As Ellianna Stolzenfeld and her friends Emmalin and Charlotte are graduating 8th grade at Notre Dame Prep School, they were required to complete a service project. They decided to purchase suitcases, duffle bags and backpacks for foster children at Whaley, and raised money by doing yard work, cleaning and organizing homes, babysitting and part time jobs. They were very proud to have done this without adult assistance.
Ona small, five-acre campus in the heart of Flint, the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of our society – foster children who have endured unimaginable abuse and neglect – are being quietly but profoundly changed.
Whaley Children’s Center, a nonprofit residential treatment facility, serves as a home where resilient young souls find safety, healing and a chance for a brighter future. Many of the children arrive at the Center carrying their meager belongings in trash bags – a heartbreaking symbol of the transient nature of their lives. They have often moved from one foster home to another, carrying the weight of their traumatic experiences in every step. The trash bags, once filled with the few personal items they can call their own, represent a history of instability, loss and pain.
“Whaley Children’s Center is more than just a residential treatment facility – it’s a home
where trauma is addressed with compassion and expertise,” states Mindy Williams, President and CEO. “The dedicated staff, consisting of therapists, case managers, behavioral specialists, direct care staff and everyone in between, work tirelessly to create an environment where these children can feel safe, loved and encouraged to simply be kids.”
According to Williams, the multi-layered approach to healing at Whaley involves a combination of therapeutic interventions, education, support and the cultivation of positive relationships. “As weeks turn into months, the transformations are evident,” Williams reports. “Their once-guarded expressions start to soften, laughter echoes through the halls and friendships blossom.”
Whaley Children’s Center becomes a place where the innate strength of the foster children begins to shine through, allowing them to reclaim the joy and innocence that every child
“One memory that sticks out to me is when I first came to the Center, a child demanded to keep their trash bag with the clothing in it – even though all of it was too small for her. She explained to me that this was the last thing she had of her home and didn’t want it thrown away. We boxed it up, put it in storage and when she left, the box went with her.”
Mindy Williams, President & CEO
“I’ve heard stories for years of our kids arriving with next to nothing and what they did have was in garbage bags. It wasn’t until I saw it firsthand that I really felt how wrong it was. Watching our kids leave with an abundance of items in suitcases and moving boxes is something we are all very proud of!”
Nadeem Gebrael, Chairman Whaley Board of Directorsdeserves, Williams reports. “When the time comes for these young souls to leave Whaley Children’s Center, it is not just a departure; it’s a celebration of newfound strength, safety and security. Instead of the degrading symbol of a garbage bag, the children are given suitcases filled with the items they have acquired during their stay – a tangible representation of their journey toward stability and hope.”
Whaley Children’s Center stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, therapy and community support, Williams adds. “In a society that often overlooks the silent struggles of foster children, Whaley provides hope, offering a chance for healing and a brighter future. From trash bags to suitcases, the journey at Whaley is a testament to the resilience of the children and the importance of providing love and support to those who need it the most.”
“We see it week after week here at Whaley Children’s Center; another child brought in for an intake, often in tears, barely saying a word, dragging what’s left of their belongings in a tattered garbage bag. They beg their DHHS workers not to leave them here, another place full of strangers far away from everything they have ever loved. It never gets easy to see and it pulls at each of our hearts, despite its repetition. But then as the days and weeks pass, little pieces of hope are seen – a slight grin on their face as a direct care worker brushes their hair, a giggle as staff plays a simple board game with them, new relationships emerging and the personality of that child starting to shine through. And slowly but surely, we get to see little bits of resilience emerge as each child adjusts to this new environment, embarks on new experiences, works through some of their trauma history and is cheered on for each small accomplishment. Before we know it, that same frightened and angry child can be heard out in the courtyard, laughing boisterously with their new-found friends and sounding just as we would expect any child to sound when they are simply enjoying being a child. This, for so many of us doing the challenging work here at the Center, is the magic and beauty that keeps us coming back day after day. This is our why.”
Amy Anderson, Director of Human Resources & Agency Operations
Ready or not … April is o cially Home & Garden time! Some of my neighbors on Lake Fenton have had their docks in the water for about a month now; am I a slacker or are they overly eager? As I write this, we’re getting that (last?) big blast of snow to welcome spring; so, I think I’m okay for now.
Springtime gets us thinking about getting outdoors, maybe pursuing a new healthy hobby, getting t and ready to enjoy another fantastic Michigan summer. e folks at Genesee County Parks are ready to welcome enthusiasts with a schedule of exciting events; see our update starting on p.8. And in our “7 Questions” feature, we pro le Patrick Linihan, now the director of GCP – Michigan’s largest county park system.
