on the town Magazine Volume 5 Issue 5 by onthetown Magazine

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from the editor.

s I watch the mid-October leaves drift gently down from the trees, my thoughts turn to the holiday season almost upon us, contemplating warm family gatherings and get-togethers with friends. But I am also reminded that there is more to this time of year than simply celebrating in that the holidays are excellent occasions for the giving of ourselves to others – a fact which, in turn, brings my thoughts to the notions of the philanthropy and good works of many in our area. To be philanthropic can mean many things and be translated into action through various charitable activities, but, in general, it involves people acting generously and benevolently, with compassionate and humanitarian impulses at the heart of their exercises. In this issue of onthetown Magazine, I’m thinking how appropriate it is to elevate the specific philanthropy of some in the Greater Flint Area in order to accentuate the season when altruism in some form is (or ought to be) at the forefront of our thoughts and actions. Thus our publication this time features various articles about philanthropic groups and organizations, along with actions taken by both businesses and government personnel -- all designed to make this city a better place in which to live.

The first category of our articles deals with ways in which child welfare is made prominent in various charitable ventures. And there are many organizations and institutions which we spotlight that have the well-being of kids at their very heart. For example, we include an article about a daycare for special needs children entitled “A Place for Grace,” as well as a story detailing the work Elga Credit Union does to deliver school supplies to those students (and teachers) who need them – in the form of a fundraiser called Pack the Truck. And, of course, the Downtown Flint Optimist Club always works to the benefit of children by supporting the many agencies and organizations in town which have specific missions of their own to help kids. One of those groups whose work is wellknown happens to be the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Flint which, with two different locations in the city, has as one of its projects a program promoting academic skills and character-building activities by offering kids a safe and challenging place to go after school. And finally, we include a piece on the Child Welfare Society of Flint, celebrating its 100th Anniversary Year by offering “$438,088 in grant money which is making a difference to a number of local non-profit organizations that focus on improving children’s lives,” according to President Rosanne Heddy. Along with all that charitable giving, a couple of other articles about institutions have as their defining feature the welfare of children at their core. The first involves Hurley Children’s Center which has recently opened for business at the Farmers’ Market in downtown Flint and which is currently offering pediatric medical services to children of families living in Flint and Genesee County. This venture represents a collaboration on the part of Hurley Children’s Hospital and the Uptown Reinvestment Corporation, operators of the market. Also there is a brief memoir,

entitled “The Rose Guthrie Effect” that recounts the long ago experience of a teacher just beginning her career -- portraying the impact that learning can potentially have on individuals. On a slightly different note, we offer an article on a new element that has been added to the annual Crim Race -- called The Jack Price Memorial Run – intended to celebrate how one man’s desire to “get back into shape” led to the inaugural event. We also include in our issue an interesting feature which details the educational and political odyssey of Flint’s Mayor Dayne Walling, explaining how he has been effective in his current position. And speaking of service while working in government, the piece on Raul Garcia, blight coordinator/manager for Flint, shows that with hard work and dedication, it is possible to make this city look good again. So I hope readers will derive inspiration from those people who labor in the service of others which onthetown Magazine has featured in this issue – for we know that without them…and all the others like them out there…this area would not be on the road to a resurgence as it seems to be these days. Philanthropy represents an important aspect of civic life, and we, at this publication, feel it helps to highlight those who are contributing to making things better for people in the Flint area -- because, of course, “charity begins at home.” Perhaps some our readers will even be moved to volunteer and become involved in giving back to the community in which they live – we certainly hope so. And until such time as we meet in some way to do good works together, we also trust that you all will… be seen, be heard, and, by all means, be onthetown! Michelle Blaisdell

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Financial Features //

VOLUME V ISSUE V

Cover - Keith D. Green

// INNOVATIVE RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS 12 WHY SHOULD EMPLOYERS BE AWARE OF THEIR EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT PLAN?

Jamie Westenbarger

// THE KEEPING YOUR MONEY SHOW & FOREST HILLS FINANCIAL INC. 16 KEEPING YOUR MONEY

Barnett Financial and Tax 18 SOCIAL SECURITY

The RHL Group 22 FROM MAIN STREET TO WALL STREET

ELGA Credit Union 23 BUILDING COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIP WITH SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Fred H. Hensler

// SAPPHIRE BLUE INVESTMENT PARTNERS, INC. 24 FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Pictured: 6Fred H. Hensler // Sapphire Blue Investment Partners, Inc.

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from the publisher. Now that fall has arrived, we may all be feeling invigorated by the cooler weather, amazing football games, and the wonderful color displays of Michigan trees. But as much as we can appreciate the autumn panorama, we also realize that the upcoming holiday season is just around the corner – with all the hustle, bustle, and excitement that is so much a part of our activities at this “Giving Time.” For that is, in part, what the holidays are about: giving to family and friends as we indulge in our many celebrations. So in keeping with that same spirit of giving, onthetown Magazine has produced an issue that shines a light on what many in the Flint and Genesee County community are currently doing to give back to others something of themselves…by aiding those in the area who may be in need in various ways, thereby accomplishing great and valuable things through effective organizations, governmental agencies, and businesses – all of which seek, via the efforts of many individuals, to make this locale a better place to live and work. I, myself, know what it is to volunteer as I support many charities and sit on the board of one, so I feel I can honestly say that, whether philanthropy takes the form of monetary contributions or the giving of one’s time and efforts, the results can be acts of making things better for others – involving, perhaps, working with people in a group setting to benefit those in need, holding a position in government to solve problems, or sponsoring, as a business, various activities for the good of the community and its citizenry. It may even involve cleaning up areas of the city so that they become productive and desirable places to inhabit once again. For whatever form philanthropy, as well as its many charities in Flint and the surrounding communities takes, it provides an indication of the character of the people who live here… that they are willing and able to go out of their way for others. I tend to think we measure up rather well on that score. And so, readers, as the season of giving approaches, perhaps you may, after reading through our many articles in this issue, decide to give of yourselves in some capacity as you derive your inspiration from what others are doing in and around Flint and Genesee County. If you do, then onthetown will have also helped in a way by highlighting the dedication and generosity of some of our citizens in the area. And until the new year arrives, I wish you the best the coming season has to offer – especially in the sense of that wonderful giving spirit…for in giving to others, we also enrich ourselves. Kimberly Gray, Publisher

W W W. O N T H E TO W N L I M I T E D. C O M

EDITOR IN CHIEF Michelle Blaisdell COPY EDITOR Martha Hamp MANAGING EDITOR Michael G. Thodoroff LEAD DESIGN Archetype Design Studio LAYOUT Chelsea Mills - Behind Your Design Julie Erdman - jedesigns

CONTRIBUTORS Wendy Byard Ilse Hayes Kellie McCarty Meredith McGahn Chelsea Mills Tara Moreno Rich Reed Paul Rozycki Lisa Szukhent EVENT SPREADS Chelsea Mills-Behind Your Design

MANAGER Laura Ulman

COVER Chelsie Cantin-Vivid Imagery

SALES Debby Molina Allison Joslin Floyd Evens Chelsea Mills Mark Novak

PHOTOGRAPHY Chelsie Cantin-Vivid Imagery Joel Hart Debby Molina Tara Moreno

SUBSCRIPTIONS MAIL A CHECK OR MONEY ORDER FOR $12.00 FOR SIX ISSUES GENERAL INFORMATION (810) 584-7006

PUBLISHED BY Kimberly Gray Global Network Publishers, LLC P.O. Box 121 Grand Blanc, MI 48480 publisher@onthetownlimited.com Phone: (810) 771-3131 Fax: (810) 584-7013

If you haven’t had the 401(k) you offer to your employees independently reviewed ...

5 REASONS YOU SHOULD: • Department of Labor hires new investigators • New worlds, new rules, new penalties • Supreme Court Rulings on 401(k)s • Are you a fiduciary? • You have your own company to run For a F R E E comprehensive, independent review C O N T A C T:

Jaime Westenbarger Forest Hills Financial Inc. | President/CEO 888.98.MONEY | Jaime@myfhf.com

“ HE L PI NG YO U K E E P W HAT Y OU E A R N E D ”

Securities offered through First Allied Securities, Inc. a Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through First Allied Advisory Services, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.

Contents //

VOLUME V ISSUE V

Food & Drink 26 FLIPPING THE BIRD AND OTHER THANKSGIVING MISADVENTURES

Retail 28 SEASONAL SURVIVAL TIPS: KEEPING HARMONY IN YOUR HOLIDAYS 30 6 WAYS TREASURE BASKETS CAN MAKE YOUR GIFT GIVING EFFORTLESS YEAR-ROUND 32 ONLINE SHOPPING: WITH CHRISTMAS A MONTH AWAY, ONLINE SHOPPING IS AT ITS PEAK

Be Seen 33-46 COMMUNITY EVENT PHOTOS

Community 48 A FLINT ICON IS BACK IN ACTION BETTER THAN EVER! 50 DAYNE WALLING: FROM FLINT TO OXFORD AND BACK

52 BLIGHT ELIMINATION = BRIGHT FUTURE 55 CERTIFIED TOURISM AMBASSADORS 79 THE INAUGURAL JACK E. PRICE MEMORIAL RUN

Education 56 MCC ENTREPRENEURIAL CERTIFICATE PROGRAM JUMPSTARTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY 58 THE ROSE GUTHRIE EFFECT

Philanthropy 60 THE CHILD WELFARE SOCIETY OF FLINT: 100TH ANNIVERSARY MEANS MORE FUNDS FOR KIDS 66 THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER FLINT FOR KIDS 68 WHALEY CHILDREN’S CENTER GIVES THE SMALLEST TRAUMA SURVIVORS HOPE FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE 70 ST. CECILIA SOCIETY: "MUSIC SOOTHES THE SOUL"

72 EVER THE OPTIMISTS - THROUGH HELP AND HOPE, THE DOWNTOWN FLINT OPTIMIST CLUB CREATES A BETTER WORLD 74 A PLACE FOR EVERY CHILD A PLACE FOR GRACE OFFERS DAYCARE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS 78 NURTURING PHILANTHROPY IN GENESEE COUNTY

Culture 76 MICHIGAN LEGISLATIVE HISPANIC CAUCUS NOW IN SESSION

Medical

64 HURLEY CHILDREN’S CENTER OPENS AT FLINT FARMERS’ MARKET 62 KEEPING CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME

I’M MAKING STEPS TOWARDS A

BRIGHTER

FUTURE WHERE THE BEST EDUCATION IS

RIGHT HERE.

AT MOTT, MY LEARNING IS DESIGNED TO GO

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM,

REACH MY COMMUNITY,

REAL WORLD.

AND HELP ME APPLY IT TO THE

MOTT. MY PATH TO EXCELLENCE.

FEATURE

[KEITH D. GREEN ] OF INNOVATIVE RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS WAS RECENTLY RECOGNIZED BY FINANCIAL TIMES AS A 2015 TOP 401 RETIREMENT PLAN ADVISOR FOR THEIR LEADING EDGE COMPETENCY, VISION AND DEDICATION TO WORKPLACE RETIREMENT PLANS.

Why Should Employers Be Aware of Their Employees Retirement Plan?

[

]

MID-MICHIGAN FIRM STAKES CLAIM AMONG COUNTRY'S ELITE

BY CHELSEA MILLS

eadquartered in Linden, Michigan, Innovative Retirement Solutions is one of very few financial services firms dedicated exclusively to workplace retirement plans. With no product affiliation, Innovative Retirement Solutions not only reinvented the relationship between employer and advisor, but also did so by word of mouth, with no product sales or hidden revenue.

Keith graduated from Grand Blanc High School and went onto receive a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Michigan State University. As most young graduates do, Keith decided to move away and ended up landing a job in Troy at an insurance firm. Keith immediately recognized they had a gap in their service portfolio and spearheaded the development of their 401k program. In 1993, Keith decided to start his own business, in 1999 he took over management of a 17-advisor firm in Farmington Hills and in 2006 when he had started his own family he realized he wanted to move back home to Genesee County. “I wanted to move back home to be near our immediate and extended family. I also wanted to be close to the kids schools so I could be part of all their important events.” Keith explained. “I never miss an event, whether it be to chaperone on a field trip, classroom party, dance recital, cheer competition or baseball game.” The dedication Keith gives to his family is also a consistent theme in his business and his community. Keith served as the 2014 Chairman of the Board for the Fenton Regional Chamber of Commerce and has also been part of the growing development in Fenton and Linden. When Ed Koledo, superintendent of the Linden Community Schools and Chamber Board member, suggested bringing a Gus Macker to Linden, Keith was on board and served on the leadership committee for the Gus Macker event. “I like the fact that Genesee County is a slower pace compared to the Detroit suburbs and it also allows me to build relationships with the schools and community leaders.”

FEATURE

Keith is the Lead Business facilitator for the Fenton Regional Chamber program, Boys and Business, which is an entrepreneurial workshop for local area high school juniors and seniors. He is also the chair of the Business Development committee working to help create services in the chamber that local businesses can utilize. All of these community events Keith is involved in has allowed him to create professional relationships with local companies that respect and understand Keith’s way of doing business. “100% of my business is solely based on referrals,” Keith explained. “We do things a little differently than some of our competitors and our clients really appreciate that. This has allowed Innovative Retirement Solutions to grow through word of mouth.” The industry is ever changing and Keith was one of the first advisors to go fee based 15 years ago. He also has the ability to communicate the plan with the investor, controller and trustees of the company before he educates and assists in enrolling the participants. Keith has the ability to identify plan expenses and offer ways to manage them without making sacrifices to the plan. Often times it’s not the plan provider that needs to be changed, it’s the fund options, expenses and education of the participants that will lead to greater participation and a successful plan. “When I started 25 years ago the big question everyone wanted to know was if you had an 800 number and if they could add an investment account,” Keith stated. “Today the definition of a good 401k plan is measured by the amount of how many participants are on track to retire. So this is what we focus on for our clients.” Evolving out of a larger corporate structure, Innovative Retirement Solutions has the in-depth industry experience of a large established firm but without the inherent conflicts of interest that plague most firms. This conflict free business model has led to rapid company growth. Some additional factors that have led to the rapid growth of Innovative Retirement Solutions unique approach include:

• White House and Department of Labor consideration of new fiduciary rules; • Growing complexity around the administration of Corporate Retirement Plans; • Increased appetite for conflict-free, customized retirement plans; • Offering the clearest Fee Disclosure documents; • Early adoption of sophisticated new technologies that increase service; • Not accepting hidden revenue, at a time when employers have to answer for it; and, • Newer, complex types of retirement plan design features coming to smaller employers. Innovative Retirement Solutions has clients with branches or offices all over the country, and because their goal is to educate every employee on their retirement plan options, they travel to the different branches to meet with the individual participants. A well-known car dealership in Fenton is one of their local clients and a team member from Innovative Retirement Solutions is there when the have a new hire orientation or have someone with questions about their 401k plan. Since Innovative Retirement has taken over the plan with this car dealer, they were able to grow the plan participants from 20 to 65 people in the first year. “The biggest asset of any business owner is their business. Business owners can’t afford to have employees who are not on track to retire. I show my clients a different perspective of what not having a good 401k plan for their employees could look like. Having a 401k strategic plan to bring in knowledgeable and good employees ultimately benefits all parties.” Keith explained. Proposed new government legislation could potentially mandate employers have

• Just 13% of Americans are very confident they will have enough money to retire comfortably.1 • One in seven middle-aged adults is providing financial support to both an aging parent and a grown child.2 • If you and your spouse are already 65, there's a 62% chance that one or both of you will live to age 90.3 With people living longer and our financial environment growing ever more complex, planning for a bright, secure retirement may seem daunting. At Innovative Retirement Solutions we believe it doesn't have to be. 1 "2013 Retirement Confidence Survey," March 2013. Employee Benefits Research Institute. 2 "The Sandwich Generation," January 2013. Pew Research Institute, Social and Demographic Trends. 3 Annuity 2012 Mortality Table, Society of Actuaries Financial Times award for financial advisors managing at least $25 million in defined contribution (DC) plan assets where DC plans represent at least 20% of total AUM. They are graded on several criteria, including growth in DC plans and assets, plan participation rates, experience and industry certifications, and compliance record. Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

a 401k plan available for their employees. Employers could be liable and exposed to litigation if they have employees who are eligible for retiring and there was a 401k plan available, but the employees were never educated about the plan. “We make a point to ensure every employee is educated.”

