My City | August 2023 Digital Edition

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DEAR READERS,

When I sit down to write these letters in which I talk about what’s great in the current magazine, I often re ect on the process of creating each issue. I get comments all the time about the variety of content we share each month. Many times, a story is suggested to us by someone who appreciates our format and our quality. It all starts with them getting on board to share with us – they take the time to talk with our writers and are always so thankful for the opportunity to be heard. I have mentioned before that many of our articles have helped create awareness of an organization or cause that ultimately bene ts from their exposure in MCM. As you can imagine, we love it when that happens! We always appreciate the positive feedback we receive; of course, our goal is to shine a light on the great things about Greater Flint and we’re glad you enjoy it.

is “Education Issue” o ers a variety of back-to-school-related topics … it’s fast approaching! We explore the top jobs for upcoming graduates, a little food for thought. Speaking of food, “My Dish” has ideas for packing healthy kids’ lunches. And we have tips for kids to make the most of their high school experience; if given the chance, many of us might have done things a bit di erently. Here’s something di erent: Grand Blanc High School is introducing Girls Field Hockey this year – a really great opportunity! And we have stories about an area teacher who is up for a Presidential award, a local student artist who has received recognition from Congress, the Flint Institute of Arts has a new director of education, and a Flint couple continues their mission to educate and mentor youth in their community. And there’s much more!

Summer will be wrapping up with the fantastic annual Downtown Flint events: Back to the Bricks® is ready to kick o with parties all over Greater Flint (see pages 6-7) and the 46th Crim Festival of Races will bring the crowds on August 25-26. Exciting days ahead!

We have some great ideas for quick end-of-summer trips – whether you head out on the road or stay close to home, we hope you nd a spot in the shade to escape the heat and catch up with 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

Hurley Lobby Gift Shop

Hurley Medical Center

One Hurley Plaza Flint, MI 48503 810.262.9306

Vince Lorraine Publisher & Editor in Chief

Vince@mycitymag.com

Back to the Bricks 2023

The fun continues through...

MAIN EVENT WEEK!

Monday, August 14

CRUISIN’ CAR SHOW

SPONSORED BY DORT FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION

HOSTED BY SHEA CHEVROLET

e main event week begins on Monday with a Car Show from 4-8pm at Shea Chevrolet, 5135 Corunna Road in Flint Township. Awards for the Top 5 Vehicles are brought to you by Dort Financial Credit Union and voted by spectators. One overall Best in Show Winner will be selected by Back to the Bricks® Board of Directors.

Tuesday, August 15

BRICKS FLICKS – US23 DRIVE IN

BROUGHT TO YOU BY HUNTINGTON BANK

GATES OPEN 4PM

MOVIE STARTS AT DUSK!

e six-day extravaganza continues with the 14th annuanl “BRICKS FLICKS”, a family-oriented party at the nostalgic US 23 Drive-In theater at 5200 Fenton Road in Flint.

e feature lm is “Bullitt” starring Steve McQueen and Robert Vaughn. Senator Walter Chalmers (Robert Vaughn) is aiming to take down mob boss Pete Ross (Vic Tayback) with the help of testimony from the criminal’s hothead brother, Johnny (Pat Renella), who is in protective custody in San Francisco under the watch of police lieutenant Frank Bullitt (Steve McQueen). When a pair of mob hitmen enter the

scene, Bullitt follows their trail through a maze of complications and double-crosses. is thriller includes one of the most famous car chases ever lmed – an extended car chase between McQueen in a dark green Ford Mustang and two bad guys in a black Dodge Charger. We know everyone will love this thrilling car racing movie!

Car enthusiasts can gather early to see and be seen, and enjoy plenty of fun, food concessions available through US23 Drive In, music, and entertainment prior to the FREE movie. Back to the Bricks® Root Beer, T-shirts, hats, posters and other memorabilia will be available for purchase.

Alcohol is prohibited, pop-up canopies must be placed either in front or behind your vehicle and must be taken down when the movie starts. Grills are not allowed.

Wednesday & Thursday

August 16-17

ROLLING CRUISE

STARTS AT 4PM

SET UP AT THE MEGA SITE, HEMPHILL & SAGINAW

Cruise participants will start at Factory One in Downtown Flint to the delight of excited crowds lining Saginaw Street from Downtown Flint to Grand Blanc for the “Rolling Cruise” from 5-9pm. “Non-Cruise” tra c is asked to use the center lanes so that spectators can easily view the classic cars.

e 2023 Grand Marshal is a local veteran and longtime Automobile Dealer, Victor E. George II, who will lead the cruise on Wednesday to the “Roll on In” event in Grand Blanc hosted by the Grand Blanc Chamber.

