MCM June 2022 Digital Edition

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DEAR READERS,

I’m very excited about this magazine!

In addition to announcing the 2022 City’s Choice Award Winners (p.14), there’s much, much more to enjoy this month.

I often get comments from subscribers about the great variety in My City . at is the result of having a team dedicated to developing content that is relevant, engaging and fun.

Speaking of “team players,” we created a special section for the June issue that highlights 2022 Top Athletes from Genesee County high schools. We appreciate the participating schools for helping us honor these outstanding kids! Check it out starting on p.40.

e word “outstanding” might be overused, but it certainly ts when describing our story subjects. On the cover is the new Flint Public Library – maybe spectacular is a better word! We have details starting on p.18. And, the community recently honored Attorney Shelley Spivack, a longtime legal system advocate for Genesee County children, for her continued work on behalf of Greater Flint kids (see p.6). Also, awardwinning WNEM TV5 News Anchor (and multiple City’s Choice honoree) David Custer shares his inspiring journey; it’s a great read (p.8). Our popular “7 Questions” feature highlights Brian Waldron, new CEO of Dort Financial Credit Union, a big supporter of many local causes. Learn a bit about him on p.12. If that was not enough, we pro le the Honorable Mark C. McCabe – a respected, veteran Genesee County adjudicator. What was his rst career choice? at story starts on p.24.

Okay, let’s talk about a reader-favorite subject: food! Since 1996, Redwood Steakhouse & Brewery has been a go-to place for a top-quality meal in a unique atmosphere. My family has had many memorable celebrations there. Executive Chef Luis Fernandes gives us the history on p.30. (WARNING: don’t read the “My Eats” feature if you’re hungry!)

Wrapping up the content is a new “My Style” piece contributed by Shannon White, co-founder of the she-powered Downtown retail business, SHIFT. If you’ve seen these gals about town, you know they’ve got great style! Check it out on p.38.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR

Sherron Barden

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WRITER

Peter Hinterman

STAFF WRITER

Cheryl Dennison

FREELANCE WRITERS

Mark Spezia

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Caudell

Dr. Christopher Douglas

Vera Hogan

Joel P. Lagore

Alexandria Nolan

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

ART & DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Brett LaCross

WEB DEVELOPER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jonathan Boedecker

PHOTOGRAPHY

Katy Kildee

Jaden Moxlow

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTING/CIRCULATION

Kim Davis

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Dan Garman

SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Terese Allen

Flint’s got outstanding people, food, style and our ten pages of local “Haps” exhibits all that and more. Enjoy! anks for reading, 5152 COMMERCE RD. FLINT, MI 48507 810.230.1783 - MYCITYMAG.COM

ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, Inc., 5152 Commerce Rd., Flint,

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. e 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 e ort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by su cient rst-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.

Vince Lorraine COVER PHOTO BY KATY KILDEE

(L-R) SHELLEY SPIVACK WAS PRESENTED WITH THE CARING ADULT AWARD BY VOICES FOR CHILDREN BOARD MEMBER MATTIE L. PEARSON, MSN, RN.

FShelley Spivack

A CHAMPION for Children

PHOTO

BY CHERYL DENNISON

COURTESTY OF WHITMIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

system for many years. She was a Family Court Referee for 18 years and retired two years ago. She is also a lecturer at the University of Michigan-Flint.

In 2011, Spivack saw a request from the Ruth Mott Foundation for a grant to establish a program to share art with under-served communities. In

or many years, Shelley Spivack has been an advocate in the legal system for children and their families. Recently, Voices for Children Advocacy Center recognized her dedication with a special award – the Roy E. Patterson Caring Adult Award – sponsored by Hurley Medical Center. e honor is given to adults who go beyond the call of duty to provide services for youth in Genesee County. e Caring Adult Award is just one of the numerous awards that were presented at an event held in March at the Riverfront Banquet Center in Downtown Flint. e Children’s Champion Awards Breakfast raises funds for the Voices for Children Advocacy Center. “It was extremely gratifying to receive this award and be recognized for the work I have done to improve the lives of kids in Genesee County,” says Spivack.

Originally from New Jersey, Spivack attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ and Brooklyn Law School in New York. She came to Flint in 1980 to work for Legal Services of Eastern Michigan. As an attorney, Spivack worked in the juvenile justice

“It was extremely gratifying to receive this award and be recognized for the work I have done to improve the lives of kids in Genesee County.”

Sheey Spivack

youth art pilot program that o ered weekly visual arts and spoken word poetry workshops for youth detained at the Genesee Valley Regional Center (now called the Genesee County Juvenile Justice Center). At the time, she was not only familiar with the needs of kids in detention centers, but was also an artist member of

Buckham Gallery. “It sparked a light in my head to take the knowledge and expertise of Buckham Gallery artists and pair it with the needs of kids in the juvenile detention center,” she shares. Spivack continued to get grants to extend the project. In 2018, she formed the nonpro t organization, Youth Arts: UNLOCKED, which brings artists and arts workshops to justice-involved youth in Flint and Genesee County. e goal is to introduce artistic concepts and techniques as a means of connecting, expressing, learning and discovery. e nonpro t o ers visual arts, dance, theater, spoken word poetry and a yoga workshop. “It took a long time to get there,” Spivack says. “Both my work as an attorney and as a family court referee spurred my work with Youth Arts: UNLOCKED.”

workshop.

When Spivack attended the Children’s Champions breakfast, she had no idea that she was getting an award and she doesn’t know who nominated her for it. “All of a sudden, they called my name!” she exclaims. “I would like to thank Voices for Children for doing this event and bestowing me with the award.” ®

CUSTER EMCEES THE COVENANT KIDS GALA.

WNEM TV5 News Anchor David Custer

PRESENTING

THE TRUTH

BY PETER HINTERMAN

PHOTOS

PROVIDED BY

AMBER HENRY PHOTOGRAPHY AND DAVID CUSTER

For David Custer, presenting the truth is everything – both as a journalist and personally. As the head news anchor

at WNEM TV5 since 2016 and an openly gay man, he has hidden nothing from his viewing audience. Every night, Custer, alongside his friend and co-anchor Meg McLeod anchors the 5pm, 5:30pm, 6pm and 10pm broadcasts, providing up-to-date news bulletins and stories ranging from tragic to inspiring. His reporting has earned him seven regional Emmy Awards, several Associated Press and Michigan Association of Broadcasters Awards, and the Great Lakes Bay Region’s Ruby Award as one of the brightest professionals under the age of 40. His personality, style and local storytelling has won him the coveted My City Magazine City’s Choice Award for Best News Anchor for the last six years. (As of this writing, Custer was nominated for 5 more Emmy Awards.)“It is the job of the journalist to seek the truth, to hold

people accountable and expose corruption,” he states. “It is our responsibility to accurately tell a story as it is and hold nothing back.” is is always true of Custer: even when the story is his own. at story begins right here in Genesee County. “I moved to Goodrich from Grand Blanc in the late 80s,” he remembers. He grew up a Martian and got his rst taste of writing as section editor for the Goodrich High School yearbook. He recalls a mostly good experience living in a small mid-Michigan town, with one exception: most days in high school were hard for him. “I was tormented and bullied almost daily by my classmates,” he says. “At the time, I knew I was gay but I kept it to myself and kept it from my parents. After school I would get o the bus, climb to the top of a hill near my home and cry. en I would compose myself, walk into the house and

CUSTER HAS WON 7 EMMY AWARDS FOR HIS WORK.

CUSTER REPORTS AT A BOTTLED WATER DRIVE TO HELP THOSE AFFECTED BY THE FLINT WATER CRISIS.

tell my parents that I’d had a good day.” With no one to turn to for help with the bullying, he wrote a letter to the Commission on Civil Rights. He did not receive a reply. “I didn’t want to be gay and wished I could change,” he states. Instead of changing himself, however, Custer soon changed his situation and his life. It was in college where he found the support and con dence he needed.

Custer attended UM-Flint as a biology major, but that didn’t last. “I started writing for the school paper e Michigan Times and found out that I loved it,” he says. at, and a day spent on the job with his cousin at a local news station cemented his professional future. His personal future was in uenced and shaped by the diverse college community. “It was a new beginning for me,” he says.

“I developed friendships and found people who made me comfortable with who I was. ey gave me the courage to be more authentic.” It was then that he chose to come out of hiding and present his truth. With that known, Custer was free. He would continue advocating for the LGBTQ+ community through today, and in 2015 was named “Champion of Pride’’ by Great Lakes Pride. 

After college graduation, he sent out hundreds of resumes and VHS audition tapes to TV stations all over the country. “I received two o ers,” he laughs, “in Alpena and somewhere in North Dakota. In 2002, I took the news anchor job in Alpena.” He worked there for six months before receiving an o er from FOX 66 in Flint. Although it was brief, Custer is grateful for his time in Alpena. “I had to do everything from editing stories to setting up. I had to lug 50 pounds of equipment everywhere I went. It made me more well-rounded in the studio.” He then took a job as main news anchor for an NBC a liate in Toledo, OH where his career journey nearly ended. “It wasn’t a good experience,” he remembers. “When I started, they laid o a majority of the sta including my co-anchor, and they wouldn’t let me out of my contract until I found a replacement.” Eventually, Custer was released and once free, almost quit the profession. He worked for a friend at Country Home Creations in Goodrich for nearly ve years. e draw of the TV camera, however, wouldn’t let him go. He started recording food videos he distributed on YouTube that were soon picked up by WNEM TV5. In 2016, the WNEM news director o ered him an anchor spot. Custer accepted without hesitation and has been manning the news desk since. e WNEM experience has had trials and triumphs for Custer. From the beginning, his storytelling stood out as factual and heartwarming. He receives hundreds of submissions from

people who enjoyed his reporting and have trusted him to tell their stories – something in which he takes great pride. Professionally, he’s been accepted; personally, being “out” has brought challenges. At least it is not, he admits, like his high school days. “I get both positive and negative messages from viewers and I have learned how to handle negativity with support from viewers and my husband, Dan. For instance, I no longer read the comments,” he laughs.

When negativity becomes overly burdensome, Custer takes solace in his stories and in a particular email he received from a viewer who told him that seeing a successful gay man on TV helped save his life. Custer keeps a printed copy of the message with him wherever he goes. Custer is a news professional in a time when journalism is in a state of crisis; everything is heavily politicized and facts are disputed. “Our industry is more important now than ever

CUSTER CHECKS HIS COPY BEFORE GOING ON THE AIR.

before,” he states. “We need credible truth-seekers who will relentlessly seek it and hold people accountable. It’s our responsibility.” Social media skews the very perception of journalism and is a constant problem for hardworking industry professionals. "People think I spend my time sitting

IN MAINE, CUSTER INTERVIEWS MID-MICHIGAN WAR HERO TRAVIS MILLS ABOUT HIS ESTABLISHED RETREAT FOR WOUNDED VETERANS.

“Our industry is more important now than ever before. We need credible truth-seekers who will relentlessly seek it and hold people accountable. It’s our responsibility.”

at a table guring out how to spin a story one way or another. at’s not something we do. We tell the story as it is and people forget how painstaking it is to con rm information.” While social media is immediately spewing hearsay, Custer is busy verifying facts. Journalists have trouble navigating the chaos while maintaining their integrity and to journalists like Custer, integrity is very important. In Toledo, he got into hot water while on the air when his director told him to report the news of Michael Jackson’s death that had been received from an online source. He refused to do so until the story could be veri ed.

In his relentless search for truth, Custer has interviewed political candidates and celebrities (Cher stands out), exposed corruption, and provided hope and inspiration. (He even went skydiving. “Never again!” he laughs.) But what he is most proud of, even more than his numerous awards, are the people listed on his awards – those who trusted him to tell their stories and the truth he uncovered. “I exposed a small town police chief who was selling badges for $1,000 each and allowing the owners to get away with anything,” he says. “I have also spoken to a family that, during COVID, stayed outside their grandmother’s hospital window every day so she wouldn’t be alone at the end of her life.” ese stories give him strength and purpose. At the end of the day, it’s what means the most. e ability to present a story in an entertaining and informative way according to the facts is the essence of journalism. Custer advises that for those who love telling stories in a visual way and are passionate about nding the truth, a career in journalism can hold a rewarding future. “Make sure to never insert yourself into the story,” he cautions. “As a journalist, it’s never about you.” It’s been a long road and since 2016, David Custer has been presenting the truth at WNEM TV5. He has no plans to do anything else. “I live day to day and walk out of the station with a sense of accomplishment,” he smiles. “I’m content with who I am.” ®

7 Questions with ...

Brian Waldron

SHERRON BARDEN

1.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was in kindergarten, I distinctly remember wanting to be a doctor! I even remember dressing up as one for career day. at dream changed in middle school after I visited the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor with a friend. (Her parents were alumni.) If you have seen the U of M law campus, then you know: it’s gorgeous. I fell in love and decided at that moment I was going to be an attorney. My parents thought this was a great choice, as I loved to argue with them!

2.

What/where was your very first job?

At 16, I started working at Village Green Landscaping and Nursery in Findlay, OH loading mulch and stone for customers. I would unload delivery trucks and plant trees in the nursery. I had the best “farmer’s tan!”

3.

You have twin 14-yearold boys; do they keep you pretty busy?

black belt rank in martial arts. He has been a dedicated martial artist for four years. While many kids do not progress to black belt, he persevered with determination and grit. e other twin loves soccer and in sixth grade was asked to compete on a premier league soccer team that traveled through the northeast. I have a great picture of him playing right striker in NYC with One World Tower in the background.

