My City May 2023

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Vince Lorraine

FROM THE PUBLISHER

ED I TOR I AL

ART & DESIGN

MANAGING EDITOR Sherron Barden

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hailey Carriger Daria Akulova PHOTOGRAPHY Katy Kildee Jaden Moxlow

DEAR READERS, While Team My City is always drawn to stories that are unique and compelling, our content is often driven by national observances, holidays, things to which we can all relate. Sometimes, the stories we share check multiple boxes, such as those under this month’s “My City Law” header. National Law Day is celebrated on May 1, and has become a month-long observance in many communities. We are highlighting the Greater Flint legal community with several articles – a profile of a veteran local judge; an effort to create legislation that will protect abused animals; expert information on a useful estate planning tool; a group dedicated to helping former incarcerated persons return to society and a non-profit helping child survivors of sex trafficking. So many community members are truly making a difference in the lives of others. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, and our “My Health” articles explore the role of nutrition in our mental well-being, as well as the signs of behavioral health issues in kids, and the services offered at the Hurley Adolescent Behavioral Unit. In addition, McLaren Flint offers an informative piece about a common condition – “The Pain Women Shouldn’t Ignore.” On May 20, the MTA (Mass Transportation Authority) will host its long awaited 50th Anniversary Gala, postponed from 2021 due to the pandemic. The award-winning MTA is considered by many as a model operation for the country; read about their past and future on p.8. The future is bright for a group of Mott Culinary Institute students who recently returned from a ten-day study-abroad trip (an MCC first) to Spain. Fantastic! They had great instruction and enjoyed the immersive cultural experience. Read their comments starting on p.18. I always enjoy hearing comments from readers about the quality of our content, including our contributed columns. In our April issue, Leslie Toldo’s “Musings” shared the story of Ricco, a dog who spent over two years in the loving care of the Humane Society of Genesee County, waiting to be adopted. A couple read Leslie’s story in My City – and it now has a happy ending! Ricco was adopted on April 19, and we are proud to have played a small role in making it happen. There is so much more to enjoy in this issue, including ten pages of photos from recent local “Haps!” The event season is beginning to heat up – MCM will be there! Thanks for reading,

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WRITER Peter Hinterman

STAFF WRITER Cheryl Dennison

FREELANCE WRITER Mark Spezia

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTING/CIRCULATION Kim Davis

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erin Caudell Dr. Christopher Douglas Vera Hogan Marc Janca, AIF Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan Leslie Toldo Shannon White

SAL E S

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Terese Allen

14165 FENTON RD., FENTON, MI 48430 810.230.1783 - MYCITYMAG.COM ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, Inc., 14165 Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 48430. Canadian Mail Agreement #41971515. For back issues, inquire for availability. Editorial Cor respondence: Address product information and inquiries to: Editorial Department, My City Magazine, 14165 Fenton Rd., Fenton, MI 48430, phone 810.230.1783. To authors, photographers and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photographs in this publication are the property of My City Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclusions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of My City Magazine. My City Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by sufficient first-class postage, but the Publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material. Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

SCAN ME

VINCE LORRAINE PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF VINCE@MYCITYMAG.COM

to take a survey and get a FREE 3 month subscription to My City Magazine

COVER ART “THE NEW ARRIVAL” DOC COLLISON, 2022

8

18

22

My Community 8 MTA Celebrates 50 Years 14 Prism Project Every Child Deserves a Life of Love 18 Mott Culinary Students Study Abroad Special Section 22 LAKE LIVING 34 Davison Auto Tech Driving Future Success My Style 38 Hello, May! By Shannon White My Dish 40 Celebrate Asparagus!

My Arts 52 The Artistry Within

Prison Creative Arts Project Special Section

56 MY CITY LAW 58 7 Questions with ... The Honorable Jessica Hammon

67th District Court - 2nd Division, Burton

60 Protect MI Pet

Help End Animal Abuse

64 Nation Outside

By Erin Caudell My Dining 42 Local Eats & Drinks My Story 44 Moms Make It Best My Music 48 Farmhouse Folk

Moving Forward Together

68 Fly High

with Lady Bird Deeds My History Death in the Gatehouse My Sports

70 Flint Crime Files

74 Flint City AFC Ready to Thrill!

The Biggest Little Venue in Genesee County

CONTENTS

May 2023

52

58

48

34

My Musings 104 The Pain That Will Not Go By Leslie Toldo My Reality 105 The “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” By Vera Hogan My Finances 106 The Ever Important Emergency Fund By Marc Janca, AIF® My Econ 107 The Collapse of Silicon Valley Bank By Dr. Christopher Douglas My Travels 108 Planning Phase By Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan My Thoughts 109 The Greatest Mother’s Day Gift By Cheryl Dennison My Afterthought 112 The Law of the Ancients

My Health 80 Foods to Improve Mental Health 84 Summertime & Kids Behavioral Health 86 Hurley Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit 88 The Pain Women Shouldn’t Ignore My Haps 90 Children’s Champions Breakfast 92 Shine the Light Gala 94 GFAASHOF Induction Ceremony 96 McLaren Girls Night In 98 Mix & Mingle Under the Stars 102 My Can’t Miss List

38

44

MYCOMMUNITY

first 50 years: MTA Celebrates 50 YEARS Then … Now … The Future Vision BY CHERYL DENNISON

FORMED IN 1971, the Flint Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) has celebrated 50 years! According to MTA General Man ager Edgar Benning, a formal celebra tion planned for 2021 was postponed due to the pandemic. The long-awaited 50th Anniversary Gala will take place on May 20 in Downtown Flint at the Riverfront Conference Center to rec ognize the achievements of one of the nation’s top public transportation fleets. Here are some highlights of the MTA’s

Arlenta Apostrophe / arwiyada / stock.adobe.com

1971 After Flint City Coach shut down in 1970, city leaders developed a transportation plan and formed the MTA, which operated out of a bus garage at Saginaw and 12th Streets. Service to the City of Flint started with a fleet of 26 buses running hourly on 12 routes. 1976 The North Dort Highway facility was constructed. According to Benning, the 17-acre site was developed to include a headquarters for administration and operations. It is also an Amtrak center. “You could take a train or ride the bus from that terminal,” Benning says.