As we start planning our warm weather fun, most of us have made a list of the DIY projects we want to get started and decided what we want to plant in our gardens. Can’t wait! Maybe you’re preparing for your rst foray into the world of gardening or perhaps you’re approaching the expert level. Check out our feature on the Master Gardeners Association of Genesee County Michigan and the MSU Extension Master Gardener program – so many people are dedicated to helping beautify and educate our communities, and much more (p.18). Our “My Dish” contributor Erin Caudell is also an accomplished farmer, o ering an abundance of produce to area residents through Flint Ingredient Co. and Weekly Greens CSA (community supported agriculture). See “Healthy Harvest” on p.14. On the “Home” side, we also have some trending ideas for hitting the re-fresh button on your interior décor, DIY style.
In our “Senior Living” section, we highlight local people in di erent stages of life’s journey; two who have experienced losing a life partner, and one celebrating her 100th trip around the sun. In a very exciting stage of his own journey is Flint’s Ardreal “Bossman” Holmes, well on his way to securing his spot in the city’s rich boxing history – that story starts on p.42.
Rounding out the content are Style, Health, our great contributed columns and many, many faces captured enjoying a few recent local “Haps.” Enjoy!
anks for reading,
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Hailey
Dariya
Cheryl Dennison
Vera Hogan
Mark Spezia
CONTRIBUTING
Erin Caudell
Dr. Christopher Douglas
Vera Hogan
Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan
Nicholas R. Robinson. Esq.
Leslie Toldo
Shannon White
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OFFERING MORE THAN 11,000 ACRES OF WOODS, WATER AND FUN, GENESEE COUNTY PARKS IS MICHIGAN’S LARGEST COUNTY PARK SYSTEM! AND THIS SPRING AND SUMMER, THERE ARE SOME FUN AND EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN THE PARKS, ACCORDING TO COMMUNICATIONS, EVENT & BRAND MANAGER JACKIE DOMERESE.
Many camping enthusiasts are looking forward to the opening of Wolverine Campground in Columbiaville this month, which is earlier than normal due to popular demand. “We have also added 50 more full-hook-up camping sites,” Domerese reports. Nestled on the north shore of the Holloway Reservoir, Wolverine o ers a serene camping experience with its natural splendor and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Also anticipated is the opening this spring of Buell Lake Disc Golf Course – a “work in progress” since last fall, according to Domerese. e 5,844-foot course has 18 holes and leads players through open elds and tangles of forests around the radio-controlled air eld. “ rough ARPA funding, etford Township decided the community needed a disc golf course,” she reports. “ e township asked Genesee County Parks if Buell Lake could be its new home.” Buell Lake County Park o ers 213 acres for biking, boating, hiking and baseball.
In May, the Canoemobile Festival with Wilderness Inquiry o ers learning experiences, shing and other outdoor activities. e free event takes place at the Bluegill Boat Launch. “Voyageur canoes are 24 feet long and can hold 10-12 people,” Domerese shares. “It’s pretty cool to see!” All gear is provided and no experience is necessary. is event is open to people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.
On August 10-11, the Mott Lake Regatta hydroplane boat race returns for its second year. “We had a great turnout the rst year!” Domerese exclaims. “ e boats go really fast –up to 180 mph – it’s pretty exciting!” e event is organized by racing group, Marine Prop Riders. “A specialized group of racers from di erent states and Canada participate. It’s a pretty big deal!” she adds. Taking place at Bluebell Beach, the a ordable and fun all-day family event features food trucks, a beer tent and live music.
Hiking, biking and walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts … During the spring and summer, there is something fun to do at all of the Genesee County Parks! And there are many more events and educational programs scheduled for For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum and at Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad. Here is a sample:
VILLAGE & HUCKLEBERRY RAILROAD GENESEE COUNTY DAY
June 1, 2024
A family fun day the Genesee County way! Enjoy games, giveaways, in atables and more. Celebrate all things Genesee County with food trucks, vendors and entertainment for all ages. Admission is free!
4TH ANNUAL TRACTOR SHOW & VINTAGE MARKET
June 8-9, 2024
Get up close and personal with this unique display of antique machines, farm trucks & implements, stationary engines and tractors (1970 and older) from across Michigan. →
CURIOUS AT CROSSROADS
June 29-30, 2024
From tantalizing taxidermy to over-the-top entertainment, the Curious at Crossroads Oddities Festival hosts vendors from across Michigan and beyond. Meet the voice behind Nina Innsted’s truecrime podcast, “Already Gone”; visit with Roxanne Rhodes, author of Haunted Flint. Sunday morning has a special add-on: “Murder and Mimosas” with true-crime author, Rod Sadler. Twisting Smiles will provide free crafts and balloon art for kids.
FOR-MAR NATURE PRESERVE & ARBORETUM KNEE-HIGH NATURALIST SERIES
“READY, SET, GROW!”
April 9, 2024 • 10-11:30am • $5 per student
(Check GCP Calendar for other dates.)
Explore activities that demonstrate how seeds grow and plant some for your garden. Suggested for ages 3 to 6; an adult must accompany children. Pre-register by 4/8.
“MOTHER NATURE’S HELPERS”
April 16, 2024 • 10-11:30am • $5 per student
Explore ways to help Mother Nature and earn your “Jr. Naturalist” badge! Suggested for ages 3 to 6; an adult must accompany children. Pre-register by 4/15.
