onthetown Magazine Volume 3 Issue 5 by onthetown Magazine

VOLUME III ISSUE V

DEFINING

EXCELLENCE

THROUGH

EMERGENCIES

Belushi Comes To Flint PRESENTED BY

THE WHITING

DR. RAYMOND RUDONI

No co-pays. No deductibles. Thousands of doctors.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered. (888) 327-0671 McLarenHealthPlan.org

Dear on the town Magazine Reader:

Hasn’t it been a beautiful fall? I think we

were being rewarded for having such a wet July.

Hopefully Mother Nature won’t be too hard on

VOLUME III ISSUE V

us this winter.

DIRECTOR Michelle M. Blaisdell

transition for us, not just the change of seasons,

EDITOR Marcia McGee

this would be a good time for us to re-introduce

These last few months have been a time of

but some organizational changes. We decided

ourselves and tell you a little about who we are. We had a great time one night taking pictures and getting to know each other a little better. Later on, Amber Sabo and Michelle Blaisdell wrote little blurbs about us. I hope you enjoy them.

This issue features two superstars: Jim Belushi, the comedian and

Dr. Raymond Rudoni, medical director of emergency medicine at McLaren Flint. Both are stars in their own way.

Businesses Bennett Communications, VeinSolutions, and John

P. O’Sullivan Distributing are highlighted. We have a lot of health

related stories this month. Local dentist Dr. David Ewing describes his approach to holistic dentistry, McLaren dedicated their new

Hospitality House and describes their pulmonary rehab program. And

for something different learn a little bit more about the benefits of yoga and Qi Gong.

Jim Ply describes the benefits of the Genesee Area Skill Center

for 11th and 12th graders and Michael Kelly educates us about

Mott Community College’s practical value for local businesses and taxpayers. For online marketers, learn about the user experience.

There is a new nonprofit in town - Hometown Heroes of Michigan

-- that provides medical equipment and supplies at no cost to

those in need. They are “recyclers” of sort. Speaking of recycling and repurposing, General Motors continues to support Flint with

the purchase of the Durant-Dort Carriage Company Factory 1 and

continued support of the transformation of “Chevy in the Hole.” Read about these efforts in on the town Magazine.

Therese Leyton continues to delight us with her views on nutrition,

this time featuring the “love it or hate it” zucchini. And, we have

a new writer, Jody Wright, who writes about her new obsession: foraging for berries and nuts in Michigan’s woods. Loved the story!

All of us at on the town Magazine are having a great time

searching for and writing about Genesee County and its unique blend of businesses and people. We are excited about the future and look forward to entertaining you for a long time.

Yours,

Marcia McGee

P.S. Check us out at www.onthetownlimited.com

OFFICE MANAGER Laura Ulman SALES REPRESENTATIVES Debby Molina Mark Novak Savannah Waldchen CONTRIBUTORS Michelle M. Blaisdell Renee Boals-Peels Sherry Farney Lucy Ham Stephane Irwin Dale Keipart Michael Kelly Therese Leyton Marcia McGee Ellen Peter Jim Ply Rich Reed Amber L. Sabo Yvonne Sova Michael G. Thodoroff Bev Wheatley Eiden Jody Wright PHOTOGRAPHY Debby Molina Rynelle Walker Photography PUBLISHED BY Kim Gray Global Network Publishers, LLC 8469 S. Saginaw Street, Suite 3 Grand Blanc, MI 48439 Phone: (810) 584-7006 Fax: (810) 584-7013 publisher@onthetownlimited.com To subscribe: Mail a check or money order for $12.00 for six issues MISSION STATEMENT “onthetown” Magazine is here to publish and promote positive aspects of what “community” means in Genesee County emphasizing the people, businesses, and the entertainment market segments. This will be accomplished as we feature the people of Genesee County as the focal point of “onthetown” Magazine. It will continue to be the driving force to share inspirational stories of what makes the Greater Flint Area a great place to Live, Work, and Play! 1

Contents Editorial

04 58

DEFINING EXCELLENCE THROUGH EMERGENCIES

MCLAREN HOSPITALITY HOUSE OPENS

MCLAREN PULMONARY REHABILITATION PROGRAM

VEINSOLUTIONS CELEBRATES TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY

INNOVATIVE DENTISTRY

JIM BELUSHI AND THE BOARD OF COMEDY

REAL ESTATE NOW

ONLINE MARKETING

BENNETT COMMUNICATION

MCC: PRACTICAL VALUE

GISD SKILLS CENTER

HEROES IN OUR HOMETOWN

JOHN P. O’SULLIVAN DISTRIBUTING, INC.

GM PLEDGES CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR FLINT

MEET ON THE TOWN MAGAZINE

MICHIGAN: A FORAGER’S PARADISE

TASTE OF THE TOWN: ZUCCHINI SQUASH

TRY SOMETHING NEW: QI GONG

YOGA DIVA

BE ON THE SCENE: UPCOMING EVENTS

Event Spreads 22

GENESYS HEALTH CARE CENTER OPENS DOWNTOWN

HOT RODS & HOT DOGS: FLINT & GENESEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

REPRESENTATIVE DAN KILDEE FUNDRAISER

POWERS CATHOLIC GRAND OPENING

THE CRIM FESTIVAL OF RACES

Defining Excellence Through Emergencies BY: MICHAEL G. THODOROFF

Be Well

// DR. RAYMOND RUDONI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYNELLE WALKER

ooking around the Flint community recently, it is clear to

was sending more patients to the emergency room and eventually,

years. Playing an integral part of this dynamic movement

the foresight of the people who work within the hospital’s operations

see the resurgence that has been evolving over the past few

is the developing role of our local health care systems. And setting the pace is the McLaren Health Care (MHC) system. Tracing its roots in Flint as far back as 1914, McLaren Flint in particular, strategically re-

focused its mission back in the mid-90’s “to be Michigan’s best value in health care, as defined by quality, outcomes, and cost,” Today

this credo staunchly continues to be the driving force throughout its organization. Further, MHC is annually recognized as one of the top

integrated health networks in the nation. Its operations and services

are part of one of the largest health care providers in the state with

a system that reaches more than half of Michigan residents through more than 200 locations.

This excellence did not only come through “bricks and mortar.”

It came through the leadership and talent of passionate individuals like Dr. Raymond Rudoni, McLaren Flint’s medical director of

a larger more efficient facility needed to be constructed. He credits

as they logically realized the emergency room can be viewed as the “front door” of the hospital. And, if the patients kept coming to the

emergency room and there was no place to put them, realistically

they will go elsewhere. Rudoni articulated there comes a time in the

business structure of the hospital there is a need to expand facilities in order to grow services. In 2005, the hospital’s board decided to

build a larger emergency room facility. Construction began in 2006 and by its opening in the summer of 2008, the floor space and rooms

in the new emergency room were doubled along with installing the latest of high-tech equipment. “We were at a pivotal time in the mid 2000’s,” Rudoni reflected, “to make such an influential decision for

a well-designed, well-engineered access point for our patients. The volume would never have been able to grow without that expansion.”

A Detroit native, Raymond Rudoni graduated with honors from

emergency medicine. “When I first came here in 2002, we had a

Wayne State University medical school and served his residency

year,” Rudoni said. “Today, we see 65,000 people per year and have

during his senior year in 1995. He followed up with a one-year non-

22 bed emergency room and saw approximately 36,000 people per a 48 bed state-of-the-art emergency room facility.”

According to Rudoni, the rationalization for this expansion of

excellence grew in part due to the fact their care was first-rate and they delivered effective nursing attention. Moreover, the medical staff

at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak serving as its chief resident academic fellowship program where he became familiar with the business aspects of health care administration. In only six years’ time,

he became Beaumont’s vice-chief of the emergency room department where he remained until his appointment as medical director of

Be Well

// DR. RAYMOND RUDONI

McLaren’s emergency medicine in 2002.

Ever since, he has been on a mission to make sure

McLaren Flint is offering the expertise and technology for any and every emergency concern possible. He

firmly believes there will always be new drugs, new equipment, new technologies and new methods of

patient care. Therefore, his goal is to strive to make sure McLaren Flint is always on the forefront of technology and patient care services for their emergency room

patients. “I know we have the capability of doing that,” he said.

Rudoni mentioned the grading for the overall care

of their stroke and heart attack patients is as highly

rated as it is anywhere in the entire state of Michigan, “... and that is backed-up by proven outside agencies,” he underscored. Additionally, he is driven to never fall behind when providing services regardless of

the challenges. He recognizes this approach will be confronted in the near future as our nation moves towards implementing the Affordable Care Act and Michigan’s Medicaid reform. His concern is with

the uncertainty of the projected steep increase in the

volumes of people who will be looking for medical

care which will cause a shortage of a primary care workforce. Thus, these people will be knocking on a hospital’s “front-door” - the emergency room. “Basically, we are going to have to position ourselves

to be ready for that,” Rudoni said. “We will need to be more efficient, wiser – if you will - and find ways to

take care of more patients in less space at economical costs if we want to stay on top of the volume that is being projected.”

He was recently appointed president of the Genesee County

Medical Society (GCMS) while currently serving a second term as the medical director of the Genesee County Medical Control Authority

(GCMCA), a rotating two-year position that shares responsibilities with the other two emergency room medical directors residing at the two other local hospitals. The GCMCA is the agency that oversees

the EMS system in Genesee County. Additionally, he on the Michigan

State Medical Society board of directors, which is the largest medical society in the state with over 16,000 participating physicians. He

“At the end of the day, it is still the greatest privilege to dedicate your training and your career to taking care of human beings.” As Dr. Raymond Rudoni maintains focus on the mission of

has an active role in the EMS Ambulance Company by working

McLaren, he is ever mindful of his professional role. “Medicine is

and performance improvement programs. Rudoni indicated, “This

It has changed dramatically over the last 20 years and will continue

with the paramedics in teaching them through quality education all adds up to better patient care even before the patients get to the hospital.” And just as a local hospital is part of the fabric of the

community, Raymond is active through his GCMS presidency and EMS involvement. 6

still the best profession in the world and I would do it all over again.

to change the next 20 years and beyond. But at the end of the day, it

is still the greatest privilege to dedicate your training and your career to taking care of human beings.”

Getting there, made easy. Nonstop Flights from Flint Book online ONLY at:

From Flint to over 70 Destinations NEW Nonstops

• Las Vegas • Baltimore/Washington

Plus Nonstops to: Orlando Tampa Bay

Ft. Myers (Starts November 9th)

Free Wi-Fi

bishopairport.org • G-3425 W. Bristol Road • Flint, MI 48507 • 810-235-6560

Be Well

// MCLAREN HOSPITALITY HOUSE

McLAREN OPENS $8 MILLION HOSPITALITY HOUSE FOR CANCER PATIENTS

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony/Building Dedication Held July 17 BY ELLEN PETER

ne year to the day after groundbreaking ceremonies, McLaren Flint celebrated the opening of its $8 million Hospitality House at McLaren. A ribbon cutting ceremony,

tours of the facility, a building dedication and video presentation highlighted the

formal program at the site of the new three-story, 43,000 sq. ft. structure.

Located at 3170 Beecher Road on the extended campus of McLaren Flint, the Hospitality

House is a unique service in the Genesee County area, providing a “home away from home” for patients and family members undergoing services through McLaren Flint. It is especially

designed to provide a convenient, comfortable and low cost housing option for patients undergoing highly specialized treatment for cancer at the new $80 million McLaren Proton Therapy Center, slated to open early 2014.

A community fundraising campaign to support the development of the Hospitality House

was launched in late January of 2012, and more than $5.9 million has been raised to date with donations continuing to be received for the project.

