Issuu

Editor’s Letter

Can you believe it’s the last month of 2025? Where did the year go? I came on board with My City Magazine six months ago as editor and these months have gone by so quickly. Our team has already added a few new features and we will continue to be adding new and exciting features in the upcoming months.

My City staff named Dick Skaff, president and CEO of Skaff Furniture Carpet One in Mundy Township, as our 2025 Cityzen of the Year. The ever-expanding family owned business sponsors more than 30 local nonprofits each year as its way of giving back to the community. Don’t miss the story on Dick Skaff on page 8.

The Ruth Mott Foundation has helped the greater Flint area for years. They recently named Sue Peters of Fenton as its new president. Don’t miss My City’s 7 Questions feature story on Sue. She shares how busy life can be raising twin teenaged boys, and her involvement with helping communities with her expertise for decades.

Congratulations to Powers Catholic High School boys cross country team. My City writer Mark Spezia has written an in-depth story on the team capturing its first state title since 1999. The Chargers’ top five runners set personal bests this season that placed them among the top 20 performers in program history.

In this issue is My City’s special section called, “A Season to Gather,” afterall, isn’t this time of year filled with small and large get-togethers with family and friends. My City writer Keegan Deloney includes several locally owned businesses that are ready to help you with all of your entertaining needs, whether it’s a cozy dinner with your best friend to a large oﬃce party or family dinner. Keegan also includes several festive events and activities that you might want to list on your calendar. She also shares a story on Deer Park Vintage Co. in Grand Blanc that you will not want to miss.

For those of you who grew up or visited the Flint area growing up, you will not want to miss Gary Fisher’s story on celebrating Christmas in Flint over the decades. My husband and I lived in Flint in the cultural area in the late ‘80s and our two oldest children were born at the old (now gone) St. Joe hospital. My in-laws were born in Grand Blanc and eventually lived in Flint and Flint Township, where my husband grew up. I’ve heard so many stories of how Downtown Flint was bustling during the holidays and I wish that I had experienced some of those early days. Mark’s story brought back memories of us taking our kids to JCPenney to have their portraits taken and waiting in long lines to meet Santa at Genesee Valley Mall and even Courtland Mall. Take a stroll down memory lane when you read Mark’s story.

Publisher

Laura Constable

Editor in Chief

Sharon Stone

Freelance Writers

Keegan Deloney

Mark Spezia

Contributing Writers

Brice P. Carter

Dr. Christopher Douglas

Gary Fisher

Pastor Adam Gasper

Dr. Shan Jackson

Alexandria Nolan-Miller

Mark Rummel

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

Graphic Designer

Hailey Carriger

Contributing Artist

Daria Akulova

Accounting/Circulation

Carolyn Golota

Account Executive

Terese Allen

COVER ART

As this year winds down, our My City team will be thinking, planning and working on new features coming to the magazine in January, however, first things first—we’re going to take a deep breath, soak up all the sights, sounds, tastes and more as we make new memories with our families and friends over Christmas and New Year’s. From everyone here at My City, may your holiday season be filled with joy, peace, and time spent with loved ones. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Fenton’s Open Book

105 W. Shiawassee Ave. Fenton, MI 48430

810.629.8000

Sharon Stone Editor in Chief

Hurley Lobby Gift Shop

Hurley Medical Center One Hurley Plaza Flint, MI 48503

810.262.9306

Want to advertise with us? Contact Terese Allen 810.513.5298 | teresemcm@gmail.com

Cardinal’s

Wild Bird & Nature Store

12830 S. Saginaw St., Ste. A, Grand Blanc, MI 48439

810.629.8000

Photo by Sharon Stone

My City Magazine 1032 N. Leroy St., Fenton, MI 48430 810.215.3900

ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, 1032 N. Leroy St., 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, 1032 N. Leroy St., Fenton, MI 48430, phone 810.215.3900. To authors, photographers and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photographs in this publication are the property of My City Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclusions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of My City Magazine. My City Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by sufficient firstclass postage, but the Publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material.

