My City November 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

A R T & D E S I G N

MANAGING EDITOR Sherron Barden

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hai ley Worrel l

DEAR READERS, At the time of this writing, we’re enjoying a lovely “Second Summer” – a blessing for those of us not quite ready for the white stu . Of course this is Michigan so by the time you read this, we could have snow on the ground, just in time for anksgiving. November starts the holiday season and it is also Adoption Awareness Month.We have the story of a young, local couple who created a happy family that includes two adopted boys – so inspiring. Read about the DeLorenzo family on p.8. Gracing our cover is Gwen Pennyman-Hemphill, a talented singer and actor who started entertaining Flint audiences back in the ‘70s. She has quite an interesting musical pedigree; her story starts on p.22. e photos of Gwen were taken at the New McCree eatre, which is highlighted in our “My Arts” feature. ey have settled into their home on Clio Road and recently announced upcoming productions; if you’re an aspiring actor, they’re looking for you! Check it out starting on p.18. Aspiring to greatness in the sport of golf – and succeeding big time – is Grand Blanc High School senior, Kate Brody. Last month, she added a second Division 1 state title to a long list of achievements and will continue her golf career at the University of Wisconsin. Her story starts on p.40. A story that began many years ago is highlighted in a “My History” piece (p.50). Podunk House & Pioneer Museum is located less than a mile from my home in Fenton Township and I must admit that for years, I didn’t know it was there! e house was built in 1836 by the area’s rst settler and his family has worked to preserve it …well, you can read the rest! A round-up of the nal fall “Haps” starts on p.58. It’s time for holiday events to commence and My City will be there! Also in this issue is an annual section highlighting many of Greater Flint’s charitable organizations. e “Season of Giving” has begun and local citizens are in need. Perhaps you’re unfamiliar with the missions of these various groups and how they help so many.Take a look at My City Cares (p.80-102) and if you are able, consider supporting their e orts. I thank you for reading and wish you a blessed anksgiving!

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

ACCOUNTING/CI RCULATION Kim Davi s

FREELANCE WR ITER Mark Spezia

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Dan Garman

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

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. e 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.

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

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COBER PHOTO BY KATY KILDEE

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My Story 8 The Best Thing in the World The DeLorenzo Family My Community 12 7 Questions with ... Shelly Day Executive Director Fenton & Linden Regional Chamber of Commerce My Outreach 14 Living United UWGC Celebrates 100 Years of Giving My Arts 18 The “New” McCree Theatre Home at Last My Music 22 Gwen Pennyman-Hemphill Flint’s First Lady of Jazz

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My Eats 28 Dream Machine

Fenton Winery & Brewery’s New Distillery My Dining

32 Local Eats & Drinks My Style 38 Time to Shine! By Shannon White My Sports 40 Passion and Poise

Kate Brody, Golf Champion My Fun

44 15 Ways to Embrace the Holiday Season CONTENTS

November 2022

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My History 50 Podunk House

My Musings 70 How Old is Too Old? By Leslie Toldo My Finances 72 The Fed: Friend or Foe? By Marc Janca, AIF® My Thoughts 74 A Cold November By Cheryl Dennison My Travels 76 Solo By Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan My Afterthought 78 Well, Pardon My Gobble! 79 My Can’t Miss List

& Pioneer Museum

54 The Mayors of Flint

Part 11: Setbacks & Survival My Haps

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58 FIM Spectacular Party 60 Davison Pumpkin Festival 62 Art on Tap: Beer, Bourbon & BBQ 64 Pink Night Palooza My Reality 66 This Girl is for ALL Seasons By Vera Hogan My Econ 68 A Coming Housing Market Correction By Dr. Christopher Douglas

Also In This Issue

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80-102 Annual Issue

MYSTORY

The Best Thing in the World The DeLorenzo Family BY PETER HINTERMAN u PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CODY DELORENZO

everything,” he adds. “ e process can take three to six months.” During that time, the couple had to complete pre-licensure training in which they learned about traumas and triggers and how to adjust to a bevy of kids’ per sonalities and challenges. Each potential foster household gets to set parameters as to what child they would want to live in their home. “At rst, we told the agency that we were open for anyone,” DeLo renzo remembers, “but since we were a young couple, it was recommended that we narrow the eld a little, especially when it came to physical disabilities. e agency wanted us to be successful and we listened to them. We limited it to age 17 or younger and with no extreme physical impairment.” It is not uncommon for fos ter placement to happen immediately after the parents receive their license and for the DeLorenzo family, things moved quickly. Today, Cody and Shannon are the parents of two adopted boys: Lamar (age 9) and Jayden (age 15).