The mission of McLaren’s Hospitality House is to create a healing, caring and comfortable

environment for patients and their caregivers, providing activities and facilities to help occupy and enrich the time between cancer treatments or other health care services.

The Hospitality House features 32 guest rooms (some suites for families), a large gathering

room, a non-denominational reflection room, food preparation areas featuring fully-equipped

kitchens, a dining room, library, exercise facility, laundry room, playroom, multi-use room

for specialized therapies such as art therapy and massage, conference space for educational programs and entertainment, patio, outdoor walking trail, and an RV park.

The Flint-based firm of Sorensen Gross is the general contractor for the McLaren Hospitality

House, and the architect is Design Plus.

McLaren has drawn upon a wealth of resources in developing the Hospitality House concept,

including the expertise of university-based hospitality programs. This has led to a unique collaboration with the Hospitality Services Administration Program at Central Michigan

“It was a wonderful way to share experiences, and to support and be supported by other people who were experiencing what you were experiencing… you just don’t get all of that in a hotel.”

MCLAREN HOSPITALITY HOUSE //

Be Well

University, which is providing student interns to help manage the Hospitality House operations and services.

Under the supervision of Hospitality House Director Teresa Williams, the first

two student managers from Central Michigan University, Garrett Holmes and

Kelsey Baptist, spent the spring and summer working to support the Hospitality House opening and operations.

Cancer patients who have utilized the services of hospitality houses in other

states have also provided valuable input about the advantages of the Hospitality House concept over traditional “motel” living.

Prostate cancer survivor Ben Hugan of Grand Blanc is one of these patients

who stayed for several weeks at a Hospitality House in Indiana during his proton therapy treatment.

“At the Hospitality House, we didn’t just sleep there, we lived there,” he said.

“We developed very close relationships with everyone there; it was like we were one big family renting a great big house together. It was a wonderful way to

share experiences, and to support and be supported by other people who were

experiencing what you were experiencing…you just don’t get all of that in a hotel.”

McLaren has also received an outpouring of support from many businesses and

organizations in the community who have donated services and goods or who

are on board to offer patients varied dining, recreational, cultural and shopping experiences during their stay at the Hospitality House.

Particularly when the McLaren Proton Therapy Center opens, patients will

be staying at the Hospitality House for several consecutive weeks. With proton

therapy, patients are required to undergo a course of treatment that extends over 5-6 days per week for 6-8 consecutive weeks.

Since the McLaren Proton Center will be the only proton center in Michigan

when it opens, and only the 12th in the entire United States, patients referred

for this specialized treatment will be traveling from throughout Michigan, the Midwest and Canada. Further, the McLaren Proton Therapy Center will initially

be the only one in the world to offer the latest generation of proton technology, promising an even greater referral network.

“For most people, insurance does not cover their lodging for this extended

course of treatment, so they need an inexpensive place to stay,” noted Donald

Kooy, president and CEO of McLaren Flint. Kooy noted patients also need a place to stay that can offer a wide range of activities and community outreach. Since it only takes about an hour a day for the proton appointment, patients have many hours of free time to fill with activities at the Hospitality House as well as in the greater Genesee County community.

“Our goal is to offer a world class patient experience to go with the world class

technology we are providing to patients,” Kooy emphasized.

In order to continue to fund the development and sustain the services of the

Hospitality House, the McLaren Foundation is continuing to seek donations from corporations, businesses, community organizations and individual benefactors

who share McLaren’s goal to provide a home-away-from-home for people who are fighting one of life’s most intense battles.

To learn more about the Hospitality House, contact the McLaren Foundation at 810-342-4087 or visit mclaren.org/flint.

Be Well

// MCLAREN HEALTH CARE

Pam Gadson’s devotion to Pulmonary Rehab at McLaren Flint helped her to be a participant instead of a bystander at the Crim Michigan Mile this summer.

McLaren Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Values Patient Successes Even More Than National Recognition BY SHERRY FARNEY

found it very challenging to do everyday things like cook, make

the bed, or tie her shoes without getting short of breath, even while

wearing supplemental oxygen. She sought out a rehabilitation program that could help her cope with her labored breathing. When Pam was connected to McLaren’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation program

in October 2012, she found not only clinical help and a place to exercise; she found a support network that has helped her through

difficult times. Here, pulmonary therapists taught her exercises,

monitored her progress and showed her techniques to be able to do the everyday things she needed to do.

f you can, imagine how shortness of breath with the slightest

“When I’ve been down, they’ve picked me up,” Pam said. “I see

bit of exertion would affect your life each and every day.

some people that have been through much more than I and they keep

Fortunately, resources are available right in our community that

Earlier this year Pam joined her church’s Crim Fit Training Club.

Unfortunately, for millions of Americans this is their reality.

coming back. That inspires me to keep going.”

are making a difference. The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at

Each Tuesday, Pam looked forward to training and was often the first

for over 30 years. One of the first programs across the country to

night.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation, it continues to be a recognized leader in

Pam. “It seemed like someone was always staying to walk with me.

McLaren Flint has been helping patients improve their quality of life

one to arrive at Shiloh Baptist Church in Flint for Crim Fit walking

be accredited by the American Association of Cardiovascular and

“Everyone in the group was faster than me, but I didn’t mind,” said

the care of pulmonary patients. This year the program was chosen

They never let me walk alone.”

United States to host a community education workshop on September

far off possibility, thanks to her perseverance and the support of her

obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Over the years the program

ABOUT OUR PROGRAM

by the COPD Foundation to be one of only four sites across the

28. Speakers included nationally recognized experts on chronic has also been recognized in several national publications. Although

these types of acknowledgements are certainly appreciated, the staff finds it most rewarding to celebrate their patients’ successes. One of

those rewarding moments happened at this year’s Crim Festival of Races.

PATIENT’S PERSEVERANCE RESULTS IN ABILITY TO BE A PARTICIPANT Pam Gadson, a McLaren Pulmonary Rehabilitation patient,

realized a hard-earned goal this summer when she was able to walk the Crim’s Michigan Mile. After being treated for lung cancer and diagnosed with COPD and emphysema, Pam, in her early fifties, 10

Slowly, she was able to reach her goal that at one time felt like a

friends and therapists.

McLaren’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program benefits people

suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, restrictive lung disease and patients recovering from lung surgery. Through six

to twelve weeks of intensive therapy sessions patients and family members will become educated in understanding their disease,

bronchial hygiene, breathing retraining, panic control, the importance of regular exercise and community resources that can help resolve

the psychological, social, financial and occupational problems often associated with COPD. The program also offers a monthly smoking

cessation support group. For more information about McLaren’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program go to mclaren.org/flint or call 810-342-5370.

Ready to grow your business? Let’s customize a plan to make it happen. c i t i z e n s ban k iS noW Fi r s tm e r it b a n k.

We’re here to help. At FirstMerit Bank, we make it our business to know your business. With over one hundred years of experience creating tailored solutions to meet unique business needs, we can help you make the best choices for your business. So, whenever you’re ready to chat, we’ll be here.

To l e a r n mor e, c o n T a c T :

Greg Viener, community President, Flint, at 810-342-7074 or greg.viener@firstmerit.com. member FDIc 1403_FM13

FirstMerit.com/MeetUs

Be Well // SCOTT A. GARNER M.D.

VeinSolutions Celebrates Ten Year Anniversary!

BY BEV WHEATLEY EIDEN

einSolutions celebrates ten years of serving

Genesee

and

surrounding

counties, providing top notch medical

and cosmetic vein care. VeinSolutions, located

at 5151Gateway Centre in Flint, is a division of Michigan Vascular Center. Michigan Vascular Center has been treating varicose veins and other venous

problems for 50 years. In October of 2003, Michigan Vascular Center opened the VeinSolutions office

to provide comprehensive and exclusive care for patients with venous problems.

VeinSolutions caters specifically to patients with

vein problems. Their nurses and support staff are

highly trained health care professionals with a special

interest in vein care. Therefore, patients receive the

highest quality of care—not only from a clinical aspect—but also from a personal point of view. Every patient receives friendly, helpful, and prompt service.

Their patient satisfaction surveys bear this out with continued high patient satisfaction ratings.

The medical director of VeinSolutions is Scott

A. Garner, M.D., a vascular surgeon with 20 years

of experience. He said, “Our focus is to stay on the cutting edge of vein care and vein problems. We are the only office in the area dedicated to vein care.”

VeinSolutions provides a center which focuses

exclusively on the diagnosis and treatment of all vein

problems. Vein problems can cause many common symptoms including spider and varicose veins of

the legs. Most common vein problems - or venous insufficiency - causes leg pain and discomfort. Vein problems or venous insufficiency affects approximately 15-20 percent of the adult population.

Symptoms of venous insufficiency are usually

vague and mild, but bothersome. These symptoms

include achy, fatigued, leg cramps and restless legs; also common are symptoms of burning, itching, and swelling in the legs and ankles.

In addition to leg discomfort, many people also

have unsightly spider and varicose veins. Though

these symptoms are perceived as mild by the

patient, after correction of these venous problems by

minimally invasive procedures most patients note a 12

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYNELLE WALKER

“Our focus is to stay on the cutting edge of vein care and vein problems. We are the only office in the area dedicated to vein care.” - DR. SCOTT A. GARNER significant improvement in how their legs feel with an improvement in lifestyle.

Usually the patient’s first visit to VeinSolutions is a free screening. The purpose

of this physician visit is to determine if there is any possibility of underlying vein problems known as venous insufficiency. If no evidence of a vein problem is present,

then cosmetic treatment options will be discussed. However, if there is a question of venous insufficiency, then a recommendation for further evaluation will be made. At VeinSolutions, a wide complement of therapeutic options are available so

that a treatment plan which best meets the patient’s particular clinical needs can be implemented. Most of the treatments can be done in the office.

Julie Hawkins, nurse manager at VeinSolutions, said patients express how

comfortable they feel having their procedure in the office. “A member of our staff

will stay with the patient from admission to discharge. Upon arrival, the patient will

rest in a pre-warmed bed. The combination of medication, warmth, and relaxation contributes to the comfort of the patient and will ease in the performance of the procedure. Our patients are comfortable post-op and require minimal, if any, pain medication,” she continued. “Patients generally return to work in one or two days. However, if the procedure is more extensive recovery may take longer.”

Once the issue of venous insufficiency is resolved, the patient has a complete

range of cosmetic treatments available to them. Dr. Garner said that injection

sclerotherapy still remains the best treatment for spider veins of the legs. “Our staff thoroughly explains each procedure to the patient and insures that all questions are answered,” he continued. “If the treatment is cosmetic, and therefore not covered by

insurance, we explain this before any treatment is performed. In that way the patient can make an informed decision as to whether they wish to proceed.”

“VeinSolutions has allowed Michigan Vascular Center to provide quality treatment

of patients with vein problems by offering the full range of diagnostic and treatment options,” said Dr. Garner. “In addition to providing state-of-the art venous care, the

doctors and staff at VeinSolutions strive to give patients an enjoyable and convenient office experience, delivering timely, cordial, and professional service and care.”

Protect your world Auto • Home • Life • Retirement

Call me today to discuss your options. Some people think Allstate only protects your car. Truth is, Allstate can also protect your home or apartment, your boat, motorcycle - even your retirement and your life. And the more of your world you put in Good Hands®, the more you can save.

Brundle Insurance Agency (810) 750-3200 Fenton (810) 606-1100 Grand Blanc (810) 720-0100 Flushing (248) 284-1201 Ortonville

Insurance subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Company. Life insurance and annuities issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE, Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL, and American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Jacksonville, FL. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.

47130

Appointments to fit your schedule.

