My City February 2023

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

A R T & D E S I G N

MANAGING EDITOR Sherron Barden

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hai ley Worrel l Dar ia Akulova

DEAR READERS, At the time of this writing, the weather forecast called for a little snowfall – not typically unusual for late January, but we had definitely gotten used to not scraping off our cars and not shoveling the driveway. I have enjoyed seeing a lone swan pair still floating in front of my house on unfrozen Lake Fenton; it made me feel like winter hadn’t really arrived yet. (Who am I kidding, right?) In our February issue, we’ve always been proud to have this platform for celebrating Black History Month, highlighting the exemplary community members recently recognized by the Genesee District Library for their contributions and achievements. Read about the 2023 GDL Black History Month Honorees starting on p.6. We also enjoy featuring the latest developments in Downtown Flint and have an update on the Farmers’ Market: new vendors, renovations and more. Check it out on p.16. I don’t know how many “Outreach” pieces we’ve done over the past nearly ten years, but there seems to be an endless list of groups and individuals who wake up every day with a mission to help their fellow humans.They’re not getting rich; they enrich the lives of others. Reaching out to those struggling with addiction and mental health is 513 Recovery Clubhouse (p.24), a program founded by two people in recovery who are helping others find their paths to a better life.Their unique and successful approach is getting attention from other parts of the country – awesome! I enjoy talking with members of the community – our subscribers and those who see My City “everywhere” – about the quality of our content. My hat’s off to our entire team for making it happen! As always, the variety this month includes Arts, Sports, History, Health and Style, as well as (cue the fanfare) our annual “My Wedding” section. I’m taking credit for the fun piece on “Making Marriage Last.” As our team discussed the list of industry experts for this special section, I thought, ‘why not ask some local folks what their secret is’? They share their advice (and photos!) starting on p.58 and we thank them all for participating. February is known as “the month of love”– a time for Valentine’s Day and remembering the importance of love in our lives. I am blessed with much love and thankful for it every day. I wish the same for all of you. Thanks for reading,

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WR ITER Peter Hinterman

PHOTOGRAPHY Katy Ki ldee

STAFF WR ITER Cheryl Denni son

O P E R A T I O N S

FREELANCE WR ITER Mark Spezia

ACCOUNTING/CI RCULATION Kim Davi s

CONTR IBUTING WR ITERS Er in Caudel l Dr. Christopher Douglas Vera Hogan

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Dan Garman

S A L E S

Marc Janca, AIF Alexandr ia Nolan Les l ie Toldo Shannon Whi te

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Terese Al len

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 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 © 2022. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

SCAN ME

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

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

COVER PHOTO ANR PRODUCTION / STOCK.ADOBE.COM

20

6

16

My Style 28 Make it POP!

My Community 6 GDL Presents 2023 Black History Month Honorees 10 7 Questions with ... Meg Mcleod

By Shannon White My Dish 30 A Sweet Ending My Dining 32 Local Eats & Drinks My Wedding 34-63 Special Section

Evening Anchor, WNEM-TV5 My Downtown

16 A New Mix

at Flint Farmers’ Market My Arts

Expert Tips & Trends for 2023! My Health 64 Mental Health Help at Hamilton 66 McLaren’s New Heart Valve Procedure 68 5 “Under the Radar” Heart Health Tips

20 Janet Haley

A Life on Stage My Outreach 24 513 Recovery Clubhouse Find Your Path to a Brighter Future

CONTENTS

February 2023

74

70

24

34

My Sports 70 Bill Thompson: Ice Climber My History 74 Castles of Time Greater Flint’s Historic Homes My Haps 78 MLK Mentoring Inspiration Breakfast 80 14th Annual Sybyl Awards My Reality 82 A Valentine to Remember By Vera Hogan My Econ 84 The 2023 Economy By Dr. Christopher Douglas

My Musings 86 A Senior Moment ... By Leslie Toldo My Finances 88 New Processes, New Confidence By Marc Janca, AIF® My Travels 90 The Most Romantic

28

By Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan

94 My Can’t Miss List My Afterthought 97 The Push for Equal Rights The Founding of the NAACP

30

MYCOMMUNITY

On February 4, the Genesee District Library hosted its 22nd Annual Black History Month Brunch at Genesys Conference & Banquet Center.The special celebration recognized the 2023 Black History Month Honorees – community notables including three inspiring individuals and one organization selected by the Black History Month Brunch Advisory Committee. The GDL is proud to recognize the contributions of the 2023 honorees. Award of Excellence GENESEE DISTRICT LIBRARY PRESENTS 2023 Black History Month Ho orees COMPILED BY SHERRON BARDEN

. .