8

MYCITYMAG.COM

1985 Robert J. Foy was appointed MTA General Manager. He remained in the position until 2010 when Ben ning was named the new GM. 1989 The new Downtown Trans portation Center was built on the former site of Uncle Bob’s Diner (Wallenberg and Harrison Streets). “This was very significant,” Benning reports. “Before it was built, people had to stand outdoors to wait for the bus and this allowed riders to wait indoors. It also provided better access to all vehicles coming into one central area.” 1990 A trackless trolley route was established in partnership with Wind mill Place on 5th Avenue to shuttle residents to work and workers to a place for lunch. The MTA Board of Directors was restructured, expanding from a nine-member board to eleven members. “It brought additional representation,” Benning reports, “from small cities, township associ ations, the disabled community and business and education communi ties. It was restructured to better serve those in need.” 1996 The first MTA millage was approved. According to Benning, MTA requested that a county-wide,

2003 Construction began on the Grand Blanc and Mt. Morris Your Ride Service Centers. 2004 MTA expanded primary route service time to 11:30pm; a significant change as service previously ended at 6:30pm. 2006 Construction began on the Fenton Your Ride Service Center. 2008 Construction began on the Swartz Creek Your Ride Service Center.

expanded Your Ride service be placed on the ballot to provide additional routes. “It was approved by 78 percent,” Benning notes. 1997 The second millage was ap proved. “The community wanted more service. The Board of Directors asked to go for a higher-level millage to meet that demand,” Benning states. 1997 Transportation expanded to include Regional Service to Living ston, Oakland, Lapeer and Saginaw Counties. “This was the first time we were able to reach out to other counties,” Benning says, “to provide job opportunities outside of this area and bring people here for employment. We still provide this service today.” 1998 A $10 million renovation of a bus storage and maintenance facility on Dort Highway began to house 221 buses and 100 vans. Construction also began on the 53,000 square-foot Administration & Training Facility at the N. Dort Highway property and a facility to accommodate 321 vehicles. Inter-local agreements were es tablished with Washtenaw, Oakland, Saginaw Livingston and Lapeer Counties to connect regional trans portation services.

2011 Edgar Benning was appointed MTA General Manager. An employ ee of the MTA since 1980, Benning brought much experience to the po sition having held various titles, in cluding Assistant Superintendent of Bus Operations, Superintendent of Bus Operations and Director of Cus tomer Service. In 2001, he became Assistant GM and Chief of Staff in 2009, running human resources and other departments. “I did a little bit of everything,” he says. Prior to his time at MTA, he was Vice President of Assembly for American Sunroof Corp., overseeing six plants. →

THE MTA FLEET IS NOW OVER 300 VEHICLES. WHEN IT STARTED, THERE WERE FEWER THAN 50 EMPLOYEES AND JUST 12 ROUTES RUNNING IN THE CITY OF FLINT ONLY.

9

MYCOMMUNITY

to Veterans is also growing, with free service being provided to veterans and their spouses for trips to the grocery store, pharmacy, doctor visits, etc.” Rides to Groceries service launched, providing rides to local grocers and markets throughout Genesee County. 2017 New Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Fixed Route vehicles arrived utilizing funds from the second largest grant in the U.S. – $16 million to replace an aging fleet of 30-35-year old buses. “They saw the good we were doing,” Benning states. 2018 The MTA workforce had grown to 600 employees. 2019 MTA is named 2019 Urban Community Transportation System of the Year. “We were chosen from 3,500 systems in the country,” Benning reports. 2020 Construction began on an ad dition to the Grand Blanc bus storage facility, which was completed in 2021. 2021 MTA’s 50th Anniversary Celebration was delayed due to the pandemic. Anticipated annual use of die sel fuel was down to 30,000 gallons (originally 2.3 million gallons). “This was very significant!” exclaims the GM.

“We really helped clean up the com munity by going to alternative fuels.” The MTA, Present Day The MTA fleet is now over 300 vehicles. When it started, there were fewer than 50 employees and just 12 routes running in the City of Flint only. The Flint MTA plans to continue expanding its use of alternative fuel, especially hydrogen, says Benning. They have also joined a major group to become part of a hub for national production and are also starting to bring in more electric vehicles (cars). MTA is developing new mi cro-transit and on-demand services to provide transportation when you need it. They are also developing and expediting micro-transit initiatives across the county. MTA’s Stephanie Confer (“Stepha nie K with the MTA”) provides an in formative podcast with a new episode each week. You can listen to “On the Road with MTA” on Fridays on your podcast platform of choice.

2012 Construction began in Grand Blanc on a storage and main tenance facility for a hydrogen and compressed natural gas bus. “It was significant to bring the first hydro gen fuel cell to the community,” the General Manager reports. “Flint MTA became the biggest user of alternative fuel in the Midwest, utilizing propane, hydrogen and compressed natural gas.”

