MCM February 2023 Digital Edition

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DEAR READERS,

At the time of this writing, the weather forecast called for a little snowfall – not typically unusual for late January, but we had definitely gotten used to not scraping off our cars and not shoveling the driveway. I have enjoyed seeing a lone swan pair still floating in front of my house on unfrozen Lake Fenton; it made me feel like winter hadn’t really arrived yet. (Who am I kidding, right?)

In our February issue, we’ve always been proud to have this platform for celebrating Black History Month, highlighting the exemplary community members recently recognized by the Genesee District Library for their contributions and achievements. Read about the 2023 GDL Black History Month Honorees starting on p.6.

We also enjoy featuring the latest developments in Downtown Flint and have an update on the Farmers’ Market: new vendors, renovations and more. Check it out on p.16.

I don’t know how many “Outreach” pieces we’ve done over the past nearly ten years, but there seems to be an endless list of groups and individuals who wake up every day with a mission to help their fellow humans. They’re not getting rich; they enrich the lives of others. Reaching out to those struggling with addiction and mental health is 513 Recovery Clubhouse (p.24), a program founded by two people in recovery who are helping others find their paths to a better life. Their unique and successful approach is getting attention from other parts of the country – awesome!

I enjoy talking with members of the community – our subscribers and those who see My City “everywhere” – about the quality of our content. My hat’s off to our entire team for making it happen! As always, the variety this month includes Arts, Sports, History, Health and Style, as well as (cue the fanfare) our annual “My Wedding” section. I’m taking credit for the fun piece on “Making Marriage Last.” As our team discussed the list of industry experts for this special section, I thought, ‘why not ask some local folks what their secret is’? They share their advice (and photos!) starting on p.58 and we thank them all for participating.

February is known as “the month of love”– a time for Valentine’s Day and remembering the importance of love in our lives. I am blessed with much love and thankful for it every day. I wish the same for all of you.

Thanks for reading,

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR

Sherron Barden

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WRITER

Peter Hinterman

STAFF WRITER

Cheryl Dennison

FREELANCE WRITER

Mark Spezia

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Caudell

Dr. Christopher Douglas

Vera Hogan

Marc Janca, AIF

Alexandria Nolan

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

ART & DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Hailey Worrell

Daria Akulova

PHOTOGRAPHY

Katy Kildee

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTING/CIRCULATION

Kim Davis

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Dan Garman

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© 2022. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

GENESEE DISTRICT LIBRARY PRESENTS

2023 Black History Month Honorees

COMPILED BY SHERRON BARDEN

OnFebruary 4, the Genesee District Library hosted its 22nd Annual Black History Month Brunch at Genesys Conference & Banquet Center. The special celebration recognized the 2023 Black History Month Honorees – community notables including three inspiring individuals and one organization selected by the Black History Month Brunch Advisory Committee.

The GDL is proud to recognize the contributions of the 2023 honorees.

Award of Excellence

NORM BRYANT

Founder and former owner of the Historic Bryant’s Barber Shop in Flint, Norm Bryant also founded the Greater Flint African American Sports Hall of Fame in 1983 and served a ten-year term as its first president. In 1995 he became an inductee, recognized for his achievements in football and track at Flint Northern High School. He was also inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.

As a community servant, Bryant held a seat on the Flint School Board from 1991-1997 (two years as president) and was appointed the first Black chairman of the Genesee

County Building Authority. He was chairman of Salem Lutheran Church Council and also appointed to represent Lutheran Social Service of Michigan to do missionary work in Africa (Tanzania and Zimbabwe). He ran for Mayor of Flint in 2007.

Recognized with multiple awards, Bryant’s honors include: Liberty Bell Award (1997); Frederick Douglass Award (1999); City of Flint Legends Award (2002) and Mott-Manley Distinguished Service Award (2006).

Married to his wife Kay for 65 years, the couple has four daughters, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

SHANE JACKSON

CHHC, BSCJ, MSCJ

Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I will learn.”

This is one of the quotes Shane Jackson follows to help educate and inspire youth and adults on the subject of nutrition. A professional nutrition specialist with a vast scope of experience based in Flint, Jackson is a multiskilled and diversely talented professional with a strong inclination toward self-improvement, human psychology and overall personal health.

Born in Helena, AR and raised in Flint, Jackson has an extensive background in nursing as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice from Michigan State University. Her interest in nutrition and mental health pushed her to pursue her PhD in criminal justice which led to exploration of the impact nutrition has on criminal behavior among youth and adults. Over the years, she has earned a long list of additional degrees and certifications.

Currently, Jackson is a Community Nutrition Instructor at Michigan State University and has authored her first children’s book, Rainbow Power, soon to be released. She is also a mother and motivational speaker.

BY

PHOTO

KATY KILDEE

SERGEANT TANYA MEEKS

FLINT POLICE DEPARTMENT

Born in Smackover, AR Tanya (Ross) Meeks was raised in a small town and brought up in a small Baptist church where she sang in the choir. She graduated from Smackover High School in 1982. Aspiring to be a beautician, a secretary or a police officer, she attended a vocational school for secretarial classes.

In 1984, Meeks came to Flint to visit relatives and decided to stay and become a Michigander. For 11 years, she was employed by UAW-GM Legal Services and then for a short time, the 68th District Court. Realizing that police work was her real passion, she applied for the Flint Police Academy, graduated in the Class of 11-98 and was assigned to Community Policing at Flint’s Northside Precinct. She then decided to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice at Mott Community College, graduating in 2003.

Meeks became coordinator for Flint Area Crime Stoppers, as well as continuing her work in Community

Policing. In 2014, she was assigned as Crime Prevention Officer working with numerous Flint residents, block clubs, crime watch, community groups and businesses. When the police volunteer program was redesigned, she became coordinator of the Blue Badge Volunteer Corps, the service centers and other special projects. In May 2015, Meeks was promoted to the rank of sergeant and received her first assignment – supervising the Youth Services Division overseeing all school liaison officers, missing persons’ cases and the PAL program. In 2016, Sgt. Meeks was transferred to the Patrol Division assigned as a Road Patrol Supervisor and in 2018, received her current assignment in the Detective Bureau investigating Child Abuse and Child Sex crimes.

Married to Mark (Tony) Meeks, the couple has been blessed with two daughters and six grandchildren. Her hobbies include cooking, gardening, camping and fishing. Among her passions are her Christian faith, her family and traveling to Arkansas to be with her mom and dad.

SIGNATURE PORTRAIT STUDIO

RONALD S. BROWN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Partner in Progress Award

FLINT ODYSSEY HOUSE, INC.

Flint Odyssey House, Inc. (FOH) provides a full continuum of Substance Abuse Disorder services for adults and adolescents and has fostered the development of Specialized Employment Services, Inc. providing job-readiness training for hard-to-place individuals.

FOH was born in 1987 from the ashes of the bankrupt Rubicon Odyssey House Program (ROH). Led by 1979 ROH graduate Ronald S. Brown, the venture consisted of two houses, a part-time nurse, 15 former ROH clients, $300 in food stamps and the debt incurred by ROH. Since then, Flint Odyssey has evolved into a nationally recognized exemplary substance abuse treatment organization that has set the standards for Women’s Specialty Programming since 1992.

Operating treatment sites in Flint, Saginaw and Port Huron, the FOH continuum of care includes two residential programs (Flint and Saginaw Odyssey Houses), a nationally recognized Health Awareness Center, Withdrawal Management Services (detox), Adolescent Outpatient Treatment, Adult Outpatient, Recovery Housing, Youth Prevention, Mobile Opiate Response Team (MORT) street outreach and the 24/7 Dad® fatherhood program. FOH provides services to over 3,000 people annually.

Who has most inspired your career path?

The late Professor Kent Collins was a dear friend and my mentor at the Missouri School of Journalism.

What is the best thing about your job at TV5?

Helping people in our community –whether it's getting the word out about a special event or bringing attention to a cause.

What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen?

Andrew and I honeymooned at Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. One morning as the sun rose, a male lion strolled by just a few feet from our vehicle – so beautiful!

What song always gets you out on the dance floor?

"I Wanna Dance with Somebody" by Whitney Houston

What is one weird fact or tidbit you still remember from high school?

“Fido,” a name often given to dogs, is derived from the Latin word "fidus" which means faithful, loyal and trusting.

What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten?

I tried a fish eyeball in the Bahamas. It was firmer than I thought it would be – I thought it would be more gummy! I was surprised that It didn’t have much flavor at all.

If you had a WARNING label, what would it say?

“WARNING: This is NOT a morning person.” I guess it’s a good thing I don’t do a.m. news!

IS IT TIME TO GO ALL IN? Hurley Bariatric Center Can Help

BY JASON HARROD, MA | PHOTO BY DOUG PIKE

Andy Holmes, 37, has been a Flint resident for four and a half years. Living right downtown, it was common for him to be outside and active with his friends. For the majority of his life, he had felt overweight and his highest weight was 325 pounds. A bigger concern than his weight, though, was how he felt. On one excursion walking around Downtown Flint with his friends, Andy felt out of breath, as though he couldn’t continue walking. He had been busy, both working and going to grad school. Graduating in late 2021 was a huge accomplishment, and it also gave him the room to consider his health.

After trying various diets and exercises over the years and finding it very difficult to lose even a small amount of weight while putting in maximum effort, Andy had been looking into bariatrics. Reassured by a conversation with a friend who was a resident at Hurley Medical Center, and his knowledge of Hurley’s reputation in the community, he made his first appointment with Dr. Wong at Hurley Bariatric Center for March 7, 2022. “I’m glad I chose Hurley because people there helped me make a decision that’s had such an important impact on my health,” he explains. “There was no pressure – Dr. Wong was very kind and straightforward. He was generous with his time and answered all of my questions so that I could make my own decision.” Andy decided that it was time to be “all in” and follow Dr. Wong’s treatment plan. For him, being all in meant seeing bariatric surgery as the first of many healthy lifestyle choices.

There were no complications with the outpatient procedure – Andy was home later that same day. “The surgery, I think, is a tool to aid diet and exercise,” he says. “I had to be all in, or the surgery alone wasn’t the answer. It was a big adjustment afterward, especially getting used to portion control; but alongside my friends and family, Hurley offered a lot of support through education and group meetings.”

Andy’s resilience and commitment to following post-surgery guidelines have resulted in dramatic improvement of his overall health. Besides losing 160 pounds over nine months, he no longer needs medication to maintain a normal blood pressure, and feels much better day by day. “I’m sleeping much better and have a lot more energy,” he shares. “Even little things like cleaning the house;

I used to have to vacuum part of the house and sit down for a few minutes to catch my breath. I don’t have to do that anymore. I’m able to physically do more things and much more comfortably.” Andy’s spending a lot of time with his friends and they’ve started going on hikes. He’s even bought a rowing machine for his home.

Andy hopes his story inspires people to pursue this process. “Being overweight can be so hard on your physical and mental health,” he states. “It’s easy once you make the decision to be all in.”

Designed to be a 12-week plan, Hurley Bariatric Center’s Medical Weight Loss program is customized to the individual’s needs, but it’s also meant to equip them with education needed to maintain success beyond program completion. This approach extends to all of the services offered at the Center, both surgical and non-surgical options. The bariatric professionals help patients choose the appropriate procedure and afterward, they monitor progress and offer support such as nutrition and exercise counseling to help patients have a sustainable weight loss outcome.

The Hurley Bariatric Center is located in Flint at 6140 Rashelle Dr., and can be reached at 810.262.2330 or hurleymc. com. The team offers seminars that cover bariatric surgery and medical weight loss options – sign up to attend either in person or online at: hurleymc.com/services/bariatric-center/attend-a-seminar/

A New Mix at Flint Farmers’ Market

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOS BY KATY KILDEE

Starting in February, the Flint Farmers’ Market is going to look a little different – but don’t worry! The market will still operate in the same way we have come to know and love, just with some new faces and new vendors sharing the space.

