My City August 2021

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Vince Lorraine

F R O M T H E P U B L I S H E R

E D I T O R I A L MANAGING EDITOR Sherron Barden

A R T & D E S I G N GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brett LaCross

DEAR READERS, Remember being a kid in the summertime ... having fun at a carnival without a care in the world? I feel that the cover photo (by Tim Jagielo) captures that nostalgic, childhood innocence. It was taken at the 6th Annual Flint Water Fest, which was a great success! (See p.58) The word on the street is that Downtown is happening! I look forward to attending the annual events and also publishing photos of people enjoying life in Flint. If you haven’t been Downtown in a while (or ever), we have a sample of the cool things a visitor can experience (p.12), and check out our “Can’t Miss” list of happenings on p.62. On the facing page, the Genesee County Fair highlights their Youth Livestock Auction and the other great grandstand events on the week-long schedule. It’s August and school is back! It’s an exciting time for students pursuing higher education. On many occasions, MCM has highlighted the abundant, top quality academic opportunities right here in Flint. We asked the teams at Kettering University, Mott Community College, Michigan State University Extension and University of Michigan - Flint to provide overviews of their new programs for this year. Whether or not you have someone in your life who is going to college, it’s interesting to read how curricula at these local institutions are evolving to meet the demands of emerging technology and an ever-changing world. See p.18. To complement our “School is Back!” piece, we are introducing a new feature: “7 Questions with …”We begin with a group of local education leaders who agreed to step into the spotlight and share some “personal data” with our readers – just for fun (p.26). No stranger to the spotlight is newly-crowned Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen, Rylie Dewley. Read about this Grand Blanc High School student’s journey to fulfilling her dream of pageant success on p.34. Finding success by following the talent and passion he found early in life is our “My Arts” subject, artist James Thigpen, Jr. – his story starts on p.38. Rounding out the August content are food, history, happenings, our great variety of contributed columns and some “furry fun” (p.46). Enjoy! Thanks for reading,

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WR ITER Peter Hinterman

WEB DEVELOPER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Boedecker

STAFF WR ITER Cheryl Denni son

PHOTOGRAPHY Tim Jagielo

FREELANCE WR ITERS Mark Spezia

O P E R A T I O N S

ACCOUNTING/CI RCULATION Kim Davi s

CONTR IBUTING WR ITERS Ed Bradley Er in Caudel l Dr. Christopher Douglas Vera Hogan Joel P. Lagore Alexandr ia Nolan Les l ie Toldo

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Dan Garman

S A L E S

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Terese Al len

5152 COMMERCE RD. FLINT, MI 48507 810.230.1783 - MYCITYMAG.COM ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, Inc., 5152 Commerce Rd., Flint, MI 48507. Canadian Mail Agreement #41971515. For back issues, inquire for availability. Editorial Cor respondence: Address product information and inquiries to: Editorial Department, My City Magazine, 5152 Commerce Rd., Flint, MI 48507, 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 conclu sions 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 © 2021. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

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

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM JAGIELO

THE GENESEE COUNTY FAIR YOUTH LIVESTOCK AUCTION Since 1850, the Genesee County Fair has delighted thousands of people from Greater Flint and the State of Michigan. Produced by the Genesee County Agricultural Society (GCAS), a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, the Fair’s main purpose is to create a fun, family atmosphere and provide agricultural educa tion. “While many people think of the Fair as entertainment and carnival rides,” explains Executive Director Christian Miller, “the annual event incorporates entertainment as a proponent of providing agricultural education, with the notion that those who might not come from an agricultural background may uninten tionally stumble upon agriculture during their visit.” To that end, the GCAS works with multiple programs and families through out the county (and beyond) and utilizes the Genesee County Fair as a forum to showcase their agricultural accomplishments. One such event is the Annual Youth Livestock Auction where young persons ages 8-19 can exhibit (for purchase) the animals they raised throughout the year. “This year we have close to 250 kids and teens bringing animals to the auction and 80% of them live in Genesee County,” adds Miller. “This event provides an opportunity to learn the personal responsi bility, determination and money management skills necessary to raise an animal to sell at auction. Each presenter takes home 95% of the proceeds to cover the rising cost of attending college.”This year, Fair attendees will have the chance to purchase an array of animals including cows, pigs, chickens, sheep, goats, rabbits and more. Gallon milk and feeder steers will also be available. “Showing livestock is a huge part of my life and is my passion,” says 15-year-old participant, Morgan Patterson. “Every year when I get new animals, I treat them with love and gentle handling.Through agriculture, I have learned so many things and developed skills to help me be successful.” The Youth Livestock Auction offers a chance to join the “buy local fresh food” movement and support the future of county and national agriculture. “At no time in the history of our industrialized nation have members of society taken a greater interest in the quality of the food they consume,” adds Miller. “The volume of citizens in our community who have made the decision to grow their own food is astounding and the Genesee County Fair intends to continue being a vital part of that phenomenon going forward.” The Livestock Auction will take place August 28, 2021, starting with the small animal auction at 10am followed by a luncheon for attendees.The large animal auction will begin at 1pm. For more information, see the Genesee County Fair website (gcf.org). “The Youth Livestock Auction at the Fair has experienced a growing crop of health-conscious consumers who are interested in purchasing food from the youth