SWAP MEET

8AM-5PM

KIRKRIDGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

G-8070 S. SAGINAW ST., GRAND BLANC

Car enthusiasts can gather at this convenient venue to share stories, as well as locate and purchase parts and accessories from individual vendors and major suppliers that they need to restore or modify a vehicle. For additional information contact Ken Kelly at 810.287.2548.

Friday, August

18

FREE CRUISE N’ CONCERT

LOT OPENS AT 3PM | KICKOFF AT 6:30PM FLAT LOT (OFF SAGINAW ST., DOWNTOWN FLINT) BROUGHT TO YOU BY BIG JOHN STEAK & ONION AND TONIC EVENTS

Friday’s festivities kick o with vendors, music, a car show and FREE live entertainment! is year’s fun and festive concert features Miranda and the M80s. Come dressed in your best 80s gear and get ready to rock the night away!

Saturday, August 19 MAIN EVENT / OPENING CEREMONY

STARTS AT 10AM

DOWNTOWN FLINT

is exciting tradition will open with a rousing salute to our veterans and active-duty personnel. A Marine Color Guard accompanied by some of America’s nest will march south on Saginaw Street. At the same time, a procession of ags and military personnel will march north to the center of Downtown Flint where the two groups will converge. is special ceremony will honor the men and women of the armed forces for their service and sacri ce to our country. BttB honors those who protect and defend the freedoms we hold dear; past and present, those who paid the ultimate sacri ce and those who continue to answer the call. Military aircraft will perform amazing “ yovers” high above Saginaw Street.

e main display area has something for everyone! ousands of the nest classic and custom vehicles, hotrods and dream cars line the streets. Beginning with the Opening Ceremony, you will want to be there to experience the excitement, see the Feature Cars, Drag City, check out the automotive vendors and taste the delicious food that is synonymous with BttB – one of the best Classic Car Events in the nation. e Main Event festivities on Saturday will again include two fun FREE Concerts on the Flat Lot stage: Detroit’s Country Rebel Bernadette Kathryn and her Lonely Days Band, followed by Charlie Bonnet III. A great show for everyone!

BACK TO THE BRICKS 2023 TWO WEEKS OF FUN!

SCAN HERE FOR FULL DETAILS

Back to School Another Year of Learning

Assummer is coming to an end, Genesee County kids are anticipating the return to bustling school hallways and packed classrooms. For those just beginning their middle school or high school experience, it can be a time of uncertainty and anxiety – but also promise. For those just nishing grade school, it means a new chapter lled with excitement, community and fun.

When a student reaches a certain age, a new school year includes planning for the future – a start down the road to a rewarding career or profession. It is with hope that each student has their very best year and nds all the success required to reach their goals.

Here’s to a fun and ful lling new school year!

30 The Road to Success Top In-Demand Jobs for Grads

36 Make it Count! Getting the Most Out of High School

38 Forging New Ground Grand Blanc Introduces Field Hockey

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

THE MOST IN-DEMAND JOBS FOR GRADUATES

BY PETER HINTERMAN

As graduation looms and high schoolers begin planning the next phase of their lives, they have important choices to make. What will they do after high school? Where will they go? What will they become and what steps are needed? It is true that anyone can be what they’ve always wanted to be – anyone can aspire to whatever they dream. It is

also true that some paths to professional success and financial security are more difficult or riskier than others.

In the professional world, three distinct areas stand out as providing the best opportunities for professional success in the upcoming decade: Healthcare, Computer Science and Skilled Trades. →

Kettering University, a pioneering STEM-focused institution, leads in five rapidly evolving fields:

1. Advanced Mobility

2. New Energy Vehicles

3. Intelligent Manufacturing

4. Artificial Intelligence

5. Sustainability

Based in Flint, MI Kettering University dates back to 1919, when the institution was founded first as The School of Automobile Trades. Formerly known as General Motors Institute and GMI Engineering & Management Institute, Kettering has remained true to its unique educational heritage.

Kettering’s vision – one built on not just learning but more importantly, mastery – places equal emphasis on the acquisition and application of knowledge. Students rotate between the classroom and work experiences with one of our 400 cooperative employment partners, gaining the professional experience to position them well beyond entry-level positions upon graduation.

Armed with the skills to solve the problems facing a changing world, Kettering students thrive in this dynamic learning environment that integrates theory and practice. By the time they graduate, Kettering students have gained up to 2.5 years of experience and earned up to $75,000 through their cooperative employment. They become leaders among C-Suite executives, entrepreneurs, innovators, and cutting-edge scientists.

The Kettering experience emphasizes its core strengths through its undergraduate degree programs: Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Engineering, Management, Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering. These programs consistently receive recognition for quality, student achievement, and success.