“Every year, we like to evaluate the Market and try to find the right mix,” explains Market Manager, Karianne Martus.

“When a business decides to leave, it opens up opportunities for newcomers to find space and current vendors to expand. This will be the biggest change we have made in a long time.”

New opportunities emerged when vendors Semi-Sweets, Chubby Duck Asian Fusion and Spectacular Spudz decided to pursue other opportunities. “The owner of Semi-Sweets decided to retire the bakery,” Martus informs, “while the

owner of Chubby Duck is pursuing his lucrative catering business.” For those of you who love the tastiness that is Spectacular Spudz, don’t fret – the perfect potato purveyor will continue. “They outgrew us,” says Martus. “We are so proud and happy that they were able to secure their own restaurant space in Downtown Flint. The Flint Farmers’ Market is a business incubator and we love to see our vendors thrive and expand although sometimes, it is sad when they go.” Along with Spectacular Spudz, B-Dogs Hot Dog Cart will also expand with a location in Davison while retaining their presence at the Market.

With all the open space, a few current vendors were able to move or expand in other areas of the Market.

Moves & Expansions

Penny’s Café

Everyone’s favorite coffee shop at the Market has moved to the front of the building and has added a new twist. “Penny’s Café now has a walk-up window that will allow them to do business on the Market’s off days,” says Martus. “In fact, if all goes well, we are considering adding this feature for other businesses.”

Porter’s Orchard & Donuts

This popular vendor has moved to its new location opposite the dining area along the main aisle and will continue to offer Market patrons their donuts, coffee, cider, honey, apples and slushies.

Michigan at the Market

Expanding its space across the aisle, this shop will now sell candies and sweets. “When the space opened up, they were one of the first to inquire,” says Martus. “We love that they are doing well at the Market and are able to offer more to our customers!”

Newcomers

Market-goers will be happy to see both familiar and new vendors indoors. “We have an extensive waiting list to get in and we are very happy to bring in some of our outside vendors who have been with us for a while,” adds Martus. “We are also very excited to welcome some brand-new faces! Five of the seven new businesses are woman-owned and six are owned by minorities.”

“The Flint Farmers’ Market is a business incubator and we love to see our vendors thrive and expand although sometimes, it is sad when they go.”

Karianne Martus, Marketing Manager

Taste N Life

Owned by Fernando and Olena Bernal, Taste N Life specializes in homemade empanadas and a variety of sauces including chimichurri, guacamole and queso. “We have a location in Saginaw and when we looked into expanding, the Flint Farmers’ Market offered the best bet for us,” says Fernando. Taste N Home is located at the front of the store next to Local Grocer and is open for business.

Snacky Brown

After selling her delicious desserts from her outdoor Market space, owner Regina Hatter couldn’t be happier that she was invited to move inside. Snacky Brown will be located in the front/southwest corner of the building, directly across from Michigan at the Market.

Natural Effecxs

Joining Regina Hatter and Snacky Brown, Twana Hatter will also be moving from outside to an indoor space located next to Regina in the building’s front/ southwest corner. Natural Effecxs sells personal care items and accessories.

PENNY’S CAFE

SNACKY BROWN

PORTER’S ORCHARD

NATURAL EFFECXS

Now occupying the former Chubby Duck location, Mr. Prince Tacos – the beloved Flint food truck – will be front and center with a restaurant space near the main entrance. “Mr. Prince has sat outside of the market for years and we are glad we were able to find the space to bring them indoors,” says Martus.

AT Sweets

Another outside-to-inside conversion, AT Sweets will take over the baking responsibilities from Semi-Sweets. “They will be located in the current spot of Spectacular Spudz,” says Martus. “Since they need less space, we will be able to open up the area next door for the Flint Children’s Museum.”

I Love Pig

Get ready for some fantastic Cuban sandwiches and arepas! “They are so much fun!” comments Martus. “We can’t wait to have them inside. They will be using our kitchens to make their wonderful food.” I Love Pig will be located across from Charlies’ Smokin’ BBQ and AT Sweets.

Stay Tuned for Sushi!

ICHI Sushi, co-owned by Tim and Erin Archuleta was voted best sushi in San Francisco before the couple decided to move to Flint. Their new restaurant (not named at press time) will be located near the center of the Market and plans to open in March. “We are very excited to have them!” exclaims Martus. “Once Chubby Duck decided to leave, it opened up a chance to

bring them in.” Flint native Erin Archuleta cannot wait to get started. “We are looking forward to sharing Japanese food with the community, becoming a part of Flint’s vibrant food culture and seeing all our friends and neighbors regularly,” she states.

The Flint Farmers’ Market continues to be the premier farmers’ market in Michigan and with its new moves and vendors it doesn’t look to be relinquishing that title anytime soon. Congratulations to all the new business owners, and to all the customers who get to experience it all. See

The Flint Farmers’ Market

is looking for new outside vendors, particularly florists and farmers, for the spring and summer seasons. If you are interested in the opportunity, please visit flintfarmersmarket.com and fill out the application or call 810.232.1399.

Mr. Prince Tacos

JANET HALEY A Life on Stage

BY PETER HINTERMAN

SCOT ORSER & PROVIDED BY JANET HALEY

“All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts …” – Jaques, “As You Like It”

As “Jaques,” one of her most cherished roles performed with the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, Janet Haley was honored to deliver one of the most iconic speeches of The Bard’s literary career. “All the world’s a stage” it begins and for Haley, the line couldn’t be truer. For her, the stage is anywhere and everywhere there’s a story to tell. From childhood puppet shows in her garage to today’s historic places and iconic stages in the city of Flint that she has always called home, Haley finds purpose in the art of the show. “Theatre feeds my sense of imagination, storytelling and sharing and that’s what brings me a sense of joy,” she states. “For me, it was never about money or being famous. It was about telling stories together with people and for people.”

Through the years, Haley has had success in roles both onstage and off.

As an actor, she has played countless roles here and throughout the country,

PHOTOS BY

IT WAS WHILE ATTENDING FLINT CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL THAT HALEY GOT THE PUSH TO PURSUE PERFORMANCE. SHE WENT TO UM-FLINT ON A SCHOLARSHIP, EARNING HER DEGREE AND TEACHING CERTIFICATE AND THEN A MASTER OF FINE ARTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS. ▶

winning four Encore Michigan Wilde Awards for best performance, as well as national recognition. As a director, Haley has received national attention for her storytelling at the Flint Youth Theatre, UM-Flint, and in the Flint community. As theatre-maker, she has pushed the

boundaries of what’s possible through innovation and setting and as educator, Haley has helped to cultivate and develop the next generation of performance artists. “I am happy and feel very fortunate and grateful for what I get to do,” she says. “A number of people have contributed to my

“Theatre feeds my sense of imagination, storytelling and sharing and that’s what brings me a sense of joy.”

career, many supporters and advocates, and I am thankful for them all.”

Her story opens at Summerfield Elementary in Flint nearly 40 years ago. “Back then, Flint was operating the “magnet” school program and Summerfield was one of the schools (along with Pierce) that focused on the arts,” Haley recalls. “I had drama, music and visual arts classes every week.” At home, she grew up in a family of storytellers and would put on plays and puppet shows of her own creation in her garage and at numerous other locations where a kid could find an audience. As she entered middle school, the first of many people showed up to guide her toward her future career. At Walker school, Haley’s drama teacher was Flint Youth Theatre (FYT) co-founder, Sue Wood. It was the start of her involvement with the FYT that transitioned to today as an associate artist at the Flint Repertory Theatre. Haley next attended Whittier and then Flint Central, where she got the push to keep her headed toward performance. “As a junior, I became very ill and as a result, I became fascinated

PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER

AN ASSOCIATE ARTIST AT THE FLINT REP, HALEY PLAYED “THE MUTE” IN THEIR 2022 PRODUCTION OF “THE FANTASTICKS.”

▶ with healing and the human body,” she recalls. “I decided that I wanted to be a nurse.” She intended to attend Northern Michigan University until Martin Jennings, her performing arts teacher, turned on the drama. “He asked if I was going to audition

HALEY AS “AMANDA” IN “THE GLASS MENAGERIE” WITH THE FLINT REP IN 2019 AND AS A STUDENT AT FLINT CENTRAL.

for the full-ride drama scholarship at UM-Flint and when I told him I was not, he got up, slammed his office door as dramatically as possible and made me promise that I would do it,” she states. “I did it just to shut him

THIS MONTH, HALEY WILL DIRECT HER UM-FLINT STUDENTS IN “THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHTTIME.”

up and ended up winning the scholarship.” She graduated from UM-Flint with her degree and teaching certificate, and went on to the University of Texas at Austin where she earned her Master of Fine Arts degree.

In 2005, after years of hunting acting jobs in Seattle, she made her way back to Flint. “I was very depressed in Seattle,” she remembers. “I had a year’s worth of work as an actor lined up when I made the decision to come home. I wasn’t needed there. I was needed here.” It was a decision that changed Haley’s life and she never looked back.

Today, Haley is Associate Professor of Theatre at UM-Flint and continues to challenge herself with new roles. She values her time as actor in productions for the Michigan Shakespeare Festival and the Flint Rep,

PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER

PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER

winning Michigan Wilde awards for her performances in “The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds”, “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, and as Jaques in “As You Like It”. It is as an actor that she feels most comfortable; but it is as an educator and theatre-maker that she feels the biggest sense of purpose. “Theatre-making is a relatively new term. A theatre-maker is one who finds a story with other people in unconventional ways. It is different from a playwright,” she explains. “An actor’s task is to ignite a character in a story. The director ignites the story for the audience, and the theatre-maker finds the story through a process of collaboration.”

In 2007, Haley devised a series of small vignettes with her students using the grand fountain in Downtown Flint as a setting and the project serves as a perfect example of theatre-making. Together, they uncovered and devised the stories

in the location and presented them to the public. “Theatre without an audience is just rehearsal – it needs the witness and the performers feed off the energy,” she adds. After that, Haley continued to push the possibilities for theatre in Flint. Along with her students, she devised the nationally-recognized “Glenwood: Restoration of the Spirit” performance project taking place at Glenwood Cemetery and, in 2014, the “9x Nourished” performance project at the Flint Farmers’ Market with FYT. “It was about coming together in an unconditional setting, finding and telling a story,” Haley states. “It’s about being in the 3D world and connecting to others.”

When the pandemic hit in 2020, Haley contemplated the future of her medium. “What does theatre need to do in the digital world to distinguish itself?” she asked. “Innovation and new ways of telling stories have always been important to me.”

“For me, it was never about money or being famous. It was about telling stories together with people and for people.”

She and Flint Rep Artistic Director Michael Lluberes got together and created the Flint Mural Plays. “We came up with a way to tell stories during lockdown,” she recalls. “It was a by-and-for community endeavor on an epic scale. We partnered with neighborhoods, organizations, playwrights and actors to get it done.”

Currently, Haley is working on producing another site-based performance project at a library in Flint.

In her own innovative style, on February 17, Haley will direct her students in the opening performance of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime” at UM-Flint Theatre. With the help of projection designer Alison Dobbins, it will feature a reimagined setting in an effort to merge the 3D world with the digital world.

“I am fascinated with immersive displays such as the recent Van Gogh exhibit,” she says. “We will be fusing the

Continued on pg. 89

Make it

POP!

BY SHANNON WHITE

Hello, February! Let’s add some excitement and spice up the gray days ahead with a bold pop of color! This fashion forecast is influenced by the 2023 Pantone® Color of the Year: Vivid Magenta. Expect this color to be featured heavily in both clothing and home decor stores, as well as all types of fun fashion accessories.

