MCM October 2025 Digital Edition by Lorraine-Publishing

Editor’s Letter

It’shard to believe it’s already October. Don’t we always ask ourselves, “Where did the summer go?” I know I do. Summer is my favorite season—full of sunshine, birthdays, the Fourth of July, long days, lake cruises on our old pontoon, evening walks with the dog, grilling on the patio, and soaking up all the familiar summer sights, smells, and sounds with family and friends.

Now, October has arrived—and in our house, that means college football and cheering on the Detroit Tigers with hopes of a World Series run. Baseball’s always been close to my heart, thanks to my dad, and it turns out my husband shares that love just as much. is month, we’ve packed the magazine with fall fun. Check out Keegan Deloney’s roundup of “spooky” events happening throughout Genesee County. Pet lovers won’t want to miss Fenton Adopt-A-Pet’s Howling Haunted Trail & Party—its biggest fundraiser of the year. And for quieter days, Fenton’s Open Book o ers some great October reads. Our community’s love for pets is clear—just look at the results of My City Magazine’s annual Pet Search. ank you to everyone who submitted adorable photos. is issue also features our quarterly “Longevity” section. Stacy Sawyer with Hamilton Community Health Network has an article called, “A Joyful Mindset Can Lead to a Longer Life,” while Dr. Shan Jackson writes about “Harmonizing the Heart and Mind.”

Don’t miss two inspiring family stories: the McGill family from Linden set sail on the Great Loop—a 14-month boating adventure—and Gabby Stephens of Davison just completed her ninth Mackinac Yacht Race with her dad, Ron. Amazing achievements! Flint history bu s will enjoy Gary Fisher’s piece on the infamous “League of Gentlemen”—a riveting story from the city’s past— and MSU football and Flint enthusiasts will enjoy Mark Spezia’s story about multi-sport Beecher legend Courtney Hawkins. Finally, I want to honor the memory of Charlie Kirk. ough I didn’t know him personally, I am well aware of his mission. In a time when many remain silent, Charlie spoke boldly. His unwavering belief in liberty, faith, and individual responsibility inspired countless young Americans to think critically and engage with our country’s future. Whether or not you agreed with him, his conviction, courage, and commitment to truth were undeniable. RIP Charlie and prayers to his family. e U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution declaring Oct. 14 (Charlie’s 32nd birthday) as “National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk,” a day to come together, pray and celebrate his impact on the nation. Supporters are encouraged to wear red.

Here’s to a season of re ection, connection, and community.

Fenton’s Open Book

105 W. Shiawassee Ave.

Fenton, MI 48430

810.629.8000

Sharon Stone Editor in Chief

Hurley Lobby Gift Shop

Hurley Medical Center

One Hurley Plaza Flint, MI 48503

810.262.9306

810.513.5298 teresemcm@gmail.com

Publisher

Laura Constable

Editor in Chief

Sharon Stone

Editor

Sherron Barden

Freelance Writers

Keegan Deloney

Mark Spezia

Contributing Writers

Brice P. Carter

Pastor Michael Fitzgerald

Dr. Christopher Douglas

Gary Fisher

Mark Rummel

Alexandria Nolan-Miller

Leslie Toldo

Shannon White

Graphic Designer

Hailey Carriger

Contributing Artist

Daria Akulova

Accounting/Circulation

Kim Davis

Account Executive

Terese Allen

My City Magazine 14165 Fenton Rd., Fenton, MI 48430 810.230.1783

ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, 14165 Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 48430. Canadian Mail Agreement #41971515. For back issues, inquire for availability. Editorial Correspondence: Address product information and inquiries to: Editorial Department, My City Magazine, 14165 Fenton Rd., Fenton, MI 48430, phone 810.230.1783. To authors, photographers and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photographs in this publication are the property of My City Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclusions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of My City Magazine. My City Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by sufficient firstclass postage, but the Publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material.