Be Well // DR. DAVID EWING

INNOVATIVE DENTISTRY

Right Here in Genesee County

BY YVONNE SOVA

olistic, revolutionary and futuristic aptly describes the dental practice of Dr. David Ewing. Every day brings new opportunities to help his patients but also

new challenges which he handles in his usual calm, methodical, professional manner attained by years of education and experience.

Teeth, emotions and nutrition have been described as the software

programs of the body. Proper nutrition is paramount and should begin even before baby teeth emerge as they are forming long before they

appear. Taking care of your children’s teeth, and yours, should always

searching for the best ways to achieve that goal.

affects the health of your teeth and ultimately your whole body. Many

idea struck. Being a neuromuscular dentist his attention was drawn

be a priority. Every bit of food or drink that goes into your mouth people neglect their teeth until pain drives them to the dentist for

relief. Pain or disease in other areas of the body can be caused by conditions of the teeth and mouth.

Have you ever had persistent pain and been told “It’s all in your

head,” that may very well be true because the brain processes information from every cell in your body. The brain transmits the

sensation of pain but not always the cause. One cause of general pain in the body may be in the temporal-mandibular joint, or TMJ, located

in front of the ear, connecting the jawbone to the skull. It has been called the most important joint in the body because of its influence on other aspects of the body, even down to the lower back.

The entire medical profession recognizes stress as a major cause of

irritation and disease in every part of our body. Much of the resulting

pain can be alleviated by seeking examination of your teeth by a professional holistic dentist. You may very well experience relief

from chronic pain throughout your body after treatment by a certified licensed professional counselor like Dr. Ewing.

Being a holistic practitioner, he utilizes natural materials and

many alternative practices including neuromuscular dentistry and

In a rare afternoon of relaxing and watching a football game the

to the mouthpiece worn by each player as a protective measure for

the jaw. What if a similar mouthpiece could be designed to include an electromagnetic device which would also enhance the athlete’s

strength and endurance? He didn’t wait to find out who won the

game. Research had to be done, drawings made, materials tested, laboratories contacted, results analyzed.

Finally satisfied with the design and test results, a patent was

obtained and negotiations with distributors intensified. Currently

it is available in some major sports stores and is worn by over 20

NHL players. Interest soared after lectures by Dr. Ewing all over the country.

Dr. Ewing wisely surmised it would also work to bring relief to

people with varying types of chronic pain. Shaik Mazhar, M.D.

in Ann Arbor provided extensive clinical testing and results were

proven in hundreds of individuals with varying types of inflammation

causing chronic pain, primarily in the head and neck area. The “BiteSplint,” is fitted over the lower teeth in adults to be used at nighttime, comfortably and convenient.

Innovative? Yes. Revolutionary? Yes. World-Class? Absolutely.

applied kinesiology. Kinesiology may not be familiar but it is an

Right here on our doorstep!

reflex test. By applying pressure to an extended arm, for instance,

Gateway Center which includes comfortable treatment areas for

indispensable tool in holistic dentistry by making use of a muscle the strength of the muscle to resist is observed so the practitioner can

analyze and correct a functional disturbance in a particular area of the

body. It may seem strange until we realize that every function of our body is ultimately connected to, and affected by, every other function.

To paraphrase an automobile slogan: “This is not your father’s

dentistry.” Dr. Ewing’s purpose in life is to help alleviate pain and enhance everyone’s quality of life. He is always studying, analyzing, 14

Dr. Ewing recently moved to a more spacious office facility in

dental patients and a laboratory where he can work on his inventions

and designs. Future plans include adding a holistic healing center with professional holistic practitioners.

One thing you won’t get when you leave Dr. Ewing’s office is a

sugar filled sucker for being good. You will have a radiant smile that reflects your inner feeling of peace.

Contact Info: 5321 Gateway Center Blvd. Flint, MI 48507 (810) 2357300.

Live Music

Every Thursday 8pm-11pm

Be Entertained

// THE WHITING

Jim Belushi and The Board of Comedy

A Legend Performs at The Whiting

omedic legend Jim Belushi is going back to his roots and

with his former co-star Larry Joe Campbell from the hit TV show

special night at The Whiting Auditorium November 9.

the troupe and invited Belushi to do some acting. Not too long after

whipping up some fresh, improvisational comedy for a

Belushi, along with four members from The Chicago Board of

Comedy, will deliver a fun-filled night that will lift the spirits of the

According to Jim. Campbell, who is from Cadillac, Michigan, started Belushi suggested they take the show on the road.

The tour kicked off in Oct. 4 in Brea, California with stops in

people of Flint.

various performance centers across the nation and into Canada

exchange of communication that will put everybody in the moment.

is special because Campbell and castmate Megan Grano hail from

Belushi affectionately called the tour a joyful and well-focused “It (the show) creates this kind of union, this community of us all

together and there’s a great possibility for magic to happen in that

through the winter and mid-spring. Belushi said the tour stop in Flint Michigan.

Grano, who is from Grosse Pointe, is described by Belushi as one

room and something they (the audience) will never forget,” noted

of the finest improvisational actors he has ever met. “She’s funny,

With an impressive performing resume dating back to the late

most ingenious characters,” noted Belushi with a laugh. Grano, as a

Belushi, about the tour.

1970’s, Belushi is promising nothing short of laughs. He credits

his training at Chicago’s famed Second City and a two-year stretch

she’s feminine, she’s sexy, she’s strong and she comes up with the well as the entire cast, are also graduates of Chicago’s Second City.

Jon Barinholz and Josh Funk are also on the roster for the tour.

on Saturday Night Live for his comedic successes. He said the

Belushi respectively called them extremely funny people.

comedic and improv actor.

getting standing ovations,” Belushi said. The show has sold out in

experiences he had early in his career is what solidified him as a

The idea for the tour came after Belushi did some improv acting

“We’ve been having great success with the show. We’ve been

multiple cities with more dates being added.

November 9

JIM BELUSHI AND THE BOARD OF COMEDY ARE SCHEDULED FOR A ONE-NIGHT STOP AT THE WHITING AUDITORIUM

Belushi is the epitome of a successful performer and it definitely rubs off on the people around him. On top of the improv tour, he also heads

the band “Sacred Hearts,” which has been around for 20 years next year. He also performs with actor Dan Akroyd in the Blues Brothers.

Belushi’s said his musical knowledge is an integral part with his improv work. He said that being a musician is not that much different from

improv acting. He calls it “comic rhythm” on stage.

A self-proclaimed magic chaser, Belushi said the most important thing he has done is follow the joy and the passion. Once he did that,

everything else he wanted in his life followed. “Follow the joy, follow the passion,” he suggested.

Jim Belushi and The Board of Comedy are scheduled for a one-night stop at The Whiting Auditorium Saturday, Nov. 9. There are discounts

for students with I.D. For more information, visit www.thewhiting.com or call 1-888- 8CENTER.

Real Estate Now

// BY LUCY HAM

Advertorial

FIVE REASONS WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY BY LUCY HAM

Everyone always wants to know when the best time is to buy a new home. They want the best deal at the best time.Well, I have a list of five reasons why NOW is the time to buy. 1. Prices are increasing. Median prices have gone up in some areas as much as 10 percent and they are continuing to increase. 2. Interest rates are still historically low. Although, rates have increased by about a point, they are still lower than we could hope for! When my husband and I bought our first house, we had an option of 18.5 percent fixed rate mortgage! 3. It’s easier to get a mortgage. Banks and lenders are soliciting money for buyers to purchase a home. If you have a job, good credit score and a good down payment, you can buy a home! 4. It’s still cheaper than renting. Renting has gone sky high. That means you would be paying the same amount to rent as to buy! And if you rent you don’t get all the tax benefits as a homeowner would! 5. You aren’t competing with as many investors. When foreclosures and short sales were occurring more often, a lot of investors were involved in the market. Now you don’t have as much of that competition. These are five reasons you shouldn’t wait to buy a home! Please call me if you have any questions or if you are thinking about buying or selling.

www.LucyHam.com

Flushing Dream home! $259,700

Flushing, golF Course! $164,900

Frankenmuth! $259,900

Superior custom home in Flushing’s Thornridge subdivision. Premium features throughout including granite kitchen with island. Spacious master suite with jetted tub. Great soaring ceilings and fireplace. Oversized garage plus extra 16 x 20 garage. Don’t forget the composite deck and the list goes on and on. Hurry at $259,700 this beautiful home is priced to sell. Don’t miss your dream home!

Golf Course! Finished walkout to the Flushing golf course makes this a steal. Make this 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths home a life style you have been wanting!

Frankenmuth! Everyone wants to live in Frankenmuth and here is how you can be the next! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths with 4th bedroom and rec room in day window basement. Close to downtown and everything that makes this location special!

The Lucy ham Group Inc. Is proud To announce The openInG of

Taylor $799,000

DemanDing Beecher rD. $199,900

Here it is….12,000 sq ft. 1 story office building for sale or lease. 130 parking spaces, dual entrances, brick/stone and immaculate. Location, location, location next to I-475 just South of Hill and close to I-75.

Brick 2 story office building. High traffic demanding area on Hill Rd. Newer roof, furnace,HW heater an plenty of parking.

w w w .h a m c o m m e r c I a L . c o m

Be Savvy

// 3SIXTY INTERACTIVE

Online Marketing:

User Experience is the Key

BY DALE KEIPART

e’ve been at this online marketing thing for well over two decades now and still most businesses say that they are not happy with

the experiences that they are offering their customers online. Early in the development of the web, for businesses

purposes, we were aware of the need for “ease of use.” In fact, for a lot of years when we would ask a new client

what their primary goal for a new website was, they would

quickly say that it had to be “easy to use,” though the definition of “easy to use” changed with every person that we spoke with, the concept was there.

Experience

Today when we start to look at the usability issues online,

we are looking at a much broader based definition. We

are now looking at the “experience” that a user has while interacting with our online properties like our company website, blogs or even our YouTube channel. We know

that every delay, point of confusion, or broken link costs us money, opportunities and quite probably a new customer.

It is important to note that as we start to look at the

user’s experience, we have to be aware of more than just usability. User experience includes what we do (visit a site, download a file, etc), how we feel (about what we are doing

on a site), and what we think (about the company while

we are on the site or blog) while we are engaging with the online property.

Who Owns The Experience

We know that the experience is critically important to

the achievement of the online marketing objectives. We also know that the vast majority of businesses are not happy

with the experiences that their customers and potential customers are receiving. So, why after all of this time is this still a dilemma?

I propose that the reason for the problem is that we,

as business people, have yet to define who owns the experience. Is this an IT issue?

After all if a link is broken, or if there is a code problem

these are tasks that are directly under the responsibility of the IT dept.

But, what if the experience is bad because the copy is written so poorly that

the user can’t understand what is trying to be said?