While the fall runways showed a lot of black with influences from '80s and '90s gothic and grunge, there was also a lot of color, ensuring that some of 2022’s brights are here to stay. This includes magenta – a great shade that is not hot pink but not quite red –think of a deep, berry tone. Described by Pantone as “powerful and empowering,” it’s definitely not a color to be missed! It goes brilliantly with khaki or turquoise, can add a dramatic flourish to gray or navy and looks fabulous with tonal shades of purple, pink and blue. A rather “audacious” hue, magenta is not for the shy and

This fashion forecast is influenced by the 2023 Pantone® Color of the Year: Vivid Magenta.

retiring – but wearing it in separates (like a simple top or a vivacious skirt) can make it less overpowering. Pairing it with a neutral shade like white or navy makes it much more accessible. Another emerging color trend is earthy orange with a resurgence of more natural, down-to-earth shades, which will work perfectly in the warmer summer months. While burnt orange and rust might initially seem more of a fall palette, it will also see you (in slightly brighter tones) into the summer months. Color experts say the shade conveys creativity, sensuality and abundance, which is probably why it’s proved so popular with designers and with so many

different hues, you can easily create a stunning array of looks.

Orange loves a warm skin tone and can be pared back when worn with neutrals such as cream, camel, bronze or gray. If you feel confident, mixing it with navy blue or jewel purple can be super impactful, but wearing it with its analogous hues on the color wheel such as yellow, pink and red will definitely create a clash.

Denim rules –jeans, jackets, jumpers and just about all garments can rock denim blues.

In my January “My Style” article, I talked about the influence of pockets on everything, including the resurgence of cargo pants embellished with zippers galore. A color more often associated with casual clothing – such as this season's fashion favorite, the cargo pant – olive green gets a makeover for 2023, and a very glamorous one at that! Watch for it in evening dresses and elegant tops. Because so much of nature is green, it can evoke elements of peace and harmony when we use it in our clothing and our homes to offset neutral beiges and grays. One more color to look for is blue. While pink has long ruled the runway, 2023 trends will see blue enjoying a resurgence. These blue shades range from pastel to azure and turquoise, all adding a tranquil, royal feel. Denim

rules – jeans, jackets, jumpers and just about all garments can rock denim blues. As many know, regal royal blue was also the color Queen Elizabeth was thought to have favored most often, as she regularly wore it for public engagements throughout her reign.

So, all you fashion-forward readers – thanks to “My Style” you can put on your tiaras, add a POP to your wardrobes with the Color of the Year and dress like the queens you are!

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

If there is ever a time to indulge in a sweet and chocolatey treat, it’s Valentine’s Day! How about baking your loved one something fancy (yet simple) like a torte? A dessert of German origin, a torte is a type of cake that is typically flourless and baked with heavy ingredients like eggs, creating a more dense texture.

Serve this dessert as a decadent ending to your special Valentine’s dinner, whatever it may be … and wait for a sweet reward!

Dark Chocolate Torte

INGREDIENTS

◆ 2 2/3 cups semisweet chocolate chips (16 ounces), divided

◆ 1 cup of salted margarine, divided

◆ 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

◆ 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder or instant coffee powder

◆ 5 large eggs

◆ 1 cup sugar

◆ Fresh mint sprigs and blackberries for garnish

TO MAKE

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Brush 9-inch-diameter springform pan with margarine; line bottom with parchment.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, stir 1 2/3 cups chocolate chips and 3/4 cup margarine until smooth.

Whisk in cocoa and espresso. Cool for 10 minutes.

Using an electric mixer, beat eggs and sugar in a large bowl on high speed until thick, about 6 minutes.

Fold in chocolate mixture.

Pour batter into the prepared pan.

Bake torte until dry and cracked on top and tester inserted into center comes out with some moist batter attached, about 42 minutes.

Cool in pan on rack for about an hour (center will fall).

Using spatula, press raised edges so top is level.

Cut around pan sides to loosen the torte.

Place plate atop torte and invert onto plate. Remove pan bottom; peel off paper and cool torte completely.

In a small saucepan over low heat, stir remaining 1 cup (6 ounces) chocolate and 1/4 cup margarine until smooth (do not overheat).

Cool glaze for 15 minutes and pour into the center of the torte.

Smooth top with spatula, allowing some of the glaze to drip down the sides.

Refrigerate uncovered until glaze is set, about 1 hour. (Can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and keep refrigerated.)

Garnish with mint and blackberries (or any berry of choice).

Enjoy … and Happy Valentine’s Day!

Local Eats & Drinks

FRANK’S HOPPY BISTRO

BRICK STREET OF GRAND BLANC

Wedding Inspiration ‘23

Cheers!

Forever

After 2022’s wedding surge, the estimate for 2023 is down just a bit – only 2.24 million couples are expected to tie the knot this year. That’s a whole lot of “I Dos!”

Weddings are a big business and there’s no shortage of industry experts who weigh in on what’s popular for everything from the venue to wedding attire to food for the reception – and all the details in between. These annual forecasts can certainly generate ideas and inspo. Here is a sampling of trends and tips from local experts for planning the wedding and beyond, including ways to make your celebration memorable … and how to make your marriage last!

Trends

... or New Traditions?

BY SHERRON BARDEN

When planning their weddings, many couples feel they have to do things a certain way because it’s just the way you’re “supposed to” do it! While “classic” can be a great go-to (it’s classic for a reason, right?) it’s become much more “okay” to step outside the box and let your personalities guide the vibe of your Big Day. Celebrate in your own way –it’s about YOU!

Congratulations … And off we go!

GOWNS

The 2023 brides seem to be choosing between two styles: timeless and daring. Both offer the opportunity to make a memorable statement on their most special day.

A wedding dress doesn’t need to be a ball gown to make an impact. Trends indicate a shift toward simpler, barer silhouettes, sheer fabrics, relaxed shapes and ball gown styles in heavy, plain satins without over-embellishment. Also gaining popularity are royalty-inspired mock neck silhouettes and heirloom separates –two-piece looks that make a bold statement.

A. Pastels

Brides are expanding their horizons to an array of soft pastels. Blue is the new pink!

B. Sheer Fabrics

Bold and barely there designs create drama.

CAThese looks also incorporate the sheer fabric trend:

GFC. Elaborate Ballgowns

For brides looking to feel like the belle of their ball!

D. High-Slit Skirts

Sleek silhouettes for bolder brides.

E. Shorter Veils

Create a starlet vibe – think Audrey Hepburn and Ariana Grande.

F. Gloves

Adding a sense of soft romance that can modernize any look.

G. The Curated Wedding Wardrobe

The idea is to assemble several white outfits and accessories that will take the bride through every wedding event, both preand post. The current trend is to include an after-party minidress in the collection.

THE BRIDESMAIDS

Topping the list of colors for 2023 is green, such as emerald, paired with blush pink, light blue and silver. Neutral-colors are trending (champagne, ivory, white) in bridesmaid dresses, as well as luxe fabrics like silk, satin and velvet. And “mismatched” styles – whether it’s color or silhouette – are perfect for allowing individuality among the attendants.

THE GROOM

It’s about simplicity – grooms choosing simpler and lighter outfits rather than the full-out tux. Most opt for traditional styles in shades of black, navy or dark gray for formal or fall/ winter weddings, and lighter shades of blue or tan for casual or spring/summer. Monochrome beige and brown are popular, as well. Rather than white, fresh colors and nature-driven palettes make a statement and look great in photos, too!

CAKES & MORE

While minimalist (“naked”) wedding cakes and alternatives such as cupcakes are still popular, traditional multi-tiered, extra-grand cakes are back. The trend features fancy piping details and custom crests, spun sugar threads, structural swirls, sugar flowers and butterflies, and vintage-inspired Lambeth-style piping. Also popular: lace fondant patterns, bow accents and ruffled buttercreams that create a wedding gown look.

H. Dessert Tables

Mini-desserts are still a very popular option, offering variety and a beautiful addition to the reception space décor.

I. Champagne Tower

This classic celebration functions as both décor and entertainment! Recalling an era of glamor and opulence, it makes for great photos. Some couples have the tower displayed and ready when guests arrive at the reception, others pour it after the toasts, dinner or cake-cutting ceremony.

FLOWERS

This year’s top choices will include unique flowers, single varieties used en masse and lots of locally-grown, seasonal flowers. Blooms that are in season are at their peak of beauty and also more sustainable.

J. Pops of Color & Succulents

This bouquet takes a cue from the 2023 Pantone® Color of the Year: Viva Magenta.

K. Dramatic Arches

Flower arches and backdrops create a focal point at the ceremony, and also enhance reception décor as a frame for a dessert table or a beautiful photo booth backdrop.

L. Petite Bouquets

Why not? They’re easier to handle and dance with, and they don’t hide your face or your dress in photos!

M. Flowers in Her Hair

No, not a flower crown … soft braids featuring delicate florals are the perfect little detail.

THE HONEYMOONERS

The resurgence of weddings has given the travel industry a major reprieve! Experts say couples want to take longer trips that combine multiple destinations. Here are a few more honeymoon trends:

Put It On Pause

Rather than jetting off right after the reception, many couples are taking some much-needed “downtime” after the wedding excitement, especially if they are planning a more complex itinerary and longer stay in their destinations.

Luxury & Bucket List Trips

While sipping cocktails on an island is still a perfectly lovely honeymoon, travel experts report that newlyweds are planning once-in-a-lifetime, experience-based honeymoon trips to historical locales in Europe, Asia and Africa.

Honeymoon Funds

It is reported that many newlyweds are opting for a honeymoon fund rather than a traditional registry, in terms of wedding gifts. Rather than buy you a blender, your friends and family are helping you take your dream trip … how great is that?

Whether you keep it traditional or take inspiration from the trends, your wedding day can be whatever you want it to be. Making personalized and intentional choices will create an experience as meaningful as your commitment to each other.

You Dream It, We Create It

BY R. DAVID GAINES, GG, PRESIDENT AND OWNER, GAINES JEWELRY

What aspect of our lives today has not been impacted by recent advances in technology? It has changed the way we are entertained, the way we communicate, the way we live our lives. The world of custom jewelry design is no different. Until fairly recently, custom jewelry design was a segment of the industry shrouded in anxiety and mystery. Many times, the anxiety rested in the fact that the customer wouldn’t have a clear vision of the look and feel of the completed piece until all the work, and therefore expense, was finished. Until recent years, a jewelry craftsman would hand-carve a wax model of a design for the customer to approve. If that wax model needed significant alteration, it required the craftsman to start all over with a new model. The process was time-consuming and therefore, expensive. It also created a certain veil of mystery and apprehension, as a customer wouldn’t want to pay for a custom piece they ended up not liking. It was equally unnerving for the jeweler who could possibly end up with either an unhappy customer, or a piece of jewelry that was made to someone’s liking, only to have them not accept it.

Enter CAD/CAM technology! (Cue the “Indiana Jones” music.) Today, virtually all of these past pitfalls are gone. Now, pieces are completely designed using the latest in computer modeling before any wax model is created. Whether a customer

is working with our artist to sketch their dream piece, or they bring in an image on their phone that they or their loved one has seen, making their vision come true is a snap! Once the initial rendering is completed, any adjustments to custom pieces are quick, easy and inexpensive with just a few keystrokes or swipes of a computer mouse. With each adjustment by the customer, we create full-color renderings of the prospective design from virtually all angles. Want to see the design with a round center stone?

Square center? Click, click, click … no problem!

Once the design is tweaked to perfection, no hand-carving of wax is required. Our wax models are now 3D-printed, giving the customer an exact replica of their design. Sometimes, things look different on the computer than they do in person – ask anyone using a dating app! Again, there is no mystery in today’s custom jewelry world. The 3D wax model allows the customer to hold the piece, feel its thickness, see how it looks on their hand, etc. Once approved, the wax is cast into metal and stones are set by our stone-setters. If you can dream it, it can be created … and within your budget.

Today’s jewelry customers want their items to be uniquely “them.” Choice is king today. With the latest technology, jewelry can express their unique taste and lifestyle, many times for less investment than designer “off-the-rack” pieces. It’s an exciting time to be in the jewelry industry!