/ stock.adobe.com

NORM BRYANT Founder and former owner of the Historic Bryant’s Barber Shop in Flint, NormBryant also founded the Greater Flint African American Sports Hall of Fame in 1983 and served a ten-year term as its first president. In 1995 he became an inductee, recognized for his achieve ments in football and track at Flint NorthernHigh School. He was also inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2005. As a community servant, Bryant held a seat on the Flint School Board from 1991-1997 (two years as president) and was appointed the first Black chairman of the Genesee

6

MYCITYMAG.COM

County Building Authority.He was chairman of Salem Lutheran Church Council and also appointed to represent Lutheran Social Service of Michigan to do missionary work in Africa (Tanzania and Zimbabwe).He ran forMay or of Flint in 2007. Recognized withmultiple awards, Bryant’s honors include: Liberty Bell Award (1997); Frederick Douglass Award (1999); City of Flint Legends Award (2002) and Mott-Manley Distinguished Service Award (2006). Married to his wife Kay for 65 years, the couple has four daughters, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

SHANE JACKSON CHHC, BSCJ, MSCJ

Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I will learn.” This is one of the quotes Shane Jackson follows to help educate and inspire youth and adults on the subject of nutrition. A professional nutrition specialist with a vast scope of experience based in Flint, Jackson is a multi skilled and diversely talented professional with a strong inclination toward self-improvement, human psycholo gy and overall personal health. Born in Helena, AR and raised in Flint, Jackson has an extensive background in nursing as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice from Michigan State University. Her interest in nutrition and mental health pushed her to pursue her PhD in criminal justice which led to exploration of the impact nutrition has on criminal behavior among youth and adults. Over the years, she has earned a long list of additional degrees and certifications. Currently, Jackson is a Community Nutrition Instruc tor at Michigan State University and has authored her first children’s book, Rainbow Power , soon to be released. She is also a mother and motivational speaker. ß

PHOTO BY KATY KILDEE

7

MYCOMMUNITY

SIGNATURE PORTRAIT STUDIO

Policing. In 2014, she was assigned as Crime Prevention Officer working with numerous Flint residents, block clubs, crime watch, community groups and businesses. When the police volunteer program was redesigned, she became coordinator of the Blue Badge Volunteer Corps, the service centers and other special projects. InMay 2015, Meeks was promoted to the rank of sergeant and received her first assignment – supervising the Youth Ser vices Division overseeing all school liaison officers, miss ing persons’ cases and the PAL program. In 2016, Sgt. Meeks was transferred to the Patrol Division assigned as a Road Patrol Supervisor and in 2018, received her current assignment in the Detective Bureau investigating Child Abuse and Child Sex crimes. Married to Mark (Tony) Meeks, the couple has been blessed with two daughters and six grandchildren. Her hobbies include cooking, gardening, camping and fishing. Among her passions are her Christian faith, her family and traveling to Arkansas to be with her mom and dad.

SERGEANT TANYA MEEKS FLINT POLICE DEPARTMENT

Born in Smackover, ARTanya (Ross) Meeks was raised in a small town and brought up in a small Bap tist church where she sang in the choir. She graduated from Smackover High School in 1982. Aspiring to be a beautician, a secretary or a police officer, she attended a vocational school for secretarial classes. In 1984, Meeks came to Flint to visit relatives and decided to stay and become a Michigander. For 11 years, she was employed by UAW-GMLegal Services and then for a short time, the 68th District Court. Realizing that police work was her real passion, she applied for the Flint Police Academy, graduated in the Class of 11-98 and was assigned to Community Policing at Flint’s Northside Precinct. She then decided to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice at Mott Community College, graduating in 2003. Meeks became coordinator for Flint Area Crime Stoppers, as well as continuing her work in Community

8

MYCITYMAG.COM

RONALD S. BROWN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Partner in Progress Award FLINT ODYSSEY HOUSE, INC. Flint Odyssey House, Inc. (FOH) provides a full continuum of Substance Abuse Disorder services for adults and adolescents and has fostered the develop ment of Specialized Employment Services, Inc. provid ing job-readiness training for hard-to-place individuals. FOH was born in 1987 from the ashes of the bank rupt Rubicon Odyssey House Program (ROH). Led by 1979 ROH graduate Ronald S. Brown, the venture consisted of two houses, a part-time nurse, 15 former ROH clients, $300 in food stamps and the debt in curred by ROH. Since then, Flint Odyssey has evolved into a nationally recognized exemplary substance abuse treatment organization that has set the standards for Women’s Specialty Programming since 1992. Operating treatment sites in Flint, Saginaw and Port Huron, the FOH continuum of care includes two residential programs (Flint and Saginaw Odyssey Houses), a nationally recognized Health Awareness Center, Withdrawal Management Services (detox), Adolescent Outpatient Treatment, Adult Outpatient, Recovery Housing, Youth Prevention, Mobile Opiate Response Team (MORT) street outreach and the 24/7 Dad® fatherhood program. FOH provides services to over 3,000 people annually. u

9

Who has most inspired your career path? The late Professor Kent Collins was a dear friend and my mentor at the Missouri School of Journalism. What is the best thing about your job at TV5? Helping people in our community – whether it's getting the word out about a special event or bringing attention to a cause.

What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen? Andrew and I honeymooned at Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. One morning as the sun rose, a male lion strolled by just a few feet from our vehicle – so beautiful!

What song always gets you out on the dance floor? "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" by Whit ney Houston If you had a WARNING label, what would it say? “WARNING: This is NOT a morning person.” I guess it’s a good thing I don’t do a.m. news!

What is one weird fact or tidbit you still remember from high school? “Fido,” a name often given to dogs, is derived from the Latin word "fidus" which means faith ful, loyal and trusting.

What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten? I tried a fish eyeball in the Bahamas. It was firmer than I thought it would be – I thought it would be more gummy! I was surprised that It didn’t have much flavor at all.