FRIENDS OF FUNGI AT FOR-MAR
April 21, 2024 • 1-3pm • FREE Dewaters Educational Building
Discover the fantastic fungi at For-Mar during a series of Educational Field Experiences, including an introduction to mushroom identi cation and identifying fungal species through the seasons. Ages 16 and older; pre-register by 4/20.
For more info about upcoming GCP events, visit geneseecountyparks.org.
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Source: geneseecountyparks.org
Back to the Bricks® is excited to host the 4th Annual Dust ’em O car show the 3rd weekend in May. Car participants will meet again for this one-day outdoor event on Sunday, May 19, 2024 from 10am - 4pm. Registered participants can enter through the gates at 9am; NON-Registered cars after 10am. For a registration donation of $10 per car, you will receive a goodie bag, collectors’ 2024 event t-shirt and car placard. Back to the Bricks® is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization; a tax deduction letter is available to those who donate. Only pre-registered participants will be eligible to win prizes throughout the event. Spectators can enter and enjoy the car show for FREE!
Gates to Dort Financial Center, 3501 Lapeer Rd., Flint will open to the public at 10am. Parking in the CubeSmart and Ashley Furniture lot and MTA Trolley rides to and from Dort Financial Center are FREE!
After a blessing of the cars, an invocation and our National Anthem performed by guests from the Flint Institute of Music, the opening ceremony will pay tribute to our veterans. The car
Who doesn’t love spring? Before we know it, everything will be green and growing! For homeowners, it’s time to tackle those DIY projects, get the yard in shape and plant some veggies. In this special section, we highlight a family farming business that provides healthy produce for local residents, and an educational program at MSU Extension for those who want to become master gardeners and help to beautify their communities. Plus, we o er a bit of inspiration for updating your home decor that can have significant impact with minimal investment.
14 HEALTHY HARVEST
LOCAL GROCER AND FARMERS COOPERATE TO PROVIDE FOR FLINT AREA COMMUNITIES
18 MAKING A DIFFERENCE MASTER GARDENERS ASSOCIATION OF GENESEE COUNTY MICHIGAN
22 ADVENTURES IN DECORATING EASY UPDATES WITH MAXIMUM IMPACT
LOCAL GROCER AND FARMERS COOPERATE TO PROVIDE FOR FLINT AREA COMMUNITIES
BY VERA HOGANErin Caudell, Owner of The Local Grocer in Flint, has discovered the root of what people want – locally-grown, fresh produce to feed their families. Not only is she a successful small business owner, Caudell and her partner, Franklin Pleasant, also own and operate Flint Ingredient Co. (FIC) and the Weekly Greens CSA (Community Supported Agriculture).
“FICis our family farm located in Beecher,” Caudell said. “Weekly Greens CSA is a partnership with read Creek Farms (the centennial farm) in Grand Blanc and FIC working together to market our vegetables.”
FIC is a nine-acre farm that supplies Weekly Greens and e Local Grocer with veggies grown using organic practices in hoop houses (plastic covered structures) to extend the season. “We believe healthy soil is the key to healthy vegetables,” Caudell explains. “We also have beehives on the farm for honey and pollination, and we plant and care for many native plants that attract pollinators and create a biological habitat for ‘good bugs,’” she added.
eir philosophy for FIC is to provide fresh, locally grown vegetables to the Flint community, be it through their CSA Weekly Greens or through e Local Grocer (sold fresh or in pre-made meal kits), as well as wholesale to restaurants, stores, childcare centers, etc.
“Weekly Greens is based on the CSA model in which you buy a ‘share’ of the farm and are provided with a weekly box of vegetables at their peak of season,” Caudell stated. “ e box is the farmer’s choice – we choose the crops that are at
their peak for consumption. Usually, we try to include some sort of green head lettuce, leaf lettuce, microgreens, collards and kale, with a mix of root vegetables –carrots, beets, radish, potatoes – and an allium like green onions, leeks, onions and garlic. We have lots of favorites like heirloom tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, sweet corn and cabbage,” she said.
“We know that families don’t like to get the same thing for weeks on end, so we mix it up,” she continued. “Also, some families choose to receive the every-other-week box, so we take that into consideration as well in curating a good mix of vegetables throughout the season. ere are several di erent options for people to choose from.”
Caudell and Pleasant did not come from farm families, so the venture has been quite a journey for the couple. “Now in our tenth year of farming, we’ve learned a tremendous amount about hoop-house growing,” she shared. “Growing in ve hoop houses has given us exibility in Michigan winters.”
Weekly Greens was started ve years ago combining the produce grown on three farms, one of which has since left
FLINT INGREDIENT CO. IS A NINE-ACRE FARM THAT GROWS VEGGIES WITH ORGANIC PRACTICES IN HOOP HOUSES TO EXTEND THE HARVEST SEASON.
to pursue other opportunities. read Creek and Flint Ingredient Co. continue to work together.