Deena

Creating Perfection

PROVIDED BY TRACY’S CREATIONS CUSTOM SPECIALTY ALTERATIONS

When it comes to wedding dresses, perfection is in the details … and Tracy’s Creations Custom Specialty Alterations is here for you and your wedding party to combine those details into the perfect looks for your Big Day!

With her 40+ years of experience in apparel design and sewing, there are very few challenges Tracy Nuttle hasn’t mastered in her desire to create beauty and “perfection in motion!”

“Yes, it is about ‘getting the right look,’ but ‘the look’ must function and be easy to wear and manage throughout the entire wedding day,” Tracy explains. “Final/dress rehearsal day is the most important of all the fittings, because we invite the wedding party to be present to learn all the best practices for ‘attending their bride’ making everything smooth and in flow … basically, perfect!”

A single-gal operation, Tracy’s Creations works with a limited number of clients, so scheduling early is highly recommended. Typically, gown alteration work should begin four to five months before the wear date. Considering wearing Mom’s dress? Tracy can customize the fit to the bride’s unique shape and personalize the style to reflect current trends.

Rather than custom-building formal garments, Tracy has specialized in alterations. “I simply don’t have enough time to start from scratch,” she explains. “I can assist more clients if their dresses are nearly right and I focus my skills on making them perfect!” It is very rare to have a gown fit the bride perfectly direct from the manufacturer, she adds. “You get it close and I will do the rest!”

Located in downtown Fenton, Tracy’s Creations serves brides from the area and all over the country with hometown friendly appeal and expert attention to detail. For more information, visit tracyscreations.biz

WHICH WAY TO SAY “I Do” Is Right

for You?

BY INGRID C. SCHMITT REAM, CTC/GROUP, DWHSA INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL SPECIALIST | PRESIDENT, SUPERIOR TRAVEL SERVICE, INC.

Planning a momentous event like your wedding can be stressful and overwhelming – which is why destination weddings are more popular than ever!

Each year, an estimated 350,000 couples opt to say “I Do” at a destination wedding. October is the most popular month to wed, followed by June, September and May and Hawaii is the most popular honeymoon destination. Many options are available to fit the personalities of every bride and groom and the assistance of an experienced travel advisor and wedding coordinator relieves the stress of planning the Big Day.

Not sure what destination conveys the inspiration for your nuptials? Your travel advisor can provide recommendations and several options. How about an island vibe like Maui, where guests are greeted with a beautiful Hawaiian lei and a refreshing chilled towel? Or, plan a sunset ceremony on a sandy beach in Mexico or a Caribbean island? Destination weddings can be arranged anywhere – for instance, you can have a fairytale wedding at an iconic castle such as Ashford in Ireland, on the cliffs of Santorini, Greece with its whitewashed buildings, a family friendly venue or a secluded adults-only oasis.

ceremony, you can relax at your chosen destination and enjoy your honeymoon! And, destination ceremonies are not limited to weddings – many married couples are choosing this option to celebrate anniversaries and vow renewals.

Planning a destination wedding includes many moving parts that you could only be aware of through experience. When in doubt, turn to a travel advisor who is a destination wedding specialist and preferably a Certified Travel Consultant (CTC) who does this full-time for a living. Travel advisors are essential for negotiating the best rates, organizing all the booking details, protecting your trip with travel insurance and saving your time.

Planning a destination wedding includes many moving parts that you could only be aware of through experience.

Many all-inclusive resorts offer very affordable wedding packages and some even include them if you stay a certain number of nights with a minimum number of guests. After the

Don’t go it alone! No matter what size or theme you choose, your travel advisor will make travel arrangements for you and your guests and assist your wedding coordinator in securing the perfect venue, a wedding package including food, florals, photographers, décor and/or a fun group excursion. Both of these professionals are key players dedicated to making sure this most special life event goes exactly as you envisioned it.

Micro Wedding = More Time for Love!

BY JASMYN LEE SOCIAL MEDIA - MARKETING MANAGER, THE LAUNDRY

The popularity of micro weddings is still on the rise! This not-so-new trend began its surge in 2020 and seems to be here to stay. These intimate affairs allow brides and grooms to spend more time with the people they hold near and dear instead of stretching themselves thin amongst a sea of faces. A non-traditional celebration, the micro wedding typically includes the happy couple and 20-60 of their close friends and family members. Additionally, this version of tying the knot is typically less expensive and allows for more customization than a large-scale affair.

At The Laundry, we have been ecstatic to be part of the magic that is two families coming together in our private event space, The Laundry Room.

The Laundry Room is an ideal venue for these smaller gatherings with a private entrance, optional outdoor space, dedicated service staff who want your day to be perfect, and all of the delicious

food and beverage that our wonderful team provides. We have buffet packages with tasty offerings ranging from our signature pasta aglio e aioli to fabulous beef tenderloin. We also have beverage packages that range from non-alcoholic fresh-squeezed juice and brewed tea to champagne toasts and signature cocktails.

Our event coordinator will help you along the process from start to finish with all the selections you can choose from in The Laundry Room. They are always willing to lend the happy couple a helping hand during the decision-making process. Don’t know where to get your cake? They have you covered with local bakery suggestions. Not sure how to decorate? They have contacts at a local floral and design shop that always makes the space look fabulous!

We’re always overjoyed when two beautiful humans decide to spend their special day with us and we hope you find an extraordinary space to fill with your love!

Personality Has Become Priority

BY CHIP BELTINCK JEWELER & OWNER, SAWYER JEWELERS

Wedding trends have changed incredibly over the last decade – from the design of the dress to the look of the venue. Engagement rings and the wedding band are no exceptions.

Although some future brides prefer matching their wedding band to their engagement ring with a set designed to fit flawlessly together, it is becoming more and more popular to not follow that route. Today, most women want to express their own individual personality; they want to be unique, to have something special – something no one else has.

From white gold to rose to yellow gold, it’s not uncommon for the future Mrs. to pair her engagement ring with a wedding band made from an opposite metal and a different colored stone in ranging shades of red, yellow, green, pink and black just to name a few.

Many women are choosing thinner wedding bands and this trend has made stackable rings very popular over the past few years, an iconic fashion trend in the making. These individualized bands not only represent an engagement and marriage, but additional bands can also be added over time to signify milestones like the birth of a child, special anniversaries and eternity bands. Stackables are available in an array of metals and stones and are designed to be mixed and matched, allowing the opportunity to showcase your personality and life story.

The bottom line: when it comes to your wedding ring, there’s no right or wrong – it should be a reflection of your love, and also display your individual personality.

Make it Memorable!

10 RECEPTION ACTIVITIES FOR ADULTS … and Five for the Kiddos

BY PETER HINTERMAN

After the beautiful ceremony, the reception is the time to officially celebrate the newlyweds and have some fun. Typically, after the formalities and the meal, the band or DJ starts the music and most people head out to the dance floor. That’s all fine and dandy, but I’m here to say that dancing isn’t the be-all-end-all of reception activities. If you want to make sure your guests are entertained and engaged throughout (and the kids are occupied), why not consider something new?

Reception Activities to Make it Memorable

1. Games for the Bride & Groom: In the time leading up to or during the feast, it could be fun to put the newlyweds on the spot for some laughs and hijinks. Games such as the common “Shoe Game” or “Guess the Family Member” are a way for the guests to get to know the host families and provide some good-natured mirth. Other popular games are “Would you Rather?” or “The Voting Game.”

2. Beyond the Band: You may have a stage at your reception venue, so use it. Hire a comedian to keep the guests entertained during dinner or to emcee the festivities. If you don’t mind your ears being assailed by Aunt Edna during her uncouth rendition of “It’s Raining Men,” karaoke can be a hilarious activity and a great way to engage the guests.

3. Hire an Artist: If it’s in your budget, a professional artist can certainly lend a memorable touch to the festivities.

Have the artist paint a portrait of the room once the guests are seated or have a caricaturist on hand to create cartoony wedding mementos.

4. Play The Newlywed Game: Yes, seriously. Host your own game show! Get that outspoken uncle to be the host (or a hired comedian) and pit the newlyweds vs. other married couples to see how well they know (or do not know) each other. Just tone down the references to, ahem, “making whoopee” if your audience is underaged.

5. Wine & Spirits Tasting: Looking for a more cultured activity? A wine or spirits tasting session during or after dinner can add a bit of elegance to the proceedings. Hire an expert to take your guests on a journey through a selection of wines, whiskey, bourbon or exotic liquors.

6. Poker or Blackjack Station: Keep the gamblers entertained by hiring a dealer or two and setting up a few gaming tables. Bragging rights only – no money included lest the fuzz crashes the party.

7. Table Novelties: There are few simple things you can add to a table to keep guests entertained during setup time or the dinner. Supply a few crossword puzzles, wedding mad libs, or bride & groom trivia to keep them engaged with each other.

8. Wedding Piñata: Let the bride take out some wedding stress on a papier mâché figure of her choice. Depending on attendees, the piñata can be filled with candy, coins, toys or little

If you want to make sure your guests are entertained and engaged throughout (and the kids are occupied), why not consider something new?

bottles of booze, perhaps. Provide bags for adults or kids to collect the goodies inside.

9. Spin the Wheel of Fun: Here we go with game shows again. Make a wheel of any size that features fun and hilarious stunts. Spin the wheel and see what you get! Will the groom have to do the robot dance? Will the bride sing a song? Or will the couple simply kiss again? Only the wheel can say.

10. Start the Slideshow: Create and show a slideshow of the couple’s relationship timeline. When did they meet? What did they do together? Where did they visit? Who are their friends? Your guests are here for the result; so, why not show them the journey?

Keep THE KIDS OCCUPIED

1. Set up a Kids Only Fort or Tent: Give the young‘uns a place of their own. Outdoor forts and tents are kid magnets – set one up and declare “no adults allowed!” If the party is indoors, an adjacent room with kids’ entertainment items would work, if available.

2. Lawn Games: If you give them something to do, they will do it. Set up Cornhole, jumbo checkers, jumbo Connect Four, giant lawn dice, badminton and more. The lawn will be filled with screams of triumph and fun from both kids and adults.

3. Color Me Happy: Give the kids coloring sheets and crayons with the task of coloring a picture for the bride & groom. Not only will this keep them occupied at the table before dinner, it will provide some very cute mementos for the newlyweds. Have extra sheets or coloring books on hand for those who want to create more than one “masterpiece.”

4. Set Up Activity Tables: Provide a place for kids to go to entertain themselves with blocks, cars, trucks, dolls, or musical instruments. Another way to do this without taking up table space is to include small toys or plastic games in the centerpieces on tables where children are seated.

5. If all else Fails, Let ‘em Bounce: They need to burn some of that excess energy somehow. Rent a bouncy castle or large inflatable slide and let them just go nuts. The more energy the kids work off early will lead to a less fussy night and a more memorable reception.

With a little planning and imagination, your celebration can stand out above all the rest … and a good time will be had by all!

Wedding Guest

etiquette

DO’S & DON’TS OF CELEBRATING THE “I DO.”

BY PETER HINTERMAN

You’ve been invited to attend a grand wedding and you should feel honored that the happy couple wants to celebrate their marriage in your presence. Huzzah! It’s going to be a great party, but a sophisticated one. To show how much you value their friendship and support their union, follow a few time-honored rules of etiquette and continue being the rockstar friend that you are. Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts:

1. The Invitation

So, you received the invite – it’s classy and beautiful. The couple really put a lot of thought into it, didn’t they? The majority of invites include a variety of information and possibly most importantly, the RSVP card. What comes next?

DON’T neglect the RSVP! The couple has limited space and a lot to do before the Big Day, making plans according to the exact number of guests attending. Whether you will attend or not, let them know ASAP. Don’t show up to the wedding having sent the RSVP the day before or (Lord help us) bring it with you to the wedding.

DO honor the couple’s wishes. If they did not allow you to add a “plus one”, don’t plan on taking a date or a friend. If it is an “adults only” affair, don’t plan to bring the kiddos. (If this is a deal-breaker for you, mark the RSVP card accordingly.) This is not your day; it belongs to the couple and they get to set the rules.