11

ADVERTORIAL

IS IT TIME TO GO ALL IN? Hurley Bariatric Center Can Help BY JASON HARROD, MA | PHOTO BY DOUG PIKE

A ndy Holmes, 37, has been a Flint resident for four and a half years. Living right downtown, it was common for him to be outside and active with his friends. For the majority of his life, he had felt overweight and his highest weight was 325 pounds. A bigger concern than his weight, though, was how he felt. On one excursion walking around Downtown Flint with his friends, Andy felt out of breath, as though he couldn’t continue walking. He had been busy, both working and going to grad school. Graduating in late 2021 was a huge accomplishment, and it also gave him the room to consider his health. After trying various diets and exercises over the years and finding it very difficult to lose even a small amount of weight while putting in maximum effort, Andy had been looking into bariatrics. Reassured by a conversation with a friend who was a resident at Hurley Medical Center, and his knowledge of Hurley’s reputation in the community, he made his first appointment with Dr.Wong at Hurley Bariatric Center for March 7, 2022. “I’m glad I chose Hurley because people there helped me make a decision that’s had such an important impact on my health,” he explains. “There was no pressure – Dr.Wong was very kind and straightforward. He was generous with his time and answered all of my questions so that I could make my own decision.”Andy decided that it was time to be “all in” and follow Dr.Wong’s treatment plan. For him, being all in meant seeing bariatric surgery as the first of many healthy lifestyle choices. There were no complications with the outpatient procedure – Andy was home later that same day. “The surgery, I think, is a tool to aid diet and exercise,” he says. “I had to be all in, or the surgery alone wasn’t the answer. It was a big adjustment afterward, especially getting used to portion control; but alongside my friends and family, Hurley offered a lot of support through education and group meetings.” Andy’s resilience and commitment to following post-surgery guidelines have resulted in dramatic improvement of his overall health. Besides losing 160 pounds over nine months, he no longer needs medication to maintain a normal blood pressure, and feels much better day by day. “I’m sleeping much better and have a lot more energy,” he shares. “Even little things like cleaning the house;

I used to have to vacuum part of the house and sit down for a few minutes to catch my breath. I don’t have to do that anymore. I’m able to physically do more things and much more comfortably.” Andy’s spending a lot of time with his friends and they’ve started going on hikes. He’s even bought a rowing machine for his home. Andy hopes his story inspires people to pursue this process. “Being overweight can be so hard on your physical and mental health,” he states. “It’s easy once you make the decision to be all in.” Designed to be a 12-week plan, Hurley Bariatric Center’s Medical Weight Loss program is customized to the individual’s needs, but it’s also meant to equip them with education needed to maintain success beyond program completion.This approach extends to all of the services offered at the Center, both surgical and non-surgical options.The bariatric professionals help patients choose the appropriate procedure and afterward, they monitor progress and offer support such as nutrition and exercise counseling to help patients have a sustainable weight loss outcome.

The Hurley Bariatric Center is located in Flint at 6140 Rashelle Dr., and can be reached at 810.262.2330 or hurleymc.

com. The team offers seminars that cover bariatric surgery and medical weight loss options – sign up to attend either in person or online at: hurleymc.com/services/bariatric-center/attend-a-seminar/

MYDOWNTOWN

A New Mix at Flint Farmers’ Market

BY PETER HINTERMAN u PHOTOS BY KATY KILDEE S tarting in February, the Flint Farmers’Market is going to look a little different – but don’t worry! The market will still operate in the same way we have come to know and love, just with some new faces and new vendors sharing the space. “Every year, we like to evaluate the Market and try to find the right mix,” explains Market Manager, Karianne Martus. “When a business decides to leave, it opens up opportunities for newcomers to find space and current vendors to expand. This will be the biggest change we have made in a long time.” New opportunities emerged when vendors Semi-Sweets, Chubby Duck Asian Fusion and Spectacular Spudz decided to pursue other opportunities. “The owner of Semi-Sweets decided to retire the bakery,”Martus informs, “while the

owner of Chubby Duck is pursuing his lucrative catering business.” For those of you who love the tastiness that is Spec tacular Spudz, don’t fret – the perfect potato purveyor will continue. “They outgrew us,” says Martus. “We are so proud and happy that they were able to secure their own restaurant space in Downtown Flint.The Flint Farmers’Market is a business incubator and we love to see our vendors thrive and expand although sometimes, it is sad when they go.”Along with Spectacular Spudz, B-Dogs Hot Dog Cart will also ex pand with a location in Davison while retaining their presence at the Market. With all the open space, a few current vendors were able to move or expand in other areas of the Market.

16

MYCITYMAG.COM

Taste N Life Owned by Fernando and Olena Bernal, Taste N Life specializes in homemade empanadas and a variety of sauces including chimichurri, guacamole and queso. “We have a location in Saginaw and when we looked into expanding, the Flint Farmers’ Market offered the best bet for us,” says Fernando. Taste N Home is located at the front of the store next to Local Grocer and is open for business. “The Flint Farmers’ Market is a business incubator and we love to see our vendors thrive and expand although sometimes, it is sad when they go.” Karianne Martus, Marketing Manager

Moves & Expansions Penny’s Café

Everyone’s favorite coffee shop at the Market has moved to the front of the building and has added a new twist. “Penny’s Café now has a walk-up window that will allow them to do business on the Market’s off days,” says Martus. “In fact, if all goes well, we are considering adding this feature for other businesses.” Porter’sOrchard&Donuts This popular vendor has moved to its new location opposite the dining area along the main aisle and will continue to offer Market patrons their donuts, coffee, cider, honey, apples and slushies. Michigan at theMarket Expanding its space across the aisle, this shop will now sell candies and sweets. “When the space opened up, they were one of the first to inquire,” says Martus. “We love that they are doing well at the Market and are able to offer more to our customers!” Newcomers Market-goers will be happy to see both familiar and new vendors indoors. “We have an extensive waiting list to get in and we are very happy to bring in some of our outside vendors who have been with us for a while,” adds Martus. “We are also very excited to welcome some brand-new faces! Five of the seven new businesses are woman-owned and six are owned by minorities.”