ADVERTORIAL

MORGAN PATTERSON

GENESEE COUNTY FAIR GRANDSTAND EVENT SCHEDULE ÃÝÇA ťӗ ĩ{ĩČě їј Ӳ ¶ŽAČ A ť Tiger Auto Salvage Monster Truck Show 7pm ěĩKČA ťӗ ĩ{ĩČě їљ Ӳ ČKǎݡ :ŽěŽŹKÇČ A ť Republic Services Bump ‘N’ Run 7pm ŚKAÇKČA ťӗ ĩ{ĩČě їњ Ӳ y ĄÃKĄČԇ A ť Flint New Holland presents Truck &Tractor Pull 7pm PFCU presents CK 105.5 Big Sing 9pm ě‰ĩĄČA ťӗ ĩ{ĩČě їћ Ӳ ĄÃKA ČKĄřŽ:KČ A ť Budweiser presents Travis Tritt wsg Audrey Ray 7pm WFBE 95.1 Afterburner with Audrey Ray 9pm FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 Mid-States Bolt & Screw presents Figure 8 Derby 7pm Great White wsg Spiral Crush (advance $25 ticket required) 9pm SATURDAY, AUGUST 28

Youth Small Animal Livestock Auction 10am Youth large Animal Livestock Auction 1pm Randy Wise presents Ram Rodeo 7pm Saliva wsg Westfall (advance $15 ticket required) 9pm

SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 Pet Adoption Event 10am T&M Electric presents Mud Bog 7pm

JOIN THE FRESH FOODMOVEMENT AND SUPPORT THE AGRICULTURALISTS OF ěÝÃÝĄĄÝŚә yÝĄ Ç ‰ÝĩĄӳ9ťӳ‰ÝĩĄ A Ž¸ť EVENT LIST, PLEASE VISITWWW.GCF.ORG.

leaders in their community,”Miller concludes. Support Local at the Genesee County Fair! x

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My Downtown

12 Downtown is Happening!

38

My Community 18 What’s New for the New School Year My Story 26 Questions with Local Educators My Success 34 She’s a Standout! Rylie Dewley, Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen My Arts 38 James Thigpen, Jr.

My Fun 46 Sweet, Gentle & Curious Oasis Acres Alpacas My History 52 Oren Stone and the Neptunian Pantaloons My Haps 56 LATINX 20th

Anniversary 58 6th Annual Flint Water Fest 60 Ascension Genesys Charity Golf

A Universal Perspective My Dish

44 It’s Pepper Season! By Erin Caudell

CONTENTS

August 2021

52

56

58

My Reality 66 Not Just a Job

My Thoughts 74 Those Dreaded Traffic Circles!

By Vera Hogan My Musings 68 The Sunday of Summer By Leslie Toldo My Econ 70 Labor Market Shortages By Dr. Christopher Douglas My Finances 72 The Value of a Dollar By Joel P. Lagore

By Cheryl Dennison My Travels 76 To Capri, with Regrets By Alexandria Nolan My Entertainment 78 What are YOU Watching? By Jonathan Boedecker My Afterthought 80 The Cornwall Whip Socket Factory

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W ith advancements in healthcare, the way we look at and approach gynecological health has evolved. Hurley midwives say that for the most part, teens don’t need to have a pap smear or pelvic exam, even after they start their period. But Hurley gynecologist, Omari Young, MD, points out that women in their 20s often do not get the testing and counseling they need to maintain reproductive health.This can set them up for infertility issues down the road. College Age Women If you are in college or head Professionals Empowering Teens with Screenings, Information Hurley Reproductive Health

More than half of all pregnancies in Michigan are unplanned. Gynecologists and midwives say young women should take an ac tive role in their health, discussing contraception options with their healthcare provider to prevent disease and unplanned pregnancy. Important Information for Teens Hurley midwives can help with empowering teens to claim their reproductive health. Studies have found that sexual Hurley midwife Jennifer Brown, DNP, CNM says, “Pap smears usually do not need to begin until age 21. We can test for STI through urine so for most cases, there is no reason for your teen to have a pelvic or genital exam.” With that said, this doesn’t mean teens shouldn’t schedule a well-visit appointment. Teens can talk with a Hurley midwife or gynecologist about questions concerning menstruation, like irregu lar or painful periods, or abnormal bleeding. To make an appointment with either a Hurley gynecologist or midwife, visit hurleymc.com. x JENNIFER BROWN, DNP, CNM communication with parents, especial ly moms, is associated with increased safer sex behaviors. It’s important to make teens active participants in deci sions about their gynecological health.

ADVERTORIAL

ing off to college, you have more than exams to be thinking about. All sexually active adults should have an annual screening for STI (Sexual Transmitted Infection). Gonorrhea and chlamydia are the most commonly reported infections and if untreated, can lead to PID (Pelvic Inflammatory

OMARI YOUNG, MD

Disease).That might not sound like a big deal, but complications of STI include infertility, ectopic pregnancy and chronic pelvic pain. Over the past 30 years, cases of cervical cancer have dropped 50% in the U.S., mostly due to widespread screening. Low-risk women should start getting cervical cancer screening at age 21, then a pap smear every three years between the ages of 21-29. Reproductive health professionals are a great source for ad dressing other health concerns and screenings during well visits. “Obstetricians and gynecologists have a unique opportunity to address non-reproductive health at the well-woman visits,” says Dr. Young. “This can include screening for depression and anxiety, blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, intimate partner vio lence screening and many other areas that are very important to a woman while not specific to gynecological health.”