DO choose a wedding gift from their registry. These items were carefully chosen, to help them start a home life together. Don’t go off the cuff because you “know” Jaime and Peyton and you’re sure they will “love it.” #theywon’t

SCENARIO: Dave receives his invite and checks his calendar. He sees that he can attend and immediately sends his RSVP.

Not provided the option for a plus one, he knows he will attend this shindig “stag.” He heads to the store and purchases a lovely little hand mixer from the couple’s registry (so they can make tasty cakes and sweets). Great start!

Doofus receives his invite, takes a look, marks it on his calendar and leaves the invite on the coffee table. The RSVP card did not include a plus one option but he doesn’t care. A wedding is for partying, right? He immediately calls his best buddy Dingbat and tells him to get ready to party. A week before the wedding, he goes online and buys a “Big Mouth Billy Bass” for the couple’s den because it’s “funny” and “they’ll love it.” “Take me to the river …” he sings as he drives down the road to failure.

2. The Attire

The day of the wedding is approaching and it is time to make sure you will be dressed for the occasion. Making yourself presentable for the ceremony is a way of honoring your friends; it has nothing really to do with your comfort. Again, this is not your day.

DO make an effort to look your best or follow the wedding theme (a big thing nowadays). If it is a country theme, then by all means put on the boots and the hat. A “Star Trek” wedding? Then be the best “Chekov” you can be. You get the picture. If it is a traditional wedding, then plan to dress up and look nice.

DON’T outdress the wedding party, wear white or your leisure clothes (unless the theme calls for it). Every wedding has that guest who is stuffed into a faded t-shirt, wearing jeans with holes in the knees and a pair of old sneakers decorated by the lawn-mower. Do you know what everyone says about that guy? “Geez, he could have at least made an effort.” If other guests notice it, so does the wedding party. The least you can do is make an effort. The opposite also applies: Don’t be overdressed. Find the sweet spot in the middle.

SCENARIO: Dave peruses his wardrobe and realizes that it may be time to purchase something new to match his favorite tie. He heads to the store and finds a nice dress shirt and a smart pair of slacks. When the day comes, he showers, combs his hair, puts on his new clothes (complete with that tie), steps into his dress shoes and heads out the door … dressed for success!

Doofus rolls out of bed an hour before the wedding, picks up his favorite t-shirt from the floor, gives it the old college sniff test and decides it’s passable. He pulls on a pair of faded jeans

straight from his dresser drawer and decides to go sans socks. In the bathroom, he quickly runs some water through his hair and gargles some mouthwash. He then throws on a pair of loafers and waits for his plus one, Dingbat – who arrives dressed in full tux. “Awesome,” says Doofus as they head out the door. No, Doofus. Not awesome. Not awesome at all.

3. The Ceremony

It’s time for the main attraction. You made it to the venue and are being seated with the other guests. The ceremony officiant is standing at the head of the aisle waiting for the wedding parties to enter. How do you behave in this situation?

DON’T show up late or not at all. Many people seem to forget that the ceremony is the important part. Two people you care about have made the big decision to take vows before witnesses and spend the rest of their lives together. You can do them the honor of being punctual and present. Don’t skip it and show up at the reception. That’s bad mojo, man.

DO pay attention. Listen to the vows, sing the songs, and know when to sit quietly. The couple are already nervous and hoping everything goes smoothly. Help it become so. No outbursts are needed here. Just your attention and happy wishes.

SCENARIO: Dave makes sure to arrive 15 minutes before the ceremony begins to find a seat. He listens to and follows the

ushers. He speaks quietly with family and friends around him and when the music starts, he follows the rest of the crowd. He participates in the ceremony without standing out and when the vows are spoken he sheds a tear (even though he promised himself he wouldn’t.) Good on you, Dave.

Doofus and Dingbat arrive 15-minutes late and run into the venue, interrupting the wedding party’s procession. They loudly laugh and ignore the ushers to take an open seat next to the bride’s Great Aunt Becky, whom they annoy with loud whispers and corny jokes. Doofus brings up the ball game on his mobile phone and they both cheer when their team scores a goal during the vows. (Oy.)

4. The Dinner

After the lovely ceremony, it’s time to head to the reception for a celebratory meal, dancing and entertainment. The reception is where good intentions can falter as things get a little more relaxed; the dinner could produce the first pratfall.

DO mind the seating chart. Again, the couple took great care to plan every aspect of their wedding. A person can easily throw the whole thing into disarray by going rogue on seating. Trust the couple to put you where you will best fit.

DON’T belly up to the buffet before the wedding party. This is a serious no-no and could lead to expulsion from the reception and all future receptions. Most reception fare includes finger-foods and

drinks to enjoy while you wait for the meal to begin. Only go for the main dishes when YOUR table has been released by ushers and never before. And, by all means, never sample the wedding cake or dessert table until the appropriate time!

SCENARIO: Dave gets to the reception and finds his seat, indicated by his place card. He is feeling a bit peckish and goes off in search of available snacks. He finds cheese and crackers, and stops by the bar for a soda, heads back to the table and begins conversation with the family and friends there. Across the room, an eligible partner notices Dave’s attire and calm demeanor. “This guy is refined and handsome,” they think as they catch his eye while he later fills his plate in the dinner line.

Doofus and Dingbat look for their place cards but cannot find them (surprise!). Undeterred, they sit at the table nearest the dance floor, taking up two places reserved for the groom’s family. Dingbat holds down the fort while Doofus gets them drinks from the open bar. This is what they came for, after all. On the way, Doofus snatches a cupcake from the dessert table and peeks

under all the lids on the buffet table to see what’s underneath. He tells Dingbat what’s on the menu and they both decide to get up and grab themselves something “before the cretins eat it all.”

5. The After-Dinner Party

Well, you’ve made it so far with no gaffs or faux pas ... You are so close to victory. Follow these last couple of suggestions to get through the night unscathed.

DON’T give an impromptu wedding speech or toast. First and foremost, you’re not that funny. If you are not asked to speak, stand down. That awkward anecdote from the past would steal the thunder from the best man or maid of honor. Worst yet, embarrassing either the bride or groom can be grounds for exile. You may however “tap your glass,” clap, laugh and reminisce with friends in private. Keep it classy, people!

DO congratulate the lovely couple and thank them for the invitation. First, they made a big decision and put on a splendid

affair. They deserve all the best wishes. Second, they didn’t have to include you; the fact that they did means they think highly enough of you to want you there on their biggest day. Dance with the bride, dance with the groom – each time you participate in the reception traditions, the more you honor them. Make sure to say goodbye before you leave for the night.

DON’T overdo it. Just don’t. Don’t get so drunk you make a mockery of yourself and the entire celebration. Nobody wants to wake up the next morning and find out they were the person dancing with the tie around their head like a high-priced sweatband. Nobody likes that person. Sure, people will be laughing – but not WITH you, if you know what I mean. Instead, be mindful about your libations. Enjoy yourself but know where the line is.

SCENARIO: After the dinner and traditions, Dave searches out the newlyweds and expresses his heartfelt congratulations and well-wishes. While speaking to them, he is introduced to Taylor, the person he locked eyes with earlier. They hit it off immediately and when the band starts playing Dave’s song, he asks for a dance. Taylor

accepts and they spend a block of songs shaking their groove things. Afterward, they enjoy a single glass of wine and a chat. When the band plays Taylor’s favorite Whitesnake song, they head out onto the dance floor, look into each other’s eyes and smile. Is this love?

On the other side of the room, Doofus and Dingbat were on a mission (which they choose to accept): to get “sloshed.” They hit the open bar as hard as possible. An already buzzed Doofus stands to give an unsolicited toast wherein he recalls a story of what he and the groom got up to one night long ago. The room becomes awkward and uneasy, the silence broken only by Dingbat’s inappropriate laughter. At the end of the night, the disastrous duo has to be carried out and have an Uber take them home. What a mess. Don’t let this happen to you.

REMEMBER: When attending a wedding, don’t be a Doofus when you can be a Dave!

Have fun at the wedding!

Your First Home Purchase tips for success

BY JENNIFER LASCO, BROKER, REALTOR, MBA

Nearly 40% of all engagements occur between November and February, which means that we are knee-deep in engagement season! Many exciting things come along with an engagement, one of which can be the excitement of buying your first home together. With so many other details to manage during this time, making sure you are set up for success with such a significant purchase can be the difference between a seamless and joyful path and a stressful series of disagreements. To make the experience enjoyable and stress-free, it is important to consider a few key details before you begin.

The most important place to start: choose a strong real estate agent to guide you through the process. When you sit down with a Realtor to discuss your needs, be open and honest about budget, timing, and your list of non-negotiables. When we talk about non-negotiables, we really want to dig into the ideal location, size of house, bedroom and bathroom needs, and whether you are looking at subdivision life or more spacious, rural areas. Seeing a few homes can always help narrow the focus for an agent.

Once you have selected your agent, the importance of pre-approval cannot be understated. Would you go shopping without your wallet? Probably not. The same can be said about having a pre-approval in hand when house hunting. Being open and honest with yourself and your partner about not only what you can realistically afford, but also how much of your monthly income you plan to allot to a house, the discretionary funds you would like to maintain to live comfortably and whether those budgets align. For an agent to properly help you, it is important that you both have a clear understanding of your budget, the type of financing you will use, and whether the purchase is conditional on the sale of another property. Speaking to a lender can also help prepare you for the costs associated with a home purchase and help put you on the right track to get there.

Now, we head to the fun part – shopping for the home where you will begin your future together. Your agent will begin a search and likely, you will continue hunting on your own. This is the time to narrow your focus and communicate likes and dislikes that pop up along the way. After seeing several potential houses, you may realize that items you thought were necessary when your search began are in fact not that important. On the other hand, you may find a few things that are much more necessary than you previously thought.

Once you have selected your perfect home, make sure you are in quick communication with signatures, documents and funds as necessary. All contracts are written with “time is of the essence”, which means that timing is material to the performance of the contract. Several items require a timely response, so for a seamless closing, make sure you are in communication with your lender, agent and title company.

If you pay attention to these details, you will avoid major upsets and may even have a lot of fun along the way.

Happy house hunting!

A Burning Question

COMPILED BY SHERRON BARDEN

Our annual Bridal Section is all about weddings – rings, gowns, parties – as well as taking some important first steps together such as buying a first home. But after the vows are spoken and married life begins, what is the key to success down the road? You could Google “How to be a good spouse” but why not ask some experts the burning question:

What is the secret to making a marriage last?

These local couples shared some words of wisdom.

Chris Swanson

“Jamie opened the door of her apartment to me on July 2, 1993 wearing a waist-length white shirt and tight blue jeans. Her beautiful blonde hair was complemented by her even brighter smile. That was our “first date” – we have never stopped dating! After 28 years of marriage, two adult boys educated and on their own, 30 years of policing, the pain of loss and unimaginable pressure, we’re still on our “first date.” You want to make it last? NEVER stop dating the one you love. We got married on 7.23.94 and we’ve celebrated the 23rd of EVERY month since then – a small gift, dinner or maybe just a note.”

Chris & Jamie Married July 23, 1994

Rosanne Heddy

“We believe the secret to making it last is to be a team. We enjoy doing things together. We work together, volunteer together, travel together and share the same interests. We are best friends and truly enjoy each other’s company.”

Steve & Rosanne Married December 3, 1966

Leslie Toldo

“Talk! Talk about any problems for sure but talk about everything. The deepest friendships are based on good communication. Be honest, be kind, and do something unexpectedly wonderful for your spouse every now and then, too. I learned all of this from one of the smartest people I know: my husband.”

Rick & Leslie Married March 10, 2008

Patt Spangler

“We’ve found the formula to be pretty simple: Be kind, be forgiving, be a good listener, and be best friends.”