"BUSINESS OWNERS CAN’T AFFORD TO HAVE EMPLOYEES WHO ARE NOT ON TRACK TO RETIRE. I SHOW MY CLIENTS A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE OF WHAT NOT HAVING A GOOD 401K PLAN FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES COULD LOOK LIKE. HAVING A 401K STRATEGIC PLAN TO BRING IN KNOWLEDGEABLE AND

Keith shared that during the education process the number one question from every employee is ‘How much money do I need to retire?’ As part of their Work Site Financial Solutions program, LPL has programs in place which assists the participants with a multitude of things from assisting with rollovers from previous employers, advice on investments, creating retirement goals and strategic planning. The biggest advantage Innovative Retirement Solutions has is that they are completely independent. They have access to service providers such as: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Alliance Bernstein American Funds BlackRock Columbia Management Dodge & Cox Dreyfus DWS Federated Fidelity Franklin & Templeton Invesco Janus Inveso Janus John Hancock JP Morgan MFS Oppenheimer PIMCO T.Rowe Price Vanguard

Innovative Retirement Solutions is one of the National Plan Advisory Services dedicated exclusively to workplace retirement plans and those responsible for them. Innovative Retirement Solutions’ crystal clear, flat-fee or fee-based service models that strive to allow employers to right-size the objective work they crave and trust the advice they’re given. Innovative Retirement Solutions helps improve workplace retirement plans by not selling anything and instead supporting plan governance, retirement readiness, and other Advisor Partners. Visit www.InnovativeRetirement. net for more information.

GOOD EMPLOYEES ULTIMATELY BENEFITS ALL PARTIES.” 15

FEATURE

Q: I am planning on moving my money from an Advisor I have used for over 13 years. I don’t really want to call and talk to him. Is it okay if I just send him a form letter or is there something else I need to do to move my money and accounts?

KEEPING YOUR MONEY

// With Jamie Westenbarger

CPG- Flint

Securities offered through First Allied Securities, Inc. a Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through First Allied Advisory Services, Inc. a Registered Investment Advisor. 16

A: CPG- We get this question a lot when we have new clients moving their accounts to us. I will answer your question two different ways. First, the company you are moving your assets to should be able to handle the transfers with some paperwork they can file. There are circumstances where this isn’t enough such as proprietary products or moving your personal 401 (k) account, but in most instances, no contact is necessary. That being said, I will say on a personal note, if I were losing a client after 13 years, I would hope he or she would at least give me a phone call to let me know what had changed or why he or she was leaving. That’s a pretty long relationship to end by form letter, in my opinion. Q: I keep hearing from brokers that I should roll over my 401 (k) to an IRA when I leave my job. Is this a good idea? Jim P. Burton A: Jim, this is an excellent question and one that unfortunately doesn’t have a standard answer. There can be a number of reasons to leave your 401(k) where it is and a number of reasons to move it to an IRA of your choosing. The best thing I can recommend

is that you look at all of the pluses and minuses of each situation to decide what is going to be best for you in the future. For example, if you have a really inexpensive plan from a large company, it may be best to stay in low cost investments available to you. Alternatively, if you have a plan with very few investment choices, it may be beneficial to you to look elsewhere. Many companies allow you to roll over your old plan to their 401 (k) as well. So if you are not retiring but are switching jobs and plan to contribute to a new 401 (k) at your new employer, it may be something to consider to just move the old plan to your new plan. IRAs and 401(k)s, although treated similarly by the IRS, do have different provisions that should be considered before any move is made. It would be best for you to get personal advice for your particular situation by an independent financial advisor and possibly a CPA to determine any possible tax implications. Things like existing loans can also have an impact on what you wish to do. Professional advice is very important. It is even more important to make sure the money you’ve worked so hard to save is not lost because it was transferred incorrectly or to the wrong type of account. If you have a question for Jaime, you can reach him at Info@keepingyourmoney.com For general informational purposes only. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific professional financial advice.

FEATURE

SOCIAL SECURITY

ocial Security Income Planning is a key part of Retirement Planning. If you are like most Americans, you will depend on your Social Security benefit for a portion of your retirement income. Determining what that amount will be will help you design your retirement plan and help you position your other income that will come from pension (if you have one) and your invested assets. Social Security is one of the largest, and frequently a significant part of a person’s retirement income plan. While various aspects of your Social Security benefit may seem out of your control, there are many things you do have control over that can affect the amount of your monthly benefit. There are many aspects of Social Security that you have no control over. You don’t control how much you put into it, and you don’t control what it’s invested in or how the government manages it. However, you do have control over when and how you file for benefits. The real question about Social Security that you need to answer is, “When should I start taking my benefit?” While this is the all-important question, there are a couple of key pieces of information you need to track down first.

Before we get into a few calculations and strategies that can make all the difference, let’s start by covering the basic information about Social Security which should give you an idea of where you stand. Just as the foundation of a house creates the stable platform for the rest of the framework to rest upon, your Social Security benefit is an important part of your overall retirement plan. The purpose of the information that follows is not to give an exhaustive explanation of how Social Security works, but to give you some tools and questions to allow you to understand how Social Security affects your retirement and how you can prepare for it. LET’S START WITH ELIGIBILITY. Eligibility: Understanding how and when you are eligible for Social Security benefits will help clarify what to expect when the time comes to claim them.

To receive retirement benefits from Social Security, you must earn eligibility. In almost all cases, Americans born after 1929 must earn 40 quarters of credit to be eligible to draw their Social Security retirement benefit. In 2013, a Social Security credit represents $1,160 earned in a calendar quarter. The number changes as it is indexed each year, but not drastically. In 2012, a credit represented $1,130. Four quarters of credit is the maximum number that can be earned each year. In 2013, an American would have had to earn at least $4,640 to accumulate four credits. In order to qualify for retirement benefits, you must earn a minimum number of credits. Additionally, if you are at least 62 years old and have been married to a recipient of Social Security benefits for at least 12 months, you can choose to receive Spousal Benefits. Although 40 is the minimum number of credits required to begin drawing benefits, it is important to know that once you claim your Social Security benefit, there is no going back. Although there may be cost of living adjustments made, you are locked into that base benefit amount forever.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US AT 1-800-425-7044. 18

Primary Insurance Amount: You can think of your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) like a ripening fruit. It represents the amount of your Social Security benefit at your Full Retirement Age (FRA). Your benefit becomes fully ripe at your FRA and will neither reduce nor increase due to early or delayed retirement options. If you opt to take benefits before your FRA, however, your monthly benefit will be less than your PIA. Furthermore, waiting until after your FRA to access your benefits will increase your benefit beyond your PIA.

HERE IS THE FRA CHART:

Full Retirement Age: The FRA is an important figure for anyone who is planning to rely on Social Security benefits in their retirement. Depending on when you were born, there is a specific age at which you will attain FRA. Your FRA is dictated by your year of birth and is the age at which you can begin your full monthly benefit. Your FRA is important because it is half of the equation used to calculate your Social Security benefit. The other half of the equation is based on when you start taking benefits.

Year of birth

Full Retirement Age

1943-1954

1955

66 and 2 months

1956

66 and 4 months

1957

66 and 6 months

1958

66 and 8 months

1959

66 and 10 months

1960 or later

67*

Maximizing your benefit doesn’t necessarily mean getting the largest monthly payment. To do that, you simply wait until your age 70. Maximization means getting the most money you can over the course of your retirement years. It is not an easy task because a married couple has more than 500 options to decide upon just for when they elect to start receiving benefits.

THE COST OF WORKING IN RETIREMENT. If you file for your benefit early (age 62 – Full Retirement Age) and continue working, you could lose: Lower Threshold (2015): The SSA withholds $1.00 of your benefit for every $2.00, or earnings in excess of $15,720 ($1,310/month), until you reach full retirement age. Higher Threshold (2015): In the year of Full Retirement Age, $1.00 in benefits will be lost for every $3.00 of earnings in excess of $41,880 (applies only to months of earnings prior to full retirement age). Once you reach Full Retirement Age, your benefits will no longer be subject to those reductions. You can earn as much as you want… Penalty Free.

When Social Security was initially set up, the FRA was age 65, and it still is for people born before 1938. But as time has passed, the age for receiving full retirement benefits has increased. If you were born between 1938 and 1960, your full retirement age is somewhere on a sliding scale between 65 and 67. Anyone born in 1960 or later will now have to wait until age 67 for full benefits. Increasing the FRA has helped the government reduce the cost of the Social Security program which pays out more than a half trillion dollars to beneficiaries every year!* While you can begin collecting benefits as early as age 62, the amount you receive as a monthly benefit will be less than it would be if you wait until you reach your FRA or surpass your FRA. It is important to note that if you file for Social Security benefits before your FRA, the reduction to your monthly benefit will remain in place for the rest of your life. You can also delay receiving benefits up to age 70, in which case, your benefits will be higher than your PIA for the rest of your life.

Understanding how to maximize your Social Security benefit can also help you prevent the need for working after you retire. In some cases, people may either need or want to work after retiring from their primary employer. The challenge is that the Social Security Administration (SSA) penalizes retirees between age 62 and their full retirement age (65 – 67, depending on your birth year) who earn money from working while collecting Social Security

FEATURE

they are simply under-informed about Social Security. Perhaps they make this major decision based on rumors and emotion.

ROLLING UP YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY: Your Social Security income “rolls up” the longer you wait to claim it. Your monthly benefit will continue to increase until you turn 70 years old. But because Social Security is the foundation of most people’s retirement, many Americans feel that they don’t have control over how or when they receive their benefits. As a matter of fact, only 4 percent of Americans wait until after their FRA to file for benefits! This trend persists, despite the fact that every dollar your Social Security income increases, the less money you will have to spend from your nest egg to meet your retirement income needs! For many people, creating their Social Security strategy is the most important decision they can make to positively impact their retirement. The difference between the best and worst Social Security decision can be tens of thousands of dollars over a lifetime of benefits… In some cases hundreds of thousands of dollars. DECIDING NOW VS. LATER: Following the above logic, it makes sense to wait as long as you can to begin receiving your Social Security benefit. However, the answer isn’t always that simple. Not everyone has the option of waiting. Many people need their Social Security as early as possible. In fact, nearly 50 percent of 62-year-old Americans file for Social Security benefits. Why is this number so high? Some might need the income. Others might be in poor health and don’t feel they will live long enough to make FRA worthwhile for themselves or their families. It is also possible that the majority of folks are taking an early benefit at age 62 because

So if you decide to wait, how long should you wait? Lots of people can put it off for a few years, but not everyone can wait until they are 70 years old. Your individual circumstance may be able to help you determine when you should begin taking Social Security. If you do the math, you will quickly see that between ages 62 and 70, there are 96 months in which you can file for your Social Security benefit. How do you determine where the sweet spot is that maximizes your benefits over your lifetime? You can further customize that information by estimating your life expectancy based on your health, habits and family history. If you can then create an income plan that helps you wait until the target date for you to file for Social Security, you can optimize your retirement income strategy to get the most out of your Social Security benefit. While you can and should educate yourself about how Social Security works, the reality is you don’t need to know a lot of general information about Social Security in order to make choices about your retirement. What you do need to know is exactly what to do to maximize your benefit. Social Security benefits represent over 40 percent of the income of the average retiree in the United States. For many people though, it can represent the largest portion of their retirement income. Not treating your Social Security benefit as an asset and investment tool can lead to sub-optimization of your largest source of retirement income. JUST A FEW TYPES OF SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS: • Retired Worker Benefit. This is the benefit with which most people are familiar. The Retired Worker Benefit is what most people are talking about when they refer to Social Security. It is your benefit based on your earnings and the amount that you have paid into the system over the span of your career.

• Spousal Benefit. The Spousal Benefit is available to the spouse of someone who is eligible for Retired Worker Benefits. What if there was a way for your spouse to receive his or her benefit for four years and not lose the chance to get his or her maximum benefit when he or she turns age 70? Many people do not know about this strategy and might be missing out on benefits they have earned. • Survivorship Benefit. When one spouse passes away, the survivor is able to receive the larger of the two benefit amounts. • File and Suspend. This concept allows for a lower-earning spouse to receive up to 50 percent of the other’s PIA amount if both spouses file for benefits at the same time. • Restricted Application. A higherearning spouse may be able to start collecting a spousal benefit on the lower-earning spouse’s benefit while allowing his or her benefit to continue to grow. IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT: • How can I maximize my lifetime benefit? By knowing when and how to file for Social Security. This usually means waiting until you have at least reached your Full Retirement Age. • Who will provide reliable advice for making these decisions? The Social Security Administration cannot provide you with advice or strategies for claiming your benefit. They can give you information about your monthly benefit, but that’s it. They also don’t have the tools to tell you what your specific best option is. BARNETT FINANCIAL AND TAX 8323 OFFICE PARK DRIVE GRAND BLANC MI 48439 810.695.7510

If you have $1,000,000 or more in investable assets and would like a fresh look at your financial portfolio, call RHL Group for a complementary review.

F RO M M A I N S T R E E T TO WA L L S T R E E T 115 Battle Alley | Holly, Michigan | 248.634.7720 | RHLGroup.us Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. a Broker/Dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., A registered Investment Advisor. RHL group and Cambridge are not affiliated.

Where public transportation goes, community grows!

old

neiGhborhood

Italian-American

Sorrentos Food & Spirits {est. 1972}

Our goal at Sorrentoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Food and Spirits is to bring that inviting feeling of the old neighborhood a little closer to your family. To be more than just a place to eat, but rather, a gathering place where you, your friends and family can slow down, enjoy a great meal and reconnect.

810.659.4351

2014 Best Restaurant in Genesee County

food . spirits . banquet . catering

G-6395

Customer Service (810) 767-0100 â&#x20AC;˘ www.mtaflint.org

west pierson rd.

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FEATURE

FEEL FREE TO CALL THEM TO DISCUSS YOUR FINANCIAL PLANNING AND INVESTMENT NEEDS AT 248-634-7720.

From Main Street To Wall Street BY TARA MORENO

he RHL Group is ready to help answer your financial questions and improve your financial well-being. With over 100 years of combined experience, the RHL Group has both the experience and knowledge to help you or your business get financially fit. Owner Randy Redmond says the group specializes in family-run businesses, retirees, and professional men and women with $1 million or more in investable assets. Their focus is in wealth management, estate and charitable planning. Nestled in the heart of quaint Holly, Michigan, their motto is “From Main Street to Wall Street,” and this family run gem is dedicated to serving their clients. “We are a family run business, like many of our clients,” says Randy Redmond. “My wife works here and my daughters all have worked here too. It’s been interesting to see how we’ve all come together.” Randy’s father, Tom Redmond, also works alongside him. He was the first to get into the business of financial management over 50 years ago. Tom started out with a teaching background

but soon turned to the financial world. “I decided I wanted to go into the investment and insurance business. It seemed like a career with great potential. One of the things I like about it is that I get to meet so many interesting people, and they also have an opportunity to choose with whom they want to work." Randy, who also went to school for a degree in education, says financial management is not unlike teaching. “We were educated to be teachers, but we still teach, only this time it’s in financial concepts. We help clients understand how long their money will last, organize their financial affairs, and put strategies in place to help protect and grow their assets. Right now on the investment side of things, there is great opportunity to buy things on sale since the markets have been so volatile," he notes. The transition into financial planning was an easy one for both men. Although Randy did not work for his father, he went out on his own right after college to create his own success. And seven years ago, the two of them finally decided to join forces. The father-son duo found their business

Tom Redmund, Randy Redmund, Paul Puro

booming not long after the merger. That was also when a friend and colleague of Randy Redmond’s came on board. Paul Puro started working for RHL Group two years ago. Puro’s expertise rounded out the talents of the father-son team with a background that included insurance and working with securities. Puro brings the knowledge of a portfolio management program that is a big asset to the RHL Group. The program involves a method called Point and Figure Charting and is an integral part of what Puro does on a day-to-day basis. “We all have different styles, but we manage to mesh everything together to benefit our clients as far as investments go,” says Puro. “You’ve got personal trainers for physical fitness, and we are personal trainers for financial fitness.” The RHL Group is a Registered Representative, with securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Adviser, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge and RHL Group are not affiliated.