No. 1 in starting salaries in Michigan, according to a 2022 SmartAsset report

No. 3: Most Innovative Regional Universities Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report

No. 12: Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News & World Report

No. 14: Best Mechanical Engineering Programs, according to U.S. News & World Report

One of the Best 388 Colleges in the country, according to The Princeton Review

One of the Best Midwestern colleges, according to The Princeton Review

Kettering supports its students with cutting-edge facilities.

Kettering’s General Motors Mobility Research Center puts us at the forefront of the autonomous vehicle industry. This 21-acre, state-of-the-art autonomous vehicle testing track provides students, faculty and industry partners the opportunity to conduct research and development on autonomous vehicles, vehicle safety standards, and hybrid and electric vehicle technologies.

The Learning Commons at Kettering represents a new model for university buildings and has already gained national attention for enhancing and inspiring learning through collaboration, ideation, socialization and fun. This technology-rich building, with no classrooms or offices, has transformed the learning experience of students and the teaching experience of faculty, through open spaces that encourage spontaneous interactions among students and faculty. To learn more and plan your visit to Kettering, go to www.kettering.edu

HEALTHCARE

Healthcare in the United States is vitally important. Many current professionals are aging out or retiring due to new changes and new technology. e population is also unhealthier than it has ever been. Nearly every position in healthcare is understa ed and could use the help. To make an immediate impact and earn a high wage, those heading to college can concentrate their e orts on these Top 5 positions.

HEALTHCARE TOP 5

1. Nurse Practitioner – Nearly every position in nursing is in demand. Working as a nurse practitioner requires a master’s degree, but can be very rewarding and command an average salary of $120,000/yr.

2. Physician Assistant – Another job requiring a master’s degree, a PA provides diagnostic, therapeutic and preventative services under the supervision of a licensed physician. You won’t be a doctor, but you can expect to earn an average annual salary of $125,000.

3. Psychiatric Nurse/Licensed Counselor – e demand for mental health professionals is extremely high. As the world becomes more chaotic, mental health is becoming a major focus. Professionals in mental health can make an average of $100,000/yr.

4. Health Service Managers – People in this position specialize in running a department or service from a business outlook. eir domain includes policy, goals, personnel, reports, budgeting and more. Experienced managers can earn upwards of $150,000/yr.

5. Home Health/Personal Care Aid – We all know someone who needs help in their daily lives and nding someone trained to provide it is a challenge. Jobs in home healthcare are available throughout the country. A personal care aid can earn an average of $50,000/yr.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Computers and what they do are our future. From working in Arti cial Intelligence, to E-commerce and programming, jobs will always be in high demand. For those looking to go into the eld of computer science, here’s a word to the wise: specialize. Employers are looking for those with expansive knowledge in a speci c eld rather than a general degree. Choose to specialize in that which interests you most as you begin your career, and then branch out later.

COMPUTER SCIENCE TOP 5

1. Data Scientist/Engineer – Data is big business and data scientists make it all run. Professionals handle a number of jobs such as product creation, implementing statistical models and so on. Average salary for an experienced data scientist is $100,000/yr.

2. Information Security Analyst – We have all had a run in or two with a computer virus or worm or at least have had it happen to our employer or a friend. ose entrusted to protect our data are in high demand and can earn $120,000/yr. on average.

3. Web Developer – It makes the world go round. As the internet becomes the new spot for everything, it will constantly need to be added to, changed or updated. An experienced web developer should expect to earn an average of $75,000/yr.

4. Software Developer – We need the programs to run our games, business apps and more. Someone has to design them. New software will always be required as the world evolves and developers can make over $100,000/yr. on average.

5. Information Systems Manager – ese are the people who store and manage all the data needed for organizations to operate. Server maintenance, software implementation and retrieval are only some of what they do. An Information Systems Manager can make almost $170,000/yr. on average.

SKILLED TRADES

Upon leaving high school, many grads have no intention of attending a formal college or university; instead, they opt to “hit the ground running” and join a trade school or business as an apprentice. ere is nothing wrong with this and, in fact, they will always have a job somewhere if they stay licensed. e skilled trades will always be important as are the people who work in them.

SKILLED TRADES TOP 5

1. Wind Turbine Technician – Renewable energy is going to be the next step for human civilization and wind energy will play a large role. After a two-year program, technicians can expect to start earning an average salary of $60,000/yr.

2. Solar Photovoltaic Installer – Here’s that renewable energy again. Solar is beginning to surpass wind as the choice for most communities and organizations and the demand is going to rise sharply as the world begins to wean itself o of fossil fuels. Installers start with an average salary of $60,000/yr.

3. Electrician – For those of us who own a home or business, we know how in-demand electricians are. Everything needs power and there will always be a need for those who have mastered it. Experienced electricians can earn more than $80,000/yr.

