My City | September 2023 Digital Edition

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DEAR READERS, Who’s ready for fall?

Every September, we feature photos of the huge crowds at Back to the Bricks® … a sure sign that the summer will soon be ending – a bittersweet time of year, for sure. But My City is here for it!

is month, we highlight local First Responders, some of the “faces of the frontlines” who are there when we need them, risking their own safety to ensure ours. Local re ghters and law enforcement personnel are involved with their communities and in addition to protecting residents, they provide safety education and many other services. You can read about them starting on p.13.

Not all law enforcement o cers are men and women – some are man’s best friend! e Genesee County Sheri ’s O ce has a K9 Unit with highlytrained dogs and handlers who assist their fellow o cers in di cult and dangerous situations. Our story about these fearless, furry and four-legged heroes of the frontlines starts on p.28.

e sta at our local hospitals include many frontline personnel who are dedicated to serving and worthy of recognition. We learned of recent accolades received by both Hurley Medical Center and McLaren Flint and are always happy to highlight the excellence of our community’s healthcare providers.

Our “Style Issue” features another group of Greater Flint’s Best Dressed! We were so pleased to do the photo shoots on the campus of Mott Community College (celebrating their centennial this month!) and appreciate our participants who took time to make it happen. Check out their style starting on p.38.

ere’s much more in this issue, including food, music and our variety of contributed columns. It’s time to grab something pumpkin-spiced and spend some time with My City

e summer “Haps” have wrapped – I hope you are welcoming the new season and ready to enjoy plenty of Flint-style fall fun ahead! anks for reading.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

Vince Lorraine

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

Nicholas R. Robinson. Esq.

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

ART & DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Hailey Carriger

Daria Akulova

PHOTOGRAPHY

Katy Kildee

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTING/CIRCULATION

Kim Davis

SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Terese Allen

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.

Where to Buy MY CITY MAGAZINE

Fenton’s Open Book 105 W. Shiawassee Ave. Fenton, MI 48430 810.629.8000

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Hurley Medical Center

One Hurley Plaza Flint, MI 48503 810.262.9306

Publisher & Editor in Chief Vince@mycitymag.com

COVER ART BY AMBER TAYLOR

Vince Lorraine

Every Story Needs a Hero Whaley Children’s Center Mentor Program

By Cheryl Dennison

Bythe time a child becomes a resident of Whaley Children’s Center, they have, on average, been through 12-15 different home placements, according to President/ CEO Mindy Williams. “During their time at Whaley, they are provided with a sense of home and family, and eventually become kids again,” she states.

Every story needs a hero, says Williams, and you can be one by joining Whaley’s Mentor Program and taking the opportunity to impact the life of a foster child. The program is dedicated to providing sustainable, one-on-one mentoring relationships for abused and neglected youth residing at the Center.

According to Nina James, Executive Assistant and Mentor Program Coordinator, Whaley currently houses 36 children and has eight mentors. “We had to pause our Mentor Program during the height of the pandemic and then again due to staffing shortages,” she reports. “It took a bit longer than we wanted to get it going again.

ensuring that each pair has something in common. Mentors visit their mentees a total of four hours a month which can be one hour per week or distributed to suit your schedule. The first four to six visits have to be on our campus; after that, you can take your mentee to the places and events that you will enjoy together.”

Becoming a Whaley mentor can be life-changing for both mentee and mentor. “I became a mentor at the Center after connecting with a young lady through Zonta Club,” says Jennifer Koester, Director of Independent Living. “I quickly became her ‘person’ and we still have a relationship years later. Now, as a Whaley staff member, I see from the other side how important mentoring is for our kids. They are surrounded by social workers, therapists, court employees and attorneys. They need a person, and that is what our Mentor Program is all about.”

“Thanks to the power of mentorship and the care of their mentors, the lives of these foster children are transformed. They learn that they are not defined by their pasts, but rather, they have the potential to shape their own futures. With newfound hope and determination, they embark on a journey of healing and growth, knowing they have someone by their side, cheering them on every step of the way. And so, with the support of their mentors and the community, the kids begin to thrive, proving that a little guidance and love could make all the difference in the world. Together, we can create a brighter future for our kids, offering them the stability, care and guidance they both need and deserve.”

– Mindy Williams, President and CEO

“I love running this program for our kids and community!” James exclaims. “I have seen some really great and supportive relationships develop and actually last, even when the children have transitioned out of the Center. I hope we are able to get back to the time when every child had their own mentor, and we had a waiting list of community members who wanted to be part of the program.”

As a Whaley mentor, you get to spend one-on-one time with a child at the Center, Williams notes. “All mentor/ mentee matches are made with your interests in mind,

Mentoring a child is powerful stuff, according to Amy Anderson, Director of Human Resources and Agency Operations. “It has the ability to change the trajectory of a child’s life,” she shares, adding that research demonstrates that it only takes three positive adult role models to change a child’s life, regardless of the circumstances the child comes from. “Whaley kids often have had few, if any, positive adult supporters who are there for them through thick and thin and they very much treasure the one-on-one attention they usually only get from a mentor.”

How do you become a mentor at Whaley Children’s Center?