4.

attending Saint Louis University studying Flight Science Engineering – he has dreamed of being a pilot since he was little. As a toddler, he loved GeoTrax and always gravitated toward the airport/airplane. As he grew, I remember him playing t-ball and being in the out eld looking up at the sky and pointing at airplanes … as the ball rolled past him. In fact, as I am answering these questions, using the incredible technology we have today, I can track his plane as he ies and listen to him interact with air tra c control. Seeing him live out his dream is incredibly exciting. COMPILED BY

Last summer, one of the twins achieved his

What are you currently most excited about in your life? is changes often and usually revolves around my children. Currently, I am excited for my oldest son Bryce, who is

I am also excited for my wife Alicia – who has followed my career from Ohio to St. Louis, to New York – to be back in the midwest and closer to her family. ey live in Dayton, OH and before I moved to St. Louis for an opportunity at Scott Credit Union, we were seven minutes from her parents, door-to-door. rough the years, we have always remained close to family but unfortunately, because we were not in close proximity, we missed out on family gatherings and several holidays. I am excited for her to be within an easy driving distance from them.

Personally, I am excited about the opportunity to lead an incredible group of dedicated employees who strive daily to go above and beyond for the members of Dort Financial Credit Union. It is incredibly satisfying to walk into a branch and hear stories from members about how they were able to purchase their rst auto or home with the help from a Dort Financial CU employee. I love hearing about multiple generations of families that have accounts with the credit union. Dort Financial employees truly live the credit union mission of “people helping people.” Excitement hardly describes how I feel; I am blessed to work with the board of directors, executive team and sta as we serve the members every day.

5.

Do you have any hobbies?

As you can imagine, my most time-consuming activity is transporting my boys to martial arts and soccer practices. Outside of that, I enjoy boating and time at the beach. ere is something about being on the water that rejuvenates the soul. My wife and I also love to travel, exploring new places and immersing ourselves in the local culture.

6. How would your friends describe you?

I believe they would say that I am incredibly loyal.

THE WALDRON FAMILY: BRIAN AND ALICIA WITH SONS BRYCE AND TWINS, CODY AND ETHAN.

7.

What is one work-related thing you hope to accomplish in the next year?

Dort Financial Credit Union has served the community and members incredibly well for the past 70 years; the employees remain dedicated to assisting members through their nancial life-cycles. I not only hope to carry on this incredible legacy, but I will also work hard to create a strategic vision where the credit union continues to grow and ourish. ®

2022 City’s Choice Awards

Food & Drink

24-HOUR RESTAURANT

Starlite Coney Island

BAGELS

Big Apple Bagels

BAKERY

CRUST - a Bakery

BARBECUE

Blackstone’s Smokehouse

BLOODY MARY

Churchill’s Food & Spirits

BREAKFAST

Leo’s Coney Island

BURGER

Soggy Bottom Bar

CHINESE

Cantonese Gourmet South

CLASSIC/ARTISAN COCKTAIL

Churchill’s Food & Spirits

CONEY ISLAND

Leo’s Coney Island

COOKIES

We’reDough Bakery

CUPCAKES

Tasty Layers

DELI

Hoffman’s Deco Deli

DIVE BAR

The Torch

DONUTS

Donna’s Donuts

FINE DINING

Andiamo Fenton

FISH ‘N’ CHIPS

Whitey’s Restaurant

FRENCH FRIES

Jan’s Bar

ICE CREAM

Uncle Ray’s Dairyland

INDEPENDENT COFFEEHOUSE

Fireside Coffee

INDIAN

Grill of India

ITALIAN

Italia Gardens

JAPANESE

Sagano Japanese Bistro & Steakhouse

KOREAN

Goki Goki Korean BBQ

LATE-NIGHT DINING

Churchill’s Food & Spirits

LOCALLY MADE BEER

Tenacity Brewing

LOCALLY PRODUCED BRAND

Koegel Meats

MEXICAN

El Potrero

MIDDLE EASTERN

Taboon Middle Eastern Cuisine

OUTDOOR DINING/PATIO

Brick Street of Grand Blanc

PIZZA

Luigi’s

RAW JUICE OR SMOOTHIE

Great Lakes Smoothie

RIBS

Italia Gardens

ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

Signature Chophouse

SANDWICH

Hoffman’s Deco Deli

SEAFOOD (NON-CHAIN)

Whitey’s Restaurant

STEAKHOUSE

Redwood Steakhouse & Brewery

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Cork on Saginaw

SUSHI

Sagano Japanese Bistro & Steakhouse

THAI

Bangkok Peppers

WINE LIST

Cork on Saginaw

Services

BANK / CREDIT UNION

ELGA Credit Union

CHARITY/NON-PROFIT

Whaley Children’s Center

CHILD DAY CARE

Brandi’s Place

DRY CLEANER

Jan’s Professional Dry Cleaners

EYELASHES/MICROBLADING

Lindsay Hyatt @ Wild Side Spa

FLORIST

Vogt’s

HAIR SALON

Refinery Hair Co.

HOSPITAL

Hurley Medical Center

LAW FIRM

SIMEN, FIGURA & PARKER, P.L.C.

MASSAGE

LaBeau Salon & Massage Studio

PET DAYCARE/KENNEL

Four Paws Hotel & Resort

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

Wylde Child Photography

REALTOR

Wyatt Wilson, Real Estate by Tremaine

SPA

LaBeau Salon & Massage Studio

TATTOO SHOP

Jessie Vickers Tattoos

VETERINARIAN

West Flint Animal Hospital

YOGA STUDIO

Soul Yoga

Shopping

ANTIQUE STORE

Collette’s Vintage & Antique Mall

ATHLETIC WEAR

Bauman’s Running & Walking Shop

AUTO DEALERSHIP

LaFontaine

BIKE SHOP

Assenmacher

BRIDAL SHOP

Expressions in Silk

COMIC BOOKS

Amazing Book-store

FARMERS’ MARKET

Flint Farmers’ Market

FISH

Donlan’s Fish & Seafoods

FURNITURE

Skaff Furniture Carpet One

GOURMET MARKET

Oliver T’s Market

HARDWARE

Gilroy Swartz Creek

JEWELERY

Gaines Jewelry

MEATS

Colony’s Quality Meats

NURSERY/GREENHOUSE

Wojo’s Davison

PRODUCE

Flint Farmers’ Market

RESALE SHOP

Reclaimed by Whaley

SPECIALTY CAKE

Lovegrove’s

USED BOOKS

Totem Books

WINE

D’vine Wines

WOMEN’S FASHIONS

Eclections

People

BARTENDER

Tom Wade, Churchill’s Food & Spirits

CHEF

Marge Murphy, Cork on Saginaw

CHIROPRACTOR

Renaissance Chiropractic

DENTIST

Mark Knight, Knight Dental Care

EDUCATOR

Nicole LaBeau, Transitions School of Cosmetology

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Fred Hensler, Sapphire Blue Investment Partners

HAIRSTYLIST

Nathan Green @ Refinery Hair Co.

INSURANCE AGENT

Jamie Youngston, Blackmore Rowe

PERSONAL TRAINER

Zak Snell, Polysthenics Fitness

ROCK BAND

Vicariant

Media

TV NEWS ANCHOR

David Custer, WNEM TV5

MAGAZINE

My City Magazine

RADIO DJ

Derek Sorenson, 103.9 The FOX

RADIO PROGRAM

The Foxhole Morning Show w/Johnny Burke

103.9 the FOX

RADIO STATION

103.9 the Fox

METEOROLOGIST

JR Kirtek, ABC12

SPORTSCASTER

Scot Johnson, WNEM TV5

TV NEWS

ABC 12

Leisure

ALL SPORTS LAKE

Lake Fenton

ANNUAL SPORTING EVENT

Crim Festival of Races

ART FILM VENUE

Flint Institute of Arts

BOWLING ALLEY

Galaxy Lanes

CHARITY EVENT

Tux & Tennies - Whaley Children’s Center

COMMUNITY THEATER

Flint Community Players

CULTURAL PROGRAM

Flint Institute of Arts

DOWNTOWN EVENT

Back to the Bricks GOLF COURSE

Flint Golf Club

LIVE MUSIC VENUE

The Machine Shop

MUSEUM

Sloan Museum

SPORTS BAR

The Draft

Misc & ETC

GENESEE COUNTY PARK

For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum

HOTEL

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Flint

LOCAL ATTRACTION

Crossroads Village/Huckleberry Railroad

Congrats to all! Congrats to all!

Your New Flint Public Library

A Wonderful Place for the People

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATY KILDEE 

Kay Schwartz, Director of the Flint Public Library (FPL), remembers February 29, 2020 like it was yesterday. “ at was the last day the old FPL was open to the public. It was two weeks before the start of the pandemic and we served nearly 2,000 people that day,” she shares. e next day, the FPL was closed and a complete overhaul and renovation of the facility began. e building was stripped down to the outside walls, oors, elevators and beams. ose who visited the library in the past would be hard-pressed to nd any remnant of the old layout. In fact, the library is almost unrecognizable. It’s a new start for an old and much-loved institution.

“We wanted to bring something new and amazing to the city. It’s a wonderful place for the people of Flint.”

KAY SCHWARTZ, FPL DIRECTOR

1) THE GLORIA COLES SKY SALON IS THE FPL’S MOST UNIQUE MEETING SPACE.

2) THE MOTT-WARSH GALLERY WILL BE UPDATED WITH NEW ART EVERY FEW MONTHS.

3) THERE IS A MEETING SPACE FOR EVERY OCCASION AT THE FPL.

4) OUTDOOR MURAL CREATED BY LOCAL ARTIST KEVIN BURDICK HIGHLIGHTS THE FPL’S FAMILY AND LEARNING ASPECTS.

5) WELCOME TO THE AMAZING NEW FPL!

6) “THE HANGOUT” IS THE PLACE TO BE AT THE FPL FOR MUSIC AND FUN.

7) THE LOCAL HISTORY AND GENEAOLOGY AREA IS THERE FOR ALL YOUR RESEARCH NEEDS.

8) NEARLY EVERY TABLE AND SEATING AREA IS EQUIPPED WITH OUTLETS AND USB PORTS.

WANDA HARDEN, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

1) A. J. ROWE FAMILY SNACK ROOM.

2) THE CHILDREN’S SECTION HAS MORE SEATING AND NEW SHELVING.

3) INTERACTIVE LIGHT BOARD PROVIDES HOURS OF FUN.

4) THE “PLAY TO LEARN” AREA WAS KEPT FROM THE OLD FPL.

1) THE NEW DIGITAL STUDIO OPENS IN JULY.

2) THE NEW GREATER FLINT AFRICAN AMERICAN SPORTS HALL OF FAME IS NOW INTERACTIVE.

3, 4) 2-HOUR LAPTOP RENTAL IS AVAILABLE TO ADULT FPL MEMBERS.

5) THE SELF-CHECKOUT SYSTEM MAKES LIBRARY VISITS QUICK AND EFFICIENT.

“ e building was built new,” says Schwartz, “including every piece of pipe and wiring, including the pipes in the basement.” After an eight-month construction delay due to the pandemic and a lot of hard work by architects, construction crew and sta , the Flint Public Library o cially opened to residents on Saturday, May 21. e total public cost was $30.6 million, which included bonds approved by Flint residents for $12.6 million that was matched by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation who also provided an additional $15 million grant for the project. Capital campaign donations from individuals, families and foundations covered the remainder.

e process began way back in 2017 with a search for a concept and design. “ e sta took eld trips to new libraries around our area for ideas and elements,” Schwartz explains. “We toured libraries in Clinton/Macomb, Novi, Bloom eld and South eld.” e team then chose OPN Architects out of Cedar Rapids, IA to create the design and Michigan construction company, Clark, for implementation. After nearly ve years of planning and work, the new library has emerged better than even Schwartz could have envisioned. “It exceeds my every expectation,” she says.

HONOR Privilege and An a

Judge Mark C. M c C abe

BY CHERYL DENNISON

TheHonorable Judge Mark C. McCabe, who presides over the 67th District Court Fourth Division in Fenton, was appointed to the bench in 1993 by Governor John Engler. Sworn in on February 11, 1993 he has continuously served as a judge in Fenton and at the Central Court in Downtown Flint for 29 years. “It’s amazing how quickly time has gone by,” he shares with a smile. McCabe will continue to serve as a judge until 2026 when his current term expires, but cannot run for re-election as he is age-limited.

McCabe was born in Detroit and grew up in Oakland County, attending University of Detroit High School. Originally wanting to become a teacher, he obtained his undergraduate degree in education at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. “But then, I decided to go to law school and never looked back.” He went on to earn his Juris Doctor at Wayne State University and ended up in Flint after being chosen to be a clerk for an attorney in the area. “He recruited me while I was in law school,” McCabe remembers. On November 9, 1976 he was sworn in and then started practicing law. “ is was the rst time I set foot in Flint,” says McCabe. “I knew nothing about the city, but have never regretted a second of practicing here.”

“Nobody is having a good day when they are coming to court. People are nervous and I have to focus on that and be patient. And at the end of the day, I try to treat people fairly.”