C ody and Shannon DeLorenzo have no idea how it all started. “We both knew what we want ed to do and, honestly, I don’t think either one of us remem bers when we took the rst step,” says Cody. “We both knew we wanted to be foster par ents.” After they married in 2018, they got ready to begin the process. “Shannon was Lamar

working as a foster care licensing manager, so we kind of knew what to expect. We started getting our house set up immedi ately,” recalls DeLorenzo. ey reached out to a friend in Clio who put them in touch with a local organization as the rst step in achieving their foster care license. “We were interviewed, had to provide income statements, and undergo a home visit that included measuring our rooms and

“Lamar came to us when he was ve years old,” states DeLorenzo. “It was just after Christmas, so we celebrated it with him in January. He loved it – he loves getting presents, that’s for sure!” ings went smoothly but after a time, Lamar began to be triggered more frequent ly as he struggled with his past and his emotions. “ ere is always a ‘honeymoon period’ when things are great but after a while, reality sets in,” says DeLorenzo. “You never know what is going to happen

until you are knee-deep in it.We were ready for it and learned through training how to deal with what can happen.”Lamar began to lash out, especially at school. It got to the point where DeLorenzo had to move his work to a room in the school so Lamar could have a chance to visit him when he needed to settle down. “He was just a sad kid but all of a sudden, a switch ipped and, with the help of his teacher Mrs. Holland, he started to excel. Now he loves school and this year, he begged us

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to send him to summer school to be with his friends.”Lamar quick ly became one of the family and the DeLorenzos decided to pursue adoption. It took four frustrating years after Lamar rst came into their home to nalize the process. “Each kid has a di erent set of variables,” says DeLorenzo. “We never really doubted ourselves or the process, but we did worry about how we would handle it if Lamar were to leave us down the road.We felt that he was a part of our family.” Jayden “We didn’t really have a plan for adopting or fostering another child after Lamar,” explains DeLorenzo. “We wanted to make sure he got all the focus he needed; but then, I met Jayden.”DeLorenzo was working

The Family Today, Lamar and Jayden are thriving. “Before he lived with us, I’m not sure Jayden had ever passed a class in school and now he is on the honor roll,” states DeLorenzo proudly. “Shannon and I never thought we wouldn’t have biological kids but today, we are content with the family we have.When we started, our goal was not to adopt but to provide a safe home for the kids for as long as they needed it.”As it turns out, what the two kids needed was a family and the DeLorenzos couldn’t be happier. As a show of appreciation and to help other kids in foster care, they hope to raise $100,000 for Whaley Children’s Center through a 100-mile foot race challenge to take place in 2023. “I want to help kids in foster care and to show Jayden and Lamar that we can do the hard stu to make something great happen.” Jayden and Lamar are a success story that not many kids in foster care get to experience.Many will end up living a life of abuse, home lessness, mental health problems and sickness. One piece of advice DeLorenzo would like to give to a couple looking to become foster parents or to adopt is to not be afraid to adopt an older child. “ e av erage age of adoption is below six years of age,” he informs. “Every year a child ages, the less chance they have of being adopted. For those who age out of foster care, only 4% go onto graduate college and only 18% even graduate high school. ey truly do not need much beyond love and support. Our goal was, and still is, to keep it simple, be healthy and be as happy as possible. Don’t be scared. If you are thinking of adopting or fostering, do it. It’s the best thing in the world.” ß at Whaley Children’s Center when he bonded with then-12-year-old Jayden. At the time, they both had long hair and when Jayden asked DeLorenzo to help him put his into a bun, they became friends. “It’s funny because I was 24 at the time and so, I was only 12 years older than Jayden.We are friends, but I am also his father and I have to play that card from time to time,” he laughs. Still, when Shannon and Cody got together and talked about maybe fostering and adopting Jayden, they had to consider what that would mean for Lamar. “We de nitely prayed and thought about it but when we brought Jayden home, they got along great. Lamar really looks up to Jayden,” adds DeLorenzo. In order to adopt Jayden, Cody had to leave his job at Whaley Children’s Center and after 18 months, Jayden was o cially part of the family.

