and this year, it will only get better. “People haven’t really known what we were or the services we offer,” says Executive Director, Tom Wyatt. “We are restructuring and have established a new mission and core values.” The NEH is also improving efficiency with the creation of six new departments and is expanding its program offerings. The headquarters has also undergone a remodel to make it safer and more appealing to neighborhood groups and individuals for use as a meeting and learning space. “We did almost all the work ourselves to save on cost,” Wyatt says laughing. “It took a bit longer than expected, but we are almost done.”

The NEH came into existence after the dissolution of the Salem Housing Corporation and inherited their buildings. It was created to provide solutions and support for city residents and groups as they worked to address challenges or opportunities in their neighborhoods.

NEH became what was lacking in the area and sorely needed – a community advocate and resource for improvement. In October 2021, Wyatt came to the organization and found an opportunity to really establish NEH and weave its mission and values into the fabric of the city. “Flint needs more organizations like NEH,” he says. “There is just so much need.”

To better clear up any confusion about what is offered by NEH, Wyatt and staff first came up with a new mission statement that better reflects their overall purpose which reads: “The Neighborhood Engagement Hub is a catalyst for positive neighborhood change by supporting neighborhoods to become safe, healthy and whole.” This can be accomplished in a myriad of ways from providing tools and opportunity for clean-up, to support in grant-writing or tax help, to providing education and problem solutions. Each NEH program will fall under the umbrella of one of three newly-adopted core values.

“We want our neighborhoods to be successful and have a higher quality of life.”

Tom Wyatt, Executive Director

1. Building Local Wealth. The NEH looks to support strategies that create economic benefits for neighborhood residents. “We have a real estate program called ‘Flint Builds’ that will help residents obtain capital for projects that can help raise home values,” says Wyatt. “We typically have anywhere from 25-50 participants in the program.”

2. Complete Neighborhoods. The NEH wants to help resident groups to create neighborhoods that include safe and convenient access to the goods/services needed in daily life. This includes employment, shopping, parks, health care, etc. “For example, we are currently working on tactical strategies in the 2nd Ward and the Brownell Holmes Neighborhood for adequate parks and shared space improvements,” adds Wyatt.

3. Strengthening Individuals & Collectives. A main goal of NEH is to support the projects and ideas of Flint residents. The NEH acts as a fiduciary for local neighborhood groups, provides grant writing assistance, acts as a planning consultant and an education hub. “I believe we are working with ten neighborhood groups now toward improvement of their communities,” says Wyatt. “We are also holding trade workshops attended by youth in grades kindergarten through high school.”

In addition to new values, the NEH is streamlining operations through the creation of six departments:

• Blight Elimination

• Economic Development

• Placemaking

• Public Policy

• Public Safety

• Training & Technical Assistance

THE NEH PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR VARIOUS FLINT NEIGHBORHOOD PROJECTS INCLUDING GARDENS AND BEAUTIFICATION.

WITH THE COMMUNITY TOOL SHED PROGRAM, FLINT RESIDENTS CAN RENT TOOLS TO HELP WITH OUTDOOR UPKEEP AND PROJECTS.

Despite all the changes, the NEH has not abandoned its core programs and will continue to support the Community Tool Shed that provides access to equipment for landscaping and blight removal free of charge for City of Flint residents. “By far, our biggest program is the Tool Shed,” states Wyatt. “Any Flint resident has access to tools for clean-ups and beautification. In any given week, we can have between 1,500 and 2,000 tool reservations. The Tool Shed opens for residents in mid-April and closes sometime in November.” Flint residents have access to lawnmowers, brush hogs, weed-whackers, rakes, shovels, wheelbarrows and more, with larger tools delivered by NEH staff. “Residents outside of Flint can still borrow the equipment for a fee,” explains Wyatt. This year, the NEH is looking to open up a smaller shed in the Mott Park area and one on the city’s south side. In addition to tools, the NEH also rents Mobile Event Tool Kits which include tables, tents, chairs, PA System, lawn games, a popcorn cart and more. “We want to support events in neighborhoods,” adds Wyatt.

In another new announcement, this year’s Porch Project will fall under the umbrella of the NEH with porch improvements for residents slated to start in May. It will continue to operate as it has in the past with the added support of the NEH.

The NEH, in its work to become a main city component, wants to live up to its promise and act as a hub for community engagement. Neighborhood and local groups are free to use the main building as a meeting space for conversations or learning workshops. “Just call us up and we can check availability on our calendar,” Wyatt explains. “Currently, our website

“The Neighborhood Engagement Hub is a catalyst for positive neighborhood change by supporting neighborhoods to become safe, healthy and whole.”

From NEH Mission Statement

is undergoing a relaunch and the plan is to display a calendar showing dates and times of our workshops and space availability.” There are plans in the works to allow residents to check the availability of tools in the shed online in the near future.

Wyatt and the NEH want it to be clear that the organization is there to help Flint residents build a better neighborhood and future. They are available to act as consultants and problem-solvers, planners and advocates. If you have a question about the feasibility of an idea, or are looking for a solution to a problem such as illegal dumping, park utilization and upkeep or non-structural blight (overgrowth), planning decisions and more, give NEH a call. If you require a fiduciary for a neighborhood group, help with grant-writing or local policy, NEH is there for you. “We want our neighborhoods to be successful and have a higher quality of life,” says Wyatt. “We are here for those who want to add value to the community.” ◆

To contact NEH, email info@nehflint.org or call 810.214.4829 and leave a message with your contact info. To contact the Tool Shed, email toolshed@nehflint.org or call 810.214.0186.

If you are in need of a tool for your project, make sure to contact the NEH and make a reservation. (Set to open for the year in mid-April.)

Skilled trade professionals (engineers, electricians, plumbers, etc.) interested in hosting workshops for area youth and adolescents are invited to contact the NEH for more information.

It’s Time to DUST ‘EM OFF!

Sunday, May 21 2023

Back to the Bricks is excited to host the 3rd Annual Dust

‘Em Off™ Car Show on Sunday, May 21. Dust ‘Em Off has become one of the area’s largest spring car shows and one of the first of the season. With well over 1,000 cars participating each year, it is steadily growing in popularity, and the car owner camaraderie is what makes it all so amazing!

Starting early at 9am, car participants will meet at the Ashley Furniture staging area, receive their printed car placards and then be directed to the Dort Financial Center, entering off Lapeer Road. Participants will not pay to attend and parking will be FREE for cruisers during the event. We have special reserved parking for car clubs, so make sure to list your club name when you register. Gates will open to the event center at 10am, and cars will be greeted by our volunteers who will hand all participants a goodie bag and thanks to the Dust ‘Em Off Brought-to-You-by Sponsor, Dort Financial Credit Union, all registered participants will receive a 2023 Dust ‘Em Off t-shirt (while size supplies last). The amazing MTA Trolley will be on hand offering complimentary rides from Ashley Furniture and the VIP Parking lot to the event center.

The show will kick off with a Blessing of the Cars and “The Star-Spangled Banner” will be sung in honor of all military

veterans. The Car Show will officially open with brief remarks and a huge “thank you” to all sponsors, partners, vendors and the many, many volunteers who help make this event happen.

Car enthusiasts will have an opportunity to pick up spare parts and unique items at the Swap Meet! All automotive-related Swap Meet friends are welcome, as well as those with vintage collections and toys, so don’t hesitate to register for exhibit space.

Only those who pre-register will be eligible to win prizes throughout the event. Registered attendees will acknowledge and agree to be covered by insurance and follow all rules of participant conduct. Although this will not be a judged event, the turnout is expected to be fantastic and a great way to start the car show season! Everyone will enjoy classic songs, vendors, food trucks and cars – it will be a fun day for all!

Register online at backtothebricks.org/ dustemoffcarshow2023 or scan the QR Code on this page.®

SCAN QR CODE TO REGISTER TODAY!

OUR STORYTELLERS

The Genesee County Historical Society

BY PETER HINTERMAN ◆ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GARY FISHER AND GCHS

When talking with Gary Fisher, the subject of history is bound to come up. It’s something he lives for and his depth of knowledge of the Flint area is immense.

“Have you heard of Clarence ‘Kelly’ Johnson?” he asks with enthusiasm. “He’s a Flint guy and he revolutionized the aviation industry. How about the Honolulu Conservatory of Music? It used to sit right on Saginaw St.” He sits forward in his chair, akin to a runner leaning forward listening to the starting pistol. “We were at one time known as the Nashville of the North,” he continues, ready to run away with it. The stories keep coming and it’s all interesting. One

look around the room is all you need to know about his passion. His walls are adorned with photos of Flint industrial titans such as Charles Stewart Mott, Walter Chrysler, Louis Chevrolet and of course, his favorite, Billy Durant.

Fisher spends nearly all of his free time immersed in history and telling its stories. He hosts a radio show, “Fish and the Flint Chronicles,” broadcast on WFNT 1470 on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, when he interviews notable Flint history-makers. Each episode, once finished, is freely donated to another organization with which he is directly involved: The Genesee County Historical Society (GCHS), for which Fisher also

acts as president. Each show is available for listening at geneseehistory.org.

“At GCHS, we see ourselves as the storytellers,” he states, “and there are so many stories. We strive to get it right, to tell the real history of Genesee County and to get the facts right. We don’t play politics and we don’t sugarcoat anything. Accuracy is important.”

The earliest reference to the Genesee County Historical Society is in 1915 and the year has become the semi-official birthdate of the society that was organized by big area players including C. S. Mott and Walter P. Chrysler. Through the years, the GCHS has worn different hats as proprietors of historic documents

“We strive to tell the real history of Genesee County and get the facts right. We don’t play politics and we don’t sugarcoat anything. Accuracy is important.”

GARY FISHER, PRESIDENT

and goods, as well as educators and preservationists. “The GCHS helped create the Sloan Museum,” adds Fisher. “We donated our holdings to them and that essentially made the museum. Here’s another little-known fact: we are responsible for maintaining the famous Flint arches. Twenty-two years or so ago, there was an idea to bring the arches back, but the emergency manager at the time turned it down. So, GCHS stepped in.” The Society raised funds to preserve its current home, the Durant-Dort Carriage Company landmark, helps support Crossroads Village, the Whaley House, the Vernors Mural (in collaboration with GFAC) and oversaw the Downtown Façade Program with funding from the Ruth Mott Foundation and Community Foundation of Greater Flint. The GCHS also provided a helping hand

in the creation of the Flushing, Fenton and Grand Blanc Historical Societies.

“We have good relationships with our neighboring societies and it is a future goal to continue to strengthen those relationships,” adds Fisher. The society also partners with other area organizations such as Back to the Bricks and has a presence at the event.

The GCHS has expanded their operations to include preservation workshops and educational lectures such as their current “House Mysteries - House Histories” series at the Flint Public Library. The GCHS is also embracing area history through events both member-exclusive and open to the public. “We are having a celebration of the Flint Coney Culture at Koegel’s in April and we are very excited for it,” Fisher exclaims. “It’s open to everyone. I am doing a three-part

series on the radio leading up to it when we finally reveal the secret recipe!” Upcoming this summer, a salute to the Corvette is planned and on December 7, they will celebrate Billy Durant’s birthday.

“It’s going to be big this year,” says Fisher. “We are going to have some surprise guests.” Visit the GCHS Facebook page for more information and daily stories.

“Joel Rash runs our social media and he does a fantastic job,” adds Fisher.

If you are interested in becoming a storyteller or just want to support the preservation and advancement of area history, becoming a member is the first step. “Members receive our e-newsletter, our bi-annual magazine, The Historian, and more,” says Fisher, “but by joining the Durant Club, you can really make a difference for us.” A standard membership fee is $30; couples memberships

are $50 and a family membership (all household members) is $100. If you would like to have a single membership and provide additional support, $100 gives you Patron status. For $250, you can be a member of the exclusive Durant Club. “Supporting the Durant Club allows us to do more and comes with perks not available to other members,” says Fisher. Area residents can also provide support through monetary donations or purchases from the Historical Society store, either online or in-person at their headquarters. The store is graciously run by Society Director, Derek Dohrman.

For those who really want to become part of the fabric of the county and its history, the GCHS has openings for volunteers and advisory board members. “We need help running our events and we are always looking for people to be engaged,” Fisher explains. “The advisory board will be the first people

called whenever we need help. That can include helping to park cars, stuffing envelopes, etc.”

Genesee County has a rich history of innovation, advancement of civil rights, diversity, and changing the world – complete with colorful characters from all nationalities and walks of life. “We have an outsized role in history. We really do,” says Fisher. “No city of this size has ever made a bigger impact. World War II would not have gone the way it had if not for us. We were a big part of the ‘arsenal of democracy’. We were the first to pass a fair housing ordinance, the first to have a Black mayor, etc. There’s so much that we have done besides the auto industry. Don’t talk to me about Ford – Billy Durant and General Motors did much more. I truly believe that.”

For Fisher, Genesee County and Flint have no equal in the nation when it comes to impact. He could talk all day and in

each statement comes something new. Help him and the others in the organization spread the knowledge and the stories. Become a member of the Genesee County Historical Society and keep the legend going. “We all have something to share,” says Fisher. “Tell the story.” ◆

If you would like to become a member of the Durant Club or a regular member, visit geneseehistory.org and click “Become A Member.” To become a volunteer or advisory board member, visit geneseehistory.org or call 810.410.4605. For event info and daily stories, visit Facebook. com/geneseehistory. The GCHS is located at the Durant-Dort Carriage Company Headquarters, 316 W. Water St., Flint.

(L-R) GCHS PRESIDENT GARY FISHER, VICE PRESIDENT RICHARD HETHERINGTON, MEMBERS JEFFE LIPE AND WILLIAM LEDBETTER

BRANDON CORDER

The Making of a Mogul

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDON CORDER

Brandon Corder will never forget about Flint. “Flint was a great place for me to grow up,” he says. “I want to give back to the place that has given me so much. I get wrapped up in it sometimes, maybe a little too much.” Since his graduation from Flint Southwestern Academy, Corder has been on a mission that has taken him to New York, to Los Angeles, and to Las Vegas where he currently resides. “I make sure to head back to Flint every couple of weeks,” he adds.

At the age of 12, Corder chose his mission: to become a media mogul – and through his Beats X Beers brand, he is getting close to reaching that goal.

“I always looked up to the music industry moguls and it is something I always knew I wanted to be,” he says.

I want to be the go-to for organizing events, to organize the best festivals and be a staple for that.