What types of cases are heard by a 67th District Court judge? According to McCabe, they have jurisdiction over all misdemeanors and criminal cases that carry a sentence of less than one year in the county jail. District judges also hear preliminary examinations in felony matters. In addition, they can hear felony pleas, but the matter is then sent to Circuit Court for sentencing. New legislation was implemented that gave District Court judges jurisdiction over municipal and state civil infractions, McCabe explains. ese are matters that involve zoning issues, trespassing, or failure to keep property up to standard. Previously, these types of cases were handled in Circuit Court and a lawsuit had to be led. Flint Senator Joe Conroy played

a key role in changing the legislation. “He really championed that,” McCabe notes. District Court judges handle tra c and landlord/tenant cases, civil lawsuits that are $25,000 or less, and small claims matters. ey are also on call 24 hours a day to issue search warrants for law enforcement. McCabe was inspired by former Genesee County Circuit Court Judge omas Yeotis. “Judge Yeotis was everything a judge should be,” McCabe states. “I try to live up to what he taught me every day.” Nobody is having a good day when they are coming to court, Yeotis would tell him. “People are nervous and I have to focus on that and be patient. And at the end of the day, I try to treat people fairly.” He also says that nobody is

Alexandra Nassar

Shaheen Law Firm, Of Counsel

5151 Gateway Centre, Ste. 100, | Flint 810.238.1700 | anassar@shaheenpc.com

Alexandra Nassar specializes in Wills, Trusts and Estates, and Probate Law. As a member of the Greater Flint Community her whole life, she is dedicated to serving the community. Alexandra serves on the boards of the American Inns of Court, McLaren Regional Medical Center Bio-Ethics Committee, Genesee County Bar Association Membership Committee, and the Arab American Heritage Council. She was named a Rising Star by Michigan Super Lawyers® in 2016 and 2017.

MYSTORY

“I enjoy every day and try to do my level best every day. I love my job.”

Amir E. Abu-Aita

Abu-Aita Law Firm, PLLC 5151 Gateway Centre, Ste. 100, | Flint 810.238.1700 | Amir@ShaheenPC.com

Amir E. Abu-Aita practices Elder Law, Medicaid Planning, Probate, Estate Planning and Business Transactions. He is a member of the Genesee County Bar Association, as well as Elder Law and Probate Sections of the State Bar of Michigan. In addition, he serves as the President of Elder Abuse Alliance (formerly known as the Elder Abuse Task Force). He has been selected to the Michigan Super Lawyers® 2021 Rising Stars list.

perfect and, of course, mistakes can be made. “But if I do my best, I can look at myself in the mirror and say I had a good day.”

One of the things McCabe especially enjoys doing is writing a weekly legal column for Fenton’s local newspaper, the Tri-County Times, which he has done since 1998. “I’ve written a column every week and it will be 24 years in September,” he shares. “It’s been a labor of love. I love to write and I love to do research and there are so many things I can write about the law.”

While the judge spends most of his time at the Fenton court house, about 40 percent of his time is spent in Downtown Flint hearing cases in the Central Court. He has enjoyed seeing the positive changes that have occurred in the city over the past few years. “Flint has had its issues,” he admits, “but there is hope. Downtown is being revitalized and there are many wonderful people working together to make that happen.”

He also marvels at the changes that have taken place in the City of Fenton since he rst sat on the bench

back in 1993. “ ere has been so much growth!” he exclaims, “And, there is no end in sight.”

McCabe was married to his wife, Janet, for many years and they had a daughter Heather, who is now grown and living on the East Coast. Janet passed away in October 2020. “She was the love of my life,” he sadly admits. “I still miss her.”

At the end of his busy days, McCabe nds time to spend with family members, including his three brothers. “We are all very close,” he shares. He tries to stay active and enjoys playing golf, attending sporting events and traveling out east to visit his daughter and her family.

According to McCabe, there are two words that describe his nearly 30year career as a judge. “It’s an honor and a privilege,” he says. “It’s that simple. I keep those words in mind both on and o the bench and that is the way I handle my cases.”

McCabe feels fortunate to have been appointed to his judgeship and re-elected. “I am very honored and privileged to be a judge,” he shares. “I enjoy every day and try to do my level best every day. I love my job.” ®

Attorney Robert J. MacDonald

Fighting for Disabled Workers

Unable to work due to a work injury or other health problem? Do you need bene ts to replace lost income? Do you need medical care or retraining? Are you struggling to work within your restrictions and limitations? Robert J. MacDonald is dedicated to nding solutions for injured and disabled workers dealing with these situations.

Attorney Robert J. MacDonald has over 25 years experience representing thousands of injured and disabled workers in the Flint area and throughout Michigan in Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability cases. In addition to providing legal advice to workers struggling to cope with the e ects of their impairments, Robert advocates on their behalf before administrative agencies, as well as before the Michigan and federal trial and appellate courts.

Robert is a graduate of Cooley Law School, the University of Notre Dame and Flint Powers High School. He and other attorneys in the MacDonald family have represented Flint area workers since 1938. Robert has been recognized by his peers as a Super Lawyer in Workers’ Compensation law and a Leading Lawyer in Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability cases each year since 2013. He has served as president of Michigan for Justice (2019-2020) and chair of its Workers’ Compensation Committee, and serves on the board of directors for the national Workers’ Injury Law & Advocacy Group. Robert is the co-author of Workers’ Compensation in Michigan: Law and Practice, 6th ed. (ICLE, 2020-present). A Flint resident with an o ce in downtown Flint, Robert is also the current chair of the Genesee County Bar Association’s Social Security Committee.

If you are an injured or disabled worker, don’t settle for less: contact Robert J. MacDonald for the assistance you need.

653 S. Saginaw Street

Suite 208 Flint, MI 48502

810.234.2204

disabledworker.net

Attorney Matthew L. Norwood

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney

Hiring local makes a di erence. e relationships Attorney Matthew L. Norwood has made living in the Flint area for over 47 years, practicing law here for over 20 years and serving on multiple local boards will help you get the best outcome if you’ve been arrested. Attorney Norwood attended St. Paul Lutheran, Flint Powers and Mott Community College, then moved on to East Lansing to attend undergrad and law school at Michigan State University. He grew up in Flushing, moved to Grand Blanc and now lives in Linden. Clearly, this area is in his blood and Attorney Norwood is your hometown advantage.

If you’ve been wrongly accused or just made a bad choice, Attorney Norwood can help you navigate the treacherous waters of the criminal justice system. His law practice focuses exclusively on criminal misdemeanor and felony matters, drunk driving charges, driver’s license restoration and tra c matters in our state and federal courts. If you made a mistake years ago and are looking to move on from it, call him. In the past years, Attorney Norwood has expunged more criminal records and restored more driver’s licenses for clients than any attorney in the area.

503 S. Saginaw Street

Handling All Criminal Matters, Drunk Driving, Driver’s License Restoration, and Expungements.

Suite 526 Flint, Michigan 48502

810.235.4639

Attorneynorwood.com

Known for Quality

BY CHERYL DENNISON

For nearly three decades, Redwood Steakhouse & Brewery in Flint Township has o ered casual, upscale dining in a comfortable atmosphere. Established in 1996 (previously named Redwood Lodge), the popular restaurant and brewery serves award-winning beer, mesquite grill, raw bar, luscious steaks, seafood, burgers, salads and pasta. e restaurant celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. “We’ve de nitely evolved!” exclaims Luis Fernandes, Executive Chef and Managing Partner.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY REDWOOD STEAKHOUSE & BREWERY

EXECUTIVE CHEF

LUIS FERNANDES

Redwood is best known for its Angus beef steaks ( let, Porter House, New York strip, Delmonico and sirloin) and sushi. “We are also known for our Ahi tuna,” Fernandes adds, “and our Norwegian Salmon is very popular.” e most popular entree is the Filet of Salmon, served over a crab cake and topped with asparagus and hollandaise sauce. “We sell quite a bit of that,” he says. Also on the Redwood menu are delicious sandwiches, burgers, soups, oven-baked mac & cheese, and woodred pizzas.

At Redwood, the appetizers are meant to be shared, says the executive chef. Of the dozen choices, the Jumbo Wings are a customer favorite – slowroasted and tossed in house-made barbecue or hot sauce. “We serve the whole wing,” Fernandes says. Other popular appetizers include a yummy Spinach Artichoke Dip and succulent Pot Roast Quesadillas. “Our nachos are phenomenal!” Fernandes exclaims. e Redwood Nachos are corn tortilla chips piled high with your choice of ground beef or shredded barbecue pork, queso cheese sauce, Colby Jack cheese, shredded lettuce, fresh pico de gallo and green onions, served with salsa and sour cream. For dessert you will nd “the world’s best cheesecake,” the chef adds. “We try to locally source as much as we can.”

According to Fernandes, the restaurant format has changed over the past few years. Five years ago, they added a raw bar menu and it has become very popular.

Continued on pg. 97 

BY ERIN CAUDELL

Be et! Can’t Be

I’lllet you in on a little secret: I grew up hating beets. Re ecting back on it, I think I was only o ered canned or pickled beets. Fast-forward to adulthood and my experiences with farming. I quickly discovered that beets are easy to grow; their greens are sweet, crisp and delicious in salads. A revelation! Raw beets are amazing – sliced matchstick style for salads, marinated, I’ve even taken to roasting them. is recipe is easy to throw together with your food processor. e nutty pumpkin seeds add a little crunch (plus iron, potassium calcium and protein), and a few microgreens add nice avor and texture. is colorful and healthy salad even gets better and more avorful over a couple of days in the fridge.

Raw Beet Salad

INGREDIENTS

• 1 medium beet, shredded

• 3 medium carrots, shredded

• 6 medium radishes, thinly sliced

• 3 Tbsp fresh parsley

• 1 cup microgreens

• 1 apple, diced

• 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds

• 3 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• Salt to taste

TO MAKE

1. Place the radishes, beets, carrots and parsley in a salad bowl.

2. In a small bowl, combine the diced apple and lemon juice. Toss to make sure all the pieces are covered in juice, then add the apples to the beet mixture.

3. Add the pumpkin seeds, greens, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

4. Toss well to combine. Season with salt, if needed. ®

Erin Caudell is co-owner of The Local Grocer, a horticulturalist, herbalist and farmer.

ANDIAMO

BRICK STREET OF GRAND BLANC

CIAO ITALIAN BISTRO & WINE BAR

CORK ON SAGINAW

Sizzle Season is Here!

BY SHANNON WHITE PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SHIFT

New leaves uncurling on the trees, the whirring of the lawn mower and the smell of freshly-cut grass, mornings lled with chirping birds … spring has nally arrived and we’re sliding into summer! After a long

Michigan winter, it’s so fun to dig out all of our warm-weather clothes. Goodbye turtlenecks, hello tank tops!

ABOVE: SEED BEAD STATEMENT CLUTCH AND EARRINGS BY INK +

Spring is a great time to reevaluate your closet for the upcoming season, add essentials and some fun, new pieces. Making sure you have the basics and incorporating some new trends will create a summer-ready wardrobe.

ALLOY

ROLL-ON BRACELETS BY LOTUS SKY

WHITE DENIM IS ON TREND! GO TIMELESS IN ALL-WHITE OR ADD POPS OF COLOR.

When it comes to essentials, one summer staple is white denim. Whether shorts, jeans or even a jacket, you can’t go wrong wearing white (except to a wedding where you’re not the bride!) Add a pop of color with your top and accessories or even rock an all-white look which is classy and timeless. And when it comes to jeans, after years of skinny styles smothering our legs, they can nally breathe as boot cuts and ares are back on trend. A frayed or slit pant leg makes those white jeans even more current.

Another essential is the summer dress. Living in loungewear for two years of pandemic life has made us excited to dress up this summer! Midi-dresses are trending and ultra- attering for

BELOW - AHDORNED

LOCALLY MADE HAPPY JUNE CLAY

taller silhouettes. Mini-dresses are sassy and great for shorter gures and a ru ed ounce hem with an easy-breezy shape is de nitely trending over pencil styles of the past. We love a casual summer dress because it’s e ortless! row it on, add some accessories and you’re done. SHIFT, in Downtown Flint, has some beautiful midi- and mini-dresses that feature other fun trends such as a utter sleeve, ru ed hem or embroidery. Keep your dress casual with ats for running errands or lunch with friends, or dress it up with high-heeled sandals and a cute bag for a dinner date or summer party.

A fun way to freshen your look is to add a few new accessories – summer is a great time to play with colors. Add a pair of Happy June Clay earrings to your look. ey’re made locally and their fun colors will lift your spirits and make you think “summer.”

Beaded jewelry is always a great addition to any out t. Beaded bracelets by local entrepreneur Lotus Sky that are fair trade and gainfully employ women in Nepal are perfect for stacking, mixing and matching, while Ink + Alloy earrings are fun and colorful. Visit SHIFT in June for the “Bubbles and Baubles” Jewelry Mega-trunk show event to score some one-of-a-kind accessories to sharpen your style and bedazzle your collection!

Don’t forget that the change in season is also a great time to add some new home décor. Melamine dinner plates and salad bowls by French Bull have bright patterns that make a festive addition to any outdoor patio or summer party. Ready to relax? Enjoy your

MIDI-DRESSES ARE TRENDING: ULTRA-FLATTERING AND EASY-BREEZY!

chilled rosé in silicone wine glasses which are not only fun, but safe for your pool area and great for boating. So, reevaluate your closet and prepare for sizzle season! Mix timeless classics with hot trends and enjoy the summer while it’s here! ®

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.

Shannon

SUNGLASSES BY GOODR

Top Athletes 2022 Genesee County’s

As the 2021-2022 high school athletics schedules wrapped up for the year, we invited the 25 Genesee County high schools to to choose two athletes – one each from their men’s and women’s sports teams –who excelled in both athletics and academics. e responding schools took care in selecting young people who have worked hard to earn awards and accolades for their accomplishments.

Research shows that many student athletes do better academically and that participating in sports can provide many bene ts for the youth, their families and communities. Several in this group of honorees have received scholarships that will allow them to compete at the next level as they continue their education. ey are leaders and role models, top performers on and o the eld and court. My City Magazine is proud to recognize these standouts from Genesee County’s high school athletic programs.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE INDIVIDUAL ATHLETE OR SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT.