Prospective Mentors complete an application and screening process. According to Whaley’s Mentor Program Handbook, applicants must be at least 21 years old, interested in working with young people and willing to complete the screening process. They must be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures, be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments. Mentors must communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities. They must have access to an insured automobile and a good driving record, as well as a clean criminal and Central Registry history. Mentors do not use alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner.

What are the desired qualities of a Mentor?

A Mentor must be a willing listener, encouraging and supportive, patient and flexible, tolerant and respectable of individual differences.

What is a Mentor’s role?

Mentoring includes taking the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-to-one relationship; serving as a positive role model and friend; building the relationship by planning and participating in activities together; striving for mutual respect; building self-esteem and motivation; helping set goals and working toward accomplishing them.

What is the time commitment?

For one year, the Mentor will spend a minimum of four to six hours per month with the Mentee, communicating with them weekly. The first four visits must take place on Whaley grounds to allow the relationship to develop. Mentors attend an initial Mentor Orientation session, as well as additional training throughout the duration of the mentoring relationship. Attending Mentor/Mentee group events, mentor support groups and program recognition events is optional.

For more information about the Mentor Program, please email Nina James at NJames@WhaleyChildren.org or call 810.234.3603.

FACES OF THE FRONTLINES First Responders Yearbook

To put one’s life in harm’s way for the safety of others is a sacri ce that takes equal amounts of sel essness and courage. In Greater Flint, there are hundreds of men and women willing to put it all on the line for our communities without hesitation. Our police o cers and re ghters are second to none in the country and each of them has shown that they are ready to go above and beyond for any of us in need of help. is section is dedicated to those brave men and women who serve and protect our communities.

My City thanks all the participating re and police departments and salutes all of the other Genesee County departments: Argentine Township Police, Atlas Township Fire, Burton Police, Clayton Township Police, Davison-Rich eld Fire, Davison Police, Flint Fire, Flint Police, Flint Township Fire, Flushing Police, Flushing Township Police, Genesee Township Police, Grand Blanc Police, Grand Blanc Township Police, Linden Fire, Linden Police, Montrose Fire, Montrose Police, Mt. Morris Township Police and Swartz Creek Fire.

ARGENTINE TOWNSHIP FIRE & RESCUE CITY OF BURTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

STAFF

Assistant Fire Chief

Steven Thompson

Captain Kyle Kurtz

Lt. 1 Todd Jezierski

Lt. 2 Kelly Lawrence

Sgt. 1 Kati Keller

Engineer Jerry Ellsworth

Engineer Duane Kemp

FF/MFR Jeremy Hatton

FF/MFR Justin Shumaker

FF/MFR Mike Nick

FF/EMT Kelsey Hatton

FF/MFR Todd MacDonell

FF Doug Fulton

Probationary FF Jack Davis

Probationary FF Doug Fulton, Jr.

Located in Linden and formed in 1973, Argentine Township

Fire & Rescue provides re protection and emergency response services to the Linden community. We are committed to the protection of our citizens and community. Our department attends multiple community functions and events, as well. We are researching hosting a blood drive in the near future. We have a carbon monoxide and smoke detector program, and o er classes in CPR and rst aid, as well. In recent years, we have had many CPR saves by several members of the Department who were recognized for their lifesaving e orts.

e City of Burton Fire Department takes great pride in supporting and helping our community every opportunity we get. Our smoke detector program, installing smoke detectors for free in the homes of Burton residents, has saved lives on multiple occasions. We also o er CPR training for organizations and the public. We provide services to the residents of the City of Burton,

which is an area of approximately 27 square miles. e Department operates out of three stations and has a total of nine re apparatus. On average, the Department responds to approximately 650 calls for service each year. Fire Station #1 is located at Saginaw/Bristol Roads, Station #2/Headquarters is located at Belsay/Lapeer Roads and Station #3 is located at Davison/Genesee Roads. →

Fire Chief Jeremy Kurtz Fire Chief Kirk Wilkinson

FF/EMT Jessica Armstrong

Back Row: Firefighter Cody Revolt, Firefighter Alex Krajniak, Captain Dustin Woodli , Battalion Chief James Lincoln, Chief Kirk Wilkinson, Battalion Chief Matthew Raysin, Captain Jeremy Scharrer, Firefighter Christopher Hubler, Firefighter Christopher Kvintus

Front Row: Firefighter Emory Miller, Firefighter Samuel Ashley, Firefighter Logan Merrick, Firefighter Bobbi Long, Firefighter Robert Jeske, Firefighter Michael Gonzalez, Firefighter Christopher Spiewak, Firefighter Zachary Douglass, Firefighter Lynn Hill

CLIO POLICE DEPARTMENT

Police Chief

Wendell Millstead

Consisting of the Chief, four full-time o cers and three part-time o cers, the entire sta is committed to protecting and serving Clio citizens with integrity.

In addition to traditional 24-hour police services, the department provides Clio City Park Patrol, along with other special programs and services.

We are a community-oriented agency, and our members take a keen interest in giving back to the people we serve. We have provided sponsorships for the Boy Scouts of America and Voices for Children Advocacy Center of Flint, which serves young people throughout Genesee County. In addition, our department has become a de facto resource for lost/found animals in the greater community, amongst other e orts.