“Don’t be scared. If you are think ing of adopting or fostering, do it. It’s the best thing in the world.” Cody DeLorenzo

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To Change a Child’s Life T he thought of becoming a foster parent or adopting a child can be intimidating.There is no real way to know what may come your way but by taking the first step, you truly could become the hero you have always dreamed of being and, more impor tantly, you could change a young person’s life

must be surrendered or terminated, which can take a lot of time. Don’t give up!” If you stick with the process, something great will happen for your family and for the child placed in your home. In the U.S., an estimated 437,000 children are in foster care with 69,000 living in group homes, and at any point in time, approximately 1.5 million children are waiting to be adopted. That ’s 1.5 million kids without families, without support, without love and without hope. Fostering or adopting takes a lot of commitment but the result, as stated by Cody Delorenzo, can be the best thing in the world. “You are giving a child a second chance at hope,” says Williams. “To see kids open up to the idea that they can be liked and loved is one of the best things you will ever see. You never know – the first time a child will experience Christmas may be with you, in your home. They will remember what you have done for them and the traditions you hand down. You are changing a child’s life forever.” u To start your journey toward being a foster parent to a child in need, call 855-MICHKIDS, or visit michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child serv/foster-care. “To see kids open up to the idea that they can be liked and loved is one of the best things you will ever see.” Mindy Williams

“The first trauma is the removal from their family and that reoccurs each time they are moved from one family to another. It ’s common for kids to have been in 10 12 different places before they arrive at Whaley. Always remember that what they have experienced is never their fault. The behavior of some children is not going to be perfect. You have to learn to go with the flow and with learned coping skills, adjust to them and work with them.” The next step toward licensure is to pass an on-site home evaluation. The agen cy you selected will meet with your family several times in your home for interviews. Once your license is activated, you may re ceive your first child placement in a matter of days. Adoption can be the next step if desired, and comes with its own set of hurdles. “There will be a lot of red tape and hoops to jump through,” adds Williams, “and the rights of the biological parents

for the better. So, where do you start? “The first thing to do is contact the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services and inquire about foster parent training,” explains Mindy Williams, President & CEO of Whaley Children’s Center. “They can walk you through what you need to do and get you in touch with other organizations to start the licensing process for your home.”The next step is to attend an orientation and complete the license application. Potential foster parents must then complete 20-25 hours of train ing. “Every foster child has experienced their own level of trauma,” adds Williams.

sezer66 / stock.adobe.com

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MYOUTREACH

Living UNITED UWGC Celebrates 100 Years of Giving

BY CHERYL DENNISON

A nonprofit health and human service organization, the United Way of Genesee County is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

A ccording to CEO Jamie Gaskin, volunteers govern the United Way organization, their annual campaign, and how donations are shared with community partners. In conjunction with other organizations throughout the community, they work to develop effective solutions to community issues, reaching people from all walks of life and all income groups. “We use teaspoon philanthropy,” Gaskin explains. “We have 1,000 various local employees who take dollars from their paychecks to help others and support 200 different programs.” Gaskin, who has been the CEO of the organization for nine years, says there are a number of families in Genesee County who can’t meet their basic needs. “And it’s not just in the city of Flint,” he reports. “It affects the entire county.” Statistics show that families from all over – Clio, Davison – are struggling, and in Fenton 40 percent of the families are struggling to meet basic needs. “First, it was the pandemic and now people can’t keep up with the rate of inflation.” United Way works with core community partners that include the United Auto Workers and General Motors. “People who make a wage want to help others,” he notes. “It’s about people helping other people.Thousands of people giving a tiny bit can collectively help others.” The UWGC has been celebrating United Way’s 100 years of service.They partnered with the Flint Institute of Music

UWGC CEO JAMIE GASKIN AND UAW LABOR LIAISON, TERESA MCGINNIS. Uni ted Way’ s core communi ty partners inc lude the Uni ted Auto Workers and GM. ▶

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(FIM) and The Capitol Theatre for an October performance by the Isley Brothers. “It was a way for our community to celebrate with music,” Gaskin says. Net proceeds benefited both United Way and FIM community programming. In addition, residents of Genesee and Shiawassee Counties can enjoy United Way Free Weekends at both the Sloan Museum of Discovery and Longway Planetarium. Leading UWGC is a volunteer board of directors committed to ensuring that the organization’s financial and personnel resources are invested in ways that make the greatest positive impact on the lives of people in Genesee and Shiawassee Counties.The Board is composed of 20 local community leaders from diverse backgrounds who meet quarterly, with various engagement activities held in between. “Our goal is to help 100,000 people every year, ” Gaskin states.