Ӑ 12-13 years old – typical start of menstruation (African Americans can start earlier) Ӑ First two years of menarche can be irregular, leading to questions. Ovulation is only occurring about 50%of the time. Ӑ Eventually, menstrual cycles should become regular.

MYDOWNTOWN

The month of August brings many exciting festivals that bring thousands of visitors to Downtown Flint including the Crim Festival of Races, Back to the Bricks and more. Attendees of these world class events have plenty of other things to enjoy Downtown – unique shops to browse, abundant dining opportunities, a new hotel, inspiring mural art and much more! DOWNTOWN ~IS~ HAPPENING! BY CHERYL DENNISON

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TheCapitol Theatre Open again for live shows, The Capitol Theatre was listed among the National Register of Historic Places in Michigan in 1985.The theatre opened originally in 1928, designed by John Eberson. Recently restored, it is an atmospheric performance venue designed to look like a Roman garden. In August, get ready to rock out to “Zoso - The Ultimate Led Zepplin Experience.”The group was formed in 1995 to perform the most authentic and captivating live Led Zep pelin show since the real thing. For “Zoso”, it’s much more than just being a tribute band. It’s about touching a golden era in music. “Zoso” embodies Page, Plant, Bonham and Jones in their spirit, tightly-wound talent and authenticity. In September, you can enjoy Kool &The Gang on (9/2) and “Legends of Motown” (9/18).

The Flint Cultural Center Reopened to the public,The Flint Cul tural Center campus provides area residents and Flint visitors with an array of cultural, scientific and artistic experiences and pro motes understanding of the diverse cultures reflected in the Greater Flint community. Events are taking place at Longway Plan etarium, Flint Institute of Arts and Sloan Museum at Courtland Center Mall. p

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EateriesGalore! There’s a taste of something for everyone at Down town’s many restaurants – from a burger and a beer at The Torch, to an elegant meal at Cork on Saginaw or tapas and a martini at 501 Bar & Grill. You can enjoy a satisfying sandwich or super-delicious salad for lunch at Hoffman’s Deco Deli and Cafe. Prefer a cool vintage vibe? Pop into Cafe Rhema for an espresso. Treat yourself to Grandpa’s Berry Rhubarb crepe and a latte at Flint Crepe Company. A little further down Saginaw St., Churchill’s Food & Spirits serves up draft beer, craft cocktails, a full menu and live music. Keep heading north and you will find Soggy Bottom Bar, a local favorite.The truffle fries are a must-try! Also on the list and a Flint institution, the White Horse Tavern is a great place to go for one of their famous pizzas and a nightcap. (They serve breakfast, too!) These are just a few of Downtown Flint ’s distinctive restaurants – keep an eye out for Blackstone’s Smoke house and some great places for Mexican fare!

FLINT CREPE COMPANY

CORK

CHURCHILL’S

CAFE RHEMA

Shopping

You can’t visit Downtown Flint without doing some shopping in one of the unique shops and boutiques. Clothes? Coffee? Books? Artwork, shoes, hats, jewelry ... you name it! You might just find what you are looking for at J-London’s Fine Men’s Apparel or at SHIFT, a women’s and kid’s clothing and gift boutique. You will also enjoy browsing at Mad Hatter, Flint Trading Co., Brush Alley Skate Shop, Foster Coffee Co., Flint City T-shirts, Paul’s Pipe Shop,Totem Books, Sutorial Boots and Shoes, pop-up shops in the Dryden Building and so many more!

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LEFT: CHARLIE’S SMOKIN BBQ BELOW: SWEET PEACES

ABOVE: BEIRUT RESTAURANT RIGHT: STEADY EDDY’S CAFE

Flint Farmers’Market The Market is a bustling hub of Downtown on Tuesdays,Thurs days and Saturdays with folks marveling at the wide array of fresh produce from local farmers, fruit, cheese, meats, baked goods, arts & crafts and much more. Check out the amazing and diverse variety of restaurants including: Beirut Restaurant, B-dogs Hot Dog Cart, Char lie’s Smokin’ BBQ, Steady Eddy’s Cafe, Spectacular Spudz, Chubby Duck Sushi, Sweet Peaces Veggie Bistro and Tee’s Plentiful Salads. p

B-DOGS HOT DOG CART

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HiltonGarden Inn

Mural Art

You have to check out some of the more than 150 murals that have been completed on buildings throughout the Flint area. In 2019, Flint Public Art Project (FPAP) started the first phase of their plan to paint 100 new murals in Greater Flint by the end of summer 2020. Since then, artists from all over the world have come to the city and reinforced Flint’s reputation as a haven for artists looking to make an impact.

Need somewhere to stay Downtown while attending an event? Opened in October 2020, the Hilton Garden Inn located (110 W. Kearsley St.) offers 101 guest rooms, five meeting rooms, fitness center, patio bar (Simmer), restaurant (Sauce) andThe Federal Coffee House.The former home of Genesee County Savings Bank offers an impressive display of history and style. Sauce Italian American Kitchen serves home made pasta and pizza including delicacies based on authentic old-world recipes, as well as made-to-order breakfast items. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails and a farm-to-table appetizer while taking in the view from Simmer Rooftop Lounge. x

While you are attending this summer’s fantastic festivals, take some extra time to explore and discover whatmakes Downtown Flint a happening place to be!