2014 A hydrogen bus was pur chased from the Center for Trans portation and the Environment. The hydrogen bus is unique as it creates electricity to power the electric mo tor. It is very sustainable, reusable, well-tested and proven that it works. 2015 Construction began on a new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) storage building at the Grand Blanc Alternative Fuel Facility. 2016 Rides to Wellness/ Same Day Service was

introduced. “This became a national model,” Benning reports. “We have be come the country’s No. 1

medical transportation provider. When people need it, we provide on-demand pick-up service within 30 minutes. Demand has grown significantly. Rides

10

MYCITYMAG.COM

“Public transportation is the fabric of the quality of life, so much more than people ever anticipated.” ED BENNING The Future According to Benning, exciting things are in the works for the future of the MTA. They are working to develop a new regional service for Lapeer, Genesee and Shiawassee Counties which will provide seamless transportation to users without the need for transfers. Currently, Benning is anticipating develop ment of a “Bus on the Shoulder” program. This would allow buses to operate on the shoulder of the I-69 expressway during traffic backups. “MTA Buses would have the exclusive right to use the shoulder,” Benning states. MTA is also preparing to launch a new card payment system, so that riders won’t have to carry cash. In addition, MTA hopes to attract a future workforce with educational opportunities available for those as young as eighth-grade students. The General Manager is proud to have seen how MTA has grown and evolved over the years. “Over the past half-century, the MTA has transformed into a world-class transportation service considered by many as a model for the country,” Benning states. “Since the pandemic, our entire world has changed and we at the MTA are quickly adapting to better address the needs of the public today and into the future. We would like to thank community members for their great support over the years and we are committed to exceeding their expectations in the days ahead.” ◆

11

MYCOMMUNITY

BECAUSE EVERY CHILD DESERVES A LIFE OF SAFETY & LOVE

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PRISM PROJECT T he crime of human trafficking is at an epidemic level and the statistics are concerning. It is the fastest growing organized crime, estimated to generate $150 billion globally including an annual $32 billion in the United States. There are an estimated 4.8 million victims of sex traffick ing in the U.S., 99% of whom are women and young girls. Just over one quarter are children. “The average age of a victim at the onset is between 12 and 14 years old,” says Ashley Chandler, Director of Finance for Prism Project, “and it happens in every zip code.” The outcome for victims of sex trafficking is extremely dire. “The average life expectancy of a victim is seven years,” Chandler adds. “Their deaths could be the result of physical abuse, drug over dose or suicide. Almost 45% of victims die by suicide.” The problem is immense and it is happening right now all over the country. To help in the fight against hu man sex trafficking, Genesee County has been incredibly proactive with mul tiple organizations working to help victims, deter criminals and hold those responsible

14

MYCITYMAG.COM

care for victims. The Prism Project Safehouse Program “provides a safe place where child survivors of sexual exploitation and/or sex trafficking can come to heal on their time, with a loving team of professionally trained care providers.” All of the services are provided at the home including medi cal, educational, therapeutic and spir itual services, in addition to life skills. The home serves up to six girls ages 12-17 who may remain there for six months to two years, depending upon personal need. “We want the girls to grow up in an environment as close to a normal home as possible and to live their daily lives at their own pace,” says Chandler. “All of our care provid ers are licensed and trauma-informed. Care is available for the victims 24/7 and schooling is provided online.” The house sits on 100 acres and was purchased for the program by a donor. Prism Project is working to pay off the mortgage. AND AIDING VICTIMS TO THRIVE OUTSIDE OF THEIR OPPRESSIVE CIRCUMSTANCES." SYLVIA BLYTHE, FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OUR AIM IS TO BRING TOGETHER AWARENESS AND PREVENTION THROUGH EDUCATING OUR COMMUNITY

for such atrocities accountable. Programs and organizations such as G.H.O.S.T., the Genesee Coun ty Human Trafficking Task Force, Beauty for Ashes, and Voices for Children are working each and every day against the epidemic and recently, they have gained a new ally in the Prism Project. “The goal of Prism Project is to educate the communi ty about the problem of human sex trafficking and provide wrap-around restorative services to child survivors,” explains Chandler. The dream of Prism Project began four years ago when Founder/Execu tive Director Sylvia Blythe decided to do more to fight human trafficking. A sexual assault nurse examiner, Blythe saw first hand the devastating effect that human trafficking had on victims and their families. It was her hope to someday provide a place of safety and support for young victims to live and cope with their complex trauma.

She set up her 501(c)(3) nonprofit, its board of directors, and began working with the State of Michigan to license her Safehouse Program – the first of its kind in Michigan. “Nobody was sure what the rules were,” says Chan dler. “Prism Project fits into different categories but we were able to get it done. In December, we received our CCI (Child Caring Institutions) license and we officially opened our safehouse in February of this year.” When naming the faith-based or ganization a prism image was chosen to represent hope. “The idea is taken from a prism in the dark,” explains Chandler. “When a light shines on its shattered pieces of glass, it produc es an array of immense beauty and cannot be contained. We want our child victims to know that they are beautiful, no matter what.” What sets Prism Project apart in its mission of education and healing is the very nature of its restorative

XX 15

MYCOMMUNITY

“It’s an amazing home,” states Chandler. “The land is beautiful and we are working to expand and enhance the grounds to make it even better. The children here deserve a beautiful environment.” Prism Project also works with other organizations such as Voices for Children to educate the community and provide services for victims in their care. As mentioned, community education is a big piece of Prism Project, as they visit schools and organizations to provide factual in formation about human trafficking.

