My City May 2022

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, I think this month’s issue is de nitely co ee table-worthy! We have highlighted so many local artists and always appreciate the opportunity to create such beautiful covers with their works. See more from talented watercolor artist Denise Willing-Booher, starting on p.18. e rst features in our magazine are always headed “My Community” and that ’s because the Flint community is abundant with people and organizations with great stories to share. I think they call that job security … In our “7 Questions” spotlight on p.8 is Terry Katzur, who stepped into the role of President/CEO of ELGA Credit Union in February. He started his career with the company in 1996 as a co-op student and is only the third CEO since ELGA was founded in 1951 – impressive! Also pro led is Radio Free Flint, a podcast hosted by my friend Arthur Busch. While he now lives in the Sunshine State, his deep a ection for Flint endures. Check it out on p.10. While there will be many things happening in Flint this spring and summer (see our Can’t Miss List on p.78), we all have to get out of town once in a while. We compiled some interesting and fun (and weird) suggestions for “Day Trips & Destinations” starting on p.32. One thing you can put on your calendar through the spring and summer is watching some top-notch soccer action right here at Atwood Stadium! We highlight the new Flint City AFC women’s soccer team (p.48) – they’ve assembled some young superstars who are ready to entertain Greater Flint and win some games. We have the schedule for the women’s and men’s teams on p.53. Finally, our “History of Flint Mayors” series continues; read about the mayor who was not only the youngest municipal executive ever elected in Flint, but also the man who commissioned the construction of the now iconic Saginaw Street arches in … it’s a great story (p.54). ere’s much more to enjoy in this issue – thanks for reading!

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WR ITER Peter Hinterman

WEB DEVELOPER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Boedecker

STAFF WR ITER Cheryl Denni son

PHOTOGRAPHY Katy Ki ldee

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 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. Že 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 e‘ort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by su“cient ”rst-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.

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

COVER ARTWORK BY DENISE WILLING–BOOHER

On Sunday, May 22 car participants will meet at the Ashley Furniture staging area starting at 8am, where they will receive their printed car placard and then be directed to the Dort Financial Event Center, entering o Lapeer Road. Car clubs will have reserved parking. e amazing MTA Trolley will provide complimentary rides from Ashley Furniture for spectators. Participants will not pay to attend and parking will be FREE for cruisers during the event. Gates to the Dort Financial Event Center will open at 9am, and the cars will be greeted by volunteers who will hand all participants a goodie bag. Cars will enter under the iconic Back to the Bricks arches and be directed to park. Thanks to the “Brought to You By” sponsor, Dort Financial Credit Union, all registered participants will receive a complimentary 2022 Dust ’em Off T-shirt (while supplies last). The event will kick off with a blessing of the cars and “The Star Spangled Banner” will be sung while they honor all veterans. The car show will be officially opened after brief remarks and a HUGE “thank you’’ to all the sponsors, partners, vendors and many, many volunteers who help make the event happen. In addition to the car show, Back to the Bricks will host a swap meet giving car enthusiasts an opportunity to pick up spare parts and unique items. Pre-registered participants will be eligible to win prizes throughout the day. Although this is not a judged event, last year’s response indicates that the

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My Community 8 7 Questions with ... Terry Katzur President & CEO ELGA Credit Union 10 Radio Free Flint

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My Fun 32 Road Trip!

The Voices of Vehicle City My Outreach 14 Flint Mission Network Lifting One Another Up My Arts 18 Denise Willing-Booher Painting to Inspire My Dish 24 Pansy Perfect! By Erin Caudell My Dining 26 Local Eats & Drinks

Day Trips & Destinations My Future 42 Parental Tips for College 44 Bridging the Gap

Refocusing on Skilled Trades My Sports 48 Flint City AFC

Coming Together to Win My History

54 The Mayors of Flint Part 5: A New Century Begins

CONTENTS

May 2022

54

60

32

My Haps 60 Voices for Children Champion Awards Breakfast 62 FIA 15th Annual Community Gala My Reality 66 Thinking of Mothers Around the World

My Finances 72 The Great Bond Bubble Bust By Joel P. LaGore My Thoughts 74 A Mother’s Sacrifice By Cheryl Dennison My Travels 76 No Action Required By Alexandria Nolan 78 My Can’t Miss List My Afterthought 80 Entering Another Dimension

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By Vera Hogan My Musings

68 Lost?

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By Leslie Toldo My Econ 70 Relief from the Reserve? By Dr. Christopher Douglas

MYCOMMUNITY

Terry Katzur 7 Questions with ... President & CEO, ELGA Credit Union

mentors, Rex John son, who had a hand in molding my per sonal philosophy and that of ELGA Credit Union toward serv ing the underserved in our communities. What do you do to keep fit? I try to watch what I eat, but I love food! Žat’s where running ve miles per day becomes im portant. Že tread mill can be brutally boring during the winter, but watching TV helps until the weather breaks and I can get outside to run. 5 What place in the world do you most want to visit? I would like to take a trip across Eu rope visiting historic World War II sites. Žat will probably be something I do after I’m retired. In the near term, I would like to go with my family on a trip out west and experience the beauty and vastness of the 6