FEATURE

BUILDING COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIP

WITH SCHOOL SUPPLIES BY TARA MORENO

chool supplies can be a hefty expense, especially when a family struggles to make ends meet. Enter ELGA credit union. For the past 10 years, ELGA has been executing a fundraiser called “Pack the Truck.” Cheryl Sclater, ELGA’s Business and Community Development manager, decided to start the fundraiser because of the great need for school supplies. She says she also wanted to make sure that the supplies went straight into the hands of the children who needed them. “Who better to understand the child [who] is in need than the teachers? I need to make sure that these supplies are in the hands of the kids [who] needed them the most,” she says, compassionately. On one day in August the Burton Police, Burton Fire officials, local businesses, educators and the Michigan State Police spend 12 hours collecting donations. "It is overwhelming to see the [degree] of generosity that the public has when it comes to supporting children in the community,” says Burton Fire Chief Kirk Wilkenson. "It is also nice to know that the supplies collected at ELGA go directly to local schools so school administrators can make sure the kids who need the supplies get the supplies.” Eight schools in Burton, Flint and Grand Blanc are the recipients of the school supplies that include backpacks, markers, crayons, and so on. Sclater says that it is also important teachers have supplies too. “It’s not just the kids; it’s the teachers too. So many of these teachers reach down in their own pockets,” she notes.

A breakfast at ELGA marks the give-away where the principals and superintendents from each school meet. Each year different speakers are welcomed to the event to speak on the state of children welfare and education. One year Weiss Advocacy Center spoke on how to recognize the signs of child abuse. Despite the seriousness of some of the conversations, the room is like an explosion of school supplies. “The room is like Christmas, and the money that is collected…I put that money back in the community and buy those supplies,” says Sclater. So far $62,500.37 in school supplies have been purchased. Sclater asks herself after every year how to take the event to the next level. Although she and ELGA are helping the less fortunate, Sclater says “Pack the Truck” is more than about school supplies. “It’s about building relationships,” says Sclater. She shared a story about former Bentley Principal Matt Cortez who asked Sclater five years ago about shoes for kids. It was then that the fundraiser “Threads for Treads” was born. “Matt came to me and said the kids were going to school wearing flip flops all year long,” says Sclater. “When

two representatives from Mid-State Bolt and Screw heard that -- they jumped on board.” Sclater has been an enigma when it comes to her success in building community relationships. It’s an extraordinary gift that has helped thousands across the county. “ELGA credit union is boots on the ground, with its hands in the community. It’s touching people, and I am making a difference in their lives. It comes back around, and people want to do business with people who care. It is truly is about giving back and making a difference. It goes way beyond products and services to us,” says Sclater.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THEIR EVENTS, CONTACT ELGA CREDIT UNION AT 810-715-3542 2303 S. CENTER ROAD BURTON, MI

FEATURE

Sapphire Blue Investment Partners “WHERE MILLIONAIRES COME FOR INVESTMENT ADVICE” The Riddle:

The Solution:

Albert Coley is a fishmonger. He stands 5’ 10” tall in his stocking feet. He wears size 12 shoes and he takes size XXL in clothes. What does he weigh?*

In the world of investment management, just like the story of the fishmonger, all is not necessarily as it is perceived.

ne thing that has remained a constant is that investor’s most likely need the assistance of a professional asset manager to assist them in solving the investment riddle. Not a mutual fund or annuity sales person but an organization that assimilates mounds of research and distills that data into a formula that signals what to buy, what to sell, when to buy it and when to sell it. You would likely not attempt to perform open heart surgery yourself nor would you fill a decayed tooth, you would engage the services of a doctor or dentist. You wouldn’t likely defend yourself in court, nor would you attempt to fly an airliner unless you were educated, experienced, and really good attorney or pilot, so doesn’t it make sense to use a professional when managing your life savings. I believe everyone reading this would agree that in any of the aforementioned cases you should

have a professional leading the way. The problem is: where do you find said expert? A doctor or dentist must complete years of study, training, and recovery before being allowed to practice medicine. An attorney must have studied for years, pass a grueling bar exam and be admitted to the state bar before being allowed to practice – an airline pilot needs massive training and thousands of hours in the cockpit to become eligible to fly an airliner proficiently. Surprisingly there is little qualification needed to call oneself a financial advisor. You don’t need a degree, you don’t need education, and you don’t even need any experience. You do need someone to sponsor you, you can’t have been convicted of a felony, and you have to pass a test. That’s it, viola you now can be a financial advisor and collect fees and commissions for giving advice and selling investment products!

RIGHT VS. WRONG When I first became involved in the world of financial services the director of our firm came to me and gave me some sage advice. He said, “Fred, there are two ways you can succeed as a financial advisor. Option #1, whatever you do – make sure you do what is in the best interest of your clients. If you do so you will make a positive impact on the lives of others, you will make a good living, clients will become friends and friends will become clients. You will sleep well at night and have a rewarding career. On the other hand, you have the choice to do what is in the best interest of your own personal financial success: charging high commissions and fees, not offering a high level of service and basically being compensated as a commission oriented salesman.” My moral compass had already determined where I was going with my career and at that time I was suspicious that anyone would do differently.

I WAS WRONG Unfortunately, I found my suspicions to be wrong. Over the years I have met with people whose advisors were better sales people than money managers, it appears they went down the second path rather than the right one. They earned sizeable commissions with little perceived influence on the financial success of their clients. Frankly, I don’t know how they sleep at night. In some cases, they may not have been knowledgeable about the products they were selling, in some cases maybe they didn’t care. Whatever the situation, it’s unfortunate. As a society we are becoming more and more responsible for managing our own retirement. It’s imperative to have a good and knowledgeable and trustworthy counselor. The solution is simple, trust your instincts! If an investment sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If your advisor is giving you excuses like “well everybody lost money, or hang on the market will recover,” or it’s only a paper loss, it may be time for another advisor. If you hear a story like “invest in the stock market with no risk, stock market returns never lose money and there is no cost,” it may be time for another advisor. A recent study determined that people interviewed with a net worth of one million dollars or greater shared a common trait, 85% didn’t trust the banks, didn’t trust Wall Street, didn’t believe that their current advisor understood their needs or had their best interest in mind and would be willing to make a change if they only knew where to go. If you are a part of that 85% we could be the firm for you to switch to. Sapphire Blue Investment Partners is an award winning firm that coordinates the financial affairs of a select group of investors. We believe no financial decision should be made independent of another and work daily to make a positive impact on the lives of our clients. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss your personal financial situation. *By the way, Albert weighs fish. Sapphire Blue Investment Partners, “Where Millionaires come for investment advice”. Sapphire Blue Investment Partners, Inc. is an independent firm with securities offered through Summit Brokerage Services, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC

Advisory services offered through Summit Financial Group Inc., a

Registered Investment Advisor. Hensler and Associates Wealth Management, Hensler Aviation and Physicians Wealth Management are all divisions of Sapphire Blue Investment Partners, Inc. Each division of Sapphire Blue Investment Partners, Inc. is also independent of Summit Brokerage Services, Inc and all its affiliates.

FOOD & DRINK

FLIPPING THE BIRD AND OTHER THANKSGIVING MISADVENTURES

BY CHEF SEAN GARTLAND // CULINARY DIRECTOR; FLINT FARMER’S MARKET

over the surface of the turkey’s skin will aid in the transfer of heat from the air to the meat of the bird. As this occurs, the skin will act as a barrier and begin to brown in the initial stages of cooking. Never look your turkey in the eye -- one great way to ensure that the large, dense breast meat gets cooked evenly and that the skin achieves a mahogany brown color is to flip the turkey so that it faces the back of the oven. This is often the hottest place in the oven and the turkey will benefit from the high, even heat that is present towards the rear. As great as all of this might sound, you may want to eschew the formality of cooking and carving a whole turkey. Let’s face it, unless you are gathering your brood around the table in a ceremonial show of family unity, you are most likely not going to carve the bird at the dinner table. You are probably going to cut and platter all the meat up in the kitchen. If this is the case, cook your bird in quarters like you would a cut up chicken. This will allow you to remove pieces that cook faster than others before they dry out. Breasts, legs, thighs and wings all cook at different rates. So why cook them for the

or many a Thanksgiving host or hostess, the day’s celebration is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. All of the pomp and circumstance surrounding the family meal can be spoiled by a bad turkey. And for that fact alone, it is more important than ever to keep calm and cook on. Whether you pull out all the stops and purchase a heritage bird from your local butcher or if you are a Butterball faithful, the meal starts and ends with the turkey. If you do nothing else that day, make sure your bird is feastworthty by the time your friends and family surround the table.

Amazing as it seems, getting that Norman Rockwell picturesque turkey to the table is easier than you might think. Here are some great turkeytime tips to help you seal the deal: A dry bird is a happy bird- Before you commit your turkey to its final flight into the oven be sure to completely dry it off. Any excess moisture on the skin will create steam and possibly hinder any of the searing effects that are often achieved in the initial stages of cooking. Be sure to drain out as much of the liquid as possible in the turkey’s cavity as well. If you want it brown, rub it downRubbing a light coating of vegetable oil all

same amount of time as a whole turkey? Have your local butcher cut the bird up into quarters or do it yourself by allowing a good amount of time for the turkey to thaw completely before cutting and cooking. You can rest assured that the most avid of football fans will be napping on your couch by mid-afternoon, and no matter how your turkey turns out, it will undoubtedly be more appetizing than the on-field performance of our beloved Detroit Lions!

PRESENTED BY

NOVEMBER GAMES

Sat Nov 7 vs GUELPH 7:30 PM Scout Night

Sun Nov 8 vs OSHAWA 5:00 PM Family Night Skate with the players

Fri Nov 13 vs SARNIA 7:30 PM

ON SALE NOW!

Sat Nov 14 Sat Nov 21 vs SOO vs BARRIE 7:30 PM 7:30 PM Ladies Night

Sun Nov 22 vs ERIE 5:00 PM Family Night Skate with the players

Wed Nov 25 vs SAGINAW 7:30 PM College Night Drink & Food specials

CALL 810.744.0580 FLINTFIREBIRDS.COM 27

KEEPING HARMONY IN YOUR HOLI DA Y S

SURVIVAL TIPS

RETAIL

SEASONAL

BY LISA SZUKHENT

o many, the holiday season will have us embracing all that is shiney and bright. But, lets face it, with all the hustle and bustle you may find yourself channeling your inner Scrooge by mid December! Before you get too deeply into the turkey coma and “Fa La La’s,” here are a few quick tips to keep your season flowing a bit more smoothly this year.

Ann Taylor

Vineyard Vines

WHAT TO WEAR, WHAT TO WEAR With just one glance at your crazy holiday calendar, you’ll be wondering how you will survive one more eggnog soirée, not to mention the biggest question…what are you going to wear? This is a challenge, to say the least, both creatively and financially. But a fabulous holiday wardrobe can be made easy by changing something as simple as shoes or accessories. Any basic black dress can become a perfect festive holiday look just by your adding a little bling! A great statement necklace can give that holiday flash and a party-ready look. Or go for a great pair of shoes with a dressy vibe and you’re an instant desk-to-dinner success. Men, we can’t forget you! Bow ties speak volumes when it comes to dressing for the occasion. Look to a big favorite for holiday picks, Vineyard Vines, to “tie” your festive look together.

SJP Collection

A LITTLE "ME" TIME The first rule to surviving the holidays is to keep the engine running, and we aren’t talking the car. Try “gifting” yourself this holiday season. A local favorite indulgence of mine serves double duty during those busy seasonal months. Pure Bliss Salon & Day Spa, at the Gateway Center, offers a fabulous body treatment that will leave you not only feeling good, but looking good. The aptly named Little Black Dress treatment is a skin refresher that buffs and polishes, giving your cold weather skin a beautiful look. Add on a relaxation massage (men or women) or facial, and you’ll be refueled and ready to celebrate.

Chateau Grand Traverse Winery

NEVER ARRIVE EMPTY HANDED Party bound again? Another bottle of wine for the hostess? Of course you can never go wrong with an incredible bottle of wine; especially if you choose a fabulous Michigan vineyard selection. Michigan wines offer something for every connoisseur and are always a wonderful way to keep it local and Pure Michigan. Looking for something a bit different? A creative alternative is a simple cheese board put together yourself. Grab an assorted selection or a classic brie, pair with a package of festive or whimsical cocktail napkins, add a paté knife or spreader, and tie to a board or tray with ribbon or raffia. It's borderline Martha Stewart with a bit of Pinterest rolled into one...and sure to please! Another quick and budget-friendly option are ornaments. Hit one of the incredible gift boutiques around the area and pick up a few unique or handcrafted pieces. This is a nice option -- sure to be a welcomed alternative for any host or hostess to receive.

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING Oh, those malls during the holidays! By mid-December each one becomes known as “That Place” because simply uttering the word “mall” can cause instant anxiety. I’ve stumbled upon a fantastic alternative that combines the ease of gift cards and the spirit of charity, all in one, minus the mayhem of the mall.JustGive.org provides charity gift cards that you, the gift giver and gift receiver, customize. You choose the value, and your recipient chooses the charity when he or she redeems. With over two million charities to choose from, everyone will be feeling the Holiday Spirit! It is, after all, better to give than to receive.

Cheeseboard: Kohl’s

In reality the holiday season will always be a bit hectic, but hopefully, a few tips will find you breezing through it unscathed by your schedule, looking and feeling fabulous! Happy Holidays

RETAIL

Ways Treasure Baskets

Can Make Your Gift Giving Effortless Year-Round BY CHELSEA MILLS

In April of 1990, Debbie opened up in 800 square feet of retail ebbie Wittbrodt's inspiration for opening her gift space in the Grand Mall on Saginaw Street. Since she has been shop came to her back in 1986 when she needed to there, she has expanded three times and now has over 2400 square send something special to a close family friend out feet of retail space! of state and the only option available back then was to send flowers, and, before In August of 2015, Debbie opened a the internet and photos, you had to trust that second location at the Davison Farmers’ local florist would do a nice job. When you’re giving a gift to Market and has been approached to open “I thought, ‘There must be a better way someone, you want the gift to look two more locations in other cities in Genesee to send gifts’ and that is when I started really special and really put some County. “The last 28 years have been quite developing corporate gift baskets which thought into it. With everyone’s a whirlwind,” Debbie explains. “All our I delivered locally and shipped all over busy lives, we know that’s not children have worked in the store; I believe it the country,” Debbie Wittbrodt, owner of always possible, so Treasure teaches great customer service skills, inventory Treasure Baskets explains. Baskets can make that happen. management, bookkeeping, and organization, among many other great business and life So in October of 1987, Debbie started her – Debbie Wittbrodt skills. Small business owners have to do business in her home in Grand Blanc when everything.” Debbie laughs as she explains she had five young children and the youngest that, “The kids knew that once they got to high school, if they didn’t one was only 18 months old. Her husband Patrick, a GM executive, play a sport, they had to work here after school…all my children was very supportive and still is very involved with the business today. played sports in high school!” She grew so fast that she opened a storefront in 1988 in the old Water Street Pavilion in Downtown Flint where she operated until Business has continued to grow and two of her daughters, Bethany the building sold to U of M – Flint in 1990. Barcey and Sarah Wittbrodt, have stayed in the family business and

Some of the unique and affordable services Treasure Baskets provide are:

ONLINE STORE: In 2007, Treasure Baskets started selling online. This came from an increased demand from snowbirds who wanted to send Christmas and birthday gifts to family and friends during the winter months when they were residing in warmer states. Now Treasure Baskets has clients all over the country, many of whom have never visited the actual storefront!

GIFT GIVING SERVICE: Many businesses keep a list of important dates on file at Treasure Baskets for staff and family birthdays, important anniversaries and various holidays. We create custom gift baskets and deliver the gifts on the specified dates every year. Let Treasure Baskets take care of remembering for you!

PRIVATE PARTIES: Book Treasure Baskets after hours and host your own private party. Treasure Baskets will send out the invitations, provide the food and beverages and your guests will also receive FREE gift-wrapping that evening along, with special discounts for items purchased that evening. A great Girls Night Out!

Save-The-Date NOVEMBER 13-15

WIDOW'S WEEKEND NOVEMBER 21-22

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

are raising their own children while still working at Treasure Baskets. “It’s great to be able to be there in the evenings with my family and have a flexible schedule... but also for my son to experience helping in the store on the weekends and after school,” explains Sarah. “Plus, I get to work with my mom and sister and that is what really matters.” The store transforms into its annual Christmas Shop in November after Halloween. The Christmas Shop kicks off with Widow’s Weekend November 13th, 14th and 15th with special events and promotions all weekend long. Save-theDate for the Christmas Open House on November 21st and 22nd from 10 AM – 6

PM when you can sample food products, see product demos, and enjoy wine while you shop and receive FREE gift wrapping for all gifts purchased during the open house. “This is a great way to save money over the holidays. We run special promotions and have free gift wrapping, which can get very expensive. Plus, we make each of our beautiful gift bows individually, which is very important to me, because it adds that extra special element of class to each gift.” explains Debbie.