“It’s a subject not many people like to talk about; it makes for an awkward conversation,” explains Chandler, “but the best thing people can do to help Prism Project is to be better informed.” It begins with acknowledging that the problem exists, being aware of and identi fying the signs, and knowing who to contact if you feel a trafficking situation is ongoing or has taken place. “You can call a local police department, Office of the Genesee County Sheriff, or Michigan Child Protective Services. They will open an investigation and then deter mine whether or not trafficking has occurred,” Chandler states. In the future, Prism Project hopes to expand their safehouse capacity with additional housing and to begin duplicating the program for boys. “We would like to provide transitional housing for those who leave the program and also expand mentorship programming,” Chan dler adds. If you would like to help Prism Project directly, visit prismprojectmi. org and click on the “get involved” tab or the “donate” button. Gift cards to Target or Amazon are great ways to support the kids in the program with clothing and other essentials.

CHILD HUMAN TRAFFICKING RED FLAGS ▸ Child not regularly attending school (missing Mondays/ Fridays) ▸ Accompanied by a con trolling adult who doesn’t appear to be a parent/ guardian ▸ Having an older boyfriend ▸ Has a large amount of un explained cash or receives expensive gifts ▸ New hair, nails, or fancy clothes ▸ Multiple cell phones, hotel room keys ▸ Demeanor change, head down, quiet

16

MYCITYMAG.COM

17

MYCOMMUNITY

(BACK, L-R) GABRIEL HINOJOSA, ANTHONY MCMASTERS, TIARA POE, CHEF MARK HANDY, LILLI CANAVESIO, JULIE GARZA-SAKALIS, KYRA RICHARDSON; (FRONT, L-R) BRENDAN GERALDS, ASIJA JONES, JACQUELYN HICKS, JESSE LAWSON

Mott Culinary Students Travel to Spain A Trip of a Lifetime! Mark Handy, an MCC instructor who ac companied the group on their amazing trip.

The students not only attended classes, they were also able to take in the sights, sounds and flavors of the beautiful city, an experience they say they will never forget. MCM spoke with Chef Handy and the students about the trip and what they expe rienced. According to Handy, the educational classes at CIB began at eight in the morning and included subjects such as Chocolate,

Y es, it was a trip of a lifetime. In March, ten lucky students of the Mott Community College Culinary Arts Institute traveled to Spain to study at the Culinary Institute of Barcelona (CIB) for ten days. "This was the first study-abroad trip for Mott Culinary students," states Chef

BY CHERYL DENNISON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ASIJA JONES

18

MYCITYMAG.COM

THE CIB CLASSES INCLUDED CHOCOLATE, MOLECULAR GASTRONOMY, FERMENTATION, AND A SPECIAL “FIELD TRIP” TO AN ANCHOVY FACTORY.

STUDENTS REFLECT What the trip meant to me was being able to see anoth er culture through other people's eyes. The trip to Spain was eye-opening and boosted my confidence for future trips." Lillian Canavesio This was a chance to see something you genuinely would only see once in a lifetime. It opened my mind to a new world. Inter esting." Gabriel Hinojosa

Molecular Gastronomy, Fermentation and cooking classes. They also attended a couple of Creative Thinking classes including “Change and Innovation” which was to help prepare the students for change. They also took classes in Catalan cuisine, which relies heavily on ingredients popular along the Mediterranean coast. "The classes were very different from classes in the U.S.," said one of the students. "Their approach was not traditional." In the afternoon, the students would prepare food using the skills they had learned in the morning class. As part of the educational program, the students had the opportunity to visit a farm-to-table olive farm where they learned how olives are processed and also enjoyed

olive oil tastings. "It is a very prestigious and high-quality oil farm that has won compe titions in Italy," Handy reports. "The whole tasting process was similar to a wine tasting. It was such a beautiful day to be outdoors – the temperature was in the 70s." The students also spent a day in north east Spain near the border of France, where they visited an anchovy factory. The group learned, among other things, how to clean anchovies. They traveled all day to get there and visited a Michelin restaurant where they were served a nine-course meal and viewed a demonstration about regional honey pro duction. The group also had free time for explor ing Barcelona. "We took in some tourist

19

MYCOMMUNITY

The students and Handy stayed in an Airbnb rental. "We lived together for ten days with only two bathrooms," one of the students shared. "We knew each other from school but have now bonded for life. We stepped up and helped each other." Chef Handy adds, "We built a family really quickly." "THEY WERE VERY IMPRESSED WITH OUR STUDENTS! I BELIEVE AN EXCHANGE PROGRAM WILL COME OUT OF THIS.” CHEF MARK HANDY

spots," Handy reports, including La Sagrada Familia – the largest Catholic Church in the world – and two Michelin two-star restaurants. They went to a Picasso museum and shopped at a flea market in a four-sto ry building with hundreds of vendors. The group also took in the beauty of the Medi terranean Sea. "I jumped in!" exclaims Ga briel. "It was beautiful." They boarded a tram for a tour of the entire city of Barcelona and took a step back in time visiting medieval buildings in the Gothic Quarter. "It was nice to immerse ourselves in the culture," says Asija. "We did a lot of walking!" Julie exclaims, "an average of seven miles a day." The students took note of many cultural differences – there were very few cars; trans portation was by moped, trains, buses and trams. There were no Wal-Marts or big gro cery stores, just small specialty shops all over the city offering fresh seafood and produce. Another difference was that each day from 2-6pm, the city shut down, the stores closed and people went home to rest. "There was a much better work/life balance there," Kyra points out. "There were so many restaurants, groceries were cheaper, food was fresher and a better climate – ten days of sunshine.”