Snacky Brown

PORTER’S ORCHARD

After selling her deli cious desserts from her out door Market space, owner Regina Hatter couldn’t be happier that she was invit ed to move inside. Snacky Brown will be located in the front/southwest corner of the building, directly across from Michigan at the Market. Joining Regina Hatter and Snacky Brown, Twana Hatter will also be moving from outside to an indoor space located next to Regi na in the building’s front/ southwest corner. Natural Effecxs sells personal care items and accessories. ß Natural Effecxs

SNACKY BROWN

NATURAL EFFECXS

PENNY’S CAFE

17

MYDOWNTOWN

TASTE-N-LIFE

SCOOPFUL OF SWEETNESS

Mr. Prince Tacos Now occupying the former Chubby Duck location,Mr. Prince Tacos – the beloved Flint food truck – will be front and center with a restaurant space near the main entrance. “Mr. Prince has sat outside of the market for years and we are glad we were able to find the space to bring them indoors,” says Martus. AT Sweets Another outside-to-inside conversion, AT Sweets will take over the baking responsibilities from Semi-Sweets. “They will be located in the current spot of Spectacular Spudz,” says Martus. “Since they need less space, we will be able to open up the area next door for the Flint Children’s Museum.” I Love Pig Get ready for some fantastic Cuban sandwiches and are pas! “They are so much fun!” comments Martus. “We can’t wait to have them inside.They will be using our kitchens to make their wonderful food.” I Love Pig will be located across from Charlies’ Smokin’ BBQ and AT Sweets. Stay Tuned for Sushi! ICHI Sushi, co-owned by Tim and Erin Archuleta was voted best sushi in San Francisco before the couple decided to move to Flint.Their new restaurant (not named at press time) will be located near the center of the Market and plans to open in March. “We are very excited to have them!” exclaims Martus. “Once Chubby Duck decided to leave, it opened up a chance to

The Flint Farmers’ Market is looking for new outside vendors, particularly florists and farmers, for the spring and summer seasons. If you are interested in the opportunity, please visit flintfarmersmarket.com and fill out the application or call 810.232.1399. bring them in.”Flint native Erin Archuleta cannot wait to get started. “We are looking forward to sharing Japanese food with the community, becoming a part of Flint’s vibrant food culture and seeing all our friends and neighbors regularly,” she states. The Flint Farmers’ Market continues to be the premier farmers’ market in Michigan and with its new moves and vendors it doesn’t look to be relinquishing that title anytime soon. Congratulations to all the new business owners, and to all the customers who get to experience it all. u See you at the Market!

18

MYCITYMAG.COM

MYARTS

JANET HALEY A Life on Stage

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER & PROVIDED BY JANET HALEY

“All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts …” – Jaques, “As You Like It”

A s “Jaques,” one of her most cherished roles performed with the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, Janet Haley was honored to deliver one of the most iconic speeches of The Bard’s literary career. “All the world’s a stage” it begins and for Haley, the line couldn’t be truer. For her, the stage is anywhere and everywhere there’s a story to tell. From childhood puppet shows in her garage to today’s historic places and iconic stages in the city of Flint that she has always called home, Haley finds purpose in the art of the show. “Theatre feeds my sense of imagination, storytelling and sharing and that’s what brings me a sense of joy,” she states. “For me, it was never about money or being famous. It was about telling stories together with people and for people.” Through the years, Haley has had success in roles both onstage and off. As an actor, she has played countless roles here and throughout the country,

20

MYCITYMAG.COM

career, many supporters and advocates, and I am thankful for them all.” Her story opens at Summerfield Elementary in Flint nearly 40 years ago. “Back then, Flint was operating the “magnet” school program and Summerfield was one of the schools (along with Pierce) that focused on the arts,” Haley recalls. “I had drama, music and visual arts classes every week.” At home, she grew up in a family of storytellers and would put on plays and puppet shows of her own creation in her garage and at numerous other locations where a kid could find an audience. As she entered middle school, the first of many people showed up to guide her toward her future ca reer. At Walker school, Haley’s drama teacher was Flint Youth Theatre (FYT) co-founder, Sue Wood. It was the start of her involvement with the FYT that transitioned to today as an associate artist at the Flint Repertory Theatre. Haley next attended Whittier and then Flint Central, where she got the push to keep her headed toward perfor mance. “As a junior, I became very ill and as a result, I became fascinated “Theatre feeds my sense of imagination, story telling and sharing and that’s what brings me a sense of joy.”

PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER

IT WAS WHILE ATTENDING FLINT CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL THAT HALEY GOT THE PUSH TO PURSUE PERFORMANCE. SHE WENT TO UM-FLINT ON A SCHOLARSHIP, EARNING HER DEGREE AND TEACHING CERTIFICATE AND THEN A MASTER OF FINE ARTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS. ▶

winning four Encore Michigan Wilde Awards for best performance, as well as national recognition. As a director, Haley has received nation al attention for her storytelling at the Flint Youth Theatre, UM-Flint, and in the Flint community. As theatre-maker, she has pushed the

boundaries of what’s possible through innovation and setting and as edu cator, Haley has helped to cultivate and develop the next generation of performance artists. “I am happy and feel very fortunate and grateful for what I get to do,” she says. “A number of people have contributed to my

21

MYARTS

PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER

THIS MONTH, HALEY WILL DIRECT HER UM-FLINT STUDENTS IN “THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHTTIME. ” ▶

AN ASSOCIATE ARTIST AT THE FLINT REP, HALEY PLAYED “THE MUTE” IN THEIR 2022 PRODUCTION OF “THE FANTASTICKS. ” ▶

up and ended up winning the scholar ship.” She graduated from UM-Flint with her degree and teaching certif icate, and went on to the University of Texas at Austin where she earned her Master of Fine Arts degree. In 2005, after years of hunting acting jobs in Seattle, she made her way back to Flint. “I was very depressed in Seattle,” she remem bers. “I had a year’s worth of work as an actor lined up when I made the decision to come home. I wasn’t needed there. I was needed here.” It was a decision that changed Haley’s life and she never looked back. Today, Haley is Associate Professor of Theatre at UM-Flint and contin ues to challenge herself with new roles. She values her time as actor in productions for the Michigan Shake speare Festival and the Flint Rep,

for the full-ride drama scholarship at UM-Flint and when I told him I was not, he got up, slammed his office door as dramatically as possible and made me promise that I would do it,” she states. “I did it just to shut him HALEY AS “AMANDA” IN “THE GLASS MENAGERIE” WITH THE FLINT REP IN 2019 AND AS A STUDENT AT FLINT CENTRAL. ▶

with healing and the human body,” she recalls. “I decided that I wanted to be a nurse.” She intended to at tend Northern Michigan University until Martin Jennings, her perform ing arts teacher, turned on the drama. “He asked if I was going to audition

22

MYCITYMAG.COM

She and Flint Rep Artistic Director Michael Lluberes got together and created the Flint Mural Plays. “We came up with a way to tell stories during lockdown,” she recalls. “It was a by-and-for community endeav or on an epic scale. We partnered with neighborhoods, organizations, playwrights and actors to get it done.” Currently, Haley is working on pro ducing another site-based perfor mance project at a library in Flint. In her own innovative style, on February 17, Haley will direct her stu dents in the opening performance of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime” at UM-Flint Theatre. With the help of projection designer Alison Dobbins, it will feature a re imagined setting in an effort to merge the 3D world with the digital world. “I am fascinated with immersive dis plays such as the recent Van Gogh ex hibit,” she says. “We will be fusing the “For me, it was never about money or being famous. It was about telling stories together with people and for people.”

PHOTOS BY SCOT ORSER

winning Michigan Wilde awards for her performances in “The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds”, “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, and as Jaques in “As You Like It”. It is as an actor that she feels most comfortable; but it is as an educator and theatre-mak er that she feels the biggest sense of purpose. “Theatre-making is a relatively new term. A theatre-maker is one who finds a story with other people in unconventional ways. It is different from a playwright,” she explains. “An actor’s task is to ignite a character in a story.The director ignites the story for the audience, and the theatre-maker finds the story through a process of collaboration.” In 2007, Haley devised a series of small vignettes with her students using the grand fountain in Down town Flint as a setting and the project serves as a perfect example of theatre-making. Together, they uncovered and devised the stories

in the location and presented them to the public. “Theatre without an audience is just rehearsal – it needs the witness and the performers feed off the energy,” she adds. After that, Haley continued to push the possibilities for theatre in Flint. Along with her students, she devised the nationally-recognized “Glen wood: Restoration of the Spirit” performance project taking place at Glenwood Cemetery and, in 2014, the “9x Nourished” performance project at the Flint Farmers’ Market with FYT. “It was about coming together in an unconditional setting, finding and telling a story,” Haley states. “It’s about being in the 3D world and connecting to others.” When the pandemic hit in 2020, Haley contemplated the future of her medium. “What does theatre need to do in the digital world to distin guish itself ?” she asked. “Innovation and new ways of telling stories have always been important to me.”

Continued on pg. 89

23

MYSTYLE

This fashion forecast is influenced by the 2023 Pantone® Color of the Year: Vivid Magenta.

BY SHANNON WHITE POP! Make it

H ello, February! Let’s add some excitement and spice up the gray days ahead with a bold pop of color! This fashion forecast is influenced by the 2023 Pantone® Color of the Year: Vivid Magenta. Expect this color to be featured heavily in both clothing and home decor stores, as well as all types of fun fashion acces sories.