WEDDING SERVICES: Let Treasure Baskets add that special something to your wedding with Made-inMichigan Hotel Baskets for out of town guests, toiletry baskets for your reception, embroidery for custom gifts (robes, tote bags and more), and they are also an authorized retailer for Carlson Craft and Crane custom invitations.

TREASURE BASKETS

12821 Saginaw Road // Grand Blanc 10 AM – 6 PM // M-Tu-W-F & SAT 10 AM – 7 PM // Th 12 PM – 5 PM // SUN TREASURE BASKETS – TOO!

Davison Farmers Market 8110 East Court Street // Davison 8 AM – 6 PM // Tu-Th-SAT

www.TreasureBaskets.com (866) 694-9777 Toll Free

BEREAVEMENT BASKETS/ STATUES: Treasure Baskets has a beautiful selection of statues, stones and baskets that are inspirational and unique to send to the family in mourning. Just call to see the available items in stock as these items change often with the seasons.

CORPORATE GIFT GIVING: Holiday gift giving can be overwhelming for some businesses, so let Treasure Baskets alleviate some of the stress. Determine the budget and theme for your baskets, and they will make them on budget and beautifully hand-delivered (or shipped if out-of-state) on time to your clients, business associates, friends and family.

RETAIL

ONLINE SHOPPING WITH CHRISTMAS A MONTH AWAY, ONLINE SHOPPING IS AT ITS PEAK BY STEVEN ELKINS VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AT DIGITAL MEDICS WWW.DIGITALMEDICS.COM

ow do you shop? Need some help deciding? I think you will find this information very helpful for this shopping season. Shoppers are expected to spend around $279 billion in 2015 through E-commerce sites like Amazon and E-Bay. With advancing technology, new websites and apps, online shopping is becoming the most efficient and convenient way to find exactly what you're looking for. For those of you who still prefer to visit your favorite “brick-and-mortar” stores, - you don't have to worry. Online sales only accounts for about 10 percent of the retail market, up two percent from last year. Whether you are a master web shopper or still not quite comfortable with this new “fad,” here are some helpful tips to save you some time, frustration, and money. Convenience is the most appealing aspect of online shopping. Think about it; the Internet allows you to buy 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year from your phone, laptop, or even TV. You no longer have to be inconvenienced with a drive to the outlet mall to find the store you're looking for, to search the shelves for that particular item, and then to wait to check out. Imagine what you could do with all that free time! Netflix? One must-have tool for online shopping is Amazon Prime. The most notable benefit of your membership is free two-day shipping on eligible items - only to the contiguous U.S., of course. Being a last minute shopper like I am, Prime allows me to order a gift on Tuesday, have it wrapped, include a personalized message, and trust it will be delivered on Christmas Eve on Thursday. Obviously I’m not recommending you wait until the last possible moment to do your shopping, but technology sure does make it easy to procrastinate, doesn’t it? And free delivery isn't the only Prime membership perk. Instant Video gives you unlimited streaming of your favorites like HBO’s “The Sopranos,” and “The Newsroom,” as well as hundreds of movies. You can also enjoy music streaming, free eBooks, and even Amazon Prime Pantry items. Yes, you read correctly; you can even do your grocery shopping online. All of this, and then some for $99.00 per year. Another very helpful aspect of online shopping is product information. A survey conducted by Dimensional Research, discovered that 90 percent of customers buying decisions are influenced by online reviews. Most of us already use the Internet as a buying tool. Online shoppers can find product details, compare prices, and browse reviews and recommendations of other buyers, so whether you buy online or offline, you're making very informed decisions. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just days away, remember: get the details, pay by credit card, keep records, and protect your information. Happy shopping. 32

Online shopping is convenient and easy, but is it safe? The answer is yes, as long as you're taking the time to make sure your identity is protected. Your best protection against viruses, malware, and other threats is to have the latest anti-virus software, updated web browsers, and newest operating system. StaySafeOnline. org recommends the following tips to protect yourself when shopping online:

Check out sellers and make sure the site is legitimate: Look for the closed padlock on your web browser's address bar or a URL address that begins with shttp or https. Protect your personal information: Be alert to the kinds of information being collected to complete the transaction.

Use safe payment methods and keep a paper trail: Credit cards are generally the safest option, and, unlike debit cards, credit cards have a limit on the monetary amount you will be responsible for paying is compromised. Turn your computer off when you're finished shopping: Leaving your computer on gives scammers 24/7 access to install malware and commit cyber crimes.

Salvation Army Introduced New Captains of Youth Programs The Salvation Army of Flint introduced their new Captains and heads of the youth programs. Captain Caleb Senn and his Wife Captain Stephanie Senn previously with the Dearborn Heights location are more than pleased to take their new positions. “This is a job you have to love to do & I love it every day” say’s Captain Caleb. The youth program works with children in distress that for some reason cannot be with their parent or parents. The program gives the children a comfortable, safe environment to learn, play and just be a kid. This event was also in celebration of all the various charitable services the Salvation Army provides. For more information on the flint Salvation Army & their upcoming events please check out their website at: www.salarmygenesee.org

Davison Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing Congratulations to the proud winners of the Davison Area Chamber of Commerce 5th Annual Stars & Stripes Golf Classic. 1st place was presented to Stone Consulting, 2nd place Big Apple Bagels, 3rd place Old Newsboys. We thank all our Chamber Members that sponsored a hole; donated wonderful prizes and of course all the golfers that came out and participated in the outing making it a great success. A “Special Thank You” to Stewart Valley Insurance for sponsoring the “Hole-in-One” events. This gave our golfers an exciting opportunity to win a trip for two to the 2016 Masters Golf Tournament at the beautiful Augusta National Golf Club plus other marvelous prizes. We also thank Copper Ridge Golf Club for hosting the outing, Big Boy for providing a delicious breakfast for our golfers and Subway for furnishing a fabulous lunch. It was truly a great day on the links!

From left to right: Gene Boegner, Gary Elford | Chad Christian, Stephen Berlin, Tim Berlin | Harry Bachmann, Jeanne Bachmann, Denice Wagner, Terry Wagner | Marci Kapko | Mike Hotchkiss, Wesley Denny | Larry Chevey, Melanie Chevey, Tara Manwaring, Greg Manwaring | Adam Benda, Faith Birmingham, Michelle Aho, Derek Aho | 34 Talma McGee, LaDawn Hastings, Marci Kopko, Melanie Leix, Jack Miles, Chad Christian, Mike Gonzoles | Christie Gibson, Tim Jankowski | Dave Crutchfield, Gene Boegner

Grand Blanc New Pavilion Ribbon Cutting Grand Blanc Parks & Recreation Unveiled the new large pavilion & new Playscape at Creasey Bicentennial Park on Thursday, August 27. Festivities included networking a ribbon cutting ceremony, food and family fun! Visit gbparks.com for more information.

From left to right: Kae Eidson, Bob Brundle | Dave Hendry, Jet Kilmer, Carol Newmann | Kae Eidson, Bob Brundle, Micki Hoffman | Rebecca Clemons, Stephanie Creasey, John W. Creasey | Marie Heath, Jet Kilmer, Kim Turner, Dr. Nancy Kursik, Kirk Heath | Chris Hester, Jamie Weasel, Rob McRae

The Humane Society of Genesee County Ties & Tails “Spook”tacular Masquerade Ball Saturday October 10th, The Humane Society of Genesee County hosted Ties & Tails, “Spook”tacular Masquerade Ball! Located at the Riverfront Banquet Center in Downtown Flint. This event, where you can bring your dog for a “Dine with your Canine” experience, is a fabulous night on the town with a cocktail hour, a chef-prepared four course dinner and entertainment. One of The Humane Society of Genesee County’s major fundraising events. It also featured a live and silent auction with exciting packages!

Genesee Intermediate School District On August 31, 2015, nearly 1,700 individuals, all members of the GISD team, assembled at The Whiting Auditorium in Flint for its annual Fall Workshop. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme of Making Good Things Happen helped embody the extensive spectrum of services and programs GISD delivers in the region. Whether it is professional development for local educators, serving students with special needs, providing early childhood programs, transporting special education and career technical education students, helping young adults be college and career ready, or delivering highquality technology resources to the classroom, GISD is at work in our community. From left to right: Jerry Johnson, Lisa Hagel | David Hoover, Mike Panek, Valerie LaCarter, Tonya Williams | Madison Whitmore | Lori Grindstaff, Will Farkas | Transition Group & EKLC | Carrie Darling, Paula Kearney | Larry Ford, Brad Norman | Lauren Chom, Margaret Green | Kim Ryden, Mike Daugherty

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Hot Dogs & Hot Rods Downtown Flint, August 15 -- Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce Annual Member Appreciation Cookout Food, fun and festivities are the highlight, during Back to the Bricks! Free food from the grill catered by Blackstone’s Pub & Grill, on the lawn of the Wade Trim Building. Music provided by Groove Party Band. “A great Time had by all!” Tim Herman. www.flintandgenesee.org From left to right: Peter Fish, Adrienne & Scott Allen, Terry Christensen | Morgan Mikiczenko, Denise Faculak, Cindy Frohriep, Aliana Wiens | Jason Peart, Bobbi Jo Lucas, Tracy Fulton | Rachel Abdella, Karleigh & JoJo Goggins, JoAnne Herman | Tom Lillie, Dave Baker, Tom Shade, Kim Lindsay | Larry & Jane Worthing, Robert & Luella Sherman, Betty Walton | Louis Hawkins, Jowanne Carrigan, Arla Uhrig, Betty Deloach | Michael Cregar, Marge Murphy, Darci Racette, John & Lisa Hagal | Keith Kline, Tinsi Koske-Olds, Dan Crannie | Aerotek Flint Team

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1st Annual Hurley Pink Palooza Brickstreet Bar & Grill in Grand Blanc, Michigan -- Hurley’s Pink Palooza, celebrating life to bring aid to local women battling breast cancer. Proceeds benefit local women thru Hurley’s Breast Cancer Navigator. 100% of the proceeds star right here in our community!

From left to right: Lori Cranmore, Amanda LLold | Hurley’s Marketing Team | Melany Gavulic CEO, P.C. Shetty MD | Sonya Water, Fatima Walker, Sandra Deloach | Virginia Relerford, Marsha Schmit RN, Sherrisa Hayes-Powell | Grammie, Heidi Harvey, Patty Brown, Callene Wright | Sheila Smith, Jackie Jablonski, Diane Ragnone, Judy Webber, Patty Ragnone | Mandie & Fred Zerka, Dan & Debbie Monroe | Christine Kerns, JoAnn Rodriguez, Mary & Bryan Fork | Dr. Christine Kidwell, Carol Proffer | Laura Mulligan, Suzanne & Jeff Johnson, Crystal Demps

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     

KO Kidney Event The Universal Kidney Foundation hosted the “KnockOut Kidney Disease” on September 12th, located at Dort Federal’s Event Center, formally known as Perani Arena & Event Center. The event included a a live auction followed by celebrity exhibition boxing, which featured Andre Dirrell and Claressa Shields. The Universal Kidney Foundation, founded in 2008 was in response to the need for providing assistance to patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and kidney related illnesses in Flint, Michigan and greater Genesee County. And their mission to assist individuals in receiving needed services and resources, as well as educating patients and families about the effects of kidney disease, and bringing awareness to the public about kidney disease. Visit universalkidneyfoundation.org for more information. Rows across from left to right: Bernice Lawson, Lorraine Thompson, Erika Thompson | Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields ready to take on opponent at the event | Willa Talley, Dawn Flynn | Chris & Tracy Byrd | Judge Duncan Beagle, Joel Feick | Paul Matlock, Greg Burks | Mike White, John Asselin | Leon Lawson, Anthony Dirrell | Oakley Savickas receiving a boxing medallion from world known boxing referee Frank Garza | Mayor Dayne Walling and Former Heavyweight Champion Chris Byrd boxing at event

Taste of Grand Blanc Woodfield Country Club in Grand Blanc, Michigan -- On September 10, The Grand Blanc Chamber hosted the annual Taste of Grand Blanc, located at Captain’s Club at Woodfield. The event features food from local area restaurants, business vendors, a cash bar and live music. The Taste of Grand Blanc offers the opportunity for friends, families and community members to connect and network. For more information, visit GrandBlancChamber.com

Rows across from left to right: Chef Shawn Sprecksell, Stacey Riley, Carole Schultz - Warwick Hills | Marilyn Canan, Deb Peterson - Oliver T’s | Zack Liechti, Paula Banycky - Paddy McGee’s | Justin Wolf, Kaytlin Thauvette - Oaks At Woodfield | Bob Peterson, Tammt Moore, Katelyn Britton - Michigan’s Greatest Fudge | Bob Brundle, Bill Troesken, Bob Burek | Adam Jenric, Franklin A. Klauka, Ashley Hoops, Carl Spaniola - Captain Club at Woodfield | Micheal Bowmen, Jacob Johnson, Mark White - Regency of Grand Blanc

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COMMUNITY

A FLINT ICON

IS BACK IN ACTION BETTER THAN EVER!

he entire Flint community welcomed the much anticipated grand re-opening celebration of Kettering University’s Atwood Stadium on August 27th. The event “kick off” was held with several festivities featuring an open house for the public to see first-hand, the stadium’s new field turf, along with up-close opportunities through field goal kicking competitions, lawn games and other family-friendly field activities. Other festive events saw a parade featuring bands from Flint Northwestern and Beecher High Schools, with Congressman Dan Kildee, Mayor Dayne Walling, Ira Rutherford and other dignitaries joining in a march from Durant-Tuuri-Mott Elementary School at the corner of University and N. Chevrolet Avenue to the front entrances

of Atwood Stadium off University Avenue (formerly, Third Avenue). The official grand re-opening of the venerable Atwood Stadium was consummated by the football game between Northwestern and Beecher which included pre-game and halftime festivities, as well as a fabulous fireworks display after the game. It was only two years ago -- on Sept. 30, 2013 – that resolution documents were signed to transfer the stadium from the city of Flint to Kettering University. Kettering University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan, Genesee County Circuit Judge Duncan Beagle and Flint Mayor Dayne Walling signed the resolution dedicating Atwood Stadium in its new status as a permanent part of the Kettering University campus.

McMahan said the renovation and grand re-opening of Atwood Stadium on Kettering’s campus represents a significant milestone in the ongoing rebirth of the city of Flint. “We invite the entire community to join us in celebration of the amazing institution that is Atwood and to help us mark as a community the beginning of the next exciting chapter in the life of this legendary facility,” he added. Atwood Stadium, with an 11,000-seat capacity, located in downtown Flint’s historic Carriage Town district, originally opened on June 8, 1929 and was named after Edwin W. Atwood, who was elected Mayor of the City of Flint in 1920 and donated a portion of the site for the stadium. It has hosted boxing matches, UAW strikes, high school football, minor-league baseball,

as well as many concerts over the years. From 1930 through 1976, the Annual Football game between Flint Central High School and Flint Northern High School was played on Thanksgiving Day and drew attendance in the tens of thousands of people. The 1950 game drew a record standing-room only crowd of 20,600! Of note, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a speech at the stadium in 1936 as did then Senator John F. Kennedy who delivered a presidential campaign oratory in 1960.

"This stadium is a living monument to the fantastic accomplishments of generations of Flint's young citizens."

Originally Atwood Stadium had a natural grass field but in 1968 began using artificial turf. Atwood's turf was eventually ruled unsafe, leading to the stadium's closure in 1992. The stadium reopened in 1995 after $3.5 million in improvements, including a new artificial turf field. Earlier this year, the stadium continued its restoration by undergoing over two million dollars in renovations to the restrooms, press box, concourse, exterior and playing field, and is expected to host Powers Catholic, Flint Southwestern and Flint Northwestern high school football this year. Organizations in the Flint area, including the Ruth Mott Foundation, The Whiting Foundation, Sargent’s Title Company, the

Mike Zelly, Judge Duncan M Beagle

Wells Fargo Foundation, Rowe Professional Services and HealthPlus have significantly contributed to efforts to refurbish the stadium as well as a number of individual donors. Incidentally, both the Greater Flint Sports Hall of Fame and the Greater Flint Afro-American Sports Hall of Fame made key contributions to the cause. “The recognition of Atwood Stadium as a local treasure and asset is reflected by the fact that so many organizations and individuals are coming together to support these improvements,” says William S. White, chairman and CEO of the C.S. Mott Foundation.

President McMahan

Judge Duncan Beagle, chairman of the Atwood Stadium Authority board of directors added that Flint has a long tradition of producing athletes in nearly every sport and nearly all of these athletes spent time at Atwood during their youth. “This stadium is a living monument to the fantastic accomplishments of generations of Flint's young citizens," he says.

