$5.00
Vol. II No. II
Kettering University Robert K. McMahan
Seventh President
2 on the town
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P.O. BOX 320275 FLINT, MI 48532 O:810-407-6831 F:810-407-7323
VO LU M E I I
NO. II
PUBLISHED BY:
Link Publishing Group EDITOR: Marcia McGee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Carolyn Snider Patricia Mroczek Vagios Young Michael G. Thodoroff Sue Lauber Marcia McGee Michael Kelly Therese Leyton Lucy Ham Dale Keipert Laurie Prochazka Kris Cochrun Angela Fichera
DESIGNED BY: The Office Place PHOTOGRAPHY: Debby Molina MANAGED AND OPERATED BY: Global Marketing and Advertising LLC DIRECTOR: Karen Smith ASSISTANT DIRECTOR:
Michelle Blaisdell
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Karen Smith Debby Molina
MISSION STATEMENT
on the town Magazine captures the positive way our community lives and breathes. Dynamic in scope and editorially eclectic, it reflects the people, community and lifestyle of Genesee County and its’ surrounding areas on a grand scale. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without expressed written consent of the publisher.
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Editor’s Letter Dear on the town Reader: We are pleased to announce that the “on the town” website is now LIVE! Feel free to check it out at your leisure; here you’ll have a chance to peruse old editions as well as events. Sign up for a subscription or just see what’s new with “on the town.” Be sure to check out our Advertising Partners who have linked up to help us spread the positive things our community has to offer. We would like to thank everyone for supporting and reading “on the town” Magazine and hope you enjoy each issue. www.onthetownmagazine.com. As always, we would love to hear your ideas on how to make the site and the magazine better. Our focus this month is on education. Kettering University has a new president, Dr. Robert K. McMahan. While he has been on the job for several months, his official inauguration took place on April 20. Also featured this month is news from Baker College, as well as the University of Michigan-Flint, Mott Community College, Cleary College and Northwood. In addition, we have some newsworthy stories about Hurley and McLaren, as well as our regular columns on real estate, estate planning, nutrition and digital marketing. Since the growing season is upon us, I want to urge all of our readers to shop your local farmers’ markets. Local food is fresher, tastes better and comes from farmland near you. Local Michigan farmers can offer produce varieties bred for taste and freshness. Many fruits and vegetables can lose up to 50 percent of their nutrients in just five days time. And, buying local helps the environment. Food travels an average of 1,500 miles from farm to table and accounts for fifty percent of the trucks on our interstate system. Why not do your part to reduce the carbon footprint and eat healthier in the bargain? If every Michigan family would buy just $10 a week of local Michigan fruits and vegetables it would keep $37 million new dollars each week working for you right here at home. Farmers’ markets and farm stands are not the only way to keep your money in the state. Did you know Dearborn Brand meats employs 182 Michigan workers, Faygo pop employs 450 and Better Made Potato Chips employs around 230? So eat healthy, support the Michigan economy. For a pretty good list of Michigan made products, visit www.BuyMichiganProducts.com. And support our advertisers and keep reading on the town Magazine! Our mission is to entertain and educate you. We hope we are doing a good job!! Sincerely, Marcia McGee Previous issue correction: STAT EMS article - UAW Region 1C Director Norwood Jewell was incorrectly identified. To subscribe to “on the town” Magazine: Mail a check or money order for $24.99 for six issues to P.O. Box 320275, Flint, MI 48532. Make checks payable to Global Marketing and Advertising. on the town
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baker.edu
Contents
VO L U M E I I N O . I I
articles
06
KETTERING UNIVERSITY TO INAUGURATE President Robert K. McMahan during gala on Friday, April 20
08
MID-LIFE CAREER-SWITCHER Earns Baker Bollege of Flint’s first-ever Centennial Scholarship.
10
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Tops a great year for Mott Community College
12
CLEARY CLEARLY On the cutting edge
19
YOU BID ON WHAT THEY HID
20
DESIGNING A SUSTAINING BUSINESS Debra Hawley Designs
26
REAL ESTATE NOW Ballpark figures: Online home values often come out of left field.
30 33 41 44
BUBBA O MALLEY’S An eclectic mix
06 08 10 16
McLAREN - FLINT Name and logo changes part of McLaren Health Care rebranding initiative. THE NEXT BIG THING NO FUSS ASPARAGUS FOR SPRING Bring no-fuss asparagus to the dinner table this spring.
photo spreads 16
genesys affair of the heart
22
president’s valentine gala
29 34
Black History Month Brunch
38
on the town Magazine advertisor appreciation party
st. patrick’s day
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KETTERING UNIVERSITY INAUGURATES
PRESIDENT ROBERT K. MCMAHAN DURING GALA ON APRIL 20
F
BY PATRICIA MROCZEK riday, April 20, was one of the most important days in the history of Flint’s Kettering University, for on that day the community joined with the campus to “Celebrate Kettering” and the Inauguration of President Robert K. McMahan as the institution’s seventh president. “It was a day of significance for our University,” Provost Robert Simpson said. “The celebration focused on the accomplishments of our students, faculty, alumni, and our community. The highlight was the festive and colorful inauguration ceremony for President Robert K. McMahan.”
Celebrate Kettering - Friday, April 20, 2012 Noon - An alumni keynote address was presented by Mary Barra ‘85, senior vice president of Global Product Development at General Motors. 2 PM - Research and Innovation Showcase 4 PM - The Inauguration of Dr. Robert K. McMahan as the seventh president of the University 5:30 PM - Reception in the Campus Center 7:30 PM - Student Festival During the afternoon’s Innovation Showcase, students competed in a special presentation of Innovation Quest -- a popular and fun contest where students test their innovative ideas in hands-on challenges. During the Research Showcase, faculty members and students offered poster displays and presentations in an extraordinary showing of ongoing projects and efforts. Around 60 poster displays showed off the current and remarkable research on campus -- everything from “Innovations in the design of smart energy meters” to “Haptic enabled mobile robotics.” “Kettering’s new path blends the prestige of our technical past with its entrepreneurial spirit today,” Dr. Simpson added. 6 on the town
DR. ROBERT K. McMAHAN
› Dr. Robert K. McMahan was appointed the seventh President of and Professor of Physics at Kettering University in August 2011. › Prior to his arrival at Kettering, Dr. McMahan was the Founding Dean of the Kimmel School and Professor of Engineering at Western Carolina University; the Kimmel School is Western’s College of Engineering and Technology. Before his tenure at the Kimmel School, Dr. McMahan was the Senior Advisor to the Governor of North Carolina for Science and Technology, and the Executive Director of the North Carolina Board of Science and Technology. In this role he also acted as a Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Commerce, the General Assembly, and the Economic Development Board.
he was responsible for the company’s worldwide research, engineering, and product development activities and for the creation and operation of the company’s Advanced Technology Laboratories in the Research Triangle Park.