Great American West. We’ve taken many trips to di”erent parts of the eastern U.S., yet have spent very little time west of the Mississippi. Before venturing out of the country, there’s still so much to experience right here at home. What’s one work related thing you want to accomplish in the next year? It’s hard to pick just one because I have big goals! How ever, none of our goals can be accomplished without the amazing team at ELGA CU. With happy, fullled associates working together, we can ac complish any goal. To that end, we are working on imple menting robotic process automation throughout our busi ness to assist associates in their work. Nothing makes me happier at work than creating opportunities for our associates to grow and thrive along with the credit union. ® 7

try. Finding some thing to stay active in winter would be an added plus. My wife and I might take up cross-country skiing instead of risking life and limb on the slopes. Who is your hero? I’ve had a series of heroes throughout my life. Among them are my father for his patience, kindness and sel‰essness; my high school history teacher Mr. Fisher for igniting a passion in me for learning and history; my MCC accounting profes sor Mr. Lougheed for never accepting less than what I was capable of; and one of my professional 4

which helped pass the time. It’s important to have fun at work and that’s a view I still hold to this day for myself and my team at ELGA Credit Union. Are you an early bird or a night owl? Let’s just say that I see a lot more sunsets than sunrises. I am not necessarily a night owl, but getting up before the sun doesn’t come easily for me. What is something new you’d like to learn to do? Most of my hob bies are warm weather activities, so snow ski ing has always seemed like it would be fun to 2 3

COMPILED BY SHERRON BARDEN PHOTO COURTESY OF POP MOD PHOTOGRAPHY

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What was your very first job? Aside from the usual “kid jobs” of shoveling driveways and mowing lawns in my neighborhood at a very young age, I got my rst job when I was 14 years old. I sorted bottles and cans, bagged groceries and retrieved shop ping carts from the parking lot at Double D Supermarket, which was located in Flint near the corner of Pierson and Jennings Roads. It was a great job for a young kid. I made a game out of most of my job duties,

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“Nothing makes me happier at work than creating opportunities for our associates to grow and thrive along with the credit union.”

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Radio Free Flint

THE VOICES OF VEHICLE CITY BY PETER HINTERMAN ® PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ARTHUR BUSCH

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“ My goal is to go in-depth into the subject matter to get people to think or to present issues that have affected and continue to affect the city ”

PODCAST HOST ARTHUR BUSCH

and refocused it toward the city he loved and Radio Free Flint was born. “What started as a hobby turned into a job with deadlines,”he laughs. “I’m releasing it in seasons now just to get a break.” Busch grew up on Flint’s south side and graduated from Flint Southwestern High School in 1972.He then went on to attend Michigan State University where he earned his bachelors and mas ter’s degrees. “I specialized in public policy at James Madison College at MSU,”he adds. “Growing up, I was very interested in city politics and it was a dream of mine to serve on the Flint City Council.”He went on to obtain a law degree from the omas Cooley Law School in Lansing. He immediately returned to Flint and took a job representing UAW 581 and then in 1983, took a position in Mayor Sharpe’s administration.At the age of 37, he was elected Genesee County Prose cutor and in that oƒce handled nearly 700 homicide investigations (including the famous Margarette Eby case).He also successfully argued a case before the United States Supreme Court. 

C lick play and the music begins – a sometimes a little more bluesy or upbeat – it brings you back home. Back to warm days in the sun, walking the bricks of Saginaw Street in the heyday of Flint past. “Hello,”greets the soft voice of the host, “You are listening to Radio Free Flint.anks for joining us.Today,my guest is …”Settle in as the Radio Free Flint podcast rolls on through the past, present and future of Greater Flint. Described as “dedicated to the beleaguered American city of Flint, Michigan and communities like it across America,”Radio Free Flint podcasts began in April 2020 and are hosted by the creator and former Genesee Coun ty Prosecutor,Arthur Busch.O•ering informational discussions, videos and stories, the episodes showcase true crime, life histories and viewpoints of the calming folk melody with a country feel,

people who have participated in the Flint experience – both today and yesterday. It was originally a Sunday morning radio show hosted by Michael Moore with support from the legendary local rock radio pioneer Peter C.Cavanaugh, Busch explains. “e show wanted to give truth to people in the city and that is something I think about.”During the pandemic, Busch found himself stuck in his St. Petersburg, FL retirement home, a hostage of his television set.He watched a news report about a water distribution center on Flint’s east side. “I felt helpless,” he remembers. Flint was going through a public health crisis that still was not suƒciently addressed and Busch wanted to help. “In Flint, I was very involved with civic life, even chairman of the Public Works Committee; but now I’mmore of an outside observer,”he states.When a friend from South Carolina †oated the idea of doing a podcast about baby boomers in society, Busch took the idea