StudentStandout

Presented by

Thomas Fletcher

Goodrich High School Grade 12

Asa senior at Goodrich High School, omas participates in the school’s Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, and Jazz Band. He has played the trombone for the past seven years. He is also dual-enrolled at Mott Community College where he takes online courses, and is a member of National Honor Society.

What’s your favorite class?

My current favorite has been my dual-enrollment course at Mott—HIST-151: Ancient World History (Pre-1500s).

Tell us about your musical accomplishments.

As part of a quartet, I earned a Division 1 rating (the highest score) at the regional Solo

& Ensemble competition. We advanced to the state level, where we received a Division 2 rating from the judges.

Do you plan to attend college?

I plan to attend Michigan State University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Statistics.

What career are you considering?

I want to become an actuary and work with statistics in the insurance industry.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I see myself having completed the exams needed to reach the associate level in my actuarial career.

What advice do you have for younger students?

Find something you’re passionate about and pursue that passion as best you can.

Do you know a standout student in athletics, academics or the arts? Nominate them to be featured in an upcoming issue! SCAN HERE!

Courtney & CJ Feril’s LOVE STORY

How and when did you ﬁrst meet?

COURTNEY: August 2017. I made last-minute plans with my sister and a group of girlfriends to see Chris Stapleton at Pine Knob. I saw CJ and just had to meet him. We ended up talking all night and missed the whole concert! We made plans for a date the following week.

CJ: It was August 2017 at a Chris Stapleton concert. e moment we saw each other, it was like the concert going on around us didn’t matter anymore. We talked through the whole show and went on our rst date a few days later.

Tell us about the proposal COURTNEY: We were on our annual fall trip to Marco Island, Florida. We love going there to relax and spend time together. On Sundays, we always go to the famous “Stan’s” for the live band, and before we le , he surprised me with the most beautiful ring—and of course I said yes! We immediately shared the news with our family and friends and spent the rest of our vacation celebrating.

Tell us about the wedding COURTNEY: Our wedding was the most amazing day. We planned

everything together, which made it so special. We really wanted to bring our families and friends together and create meaningful moments for everyone involved. Our kids—Landen (24), Drake (14), and Makenzie (10)—walked us down the aisle along with our parents, bringing us together as a truly blended family. We had a live band, a DJ, fireworks, and all our friends. Everyone danced and smiled all night. It was truly magical.

What do you cherish most about each other?

COURTNEY: I feel so blessed to be married to a man I can truly be myself with. Finding someone who chooses to grow with you and support you in whatever you do is incredibly special. We play together and make each other laugh, we can talk about anything—big or small—and we navigate problems as a team. at, to me, is the greatest gi in life, and I’m so grateful for him.

CJ: What I truly cherish most about Courtney is the relationship we’ve built together. Not just having her as my wife, but also as my best friend. It’s the little moments—when we’re not even doing anything special but

still having the best time—that make me realize how blessed I am to have her.

Got any sweet, funny, or just plain awesome details you want to share?

Something we’ve always said is that we want to lead our family with our hearts. We want our kids to see us loving each other—even if it grosses them out! We think it’s important for them to see us have

disagreements and work through them, to be comfortable saying “I’m sorry,” or sealing it with a kiss. We kiss all the time. One day our daughter said something that was so cute and gave us a new perspective. She said, “You guys are always so romantic,” and rolled her eyes. We laughed so hard! What a sweet way to see a kiss. Now we say it all the time and laugh. We think that’s such a great way to live: Be romantic!

HAVE A LOVE STORY THAT DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT?

Apply now to be featured. Scan the QR code to submit your story.

Presented by

MEET THIS YEAR’S BELOVED FUR BABIES OF THE PET SEARCH

YETI

OWNERS: SAWYER AND NATALIE SCOTT

Yeti, a Great Pyrenees, has made a home with Sawyer and Natalie Scott of Freeland. Sawyer is originally from Fenton Township, and the couple still has family and friends there.