DAVISON TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT

Founded in 1966, this full-time police department operates 24/7 and has grown to 22 sworn full-time o cers. We are still growing and provide a number of patrol divisions to help serve the public we protect: Patrol Division, Tra c Division, Bicycle Patrol Division, Detective Bureau, School Resource O cer, Narcotics Detective assigned to FANG (Flint Area Narcotics Group), and Supervision. Within these divisions, we have several o cers who specialize in certain areas such as Firearms Instructors, Tra c Crash Reconstructionists, Defensive Tactics Instructors, Drone Operators and more. Since 2021, we have engaged with our community in ways we previously did not and are always looking for new ideas to engage with our community. We have participated in Co ee with a Cop, Cops & Cones, National Night Out and many more activities. is fall, we will partner with a local church for the Faith & Blue initiative, bringing together the police, the church and the local residents to form an even stronger bond within the community. A food drive is planned for that weekend and later in the year, our o cers will continue to make a donation to participate in “No Shave November.” e proceeds are then donated to Outreach East in Davison to help our community members in need.

One large scale operation we ran was a search for a nineyear-old autistic boy who went missing from a Davison Township park (Lake Callis) at around 7pm on July 4, 2015. With no sign of him, we had police K9s, a dive team and several volunteers on foot checking the area by the end of the evening. O cers remained on the scene from the minute this was reported. As each day passed, the search grew larger and by July 8, the search was perhaps the largest police activity Genesee County had ever seen. We had a very large scale technical search involving a mobile command center which oversaw approximately 800 police and re personnel. We had assistance from just about every agency in Genesee County and surrounding agencies as far as Sault Sainte Marie and Ohio, as well as federal agencies including the FBI, Border Patrol, DEA, ATF and Homeland Security. Each agency provided something – helicopters, ATVs, drones, dive teams, K9s, horses and more. Sadly, the search ended with the boy being found in Lake Callis as a drowning victim. is was a great testament to how public safety agencies came together to work together as a team. →

Police Chief Jay Rendon

(L-R): Ofc. Blayne Fortune, Lt. Corey Haynes, Ofc. Chad Haynes, Det. Terry Coon, SRO Kevin Roberts, Ofc. Spencer Zecchini, Chief Jay Rendon, Ofc. Troy Mitchell, Ofc. Dexter Taylor, Ofc. Mike Bice, and Sgt. David Sohmer

FENTON CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

FENTON TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

Established in 1875, our department responds to calls in the City of Fenton and parts of Tyrone Township – approximately 500 calls per year. Some of the special things about our department include a “Fire Explorers” program through the Boy Scouts of America for junior re ghters (boys or girls) aged 14-19. We train these young people right alongside our re ghters and they are also able to respond to certain types of incidents with us. We have always valued our Explorer program as it’s a great recruiting tool for our Department. Currently, 11 of our 30 re ghters were once Fire Explorers.

Our Fenton Fire ghters Charities is a 501(c)(3) organization that raises funds to assist community members, such as those who have been in accidents, experienced a re, are battling a medical issue, or simply are down on their luck and need help getting back on their feet. We also partner with other community support organizations to provide food giveaways and food baskets to those in need during the anksgiving and Christmas holidays. We participate in numerous community events like the Fenton Freedom Festival, Jingle Fest, National Night Out, Folds of Honor Golf Outing, Back to the Bricks Warm-up, Rotary Veterans’ Breakfast, numerous Fenton school events, and many of our re ghters “ring the bell” for the Salvation Army during the holidays.

We believe strongly in being involved with our community. Interacting with those whom we serve is important to building upon the tremendous support we already receive from everyone in the community.

e Fenton Township Fire Department (FTFD) covers approximately 32 square miles, providing re, rescue and emergency medical services to the residents and visitors of the Township. e FTFD was established in 1975 as an on-call department and in 1996, the Township hired its rst full time Fire Chief who is also the administrator of the Department.

e FTFD is committed to the education of Township kids, educating them on re safety with our “Safe at Home Program.” In addition, FTFD is equipped with automatic external debrillators (AEDs) for cardiac arrests and we have a thermal imaging camera to detect res inside of walls and other areas not seen by the human eye.

Fire Chief Ryan Volz

Fire Chief Robert Cairndu

GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fire Chief Robert Burdette

e GBTFD is celebrating its 100th year of service to the Grand Blanc community. Residents can contact our o ce to receive smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and to have them installed by our sta who provide re safety education while they are there.

e date for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the reconstructed Baldwin Rd. Fire Station will soon be announced, along with an open house planned for October 2023. Another special event planned for 2023 is a groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of construction of a new Fire Station and Department of Public Service facility being built o Dort Hwy.

e Fire Department regularly takes part in many “Trunk or Treat” events held in the community, and we partner with our local law enforcement o cers to be a part of the National Night Out, and their Camp Safety! Program that provides kids in grades 3-5 with a fun and interactive introduction to valuable safety tips and techniques. ey learn basic at-home safety, school safety, how to give