ATHERTON

Romiel Clausell

Class of 2023

Sports: Football, Basketball, Track

In the three sports in which he participates, Romiel has received many awards and accolades. He excels in academics and is a great student role model for underclassmen. He participates in Student Council.

Romiel plans to attend a college and hopes for an o er that is right for his future. He holds some aspirations of attending a trade school. His plan is to be successful and nancially stable after his academic career.

Caylee Hudgins

Class of 2023

Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track

An exceptional student at AHS, Caylee has received multiple awards and accolades in every sport in which she participates.

Caylee is a member of the National Honor Society, Concert Band and Color Guard.

In the next school year, Caylee will assist the athletic trainer at Powers Catholic High School. She plans to attend a community college on an athletic scholarship before transferring to a university to study Athletic Training. 

BEECHER

James Cummings II

Class of 2022

Sports: Football, Basketball, Track & Field

James is a leader both on and o the athletic elds –a true role model for other young people. Maintaining a 3.724 GPA as a three-sport athlete is a great accomplishment. He was also named to the First Team AllState in football this past season and was a member of the 2021 Class C State Champion Basketball team.

Outside of school, James has participated in an Alzheimer’s walk, served meals to the community and reads to elementary students.

James plans to further his education at Ferris State University on a full-ride football scholarship and will major in Sports Communications.

Jamira Shumpert

Class of 2022

Sports: Basketball, Track & Field

A quiet leader in the classroom and on the athletic eld, Jamira has been a good role model for other young ladies who strive to be student athletes. She was named to the Genesee Area Conference First Team All-Conference team for the past three years. She will graduate with a 3.575 GPA.

Jamira was a member of the National Honor Society, volunteers at the family barber shop and is a caretaker of the eldery.

She plans to attend Mott community College to play basketball and major in Physical erapy. 

BENTLEY

Evan Kilbreath

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Baseball, Varsity Basketball, Varsity Football

Evan was named to the First Team All-State Division Seven football team this school year, as well as the Academic All-State team with a 4.03 GPA. He has been a captain of every varsity team on which he played.

A member of the National Honor Society, Evan was involved in Student Council and also an Eagle Scout. He will attend Madonna University in the fall to play football while majoring in Anesthesiology.

Brittany Nimmo

Class of 2022

Sports: Basketball, Volleyball, Softball

Graduating with a 3.6 GPA, Brittany was also the captain of all three varsity sports in which she participated. She earned First Team All-Genesee Area Conference honors for volleyball, Second Team All-GAC for softball and GAC Honorable Mention for basketball.

Brittany was National Honor Society President and Student Council President.

After attending Mott Community College for two years, she plans to transfer to Michigan State University to study Veterinary Medicine.

CARMaNainsworth

Amaya Jenkins

Class of 2022

Sports: Basketball, Track

Amaya was an All-State Track & Field athlete as a member of the 4x400 Relay team. She was also a State Quali er in the 300m hurdles, nishing 15th at the State meet in her junior year. Amaya was also a leader on the District Championship Basketball team, earning All-League Honorable Mention. She has participated in Sideline Cheer and Dance, is a member of Church Choir and a Nursery Aide. In the fall, Amaya will attend Saginaw Valley State University to pursue a degree in Exercise Science and compete on the Cardinals track team.

Christian Ellison

Class of 2022

Sports: Football, Track & Field

Christian is a two-time Saginaw Valley First Team All-League award-winner in football, All-Regional in the 400m Relay, 800m relay, 110m hurdles, SVL Champion, All-Regional and All-State competitor in the long jump. He was also captain of the football team. He is involved in community service through his church.

Christian will attend Saginaw Valley State University in the fall to study Exercise Science and Photography while playing football for the Cardinals. 

CLIO

Gabriel Phillips

Class of

2022

Sports: Cross Country, Basketball, Track & Field

Gabriel was a dedicated leader, scholar and athlete with a concentrated focus on running. A standout both academically and athletically, he was a four-year varsity letterman in Cross Country and Track & Field, and a Varsity Basketball player. Gabriel earned multiple First Team All-Conference accolades and multiple Academic-Athletic recognitions. He is a two-time Academic All-State Athlete and 2021 Cross Country All-State Athlete. Gabriel graduated as a 4.0 Valedictorian and dual-enrolled, 4.0 student at Mott Community College.

Outside of organized school sports, Gabriel is an enthusiastic cross tter, training at e Pursuit in Frankenmuth, MI. Gabriel is active in his church, Living Promise and also a “politics junkie” as all of his teachers will attest!

Gabriel has accepted a full-ride scholarship to attend/run with Lansing Community College in the fall. After LCC, he anticipates furthering his education and running career at a four-year university.

Taryn Eckert

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Volleyball, Varsity Soccer

Taryn was a four-year varsity player for both volleyball (three-year captain) and soccer (two-year captain). For Varsity Volleyball, she received First Team honors three years in a row, as well as All-Region for three years and All-State honors. For Varsity Soccer, Taryn was a two-time First Team player and an All-State and All-Region player. She was also picked as Kiwanis Athlete of the Month for December of 2021. In addition, Taryn carried a 3.89 GPA and in her senior year alone accumulated 30 hours of community service.

Taryn was a member of National Honor Society, Travel Volleyball and Travel Soccer teams, and a youth sports trainer.

In the fall of 2022, she will attend Ball State University to pursue her BSN in Nursing and eventually work in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. 

DAVISON

Isaac Norton

Class of 2022

Sports: Football, Wrestling, Lacrosse

Isaac has been a ne example of sportsmanship, leadership and citizenship. is is a great indication as to the kind of young man he has grown to become as an all-around student athlete and member of Davison. He has been a hardworking, “nose to the grindstone” multisport student athlete in the football, wrestling and lacrosse programs, showing that hard work, dedication and perseverance truly pay o . He has represented the Cardinals and DavisonMade in a positive and respectful manner. rough it all, Isaac was always the student athlete who would take a backseat to the “spotlight” and would rather shine on the eld or on the mat, helping his team succeed in any way he can. is helped him be a part of three State Championships: football in 2019 and wrestling in 2021 and 2022. Isaac approaches everything he does, whether in the classroom or on the playing eld, with the same high intensity, passion and enthusiasm. He is everyone’s favorite teammate and friend because they know he would do anything to make the team successful! Isaac demonstrated all of the great attributes of a student athlete; not for his own ego, but because it is part of his moral character and philosophy in life. is is an attribute that results from having great parents who have ingrained in him what it means to be a great young man and member of a team. Outside of school, Isaac coached youth football and lacrosse for Davison Community Enrichment & Recreation. He recently signed to play lacrosse at Montana University and will study Business and Law.

Olivia Dirkse

Class of 2022

Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Track

Olivia brings to all of her activities energy, enthusiasm, commitment and a drive to excel like no other, while also carrying a 4.069 GPA. She always seems to be looking for ways to better herself, her teammates and help others, within as well as outside the community. Olivia has built great relationships around the school with all, which has helped in the many di erent groups she has been a part of including the LINKS program and National Honor Society. She has excelled on the playing eld/court as a four-year Varsity All-League Volleyball player, fouryear Varsity All-League Basketball player and four-year Varsity Track & Field runner. She has helped her teammates win championships in all three sports.

Olivia also volunteers with many service programs such as the Special Olympics, Eastside Mission in Flint and coaching youth athletes, just to name a few. With dedication and resiliency, along with her positive attitude and great moral character, Olivia has become a successful multi-sport athlete, outstanding student and an excellent model for other students and athletes.

Olivia will attend Olivet Nazarene University to play basketball and study Occupational erapy or Special Education. 

MY SPORTS

FENTON

Grace Olsen

Class of 2022

Sport: Girls Swim & Dive

Gracie is an eight-time MHSAA or MISCA state champion in the 200 IM, 200 Freestyle, and 100 Butter y. In each of her four years, she has earned First Team All-League honors in four di erent events and has set every individual and relay record in each event. She has also earned All-American status three times with her club team. Gracie is the most dedicated Girls’ Swim & Dive athlete in in FHS history, while leading the Tigers to Conference Championships in each of her four seasons. Her impact on Fenton Swimming will last for decades to come. Her dedication and love for swimming have made her a role model for young swimmers all over the state.

Grace participates in the FHS Peer-to-Peer program and coaches the Youth Swim Team at Spring Meadows Country Club.

She has accepted a scholarship to swim for Indiana University in the fall of 2022 and to pursue a degree in Criminal Psychology.

Seth Logan

Class of 2022

Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball

A ve-time Flint Metro League Scholar Athlete, Seth excelled for the Fenton Tigers as a three-sport athlete.

e two-time All-League quarterback was also a twotime First Team Flint Metro Stripes Division First Team selection in basketball, in which he led the League in scoring both of his varsity seasons. is season, he earned a Tri-County Times Athlete of the Week Award, was a Flint Metro Scholar Athlete and Kiwanis Athlete of the Month winner. In his career, he tied the single-game three-point makes (7), broke the single-season three-point makes (65) and the single-season and career free-throw percentage records. Seth was recently voted a Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan (BCAM) All-State selection.

Seth is a National Honor Society Committee cochair, volunteers for the Fenton Area Chamber of Commerce Expo event and is an active member of St. John’s Catholic Church.

In the fall, Seth will play basketball for the Adrian College Bulldogs with a study major yet to be determined. 

Flushing

Jacob Morrison

Kendyl Andrews

Class of 2022

Sport: Varsity Volleyball

During her FHS athletic career, Kendyl was a fourtime First Team All-League selection, four-time D1 All-Region team, two-time D1 All-State Honorable Mention, three-year Team Captain, three-time Team MVP and 2021 Division 1 All-State Second Team selection. She is now the FHS record holder for all-time assists with 4,075 which places her 10th in the MHSAA Career Assist record books. Other Flushing High records of note: she is second in career aces and third in career digs.

Graduating with a 3.5 Cumulative GPA, Kendyl was dual-enrolled at Mott Community College. She also participated in an unpaid learner position at Primary Prevention Physiotherapy. In addition, she was a Special Olympics and Mobile Food Pantry volunteer, a member of the Leaders Are Readers Book Club and Youth Volleyball Coach.

Kendyl plans to pursue a degree in Physical erapy and play volleyball at Wayne State University on scholarship.

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Tennis, Varsity Baseball Jake accumulated impressive accolades during his athletic career at FHS. ey include Baseball: First Team All-Conference, First Team All-District and First Team All-Region selection. Tennis: First Team All-Conference honors, and he is a four-time Flint Metro League Champion. He recently signed to play for the Princeton WhistlePigs, an elite MLB-a liated summer collegiate team in the Appalachian League.

Graduating with a 3.91 cumulative GPA, Jake was involved in Student Leadership Organization, Student Council, Mu Alpha eta, Varsity Club, Science National Honor Society and Leaders Are Readers Book Club. Jake has also been an umpire for youth baseball and softball, as well as a referee for the Future Raiders Boys Basketball program.

Jake plans to continue his academic and collegiate goals at Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina, where he will play baseball on scholarship while studying Business and Finance.

GENESEE

Madison Knag

Class of 2022

Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track

Madison has had success in the classroom, on the court and in her community while at Genesee High School. She competed on several sports teams earning First Team All-League honors for basketball and Second Team for softball, all while maintaining a 3.72 grade point average. She was a wonderful role model and leader at GHS and is destined to make an impact wherever life takes her.

Madison was also a member of the National Honor Society.

She will pursue a career as a Physical erapist at Mott Community College and eventually continue her studies at University of Michigan - Flint.

Christian Green

Class of 2022

Sports: Cross Country, Football, Basketball, Baseball

Christian had an impactful career at Genesee High School, both on the football eld and in the classroom. He carried a 3.57 grade point average and was a First Team All-Conference defensive lineman. His smile and positive energy were contagious and brightened the day for every fellow GHS student. Christian will continue to be a strong leader and role model for others as he graduates and takes on his future endeavors. He looks forward to working an internship to start the process of becoming an Electrician. 

GENESEE CHRISTIAN

Trenton Boike

Class of 2023

Sport: Basketball

Ava Boike

Class of 2022

Sports: Basketball, Volleyballall, Soccer

Ava’s accomplishments in basketball are remarkable: inclusions in First Team All-State for the past two seasons; honors for First Team All-Genesee Area Conference in basketball (four years) and volleyball (two years); school records in career and single-game scoring; and a 24-ppg scoring average. She has also been a great leader and teammate, supporting her teams’ journeys through Conference, District and Regional Championships.

Ava was also a member of the Choir and the National Honor Society.

She will attend Cedarville University (OH) and major in Nursing.

Trenton has been a powerful force on the court for the Soldiers and coaches have noticed. He was named First Team All-State as a sophomore and junior; he was selected for inclusion in the Flint Area Dream Team; he set Genesee Christian’s single-season scoring record, along with a 23 ppg average; and he led his team to the Breslin Center and the 2022 State Seminals. And he has another year to go in high school!

GOODRICH

Cameron Macklem

Class of 2022

Sports: Football, Wrestling

A dual-sport athlete, Cameron was a member of the football and wrestling teams. In football, his accolades include: All-State Linebacker, First Team All-Conference Linebacker, Second Team All-Conference Outside Linebacker and All-Region Linebacker. Not only was he a decorated football player, Cameron also excelled on the wrestling mat being named to the All-State team, a three-time State Quali er and back-to-back Team State runner-up. He brought the same tenacity to the classroom, maintaining a 4.1 GPA and scoring a 1,470 on the SAT. Cameron is a well-rounded and truly phenomenal individual.