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emerged in the heads of anyone from Flint including the suburbs.”During conversations with his guests, he has found that being a “Flintstone”can mean something a little di’erent for everyone.Commonly, the term refers to the resilience and toughness attribut ed to the city and its citizens.Nearly everyone who has come fromGreater Flint has taken pride in being able to wear the Flintstone label, especially those who have left – such as Joe Ryan III,Terry Crews, Kyle Kuzma, Glen Rice and many others from all walks of life and professions. It’s also about giving back and staying true to your roots. For the older or “golden”generation, aka “boomers” it means even more. “It’s about the memories,” Busch explains. “It’s about remembering all of the best of Flint and sharing in that memory. Safetyville and the old IMA come to mind.” Busch only visits Flint now from time to time but the love for his old stomping grounds shines through during each and ev ery podcast episode, whether he is uncovering a secret, reminiscing with a friend, or looking for a solution to the many problems Flint fac es.His conversations and research have given him a unique viewpoint on the city’s future. “I think the best way forward for Flint is for the people to come together and work collectively on making their corners and neighborhoods better,”he advises. “Put a light in their corner. Še city needs to also forget about what Flint isn’t and realize what Flint IS.Change the philosophy and truly determine the size the city needs to be.” Arthur Busch has always put his heart and soul into the City of Flint and now, from afar, he continues to do so through heartwarming and informative stories and interviews on Radio Free Flint. “It’s my gift to the city,”he states with a smile. To enjoy more than 80 (and counting) interesting podcasts about Flint and its in habitants, visit radiofree‡int.media or visit the Radio Free Flint Facebook page. ®

BUSCH GREW UP IN FLINT AND HAD A LONG, SUCCESSFUL CAREER AS GENESEE COUNTY PROSECUTOR. HE HAS ALSO SERVED ON THE BOARD OF MANY COMMISSIONS, AGENCIES AND NON PROFITS IN GREATER FLINT.

D uring his time in Flint, he served as Flint Township Commissioner,Chairman of the Board of Jobs Central, Inc., and Chair man of the PublicWorks Committee.He was also a board member of the Genesee County Parks & Recreation Commission, Genesee County Planning Commission, VAAA, and Urban League of Greater Flint. “One of the things I ammost proud of is that I put together the Bishop Airport Authority that helped make today’s airport a reality. I can’t help but smile every time I ‡y back to Flint,”he adds.With all of his experience in Flint, he has amassed a large rolodex of people he invites to be on his podcast including musicians, athletes, writers, lawyers and government professionals who speak on a wide array of topics. “On one of my most listened to casts,”he shares, “I had a young musician from Flint named Joe Ryan III who wrote a song about the water crisis with his grandmother who still lives in Flint.Šat one went viral.”Other Radio Free Flint podcasts focus on Flint’s history, culture, current events and institu tions. Past guests include Flint’s Poet Lau reate Semaj Brown, hockey’s Rico Phillips,

Judge Duncan Beagle, Rev. Robert McCath ern, author Connor Coyne and many others. “My goal is to go in-depth into the subject matter to get people to think or to present issues that have a’ected and continue to a’ect the city,”he explains. “I also found out that listeners are tired of con‡ict.Most of them want something to make them feel better and I include some of that as well, by focusing on history.”Not all podcasts are bright and sunny, however. Busch is not afraid to bare the truth about the circumstanc es concerning Flint. “I spoke to an expert on deindustrialization fromNuremberg, Germany and some of what he had to say was alarming,”he says. “It really made me question whether Flint can make it in its current form.”Sometimes others don’t like to learn what he has found. “I did an episode on Buick City and it got the attention of GM,” Busch laughs. “I couldn’t believe they took the time for the podcast.” Busch is always surprised, encouraged and sometimes shocked by what his guests have to say and by what he uncovers during his research. “I’ve really learned a lot,”he states. “My biggest surprise has been the whole ‘Flintstones’ thing – this collective identity has

Atomazul / stock.adobe.com Zoran Milic / stock.adobe.com

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MYOUTREACH

BY CHERYL DENNISON ® PHOTOS PROVIDED BY FLINT MISSION NETWORK

A

group of like-minded Christians, the Flint Mission Network operates with the goal of enacting systemic

St. Louis, MO Jones received a Master’s Degree in Divinity before answering the call to the Franklin Avenue Mission. Pastor Bradley Yops was the founder and former director of the Franklin Avenue Mission but he retired, which led to the establish ment of York Avenue Mission and the Flint Mission Network in 2021. “ is is an incredible gathering of many Christians from Genesee county and beyond who desire to see our commu nity overcome systemic poverty,” Reverend Jones states. “Whether it is providing food and water for our neighbors strug gling with homelessness, caring for those su€ering from drug use or sex-tra—cking or helping to train, educate and prepare community members for employment, we are surrounded by volunteers eager to commit their time and resources to love and serve their neighbors.” Located on Flint’s east side, Franklin Ave nue Mission is the Network’s primary facility.