“We were all previously involved in our own CSA, but had specialties that we liked growing and saw an opportunity to work together and provide vegetables to residents of Flint, Grand Blanc, Fenton and Clarkston,” Caudell said. →
Caudell and Pleasant manage FIC together. “We farm with our three children,” she said. e couple are parents to ve-yearold twins and a 15-month-old.
“Emma Blinkenberg ( read Creek Farm) and I primarily share responsibilities, with marketing and talking each week to build our boxes around what produce is ready at each farm,” Caudell said of the partnership. “Sometimes, one of us might hold our cabbage until the next week’s box, for example, so the other can harvest a crop that is at its best that week.” ey also coordinate the purchase of supplies, packing and delivering of the boxes to various locations. “We sell vegetables to a few restaurants and have in the past sold to childcare centers, school districts and others,” she said.
Weekly Greens sells CSA memberships to people in Flint, Grand Blanc, Fenton and Clarkston and currently provides for about 50 members. “During COVID, we had a business purchase shares for their sta ,” Caudell stated. “Our memberships increased to 200 during the pandemic, but now with the two farms, we are comfortable serving about 50. Every year, we discuss whether we want to review that number.”
“NOW IN OUR TENTH YEAR OF FARMING, WE ’ VE LEARNED A TREMENDOUS AMOUNT ABOUT HOOP-HOUSE GROWING.”
Erin Caudell
Caudell said she is most proud of working with other, particularly women-led farms to provide high-quality, locally-grown vegetables for people in their communities.
You can nd Flint Ingredient Co., e Local Grocer and Weekly Greens CSA on Facebook. For more information, visit weeklygreenscsa.com and thelocalgrocer.com. ◆
the Master Gardener Association of Genesee County (MGAGC) is organized exclusively for charitable, educational and scientific purposes, specifically to instruct adults and youth in horticulture science, to educate communities about environmentally sound practices through horticulture-based activities, to promote food security and to improve the aesthetic of our community.
Michigan State University Extension o ers a program, “Foundations of Gardening’’ that begins the process of becoming a master gardener. e Master Gardener Association of Genesee County Michigan (MGAGCM), is a separate organization of local Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs), according to Barslund Judd, a member of the MSU Extension Consumer Horticulture Educator team along with other MSU Educators from around the state. “We o er online education and do presentations at local home and garden shows, libraries and community centers,” he states.
Judd oversees the EMG volunteers, training them and connecting them with projects after they are trained. His region includes Genesee, Saginaw, Shiawassee, Bay, Midland and Tuscola Counties. “MGAGCM helps raise funds to support our programming and to support the greater organization,” Judd explains. “All members are Extension Master Gardeners. A colleague of mine compares it to a high school sports booster club. Here in Genesee County, we have EMG volunteers at many di erent projects who help with other organizations.”
trees. “We are lucky to have them as a partner for our EMGs to work alongside.” Educational signage funded by MGAGCM can be found at both locations. ey also occasionally help fund the purchase of plants at approved MSU EMG projects, and have volunteers who are partnered with local teachers to educate children about horticultural topics in the classroom. “Some of the volunteer groups work at various local park systems,” Judd states. “ ere are a lot of di erent things our volunteers help with in the community.”
So, how does one become an EMG?
requirements in the Master Gardener Program: Complete the “Foundations of Gardening” (FOG) course and then apply to take the local EMG training with a consumer horticulture educator. e course is taken online, while the EMG training is done in person, hands-on. Both are o ered twice a year. When you have taken the course (you get a certi cate), attended the onboarding and completed the Volunteer Selection Process, you are a trainee. After completing 40 volunteer hours in various educational projects to select from, you have then reached Extension Master Gardener status. “ e great thing about it is you don’t have to commit to being a volunteer,” Judd says. “You can take the class to enrich your own personal gardening.”
e main goal of MGAGCM is to educate the public about horticulture topics, Judd points out. ere is an online tool that allows people to submit questions, which many of the volunteers help to answer. e Association also supports master gardeners with fundraising activities and by providing extra education for people who are already master gardeners.
Along with the work the volunteers do at Edible Flint, the Association has taken on various other projects
including rest areas, the Flushing River Trail, Crossroads Village and various schools, among many others. “Quite a few of our volunteers work at the parks,” says Judd. Joanie Snyder heads a group of volunteers at Crossroads Village and has been with the program for many years. “She is an amazing park volunteer!” Judd exclaims. “All of the volunteers stay busy.
ey really give a lot.”
For more information about the MSU Extension Master Gardener program, visit canr.msu.edu/courses/foundations-ofgardening and canr.msu.edu/master_ gardener_volunteer_program/ ◆
EXTENSION MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS DEB GLASTETTER (RIGHT) AND LORETTA ELWOOD HELPING TO MAKE GRAND BLANC’S RUST PARK MORE BEAUTIFUL.
For most homeowners, springtime awakens the motivation to make their living spaces fresh and new. While it may not be a great time to make significant monetary investments in interior renovations, there are many a ordable and DIY-able updates to consider.