› He joined GretagMacbeth after its acquisition in 2000 of McMahan Research Laboratories, the advanced technologies company that he founded in Cambridge, MA and later expanded to the Research Triangle Park of North Carolina in 1989. › Dr. McMahan has been involved in the creation of a number of technology startups, and he has co-led equity and LBO capital raises in excess of $50MM.
› Prior to his work with the Governor, he
› Dr. McMahan also held the position of Research Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill from 1989-2010. He received Bachelors’ Degrees in Physics and in the History of Art from Duke University in 1982, a Ph.D. degree in Physics from Dartmouth in 1986, and completed postdoctoral studies at the Harvard University/Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Center for Astrophysics.
› Before joining In-Q-Tel, he was
› Dr. McMahan has extensive national and international speaking, consulting, and management experience in organizations and
was a Senior Technology Strategist and Venture Capitalist for In-QTel, a private venture capital organization funded by the CIA, where he was responsible for developing a technology investment strategy for the intelligence community, and then deriving, molding, and structuring individual investments and technologies within the portfolio in response to it. executive vice president of Engineering and R&D for GretagMacbeth, LLC, where
initiatives related to technology and product development, research policy, investment capital, entrepreneurship and innovation-based economic development.
› He frequently speaks and consults with national and international organizations interested in innovation policy, investment capital, technology-based economic development, university research, and the university’s role in economic development at the invitation of organizations including the National Academies, the U.S. Congress, and the Federal Reserve as well as a number of international governments. › Dr. McMahan participated in research that led to the cosmological discoveries of the “Great Attractor,” as well as the “bubble and void” structure of the universe and the “Great Wall,” the latter of which at the time of discovery was the largest known structure in the universe. These are now foundational elements of modern dark matter theory. He has published more than forty papers in scientific and engineering journals, sits on a number of corporate boards and state and national commissions, and holds multiple domestic and international patents.
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MID-LIFE CAREER-SWITCHER
EARNS BAKER COLLEGE OF FLINT’S FIRST-EVER CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP BY CAROLYN SNIDER Like so many others in today’s economy, Fechik, who lives in Grand Blanc, faced a difficult mid-life choice: try to find work in his former field or retrain and begin anew.
He chose to retrain.
John J. Fechik’s first career ended with a thud.
“The building trade industry bottomed out and the company I worked for shut down,” said the 57-year-old former designer and Vietnam veteran. Like so many others in today’s economy, Fechik, who lives in Grand Blanc, faced a difficult mid-life choice: try to find work in his former field or retrain and begin anew. He chose to retrain. Now, three years later, Fechik is close to completing his bachelor’s degree in health care administration at Baker College of Flint, and a new career in orthotics/prosthetics awaits. For his efforts, Fechik has been awarded Baker College of Flint’s first-ever Centennial Award scholarship, established to commemorate Baker’s 100 years of career-ready education and to provide annual support for deserving students. “I was fortunate to discover Baker College,” said Fechik. “Their advisors and instructors helped me realize that one is never too old to attain a new career or acquire a new skill.” Fechik initially earned an orthotic/prosthetic technology associate degree from Baker’s Flint campus. He is currently employed as a teacher’s assistant in the orthotic/prosthetic department at Baker College of Flint and attending class full time. After graduation in June, Fechik plans to start working on a master’s degree at Baker College. “My ultimate goal is to continue as an employee at Baker College of Flint and teach in the orthotic/prosthetic department after I earn the required certifications,” said Fechik. 8 on the town
Fechik says being named the first recipient of the Baker College of Flint Centennial Scholarship award was wonderful and very much appreciated. “I was honored and surprised to receive this scholarship,” he said. “Baker College has helped me achieve something I never dreamed I would do and has opened new doors for me.” The Centennial Scholarship fund was established at Baker College of Flint in celebration of its centennial year. Current students who achieved at least a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 and completed at least 36 credit hours were eligible to apply. Each applicant was required to write an essay that answered the following questions: “How will the centennial scholarship assist in achieving career goals at Baker College of Flint?” and “How will the centennial scholarship assist in achieving career goals upon graduation?” “The scholarship committee judged each applicant on the responses to the questions as well as the overall essay,” said Gerald McCarty II, Baker College of Flint vice president for student services. “All of the entries submitted were of high quality and the committee had a difficult time in determining the winner. John’s entry and his overall scholastic achievement and career aspirations made the decision easier. He is very deserving of this award.” Fechik received the scholarship award at the Baker College of Flint centennial celebration event. During his acceptance speech, he referred to an article that a friend had given him about the Roy Rogers Rider’s Club rules. Written back in the 1950s, Fechik said that he applies many of the values listed to his everyday life. “‘Be courteous and polite, protect the weak and help them, study hard and learn all you can, and always respect our flag and our country’ are just a few of the rules that guide my life,” said Fechik. “I also credit God for his guidance and my mother and late father for their love and support that helped me become the person that I am today. I also couldn’t have done this without the support and understanding of my wife, Kim.” The Baker College of Flint scholarship committee will determine future winners of the Centennial Scholarship. At least one award will be made every year and the winner(s) will be notified by December. Contributions to the Centennial Scholarship Fund may be directed to Rebecca Boggs, business manager, Baker College of Flint, 1050 West Bristol Road, Flint, MI 48507. Baker College of Flint is a 501(c)(3) organization.