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MYCOMMUNITY

H aving established itself as a global leader in STEM ed ucation during its first 100 years, Kettering University is now positioning itself and its students to be key players in the fast-paced world of mobility for its next century. In Spring 2021, University Presi dent Dr. Robert K. McMahan outlined Bright Future, a vision for the Uni versity that aims to redefine educa tional delivery to meet the demands of emerging technology and industries – while ensuring institutional and student success for the next century. Part of this includes the develop ment of two new academic departments: the Department of Chemical Engineer ing and the Department of Natural Sci ences (launched in Summer Term 2021). The Department of Chemical Engineering is part of the College of Engineering. The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering has been one of the fastest-growing degree pro grams at the University since its initial offering in 2008. The Department of Natural Sci ences encompasses the former depart ments of chemistry/biochemistry and physics and their programs. Kettering University Bright Future

SCHOOL’S BACK! What’s New for Flint Students? Class is back in session! The much anticipated, upcoming semester(s) have educators and students alike brimming with excitement and an ticipation. Not only will class formats closely resemble the style of years past, schools will be offering new pro grams, curricula and grand openings. MCM reached out to our local col leges for an overview of what’s new for the 2021-22 academic year. Take a look at what each one has to offer . . . what a great time to be a student!

Fall 2022), the Learning Commons is more than 50 percent complete.The University officially broke ground on the four-story, 105,000-square-foot struc ture on February 5, 2020.The state-of the-art facility will serve as the academic hub on campus, housing a digital library, auditorium, dining facilities, media resource centers, multiple collaboration spaces, a guest suite and more. Designed by world-renowned architectural firm, Stantec, the $63 million building project is facilitated by Clark Construction of Lansing and multiple Flint community contractors and made possible by contributions

Learning Commons

As we move into its final year of construction (completion expected by

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“Our curriculum has to shift WR UHˌHFW WKH UHDOLWLHV RI WKH technologies that are go ing to be foundational in the future. So, the University has to reevaluate what it’s doing and how it’s doing it; what the curricula are, what cur ricula we need to add, what curricula we need to eliminate or rethink. And then, we need to act. All of these things are part of grand revisioning of what it takes to be the best at educating great leaders and innovators – something we are known for the world over.” Dr. Robert McMahan, President This combines math and communica tions to show how the subjects can work together to address topics including cli mate change, human trafficking, elections and voting, and racial justice utilizing math modeling, statistics and data. Esports Scholarship for Fall 2021 Kettering’s new – and only official – varsity sport, esports – celebrated its first year since launching in January 2020 with one of the state’s largest ros ters and the April 2021 announcement of a scholarship for incoming students ($4,000/annually, renewable). As of July 2021, two students are already re ceiving scholarships for Summer Term and more will be eligible/available. p Math for Social Justice Elective (Fall 2021)

from alumni and community donors. Not funded in any way by the stu dents, it is FOR the students.

Careers BSE students could focus on are multidisciplinary.They may work in intelligent manufacturing or apply their mechatronics or robotics skills toward mobility, healthcare, energy or communication.The program provides a foundation in computer, electrical, industrial and mechanical engineer ing principles. After completing the foundational courses, students can choose concentrations in Manufactur ing Systems, Mechatronics Systems or Robotic Systems. Concentrations in cluding Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Artificial Intelligence will be added in the future, as new needs are identified.

NEW COURSES/ DEGREE PROGRAMS

Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE)

In a direct response to emerging industries’ need for engineers who can innovate and work across traditional discipline boundaries, this new multi disciplinary engineering program com bines elements of mechanical engineer ing, electrical engineering, industrial engineering and computer science.

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return to college after stepping out to work full-time in health care. “The Futures for Frontliners program was the deciding factor in my return to col lege,”Wesley says. “I told myself I would do it right this time, go to completion and earn my degree.”His goal is to earn a nursing de

gree at MCC and then transfer to UM Flint to become a nurse practitioner. Wesley is on track to join one of the fastest growing career fields. Demand for healthcare occupations is projected to grow 15 percent by 2029, adding about 2.4 million new jobs to the economy, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. When classes resume in September, Wesley will join his fellow frontliners and more than 500 Michigan Reconnect students at MCC, for a combination of in-person, hybrid and online courses.The College will continue to require masks indoors for the fall semester, and encour ages students and staff to get vaccinated to help protect themselves and others. “We are looking forward to engaging with our students face-to face again,” Jason Wilson says of the upcoming fall semester. “We have some great things planned for Student Life this coming academic year to make our students’ college experience special,” he says, adding “as we have learned to appreciate in the past year and a half, it ’s better when we’re together.” p

It is a changing world out there – not just because of the COVID pandemic and the restrictions it im posed on everything and everyone for more than a year – but because global connections influence every aspect of our lives. Being prepared to compete in a global marketplace is key to indi vidual success and to the success of our local, state and national economies. Mott Community College is ready to help students prepare for a changing world with a supportive learning environ ment and degree and certificate programs that will open more opportunities for suc cess for everyone from current high school Mott Community College MCC: Changing Lives for a Changing World

students who want to dual enroll, to re cent high school grads ready to get started, or for people already in the workforce who want updated skills and a credential. “There has never been a better time to go to college,” states Jason Wilson, Vice President for Student Academic Success. “Two new statewide scholarship programs are making community college free for frontline workers and those 25 and older, so earning a college credential just got easier for a lot of people.” The two state-funded programs offering free community college tuition are Futures for Frontliners and Michi gan Reconnect. Frontline workers who worked through the pandemic, and Michiganders 25 and older, who do not already have a degree, have an opportu nity to earn an associate’s degree or skills certificate.While Futures for Frontliners has closed its application process, Michi gan Reconnect is still accepting applica tions at michigan.gov/reconnect/. Frontliners like Brandon Wesley, 26, of Flint, jumped at the chance to