STUDENTS REFLECT

To me, this trip has opened my eyes to European travel and I one hundred percent plan on going back." Brendan Geralds This trip took away my fear of traveling and left me thirsty for more of what the world has to offer!" Jesse Lawson The experience mesmer ized me, leaving me with an unquenchable thirst to explore and learn more about the world. The inno vative and unconventional teaching methods at the Cu linary Institute of Barcelo na ignited a passion within me to seek out more diverse approaches to education in other parts of the globe." Asija Jones

THE GROUP VISITED MANY SITES, INCLUDING LA SAGRADA FAMILIA – THE LARGEST CATHOLIC CHURCH IN THE WORLD.

20

MYCITYMAG.COM

STUDENTS REFLECT

I am grateful for this experience. I enjoyed the food in Spain and taking classes at the CIB. The instructors there were great! We learned about creativity using ‘mind maps’ to help make different food dishes." Julie Garza-Sakalis "I have always been an avid traveler. Studying abroad in Spain was an incredible enhancement to both my education and career. The opportunity to absorb so much information as well as make anthropo logical observations outside my home country changed my life and will undoubt edly give me a step up in the job market." Kyra Richardson

CHEF MARK HANDY SAID THE CIB INSTRUCTORS WERE IMPRESSED BY THE MOTT CULINARY STUDENTS, PICTURED HERE AFTER RECEIVING THEIR COURSE COMPLETION CERTIFICATES.

Florence, Italy," he shares. "The pandemic hit and we had to cancel. It was very exciting to finally get to Barcelona." According to Handy, the relationship and education level of the students and administrators at the Culinary Institute of Barcelona was outstanding. "They were very impressed with our students," he shares. "I believe an exchange program will come out of this and we will have a future relationship. I was asked if I would do the trip again. Yes, I will!"

As a chef, the trip for Handy was “like being a kid in a candy store – there were bakeries and coffee shops everywhere! Lunch was included in the education program so they sent us to a different restaurant every day. The experience was great. We were seated in a private room at the restaurants and the chef would come and talk to us." For both Handy and the students, their last night in Barcelona was one to remember and very special. Greg Campbell, the pastry chef at Mott Culinary Institute, had donated $500 to do something special for the stu dents. Handy used that money for their last dinner at Restaurante Port Vella, a star-rated Michelin restaurant located in the harbor. It was a chilly night but the sea was warm so they sat outside overlooking the water. The scrumptious meal included a variety of sea food – lobster, calamari, oysters and salmon. A “mystery meat" was served (pork shoulder) with goat cheese salad and carrot cake for dessert. "It was a great experience!" Handy exclaims. According to Handy, the study-abroad trip was a work-in-progress for a couple of years. "In 2019, a group was going to go to

THE MCC STUDENTS ENJOYED SOME EXCEPTIONAL DISHES WHILE IN SPAIN, INCLUDING CARAMELIZED DUCK LIVER TERRINE AND PRAWN CROQUETTES.

21

MYCOMMUNITY

/ stock.adobe.com

22

MYCITYMAG.COM

The Lakes are Calling! For many people, the home of their dreams has a lake view … there’s nothing like waking up early to the glasslike water with swans floating grace fully, maybe a few kayakers and a fisherman or two enjoying a peaceful morning. Wait a few hours and the lake comes alive with the sounds of lake enthusiasts having water fun of every kind! The season for summer fun may be short-lived, but most lake homeowners would not want to live anywhere else.

With access to 79 lakes ranging in size from the 24-acre Atlas Mill Pond to the 1,975-acre Holloway Reservoir Regional Park, Genesee County residents have endless opportunities for all manner of summer fun! Leisure boating, water sports, fishing or just soaking up the sun … There is something for nature lovers and adventure seekers of every kind. The world revolves around water and it is our natural instinct to want to be near it. Lake living is a world of its own and once you get the chance to enjoy it, there is nothing better. This section has lots of info about local fishing, and expert tips for finding the right boat for your needs and buying the lake

home you’ve been dreaming about. Get ready … The lakes are calling! ◆

23

MYCOMMUNITY

GAME: The Kearsley Reser voir was created in 1929 for Flint ice supply. The lake is now used for recreation and holds a small variety of fish in cluding bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, largemouth bass and northern pike. Blue gill make up nearly 50% of all fish in Kearsley Reservoir. Lake Fenton LOCATION: Fenton Town ship just south of N. Long Lake Rd. DEPTH: 90 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (off of Grove Park Rd.) GAME: The largest lake in Genesee County, Lake Fen ton is a hotspot for summer fun and activity. It is recom mended to be on the waters early before recreation en thusiasts hit the water. Anglers can expect to find black crappie, sunfish, bluegill, yellow perch, suckers, small and largemouth bass, walleye and northern pike in its waters. Lake Ponemah LOCATION: 20 minutes south of Flint in Fenton Township DEPTH: 77 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (off Eastview Dr.)

These Lakes Are for SPORTSMEN! Great Fishing in Genesee County BY PETER HINTERMAN

T HERE ARE APPROXIMATELY 79 LAKES IN GENESEE COUNTY ranging in size from the tiny Atlas Mill Pond to sprawling Lake Fenton and Holloway Reservoir. The majority are private or have restrict ed access, unavailable to traveling fisherman or

landlocked anglers; however, the public lakes provide a good variety and bounty of fish to make every trip worthwhile. Here is a rundown of public lakes in (and around) Genesee County and what they offer.