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National Championship Tops a Great Year for Mott Community College By Michael Kelly
P
eople in this part of the country know Mott Community College well. Since its creation in 1923, MCC has grown to serve over 18,000 students a year, becoming the largest college in the region as well as the least expensive. But the last year has seen a constant stream of national recognition for Mott College. The first national recognition came when the Washington-based Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) named MCC’s President, Dr. Dick Shaink as the Best Community College President in North American at the ACCT Annual Community College Leadership Congress in Toronto, Canada. MCC Board Chair Lenore Croudy said, “To have Dr. Shaink receive this national recognition from his peers by having been chosen as the top community college president/CEO in the nation and beyond is one more sign of how well Mott Community College is serving our community. As is usual for him, Dr. 10 on the town
Shaink gave credit to the staff and faculty of the college when he accepted his award but his leadership of this college through difficult financial times and in the face of a changing economy has been an inspiration. Our community should be proud to see Dr. Shaink receive this most prestigious and well-deserved award.” The second national recognition came a few months later when the national publication Community College Week published a study of community colleges and four-year colleges and universities that issue associate degrees. The study showed that Mott Community College ranked as the 77th highest producer of Associate Degrees in the nation. Victor Borden, professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Indiana, noted that this success came in the face of a tough year for higher education. “This has been a rocky year for higher education in the United States,” Borden stated. “States and local communities face the most severe financial constraints that have
been experienced since most community colleges opened their doors…all institutions and community colleges in particular, struggle to offer a highly valued service to an increasingly diverse array of students and community partners with increasingly scarce resources.” The third recognition came from the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, which proclaimed that MCC ranked in the top ten percent of community colleges in the country, making it one of the 120 best community colleges out of more than 1,200 in America. Even more national praise came to MCC when The U.S. Department of Education unveiled its new College Affordability and Transparency website and MCC was hailed as having one of the lowest net costs in the country. The website showed that the average net cost for a public two-year college is $6,780 while MCC’s net cost is $3,257. Dr. Adriana Phelan, Vice President for Public Policy at the Michigan Community College Association, observed, “This was not an easy feat in this economically volatile environment for Mott College to achieve this recognition for value.” But the plaudits weren’t over for Mott College. The Washington-based Aspen Institute released the results of further research and it turned out that MCC wasn’t just in the top ten percent of community colleges but, even more, was one of the top ten community colleges out of over 1,200 in the country. “The story of Mott Community College is a story about the power of an educational institution to boost an entire community,” said Josh Wyner, Executive Director of the Aspen Institute’s College
Excellence Program. “The economic challenges facing the Flint community are well known. As things improve, Mott Community College will deserve some of the credit for it, because this college is getting better and better in a very impressive fashion.” According to the Aspen Institute, Mott College demonstrated very strong improvement in the number of students that earned degrees and certificates over the past five years. To get there, the college created a rigorous system to measure results and identify opportunities for improvement, and test results show that student learning and completion rates have improved significantly. Community leaders praised MCC for its deep community involvement. Kirk Smith, CEO of the Greater Flint Health Coalition said, “Mott College is a significant community partner. Our focus in relationship with them is around health and health care. But really Mott College is a part of everything, whether it’s economic development, workforce development or even community improvements in general.” Alicia Booker, CEO of Career Alliance/ Michigan Works added, “One of the things that’s really an advantage to the Michigan Works system in Genesee County is the presence of Mott Community College. The college has taken such a very aggressive role in ensuring that the training they’ve provided – both the credit and noncredit training – result in people having meaningful and gainful employment.” Jason Caya of the Flint Area Reinvestment Office stated that, “With the challenges that our workforce faces, having Mott Community College and having them partner with almost all of the service organizations and the other colleges and universities here is vital to prepare our population to engage in the new economy.” DisAbility Network CEO Mike Zelley added, “We have a great and strong and lasting relationship with Mott College and it goes beyond just that. I look to Mott
Community College and Dr. Shaink and his team as a leadership source for us. One of the things that I think is very important that you don’t often find in the academic setting is they’re willing to listen and turn on a dime.” “We appreciate the validation from national experts that Mott College is actually doing what we say we are; seeking ways to bring our students to success,” said MCC President Dick Shaink. “We are committed to serve our community and we are well aware of the challenges we all face right now. Higher education is a critical gateway to a successful career and Mott College is the affordable, high-quality option.” In late March, yet another national recognition came to Mott College when MCC’s top-ranked men’s basketball team brought home the national championship when they won the final game at the NJCAA Division II national tournament. Coach Steve Schmidt’s team had been ranked as #1 in the nation for most of the
season but still had to fight their way to the top when they defeated the Community College of Rhode Island in the final round 70-60, winning MCC’s fourth national men’s basketball title. MCC became the first college in NJCAA history to win a fourth national championship. All this national recognition may be a sign of things to come. The quality of MCC’s programs has attracted students from 26 foreign countries. These students come from such nations as China, Germany, Japan, France, India, England, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and others. But the most important thing about Mott Community College isn’t measured in awards and championships. The most important thing about MCC is the men and women who pass through its doors on their way to successful careers. With over 100 career programs from which to choose, MCC has continually showed that it is “The Smart Choice.”
The Golden Age of Painting, 1600–1800, from the Speed Art Museum
This exhibition is organized by the Speed Art Museum, Louisville, KY and supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities.
May 5 – August 19 Flint Institute of Arts 1120 E. Kearsley St. Flint, MI 48503 810.234.1695 flintarts.org
TARGET FREE SATURDAYS Sponsored by
Adélaïde Labille-Guiard Portrait of Madame Adélaïde, 1787 Speed Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Berry Stoll, 1982.21
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CLEARY CLEARLY ON THE CUT TING EDGE
C
BY ANGEL A FICHER A leary University was founded in 1883 and although it has a rich history its programs are cutting edge. In fact, the non-profit specialized business university with campuses in Howell and Ann Arbor was one of the first to offer online programs back in the early 90s. This past January, Cleary University’s online undergraduate and graduate programs were ranked amongst the top in the country as reported in U.S. News & World Report. “Cleary University is always pleased when external sources recognize our achievements, but as I tell our graduates, the real measure of our value is their accomplishments and their continued advancement in their careers, bringing efficiency and success to their employers,” said Cleary University President Tom Sullivan. “We recognize that online education is not only responsive to many of our student customers but that it is simply one of the best methods to deliver effective teaching and learning. We strive to be high-tech and high-touch within an instructional design constructed to achieve success for our students.” With over 20 business-related degrees including bachelor’s degrees in marketing and new media, health care management, entrepreneurship, and corporate accounting, as well as master’s degrees in green business strategy, nonprofit management, and organizational leadership, Cleary University offers a wide range of options in the most sought after fields. The masters programs are 100 percent online and the bachelor degrees are a mix of online and on-ground classes. Cleary courses are taught by faculty who work in the fields they teach and the university’s all-in-one tuition rate includes all textbooks and fees. For added convenience, textbooks are sent directly to the student’s home or workplace. Cleary University also has extension sites at Mott Community College in Flint and Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn. “Cleary has been on Mott’s campus for seven years,” said Eric Smith, admissions advisor at Cleary University. “We have enjoyed a great partnership with MCC; in fact, in 2011 almost 10 percent of Cleary’s students were Genesee County residents. Together we’re helping to foster the brainpower in Genesee County.” Cleary’s articulation agreement with Mott Community College includes a new ABBA program which offers MCC students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree on Mott’s campus. 12 on the town
“The Cleary ABBA is a business degree for the non-business major. Whatever program a student has been working on will be given a ‘practical purpose’ by obtaining this degree,” said David Castlegrant, Cleary University’s Dean of the College of Management. “The degree is a convenient blend of online classes and on-ground classes that are located on Mott Community College’s campus.” The Genesee business community can also benefit from a relationship with Cleary University through its Strategic Business Partnership (SBP) program. This Cleary initiative offers organizations a partnership that provides its eligible employees and their dependents a 20 percent tuition grant towards undergraduate and graduate degrees. This affiliation is offered at no-cost to organizations. Those interested in finding out more about any of Cleary University’s programs, are encouraged to contact the admissions department at 1.800.686.1883 or visit www.cleary.edu.