For Corder, it all started with a love of music. “It interested me growing up. When I was 12, I got a keyboard and started learning to play,” he recalls. “In high school, I started to take music production more seriously.” He continued to develop his production techniques but after graduation, he wasn’t sure of his next step. “I didn’t go to a music school. I went to a traditional college like the rest of my classmates,” he explains. “Producing music isn’t a normal profession in Flint. We were raised with the GM (General Motors) mindset – work a regular 9 to 5 job every day. Our parents never considered music as a possible career.” He bounced around to several schools and continued to upgrade his production equipment whenever he could. Lacking any formal production program options, Corder was self-taught and learned the process wherever and however he could. Eventually, he made the decision to try his luck in New York. He would eventually return to Flint; but not before he had a confidence breakthrough. “A professional musician from New Orleans used the music I produced,” he proudly remembers. “That was the first time I knew that people enjoyed what I could do.”

I want to give back to the place that has given me so much. I get wrapped up in it sometimes, maybe a little too much.

After returning home for a spell, he set off for Los Angeles to work on projects with other musicians and then got his big break when he won a national contest sponsored by Vibe Magazine. “They flew me to Atlanta where I was able

DURING THE PANDEMIC, CORDER TAPED A SERIES IN FLINT CALLED “UN:TAPPED” TO HIGHLIGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORTING LOCAL ARTISTS AND BUSINESSES.

to work on TV scores and with VH1. I got my feet wet,” he says. Corder began making valuable contacts and getting miles of experience. After returning to L.A. he started a project that would be a turning point in his journey. In 2013, he collaborated on and produced an album entitled “Beats x Beers” that featured a bevy of Flint and Michigan musicians such as Jon Connor, This Life. We Lead., and Mama Sol. “After that, I started seeing Beats x Beers as a festival concept,” says Corder. He acted on that impulse and in 2015, organized the first Beats x Beers festival in Austin, TX during the annual, multi-day SXSW Festival. Anticipation for and participation in the event has been off the charts and this summer will be

its 7th year. “There were some hiccups at that first event, not gonna lie,” Corder laughs. “I had great relationships with artists from the producing world and that wasn’t a problem. Most of the issues had to do with operations. I learned and improved upon it.” With his first festival in the bag, Corder continued to produce in L.A. and took some deejay gigs on the side. “I was working at a bar and was asked about doing a small-scale Beats x Beers event there,” he remembers. “After that, I started imagining what more I could do.”

Upcoming Flint Beats x Beers Events for 2023

▸ Beats x Beers Weekend/Beats x BBQ (May 26-28)

▸ Beer Fest (July 21)

▸ The Block Party (August date TBD)

▸ The Night Before Thanksgiving (November 22)

He started doing small events in L.A. and in 2017, decided to bring it back to his hometown. “I started imagining doing stuff in Flint – pop-up social events here and there. I decided to expand the brand to other cities.” To date, Beats x Beers has held events in more than ten major cities and each year, Corder hosts a variety of events in Flint. He works with charities such as Gift of Life Michigan and with Kettering University and the Mott Foundation. This year, Beats x Beers has six upcoming events in Flint with more possible.

▸ Toast (December date TBD)

Beats x Beers has continued to evolve and even more exciting for Corder is the launch of his non-profit organization, Beats x Books. “It’s a program that teaches kids about music and music production,” he explains. “It is designed to be a part of the regular school curriculum – music learning in a different capacity than what we are used to – teaching digital skills as well as those needed to be a producer and eventually a mogul.”

In other words, everything he lacked growing up. The program is in the early stages and has been implemented in Georgia where Corder’s business partner resides. “We are working towards proof of concept. We want to see what we can do with it before expansion,” he smiles. “I would love to bring it to Flint.”

Brandon Corder is on his way to achieving his goal of becoming a mogul but acknowledges that he has further to go. “I want to be the go-to for organizing events, to organize the best festivals and be a staple for that,” he states. “I have big things coming up and I have made big partnerships that I cannot disclose as of yet.” This year alone, he has events

planned in Birmingham (AL), Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Miami, L.A., and at the BET Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta. Wherever he takes Beats x Beers in the future, the one thing for certain is that Flint and its local arts and music scene will be included. “The music scene is good in Flint. It’s in a good space and local artists are getting recognized,” he admits. “So many remember what Flint was when we were growing up and see what it can be today. It just lacks infrastructure and resources. Most of us cannot give up on the city.” Corder certainly never will, and Beats x Beers events will continue to showcase the best of Flint’s music and arts scene well into the future.

Beats x Beers serves as an example of what could be accomplished by any Flint youth who has the passion and drive to become something great – to become a mogul. And, with more and better education and experience opportunities, that dream can be easier to realize. “I’m working on it,” says Corder with a smile.

Keep Genesee County Beautiful SUPPORTING VOLUNTEERS FOR CHANGE

BY CHERYL DENNISON

ONApril 22, we will celebrate Earth Day –an annual event created in 1970 to raise awareness of the need to protect our planet’s natural resources for future generations. In Genesee County, there is an agency that works very hard to protect this area’s natural resources.

Founded in 2004, Keep Genesee County Beautiful (KGCB) has a mission to “encourage, educate and engage

residents in creating beautiful, clean and sustainable neighborhoods, parks and open spaces throughout the City of Flint and Genesee County.” In January 2016, KGCB became an official program of the Genesee County Parks & Recreation Commission and also collaborates and has a partnership with the City of Flint.

According to Nancy Edwards, KGCB Director since 2018, the organization’s goal is to improve communities,

“OUR VOLUNTEERS ARE AUTHENTIC, CARING AND PASSIONATE PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN FLINT, BELIEVE IN THEIR NEIGHBORHOODS AND THEIR PUBLIC SPACES.”

Nancy Edwards, KGCB Director

their environment and quality of life by offering support to citizens who selflessly cultivate change in their neighborhoods. “Our vision is to have life-enriching neighborhoods, parks and open spaces in Flint and Genesee County,” she reports. “We provide support to volunteers doing clean-ups and support for public space clean-ups.”

There are several programs within KGCB including: Cultivating Our Community, Bag It, Community Clean-Ups, Illegal Dumping & Blight, Recycling, Adopt a Park, and Hazardous Household Waste Collection. In the Cultivating Our Community program, KGCB works with volunteer groups to maintain

gateway gardens to the City of Flint and other gardens in public spaces, Edwards says. In the Recycling program, the agency supplies residents with correct information about how and where to recycle items, as each community has its own recycling program.

The City of Flint does not have its own parks & rec program, so KGCB recruits volunteers to maintain Flint parks. There are 1,881 acres of park land in Flint – 70 parks. “Adopt a Park is our biggest program,” Edwards shares. “Many people don’t understand that the city is not doing the upkeep. It is neighbors, families, friends, neighborhoods – people who care about their community and want the public spaces to be beautiful and usable.

NANCY EDWARDS

We aren’t the ones out there picking up the trash; we coordinate the efforts.”

Edwards is also the Recreation Program & Grant Officer for Genesee County Parks – Michigan’s largest county park system –and has worked for Genesee County Parks since 2004. Grants and donations fund the programs, including grants from the Ruth Mott Foundation, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation (among others) and they are an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, the largest community improvement organization in the U.S. “People value the work we do and they help fund it,” Edwards says. A staff

of four people oversee the KGCB programs, as well as a social media staff member.

Edwards is a person who likes to get things done. “With me, it’s little talk and a lot of action.” One big accomplishment for KGCB was the replacement of every playground in every city park, approximately 37 of them.

Making it all possible is a group of many dedicated volunteers. “We couldn’t do what we do without volunteers,” says the Director, adding that KGCB is interested in connecting with people who have a skill or talent they would like to share with the community. “I love our volunteers. They are authentic, caring and passionate people who believe in Flint, believe in their communities and their public spaces,” Edwards notes. “Volunteers are the heart of our program. They make it work.” ◆

A Foundation of Laughter The Cheesestixx Experience

BY PETER HINTERMAN

The door opened and in walked a man wearing a face of determination. Rugged and ready, like a gunfighter he stood urging me to make the first move, daring me to try to make the first joke, to get the first laugh.

As soon as I opened my mouth to speak, it was already too late. He struck like lightning and it was all over but the laughing. It was all I could do to catch my breath. Advantage: Cheesestixx.

When Cheesestixx came, he came to play.

Raised in Flint as Kristian Nunn, Cheesestixx burst onto the comedy scene in the city and around the country in 2019. The homegrown talent has built and honed his act on stages in places such as Flint, Nashville, Phoenix, Detroit and in iconic comedy clubs such as the Funny Bone in Perrysburg, OH. His online morning news show “Hood Morning” reaches thousands of viewers from around the nation and as far away as Africa and Europe. And with all of this, he knows it’s only the beginning of what his future holds. “I want to continue to grow and establish the ‘Hood Morning’ media network,” he says, “and to continue to grow and expand my act. I have plans.”

Nunn grew up in Flint and attended Carman-Ainsworth high school where he quickly earned a reputation as the goofy kid – the class clown. Doing

comedy wasn’t something he ever considered until the school took a chance on him. “In 2010, they let me host the ‘Carman-Ainsworth Talent Show’,” Nunn remembers. “It was amazing. I even had the adults laughing. That was when it really started.” The seed was planted but it would take a few years before Nunn would consider letting it grow.

After high school graduation, Nunn attended Mott Community College like the rest of his peers but eventually realized that what he wanted to do was perform. “At first, I wanted to do music,” he explains. “I played drums in church growing up and wanted to pursue that.” He gave it a shot for a while but nothing seemed to come of it. As his music career began to ebb, Nunn instead began to cultivate and nurture the comedy seed planted in

“I like to poke fun at the normal things that happen in life that people may find hard to talk about. There are moments when we feel uncomfortable; but when you look at it from a different viewpoint, some of those moments can be really funny, too.”

Cheesestixx

high school and in 2019, he performed his first standup act on stage during a show at the Michigan Event Center. He was a hit and Cheesestixx the comedian was born. Ever a student of the genre, he researched and took in comedy from the old school masters such as Eddie Murphy, Martin Lawrence, Bernie Mac, etc. as well as new guard comedians such as Deon Cole, Karlous Miller and Joe Torry. He studied local Flint comedians

“Let’s get together, laugh and love each other for who we are.”

Cheesestixx

and learned as much as he could. Today, Cheesestixx is an encyclopedia of comedy acts and their nuances. “I’m always studying and watching what others do,” he says. “I study delivery, timing, all of it and I learn constantly about more than comedy. I learn about culture and the world. The more knowledge you have, the more stuff you have to talk about.” From there, Nunn traveled and booked shows wherever he could.

His material is mostly personal and comes from both the hard parts and best parts of life. “I like to poke fun at the normal things that happen in life that people may find hard to talk

about,” he explains, “both the happy moments and the sad moments. There are moments when we feel uncomfortable; but when you look at it from a different viewpoint, some of those moments can be really funny, too.”

Like all performers, Nunn had good days and bad but each lump he took was a learning experience. “I remember my worst show was in Nashville,” he recalls. “I just couldn’t connect with the audience. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is find a way offstage. I just wanted to get out of there.” Nunn, though, has plans to go back for a little redemption. “Oh, yeah. I want to go back there for sure,” he laughs.

Between performances, Nunn, with help from family and friends, started his “Hood Morning” news show a year ago that was posted on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and other social

media platforms. It was done for fun and Nunn was surprised when, after the first show, it was viewed by thousands. “I was surprised for sure!” he recalls. “‘Hood Morning’ is an urban news show and we released it daily in 30- or 60-minute episodes. It was raw and uncut and when it blew up, we just kept going.” The show caught the eye of Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer who reached out to Nunn.

“She’s cool. We did a skit and I worked on her recent campaign.” Currently, “Hood Morning” is on hiatus as it gets retooled for the future. “It got to be too much,” explains Nunn. “We were working on it and releasing it every day. The grind is too much. We are going bigger and better with it and have plans to release it weekly in the coming future. We are currently looking for studio space.”

HAVE FUN

WITH IT!

BY SHANNON WHITE

When the March Vogue Magazine Style Edition described spring fashion trends, the SHIFT team was oh so happy to read, “The vibe will be creative, adventurous and most of all, fun.”

The change of season from winter to spring is a most exciting time – especially sartorially. In with lighter layers and sweaters, dresses and a sense of freedom; out with heavy outerwear, knits and boots. At SHIFT, we have already begun to gravitate toward a handful of these lighter layers, dresses and spring jackets, eager to transition to a spring wardrobe.

Among these trends are a sense of practicality and an emphasis on a daily uniform. For parties, weddings and special events, we are celebrating maxilength skirts and dresses and hemlines that elongate our silhouette. Inspired by the fall fashion shows, this spring’s maxi styles bring a fresh perspective in bold prints and bright leading colors like magenta and orange. Large-scale florals and colorful geometric prints are all the rage, but we are also looking for new ways to wear or repurpose those most cherished classics: great denim or the white dress shirt, for example.

and white dress that you can wear belted, shift-style or with a scarf; and the alternate: a bold, navy and white stripe with asymmetrical stitched detailing that is a new take on an old classic.

The shirt dress is the perfect choice. Two styles new at SHIFT are the crisp

At SHIFT, we feel the best way to upgrade wardrobe staples is with accessories. There’s something especially chic about a great earring, whether it’s worn alone or with other dainty jewelry and accessory pieces. This spring season, not only will they serve as the finishing touch for any party outfit, but they also make a delightful gift to give (or receive). Ranging in size and material, a great earring is simple enough to wear every day, yet it can elevate and add a welcome sparkle to wardrobe essentials. Seed beads, colorful or metallic with bold Aztec designs, plaids or stripes are showcased in SHIFT-favorite designer Ink + Alloy – a fair trade supplier and female-owned business – as well as other designers such as female-owned line David Aubrey which marries antiques, metals and unique hardto-find beads – among many others!

Accessorize with bold handbags –for colorful or geometric print dresses, choose classic neutral rattan with colorful tassels and pom poms like those from Shebobo. Pair classic denim and staple

tops with handbags in the color of the year – magenta – or a juicy orange crossbody bag from another SHIFT favorite brand, Ahdorned, which lets you change the strap to match every outfit!

To bring an air of sophistication to an otherwise practical daily uniform, choose a pair of metallic gold, silver and crystal earrings and bracelets accented with colorful or textured leather. A monochromatic outfit such as black denim with a black tank and cropped, lightweight jacket gets upscaled with metallic earrings and a leather cuff. Or, pair white denim (several cropped flare-hem styles at SHIFT currently) with a simple white t-shirt or tank and add a pair of bold earrings and matching colorful handbag.