McMahan solemnly mentions Kettering University has a very important role to play in the revitalization of Flint and that the city of the Flint needs a vibrant and dynamic Atwood Stadium. He continues by noting, “Atwood is symbolic in so many ways of Flint, and it's a tremendous source of pride shared by the community as well as Kettering and its stakeholders. We are very excited about the future of Atwood Stadium and the role that it will play in the future of Flint and the university's potential to make a difference in the community.” Kettering University and the Friends of Atwood will continue fundraising to support other long-term improvements, maintenance and upkeep. For information about making a contribution to Atwood Stadium, contact Kettering University Advancement at (810) 762-9863 or John McGarry of the Friends of Atwood at (810) 762-9735.

COMMUNITY

Dayne Walling FROM FLINT TO OXFORD AND BACK BY PAUL ROZYCKI

hy would a Rhodes Scholar, who earned a degree at Michigan State’s prestigious James Madison College, received a Truman Scholarship and earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Oxford, as well as the University of London, return to Flint, Michigan, run for mayor, and wrestle with its myriad of problems? For Dayne Walling the answer is clear. “My roots are here. My family is here. My parents are here. And I feel that I owe a great deal to Flint and Flint schools which have given me so much. Even when I was at Oxford, I found the experience rewarding, but I still felt that I was very much grounded in Flint. I feel a strong commitment to Flint,” he says. In an

earlier interview, Walling cites Flint Central High School teacher Dick Ramsdell, his World Politics class, and the Model United Nations as being particularly influential in encouraging him to participate in public affairs. His parents were both educators, and he credits much of his lifelong interest in learning to them. Walling’s commitment to Flint was apparent when he created the Flint Club, an association that pulled together over 900 exFlint residents, who had scattered over many parts of the nation. He served as president and executive director of the group for five years. He was also the owner and manager of 21st Century Performance, a management and nonprofit consulting company and started Flint’s Future Now, a non-profit advocacy organization dealing with urban problems.

Additionally, he worked with the Genesee County Land Bank’s Genesee Institute, the Urban Coalition of St. Paul/Minneapolis and served as an aide to Congressman Dale Kildee and Washington DC Mayor Anthony Williams. After working in Minnesota and Washington D.C., he returned to Flint to run for mayor in 2007, only to lose a close election to Don Williamson. But less than two years later, in 2009, he won a special election for that same office, following Williamson’s resignation. Walling subsequently won a full term in 2011 and faced a state takeover with an emergency manager almost immediately. He is now running for his second full term in the mayor’s chair. Even though the power of the mayor’s office was limited under the state’s

emergency manager, Walling takes pride in several accomplishments during the last four years. One of his first goals was to oversee the creation of Flint’s first comprehensive city plan in more than 50 years. By 2013, following a series of community meetings and forums, the plan was completed. It is the first plan for Flint since the 1960s, and only its third plan in the last century. Second, the city now has a balanced budget and is moving out from under the emergency manager’s direction. Though the city is now under the direction of a Transition Advisory Board, the expectations are that it will achieve full selfgovernance in the near future. And third, he is pleased to see a number of new investments that will create and retain jobs. General Motors is investing nearly $2 billion in local plants to preserve manufacturing jobs, and Diplomat Pharmacy has grown from a small pharmacy to a major source of employment, creating about 1200 jobs. Finally, the loss of half of Flint’s population in the last four decades has left the city with many abandoned and blighted buildings, harming the surrounding property values and the image of the city as well. Walling feels that the recent progress demolishing over 3000 structures should begin to improve both property values and the city’s image of itself. As Flint’s budget stabilizes and moves beyond the emergency manager’s oversight, Walling looks to several forces to revitalize the city’s future. He expects that in the decades to come, the new Flint economy will be driven by a combination of four major elements. The first will be ‘Eds and Meds,’ the combination of the area colleges and universities and the medical community. Led by the nearly 30,000 area students who attend the U of M-Flint, Kettering, Mott Community College and Baker College, Flint has the prospect of developing a ‘college town’ atmosphere. And in the medical arena, Diplomat Pharmacy is only one of the many medical establishments creating new jobs and economic growth in the area. In addition, the intersections of I-75, I-69 and Bishop Airport present Flint and Genesee County an opportunity to develop new ‘Transportation, Distribution and Logistics’ jobs (TDL) as a second area of growth. New trucking and distribution companies have already found Flint’s location advantageous. And even though Flint’s isn’t the auto manufacturing center it was 40 years

ago, industrial manufacturing will continue to play a major role in the local economy. General Motors has increased its investment, and Flint’s trained workforce continues to be the third major element of the new Flint. As the city rebounds, small businesses should begin to redevelop, with small local establishments finding a home in both the downtown and beyond, thereby providing the fourth stimulus to grow the new Flint. Downtown, in particular, has seen growth in new business enterprises, and Walling hopes to see that expand beyond the central city in years to come. With all of these growing elements, he hopes to expand Flint’s economic diversity and begin to rebuild its infrastructure. These plans can all spell success for Walling, but as mayor he has taken heat from critics for many of Flint’s recent problems. Perhaps the most contentious has been the issue of both the quality and the cost of water in the city. While recent water quality has improved to safe levels, a recent court ruling seems likely to keep the water issue in the foreground for some time to come. Thus to escape the pressures of City Hall, Mayor Walling enjoys time with his family—Carrie Booth Walling, who is an associate professor of political science at Albion College, and his two sons, Bennett and Emery. Last semester he became the second college professor in the Walling family, when he taught a course in Applied Politics at the U of M-Flint. Furthermore, to relax, Walling enjoys reading, swimming and running. This year he completed his sixth Crim Race… his second as mayor. After this year’s race he said on Facebook, “I really like the saying that the race is not to the swift! Finished the 10 mile Crim run in 1 hour 49 minutes and 17 seconds. I came in place 4247 overall but had a great time with many old and new friends. And it always moves me to see tens of thousands of people downtown and in our neighborhoods supporting this amazing event.” When asked what kind of Flint he would like to see for his children he says “I’d like to see a walkable, vibrant, downtown with a fully-diversified economy, along with townhouses, cultural venues and a revitalized university corridor.” He also hopes they would see a city with “more public transportation, bikes and areas for walking, as well as a return of small businesses to Flint’s downtown and [to] its neighborhoods.”

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COMMUNITY

BLIGHT ELIMINATION = BRIGHT FUTURE BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF

omething of significance is happening in and around downtown Flint. There seems to be an uplifting spirit filling the air as a fledgling entrepreneurial impulse is certainly on exhibit, along with throngs of people walking the streets throughout the day and evening. This must signify that the much-predicted renaissance is in full momentum. And when the Flint and Genesee Chamber of Commerce announced earlier this year an aggressive five-year goal of 4000 people living downtown and in nearby neighborhoods, the indication is that the thrust of continuing to move the Flint area forward in a progressive light will go on. But while there are all of these ongoing aesthetic developments, there are also critical aspects “behind the scenes” that must occur for overall success, not only for the greater downtown area, but for the entire city of Flint as well. These vital components include tedious labor that requires “get your hands dirty” work, and long hours to complete the tasks. One such major element is that of addressing the area’s blight conditions. First of all, definitions of blight and blight removal vary, particularly from time to time and place to place. Blight typically describes unwanted property conditions that stem from the presence of vacant real estate, these vacant and abandoned properties are

"No single person or organization alone can eliminate blight in Flint. Strong and dedicated partnership between all community members is needed for eliminating blight in Flint." deemed the source of the blight in Flint today. A decrease in Flint's population over the years has generated an abundance of vacant and abandoned properties resulting in more houses and buildings being available than there are people or businesses to fill them. Blight is found on these properties, including dilapidated buildings, dumped debris, and unmaintained vegetation. On October 28, 2013, the Flint City Council unanimously adopted the City’s first official master plan in over 50 years. The Imagine Flint Master Plan for a Sustainable Flint provides a 20-year community vision for our city. The Blight Elimination Framework, using the blueprint provided by the Master Plan, seeks to realize the direction,

principles, and vision of the Master Plan, leading to the creation of the Blight Elimination Division. Its charge is to fight blight on a daily basis, working with residents and other stakeholders to clean sites, mow grass, and to board up and demolish vacant structures. The Blight Elimination Division strives to make Flint safer and more vibrant while removing impediments to future development. But the division is not staffed with great numbers of people tackling this daunting chore -- it is, in fact, led by a passionate and committed citizen by the name of Raul Garcia. That name should sound familiar because Raul has been an integral part of the Flint community since his arrival from Harlingen, Texas, in 1980, as the local United States Army recruiter. After retiring from the military on October 31st 1993, the very next day he went to work as a car salesperson at the venerable Applegate Chevrolet dealership. Then, deciding against a career in car sales, and with a life-long desire to be in law enforcement, he applied for a position with the Flint police and the Flint Fire Department (FFD). He was called to test for the FFD, knowing there were 850 applicants for only 25 jobs. But Raul was confident and would not “sit still,” waiting for a result as he was pursuing bachelors in education degree while consistently running 70 to 80 miles per week! He was hired by the FFD on the first day of January in 1996 and would serve for the next 16 years, including two terms as their Union president. In early 2013, while enjoying retirement life, Garcia was approached by the city to be the blight coordinator/manager. “My first reaction,” Raul recalls, “was [to ask] ‘what does that person really do?’” He went in to discuss the intricacies of the position, and, after some thought, decide to accept the role – under one condition. “If I was not doing job up to the stated standards, release me,” he says he told them with emphasis. Garcia reasons his appointment was partly attributable to his previous ones with the FFD as it certainly made him familiar in and around the community… but to him, the bottom line was “….I wanted to do this; I realized I could actually make a difference in my community.” And so, in August of 2013, Raul Garcia officially started as the City of Flint’s Blight Coordinator/ Manager. “In beginning,” he explains, “I had concerns, but we worked through them with my business plan. My main objective is to basically get involved with various neighborhood and volunteer groups so as we get involved in clean-ups, [and] I can assist them with the resources to get [the] job done.”

"I wanted to do this; I realized I could actually make a difference in my community."

RAUL GARCIA

Raul’s department consists of a crew of – well, one! He recently added an assistant, Joel Arnold, who handles a myriad of statistics, along with screening phone calls. But a key component to “getting

SO, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO ELIMINATE BLIGHT IN FLINT? RESIDENTS: Mow the vacant property next door or across the street. Join your neighborhood or community group in eliminating blight in and around your own neighborhood. COMMUNITY GROUPS: Organize neighborhood cleanups to remove trash, mow tall grass, and board up vacant properties. Create schedules for mowing vacant properties not next to occupied houses. Initiate efforts to reuse vacant lots in your area. INSTITUTIONS: Take the lead on blight that is within ½ mile of your location by removing trash, mowing grass, boarding and demolishing vacant properties, and reusing vacant lots. Support blight elimination efforts in your area with funding, supplies, and volunteers. BUSINESS AND DEVELOPERS: Remove trash and mow grass on vacant properties next door. Contribute 5% of your property maintenance budget to blight elimination, either in cash or in kind. LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Raise money to complete demolition, revamp and revive code enforcement, as well as support vacant property mowing, boarding, waste removal, and reuse with resources.

Joel Arnold and Raul Garcia

the job done” is working closely with various local groups. Some examples include working with the Police Department and the Flint court system’s “Operation Fresh Start” program, overseen by Judge Dowd, which provides people to work with Raul and who are required to perform 40 to 150 hours of community service. Additionally, Garcia counts on a crew from the Genesee County Land Bank with whom he contracts for work on Saturdays in order to address particular problem sites. This crew will remove random dumping, chip excessive brush, and mow targeted lots prioritized first, by where he can garner support from the neighborhood groups in organizing cleanups, and secondly, based upon ongoing and persistent complaints from residents. Garcia also works with Neighborhood Safety Officers – under the supervision of Officer Nicole Reid – a group that patrols the wards of the city and can directly respond to less complicated issues. Thus, his approach may not come out of any textbook, but it is working. To date, in 2015 alone, his division has resolved 952 resident complaints, supplied dumpsters for 78 community cleanup projects, and cleaned 71 sites with the assistance of the Land Bank’s crew…success by any definition! Raul Garcia admits he has a “never ending job”; however, he personally “sees the light.” He is continually amazed at the number of volunteers who want to help. “Ideally, if I had capability, I would fund more equipment because the human resources are out there -- not the gear, such as chain saws, bobcats and work trucks,” he states. He also makes it a point to work right along with the groups and their volunteers. “They see me out there,” Garcia says “and it’s gratifying to know [that] when projects are completed, they always offer to help in future.” In addition, Raul reflects, “I live in Flint because I choose to live in Flint. Maybe it’s because I feel Flint made me who I am today. But I see more people getting more involved because people really feel good about doing this for the community -- it is making a big difference.”

FLINT & GENESEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ongratulations to the first individuals to successfully complete and become Certified Tourism Ambassadors™ (CTA) through the Flint & Genesee County Convention and Visitors Bureau. This is a nationwide designation within the hospitality industry. CTA’s can be very proud as we work together to enhance the quality of the

visitor experience in Flint & Genesee County. The Flint & Genesee Tourism Ambassador Program provides knowledge and resources that will help to better serve our customers, guests, and all visitors to our community, with continued learning opportunities to keep individuals informed about new attractions and other exciting development opportunities within the area. For more information contact the Flint & Genesee Convention and Visitors Bureau, located at 519 S. Saginaw Street, Flint, MI 48502 at (810) 600-1454 or visit FlintandGenesee.org.

Cer tified Tourism Ambassadors™ Cathy Newell (Best Western Davison Inn)

Gina Romanowski (Flint Institute of Music)

Dawn Stableford (Flint & Genesee Convention and Visitors Bureau)

Courtney Dickerson (FYT)

Julie Hipps (Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce)

Mona Murphy (Flint & Genesee Convention and Visitors Bureau)

Renee Boals-Peel (Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce)

Carol Van Buren (Mott Community College)

Meghan Hoffman (Floradora)

(kneeling)

Marvin August (Sloan/Longway) Michelle Hill (Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce) Kim Pavlica (The Whiting) Crystal Dillard (Flint Cultural Center Corporation) Mary Reed (The Whiting) in front of Crystal with red hair and black sweater

Courtney Irish (Flint & Genesee Convention and Visitors Bureau) Christie Carpenter (Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce)

George Marzonie (The Whiting) Michelle Blaisdell (onthetown Magazine) DeAndra McCain (Flint & Genesee Convention and Visitors Bureau) 55

EDUCATION

MOTT COLLEGE'S

ENTREPRENEURSHIP CERTIFICATE PROGRAM Jumpstar ting the Local Economy

spiring entrepreneurs can turn their great idea into a viable business with Mott Community College’s (MCC) Entrepreneurship Certificate Program. The program is being re-introduced this fall with a new format. The updated program is unique from other entrepreneurship certification programs because it is “launch focused - students come in with an idea and we help them analyze it to determine if it has the potential to be a successful business,” said Lisa Banks, MBA, CPA and Associate Business Professor.

the program is not only for college students, but also for business owners looking to expand or enhance their businesses, and individuals interested in starting their own business.

“We have developed a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare participants to become successful entrepreneurs,” said Banks. Designed for any individual interested in pursuing entrepreneurial ideas,

“Students start with ’The Entrepreneurial Mindset’ course that sets the atmosphere for the whole program. They are given an opportunity to analyze themselves (to determine) if they have what it takes to be a successful business owner,” Banks said.

“There is a lot of opportunity is this community, and Mott College is committed to being a part of our region’s economic recovery and serving as a leader in technology initiatives, economic development, community partnerships and student success programs,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, President.

“Then it’s all work on THEIR baby for the rest of the program. For example, in the ‘Legal Issues for Small Business’ course they anticipate legal issues and complete legal paperwork for THEIR business, in ‘Marketing’ they complete a marketing plan for THEIR business,” she added. In addition to learning the ins-and-outs of owning and operating small businesses, program graduates have access to a network of faculty members, business owners, and community resources that they can reference long after graduation. The new program is also designed to create synergy with existing skills-based programs at the College that prepare students to consider self-employment and business ownership in their individual industries. MCC’s occupational degree

programs are designed to give students the hands-on experience they need to immediately enter the workforce, while the new Entrepreneurship program will give those same students the practical knowledge required to launch and grow their own businesses within those fields. The program culminates in two capstone courses, one course requires students to participate in a co-op position with a local business to see, first-hand, the challenges faced by businesses and business owners. The students assist them in solving a current problem in their business. Then, in the second capstone course, students actually launch their own businesses and part of their success in the class is based on their ability to bring in customers and respond to customer feedback. MCC is prepared to launch a whole new breed of small business ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;those with the skills and practical knowledge to get the job done. Banks hopes that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you think of Entrepreneurship (in this region) - you think of Mott Community College.â&#x20AC;?