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YOU BID ON WHAT THEY HID BY VAGIOS YOUNG
Are you a fan of the popular A&E reality show “Storage Wars?” The show follows people who like to attend storage unit auctions either for fun or profit – mostly profit. If you are, then you should turn to www.ministoragebid.com for more information on how to become part of this trend.
M
ark Scowden, noted Flint businessman, (EconoKool and various restaurant ventures), has been active many years in online auctions as a customer. He finally decided to get involved in the auction business as owner/operator of www.ministoragebid. com, a site that gives interested parties information on the auctioning of 10x10 estate storage units. More importantly, the company provides a service to individuals who want to get rid of storage units and storage companies who need to auction units where the renter has defaulted. Scowden’s company advertises and conducts the auctions. In the past, typically the storage company would handle it and usually 15 to 20 buyers would show up for an auction. With the popularity of “Storage Wars,” now 200 to 225 people show up to bid. What used to take about an hour, now takes a full day. And where units used to go for about $200, now they seldom go for less than $650. Scowden says he recently sold one for just under $20,000 and it is not uncommon to sell units for $1,000 and up. You really never know what you will find, which is the charm of the adventure.
Most items are general household goods: furniture, electronics, clothing and personal records. Bidders do find money, jewelry, antiques and collectibles at these auctions. It is not uncommon to find someone’s entire household or business in a unit. With that in mind, you never know when you might stumble on someone’s life collection of who knows what? A buyer usually is able to view the property only from the open door. He cannot open boxes or touch anything. This means that boxes and plastic storage containers can yield anything. Some units are packed so tight you won’t have the luxury of getting a view of the items that are behind what is blocking the entrance area. I was able to witness three different auctioned units and the dramatic search for treasure afterwards. Before the auction, the units are opened and everyone gets five minutes to view them. You can’t go inside, and you can’t open any boxes. Be sure you bring a good flashlight. The first unit was opened and quickly sold for only $125. It looked like a bunch of cheap household items. I overheard the fellow who was bidding on it say he had a hunch. It was full of exactly what it looked
like, household items. But what piqued his interest were four vases that were a strange purple color. And sure enough, everything else was junk. He had the vases appraised by a glass expert. It seemed they were Moser glass and worth a total of $3,000! The second unit was neatly packed and one of the bidders noticed an S & H green stamp sign. He thought it might be full of collectables of some value and he won the unit at $200. There was nothing of value or interest in it except the sign. He had the sign appraised and it was worth $20. Bust! The third unit was bought by a lady who owns a resale shop. She noticed a couch, mirror and kitchen table that she could resell and get her investment of $200 back, and anything else she found would be a bonus. Well, she found a sack with $500 worth of Las Vegas casino chips. What a bonus! I could see how people could get hooked on this. It is exciting and you never know what you will find. If you are interested in this burgeoning trend, go to www.ministoragebid.com. The site will explain everything to help you get started. on the town
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DESIGNING A SUSTAINING BUSINESS MODEL
D
BY MICHAEL G. THODOROFF ebra Hawley is currently working in her thirtieth year in the interior design business. She fervently bases her sustainability on keeping her priorities in order with devotion to faith, her love of family, “and everything else after that!” She never got to pursue the formal education she so desired, but admitting that graduating “cum laude” from the school of hardknocks has served her well. Ironically, while always having an affinity for interior design, she started her working career in the restaurant business. Approaching ten years and many working hours, she determined managing restaurants and bar life was not conducive to raising a young family. Fortunately, she had a good friend in a local window specialty company who was looking to add another employee. Deb made the career move and for the next two years learned the complexity of window treatments. “That experience gave me a tremendous education in a very particular element of the interior design business,” she recalled. Deb noted that for many years, people in design industry did not have the knowledge of the window treatment segment because it is so specialized. Eventually, friends were asking her opinion on design issues. A close friend asked her to do a project “on the side” but instead of doing just the windows, she did a complete remodel of the house including moving load-bearing walls, new lighting plans and changing floor elevations. “That one person had the faith in me to do the project right,” she reflected. “Since then, my business has been based on word of mouth.” By the late 90s, Hawley incorporated as Timeless Designs in Flushing. That was at the dawn of the “building boom” and she employed two Photos By Mary Walraven Photography support staff and four designers. Timeless Designs specialized in new construction and prided themselves in covering every project detail by working side by side with architects and builders. Her two sons and the years due to her talent and overall approach to husband were also very active in the day-to- day operations. design. Adult children of long-time loyal clients are However, because of the paralyzing events in September of 2001, our now requesting her design brilliance. Her peers and country’s economy drastically changed and Hawley realized the faltering clients marvel at her “Polaroid” vision – her ability to economy would not support a specialized fine design studio. conceptualize the project in high-definition. Possibly a blessing in disguise, Deb took a sabbatical, in a sense, by “My goal is to understand the client,” she said with working for Plum Hollow, a design studio in the Clarkston area. “I sort of emphasis. “I take pride in being very attentive to the regrouped for a year. It was a very beneficial, restful experience not to be smallest of detail and I strive to define a client’s niche. a business owner for a while,” she mentioned. I see, evaluate, discern and process all at once and After a year, she felt the urge to get back into her home community and I’m more likely to give a reason and a why behind my go into a small design business venture. She christened the Debra Hawley suggestions rather than just ‘do this.’ I have a very good Design Consultant firm in Grand Blanc, moving to her current location reason why I suggest what I do. And by the way, I am in the Decors Design Studio building at 120 N. Cherry St. in Flushing. not a ‘design-to-go’ type of store!” “Because of the continued crunching of the economy, it was simply Visit Debra Hawley Design Consultant at www. good business sense to share resources,” she noted. Hawley reluctantly dhawleydesign.info or Debra Hawley Interior Design Fabianothe Brothers Established 1885 has Bevanda Bay aCity, MI 48705 989-509-0200 discerned specialty design 1885: industry goneCourt through tremendous on Facebook for more info and picture gallery of her transformation and is now very small. But Hawley has persevered over renowned work. 20 on the town
NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY Increase your income and career potential with a business degree from Northwood University. Adult Degree Program: Flint • Courses offered online & on site • Earn your BBA in Accounting, Computer Information Management, Health Care Management, Marketing, or Management • Convenient schedules for the busy adult • Credit possible for work/life experience • 3+1, 2+2 articulation agreement guaranteed to transfer • Conveniently located at 3487 S. Linden Road DeVos Graduate School: Lansing & Midland • Multiple program options available • Aimed at strategically expanding your managerial and leadership skill sets in a global economy
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Cleary University’s online programs were recently ranked amongst the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Call to attend our next information session.