When it comes to current decor trends, experts point to earthy colors, eco-friendly materials and lush greenery that creates a calming atmosphere. And, sustainability is a key factor in these design concepts. Also in the forefront are maximalism and personality-rich interior features, as well as focusing on a key decor element to set a tone.
Based on 2024 trend reports, following are a few ideas for those embarking on decorating endeavors.
that every room has? Walls! Bold statement walls are trending, and can be achieved in a variety of ways.
To create interest and add personality to any room, think vivid paint colors and wallpapers with interesting textures and striking patterns. Regardless of your DIY experience level, it’s an a ordable and accessible upgrade.
While a crisp, white wall will always be in style and a perfect backdrop for art, a bold, saturated paint color can instantly energize a room. It’s a pretty big commitment – bold hues change as the light in the room varies throughout the day. Experts recommend brushing samples on poster boards (some peel & stick samples are out there) and test-driving them in your space just to be sure.
Trends include:
Chocolate Brown
Caramel
Sage
Aqua
Icy Blue
Fiery Red
Merlot
Deep Plum
Berry
Peach
ese new “Colors of the Year” from top manufacturers could inspire a complete change of scheme, but they also pair well with white-and-cream neutrals you may already have on your walls, as well as earthy tones of natural elements and green plants.
Cracked Pepper by Behr is versatile, soft black works with everything from dusty pastels and metallic accents to rich, earthy shades and bold patterns and textures.
Persimmon by Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams recommends pairing Persimmon with neutrals such as Nearly Peach (SW 6339), Roman Column (SW 7562), and Cachet Cream (SW 6365).
It is also well-balanced when paired with medium shades of gray.
Renew Blue by Valspar
Shades of blue proved popular in homes for the past few years. is green-in uenced, plucked-from-nature hue – Valspar’s pick for 2024 Color of the Year – is a calming, meditative shade.
Continuing its “comeback”, wallpaper is an easy glow-up that adds both color and interest. You can create an accent wall and even use it in unexpected places you don’t see every day, like coat and linen closets.
Trends include:
Statement Patterns
Botanicals
Textures
Watercolor Patterns
Retro/Vintage
Landscape Murals
More brands may start o ering removable peel-and-stick products, making wallpaper a more realistic choice for renters, people on a budget and even indecisive decorators. →
“Warm & Cozy”
is year marks the 25th anniversary of the Pantone Color Institute choosing a Color of the Year – and the world’s color authority determined that we are in need of warmth, coziness and comfort these days.
at sounds like a tall order for a muted mix of pink and orange; but Pantone’s Executive Director, Leatrice Eiseman, is con dent that their choice was solid. “Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration and an opportunity for nurturing,” she stated. “Drawing comfort from PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, we can nd peace from within, impacting our wellbeing.”
When choosing its color of the year, the Pantone Color Institute considers how the shade can be applied to a variety of materials and textures across many di erent areas of design.
e complexity of Peach Fuzz can nd a place in the homes of both minimalists and maximalists. “Some may take a more minimalist approach, pairing it with neutral tones, i.e., grays, camels, indigos,” says Laurie Pressman, Pantone Vice President, adding that maximalists may choose to use the color in unconventional ways.
“ e color we select is the one we see building in importance across all areas of design,” she continues. “It is the color that has the ability to communicate the color message that best re ects what is happening in our global culture at a speci c moment in time.”
e focus of this concept is creating a stronger connection with nature, a sense of calm and escape – bringing outdoor elements inside. Bene ts include increased well-being and productivity. is can be achieved with large windows, indoor plants, living green walls and natural materials like stone and wood.
A fun and earthy DIY ower alternative, these beautiful and zero-cost displays can be made with materials found in the yard. Clip a few sturdy angular branches, like magnolia and oak, so they’re at least twice the height of your vase. Add water and voila!
What was out … Well, you know the rest. Retro decor and furnishings are having a moment, but with a modern twist. Combine antique furnishings or decor with modern pieces, art, bedding or wallpaper to create interest and personality. →
Of course, you want your home to smell good! Everyone is looking for non-toxic scents, being more mindful of the ingredients in di users, candles and plug-ins. Choose good-smelling scents that are also good for you!
Aside from investing in wellness spa amenities such as ice baths/cold plunge pools and heat/sauna therapy for health and relaxation, there are inexpensive ways to create a spa ambiance.
Plants: Choose varieties that thrive in a humid environment and in the light the space receives, then place potted houseplants on the oor, countertop and other bathroom surfaces, or try hanging one (or more) from the ceiling.
Declutter: Countertop clutter and jam-packed cabinets aren’t conducive to relaxation.
Plush Towels: A spa-like environment requires u y, luxuriously soft bath towels. Display extra towels in a rolled arrangement, or create a stack with crisply folded edges. For an extra special touch, invest in a towel-warmer rack – a bit of luxury every time you step out of the shower. →
Install a Spa Shower Head: is upgrade can turn your daily routine into a rejuvenating experience. Consider features like massaging spray patterns, a handheld component, or a rain shower head that sprays water from directly above. If you have room in your budget, consider upgrading other bathroom xtures.