Celebrating the Holidays as a Family

Asthe holiday season approaches, Whaley Children’s Center once again fills with the warmth, light, and joy that only true community spirit can bring. For nearly a century, Whaley has served as a safe haven for children in foster care— providing not just a place to stay, but a home where they can heal, grow, and feel loved.

This year, as the Center celebrates the holidays, it also marks an important milestone and a new chapter in its long history of service. In October 2024, Whaley launched its Mental Health and Behavioral Stabilization Program at the request of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. This program serves foster youth with extensive trauma histories and complex behavioral health needs, rea rming Whaley’s commitment to meeting children where they are and surrounding them with compassion and care.

Even as Whaley’s mission expands, one tradition remains unchanged—

celebrating the holidays as a family. For many of the youth at Whaley, the holidays have not always been joyful. Many arrive with painful memories of this season, often marked by instability

or loss. Whaley’s dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to change that narrative. From decorating the cottages to baking cookies and sipping hot cocoa, every detail is designed to

help the kids experience the magic of the holidays in a new way—one ﬁlled with laughter, warmth, and belonging.

The celebrations at Whaley are about more than decorations and gifts—they’re about connection. Each youth is sponsored by a member of the community, a local business, or a civic organization. Sponsors receive a short “about me” proﬁle that shares a bit about the child’s interests, favorite colors, and hobbies, along with a personal wish list. This thoughtful touch ensures that every gift feels personal, meaningful, and wrapped with care. No child is left out, and every youth has an equal stack of beautifully wrapped presents waiting on Christmas morning.

Beyond the gifts and festive traditions, these moments remind the youth that they are seen, valued, and loved. The sight of stockings overﬂowing, the smell of a holiday meal, and the comfort of cozy new pajamas—all of it creates memories that last long after their time at Whaley. These experiences offer healing and hope,

helping each young person imagine a future ﬁlled with possibility.

None of this would be possible without the unwavering generosity of the Flint and Genesee County community.

Year after year, individuals, families, and businesses step up to make the season bright for Whaley’s youth. Their support transforms what could be a painful time into one of joy and belonging.

As Whaley Children’s Center celebrates both the holidays and this new era of care, it extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who continues to show up— reminding these young people, and the staff who care for them, that community truly is the heart of the holidays.

Whaley also experiences its biggest outpouring of support through the Giving Tree Program, which helps meet the Center’s everyday needs throughout the year. Each Giving Tree is decorated with tags listing essential items—laundry detergent, cough drops, fruit snacks, towels, and small gift cards (so youth can grab a quick meal while traveling for visits)—everything that keeps a home running for 42 children. Any business, group, club,

or family can host a Giving Tree to support Whaley’s mission year-round.

“With our new programming and higher levels of care, we’ve had to make some changes to what can be safely allowed on campus, especially for youth with suicidal concerns,” said Mindy Williams, president and CEO of Whaley. “While items like drawstrings, glass, or electronics with charging cords can’t be included, our donors have been incredibly understanding and grateful to learn the reasons behind these changes. Their willingness to adapt has kept the holiday spirit alive while ensuring our kids remain safe.”

“The holidays at Whaley Children’s Center are always about the kids. Seeing their faces light up with joy and wonder is the best gift of all,” said Nadeem Gebrael, chair of Whaley’s Board of Directors. “But what touches me just as deeply is watching our staff pour their hearts into making the season magical for every child.

Their pride, compassion, and unwavering dedication shine brighter than any holiday light. This past year has been another example of the incredible support our community provides. Thank you for believing in our children, our staff, and our mission.”

Denise Zerka, marketing coordinator at Whaley, added, “The holidays always bring a little extra magic to our Center. It starts with getting our kids’ wish lists and continues as our amazing sponsors bring those wishes to life. Seeing the joy and excitement our kids feel reminds us what this season is all about— love, giving, and community.”