Top (L-R): FF A. Perry, FF J. Johnson, FF J. Si erman, FF B. Jones, FF N. Perry, FF B. Connell, FF L. Simpson, FF. R. Goodyear, FF. F. Getz, FF. K. Stuart, FF T. Struble, FF A. Newton, FF A. Peterson, FF R. Brancheau, FF K. Price, FF J. Tetmeyer

Bottom (L-R): SGT A. Frank, FM C. Keller, Deputy Chief K. Maricle, Chief R. Burdette, CPT B. Hutchison, LT J. Oxford, SGT M. Sorensen, SGT M. Hertzberg

Absent: FF D. Bechtel, FF S. Blakemore, FF M. Dalrymple, FF J. Dunda, FF J. Haller, FF M. Hocken, FF R. Jeltema, FF J. Jones, FF L. Larsen, CPT W. Larsen, FF S. McKay, FF P. Popadich, FF J. Tapp, and FF C. Wilson

simple life-saving emergency care and get to meet and interact with the very rst responders who serve their community.

To celebrate International Fire ghters Day, we are planning a 5k run at noon on May 4, 2024.

SWORN STAFF

OFC Jeremy Moreland

OFC Shaun Morey

OFC Brian Ogle

OFC Ryan Ortiz

OFC Jeremy Pizzala

OFC Trystain Thomas

OFC Peter Ventimiglia

OFC Bryan Drinkwine

OFC Brian Fairchild OFC Brian Farlin OFC Todd Gilbert OFC Matthew Gocha OFC Gary Ellis OFC Ryan Turvey

CIVILIAN STAFF

METRO POLICE AUTHORITY OF GENESEE COUNTY

Police Chief

Matthew Bade

Formed in 2017, the Metro Police Authority of Genesee County serves the communities of Mundy Township and the City of Swartz Creek. e sharing of law enforcement resources has been a force-multiplier for both communities and the Authority is always seeking new partners.

Metro has 30 sworn and ve civilian members. It is governed by the Metro Police Authority Board which includes Chairman David Krueger, Vice-Chair Corey Bostwick, Tonya Ketzler, Rae Lynn Hicks, David Witter, Nate Henry and Vane King.

Community outreach programs include Camp 911 for kids, National Night Out, Trunk or Treat, Shop with a Hero and our Crime Prevention rough Environmental Design Team. Metro is also a proud member of the Hope Not Handcu s program. In 2019, the Tourism Police Partnership Program (T.I.P.P.) was created in an effort to build a partnership with local hotels. Since then, the program has grown into a countywide initiative.

We especially wish to honor the memory of O cer Je Storms whom we lost in 2022 to brain cancer.

GENESEE COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF FIRE CHIEFS

Focused on Fire Safety & Education

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Established in 1968 with the objective “to provide the best possible degree of re protection and re prevention for the citizens of Genesee County,” the Genesee County Association of Fire Chiefs (GCAFC) has made its mark on every community in the area. rough training and organization, the association acts as the foundation of the County’s re departments.

e objective of its re training committee is “to provide Genesee County re service personnel with a continuous training program that meets or exceeds all county, state and federal requirements.” Training includes all aspects of re ghting including emergency driving, emergency coordination, re ghter safety and more. In 2021, the association partnered with the Genesee Career Institute (GCI), to build and operate a re training academy for Genesee County high school students. It was developed in response to a need for more re ghters in the County and students who sign up receive the same level of training that all re ghters receive. Upon completion of the program, students undergo written and practical examinations for certi cation through the State of Michigan. Once passed, students meet the quali cations of Fire ghter 1 & 2, allowing them to graduate high school and immediately enter the eld as a re ghter. To bolster the program, in August, the association

and GCI opened a brand new, state-of-the-art training center on the GCI campus. e new facility will allow up to 72 high school students to be trained in the program.

In addition to training, the GCAFC organizes multiple strike teams in the County such as the Brush Fire Strike Team, Engine Strike Team, Tanker Strike Team and Hazmat Team. rough the re departments, the Association also organizes the Genesee County Honor Guard to preside over a variety of community functions and dedications.

When someone becomes a re ghter, they join a brotherhood of honor, courage and integrity. To honor current heroes, the Association names and honors a Fire ghter of the Year chosen from the County departments. e program was started in 1971 and last year, the recognition was given to re ghter Dan Merriam of the Flint Township Fire Department. To honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty, the GCAFC maintains the Genesee County Memorial at Flint Memorial Park in Mt. Morris.

e Genesee County Association of Fire Chiefs is committed to the preparation and advancement of our current and future re ghters for our safety and well-being.

For more information, visit genco rechiefs.org.