Here’s an example: At XYZ Design, we are committed to using the best available state-of-the-art technology and to developing all necessary highly sophisticated manufacturing techniques. By integrating flexible design with flexible manufacturing processes, we are able to produce security bollards which can mate with matching site amenities in a broad variety of applications. Care to guess what they do? Would a visitor to their site know what they

do?

beseen

Genesys health care center Grand OpeninG | August 20, 2013 | Downtown Flint

J. Duong D.O, Joanne Herman, Dr. Charlie Husson, Kathy Moore

Cindy Bruett, Bob Giffel, Kirstin Tesner

Merry Hurt,

4. Meghan Hoffman, Susana Wright 5. Laurie Hawkins, Rhonda Broussard, Tae Blair 6. Dawn 7. Robin Belcourt, Renee Leeb, Kathy Przepiorka, Joy Finkenbiner 8. Stephanie James, Betsy Alderholdt, Karen Aldridge â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Eason 9. Dr. Steven Brooks, Dr. Kyle Edwards 10. Dr. Susan Enright, Jamie Hresko 11. Nick Evans, Dr. Sara Pendleton, Tony Cuttitta, Lori Kunkel 12. Karen Aldridge-Eason, Jerome & Judith Wolbert, Joanne Pratt 13. Chris Nedanis, John Gazall, Chad Crystas, Kathleen Gazall 14. Greg Mince, Pam Domanski, Kim Banat, Greg Viener, Mayor Dayne Walling

Richelle Porter, Sherry Tompkins

Hibbard, Marcus Allen, Janice Karcher

Find Your Next Home

JohnWentworthGroup.com

WentworthWaterfront.com

*All prices reflect listed price

Lake Fenton - $1,499,000

For Sale

7,600 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 6 Baths Goodrich Schools - $550,000

Pending

3,344 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 30 Acres Lake Fenton - $1,350,000

SOLD

Hartland Schools - $749,999

For Sale

5,987 Sq. Ft. 3 Beds, 4 Baths Chateaux Du Lac - $349,999

Pending

Fenton Schools - $599,999

For Sale

4,273 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 3.5 Baths Marl Lake - $267,999

Pending

3,500 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 4 Baths Linden Schools - $279,999

1,528 Sq. Ft., 3 Beds, 2 Baths Silver Lake - $400,000

Sold in 4 days

Sold in 3 days

5,781 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 5 Baths

1,800 Sq. Ft. 3 Beds, 3 Baths

2,746 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 3 Baths

Lake Fenton - $499,999

Crooked Lake - $449,999

Silver Lake - $899,999

Sold in 10 days

2,700 Sq. Ft. 4 Beds, 3 Baths

Sold in 55 days

5,500 Sq. Ft. 5 Beds, 4 Baths

Sold in 5 days

3,200 Sq. Ft. 3 Beds, 3 Baths

Feature

// BENNETT COMMUNICATION

Bennett Communication Has You Covered BY RICH REED

ost of us get frustrated when we call a business and get a

busy signal or a recorded voice menu. Thanks to Bennett Communication Solutions that does not need to happen.

Bennett Communication Solutions has been solving phone-

answering problems since 1945. It was originally founded by John

customers prefer electronic faxing and texting, most physicians are

profession. Currently his son Robert “Bob” Bennett acts as president,

Besides doctors, Bennett provides communication expertise for

“Jack” Bennett to improve information services for the medical

happy with pagers.

while Bob’s son, Rob Bennett, serves as general manager.

many local service companies, sole proprietors, one-man offices,

their business, located in downtown Flint I might add. They have 15

private individuals who are too busy to answer their phones.

Recently I had a very pleasant interview with Rob Bennett at

employees and when entering it was extremely quiet, running like grandma’s well-oiled sewing machine.

Rob is the third generation to manage Bennett. They offer a

multitude of communication services including e-mail monitoring,

single-practice attorneys, on-the-road salespeople, and yes, even

Some of their locally recognized clients include Dee Cramer, D

M Burr, Goyette Mechanical, Wright & Filippis, and Grace Hospice among many others.

Have you ever wondered who would answer that little black phone

paging, live phone-answering service, conference calling, wake-up

in a local elevator if you were stuck? Well, it’s Bennett. How about

“one-number-follow-me” service. As Rob explained, that is where

Bennett again.

services, and call center management. In addition, Bennett offers a a client is assigned a single phone number and Bennett will manage

when the furnace or A/C goes on the blink after hours? It’s likely

Alcoholics Anonymous even uses Bennett Communications to

all calls, faxes, pages, voicemail, and any communication using that

route incoming support calls from their clients. Appropriately trained

Even though Bennett is a local company, they can manage any

In terms of the latest communication equipment, Rob states, “We

number.

volunteer counselors then handle the calls.

communication requirements both state-wide as well as nationally.

stay on the front lines of new products, test them, and then offer

a year since 1945. That’s right, almost 70 consecutive years without

personal and business use.

Rob is proud to say that Bennett has been operating 24/7 for 365 days

a dropped call. Thanks to a strong backup generator system not one

them to our clients.” Of course Rob uses the latest i-phone for both He is committed to the local community. Their business is located

call was lost, even during all the many natural disasters we’ve had in

in Flint; Rob lives in Flint and is very active in the local Rotary. He is

As Rob states, “People want to talk to people. They want a live

family and clients to two of my favorite restaurants downtown: the

the Flint area. Ask your cell phone provider if they can match that.

answer.” Bennett will provide a live answering service after hours,

on weekends, holidays, and even during lunch hour. Businesses and even private individuals can have their own secure live answering service.

He states that they currently provide secure HIPPA information

services via pagers to hundreds of local doctors. Most doctors employ

Alpha pagers that can receive phone messages, text messages and

extremely proud of what is happening in downtown Flint, taking his Cork on Saginaw and 501 Bar and Grill.

When I first received the assignment to write on Bennett

Communication Solutions, I thought, let me check these guys out. I

called, got a live voice to take my message, and received a call back from Rob within a minute.

Now that’s communication.

even e-mail. Unlike a traditional cell phone, pagers work everywhere

Bennett Communication Solutions

anywhere.

Flint, Michigan 48502

including deep in hospitals, on elevators, and while traveling Bennett sell pagers and resells paging services. As we all know,

it is extremely important that our doctors be able to communicate with everyone involved in our healthcare. Even though most new 24

336 W. First St. Suite 113 Phone 810-234-8665 Fax 810-232-2934

www.bennettanswering.com

Fabiano Brothers

Brand: ST Pumpkin Wheat Item #:PST201310490 Job/Order #: 254628

Closing Date:9/10/13 QC: CS

Publication: On the Town

Trim: 8.5" x 11" Bleed: 8.75" x 11.25" Live: 7.5" x 10"

PA AD AM

AE CD

Feature

// MOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE

MCC:

Practical Value

for Local Business and Taxpayers

BY MICHAEL KELLY

mong the rich selection of higher education institutions

right here in our own community, Mott Community College stands out for both low cost and high quality.

Many people don’t realize that Mott College was created

specifically to serve the needs of Genesee County. MCC is, in fact, the only college on the planet that focuses primarily on the changing conditions in Genesee County

That means that MCC analyzes the economic requirements of

local business and industry when creating its classes and programs. For example, since Genesee County’s location at the crossroads of two international highways right next to an international airport has created a growing industry of intermodal transportation (in other

words, transferring products from airplane to train or from ship to truck), MCC created a new program in Transportation, Distribution & Logistics to train people in the skills that growing industry requires.

Mott College has a long record of

kick-start their businesses. Prizes include

working with business and industry to

MCC scholarships, laptop computers,

build the area’s workforce and attract new

iPads, MCC Bookstore gift cards,

jobs to the area. MCC organized advisory

Small Business Association (SBA) loan

councils of significant local business

interviews, business owner mentorships,

owners and industrial leaders to direct

business plan consulting, accounting, tax

each career program to make certain that

and legal startup services.

what was being taught in classes was exactly what employers needed.

In recent years, the college’s Ballenger Lecture Series has focused

on business to encourage local entrepreneurs to write solid business

plans, build their product and launch new enterprises here in our community.

Last Fall, the Ballenger Lecture Series featured ABC’s “Shark

Tank” Star and FUBU clothing line founder Daymond John. A highly-respected business expert, John kicked off the Ballenger series

entitled “Create, Build, Succeed: An Entrepreneurship Conference.”

That presentation was followed this Spring with The Bear Trap, an entrepreneurship competition held on Mott Community College’s

main campus and inspired by Daymond John’s hit reality business show “Shark Tank.”

The Bear Trap at MCC was a contest for budding entrepreneurs

of different ages, high school students, MCC students and residents

of area communities who vied for a variety of prizes designed to 26

Of course, sound business principles

apply to the way Mott Community College operates. For example, taking advantage of the current financial environment, Mott Community College has refinanced a large portion of its voter-

approved bond debt. The move has saved area taxpayers over $3.3 million.

“The exact figure we’ve saved the taxpayers is $3,332,651.18,”

stated MCC Chief Financial Officer Larry Gawthrop. “The current low-interest situation isn’t going to last forever and we thought it was time to act.”

By lowering the interest rate on its long-term debt, Mott College

has reduced the amount of money taxpayers have to repay. “This is over three million dollars that will be staying in our community and

in the pockets of the local taxpayers,” MCC President Dick Shaink pointed out. “Mott Community College takes its responsibility to our community seriously and this is one more step we can take to help our own area.”

MOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE // The impact of MCC goes beyond classes and training.

A significant study done within the last year by Economic

Feature

lowest net costs of any college in the country.

But, while national recognition and awards are great, MCC takes its

Modeling Specialists, Inc. (EMSI) demonstrated the powerful impact

greatest pride in being Genesee County’s #1 source of highly-skilled

“MCC is an attractive investment to its major stakeholders—students

respiratory therapists, banking and business personnel, skilled trades

Mott College has had on the local economy. According to the study, as well as taxpayers. Rates of return to students invariably exceed

alternative investment opportunities. At the same time, state and local

governments can take comfort in knowing that their expenditure of taxpayer funds creates a wide range of positive social benefits and,

perhaps more importantly, actually returns more to government budgets than it costs. Without these increased tax receipts and avoided costs provided by MCC education, state and local governments would have to raise taxes to make up for lost revenues and added costs.”

nurses, dental hygienists, police officers, automotive specialists, and other successful professionals.

In the current business environment, it is becoming evident that the

two-year associate degree offered by MCC may be the best value in higher education.

Michigan State University recently issued a report on the value

of college degrees in the job market that contained some interesting facts.

While job openings for holders of an advanced professional degree

Going into more detail, the study concluded that MCC returned the

are projected to decline by 5% and openings for MBA degrees to

stated, “First, MCC promotes regional economic growth through its

rise by 5% and jobs for people with associate degrees are projected

investment made by students and taxpayers several fold. The study

own operations spending and through the increase in productivity as former MCC students remain active in the regional workforce. Second, the student productivity effect is by far the larger and more

important impact of MCC, stemming from higher incomes of students and their employers. And third,

decline by 6%, jobs for holders of bachelor degree are projected to to rise by 31%.

A study done by The Atlantic magazine just last month showed

that - in an era of concern about rapidly accelerating cost in higher education and related student debt - the return on investment for the associate degree is the highest in the

regional income in the MCC Service

nation. You spend less for the degree

Area would be substantially lower

and earn more income afterwards for

without the educational activities of MCC.

“The

results

this

study

the associate degree than any other degree.

A study done by College Measures, a

demonstrate that MCC is a sound investment from multiple

partnership between the American Institutes for Research and Matrix

their lifetime incomes. It benefits taxpayers by generating increased

with associate degrees were often higher than those of bachelor

perspectives. The college enriches the lives of students and increases tax revenues from an enlarged economy and reducing the demand

for taxpayer-supported social services. Finally, it contributes to the vitality of both the local and state economies.”

Enrollment at the college has risen sharply over the last decade. The

quality of MCC’s programs has attracted students from 26 foreign

Knowledge Group, revealed that first year wage earnings for those degree recipients.

According to the report, “The two-year degree in technical fields

is a lot cheaper than bachelor’s degrees, a lot faster to earn, and can produce a pretty good salary.”

At Mott Community College, a student can choose from over 100

countries, including Germany, Japan, France, India, China, England,

technical career programs or earn the first two years of a bachelor’s

a higher tuition for students who don’t come from Genesee County

university in Michigan and its credits will transfer almost anywhere.

Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and others, although MCC charges and remains focused on the people from this area.

degree. MCC has articulation agreements with every college and It is natural for businesses and taxpayers to ask what Mott College

Nonetheless, national recognition has poured in for our

means to its community in dollars and cents. A recent study by EMSI

MCC has been rated as one of the top ten community colleges

Over the last 30 years, over 2.7 million college credits have been

community’s college.

in America (out of the more than 1,200) in separate studies by the University of Florida and the Aspen Institute. MCC President Dick

Shaink was named as the best community college president in

revealed a few interesting facts.

accumulated in our area workforce, strengthening the skill level of the workforce on which our communities depend.

Each year MCC payroll and spending for supplies and services

North America by the Association of Community College Trustees.

generates a net gain of $57.6 million into our area economy.

one of the Top 100 Associate Degree Producers in the nation, a list

accumulation of skills in our workforce in our service area adds over

universities across the country that issue associate degrees. In the

Mott Community College celebrates 90 years of service to our

For the second time, Community College Week named MCC as

that includes both community colleges and four-year colleges and new College Affordability and Transparency website set up by the U.S. Department of Education, MCC was cited for having one of the

In addition, the increased productivity of workers due to the

$306 million in added income each year.

community this year. Ninety years of building careers and futures for the people who make our community their home.

Feature // GISD

There’s More to the Skill Center Than Nuts, Bolts, and Bagels BY JIM PLY Principal GASC Technology Center

uring the eighteen years that I have

been an administrator in Genesee County, I have sent over a thousand

students to the Genesee Area Skill

Center. In all those years and with all of those

students, I thought I knew what the Skill Center was all about, hands on learning. Kids could learn

to weld, fix a car, cook a great meal, train to be a nurse, or maybe build a house.

I recently joined the Genesee Intermediate

School District with the opportunity to become the

principal of the Skill Center, and believe me: I am

seeing it with new eyes. Our students are learning so much more than just “hands on” skills. They are learning academic skills. I’ve seen English and Math teachers working hand in hand with

vocational instructors. Lessons are being taught that

weave the Common Core into teaching 3-D gaming or heavy machinery maintenance. I see teachers

with stethoscopes around their necks talking about literacy standards and Forensic Science teachers working with students on public speaking skills.

What I have discovered in my short time here is

that the teachers at the Skill Center work hard to support the academic goals of the local schools in our county.

GASC provides students in 11th and 12th grade

an opportunity to explore and learn career skills in different Career-Technical education clusters and 48 different programs.

All of our programs are hands-on and work

based. Students learn the skills needed to pursue

a career in their area of interest, and then go out into the community and experience those jobs first 28

Support the academic goals of our local districts, provide career skills for our students, and provide our students with employability skills. hand. We have students gaining first-hand experience with local hospitals, law

enforcement, veterinarians, schools, repair shops, and even our own restaurant and conference center.

Each of the 48 programs develops an opportunity for the students to truly

experience the real world career they have chosen.

What good are career skills if you can’t land the job? The GASC focuses on

employability skills. Students are taught how to build resumes that highlight skills and qualities employers are looking for. They learn how to interview and present their best qualities with confidence.

Once you have the job, can you keep it? GASC teachers work with students on

team building skills, communication skills, and most importantly, how to work with people from diverse backgrounds.

The Skill Center gives the students the tools they need to be valuable employees

and team leaders.

If I were to sum up the role of the Genesee Area Skill Center, it would fall into

three categories: Support the academic goals of our local districts, provide career

skills for our students, and provide our students with employability skills. As I said, the Genesee Area Skill Center is so much more than nuts, bolts, and bagels.

For more information about the GASC Technology Center, contact Principal Jim Ply at 810-591-4261, or GISD’s Office of Career Technical Education at 810-591-4437.

Genesee County residents take millions of rides on MTA public transit vehicles each year. We’re working hard to provide Flint and Genesee County with safe, reliable, low-cost public transportation wherever life takes you. Now and in the future.

Serving a need in your community.

(810) 767-0100

A lifelong relationship starts at an early age. At ELGA Credit Union, we believe it is never too early to learn and understand the importance of saving for the future. When a young child opens a savings account, you are teaching them how rewarding and fun it is to save their money. As they get older they develop good savings habits and goal-setting skills. That is why you’ll find ELGA working with local schools teaching our young members about financial responsibility.

join us today at one of our nine convenient locations.

Great Members • Great Services

(810) 715-3542 • www.ELGACU.com

Feature // HOMETOWN HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE

Jonathan Lemaire and Navneet Anand

Heroes In Our Hometown

BY: MICHAEL G. THODOROFF

hen you walk into the offices of the Hometown Home

their customers had excess medical supplies they no longer needed

walking through what appears to be an obstacle

were getting known for our physical therapy nursing and with so

Health & Hospice (HHH), chances are you will be

course. But that’s okay with Navneet Anand as he smiles and knows that is a sign of needed donations delivered for his cause. As CEO of both HHH and the Hometown Heroes of Michigan (HHM), he is mission driven to provide every individual in need with the

appropriate medical equipment and supplies at no cost, so that they may lead a healthy and independent lifestyle.

Correspondingly, this group also promotes earth friendly practices

through education and recycling. Every year the non-profit HHM

organization helps hundreds of people dealing with disease or injury

while living at home. Some of these people need medical equipment or supplies they cannot afford, while others have equipment and

supplies they no longer need. They specialize in volunteered time

and resources to create a collection and distribution point to satisfy this need.

Anand was instrumental in forming HHH almost 10 years ago,

when he came to Michigan from his native India in search of a

practice in sports physical therapy. “I believe destiny moved me to

geriatrics,” he said. His pursuit eventually led him towards the hospice field and HHH. As a privately owned family agency, HHH in itself is

committed to providing the highest quality, most compassionate and

best in the industry patient-centered care with health and well-being as their top priority.

In 2009, Navneet and his spouse Neerja discovered that many of

and thus began their path to Hometown Heroes of Michigan. “We many patients improving, their families asked what to do with the no-

longer needed devices,” Navneet explained. So they began to receive the “cast-off” equipment and within six months completely filled

a small storage room. Thankfully, HHH turned over space at their location at 1681Woodbridge Park Drive in Lapeer to HHM which included the much appreciated 2000 square foot warehousing space. With the new location and non-profit organization certification, HHM

was ready to take their organization to the next level. And that next

level was to systematically organize and catalog their entire current

and incoming inventory along with developing an environmentalfriendly plan.

HOMETOWN HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE //

“Personally, it is very gratifying for what I do here and I see it first hand how this dramatically affects people.” Enter, Jonathan Lemaire. Having experience in a Waterford,

Michigan hospice organization, the soon-to be University of

Michigan/Flint graduate started as an intern with HHM earlier this year. He now manages other interns as they systematically track and

organize the donations on a daily basis. “Our donations and requests

come in from anybody throughout the community,” Jonathan

explained. “And if I don’t have it, they go on a waiting list but we will eventually satisfy the request.” He and his team are working on a link in their website that will funnel requests, track inventory and basically expedite the entire process.

Lemaire is on a quest to be more efficient and reach more of the

community. A few months ago, discussions began regarding ideas of

where HHM could expand in order to meet ever increasing demands.

Marketing director Lisa Zvonek pointed Jonathan to Kathleen Gazall of the renowned Gazall Lewis & Associates Architects, Inc. firm in Flint. With sound direction from Gazall, HHM is working on a

new location in the Flint community in association with Love Inc., a

church based referral source organization for community resources.

“We can only do so much in one area,” Lemaire pointed out. “But to better service the need in another community, we need to be local. If

Feature

we have a presence, people will know us and they will come.”

The budget for HHM is very small as the timing of their move will

be based on budget. Anand is always looking for donors and creative ways to contribute to the budget. As an example, due to an abundance of walkers recently, HHM took a portion of them to a recycler and placed those funds received back into their operation.

Another area they are looking into is the field of “carbon credits.”

While complex in nature, carbon credits are basically monetary

certificates showing what a company has paid to have a certain

amount of carbon dioxide removed from the environment. These certificates can be then entered in a company’s balance sheets.

“We are really just getting the word out,” Navneet mentioned. “We

are looking for year-round commitments because our goal is to make this non-profit self-sustaining. This, to me, is an opportunity and a

challenge as it is teaching me how to make a difference with limited budget.”

“With all the gifts America has to offer,” Lemaire reflected, “there

is still much more we can do. Personally, it is very gratifying for what I do here and I see it first hand how this dramatically affects people.”

Navneet Anand added, “I love America and I still have the hunger

to help the country I’m living. I have confidence as I also hope the next generation will get on board with our cause.”

Hometown Heroes of Michigan hopes to be open its new location

in Flint later this fall. Donations and contributions can be made by calling toll free: 888-852-3310.

Visit their website at http://hometownheroesmi.weebly.com

Think Body Shop, Think Savings

THINK...

THE GIVING DEALER suskiautomotive.com

800-856-4400 Birch Run 31

beseen Hot Rods & Hot dogs | August 15, 2013 | Flint & genesee ChAmber oF CommerCe

1. Kevin Roach, Jennifer Acree, Jamie Venable 2. Lt. Governor John Cherry, Al Hatch, Kevin Keane, George Smith 3. Steve Hester & Shelly McCormick 4. Jim & Dee Shoenfield 5. Duane Elling, Wade Pyles 6. Randy Themm, Lynne Hurand, Julianne Princinsky 7. Valerie Welch , Carissa Flask, Tom Heidger 8. Phyllis Sprague, Amy Sullivan, Lorrie Hester 9. Mark Kilmer, Andy Kruse, Jet Kilmer, Nick Evans 10. Lt. Governor John Cherry, Gary C. Peters, Roseanne & Steve Heddy 11. Ashley Lane, Brian Norman, Ellen Brothers 12. Dave Lloyd, Harmony Langford, Marge Murphy, Scott Martin 32

13. Meghan Hoffman, Elaine Redd, Dawn Hibbard, Heather Kale, Courtney Irish 14. Joy Martinbianco , George Peterman 15. Tiffany Sayles, Kristi Monreal 16. Lynn Kidd, Kay Lillie, Dena Howlett 17. Dian & Ron Panter, Walethia Aquil 18. Anitha Rao, Dr. Sunil Rao, Joanne Herman 19. Lennetta Coney, Dee Shoenfield, Craig Coney, Marsha McDonald 20. Dr. Bradley & Cindy Habermehl 21. Patrick Mannor, Bobbi Jo Lucas, Matt Telliga 22. Michelle Blaisdell, Tom Furnas 23. Kathy Rometty, Frank Bailey 24. Jon Olivo & John Morrissey 33

Your life could change with one stroke. It only takes one stroke to change your life forever. And if it occurs, you have to make the right choice, right away. McLaren Flint, a certified Primary Stroke Center, is your best option. We offer the area’s first and only neuro interventional program treating stroke and related brain disorders. Plus, we’re among a select group of hospitals nationwide providing lifesaving neuro interventional services. You can always depend on McLaren’s stroke team for top-rate comprehensive care. Our experienced physician specialists work to reverse the impact of stroke, so you can recover faster and get back to an active life. When it comes to stroke, keeping your options open isn’t an option. Your best choice—your one choice—is clear. McLaren Flint. For more information, visit mclaren.org/flint.

One choice.. 401 S. Ballenger Highway, Flint, MI 48532

(810) 342-2000

mclaren.org/flint

Feature // John P. O’Sullivan

John P. O’Sullivan Distributing, Inc.

BY STEPHANE IRWIN

co-owner,

Joanie

O’Sullivan-Butler

regularly

attorneys. A graduate of Flint Powers High School, Joanie went on to

warehouse full of beer at John P. O’Sullivan Distributing,

she met Sean, a New England native and aspiring trial lawyer. They

makes her way from the corporate offices through the

Inc., the business her dad started 37 years ago. With 90 employees and 20 delivery routes per day, they provide over 1700 stores, bars,

and restaurants in a seven county area with an incredible variety of premium, craft, specialty and import beers.