810-232-0626
1.800.686.1883 www.cleary.edu on the town
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President’s Valentine Gala 11
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Benefit: Old Newsboys of Flint When: February 11, 2012 where: Warwick Hills Country Club who:
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1. Dr. Brad & Cindy Habermehl
Joy Martinbianco & George Peterman
2. Mr. & Mrs. Carrigan
3. Joyce & Chris Hamilton 4. John & Alicia Gibbons
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5. Dr. Gary Wease & Michelle Wilcox 6. Joel & Sue Florida 7. Ron & Olga Long
8. Hope Ponsart & John Hansen 9. Brenda & Gary Raudebaugh
Nicole Drake & James Savage
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10. Joe & Melissa Karlichek
11. Katie Hansen & Jim Hansen
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Searching for Innovative and Business-Savvy Talent? Don Ebben ‘13 Computer Science & Computer Engineering Co-op: Livio Radio
Dr. David Foster Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering
Kettering University Partner with Kettering and tap into the nation’s most advanced students to build a highly productive professional workforce. Innovation and entrepreneurship are infused throughout all of our engineering, science, math and business programs. Kettering’s renowned experiential learning and cooperative education program is known for educating leaders for a global society.
Any university will take you places. Kettering will take you farther. www.kettering.edu
Flint, Michigan
1-800-955-4464 ext. 7865
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For years, McLaren Regional Medical Center has been the name you and your family have trusted for leading-edge health care. Now, we’re proud to announce our new name.
The new name of leading-edge health care At McLaren–Flint, our new name strengthens our bond with one of Michigan’s largest health care systems—McLaren Health Care. As part of McLaren, we offer you more, including: > Advanced technology and state-of-the-art medical treatment > More than 200 locations and 10 medical centers across the state > Access to cutting-edge clinical research trials > More than 17,000 employees and 11,000 network physicians
Though our name has changed, our priorities certainly haven’t. You can still count on us for the same exceptional care and the same commitment to building healthier individuals and stronger communities.
McLaren Regional Medical Center is now McLaren–Flint. GREATER LANSING 401 S. Ballenger Highway, Flint, MI 48532
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(810) 342 2000
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mclaren.org
Advitorial
Real Estate Now by Lucy Ham BALLPARK FIGURES
Online Home Values Often Come Out Of Left Field About the only online segment growing faster than Cyber Monday sales might be real estate search websites such as Zillow.com, Realtor.com and Homes.com. One reason for the huge gains in web traffic (the above three sites now draw approximately 50 million -and growing -- unique visitors per month) is the home valuation tools many of these sites offer. Resources like Zillow.com’s Zestimator have become the first place many consumers turn in order to gauge the value of their own home or one they are considering buying. Online value estimators are certainly interesting and more than a little entertaining. But they are not the best way (and, in many cases, not even a good way) to get an accurate picture of a home’s market value. A recent article in The Wall Street Journal pointed out that online home valuation models can “veer off target with alarming frequency.” Most of the websites themselves acknowledge the potential for inaccuracies. For example, Zillow features an accuracy table that rates the site’s pricing estimates for major metro areas on a scale of one to four stars. Zestimates fall within 20% of the actual sale price, and there is often a notable average margin of error of 7.9%. What do those stats tell you about the accuracy of price estimates in your town, your neighborhood or your block? To put it another way, if your real estate agent told you that slightly more than one in five of their pricing analyses missed the mark by 20 percent or more, you would probably go out and find yourself another agent. Which begs the question....why not call your agent in the first place? If Zillow can give you a “three-star” guesstimate of your home’s value, then a full service professional realtor, who is working from up-to-the-minute MLS data, walks
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through dozens of homes each month, and has knowledge of those homes that cannot be found in the public record, is probably worth five stars at least! Of course, that is not to say these websites and their home valuation models are not relevant. We do recognize their value to the consumer. Sites like Zillow, Realtor. com and Trulia have invested millions of dollars in developing excellent search technology. It is important to recognize that online valuation tools are new. Algorithms are constantly being updated, and the better sites encourage participation from their user communities to acquire more date on individual homes. Over time, online valuation models can only get better. Ultimately, however, the best estimate of your home’s value will come from a certified appraisal or a professional realtor. You do not have to be buying or selling right this minute to get that information. Ask for an informal estimate or a thorough comparative market analysis anytime - even if you are just curious.