For more information about the

ENTREPRENEUR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM at Mott College, contact Lisa Banks at lisa.banks@mcc.edu.

EDUCATION

The Rose Guthrie Effect BY MARTHA HAMP

he sat at her desk in that 8th grade English class, either with her hands covering her face or with her head down – face buried in her crossed arms. Sometimes she even seemed to be asleep, so still was she. And perhaps she actually managed once or twice to escape her situation that way. None of the other students in the class bothered her – or with her much, for that matter -- and so she seemed to be biding her time, just as her many siblings had before her, until she reached the point when she could follow them into the ranks of the student dropout brigade. But as things happened, there was something very different, very unique, very touching about Rose Guthrie – something

I will never forget, and for which I have always been extremely grateful to have witnessed. The wondrous thing that she did occurred when I was near to completing my student teaching assignment… and now that students in grades K through 12, as well as those attending colleges and universities, have returned to their classes once again this fall, the remembrance of her startling epiphany causes me to think, yet again, of what constitutes real teaching and learning in the name of education. For Rose planted in me the seed of what it means to be a teacher…the utter thrill of connecting with another individual, both intellectually and emotionally, that has served me very well during my 30 some years in the classroom.

I did my student teaching at a school in Shepherd, Michigan, about 10 minutes south of the town of Mt. Pleasant and Central Michigan University where I earned an undergraduate BA degree in English combined with a minor in history. The school in Shepherd accommodated both the junior high and high school students in one building, and the population of the area was decidedly rural. I had requested a high school assignment, but instead ended up teaching 8th grade English classes under the supervision of a wonderful older man (as he seemed to me then) named Harry Bratton. And thank God I didn’t receive what I had thought I wanted to teach, for my critic teacher was one of a kind. A dapper, well-dressed, and erudite man

over her face must have “protected” her from what seemed an uncaring and hostile environment…although Harry Bratton was neither uncaring nor hostile. He spoke of her with tenderness and respect to me, and so I watched Rose from time to time to see if there might be a way to penetrate her defenses and learn who she really was. And then one day, as “my” students were discussing some piece of literature I had assigned to them, and as I sought to bring the lesson to a conclusion since it was almost time for the lunch break, I looked up from my notes to see Rose’s face, hands down in front of her on her desk, staring intently at originally from Ann Arbor, he said he had chosen my application because I had stated in my philosophy of education that if I could just reach one student, engender in him or her a curiosity about subject matter, perhaps even a love of learning -- somehow touching that person’s life for the better -- I would believe that I had done my job. It sounded kind of idealistic to me even then, but Harry Bratton loved it, and so we began our odyssey together, wherein I would learn how to do what he believed I could do -- and in a way I couldn’t have imagined when I began. One of the students in our English class which met just before lunch hour was a girl named Rose Guthrie who, my critic had explained, came from a very deprived and chaotic family, her home life decidedly difficult, to say the least. One of many siblings, she lived in a house with a dirt floor, and her father was said to be in jail. Most, if not all, of her brothers and sisters had quit school as soon as they became 16, with Rose expected to follow suit when her time came – at least that was how she was perceived by some of the teachers who routinely talked about various students in the teachers’ lounge. Much was being discussed in education circles at the time -- the late 60s and early 70s -- about the plight of the urban poor in terms of their cultural disadvantages in schools, but from my vantage point, it seemed someone should consider the problems of those in rural areas as well. For in Rose I could see a girl who suffered… as much from her self-imposed solitary state as from any inability to understand what was being taught in her classes. Her hands

For Rose planted in me the seed of what it means to be a teacher… me with an expression I will never forget. It was rapt, and I nearly lost the thread of what I had been about to say. Something we had been talking about had stirred her, made her want to “see,” to comprehend, to be a part of more than just herself. She sat right in front of my desk, so I had a hard time taking my eyes off her, but when I did, I noticed my critic had slipped out of the room. It was at that point that the bell rang, and I dismissed the students for lunch… but I sat for awhile in the silence of the empty room afterward, trying figure out what exactly had just occurred. When I finally got to the teachers’ lounge, I could tell those who were there had heard about Rose. They seemed amazed at her “breakthrough” and attributed it to the fact that she had wanted to look at, to see, me because I was young and so on. But Harry Bratton didn’t think that, and neither did I. I knew there had been something in our classroom discussion that had lit a spark in her – I could see it in her eyes. For the duration of my teaching assignment, Rose sat watching me and listening, perhaps even waiting silently for more of what it

was that had produced her transformation. She paid attention, just as most of the other students did, and, for my part, I tried to give her something of substance to grab onto… whether we were doing grammar exercises or discussing literature -- the subject which seemed to produce the most response in her. I made it my point, whenever I walked past her desk, to tap a book or two – for they were now in front of her (and sometimes opened to the correct page) as they had not been before the “awakening.” Now that I had her engaged in the “learning experience,” I wanted her to know how much she counted as a person, as a viable student functioning in a class. But more than that, I wanted her to know that within that intellectual exchange, amid all the joy that learning can bring, there must also exist an understanding heart. I have always hoped that something lasting had occurred in her, for she certainly sent me off on the road to practice my profession armed with a knowledge I had not had before I knew her. Although I no longer teach, it is not because, as Harry Bratton made me promise, that when I no longer believed what I had written so long ago in my “philosophy” of education that I would get out of the education business entirely. No, I have always felt the same idealistic way, and thanks to Rose Guthrie, even used to say that, whether teaching 7th graders when I was fresh out of college, or later, teaching for 25 years in one of the colleges in Flint, that I would sort of “fall in love” with each new class each term, anticipating the amazing possibilities of every student’s transformative capacity. I know I’ve always felt humbled to stand in front of them in what would be, with luck, a “meeting of the minds,” and I remember so many of them, the things they said and wrote, as their images pass frequently through the” mirrors of my memory” into a kind of galaxy of shining stars. They make me smile, but none so much as Rose Guthrie -- who “lives,” forever young and eager, deep in my teacher’s heart of hearts, and who allowed me one day, near the very end of my assignment at her school to actually reach out and physically pat her gently on the shoulder as I passed by her desk…an honor I hold dear to this day.

PHILANTHROPY Sitting in chair: Mrs. Barbara K. Read, Above her: Her daughter, Mrs. Kathryn C. Blewett

100th Anniversary Means More Funds For Kids The Child Welfare Society of Flint The Child Welfare Society of Flint (CWS) is celebrating its 100th Anniversary by announcing more than $438,088 in grant money which is making a difference to a number of local nonprofit organizations that focus on improving children’s lives.

osanne Heddy, President of the CWS explains that “In 2013 we created the Child Welfare Society Foundation for the purpose of awarding grants to a variety of well-deserving initiatives across the county.” What began as essentially a home for needy children and then a day care center is now an important philanthropic endeavor. The Child Welfare Society of Flint was created in 1915. General Motors was founded seven years earlier but, even with the growth of industry, there were a number of underprivileged children in the community. Through the compassion and vision of 10 women, the CWS became a reality. Later, men were invited to serve on the board as well as in advisory capacities. The CWS always was ready for challenges. Needy children were cared for in loaned housing. Then, the CWS raised $100,000 to build the facility at 924 Cedar Street in 1929—in the middle of the Great Depression. Starting in 1930, the building housed the Child Welfare Home as a temporary residence for 60

children, from ages five to 10, who had been assigned to the home by the Probate Court. This special home continued for 35 years. In 1966, the CWS transitioned the Child Welfare Home into the Cedar Street Children’s Center. The center was licensed to provide day care for 120 children, Mondays through Fridays during the school year, and provided care for preschoolers through 9-year-olds in the summers. Nearly $500,000 was raised for an addition to the building in 1981. Through a grant from the Ruth Mott Foundation, a beautiful park called The Commons was created on the site where five abandoned homes had previously stood. Cedar Street Children’s Center operated for 37 years using a sliding fee scale so that any parents looking for quality day care could afford this experience for their child. This was the only daycare with membership in what is now the United Way. After the daycare center closed in 2003, Mott Children’s Health Center was invited to use the facility, rent free, for grief and loss counseling. Then they introduced their summer classes in gardening for

children with high functioning autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This successful program continued for five summers. Priority Children then moved in to the facility where it continued to operate, rent free, until 2013, when the members of the board of CWS donated the building and grounds to the Shelter of Flint. Over the years CWS has raised funds for various projects by doing everything from selling Saturday Evening Post magazines to organizing craft shows and plant sales, publishing cookbooks and holding bridge parties, dance recitals, music concerts, and dances. In addition, generous donations from individuals and legacy trusts have made the organization's endowment fund possible. Ways to provide help for children have changed over these 100 years, but the determination of this volunteer organization still remains firm. Any child-focused, nonprofit organization in Genesee County is invited to submit a grant request by contacting Jaye Blakely at FirstMerit: Jaye.Blakely@firstmerit.com or by calling 989-776-7356.

MEDICAL

Surgeons Smit Singla and Tolutope Oyasiji, Mike Naddeo | Photography

Keeping Cancer Care CLOSE TO HOME

olly Cox, a Flushing resident, found out in October 2012 that she had breast cancer. Despite significant advances that have improved survival outcomes for many forms of cancer in recent decades, treatment can still be time consuming as well as physically and emotionally difficult. Fortunately, Molly and her family found the strength and support she needed from a comprehensive cancer program close to home.

d Katrina illigan (left) an hters Allison M ug da by d de x, surroun Molly Ann Co | Photography Mike Naddeo Oliver (right).

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our whole family shouldered my diagnosis and all of us worked together through treatment.â&#x20AC;?

“We were able to take advantage of many of the extra programs because we chose to receive my care at McLaren Flint, just 15 minutes from home. If we had decided to go out of the area for my treatment, I probably wouldn’t have been able to attend the programs that helped us with the emotional healing." Klamerus, MD, understands the importance of care being accessible and convenient. “It can be the most important factor,” he stated. “Having to travel can prohibit a patient from seeking the treatment and support services they need,” he believes.

Molly’s husband Bill was a constant source of support during her cancer journey. Mike Naddeo | Photography

This included surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and reconstructive surgeries. “We are especially grateful for the services provided after cancer…counseling, support groups, and activities to encourage good health,” she adds. Molly and her family had seriously considered receiving care outside of the area, willing to do anything to ensure the best outcome. However, they ultimately chose for her to receive care at McLaren based on the treatment capabilities, but they also found that staying close to home had an added bonus. “We were able to take advantage of many of the extra programs because we chose to receive my care at McLaren Flint, just 15 minutes from home. If we had decided to go out of the area for my treatment, I probably wouldn’t have been able to attend the programs that helped us with the emotional healing,” Molly states. And as a medical oncologist, Justin

As the Executive Vice President of Community-Based Cancer Programs for Karmanos Cancer Institute, Dr. Klamerus is taking what he has learned from patients, his practice and the expertise of a designated national cancer institute network to guide the team that shapes the services and support offered in Flint. Since the inception of McLaren Flint’s Cancer Center in 1990, the program at McLaren has invested in advanced technologies, highly-trained physician specialists, and clinical trial research opportunities to offer residents in the Flint community the same level of care for many forms of cancer found at larger cancer centers. The facility has expanded several times over the past 25 years, adding space for a growing program. The most recent addition to the program is the expansion of the surgical oncology program. This summer two fellowshiptrained surgeons joined McLaren. Their training enables more complex cancer cases to be treated in Flint. Dr. Tolutope Oyasiji, MD, MRCSI, and Smit Singla, MD, MRCSEd, MSc, completed training at the prestigious Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York. Their skills include minimally invasive surgery and regional therapy procedures. This year, Karmanos Cancer Institute in Flint is the only area program to achieve all of the following designations: • American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer

Dr.Justin Klameru, Trumpie Photography

• American College of Radiology Radiation Oncology Practice • Quality Oncology Practice Initiative-American Society of Clinical Oncology • National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers Accreditation is bestowed only to programs that have met stringent criteria in clinical care, quality and safety measures. A strong body and healthy diet can also enhance recovery and reduce stress. With this in mind, zumba, tai chi, yoga, meditation, and healthy cooking classes were added to the complementary therapy offerings for all cancer patients. The classes are held at the spacious Hospitality House at McLaren. Opened in 2013, the Hospitality House has a large conference space for classes and cancer support groups, in addition to providing comfortable, convenient lodging for patients and caregivers traveling long distances to receive care at McLaren. The need for creating a space for people traveling from outside the area to receive care at McLaren Flint is good news for the area and further assurance that comprehensive cancer care is available close to home. Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint is located at 4100 Beecher Road, Flint. For more information about the comprehensive cancer services offered, call (810) 342-3800.

MEDICAL

HURLEY

CHILDREN’S

CENTER

OPENS AT FLINT FARMERS’ MARKET

N AUGUST 7, A RIBBON CUTTING WAS HELD FOR THE SUMATHI MUKKAMALA CHILDREN’S CENTER-HURLEY CHILDREN’S

CENTER LOCATED ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF THE FLINT FARMER’S MARKET. THE NEW CENTER COMBINES A FUN, COLORFUL, KID-FRIENDLY DESIGN WITH STATEOF-THE-ART CARE AND TECHNOLOGY. 64

It totals 10,300 square feet and encompasses 12 pediatric specialty clinics, 24 exam rooms, a lab, an innovative teaching area and much more. Future plans also include having prescriptions delivered to the center from the H-Care pharmacy located at Hurley Medical Center. The project is a collaborative effort of Hurley Children’s Hospital and the Uptown Reinvestment Corporation (URC), which operates the Flint Farmers’ Market. The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation provided $1 million in funding for the project through grants to the Foundation for the URC.

“WE ARE ABLE TO GIVE PRESCRIPTIONS TO FAMILIES TO The Center’s design is patient and family-centered, incorporating an open layout that uses onstage (patient care) and off-stage (physician/provider areas) to support team-based care. It offers pediatric medical services to the City of Flint, Genesee County, and a 15-county region in Michigan. Hurley’s Wellness Hub, which is conveniently located on the main floor of the Farmers’ Market already offers weekly information, classes, healthy cooking demos and much more. “Placing a pediatric clinic in a Farmer's Market is an innovative concept, opening up opportunities to partner with patients and families to live healthier lives and build a healthier community,” says Mona Hanna-Attisha, MD, MPH, director, Hurley Pediatric Residency Program. “We are able to give prescriptions to families to buy fruits and vegetables, and they can create healthy family meals by going downstairs and filling that prescription. We don’t know of any other medical office inside a farmers’ market where this is happening,” she adds.

BUY FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, AND THEY CAN CREATE HEALTHY FAMILY MEALS BY GOING DOWNSTAIRS AND FILLING THAT PRESCRIPTION. WE DON’T KNOW OF ANY OTHER MEDICAL OFFICE INSIDE A FARMERS’ MARKET WHERE THIS IS HAPPENING,”

“Hurley is leveraging its role as the area’s premier public healthcare provider with the Farmers’ Market role in providing, and educating the community with affordable and healthy food,” says Melany Gavulic, RN, MBA, president and chief executive officer, Hurley Medical Center. “We are so pleased to support this vital project. It’s a win-win situation for the entire greater Genesee County community and will lead not only to greater health and wellness education, but to improved outcomes from a public health perspective.” Visiting families will be able to use their Double Up Food Bucks at the Farmer's Market. Double Up provides Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries with a oneto-one match to purchase healthy, locally grown fruits and vegetables.

“HURLEY’S HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS ARE THINKING OUTSIDE THE WALLS OF THEIR PRACTICE AND BRINGING IN THE BEST THE COMMUNITY HAS TO OFFER TO KEEP KIDS HEALTHY AND PREVENT THEM FROM GETTING SICK IN THE FIRST PLACE. THAT’S A REALLY

“The new Hurley Children’s Center is an exciting addition to Flint’s growing Health and Wellness District,” says Ridgway White, president of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. “Hurley’s health care providers are thinking outside the walls of their practice and bringing in the best the community has to offer to keep kids healthy and prevent them from getting sick in the first place. That’s a really forward-thinking approach. We commend Hurley and are pleased to support the effort.”

FORWARD-THINKING APPROACH."