The possibilities are endless, but repurposing classic pieces and adding new accessories is, as they say in Vogue: creative, adventurous and most of all, FUN!

Shannon White is an architect, designer and fashionista – a small but mighty cheerleader of all things Flint! Holding both Bachelor of Science and Master of Architecture degrees from the University of Michigan, she is the founder of the FUNchitecture design firm and co-founder of she-powered Downtown Flint retail business, SHIFT.

Savory Shakshuka

BY ERIN CAUDELL

Ilove recipes that are simple, quick to make and oh, so tasty. When it comes to breakfast, I’m always looking for savory options. Shakshuka is a healthy and flavorful dish from North Africa and the Middle East that fits this category and it can be made vegan, as well. It’s a great option for any meal!

I can’t wait to experiment with heirloom tomatoes later this season, but canned tomatoes are fine for this dish. The recipe can be switched up in a bunch of different ways – try adding spinach, basil, white beans, goat cheese or feta cheese. While it’s traditionally eaten straight from the skillet, my favorite way to enjoy it is scooped onto fresh pita bread but it’s equally delicious with a sourdough or other hearty bread – a bold way to start the day!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• ¼ tsp chili powder

• 1 28oz can whole roma tomatoes

• 6 eggs (or vegan sour cream, about ⅓ cup)

• Salt & pepper

• ½ bunch cilantro, chopped

• ½ bunch parsley, chopped

Ina medium skillet, add olive oil, onion and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent. Add garlic and spices; cook a few more minutes to combine the flavors. Add the can of tomatoes with its juices, breaking down the tomatoes with a spatula or spoon. Bring mixture to a simmer. With your spoon, make spaces in the sauce for the eggs to be cracked into. Crack eggs into the spaces, cover and cook for 5-8 more minutes (depending on how you like your eggs.) For the vegan version, remove the skillet from the stove and spoon the vegan sour cream into the spaces. To serve, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and parsley. ◆

Erin Caudell is co-owner of The Local Grocer, a horticulturalist, herbalist and farmer.

BEALE ST. SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

& Garden Inspiration

It’s the time of year for renewal and visualizing positive change in many aspects of our lives, including our home environments. Whether you’ve got plans to “bring the indoors outdoors” and create an elaborate backyard entertainment area, revitalize your kitchen, get into the gardening game or turn your basement into a comfy living space, it all starts with one key element: inspiration. Our annual offering of H&G topics includes input from local experts ... We hope you enjoy it! ◆

Top 5 Outdoor Design Trends

EJ’s Garden: People Helping People

Let’s Get Grilling!

Tips from a Master Gardener

Create an Exceptional Kitchen

5 Impactful Interior Design Trends

The Color of the Year is Fun & Fearless!

Remodeling Your Basement?

The Subtle Art of the Listening Room

So, You Want to Sell Your House ...

The ABCs of Fire Safety

Garage Door Repair is Not DIY!

Top 5 Outdoor Design Trends for 2023

BY BRANDPOINT

2023 has revealed a few outdoor design trends, but two of them –mixed materials and bringing the indoors out – have maintained their previous popularity into the new year. New trends landscape designers are anticipating include more interest in sustainability, expanding the use of outdoor spaces and maximizing cutting-edge technology.

Growing from the pandemic, interest in outdoor living is now at an all-time high - and the top 2023 trends in outdoor design reflect that continued interest, according to Joe Raboine, Director of Residential Hardscapes at Belgard.

Supporting Sustainability

Caring for the environment is an increasing priority for homeowners, especially those who love the outdoors and want to ensure the environment is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

“Homeowners are asking designers to create spaces inspired by nature that also help conserve it,” said Raboine. “This can mean choosing long-lasting materials for hardscaping, finding products made from recycled materials and/or using permeable pavers to help reduce water runoff.”

Extending Indoor Spaces

Bringing the indoors out is hardly new, but as more homeowners view outdoor spaces as extensions of their home, the trend is definitely here to stay. Creating outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle and design aesthetic is not only a goal for larger homes and lots, but also for smaller lots needing more privacy. Shade structures like

pergolas, shade sails and screen panels offer seclusion as well as protection from the heat, helping outdoor spaces become more private and livable, no matter the size.

Today’s homeowners are also equipping spaces with fully operational kitchens, quality outdoor furniture, firepits and games to upgrade their outdoor living experience. The backyard is becoming the go-to spot for fun, with outdoor games including life-size chess, billiards, mini-golf and more.

Exploring Color & Texture

As outdoor spaces become extensions of the home, designers and homeowners see these spaces as more than just a place to host barbecues. Mixing natural materials including wood, stone and plants (as in living walls) with man-made materials like glass and metal creates interesting variety in texture and color that transforms any space into a more attractive environment. Textured pavers are also becoming more popular, such as those that mimic natural stone or textile finishes.

“Homeowners are becoming more adventurous with color and texture,” noted Raboine. “While shades of gray are still dominant, warmer tones like browns and tans together with greens are adding depth and dimension.”

Patterns can also be created using modular designs, textured pavers and hardscaping features to make any outdoor space both calming and energizing. Outdoor lighting provides more visual interest to your space

while extending its usable hours - with color-changing lights turning any patio into party central.

Creating Multi-purpose Spaces

Today’s backyards fulfill multiple purposes, with Zen gardens or labyrinths extending off traditional patios for additional relaxation or meditation areas. Gardening is also resurging, as homeowners are growing herbs, vegetables, fruits and flowers using raised and vertical gardens, small greenhouses or hot boxes.

“You can add built-in seating and benches to create a firepit area or mini-theater,” Raboine added. “These can be beautiful spots for resting or entertaining, plus a practical dining area for your family.”

New

trends landscape designers are anticipating include more interest in sustainability, expanding the use of outdoor spaces and maximizing cutting-edge technology.

Optimizing Technology

With mixed-use spaces becoming more complex, using augmented reality (AR) can streamline the design process for homeowners and contractors alike. AR technology allows homeowners to see small details in design down to plants, shadows and even animations. Today’s technology helps manage the growing popularity of outdoor living, with AR and mixed reality letting designers and homeowners visualize and communicate their plans.

Belgard Rooms’ newest feature uses AR so homeowners and contractors can view a templated outdoor design plan in their backyard, offering a better visual representation of how their yard can look. Homeowners select their AR plans and drop them into their outdoor

space to view, walk through and scale the templated outdoor rooms, bringing the plan to life in their own backyards. Homeowners can test various rooms, features and styles, helping them bring their vision to life. Currently, 32 AR Rooms can be viewed on any device.

“AR Rooms help turn dreams into reality through a seamless design process,” explained Raboine. “Homeowners and landscape professionals have adopted the technology quickly, helping homeowners envision different outdoor living plans – and simplifying the design process for any project.” ◆

Ready to reimagine your outdoor space? Visit Rooms.Belgard.com/ar-rooms

EJ’s Garden

Feeding People, Teaching Horticulture

BY CHERYL DENNISON ◆ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ROY FIELDS

Roy Fields, Founder of EJ’s Garden, wanted to make sure that residents in his North Flint neighborhood never went hungry. In 2006, a grant-funded high tunnel hoop house (greenhouse) was built on a vacant corner lot on Brownell Blvd.

An abandoned house on the property was razed in 2009 to create space for an outdoor garden, and a grant was obtained from the Ruth Mott Foundation to drill a well.

“Since 2014, we have distributed fresh food throughout the community,” Fields shares. “There is a great need here.”

EJ’s Garden is named after Fields’ grandson Eric Price, Jr. who has been his grandfather’s sidekick for many years. “Ever since he was little, he would work with me

LAST SUMMER, THE GARDEN WAS HIGHLIGHTED ON EDIBLE FLINT’S FOOD GARDEN TOUR. ERIC “EJ” PRICE IS PICTURED HERE WITH HIS SISTER, SKYLAR.

planting and rototilling,” Fields reports. “My legs would quit and he would help me. He knows which peppers are hot and he had to try them all!” Now 14 years old and a student at Flushing Middle School, Eric continues to work the garden.

“The first year, the tomato plants grown in the hoop house were awesome,” Fields recalls, “and the greens grown outside were so big, we called them elephant ears!” Residents of the 2nd Ward and other volunteers water and fertilize the crops, pull weeds, harvest veggies, cut the grass and perform general upkeep.

The registered name of the community garden organization is Brownell Blvd. Coalition and with assistance from the Sarvis Park Neighborhood Association, Edible Flint, WOW Outreach and various churches and foundations, EJ’s Garden has continued to thrive. According to Fields, the partnership with Edible Flint has allowed the garden to expand, and the collaboration between Brownell Blvd. Coalition and the Sarvis Park Neighborhood Association has been ongoing for several years. The Flint City Church provides volunteers, bus service and funding for other operational necessities.

EJ’s Garden not only produces food for the body, it has a goal of also feeding young minds. Kids are invited to attend a morning “Storytime in the Garden” during summer months. “This has become a very important

“It’s a source of community pride – people helping people.”

Roy Fields, Founder

part of my life,” Fields shares, adding that he had reading challenges while growing up.”I get joy from watching kids come to the free reading program. People from all over volunteer to read. It is amazing.” Dr. Ladel Lewis, Sarvis Park Neighborhood Association Founder and 2nd Ward Council Member, is a popular Storytime reader.

This spring, EJ’s Garden will be operating on a higher level, the founder reports. Plans include the purchase of a garden tractor, adding another garden across the street and bringing a reverse osmosis water system to the well to provide safe drinking water to the community. They also plan to increase the quantity of vegetables they distribute to area residents.

“This is what EJ’s Garden is all about,” Fields says. “It’s a source of community pride – people helping people.” ◆

Let’s Get Grillin’!

BY BOB KUERBITZ, OWNER – GREAT LAKES GRILLS, LLC

Grilling season is upon us! While most grilling enthusiasts have their “go-to” methods and recipes, there are so many ways to change things up a bit. Here are a few ideas for adding some delicious variety to your grilling game.

Use Indirect Heat

Grilling with indirect heat is an effective way to slowly cook foods up to temperature without burning the outside. This is my preferred method for grilling fish, chicken wings, smoked chicken thighs and pork tenderloin, just to name a few. It’s also a great way to cook brats or hotdogs without charring the outside skin, while also keeping all the juices in the meat.

Use Wood Chips & Chunks

If you’re going to grill, you might as well use some wood chips or chunks to

infuse your food with great flavor through smoke. Experiment with different types of wood for different meat varieties. I like to smoke pecan wood with chicken wings and thighs, fruitwoods like apple and cherry with baby back ribs, and hickory or mesquite with cuts of beef.

Use Hardwood Lump Charcoal

If you’re a charcoal griller and still using basic charcoal briquets, give hardwood lump charcoal a try. Hardwood lump charcoal –what is created when wood is burned down to an impurity-free coal. It burns hotter,

produces less ash and reduces flare-ups compared to briquets.

Try Different Rubs & Sauces

An easy way to give some of your favorite foods a different flavor profile is to use different rubs and sauces.

Try them on ribs, chicken, pork, beef and seafood. There is practically no end to the options and combinations of seasonings you can use to create unique flavors.

The idea here is to try new things this grilling season! Everyone loves burgers and dogs on the grill, but there’s so much more to explore and enjoy. Have fun, be safe and let’s get grillin’!

Garden Mastery

TIPS FROM Mary Yelland, MASTER GARDENER

COMPILED BY SHERRON BARDEN ◆ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARY YELLAND

Aska few gardeners what they like most about gardening and you’ll probably get a variety of answers. Some like working in the soil, the feel and smell of it. Some garden to enjoy the mood-boosting fresh air and sunshine. It’s a fun and relaxing way to get in touch with nature, and also has plenty of health benefits. Good for both the body and mind, gardening can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s very rewarding to keep plants healthy and alive. Plus, you get to marvel at the beautiful flowers and eat the delicious fruits, veggies and herbs that you grow. No wonder 55% of American households engage in gardening activities!

Before you grab your tools and get out in the dirt, we offer a few tips from

Master Gardener, Mary Yelland who graciously agreed to a little Q&A.

MCM: How long have you enjoyed gardening?

MY: Gardening is something we did as a family when I was growing up, though I can’t say I really enjoyed pulling weeds and picking peas as a kid. As an adult, I’ve found weeding can be a relaxing and satisfying pastime and growing a vegetable garden brings satisfaction in helping to feed my large family.

MCM: How did you achieve Master Gardener status?

MY: I became an Extension Master Gardener in 2016 after taking the Master Gardener class through Michigan

State University Extension in Genesee County. I attended weekly classes from January through April and then completed 40 hours of volunteer time required for certification. I spent most of my volunteer hours at Crossroads Village where I learned hands-on what to do with the information I learned in class. Through the process, I also met several others interested in gardening, providing a network of people who encourage each other and provide help with gardening problems. These ongoing connections through fellow gardeners at Crossroads Village and the Master Gardener Association of Genesee County Michigan (MGAGCM) provide continuing education and inspiration in gardening endeavors.

MCM: What makes a successful gardener?

MY: A successful gardener is one who attempts to grow something and learns from it for the next time, someone who

MyHOME&GARDEN

doesn’t give up and quit. This mostly involves paying attention – gardening is not really difficult, but it does require attention. For example, if you just water frequently, plants can drown; you need to look to see if the soil is actually dry. It need not take a lot of time, but if you’ve been paying attention, you will notice changes in the garden and can learn to improve the next time.

MCM: What are the best ways to improve soil?

MY: Soil, of course, is where gardening starts. When it comes to soil, there is a bit of a mantra among Extension Master Gardeners: “Get a soil test and add compost.” These are the two most important and basic steps to improve soil. If you just randomly add things to your soil, you are often wasting money and may actually be doing more harm than good. Getting a soil test provides you with

information needed to provide the right improvements to the soil. Adding compost is always a good idea – it provides a multitude of benefits; it improves water usage for both sandy and clay soils, it attracts beneficial microorganisms, and can help soil hold on to important plant nutrients. These two things alone can make a big difference in any garden.

MCM: What’s the best way to prevent weeds?