Natalie said she and Sawyer got Yeti in September 2022. He’s currently 3 years old and will turn 4 next February. Right now, he weighs approximately 82 pounds. When Natalie and Sawyer rst met Yeti, he was about 6 months old and had spent his entire life chained up outside.

“We rescued him from P.O.E.T. Society in Garden City, Michigan, on Sept. 16, 2022,” Natalie said. “He was very shy and sweet when we brought him home, and he immediately loved Blu (our female Newfoundland).”

Natalie said it took Yeti roughly three weeks for his personality to blossom.

“And once it did, he became our ‘Sour Patch Kid,’” she said. “First, he was sour, and then he was

sweet. Yeti was like Houdini—he would escape his crate, get o his leash, and even unlock the deadbolts to get out of the house.”

e Scotts eventually had to install child locks on all their doors to keep Yeti from escaping while they were at work.

Yeti loves accompanying Blu to her physical therapy sessions and cuddling with Natalie—but he especially enjoys chasing and wrestling with Sawyer whenever he gets

PET STAR 2025

the chance. Every night, he roams the couple’s ve-acre property, making sure deer, foxes, raccoons, and woodchucks stay away.

“His favorite thing in the entire world is being on a boat or lying on the dock, patrolling the water and making sure the ducks stay away,” Natalie said. “He also loves to run into our walk-in closet, hide under my clothes, and jump out at Sawyer when they’re playing at night.”

RUNNER UP 1ST

PLUM

OWNERS: THE ASH FAMILY - TOM, RACHEL, OLIVER AND BODHI

From the doggie shelter to the streets of Fenton, this mini pittie is the “Queen of the House.” Plum is the only sister to two human brothers. She was rescued from Flint Animal Control last November and has stolen the hearts of friends and family ever since. In her spare time, she enjoys naps—rotating through the beds and couches throughout the house, inevitably choosing to lounge outside in the sun. Her hobbies include walks through the woods, boat rides, and visiting her grandma.

“Don’t be deceived by her shockingly beautiful looks,” Rachel said. “Yes, she’s drop-dead gorgeous and turns heads wherever she goes—but it’s Plum’s inner beauty that truly makes her shine. She is kind-hearted, friendly, and full of love. She loves love—and, of course, treats. Plum was the missing puzzle piece to our family and is our ‘Out of This World Pet.’ ”

2ND

RUNNER UP

OTTO

OWNER: CHRIS RHIND

Otto is a 2-year-old German Shepherd. Chris said they got Otto from Liberty West German Shepherds.

“Otto is such a smart and goofy boy,” Chris said. “He loves to work and learn new things. His favorite thing is going for hikes and playing tug. He’s the best dog ever.”

Chris works at Torrey Hill Intermediate School. She said her daughter, who trains Otto, is a senior at Lake Fenton high school and all of the kids in her grade know Otto.

Blu Breslin Maggie Brody Nessie LunaSea Sasha

Screams that save lives

The Howling Haunted Trail returns to Fenton this October

Doyou like the thrill of being scared? Do you like to help rescue dogs and cats? If so, then this is an event you won’t want to miss.

e Howling Haunted Trail & Party at Fenton Adopt-A-Pet in Fenton Township is back for six bone-chilling nights this October— October 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25. Each night, more than 60 dedicated volunteers bring the event to life, creating unforgettable scares and thrills. is incredible crew makes the event possible,

and their passion and commitment inspire overwhelming generosity year a er year.

Recognized as one of Michigan’s Top 10 Haunted Attractions for the past four years (based on Google reviews), the Howling Haunted Trail & Party is a legitimate haunt that delivers fear at its nest. It’s not recommended for children under 13, and even seasoned thrill-seekers will nd themselves spooked by the terrifying scenes.

Jody Maddock, executive director of Adopt-A-Pet, said the experience doesn’t stop at the trail. Guests can check in and skip the usual long lines by enjoying all the extras the event has to offer.