THE GCAFC EXECUTIVE BOARD

SECRETARY CHIEF DON SCHREIBER

Grand Blanc City Fire Department

CHIEF

CHIEF JIM

TREASURER CHIEF BOB BURDETTE

Grand Blanc Township Fire Department

PAST PRESIDENT

ASSISTANT CHIEF CHRIS FAIRBANKS

Linden Fire Department

TRUSTEES

ASSISTANT CHIEF GIL BURWELL

Forest Township Fire Department

CHIEF BRETT BECKLEY

Flint Township Fire Department

PRESIDENT

BRIAN FLEWELLING

Davison-Richfield Fire Department

VICE PRESIDENT

BRONSON

Clio Area Fire Department

HOW SAFE IS YOUR HOME? Fire Chief Shares

Top 5 Necessities

BY SHERRON BARDEN

When it comes to emergency preparedness in our homes, most of us: 1) think we’re prepared and would know what to do; 2) we really just don’t want to think about it, OR: 3) we just don’t know where to begin to get prepared.

As we celebrate local First Responders this month, MCM sought expert advice on this subject from 27-year Fenton Township Fire Department veteran (last 13 years as Chief), Ryan Volz. We asked Chief Volz to share his Top 5 emergency preparedness necessities.

“These safety measures may seem basic, but it’s proven on a daily basis that they can save your life and the lives of your family members,” says Volz.

1. Smoke Detector

“A smoke alarm is critical for the early detection of a re in your home and could mean the di erence between life and death,” states Volz. Fires can occur in a variety of ways and in any room of your home. But no matter where or how, having a smoke detector is the rst key step toward your family’s safety.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detector

Odorless and colorless, carbon monoxide is a silent killer. “Since there’s no way to see or smell this deadly gas, it’s important to have a CO detector that can alert you to rising CO levels, giving you time to evacuate the house,” explains Volz.

Once installed, you need to routinely make sure that these devices are in working order. ey all have a test button and it’s a good practice to test when you change batteries. “ at loud ‘low-battery’ chirping noise your re alarms and carbon monoxide detectors make is annoying for a reason,” adds Volz. “Detectors need fresh batteries to work and when they work, they’re able to save lives.” Internet-connected smoke detectors are even better because they can alert you if you’re away from home and can even contact the re department. Smart CO detectors can alert you to the presence of the dangerous gas produced by space heaters and generators.

ese devices also should be inspected for dust that might clog the sensors; the grill can be easily cleaned with a vacuum cleaner attachment. To test a smoke detector, you can light a match and hold it nearby to see if the

alarm sounds. “If you don’t have a garage and your heating and cooling are both all electric, you might not need a CO detector, but a smoke detector is always a must,” says Volz.

It is also recommended that you demonstrate the sound of each detector type, so that family members know the di erence.

3. Fire Extinguisher

A multipurpose re extinguisher will protect your home and family in the event of a re. It’s e ective as a rst defense against common combustible res, as well as grease and electrical res. Having one on hand in the kitchen, garage, and next to the wood-burning replace should be a no-brainer. “ e key is to make sure everyone in the house knows how to use it!” exclaims Volz. He suggests replacing them as directed by the manufacturer.

4. Fire Escape Ladder

When disaster strikes, it pays to have a plan. You can save your life and the lives of your family by establishing an escape route to use in case of re or other emergencies. “During a re, there’s no time for planning,” states Volz. “Sit down with your family and plan for escaping a re.” is includes choosing a meeting place outside, and having a drill twice a year.

Once you’ve identi ed your best exit route, create a backup plan. Example: If your preferred method of escape involves taking the stairs, give yourself an alternative means of exit through an upstairs window. For that, you’ll need

a re escape ladder. It can be stored compactly in a closet or under a bed, and deploys quickly and easily by attaching to most common window types.

5. CPR Training

“CPR training is important – it can save your life, your child’s life, your parent’s life or even a stranger’s life,” states Volz. Training is easily accessible to anyone who wants it and not hard to complete. “Learning the basics can be empowering, and it is something you will remember throughout your lifetime,” adds Volz.

You can also contact your local Fire Department, and they can provide you with information to obtain the items and training listed above. e Fenton Township Fire Department is committed to educating Township kids about re safety with a “Safe at Home Program” o ered in the schools.

Share this information with family and friends and keep everyone safe! ◆

More Safety Tips

• Install a home security system.

• Dispose of expired or unused medications.

• Store hazardous substances safely.

• Remove brush and flammable material from around your house.

• Teach children their address and how to dial 911.

• Install motion-sensing floodlights in the backyard.

• Keep guns locked up.

MYCOMMUNITY

GOLDEN TEAMWORK

HURLEY LEVEL 1 TRAUMA ICU NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FOR Excellence

BY PETER HINTERMAN ◆ PHOTOS BY DOUG PIKE

Thenurses in Hurley’s Level 1 Neuro, Trauma, Surgical, Burn Intensive Care Unit (NTSBICU) care for and treat the sickest patients with the worst injuries. “We are the region’s only Level 1 Trauma Unit,” says Michele Paulic, RN. “Our patients come in with the most life-threatening trauma. Every day in the NTSB-ICU is our patient’s worst day.” “We deal with brain injuries, open bellies, severe burns and other emergencies 24/7,” adds Chris Berry, Trauma Nurse Clinician.