4. HVAC Technician – Made even more important with our changes in air quality and rising temperatures, these skills are needed now more than ever. Knowing how to properly heat, cool and lter our building’s air will always be important. An HVAC tech can expect to start at $50,000/yr.

5. Plumber – Plumbers will forever be needed in society. ey handle all the tough (and dirty) jobs and get very little love. e profession can be quite lucrative for experts – plumbers can expect to start at $60,000/yr.

Other in-demand skilled trades include carpenter, brick mason, aircraft mechanic, welder and crane operator. →

For those who are not drawn to healthcare, computer science or skilled trades, here are a few more professions to consider to increase your chances of future success.

GENERAL CAREER TOP 5

1. Financial Manager – As long as money exists, helping organizations or individuals manage their complicated nances will always be in need. Successful managers make an average of $130,000/yr.

2. Actuary – Actuaries use math, statistics and data to evaluate risk. ey typically work for insurance companies and make an average of $100,000/yr.

3. Social Service Manager – Social Service Managers handle programs that support public health, society advancement and well-being. ey make $74,000/yr. on average, depending upon their represented organization.

4. Educator – One of the most needed positions today, educators are leaving the profession or retiring due to the political climate and struggles of today’s learning environments. Teachers are extremely important and can make a crucial impact on a child’s life. Teacher pay varies across the country with an average of $50,000/yr.

5. Chef – e Culinary Arts are a niche career that is in-demand in every city or town. A head chef can expect to make $50,000/yr. on average.

For those unsure of what they want to become or who would like to enhance their earning potential and chances of success, pursuing a profession that is in demand is the answer. The choice is yours! ◆

MAKE IT COUNT!

MCM’s Guide to Getting the Most Out of High School

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Thehigh school years are one of life’s most important transition periods. It’s a time when teens begin discovering who they are, what they like to do, and what they want to do in the future. Ideas are formed and dreams are had, key relationships are cultivated, and significant lessons are learned. To really get the most out of this key stage of life both intellectually and socially, teens should be encouraged to incorporate these five suggestions into the experience.

1. Find Your Interests.

What subjects do you enjoy most? Choose electives that pique your curiosity or go one further and choose something completely di erent. Take a class in computer systems or automotive technology. Try electives in history or creative writing. Uncover your passion. Something might “click” and lead you down a path you never thought of taking.

2. Challenge Yourself.

Stretch your limits. Make an e ort to learn a foreign language or advanced mathematics. Take a vocal or drama class. Get out of your comfort zone at least once a year. Now is the time!

3. Be a Joiner!

is doesn’t just mean playing sports; join the drama club, band, anime club, robotics, yearbook, etc. Extracurricular activities are a great way to meet students who share your interests. Plus, they always look good listed on a college or job application.

4. Engage with the Community.

During high school, students should get to know their local community and start participating in its maintenance and betterment. Sign up for a local food drive, volunteer at blood drives or at city festivals. Learn how to give back. Not to mention, community service really shines on a college or job application.

5. Visit Your Guidance Counselor or Advisor.

High school counselors are there to guide you to the outcome you desire. ey can help you make sure you have the number of credits needed for graduation, as well as enrolling in the correct classes to help get you into your dream college and possibly, your dream job. Good advisors will go out of their way to make sure things run smoothly through your high school experience.

For seniors, the final year of high school may feel like wasted time. Some students have wrapped up the credits needed to graduate and others are pretty sure they know what they will do after, so why bother? Well, now is not the time for slacking! Make sure you maintain what you need to move toward your future goals, but you should also enjoy your time. To make your final year an unforgettable one, keep these things in mind:

1. Be Involved.

If you went your rst three years in school without attending sporting events or dances, you need to check these boxes. Go to that football game and cheer with your class. Go to the homecoming dance or prom. Show up to watch your classmates perform in the yearend musical. Soak up as much as you can in your nal year – simply be present for the experience.

2. Leave Your Comfort Zone. Take a few chances here and there in a drama class or maybe the choir. Join the ski club. Volunteer for school and community functions. Be visible. Now is the best time to test your anxiety. If you can get past your uneasiness in high school, everything that comes later will be a breeze.

3. Extend a Hand.

Be a mentor to an underclassman. If you see a freshman struggling, lend a hand. Help show them the ropes and they will never forget that you helped them when

no one else would. Also, just being a leader by modeling success in the classroom can go a long way in helping an underclassman nd their own success.

4. Schedule Your College Visits.

Take the time to make o cial visits to schools you are interested in. Tour the grounds and facilities, talk to students there. You may nd a place where you feel at home. (If you don’t plan to attend college after graduation, take the tours anyway. You never know.)