JJ Cardinal’s

We’re Not Just for the Birds

Cardinal’s Wild Bird & Nature Store provides customers with premium food and feeding equipment for birds—and

the wild critters we share our environment with. We carry more than 68 types of bird feeders and over 70 varieties of food. There’s no one-sizeﬁts-all solution for feeding wildlife—it all depends on your needs. That’s why JJ’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you choose what works best for you.

Located in Grand Blanc at 12830 S. Saginaw St., JJ Cardinal’s offers a shopping experience that must be seen to be appreciated. We’re open seven days a week to accommodate your busy schedule.

But birding supplies are just the beginning.

JJ Cardinal’s is an eclectic shop celebrating nature, imagination, gardening, and art. Alongside feeders and seed, you’ll ﬁnd books, educational toys, handcrafted jewelry, art supplies, puppets, rocks, hand-painted tiles, and so much more.

We take pride in offering a carefully curated selection of artisan gifts from across North America—perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself.

Need a present wrapped? JJ Cardinal’s offers free gift wrapping for those meaningful gifts. We believe that if you’ve taken the time to visit a specialty store and choose something thoughtful, it should be wrapped with that same care and intention.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a gift-giver, or simply curious, JJ Cardinal’s looks forward to welcoming you soon.

Slow Down Wi December Reads

BY KAREN PIACENTINI

Reading in December oﬀers a calming escape from holiday stress—a chance to slow down, reflect, and recharge. Cozy winter moments make it the perfect time to sink into a good book and spark fresh ideas for the year ahead.

The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by by Ally Carter

The Widow by John Grishman

The Christmas Stranger by Richard Paul Evans

The Secret Christmas Library by Jenny Colgan

Chester Solves a Clue by Ed Constable

The Land of Sweet Forever by Harper Lee

Terry and Sharon Weir’s LOVE STORY

Presented by

Terry and Sharon Weir were married in 1977. After living in Oxford, they downsized and moved to Lake Orion. Terry had three children from a previous marriage. The oldest went to live with them in 1978 — Sharon quit her job with the State of Michigan to take care of her. The other two joined them when they were in eighth grade. All three of Terry’s children graduated from Oxford High School, along with the three that Sharon and Terry had together — for a total of six.

Terry worked for General Motors for 43 years, retiring in 2008. Since then, the Weirs have enjoyed traveling. They have had a place on Table Rock Lake in Hollister, Missouri, for about 30 years and spend a lot of time there. For the past eight years or so, they have wintered at an RV resort in Naples, Florida.

Their trips to Missouri and out West often revolve around their passion for riding a side-byside ORV. They’ve also ridden in Utah, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and West Virginia. Terry said he and Sharon feel blessed with good health and shared life goals — and especially blessed with a wonderful family of six children, 13 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

How and when did you ﬁrst meet?

We met in 1976. We were introduced by mutual friends at a nightclub in Pontiac.

Tell us about the proposal. Neither of us were looking for marriage when we met, but after a few dates, we knew we wanted to be together forever. There wasn’t really a proposal — it was more of a “this is what we’re going to do.”

Tell us about the wedding.

Our small wedding was conducted by a young minister whose church was located in a storage unit in Rochester Hills. The only attendees were the friends who introduced us and their significant others.

What do you cherish most about each other?

Our thoughts and dreams have always been aligned. We truly enjoy each other’s company. Being best friends doesn’t begin to describe how we feel.

HAVE A LOVE STORY THAT DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT?

Apply now to be featured. Scan the QR code to submit your story.

Second Chances

Hope Awaits at the Humane Society

Meet Montana

Playful and loving, she’s a volunteer favorite

The Humane Society of Genesee County’s December pet up for adoption is Montana. Montana is about 5½ years old. She is a pit mix and she needs a home with no dogs and no cats. She is energetic, playful and loving. She greets you with a toy in her mouth and she is a staff and volunteer favorite!

At the Humane Society of Genesee County (HSGC), animal adoption is at the heart of everything they do. Their goal is to connect people and animals so they can share their lives together.