With so much on the line for each patient, it is imperative that the team works together as awlessly as possible in procedure, communication and process to save lives and help patients get back to health. e continuing e orts of Hurley’s NTSB-ICU to be the best it can be has led to national recognition when it was recently awarded the gold-level Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) – the only trauma unit in the country to achieve the gold-level

distinction. “It was an amazing collaboration e ort by all the nurses and the Level 1 Trauma Team,” says Paulic.

e Beacon Award for Excellence honors hospital units that demonstrate professionalism and excellence in ve categories: Leadership Structures and Systems; Appropriate Sta ng and Sta Engagement; E ective Communication, Knowledge Management and Learning Development; Evidence-based Practice and Processes; and Outcome Measurements. Awards can be designated as Bronze, Silver or Gold. e application process is lengthy and in-depth, requiring collaboration from o ce sta , surgeons, nurses and others. e application for the Beacon Award was

compiled by Paulic. “Once submitted, our application is reviewed by a panel of ve and they pick apart, piece by piece, everything we do as a nurse,” Paulic explains. “Demographics of our region are included, how many beds we have, everything is reviewed. e category with the most weight is, of course, the Outcome Measurements.” e measurable outcomes are those that can be statistically analyzed such as infection rate, length of hospital stay, etc.

e road to gold started when the Unit received the Silver-level Beacon award three years ago. “We knew we weren’t done,” says Chris Berry. “We wanted gold-level.” e Beacon Award can only be applied for every three years, so after receiving the results from its silver-level evaluation, Hurley’s NTSBICU got busy. “In addition to the results, the AACN also provides information about areas that they believe need improvement,” says Paulic. “All the nurses were driven to improve. We applied

evidence-based practices to our procedures to improve our scores and patient outcomes. e goal of the improvements is to shorten our patient’s length of stay and lower readmittance numbers.” Examples of areas that were improved immensely during the three years between awards include number of medical errors, better blood management, and lower infection rate, to name a few.

In addition to patient outcome metrics, sta ng is another category the AACN uses to rate a hospital unit. e Hurley NTSB-ICU exhibits one of the best sta retention rates in the entire country. “Our nurse turnover rate is 11%,” says Paulic, “far below the national average. Over 60% of our nurses have over ve years of experience in the Unit and we have a 94% referral rate. Our nurses take pride in working for the NTSB-ICU.”

e award and the recognition that comes with it are cherished by the sta

of the NTSB-ICU and the hospital itself. “Our work a ects all of us emotionally, physically and spiritually,” says Paulic. “Many of us are here more than we are with our families. e Beacon Award enhances our sense of teamwork and department morale. I am very grateful that we were allowed the autonomy and capability to put it all together.” e end result is a more engaged nursing unit and a better outcome for each NTSB-ICU patient. It has been proven that each and every nurse there cares to improve and make things better each and every day for everyone involved. “We love the population we serve and we love being part of the community,” says Paulic. “Many of us have the opportunity to go elsewhere, but we don’t. We stay to give the best care to our patients here.”

Congratulations to the Hurley NTSBICU for receiving the 2023 Gold-level Beacon Award of Excellence! ◆

e Award-winning Hurley NTSB-ICU Nurses are:

Stephanie Rosenberg, Alan Atendido, Marcie Matlock, Angela Malott, Wendy Foltz, Carl Tedford, Lisa Hobson, Leah McMillan, Eric Dekoski, Kim Campbell, Patrick Smith, Michele Paulic, Desiree Fellows, Lee Tidwell, Amanda Day, Renee Alfery, Buck Wright, Stephen Lanphear, Kimberly Wright, Andrea Neeley, Lien Murphy, Elisse Starrs, Leah Watson, Amber Mach, Veronica Garza, Bridgette Collins, Sarah Richardson, Shelby Austin, Markie Parker, Allison Richardson, Kody Eddy, Dustin Blom, Miranda Fowler, Angelica Thibodeau, Brian Flynn, Connor Wood, Joseph Black, Brandon Deszell, Alexis Carmody, Perry Hyder, Jenna Carson, Anita Wilhelm, Jordan Marzi, David Rutherford and Nicholas Hartwick.

The NTSB-ICU nurses would like to thank Kimberly Lipka (Nurse Manager), Christopher Berry (Trauma Nurse Clinician), Mary Hewitt (Clinical Coordinator), and Michelle Maxson (Trauma Program Manager), along with the trauma surgeons, trauma PAs and hospital administration for their continuing support and efforts.

Award-Winning Stylist Offers Expert Tips

COMPILED BY SHERRON BARDEN

Areyou ready for the change of seasons? You can snag a few trendy sweaters and a new pair of cute boots ... but what about your hairstyle? It could be time to try something different – or, maybe it’s a good time to switch up your hair care routine with new products. MyCity asked our 2023 City’s Choice Award-winning Hairstylist, Lia Beaudrie of Refinery Hair Co. to share some expert tips for starting the season with great hair.

MCM: How often should we get a haircut?

LB:I recommend a trim every 4-8 weeks – more frequently if you’re trying to maintain a shorter style, of course.

MCM: What is one hair product you can’t live without?

LB: Although opinions about dry shampoo vary, I cannot live without it! I use it for a couple of reasons. Not only does it allow you to get away with not washing your hair every day by absorbing oil, but it also adds volume. I like to use it even on days when my hair is clean, just at the roots, to add lift. e crown area and temples are great spots to hit with dry shampoo – even on clean hair – for a little extra body.