5. Capture the Memories.

Keep a daily journal of your nal year. Take photos. Interview friends and teachers. Your nal year will y by, so take the time to remember it. Most adults will agree … you’ll be glad you did. ◆

More Comfort, Less Energy

Dr. Mihai Burzo’s Climate

Control Technology

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Dr. Mihai Burzo, Associate Professor of Engineering

at UM-Flint, is interested in heat transfer and human physiological response. For over eight years at UM-Flint and now at its new College of Innovation and Technology, he has been conducting research on thermoreectance (thermal behavior of microelectronic devices) and human response to external stimuli. Analyzing data drawn from human physiological changes (heart rate, skin temperature, skin response such as sweating, etc.) gathered from multiple sensors and camera arrays, Dr.

Burzo has been able to analyze and predict stress levels, driver awareness, deception and thermal discomfort. As a result of his research, Dr. Burzo has recently been awarded a patent for climate control technology that could revolutionize the way the world heats and cools its private and common areas for the comfort of its people and conservation of energy.

e patent titled “Multimodal Sensing of ermal Comfort for Adaptable Climate Control” is the next step in so-called “SMART” technology. “We looked at existing systems and found that they weren’t very smart,” he says.

“ ey still needed to be adjusted by hand and were energy ine cient. is goes further. Our system adjusts automatically to keep an occupant comfortable at all times. You should never have to manually adjust the thermostat.”

Using a combination of Arti cial Intelligence (AI) and an array of sensors including thermal cameras, light cameras and bio-sensors, Dr. Burzo’s climate control technology will adapt automatically to keep a person →

DR. BURZO HAS RECENTLY BEEN AWARDED A PATENT FOR CLIMATE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY THAT COULD REVOLUTIONIZE THE WAY THE WORLD HEATS AND COOLS ITS PRIVATE AND COMMON AREAS.

“YOU SHOULD NEVER HAVE TO MANUALLY ADJUST THE THERMOSTAT.”

at optimal thermal comfort while at work in their home or o ce building, or while traveling via car. In other words, AI will predict a person’s discomfort based on certain body signals and adjust the temperature accordingly. You should never feel too hot or too cold for too long. “AI is a key component,” says Dr. Burzo. “Models are getting better and better now. It’s not a dangerous thing. It’s just a tool that we can use.”

DR. BURZO AND STUDENTS DESIGNED A SPECIALIZED TEMPERATURE-CONTROLLED CHAMBER WHERE THEY CAN VARY THE TEMPERATURE INSIDE WHILE MEASURING A PARTICIPANT’S PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE.

For clari cation of application, Dr. Burzo is working with multiple car companies to integrate his technology for optimal driver comfort. Sensors located in steering wheels, car seats, or small thermal cameras can provide AI with the information it needs to keep the cabin at the best temperature for its occupants, saving energy loss from excessive use of air conditioning or heat. “One goal is to make use of the minimum number of sensors possible,” he adds. Imagine getting into your vehicle while wearing a thick coat in winter. At rst, you may crank up the heat but after a certain time you may begin to sweat and have to adjust. In a vehicle equipped with Dr. Burzo’s

technology, you will never have to touch the climate control at all. e adjustments are made for you. Little energy is lost and you will be in perfect comfort for the duration of your journey. is will be the same for home or public o ce. “For o ce buildings, the goal is to make 80 percent of the occupants as comfortable as possible,” Dr. Burzo states. “If a person is not in the room, an adjustment is automatically made, cutting down the unnecessary loss of energy.”

In the future, Dr. Burzo has plans to adapt his technology for the improvement of ventilation systems.

Interest in heat and energy conservation started for Dr. Burzo while he worked as an assistant professor at the University of North Texas. “I was able to conduct research using the University’s Net Zero Energy Building,” he explains. “It got me thinking about how we can save energy.” He then began adapting his research to include climate control. When he came to UM-Flint in 2013, he continued his work including local students. Dr. Burzo and students designed a specialized temperature-controlled chamber where they can vary the temperature inside while measuring a participant’s physiological response. e data recorded was used to develop an AI algorithm for pattern recognition and climate adjustment. Human participants in the study included UM-Flint students, sta and community members. Research is ongoing. “We are

STUDENTS

looking for more human participants including the elderly, children and babies,” says Dr. Burzo. rough his research, Dr. Burzo has worked closely with the students at UM-Flint and attributes much of his success to their help and hard work. “ e students here are eager to learn and be involved with what we do,” he says. “ ey are very hands-on.”

Energy use and climate control become more and more important every day and it is with hope that Dr. Burzo’s work can make a positive impact in years to come. He hopes to work something out with car manufacturers soon to get his technology operating for consumers in their everyday lives. “Technology moves quickly and we need to also move quickly,” he says. “I hope to see it in operation in a couple of years.” ◆

“THE UM-FLINT

ARE EAGER TO LEARN AND BE INVOLVED WITH WHAT WE DO. THEY ARE VERY HANDS-ON.”