PHILANTHROPY

THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS Of Greater Flint For Kids

s the blazing summer sun begins to wane, the September back-to-school season signals the dilemma of what to do with kids after the school day ends often looms. Sure, during the school day, we can be confident that teachers are putting their pupils through the paces of learning, with interesting, engaging and challenging activities to stimulate development and promote social confidence. But what about those hours after school? Where can the youth of our area go to get help with their homework or to play and enjoy all kinds of sports when school is out for the day? The answer is the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Flint (BGC). With two different locations in Flint, area youth have access to fun, games and ongoing friendships. "We are focused on promoting academic skills and providing them with a safe place to learn and connect with caring adults," says Tauzzari Robinson, the CEO of BGCGF since 2014. "We stress priority outcomes such as good character/ citizenship, academic success, and a healthy lifestyle. We focus on these."

BY KELLIE MCCARTY

The Club, as it is often referred to, has hosted over 2,400 registered Club members during 2014 and organized 47 summer field trips. Some of those trips have included visiting the Longway Planetarium, swimming at the YMCA, traveling to the Detroit Zoo, as well as going camping and horseback riding. "Currently, we are transitioning from our summer program to our fall session. Our after school programming is from 3:00-8:00 pm, Monday through Friday," Robinson says. First, students are expected to work on any homework they received in school. "The gym activities and [those in the] outside area are not opened at that time. Teens go to a study room, called the Teen room, with an assigned staff person who helps get it done," adds Robinson. "After that first hour of the day, lots of programs open up, with all the staff and partners there and kids attending whatever program they want, based on their age groups." Robinson says each of the groups, broken down by ages, has a room assigned to them and a person with whom to connect. But the group members don't have to stay in those

rooms because the club is set up for freeflowing fun, activities, and games. And attendees can get a good meal, thanks to a partnership with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, which offers supper to those who attend the BGC. Robinson brought a lot of personal experience to his job since he has been around the Boys and Girls Clubs of America for a long time, attending them while he grew up in Ohio. He is the first

one to speak of the benefits to both kids and the community of this unique place for youngsters to hang out. "I grew up in a single parent home with four kids in a small town, and the club had a tremendous impact on me," Robinson recalls. "I was there every day, all day and knew how lucky I was to have that place in my community to make sure we had positive things in our lives." As he grew, he knew he wanted to do something to give back to the place that had given so much to him and his siblings. "I always aspired to do something for them, not knowing when or if the opportunity would come, but I'm glad it did," Robinson says with sincerity. "I worked at a BGC in Chicago and do think my experiences as a former member affected what I brought to the table in Flint [as well as] how I relate to the kids and parents.” He also says that, thanks to volunteers, they are able to offer those programs at little to no cost to the center. “It enables them to impact more kids,” he states. Nowadays, the Club is more deliberate with its programming, with more resources dedicated to tracking the impact of each program. "We have transitioned from drop in and play to outcome driven programs,” Robinson says, giving some of that credit to the many organizations they partner with to bring in the enriching programs.

"Our numbers have gone up for two years – from 80-90 kids a day at the Averill St. location to 175 last spring!" members and the businesses that help bring in the programs. "On several of the field trips, the employees from the businesses volunteered to come along, and that is so big to have the positive adult interaction," Robinson expounds. "The more we can have, the more connection we can make with the young people. They form a bond with the staff members or volunteers and keep coming back for that person." With the Club growing, Robinson is pleased to see their outreach bringing hope to the area. "Our numbers have gone up for two years -- from 80-90 kids a day at the Averill St. location to 175 last spring! We need to promote awareness in the community and continue to partner with

organizations for funding and volunteering." To that end, the BGC of Flint has partnered with Powers Catholic High School to send six students through that program. Jointly, they seek funding from members of the community to provide whatever tuition is not covered by the Powers’ financial aid program. According to Robinson, the kids are excelling, and the people at Powers have been really giving. If Robinson has his wish, the busier the better is the rule of the day at the BGC of Flint. "The Club is growing and more young people are making the choice to attend. We need continued support from the community, both financially and through volunteering, and from both individuals and local businesses, to keep the Boys and Girls Club here.”

One of their current programs is the literacy program, which began as a partnership with Mott Children’s Health Center. They work with 20 kids who are below reading level, for a full hour, working on improving their comprehension and word recognition. The students "graduate" out of that program once they reach the appropriate reading level for their grade. Another offering is the Steel Drum Band program, where a local instructor teaches young people how to play these unique musical instruments. "It has evolved over the years. We have performed at the Clio Amphitheatre the last two years [as well as at] local camps. It just keeps growing well beyond what we had envisioned," states Robinson. Community involvement is key in developing relationships between Club 67

PHILANTHROPY

Whaley Children’s Center

Gives the Smallest Trauma Sur vivors Hope for a Bright Future BY MEREDITH MCGHAN

ince 1924, Whaley Children’s Center in Flint has helped children heal from the trauma of abuse and neglect to become productive citizens. Robert H. Whaley, a former Citizens Bank president, founded the center with his wife Mary in memory of their son Donald who died at 10 from diphtheria. Today Whaley Children’s Center helps approximately 90 children per year, in a comprehensive residential treatment program that includes individualized education and cutting-edge therapeutic modalities. “When you grow up with domestic violence, it takes a lifetime to recover,” says Whaley’s Director of Clinical Services, Michelle Shamel. “Most kids stay

for about 15 months and leave with a good foundation for success, further healing, and growth.” Shamel says the entire experience of education, treatment, and a supportive and safe living environment has helped generations of children live functional lives. The staff give kids the kind of focused attention they haven’t received at home -- making sure they get breakfast, practice good hygiene, and have bedtime stories read to them. Shamel oversees a Masters-level team of therapists who provide evidencebased treatment in one-on-one sessions. The therapists teach coping skills for dealing with the triggering thoughts and automatic behaviors that are part and parcel of trauma,

including sensory memories that can be expressed as physical acting out. Children receive tools for how to make sense of frightening and shaming incidents in the past. They learn a way of talking about their experiences that allows them to see hope for the future -- so that they can break the cycle of violence. In addition to therapy, the children’s education is tailored to their special needs, with some taught on-site and others at local public or charter schools. “When you come from a rough background of multiple foster homes and schools, the stress makes it hard to study,” Shamel says. “But the Whaley experience has resulted in some great students. For example, we had one young

man who is in college now after transitioning to independent living, who returns to tell the kids how Whaley helped him overcome his past. One of our girls studies psychology at the University of Michigan with a 4.0. Another student I recall received top ACT scores while at Whaley.” Jack Minore, retired from the Flint Community School District, offers the perspective of a former Whaley teacher. “For 23 years off and on, starting in 1968, I taught emotionally impaired children in a self-contained classroom of 10 students,” Minore says. “I was employed by the Flint Community Schools rather than by Whaley itself, but due to being traumatized, some kids had behavioral issues that made attending a public school problematic. So Flint placed teachers at the facility instead.” Minore says it was an outstanding program due to the team spirit of Whaley employees. “I had a paraprofessional aide and the Whaley staff were great backup,” he states. He notes that over the years, he has kept in touch with many of the children he has taught. “It’s rare to find a kid that had a lot of problems after being at Whaley,” he says. “Most of them went on to become at least moderately successful.” He gave several examples. One was a young woman who had been abused by two older stepbrothers. He met her again in her mid-30s, and she was happily married and seemed quite functional. Another ex-student around the same age had become the head of an IT department at a well-known company. “He was bright, and might now be identified as a high-functioning autistic,” Minore says. “He wanted to let me know that I was the first teacher who ever told him he could learn. I met his wife and kids and they seemed well-adjusted and he was doing great.” Former Flint resident Kym Reiter mentored a Whaley child, and says the experience was positive both for herself and the girl she mentored. “My mentee was a 13 year old girl,” Reiter says. “I got to take her to new places and [allow her to] experience new things. She came across as shy, but she loved meeting new people. She had such a caring heart, and a friend’s son a few years younger than my mentee often came with

us. She treated him like a little brother. It meant a lot to her since she had a brother outside of Whaley who was the same age as my friend’s son.” Reiter said that during the year of her mentorship, her mentee won an award for “Most Improved” in her group home of

“I WENT INTO MY YEAR OF BEING A MENTOR, EXPECTING TO MAKE A HUGE IMPACT IN MY MENTEE'S LIFE, BUT I THINK SHE MADE A BIGGER IMPACT IN MINE.” eight children. This led to the girl having the opportunity to move from Whaley’s main campus into a house where she had more independence. “I went into my year of being a mentor, expecting to make a huge impact in my mentee's life, but I think she made a bigger impact in mine,” Reiter says. “I would recommend this experience to anyone. I really admired some mentors [who] got to support a mentee as a husband and wife team. I think it is very important for the kids at Whaley to see what a healthy relationship looks like. Whaley also offers

many great events throughout the year to bring your mentee to. One mentor opened up his house on the lake for all other mentors and mentees to enjoy. I made some lasting relationships through this experience.” Aside from the ongoing therapeutic, educational, and mentoring programs, Whaley adds new programs and activities every year, often partnering with other area agencies. "We started the Whaley Warriors basketball team last year and the kids have played teams from the Boys and Girls Club and other organizations,” Shamel says. We have a new activity called the Gifted Program, where kids can explore their talents in art, music, choir, and sports. Whaley has also participated in Fostering Creativity, a program put on by the Ennis Center. Ellie’s Place brought a grief and loss support group to us.” Whaley’s children also participate in fitness programs and grow food in a vegetable garden, according to the organization’s Web site. “Whaley was and is an outstanding success story for very troubled children,” Minore says. “Without Whaley, we’d be spending $35,000 to keep these kids, now adults, in jail. With Whaley’s help, they’ve become productive, tax-paying citizens.” Learn more about Whaley Children’s Center at whaleychildren.org.

PHILANTHROPY

St. CeciliaSociety " M U S IC SO OT HES THE SOUL "

BY YVONNE SOVA

ne afternoon, 125 years ago, 12 women met at the home of Mrs. J. Dallas Dort to perform and share their sincere appreciation of beautiful music. This small group has grown, expanded and changed but always remained true to their original purpose which is to provide a group setting for musical appreciation and enjoyment for everyone To be effective, any organization needs a willing group to keep true to its ideals. To that end, the St. Cecilia Society has a Board of Directors, elected by the members to supervise and make decisions conducive to all aspects of the many activities. The current 135 members are comprised of both men and women from our community who support the Society at varying levels of participation including vocalists and instrumentalists. Members and guest artists present a monthly program from October through May which is free and open to the public. After each program, a reception is arranged to give the audience an opportunity to meet the performers while a committee prepares and serves refreshments. Young artists especially benefit immensely from the St. Cecilia Society. In addition to the opportunity of performing in front of a large audience, students may apply for an audition for St. Cecilia Society worldwide awards. It brings a more intense feeling to performing when they are striving to improve their talents, plus learning co-operation and customs of other countries. As an example, the WM. C. BYRD YOUNG ARTISTS COMPETITION began with a memorial gift from William C. Byrd who was a long time conductor of the Flint Symphony Orchestra. This annual world-wide event, held on the first Saturday of March, offers a first place prize of $6,000, plus an opportunity to perform with

ARTIST PERCEPTION OF ST. CECILIA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PATRON SAINT OF MUSIC

Flint is indeed privileged to have the

St. CeciliaSociety in our area for everyone to enjoy 70

as they truly believe music is indeed the universal language.

Imagine the excitement and

JUDITH WOLBERT. PRESIDENT OF THE ST. CECILIA SOCIETY OF FLINT

pride of having their talents acknowledged and appreciated as much as they love music and what they are doing.

the Flint Symphony Orchestra. Furthermore, and in the spirit of encouraging the younger generation to pursue and nurture their musical talents, the St. Cecilia Society Awards are held each February, wherein local music students of school age and college music majors are invited to audition for these prestigious student music awards. Judges are nonmember music instructors who are compensated for their expertise in evaluating students' performances where up to $10,000 is given each year to a maximum of 25 students. The winners present a recital the last Sunday of February each year. Imagine the excitement and pride of having their talents acknowledged and appreciated as much as they love music and what they are doing. St. Cecilia also sponsors student groups for young area musicians who share a love of music. The Junior St. Cecilia group is for grades K through eight, while the Student Musicale group serves high school students. These groups, organized in 1897, meet the first Sunday of the Month, October through April and conduct a joint meeting in order to hear professional musicians perform as guest artists. The groups separate to conduct short business meetings, and members have an opportunity to perform afterwards. Undoubtedly, the lessons they learn last a lifetime. In honor of St. Cecilia Society's 125th Anniversary, a celebration was held this past October at the MacArthur Recital Hall in the Flint Institute of Music building. The featured performer, mezzosoprano Wendy Bloom, performs nationally and directs the Flint Festival Chorus. She was accompanied by Jerry DePuit in a magnificent program entitled "Schumann to Broadway, thrilling all in attendance. Flint is indeed privileged to have the St. Cecilia Society in our area for everyone to enjoy as they truly believe music is indeed the universal language.

NELLIE BATES-DORT. FOUNDER OF THE ST. CECILIA SOCIETY ON OCTOBER 21, 1890 71

PHILANTHROPY

Ever the Optimists

Through Help and Hope, the Downtown Flint Optimist Club Creates a Better World BY WENDY BYARD

Optimist Club recognized in the U.S. House of Representatives in July, saying, “I applaud the Downtown Flint Optimist Club and extend my deepest appreciation to them for their years of service to the community.”

And from the start, the early Optimist Clubs focused on helping youth. That focus became solidified with the Club’s mission statement: “By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in kids.”

Providing children with a myriad of opportunities are the six Optimist Clubs that comprise Zone 9 -- five in Genesee County (Downtown Flint, Central Flint, West Flint, Grand Blanc, and Davison), and one in Lapeer. In July, the Downtown Flint Optimist Club, which has some 38 members, celebrated its 80th anniversary with a rooftop party at the Flint Farmer’s Market. Flint Mayor Dayne Walling attended, as well as the Michigan District Optimist Governor, Cherryl Thames. Michigan Congressman Dan Kildee also had the Downtown Flint

When talking about why he and his fellow members are Optimists, Murphy, who has been an Optimist for 14 years, reveals the passion they share. Their reward is seeing the impact of support, care, and hope on the lives of children. Murphy shares that it is “pure joy” to help children. “Giving back enriches other people’s lives,” he says, “and, by doing so, your own life.” His words echo the Club’s early founders’ altruism and vision. At the beginning of this century, some Americans saw the need to help their fellow citizens. Industrialization and urbanization were taking hold throughout the country, bringing with them new challenges and problems to counteract. So, in 1911, the first Optimist Club was formed in New York, and then, in 1919, Optimist International was created. Today, this well-organized volunteer organization has over 2,500 clubs worldwide.

To bring out the best, the Downtown Flint Optimists support many local missions like Boys and Girls Club of Greater Flint, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Shelter of Flint, YMCA of Greater Flint, Whaley’s Children’s Center (the Optimists provided a house in 1980), and YMCA Camp Copneconic. For example, every summer, Zone 9 pays to send about twenty children to YMCA Camp Copneconic in Fenton for a three-day camp. Murphy shares a poignant anecdote told to him by one of the Camp’s counselors which illustrates what it means to these children to attend the Camp. Upon seeing the Camp’s lake, Murphy says, "The happy, excited children will ask, 'Is this the ocean?' …to which the counselors will tell them, ‘No -this is only a lake.’ They’ve never been to a lake. They’ve never even been fishing.”

n today’s world, “it’s easy to get caught up in the dream: the car, the money, the vacation home,” says Mike Murphy, member of the Downtown Flint Optimist Club and Lieutenant Governor of Michigan District Optimists Zone 9. “But what do you take with you? I ask myself: ‘What is the purpose (of life)? Do I have any meaning?’ But when you have the opportunity to help improve the lives of children, it gets to the core of having meaning.” The Downtown Flint Optimist Club is an organization which seeks to provide answers to these questions.

Murphy also mentions that Club members deliver pizza monthly to the children at the

Whaley Children’s Center. This organization is dear to the Club’s heart and was founded to provide shelter, various forms of assistance, and hope to area children who have been abused, neglected, or traumatized. Murphy recalls one young man telling him in a matter of fact way that he witnessed his father shoot his mother right in front of him. Murphy says that the Optimists do what they can to help these “innocent children who have been exposed to something so horrific. The kids know that you don’t have to be there, but that you are there because you care. We sit down with them, talk about their lives, spend time with them. They are just so happy to be with you. I believe the best way to change your community is to work with the next generation. Give them a better life.”

provides scholarships for youth through its essay writing and speech contests. Students are given the opportunity to polish and show off their skills while reflecting on topics that involve improving the community. The Club hopes to spur the next generation into community service. Another activity that allows for fun and a spirit of competition is the Tri Star basketball skills contest in March. At this Optimist event, children become more physically fit while developing their dribbling, passing, and shooting skills. They win awards and can advance to a higher level of competition.