There’s No Place Like The Neighborhoodsm
All the taste. None of the trade-offs. Try the Unbelievable Great Tasting & Under 550 Calories Menu! TM
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a r b e D y e l w a H design consultant
DESIGNING QUALITY SINCE 1981
810.577.4609
• Furniture, Space Planing & Layout • Custom Window Treatments • New Home or Remodeling Selections Tile • Countertops • Lighting, etc. • Artwork, Accessories, Rugs • Closet Organization • Color Consultant • Home Sale Staging
www.dhawleydesign.info decoratordeb@comcast.net
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See us on FACEBOOK Debra Hawley Interior Designs
Genesee District library’s
11th annual black history month
brunch 1. Straight Ahead 2. Oleta Adams 3. Woodrow & Reta Stanley & friends Executive Director: Carolyn Nash
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Library Board Vice Chair: Linda Ryals-Massey (Pictured With) 4. Clarence R. Pierce 5. Congressman Dale Kildee 6. Dr. Henry L. Fuller, Jr. 7. Inez M. Brown
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8. Paul D. Newman
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BUBBA O MALLEY’S: AN ECLEC TIC MIX
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BY KRIS COCHRUN
ohn R. Fick, Jr, the owner of Bubba O’Malley’s is a proud native son, and is quick to show his deep feelings. O’Malley’s, located on Belsay Road in Burton, serves an eclectic mix of steak and seafood, burgers and beer. It is known throughout the area for its excellent food and its comfortable roadhouse ambiance.
Fick was born and raised in Swartz Creek, and his family ties in this area stretch back a long time. Besides Bubba O’Malley’s, John also owns an excavating company and a landscaping supply company, both located in Swartz Creek. The Fick dynasty began more than a hundred years ago, when John’s great-grandfather moved his family from Columbiaville to the original family farm on Elms Road. The initial family residence was both a dairy and a crop farm. Although this was an ambitious undertaking, the Fick household was confident in their jobs. This security was sorely tested however, when the family patriarch passed away at age 39, leaving his 16 year-old son, John’s grandfather, with the task of managing everything. The young man was more than capable. John recounts proudly, “My grandfather had to quit school at 16 to run the farm, and never graduated. But he served for many years on the School Board.” The family became a fixture within the community. John remembers an occasion that showed him how his family remained deeply involved. His grandfather had sold part of the original farm by that time. He recalls watching the ongoing construction of the elementary school on Elms Road. The following year, John started his first day in first grade at that school, built on land from his family’s original homestead. The family continued to work diligently and expanded. In 1969, John’s father, John R. Fick Sr., opened the excavating company. The office is located in the same residence that his great-grandfather had settled the family in when he
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originally moved to Swartz Creek. John, Jr. joined the business with his dad and took over the reins in 2000. It was about the same time that he became a “silent partner” in Bubba O’Malley’s, “Totally silent” he says with a grin. The restaurant opened in 1999 and built a solid reputation in the area for excellent quality food and service in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. The décor is casual, rough-hewn logs with a sports motif. It is a sports bar, dance club and live music venue all under the same roof and it handles all these identities with ease. It is large enough to hold many small-to-medium sized groups throughout the main seating area without crowding anyone, yet still remaining intimate. There are plenty of additional areas available for
{
“The key to success is giving back to the community. When you do that, and produce a quality product or service, it comes
”
directly back.
private functions, as well as an outdoor patio that runs across the back of the building. The patio opens religiously on St. Patrick’s Day, and remains open throughout the fall, weather permitting. Fick acknowledges that he was extremely fortunate when he moved into his role as full proprietor. Bubba O’Malley’s was on solid footing when he took over in late 2009. He is quick to praise his staff, especially his general manager, Samir Khal and his chef, Angela “Angel” Haskins, who has been with the restaurant since it originally opened. He credits them with helping him rise to the challenge, and together, they have improved the bottom line a whopping 30 percent, even in this desperate economy. But it is John’s knowledge of business and people, and his commitment to excellence that completes the trio. He has expanded the restaurant menu to include breakfast and has regular daily and weekly specials for the balance of the day. Fick’s philosophy is straightforward. “The key to success is giving back to the community. When you do that, and produce a quality product or service, it comes directly back. It is always a win-win situation.” John R.Fick resides in Fenton with wife Cathy and daughter Kylie 4.
{
“My grandfather had to
quit school at 16 to run the farm...
”
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Fabiano Brothers Established 1885 - 1885 Bevanda Court Bay City, MI 48705 989-509-0200
NEW NAME FOR LOCAL MEDICAL CENTER NAME AND LOGO CHANGES PART OF MCLAREN HEALTH CARE REBRANDING INITIATIVE
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BY L AURIE PROCHAZK A cLaren Regional Medical Center has announced a new name for the hospital that strengthens its position at the heart of one Michigan’s largest and fastest growing health care families, McLaren Health Care. McLaren Regional Medical Center is now called McLaren–Flint. The Great Lakes Cancer Institute located on the McLaren campus is now called McLaren Cancer Institute. The rebranding initiative is part of McLaren Health Care’s strategic plan to enable it to have a single identity that reflects the scope and impact of the organization across the state. Effective Jan. 19, all McLaren subsidiaries and facilities bear the McLaren name. “McLaren-Flint has proudly borne the name McLaren for more than 60 years, starting when McLaren General Hospital opened here in 1951,” said Don Kooy, president and CEO of McLaren-Flint. “Over time, the name McLaren has become synonymous with quality care, skilled and compassionate staff and physicians, advanced technology and treatment and community benefit. We are proud that the name that has served us so well is now being extended to McLaren facilities across the state.” Kooy stressed that while the name is slightly different, patients at McLaren-Flint will get the same quality and compassionate care they’ve come to expect. He added that the Flint orientation in the name is more than just a geographic indicator. It is symbolic of the medical center’s commitment to the greater Flint and Genesee County community as well as its position at the heart of the McLaren Health Care system, whose corporate
Count On
Dave Page
As the principal in-charge of the firm’s business valuation practice, Dave has experienced many successes with his clients. To him, success is when he can help clients achieve their goals and aspirations. Providing professional guidance for gifting and estate planning, sales, acquisitions, estate tax returns and buy/sell agreements is rewarding to Dave, but it’s having the opportunity to be there every step of the way that really matters. He not only ser ves as an advisor for his clients, but a partner in their successes. For professional accounting and valuation services you can count on, call Dave Page at 810-238-4617.
Brighton Flint 810-238-4617 810-225-1808 Fenton 810-629-1500 www.lewis-knopf.com
headquarters are also in Flint. “As one of the largest health care systems in Michigan, McLaren is able to provide people with greater access to high-quality medical care, including life-saving clinical trials, and the latest, most advanced technology,” noted Philip A. Incarnati, president and CEO of McLaren Health Care. “It’s a testament of our commitment to make individuals healthier and communities stronger.” Along with the name change, the logo identity has been redesigned. Care was taken to maintain the basic color of McLaren’s logo to retain its brand equity as a strong and stable health care services provider. The new logo, however, better expresses McLaren’s strong momentum and forwardthinking principles. The “dual infinity” icons, critical elements of the new logo, represent McLaren’s balance of serious medicine and compassionate care, along with, of course, its endless possibilities. The initiative was announced internally in late fall 2011 after conducting focus group sessions among consumers across the state to investigate how a potential name change might be perceived. There was an immediate positive reaction. “We were amazed by the amount of positive feedback we received,” said Kevin Tompkins, vice president of marketing for McLaren Health Care. “The focus group participants said that changing the name of their local hospital to include the name McLaren would be a true advantage. Their input was very important in guiding the decision to move our health system to a single unified brand.”