A member of Distributive Education Clubs of America and National Honor Society, he was also an integral part of the Peer-to-Peer program supporting special needs students at Goodrich High School.

In the fall, Cameron plans to attend Northern Michigan University in their intensive pre-medical program. After graduating, Cam will pursue a career as a Nurse Anesthetist.

Alisha Isenberg

Class of 2022

Sports: Basketball, Soccer

Alisha was a successful dual-sport athlete, competing as a fouryear varsity letter-winner in both basketball and soccer. In her freshman season, she helped her basketball team make it all the way to a Regional Championship. Also an excellent student, she carried a 3.947 GPA throughout her high school career.

Alisha was a member of National Honor Society, as well as a regular community volunteer with organizations such as the Flint Soup Kitchen.

In the fall, Alisha plans to attend Alma College where she will continue her basketball career. While there, she will enter into their pre-dental program and major in Biology. She plans to pursue her dream of becoming an Orthodontist.

KIM

EATON/Z10

SPORTS PHOTOS

KIM

EATON/Z10

SPORTS PHOTOS

GRAND BLANC

David Lally

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Baseball, Varsity Football, Varsity Basketball

Over the course of his athletic career, David has been a part of the football program for two years, the basketball program for two years and the baseball program for four years. He has been selected All-Conference, Academic All-Conference, Academic All-State, SVL First Team, First Team All-State and the Dream Team. As a junior in 2021, David helped lead the Grand Blanc Baseball program to its rst-ever State Championship. In the classroom, David excelled as a member of the National Honor Society and carried a 4.02 GPA. Other extracurricular interests include volunteering with youth in the community. He is the son of David Lally, Sr.

David plans to attend Notre Dame University on a baseball scholarship to continue his education and athletic career.

Sophie Curtis

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Swimming & Diving

e daughter of Joe and Paishann Curtis, Sophie is the youngest of six and the fth Curtis athlete to participate with the Grand Blanc Swim & Dive programs. She is an outstanding student athlete maintaining a 3.911 GPA and earning Varsity Swim Most Valuable all four years on the team. Following in her siblings’ footsteps, Sophie left her stamp on GBHS history on the Swimming & Diving Team, and made sure to make her stamp the most signi cant. She has eight Genesee County Champion titles, 12 SVL Champion titles, two SVL records, two GB pool records, three GB school records, and placed in 7 of 9 events for the GB all-time Top 10 in team history. She has earned First Team All-SVL all four years and SVL Swimmer of the Meet as a senior. At her junior State Championships, Sophie earned All-State in the 100 Freestyle and 100 Backstroke. A member of the OLY Swimming team, Sophie trains with them year-round and has had tremendous success as a member of their national team. She also enjoys volunteering at Flint Community Schools where her parents are teachers. In the fall, she plans to further her academic and athletic careers at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio to major in Engineering. 

LAKEVILLE Larissa Gibson

Class of 2023

Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball

An amazing athlete, Larissa is a leader on both the court and the eld. She has received varsity letters in every sport she plays. As a sophomore, she has already earned ve varsity letters and will have six by the end of the 2022 softball season. Larissa has received two MMC Honorable Mentions for volleyball and is a two-time Second Team AllLeague Basketball player. She was a member of both the 2020 District Volleyball Championship team and the 2021 District Basketball Championship team. She currently has a 3.666 GPA and is ranked 16th in her class. Larissa is involved in Student Council and while she

has the GPA to be a member of National Honor Society, she is only a sophomore and can not apply yet. After high school Larissa hopes to continue her athletic career at the next level. She is unsure of what college she would like to attend and what course of study she would like to pursue. Larissa wants to nd something that will keep her happy and she knows athletics will always have a special place in her heart. 

LAKE FENTON

Francis Senter

Class of 2022

Sports: Basketball, Track & Field

A four-year varsity letter-winner in basketball and two-time team captain, Francis earned All-Conference Honorable Mention his sophomore season. He was a Second Team All-Conference selection his junior season, as well as Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan All-State Honorable Mention. His senior season, he was named First Team All-Conference and a BCAM First Team All-State nominee. Francis is a two-year varsity letter-winner in Track & Field, earning First Team All-Conference in the high jump this spring and (at the time of this writing) hoped to advance to the State meet. Francis was also involved in TV and Digital Video Production.

Currently undecided on which school he will attend, Francis would like to study Business and/or Architecture.

Kerrigan Howdeshell

Class of 2022

Sport: Basketball

Kerrigan was a four-year Varsity Basketball letter-winner. She received All-Conference Honorable Mention selection her sophomore season, was named Second Team All-Conference her junior and senior seasons, and All-State Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan Honorable Mention in 2022. Kerrigan helped lead Lake Fenton to back-to-back Flint Metro League Stars Division Championships, as well as three straight District Championships. Both on and o the court, Kerrigan is a true leader.

She was also a member of the Yearbook Sta .

Kerrigan will attend Central Michigan University, considering Sports Management as a possible major of study. 

LINDEN

Kendall Miller

Class of 2022

Sport: Volleyball

Kendall had the best serving percentage at 95% accuracy and the most assists to set her hitters up for success, helping Linden Volleyball have one of the best seasons in several years with an 8-2 Conference record. While maintaining a 4.1 GPA, Kendall earned Athlete of the Week, Flint Metro League Second Team and Academic All-State honors. Dedicated to the Linden Volleyball Program, she helped coach youth camps and was an assistant coach for Linden’s 12u Club Volleyball team during the o season.

Kendall was Student Council-President, a National Honor Society Member, Link Crew and Peer-to-Peer participant. Outside of volleyball, Kendall worked with the special education students daily to help her gain experience for a future teaching career.

She plans to attend Western Michigan University in the fall to major in Special Education.

River Meckstroth Class of 2022

Sports: Cross Country, Basketball, Track River has earned All-State Cross Country and Track & Field honors, was named First Team All-Metro XCTF ve times, Second Team All-Metro XCTF ve times and All-Region XCTF six times. His other athletic accolades include Flint Metro League Basketball Honorable Mention, he was named State Bank Athlete of the Week three times and a four-time Academic All-State honoree.

River was a member of National Honor Society and Student Council Vice President.

He will attend Michigan State University and pursue a degree in Computational Data Science through the College of Engineering. 

Madison and NEW STANDARD Academies

Ihron Wilborn

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Football, Varsity Basketball, Varsity Track

A member of New Standard Academy’s rst graduating class, Ihron was also crowned prom king! He was a leader both on and o the elds and always carried himself with con dence and integrity. He also set records in football for highest yardage and set the high jump record for Track & Field.

Ihron will attend Saginaw Valley State University to major in Electrical Engineering.

Miya Davis

Class of 2023

Sports: Varsity Basketball, Varsity Volleyball, Varsity Track & Field

A junior at Madison Academy High School, Miya is a three-year varsity letter-winner for volleyball, basketball and track & eld. She has received Genesee Area Conference All-Conference honors for all three sports, as well. With her calm, cool and collected demeanor, she exhibits leadership throughout the school.

She is a member of the National Honor Society (GPA 3.4) and volunteers at school events such as Prom, Graduation, Parent Orientation, etc.

Miya plans to attend the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) to major in Graphic Design and wants to become an orthodontist. 

POWERS Catholic

Chris Jones

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Diving, Varsity Golf

Chris began diving on a whim during the middle of the boys swim and dive season of his sophomore year. ree days after his rst-ever dive practice, he placed third in the Genesee County meet. He continued diving throughout high school and nished as the County and League Champ, as well as earning All-State honors during the 2022 season. He was also awarded Academic All-State and Academic All-American honors for 2022. Outside the pool, Jones is a member of the Varsity Golf Team and has made the State team since his freshman year and placed 2nd as a team his junior year.

In his free time, Chris enjoys tutoring international students who are studying abroad for a semester and has even found the time to co-found a business!

Chris has committed to Villanova University to continue his diving career and pursue an education in Economics.

Class of 2022

Sport: Varsity Golf 2018-2021

Alexandra has been gol ng for seven years and was a member of the Varsity Golf team for the last four. During her freshman year she played in almost every match, competing with her team in the State Championship and helping them win a State title in 2018. e following year, Alexandra helped her team win State Finals and has helped her team secure four straight Regional Championships. In 2021, she was an All-State athlete and has also earned Academic All-State. In 2020 and 2021, she was First Team All-Saginaw Valley League.

Alexandra Sexton

Alexandra has been deeply involved with Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), serving as secretary from 2020-2021 and president 2021-2022. In 2021, she helped lead a COVID-19 vaccination clinic where she helped encourage young people to learn more about the vaccine and provided an opportunity for them to get vaccinated. She also helped lead a blood pressure screening in Downtown Flint where over 230 people were screened. In the last year, she volunteered over 58 hours at Hurley Medical Center with the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) and considers it a privilege. As a volunteer, her job is to keep elderly patients company, play games with them, do exercises and ask them questions to help improve their cognitive skills. Alexandra truly cares about helping her community.

She has committed to play Division 1 Golf at Mount St. Mary’s University on scholarship. She has a passion for helping others and believes her purpose in life is to better her community by serving and caring for others. Alexandra wants to major in Biology or Biochemistry and minor in Business. She wants to follow the pre-med track to become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. 

SWARTZ CREEK

Ashton Koebke

Class of 2022

Sports: Varsity Football, Varsity Basketball, Varsity Track & Field

Ashton competed at the varsity level in three sports for three years each. He was selected Second Team AllLeague defense in football, received All-League Honorable Mention for basketball and was a First Team and Second Team All-League discus thrower. He also helped lead the football team to two back-to-back playo runs and helped lead the track & eld team to the school’s rst League Championship in ten years.

During the winter months, he helped run youth basketball camps on the weekends.

Ashton will attend Michigan State University and pursue a degree in Chemistry.

Fabienne Andre Booth

Class of 2022

Sports: Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field

An overall great athlete, Fabie is driven and ghts until the end, no matter the score. She was a team captain in all her sports and received All-League Honorable Mention and Second Team All-League honors. Although she is a great athlete, she is an even better student. Fabie graduated with a 4.0 cumulative GPA as a three-sport athlete and while completing her nationalization to become a U.S. citizen in February 2022. Fabienne has overcome many obstacles in her life, many those born in America would not understand.

A National Honor Society member and board member for Mountain of Hope (a missionary ministry and orphanage in Jacmel, Haiti), Fabie has a heart for volunteering here in her community and in her homeland.

Fabie is enrolled at University of Michigan - Flint, planning to obtain a BSN and become a Nurse Anesthetist or a Nurse Practitioner. ®

DESTINY

Pivot Point Martial Arts

BY PETER HINTERMAN

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY

PIVOT

POINT MARTIAL ARTS

South Korea, in Seoul and in GyeongJu, in Canada and across the United States.

A15-time World

Kuk Sool Association (WSKA) Grand Champion and 5th Degree Black Belt (Master), Kenneth Wright has traveled the world practicing and honing his art. He has trained at the Baek Dam Sa Temple in

He has taught side-by-side with Kuk Sool martial arts founder and Grand Master, Hyuk Suh. But of all his accomplishments and accolades, the one that means the most to him is obtaining the title of Kwan Jahng Nim which gives him the ability to correct – to teach. at, and his unwavering faith, gives him true purpose. “Teaching and working with

my students are in the wind for me to do,” he smiles. “I feel it is my calling in life from God. My goal is to help people change their destiny in a way they are proud of.”

Master Wright started in the world of martial arts at around the age of two after watching a Bruce Lee movie. “My parents told me that I was kicking and chopping all over the place,” he laughs. When he was in the second grade, they enrolled him in Tang Soo Do, but that didn’t last. “My family could no longer a ord it,” he remembers. e spark for the art never left him, so when a school for Kuk Sool opened in Burton years later, Wright again asked his parents to enroll him. “My father asked me to show him what I had learned years ago in Tang Soo Do,” he says. “I showed him everything.

He agreed that I could try Kuk Sool.” In 1995, Master Wright started down a path he continues to walk today. In 2001, his instructor, Brian Lingenfelter, was looking to move out of the business. At 19, Wright bought the business and operated it on a part-time basis. “In 2010, I felt a calling to open the business full time and I quit my regular job,” he explains. “ at summer, I immediately gained 20 new students and before I knew it, I was up to 35 and needed a bigger space.”

Master Wright then moved to his current location on the corner of Davison and Belsay Roads. Today, Pivot Point Martial Arts has more than 90 students of di erent ages and backgrounds with the collective purpose of improving their lives, their disciplines and futures. 

MASTER WRIGHT RECEIVES AN AWARD FROM GRAND MASTER HYUK SUH.

Last year, Master Wright changed the name of the school to Pivot Point Martial Arts to further align it with his goal. “I named it Pivot Point because I believe the school can be a pivot point in a person’s life,” he explains. “Helping a person change their destiny is our mission. We train in the martial arts to the best of our ability but the bigger focus is helping people make changes in their lives. If anyone is unhappy with the direction of their life, health, attitude, self-discipline, etc., our school will support them and help.”

Pivot Point Martial Arts o ers a positive environment where students focus on collective support, not competition. In addition to physical training, young students undergo a character development program including a variety of subjects such as health, hygiene, social skills, mental skills and self-condence. “We study a new topic every two months,” adds Wright. “It’s challenging but

provides a great reward.” e school is open for anyone four years of age or older, and many adults nd numerous bene ts, as well. “For adults, it’s about personal growth,” Wright explains. “Adults are

awarded with stripes for attendance and with belts for accomplishment. e belt program is strict but provides signi cant benchmarks to aim for, unlike your standard gym. Moving up in rank is extremely signi cant.”