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MYCOMMUNITY

A year ago, the MSU Exten sion began offering a pro gram – the Family Enrich ment Series – created with the goal of helping families live happier lives.The series has been very success ful, according to Anne O’Rourke-Bean, Parenting Instructor and co-founder of FES. Also on the team are co-founder and nutrition instructor Lynette Kaiser, Playtime Instructor Patricia Marrs and Kevin Zoromski, who handles the data collection and evaluation of FES . O’Rourke-Bean explains that the FES provides guiding principles for effective parenting including the importance of establishing routines, theThinking Time Spot, consequences, nutrition education and playtime. “We are there as a support system for families,”Kaiser adds. Sessions are currently presented virtually, but they expect to go face-to-face in September or October of this year. It is available to families in Flint and Genesee County. Kaiser’s nutrition classes include ways families can eat healthy on a budget. “We teach parents about how important nutrition is for children,” Kaiser states. University Extension FAMILY ENRICHMENT SERIES Happy Kids, Happy Parents, Happy Home BY CHERYL DENNISON Michigan State

“And we show them how to make it happen in their everyday lives.” O’Rourke-Bean teaches parents the importance of establishing a routine. In theThinking Time Spot segment, she shares techniques that parents can use to help kids find a spot where they can sit, calm down, and identify their feelings and emotions. She also teaches parents how to talk about consequences (natural, logical and imposed) of their children’s actions. “This teaches kids how to solve a problem and learn from their own mistakes and choices,”O’Rourke-Bean explains. Playtime is also an important aspect of FES.There are two groups – one for infants-age two, and regular playtime for children aged two and a half to age five. “Playtime with Patti is making a big impact with both the parents and the chil dren,” says O’Rourke-Bean.The playtime instructor also works with kids of any age. FES Zoom sessions have been held at various locations including Hamilton Community Health clin ics, Flint Unity School and World of Wonder Preschool in Fenton. They also received a grant for virtual ses sions at Neithercut Elementary School that were held in May and June. The Neithercut Family Enrichment

Series included virtual sessions about parenting skills for parents of kids of all ages and nutritional education for the whole family. The families each received a Flint Fresh Box, $50 grocery card, a kitchen utensil and a cookbook. Kevin Zoromski says the feedback about FES has been positive. Program participants complete pre- and post evaluations of their experiences. “I wish I would have had this available to me as a young mother,” Lynette Kaiser shares. “It’s a big deal for us to be doing this. It has been a very important mission for all four of us,” O’Rourke-Bean adds. “We’re excited that we have had the opportunity to be a support system to families and see them discover that they can help themselves and help their children to succeed – not just in the family, but in the world, as well.” NEW Sleep Education for Everyone Each Zoom session is designed to last about 30 minutes each.The modules include a short (2-3 minute) educational video designed to deliver key concepts.The remainder of the time is spent discussing the topics, brain storming solutions to possible obstacles to improving sleep, and goal setting. p

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R5 Innovation and Technology – partnered with the CIT, this will allow students interested in innovation and technology to explore ways to help our collective future. R5 Gender and Sexuality – will offer students who are interested in deep ening their awareness an understand ing of issues impacting members of women, survivors, and the LGBTQ IA+ communities. With two new (to UM-Flint) programs, the University has become more affordable to students: R5 Go Blue Guarantee – beginning in the fall, full-time, undergraduate, in-state students will automatically qualify for the award if they have a family income of $65,000 or less and assets below $50,000. Incoming students will also need a high school GPA of 3.5 or above to qualify for the Go Blue Guarantee and be eligible for up to eight semesters of free tuition (four semesters for transfer students). Returning students will be eligible and must have a GPA of 3.0 or above. R5 Blue For You – UM-Flint wants all their students to succeed academically and financially. With Blue For You, more scholarships, stipends and grants are available than ever before. Expert support is offered to help students navigate their many opportunities. To take everything one step further, UM-Flint, the City of Flint and GST MichiganWorks! have recently entered into a partnership that combines each of their job training and education programs into a single effort to help city residents find jobs and earn degrees. New resources include: financial assistance for returning to school, childcare, technology and transportation as sistance, and guidance from professionals. x

University of Michigan-Flint New Curriculum, New Building, New Possibilities

T his year will mark UM Flint’s 65th anniversary – and what a time for stu dents! The much-antici pated College of Innova tion and Technology (CIT) will open for students and faculty for the first time.The CIT will fill a gap in the technology and workforce that exists between vocational technical training and the science-based degree programs in engineering and com puter science. Built for collaboration, the expansion that houses the CIT is cutting edge. (For an inside look, visit the March 2021 issue of My City Magazine. ) Starting with the 2021 fall semester, the University is offering two new degree programs for aspiring students: R5 Data Analytics – use data to solve real world problems and become a valuable asset to any organization. Possible job

titles include: Data Engineer, Market Research Analyst and Financial Analyst. R5 Urban Science – explore the science of cities.This interdisciplinary pro gram provides expertise in qualitative, quantitative and geospatial methods to analyze social, political and built-envi ronmental challenges facing cities and their metropolitan regions. Graduate and give back to the city that you love. For campus resident students, four new learning communities are offered for the fall 2021 semester: R5 Promise Scholars Residential Learning – is offered as a support system for students selected for the EOI Promise Scholars Program. R Global Learning – will allow stu dents to prepare for life in a global ized world through cross-cultural interactions and experiences.