We rarely think about wholesalers and the essential role they play

Notre Dame and then law school in Washington, D.C. That’s where

got married and began practicing law in D.C. and Joanie also served as her parents’ business lawyer. But when the time came for John and

Joan O’Sullivan to step back from the business, their only child was ready to come home and start filling their shoes.

Sean was working for a firm whose clientele included Chrysler

in commerce and therefore our lives. Products appear on shelves and

Corporation so initially upon relocating to Michigan in 2004 he

advertising, we might be aware of where the product is made, be it

went to work at O’Sullivan Distributing. In 2007, Sean joined her in

menus and we give little thought to how they got there. Thanks to next to a Rocky Mountain stream, on a cobblestone street in Boston,

or near a barn of soulful draft horses, but the middleman, though integral to the process, is rarely given a second thought. We seldom

connect the dots and realize that distributorships are good for the brewer, good for local jobs, and good for the consumer.

Because of this absence of consciousness, I didn’t really have a

accepted a position as in-house attorney for Chrysler, while Joanie the family business. His demeanor, like his wife’s, is approachable and

welcoming. When he steps out into the warehouse conduct the tour

with Joanie, the guys in the warehouse give him a casual “Hey, Sean.” A world away from Washington, D.C. and his legal background, he seems very happy with his work and his new environment.

The Butlers are respectful of their rivals but they’re also fierce

mental image of what beer distributor executives might look like, act

competitors and those law degrees come in handy. Who better to

a friendly, young married couple who also happen to be a couple of

or negotiate with the Teamsters? When John O’Sullivan started the

like or what their background might be but it certainly wasn’t that of 36

interpret and understand drinking laws, write franchise agreements,

John P. O’Sullivan //

Feature

methods of bringing their brands to the consumer.

The website also contains amazing amount of interesting information

about O’Sullivan products and about beer in general. For example, do

you know you can get certified in beer knowledge? The sales team must

understand more than just the brands in the company portfolio. They need to possess knowledge about every aspect of the culture of beer. O’Sullivan Distributing works with the Cicerone Certification Program to ensure that those who sell and serve beer acquire knowledge in five areas: Beer Storage, Sales and Service Beer Styles and Culture

Beer Tasting and Flavors

Brewing Ingredients and Processes Pairing Beer with Food

Every member of the sales team, along with the entire executive

management team, has achieved certification as Cicerone Certified Beer

Servers. In 2009 Miller Brewing awarded O’Sullivan Distributing with

the High Life Achievement Award and in 2012 Miller-Coors awarded them the prestigious Miller-Coors President’s Award.

The beers carried are too many to list here but among them are domestics

Miller Lite, Coors Light and Killian’s Irish Red; craft beers Sam Adams,

Arcadia and Kuhnhenn; and imports Innis & Gunn from Scotland, Chimay from Belgium (one of Joanie’s favorites) and Tyskie from Poland. Non-

beer products are also numerous and include Uncle John’s Hard Cider business there were six “purveyors of alcohol”, as their website

says, in Flint. Now there’s only one; this one. The company’s

made in Michigan, Cayman Jack’s marguerita, Beach Kite wines from Chile, and Kick energy drinks.

What’s hot for the fall? Pumpkin beers and Octoberfest beers. Samuel

mission statement includes, “No one will out execute us in the

Adams Octoberfest has traditionally been a big seller for O’Sullivan

Their website, www.jposullivan.com, describes how the sales

around, and our customers just expect us to have Sam Adams Octoberfest

marketplace.”

team doesn’t merely write beer orders at their accounts. The goal is to be trusted beverage consultants, constantly providing

each account with knowledge about new products, sales

methods, and trends in the industry. One way they accomplish this is having a sales team comprised of passionate, professional sales people that truly love beer. It’s not uncommon to run into

their sales people at breweries and beer events throughout

Michigan and across the country, further exploring their love of the craft of beer. Several members of the sales team are even home brewers!

But the beverage professionals at O’Sullivan Distributing

also believe that truly loving beer isn’t enough. The sales

team must possess extensive beer knowledge to ensure that the consumers receive the best possible beer and enjoy its flavors to

Distributing and this year is no exception. “The second week of August rolls

on the trucks headed their way,” says Sean. However, this year those trucks are carrying no fewer than five different Octoberfests – a marzenstyle beer that dates back to a beer brewed for a royal wedding reception

for Crown Prince Ludwig in Munich in 1810. While Octoberfests are more traditional fall beers, O’Sullivan trucks will also have over seven different

brands of pumpkin-flavored beers on board as well thanks to a recent trend towards more fruit and vegetable beers consistent with the flavors of a particular season. Interested in Screaming Pumpkin from Griffin Claw Brewing Company, one of Michigan’s newest breweries located in

Birmingham? Or how about a Pumpkin Milk Stout from Hideout Brewing

Company in Grand Rapids? “The variety and creativity that our local Michigan brewers and other brewers from around the country are bringing to the beer business is pretty amazing,” says Joanie.

Michigan’s change of seasons will bring changes for the Butlers in both

the greatest extent possible. Each member of the team receives

their business life and family life. Joanie is expecting their third child

they are equipped to assist customers in selling beer properly,

Octoberfests. Sales of winter warmers, porters and stouts will soon follow.

extensive training in beer styles, brewing and selling so that responsibly and profitably. Some of that training comes from

the brewer partners themselves as the team regularly receives training in their weekly sales meetings from the brewers on

everything from new product introductions to the most effective

in November so Sean’s been “tasting for two” the pumpkin beers and So the next time you order a draft at your favorite pub, pick up a six-pack

to watch the game or put a deposit on a keg, think about the distributors who keep the taps flowing, the shelves stocked and local people employed. Make mine something from O’Sullivan’s.

beseen

RepResentative Dan KilDee Fundraiser

1. Joseph Livoti, Julie Petrick 2. Ellen Ellenburg, Vicki Bayeh Haley, Maryion Lee 3. Katrina Khouri, Maryion Lee, Rep. Dan Kildee, Stephen James 4. David & Sanjuana Solis 5. Chris Nedanis, Marcus Allen, Albert Lee 6. Andy Leavitt, Phil Hagerman 7. Victor Draine, Anthony Panneck, Jacob Hilliker, Elise Ghattas 8. Dale Weighill, Dr. Amy Fugate 9. Brianna White, Ted Valley, Keli Irwin, Anthony Panneck 10. Marti & Gerry Myers 11. Andy Leavitt, Dr. Bobby Mullkamala, Kathleen Gazall, Rep. Dan Kildee, Dr. Palavali 12. Kathleen Gazall, Dan Kildee, Dr Nita Kulkarni, Dr. Bobby Mulkamala 38

Be Repurposed

// CARRIAGE FACTORY

GM Pledges Continued Support for Flint

BY MARCIA MCGEE

eneral Motors has purchased the Durant-Dort Carriage Company Factory 1,

the site’s rich history as well as utilizing its

considered to be the forerunner of GM as a corporation and the birthplace of

– will enhance Flint’s quest to become a

a 25,000 square foot, 133 year old brick building on Water St. The space is

General Motors. President of GM North America Mark Reuss pledged continued support and

investment in Flint. He added that plans are still being developed for the facility and expressed the hope that several of GM’s historic cars may be housed in the factory. Initial work on the

greatest natural resource – the Flint River destination place,” said John Bradburn, GM waste reduction manager.

The site was home to the Flint Wagon

building will focus on structural improvements. Parts of the facility date back to 1880 when it

Works from 1883 to 1913. It was also

While the purchase does not include the nearby Durant-Dort office building, Reuss has

produced Buick engines from 1904 to 1909.

was constructed as part of the Flint Cotton and Woolen Mills.

also pledged GM’s support in curating the facility that is operated by the Genesee County Historical Society.

Following the announcement of the purchase of Factory 1, GM presented Flint city leaders

with a check for $10,000 to purchase and plant trees this spring on the nearby “Chevy in the Hole” manufacturing site. The trees will

be used as part of a city phytoremediation

While the collection of GM factories on the site was known by different names through

the years, the property is commonly referred to as Chevy in the Hole. The last factory on the site closed in the late 1990s.

The Flint Economic Development Corp.

project on the industrial site once operated by

purchased the parcel in 2008 from Delphi

plants are used to contain or eliminate heavy

of Flint has a plan to create a massive green

GM. Phytoremediation is a process in which

metals, pesticides and other types of pollution as opposed to excavating contaminated soil.

“The transformation of Chevy in the Hole

into a place where visitors can learn about

home to the first Buick plant in Flint, which

Corp., the last operator of the site. The city space along the river, opening it up for recreational, educational and environmental uses.

GM North America President Mark Reuss

Not-foR-pRofit

Baker is Michigan’s largest independent college and a not-for-profit organization. We invest in students—not shareholders—allowing us to maintain affordable tuition.

PREPARE YOURSELF FOR A DIFFERENT KIND OF COLLEGE EXPERIENCE TM

CALL:

(810) 766-4000

TEXT:

BAKER

VISIT: 1050 W. Bristol Rd., Flint, MI 48507

6449-PR_D

PREPARE YOURSELF™

97% OF AVAILABLE GRADUATEs ARE EMPLOYED

An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Institution Baker College Promotional Alerts, (11msg/mo). T/Cs & Privacy Policy at www.74700.mobi/h/?BAKER; reply STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Msg & Data rates may apply.

TO 74700

LIFETIME EMPLOYMEnT AssIsTAncE

BAKER.EDU

Celebrating 50 Years of Quality and Service

~ Jewelry Repair on Premises ~ 810-230-2727 | G-3310 Beecher Rd. | Flint (Next to Diplomat Pharmacy)

www.GainesJewelry.com

Meet on thetown // STAFF BIOS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYNELLE WALKER

The buzz around town has been what

is going on with “onthetown” Magazine…

BY AMBER L. SABO AND MICHELLE BLAISDELL

onthetown Magazine is here to publish and promote positive aspects of what “community” means in Genesee

County emphasizing the people, businesses, and the entertainment market segments. This will be accomplished as we feature

the people of Genesee County as the focal point of “onthetown” Magazine. It will continue to be the driving force to share inspirational stories of what makes the Greater Flint Area a great place to Live, Work, and Play! We think it is time to introduce to our community the staff at “on the town” Magazine. We conducted a simple questionnaire and were able to discover some interesting facts about our staff at “onthetown” Magazine. 42

STAFF BIOS //

Marcia McGee

Meet on thetown

ur editor Marcia McGee has a significant portfolio in publishing.

Her last job at General Motors consisted of

publishing a monthly magazine for dealers

along with a full page weekly advertorial targeted to dealers in Automotive News.

Marcia always new she wanted to be an editor and loves the editing process. We like to refer to her as “Captain Grammar.” She also enjoys working with the creative team.

Other facts you may not know about Marcia is she was in an Oscar nominated movie and her favorite drink is Cabernet Sauvignon.

Marcia loves the generous people of Genesee County and likes spreading the good news in “onthetown” Magazine.

Kimberly Gray

« Michael Thodoroff

ichael Thodoroff, the recent editor of our Powers Catholic

he funniest fact about our publisher

custom publication and feature story writer

dancer for Kid Rock when she grows up, which she

he likes most about publishing is, “Meeting

Kimberly Gray is she wants to be a backup

of “onthetown” Magazine, Mike says what

practices for when she is in the shower. Little does

the people and conducting interviews.”

she know Amber Sabo is currently using the same

As an Aquarius, Mike takes a clear-cut

technique. Competition is good, right? We look

approach to how differently he wishes to

forward to covering that in a future edition of the

experience life. We are not surprised that

publication. Kimberly has been married for over

he also played in a serious rock n ‘roll band

ten years and has three beautiful children. Kimberly

and was an automotive design engineer and

is a Libra and is known as someone who loves to

manager and has been an amazing writer at

socialize, is outgoing and communicates brilliant

“onthetown” Magazine for 35 years. Mike

ideas to people around her. She is a proud resident,

is also an advocate of the Flint YMCA and

born and raised in Genesee County. Kimberly was

its branches and just celebrated his 40th

asked what she likes most about publishing and

wedding anniversary. Mike is also a skilled

she said “Having the opportunity to showcase the

cook and loves building and racing cars.

positive happenings in Genesee County.”