MCM: Give us a tip for healthy hair.

LB: My top tip for healthy hair is getting regular haircuts paired with using professional salon quality products! No matter what hair texture or length you have, regular trimming helps your hair grow to its full potential. Hair treatments can bene t all hair types – even those who never use heat on their hair at all can still bene t from using the right products. Not only can they improve the overall look of your hair, but also its integrity.

MCM: How often should I be washing my hair?

LB: Everyone’s texture is di erent and some require more frequent washing than others. If it looks greasy and dry shampoo isn’t cutting it, it’s most likely due for a wash! Please note: dry shampoo isn’t appropriate for all hair textures.

MCM: How can I get rid of split ends?

LB:Haircuts, reparative hair products and masks, and also professional reparative systems are e ective for this. e Split End Correction by Brazilian Blowout® is my favorite reparative system and has worked well for many of my clients looking to grow out their hair or needing help repairing breakage.

ABOUT LIA BEAUDRIE

MCM: What is the most popular current hair trend?

LB: My color clients are jumping on the high-contrast trends that are resurfacing! Dare I say “chunky” highlights and bold color-blocking treatment techniques are very much in demand right now. Many of my women’s haircuts include a heavy, long, curtain bang look with lots of short, shaggy layers being requested, as well. Popular styles are re ecting a more e ortless, “lived in” look.

anks for e great hair tips, Lia!

A licensed cosmetologist since 2008, Lia assisted under well-respected master stylist, Michelle Crawford, for two years before accepting her own clients. Throughout her career, she has prioritized continuing her cosmetology education with many opportunities offered by Refinery, including classes in product knowledge, color and precision-cutting techniques. Along with the incredibly positive work environment at Refinery, Lia also credits Kaitie Hamilton, her assistant of six years, with supporting her goal of providing clients not only quality hair services, but also an enjoyable overall experience.

BOLD AND “CHUNKY” HIGHLIGHTS ARE VERY MUCH IN DEMAND RIGHT NOW.

FINDING YOUR STYLE

BY HOLLY TENNERIELLO ◆ PHOTOS BY TEXTURE PHOTOGRAPHY

Mypersonal interior design style is inspired by many factors. I gravitate toward peaceful art with soft colors, textures of fringe, warm leathers, mixing patterns and warm woods against airy backgrounds. If possible, I also love to make the interior space complement the home’s exterior style, its age and setting. I like the choices inside to re ect the overall character of the home. For example, you would feel surprised and confused if you walked into a cute bungalow that had charming details on the outside and modern, simplistic or sleek nishes on the inside. I would want to bring that outside feeling indoors.

When it comes to nding a client’s style, there are ways in which I can incorporate touches of their taste to blend with the character of the home. I do that by asking them for pictures that represent any inspiration they may have. We will then discuss what they do and do not like about the spaces in their home they want to change. I’m usually surprised that what stands out to them in a picture of inspiration is not what I thought they were going to say. It can be as obvious as an overall living room layout, or as speci c as just the pillows on the sofa. It’s important to know exactly what stands out

to them. rough this process of communication, I can learn what types of nishes are going to make my client feel the most at home.

ere are several ways that decor elements can express personal style. Some of my favorites include lighting, rugs, pillows and artwork. Just one of these elements can change the feeling of a space, but when you personalize each one, you create a powerful feeling for someone when they walk into the room. ose feelings might be inspiration, relaxation, happiness or relief. It’s helpful to nd out how they want to feel in that space, and what types of textures and elements make them feel that way.

If I could help someone with the often overwhelming task of nishing and personalizing their space, I would

About the Author

Holly Tenneriello, Interior Designer

tell them to nd the thing that inspires the rest of the room décor. Usually, that is a piece that represents their individual style or personality. Whether that is a rug with the perfect pattern and colors, or a piece of art that inspires creativity, it can begin to push them in a direction for choosing other nishes for the room.

If you don’t start with something special, you can burn out before you really get going. Just remember: design isn’t meant to be one-size- ts-all. ere are many, many ways to express your style in a space and it doesn’t have to be something from a recent show on HGTV. Don’t get too caught up on whether it’s classic or trendy; think more about whether or not you love it!

And if you love it, nd a way to make it work. ◆

I’ve always been someone to whom details matter. Walking into a well-thought-out space can keep me interested and inspired for hours, especially when every last detail has been specially curated. Eight years ago, I realized that I really enjoyed the process of designing spaces, not only for myself, but also for others. As I began helping family and friends with their design projects, I grew confidence in my eye for design. Eventually, that grew to a larger client base, and I began working as a designer with Artichoke Interiors in Holly, MI.

Just remember: design isn’t meant to be one-size-fits-all

FIGHTING BACK

NEW ADVANCEMENTS IN CANCER TREATMENT

BY PETER HINTERMAN

THEmonth of September holds multiple observances related to cancer – blood, gynecologic, ovarian, prostate and childhood cancers to be precise. e second leading cause of death for adults in the U.S. (behind heart disease), cancer has a ected nearly everyone living in the country in some way. By the end of 2023, it is estimated that 1,958,310 new cases will develop and 609,820 deaths will occur. While the occurrence of most cancers has been declining (none more so than cervical cancer), a few have been on the rise. For men, prostate cancer is becoming more common while in women, instances of melanoma, breast and liver cancers have increased. e good news is that we are getting better at detecting and treating cancers. Since 1991, the rate of cancer deaths has declined 33%.