Daniel Thornberg / Daniel Thornberg / Daniel Thornberg / FedBul / battler / stock.adobe.com

Buell Lake LOCATION: 10 miles NE of Flint in Thetford Township off Genesee Rd. DEPTH: 47 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (Buell Lake County Park), two floating fishing piers, and shoreline fishing. GAME: Buell Lake provides a variety of game and pan fish breeds with bluegill and largemouth bass making up nearly 95% of all stock. Other fish found in Buell Lake include black crappie,

for the city of Flint. Today it is used almost solely for recre ation. Catfish, walleye and black crappie comprise 57% of the fish varieties in the reservoir. Fishermen will also find a good number of carp, bluegill, small and largemouth bass, sunfish, yellow perch and northern pike. Kearsley Reservoir LOCATION: Approx. One mile NE of Flint off Western Rd. DEPTH: 15 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One floating fishing pier (Branch-Carr Park) and shoreline fishing.

bullhead, carp, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch, walleye and northern pike. Holloway Reservoir LOCATION: 7 miles NE of Flint in Richfield Township off Stanley Rd. DEPTH: 14 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (Holloway Reservoir Regional Park), one floating fishing pier, and shoreline fishing. GAME: Holloway Reservoir was created with the construc tion of the Holloway Dam in 1955 as a source of freshwater

24

MYCITYMAG.COM

L OOKING FOR A NEW EXPERIENCE? HERE ARE FOUR FISH-HEAVY LAKES LOCATED OUTSIDE THE CONFINES OF GENESEE COUNTY.

GAME: Lake Ponemah connects two other lakes, Aanikegamaa Lake and Tupper Lake. The Shiawassee

west of Genesee Rd.), one small craft boat launch (off Stanley Rd.), four floating fishing piers, and shoreline fishing.

Big Fish Lake LOCATION: Ortonville

Lake Nepessing LOCATION: Elba Township in Lapeer County off Lake Nepessing Rd. DEPTH: 25 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (off of Hunt Rd.) GAME: A local favorite, home to the bowfin, one of the rarest fishes in Michigan. While hunting the rare fish, anglers will most likely catch bluegill and sunfish which make up almost 90% of the fish in Lake Nepessing. Others include rock bass, yellow perch, bullhead, black crappie, warmouth, large mouth bass and northern pike. Murphy Lake LOCATION: 3 miles NE of Millington in the Murphy Lake State Game Area in Tuscola County DEPTH: 41 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (off Murphy Lake Rd.) and shoreline fishing GAME: Anglers will find black crappie, bluegill, sun fish, catfish, smallmouth bass, walleye and northern pike.

River runs through the lake bringing a wide array of game with it. Anglers on Lake Ponemah will

Recreation Area in Lapeer County just west of Davi son Lake off Hadley Rd. DEPTH: 70 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch and shoreline fishing (Big Fish Lake Park) GAME: Nearly 75% of the game is bluegill and pump kinseed sunfish. Black crappie, bullhead, grass pickerel, large mouth bass and northern pike round out the rest. Whether or not the lake lives up to its name remains to be seen. Why not give it a go and find out for yourself? Davison Lake LOCATION: Southern end of Lapeer County just east of Big Fish Lake off W. Davison Lake Rd. DEPTH: 67 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (Big Fish Lake Rd.) GAME: The Fish variety mirrors that of its neighbor Big Fish Lake in a much more private setting. Fishermen will hook a bevy of bluegill, sunfish, black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, largemouth bass and northern pike.

catch their fair share of black crappie, multiple varieties of sunfish, yellow perch, small and largemouth bass, suckers, walleye and northern pike. Lobdell Lake (and Bennett Lake) LOCATION: Southern end of ACCESS: One public boat launch (off of Seymour Rd.) GAME: Lobdell connects to Bennett Lake in Livingston County and fisher men can enjoy both from the Lobdell such as sunfish, yellow perch, black crappie, grass pickerel, largemouth bass and north ern pike. Mott Lake LOCATION: One mile NE of Argentine Township DEPTH: 78 ft. (Max.) Lake access point. The lakes hold a variety of panfish and predators

GAME: Mott Lake was created in 1972 for public recreation with the construction of the Mott Dam.The lake has been stocked with a variety of fish throughout the years, last stocked in the late 90s. Catfish, bluegill and walleye makeup 87% of all fish in Mott Lake at last DNR count. Anglers can also find smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, yellow perch, rock bass, black crappie, sunfish, bullhead and northern pike. Otter Lake LOCATION: NE corner of Genesee County in Forest Township DEPTH: 117 ft. (Max.) ACCESS: One public boat launch (off of Genesee Ave.) GAME: Potentially the deepest little lake in Genesee County, Otter Lake is known to be a fun fishing spot for all ages. Bluegill make up 78% of the fish but skilled anglers can easily find black crappie, large mouth bass, bullhead, northern pike and warmouth.

Black crappie and bluegill make up nearly 82% of all fish in Murphy Lake. ◆

Flint off Genesee Rd. DEPTH: 18 ft. (Max.)

ACCESS: One public boat launch (James Bassett Dr.,

25

MYCOMMUNITY

5 Reasons to Live on a Lake BY PETER HINTERMAN FOR many of us, summer time brings back mem ories of visiting a family member’s house on the lake and all of the good times we had. Doing cannonballs off the dock, being pulled behind a boat on a tube and flying off to roaring laughter from friends, being able to “stand up” on water skis for the first time, early morning fishing … the list goes on. Here are five reasons to search for that lakeside property you’ve always wanted.