UM-FLINT STUDENT AND PROJECT PARTICIPANT MAALIEK TESTS THE APPARATUS.

(L-R) DR. BURZO AND THREE OF THE STUDENTS WHO WORKED ON THE PROJECT: PHILLIP, KRISTEN AND RYAN

ENJOY Every Last Day OF SUMMER!

BY PETER HINTERMAN

TheMichigan summer is so fleeting … Blink and it’s back to school, back to work, back to short days and long nights. So, naturally, if we have the chance, we need to squeeze every last drop of fun out of the season! Not every vacation has to last a week or more. It’s just as nice to get away for only a day or two.

Living in Greater Flint puts us in an enviable position. We have nearly instant access to all of the major highways in the state and our mid-state location puts us within shouting distance of major cities, vacation spots and events. There is no reason why we can’t take a weekend or a day here and there and get out to enjoy time with our friends and family at new events and exciting places. Make the entire summer your own with a few end-of-summer day trips.

NEW LOCATIONS

1. Caseville-Port Austin

Located at the tip of Michigan’s umb, this is a great place to spend a day. With beaches, parks and quaint little towns, the area feels like you’ve truly traveled “Up North.” Port Crescent and Sleeper State Parks o er hiking trails and beaches. If you really want to take a swim, beaches can also be found at Caseville, McGraw, Oak Beach and Philip County Parks.

2. Sanilac Petroglyphs State Park

Just north of Cass City in the middle of the umb, this park o ers hiking, nature and history. It protects and holds Michigan’s largest known collection of early Native American teachings carved in stone. Conservationists are on hand for interpretation and identi cation of the many intriguing symbols and patterns.

3. Port Huron/Sarnia, Ont.

Fancy traveling abroad? Head straight east out of Greater Flint to nd a whole new country and new experiences (as long as you have your passport or Enhanced Driver’s License, that is.) Ripe for a weekend getaway, Sarnia has art galleries, eateries, museums (such as the Stones ‘N Bones Museum), beautiful parks, wetlands and markets. Even if you don’t have the means of passage into Canada, Port Huron o ers a bevy of museums, eateries, parks and beaches.

4. Ann Arbor

It’s so much more than the University. Ann Arbor is a great place for music, performance, eateries, bookstores and unique experiences. e Museum of Natural

History and the Hands-On Museum are great for kids and families. Adults would enjoy the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Kelsey Museum of Archeology.

5. Lansing

is location is much closer than most people think. Take a day or two to explore our state capital (have you ever seen our capital building?). Get the kids up in the morning, have lunch at Potter Park Zoo and then be back home to grill your supper. It’s that easy. Other experiences in Lansing include the Impression 5 Science Center, Olds Transportation Museum, the Fenner and Woldumar Nature Centers, Horrocks Market, eateries, distilleries and more. →

NEW EXPERIENCES

1. Blake’s Sunflower Festival

ARMADA, MI • AUG 11-13

Visit Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill to shop for handcrafted art, enjoy wellness classes on a variety of subjects, and take a short walk to the sun ower elds to cut your own blooms.

Live music, children’s activities and DIY workshops round out the festivities.

2. Thunder Over Michigan Air Show

YPSILANTI, MI • AUG 12-13

If you enjoyed the Wings Over Flint Air Show this summer and want a little more aviation action, take the trip an hour south to Ypsilanti for another display of speed and skill. Aircraft includes P-51D Mustangs, Boeing Superfortress, Flying Fortress, Corsairs, Liberators, B-25J Mitchells, Kaydets, Texans, Hornets, Raptors, Eagles and more.

3. 63rd Annual Howell Melon Festival

HOWELL, MI •AUG 18-20

is event celebrates a cantaloupe hybrid claimed to be found only in the area. Enjoy multiple vendors, a cornhole tournament, a Mascot Dash and music performed by Hello Weekend, Flint Scottish Pipe Band, Kaylyn Pace, and Electric Redline. Visitors may also take in the historic car show, farmers’ market and games for the kiddos.

4. Great Lakes Beer Festival

MIDLAND, MI AUG 19

is one is for the grownups, featuring over 70 breweries, each vying to become your new favorite. Sample new and established beers by Arbor Brewing, Bell’s, Dark Horse, Founders, Gri n Claw, New Holland, North Peak, Odd Side, Saugatuck and Witch’s Hat to name a very few. And, those who are still able to accurately toss a bean bag are welcome to participate in the annual cornhole tournament. →

PHOTO BY GRESHAM HALSTEAD

5. Blue Water Traditional Pow Wow PORT HURON, MI • AUG 19

Held at the Fort Gratiot Light Station, this free event celebrates Michigan’s indigenous culture and sheds light on the history of Michigan’s native peoples. Visitors can sample local indigenous food and shops while taking in the cultural dances and art of the past.