« Amber Sabo A

mber Sabo is our office guru. She is the director of finance, writer and could be known as the office therapist. Amber is always moving forward with full force on

the front lines making things happen. As a Gemini, she is very flexible and can change work modes quickly to make sure we accomplish our goals. Amber has a love for poetry and quotes

Edger Allen Poe: “Poetry is the rhythmical creation of beauty in words.” She has even had

several of her poems published. Amber loves the “creative writing process and researching people and new things to write about.” She is getting married to the man of her dreams this spring and takes Aerial yoga classes with the Detroit Flyhouse Circus.

Meet on thetown // STAFF BIOS

« Tyler Reid T

yler Reid works in distribution and

administration and is looking to

expand his role at “onthetown” Magazine.

Also a Libra like our publisher, Kimberly,

Tyler rarely is at a loss for words, even on his worst days. Tyler enjoys “delivering an awesome product to our advertisers.” Tyler

was raised in Fenton and attended school

there. He is pursuing his dream of becoming a hair dresser. Tyler loves Luigi’s Pizza and the most interesting person he has ever met is his dad.

Deb Molina

aura Ulman our manager has been married for 20 years. Laura knows

Laura Ulman

Flint

Central

graduate,

Deb

Molina has been in publishing for

about 25 years and enjoys using her career

there is never a dull moment and the life

in publishing to stay integrated within

of a Scorpio is always challenging. Laura

the community. She loves the publication

has been in publishing since 2001 and says

because she believes in the mission. Deb

what she likes most about publishing is

also says, “I love knowing the whole story

“The excitement of cutting open the first

first and staying up-to-date regarding the

box of magazines every issue.” She loves

events going on around the town.” Not only

to celebrate with her favorite beverage, a

is Deb in sales, she is the events coordinator

strawberry daiquiri with whipped cream

and is always taking pictures to share with

from Tia Helita’s.

the community. Deb is currently reading Tina Fey’s “Bossypants” and tends to read the same book multiple times.

« Paije Schmittdiel P

aije Schmittdiel from The Office Place is our designer. As a Leo, like her famous

counterpart Mick Jagger, she exudes charisma, creativity and has very unique talents.

Paije states, “What I love about design is the challenge of visually communicating a message clearly to the audience.” Paije started working at a very young age and held three jobs while

attending college: working the early shift unloading trucks at UPS; tutoring freshman design students; and working as a paint associate at The Home Depot. All these roles exposed Paije

to many different types of people and she learned a lot from the experiences. Paije was born and raised in Missouri and plays the viola. Paije’s hidden passion is cooking organic food and exploring new places to eat in and around Genesee County.

STAFF BIOS //

Meet on thetown

« Michelle Blaisdell O

ur director of “onthetown” Magazine Michelle Blaisdell, was home-schooled and

obtained degrees from both Mott Community College and University of Michigan-

Flint. Michelle is a Sagittarius, which is the luckiest and the most positive sign. She is definitely

ambitious and always aims high. Michelle likes the ability publishing provides to meet new people and be exposed to new opportunities. “I have worked every position from the bottom

up, so I learned the hard way of everything not to do. Success at this point is inevitable.” Although she takes her work seriously, she always tries to find humor in everything.

Mark Novak (NOT PICTURED)

ur newest member of the team, Mark Novak, shows up to work

with jokes and makes a great addition to the team. Mark, being

a Sagittarius, looks at life as an adventure. He was an insurance agent for Blackmore-Roe for 12 years and a senior account executive at Health Plus

of Michigan for 20 years. Mark is a Flint Powers graduate and wanted to be a professional golfer when he grew up. Mark likes to read anything by

James Patterson and, on occasion, has been known to cry at the end of movies.

e have to say we think we

have the most interesting

staff ever. Besides all of our good looks,

there are some brains floating around to!

It was not a surprise to discover that we all seem to crack ourselves up. Finally

we asked everyone if we were not here right now where would they rather be… traveling or at the beach. End of story.

“on the town” Magazine has over 35

years in circulation, and has become a

recognized prestigious publication and

stays true to its brand while remaining flexible to grow and change with its

community, always remembering to share positive information as a priority.

Undeniably, “on the town” Magazine

has echoed the many challenges and

changes our community has endured

over the years. However, as we continue

to grow, “on the town” Magazine will continue to ensure integrity and professionalism in the pursuit of all endeavors including all of the companies we represent. So remember to

beseen…beheard…be “onthetown”… 45

e k c e m e i D e u q i r En 25 Years Maestro

The with estra Orch G y n i n t a o r h Celeb lint Symp F

888.8CENTER â&#x2013;Ş flintinstituteofmusic.org

beseen Powers CatholiC Grand oPeninG | September 24, 2013

1. Joe Forlenza & Tom Halligan 2. Paul Goyette & John Trecha 3. Dr. Sam Dismond & J.D. Winegarden 4. Andy Goggins & Kevin Keane 5. Stacey Turczyn 6. Jack Stock & Josh Yecke 7. Dr. Kathy Kirtek & J.R. Kirtek 8. Steve & Rosanne Heddy 9. Chris Nedanis, Kathleen Gazall & John Gazall 10. Tom Furnas, Sharon Cramer, Judy Cramer, Andy Goggins 11. Tim Turczyn, Lara Affrica, Steve Bliss, Stacey Turczyn 12. Sharon Blaisdell, Tyler Reid, Michelle Blaisdell, Aaron Hamp 48

PhotograPhy by rynelle walker

13. Kelly Herzog, Deann Townsend, Arlene Hildensperger 14. Bob Beach & Randy Dockery 15. Karen Crist & Don Beauchamp 16. Jeffrey Beauchamp & Amy Beauchamp 17. Andy Goggins & Sharon Cramer 18. Roger Crist & Karen Crist 19. Michelle Blaisdell & Michael Thodoroff 20. Tom Furnas 21. Andy Goggins, Dr. Mark Knight, Joe Goggins, Kevin Keane 22. Annette Rowe, Kelly Herzog, Dr. Stephen Hildensperger, Deann Townsend, Arlene Hildensperger, Stacey Turczyn, Tom Townsend 49

Michigan A Forager’s Paradise

how to use all different parts of the plant. I definitely

do not, and trial and error is a dangerous game when BY JODY WRIGHT

t’s always difficult to pinpoint the moment when you began a new obsession.

But I believe the idea took hold when last I went to see my sister in

Chicago and we visited a restaurant called Elizabeth. The chef, Ileana,

travels to her grandfather’s farm in central Illinois and creates spectacular meals from the goodies she finds. Strange mushrooms and roots, nuts, leaves and

flowers all dot the beautiful plates. It was a feast for the senses! At one point, she even brings an iPod over with “White Rabbit” playing while she serves you

mushroom tea; during another course, we ate from a terrarium. My sister gets bonus points for devouring the venison heart!

I remember thinking, gosh, why don’t I find any unique ingredients in the

woods? If she can find that in Illinois, surely Michigan has something to offer,

besides morels (which I still have never found!). Maybe I had never noticed it before, but it was this summer when I first noticed vines heavy with black raspberries hanging along my favorite walking trail. What started as a ready-

made, if tart, snack along my walk quickly turned into a clandestine mission with plastic bags, sunscreen and secret trails into the woods. Then, a few days

later, I started spotting some other blackish-colored berries, but these were much more upright; the day after that, I noticed black-colored berries growing near the

ground. What was the difference? Were they all the same, and if so, why did some vine along the ground, while others became tall and upright?

After some internet research, I learned that the first were black raspberries,

while the second were blackberries. I learned the difference between the two

was that raspberries leave their stem behind (they are hollow), while blackberries

have the bit of stem in the middle. The third kind of berry I found was a dewberry, which I had never heard of nor seen before. And then, on my way home, I found this odd little plant by the path. It had this prickly green thing hanging from

it. I grabbed the globe and a sample of the leaf and scurried home. I had never seen anything like it. After a short search on the internet, I found it: it was a

gooseberry! Yes, Michigan! Maybe there were more treasures out there to find!

So I started my new hobby with a novice’s guide: The Forager’s Harvest.

When looking at a plant that you might want to eat, I never realized that one part

of the plant can be edible, while all other parts are not (think rhubarb). Well, 50

Chef Ileana has studied this for years, and she knows

pulling stuff in the woods.

Now I had a bigger problem: I had to not only find

and correctly identify the plant, but I had to break it into its component parts to isolate the edible bits. I

realized that I needed to start with baby steps, and

this was a giant leap of faith, and one that could result in poisoning myself. I recalibrated, dialed back my

ambitions a bit, and decided to start with just one part of the plant: the berries.

I went back to amazon.com and found Wild Berries

and Fruits: A Field Guide by Teresa Marrone.

focuses solely on Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota. I can’t recommend this book enough. It has photos of

each plant and its berries, it is color coded according

to the color of the berries, it points out anything that is toxic or inedible, and then it describes other plants that you could easily confuse with the plant you are seeking. I got the book in the later part of the summer. I

browsed it briefly, knowing full well that most things

in the book I would never find. But I also knew I could start with the berries that are most easily identified, and

on my first trip, I was brimming with confidence. There

were dozens of berries that were labeled “delicious” that I had never heard of, or looked for, or eaten before.

It was so exciting that I would be tasting something so new, so different! I imagined coming home with buckets

of huckleberries, currants, blueberries, mulberries, elderberries… I was going to need some mason jars, pronto!

I came home dejected. I didn’t find any of those

things, just boring old raspberries and blackberries. I needed a different approach: I would stop and look at

anything with a berry, even it was unripe, and try to

identify it before moving on. The next day I went back with a much more open mind.

Wild Berry Curd Recipe 2/3 C JUICE/PUREE • 7 TB UNSALTED BUTTER • ¾ C BAKER’S SUGAR (FINE SUGAR) • 2 LARGE EGGS + 2 EGG YOLKS (BEATEN WELL) IN A MEDIUM SAUCEPAN, MELT BUTTER OVER LOW HEAT. ADD JUICE, SUGAR AND EGGS. STIR CONSTANTLY UNTIL THICKENED.

What a difference a day makes! The first plant I encountered is the

one I run across the most: bush honeysuckle. Sadly, it is inedible. But once I knew what it looked like, I could rule it out immediately.

Then I saw this odd tree with little speckled, orangish-red berries

on it. Hmm, this one was tricky. It was an extremely large bush, the

leaves were arranged opposite, and then.. Gasp! A silvery underside!

It was, indeed, an autumn olive bush, something I had never seen before. My book has them labeled as “delicious.” There were tens of thousands of these berries, and I stood there for hours gathering as many as I could. This was less than a tenth of a mile into my walk,

and I already had hit pay dirt. Now my little patch of woods seemed

a lot more daunting; what if there were more berries than I could ever pick?

we have around us. I can now identify the different types of

I originally thought that I would only stop and gather things where I

of berries, but are inedible.

Every day, literally, new berries were appearing and disappearing.

would get at least a pint. I learned quickly, however, that the tastiest plants are quickly devoured by birds; sometimes it takes several days of visits to gather enough of them.