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out & about on
St. Patrick’s Day 1
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.
Kay Wright, Denise McDowell, Michelle Willhelm Wendy, Megan & Jennifer Michel Mike & Bernie Carr Grand Marshal’s of the Hibernian Society Bill, Mike, Bob Sr. & Bob Slattery Jr. Sheriff Robert Pickell & Michael Kelly PD’s Crew at Bubba O’s Stephanie Vomvolakis & Patty Pilara Michele & Terrina Dennis Dan Bollman & Roxana Cano April Scrimger, Cherie Kukielka, Anessa Kertesz, Brooke Hayes Claire Chernowsky, Aubrey Routowicz, Meghan Bade The Fantastic Four! The Bade Family Vernon Benson, Amy & Todd Church Judy Roach & Louise Kusky Flint Scottish Pipe Band Kim Lucius & Julie Campbell Janet Pickell, Linda Hamelin, Susan & Mike Owens, Norman Hamelin 20. The Flynn Family
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We’re Looking For Quality People To Join Us?
We’re Rapidly Growing! Now Hiring For A Variety Of Positions.
Skilled and entry level positions available. Find out more on our website’s Career Page.
Apply online at diplomatpharmacy.com Diplomat Specialty Pharmacy is an equal opportunity employer, offering competitive wages and benefit packages.
don Franco Hair Company • Grand Blanc donfrancosalon.com 810.694.8300 36 on the town
Mott Community College was named one of the Top Ten Community Colleges in America (out of 1,200) -Aspen Institute, Washington, D.C.
As the cost of college rises every year, Mott Community College is your best higher education value.
Registratio n Opens April 2nd
Spring semester starts May 9, 2012. Summer semester starts July 2, 2012.
Register online at www.mcc.edu
810-762-0200
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advertisor appreciation party “on the town” would like to give a
big thanks to Dr. Bobby Mukkamala and Kathleen Gazell for hosting our
advertisers appreciation celebration. We
also want to thank each and every one of our advertisers,for it is with the support
of this community that we are able to be a voice of good news and positive
inspiration for our readers. As always
we appreciate your input and ideas feel free to email or mail us your thoughts.
We want to thank all of our advisory
board members as well for a year full of good ideas and great stories. We look
forward to another year of success! A special thanks to Luca’s Chophouse and Fabiano Brothers for supplying the food and spirits!
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420 W. Fifth Avenue, Flint, Michigan 48503
Genesee County Community Mental Health Access Center for Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment (810) 257-3740 TTY (810)-232-6310 Toll Free (877) 346-3648 Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 PM
Crisis Services
(810) 257-3740
TTY (810)232-6310
Customer Services
(810) 257-3705
TTY (810) 257-1346
Toll Free (877) 346-3648 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 PM
Help is Just a Phone Call Away
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THE NEXT BIG THING
I
BY DALE KEIPERT
HUMANISTIC
t’s no real surprise to anyone who has been in business within the last ten years that internet marketing is the fastest changing industry we have ever seen. Just trying to keep up is a major challenge for marketers and business owners, today. Trying to pick the next explosive technology is nearly impossible.
Relevancy
SPONTANEOUS
That being said, I’m going to go out on a limb and predict what I think will be the next big thing in the realm of Internet marketing. This next big thing will not be a new technology, it won’t be a new platform like Facebook or Twitter, but I believe that the next big thing will be Relevancy. Making sure that your marketing message and the information that you provide for your customers and prospective customers are as relevant as possible. We are seeing an increased frustration by online customers when they are trying to do business with companies that are not thinking about them and their needs. This is the age of the customer… and remember your competition is never more than one-click away!
What Is Relevancy?
Relevancy is giving your user what they are looking for as an individual and it changes as it crosses a matrix of buyer personality and buy cycle. This matrix is very complex, which makes it impossible to get relevancy right without planning out and documenting your online marketing strategy, before you type one word for your next email message, social post or information on your website. The relevancy matrix looks at two of the primary characteristics of your customers, prospects, or members and identifies what these users are looking for; the users buying personality and their position within their buying / decision cycle.
Personality/Buy Cycle Matrix METHODIC AL
COMPETITIVE Dale Keipert is the Chief Strategy Officer for the regional digital marketing agency, 3Sixty Interactive. After spending most of his professional career in sales and marketing, most notably the last 15 years in the digital marketing industry, Dale has a keen sense of how to use the online space to help grow business. Dale welcomes your input and questions. You can reach him at dkeipert@3SixtyInteractive. com, by phone at 810.593.0000 or follow his blog at www.3SixtyInteractiveBlog.com.
There are four buying personalities. We all fit into one or a combination of these four buying personalities; humanistic, methodical, spontaneous, or competitive. The buying cycle, though it can have some nuances by industry, primarily starts at awareness, goes to research, then on to comparison, and finally the final buy decision. Let’s look at what a user in one of these matrix positions would be looking for from your marketing message or the information on your website. In this example we will look at a user that arrives on your website that has a humanistic buying personality and is in one of the early stages of the buying cycle. Because this person is humanistic they are interested in the people within your organization. Humanistic people are people-people and they are more interested in doing business with people as opposed to companies. Because this user is in the early stages of their buying cycle they will be doing a lot of research on the solutions or products that they are thinking about buying. Put these two components together and you have a user (potential customer) that is on your website to research the people that they would be working with if they decide to purchase the products or services that your company provides. Now, think about what happens to this user if they land on your website and there is no information about your people, departments, or any of the humanistic aspects of your company. They will just leave!
What To Do?
Start with your online marketing strategy! This is just one reason why you have to develop your strategy before you type one more email message, post one more time to your social media account, or put one more piece of information on your website. on the town
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Senior Community • • •
Family Owned & Operated • Emergency Call System Senior Independent Living • 20 Acre Campus with Pond, Exercise On-site Home Health Care with Path, & Community Vegetable Garden Assisted Living Services • Extensive Activities • Spacious One & Two Bedroom • Complimentary Transportation Apartments and Two Bedroom Villas • Concierge Services • 24 Hour Security Mission Statement: “Our mission is to provide quality housing and supportive services in a serene, natural setting. Seldom will you find a more comparable selection of amenities housed under state-of-art facilities than at Woodhaven.”