7. Frankenmuth Oktoberfest FRANKENMUTH, MI • SEP 14-17

Pop Up North a bit to spend a day in Little Bavaria taking in an authentic German Oktoberfest experience with classic Bavarian food and entertainment. Enjoy live music, great beer, and the wiener dog races! It’s a great way to prepare yourself for the transition to fall.

8. Paul Bunyan Festival OSCODA, MI

• SEP 15-17

6. Wheatland Music Festival REMUS, MI • SEP 8-10

It’s time for a long weekend! Wheatland is one of Michigan’s premier folk festivals and it happens just two hours away in little Remus, just east of Mt. Pleasant. is year’s performers include Sam Bush, Eilen Jewell, Ruthie Foster, Adrian & Meredith, Scott Cook, Gasoline Gypsies, Claudia Schmidt and others. For tickets and directions, visit wheatlandmusic.org.

Head two hours north to Oscoda – one of Michigan’s hidden gems – for this year’s Paul Bunyan Festival. While enjoying the nature and beauty of Oscoda, don’t forget to amble through the carnival and vendors as you make your way to the chainsaw carving competition. e Paul Bunyan Festival will most likely be a new family experience you’ll enjoy year after year.

Our area of Michigan is packed with events and places that can help you make this summer completely your own. Get out there, make new memories, and enjoy the rest of the season! ◆

PHOTO BY LAUREN O’CONNELL

PHOTO BY PEGGY BRISBANE

PHOTO BY PEGGY BRISBANE

Castles of Time Greater Flint’s Historic Homes

BY PETER HINTERMAN u PHOTOS BY WIKICOMMONS

Thehistory of Greater Flint is steeped in relevance. We have seen titans of industry, great inventors, triumphs of commerce, heroes, villains, failure and renewal, and through it all stood our castles of time – the historic homes of Greater Flint.

If their walls could talk, the area’s oldest homes would give us nearly the full story, from the beginnings of our beloved cities and towns to today, including all the glory and heartache in between. That these homes continue to stand is a testament to our love of tradition and acknowledgment of our past. Here’s a look at five of Flint’s historic homes and how they came to be.

PART 4

H. N. Jennings House

800 S. East St., Fenton Built: 1868

Horatio N. Jennings had a dream when he ventured north from Ohio. His plan was to publish a newspaper in a town with a bright future. After stops in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Jennings met with a fellow publisher in Pontiac who told him that the town he was looking for was just a little further north, and named Fentonville. He arrived in Genesee County in 1867, founded the Fenton Independent and published the rst issue on May 26, 1868. As he started his paper, he o ered this statement to the Fentonville Community, “it is the intent of the publishers to make the Independent a newspaper which would do credit to the community and fairly represent the importance of a fast growing town.” e Independent was rst published on the second oor of the building located on the corner of W. Shiawassee and S. Leroy Streets. e o ce moved to the Colwell building in 1879. In 1883, Jennings’ son took over the business until it was sold to Solomon Beach of Decatur in 1906. e paper continued under a variety of owners until 2002 – an amazing 134-years in operation. Soon after publishing his rst issue, Jennings built this house on the southern side of town at 800 East St. in the area populated by other Fenton businessmen.

H. Elmer Thayer House

3202 Court St., Flint

Built: 1873-89

e house located at 3202 Court St. sits on land formerly owned by Flint founder, Jacob Smith. Smith was the rst European settler in Genesee County and, as provided by the Treaty of 1819, was given wide tracts of land in and around the Flint River for himself and his family. He later deeded the land on Court St.

William Henry and Lucinda McCaslin House

15237 McCaslin Lake Rd., Linden

Built: 1861

One of Genesee County’s rst pioneers, William Henry McCaslin was born in Cork County, Ireland and came to Michigan in 1838. He purchased and settled a wide swath of land in Linden near the lake which bears his name. He began construction of his house in the early 1850s but tragically, never lived to see it completed. In 1858, McCaslin fell from the top of his barn and died from his injuries. His widow, Lucinda, contacted local contractor Dick Gibbons to nish the construction for $1,000 (nearly $35,000 today). e home was nished in 1861 and occupied by Lucinda until her death. →

to Petabonaqua, the daughter of his friend Col. Lewis Beaufait. e land was used for farming in the early settlement years and passed through the hands of socially prominent owners Stevens T. Mason (Michigan’s rst governor) and Grant Decker (Flint’s rst mayor). From 1873-89, the land passed through the hands of three owners, one of which built the house currently standing: George L. Utley, Henry Crow, and author E. R. Cookingham. In early 1890, the home was purchased by H. Elmer ayer. e ayer Family came to Genesee County from New York and made a positive impact in the areas of construction, laws and governance. H. Elmer ayer worked as Flint Township Supervisor from 18931902 during which time he helped advance the e ciency of Genesee County government.