1 Banish Boredom. Go jump in a lake! On good days and bad, warm or cold, the lake is there for you and the possibili ties for fun are endless. Swimming and fishing are the most obvious and a little cliched. You can do more! How about water sports like jet skiing, water skiing or tubing. Break out the kayak, get some exercise, and identify water creatures you see along the way. Conduct a few science experiments in nature. If your lake freez es over in the winter, set up a hockey rink or go ice fishing. If all else fails, just relax and listen to the sounds of nature while you read a good book. 2 Photo Opportunities. If you live on a lake, you will find yourself embedded in a million new hobbies and photogra phy will be one. From animals to sunsets, to family and friends, you will want to capture all the fun and beauty you see every morning and every night. Make room in your budget for some high-end technology – you’re going to need it. 3 Lakes are for Entertaining. You have memories of visiting family on the lake when you were a kid and now you can create your own, instead. Invite the extended family for a weekend to show those nephews, nieces, cousins and grandparents a good time. Have friends over for a barbecue and a swim or boat

ride. Break out the guitar and sit around the bonfire while the moonlight dances on the water. 4 Improve your Health. Lakes provide more than fun – they encourage you to seek fresh air and relaxation. How can you be tense when you are sitting on your deck on a clear summer morning, drinking your coffee and watching the waves? The air smells fresh and clean as you take it deeply into your body. When you finish a tough day of work in the yard, take a running leap into the water and swim out the kinks. Your mental health will likely improve just as much as your physical health. 5 A Sportsman’s Dream. If you are into wildlife, a lake is your happy place. Varieties of fish and other aquatic animals abound. For birders, the lake is your best chance to observe unique species. Beavers, deer, snakes, turtles, eagles ... The list is nearly endless. Make a list and see how many you can find – a great educational activity with the kids and grandkids. The lakes are calling … ◆

Jenifoto / stock.adobe.com

26

MYCITYMAG.COM

PROMOTIONAL

BOAT SHOPPING 101 BY MARY RISING, ACTION WATER SPORTS OF FENTON W HEN SHOPPING FOR A BOAT – a significant purchase – there are many things to consider. What is your budget? Where do you plan to boat? Will you be towing water sports, fishing or just cruising around the lake? How many passengers might you have? Is there a size restriction on the lake? Where do you plan to store your boat in the winter? All these factors determine which watercraft is right for you. Any salesperson whose goal is to steer you toward the “perfect purchase” as opposed to just “making a sale” will take the time to get to know you, your needs, and honestly educate you. Ultimately, the answer might be that another dealership would have the right boat for you. Other considerations: Have you been to the dealership? Were you greeted and made to feel important? Was the facility clean, well-orga nized and appearing to have a well-functioning service department? What is their reputation? Do they offer dockside service, pick-up and delivery? Storage options? What kind of warranty is included? Did they offer a test drive? (You probably won’t buy a car without a test drive.) At Action Water Sports of Fenton, our most popular boats are Master Craft wakeboard and surf boats.The newest and greatest offering is the

award-winning SurfStar System – an integrated system with asymmetric tabs, a custom hull design and an intuitive operating display. They can operate in surf mode at lower rpm than our competitors’ models. We also offer more adjustability of the wave – from long and mellow to taller and steeper, in a range from 1-7 that is quickly changed with a touch of the in tuitive display screen. Once you find the perfect wave, a profile can store the info to be easily retrieved for your next turn behind the boat. If the answer is to educate you and direct you elsewhere, that is what we will do. Of course, our goal is to suggest the perfect boat that will bring you the ultimate satisfaction and maximum fun … that’s what it’s all about, right?

mario beauregard / stock.adobe.com

XX

MYCITYMAG.COM

MYCOMMUNITY

Life’s Better on the Lake! BY JENNIFER LASCO, REALTOR/BROKER, MBA, RENE, CBR

It is hard to beat a Michigan summer … and even harder to beat if you are one of the lucky people who live on one of the beautiful lakes in, near or around our community. In April, with the almost 80-degree days sprinkled through the month, many of us have already seen the light at the end of the tunnel of winter to the long, sunny days headed our way. If you are in the market for a lake home to enjoy the reprieve of the cool water on hot summer days, now is the time to key into the market for a lake property and make a move. Because of their limited availability, lake properties are almost always a solid investment – when they are gone, they are gone. Before diving into the market to purchase a lake home, there are many unique considerations. Simply choosing where to buy and if the timing is right are only minimal pieces of the puzzle to build your ideal lake life. In my experience, the best place to start when think ing about purchasing waterfront property is to consider what your expectations and needs are lifestyle-wise from

lake life. Goals may include a pleasant view, evening pontoon rides, watersports, paddle-boarding or kayak ing, kids playing on a sandy beachfront, etc. With each of these activities, one lake may be more suitable than another. As all natural creations are, each lake is different and each offers many unique qualities and characteristics that the others may not. With the pricing varying a great deal between lakes, there is no need to pay the lot cost and taxes for an all-sports lake when a quiet spot to pad dleboard a few evenings a week is what you truly desire. If you’re not interested in speed-boat style water sports (surfing, wakeboarding, water-skiing), a motor ized pontoon or jet-skiing and would prefer wooded seclusion, lots of wildlife, kayaking, canoeing and fishing, a small private lake would be a more ideal choice than an all-sports lake. Not only will a property on the smaller lakes typically be a bit less expensive and offer lower taxes, but you will also find a more calm and peaceful atmosphere than on a public lake. The smaller,