Color Creates Calm: Choose soft, muted colors to establish a tranquil environment – warm neutrals and nature-inspired tones create a peaceful vibe. Avoid bold, high-contrast such as black and white or blue and orange, which are energizing rather than calming.
Upgrade Your Bath Products: Aesthetically-pleasing toiletries that blend with your color scheme reinforce the spa ambience. Decant them in pretty bottles – clear glass jars are great for cotton rounds and other small toiletry items. Organized on a vanity tray, they add a spa-worthy touch.
Incorporate Calming Scents: Add an aromatherapy element with calming scents like lavender, rosemary, or ylang-ylang. Essential oil di users and scented candles set a tranquil mood. A simple bundle of eucalyptus hung in your shower adds a fresh burst of fragrance when you turn on the water.
Add a Cozy Seat: If you have the space, position a side chair near your tub or shower enclosure to make the room feel extra inviting, create a comfy spot to towel o . Of course, the fabric should be able to withstand a little steam.
Your aesthetic may not be consistent, and that’s okay! Go with it. Mixing styles allows you to choose styles that resonate with you and express your personality – traditional and modern elements or vintage and contemporary pieces. You can embrace the mix of decor elements between rooms and spaces and add more colors, textures and nishes.
on your home decor can start you on an exciting adventure! Create a plan and enjoy the journey. ◆
While there are more ways than ever for us to live longer, more engaged and healthier lives, many of us face challenges as we age. We encounter unexpected events and health issues that are typically accepted as a part of the aging process. These can include losing our eyesight, and losing our life partner. Both topics are featured in this section. In addition, we have a contributed article about a local senior who became a centenarian this month – a life event we hope everyone gets to celebrate! ◆
Irecently enjoyed a chat with Abbey Park resident Phyllis Beifuss, as we celebrate her 100th birthday. I have known Phyllis for nearly a decade, and she never ceases to amaze me with her humor, sharp mind, love for family and strong sense of humanity.
In 1924 when Phyllis Irene Mathiasen was born, her parents had met and married after both had recently graduated from Oberlin College in Ohio. Also at that time, her father was a graduate student at Harvard University. Her earliest memory is from age two when her brother Bobby was
“I WOULD LIKE MY LOVED ONES TO REMEMBER ME AS SOMEONE KIND OF WISE, NONJUDGMENTAL, AND WHO TELLS IT LIKE IT IS.”
born. When she was 11 years old, Phyllis was thrilled with the birth of her sister Marcia – “a real baby to play with.”
Phyllis’ parents raised her to be an independent thinker; if she had a problem, she herself would need to find a solution. They were supportive of everything she did, but it was expected she would go to college. Her early childhood education at the Antioch grade school presented some difficulties, as she did not learn to read until the third grade. A student teacher was always at her side to assist her, but Phyllis reports she never felt uncomfortable or that she was a loser. Her school’s non-traditional educational concept involved hands-on learning rather than sitting at a desk. “I never learned math,” she admits. Getting through graduate school while avoiding math is a story for another day, according to Phyllis.
For her undergraduate studies, she attended progressive Antioch College where her father was a professor. Her mother believed she should “go away” to college, so Phyllis stayed in a dorm two blocks from home. There, she participated in a new concept of cooperative education. Her college work-study program began with a job at Holley Carburetor Company in Detroit. At age 18, she was on her own, living in the city and having to learn her way around. “I had a choice: I could work there, or be a waitress at Stouffer’s Restaurant in Cleveland.” Did her parents have a hard time letting her live out of state? “Heavens no,” she answered, “as far as I know, they never had control of me anyway.”
College work-study included jobs in various states and Phyllis went on to Ohio State University for an education degree. After completing her undergraduate studies, she married Dick Beifuss. Her first job was teaching art for grades 1-12.
When Dick graduated from law school, Phyllis left her teaching job to pursue her
next goal. She believed “nothing would be more fun than to have babies.” Their family grew to include five children and she enjoyed being a mother very much. When the youngest turned five years old, Phyllis attended graduate school while also working part-time as a high school guidance counselor.
After retirement, Phyllis continued to enjoy and cherish her family. Her love of travel is evidenced by the photos and beautiful art pieces displayed throughout her stylish Abbey Park apartment, her home for the last nine years. She cherishes her thrice-weekly bridge games, recently holding the title of High Scorer at the Senior Center for three consecutive weeks.
Phyllis feels that this expression rings true of herself: “My mind is a workshop, not an encyclopedia.” Learning by doing has always benefited her. Years as a guidance counselor demonstrated to her that learning disabilities are just a fraction of the problems children experience while growing up. When I asked her if she was concerned about today’s kids having access to social media, Phyllis said it is “just destroying kids. They are so insecure anyway, and now we are just adding to it. There is no way out.”
As for her legacy, the centenarian would like her loved ones to remember her as someone “kind of wise, nonjudgmental, and who tells it like it is.” Well said, Phyllis – and congratulations on a life well lived!