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MYSTORY

Q UESTIONS

WITH

Just for fun, we asked a group of local leaders in education to tell us a few things about themselves … things not typically included in a curriculum vitae. Admit it: we all love the little details! MCM thanks everyone in this esteemed group for taking time to participate.

L OCAL E DUCATORS

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If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be? I would teach – without worry about reporting or other bureaucracy, standardized testing, or curriculum that doesn’t fit for the young people I work with. Is your glass half full or half empty? The glass is always full – half air and half water. Both the air and water are useful, but used in different ways. What’s one work-related thing you want to accomplish in the next year? We are re-starting the Genesee County Citizenship Academy – a program that teaches young people about county government. Most people (youth and adults) don’t understand the huge impact local government has on their lives. We get a young person from each Commissioner’s district and they will work on issues important to youth in the county. What makes you feel at peace? When young people use their voices to make positive change in their community and world. I hear so many complaints about young people, but I don’t see that in reality. Many people say, “Children are the future.”Young people are important leaders and improving things NOW, not in some distant future. What is your most prized possession? I think I have a mind that is good at asking questions. Some folks think the key to teaching is having a lot of knowledge. I want to ask questions to help folks discover the answer for themselves.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

I am lucky to work with young people who are making a difference. I know it is the young people doing that work, and I cannot take credit for it. When young people work to change the laws of Michigan, do things to care for the Flint River, or work to end hunger in their community, it makes me feel good about the present and the future. But it is not my accomplishment, it is theirs . To me, that makes it even better. What motivates you to work hard? I love the “light bulb”moments – when a young person understands something they did not before, and you can see it in their face and hear it in their voice. When you teach someone, that is as close to immortality as we can get on Earth.That person takes that knowledge and shares it with someone else, and it ripples out in ways beyond imagination.

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What’s the next place on your travel Bucket List and why? I’m hoping to visit the Philippines with my family soon. My in-laws are from there and they are going to renew their wedding vows. I’ve never been there, but hearing their stories makes me super excited to go! Do you hit the snooze button or wake up immediately? Immediately. Fun fact: I have never hit the snooze button in my life! What’s one thing that can instantly make your day better? Seeing my beloved wife smile. What is your definition of success? I believe that if you strive to be the best version of yourself, you are successful . Deacon Sean Costello Principal, Powers Catholic High School

What was your very first job?

When I was very young, in the summers I would wash my father’s cement tools for $5. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? or a cowboy. What do you enjoy most about your career? I wanted to be either a priest

It is gratifying to see students

reach their potential at a level they didn’t think possible.

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Debasish Dutta Chancellor, University of Michigan - Flint

What do you enjoy most about your career? My career has been in higher education – I live it, breathe it and enjoy all its dimensions.What I enjoy most is creating something new that positively impacts students, faculty and society at large.This never ends, because society needs change and therefore, the need to create something new is perpetual. Who is your hero? I have many heroes! Chuck Vest, former president of MIT, was a UMmechanical engineering professor, later dean and was provost when I started my career in Ann Arbor. Jim Duderstadt was then UM president. I admire both of them tremendously – they were leading thinkers of their time. Their contributions to equity and opportunity for women in academia are profound. :KDW ZDV \RXU YHU\ ş UVW MRE" I was an engineer in a construction company in a shipyard in India. I worked a lot with Russian engineers in that job. What’s the next place on your travel Bucket List and why? I have been fortunate to have traveled tomany places in the world. I like visiting newplaces, but do not have a bucket list.Each newplace has something interesting to offer, and I like that. What’s one work-related thing you want to accomplish in the next year? I hope to grow student enrollment at UM-Flint.

How would your friends describe you?

I believe they would say that I am intensely focused on making UM-Flint a best-in-class regional public university that brings about economic growth and social well being. :KDW GR \RX GR WR NHHS ş W" I walk as much as I can and when that is not possible, I go up and down the stairs till my dogs go crazy!

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What was your very first job? My first job as a teen was in landscaping. Just out of college, I worked in marketing and my first job as an educator was health/ PE/history teacher at an alternative education school in Mt. Clemens, MI. What’s one work-related thing you want to accomplish in the next year? This year, I want to make sure that we build a strong school culture with our families, scholars and staff. How would you define success? My definition can be found in the following quote: “Run the race in such a way that you may win it.” I like this quote for many reasons. One: I like to win. I am a competitive person and strive to be successful. However, the biggest reason I like this quote is that it tells us to always prepare ourselves in such a way that we will succeed.We may not always finish first, but we will not fall short because we weren’t prepared. Principal, Flint Community Schools’ Holmes STEM Middle School Academy Scott Henwood

What’s your most prized possession and why?