MY: The best way to handle weeds is to stop them before they take over. With small weeds, hand cultivating is an easy way to prevent them from getting bigger. I love my scuffle hoe (aka stirrup, hoop, or hula hoe) as it makes quick and easy work of sweeping away small weeds. Using mulch around plants (but not touching them) will shade soil and help stop weed seeds from germinating, as well as suppressing some that have started to grow. There will sometimes be those weeds that just need to be pulled. While there are useful commercial weed killers on the market, I personally rarely use them. I would also recommend staying away from the homemade weed killer recipes often found online. Even though

they may seem safer and cheaper since they are made from familiar household products, in the long run they can be ineffective or even harmful to the garden and more expensive than commercial weed killers.

MCM: What is your favorite tip?

MY: Don’t give up! When you plant plants, they will die, they will get disease, they will get eaten by critters and insects. Plant some more, learn about disease resistant varieties, maybe build a fence. The master gardener program through MSU Extension is all about education. There are a multitude of resources on the Gardening in Michigan website to help with “next time.” Try new plants, try new varieties, grow the flowers you like to look at and the vegetables you like to eat. Keep planting, keep growing, keep trying. I grow tomatoes every year but have yet to grow a beautiful tomato plant … maybe this year. ◆

MARY YELLAND

Create an EXCEPTIONAL KITCHEN

BY MICHELLE ROBINS, OWNER-DESIGNER LINDEN KITCHEN & BATH

Most designers would agree: the all-white kitchen will probably never go out of style. We have been designing white-over-oak cabinets for the last 30 years!

There are many new kitchen trends for 2023 that will enhance the beauty of the all-white kitchen. Color is the trend that is really coming into play – if not completely colorful, then at least a “pop” of color is a trending theme and an easy décor upgrade. Mid-Century Modern is still a classic style. Decorative range hoods and islands are still very popular and a great way to really make a statement with a different material, texture or color. Rift-cut oak with lighter, almost natural tones is another big look. It is a Scandinavian influence that people find very appealing. And the beauty of Showplace™ Cabinetry is that besides the quality, there are many options in wood species, door styles and finishes, whether it is paint or stain.

We are seeing white appliances making a comeback with a classic or modern, streamlined look. Finding a less prominent location in the kitchen for the microwave oven, such as a microwave drawer, is a must.

The kitchen is often the focal point and “hub” of the home, and should compliment the overall style.

Another popular way to make a statement in the kitchen is to choose hardware and faucets in a two-tone finish. Mixing gloss black with a matte gunmetal or a champagne bronze is an interesting look.

When it comes to countertops, quartz is the biggest seller as it is a basically maintenance-free surface

– extremely durable and non-porous. Along with quartz countertops, fullheight backsplashes in the same material can make a huge impact along with being extremely durable. If not done completely in quartz, a quartz tile accent can be a fun way to add texture and visual interest to the design.

And finally, wallpaper is making a comeback to offer textural interest to the overall design. It’s an easy way to add that accent of color to an all-white kitchen and just what your project may need to make the update complete.

The kitchen is often the focal point and “hub” of the home. There are many exciting kitchen styles to choose from; when re-creating the space, making sure it compliments the overall style of the home is important. Consulting a professional designer can help you create something functional, affordable and exceptional!

5 Impactful Home Design Trends for 2023

BY BRANDPOINT

Think your space is ready for a new look but don’t know where to start? A Delta Faucet product designer shares her timeless kitchen and bathroom trends she’s seeing in real customers’ homes for a fresh look in 2023 that will last for years to come.

“There are so many beautiful products on the market; homeowners should seek products that not only are beautiful, but also impactful,” says Maris Park Borris, Delta Faucet Industrial Designer. “Design should

evoke emotion. Homeowners want to create new experiences in their spaces and are encouraged to do so now more than ever.”

The top five home design trends for 2023 are leaning into the innovative, personal, unique and lasting. The country is no longer stuck at home, but we still see home as an extension of ourselves that represents who we are as people. To create your own new experiences in the home, here are five trend predictions for 2023 to start incorporating in your own space.

1Embrace natural tones and materials.

Natural and organic materials bring an airiness to a room while also being timeless and long-lasting. Rather than bold, bright colors, natural warm tones will be popping up more and more in the kitchen and bathroom.

“Natural materials are acting as showcase materials - from concrete to stones, woods, porcelain, tile and crystal,” says Park Borris. “We are finding a lot of these natural materials are timeless in influencing mood and design.”

2

Create beautiful, gallery-like spaces.

You love your things, so why not display them? 2023 will ring in luxe, gallery-like spaces. Think of a standalone tub as a statement piece or open shelving in a kitchen as a way to display your favorite items that normally would be hidden away.

“And allow luxury to go beyond aesthetics and create comfort for all your senses,” says Park Borris. “In 2023, free yourself to make rooms experiential, not just functional.”

3 Make a statement (wall)

A statement wall can completely shift the design of a room quite easily. A floral wall in the bathroom or a tropical print behind the sink can bring life and personality to the space.

“Anything with patterns, either vintage-looking or modern, can shift design intent and complete a room,” says Park Borris. “I see a lot of mural wallpapers too - they can be quite transformative and can really seal a design.”

4 Make your space work harder.

You may not be in a position to upgrade to a larger space, but 2023 trends will bring more options to utilize what you have. Don’t see a kitchen as just a kitchen; maybe adding a

small desk in an unused corner makes it a work-from-home kitchen.

“A lot of people are not looking for more space, per se, but looking for better-organized spaces that work harder with split functionality,” says Park Borris. “We’ve expected so much of our homes recently and that thought is not going away.”

5

Be authentic and break the rules.

It’s your space – it should be a reflection of you. Throw design rules out the window and create a truly authentic space you love.

“I believe people will continue to make their spaces their own,” says Park Borris. “There aren’t as many rules of design as there used to be. I believe the things that evoke personal emotion will always be in style and our spaces will evolve as our styles do.”

2023 will bring in many trends in home design. Whether it’s natural materials or a pop of pattern with a statement wall, authenticity will be key. ◆

“I believe the things that evoke personal emotion will always be in style and our spaces will evolve as our styles do.”

Maris Park Borris

BY SHERRON BARDEN

PANTONE ® Color of the Year VIVA MAGENTA Fun & Fearless!

“It is a new, animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint.”

PANTONE COLOR INSTITUTE

ThePANTONE® Color Institute™ describes their choice for 2023 Color of the Year as “Vibrating with vim and vigor, rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength.”

The Color of the Year announcement is a prediction of the design trends for the new year. The big announcement was made on December 1 in Miami, FL at Art Basel, North America’s most comprehensive international contemporary art fair.

Laurie Pressman, VP Pantone Color Institute offered a window into “the Magentaverse,” describing the color as “brave and fearless, a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.”

Leatrice Eiseman, PCI Executive Director, expressed her excitement for the 2023 choice. “This year’s Color of the Year is powerful and empowering. It is a new, animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying and boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement.

PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all.

“In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real. Viva Magenta descends from the red family, and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family, as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known.”

The Pantone Color Institute is a consulting service within Pantone that forecasts global color trends and advises companies on color in brand identity and product development, for the application and integration of color as a strategic asset. The PCI provides customized color standards, brand identity and product color consulting, as well as trend forecasting inclusive of Pantone Color of the Year, Fashion Runway Color Trend Reports, color psychology and more.

You can bring a splash of this energy into your home with everything from simple accessories to high-end decorative pieces. Experts offer tips for decorating with this vivacious color …

DESIGNERS SAY

To create a color combo with maximum impact, start with a base of neutrals and a light palette. Cream, khaki and sand upholstery, rugs and walls will make Viva Magenta feel the warmest and create a cozy space. You can also have fun and pair it with a more radical, statement-making hue that will balance out magenta’s undertones, such as teal, turquoise or other shades of blue.

ON THE WALL

Bursts of color from blankets and throw pillows are great, but why not be brave and brush it right on the walls? Pantone’s experts recommend using this rich shade to add depth in a hallway or entryway – areas where you don’t spend too much time, so you can enjoy the color without feeling overwhelmed.

COMBINATIONS

Viva Magenta can create a playful and uplifting atmosphere in any space. Pairing it with neutral shades of whites and grays achieves beautiful contrast and balance. With light, woody tones it infuses a room with an outdoorsy, organic quality. When used generously and combined with other bright pops of color, it injects personality while offering a cozy, inviting vibe. As the hues of red and green are on the opposite ends of the color wheel and tend to contrast each other, adding green plants creates contrast while imparting elegance.

ACCESSORIZE

This striking hue can add drama and warmth to an environment through vases, throws, pillows,

artwork, candles and sculptural décor pieces. Using it as an accent color with small accessories makes it easy to swap for a seasonal look.

STATEMENT PIECES

Make any space stand out by decorating with accent furniture in this energetic and attention-grabbing color. In both traditional and contemporary spaces, a sofa, accent chair, ottoman and cocktail table create a bold statement, drawing the immediate attention of the eye. Its richness not only brings in an opulent feel but also goes with materials like wood and metal.

It’s the perfect time of year to change things up and go bold! Viva Magenta can infuse a fresh, dynamic and joyous vibe into any space ... be fearless and have fun! ◆

Remodelingyour basement?

Here is everything you need to know to see a high return on investment.

BY BRANDPOINT

BRYAN BAEUMLER, HGTV PERSONALITY & PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTOR

So,you are remodeling your basement – smart move! According to Redfin’s real estate experts, a basement renovation is one of the top ten ways to maximize your usable square footage and in turn, increase your home’s value.

Not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered. I have spent almost 20 years renovating basements from the ground up on DIY and home improvement television shows. Here are three triedand-true basement finishing projects that will help you create a purposeful, comfortable living space that your family can enjoy now and that will appeal to potential homebuyers down the road.

Create a solid foundation with a high-quality basement subfloor.

First, a basement renovation is a major investment into your home, so protect your investment by installing a quality subfloor. A subfloor from a trusted brand like DRICORE provides a barrier between the

A basement renovation is one of the Top 10 ways to maximize usable square footage and in turn, increase your home’s value.

concrete floor and your finished floors. This barrier not only protects against the effects of moisture, like mold and mildew, but it also helps the basement floor stay warmer underneath your feet and cushions your steps. A DIY-friendly option, DRICORE® Subfloor has an intuitive tongue and groove design that makes installation quick and easy. You can finish a 500-square-foot basement in just half a day.

Upgrade basement windows to create a more comfortable living space.

If you have windows in your basement, no matter how large or how small – lucky you! They allow natural light to filter into an otherwise dark space, making the basement appear brighter and more inviting. But sometimes, a home’s original windows are ridden with gaps and cracks around the glass and frame, causing the room to feel cold and damp in the winter and uncomfortably hot in the summer. Fix this problem and create a comfortable basement living space by installing new, energy-efficient windows. New windows not only help regulate room temperature, but they also offer improved security, reduce outside noise and give the space an updated, finished appearance.

Brighten up the room with strategic lighting and neutral paint colors.

If you do not have basement windows that draw in natural light, there are still plenty of easy DIY projects that will help create

a bright, inviting living space – whether for your benefit or to appeal to a future homebuyer. Illuminate your finished basement with all-over lighting, which is typically best achieved through recessed ceiling lights or budget-friendly track lighting. To create ambience, go with Nordic-inspired floor lamps or wall sconces that highlight the family photos hung on the wall. Complete your basement renovation by painting the walls in a neutral paint color, like a soft off-white that reflects and absorbs the light in the room. To bring additional warmth into the finished space, go with an on-trend “greige” color (a mix of gray and beige) on the basement walls or ceiling.

What’s next?

Like any home improvement project, remodeling your basement can feel like a daunting task. But with the right foundation and a few DIY projects in your arsenal, you can easily transform your basement into a functional, comfortable living space. Not only will a finished basement optimize your home’s available square footage and in turn increase its value, but it could also make you think twice about selling ... it will be hard to say goodbye to the newly remodeled living space! ◆

Comfort & Sound

THE SUBTLE ART OF THE LISTENING ROOM

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Theneedle drops and the voice rings out. “Dearly Beloved,” it says and you close your eyes as it hits you in perfect clarity, rolling like honey from the speakers. “We are gathered here today to get through this thing called life. Electric word, life – it means forever and that’s a mighty long time but I’m here to tell you there’s something else …” You continue to listen as you sink back into your most comfortable chair sitting alone in the proverbial acoustic sweet spot and when the beat hits, you let it all go – the stress, the anger, the frustration, and you lose yourself in the music. For a little while, there is nothing else.

In the last couple of years, vinyl and album listening has become increasingly popular. Not satisfied with single song downloads or random streaming services, today’s audiophiles are longing for a more complete music experience. They

want the full album phenomenon and the best place to enjoy it is in your own designated “listening room.”

Whether you dream of sitting down with your beverage of choice and taking in the classics such as Prince’s “Purple Rain,” Boston’s genius self-titled debut, or the blues staple “Kind of Blue” by Miles Davis, or perhaps relax with the poetry of Iron & Wine’s “Beast Epic’’ and Josh Ritter’s “So Runs the World Away” or something a little more socially conscious like “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye, the best place to make it happen is in your very own music wonderland. Your listening room can be a grandiose cathedral of sound or a simple out-of-the-way nook. The important point is the experience and a wellthought-out listening space can help reset your mood after a hard day, quell your anxiety about an upcoming ordeal,

or simply quash the negativity that is drowning the world day in and day out. If you have enough space, in your private listening room you can truly “dance like nobody’s watching.”

Setting up a listening room may seem simple at first; you have a record player and a set of speakers, you have a chair, so what more is there? Well, these are important components certainly but the quality of your sound system means very little if your room setup is found wanting. If you want to catch every little intricate part of “Foreplay / Longtime” by Boston, you’re going to have to do

some thinking. Here are some tips and tricks to make sure you’re getting the most out of your albums.

1. PICK THE RIGHT ROOM. If possible, it would be best to avoid a room with a low ceiling, closet nook, fireplace, or large windows. One of the goals is to avoid gratuitous sound reflection and odd angles. For this reason, wooden floors should also be avoided. For most of us though, space is at a premium so it may be impossible to avoid the aforementioned pitfalls; but each can be easily mitigated by adding soft

materials and décor elements to aid in sound absorption. For example, adding a plush rug and window coverings or even carpet will help in sound control. For ceilings, walls and corners, installing soundproofing material can also make a difference. (Bookshelves filled with books on your walls can also be a boon for sound absorption.)

2. ROOM SIZE MATTERS. You don’t want huge, powerful speakers in a small room and you don’t want tiny speakers in a large room. Tailor your speaker choice to your room size and adjust

them accordingly. For a large room, speakers should be toed slightly toward the listener and toed slightly outward in a small space.