Science is leading the way and recent new breakthroughs have occurred that will hopefully lower the death rates even further. →

HERE’S WHAT’S NEW IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER.

Cancer Killing Pills

Currently in Phase 1 Clinical Trials, the newest advance in chemotherapy is a pill that “appears to annihilate all solid tumors,” according to research published August 1 in Cell Chemical Biology. e “kill pill” is proving to be e ective at ghting and eliminating a variety of cancerous cells including those associated with cancers of the breast, ovaries, prostate, skin and lungs. It works by targeting a PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) inhibitor, which is a protein critical to the replication and repair of tumors, while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

Genetic Testing

Since the human genome was mapped in 2003, researchers have searched for ways to better combat cancer using the new information. It is now possible to

analyze the DNA of a tumor and design a personalized therapy that targets the tumor’s weak points. Genetic testing can also be used in prevention by identifying gene mutations that put a person at high risk for di erent types of cancer. Screening and prevention protocols can then be initiated.

Targeted Immunotherapies

Oncologists can now identify genetic or protein abnormalities in a patient’s tumor and match them up with, or even design, a speci c immunotherapy. Multiple new immunotherapies are being developed to use in combination with each other, with existing cancer treatments, or as a stand-alone therapy.

• CAR T-Cell Therapy – is process involves reengineering a patient’s own T-cells (white blood cells that focus on speci c foreign particles) to attack cancer. During therapy, immune cells are removed from the tumor, selected or altered in the lab to seek and eliminate cancer cells, and reintroduced to the body.

• Monoclonal Antibodies – ese lab-created proteins bind to cancer cells to help the body’s own immune system better identify them.

• Vaccines – Medicines that help the immune system recognize “tumor-associated antigens” that are present in cancer but not in normal cells.

• Immune System Modulators – Medicines that can stimulate the immune system to nd and attack cancer cells.

Attacking Dormant Cells

Researchers have uncovered a new mechanism that allows breast cancer cells to survive after treatment and hide in the body. After treatment, some cells are able to “escape” and hide in other parts of the body where they remain in a “sleep” state until they wake up and cause the cancer to return as more aggressive and harder to treat. It was found that the cancerous cells were able to survive in softer tissues due to the robust number of antioxidants found there. Blocking certain antioxidants could be a way to destroy the dormant cancer cells with targeted chemotherapy.

Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancers

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease with a ve-year survival rate of only 11%. One big reason for this is the di culty of early detection. By analyzing bacteria in a person’s stool sample, researchers have identi ed the molecular signature of 27 microorganisms that could predict a person’s risk of developing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common form of pancreatic cancer. Hopefully, with this new information, oncologists can catch the disease in its early stages.

Robotic Surgery and AI

e capabilities of computers, robots and arti cial intelligence (AI) are growing by leaps and bounds. So much so that researchers, utilizing AI, have been able to develop “digital twins” of people with cancer. Doctors can then use these twins to explore di erent treatments and predict outcomes. AI is also being used to estimate the probability of certain cancers occurring in populations and locations. Advancements in robotic surgery are allowing cancer patients a faster recovery, using millimeter-precise incisions and movements resulting in less blood loss and pain.

Increased Diversity

Human beings are extremely diverse and when it comes to what medication and treatment works best against cancer, ethnicity and race can play a role. By increasing diversity in clinical trials and in medical professions, researchers are better able to build a database of information that can be considered when choosing the optimal medication or treatment for each person, as well as the susceptibility of each ethnicity or race to develop individual cancers.

Cancer may be humanity’s most common foe. With researchers around the world making great strides to control and rid the world of the disease, many more advancements are due to come. ◆

Flint Drop Fest

ELECTRONIC MUSIC & ART FESTIVAL

DOWNTOWN FLINT | 8.12.2023

Photos by Katy Kildee

Spanning six city blocks, the 11th Annual free event founded by Jerin Sage o ered multiple stages featuring energetic live music and dance performances by artists from all over the country. ousands of attendees of all ages enjoyed food and merchandise vendors, live art, workshops and a street fair before dancing through the night to a wide variety of music played by over 100 deejays. e event was co-sponsored by Main Street Rocks & Crystal Shop and the Greater Flint Arts Council. ◆

CANUSA GAMES 65th Annual

HAMILTON, ONTARIO | 8.11-13.2023

Photos by Bob Rettenmund

FOR65 years, the CANUSA Games – North America’s Largest and Longest Running International Games –has provided the youth of our area an opportunity to take part in an international friendship competition between Flint, MI and Hamilton, Ontario. is year, 600 athletes competed in 15 sports including Baseball, Basketball, Golf, Hockey, Soccer, Pickleball, Volleyball, Track & Field, Swimming and Skeet. e nal scoring tally: Hamilton 8, Flint 5. Well done, everyone! ◆

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