e newest ministry is York Avenue Mission, located on the city’s north end. e partner ministries are Mercy House and Luke Clinic. Wellspring Lutheran Services works with Mercy House to provide transitional housing for homeless mothers and children, and the Luke Clinic provides high-quality medical care for expectant mothers and newborns. e Network’s mission is accomplished through a variety of programs including a dinner program, a skill-development program and a food pantry located at the York Avenue Mission, Sieman reports. Reverend Jones o€ers a service on Sun days at 4pm. According to the assistant director, Flint Mission Network is open to anyone in the Flint area. “I have always had a passion for helping those in need,” Siemen shares. She attend ed Concordia University in Ann Arbor and graduated with a degree in family life ministry, with a focus on helping fami lies. Fresh out of college, she worked for 

change within the community. eir mis sion: “Proclaiming the Gospel, empowering neighbors, and lifting one another up.” And according to Assistant Director Rachel Siemen, this is accomplished by o€er ing compassionate care, skill-developing programs and Gospel-centered teaching. e Network is comprised of two missions: Franklin Avenue Mission, York Mission and partner ministries Mercy House and the Luke Clinic. “Flint Mission Network is fairly new,” Siemen reports. “It’s been going great!” she exclaims. “It’s crazy how fast we have grown and how much support we are getting.” Overseeing the entire operation is Executive Director, Reverend Christian Jones, along with a board of directors. A 2019 graduate of Concordia Seminary in

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MORE THAN 250 VOLUNTEERS FROM AREA CHURCHES HELP PROVIDE HOT MEALS AND OTHER ESSENTIAL SERVICES. LUKE CLINIC IS A PARTNER MINISTRY THAT PROVIDES MEDICAL CARE TO EXPECTANT MOTHERS AND NEWBORNS.

“Our mission of proclaiming the Gospel, empowering neighbors and li�ting one another up reflects our drive to meet the physical, emotional, economic and spiritual needs of our community.”

REVEREND CHRISTIAN JONES

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“There is so much good in Flint – so much good!”

a church in Utica, MI that o ered community outreach with meals for the homeless. “I got my feet wet there,” she says with a smile. Before his retirement in 2019, Pastor Yops invited her to join the team, where her main focus is on - nance, grant-writing and program development. “We are always trying to identify the needs in the community,” she ex plains, “and to ll those needs with services. We nd the gaps and combine our resources to create programs.” One particular need that was identi ed in the Flint area was job skill training. “We are still in the beginning phase of addressing that need,” she says. “We hope to o er more training programs such as kitchen manage ment and landscaping.” A small team helps keep the Flint Mis sion Network running smoothly, along with more than 250 volunteers from area churches. “We are so blessed to have so many people who want to

RACHEL SIEMEN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

help!” Siemen exclaims. “Churches are our biggest supporters.” On Tuesdays and ‘ursdays, volunteers provide approximately 100 hot meals at the Franklin Avenue Mission – cooking, serving and cleaning up afterward. ‘ere are some volun teers who just sit and talk with the attendees, Siemen shares. “A lot of what they do is to focus on building relationships. People come just for the social aspect.‘ey feel welcome and enjoy hav ing dinner together.” ‘e Flint Mission Network is also looking toward the future and will continue to grow. “We are always trying to nd more ways to help, to ll those gaps,” says Siemen. One service they hope to provide is a

place for people to wash their clothes. “Laundro mats are far away for many people. We are working to create a laun dry facility at the Frank lin Avenue Mission.” Another unmet need is a ordable child care. ‘e Network also hopes to o er an early childhood center next year, which will be located at the Franklin Avenue Mission. “We have such an amazing team,” Siemen shares, “and we o er the best services we can.” Before coming to Flint, she had heard about its struggles. “After living here for a while, I have learned how beautiful the city really is and I have a new appreciation for Flint. It is a beautiful city and I am glad I’m here. ‘ere is so much good in Flint – so much good!” ®

How to Help If you would like to volunteer your services, visit intmissionnetwork.org or call 810.285.9598. Donations can be made online at intmissionnetwork.org/give/ or by mailing a check made out to the ministry you wish to support:

Franklin Avenue Mission 2210 Franklin Ave., Flint MI 48506

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MYARTS

Painting to Inspire eWatercolor Artist

and on a whim decid ed to draw “Dennis the Menace.” “And, I did!” she exclaims. “I amazed myself. I just kept doing it. It is a God-given talent, I believe.” Willing-Booher grew up in Mundy Township and attended Ainsworth High School (now Car man-Ainsworth). “I had a great art teacher there,” she shares, adding that she was also editor of the school’s yearbook. She

took art classes at Mott Community College and attended University of Michigan-Flint. She then transferred to the Uni versity of Michigan-Ann Arbor, graduating from the School of Arts with a Bach elor of Fine Arts degree. When Willing-Booher ‹nished college, it was during the recession and she ended up working as a waitress. Œe artist decided to visit a couple of her friends in New Jersey and took her portfolio with her. She also visited friends in Texas and Chicago, sleeping on their couches and spending days knocking on doors with her portfolio in search of work in her chosen ‹eld. She ‹nally got a job in New York City creating ads for Rolls Royce. 