Col. J. Hinckley House

210 High St., Fenton

Built: 1868

is dwelling was home to a bevy of Fenton’s most successful businessmen and socialites. e motivations and history of its original owner, Col. J. Hinckley, are a mystery; but it is possible that he may have been James D. Hinckley formerly of Jackson, MI by way of New York. He came to Summit County, MI in 1844 and joined the Civil War where he fought in the 8th Michigan Infantry. ere are no records of his whereabouts after the war but it is known that he died in Adrian, MI in 1904. It is possible that he came to Genesee County and built his home in Fenton where he lived for a time. After Col. Hinckley, industrialist A. J. Phillips occupied the home. Phillips was an industrialist and owned a factory that produced snow

shovels, ironing boards, windows, doors, and pumps. He built his o ce in 1900 and when he died in 1904, left the building to be used as a library. Today, the building operates as the A. J. Phillips Fenton Museum. After Phillips, the home was occupied by merchant Brent Birdsall, and then First National Bank of Fenton Founder, David Latourette. Latourette dabbled in just about anything and everything from the growth of ax and manufacture of linseed oil, to the building of town roads. He was very active in religion and the church and worked to establish the Fenton Seminary school (now demolished). e home continued to pass hands and in the late 1920s was owned by Aetna Cement Co. President, Earl Bunce.

Harry C. Tinker House

12030

Lewis Rd., Clio

Built: Circa 1890

Built by Harry C. Tinker in the early 1890s, the house at 12030 Lewis Rd. in Clio was used as a business o ce and residence for the son of one of Pine Run’s founding citizens. William Tinker and his son, William Tinker Jr., moved up from Ohio to settle in Genesee County in 1865. Having settled themselves in Vienna Township at the village of Pine Run, the Tinkers immediately established a machine shop and also worked as blacksmiths. e Tinkers had made a name for themselves in Ohio by inventing and manufacturing machinery for threshing and mowing and brought those skills to the county. ey also dabbled in machinery repair and manufactured steam engines for the booming local lumber industry. In 1889, William Sr. passed away, leaving William Jr. to run the company which he did until 1915 when a re destroyed the machinist shop. During his time in operation, William Jr. purchased a cider mill and also manufactured cheese boxes and potato crates. William Jr. also operated as Pine Run’s school director for nearly 20 years. His son, Harry C. Tinker, avoided the family business and embraced a di erent type of technology. He was interested in the new and spreading telephone systems that were starting throughout the country. He built the house at 12030 Lewis Rd. in 1890 as both a home and an o ce and started the area’s rst telephone system. He ran the telephone company until 1921 when he sold it to W. B. Serviss. ◆

70th Anniversary Back to the Bricks®

Photo By Scott LaForest

GRAND BLANC TWP. | 6.30.2023

This exciting event commemorated the day the first Corvette came off the production line in Flint on June 30, 1953. The free car show featured over 500 vehicles including a huge display of Corvettes –a complete set of all anniversary models and every series from the 1953 Corvette to today’s 70th Anniversary edition – as well as live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, special displays and more! A special presentation honoring Flint as the iconic Chevy vehicle’s birthplace was held, attended by GM Flint Assembly plant leaders, President of the UAW Local 598 Ryan Buchalski, Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley and other community guests. Keynote speaker was Ed Piatek, Chief Engineer on Corvette programs. ◆

Photos By Tom Dahlem and Scott LaForest

Photo By Scott LaForest

Flint ALLEY FEST

BUCKHAM ALLEY, DOWNTOWN

7.8.2023

Photos Courtesy of Flintside

Hosted by the nonprofit organization Friends of the Alley and presented by Communities First, Inc., this free summertime festival was enjoyed by several thousand people celebrating the season! Attendees enjoyed a variety of unique vendors, performances by more than a dozen live bands and festival fare provided by more than 50 food trucks. FOTA’s mission is to “beautify and activate” Downtown Flint’s alleys by creating “inviting, inclusive” and “pedestrian friendly spaces.” ◆

Mid-East

FESTIVAL

OUR LADY OF LEBANON

7.14-16.2023

Celebrating the Lebanese culture and heritage for the 14th year, this popular event featured authentic homemade food – including chicken and beef shawarma, lamb kabob, stuffed grape leaves, tabouli, hummus and baklava – live Lebanese music, belly dancing, games for the kids and more! Fireworks were presented by Medawar Jewelers. Coming from as far as Detroit and Canada, several thousand attendees enjoyed connecting with others from all backgrounds. ◆

Photos by Katy Kildee

My Can’t Miss List

“Once

Genesee

Black

Dustin

HAP

Don

Mike