I also learned that when you encounter a plant that is highly

honeysuckle, buckthorn and dogwood, because they all have loads For anyone who takes up this hobby, it’s important to never eat

any berry until you are absolutely sure you have the right thing -there are actually quite a few toxic berries in our area.

So after my first summer, I have a catalog of successes and

productive, you need to take advantage of it right then and there.

missed opportunities, mistakes I hope not to replicate next year.

cherries (or fire cherries) -- not enough to make anything. But I got

by the same author, and it has some really wonderful recipes for

Coming back a few days later is usually too late. I only got a few pin hundreds of red and black chokecherries and successfully made wild cherry jam. My autumn olives were made into jam and autumn olive curd -- they are, indeed, delicious, with a hint of cinnamon flavor. My

quest for gooseberries began too late, so I found enough to make a

I bought a companion book, Cooking with Wild Berries and Fruit breads, pies and tarts. It also has specific instructions on how to make jelly or jam out of any of these berries, since traditional recipes don’t necessarily work.

My first experiment in wild cherry jelly had too much pectin.

lovely batch of curd, but not enough to do any canning.

You had to slice it with a knife! At least for next year, I have

wild grapes, Russian olives, spicebush berries, hawthorn, crabapple,

of the berries I missed this year.

At this point, I have successfully harvested high bush cranberries,

rose hips, wild raisins and nannyberries… all edible.

I also learned quite a bit in general about the bushes and trees

already located so many types of berries that I can focus on some My next mission: finding and curing wild nuts. I hear acorn

flour is delicious!

Taste of the Town

// ZUCCHINI SQUASH

Zucchini Squash

It is low calorie, packed with vitamins, and delicious. BY THERESE LEYTON

Zucchini ripens in late August but in some parts of the country zucchini

ripens all year round. It contains vitamins A and C, potassium and calcium and is also a good source of fiber. It can be prepared in many of ways:

stuffed, fried, steamed, boiled, grilled, baked, microwaved, or other ways.

It can also be eaten raw in vegetable platters, added to soups, stews and casseroles, or baked into bread or blended in a cake. It can be used as a

filling in quesadillas. Breaded and pan fried are my favorite ways to prepare zucchini.

Cooking time is fast and is usually prepared with the skin on. Olive oil

or butter and seasonings are all you need for baking, frying, or broiling. I

prefer sautéing zucchini with tomatoes, onions, green peppers and yellow

peppers. Cooking time is ten minutes. This tastes so good over rice or your favorite pasta.

Cutting back on carbs with thin pizza crusts has become popular. Recently

there were recipes for making pizzas in Midwest Living magazine using very thinly sliced zucchini and whole wheat tortillas for the crust. Zucchini was

used with peppers, baby spinach, marinara sauce and shredded parmesan cheese or pecorino cheese.

Creativity is the name of the game. Spray a cookie sheet with nonstick

cooking spray and put your zucchini veggie mixture on the whole wheat tortilla. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are crisp.

Zucchini Tomato Casserole Ingredients

6 MEDIUM ZUCCHINI DICED 4 TABLESPOONS MELTED BUTTER 2 MEDIUM TOMATOES DICED

Directions

1 CUP SHREDDED CHEDDAR CHEESE

IN A LARGE SKILLET SAUTÉ ZUCCHINI IN 2 TABLESPOONS

1 CUP SOFT BREAD CRUMBS

BUTTER UNTIL CRISP AND TENDER, DRAIN WELL.

2 EGGS BEATEN

COMBINE REMAINING INGREDIENTS IN A BOWL. STIR

2 TABLESPOONS DICED MINCED ONIONS

IN DRAINED ZUCCHINI AND REMAINING BUTTER.

1 TABLESPOON DICED PARSLEY FLAKES

TRANSFER TO UNGREASED TWO QUART BAKING DISH

1 TEASPOON DRIED BASIL

AND BAKE AT 350 DEGREES 25-30 MINUTES OR UNTIL

½ TEASPOON GARLIC POWDER

BUBBLY. LET STAND 10 MINUTES BEFORE EATING.

½ TEASPOON SALT ½ TEASPOON PEPPER

A well-feathered nest begins with Two Birds.

Country-Chic Furniture • Table Linens, Dish & Hand Towels • Tabletop Accessories Wall Art & Leaning Mirrors • Lamps & Chandelier’s • Candles, Votives & Lanterns Ladies Personal Accessories • Full-Service Interior Design

1551 E. Pierson Road, Ste C Flushing

810.487.2089

twobirdsdesignanddecor.com

NOW OPEN

Be Fit

// QI GONG

Try Something New: Qi Gong BY RENEE BOALS-PEEL

he art of Qi Gong (pronounced chee gong) is a form

of exercise that has been around for over 5,000 years. According to Wikipedia, it is a practice of aligning breath,

movement, and awareness for exercise, healing, and meditation. It concentrates on the flow of energy. The qi is the vital energy of the body which maintains life. Doing qi exercises brings one to a state of meditation, wherein distress and anxiety melt away.

In China, medical Qi Gong is used as part of traditional Chinese

medicine in preventative and therapeutic health care. In the United States, Qi Gong is most commonly practiced for self healing or martial arts and is beginning to gain recognition as an effective medical treatment.

Qi Gong enhances the process of delivering oxygen to the cells

of the body and can be used to treat cancer and reduce or eliminate side effects from radiation and chemotherapy. It is especially useful

in treating any kind of chronic pain and chronic disorders of the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous system.

Top 5 Reasons to Practice Qi Gong 1.

FLOW OF ENERGY WITHIN THE BODY THROUGH

Many practioners have noticed a difference in mobility, energy

levels and outlook on life by implementing a few Qi Gong exercises

BREATHING AND MENTAL INTENTION TO ASSIST IN

into their daily routine. ChiBall® is a program designed to promote

balance and well being to people who value healthy lifestyles and personal development.

Teaching ChiBall® to students is a complementary approach to

ONE’S OWN HEALTH 2.

REDUCES CHRONIC PAIN

BETTER CIRCULATION TO INCREASE THE FLOW OF OXYGEN AND STIMULATES THE CIRCULATION OF

health and well being. Integrating the philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine, color and aromatherapy, meditations and the

movement disciplines of Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Yoga, ChiBall Dance and

THE BLOOD 4.

Pilates.

Renee Boals-Peel is a Bio-Energy medicine practitioner

ARTHRITIS, ASTHMA, CONSTIPATION, DIABETES, GOUT, HEADACHES, HEART DISEASE, LOWER BACK

is also certified in level III holographic memory resolution, trauma Young Med Spa at 810-695-6398 54

REDUCES STRESS AND IMPROVES DIGESTION. CAN ALSO ASSIST PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM ALLERGIES,

specializing in preventative care within the energy body system. She therapy and is a Reiki master teacher. She can be reached at Forever

LEARNING QI GONG ASSISTS IN PROMOTING THE

PAIN, ETC. 5.

CAN BE PRACTICED BY ANY AGE AND INCREASES WELL-BEING.

ite

Management ent

Downtown Fenton

115 West Shiawassee Ave.

810-629-3332 www.beholzjewelers.com

NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY ADULT DEGREE PROGRAM

DEVOS GRADUATE SCHOOL

FLINT

LANSING & TROY

Convenient schedules for the busy adult

Earn your MBA and expand your managerial and leadership skill sets Multiple program options available

rticulation nsfer

Earn your BBA in: - Accounting - Computer Information Management - Health Care Management - Marketing - Management

ad in Flint

Located at 3487 S. Linden Road in Flint

busy adult

xperience

lable

ing your ll sets in

www.northwood.edu/proven 800.622.9000

Be Fit

HALF MOON

WARRIOR

// YOGA

BY AMBER L. SABO

Balance

Creating symmetry throughout your body makes you stronger, more flexible and balanced.

Imbalance creates stress and strain in our body. Improved balance equals sharp physical

coordination. Balance is especially important in sports where you must keep your body upright over

uneven terrain. Balance poses will strengthen lower legs, ankles, and sharpen metal focus. Asana BACK BRIDGE

poses – as in Ashtanga yoga help improve balance by holding pose for longer periods of time.

CHAIR POSE // HALF MOON POSE // WARRIOR III

BOAT

Core

Core exercises are most effective when they engage muscles throughout the torso and cross

PLANK

several joints to coordinate stability. The core is the foundation of strength. It’s helps transfer power to the arms and legs. A strong core will stabilize the spine through the pelvis, neck and shoulders.

PUSH UP/VINYASA // BACK BRIDGE // BOAT POSE // ARM BALANCING // PLANK/SIDE PLANK

SIDE ARM BALANCE

Strength

Yoga offers strengthening dumbbells and machines just can’t reach. Mental toughness comes

from yoga’s great focus and concentration as you move through its demands. Yoga practice is

designed to create power and define the body. A solid yoga program works all of your muscles -

front and back - while it stretches them at the same time. This helps improve your body’s overall posture, allowing it to function more efficiently with less risk of injury. It also gives muscles more TRIANGLE

stamina. Instead of most exercises that only make your muscles contract for between 24-48 seconds,

with yoga, you may hold a pose for as long as five minutes or more. Maintaining poses for minutes

at a time teaches your muscles to contract for longer periods, which can drastically improve your muscular endurance. That means they’ll be less likely to quit on you --both in and out of the gym.

LUNGES // PLANK TO YOGA PUSH UP // SIDE ARM BALANCE // TRIANGLE // WARRIOR POSES // FIREFLY POSE FIREFLY

beseen Crim Festival oF raCes | August 23, 2013 | Downtown Flint

10 Mile Runners from Fenton

2. Retired First Sergeant

Arlen Bates 3. Us Army Will Stratton 4. Ilse Lujan Hayes, Shane

Herriman 5. Bradley Carlock, Joe Damouni, Trey Carlock, Will Bulkowski I

6. The Winey Bunch 7. Aaron Hamp, Jason Charchan, Nick Hamp 8. Emily Nightingale, Amy Maust, Christine Glann 9. Peter & Particia Schoenher 10. The Guerra Family 11. Thodoroff family 58

John P. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan Distributing, Inc.

EVENTS //

Be On The Scene

November 1

November 15

December 7

“THIS IS THE 60s”

HOLLY GIRL’S NIGHT OUT

THE WHITING

DOWNTOWN HOLLY

FENTON JINGLE FEST

November 8

December 7

“CRY OUT”, A STAGE PLAY

FLINT DDA HOLIDAY PARADE

THE WHITING

November 8 WINE DINNER FLINT INSTITUTE OF MUSIC

DOWNTOWN FENTON

DOWNTOWN FLINT

November 16 FSO CLASSICAL CONCERT

December 7 YMCA SANTA RUN

November 9

November 22

TIES AND TAILS HUMANE SOCIETY OF GENESEE COUNTY

“JIGSAW JONES” FLINT YOUTH THEATER

FLINT GOLF CLUB

THE WHITING

November 9

Nov. 29 - Dec. 14

JIM BELUSHI AND THE BOARD OF COMEDY

HOLLY DICKENS FESTIVAL DOWNTOWN HOLLY (WEEKENDS ONLY)

THE WHITING

December 3

DOWNTOWN FLINT

December 7-8 “THE NUTCRACKER” FLINT INSTITUTE OF MUSIC

HOLIDAY WALK FLINT CULTURAL CENTER

December 5 WORLD’S GREATEST OFFICE PARTY

November 10

TO BENEFIT WHALEY

December 13 ARTWALK DOWNTOWN FLINT

December 15 MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS

“ANGELS IN AMERICA: PESTROIKA”

THE WHITING

November 13

December 6-22

YWCA CIRCLE OF WOMEN LUNCHEON

“THE WIZARD OF OZ” FLINT YOUTH THEATER

December 21-22 HOLIDAY POPS FLINT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA THE WHITING 61