Pivot Point o ers two martial arts disciplines: Kuk Sool and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Kuk Sool is a unique Korean art that predates the Japanese occupation. “Most Korean martial arts are in uenced by the Japanese,” explains Wright. “Kuk Sool looks di erent.” It focuses on weapons training, pressure

points, throwing, falling, etc. Everything is predicated on the concept of self-defense against multiple opponents. “It’s a battle eld martial art emphasizing the ability to absorb, attack, control and disable,” adds Wright. Kuk Sool works well in nearly all situations, save one: going to ground. So, in order to ll the gap, Master Wright traveled to California to learn Jiu-Jitsu from the legendary Gracie family. “Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is about knowing how to ght when on the ground,” says Wright. “It’s the perfect technique to conserve your

PIVOT POINT MARTIAL ARTS FOCUSES ON SUPPORT, NOT COMPETITION.

KUK SOOL IS A BATTLEFIELD MARTIAL ART FOCUSED ON DEFENSE AGAINST MULTIPLE OPPONENTS.

energy while your attacker uses up theirs. It’s about submission; students don’t have to strike at all.” e program is focused upon learning the 36 most-used techniques to defend and control any situation. Pivot Point is now an o cial Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Certi ed training center. Recently, Wright has been working on a program for area schools called Bully Proof. “Bullying is still a big problem in schools.

e Bully Proof program is designed to give kids the con dence they need to deal with bullies without having to necessarily strike them,” explains Wright. “In my school, we teach ve rules of engagement to know when to use martial arts. My kids have good hearts and don’t really want to strike anyone. Bully Proof is about establishing clear boundaries and controlling the situation with con dence.” Wright views Jiu-Jitsu as a way for kids with good hearts to defend themselves. He rightly believes that every child should know that they have value in this world and a right to live without fear. He hopes to have his program up and running in area schools for the beginning of the 2022-23 school year.

Kenneth Wright has dedicated his life to the study of Kuk Sool and the martial arts and has learned a lot along the way. It has given him self-con dence, peace of mind, self-discipline, and purpose. e black belt testing alone has changed his life. “ e di culty of achieving the level that I have has taught me how to overlook

GRACIE JIU JITSU FOCUSES ON CONTROLLING A SITUATION AND SUBMISSION, IF NEEDED.

ALONG WITH PHYSICAL TRAINING, STUDENTS UNDERGO CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT.

The Mayors of Flint

PART 6: THE FASTEST GROWiNG CiTY iN THE NATiON

BY PETER HINTERMAN

e time period between 1901 and 1912 was characterized by an explosion of population and industry in Flint –the fastest growing city in the nation. Buggy, road cart and car production dominated business. In 1908, Billy Durant and friends started the General Motors Corporation and propelled the city’s economy into the stratosphere. Flint was overrun with migrant workers from all over the United States, each arriving with the hope of gaining and maintaining steady employment. In 1905, the Golden Jubilee Celebration marked the city’s 50th anniversary which brought out every major player in the city including mayors – past, present and future.

is series of pro les chronicles Flint’s mayors throughout history, providing short accounts of their professions, lives and decisions made in o ce (if known). Some were men/women of great deeds or of great controversy; some were simply placeholders in time. Each of them, however, chaired a city important to its country and its citizens on its path through triumph and troubles, and toward future revitalization. For Part 1, see the 2022 January issue of MCM!

Clark B. Dibble

1901-02

Born in Fenton in 1860, Clark B. Dibble was the grandson of one of the county’s rst pioneer settlers, Clark Dibble, who dubbed Fenton “Dibbleville” before the arrival of Colonel William M. Fenton and Robert Leroy. His father, omas Je erson Dibble, moved the family to the Oxford area when Clark B. was very young. In 1888, Dibble came back north and settled in Flint. He took a job working in the meat market of Wicks & Pierce. Two years later, he followed in the footsteps of his uncle Joel who founded a hotel in Fenton and, after the retirement of his father, began operating Dibble House – a hotel located one block from Stone’s Opera House. e hotel charged $1 a night and catered to traveling farmers. Dibble used its proximity to the Opera House as a way to entice out-of-towners. He operated the Dibble House successfully for another 17 years. In 1905, after his mayoral term, Dibble served on the reception committee for Flint’s Golden Jubilee Celebration. He died in 1932 and was buried in Avondale Cemetery. During his time as mayor, the automobile industry began when A.B.C. Hardy established the Flint Auto Company.

Austin D. Alvord

1902-04

Austin D. Alvord was born in 1843 in the State of New Jersey. He came to Flint as an older gentleman and set up his grocery business along Saginaw St. just north of downtown near today’s Rally’s restaurant. (During Alvord’s day, the more bustling business district in Flint was located north of the river.) It was during the second of Alvord’s two mayoral terms that David Dunbar Buick moved his business to Flint and began operation. After his second term, Alvord took a large role in the planning of Flint’s Golden Jubilee Celebration serving on multiple committees including the general (planning) and reception committees. In 1910, he vied for a third term of mayorship but lost to incumbent mayor Guy W. Selby. Alvord died in 1924 and was buried in Gracelawn Cemetery.

Bruce J. McDonald

1904-05

Born in 1866 in Lakeport, MI McDonald moved to Flint at age 13 to attend Flint High School. After graduation, he began employment at the First Union Bank and was soon promoted to cashier. He held that position until 1917 when he resigned, then worked as treasurer of the Home Builders and the rm of Stone, MacDonald and Kaufman. McDonald was invited to serve on the committee to form the State of Michigan’s rst tax organization called by the Detroit Board of Commerce and Governor Chase S. Osborn. He and the committee voted to establish a state tax commission and to hold an annual tax conference. McDonald and his fellow initial committee members were the rst members of the State Tax Commission and each had a hand in setting state taxes and procedures. (A brief report on “General Taxation” was given to the commission before their decision by future Flint Mayor, D. D. Aitken.) Upon returning to Flint from Detroit, McDonald served on the board of the First National Bank of Flint and Genesee County Savings Bank. He was struck ill in 1921 and succumbed in 1923. Bruce J. McDonald was buried in Glenwood Cemetery. While mayor, he appointed noted historian Edwin Orrin Wood a member of the police commissioners, and helped to rebuild after the Flint River escaped its banks and ooded half the city in 1904.

David Demerest Aitken

1905-06

One of ten children, D. D. Aitken was born in Flint in 1853 and educated at Flint High School. (His boyhood home still stands. e Robert P. Aitken house sits at 1110 N. Linden Rd.) Aitken worked as a bookkeeper and salesman before studying law under Judge William Newton. He was admitted to the bar in 1883 and became a partner in the rm of Lee, Aitken & Wisner. at same year, he was appointed city clerk and then city attorney from 1886-90. He was then elected to the House of State Representatives for two terms from 189397. ere, he served as chairman of the House Committee on Mines and Mining. After his mayoral term, he served as chairman of the City Finance Advisory Board. Aitken was heavily engaged in social life as a member of the FreeMasons, Mystic Shrine, Knights Templar, Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles, and the Maccabees where he also worked as their supreme counselor and attorney. For the Golden Jubilee Celebration, Aitken served on the Finance, New Flint and Federal Building Committees, and was single-handedly responsible for all electrical displays. He led the parade with Vice President Charles Fairbanks and laid the cornerstone for the new federal building. Aitken was one of the rst to declare Flint “Vehicle City.” He died in 1930 and was buried in Glenwood Cemetery.

George E. McKinley

1906-08

George E. McKinley was born in 1871 to an Irish immigrant family. His father was active in building the railroad to and through the City of Flint. McKinley was educated in the Flint school system and upon graduation, took his rst job as “cash boy” at the Pierce Dry Goods store. McKinley opened a cigar factory (McKinley Cigar Co.) in Flint that he operated for ten years before closing shop and moving to Evart, MI after his stint as mayor. After approximately 18 months, McKinley returned and re-opened his factory. Interestingly enough, and against the general rule of the day, McKinley was a factory owner who was very active in labor rights. He worked as an organizer for the American Federation of Labor and superintendent of the Michigan State Free Employment Bureau. He also served as State Factory Inspector in 1914. McKinley started the Flint Fraternal Order of the Eagles and was elected the organization’s rst president. He was also a member of the Royal Arch Masons, Knights of Pythias, and Elks. He assisted J. Dallas Dort in his quest to establish Flint’s park system by serving as secretary of the Flint Park Board and as a member of the Park Commissioners. George E. McKinley died in 1941 and was buried in Glenwood Cemetery. While he was mayor, McKinley was one of the rst to welcome the Weston-Mott Company and C. S. Mott to Flint. An advertisement for his cigar company sits in the Smithsonian Museum in the form of a baseball mitt scorecard that advertises “Mac’s Best 5-cent Cigars.”

Horace C. Spencer

1908-09

Born in 1832 in Erie County, NY Spencer journeyed to Michigan in 1866. In 1877, he invested the majority of his money as one of the original stockholders in the Second National Bank of Bay City. Next, he traveled to Flint in 1880 and opened a hardware business. It wasn’t long before Spencer entered the banking industry in Genesee County becoming the director and vice president of the Genesee County Savings Bank (GCSB), later becoming chairman of the board. While with the GCSB, Spencer was elected to the State Senate for two consecutive terms serving on the State Redistricting Committee, the Committee for Public Lands, and acting as chairman of the Committee on State Reform Schools and State Mental Institutions. In 1891, he helped establish Citizens Commercial and Savings Bank in Flint, serving as its rst cashier until 1903. After his banking days, he joined Dort and McKinley on the Flint City Park Board and served on the State Board of Agriculture in charge of nance. As mayor, Spencer oversaw a year of rapid business expansion. During that time, Albert Champion moved his spark plug business to Flint; Durant started General Motors; Whiting, Whey and Paterson began their automobile factories and the Flint YMCA was opened to the city’s youth. Horace C. Spencer died in 1926.

Guy W. Selby

1909-11

Selby was born in 1871 and eventually moved to Flint looking to become a lawyer in the rapidly growing city. He was a very successful attorney in the Flint rm of Farley & Selby from 191028, representing a variety of city institutions including the Genesee County Savings Bank. He was a nearly constant thorn in the city’s side, continually taking up cases brought against it. He argued successfully against City Attorney Frank G. Millard on numerous occasions and in the Michigan Supreme Court. In 1916, he became the president of the Genesee County Bar Association. He held a particular grudge against Bruce J. McDonald and contested his election to the City Charter Commission in front of the Michigan Supreme Court on the grounds that McDonald did not meet the residency quali cations. Selby lost the case and McDonald was able to take his place on the commission. While in o ce, Selby oversaw the construction of a new city hall. Also during his mayoral term, the Flint Country Club and the Michigan Lumber Company began operation. Selby died in 1968.

John A. C. Menton

1911-12

Menton holds the distinction of being Flint’s only socialist mayor. Born in 1865 in Saginaw, he moved with his family to Flint at the age of four. At age 15, he left school and became a cigar maker’s apprentice. When he was 28, he became involved in the labor ght and was nominated president of the local cigar maker’s union and ten years later, acted as secretary and treasurer for the Central Labor Union. From 1902-05, he was secretary of the state socialist organization and represented Michigan on the Socialist National Committee. e 1911 mayoral election came as a surprise to both the city and the nation with Republican Edwin W. Atwood, Democrat William Wildanger and Menton squaring o for the seat. Menton won in what was considered a landslide making Flint only the second city in the country to elect a socialist mayor. e two major parties were shocked, but their loss could have been foreseen if not for hubris. Flint was rapidly lling with young workers from all around the country who hoped for a better life and believed that a union man in o ce could provide it.

In o ce, Menton was progressive and acted quickly. He set o a restorm when he nominated George Artis, a black man, as police commissioner – the rst mayor in the nation to do so. e city council never approved the appointment saying that “none of the aldermen … have anything against him as a man … but they do not propose to have other than a white man holding public o ce in Flint.” Menton defended his appointment, saying, “In my opinion, the fact that he is a colored man is no reason why he should not be recognized as a proper incumbent of any o ce he is capable of lling.”

e rest of Menton’s plans included improved garbage collection, milk inspection, the creation of an o ce of electrical inspectors, timely council meetings, park improvement, improved worker safety, better trolley systems, improved re escapes in factories, established night schools for worker education, and an eight-hour workday and higher minimum wage. He also supported a boulevard plan leading to city ownership of the riverfront and better access to its riverside parks.