Upon arrival, check in, grab a bite from D&W Street Eatery, fuel up with a drink at the bar, and take part in games like cornhole or cards while soaking in the fun atmosphere. A text message alerts guests when it’s their turn to enter the trail.

“More than just a frightful good time, this event is one of AdoptA-Pet’s largest annual fundraisers, helping provide care for over 1,000 dogs and cats each year,” Maddock said. “Every scream, laugh, and game played supports the vital, life-saving work AdoptA-Pet does for animals in need.”

For more information, call 810. 629.0723, visit adoptapetfenton.com or check them out on Facebook.

e party tent also o ers tarot card readings, music, and a lively bar area—making it a blast even for those who’d rather avoid the scares.

CRISP PAGES & SPOOKY NIGHTS

LIST COMPILED BY KAREN PIACENTINI

October is perfect for spooky reads, with Halloween’s ghosts, monsters, and supernatural themes. Cool weather, early sunsets, and falling leaves set a cozy, eerie mood. Haunted houses, horror movies, and costume parties boost the thrill, while book clubs and libraries often host themed challenges for a fun, communal experience.

Haunted Fenton by Brenda Hasse

Haunted Flint by Roxanne Rhoads and Joe Schipani

Bloodstained Exploring Michigan’s Darkest Murders Forgotten By Time by Allie Seibert

Ghost Story by Peter Straub

The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson

Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant (A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery) by Darci Hannah

Second Chances Hope

Awaits at the Humane Society

Meet Bun Jovi

Bun Jovi is a 4-month-old Mini Lop. He is very sweet and getting used to people. He came from a hoarding situation in Saginaw, so he didn’t have the best start in life. He loves snacks and pets. e Humane Society of Genesee County would like to remind people to do their research before adopting a bunny.

The Mini Lop is a popular breed of domestic rabbit known for its compact size, soft fur, and friendly temperament.

Despite their name, Mini Lops are not the smallest lop breed. The Holland Lop is smaller. The “mini” refers more to their compact build than to being truly tiny.

TEMPERAMENT & BEHAVIOR

• Mini Lops are known for their a ectionate and social nature.

• Great with children and other pets if socialized early

• Enjoy human interaction

• Intelligent and curious — love toys, tunnels, and exploring

CARE REQUIREMENTS

Housing

• Indoor or outdoor: Can live in both, but indoors is safer

• Space: Needs a large cage/hutch and supervised free-roam time

• Bedding: Paper-based or aspen shavings (avoid cedar/pine)

Fun fact, bunnies can be litter trained.

LONGEVITY Living Well at Every Age

Aswe o cially enter the busy “-ber” months — September, October, November, and December — it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself and your loved ones. ese months bring cooler weather, earlier sunsets, and packed calendars, but they also o er the perfect opportunity to refocus on health, routine, and relationships — all of which play a key role in living a long and meaningful life.

Just because the days are shorter doesn’t mean our lives have to be. e science behind longevity shows us again and again: staying active, nourished, and connected can add years to our lives — and life to our years.

Stay Active — In Body & Mind

Movement matters. Whether it’s a daily walk around the neighborhood, a gentle yoga class, or dancing to music in the living room, regular physical activity keeps joints exible, muscles strong, and the heart healthy. Even light activity can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis — all while improving mood and sleep.

Mental activity is just as vital. Reading, playing games, learning new skills, or simply engaging in thoughtful conversation stimulates the brain and can help delay cognitive decline. Lifelong learning isn’t just a nice idea — it’s a prescription for longevity.

Eat

& Drink for Vitality

Nutrition plays a central role in how we age. Filling your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins fuels your body with the

nutrients it needs to repair and thrive. Hydration, too, becomes increasingly important as we age — especially during cooler months when we may not feel as thirsty. Keep a water bottle handy, and remember that soups, herbal teas, and fruits like oranges and melons also contribute to daily uid intake.

Stay Social — Stay Strong

Isolation can quietly impact physical and mental health, especially for seniors. Staying social — whether that means attending a community event, having co ee with a friend, or joining a book club — is more than just fun. It strengthens the immune system, lowers the risk of depression, and even contributes to a longer life.