S he became interested in art at a young age, watching her grandfather and father create art with cut glass and stained glass. “I saw creative work being done,” she remembers. One day, while in elementary school, Willing-Booher was reading the comics BY CHERYL DENNISON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DENISE WILLING-BOOHER

/ stock.adobe.com

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“LILIES REFLECTIONS”

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“I want you to stop and feel the wonder I feel when I see a sunrise. Connect with the soul of the person I have painted. Our lives are so fast-paced. We walk past everything without seeing it. See the unseen. I strive to convey raw beau and emotion in my painting through an up-close perspective with composition and light.” Denise Wiing-Booher

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“SUNSET ON SUPERIOR”

LEFT: “SANDHILL CRANES WITH TWIN COLTS”

BELOW: “COLOR EXPLOSION”

Not enjoying the long daily commute to the city, she worked for three years in New Jersey as a graphic designer and illustrator. “I discovered I was quite mar ketable because I could do design and drawings and illustrations,” she remem bers. She then married her husband Bob Booher, and the couple moved to his hometown of Flint in 1984. Her family owned a busi ness in Flint, the former Willing Glass Company. Willing-Booher then started her own art studio doing a lot of graphic and design work for hospitals and businesses, winning them many awards. “I had a ton of work in Flint,” the artist shares, including the former Flint Osteo pathic Hospital, Genesys and McLaren Hospitals and General Motors, to name just a few. She was asked by the Greater

Flint Art Council to do a solo exhibit about people working in the Flint area. “‹is got me more into Œne arts,” she remembers. Willing-Booher has worked with a variety of mediums but especially enjoys watercolors. “It’s a bit magical,” she shares. “You mix it and never know exactly what you are going to get. I love the uncertainty of it – just letting it work on its own.”

For the last several years, the artist has spent a lot of time painting, teaching and exhibiting her work. A past pres ident of the Michigan Water Color Society, she recently stepped down as president of the National Water Color Society to immediate past presi dent, which was a con siderable undertaking. “I learned a lot in the process,” she admits. 

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D uring her solo exhibits at the Flint Institute of Arts, Great er Flint Arts Council, Flint Public Library and many others. Her work is currently displayed at Cause & A ect Gal lery in Fenton. She has also done two-man and juried exhibitions and commissioned works.‚e artist is currently plan ning and preparing for a solo exhibition next year. career, Will ing-Booher has had

“SUNDOWN”

Willing-Booher loves painting portraits, land scapes and wildlife. She particularly enjoys Plein Air (outdoor) painting. It has been said that Plein Air allows an artist “to capture the emotional and sensory dimensions of a particular landscape at a particular moment in time.” Willing-Booher also teaches classes o ered through Fenton Commu nity Parks & Recreation, Quick Sketch Water Col or and Plein Air classes for kids and adults. “I have

done this for many years,” she adds. “It is so inspira tional to teach kids from age six to Šfteen. I give them the tools and the freedom to feel conŠdent. It is amazing to watch their talent blossom.” Now living with her husband in Fenton, Willing-Booher hopes to continue following her passion. “My goal is to show the beauty and the humanity of the world. I hope my paintings inspire and touch the souls of the people who see them.” ®

WILLING-BOOHER’S WORK IS CURRENTLY DISPLAYED AT CAUSE & AFFECT GALLERY IN FENTON.

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“FROSTY SUNRISE”

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Pans Perfec ! BY ERIN CAUDELL TOMAKE Add sugar and butter to a food pro

A fter such a long winter, we are all looking to enjoy spring owers in every way possible! ‡is includes in corporating the edible varieties into recipes to make them extra special. Pansies are a traditional edible ow er and their lovely faces are so spring like. Many other varieties are available to explore, as well. Culinary herbs have edible owers – such as lavender, oregano, chamomile, borage or any member of the onion family, including chives. Some of my favorites to use in salads are daylilies, squash blossoms, nasturtiums and calendula.‡rough out the season, you may ‹nd some surprises blooming in your backyard that you never knew you could eat! One fun way of using edible owers is to decorate these perfectly sweet cookies for a special occasion. ‡e basic recipe below is a great start for inspiring creativity – you can also add a little lemon zest and/or laven

cessor and pulse to combine. Scrape the bowl down and add our and vanilla ex tract while mixing on low, then pulse until the dough comes together in clumps. Flour a surface and gently push the dough into a smooth, at disc. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrig erate it for at least an hour. While the dough is chilling, remove pansy stems and place the blossoms face down on parchment paper. Cover them with another piece of parchment paper, then place a cookie sheet ( at side) on top of them with a couple of books for weight (to gently atten the blossoms). Preheat the oven to 325°F. Roll out the dough to ¼ inch thickness and cut rounds with a cookie cutter (or small glass). Place rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 7-8 minutes.‡ey will not be brown, but pale and soft, just starting to change color on the bottom when ready to take out of the oven. Gently press pansy blossoms into the hot cookies; the heat will adhere them to the cookies. Sprinkle with granulated sugar.‡ey will ‹rm up as they cool. ® Enjo !

Iryna Melnyk / stock.adobe.com

tanyapelyustka / stock.adobe.com

der paste for extra avor. Shortbrea Cookies INGREDIENTS • 2 sticks unsalted butter at room temperature • ½ cup granulated sugar + 2 tsp for sprinkling • 2 cups all purpose our • 1 Tbsp vanilla extract • Fresh pansy blossoms

Erin Caudell is co-owner of

The Local Grocer, a horticulturalist, herbalist and farmer.