While the fall runways showed a lot of black with influences from '80s and '90s gothic and grunge, there was also a lot of color, ensuring that some of 2022’s brights are here to stay.This includes magenta – a great shade that is not hot pink but not quite red – think of a deep, berry tone. Described by Pantone as “powerful and em powering,” it’s definitely not a color to be missed! It goes brilliantly with khaki or turquoise, can add a dramatic flourish to gray or navy and looks fabulous with tonal shades of purple, pink and blue. A rather “audacious” hue, magenta is not for the shy and

retiring – but wearing it in separates (like a simple top or a vivacious skirt) can make it less overpowering. Pairing it with a neutral shade like white or navy makes it much more accessible. Another emerging color trend is earthy orange with a resurgence of more natural, down-to-earth shades, which will work perfectly in the warmer summer months. While burnt orange and rust might initially seem more of a fall palette, it will also see you (in slightly brighter tones) into the summer months. Color experts say the shade conveys creativity, sensuality and abundance, which is probably why it’s proved so popular with designers and with so many

28

MYCITYMAG.COM

different hues, you can easily create a stunning array of looks. Orange loves a warm skin tone and can be pared back when worn with neutrals such as cream, camel, bronze or gray. If you feel confident, mixing it with navy blue or jewel purple can be super impactful, but wearing it with its analogous hues on the color wheel such as yellow, pink and red will definitely create a clash.

Denim rules – jeans, jack ets, jumpers

and just about all garments can rock

denim blues.

In my January “My Style” article, I talked about the influence of pockets on everything, including the resur gence of cargo pants embellished with zippers galore. A color more often as sociated with casual clothing – such as this season's fashion favorite, the car go pant – olive green gets a makeover for 2023, and a very glamorous one at that! Watch for it in evening dresses and elegant tops. Because so much of nature is green, it can evoke elements of peace and harmony when we use it in our clothing and our homes to offset neutral beiges and grays. One more color to look for is blue. While pink has long ruled the runway, 2023 trends will see blue enjoying a resurgence.These blue shades range from pastel to azure and turquoise, all adding a tranquil, royal feel. Denim

rules – jeans, jackets, jumpers and just about all garments can rock denim blues. As many know, regal royal blue was also the color Queen Elizabeth was thought to have favored most often, as she regular ly wore it for public engagements throughout her reign. So, all you fashion-forward readers – thanks to “My Style” you can put on your tiaras, add a POP to your wardrobes with the Color of the Year and dress like the queens you are!

Shannon White is an architect, designer and fashionista – a small but mighty cheerleader of all things Flint! Holding both Bachelor of Science and Master of Architecture degrees from the University of Michigan, she is the founder of the FUNchi tecture design firm and co-founder of she-powered Downtown Flint retail business, SHIFT.

29

MYDISH

If there is ever a time to indulge in a sweet and choc olatey treat, it’s Valentine’s Day! How about baking your loved one something fancy (yet simple) like a torte? A dessert of German origin, a torte is a type of cake that is typically flourless and baked with heavy ingredients like eggs, creating a more dense texture.

30

MYCITYMAG.COM

Serve this dessert as a decadent ending to your special Valentine’s dinner, whatever it may be … and wait for a sweet reward! Dark Chocolate Torte

INGREDIENTS ◆ 2 2/3 cups semisweet chocolate chips (16 ounces), divided ◆ 1 cup of salted margarine, divided ◆ 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder ◆ 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder or instant coffee powder ◆ 5 large eggs ◆ 1 cup sugar ◆ Fresh mint sprigs and blackberries for garnish Brush 9-inch-diameter springform pan with margarine; line bottom with parchment. In a medium saucepan over low heat, stir 1 2/3 cups chocolate chips and 3/4 cup margarine until smooth. Whisk in cocoa and espresso. Cool for 10 minutes. Using an electric mixer, beat eggs and sugar in a large bowl on high speed Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake torte until dry and cracked on top and tester inserted into center comes out with some moist batter attached, about 42 minutes. until thick, about 6 minutes. Fold in chocolate mixture. TOMAKE Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cool in pan on rack for about an hour (center will fall). Using spatula, press raised edges so top is level. Cut around pan sides to loosen the torte. Place plate atop torte and invert onto plate. Remove pan bottom; peel off paper and cool torte completely. In a small saucepan over low heat, stir remaining 1 cup (6 ounces) choc olate and 1/4 cup margarine until smooth (do not overheat). Cool glaze for 15 minutes and pour into the center of the torte.

Smooth top with spatula, allowing some of the glaze to drip down the sides. Refrigerate uncovered until glaze is set, about 1 hour. (Can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and keep refrigerated.) Garnish with mint and blackberries (or any berry of choice).

Enjoy … and Happy Valentine’s Day!

31

Local Eats & Drinks

Beale St. Smokehouse BBQ NEW LOCATION 1492 N. Leroy St., Fenton

Crust - A Baking Company 104 W. Caroline St., Fenton Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grill 302 N. Leroy St., Fenton Fenton Winery & Brewery 1370 N. Long Lake Rd., Fenton 810.373.4194 Frank’s Hoppy Bistro 3235 W. Thompson Rd., Fenton 810.208.7297 Gillie’s Coney Island G-6524 N. Dort Hwy., Mt Morris 810.686.1200 810.629.8882 810.750.9463

810.750.0507

Big Apple Bagels 9434 Lapeer Rd., Davison 8185 Holly Rd., Grand Blanc

810.653.9966 810.695.6063

Brick Street of Grand Blanc 1223 E. Grand Blanc Rd.