Plan with Purpose

Longevity isn’t just about living longer — it’s about living with purpose. Now is a good time to check in on your goals, your nances, and your future plans. Whether you’re still working or enjoying retirement, having a sense of direction gives each day meaning. Don’t wait to get paperwork in order, schedule health checkups, or start that project you’ve been dreaming about.

Final Thoughts

Longevity is a gi , but it’s also a responsibility — to ourselves and to those who love us. e choices we make today shape the life we’ll live tomorrow. So let’s move more, laugh o en, eat well, and stay connected. A vibrant, purposeful life doesn’t just happen — it’s created, one day at a time. And there’s no better time to start than now.

A Joyful Mindset Can Lead to a Longer Life

BY STACY SAWYER DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING FOR HAMILTON COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK

When we talk about living longer, most of us think of eating better, exercising more, and keeping up with doctor visits. But what if joy itself—the simple, everyday moments that make us smile—was just as important to our health as diet and exercise?

“Joy isn’t just an emotion; it can be medicine for the mind and body,” Albert Ujkaj, MBA, LMSW, director of behavioral health at Hamilton Community Health Network said. “When people commit to creating joy in their lives, they reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and improve overall well-being. That combination has a powerful effect on longevity.”

Regular visits with your primary care provider are essential, but a positive outlook makes a real difference. Research shows that people with an optimistic mindset are significantly less likely to develop heart disease. Strong social connections can even extend life expectancy by up to a decade compared to those who are isolated. Studies reveal that healthy friendships and meaningful relationships

can increase lifespan as much as quitting smoking.

“It’s incredible to think that something as simple as laughter, gratitude, or spending time with people you love can have the same impact on your body as major lifestyle changes,” Ujkaj said. “We shouldn’t underestimate the power of our mindset.”

Joy doesn’t just come from what we add to our lives—it o en comes from what we let go of. Releasing constant worry helps the body relax and heal, whether through prayer, deep breathing, or a short walk. Letting go of comparison is just as powerful. In a world of endless scrolling, shi ing from envy to gratitude creates a lighter heart.

When we stop overcommitting, we make space for rest, creativity, and connection—sometimes something as simple as trading ten minutes online for a meaningful call with a friend. Forgiveness also plays a key role. As Ujkaj reminds us, “Forgiveness isn’t about excusing someone else; it’s about freeing your own heart to feel joy again.”

Cultivating a joyful mindset doesn’t require a major overhaul. Small, intentional habits

can make a real di erence. A grandmother dances with her grandkids in the kitchen whenever her favorite Motown songs are played. A local teacher spends ve minutes each morning writing down one thing she’s grateful for before heading to school. One of Hamilton’s patients shared that his weekly game of dominoes keeps him “young at heart.”

These aren’t grand gestures— they’re simple choices that add up over time.

e good news is that joy is something we can all cultivate, regardless of age or circumstance. Whether it’s through music, time with loved ones, giving back to the community, or simply noticing the beauty of a sunrise, joy is one of the most accessible tools we have for long, healthy living.

As Ujkaj puts it, “Joy is not just a byproduct of a good life— it’s the foundation of one. When you make room for joy, you’re also making room for a longer, healthier future.”

While joy is something we can nurture on our own, the weight of stress, anxiety, or depression can make it di cult. at’s where support makes a di erence.

Hamilton Community Health Network o ers mental health services for children, teens, and adults at all of its clinic locations. Anyone can schedule counseling sessions and receive support for concerns ranging from everyday stress to more serious mental health conditions.

Appointments can be made by calling 810.406.4246 or visiting HamiltonCHN.org.

The next time you think about your health, remember your mental health too. Your moments of joy might just add years to your life.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUR FAMILY

For many people, the process of cremating a loved one is a mystery. At Swartz Funeral Home, our ten-step process guarantees that your loved one is well cared for at all times.