nblxer / fesenko / Thomas Barrat / stock.adobe.com

28

MYCITYMAG.COM

When you consider a lake home purchase, there are many questions to ask: • Is the lake public or private? • Is the shoreline sandy, rocky, muddy or mucky? • Is the lake all-sport, no-motor, no-wake? • How are the weeds in the lake? • Are there any easements on or around the property allowing surrounding areas or the public access to it? • Does the DNR control and/or patrol the lake and the Riparian Rights of the property owners? • Is there a sandbar in proximity to the property? Does it get very busy and when? Is there a party there every day in the summer with very loud music? • If there is a dock or hoist at the property and does it belong to the owner? Will he be leaving it? Will the dock need to be re moved seasonally or is it fixed? • Whether public or private, are boat slips sold anywhere on the lake? →

29

“

MYCOMMUNITY

private lakes offer limited access to residents only, and vary in their usage. Some of these lakes are all-sports, while others allow only small electric motors, or small pontoons with electric motors, but nothing larger. These are “no wake” lakes. However, some don’t allow any type of motorized boat at all (“no motor” lakes). W hen buying lakefront property, the location on the lake is another very important factor. It impacts the value of your home almost, if not as much, as the condition of the home itself. Variations could include being located near the public boat launch; on a channel vs. the open water; across the street from the water with access and dock across the street, etc. Each of these lake placements come at a different cost, and each variation should be closely considered when making an offer on a home. Comparable properties used to determine your offer price should be in line with each of these criteria. Just like you wouldn’t pop into your local Ford dealer to ask about surf-boats, you should never look for lake properties with a Realtor who doesn’t live on a lake. The intricacies of lake life can be complicated. With such an expensive investment at stake, you should take the time to seek out an expert to handle your concerns and point out others you may not have considered. Many of the questions about lake homes that we help homebuyers with every day are answered using the knowledge and experience we have gained from living and experiencing lake life for decades. Happy House Hunting! ◆ Because of their limited availability, lake properties are almost always a solid investment – when they are gone, they are gone.

30

MYCOMMUNITY

DRIVING FUTURE SUCCESS

BY PETER HINTERMAN

I n February of this year, the Davison Auto Tech program was named one of the Top 4 in the nation as a finalist in the O’Reilly Auto Parts “Tomorrow’s Technician School of the Year” compe tition earning the program a $500 dollar gift card. “Our program went up against colleges, vocational schools and other high school programs across the coun try,” said Davison Auto Tech Teacher Andrew Michalik. “It’s a big honor and we are very proud of our program and our students.” Davison Auto Tech is a two-year program open to Davison High School juniors and seniors with an interest in automotive technology. The program is so popular with students, however, that Michalik is pushing to open it up to sophomores. “We have a long waiting list,” he says. “I can’t get every kid in here who is interested. We might have

to hire a part-time teacher!” he laughs. The program’s popularity is easy to understand, considering that Davison Auto Tech is often a direct line to future employment. Students are encouraged to partake in Davison’s co-op program to gain valuable on-the-job experience at local dealerships and auto shops, and top students in the program are eligible for scholarships to one of the many part nership schools such as Ohio Technical College, University of Northwestern Ohio, Universal Technical Institute, Ferris State and others. Ryan, a Davison High Senior in year two of the program, will take advantage of the opportunity and attend Ohio Technical College for Electrical work next fall. “Before Davison Auto Tech, I had no idea what I wanted to do in the future,” he says. “During my first year in the program, I realized that this was something I loved

to do. I decided to study electrical work more in-depth for a career.” Michalik is constantly fielding calls from local dealerships inquiring about whether or not he has any students looking for work. Recently, he was contacted by a company looking for students interested in working on diesel pumps – two second-year stu dents have expressed interest.

34

MYCITYMAG.COM

IT’S CRAZY TO THINK THAT IN TWO YEARS, WE WILL HAVE GIVEN AWAY $800,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS.” INSTRUCTOR, ANDREW MICHALIK

Auto Tech students study a variety of techniques and systems related to work ing on and repairing vehicles such as electrical, welding, engine replacement, brakes, rotors, struts, computers and more. “In my program, it’s not unusual for a senior to have built a few transmis sions before they graduate,” says Micha lik. “A lot of the kids show up early on Wednesdays during the week to work on specific skills they want to improve like welding, for example.” Vehicles for study are provided by Davison faculty, donors, program alumni and the students themselves. It’s not uncommon for them

to bring in their own transportation for fixes or upgrades. The program is able to accommodate a variety of vehicles at any one time and work on numerous break-downs as it features four hoists, two alignment racks, welders, a plasma cutter, computers and everything else needed for a true auto shop. “I’m very

thankful that Davison supports the pro gram 100%,” says Michalik. “They get us what we need.” As a bonus, the program has its own drag racing car, a couple of off-road vehicles that students are able to drive at The Mounds ORV Park, and Michalik’s own monster truck, the “Insane Instruc tor.” Michalik asks, “How many kids can put the fact that they worked on a monster truck on their resume before graduating high school?” The newest thing the students are working on are hybrid and electrical systems, although components are very hard to come by. “We are desperately in need of hybrid system components,” says Michalik. “I recently purchased a 2011 fully-electric Nissan Leaf with my own money just so the kids could understand how it works and drive it. It’s so old, the battery only lasts for about 60 miles. It’s enough to get to work and back but it did die in my driveway once. That was close – I had to push it into my garage.”

35