810.603.2114

Cork on Saginaw 635 Saginaw St., Flint

810.422.9625

BRICK STREET OF GRAND BLANC

FRANK’S HOPPY BISTRO

32

P ROMOT I ONAL

FENTON WINERY & BREWERY

Jersey Mike’s Subs 3409 Owen Rd., Fenton 5011 Miller Rd., Flint 1048 E. Hill Rd., Grand Blanc Mega Classic Diner 4462 Corunna Rd., Flint Twp

810.208.7281 810.820.6286 810.407.6018

810.732.9700

Open 24 hours

The Laundry 125 W. Shiawassee Ave., Fenton 810.629.8852 Timothy’s Pub 2890 Robert T. Longway, Flint 810.239.0972

MYWEDDING

34

A fter 2022’s wedding surge, the estimate for 2023 is down just a bit – only 2.24 million couples are expected to tie the knot this year.That’s a whole lot of “I Dos!” Weddings are a big business and there’s no shortage of industry experts who weigh in on what’s popular for everything from the venue to wedding attire to food for the reception – and all the de tails in between.These annual forecasts can certainly generate ideas and inspo. Here is a sampling of trends and tips from local experts for planning the wedding and beyond, including ways to make your celebration memorable …and how to make your marriage last! Cheers! T0 Forever Wedding Inspiration ‘23

38 42 43 44 46 47 48 52 56 58

Trends …Or New Traditions?

Gaines Jewelry: You Dream It,We Create It

Perfection inMotion by Tracy’s Creations

WhichWay to Say“I Do” is Right for You?

MicroWedding =More Time for Love!

Wedding Bands: Personality is Priority

Make Your ReceptionMemorable!

Celebration Do’s &Don’ts

Buying Your First Home: Tips for Success

A BurningQuestion: Local Couples Share Advice

35

MYWEDDING

Trends ... or New Traditions? BY SHERRON BARDEN W hen planning their weddings, many couples feel they have to do things a certain way because it ’s just the way you’re “supposed to” do it! While “classic” can be a great go-to (it ’s classic for a reason, right?) it ’s become much more “okay” to step outside the box and let your personalities guide the vibe of your Big Day. Celebrate in your own way – it ’s about YOU! Congratulations … And off we go! GOWNS The 2023 brides seem to be choosing between two styles: timeless and daring. Both offer the opportunity to make a mem orable statement on their most special day. A wedding dress doesn’t need to be a ball gown to make an impact. Trends indicate a shift toward simpler, barer silhouettes, sheer fabrics, relaxed shapes and ball gown styles in heavy, plain satins without over-embellishment. Also gaining popularity are royalty-inspired mock neck silhouettes and heirloom separates – two-piece looks that make a bold statement. A. Pastels Brides are expanding their horizons to an array of soft pastels. Blue is the new pink! B. Sheer Fabrics Bold and barely there designs create drama.

A

B

/ stock.adobe.com

Wedding photography / g l2007 / kharchenkoirina / VASHstudio / sonyachny / ann / stock.adobe.com

C

These looks also incorporate the sheer fabric trend:

E

D

38

C. Elaborate Ballgowns For brides looking to feel like the belle of their ball! D. High-Slit Skirts Sleek silhouettes for bolder brides. E. Shorter Veils Create a starlet vibe – think Audrey Hepburn and Ariana Grande. F. Gloves Adding a sense of soft romance that can modernize any look. G. The CuratedWeddingWardrobe The idea is to assemble several white outfits and accessories that will take the bride through every wedding event, both pre- and post.The current trend is to include an after-party mini dress in the collection. THE BRIDESMAIDS Topping the list of colors for 2023 is green, such as emerald, paired with blush pink, light blue and silver. Neutral-colors are trending (champagne, ivory, white) in bridesmaid dresses, as well as luxe fabrics like silk, satin and velvet. And “mismatched” styles – whether it’s color or silhouette – are perfect for allowing individuality among the attendants. THE GROOM It’s about simplicity – grooms choosing simpler and lighter outfits rather than the full-out tux. Most opt for traditional styles in shades of black, navy or dark gray for formal or fall/ winter weddings, and lighter shades of blue or tan for casual or spring/summer. Monochrome beige and brown are popular, as well. Rather than white, fresh colors and nature-driven palettes make a statement and look great in photos, too! ß

F

G

mulugeta wolde / joeyy lee / mrezababaei photography / taylor gray / unsplash.com

39

MYWEDDING

CAKES &MORE While minimalist (“naked”) wedding cakes and alternatives such as cupcakes are still popular, traditional multi-tiered, ex tra-grand cakes are back.The trend features fancy piping details and custom crests, spun sugar threads, structural swirls, sugar flowers and butterflies, and vintage-inspired Lambeth-style pip ing. Also popular: lace fondant patterns, bow accents and ruffled buttercreams that create a wedding gown look. H. Dessert Tables Mini-desserts are still a very popular option, offering variety and a beautiful addition to the reception space décor. I. Champagne Tower This classic celebration functions as both décor and enter tainment! Recalling an era of glamor and opulence, it makes for great photos. Some couples have the tower displayed and ready when guests arrive at the reception, others pour it after the toasts, dinner or cake-cutting ceremony. FLOWERS This year’s top choices will include unique flowers, single va rieties used en masse and lots of locally-grown, seasonal flowers. Blooms that are in season are at their peak of beauty and also more sustainable. J. Pops of Color & Succulents This bouquet takes a cue from the 2023 Pantone® Color of the Year: Viva Magenta. K. Dramatic Arches Flower arches and backdrops create a focal point at the cere mony, and also enhance reception décor as a frame for a dessert table or a beautiful photo booth backdrop. L. Petite Bouquets Why not? They’re easier to handle and dance with, and they don’t hide your face or your dress in photos! M. Flowers in Her Hair No, not a flower crown … soft braids featuring delicate florals are the perfect little detail.