1. CODE OF ETHICS

We adhere to a strict code of ethics and procedures while your loved one is in our care. We only use Genesee Cremation Center, a member of the Cremation Association of North America, who we know and trust to uphold these ethical standards.

2. SAFEGUARDING PERSONAL IDENTITY

A personal I.D. tag is placed on your loved one the moment they are transferred into our care.

3. UNIQUE TRACKING SYSTEM

Upon arrival at the crematory, your loved one is logged into a tracking system and assigned an I.D. number, which is stamped into a stainless steel tag to track every phase of the cremation process.

4. FAMILY IDENTIFICATION

Our staﬀ properly encases your loved one in the cremation container selected; then, we verify identity by comparing I.D. bands from the hospital or nursing home. In the case of a death at the family home, positive I.D. occurs when we arrive at the residence.

5. CHECKS & BALANCES

A crematory technician and licensed funeral director reviews all cremation paperwork and permits. Once all documentation is veriﬁed, the technician starts the cremation process.

6. CREMATION LOG BOOK

Immediately prior to the cremation process, your loved one is taken to the crematory and their personal I.D. is logged containing the name, date, I.D. number and crematory operator’s name. It is dated and initialed by a cremation technician before and after the cremation.

7. DURING THE CREMATION

The crematory checklist and I.D. card are placed on the outside of the cremation chamber during the cremation process. The metal I.D. tag is present in the cremation chamber during the process.

8. POST-CREMATION DETAILS

After cremation is complete, the remains are placed with the stainless steel I.D. tag into an urn. The I.D. card and cremation certiﬁcate are placed into our permanent ﬁles.

9. RETURN OF REMAINS

Our staﬀ will notify you to schedule a time for picking up the cremated remains.

10. CELEBRATION OF LIFE

To appropriately celebrate the life of your loved one, we assist you in planning a funeral or memorial service either before or after the cremation.

We are happy to answer any other questions you may have about our cremation process, and the commitment we have to every family we serve.

Harmonizing the Heart & Mind

Nourishing vagal tone and stress resilience through diet and practices

BY DR. SHAN JACKSON

Inan age where stress has become a chronic companion for many, understanding how our nervous system functions and more importantly, how we can support and regulate it has never been more crucial. Our nervous system is more than just the silent operator behind our heartbeat or breath rate; it’s the command center for our emotional, physical, and mental responses. By nurturing its regulation through intentional practices and nutrition, we can build resilience, enhance well-being, and cope with life’s challenges with more clarity.

The Autonomic Nervous System:

At the core of nervous system regulation is the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which

governs functions we don’t control intentionally exemplifying heartbeat, digestion, respiration, and more.

e ANS is of two types including:

• Sympathetic nervous system (SNS): e “ ght or ight” response, which activates during stress, fear, or danger

• Parasympathetic nervous system (PNS): e type of nervous system that works opposite to the SNS and promotes relaxation and healing

Optimal health and emotional balance require a smooth interplay between these two systems. However, many of us are stuck in chronic sympathetic activation, constantly feeling anxious, reactive, or burned out. is is the part where the vagus nerve and vagal tone conjoin.

The vagus nerve and vagal tone

e vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, acting like a superhighway of information between the brain, gut, heart, and other organs. It plays an instrumental role in regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. Vagal tone depicts how perfectly the vagus nerve can regulate the body’s stress response. Higher vagal tone means faster recovery a er stress, better digestion, improved heart rate variability (HRV), and greater emotional resilience. ink of vagal tone as the “ tness level” of your nervous system stronger tone equals better adaptability to life’s stressors.

Supporting vagal tone and nervous system regulation

Building vagal tone is possible with consistent, accessible practices. ese methods strengthen the vagus nerve’s signaling and promote parasympathetic activity:

Deep, slow breathing

Slow diaphragmatic breathing is one of the quickest ways to stimulate the vagus nerve. When you breathe deeply (especially with a longer exhale), you send a calming signal to the brain.