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Local Eats & Drinks

Andiamo 102 W. Silver Lake Rd., Fenton Big Apple Bagels 9434 Lapeer Rd., Davison 8185 Holly Rd., Grand Blanc

ANDIAMO

810.354.8446

810.653.9966 810.695.6063

Brick Street of Grand Blanc 1223 E. Grand Blanc Rd. Ciao Italian Bistro & Wine Bar 110 S. Leroy St., Fenton

810.603.2114

BRICK STREET OF GRAND BLANC

810.354.8555

Cork on Saginaw 635 Saginaw St., Flint

Floyd’s Bar & Grill inside the Captain’s Club at Wood eld 10200 Wood eld Dr., Grand Blanc 810.695.5555 X 102 Frank’s Hoppy Bistro 3235 W. ompson Rd., Fenton Gillie’s Coney Island G-6524 N. Dort Hwy., Mt Morris

810.422.9625

Coyote Preserve Golf Club 9218 Preserve Dr., Fenton Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grill 302 N. Leroy St., Fenton Fenton Winery & Brewery 1370 N. Long Lake Rd., Fenton

810.714.3206

810.208.7297

810.750.9463

810.686.1200

810.373.4194

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P ROMOT I ONAL

Jersey Mike’s Subs 3409 Owen Rd., Fenton 5011 Miller Rd., Flint 1048 E. Hill Rd., Grand Blanc The Corner Bar & Grill 4015 Owen Rd., Fenton The Laundry 125 W. Shiawassee Ave., Fenton Timothy’s Pub 2890 Robert T. Longway, Flint

810.208.7281 810.820.6286 810.407.6018

CIAO ITALIAN BISTRO & WINE BAR

810.354.8808

810.629.8852

810.239.0972

CORK ON SAGINAW

MAY 30 MEMORIALDAY

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Decoration Day Sleep, comrades, sleep and rest On this Field of the Grounded Arms, Where foes no more molest, Nor sentry’s shot alarms! Ye have slept on the ground before, And started to your feet

At the cannon’s sudden roar, Or the drum’s redoubling beat. But in this camp of Death No sound your slumber breaks; Here is no fevered breath, No wound that bleeds and aches. All is repose and peace, Untrampled lies the sod; The shouts of battle cease, It is the Truce of God! Rest, comrades, rest and sleep! The thoughts of men shall be As sentinels to keep Your rest from danger free. Your silent tents of green We deck with fragrant flowers Yours has the suffering been, The memory shall be ours.

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-- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

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Day Trips & Destinations Travelin’ Through the Great Lakes State BY PETER HINTERMAN

Warm weather has settled in and it’s time to hit the road with the fam! Michigan is home to a great variety of destinations for any interest and there are many out there that most people have never visited or even knew existed. We have gathered a list of day trip (or weekend) suggestions that are sure to encourage some fun photo ops and memories. Hold onto your hats ... adventure awaits!

deniskrivoy / stock.adobe.com

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Art If you are a lover of the fine arts (maybe a frequent visitor to our own FIA?), you might consider exploring these galleries. Detroit Institute of Arts is facility is a must-visit for anyone who loves art. Located an hour away in Downtown Detroit, the DIA features one of the country’s largest art collections. Current and future exhibitions include “Women Artists in Italy 1500-1800,” “Detroit Style: Car Design,” “Van Gogh in America” and others. Combine a DIA visit with a Tiger’s baseball game and experience Detroit for a weekend. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Take two hours and drive to Kalamazoo and view a collection of over 5,000 Šne art works. Current and future exhibitions include “Linling Lu: Musical Meditations,” “Colors! Shapes! Patterns!” and the West Michigan Art Show. Traveling exhibits featured are “Boo: Images of the Macabre” and “American Perspectives on Modernism” among others. Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum Located on the campus of Saginaw Valley State University, the MMF Sculpture Museum sits less than an hour north of Flint. Entry is free to view the nearly 200 sculptures created by Marshall M. Fredericks as well as rotating exhibitions of works by artists from around the world. Cranbrook Art Museum Located in BloomŠeld Hills, this museum features works highlighting culture, architecture and design. Summer exhibitions include the sports art of Tyrrell Winston, a selection from Flint’s own Mott-Warsh Collection, and “Made a Universe” – a short Šlm and exhibition created by Flint’s own Tunde Olaniran! 

ANN ARBOR HANDS-ON MUSEUM

YANKEE AIR MUSEUM

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MYFUN Grand Rapids Art Museum

Less than two hours away in the heart of Grand Rapids, the GRAM o ers an impressive 20,000 square feet of gallery and exhibition space featuring the upcoming exhibits of “American Impressionism 1870-1940,” “„e Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler Collection” and “„e Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited.” Learning & Discovery Got a bored kid or two? Besides our own great Flint Children’s Museum, there are more facilities throughout the state dedicated to encouraging childhood discovery. So, pack ‘em up and head on out to enjoy a day of wonder and memories. Impression 5 Science Center Located in nearby Lansing, this facility features multiple hands-on science exhibits in the areas of nuclear physics, water ‘ow, the color spectrum, nano-particles, bubbles, nature and construction.„is summer, the science center will feature an animal and ecosystem exhibit by the Wild Kratts®. Raven Hill Discovery Center A little farther away (just south of Boyne City in East Jordan), hands on science, history and art for the entire family awaits! Activities include instruction on the subjects of chemical science, earth/space science, life science, physical science, process skills, history and the arts. Raven Hill also boasts fun outdoor exhibits such as the “Ancient World’’ and “Jurassic Park.” Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum A želd trip favorite, this museum o ers a little bit of just about everything. Kids will be wowed for hours in the Steam Park, Legacy Gallery, Preschool Gallery, the “All About You” exhibit and „eater of Design. For a special day, you can reserve a birthday party for your little tyke and their friends. 