H

oksana_bondar / alipko / shunevich / Tatiana Morozova / Samuel / BlueOrange Studio / stock.adobe.com vitor monthay / unsplash.com

J

I

K

M

XX

L

THE HONEYMOONERS The resurgence of weddings has given the travel industry a major reprieve! Experts say couples want to take longer trips that combine multiple destinations. Here are a few more honeymoon trends: Put It On Pause Rather than jetting off right after the reception, many cou ples are taking some much-needed “downtime” after the wed ding excitement, especially if they are planning a more complex itinerary and longer stay in their destinations. Luxury & Bucket List Trips While sipping cocktails on an island is still a perfectly lovely honeymoon, travel experts report that newlyweds are planning once-in-a-lifetime, experience-based honeymoon trips to histor ical locales in Europe, Asia and Africa. Honeymoon Funds It is reported that many newlyweds are opting for a honey moon fund rather than a traditional registry, in terms of wedding gifts. Rather than buy you a blender, your friends and family are helping you take your dream trip …how great is that? W hether you keep it traditional or take inspiration from the trends, your wedding day can be whatever you want it to be. Making personalized and inten tional choices will create an experience as meaningful as your commitment to each other. u 41

MYWEDDING

You Dream It,We Create It BY R. DAVID GAINES, GG, PRESIDENT AND OWNER, GAINES JEWELRY

W hat aspect of our lives today has not been impacted by recent advances in technology? It has changed the way we are entertained, the way we communicate, the way we live our lives.The world of custom jewelry design is no different. Until fairly recently, custom jewelry design was a segment of the industry shrouded in anxiety and mystery. Many times, the anxiety rested in the fact that the customer wouldn’t have a clear vision of the look and feel of the completed piece until all the work, and therefore expense, was finished. Until recent years, a jewelry craftsman would hand-carve a wax model of a design for the customer to approve. If that wax model need ed significant alteration, it required the craftsman to start all over with a new model.The process was time-consuming and therefore, expensive. It also created a certain veil of mystery and apprehension, as a customer wouldn’t want to pay for a custom piece they ended up not liking. It was equally unnerving for the jeweler who could possibly end up with either an unhappy cus tomer, or a piece of jewelry that was made to someone’s liking, only to have them not accept it. Enter CAD/CAM technology! (Cue the “Indiana Jones” music.) Today, virtually all of these past pitfalls are gone. Now, pieces are completely designed using the latest in computer modeling before any wax model is created. Whether a customer

is working with our artist to sketch their dream piece, or they bring in an image on their phone that they or their loved one has seen, making their vision come true is a snap! Once the initial rendering is completed, any adjustments to custom pieces are quick, easy and inexpensive with just a few keystrokes or swipes of a computer mouse. With each adjustment by the customer, we create full-color renderings of the prospective design from virtu ally all angles. Want to see the design with a round center stone? Square center? Click, click, click …no problem! Once the design is tweaked to perfection, no hand-carving of wax is required. Our wax models are now 3D-printed, giving the customer an exact replica of their design. Sometimes, things look different on the computer than they do in person – ask anyone using a dating app! Again, there is no mystery in today’s custom jewelry world.The 3D wax model allows the customer to hold the piece, feel its thickness, see how it looks on their hand, etc. Once approved, the wax is cast into metal and stones are set by our stone-setters. If you can dream it, it can be created …and within your budget. Today’s jewelry customers want their items to be uniquely “them.” Choice is king today. With the latest technology, jewelry can express their unique taste and lifestyle, many times for less investment than designer “off-the-rack” pieces. It’s an exciting time to be in the jewelry industry! u

Deena Englard / Unsplash.com

42

Creating Perfection PROVIDED BY TRACY’S CREATIONS CUSTOM SPECIALTY ALTERATIONS W hen it comes to wedding dresses, perfection is in the details …and Tracy’s Creations Custom Specialty Alterations is here for you and your wedding party to combine those details into the perfect looks for your Big Day! With her 40+ years of experience in apparel design and sewing, there are very few challenges Tracy Nuttle hasn’t mas tered in her desire to create beauty and “perfection in motion!” “Yes, it is about ‘getting the right look,’ but ‘the look’ must function and be easy to wear and manage through out the entire wedding day,” Tracy explains. “Final/dress rehearsal day is the most important of all the fittings, because we invite the wedding party to be present to learn all the best practices for ‘attending their bride’ making everything smooth and in flow … basically, perfect!” A single-gal operation,Tracy’s Creations works with a limited number of clients, so scheduling early is highly recom mended.Typically, gown alteration work should begin four to five months before the wear date. Considering wearing Mom’s dress? Tracy can customize the fit to the bride’s unique shape and personalize the style to reflect current trends. Rather than custom-building formal garments, Tracy has specialized in alterations. “I simply don’t have enough time to start from scratch,” she explains. “I can assist more clients if their dresses are nearly right and I focus my skills on making them perfect!” It is very rare to have a gown fit the bride perfectly direct from the manufacturer, she adds. “You get it close and I will do the rest!” Located in downtown Fenton, Tracy’s Creations serves brides from the area and all over the country with home town friendly appeal and expert attention to detail. For more information, visit tracyscreations.biz u

43