Jim & Patt Married August 25, 1962

Lennetta Coney

“Craig and I both agree that it first takes a commitment to WANT to make it last, while realizing that it will take work to honor your commitment/vow. There is no easy way to blend two independent lives into one. Very important to this mix is to really like and respect your partner as you lace these feelings with love. Additionally, it is imperative to have a forgiving spirit while picking your disagreements and battles, and knowing when to step away. Finally for us: we have always approached our marriage with a spirit of teamwork. Success for one is overall success for ‘Team Us’.”

Craig & Lennetta Married July 5, 1986

Jackie Jablonski

“The secret is communication. It sounds so cheesy, but is one of the most important elements of a relationship. Don’t wait to discover that they actually can’t read your mind (even though you believe they should be able to).

Communicate your dreams, your desires and your feelings along the way. This will serve you well through the years.”

Michael & Jackie Married August 8, 1981

Bernie McAra

“Love, like life, is not always simple or easy. When there are challenges, remember why you married each other and be kind.”

Bernie & Louise

Married J anuary 3, 1970

David Donahue

“1. Respect! My wife and I don’t always agree. When we don’t, we do so respectfully. We don’t curse at each other; we discuss the issue and stay on topic.

2. Our children have always been a priority. We both came from challenging upbringings and knew that we only got one shot to raise our family; so we did it to the best of our ability. 3. We take time to process our thoughts before we react. It is NOT EASY, but we are proof that it can be done.”

David & Alicia Married October 5, 1996

David Forsmark

“Remember, some very smart people prominently included the words ‘or worse’ in your vows on your happiest, most hopeful day for a very good reason. You are pledging to be a TEAM against all life will throw at you – and somewhere along the line, it will. Facing challenges together is the point; treating them like an individual problem will divide you.”

David & Julie Married December 12, 2014

Genie Plucer

“Wow! So many factors go into working at a relationship. You have to pick your battles – most things are not worth arguing about! No one is perfect – you have to overlook faults and accept the other person for who they are. You cannot change someone or mold them to your expectations. Give when you don’t want to. Be loving and supportive. Put your mate first.”

Mark & Genie Married May 12, 1976

David Goldstein

“So now, after 40 years of being together, you ask ‘What does it take?’ It’s about understanding the needs of one another, and then making compromises when those needs differ. In other words, there are two ways of doing things: Her way or the wrong way – it always works better that way.”

David & Denise Married February 10, 1991

Tiffany Stolzenfeld

“For me, the secret is marrying your best friend; someone you enjoy spending every day with, whether it’s the mundane activities of life or the most amazing moments. I also view us as a united front – we always talk through issues and decisions. We make an effort to value each other’s opinions and suggestions. We may not always agree, but respect and love each other to work toward a compromise.”

George & Tiffany Married October 11, 2008

Shannon White

“Keep life fun! Apologize when you are wrong and even if you are a planner, be spontaneous to keep life interesting!”

Ridgway & Shannon

Married July 6, 2007

Shane Adams

“After 37 years together and 30 years of marriage, I would say our success is based on a foundation of faith, family, love and loyalty. Anyone who knows us will tell you how committed we are to each other and our family.

I am so grateful for Liz and the family she has given me. She is an amazing mother and a very understanding and patient wife. Happy Valentine’s Day to my beautiful bride and the love of my life!”

Liz Adams also shares her “Top 10” list:

1. Marriage is work, so work hard at it.

2. God brought us together, let no one break us apart.

3. Don’t compare your relationship to others – live “your” story.

4. Don’t make assumptions; communication is very important.

5. Laugh, have fun, be spontaneous.

6. Pray together.

7. Date nights are a must!

8. Enjoy life and make every day important.

9. Enjoy quiet time together.

10. Your spouse is your partner; respect, honor and love them.

Marriage is not 50/50 it is 100/100.

Shane & Liz Married November 28, 1992

What You Should Know About Mental Health

BY STACY SAWYER DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING HAMILTON COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK

Behavioral health, mental health, mindfulness, mental wellness

– there are many terms used to describe the health status of our minds. This is rightfully so, as more than 50 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

With half of us affected by a form of poor mental health, it can almost seem as though these issues are the norm. Stressful events such as losing a job, relationship issues, bereavement or money worries can often lead to poor mental health. Consistent feelings of sadness, feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just “not quite yourself” are not normal and can lead to one’s mental health deteriorating. Many people have mild to moderate symptoms and conditions such as anxiety disorder or depression that can easily be ignored. However, even mild to moderate mental health problems need to be addressed.

“Many of our patients have experienced mental health issues for years,” explained Albert Ujkaj, LMSW, MBA and

Director of the Behavioral Health Department at Hamilton Community Health Network (HCHN). “After living with it for so long, it’s a part of you and it’s your norm; but when you get therapy, you see the difference.”

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, most people live with mental illness for 11 years before getting help. That help can range from self-care to medication and therapy. A comprehensive approach is often the best approach. Mr. Ujkaj explained that HCHN provides individual therapy sessions with their behavioral health team, while a Hamilton clinician manages medication if needed, creating a comprehensive approach to mental wellness.

Taking the first steps to getting help can seem confusing or difficult, but it’s important to start exploring options as soon as you think you may need help, or someone mentions it to you. Be mindful that self-care is an important habit to develop and caring for ourselves should be a priority. Never ignore suicidal thoughts and if you are having them, get help immediately.

HCHN offers the following tips for improving Mental Wellness:

• Be sure to move and stay active every day.

• S nack on a piece of fruit instead of a bag of chips.

• Go to bed at the same time e very day and get enough sleep.

• F ind something to enjoy each day.

• Avoid using too much alcohol and avoid drugs.

• Create a buddy system, someone you can call when you feel down or lonely.

• S et boundaries that work for you; it’s okay to decline or say “no.”

• S eek professional help, even for a short time if you need it.

When you get the help you deserve, you will appreciate asking for it to get through the hard times and move toward a healthier future.

5 UNDER THE RADAR HEART HEALTH TIPS

BY PETER HINTERMAN

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. It is estimated that one person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease. The number continues to climb as American lifestyles continue to be less healthy as the years go by. How do we stop the heart disease epidemic? The two most important steps to take and the ones that will make the most impact are a change in diet and an increase in exercise. For a healthier heart, these two steps MUST be taken in some form. To go along with your healthier outlook, there are other under-the-radar tips to try in addition to diet change and exercise.

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3

. Own a Pet. Bringing a furry little friend into your home can benefit you much more than providing a purpose and unconditional love. Owning a pet is associated with lowering unhealthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Pets can also make you more active and increase your exercise without you even being aware of it. Visit your local animal rescue today to find that special life-saving buddy.

. Take Up a Hobby. Stress is one of the biggest catalysts of heart disease. A hobby that you enjoy (and is not frustrating) can help relieve stress and allow you to escape (or at least not think about) your work, family, or social frustrations. You get bonus points if it is a hobby that involves exercise or movement.

2 Stretch Your Body. Recent studies have shown that a regular stretching regimen improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure and reduces stiffness in arteries. Good blood flow leads to less damage of artery walls which may mean a lower risk for heart attack and stroke. Make it a habit (or hobby) to be more flexible.

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4 Reduce Your Anger. This is easier said than done for many of us. One simple way is to leave social media behind and focus on the positive aspects of people and society. Learn to just enjoy the drive without becoming incensed because someone forgot to use their turn signal. Let it go. Take a deep breath and release. You do you.

. Brush Your Teeth. It is very important to brush at least twice a day, not just for clean teeth but also for your heart health. The bacteria that causes gum disease has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Don’t give it a chance to affect your body in any way. Brush your teeth and pass down good brushing habits to your children.

February is American Heart Month, a time when we all can focus on our cardiovascular health. Living a hearthealthy lifestyle is a great way to show yourself some love!

FROZEN PURSUITS

BY MARK SPEZIA

During the 1970s, forested areas around his Flushing home beckoned a young Bill Thompson.

Nature became his happy place, providing endless hours of enjoyment during an era when kids' screen time was limited to live television and occasional movie theater outings.

"Flushing was less developed then and there was a sizable area of woods behind our house that was not even part of a park or anything like that," Thompson remembers. "Along with playing plenty of baseball with friends, I ended up spending a lot of time back there. I have always had a great passion for the outdoors."

By his teen years, Thompson's passion led to a part-time job at For-Mar Nature Preserve in Burton and then to a decision which would change the course of his life.

He resolved to turn what he loved into a living.

Education was step one, so after graduating from Flushing High School in 1980, he enrolled in classes at Mott Community College with an eye toward obtaining an outdoor recreation degree.

Then, in fall of 1983, as Thompson tells people with excitement in his voice, he discovered his version of paradise upon arriving in Marquette to continue his education at Northern Michigan University. He has never left.

"Honestly, I could not think of a better place to complete my undergraduate degree and then master’s degree in outdoor recreation than an area with so much outdoor activity," Thompson says. "There are so many opportunities – backpacking, mountain biking,

Photos provided by Bill Thompson, Michigan Ice Fest, Upper Peninsula Travel & Recreation Association

fishing, kayaking, rock climbing – to get out and play within minutes of where I live and work. It was not a difficult decision to stay here after college."

Thompson has indeed turned his life's passion into his life's work while spending any spare time immersed in all the outdoor playgrounds the Upper Peninsula has to offer.

At 60, Thompson remains as passionate and busy as ever as co-owner of Down Wind Sports, a leading go-to destination for outdoor recreation needs and expert advice with locations in Marquette, Houghton and Munising.

In addition to overseeing the retailer's anchor store in Marquette not far from his residence, Thompson, along with other staff members, guides ice climbing and rock climbing outings offered through Down Wind. He is also an Upper Peninsula Climbers Coalition board member and chairperson for the Great Lakes Section of the American Alpine Club.

Yes, when it comes to climbing north of the Mackinac Bridge, Thompson has literally helped write the book(s) on the subject as co-author of both A Rock Climbers Guide to Michigan's Upper Peninsula and An Ice Climbers Guide to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Yet, his most satisfying role is none of the above.

What brings the lifelong outdoors enthusiast the most joy is organizing the annual Michigan Ice Fest in Munising, one of the nation's oldest and largest ice climbing festivals which draws more than 1,000 participants of

all ages, backgrounds and ability levels.

The 31st annual event takes place February 8-12, meaning life was becoming a bit chaotic by early January for Thompson and more than 100 others who have a hand in making it happen, including Down Wind Co-owner Arni Ronis, a Saginaw native and Thompson's good friend since college.

"It seems like we are all working 24/7 now on mostly logistics because it's always quite an undertaking to pull the whole thing off," said Thompson on January 9. "Registration continues for another few weeks (until February 1) and we are on par to set a record with more than 1,200 people coming. I'm lucky to work with so many dedicated folks who are just as passionate about the festival, or it wouldn't be possible."

Some of climbing's biggest names and novices alike come to tackle the area's awe-inspiring ice formations, created by water seeping around, over and through the iconic sandstone cliffs, some rising more than 200 feet above Lake Superior, of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and nearby Grand Island.

Many of the area's scenic waterfalls also freeze solid. Some of the most popular formations are close to downtown, including the “Dryer Hose”, a 35-foot frozen waterfall surrounded by a half-bowl of sandstone and “No Boundaries”, a 25-foot frozen fall climbers can walk behind. “The Curtains” is a 200-foot-long, 30-foot-high sandstone ledge covered in white and blue ice.

▶

BILL THOMPSON HAS ATTENDED EVERY MICHIGAN ICE FEST AS AN ORGANIZER OR PARTICIPANT.

"Even experienced,

famous climbers coming here for the first time are amazed, especially when climbing formations directly above the violent waves of Lake Superior.

They usually can't believe it's Michigan."

Bill Thompson

▶ FOUNDED IN 1992, THE MICHIGAN ICE FEST IN MUNISING IS ONE OF THE NATION'S OLDEST AND LARGEST ICE CLIMBING FESTIVALS, DRAWING MORE THAN 1,000 PARTICIPANTS OF ALL AGES, BACKGROUNDS AND ABILITY LEVELS.