RAVEN HILL DISCOVERY CENTER

IMPRESSION 5 SCIENCE CENTER

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MYFUN

Curious Kids Museum/Discovery Zone Perfect for a weekend stay or vacation visit, this facility is located in beautiful St. Joseph, just o‚ the shore of Lake Michigan. e museum o‚ers two oors of fun with exhibits focused on space, geography, speed, construction, sound and machines. Cross the street and check out e Discovery Zone, where even more exhibits include a wave table, water power tower, climbing tower, toddler beach and “Dream with Da Vinci.” Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Another great wonder institution, the GRCM o‚ers two oors full of science and adventure. Exhibits cover a wide range of subjects such as music, wee discovery, rescue, bubbles, LEGO, trains, bees, park rangers and the “Spin Zone.” Transportation Michigan is all about the automobile, and Vehicle City is home to more than a few aficionados. If planes, trains and automobiles are kind of your thing, here’s a few spots around the state you may enjoy. Located just outside of Battle Creek in Hickory Corners, this museum o‚ers visitors the history of sports cars, muscle cars, motorcycles, toy cars, pedal cars and automotive mascots with cruises every Wednesday and special events through the summer. Automobile Hall of Fame Drive approximately an hour south of Flint to Dearborn and explore a facility honoring more than 800 individuals and institutions that have contributed to the history of the automobile. is attraction is for the biggest of gearheads and presents the most in-depth history of the development of the automobile directly from the minds that imagined it. Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum e YAHM highlights the stories of the cars related to the history of Ypsilanti. e stories are unique and include the Chevrolet Corvair, Tucker, Hudson, Kaiser-Frazer and General Motors Hydra-matic. e prize jewel of the collection is a 1952 Hudson Hornet owned by NASCAR Champion, Herb omas. Gilmore Car Museum / Classic Car Club Museum

GRAND RAPIDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

FLIGHT DISCOVERY CENTER/AIR ZOO

Flight Discovery Center/Air Zoo e Air Zoo in Kalamazoo is a ight fanatic’s dream! It features exhibits on space travel, planes of WWII, ight simulators (including astronaut), the Golden Age of Flight, from Vietnam to the jet age and over 40 di‚erent aircraft to examine. In September, the facility will open cockpits of most aircraft and allow visitors a seat at the controls! Yankee Air Museum About an hour away in Belleville, this Smithsonian-aŠliated aviation museum displays rare historical aircraft. Make sure to visit the Vietnam, WWI, WWII and naval pilot exhibits. Take a ride on one of Žve historical aircraft or plan to enjoy fantastic airshows in July! 

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MYFUN

THE IRON MINE TOUR

Weird Up North Heading up a little farther north for a family vay-cay? The tip of the mitten and U.P. are home to some seriously cool (but odd) little attractions. If you want something different, why not give these a try? The Iron Mine Tour Located approximately nine miles east of Iron Mountain sits the East Vulcan Iron Mine. Hop aboard the train and take a trip through a lighted tunnel and then stroll through ancient rock and ore formations with help from a skilled guide. Find yourself 400 feet underground and experience what it took to make a tough living in the old days! Mental Hospital Tour In Traverse City stands the remnants of the famous Northern Michigan Asylum on the former Traverse City State Hospital grounds. Some of the grounds have been converted to a mall but many of the old structures are still open for tours including the basement and steam tunnel. Enjoy a spookier adventure? Take a „ashlight tour. Tour a Great Lakes Freighter In Sault Ste. Marie, history bu†s can tour the SS Valley Camp as it „oats on St. Marys River. Take a walk on the deck and then visit the cargo hold to view over 100 maritime exhibits. Attractions include the crew quarters, aquarium, and an Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial displaying the two lifeboats from the vessel! Wacky Taxidermy and Miniatures Museum We’ll bet you didn’t know that Mackinaw City o†ers some of the strangest things you will ever see, including Doctor Frankensquirrel, a guinea pig Barefoot, astronaut mice, a furry trout, the famous Fiji Mermaid and more (a “re-breathing iguana?) .... it’s the epitome of weird! Call of the Wild Museum Located in Gaylord since 1965, this northern Michigan attraction o†ers 150 woodland creatures stu†ed and positioned in their natural habitats. Take a walk with the family and see how many you can identify. After that, why not ride the go-karts or challenge yourself with mini-golf right next door. Worth a visit? We think so! Reach your destination safely ... and enjoy! ®

/ stock.adobe.com

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MYFUTURE

Getting Them Started: Parental Tips for College BY PETER HINTERMAN T hey grow up so fast. One day they are taking their first wobbly, little steps and before you can even blink, they are heading out the door to start their own life. As your child grows, matures and begins to think about who they are, who they want to be and what they want to do with their life, it is a parent’s duty to help guide them through and that in cludes creating a plan for life beyond high school – wheth er that means attending college, beginning a trade career, or taking time off to backpack through Europe. As your child ages, it is up to you to plant the seeds to get them thinking about the next steps in their life. What will that be? If your student has expressed interest in a profession that requires a college degree, then helping them plan for it is one of the best ways to set them up for success.