• To see currently available dogs, visit: geneseehumane.org/adopt/dogs

• To browse the cats available for adoption, visit: geneseehumane.org/adopt/cats

Open your heart and home to one of the many dogs and cats at HSGC. New four-legged friends arrive daily, and the shelter’s caring staff and volunteers provide excellent care until each animal finds their forever home. Please note that animal availability changes frequently, so check back often for the latest updates.

By adopting from HSGC, you’re not only gaining a loving pet, but also supporting a local shelter that receives no federal or state funding. Every dog and cat adopted from HSGC has been spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for heartworm (dogs) and feline leukemia (cats).

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, DON’T HESITATE TO CALL THE HSGC AT 810.744.0511.

Every shelter animal has a story ... Let’s help change their ending.

StudentStandout

Presented by

Landon

Mattis

Bendle High School

Grade 11

Landon Mattis is currently ranked first in his class with a 4.0 GPA. He exemplifies leadership both on the field and in the classroom. A three-sport athlete, he has earned all-conference honors and served as team captain in football, basketball, and baseball. Academically, Landon has maintained perfect attendance for two consecutive years, earned a place on the honor roll each year, participated in community cleanup projects, volunteered for after-school tutoring, and consistently demonstrates a willingness to help others.

You seem very driven with sports and academics — where does that drive come from?

My drive comes from my mom. She’s always been supportive and pushes me to do my best in everything I do. She wants to see me and my siblings succeed, and she keeps me focused so I don’t lose sight of my goals or mess up my future.

Which sport do you like best?

I really enjoy playing both basketball and football, but I think baseball is the sport I’m

best at. Each sport challenges me in diﬀerent ways, and I like competing at a high level no matter what season it is.

Do you plan to continue with football, baseball, and basketball beyond high school?

Yes, that’s the goal. I want to earn a full-ride scholarship to play ball at a good college where I can compete and grow both as an athlete and a student.

Do you ﬁnd it challenging to have perfect attendance?

There are definitely days when I don’t feel my best, but I still get up and go. I take my siblings to school every morning, and that responsibility keeps me motivated. A lot of people might take a day oﬀ if they can, but I’ve made a commitment to show up every day— no excuses.

What career are you interested in?

Right now, my focus is on earning an athletic scholarship to a strong academic school. I want to find a college that challenges me both on the field and in the classroom so

I can keep my options open for the future. I don’t have a specific college in mind yet, but I’m looking for a school that’s the right fit athletically and academically.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself playing sports professionally—no matter which sport it is. I just want to keep competing at the highest level possible and make a name for myself.

Any advice for younger students?

Keep pushing and stay focused. Don’t let distractions or setbacks stop you from reaching your goals. Work hard now so you can have the future you want later.

Do you know a standout student in athletics, academics or the arts? Nominate them to be featured in an upcoming issue! SCAN HERE!

DECEMBER 2025

12

The Doo Wop

Project - A Doo Wop Christmas

Presented by The Capitol Theatre at The Capitol Theatre in Flint. The dynamic Broadway stars of The Doo Wop Project are on a mission to put Doo Wop on everyone’s playlist! Tickets start at $40.20 / $29.90 for Genesee County residents. Time 8 to 9:30PM.

Flint ARTWALK

Presented by the Greater Flint Arts Council, 816 S. Saginaw

Street, Flint. Recurrence: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Friday, from 6 to 9PM.

13

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

Presented by The Whiting at The Whiting in Flint. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas offers holiday hits performed by 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects.

Tickets start at $50.50 / $37.20 for Genesee County residents. Time 8 to 10:30PM.

10,

Holiday Walk – Date Night! (adult only)

Presented by Genesee County Parks. Time 6 to 7PM, 7 to 8PM or 8 to 9PM. Join us at For-Mar for a Magical Holiday Hike under the stars. The For-Mar trails and bridges will all be lit up for an evening holiday adventure. So, grab your besties or your special someone and come out to create magical winter memories at For-Mar this season! For ages 16 and older, of all abilities. Cost: $10 per car. Pre-registration required by Dec. 9.