5201 Woodhaven Court • Flint, Michigan 48532 • (810) 230-1070 www.woodhavensenior.com
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Need Real Estate Options? call me... (810)252-3827
Built on Family, Innovation and Results on the town
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No Fuss Asparagus for Spring Bring no-fuss asparagus to the dinner table this spring. BY THERESE LEY TON
A
sparagus is an excellent vegetable to eat raw or cooked. In fact, it tastes delicious grilled, broiled, or even microwaved. Asparagus takes only a few minutes to cook and is so easy to prepare. It doesn’t get better than this. Asparagus is a perennial crop. The season usually begins in May and can continue through June, although I understand it is very early this year! Asparagus can be stored in the cool part of the refrigerator like the crisper. To prepare simply remove the woody lower part by grasping the stalk at both ends and bend. If it is fresh, it will automatically break off the woody end. Just cook the greener part of the stem and tip. I asked some friends how they cook their asparagus. Kelly Brindley loves to grill asparagus with garlic, salt and pepper on tin foil. Sheri Ackerson likes to add olive oil in a baggy, add asparagus and cover thoroughly, then broil. I like to steam it and then serve it with lemon juice and no salt Mrs. Dash. My cousin, Judy Kasle, likes to serve asparagus with other raw veggies on a tray which is yummy. Our editor drizzles olive oil over asparagus in a baking pan, cooks for about 10 minutes, sprinkles with fresh parmesan cheese, puts in back in the oven until the cheese melts and adds some lemon zest. Balsamic vinegar can also be drizzled over the asparagus before broiling or grilling. It’s fun to get into the act of eating healthy asparagus and experiment with toppings. Asparagus has almost no fat!!! What could be better?? This food is also very low in cholesterol and sodium. It is also a good source of iron, magnesium, and zinc, and is also a very good source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamins A, C, E (alpha tocopherol), and K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, phosphorus, potassium, copper, manganese and selenium. That’s a lot of goodness packed into a single stalk! It has been recommended that we eat vegetables every day and that they should be the focus of our diet, not just an afterthought. 44 on the town
Vegetables and fruits eaten daily reduce heart disease, high blood pressure, colon cancer and help to control weight. Also fruits and vegetables provide energy and digest easier than processed starches and meats. Asparagus and noodle dinners can be made ahead for a quick light supper. Boil Chinese noodles or whatever noodle you fancy. Add cooked asparagus, raw carrots, and raw green peppers and mix together. Sliced green onions are optional. Do not cook asparagus for more than 4-6 minutes. Mix together, cover and chill. When ready to eat, add a light chilled vinaigrette and you have a nutritional spring salad. Sesame seeds are optional to add as well. Grilled chicken or pork can be added or served with it. Delicious. Be creative and add asparagus to pizza for a great fresh taste. Morel mushrooms added to asparagus make a great combination for pizza toppings. Simply prepare a crust or use a frozen one. Then saute butter and mushrooms for 2-3 minutes. Add shallots and until tender. Add asparagus for approximately 2 minutes. Prepare dough on a flat lightly floured baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil. Top with a low sodium cheese and the asparagus mushroom mixture. Bake at 475 for 12 minutes or until crispy and brown. Enjoy!!! Be inventive with asparagus! It is no fuss!!! Happy Spring!!!
TM TM
Davison - 1369 N. Irish Road - 51.72 Acres zoned industrial in Davison Township, 3/4 mile north of I-69 exit 143 and south of Davison Road. 2,688 SF home on property. Land Contract terms to qualified buyer. $900,000.
Davison - 1324 N. Irish Road - 37 Acres industrial property on Class A road with railroad frontage for major user with room for spur. Located 3/4 mile north of I-69, south of Davison Road. Includes rental income for 8,400 SF warehouse & 2,567 SF house. $850,000.
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Davison - Russell Alger Drive - 23.5 Acres zoned RU1 in Millington - State Road - 22.6 Acres vacant land with water Davison - Richfield and Vassar Road - 70.177 Acres Davison Township. Located west of M-15, north of I-69 and and sewer. Site Plan approved for condominium community. residential development land. Sewer at site. Good long term south of Manford Heights subdivision. $400,000. Great location for senior citizen community. Farm income. investment. Farm income. $273,000. $295,000.
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Davison - 3311 N. State Road - 10.03 Acres with 600’ frontage on M-15/State Road. Great for office or retail use or as an investment. Water and sewer available. Could be split. Includes house and barn. $250,000.
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Flint - Dolan Drive - 20 Acres with 1,500’ of exposure on I-75 at the Pierson Road exit. Sewer, water and gas at edge of property. Neighboring businesses include many fast food restaurants, retail stores and gas stations. $250,000.
Birch Run - Beyer Road - ±20.54 Acres with 888’ frontage on I-75. Surrounding businesses include Prime Outlets of Birch Run, Starbucks, Culver’s Restaurant, Big Boy, Arby’s, McDonald’s and many more. $195,000/Acre.
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Davison - Irish Road - 40.13 Acres approved for condominium development with Site Plan for 106 units/53 duplexes. Located 1/2 mile north of I-69. Farm income. $195,000.
Davison - 107 Mill Street - .56 Acre in two parcels on M-15 and Mill Street in Downtown Davison south of Davison Road. City is looking into joining the parcels and vacating Mill Street. $195,000.
Millington - State Road - 34.04 Acres zoned residential with exposure on State Road and outlet onto Worth Street. Located at the north end of the business district. Water and sewer available. $160,000.
Flint - Carpenter Road - 32.16 Acres with water, sewer and gas. Engineering, blueprint and condominium documents completed. Approvals have been received from the State, County & Township. Located west of Belsay Road. $152,600.
Flint - Belsay and Richfield Road - Two parcels available 1.94 Davison - 3511 N. Irish Road - 4.3 Acre suburban flat corner and 10.94 Acres with great exposure on two busy roads. 1.94 lot at traffic light with existing 1,648 SF home. Great Acres zoned commercial & 10.94 Acres is zoned residential with investment. $54,900. possible rezoning. 1.94 Acres: $95,000 and 10.94 Acres: $75,000.