My City January 2023

MYLOOKBACK

October Continued ...

NOVEMBER

Flint's First Lady of Jazz Gwen Pennyman-Hemphill Gwen Pennyman-Hemphill grew up to live her life on stage, singing all over the state of Michigan both solo and with recording artists such asThe Williams Brothers,The Canton Spiri tuals,Willie Clayton,The Delfonics and others. Her career led to collaborations with Carvin Winans and a backup stint with Michael McDonald. “I’m asked to

sing wherever I go. I always promise just one song, but it always turns into three or four.” If there is a festival, celebration of song, or special occasion in town, you can bet that Pennyman-Hemphill will be there waiting in the wings. “I’ll continue to sing as long as I can,” she states. “It’s something I was called to do.”

Bubbles “The Blind Beagle” MCM Spectacular Pet SearchWinner

While all MCM Pet Search Nominees were stellar in their own right, MCM chose to share the story of Bub bles and his special mission. Bubbles “The Blind Beagle” Dinsmoore of Otisville was born with genetic defects which caused him to lose his eyes last summer …but he didn't let it slow him down! He recovered and has adapted to his disability with the help of his parents Stacie and Brent. He now travels around the state with his Jeep, using his huge personality and charm to advocate for those facing physical challenges. “He may not see the world, but the world sees him shine wherever he goes!” says his mom, Stacie.Through out October – National Bullying Prevention Month – Stacie and Bubbles loaded up his Jeep and rolled up to many area elementary schools to visit with students. “We advocate for those with disabilities and teach children to have empathy and compassion for those who are unlike them.”

More than Boxing FWC Berston Boxing Club

Everything about the gritty, blue-collar basement boxing gym at Berston Field House seems to embody Flint.The atmosphere, aesthetics and attitude found here capture the spirit of the city.This sometimes-sweltering room, awash in purple and yellow, is where the FWC Berston boxing club members gather to practice the sweet science. Every weeknight, trainers Jason Crutchfield and Eugene Gill welcome roughly 15 – from novices to champions. Boxers hone their craft in a ring containing the names of club founders and legendary trainers Floyd Fielder, Lissus Walker and Dee Cavette and on punching bags of various colors, some repaired with tape, hang ing from the ceiling. Here, the equipment is functional, not fancy. "We have every thing we need here to run a quality boxing program,” says Crutchfield, a four-time

Michigan Golden Gloves Champion who is nearing three decades as an FWC instructor. "What keeps me going is that I want to make all the boxers who come to Berston champions, but equally important is helping them stay on the right path in life.”

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