For the 1912 election, the democrats and republicans joined forces with the Flint Daily Journal to make absolutely sure Menton lost. ey pegged C. S. Mott to run against him as an Independent and began their assault from the newsstand with claims that Menton and socialism would: destroy the working class, usher in a government of mob rule, destroy religious liberty, deny the existence of God and destroy patriotism. In C. S. Mott, the Journal wrote, “workers have a friend and a platform to liberty.” e populace was swayed and Mott won the election by 1,600 votes. Menton faded into obscurity. He died in 1947 and was buried in Mount Morris Cemetery. ®

Paws on Parade

Champagne Brunch & Auction

WARWICK HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB ® 4.24.22

This annual brunch and champagne reception benefits the shelter animals of The Humane Society of Genesee County, typically targeting donations toward specific facility improvements. The event featured both silent and live auctions of nearly 50 goods and services, with CARS 108 radio personality Lisa Marie serving as emcee and auctioneer. Live auction items included “A Day with Sheriff Chris Swanson” which sold for $4,500! This year’s funds will help the shelter upgrade housing for cats awaiting adoption in Kitty City and Tabby Town.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JADEN MOXLOW

21st Annual Wine Tasting

For more than 20 years, the FIA has raised over $600,000 at this event hosted in partnership with the Junior League of Flint. The funds support museum programming and outreach programs for PreK-12 students, the JLF and its community partners. Attendees received “passports” to travel on a journey amongst the fantastic works of art, sampling wines from across the globe and domestic. The evening featured live entertainment, exotic paired hors d’oeuvres and desserts.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JADEN MOXLOW

41st Annual

BenefitHurleyBall

SIGNATURE CHOP HOUSE

5.07.2022

The theme for this year’s event was “Through the Looking Glass” and the organizers created a fantastic and colorful wonderland for the fundraiser to benefit Hurley’s Adolescent Behavioral Health Services Fund. Construction is underway for Hurley’s new Adolescent Pediatric Health Unit and proceeds from the ball will go toward Hurley’s in-patient Adolescent Psychiatric Unit serving children ages 12 to 17. Every year, the Hurley Foundation focuses on a different service or unit to keep supporting the hospital and the community at large.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATY KILDEE

Tux & TenNIes GalA & a Uc T iOn

RANDY WISE MOTORCARS ® 5.21.2022

The Grand Blanc dealership was transformed into a lavish venue for one of three major fundraisers benefitting Whaley Children’s Center. The signature theme invited nearly 400 attendees to dress in tuxes, gowns and swanky sneakers to enjoy a cocktail hour, dinner and live music by Bluewater Kings Band. This year’s funds raised by silent and live auctions will help improve the outdoor spaces at Whaley, a nationally accredited facility providing residential and clinical programs for children who have suffered from abuse and neglect. NBC25 News Anchor Stephanie Parkinson served as host.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATY KILDEE

Back to the Bricks ®

Dust ‘Em Off Car Show

DORT FINANCIAL EVENT CENTER

5.22.2022

The Back to the Bricks organization was focused on “Bringing It Back” for 2022! The gloomy weather didn’t deter car enthusiasts who gathered for the free event. After a blessing of the participating cars and performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” to kick off the day, attendees enjoyed music, food trucks, vendors and a swap meet. The one-of-a-kind event was created to generate excitement for the upcoming season of local cruises and tuneup parties throughout Greater Flint leading up to the Back to the Bricks Main Event Week of August 15-20.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATY KILDEE

There’s No Place Like Home

BY VERA HOGAN

When Americans vacation in foreign countries, they look forward to experiencing everything they can’t see and do at home. ey enjoy learning about new cultures, how the natives of that country live, the food they eat, their style of dress, entertainment and leisure time activities.

But what about when they come here? I have a wonderful uncle who lives in Germany. He’s only a few years older than me, so he’s more like the brother I never had. A few years ago, he came to visit my family in Fenton with his adult daughter, my cousin. ey loved it here, but were surprised by a few things.

One thing we wanted to do during their visit was take them to Frankenmuth. I think everyone is excited about doing this with their German visitors. Don’t get me wrong – I love Frankenmuth; but when we pointed out all the German fare on the restaurant menu, my uncle politely declined and ordered a steak and baked potato. “I eat German food at home every day,” he explained. e same was true for everything else there – the music, gift shop o erings. ey did think it was a “cute” town, though.

We took them to several attractions, which they loved, including the Detroit Zoo. We o ered to take them to places up north, like the bridge and the island. ey opted to stick around Fenton, however, and see how we live.

One of the things they enjoyed was our local classic car shows. At the cruise to Battle Alley in Holly, my cousin literally drooled over a Shelby Mustang. She was over the moon when the owner (a cute young guy about her age) asked if she wanted a photo of the two of them standing by his car. I’ve never seen cheeks so red! ey enjoyed concerts in the park, and several trips to area lakes and parks. But what they really liked the most was shopping – shopping at the malls, Birch Run Outlets, many local mom-and-pop shops … and Walmart. ey have Walmart in Germany, but not like the super-huge stores we have here.

One day, my husband said he was “kidnapping” my uncle. ey were gone for hours. I was worried, because my husband spoke zero German, and my uncle only knew a little English. ey spent those hours at Home Depot – my uncle loved it! He could not get over that there was such a store. I still can’t gure out how they bonded and communicated so well. Even though my husband is gone now, my uncle still calls him his “best friend in America.”

At the end of each day after dinner, my uncle and cousin set out to enjoy another favorite activity, spazieren (a leisurely walk) in Fenton. ey live in a country of castles, cathedrals, homes and other structures that are hundreds of years old, but were in awe of the historic homes in and around Dibbleville. ey took hundreds of photos home with them.

Traveling to faraway places is great, but seeing all that we have right here through my European family’s eyes reminded me that there really is no place like home. ®

Recently retired, Vera Hogan is a 20-year veteran of the newspaper business, having served both Fenton and Flint area publications. During those years, she was a reporter, associate editor, editor, web content editor and columnist. Her popular columns have earned her multiple state awards. She resides in the City of Fenton. Email verahogan@hotmail.com.

Infl ation is a Tax

BY DR. CHRISTOPHER DOUGLAS

Suppose a President of the United States proposed raising taxes on everyone, rich and poor, by 8.5%. And suppose this would not be a one-time 8.5% tax increase; taxes would be increased by 8.5% every single year.

Such a plan would be hard to take seriously, as the standard of living would quickly fall if taxes were increased by 8.5% every single year. Every year, the typical consumer would have 8.5% less income, meaning he/she would be able to purchase 8.5% fewer goods and services compared to the previous year. After just nine years of this plan, the typical consumer’s purchasing power and thus standard of living would have decreased by half. is would hit the poorest the hardest, as low-income households cannot easily sacri ce 8.5% of their consumption every year. A rich household would have an easier time doing so, as they could cut back on luxury items before having to cut back on necessities.

Clearly, no President concerned about his or his party’s political future would propose this. However, 8.5% in ation (the rate as of this writing) is exactly such a plan. e 8.5% in ation rate means that prices are rising by 8.5% every year. What cost $1 to purchase this year will cost $1.09 next year, $1.17 the following year, and $2.08 after nine years. ere is no di erence, in terms of a household’s ability to purchase goods and services, between doubling

taxes and a rate of in ation that causes prices to double. In each case, purchasing power falls by the same amount. Governments raise revenue to pay for their spending in three ways: taxes, borrowing, or in ation (e.g., printing money and spending it). Taxes have the drawback of being politically unpopular and have spawned various taxpayer revolts, such as the ones that resulted in Proposition 13 in California and the Headlee Amendment in Michigan (both in 1978) and have caused the defeat and recall of various elected o cials over the years. Borrowing has the disadvantage of having to be repaid and can lead to a sovereign debt crisis if it is excessive, leading to a severe recession and civil unrest. Printing money is the path of least resistance. No politician must take a vote to raise taxes and the resulting in ation is blamed on someone else: COVID, supply chains and/or Vladimir Putin. Note that in ation was already at 7.5% in January 2022, a month before the Russian-Ukrainian war began. is year, in ation has already cost a household earning a $60,000 income $5,100 through higher prices. Just this year, all of one household member’s three COVID checks and half of another’s have been lost to in ation. Note that the government paid for these checks by printing money. Since in ation is a tax caused by the government creating money to pay for its spending, the only way in ation will fall is if spending and money creation are reduced. Until this happens, in ation will continue to be high and living standards will fall. ®

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.

Where Have All The Lifeguards Gone?

BY LESLIE TOLDO

Ihave always had a soft spot for lifeguards. It probably traces all the way back to my very rst summer when my mother, a lifeguard at the time, taught me how to swim.

As I got older, lifeguards were my idols. ey were the ones in charge at pools, and I daydreamed about one day being cool enough to wear a whistle around my neck and yell at kids who wandered into the deep end.

Now that I am no longer in the spring or summer of my life, those guardians with whistles just give me the con dence of knowing that if my aging body grows tired while I am swimming, someone will be there to rescue me.

for at least a decade before COVID, but the pandemic canceled many training classes and even shut a lot of pools down, which did not help matters.

When I was 11, my love for lifeguards reached a new level. My very rst crush was Sean, who worked on the beach in Pensacola, FL. He let me help him set up the chairs and umbrellas on the sand, and I was certain we would be married one day. Of course, he kept calling me Lisa because he couldn’t remember my name, but I did not let that deter me from dreaming.

Over the years as I entered my teens, there were more lifeguards and more crushes during my family’s annual treks to Florida. Of course, at that point, I had given up the fantasy of becoming Mrs. Lifeguard and only worshiped these now god-like creatures from a distance.

No matter my age, lifeguards have always held a certain mystique to me. ey always seem so cool, collected and ready to dive in whenever necessary. While my summer memories may be ooded with lifeguards, these swimsuit-clad would-be heroes are now in short supply.

Newsweek recently reported that the lifeguard shortage could shut down at least a third of the pools across the country this summer, or – at the very least – a ect their hours of operation.

e director of the American Lifeguard Association told the news magazine that this is going to be the “worst” summer.

As it turns out, fewer teens and young adults are interested in lifeguarding these days. e YMCA USA’s Lindsay Mondick told Bloomberg that young people are more interested in getting internships and doing college prep work than they are in being a lifeguard.

e lifeguard shortage was a problem

To be a lifeguard in Michigan, you must be at least 15 years old and complete more than 25 hours of training. You can get your certi cation through the American Red Cross; just visit redcross.org/take-a-class/lifeguarding.

Unfortunately, when I searched online, I could not nd any upcoming training classes at the Flint YMCA, but there were lifeguard job openings. It’s de nitely a rewarding gig! You get a whistle to wear, and the adoration of countless pool and beachgoers. ®

An Emmy-nominated anchor/meteorologist/ reporter at FOX66 and NBC25, Leslie Toldo has worked in TV news for 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 three dogs: Bear, Gus and Lucy.

e new library boasts “more of everything” for its patrons. “We added nearly 16,000 square feet of space for learning and growth,” Schwartz states. In the new FPL, the Children’s Learning Center and Digital Learning spaces have been doubled, an additional 16 meeting rooms were added of all di erent sizes and functionalities, a new area (bottom oor) has been designated for local history and genealogy, a program room (the Conroy Room) was added for story time and other activities and in a new digital studio (opening in July), patrons can produce podcasts and other digital media. Food is now both permitted (with restrictions) and available (vending) at the library with fully-functioning kitchenettes designated for certain meeting rooms. To increase the facility’s energy e ciency, a brand-new HVAC system was installed along with more e ective insulation. All water in sinks and drinking fountains is ltered by a reverse-osmosis system.

In addition to space additions, the FPL has upgraded functionality including new self-checkout machines, a new page- and document-scanning system, meeting room monitors and display projectors, and the ability to check out and use in-library laptop computers.

e design is fun, colorful and full of light – a perfect place for a child or adult to learn and grow.

e new FPL truly re ects Flint’s current and ongoing evolution as the city parts ways with the hardships of the past and embraces a brighter future. “ e old building was beginning to break down. It was aging,” says Schwartz. “In a number of years, it would have been unusable. We wanted to bring something new and amazing to the city. It’s a wonderful place for the people of Flint and everyone should see and make use of it all.” ®

For hours and programming information, visit fpl.info.

If you are interested in booking one or more meeting rooms, visit fpl.info/reserve-room or email rooms@fpl.info for more information.

MY FINANCES

To Roth 401k or Not to Roth 401k

BY JOEL P. LAGORE CFP® AIF

Asthe labor market has been gutted by COVID (early retirements and twenty-somethings who got used to the government sending them paychecks for 18 months and are not willing to work), employers are having to pay signi cantly higher wages and o er new and exciting bene ts to coax people back into the workforce. One of these bene ts is an employer-sponsored 401k. is plan is a tax- e cient way for employees to save for retirement through employee payroll deferral. One of the main bene ts to having a 401k is the ability to defer your current income until a time in the future, typically during retirement, when your income is lower. Your deferred payroll deposits are not included in your current taxable income and are allowed to be invested in di erent markets and grow tax-deferred, until you withdraw those funds when you retire. Another added bene t to a 401k plan is that often, employers will match the contribution you make. en, this type of savings plan is even more bene cial for the employee and becomes a very valuable part of their employment package. Some employers, in an e ort to try to retain and recruit good employees, have instituted match policies of up to 10% of the salary percentage that employees put away on their own. at is essentially a 10% increase in pay if you stay with the employer for a speci c period of time, as laid out in the plan’s vesting schedule.

A newer component that employers have added to these deferred compensation plans is the ability to contribute into a Roth 401k, which is on an after-tax basis. e money contributed into the Roth portion of the 401k could be able to grow completely tax-free for retirement if certain plan criteria and IRS rules are met. Although the employee is allowed to put money into the Roth portion of their 401k, the employer contribution (or the “match”) can only be put into the tax-deferred side. Many of our friends and clients are often asking, “Should I be putting money into the Roth portion of my 401k instead of the traditional side?” You might think there would be a simple answer to this question, but I can assure you there is not.

e decision to contribute to the Roth portion of your 401k as compared to the traditional portion takes into account many di erent variables that are very much based on the individual’s own circumstances. So there is no “rule of thumb” or cookie-cutter answer. ese decisions are always best made with the guidance of a quali ed nancial planner and/or investment advisor. Here are a few questions you can think through which will help guide you in this decision-making process.

Are you at the lower end or beginning of your earnings career or toward the top?

What is your current tax bracket and what tax bracket would you project to be in during retirement?

What are your overall thoughts regarding the U.S. current debt and tax structure? Do you think it will be higher during your retirement than it currently is?

Considering your overall investment/retirement scenario, how many pools of money do you have to draw from?