More remote frozen wonders include “Dairyland”, a 150-foot climb over a wide section of ice with a sweeping view of Lake Superior and “HMR” – 160-feet of rust-colored vertical ice hanging over Lake Superior.

"Even experienced, famous climbers coming here for the first time

are amazed, especially when climbing formations directly above the violent waves of Lake Superior," Thompson says. "They usually can't believe it's Michigan."

Angela Limbach, a member of the USA World Cup Ice Climbing Team, is among the elite climbers who have come to believe. Last year, she finished

in the top six at the North American Ice Climbing Championships and in the top 22 at the World Championships in both the speed and lead categories.

Limbach has been a part of Ice Fest since 2016 and will again be instructing this year. When it comes to her own climbing during Ice Fest, she seeks out some of the area's most remote and challenging routes.

"Ice climbing in mountainous areas has its own joy, but there's little that can compare to lowering over a cliff edge

with waves smacking the wall below you, knowing that you are safe on a rope but feeling perilously close to the foamy water below," she says. "The crashing waves, ripping wind and bullet-hard ice all juxtaposed with skiing or hiking through quiet, snowy woods to get there makes for some satisfying days out."

Conrad Anker, one of America's most accomplished mountaineers, first attended Ice Fest in 2014 as part of a team making “National Parks Adventure”, an IMAX film celebrating the National Park Service's 100th anniversary.

Summiting Mount Everest three times and establishing new climbing routes around the world, including the extremely difficult Shark's Fin in the Himalayas of northern India, are just a sample of Anker’s achievements.

"I return to the Michigan Ice Fest for the community because the people are wonderful, warm and inviting," he says. "The hardwood forest and expanse of Lake Superior, combined with the sandstone bluffs running with pigment from the iron, all pull together to make Michigan ice climbing unique in the world."

Among the other featured athletes this year is Barry Blanchard, a legendary master of difficult first ascents around the world, who has appeared in several climbing documentaries and served as a consultant on movies like “Cliffhanger” and “Vertical Limit”.

Renowned mountain guide Emilie Drinkwater will deliver a presentation

on leading a historic all-female climb to the highest point in Afghanistan. Another notable presentation features members of Full Circle Everest, the first all-Black climbing team to reach the top of the world.

There is also Carlos Buhler, who has summited six of the world’s nine-highest peaks, including leading the first successful climb of Everest’s east-facing side. He is the first American to reach the top of Khangchendzonga, the world’s third-highest mountain.

“The week is crazy for me, going from early morning to late at night, but what I love the most is seeing all the people I have not seen in a year and catching up,” Thompson says. “It’s been awesome getting to know people like Barry and Carlos. Barry is such a great human being, who has done so much to advance climbing and Carlos looks like somebody’s grandfather. You’d never know what an amazing career he’s had.”

Ice Fest also boasts numerous courses and clinics, an extensive gear raffle and the chance to meet representatives from leading outdoor apparel and equipment companies.

"Ice Fest offers the safest opportunity for anyone to try ice climbing for the first time because it would be dangerous to try to figure it out on your own," Thompson states. "World-class instruction and guided climbs for all skill levels are offered from near downtown Munising to the

Pictured Rocks backcountry. Equipment and transportation are taken care of."

Thompson, who has attended every Ice Fest as a participant or organizer, never dreamed he would witness the event grow from a handful of friends seeking out the best ice climbing around Munising to more than 1,100 people last year.

"I would say the biggest reason Ice Fest keeps growing is the chance for people to spend time with and learn from some of the world's best climbers," he says. "It's like going to a basketball camp with Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Stephen Curry as instructors. The social aspect of so many people with a common interest coming together, talking about their experiences and bouncing ideas off each other is huge too and one of my favorites aspects of the week."

Thompson loves to recount the story of his own climbing journey which began in the mid-1980s when NMU professor Phil Watts, known as the “Godfather of Marquette Climbing”, took him and Ronis rock climbing for the first time. Thompson was introduced to ice climbing the following winter.

They continued climbing with Watts, who died on December 29 at 71, for the next three decades.

"At the time, I didn't even know climbing existed in Michigan, but it only took a second to fall in love with it on that first trip with Phil," Thompson recalls. "The same thing happened after my first ice climbing experience. I was absolutely hooked."

Continued on pg. 91

If 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. Let’s take a look at five of Flint’s historic homes and how they came to be.

Josiah Begole House

3401 Westwood Parkway, Flint Built: 1830s

Thought to be the oldest home still standing in the city, it is estimated that it was built in the mid-1830s, possibly before Michigan became a state (1837) and long before Flint became a city (1855). It has seen everything from the city’s early days on the banks of the Flint River to its golden age and beyond. At the time of its construction, native Americans outnumbered pioneers in the area. It was built at the corner of Beach and Court Streets by a New York settler named Eliakim M. Pratt, after he purchased the land from none other than Wait Beach himself.

In 1837, Josiah Begole left his home in New York State and traveled by boat to Toledo, OH. He then traveled on foot to Genesee County. Once here, he purchased 160 acres of farmland with a $520 loan from his father. As Begole became more involved in the Flint community, serving as election clerk, school inspector, justice of the peace, and in 1856 as County Treasurer, he looked to move to a residence closer to the center of activity. In 1857, Begole purchased the home from Pratt and lived in the residence until his death in 1896. The Begole family had always been staunch abolitionists during their time in the United States, moving their home from the slavery south to New York in the north to distance themselves from the practice.

The Begole family even purchased slaves whenever they could to immediately release them. This mindset settled in Josiah Begole and his home became the center of the underground railroad and abolitionist movement in Flint before and during the Civil War. The home stood for equality and freedom even later as Begole, then state senator in 1870 fought for women’s rights as a member of the Flint Women’s Suffrage Association and as vice president of the Michigan Equal Suffrage Association. The Begole Family held the home until 1928 after which it remained empty and was scheduled for demolition before E. M. Cumings took possession in 1930. Not wanting to destroy the history of the home, Cumings made the decision to move the house from the center of the growing and bustling city. It was subsequently cut in half and rebuilt at its current location. The house then cycled through a variety of owners, most notably Charles Tutt, Dean of Engineering at (GMI) Kettering University.

Robert P. Aitken

Farm House

1110 N. Linden Rd., Flint Built: Circa 1843

Born in Perth, New York in 1819 Robert P. Aitken moved to Flint Township in 1842. After purchasing a large tract of land in Flint Township, he established a very lucrative farm and built his home in 1843. A unique two-story construction with a hip roof and a cupola, the home stood out amongst its

peers through its grandiose design and style. It was said that the cupola could be seen from miles away and it was a place Aitken routinely visited to gaze out upon his land. He became a big supporter of the city and was elected Flint Township Supervisor, a role he would fill for over 30 years. He also served as the secretary of the Genesee County Fire Insurance Company and as representative in the Michigan legislature. His son, David D. Aitken grew up in the house and became Flint City Attorney, Flint Mayor, and U. S. Representative from 1893-97. Robert P. Aitken died in 1905 and is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

Fred A. Aldrich House

221 W. First Ave., Flint Built: 1892

One of Flint’s most influential homes built on perhaps the place of the city’s birth, the Fred A. Aldrich House sits near the very location where Jacob Smith set up his trading post in 1811. In 1873, the land was deeded to the First Baptist Church of Flint by Smith’s daughter, Louisa Payne.

The church operated on the land from 1873-89. In 1892, developer Stephen Crocker built five houses on the land including the Aldrich house.

Aldrich came to Flint with his family at the age of eight after his father purchased the Flint Globe newspaper. As he grew up in Flint, he met and became lifelong friends with a boy by named Billy Durant. He grew up to help manage the Flint Globe and in 1880, started a newspaper of his own – the Otter Lake Enterprise Newspaper. In 1889, three years before he would purchase the house, he went to work for Durant as clerk of the Flint Road Cart Company and then in 1896, as secretary of the Durant-Dort Carriage Company. Always one to have Durant’s ear, Aldrich helped get General Motors started by introducing Durant to James Whiting, President of the Buick Motor Company. Aldrich went on to have a hand in the construction of the Durant and Flint Tavern Hotels, the Community Chest, Flint Chapter of the American Red Cross, Flint Improvement Fund, Flint YMCA and the Flint Golf Club. One can imagine the meetings and conversations that took place within the walls of the Aldrich house between the giants of the Flint auto industry and philanthropy!

William S. Paterson House

402 E. 3rd St., Flint Built: 1885

Constructed for his son in 1885, the Paterson House is evidence of the handiwork of another of Flint’s automotive leaders, William A. Paterson. Born in Ontario, Canada in 1838, Paterson came to Flint in 1869 and opened a carriage shop on Saginaw St. While working on carriages, he turned his attention to home construction and built at least 12 dwellings on E. Third St., three of which are still standing today. In 1890, Paterson would serve as Flint Mayor and later go on to found the Paterson Automobile Company and establish the famous Paterson building in Downtown Flint.

The house would stay in the hands of his son, William S. Paterson until 1928 when it was purchased by

Dr. James K. Sutherland. An Armenian, Sutherland was born as Hagop Lutfi in present-day Turkey. He made his way to the U.S. and attended college in Iowa before coming to Flint and working as a cardiologist, physician, surgeon and Genesee County Coroner. He was also an accomplished musician and author. In 1965, he published his autobiography, The Adventures of an Armenian Boy and

released a two-LP set of solo improvisations performed on the oud (a form of the lute) that were recorded in this home entitled “Mid-Eastern Meditations.” He also recorded an LP of Armenian melodies played on a Hammond organ (right hand) and piano ostinato (left hand). Dr. Sutherland died in 1988 and the house subsequently passed to a variety of owners.

Abner C. Johnson House

625 East St., Flint Built: 1873

Born in New York in 1821, Abner C. Johnson relocated to Independence Township (near Clarkston, MI) in 1836. Three years later, he purchased land in Mundy Township and started a successful farm that would remain in operation until his death in 1895. While in Flint, he met and studied law with the affable George W. Wismer and became one of Genesee County’s first attorneys. Later, Johnson entered into a partnership with the Wismer brothers buying and selling timber. In this endeavor, all concerned gained quite a fortune. As Johnson began to

spend more and more time in Flint, it came as no surprise that he decided to move to the city leaving his farm in the care of his son Charles. In 1873, Johnson constructed the spectacular house on East St. using brick – going against the standard style of the time in Flint. Upon his death, the house transferred to Charles who became a successful lawyer himself, mentored by Col. Fenton. Upon Charles’ death, the house passed to his younger brothers Ransom and James. The house remained in the ownership of the Johnson family for over 100 years until it was sold in 1986.

We will explore more castles of time next month!

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mentoring Inspiration

Breakfast

FLINT FARMERS’ MARKET | 1.16.2023

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

NORMAN PHOTO

The community gathered for this annual event celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flint & Genesee County. This year’s theme was “Navigating New Norms,” chosen to highlight the significant impacts of one-to-one mentoring on relationships, such as: daily life following a global pandemic, moving forward after a crisis, improving mental wellness and more. The keynote speaker was Mott Community College Chief of Staff DeAndra Larkin, who reminded attendees about why mentorship matters to so many Flint youth.

14th Annual Sybyl Awards

ELGA CREDIT UNION HEADQUARTERS | 1.19.2023

PHOTOS

BY

KATY KILDEE & DOUG PIKE

For 14 years, volunteers making a difference in Genesee County have been honored with the Sybyl Award, a tribute to Sybyl Atwood who served as program director for Volunteer Information Services at Resource Genesee. Recipients and nominees volunteer outside of their work requirements and exemplify extraordinary service to their communities. The honorees included: Brandee Cooke-Brown, Don Cox, Emily Doerr, Keosha Hardville, Dr. Shane Jackson, Tiffany Lechota, Dr. Ladel Lewis and the late Bryant “BB” Nolden. Proceeds from the event support Hurley Foundation’s Sybyl House Fund, which helps families of patients at Hurley Medical Center who have to stay close to their loved ones due to location, diagnosis or emergent needs.