3. THE EQUILATERAL

TRIANGLE

IS KING. When determining speaker placement, always consider where the listener will be seated. The goal is for sound from each speaker to reach the listener at the same time. To do this, an equilateral triangle should be created in which the listener’s ears are the same distance from each speaker as the speakers are to each other. This can be harder to accomplish in smaller areas and may require some adjusting. In most cases, getting it “close enough” will work; still, every person is different so don’t be afraid to experiment with seating and speaker placement to find the best personal result. Get close to a perfect equilateral triangle and build upon that placement. Places to avoid for seating are corners and other “build-up” areas such as near the far wall opposite the speakers. (If you really want to get into it, mathematical equations do exist that

will tell you perfect placement of seating and soundproofing materials, but not everyone’s a sound engineer.)

4.

INVEST IN SOLID EQUIPMENT.

A good listening room doesn’t need the best of the best; if set up correctly, adequate equipment can do the job. When choosing a vinyl record player, avoid any all-in-one models with non-adjustable tonearms – these can sometimes damage your vinyl. (Not to mention that the speakers associated with them are generally subpar.) Instead, spring for a more professional model and couple it with an adequate amplifier. As far as speakers go, as mentioned earlier, make sure to pay attention to the size of the room and hunt for the correct size and output. Think about including technology such as Bluetooth in your amplifier/player selection to accommodate those times when headphones are needed.

5. HAVE FUN WITH THE DÉCOR. Well, you’re all set up and positioned and now comes the fun part – making it totally your own! Think about finding

A WELL-THOUGHTOUT LISTENING ROOM CAN ACT AS A TRANSPORTER, TAKING YOU TO A WORLD FILLED WITH YOUR FAVORITE TUNES.

ways to display (face-out) your favorite vinyl or highlight what’s playing on the turntable. Adding bookcases and books can create an environment of complexity and sophistication (as well as help with sound absorption). Think about your seat. Will you go retro? Will it be a single chair or a comfy couch for a multi-listener experience (or napping)? Throw some pop art on the walls, music posters, or display your own wide variety of instruments. Make sure to include record storage, of course.

A well-thought-out listening room can act as a transporter, taking you to a world filled with your favorite tunes. It can put you firmly in the realm of the music where no nuance is missed and everything is appreciated. Don’t undertake its construction hastily. With a scientific eye and a hint of style, you’ll be able to hear Ringo’s accidental shoe squeak recorded in “A Day in the Life.”

Did you catch it?

So, you want to sell your house …

BY JENNIFER LASCO, REAL ESTATE BROKER, MBA, RENE, CBR

Idon’t think there is anyone who would disagree that the real estate market over the last few years has been anything but interesting. We watched home prices creep up, bidding wars push offers way above listed prices, houses selling after only hours on the market, and heavy appraisal guarantees covered by buyers because even the appraisers couldn’t provide values high enough to meet their offer prices.

Although the market was very strong for sellers, problems occurred when their properties were under contract and they turned to buy. The inventory shortage, even considering the inflated sales prices, prevented many sellers from listing their properties because they couldn’t find a property they wanted to buy.

As 2023 begins to roll into warmer weather, the trends that will dictate the direction of our market for the remainder of the year are emerging.

Highline Housing Market Trends of 2023:

• Median home prices year-over-year are down 1% and are predicted to decline to 4% lower than 2022 pricing.

• Inventory levels on the market by February 2023 have increased 65.5% nationally yearover-year from this time in 2022.

• Inflation has continued to dampen the budgets of buyers along with mortgage rates creeping up toward 7%.

What exactly does all of this have to do with you, my interested sellers? When you list a home in this market, you really need to price properly. If you hit the ground running with a strong selling price that is realistic and in line with what the market will support, you will still have an opportunity to take advantage of the strong pricing that we have seen over the past few years. There are still many buyers who have been looking for awhile and have not been able to find a property that suits their needs. It is always important to pay attention to the comparable properties and try not to let greed cloud your judgment. When you price yourself out of the market, your home will sit. When a home sits on the market, buyers begin to question what is wrong with it and statistics have shown, time and time again, that this strategy leads to lower sale pricing in the long run. When choosing a Realtor to help set your pricing strategy and sell your home, make sure that they are the person you will be working with throughout the deal. The agent you sign with should be the one to answer all of your questions along the way so that nothing slips through the cracks. With

all of the challenges the current market is presenting us with, experience is what you need to succeed. The creativity and finesse that an experienced agent can bring to your deal will not only eliminate bottlenecks throughout the process, but will also net more cash in your pocket.

When you are choosing an agent, ask a bit about their skill set. What makes them stand out and how will that get you more money for your home? Ask about their plan to market your listing – simply popping it up onto the MLS isn’t enough by today’s standards. Before you sign, take a look at some of their past listings; make sure that no detail was overlooked. To get the highest dollar for your home, you want to attract the largest audience to provide yourself with the greatest opportunity.

Now that you’re ready to get your house on the market, make sure you

have crossed your t’s and dotted your i’s. Talk to your agent about staging your home and about any touch-ups that can help the property shine. Create space, clear the rooms of personal knickknacks, and make sure it is well-lit and clean as a whistle. Buyers fall in love with your home first through the photos posted online. A great agent will take professional photos – if your agent pulls out an iPhone to save money on the listing, you’re in the wrong hands.

Best of luck on the market! ◆

With all of the challenges the current market is presenting us with, experience is what you need to succeed.

The ABCs of Fire Safety

BY BRANDPOINT

Youhave smoke alarms in your home, you check them regularly and you practice your emergency escape plan with your family – but are you overlooking an essential component of home fire safety as you check your spring to-do list? Having fire extinguishers can give you peace of mind and help ensure your home and family are prepared in the event of a fire.

“We all lead busy lives, but it’s essential that people understand how to protect themselves from the dangers of fire,” explained actress and advocate Eva Longoria, who has teamed

up with First Alert by Resideo as a brand ambassador to encourage families to install proper protection, discuss whole home safety and develop their own fire safety plans.

Home fires can occur anywhere, but according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries. Having fire extinguishers in the kitchen is an important first line of defense. Knowing where else to place them and how to use them can make the difference between minor damage and a potential tragedy.

First Alert and Longoria offer these tips you can keep in mind both in and out of the kitchen as you tackle your spring to-do list:

Learn your ABCs.

Fire extinguishers have specific ratings that indicate what kind of fire(s) they are designed to extinguish. Extinguishers with a Class A rating can put out fires caused by wood, paper, fabric and other common materials, while Class B rated extinguishers are intended for fires fueled by flammable liquids like cooking oils or gasoline. Class C rated extinguishers are meant for fires caused by electrical equipment, such as frayed cords. For trusted reliable protection, it’s recommended to choose a multi-purpose, or ABC rated, extinguisher, such as the First Alert Rechargeable Home Fire Extinguisher, which is ideal for common household fires and can easily be placed in the kitchen and around the home.

Once your home is equipped, it’s important to know how to use a fire extinguisher so you can act quickly should a fire start.

Equip your home.

Whether you are preparing gourmet meals or simple dishes, it is crucial to have a fire extinguishing device in the kitchen. Experts recommend placing fire extinguishers in readily accessible locations in the kitchen and garage, and on every level of the home. An easy spring DIY project is to place extinguishers where each adult member of the household can easily reach them, like under a kitchen sink or mounted to a wall, and ensure members of the household know these locations. Remember that most home fires and fire casualties result from accidents involving cooking, heating, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, and smoking, according to the NFPA.

Know how to use it.

Once your home is equipped, it’s important to know how to use a fire extinguisher so you can act quickly should a fire start.

Every First Alert fire extinguisher

includes instructions on proper usage – but when you need to act quickly, a simple way to remember is with the acronym PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

• Aim low. Point the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

• Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Assess the fire.

In the event of a fire, it’s important to assess the situation before grabbing your fire-extinguishing device. Fire extinguishers should only be used when a fire is contained. If the fire is small enough for you to manage, use the PASS technique to put the fire out. However, if smoke fills the room or

the fire is quickly spreading, exit your home immediately and call 911.

Inspect extinguishers regularly.

When doing routine home checks this spring, make a point to also check that your fire extinguishers are in good condition. Be sure they are not blocked by anything that could impact your access, and ensure the devices are not damaged, dented or rusted. Additionally, check your extinguisher’s pressure gauge. If the pointer is in the green zone, your extinguisher is properly pressurized and ready for use. If the pointer is in the red zone, your fire extinguisher should be serviced or replaced. Remember, a fire extinguisher that has been discharged should never be stored without proper recharging by a certified professional.

To learn more about fire safety, visit FirstAlert.com. ◆

Garage Door Safety Month: Staying Safe at Home

BY BRANDPOINT

Did you know that your garage door is typically the biggest moving object in your home? Inspecting your garage door to identify any potential issues can go a long way toward ensuring a safe environment for your family. Garage doors are subject to normal wear and tear, and regular maintenance is important to ensure it is operating properly and safely. You could have a hazard on your hands, but the good news is you can make a difference by learning more about how your door works, and what to look for.

That’s why the International Door Association (IDA) promotes awareness in May as Garage Door Safety Month. Homeowners should learn how to perform basic inspections to identify possible safety issues, and when it’s time to call in a professional garage door service technician. The Garage Door Safety Month “Look, Listen, Learn and Remember” program is designed to do just that.

Garage door repair is not a DIY project and can be dangerous, so make sure to call a professional.

Homeowners looking to ensure a safe garage door should take the following steps:

Look: Give your garage door a visual inspection by looking at the door, the springs, rollers and the door cables to see if you can find any obvious signs of damage or even normal wear and tear.

Listen: A noisy garage door can mean there is a problem, especially if you haven’t heard anything before. Listen to your door while it’s in operation, without your vehicle running, to hear any scraping or grinding sounds.

Learn: Garage door and opener manufacturers provide specific safety instructions and maintenance requirements.

Learning about your particular door and opener is an important part of safety planning. Learning about simple steps you can take to avoid injury is also important. For example, keep your fingers away from moving parts, especially from in between door sections that can pinch fingers. Keeping garage door remote controls out of the reach of children is another way to keep them safe and keeping the remotes out of sight can also help deter theft. Most importantly, do not try to repair or service your own door. This is not a DIY project and can be dangerous, so make sure to call a professional.

Remember: If anything seems out of place, remember to call in a trained service professional. Garage door technicians are trained to safely work on garage doors and openers.

Garage Door Safety Month is a reminder to homeowners to take a few minutes to look, listen, learn and remember. If anything needs attention, always contact a trained professional garage door service company. For information on how to find a qualified garage door professional near you visit doors.org/garage-door-care/ find-a-qualified-professional. ◆

QUICK TIPS TO HOOK A KID ON FISHING

BY BRANDPOINT

This fishing season, the folks at Rapala fishing lures encourage adults to take a kid fishing. Why? Because kids represent the future of fishing. According to the American Sportfishing Association, kids who are introduced to fishing at an early age by a trusted adult are more likely to fish as an adult. Here are 15 quick tips from the folks at Rapala on how you can introduce a kid to fishing this year:

1 Get them on good bites.

The number one thing you can do to hook a kid on fishing, says legendary angler Al Lindner, is to get lots of bites for your child. "Taking kids fishing between the ages of eight and 12 years old is a critical time. Try to get them on good bites. Their attention span is short – you will quickly know if fishing will be a part of their life in the future. They are either going to like it or not. But they have to get bites. I can't say how important that is. You gotta get 'em on a bite!"

2 Start them on bluegills and sunnies.

The easiest bites tend to be panfish – bluegills, sunfish and bream. As your kids watch you catch bass, walleye and other gamefish, they'll want new challenges. Keep panfish pliers handy to remove hooks from small ones.

As the weather warms, the desire to go fishing is undeniable. And if you love fishing, there's only one thing more enjoyable than catching a big fish: watching a kid catch a fish.

3 A small fish can be a monster fish!

To a child, a small sunny can be a trophy. Don't downplay a small fish. Every fish caught is a huge accomplishment.

4 Keep it simple.

Start your kid fishing with a single hook. They're much easier to remove from fish. It could be a hook and a bobber or a single-hook soft bait, such as the Storm 360GT Searchbait. As your kids get more experience, let them graduate to a lure such as an Original Floating Rapala.

5 Bring the snacks.

Whatever your kids like for snacks, such as chips, cookies or fruit chewies, bring them! You're sure to work up an appetite catching all those fish. And don't forget the wipes for sticky, slimy little hands.

6 Keep it short.

With younger kids, especially, avoid overdoing it. Start out with short trips – a couple hours at most, and if the fish just don't seem to be cooperating, cut it short and go have an ice cream cone. Gradually increase your time out on the water and try different types of fishing approaches, such as fishing with soft baits or trolling with crankbaits.

7 Create traditions.

One of the best things about fishing with a kid is creating little traditions they can look forward to in the future. For

EMPOWERS EVERYONE TO BE AN IMMEDIATE RESPONDER AND SAVE LIVES IN THE FIGHT AGAINST THE NATION'S OPIOID EPIDEMIC

NALOXONE

BY BRANDPOINT

Physician Anesthesiologist

Dr. Bonnie Milas provides life-saving treatment every day, so when she found her 21-yearold son unresponsive on the kitchen floor, his lips blue, she knew what to do. He was suffering an opioid overdose only hours after being discharged from an inpatient treatment program. She started CPR and administered naloxone, a medication that reverses an opioid overdose by blocking the effects of the drug and restoring breathing and consciousness. Dr. Milas' quick actions, and naloxone, saved her son's life and offered him a second chance to heal from his addiction.

Unfortunately, Dr. Milas' experience is all too common in the U.S.

The tragic wave of overdose deaths has not subsided, and the number of fatal overdoses continues to increase each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were more than 107,000 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2021, a nearly 15% increase over 2020 and more than any prior year. A majority of these deaths – more than 80,000 in 2021 – involved opioids. And even after doing everything right – including finding appropriate treatment options, maintaining a safe and supportive environment, and using naloxone to treat prior overdoses - Dr. Milas ultimately lost both of her adult sons to the opioid epidemic.

"No one should have to suffer such loss or the deeply unsettling experience of reviving an overdosing loved one, yet this epidemic makes it likely

all of us will encounter someone experiencing an overdose at some point. Having naloxone on hand means we have the ability to be immediate responders and make the difference between life and death for a family member, friend or stranger," said Dr. Milas, clinical professor of anesthesiology and critical care medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists' (ASA) Committee on Trauma and Emergency Preparedness.