These days, it’smy phone! It contains all the pictures ofmy family andmemories we havemade,which I can enjoy looking at any time. What advice would you give your 17-year-old self? Go with your gut and believe in yourself. Had I taken this advice then, I would have probably become an educator sooner in life. Who is your hero? My hero in my life comes from my faith, which is Jesus. How would your friends describe you? I think they would say that I’m a passionate guy … creative, solution-driven, fun, faithful, and the type of friend who is always there for people.

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* dz ijá ijº Ȅ ŝá CEO, Flint Cultural Center Academy 5

[ĩdȟǰȑ Ɵƈú ɩƟdzŤljdzáťdȟáÉ ȟĩijƈğ ɲƟɔ ɩdƈȬ ȟƻ dƟƀǕťijȄİ ijƕ ȟĩú ƈáɬȬ ɲádǽǩ This will be the third year of the Flint Cultural Center Academy and the first couple of years have been quite challenging. I hope that my staff are able to experience a school year that is “in place” so that they witness just how truly impactful their work is to the children and families we serve. We need the opportunity to experience a more normal school year, so that we can implement not-so-normal educational experiences for kids.That is why FCCA was built. [ĩdȬ dÉɦijú ɩƟȸťÉ ɲƟɔ ĩdɦú ěijɦáƕ ȄáɦáƈȟááƕljɲádǽljƟťÉ dzijºǩ I would tell him that life is hard. Most every challenge is temporary. Do what you enjoy and what makes you a better person tomorrow than you were today. Dream big! !ĕ ɲƟɔ ƟȸťÉ Ɵƈťɼ ádȬ Ɵƈú ƀádŸ đƟǽ ȟĩú dzáȄȬ Ɵĕ ɲƟȸǽ ťijđúÆ ɩĩdȬ ɩƟȸťÉ ijȬ Ÿúǩ Chicken wings from Charlie’s BBQ (Flint Farmers’ Market) and Luigi’s Pizza are my jam!

[ĩdȬ ɩdȑ ɲƟȸǽ ɦádzɼ đijdzȄȬ ŗƟ£ǩ My first job was amazing! My parents owned a small, family-run hardware store on Main Street in downtown Davison, MI. I started working there at a very young age and had the opportunity to learn lifelong skills while working alongside my father for nearly 20 years. It was a special experience. [ĩdȟǰȑ Ɵƈú ȟĩijƈğ ȟĩdȬ dƕ ijƈȄȟdƈȟťɼ ƀdŝú ɲƟȸǽ Édɼ Ÿáȟȟáǽǩ The best way to start my day is by greeting students as they arrive at school. If I miss this opportunity, I feel like my day is not off to the optimal start.The kids and their families bring a smile to my face each morning and reinforce that the FCCA crew is doing great things! [ĩdȟǰȑ ɲƟȸǽ ƀƟȄȬ ǕdzijʃáÉ ǕƟȄȄáȄȄijƟƕ dƈÉ ɩĩɼǩ My family is my most prized possession.They are supportive and appreciative of the work that I’m involved with and tolerate the long hours I am away from home. [ĩdȬ ijȑ ɲƟȸǽ ÉáđijƈijȟijƟƕ Ɵĕ ȄȸáȄȑǩ In my mind, happiness is success. Obviously, there are many forms of success, but if you are happy, then you are successful.

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When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be an astronaut because I grew up in the ‘60s during the time of the Apollo missions. However, a significant vision impairment made that impossible. I can’t drive a car, so I doubt they would have let me fly! What was your very first job? I worked for my grandfather in his canvas shop making boat covers, awnings and repairing tents. What’s the most unusual thing you’ve ever eaten? I ate kudu in Zimbabwe – it was excellent and not at all unusual there. What’s one work-related thing you want to accomplish in the next year? I hope to increase student success at Kettering University.

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What are your hobbies? All kinds of cooking, especially in the wood fired bread oven we built with split stones from our property. And worldwide travel with my husband to remote places. Namibia, Zimbabwe and tent camping north of the Arctic Circle are just some of our adventures. What is one of your pet peeves? People who are impolite or unprepared What do you enjoy most about your career? I like to feel that my contributions to Kettering University make a difference.

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Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea President, Mott Community College

*~] %~! 1 "0 $ 01 é 0!] ' I wanted to be a candy striper at the local hospital, but decided to volunteer and work with a physical therapist who supported extremely physically challenged children. I loved the work and the children. I had a great learning experience finding out that the children we served were just like me. "-( 1 " 0~]* 0 , ( .. 0 0 0( 0 . I am a foodie and adore cooking and creating gastric delights. % % "-( 1 "0 )0 .(! ( ! 0 ' 1 " I asked my best friend to answer this question.These are the words that she shared (that can be printed). “She is loyal, funny, honest, sincere, committed, creative, very busy, family-oriented and spiritual. She loves to dance and eat catfish and macaroni and cheese.” (The rest will be kept under wraps.) *~] ]1H 5!6 ) /"! ( 1 " - , I love music, period! I have favorites in the classical, country, R&B, hip-hop, and neo-soul genre. Gospel and Christian music are my mainstays. What’s one work-related thing you want to ~ /H- !* . ]* . #] 1 ~0 I would like to ensure that MCC employees and students come back strong after a taxing pandemic that kept us away from each other for 15 months. Aside fromnecessities, what one thing could 1 " . ] + ~ (~1 % ]* "] I am a “Judge Judy” fan and I’m miffed when I have to miss an episode!