11th Annual African American Film Series - Sing Sing

Presented by Communities First, Inc., at Flint Institute of Arts in Flint. Music and dinner at 5:30 PM, film 6:45 PM. Free, $5 suggested. Register: https:// tinyurl.com/AAFS2025.

Nature at the Library: Tracks in the Snow

Presented by Genesee County Parks. Time 6:30 to 7:30PM. Become a winter nature

detective as we explore how animals move, hide, and survive in the snow. Make your own animal track book and meet a cold-weather critter getting ready for a long winter nap.

Cost: FREE. Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St, Flint.

20

Myron Elkins wsg/ Billy Gunther & the Midwest Riders, Bleau Otis Band

Presented by The Machine Shop Concert Lounge, 3539 Dort Highway, Flint. Time: 7PM. Price: $15 in advance, 18 and over.

29 Winter Break Camp: Winter Survival Skills

Presented by Genesee County Parks. Time: 10AM - 2PM. Learn the basic needs of surviving outdoors during the winter. Dress warmly and prepare to get dirty because we will be traveling the For-Mar trails and trying our hand at different survival techniques. Please bring a sack lunch, a water bottle, and a snack. For children ages 7-15, all abilities. Cost: $20 per student. Pre-registration required by Dec. 28.

30 Winter Break Camp: Animal Explorers

Presented by Genesee County Parks. Time 10AM to 2PM. During this camp, your animal lover will have the chance to meet live animals. Learn how For-Mar staff care for our animal ambassadors and take a hike on an outdoor animal adventure. Please bring a sack lunch, a water bottle, and a snack. For children ages 7-15, all abilities. Cost: $20 per student. Pre-registration required by Dec. 29.

Ongoing

Echoes of Nature: 200 Years of Japanese Printmaking

Presented by the Flint Institute of Arts Museum + Art School (FIA), 1120 E. Kearsley Street, Flint. Dates: Through January 18, 2026. Recurrence: Recurring daily. From Edo-period works (1603–1868) by masters such as Utagawa Hiroshige and Takahashi Shōtei to postwar modernist prints, this exhibition traces how artists across 200 years have continually drawn inspiration from the landscape. Showcasing both traditional woodblock techniques and modern methods such as etching, lithography, mezzotint, and serigraphy, the exhibition highlights nature’s enduring presence at the heart of Japanese printmaking.

Fenton Arts Council Art Exhibit

At Beale St. Smokehouse BBQ Gallery, presented by FAC and Beale Street Smokehouse BBQ in Fenton. Time - daily, during business hours.

Pink Night PALOOZA 2025

Flint Farmers’ Market |

10.29.2025

PHOTOS BY DOUG PIKE

TheFlint community came together in true country spirit for Pink Night Palooza 2025, an unforgettable evening of generosity, laughter, and hope—all in support of the Hurley Medical Center Breast Cancer Navigation Program. Hosted by the Hurley Foundation and Financial Plus Credit Union, this year’s event took place for the first time at the Flint Farmers’ Market, transforming the iconic space into a sea of pink cowboy hats, boots, and hearts united for a cause.

Themed “Give Cancer the Boot,” the event celebrated strength, survivorship, and the power of community. Guests enjoyed a high-energy night featuring live entertainment by country artist Madisson Olivia, exciting raﬄes and auctions, and inspiring stories from those whose lives have been touched by Hurley’s Breast Cancer Navigation Program. Serving as the Title Sponsor for 2025 was the Erik Jones Foundation, whose commitment to giving back continues to make a profound diﬀerence in the lives of local families facing breast cancer.

Proceeds from Pink Night Palooza directly benefit Hurley’s Breast Cancer Navigation Program, which provides critical support services—helping patients navigate every step of their breast cancer journey with compassion, advocacy, and expert guidance. Since its inception, Pink Night Palooza has become one of the area’s most anticipated annual events, combining fun and philanthropy to make a lasting impact on breast cancer care and awareness in mid-Michigan.

For more information or to support the Hurley Breast Cancer Navigation Program, visit hurleyfoundation.org.