The 2023 ECONOMY

BY DR. CHRISTOPHER DOUGLAS

Many economists forecast a recession in 2023. The Federal Reserve does not forecast a recession but forecasts tepid economic growth, with the economy growing at only 0.5%, and slowing job growth. Inflation was at a 40-year high in 2022 but job growth was strong. What will 2023 bring?

An indicator that a recession may be on the horizon is that the two-year/ ten-year Treasury yield curve is inverted, with the interest rate on a ten-year Treasury bill being lower than a two-year one. Usually, long-term bonds have a higher interest rate than short-term bonds to compensate investors for tying their money up for a longer time. When longer-term bonds have a lower interest rate than short-term bonds, this might signal that investors are pessimistic about the economy and thus are reducing their demand for short-term bonds, which causes short-term interest rates to rise. Currently (as of early January), the yield curve is the most inverted it has been since the early 1980s.

Another reason for expecting a recession in 2023 is that the early 1980s was the last time the Federal Reserve had to raise interest rates to fight inflation. This caused a severe recession during those years, when mortgage rates hit double-digit levels, the U.S. unemployment rate exceeded 10%, and Michigan’s unemployment rate approached 17%. Thus, some expect something similar when the Federal Reserve increases rates in 2023 to drive inflation back down to its 2% target.

The 2023 economy will be dictated by what inflation is and how the Federal Reserve responds to it. Inflation numbers are released in the middle of each month when the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report. This report tells us how consumer prices changed, which is what is meant by inflation. The key thing to look for is whether inflation increased or decreased compared to the previous month. If inflation decreased, then the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates by less, which reduces the chance

of a 2023 recession. If inflation increased, then the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates by more, which increases the chance of a recession. I think this will drive the 2023 economy.

Inflation has trended down in the last two CPI reports, which is an encouraging sign as it suggests that inflation might fall without resorting to early-1980s-level interest rate increases. Yet, the core CPI (the CPI excluding food and energy prices) has not similarly fallen. This suggests that the reduction in inflation stems from falling energy prices and that overall inflation might be persistent and require further rate increases. Many forecasts predict the Federal Reserve will increase the federal funds rate to 5%, hold it there through 2024, which will be sufficient to reduce inflation and any subsequent recession will be mild. This is a best-case scenario. Irresponsible government spending financed by Federal Reserve money creation during the pandemic puts us in the position where a severe recession is at least possible.

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

Having a Senior Moment... and Loving It

BY LESLIE TOLDO

It’s official; I am a senior citizen. At least, that is my new reality according to seniorliving.org. While the site would not specify an age range for seniors, it politely points out that once you turn 55, you start to enter the senior age demographic. How did this happen? I just graduated from college. Okay, it was 33 years ago, but this doesn’t seem fair. Fortunately, there are plenty of encouraging articles online about turning 55. I even learned how to stay “hip.” (Who uses that term anymore but people 55 and older?)

According to after55.com, all I must do to put the brakes on this runningout-of-time machine is stay active, get a makeover, flirt with random strangers, get a second job and “think young.” That sounds completely exhausting.

Instead, I will focus on all the discounts coming my way. I believe my local grocery store has “senior day” once a week for people 55 and older. Restaurants, gyms and major retailers are also ready to show a little senior love. That’s great, right? I can move into one of those senior communities, too. You know the ones; nice and quiet with pickleball and no kids making a racket at all hours of the night.

Yes. Turning 55 could be a great time, indeed.

The thing is, the AARP has been after me for a while now. I don’t know how, but they find you. The AARP knows where you live and starts sending propaganda immediately after you hit your late 40s. I want people in their 40s to know this is coming. It can be a shock! There is one sure sign it is coming, too. One day you will be in the grocery store, trying to find a cereal with more fiber, when you suddenly notice a song that used to be your jam in high school is pumping through the speakers overhead. The tunes that once made you feel like a rebel will become grocery store music.

The funny thing is AARP stands for American Association of Retired Persons. You are in your 40s, still trying to figure out why you really need a 401(k) when these people start coming after you. It can all be so overwhelming. I found some encouraging snippets about the benefits of reaching your mid-50s.

This is also about the time when you stop caring so much about what other people think of you. In fact, you are at a perfect point in your life to be a true rebel, with or without Billy Idol blaring in your wireless headphones. Hitting the double nickels is the time to just eat the lava cake, take the trip, buy the boat and tell toxic people to get lost without feeling any guilt. I can get on board with all of this.

The truth is, I still feel like 35-yearold Leslie, only with much worse eyesight. I have a few more wrinkles, a few areas on my body that gravity seems to be tugging on a little more, and gray hairs peeking out between my dark brown strands. I could never have handled that in my 30s!

These days, I have a much better sense of self – I will take that and love it. I may even call the grocery store manager and tell him to crank up the tunes.

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

WITH NEW PROCESSES COMES NEW CONFIDENCE

BY MARC JANCA AIF®

Aswe are firmly in the New Year, there is no better time to reassess our current savings plan and how a clear understanding of goals will help guide us to financial comfort. It isn’t “news” that we are living in a different time right now – everyone who has a voice in the financial world is banging the recession drum and telling everyone to stop making large purchases. With unemployment levels still historically low, we aren’t exactly sure what the next year will hold for us; but we know that we can create a savings plan that will help ease our minds and make us feel as though we are achieving some financial goals.

Confidence in your finances doesn’t just come from having a certain savings or investment account balance, or even from paying off loans. Financial confidence can come from having a solid savings plan that includes some type of long-term goal. The process of working toward a goal is what gives us that confidence, so what better time than the start of the year to put together a savings plan?

When we start with a savings plan, we need to understand the term “compounding” – earning interest or growth from savings and reinvesting it to generate additional interest or growth. When you invest your money, you get some type of return for your risk, which is something as simple as interest on a savings account or as complex as dividends from your Coca-Cola stocks. If we continue to reinvest this, our assets have the potential to grow

and increase over time, but this is really shown to be beneficial when we start earlier than later.

An example scenario of compounding would be if you look at two people starting to invest $15,000 at different ages – 25 and 35. If we assume a 5.5% growth rate and we reinvest, our earlier investor will have grown to $57,200 vs $33,487. On the subject of investing and compounding, Warren Buffett gives us a great analogy: “Start early; I started building this little snowball at the top of a very long hill. The trick to having a very long hill is either starting very young or living to be very old.”*

Another important term to keep in mind when you are building a savings plan is “dollar cost averaging.” This is a way to force disciplined savings, it is the idea of setting a fixed dollar amount to automatically go into an investment account every month. This does two things for you. First, it forces you to put money aside without you having to do it yourself, almost like your 401k at work. Second, it allows you to buy investments at different values, especially since the belief is that we will see some market volatility this year, similar to 2022. This

helps reduce the risk involved in price fluctuations as you won’t be trying to time when to put money to work – it will happen automatically without you thinking about it. You can work at a dollar cost averaging amount from either side; find out how much you need to save and then divide that amount into monthly payments, or determine the extra amount you are comfortable with putting aside each month and use that number. You can always increase these numbers, but start with a set amount rather than telling yourself you will just add when you have extra funds.

You can set up this automatic savings plan for multiple purposes, whether it is a new car, an emergency fund, or even a retirement account. In the end, it will offer you peace of mind knowing that if something comes up, you have indeed already planned for it and when it comes to your finances, you are ready to tackle whatever the coming years will bring.

*cnbc.com/2021/07/23/warren-buffetts-advicefrom-1999-on-how-he-would-invest-10000-dollars.html

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

The Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) Designation demonstrates the individual has met educational standards to carry out a fiduciary standard of care and acting in a client’s best interest. All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Registered representatives offer securities through AE Financial Services, LLC (AEFS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through OLV Investment Group, a Registered Investment Adviser. OLV Investment Group is independent of AEFS.

THE MOST

Romantic

People often ask me, “what is your favorite place you’ve been to?” This really is a silly question, because “favorite” has a tendency to change based on who you are there with and the purpose of your trip. However, some places are naturally romantic – the perfect spot for an amorous getaway, honeymoon to remember or an adventurous elopement. These are the kind of vacation destinations that are made for creating memories with someone you love most and the perfect setting for wine-sipping and sunset smooches.

Almost any city on the Amalfi Coast is absolutely bursting with the type of old world charm that almost feels manufactured. Artisanal bakeries, fishing boats bringing in local delicacies, lemon groves, lemon groves, lemon groves … terraced up and down the Coast. Views of the sunset in Conca dei Marini are stunning. In Praiano, fewer tourist crowds make for a more intimate visit. If you wander into Atrani, a day at the beach and a night in the piazza with the locals is not to be missed. And the villas and vistas of Ravello are fairytale gorgeous. One turn about the gardens at Villa Cimbrone is a pinch-me-I'm-dreaming experience.

If Southern Italy doesn’t sound like your thing, how about the wild west coast of Ireland – having a pint in a tuckedaway pub or the wind blowing your hair at the top of the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic? It’s a Wuthering Heights kind of romance of rolling moors and jagged

rocks, old tales of days gone by played on a fiddle all night.

Or, if whipping wind isn't exactly the right romantic setting for you, I would offer Budapest, often called the Paris of the East. The Danube River curves around the city, seven bridges connecting Buda and Pest, each with its own story and tale, all providing an enchanting crossing from the more modern Pest to the ancient castles and Roman architecture of old Buda. And Budapest is lousy with spas! Hot mineral water to bathe, cold to refresh, saunas, massage, there are a dozen different ways to relax body and mind, to clear away worries and spend a day (or two) in the largest medicinal spa in all of Europe, Szechenyi, or any of the smaller baths in the capital.

BY ALEXANDRIA PAZIENZA-NOLAN

in their embraces; but somehow, you are the one who feels out of place. It's a city for exploring and indulging, both very glamorous and mysterious.

There are many more romantic places, rambling through wildflowers in Cornwall or having a windswept hike in Scotland; a rooftop view sipping mezcal in San Miguel de Allende or a stroll through Paris in the evening. Sometimes it's the place itself that provides the backdrop for love, and other times the person you're with can make any place at all the most romantic. Either way, wherever you go or whomever your company is, sip a little slower, take it all in a little more and fall in love with wherever you are.

Finally, there’s Rome. I tried not to include it as a romantic hotspot, but, everything about Rome calls for holding hands, splitting a gelato and slurping up the same spaghetti noodle until you accidentally kiss. It's cliche and touristy, crowded and some areas are rough. But ... the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, hundreds of small family ristorantes and cafes. There is something lazy and sensual about Rome, even in the midst of hustle and grind and sightseeing groups. There’s something about the way the ancient landmarks exist so naturally alongside a dozen honking Vespas or the couple at the table next to you is a little too passionate

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

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“Psych”

Clio Cast & Crew

2.3-12.2023

Back to the Bricks® Presents:

Chrome & Ice

Dort Financial Center

2.10-12.2023

FSO Presents: Reinecke & Rachmaninoff The Whiting 2.11.2023

The Lacs The Machine Shop

2.11.2023

FSPA Faculty Concert: Mary Paige Rieffel

MacArthur Recital Hall

2.17.2023

“Soul”

The Capitol Theatre 2.17.2023

Chayce Beckham The Machine Shop

2.17.2023

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime”

UM-Flint Theatre

2.17-26.2023

The Bronson Arroyo Band The Machine Shop 2.18.2023

Black History Concert

MacArthur Recital Hall 2.24.2023

“The Haunting of Hill House” Fenton Village Playhouse Theatre 2.24-3.5.2023

Flint Firebirds vs. North Bay Battalion

Dort Financial Center 2.25.2023

Wags & Whiskers

Adopt-A-Pet Fundraiser

Camp Copneconic 2.25.2023

Flint Firebirds vs. Saginaw Spirit

Dort Financial Center 2.26.2023