*~] %~! 1 "0 )~$ 0 ] !"' ] . ! * - I loved my speech classes and performing during assemblies. EXTRA: *~] ( 1 " . 1 / !] ~' "] 1 "0 ~0 0 I enjoy serving a community that allows me to use my skills to positively impact and open up opportunities for Flint and Genesee County residents.

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MYSUCCESS

She is a STANDOUT!

Since she was a little girl, Rylie has dreamed of being crowned Miss America. And she is well on her way to making that dream a reality. Competing in pageants since she was ten years old, she has already won other pageants including Miss Sunset Coast Outstanding Teen, Miss Lake Erie Outstanding Teen and Miss Washtenaw County Outstanding Teen. And she’s not stopping now! Most recently, she traveled to Orlando at the end of July to compete in the Miss

I N her 17 years of life, Rylie Dewley has accomplished much. In June, the Grand Blanc teen was selected as Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen 2021. The creator of Start Heart

RYLIE DEWLEY Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen BY CHERYL DENNISON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LINDSAY KING PORTRAITS

Smart (spreading aware ness of heart disease) and a talented baton twirler, Rylie is the daughter of John and Tiffany Dewley and a senior at Grand Blanc High School where she is a majorette with the school’s marching band.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BMB PHOTOGRAPY/BELLA BUPP

America Outstanding Teen pageant. “I’m so excited!” Ry lie exclaimed. “It’s really cool. Each state and Washington, D.C. has a representative.” A typical pageant has four phases of competition: Interview (when participants speak about their platform), Fitness Routine, Talent, and Evening Gown. During the evening gown phase, the con testants answer unrehearsed questions while on stage. “It puts you on the spot,” she says. Rylie’s platform – the cause she chose to highlight – is the program she creat ed, Start Heart Smart, which educates kids about heart disease. “While growing up, I had some heart issues,” she shares, explaining that she had two holes in her heart and a heart murmur. When she was age five, however, her cardiologist told her the holes in her heart had closed and she could return to p

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MYSUCCESS

RYLIE THANKS HER PARENTS JOHN & TIFFANY DEWLEY FOR THEIR CONSTANT SUPPORT ON HER JOURNEY.

living a normal life. But when she was 13, she had a teen heart test that re vealed new issues. Rylie was re-diagnosed with a heart murmur and mitral insuffi ciency. “My heart is not able to pump blood to my body the way it should,” she says.

“I’ve met so many talented women. It is an amazing experience.” Rylie Dewley

“Right now, there is noth ing they can do but in the future, I may have to have a valve replacement.” Through the Start Heart Smart program, Rylie speaks to other teens all around Michigan about her experi ence with heart disease. She also started a program called Cares for Cardiac, which raises funds for care pack ages that are donated to kids at Hurley Medical Center, University of Michigan Mott Children’s Hospital and also to the Washtenaw County

Courts. The care packages contain a teddy bear, differ ent heart-themed gifts and a little note from Rylie to let the patients know she is thinking about them. Rylie’s talent is, of course, baton-twirling. She started taking lessons at age five with a group in Davison and then switched to Twirl-M’s Baton Twirling in Walled Lake. She attends competitions and is still taking lessons there. Being crowned Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen means a lot to the young

woman. “I was shocked!” she exclaims. “Having all the hard work pay off is so amazing. The other contestants were so talented, so I was really sur prised with the results.” She credits much of her success to the support from her extend ed family. “My mom, dad, sib lings and step-parents have all

helped me get to where I am today,” she admits. “I wouldn’t be here without them.” Right now, Rylie is looking forward and excited to be competing in Orlando. “I’ve been doing this since I was ten years old!” she exclaims. “I’ve met so many talented women. It is an amazing experience.” x

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MYARTS

THE ART & PHILOSOPHY OF JAMES THIGPEN, JR.

perspective. As an added special ingre dient, each work holds a little bit of imself and his home city. “Every piece s a collage constructed from multiple mages and each one reflects a little of ome,” he says. “Flint shaped all I know. ve lived in other cities and you can’t un away from it – it’s in you, not on you. t’s in how I think and talk. You can see ints of it in what I do. I wouldn’t say my rt is glamorous, but you can still see the beauty. It’s there and it’s authentic.” p

W

J creates a new piece of art, he takes his time. Using a multitude

of photographs, he designs each piece exactly how he sees it inside himself. His unique style, evolved throughout the course of his life, portrays the African American experience from a universal

Svitlana / stock.adobe.com

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM JAGIELO AND PROVIDED BY JAMES THIGPEN, JR.

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“God placed me in Flint and I have a responsibility to it. We all do.”

Svitlana / stock.adobe.com

Growing up in Flint presented its challenges, but Thigpen thrived in the environment. “From early on, my mother and father allowed me to explore my creativity and fostered my talent,” he remembers. He attended Flint Central High, a school that did not offer an expansive art program, so he attended Genesee Skill Center where he learned the basics of graphic design and pho tography. He took those skills to Mott Community College and then to UM Flint where he finished his undergrad degree, winning awards for graphic design and accolades from the faculty.

From there,Thigpen headed to New York. Plying his trade as a graphic de signer, he worked with multiple com panies and people and while there, his current artistic style was born. “It started from a blog that I was producing,” he ex plains. “I was taking photos in New York and adding my own elements to them. The whole process developed over the course of a year and social media played a big role. People kept encouraging me to continue and started asking for prints of my pieces.” Playing a big role in his art process is the energy of being somewhere or seeing something new.

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