IN 1949, THE RED FEATHER ORGANIZATION WAS STARTED TO “ACT AS AN UMBRELLA OVER THE COMMUNITY CHEST AND THE UNITED HEALTH AND WELFARE FUND IN GENESEE COUNTY. ▶

“We reach out, hand out, and help make people’s lives better.” History of United Way of Genesee County UWGC first came into existence in 1922 as the Flint Com munity Chest.Throughout its beginning years, money was dis bursed through the Flint Community Fund, the United Health and Welfare Fund and the Community Chest. In 1949, the Red Feather Organization was started to “act as an umbrella over the Community Chest and the United Health and Welfare Fund in Genesee County.” At the time, the organi zation included 48 agencies. From 1952 through 1960, 11 community funds in Genesee County joined the Red Feather family and in 1964, Lapeer

UNITED WAY USES A “THERMOMETER” SIGN TO ENCOURAGE DONATIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY. ▶

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“Thousands of people giving a tiny bit can collectively help others.” Jamie Gaskin, CEO

County, with six community chests, joined the organization. A new name for the Red Feather transformed the organization into the United Fund of Genesee and Lapeer Counties in 1970. At that time, United Way was still a closed system that raised and distributed funds for a set group of agencies. As community needs grew, it became increasingly apparent that the United Way could not be the sole support for a select few agencies; no longer could United Way raise money on the “give once for all” philosophy.The shift was reflected in the new name that the organization adopted in 1975, when it became the United Way of Genesee and Lapeer Counties. Today, United Way of Genesee Coun ty works in partnership with funders, human service agencies, educational institutions, health care providers and other groups to provide vital services for children and families.The independent community agency is governed by its own local volunteer Board of Trustees. “We judge our success not by the dollars raised, but by the number of people we have helped”, Gaskin concludes.

CREATING IMPACT 78%

$1,161,755 invested in Basic Needs programs 75% of program participants earned job-relevant certificates and/or credentials. 231 foster children received

of program participants increased their disposable income. 18,985 calls were made to UWGC’s 211 resource and referral line. 6,931 individuals transitioned from emergency shelter to more permanent housing.

a Court Appointed Special Advocate.

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MYARTS

Home at Last The NewMcCree Theatre BY PETER HINTERMAN u PHOTOGRPAHY BY KATY KILDEE

Since 1976, Charles Winfrey has been passionate about the McCree e atre. “I got addicted to the creativity and the artform,” he admits. “You have to experience it to truly appre ciate it.” Founded in 1970, the “old” McCree eatre was born from the Genesee County Model Cities Program and named after Flint ’s rst African Ameri can Mayor, Floyd McCree. e original concept ran in Flint until 1989. In 2004, the “New” McCree eatre opened with the same commitment to excellence and with the new mission “to tell the African American Story in the African American Voice.” “ ere are so many stories to tell about our history that many people haven’t heard,” adds Winfrey, “and we have so much talent in Flint.” e theatre has ex celled at showing musicals, dramas, comedies, concerts and more. “Our musicals always pack the house,” says

actress and Marketing Director, Pat Scott-Hill. Since its rebirth, there was just one constant, nagging prob lem – the theatre never really had a home. Instead, shows were opened in a multitude of places such as New Standard Academy, Northwestern High, local churches and others. “We were at the mercy of the space we were in,” explains Winfrey. “It made it very hard to plan a season and when the pandemic started, we were homeless.” Backed by the Genesee County Arts Education and Cultural Enrichment Millage, the theatre still had a chance to continue, but it needed a stage. Even then, Winfrey had his doubts. “Of course, I thought about possibly shutting it down,” he says, “but we were still supported by the millage. It kept us going.” e theatre was able to raise and retain funding and when a church located on Clio Road went on the market,

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Professional Artist Series: Phil Young and Friends 11.26.22 “Livin’ Fat” – a comedy 12.1-17.22 Black History Film Series: “13th” 1.14.23 Professional Artist Series: Sharon Love Jones 1.21.23 “The Soul of Etta James” – a Musical 2.16-3.4.23 Black History Film Series: “4 Little Girls” 3.18.23 “The Motown Story” – a Musical 5.4-20.23 Black History Film Series: “The Newburgh Sting” 6.17.23 2022-23 Season

Winfrey jumped at the chance. e New McCree e atre, located at 4601 Clio Rd., opened to the public in September 2021. e home of the New McCree eatre o ers everything Winfrey and company dreamed of and perhaps more. e building provides space for ded icated dressing rooms, a green room for guests and performers, a dance room, warehouse for set design and construction, concessions, a box o ce and full theatre – complete with plush seating. It presented an opportunity to do more and Winfrey, cast and crew took advantage. ey opened this season with their rst-ever fundraiser “ e Summer Soiree” in August and it was a hit. “It was very successful for us,” adds Winfrey. ey invited prominent African American actors, writers and directors such as Javon Johnson and Woodie King Jr., to speak to aspiring Flint ß