Cold exposure

Brief exposure to cold, such as splashing cold water on your face or ending a shower with cold water, activates the vagus nerve. Cold exposure stimulates the dive re ex, which lowers heart rate and increases parasympathetic activity.

Singing, chanting, and humming

The vagus nerve is connected to the vocal cords and muscles at the back of the throat. Singing, humming, chanting “om,” or even gargling can stimulate these areas and activate the vagus nerve. It’s one reason why vocal prayer or mantra practices can feel so soothing.

Meditation and mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness — being present in the moment — helps regulate emotions and reduce over-activation of the sympathetic nervous system. As per research, regular meditation has been shown to increase vagal tone, improve heart rate variability, and reduce in ammation.

Social connection and laughter

Safe, supportive social interactions stimulate the vagus nerve, especially those involving eye contact, touch, and laughter.

Movement and Yoga

Gentle movement practices such as yoga, tai chi, or walking improve the nervous system by synchronizing breath, movement,

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and awareness. Yoga particularly supports vagal tone through breathwork, stretching, and mindful awareness of the body.

Nutrition and the nervous system:

e foods we consume don’t just fuel our bodies they communicate with our nervous systems.

1. The gut-brain axis

e gut-brain axis is the connection of the gut to the brain via the vagus nerve. e microbiome trillions of bacteria living in our intestines produces neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which directly a ect mood and nervous system function. A healthy gut happily supports a healthy mind.

2. Nutrient-dense foods for vagal support

Certain nutrients play a direct role in supporting nervous system regulation:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, chia seeds, and walnuts) improve vagal tone and reduce inflammation.

• Magnesium (present in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds) supports relaxation and reduces muscle tension.

• B vitamins, especially BG, BU (folate), and B12, are essential for nerve health and neurotransmitter production.

• Probiotics and fermented foods (like yogurt, kimchi, kefir) support gut microbiota, improving mood and stress responses.

• Polyphenols (found in colorful fruits, green tea, and dark chocolate) act as antioxidants and can reduce oxidative stress in the brain.

3. Avoiding Nervous System Disruptors

Certain foods and substances weaken vagal tone and increase in ammation:

• Re ned sugars and processed foods lead to blood sugar crashes and gut dysbiosis.

• Ca eine and alcohol, when overused, can overstimulate the nervous system.

• Food intolerances, like gluten or dairy in sensitive individuals, may create chronic low-level stress on the body and brain.

Building Resilience: It’s a Lifestyle

Resilience is the nervous system’s ability to return to balance a er disruption. It’s not about eliminating stress but learning how to recover and restore calm. By incorporating vagus-stimulating practices and nourishing your body with whole, supportive foods, you’re building a toolkit for resilience one breath, bite, and moment at a time. is kind of nervous system care is especially vital in today’s world. Whether you’re facing trauma, burnout, emotional fatigue, or chronic stress, your nervous system is your anchor. It’s the part of you that remembers how to heal, how to restore, and how to thrive.

Conclusion:

Nervous system regulation is more than just a luxury; it’s a necessity for sustainable health and well-being. By consciously engaging in practices that strengthen vagal tone like breathwork, mindfulness, and connection, and aligning your nutrition to support gut and brain health, you can transform how you experience the world. Small daily shifts ripple into powerful change.

The path to a regulated nervous system is about perfection and its presence, patience, and deep care for the system that takes care of you.

HAP CARESOURCE CRIM FESTIVAL OF RACES

Downtown Flint | 8.21-23.2025

PHOTOS BY JOHN THOMAS AND MARK CORCORAN

The48th edition of this world class event brought tens of thousands of runners, walkers, spectators, volunteers, and community members to Downtown Flint.

e event hosted 10,185 athletes who participated in 10,641 event entries. Events included the historic 10-mile, 5-mile, 5K, Michigan Mile, Teddy Bear Trot, and bundle events such as the Crim Half Marathon (10-mile and 5K) and the Bobby Crim Challenge (all event distances).