Recently, John Carlson, executive director of YMCA Camp Copneconic, told Murphy to bring the Whaley Center children to the Camp for pizza and roasting marshmallows. Murphy recalls an especially telling and powerful moment. The Camp staff had set up a zipline, and one child was very afraid. “He was shaking and didn’t want to do it,” Murphy describes. “But the counselors were just so patient. Eventually, the boy decided he wanted to do it. He closed his eyes and jumped. Then, as he slid down the line, he put his hand up in the air and yelled, ‘I’m doing it!’ He was filled with courage and confidence. It’s just a testament to what the Camp can do.”

In addition, the Optimist Club promotes the “Respect for Law/Promotion of NonViolence” campaign. Its goal is to educate youth about law enforcement, develop respect, and promote peace in the community through various activities. According to the Optimist International website, it seeks to “inspire respect for law enforcement among young people and to educate them on the jobs these brave men and women perform. Events are also held to promote a sense of well-being in the community.” In May, the Downtown Flint Optimist Club hosted a luncheon at which eleven police officers of the year were honored with awards. Some Optimists handed out awards. The categories included overall Officer of the Year, as well as Officers of the Year in Public Service and Heroism. Also, a student was honored as the Investigative Sciences Student of the Year.

The Downtown Flint Optimist Club also

Amazingly, with all these missions, the

Downtown Flint Optimist Club accomplishes even more. Its members engage in various acts of kindness and support such as providing children at the Haskell Community Center with bikes, helmets, and locks. “They are all so excited to get these used bikes,” says Murphy, “[because] they don’t have bikes. It puts everything in perspective. These children are just so appreciative. It adds meaning to life to give back.” Really, what it comes down to is hope and love. The Optimists provide love in its many forms, and they receive love in return. Murphy, who the children call “Poppa Smurf,” says, “They hug me. They say, ‘Poppa Smurf, I caught a fish.’ It’s the little stories like that. It overpowers.” The fifth line of the Optimist Clubs’ Creed reads: “Promise yourself to think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.” It is a beautiful thing when words become reality, when men and women are moved beyond rhetoric to noble action to create a better world. Adhering to their Creed, area Optimists do “look at the sunny side of everything” and make “their optimism come true.” Relentlessly hardworking and caring, these men and women envision a better world – and then, one child at a time -- they build it. The Downtown Flint Optimist Club meets every Tuesday at noon at the Flint Golf Club. To learn more, visit optimistsinaction.com and the Facebook page (Downtown Flint Optimist Club), or contact Mike Murphy at 810.610.7782 . New members are always welcome.

PHILANTHROPY

A PLACE FOR EVERY CHILD A PLACE FOR GRACE OFFERS DAYCARE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS BY MEREDITH MCGHAN

For parents frustrated with a one-size-fits-all approach to paid child care, or for those whose children cannot be served by traditional daycare centers, a saving grace exists in Saginaw. A Place for Grace opened its doors just one year ago and has already begun changing lives—one child at a time.

he daycare center takes its name from Emma Grace, daughter of founder, Jenny Dumont. Emma, 11, has a number of cognitive differences that make a regular daycare environment too triggering, and the daycares in which Dumont had placed her daughter were inequipted to handle a child with her needs. Thus, Dumont, a marketing professional, was galvanized into action by the question, “Why aren’t there daycares for kids like Emma?” Looking around and finding none, she decided to start one herself. That was just two years ago, and despite an early setback, A Place for Grace has accomplished minor miracles in the past twelve months.

Dumont set up A Place for Grace as a nonprofit, but in May of 2014, the board dissolved. Though Dumont said she was “devastated,” she took control of the business, and on June 1, opened a new corporation, leaving the marketing franchise that she had been running at the time. By July 24 the facility in the back of Saginaw’s First United Methodist Church had passed the Michigan state inspection for a daycare license, and its doors opened September 2. Since then, there has been steady growth as well as a number of accomplishments. “We started with just seven kids, and now [we] have more than a dozen regulars from ages four to 16, with space available for up to 23 children,” Dumont

says. In April 2015, Dumont was named as a Red Cross “Everyday Hero.” On September 17 of this year, A Place for Grace celebrated its first birthday with a fundraiser, “One Special Night,” at the Dow Event Center. These accolades are in recognition of the central idea behind A Place for Grace -- and that is to provide a sense of belonging to children who may feel they don’t belong anywhere else. As Dumont puts it, “Special needs kids need a place they can be themselves, build friendships, have fun, and get the social development critical for them to function. We don’t do what every other daycare does. We provide a space for them to do what they normally do and to be happy.” According to Dumont, A Place for Grace serves children with a broad range of abilities at varying developmental levels and is open to any child, including those who haven’t been diagnosed with any disability. Because inclusion can be overstimulating for many special-needs kids, A Place for Grace offers one-on-one

MONDAY - FRIDAY: 6:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. AGES 12 MONTHS AND UP ADDRESS: 4790 GRATIOT ROAD (in the back of the First United Methodist Church in Saginaw) PHONE: 989-607-1741 ONLINE: APLACEFORGRACECHILDCARE.ORG FACEBOOK.COM/ APLACEFORGRACEFOUNDATION

learning sessions with trained staff. “We do a lot of professional development with staff,” she says. “We emphasize training to help the kids with stress and anger management, and our staff perform behavioral analyses of the children.” Providers at A Place for Grace have experience working with children diagnosed with autism, cognitive and/or emotional impairments, developmental delays, Down’s Syndrome, cerebral palsy, attention disorders, and other issues. They help the children take part in a variety of mentally stimulating and fun activities. “They use iPads donated by Dow, engage in arts and crafts, learn about science, and spend time each day outdoors,” Dumont says. “‘Summer Safari’ has them learning about animals. Performing in plays offers a chance for selfexpression. If the child is struggling with homework, [he or she] can get help and tutoring.” The need for these services is growing in the community. A recent report issued by the Saginaw ISD said 4,066 students in the district have an IEP and qualify for special education. A Place for Grace does not have a waiting list as of this writing and is welcoming new attendees. A partnership with the Saginaw Community Foundation means subsidized scholarships are available. The Saginaw ASD can provide free transportation. Dumont has a vision for a bright future that is buoyed by the support of the community and says she’s seen a lot of positive changes in the children who attend A Place for Grace. “Supposedly non-

verbal kids have started communicating. For example, we had an autistic four-year-old boy who could not be in a room with other people because that triggered meltdowns. After he had been coming for a while, he could walk into a room and say hi to people and hang up his jacket. Eventually he started speaking in longer sentences. We also had a boy with Down’s Syndrome who just started talking and getting used to being in social situations, and a girl who was being bullied is now standing up for herself. Those are just a few examples that come to mind out of many.” One mother of a child who attends A Place for Grace, speaks glowingly of her child’s

experience at A Place for Grace. “They give kids one-on-one attention,” she says. “The caretakers are aware of triggers and how to help kids socialize. Other daycares have a lot of noise and chaos, which can be very triggering for some kids. A Place for Grace has a comfort room that has sensory toys. My child spends three days a week there, and is more prepared for the school year. My child, who is adopted, underwent trauma at a caretaker’s and now actually looks forward to going to daycare, which is a total 180 [reversal].” The parent goes on to say that another great thing about A Place for Grace is that the caregivers are in constant contact with the parents throughout the day. “You don’t have to worry about your kid,” she says. Oftentimes, kids with disabilities have siblings without disabilities. A Place for Grace, with its non-restrictive inclusion policy, welcomes entire families of children so they do not need to be separated based on ability, says the attendee’s mother. “A Place for Grace is the only daycare of its kind that I know of,” she states. “It’s hard to find something to meet your needs when your child is special.”

CULTURE

Michigan Legislative Hispanic Caucus [ NOW IN SESSION ] BY ILSE LUJAN-HAYES

ick them out, let them stay, build a wall… No matter what your opinion is on how to handle undocumented immigrants in the U.S., one thing is for sure, it’s a hot topic issue. And based on what you see in the media, it’s easy to assume immigration is the top concern for Hispanics. Representative Harvey Santana (D) Detroit, is focused on challenging the opinion that most Hispanics worry about citizenship status. Santana says that like many minority groups, top concerns include employment, education, healthcare, taxes and even small business development. “Immigration isn't the only issue that affects Hispanics. We need to be a voice from the Hispanic perspective on many issues," says Santana during a town hall meeting at the Hispanic Technology and Community Center on Flint’s east side this summer. “The Michigan House now has the highest number of Hispanic-descent members ever. Hispanics are the fastest-growing population in the U.S. and the state of Michigan.” REALIZING THIS WAS A HISTORICAL TIME… Santana reached out to fellow law makers in an effort to form the Michigan Hispanic Legislative Caucus. Some of those members attended the July 30th town hall meeting. I also was there along with a co-worker, 76

also of Hispanic descent. Having parents who immigrated to America I think helps me better understand the challenges and obstacles Santana spoke about that night at the town hall meeting. I was born in Los Angeles to a Mexican father and Colombian mother. I can remember my first day of kindergarten in Los Angeles. Although I enjoyed the activities of the day, I couldn’t wait to get home to break the bad news to my parents: I could not understand a word the teacher was speaking! There I was, born in America, and English would be my second language. I eventually learned to speak it however, and am now bilingual. I can understand the many non-Hispanic Americans who have reservations about educating a child like me. “Why should I care? There are plenty of other problems needed to be addressed in schools.” I THINK THE ANSWER COMES DOWN TO NUMBERS… Would you believe the Hispanic population in Michigan grew even during a time when the state’s overall population did not. In 2010, while Michigan’s overall population remained steady at 9.9 million, during the last decade, the Latino population increased from 3.3% to 4.4%, which is about 437,736 citizens, a trend that is expected to continue. According to the U.S. Census Bureau projections, by 2035, the population of the United States will rise to about 390 million and 106 million will be Hispanic –

that’s one in four people, about double what it is today making Hispanics the fastest growing minority in the country. Although the national high school dropout rate has declined and fewer Hispanics and Blacks are dropping out, Hispanics still have the highest dropout rate among all major ethnic and racial groups according to the US Census Bureau. WHAT DO THESE NUMBERS SAY? “While Michigan’s overall population declined during a ten year span, the Michigan Latino population increased. As legislators, we would be remiss if we didn't demonstrate leadership towards this segment of our population," says Santana. MEMBERS OF THE MICHIGAN HISPANIC LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS Representatives: Vanessa Guerra (D), Sheldon Neeley (D) Stephanie Chang (D), Bruce Rendon (R), Henry Yanez (D), Erika Geiss (D), Daniela Garcia (R) , Leslie Love (D), Robert Kosowski (D), Sam Singh (D), Schor, Fred Durhal (D) , Jon Hoadley (D), Cole, Bizon, Gary Glenn (R), and Griemel as well as Senators: Knezek, O'Brien, Horn, Proos, Kowall, Jim Ananich PURCHASING POWER IN MICHIGAN: LATINOS -- $9.2 BILLION ASIANS - $11 BILLION Source: www.ImmigrationPolicy.org

Bridal Edition 5

2016

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PHILANTHROPY

Nurturing Philanthropy IN GENESEE COUNTY

BY MARY JO HERBIG, APR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Since February 2013, Bobby Mukkamala, M.D. has served as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. CFGF is a local nonprofit organization that serves all of Genesee County. Dr. Bobby Mukkamala

r. Mukkamala is a local philanthropist who believes in the power of endowment. In this interview he reflects on his philanthropic values and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next for the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Q: How did you get involved with the Community Foundation of Greater Flint (CFGF)? A: I first heard about the CFGF when Kathi Horton (CFGF President) and Dr. Nagaraju (former trustee) made a presentation to share the purpose of the organization. I became involved as a member of the then Community Impact Advisory Committee. On that committee, under the guidance of Nina Lewis, I got an in-depth view of the capacity of the Community Foundation to impact the quality of life in our community. I also learned about the power of individual philanthropy and endowment. Q: From your perspective, how does CFGF impact the community? A: CFGF impacts the community in the smallest and largest of ways. I love the fact that we can help one particular block in one neighborhood with a project that is loaded with motivation and light on cash. At the same time we can help address more systemic issues that have ample financial resources but are light on direction and strategy. Being physicians, my wife Nita and

I are particularly grateful for the work of the CFGF as it relates to community health. Q: Is there a particular person who has inspired your charitable values? A: My parents had the good fortune of immigrating to this great country with nothing but an education and a desire to do better for themselves than their ancestors could. We moved to Flint when I was two years old. As they have become successful, their careers have evolved to the point where they can now give back to this community and to the community they left behind in India. Their hard work has allowed me to start my life on a higher rung of the ladder. It would be disrespectful to them and those like them to not continue their philanthropy. Locally, I see the impact that one man, Charles Stewart Mott, has had for generations of Flint residents. While many made their fortunes here in Flint, it is people like CS Mott and the Mott Foundation that truly serve as an example of what philanthropy and endowment can accomplish over time. Q: Why have you chosen to support CFGF? A: Nita and I support CFGF for several reasons. The power of endowment has motivated us to create a fund that will exist to support the needs of this community long after we are gone. The Community Foundation has the unique ability to serve as funder to address more systemic issues in our

community. These are issues that need multiyear resources to impact in a meaningful way. The fact that CFGF is a resource to the entire Genesee County area through its geographic affiliates also appeals to us. The needs of the county as a whole often get drowned out by the enormous need within the city. CFGF, through these affiliates, recognizes these needs and is an excellent resource to nurture philanthropy in those areas. Q. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next for the Community Foundation of Greater Flint? A: The Board is very proud of the results of our latest strategic meetings. We have decided to focus our available resources on three main areas. First, improving access to healthy food is critical to the health of our community if we want to raise ourselves out of the bottom of state rankings. Second, strengthening Flint neighborhoods by working with residents to improve their own areas is a main core of our past, present and future work. Last, but by no means least, is our community-wide effort around improving literacy across all age groups. We believe that improving literacy in the community through a sustained, collaborative effort is the best way to raise our standard of living across the board. The Community Foundation of Greater Flint is committed to creating a better future in Flint and Genesee County. Call us at 767-8270, visit us in downtown Flint, check out our website at www.cfgf.org or like us on Facebook.

Martha Price surrounded by her family.

The Inaugural Jack E. Price Memorial Run

t all started in 1977 as a fundraiser for Special Olympics by then Michigan State Speaker of the House, Bobby Crim. Ever since, the Health Plus Crim Festival of Races has developed into one of the world’s most elite 10 mile road races, and, without a doubt, the biggest celebration of the year for the Flint community. While much is publicized about the race winners and finishers, along with the enormous community involvement -- many “behindthe-scenes” traditions and legacies continue to nurture without much fanfare, while being every bit as meaningful as crossing the finish line in record time. One heartfelt story is that of Flint’s Martha Price family. Jack Edward Price came to Flint in 1966 as the Court St. Methodist church’s Minister of Christian Education and would later move on to manage the Social Services department at the former Flint Osteopathic Hospital. Spouse Martha would serve in the Swartz Creek school system for 24 years as a teacher and later a principal. When their sons David and Mark were running track for Flint Central High School in the mid-70’s, Jack was inspired and decided he, himself, would get back into shape by running. His training ultimately led to the inaugural Crim race where he was one of the

original 700 runners in the first event. He would then go on to run in seven national marathons and 28 consecutive Crim races! In the mid-2000’s Jack developed health issues that prevented him from running but, nevertheless, always showed-up on Saginaw St. on that fourth Saturday in August to support the runners and the event itself. Sadly, Jack passed away this past April, but his family wanted to posthumously continue Jack’s passion for this event. Inspired by an email sent to the family by grandson Ben, 15 members of the Price family came in from as far away as Chicago and Indianapolis and decided to participate in the Crim Festival of Races in Jack’s honor. They all wore matching t-shirts and sported memorial ribbons with Jack’s photo and the

phrase of “Another Crim For Grandad,” thereby christening the maiden Jack E. Price Memorial Run 2015. Martha fondly mentions that she and Jack pushed all of their eight grandchildren in strollers since they were born in one of the Crim events throughout the years, while they all have continued to participate each year on their own. One wonders if all the grandchildren will qualify for the Crim’s prestigious 30 year runners club after they reach 30 years of age! Jack and Martha were married for 62 years and Martha reflects on a day of profound memories. “All of the grandchildren were very close to their grandfather, and it was so warming to see my family come together in Jack’s honor.”