There’s a lot of uncertainty out in the occupational world and confronting the future can be a daunting task. What is a new graduate to do? As seniors leave the halls of high school for the last time, their path towards a productive professional life can be stressful. There are a lot of heavy, important decisions to make and a lot to learn about life on their own. Having a clear-cut plan to a future they can be proud of can help inspire the confidence needed to successfully meet the chal lenges ahead. In this section, MCM offers some tips and alternatives for students and parents to consider as each young adult takes their first steps toward their futures. TAKING THE NEXT STEP

Andrei / stock.adobe.com

seeds, encouragement and support – never force. 2. Teach finances. As your child pro ceeds through their high school experience, they may begin job hunting, paying car insurance, and more. Teach them scal responsibility so that they understand how to save and how to spend when they are away. Teach them how to responsibly use a credit or debit card and the problems irresponsibility can create.

Here’s a few tips to guide you toward your child’s collegiate success: 1. Start early. e best time to plant the seeds for your child’s future is when they rst enter high school. It ’s a great time to discuss extracurricular activities and how they can be important when apply ing to colleges. Most public schools have a plethora of clubs and societies that can help spruce up a resume. Re member: it ’s about planting

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3. Teach goal attain ment. If they are interested in getting a head start on college, help them enroll in AP classes or early programs that are offered. Work with them on gain ing the correct amount of high school credits and how to plan ahead. For financial goals, help them apply for scholarships and other funding that they may need. Help them to plan for and meet applica tion and testing deadlines. 4. Have the “college talk.” Many feel that this is the hardest thing to do; but when they are ready to go, make sure

PARENT DON’TS

you address the topics of drugs, alcohol, sex and how to be responsible when deal ing with all three. ey will see, hear about and be ex posed to all three when they are on their own – pretend ing they will not is foolish. is may be your last chance to assure them that you will be there for them if needed. 5. Guide them through the process, then let them go. Help them choose a school, get them enrolled, move them into their new surroundings and support them.ey are adults, let them handle it from here. However, it’s okay to call them every week (every day, not-so-much).

We all want what’s best for our children, but going too far can do more harm than good. 1. Don’t ƒll out your child’s applications, write their resume or essays. By all means take a look and edit, but don’t take over.ey need to learn. 2. Don’t choose their college or course of study for them. If they don’t want to go to your alma mater, let it be. Help them choose a place and profession that is best for them. 3. Don’t dissuade from an interest. If your child wants to work in a profession you don’t under stand or undervalue, never guilt them into choos ing something else; instead, work to learn about their interest and help them pursue it. 4. Don’t be a helicopter parent. Your role is now to support. It is inevitable that they will make mistakes; when it happens, help them to learn from and grow through it. Let them live their life! ®

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Dened as an occupation that requires a particular skill set, knowledge, or ability, ex amples of today’s skilled trade professions include: carpenter, electrician, plumber, mason, farmer, painter, train operator, aircraft maintenance, licensed practical nurse (LPN), respi ratory therapist, landscaper, chef, welder and machinist, among others. Most experts pinpoint the decline of skilled trade professionals to take place during the early 2000s and cite four reasons why.

any other viable alternative being presented to them. 4. Baby Boomers began to retire (with more to come). e average age of persons working in skilled trades today is 55. When they leave, will there be any one left to do those jobs? e young adults gradu ating from high school today can easily ll these roles. It is important to let the younger generations know that there are alternatives to the standard four-year college experience that can lead to a successful life. In fact, learning a trade triumphs over the traditional college route in ve respects: 1. Skilled trade jobs are in high demand – it is estimated that nearly 75% of trade school graduates end up doing the exact job related to their degree or certicate. 2. Better job securi ty – e majority of trade jobs are represented by a union and today’s scar city of workers can lead to

Plumber

BRIDGING THE GAP: Refocusing on SkilledTrades BY PETER HINTERMAN T here was a time when people aspired to make a living in a skilled trade. Plumbers, electri cians, carpenters and others provided for their families successfully and looked forward to training their successors. Today, the skilled trades are a forgotten art practiced by an older genera tion now shifting out of the workforce without anyone to “hand the wrench” to before they leave. The shortage of skilled trade workers is becoming a significant problem as it is estimated that for every three who retire, only one takes their place. Over a million skilled trade positions in the United States remain vacant de spite high unemployment and the shortage is beginning to affect the government (building projects, road work, etc.) and consumers. For example, it is not uncommon to have to wait nearly six months to get a new roof installed or begin building a house. Skilled trades will always be needed by society and civilization. So, what happened? Where are all the tradesmen and tradeswomen?

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Nurse

1. Elimination of skilled trades from high school curricula – shop classes, elec tronics and more have been cut. 2. e Great Recession (2007-2009) put many trade companies out of business with none taking their place. 3. Social pressure and the “college-or-bust” belief of Gen X, Millennials and their parents – many falsely believed that those without a college degree were “lesser” individuals. Children of the ‘80s or ‘90s believed that they MUST go to college without

Painter

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