PHYLLIS AND HUSBAND DICK BEIFUSS ON THEIR WEDDING DAY IN 1949.
Ina couple’s life together, their wedding is typically one of the most joyous occasions. e day is lled with sheer happiness and excitement, celebrating with friends and family, and the promise of building a life of countless, wonderful years together. So happy are they that the few short words of their marriage vows, “‘til death do us part” are spoken, but very quickly overlooked and forgotten – that is, until that parting actually happens.
When it does, there is at rst so much to do, not the least of which is arranging and enduring a funeral, taking care of nancial and other business matters as a bereft person, followed by the overwhelming task of distributing or disposing of their loved one’s personal belongings.
Once that is accomplished, the question is “Now what?’ Moving on without a life partner has its challenges, but there is no choice. It must be done.
In early April 2019, Fenton City Councilman Scott Grossmeyer lost his 63-year-old wife Ruth after a brief battle with cancer. ey were married for nearly 35 years.
“ ere is no one ‘hardest part’ about losing her,” he said. “I was pretty much numb for the rst couple of months. Everything about daily life changed. I had a partner for everything
from chores to vacations and now, I don’t have her to share life with. Our retirement together changed from having my partner to share things with to doing things alone. Even happy occasions like the birth of my grandson are a little sad, because I know how much she wanted to be a grandmother.”
Grossmeyer said being with his daughter, son-in-law and ten-month-old grandson helps, and he plans to spend more time with them,
‘It also helps when I look around and realize how many people I know who also have lost a spouse,” he said.
Grossmeyer recalls vividly the day he buried his wife’s cremains, six months after her passing.
“ at day, after the luncheon I volunteered at a local fundraising event,” he said. ‘I remember looking around the tent and seeing probably a dozen people I knew who had all lost a spouse. at helped to comfort me and still does. It’s a large club that none of us wanted to join.
“I live in an amazing community full of loving people, and a wonderful neighborhood with great neighbors that I am close with and that helps,” Grossmeyer added. “Whenever I don’t want to be alone, I can go into most any store or restaurant and have a conversation and maybe even get an occasional
hug. I really miss hugs. If I don’t want to eat alone, there are a couple of restaurants where I know that someone will join me after I sit down and engage in conversation.” Grossmeyer is also very involved in the community through both government and volunteering. “Being involved, I have met a lot of people who I have come to love and respect, and they are a great support system. For me, being out of the house and engaged with other people helps.”
Grossmeyer said he has learned that everyone grieves di erently, and there is no timeline for getting through the process.
“ ere are wonderful support groups and counselors, and that is what some people need,” he said. “Others, like myself, let time heal the loss.” He suggests that individuals should gure out what it is that they need and not be afraid or embarrassed to ask for it – whether from friends or a professional. “And don’t rush the process just because the people around you think that they know what you should be doing,” he added. “Do whatever brings you comfort.”
Pam Buerger of Linden is a familiar face in Genesee County, known for her past work with the Fenton Village Players. In early March of 2018, she lost her husband Gary to cancer at the age of 67. ey were married for nearly 30 years.
Buerger shared her journey.
A talented stained-glass artist, she often donates her time and talents through community service and charitable
endeavors. “Giving is more rewarding than receiving,” Buerger said. “I belong to a women’s service organization, and we fundraise for Whaley Children’s Center and Voices for Children (Child Advocacy Center). I make small, pocket ‘Helping Hearts’ out of glass. Each child who is served by Voices for Children receives one; it includes a little note that says ‘anytime you need to be a little braver or stronger ... squeeze for a little help’. I was told that many of the children carry it to court proceedings in their pocket and it gives them a lot of comfort.”
e Buergers always enjoyed traveling together. “ e rst year after Gary passed, I did not go to our timeshare in Mexico,” she said. “But I’ve made the trip every year since then, and I feel like I go for both of us.”
Buerger said she is grateful for the support system she has.
“Friends and family are the best,” she said. “Sometimes, you do lose a few friends when you lose a spouse, but I’ve gained so many more.”
One thing Buerger wishes people would stop doing is avoiding talking about Gary because they think it hurts her. “It does not hurt me,” she said. “I love talking about Gary and when others share their stories about him it keeps his memory alive and that makes me happy.”
Buerger’s advice for others in her position is, “Try to live your life like the person you lost would want you to. I strive every day to make Gary proud.”
According to the National Institute on Aging, these are some ideas to keep in
mind
when it comes time to face this life event:
Take care of yourself. Grief can be hard on your health. Exercise regularly, eat healthy food and get enough sleep. Bad habits, such as drinking too much alcohol or smoking, can put your health at risk.
Try to eat right. Some widowed people lose interest in cooking and eating. It may help to have meals with friends.
Talk with caring friends. Let family and friends know when you want to talk about your spouse. ey may be grieving too and may welcome the chance to share memories. When possible, accept their o ers of help and company.