Having answers to these questions will be very helpful for you and your nancial advisor when deciding IF and how much of your contributions should be going into the Roth portion of your 401k. Before you spend time laboring over these questions, your rst point of order may be to contact your employer’s HR department and ask whether your 401k even allows for a Roth portion.

Hope you’re enjoying an amazing start to your summer here in Michigan. Gotta love the seasons our great state provides us! ®

Joel P. LaGore, Certified Financial Planner and partner with OLV Investment Group, focuses on money management. Joining the Downtown Flint revitalization effort, his office is located in The Durant at 607 E. Second Ave., Suite 100. Joel and his wife Sonya are raising two daughters in Flushing, where he enjoys philanthropic pursuits in his local community, in Flint at large and in Genesee County.

and CFP® in the U.S. e Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) Designation demonstrates the individual has met

800.338.4586 olvinvest.com e Durant 607 E. 2nd Ave., Suite 100 Flint, MI 48502 jlagore@olvinvest.com is content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as the basis for financial decisions. OLV Investment Group is an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of investment and insurance products to custom suit their needs and objectives. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. None of the information contained in this article shall constitute an o er to sell or solicit any o er to buy a security. CFP Board owns the certification marks CFP®,

Redwood now operates two food trucks, as well, and o -site catering is 20 percent of the business. ey also o er take-out lunch boxes. “If our customers can’t come to us, we go to them!” Fernandes exclaims. “We have made a lot of adjustments, but the biggest thing is that I will not jeopardize quality,” notes the executive chef.

On the fourth Monday of every month, a wine tasting event highlights ve di erent wines. And, of course, many regular customers come to Redwood Steakhouse & Brewery for the beer! Many of the house brews have garnered international awards, and Redwood was most recently named 2022 Michigan Brewery of e Year.

That aspect of the restaurant is now overseen by a new Head Brewer, Rockne Van Meter. Van Meter has become highly respected within the industry and known for his dedication to making quality beer true to style. “He has won quite a few awards,” Fernandes points out. “His product is phenomenal.”

Fernandes brings much experience to his current restaurant. He and his wife, Theresa, started out in the ‘90s with a restaurant in Linden called Broadstreet, which they operated for ten years. “She made the desserts and I did the cooking,” he shares. He remembers one day when a group of diners came to the restaurant on motorcycles. One of them happened to be Molly Abraham, a food critic from the Detroit Free Press . She gave the restaurant a four-star review. “That is when business really took off for us,” he remembers. “It all started at Broadstreet.”

In the Redwood kitchen, two chefs work under Fernandes, as well as eight line cooks who are all trained to work in di erent areas. “We are known for our food quality,” says Fernandes. “We have worked hard for our reputation.”

Fernandes is now one of the restaurant’s ve managing partners. “I thank them for giving me the opportunity to run the show,” he states. “I’m hands-on and they trust me to do what I am doing. Our customers are very loyal.” And many of the Redwood sta have been there for a long time. “I have a great support sta ,” says Fernandes. “We are a tight-knit group and work hard to make your visit to Redwood a memorable occasion.” ®

The Great Outdoors

BY CHERYL DENNISON

When June nally arrives, there is nothing better than spending time outdoors, especially when the weather begins to heat up and the rst day of summer is just around the corner. In 2019, the U.S. Senate designated the month of June as Great Outdoors Month. According to nps.gov, observance of Great Outdoors Week (the first week in June) began under President Clinton in 1998 and has grown under subsequent administrations into a month-long celebration.

Michigan is a perfect place to celebrate Great Outdoors Month with all of its rugged, natural beauty – lakes, walking and biking trails, beautiful parks, camping areas and beaches. And there is so much to do right here in our backyard! Fun fact: Genesee County has Michigan’s biggest park system, with more than 11,000 acres of parks?

How will you celebrate the great outdoors this month? Here are just a few of the things I enjoy doing.

One of my favorite places to go is Flushing County Park, where I can take a walk along a paved path by the Flint River. ere are also great nature trails at Linden County Park and Clover Beach. I love to meet my friends at different parks to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. In Fenton, you will nd a hidden gem – the Dauner Martin Nature Sanctuary – where you can take your dog for a walk on 4.5 miles of trails past beautiful wetlands and see a variety of bird species. Don’t forget the binoculars!

I also celebrate summer outdoors by spending time on many area golf courses. I especially enjoy gol ng in the Ladies Golf League at Fenton Farms Golf Club in Fenton Township. I plan to try something new this summer: disc golf at the Mott Park Disc Golf Course, which is located on the grounds of the former Mott Park Golf Course.

For me, one of the best ways to observe Great Outdoors Month is with a ride in a hot-air balloon for a breathtaking view of nature from high in the sky. One of my fondest memories is a hot-air balloon ride I took a few years ago. We launched at Seven Lakes Park in Holly and made a gentle (but exciting!) “splash and dash” on a lake, then ended the experience with reciting the Balloonist’s Prayer and a champagne toast.

My ve-year-old grandson, Elijah, loves to be outdoors and we spend a lot of time taking walks outside and going to the park where he will spend hours swinging and climbing up the monkey bars. A picnic lunch in the park with him is one of my favorite things to do.

I also enjoy the great outdoors by planting owers that attract hummingbirds and butter ies. I spend a lot of time at the many local greenhouses and nurseries in search of herbs and plants to make my outdoor space spring to life. I love to grow veggies in a container garden on my deck.

What’s the very best way to celebrate? Reading a good book outside on my deck on a sunny day in June, sipping on a refreshing glass of iced tea and watching the owers grow! ®

current discomfort in order to achieve a future bene t. I have applied that experience to everything I have done, from dealing with employers and bosses to running this business,” he adds. “Kuk Sool encourages you to be well-balanced in all things for all situations. It’s challenging. One thing I always say is ‘keep your feet with you.’ If something or someone comes along and pushes you in one direction or another, bring

perfection of body and mind. If you can do just one thing to perfection, who’s to say you can’t achieve it in another aspect of your life? It also brings me peace,” (something hard to nd in today’s chaotic world).

For anyone interested in pursuing martial arts, Pivot Point Martial Arts o ers a ten-day free trial. (Uniform and progress cards are provided.) Classes are taught systematically and Wright has tailored each to cater to the brand-new student.

“My goal is to help people change their destiny in a way they are proud of.”

MASTER KENNETH WRIGHT

your feet. Stay balanced. You have to maintain a strong base, so you don’t fall over. e martial arts have given me that base.”

Wright has mastered multiple weaponry, combat strikes and more (you have to in order to be a grand champion) but the most treasured skill that Kuk Sool has given him is his ability to turn o the world during forms. “Doing forms is a meditation. It is something done by yourself solely for the expression of the art form,” he explains. “Each motion is done with full intention, striving toward

To sign up for a free trial, visit pivotpointfamily.com and click on the free trial button, or call 810.908.2659 for more information.

If you nd yourself stuck in a rut or feel your children are having a hard time with con dence, bullies, or just dealing with our current combative atmosphere, consider Pivot Point Martial Arts. “Kids enjoy and crave structure in their lives,” says Master Ken. “We are a very welcoming place for growth. We don’t hurry or judge. e whole point is the journey and the improvement you make along the way.” ®

A True Holiday

BY ALEXANDRIA NOLAN

The rst time I visited Spain, I went with my mother. She had been before, one stop among many on a European cruise. She had only gotten a glimpse of Barcelona, though, just the slightest taste of what the city had to o er, so when she mentioned the idea of venturing back, this time with me accompanying her I of course, accepted immediately – especially as it was on her dime. e trip began di erently than any other I’d taken. She had scheduled it all through a tour company, so it was a lot of name tags and weird small talk as we met our guide and a few other group members at the airport. For me, a self-described “seasoned traveler,” it all felt a bit kindergarten. We arrived at our hotel and I was ready to rest, long ight and all, but I was soon to discover that we were on a schedule. Before resting was allowed, there was a meet-and-greet with fellow tour group members, and then careful directions about how and where we would all reconnect for dinner.

were at whatever restaurant I happened to mosey by at the moment. My tours were self-guided and mostly uninformed and my sense of direction was slapdash and mostly determined by what streets looked interesting rather than a speci c route to get from point A to B. ese forced and awkward interactions with other Americans felt ... weird – like we were part of a club which I didn’t want membership in but was forced to pay dues for, anyway.

Now, the retirees and older couples seemed genuinely excited about this group dynamic. My own mother, curmudgeon though she is, was enthusiastically interacting with the other group members. I, however, was tired and young and felt fenced in by this situation. I was accustomed to leisurely exploring, setting my own agenda, making my own plans. Lunch and dinner

By the third day of stu y bus tours to visit the old Olympic Village and the Gaudì house of the day, I’d had enough and told my mother so. I had other plans. at evening, we met up with a girlfriend I’d met on Instagram who lived in Barcelona. She and one of her friends took us down alleyways to tapas bars we’d never seen. ey took us to cafes serving pintxos and vermouth, house wine and cava. We tried dishes that had never been mentioned by our tour guide or showed up on our pre-approved restaurant menus. We ate and ate, and drank and drank some more. We talked and went from one tapas bar to the next, a drink here, a snack there, a tipple here, a bottle to share across the street. Places where the only voices we heard spoke Catalan and we needed no reminder that we were in the heart of Catalunya, thousands of miles away from our normal lives. e sharpest and best reminder of traveling is feeling like everything around is completely foreign, and yet utterly natural. e rhythm of the conversations, the music, the shared small bites and bright peals of laughter. e feeling of community, real community created by good conversation and getting outside of normal – that’s traveling.

So, as much of a gift my mother had given me in the trip itself – the hotel and

the bus rides and the idea of adventure –I felt like I, too, had given her something. An experience, new friendships, women across the ocean with whom we shared an evening of complaining about men and laughing about fashion, discussing our favorite places and commenting on how delicious this shrimp was or how tasty that croqueta. It was a true holiday away from the world and yet, we felt more at home than ever.

My mother took me to Spain for the rst time, and this summer I will take my young son there for his rst visit. I hope I am able to capture even half of the excitement and adventure she gave to me … minus the other obnoxious American tourists. ®

Alexandria Nolan is a misplaced Michigander living in Houston, TX with her husband, three pets and toddler son. She is a published author and contributor to various online and print publications, including a lifestyle blog, AlexandriaNolan.com. When not writing, she is reading, traveling, or reading about traveling.

My Can’t Miss List

“The Fantasticks”

Flint Repertory Theatre

6.3-19.2022

Flint City Bucks vs. Oakland County FC

Atwood Stadium

6.10.2022

“Sunday on the Rocks”

Juneteenth Parade and Festival

Downtown Flint/ Berston Field House

6.19.2022

Juneteenth Gospel Festival

Flint Riverbank Park

6.20.2022

Fenton Village Playhouse Theatre

6.10-12.2022

“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”

Clio Cast & Crew

6.10-19.2022

Clint Black

The Capitol Theatre

6.11.2022

Flint Art Fair

Flint Institute of Arts

6.11-12.2022 Hinder

The Machine Shop

6.14.2022

Liliac

The Machine Shop

6.16.2022

“The Last Five Years”

Flint Community Players

6.23-26.2022

Flint City AFC vs. Midwest United Atwood Stadium

6.24.2022

Flint City Bucks vs. Lansing City FC

Atwood Stadium

6.25.2022

Flint Pride Festival

Juneteenth Family Fun Day

Berston Field House

6.18.2022

Flint Riverbank Park

6.25.2022

Flint City Bucks vs. Tigres UANL Atwood Stadium

6.26.2022

See you there!

THE FIRST UNIVERSAL COMPUTER

June 14, 1951: UNIVAC 1 Powers On

BY PETER HINTERMAN

During WW2, simple calculating/tabulating machines including the rst computer facsimiles were used to catalog soldiers, people and munitions by the use of punch cards and other apparatus. After the war, the United States Army developed the ENIAC system and used it to calculate artillery ring tables and perform functions related to thermonuclear weaponry. Weighing nearly 30 tons, the unit utilized 18,000 vacuum tubes, numerous diodes, relays, resistors, etc. At a cost of $5 million of today’s money, it was too expensive

and cumbersome to reproduce for personal or independent business applications.

Two ENIAC engineers, J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchly, recognized the machine's real-world potential and set about making it available to any interested party. ey reduced its total size, slashed its weight in half and decreased the number of components (they reduced the vacuum tubes to only 5,000) to something more reasonable and cost e ective.

ey also increased computing power (1,000 calculations per second) and memory (up to 1,000 words). After partnering with the Remington Rand Corporation, the two engineers brought the UNIVAC 1 to market as the rst available computer system.

UNIVAC 1 (UNIVersal Automatic Computer) went into operation at the U.S. Bureau of the Census on June 14, 1951, ushering in the age of mass-produced computer equipment for consumers. Built as one of the rst stored-program computers, it operated via keyboard and console typewriter for simple data

input and a magnetic tape for all other input and output.

UNIVAC 1 then changed society’s belief in the power of computers when it correctly predicted President Eisenhower’s landslide victory in 1953 – with only 5.5% of the vote returned – live on CBS News. Companies utilizing UNIVAC 1 included General Electric, New York University, U.S. Steel, DuPont, Westinghouse, Sylvania Electric and Metropolitan Life Insurance.

At the end of the 1950s, UNIVAC 1 was replaced by transistor computers, leading to integrated circuit machines and today’s microprocessor units.

e short-lived success of UNIVAC 1 opened the world to the potential of computer systems and helped lead to the availability and sophistication of today’s laptops, phones and desktop systems. ®

DON DEBOLD / COMMONS. WIKIMEDIA.ORG CC BY 2.0

UNIVAC I CONTROL STATION DISPLAY BOARD