Participants traveled to Flint from 410 Michigan cities, 38 states, and seven foreign countries. Entry numbers for every event surpassed those from 2023 and 2024, and the Crim anticipates continued growth on its “Road to 50” in 2027.

In the elite eld, both the men’s and women’s champions hailed from Michigan. Nathan Martin won the 10-mile race in 47:01, and Dot McMahan nished in 55:47.

In the men’s division, second and third place went to Andrew Bowman (MI, 48:40) and Drew Kolodge (MI, 48:52), respectively. In the women’s division, Jane Bareikis (IL, 55:52) and Anne-Marie Blaney (MI, 56:22) took second and third. Tom Davis was the winner in the hand-cycling division. Brandon Morgan, director of external relations at the Crim, said, “It was a true honor to see such massive crowds at the Crim Festival of Races this year. It truly takes the entire community to make this happen—corporate partners, safety o cers, volunteers, the Crim sta , and of course, the participants. ey are the ones who make this event what it is. We are already thinking about Crim49!”

e Crim’s next events include the 5K on the RUNway, hosted by Flint’s Bishop International Airport on October 4, and the Halloween Hustle 5K and Kids’ Trick-or-Trot, hosted by Genesee County Parks’ Crossroads Village on October 25. More information is available at crimraces.org

OCTOBER 2025

5, 11, 12, 18, 19

Accidental Astronauts at Longway Planetarium, 1310 E. Kearsley St., Flint from 1 to 1:45 p.m.

Stained Glass: Make & Take

Presented by Clio Center for the Arts at Clio Center for the Arts, Clio. Beginner friendly. Ages 10+. 6-9 p.m. Class fee $35 members; $45 non-members.Also, Oct. 16 at 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

6-20

Watercolor Painting

Presented by Clio Center for the Arts at Clio Center for the Arts, Clio. See clioart.net/ product/painting-with-watercolor-oct for tickets and details.

TAPROOT at The Machine Shop, 3539 Dort Hwy., Flint. 7-11 p.m. Price $25

Flint Community Conversation with Sen. John Cherry from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at The New McCree Theatre, 4601 Clio Rd., Flint.

Dixie Byway Car Show & Cruise

Classic car owners, gather with your classic car at Waypoint Church at 8:30 a.m. to begin the cruise at

9:30 a.m. to Mt. Holly Ski & Snowboarding Resort. The public can watch the cruise along the way. The car show is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

is the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement. Register for the event for free on their website and form a team with your family, friends or coworkers. Activity tents open at 8:30 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m. makingstrideswalk. org/flintmi. Email questions to ashley.wellman@cancer. org. DDA Flat Lot, 125 E. Kearsley St., Flint.

FIM Flint Symphony Orchestra: Heroic Re ections

Presented by Flint Institute of Music at The Whiting, Flint. Tickets start at $18.60 for Genesee County residents.

Matt FraserAmerica’s Top Psychic Medium

Presented by The Capitol theatre at The Capitol Theatre, Flint. Recommended for ages 18+. Tickets start at $40.20 for Genesee County residents.

18 Ghostbusters (1984) with Live Shadowcast

Presented by Flint Institute of Music at The Capitol Theatre, Flint. Rated PG. Tickets start at $18.60 for Genesee County residents.

Third

annual Storytelling Festival

Presented by the city of Fenton at the Fenton Community & Cultural Center, Fenton. An evening of laughter with Bill Lepp, Jeff Doyle and Sheila Arnold. 7-9 p.m. Cost: $20.

Third annual FREE Kids Storytelling Festival

Presented by the city of Fenton at the Fenton Community & Cultural Center, Fenton. Perfect for kids and adults alike. 2 p.m. Bring a blanket or chairs to sit along the Shiawassee River.

The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston

Presented by The Capitol Theatre at The Capitol Theatre, Flint. Family friendly. Tickets start at $22.60 for Genesee County residents.