"While I have no remaining children, naloxone gave me more time with my sons and gave my sons more opportunities to find success. You never know when one more chance will turn into lifelong healing, which is why I am deeply committed to reducing the stigma associated with opioid use disorder and saving lives from opioid overdoses."

ANYONE CAN WITNESS AN OVERDOSE

The majority of overdose deaths occur in the victim's home or in someone else's home. It takes an average of seven minutes – and far longer in rural areas – for emergency medical services to arrive at the scene of a respiratory arrest. But minutes mean the difference between life and death. Brain damage from lack of oxygen during an overdose begins after five minutes. Opioid overdoses don't only impact people who have a prescription for opioids or live with someone with substance use disorder. Moreover, an overdose can happen anywhere, including public spaces, such as

restrooms, libraries and parking garages, or on public transportation, such as buses, trains and airplanes. This means everyone needs to be prepared to be an immediate responder. Simple bystander training, like how to administer CPR, and easy access to the lifesaving medication naloxone, can give anyone the ability to potentially save a life.

WHY NALOXONE SHOULD BE MORE WIDELY AVAILABLE

Currently, naloxone is available with or without a prescription but is sold behind the pharmacy counter. There is still a significant stigma associated with opioid use, so many people who could carry this medication may be afraid to purchase it.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists represents physician anesthesiologists who play a critical role in the fight against overdoses, starting with effectively and responsibly managing patients' pain after surgery or chronic pain. The Society strongly supports a recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recommendation to make naloxone – commonly sold as a nasal spray – available over the counter.

"Naloxone is an effective and life-saving medication to reduce the number of opioid-related overdose deaths. While it doesn't treat the underlying epidemic, it can prevent the most tragic consequences," said ASA President Michael W. Champeau, M.D., FAAP, FASA. "By expanding community access to naloxone, we also are helping to provide equitable

Naloxone is easy to administer, can be used without training and will not cause negative effects if given to someone who doesn't have opioids in their system.

access to a treatment for overdose, which does not discriminate and can happen to anyone anywhere."

Naloxone is easy to administer, can be used without training and will not cause negative effects if given to someone who doesn't have opioids in their system. In addition to supporting the over-the-counter sale of naloxone, ASA also recommends the creation of a voucher system, supported by the opioid settlement funds, for patients to receive access to the life-saving medication and a nationwide education and training program on the safe use of over-the-counter naloxone.

A mail-to-home option for naloxone – like the U.S. government's free at-home COVID-19 test program – could be another method to provide wider access to the medication.

LEARN MORE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Take the first step toward being an immediate responder. Familiarize yourself with common signs that someone is experiencing an overdose, which include:

▸ Shallow, slow or irregular breathing (fewer than eight breaths a minute or a gap of more than 10 seconds between breaths)

▸ Small pupils

▸ Extreme sleepiness or unconsciousness (e.g., "passed out")

▸ Inability to talk

▸ Blue or gray skin color, with dark lips and fingernails

▸ Snoring or gurgling sounds

▸ Confusion

▸ Vomiting

▸ Seizures

"I vividly remember the emotions I felt performing rescue maneuvers on my child and I can't imagine what it's like for those who don't know what to do until help arrives or don't have access to naloxone," Dr. Milas said.

"With basic life support skills, access to naloxone and a dose of empathy, we can turn the tide and save lives. It's what we all would want for our friends, family and loved ones if this happened to them."

To learn more about naloxone, as well as how to recognize an opioid overdose, react and revive, visit REVIVEme.com.

For Early Detection

Use C.A.U.T.I.O.N.

BY PETER HINTERMAN

In any form, cancer is serious and far too prevalent in the world. It is the most feared medical diagnosis in the U.S. with dementia coming in second. It can happen almost randomly, putting everyone at risk, and it is typically difficult to treat. Each year, nearly two million people receive a cancer diagnosis, with breast cancer the most common. For men, the three most prevalent are prostate, lung and colorectal cancers. Almost 40% of men and women will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime. There is one good way to drastically increase your chance of survival: early detection. Finding cancerous cells or a mass before it gets too large or has time to spread means that treatment has a better chance of success. Almost all women diagnosed with breast cancer at its earliest stage survive at least five years, as do 90% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer at its earliest stage. Ninety percent of those diagnosed with lung cancer in an early stage will survive at least a year, compared with a 20% survival rate for a late-stage diagnosis

Cancer can strike at any time and early detection is crucial to its eradication and our survival.

in the same time frame. Many cancers show few symptoms until the advanced stages, so it is vital to pay attention to any significant changes in your body and be aware of your family’s medical history. For example, men who have cases of prostate cancer in their family are advised to be screened for it at least five years earlier than those with no family history of the disease.

With the goal of early detection, the American Cancer Society released a few helpful symptoms for the general population to recognize. (This is a rough guide at best and many symptoms listed here are shared by multiple non-malignant disorders or diseases. Listen to your body and report issues to your doctor.)

Other symptoms not on this list include unexplained weight loss and chronic fatigue.

Cancer can strike at any time and early detection of the disease is crucial to its eradication and our survival. Very few things are more important than our health; still many people miss their chance to catch cancer before it truly takes hold, often for reasons such as fear of hearing the diagnosis, worries about wasting a doctor’s time, being a family burden, or the cost of treatment. Cancer shows no mercy and you should treat cancer the same way. If you’re going to get it, you may as well give yourself the best chance to beat it! Pay attention to your body and never be afraid to undergo doctor-recommended testing. You never know and the earlier it is detected, the better your chances for a long, happy and cancer-free life.

C A U T I O N

Change in bowel or bladder habits

A sore that does not heal

Unusual bleeding or discharge

Thickening or lump in breast or elsewhere in the body

Indigestion or difficulty swallowing

Obvious change in a wart or mole

Nagging cough or hoarseness

Make caring for your heart health a priority this year.

BY ABDULFATAH OSMAN, MD CHIEF OF CARDIOVASCULAR SERVICES, ASCENSION GENESYS

Even if you have a family history of heart disease, there are positive things you can do for your heart health. You should know that you have options – your genetics don’t have to stand in the way. Regular checkups and talking with your doctor, even when you are younger, can help you stay ahead of heart concerns.

“We all have the opportunity to change our risks toward better health; this is especially true for heart disease,” explains Abdulfatah Osman, MD, Chief of Cardiovascular Services, Ascension Genesys Hospital. “Most risk factors for heart disease are changeable. You can stop smoking, you can lose weight, you can change your diet, you can take medications and you can exercise. These changes go a long way in protecting your heart.”

Dr. Osman stresses that it is also important to “know your numbers” – especially cholesterol levels and blood pressure. The best way to do that is to talk regularly with your primary care physician or cardiologist. A high cholesterol level for adults is above 200 mg/dL. High levels of LDL (“bad” cholesterol) cause fatty buildup in the arteries and can lead to heart attack and stroke. Normal blood pressure is “120 over 80” (120/80 mmHg). High blood pressure is defined by a systolic pressure greater than 130 and a diastolic pressure greater than 80, or “130 over 80.” High blood pressure can lead to heart failure, heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, kidney problems and more.

Start with easy changes for a heart healthy lifestyle.

High cholesterol and high blood pressure can be both hereditary and a result

of lifestyle choices. A diet high in saturated fats, trans fat and cholesterol has been linked to heart disease and related conditions, such as atherosclerosis – thickening or hardening of the arteries – which can lead to heart attack and stroke.

“Eliminate high-calorie, low-nutritional foods from your diet and find lower calorie choices,” Dr. Osman adds. “Also, be more aware of and eat smaller portions. These three things may make a healthier lifestyle a simpler process.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most Americans consume too much sodium, which can raise blood pressure. “Salt (sodium) can be found at high levels in many packaged foods and fast foods. Finding alternatives with less salt helps your heart and vascular system,” Dr. Osman states. “Making these healthy choices and adding light exercise like walking can help you see greater positive health results.”

Calcium Score heart screening can find buildup in the heart.

For people with a strong family history of heart disease or who have elevated cholesterol or blood pressure, a heart scan, also known as a heart CT scan or coronary artery calcium CT scan, may be a good idea.

In some cases, calcium can build up in your arteries, causing a blockage or restriction of blood flow to your heart. A heart scan can detect the presence of a calcium buildup and once detected, a “calcium score” is calculated. This,combined with your other health information, helps determine your risk of coronary artery disease. Heart

scans are not covered by insurance; the outof-pocket cost is $99.

A heart scan is not right for everyone, such as those who have no symptoms of heart disease and a low risk of heart attack. Heart disease risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, family history of heart disease. Your doctor can help you better understand your risk. Have a discussion with your primary care doctor or cardiologist to see if a heart scan is right for you.

And if you need more advanced care, Ascension Michigan doctors can connect you with the right specialists and provide a personalized heart care plan. Our cardiovascular specialists diagnose and manage heart and vascular conditions. And we deliver personalized care for atrial fibrillation, peripheral artery disease, complex heart valve disease, pulmonary embolisms and more.

For additional information and to schedule an appointment or second opinion with the experienced cardiologists and heart specialists at Ascension Genesys, visit ascension.org/MidMichiganHeart.

Abdulfatah Osman, MD

A Time to Bloom

April arrives with a beckoning hand ... Warmer weather, flowers poking through the earth, the grass is filling in and barren trees are sprouting life. How can we resist getting outdoors and being more active? For many of us, all it takes is to simply walk out the door and head down the street; but for some of our older citizens, getting outside for some exercise can be more challenging.

This month’s Senior Living articles address topics including building strength, increasing energy, injury prevention and more. Returning to a favorite active hobby can be as simple as choosing the right exercise level to prepare you for the journey. It’s time to enjoy spring and lay the groundwork for a fun and memorable summer! ◆

WATCH YOUR BACK:

LIFTING TECHNIQUES & TIPS TO HELP HOME CAREGIVERS PREVENT BONE & JOINT INJURIES

LIFTING TECHNIQUES

When you need to lift or move a person, take your time and be aware of your posture and movement as you follow these guidelines:

BY BRANDPOINT

If

you're a caregiver for a spouse or other family member at home, you already know how emotionally and physically challenging it can be. When you need to lift, turn or transfer a loved one to or from a wheelchair or bed, it can put added strain on your bones and joints.

Fortunately, certain lifting techniques and proper planning can help prevent injury when caring for others. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) offers these tips for assisting someone at home and improving the safety of their home environment.

▸ Keep your head and neck in alignment with your spine; your head, neck and back should be as straight as possible.

▸ Bend at your hips and knees rather than from your back.

▸ Avoid twisting your body

▸ Always keep the person who is being moved close to your body.

▸ Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to maintain balance.

▸ Use the muscles in your legs to lift and/or pull.

If the person is too heavy or in an awkward position, get help rather than continuing on your own.

For theBest of Your Life

BY KATHLEEN FELIX, ADMINISTRATOR

ABBEY PARK INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING

Baby boomers of the mid-twentieth century are either approaching the age when they are considering senior living for themselves or are seeking housing for their elderly parents, relatives or friends. Every year, senior housing throughout the State of Michigan becomes more saturated. The search can be overwhelming.

In my role as administrator of Abbey Park in Grand Blanc, I receive many calls inquiring about the differences between nursing homes or rehabilitation facilities, assisted living and independent living facilities.

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines assisted living as “a system of housing and limited care that is designed for senior citizens who need some assistance with daily activities but do not require care in a nursing home.” The residents in typical assisted living facilities have their own bedrooms but share common areas. Amenities provided at one assisted living facility may vary from others, with some including a certain number of personal care services.

Differing from the typical assisted living facility, the community of Abbey Park is an independent living apartment complex offering additional services. Describing ourselves as an “enhanced independent living facility” means that personal care services can be added on as needed, allowing our senior population to age in place.

Additional amenities include continental breakfast delivered to the apartment, housekeeping and linen service, transportation to doctor’s appointments, grocery stores, banks and the post office, and finally, the provision of entertainment and life-enrichment activities. We provide medical alert pendants to be used in case of emergency. Residents may

come and go as they please, and many still drive their own vehicles.

Abbey Park residents enjoy the opportunity to meet with friends and participate in onsite life-enrichment activities. Our monthly calendar is packed with planned social events, entertainment, group fitness programs and outings. The spacious apartments include a fully-equipped kitchen and for those who do not wish to cook, the dining room offers two optional sitdown meal services. Daily and weekly housekeeping is provided. Our residents find the transition from living in their own homes to life at Abbey Park quite easy.

For those who find themselves looking for answers, I advise doing as much research as possible. This includes getting word-of-mouth recommendations. Individuals who seek communities for themselves or their loved ones must keep in mind that companies offering placement assistance do so with the facilities that pay them a referral fee. Places to start a search online include Michigan.gov, coaweb.com and for veterans, try va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound.

Information seekers should call potential facilities and inquire about leasing terms, community fees, move-in fees, average age of residents, existence of a facility generator, and finally, exactly what the rental rate includes. Details to take note of include the facility’s cleanliness, how spacious the common areas are and how well the building is maintained. These considerations are of vital importance to the health, safety and happiness of an aging senior.

When visitors to Abbey Park ask these questions and speak to our residents, we welcome it. After all, Abbey Park’s favorite motto is “Live here … for the best of your life.”

FOR SENIORS

Get MOVING! THE 5 BEST EXERCISES

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Let’s face it: being active throughout one’s life takes work. The temptation to plop into a chair and watch our favorite shows or sporting events for hours on end is strong and even stronger when we are dealing with the natural aches and pains of aging. To further complicate matters, the more we remain sedentary, the harder it is to get up and get moving. Believe it or not, as we age, it’s movement and exercise that – depending on their severity – can help lessen our aches and pains.

For increased longevity and life fulfillment, exercise is the name of the game. Seniors should strive to be as active as possible. Increased daily exercise means more independence and energy, improved balance and brain function, lower blood pressure, and protection from disease. With more exercise comes a better chance you will continue (or once again) be able to enjoy the hobbies and passions of your entire life – dance again, golf again, run or cycle again. In order to dominate the church pickleball league or enjoy a long nature hike at an age over 65, exercise and movement are key.

HERE ARE 5 LOW-IMPACT EXERCISES TO HELP SENIORS GET MOVING.