Visit with members of your religious community. Many people who are grieving nd comfort in their faith. Praying, talking with others of your faith, reading religious or spiritual texts, or listening to uplifting music also may bring comfort.
See your doctor. Keep up with visits to your healthcare provider. If it has been awhile, schedule a physical exam and bring your doctor up to date on any pre-existing medical conditions and new health issues that may be of concern. Let your healthcare provider know if you are having trouble taking care of your everyday activities, like getting dressed or xing meals.
Complicated grief can be a serious condition and those who have it may need additional help to overcome the loss. Support groups, professionals and close loved ones can help comfort and support someone with this condition. ◆
With an “80s Retro Rewind” theme, this four-day event attracted groups from the community who united to bowl for kids’ sake. Every year, half a million people across America support this signature fundraiser by having fun and raising money to support Big Brothers Big Sisters.
e nationally recognized event holds special signi cance in Genesee County and Flint, paying tribute to the late Gary Haggart, a community gure who pioneered fostering mentorship for Flint and Genesee County youth.
An estimated 1,200 community members were anticipated to bowl and participate over the four-day period, with additional individuals contributing their time as event volunteers. Participants were encouraged to gather a minimum of $50 in pledges, earning prizes and the chance to enter a grand prize drawing. e friendly competition known as “Challenges” invited businesses and organizations from similar sectors to compete to raise the most funds. Challenge groups include Battle of the Badges (Law Enforcement/Civic Organizations), Financial Institution, Pan-Hellenic Council (Divine 9 Fraternities and Sororities) and Faith-Based Organizations.
e Arby’s Foundation served as the presenting sponsor. With support from additional sponsors and participants, BBBS aimed to raise $143,000. At this printing, over $130,000 had been raised, 90.9% of the event goal! ◆
Celebrating the community’s Irish roots, the Ancient Order of Hibernians hosted its annual event, presided over by this year’s Flint St. Patrick’s Day Grand Marshal Tim Murphy of Flushing.
Festivities began with the Miss Hibernia Pageant and crowning of Meredith Knight of Flushing and her Court. e pageant invites young ladies to participate who are of Irish descent, a Genesee County resident or full-time student at a County high school or college. ey completed an O cial Biographical Form and were judged on their knowledge of Irish heritage, poise, personality, appearance and an interview with the Screening Committee: eresa Hurley, Stacy McGraw and Loretta O’Reilly. Eight contestants from around Genesee County competed for more than $4,500 in scholarship awards. Ms. Knight received $2,000; rst runner up Mariah Byrnes of Laingsburg received $1,500 and second runner up Caroline Vance of Flint, $1,000. e contestants were judged by Paul Cavanaugh, Gerri Lajewski and Lisa Marie Szukhent.
Following the pageant, the night was lled with more Irish traditions, including dancing performed by Hubbardston Dance Troupe, a bagpiper and music by e Pub Runners. Attendees also enjoyed Irish stew and corned beef sandwiches.
e Ancient Order of Hibernians is America’s oldest Irish Catholic Fraternal Organization. ◆
Coming from 12 di erent Flint area schools and the Lansing, Saginaw, Midland and Traverse City areas, 320 students participated in the Junior (Grades 6-8) and Senior (9-12) Categories. With a panel of 80+ judges, three rounds of judging took place including online material submission, in-person interviews at UM-Flint withnalists and non- nalists at their displays, and the Challenger Round (seniors only) that required an intense, long-format interview of the Top 10 projects with a team of judges designed to prepare the students for the international fair.
Students won over $10,000 dollars in cash prizes plus scholarships to Kettering University and UM-Flint (three, four-year full-tuition scholarships)! e top prize in the Senior category was $500 plus an all-expense-paid trip to the International Science & Engineering Fair in Los Angeles in May. e prize was re-named this year in honor of David C. Hill, a longtime FRSEF supporter who competed at the rst FRSEF in 1957 as a 7th-grader, winning the top prize in 1960 and 1962.
1st – (David C. Hill Award): Akhilesh Kanmanthreddy
Predictive Modeling of Brain Tumor Evolution and Anatomical Invasion: A Novel 3D Spatiotemporal Approach for Enhanced Treatment Planning
2nd – Miriam Haddad
Magnetizing Oil: A New Paradigm for Cleaning Up Aquatic Oil Spills
3rd – Louis Huang
Biodegradable Agricultural Mulch Films from Waste Paper Pulp & Calcium Alginate
4th – Anthony Daoud
Predictive Model for the Development & Spread of Bacterial Resistance in Relation to Antibiotic Consumption in Hospital Settings
Junior Earth Environment & Chemistry: Emma Huang
Controlled Drug Delivery with Alginate
Beads & Hydrogel Capsules
Junior Life Sciences: Abdurrahman Qandeel
How Exposure to Di erent Light Conditions A ects Yeast Growth
Junior Physical Sciences & Engineering: Abigail Hansen
Do More Blades Equal More Power?
For the rst time this year, the Elementary Division Fair will be a separate event held at Sloan Museum of Discovery on April 11. ◆