1 ▸ JUMP IN THE POOL

Water aerobics remains the top exercise programs for seniors due to the fact that not only is it fun but, more importantly, is the ideal workout for those with arthritis, joint and muscle pain. The natural resistance of water can help build muscle and tone without the added stress on the body or cost of weights. For cardio, swimming laps is an extremely low-impact, full-body workout that can increase lung capacity, muscle tone, and strengthen the heart. Standard water exercises include aqua jogging, flutter kicks, leg lifts and arm curls. Perhaps one of the best advantages of water aerobics is its accessibility. Nearly every health club with a pool has a program available for seniors and it is perfect for those new to exercise or starting to get active again.

2 ▸ RELEASE YOUR INNER STRENGTH

Tai Chi is known as “meditation in motion.” It combines mindfulness with movement to increase one’s awareness of space. Originating in China as a martial art form, it combines slow, gentle movement with controlled breathing and meditation. It is very low-impact and has been shown to increase balance and prevent falls in older adults and those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Tai Chi has been reported to decrease back pain, knee osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. It can lower blood pressure, improve symptoms of cardiovascular disease and increase confidence and happiness.

3 ▸ ENGAGE YOUR CORE

One of the best ways to alleviate pain and strengthen the body is to improve strength of the muscles and flexibility in the trunk of the body. One way to do this is with a

AS WE AGE, IT’S MOVEMENT AND EXERCISE THAT CAN HELP LESSEN OUR ACHES AND PAINS.

low-impact Pilates workout. The regimen was developed by Joseph Pilates to help dancers recover from repetitive-movement injuries. A little more intense than the gentle movements of Tai Chi, Pilates concentrates on the abdominal and lower back muscles during flowing movement patterns and controlled breathing. It’s a very good step for a senior looking to get back to being active. Pilates can improve muscle tone for greater stability, readying the muscles of the body for increased exercise in the future. It will also help improve stability, balance and coordination.

4 ▸ GET OUT & ABOUT

Once you have improved your stability, balance and muscle tone, it may be time to head outside. One of the simplest and most effective exercises for the body and mind is a walk in the neighborhood or in nature. Walking benefits your body in nearly every way possible and walking outdoors has

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 Country Roads Crematory, 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 Widowhood Effect Help Older Adults Survive Loss

BY PETER HINTERMAN

After spending a lifetime with the one they loved most in the world, seniors who lose their partner face a mountain of grief and the death can be exceptionally hard on the survivor’s physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that older adults who suffer the loss of a spouse have a 60%-90% chance of dying in the three months that follow. This phenomenon has been called the “Widowhood Effect.” There are many reasons why this may occur, but research has indicated four strong factors.

➊

Tolls of Being a Caregiver

Older adults who have spent time caring for an ailing spouse sometimes neglect their own health. Needed medications and doctor’s appointments may be skipped or missed.

➋ The Effects of Grief

There may be no bigger source of grief. After losing their lifetime companion, survivors can experience sleep loss, lower immunity, weight loss, and body inflammation that may lead to heart attack or stroke. The power of

grief can cause actual physical harm to the heart.

➌

Loneliness and Lack of Support

Going home to an empty house can be daunting and intensify the feelings of grief. Family and friends may be neglected and depression can set in quickly.

➍

Changes in Living

The life that the survivor was used to may disappear. There may be added financial pressure, loss of transportation or difficulty keeping up with daily activities. The added stress can do even more damage, especially if they have to give up their home or possessions with emotional attachments.

In order to avoid even more tragedy, it is important to pay increased attention to the wants and needs of the survivor immediately following their loss. Getting them through the first 3-6 months is vitally important. While their grief may never end, helping them cope will make sure they continue on for the one they lost.

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO AVOID THE WIDOWHOOD EFFECT:

➊ Provide Social Support

This mostly boils down to just “being there.” Be there for them. Help with daily chores, provide transportation, cooking, etc. Talk to the survivor and be ready to listen. This is the best time for hugs and warmth.

➋

Keep

Them Busy

Keep them on the go and with things to do. After the funeral, keep them with you and keep going. Visit their friends and do the things they love to do. Take them to see the grandkids.

➌ Provide a Pet or Service Animal

We all know that a pet will never be able to fill the place of their spouse but providing them a living thing to take care of and grieve with can go a long way in avoiding the Widowhood Effect. Being responsible for the life of something else can help them stay responsible to their own needs.

➍ Help Them Seek Counseling

This may be needed and even the most stubborn of individuals can find a healthy coping mechanism for their grief by talking to a professional. Help them find local groups of widows/widowers who can empathize and accurately understand what they are going through.

➎ Acknowledge Their Loss

This is not something that a person can simply “get over.” With grief, there are no rules. A lifetime of love can lead to a lifetime of grief and those feelings should be acknowledged. Don’t pretend it didn't happen. They lost the love of their life; helping them understand, process and cope with their feelings is one of the best things you can do for them.

Castles of Time Greater Flint’s Historic Homes

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOS BY WIKICOMMONS

Thehistory of Greater Flint is steeped in relevance. We have seen titans of industry, great inventors, triumphs of commerce, heroes, villains, failure and renewal, and through it all stood our castles of time – the historic homes of Greater Flint. If their walls could talk, the area’s oldest homes would give us nearly the full story, from the beginnings of our beloved cities and towns to today, including all the glory and heartache in between. That these homes continue to stand is a testament to our love of tradition and acknowledgment of our past. Here’s a look at five of Flint’s historic homes and how they came to be.

James H. Murray House

7232 Silver Lake Rd., Linden Built: Circa 1823

When James H. Murray moved to Genesee County from New York in 1836, he became one of the first four settlers in the Linden area and this house was waiting for him – built between 1823 and 1835 by Philemon C. Murray (likely James’ father) and deeded to Murray when he arrived. He quickly settled and got to work building the area’s first dam and sawmill. His early neighbor, William Bennett, got a head start on the race to build a mill but Murray was able to meet his challenge. Through hard work and fortitude, Murray was able to get his mill in operation before Bennett had time to blink, causing Bennett to leave town for a more lucrative area of the state. After completion of his saw mill, Murray built the area’s first grist mill. As his mills operated, Murray joined fellow pioneer, William Lobdell, in the construction of the settlement and eventual town of Linden. He opened the first store, copper and blacksmith shops, and furnished the town’s second hotel. His land in Argentine is now home to the William Albert Harper Preserve and Murray Lake that sits at its center is named in his honor. The house has passed into private ownership throughout the years.

William Ray Perry House

6025 Perry Rd., Grand Blanc

Built: 1894

Very few of Genesee County’s founding pioneer families had as large an impact as the Perry family. In 1825, the Perry family became the second to settle in the area of Grand Blanc Township. They founded what became known as the Perry Settlement and helped numerous pioneers settle and build the town. William’s great-uncle, Edmund Perry, settled the historic Perry farmstead later owned by Simeon Perry. Edmund also established Grand Blanc’s first school in 1830. (Today’s Perry Innovation Center is named in his honor.) William Ray Perry was born in 1842 and seemed content to work the farm that his father, George Edward Perry, purchased and established in 1829 throughout his life. His family became very successful and as the years passed, the Perry family’s notoriety continued to grow. William Ray Perry built this home on his family’s farm land in 1894 just off the road which bordered the property, one that his family helped construct: Perry Road. The Queen Anne-style house stood out from the boxy Greek Revival structures of the Grand Blanc area, mirroring instead the architecture of the homes being built a few miles to the north in the City of Flint.

John Van Buskirk House

7348 Coldwater Rd., Davison Built: Circa 1850

This boxy, Greek Revival-style home was the residence of John Van Buskirk, the first of the prominent Van Buskirk family to settle in Genesee County. One of Richfield Township’s first settlers, he quickly established himself as a lucrative farmer, stock raiser and valued community member. Born in Genesee County, NY he lost his parents at a young age. He spent some time in the state of Missouri with family before setting out for Michigan. In Richfield Township, he served as Overseer of the Poor in the area in 1857 and was extremely active in the church, serving as president of the Union Lyceum Building Society and integral to the establishment and building of local churches and places of worship. Shortly after he built his home, his brother Abraham purchased a wide swath of land directly across the street and joined him. His brother, who dubbed his home “Maple Hurst” and his family also became successful farmers and ardent community members. John Van Buskirk sold his home to William Miller and moved out of the area in 1915.

Benjamin Bangs House

819 S. Leroy St., Fenton Built: Circa 1866

Another Greek Revival-style home (common to the time), the Benjamin Bangs House sits in the center area of historic Fentonville. Benjamin Bangs was a successful farmer with land located on Fenton’s south end. He became the first president of Fentonville in 1863 and built his home there three years later. Active in the clergy, he represented the Church of Fenton as an Elder at the Synod of Michigan taking place in Howell, MI in 1877. In his later life, he joined those

headed west and found his way to Oakland, CA where he died in 1935. Through the years, the home has alternated between commercial and residential ownership once operating as a tea room, corset shop and radio station. During a recent renovation, homeowners found Bang’s personalized iron carriage plate buried in the backyard and in a wall, discovered an engraved silver spoon once belonging to Bangs’ daughter, Eliza.

Frank D. Bloss House

8380 Reid Rd., Swartz Creek

Built: 1893

Frank D. Bloss was born in 1859 in Saratoga County, NY to Stephen and Mary Bloss. On Christmas Day in 1864, the Bloss family packed up and moved to a Michigan farm located one mile west of Rankin in Mundy Township. Bloss was raised on the new farm and attended Flint High School. After graduation, he became a teacher in the area for 15 years. In 1883, he purchased 40 acres in Gaines Township and in 1893, sold an apiary of 400 hives to raise money to build his two-story home constructed with lumber harvested from the surrounding woods. He farmed until 1906 and then moved to Flint where he lived until 1914. He took a position as field man with the Mt. Clemens Sugar Company, later becoming a district manager. In 1910, he was made agricultural superintendent for his district. After 1914, Bloss moved back to the farm. The home and farm passed down through the family and at present, Bloss Farms is still an operating dairy and cattle farm, as well as a local maple syrup producer. ◆

Wags & Whiskers Fundraiser

COPNECONIC CONFERENCE CENTER | 2.23.2023

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

KATY KILDEE

Adopt-A-Pet Fenton hosted the “Dreaming of My Furever Home,” fundraiser – a PJ & Paws party with a purpose! Dressed in jammies, fuzzy slippers and loungewear, attendees enjoyed cocktails, a silent auction, buffet dinner, live auction and an after-glow party. Nearly $113,000 was raised to fund improvement and future expansion of the Fenton facility.

Adopt-A-Pet’s mission is to provide a means to place unwanted, adoptable animals into appropriate, loving homes. ◆

Flint Regional Science & Engineering Fair

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT | 3.18-19.2023

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TUCKER WHITE & TONY VELASCO

For the 67th consecutive year, the FRSEF welcomed students from across an 11-county area, as well as any student not within an area associated with the International Science & Engineering Fair. More than 250 students grades 4-12 participated. The top 10% of Junior Division participants are eligible to enter the Thermo Fisher Junior Innovators Challenge, the largest international science competition for junior high students. The top four Senior Division winners receive all-expense-paid trips to the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair, this year in Dallas, TX. The top three winners also received full four-year scholarships to UM-Flint, while the Fourth Place winner earned a one-year $5,000 scholarship. Kettering University and Lawrence Technological University also awarded prizes.

This year’s top winners are:

Elementary (Grades 4-5)

• Gold – Presley Johnson & Ada Osmon

• Silver – Aryn Hansen

• Silver – Owen Hudson Wolverton

Junior (Grades 6-8)

• 1st Place, Life Sciences – Nirmal Loganathan

• 1st Place, Earth, Environment, Chemistry – Adam Ghanem

• 1st Place, Physical Science & Engineering – Rylee Tedrick

Senior (Grades 9-12)

• 1st Place – Olivia & Andrew Wagner

• 2nd Place – Akhilesh Kanmanthreddy

• 3rd Place – Anthony Daoud

• 4th Place – Joseph Crachiola ◆

My Can’t Miss List

“Pinkalicious: The Musical” The Whiting 4.7.2023

Shallow Truths with Avalon Black

Ari Daj

Local 432 4.14.2023

“Peter and the Wolf” The Whiting 4.14.2023

Evil Woman – The ELO Experience

The Capitol Theatre 4.14.2023

Bobaflex with Vicariant The Machine Shop 4.14.2023

“The Taming of the Shrew” Fenton Village Playhouse Theatre 4.14-23.2023

Flint United vs. Glass City Ballenger Field House 4.15.2023

Ted Mills’ Blue Magic The Capitol Theatre 4.15.2023

“Casino Royale” Wine Tasting Flint Institute of Arts 4.15.2023

Mix & Mingle Under the Stars Longway Planetarium 4.19.2023

4/20 Jokes & Jams The Capitol Theatre 4.20.2023

FSO Presents: Schumann, Haydn & Schubert The Whiting 4.22.2023

Donnie Baker Comedy The Machine Shop 4.22.2023

Flint United vs. Glass City Ballenger Field House 4.23.2023

“Stardust: From Bach to Bowie” The Whiting 4.28.2023

New Works Festival Flint Repertory Theatre 4.28-30.2023

“All Things Equal”

BY LESLIE TOLDO

Since March 12, 2021 a pair of soulful, brown eyes have watched hopefully as people of all ages, races, shapes and sizes have passed by his cage. The sweet guy behind those eyes is a pit bull mix the Humane Society of Genesee County staff has named Ricco.

In the more than two years Ricco has been at HSGC, plenty of people have stopped at his cage, many casting much more than a passing glance at him. Ricco was adopted once during his first year there, only to be returned to the shelter a month later.

The first lines of the information on Ricco’s “cage card” tell you he is a dream dog, “The sweetest boy, and wants nothing other than to snuggle up on the couch with you. He loves to

Stop

by his cage today and

he will greet you with an eager smile, a wagging tail and a quiet demeanor.

Despite the heartbreak, Ricco is on a seemingly constant vigil, waiting for that fur-ever family to finally take him home. Stop by his cage today and he will greet you with an eager smile, a wagging tail and a quiet demeanor. No barking, no jumping for this polite boy, and he even gets along with other dogs.

The HSGC staff remains hopeful, too, that someone will come along and make Ricco’s dream of a real home come true. Until then, they will do whatever it takes to make it happen – for as long as it takes.

Sadly, Ricco is one of many long-timers in this shelter. Daisy Sue’s first anniversary at the shelter was in February. Copper’s year comes around this month. Unless someone steps up, Ollie and Walley will reach one year in July.

Ricco Still Believes in Fur-ever

go on walks, and toys are the best.” The HSGC staff ought to know; they have spent a lot of time getting to know him in the two years since he arrived. Read a bit more of Ricco’s info, and the mystery unravels. He requires thyroid and allergy medications and can only eat grain-free food; a special diet and prescriptions can be tough on an adopter’s budget. It doesn’t help Ricco’s case much that he is eight years old. Senior dogs are typically slow to be adopted from shelters.

Summer is just around the corner, the peak time for dogs to land in shelters, and it is also when adoption rates tend to dip. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), two million shelter dogs are adopted each year. In a cage on Dort Hwy. in Burton, a boy named Ricco is smiling, wagging, waiting … and hoping to become part of that lucky group.

To learn more about Ricco and all the wonderful animals up for adoption at the Humane Society of Genesee County, visit geneseehumane.org.

An Emmy-nominated anchor/meteorologist/ reporter at FOX66 and NBC25, Leslie Toldo recently retired from TV news after a career of over 30 years, nearly 20 in Flint. She is a blogger, writer, wedding and funeral officiant. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, LA, she graduated from the University of Wyoming. An avid kayaker, boater and runner, Leslie lives in Linden with her husband, Ellie the cat and two dogs: Gus and Lucy.

MYREALITY

THERE REALLY IS MORE TO THE STORY

BY VERA HOGAN

My sophomore high school English teacher was an evil man – or at least, I thought so at the time. Only the devil himself would make a bunch of 15-year-olds spend every waking moment outside of school reading a big, thick old-people book every ten days or so and then demand a book report about it. It was criminal! How were we supposed to have any kind of fun at all?

Mr. Knaak was a very tall, robust man who wore thick, black horn-rimmed glasses. Although he was soft spoken, my classmates and I were still a bit scared of him. I am assuming he is now deceased since he was old (at least 50) at the time. But if he was alive today, I would give him the biggest, longest hug ever. It was because of him that I developed a lifelong love of reading and enjoyed some of the greatest literary works of all time. Sadly, many of the books we were required to read are now banned in many places. They include one of my favorites, "To Kill a Mockingbird." Why? The

We must learn from them, not erase them from the historical record.

claim is that it was banned “because of racial slurs and their negative effect on students, featuring a "'white savior' character and its perception of the Black experience.” This book was one of the most-assigned novels in American schools. It won a Pulitzer Prize in 1961. How can a white lawyer successfully defending a Black man accused of raping a white woman be a bad thing? Especially when it was the white woman’s own father who raped her? Also banned are "The Great Gatsby," "The Scarlet Letter," and a childhood favorite, "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” George Orwell wrote two fascinating books – "Animal Farm" and "Nineteen Eighty-Four." Upon learning that Mr. Orwell's books had been banned, my son immediately ordered them online so we would always have them here at home. These are just a few examples of the classic novels that have been banned from many schools, libraries and bookstores.

When these authors wrote their novels, they reflected not only vivid imaginations but also the times in which they lived. Even these works of fiction represent history, whether we like it or not. We must learn from them, not erase them

from the historical record. And none of what’s in these books that are deemed unacceptable by those banning them has gone away. Offensive language still exists. Racial slurs and discrimination still exist. Pornography still exists. Adultery still exists. Rape, incest and sexual abuse still exist. And all of these things exist in books that have not been banned, as well as in countless TV shows and movies.

April 23-29 is National Library Week and this year’s theme is "There's more to the story." Truer words have never been spoken. This will be a good time to visit your local library and check out some great reads. If you don't, you may never get to know the whole story.

Recently retired, Vera Hogan is a 20year veteran of the newspaper business, having served both Fenton and Flint area publications. During those years, she was a reporter, associate editor, editor, web content editor and columnist. Her popular columns have earned her multiple state awards. She resides in the City of Fenton. Email verahogan@hotmail.com.

A LONG-LOST FRIEND TO THE INVESTMENT WORLD FINALLY RETURNS

BY MARC JANCA, AIF®

Over the past few years, interest rates have been slowly rising, with the Federal Reserve raising the federal funds rate several times. This has had a significant impact on interest-paying investments, as well as on the broader economy. One of the main reasons interest rates have been rising is due to the strong performance of the U.S. economy in recent years. As the economy has grown, inflation has started to tick up, which has put pressure on the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates in order to keep inflation in check.

Higher interest rates can have both positive and negative effects on the economy. On the positive side, higher interest rates can help to curb inflation by making it more expensive to borrow money. This can help to slow down economic growth and prevent the economy from overheating. On the negative side, higher interest rates can make it more expensive for businesses and individuals to borrow money. This can make it harder for businesses to invest in new projects or for individuals to buy homes or cars. Higher interest rates can also reduce the value of existing investments, as the income generated by those investments may not keep pace with inflation.

For investors, the rise in interest rates has led to higher yields on interest-paying investments like bonds and CDs. This has made these investments

more attractive to investors, especially those who are looking for a reliable income source. However, it's important to note that higher interest rates also mean higher borrowing costs for companies, which can lead to lower profits and potentially lower stock prices. When looking at different interest-bearing investments, the list often includes some of the following options:

▸ Corporate Bonds and Government Bonds – Corporate bonds are similar to government bonds in that they are a type of debt instrument, but they differ in who issues them. Corporate bonds typically pay a higher yield than government bonds, but they also carry more risk, as the creditworthiness of the issuer can vary widely.

▸ Preferred Stocks – This type of stock pays a fixed dividend to investors. They are similar to bonds in that they provide a fixed income stream, but they are also riskier than bonds, as the value of the stock can fluctuate based on market conditions.

▸ Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) – These are companies that own

and manage real estate properties. They are required by law to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to investors in the form of dividends. REITs can provide a reliable source of income to investors who are looking for exposure to the real estate market.

▸ High-Yield Savings Accounts –This type of savings account pays a higher interest rate than traditional savings accounts. They are typically offered by online banks and credit unions and can be a more conservative investment and reliable income source for investors who are looking to keep their money in cash.

In general, the rise in interest rates over the past year has reflected a strong and growing economy. While higher interest rates may make it more expensive to borrow money, they also provide a valuable source of income for investors who are looking to build wealth over the long term. As with any investment, it's important to do your research and understand the risks and benefits before investing in interest-paying investments.

Marc has a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Windsor. He got his start in the financial industry in 2005 and started his career at the Royal Bank of Canada as an investment advisor. Upon moving to the U.S., he spent ten years at Chase Bank, where he learned a lot about what the industry has to offer. Today, he is a financial advisor who can offer investment and insurance products and services with confidence. Marc and his wife, Ana, have two young daughters -- Sasha and Dylan.

REDUCING

DEMAND

BY DR. CHRISTOPHER DOUGLAS

Everyone hoped inflation would return to normal in 2023. Signs were encouraging at the end of 2022, with inflation falling from a high of 8.9% in June to 6.4% in December. However, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation – the personal consumption expenditures price index – unexpectedly increased in January. This casts some doubt that a soft landing can be achieved in 2023. The Dow slid about 2,000 points in February, as this unexpectedly higher inflation increases the chances of further Federal Reserve rate hikes.

It is worth examining how the Federal Reserve increasing interest rates leads to a reduction in inflation. Inflation stems from an imbalance of supply and demand throughout the economy. During the pandemic, the federal government poured trillions of newly printed money into the economy through three

rounds of COVID “stimulus.” Given that the supply of goods and services was curtailed due to supply chain disruptions and stay-at-home orders, this stimulus caused demand to outpace supply, pushing up prices across-the-board, which is inflation. This was a perfectly predictable consequence of such profligate fiscal and monetary policy, yet here we are.

The key to getting inflation back to its pre-COVID rate is for demand to align with supply. This is what the Federal Reserve is doing when it increases interest rates. Hiking rates reduces demand in interest rate-sensitive sectors, such as housing, big ticket consumer items such automobiles, and business capital investment. Interest rates themselves are not magic bullets that bring down the rate of inflation. Interest rate increases just target interest rate-sensitive sectors for where to reduce demand to bring it into alignment with supply. The cost of this reduction is lost home equity to homeowners, higher interest payments by borrowers, less employment in interest rate-sensitive sectors, and lower production of goods and services in the future due to less business capital investment today. There is nothing

special about interest rate sectors that makes them ripe to bear the cost of inflation reduction, other than they are susceptible to the one tool the Federal Reserve has – namely, increasing interest rates. Any other sector could reduce its demand to reduce inflation.

The one sector that is never discussed for demand reduction is the federal government. The Biden Administration claims it is reducing the budget deficit, but that is only because they are comparing the deficit to 2020, the year when the deficit was the highest during the pandemic. Spending and the deficit remain far higher than pre-pandemic levels and Congress and the administration continue to spend like they face a limitless budget. Consider that over $100 billion has been given to Ukraine, which is one-third more than the entire annual Russian defense budget. No public debate has occurred as to whether it improves the life of the average American to fuel this conflict rather than pushing for peace. The administration presents a blank checkbook, saying “whatever it takes.” The more the federal government spends, the more the burden of inflation reduction will fall on the private citizen..

Dr. Christopher Douglas came to the University of Michigan-Flint in 2006. He earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and a B.S. in Economics from Michigan Technological University in 2001, and his Ph.D. in Economics from Michigan State University in 2007. As Professor of Economics and Chair of the Department of Social Science and Humanities, he teaches Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, International Economics, Public Finance, and Sports Economics.

ROAD TRIP

BY ALEXANDRIA PAZIENZA-NOLAN

I've driven back and forth from Texas to Michigan many times since I first moved south in 2008 – in every season, in every kind of weather. There's nothing especially lovely about the drive itself; the scenery isn't remarkable, the cities you drive through are by and large nothing to write home about. And yet, there's something exciting about a road trip, no matter where you're going; but I'm hoping that after this trip, my road days are done.

For Spring Break, my son and I flew north to Michigan and then roadtripped our way back south to Houston. It was my four-year-old’s first real roadtrip. Arthur’s done six hours around different parts of Texas, hours around England and Italy; but never a drive this long.

We got a late start – never a good thing when you have road to cover. The reason for the road trip in the first place was to move my boyfriend from Flint to Houston, and the moving company was not in as much of a hurry as we were. We didn't get on the road until about 7pm, which meant we weren't going to arrive at the hotel in St. Louis, MO until the wee hours of the next morning. Arthur did us a favor by falling asleep a few hours into the drive, but the inclement weather we encountered through southern

Michigan and Indiana was relentless, as if that last little bit of the midwest didn't want to let us go.

Eventually, the weather cleared up, but the night only got darker and seemingly longer. We were yawning and bleary-eyed, staring at the GPS as if that would make the miles pass faster. We finally arrived in St. Louis, road weary and desperate for sleep.

We were asleep within moments, and the alarm was waking us up seemingly minutes later. But, we had eight more hours until our next stop and needed to get back on the road. We waved goodbye to the famous St. Louis Arch, and turned the car south once again.

In the light of day, the driving seemed easier, the roads more welcoming. The weather gradually grew warmer the farther south we drove, but Arthur’s questions from the back seat also grew more frequent. "Is this the hotel?" "Mama, are we done yet?"

"Mama, can I sit with you?" and forms of those same questions over and over until I regretted taking a car back to Texas and longed instead for the easy flight home.

The last leg of our journey would take us through a little historic town called Jefferson, TX where we found French Quarter-style architecture and cute little boutiques and bistros lining

the streets of the downtown. Jefferson is said to be haunted, and you could easily imagine why a spirit would stick around in such a charming little place. We arrived around 8pm and ordered take-out from one of the town's cutest restaurants. Our bed & breakfast had cookies, water, wine and a big cast-iron claw-foot tub in which to soak away the road. It was the perfect way to close out the majority of the road trip, to freshen up for the remaining short drive home, and in the morning, to share a delicious and friendly breakfast with our host and the other B&B guests.

Three hours later, we were home –pulling into the garage, unpacking the car, putting away the road adventure that would start our new life together. Yes, I've driven from Michigan to Texas and back many times … but here's hoping it's all direct flights from here on out.

Alexandria Nolan is a misplaced Michigander currently living in the wilds of the Houston urban jungle with the world’s most charming pre-schooler. She is a published novelist and contributor to various online and print publications, including a lifestyle blog, AlexandriaNolan.com. When not writing, she can be found teaching, reading or traveling, or reading about traveling.

MYTHOUGHTS

ABAD HAIR DAY

BY CHERYL DENNISON

“My mood depends on how good my hair looks.” ~ Anonymous

Everyone has a bad hair day once in a while – I certainly do – and bad hair can definitely ruin the entire day! Whether you are fighting the frizz, have fine hair, want to pump up the volume or just didn't have the time to wash it, bad hair can spoil the best of times.

Sometimes, a bad hair day is the result of a bad decision – such as trying a new color or style that just doesn’t work. I had a very bad experience when I was in my twenties and working in Washington, D.C. My hair was very long and I received many compliments about how pretty it always looked. I was thumbing through a magazine and saw a picture of a hairstyle that I fell in love with. It was short and sassy with lots of soft curls.

I decided I wanted to try something new and took the photo to a beauty salon near my apartment (not the stylist I had been going to at the time). I showed her the picture and explained to her what I wanted. She told me I would need a perm to get those pretty,

EVERYONE

HAS A

BAD

HAIR DAY ONCE IN A WHILE –I CERTAINLY DO – AND BAD HAIR CAN DEFINITELY RUIN THE ENTIRE DAY!

soft curls. I had never had a perm before but I was ready for a change and told her to go ahead and do it. Well, my hair is very fine and the perm solution was very strong. I should have been worried when I saw, as she took out the perm rollers, some of my hair was falling out … And what a disaster it was! The result wasn't the pretty, soft curls I had seen in the magazine. My hair had turned into a completely frizzy mess, was very short – and just ugly. So I did what any girl would do; I sat there and cried. But that wasn't the worst part of the experience. When I walked into the office the next day, I

was met with looks of horror. "WHAT did you do to your hair!" they gasped. Of course, I cried some more. I even went to my regular stylist hoping there was something he could do to fix it. He shook his head and told me I would have to just let it grow out. Lesson learned!

I really did learn from that horrible hair experience and I now love going to the salon with my daughter, Melissa. We have been going to the same stylist, Tammy, for years. And no matter how long it's been since the last appointment, we always pick up the conversation right where it left off, catching up on what is happening in each other's lives. It's good mother/daughter time, as well. Best of all, Tammy knows exactly how to make our hair look fantastic. When I tell her I might like to try something different, she just says “No!”

So, how can you fix a bad hair day? Put it up in a ponytail or a messy bun. Wear a cute hat! Or, just embrace it –messy hair can look great, too!