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MYARTS

“Theatre is for everybody. Come and see what we do.” Charles Winfrey

actors as part of a new goal of becoming a spring board for young talent. e new Black History Film Series showcases national documentaries highlight ing current and historical social commentary on the Black and minority experience. e rst show of the new season “ e Legend of Bass Reeves” was writ ten by Winfrey and highlights the exploits of Bass Reeves, the rst Black U.S. deputy marshall west of the Mississippi. e show was a surprise hit and more importantly, raised awareness of an important African American gure in history. “After the rst showing, the word got out and the audience started to grow,” says Winfrey. “After each show, people wanted to know more and started asking questions. We even had a few historians in the audience who jumped in with their answers.” Next up for the theatre is the comedy “Livin’ Fat” which will take the stage in December. In the past, the theatre’s season would begin in September and run through March; however, with the addition of a brand-new air-conditioning unit, the shows can go year-round, according to Winfrey.

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MYMUSIC

Gwen Pennyman-Hemphill Flint’s First Lady of Jazz

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATY KILDEE

T he club was hoppin’ – the Casablanca in Flint on Industrial Ave. was “the place” to find and experience new singing talent in the ‘70s, especially on open mic night. A singer had just left the stage to raucous applause and waiting in the wings backstage, a teenage girl was about to give her first performance.This would be her third attempt; each previous time she had turned back at the last minute, unsure she could do it.The room was packed. What would they think? Would she be good enough? She was introduced and taking that first step onto the stage, she knew there was no turning back this time.There she stood, looking out into a sea of faces staring back at her. When the music started, she shut her eyes. She had to – it was the only way. Her song choice that night was “Dr. Feelgood” by Aretha Franklin, and she belted it out with as much soul as she could muster. Her voice was powerful and she hit all the right notes. She opened her eyes to thunderous applause and a stage covered in money! That teenager grew up to live her life on stage, singing all over the state of Michigan both solo and with recording artists such as The Williams Brothers,The Canton Spirituals,

Willie Clayton,The Delfonics and others. Her career led to collaborations with Carvin Winans and a backup stint with Michael McDonald.The singer is Gwen Penny man-Hemphill and she is Flint’s First Lady of Jazz. “I was so scared that first night,” Pennyman-Hemphill re members. “I had flutters in my stomach, just rolling.The only way I could do it was to shut my eyes. When I was done, I was so shocked at what I just did that I forgot to pick up the money the crowd had thrown onto the stage,” she laughed. “Some friends gathered it all up for me.” Pennyman-Hemphill still has a flutter in her stomach every now and then but after a lifetime of performing, singing on stage has gotten to be old hat. “I used to be so shy. I never knew what to say on stage,” she smiles. “Now, I like to tell a story or two before the song to get the audience into it. I feel like singing and performing is something I was born to do.” For Pennyman-Hemphill growing up, music was unavoid able – it was quite literally in her blood. Her mother, Lucille Briggs, sang with the gospel group The Mighty Bank Sisters with other family members (as she got older, Gwen would be asked to stand in for an aunt here and there) and her cousin,

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“I’m asked to sing wherever I go. I always promise just one song, but it always turns into three or four.”

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Richard Wayne Penniman, is none other than the late, great Little Richard. Song lived in her family but it also lived in her heart as a child. “I remember when I first fell in love with music,” she says. “I’m not sure how old I was when I heard ‘Gotta Find Me an Angel’ by Aretha Franklin. It was so beautiful. I asked my mother what it was and from then on, all I wanted to do was listen to that song.” It’s the song that got it all started but one she has never performed. “Maybe someday,” she says with a sigh. Pennyman-Hemphill never had any “formal” vocal training but growing up with her family, she got every thing she needed. “We had big, family dinner rehearsals at the house for The Mighty Bank Sisters,” she remem bers. “The whole family was involved.”While attending Beecher High School, she was always in a new musical group, singing different songs with different partners such as Ronnie Moss, who now tours with The Spinners. “One of the teachers there, Mr. Moss, put together the Beecher

Black Arts Festival every year and I would always perform with my classmates,” she explains. “Someday, I would like to get the festival started again.” After graduating in 1974, Pennyman-Hemphill took a job with General Motors working at Fisher Body.That was where she met songwrit er, manager and future husband, Lenny Hemphill. “He was working there for about six months before I started,” she says. “He was a songwriter and we bonded around the music. When Lenny finally told me how he felt about me, I told him I wasn’t sure I was ready. He told me that he could wait for me – that’s love.”The two have been together ever since. As for inspiration, Pennyman-Hemphill names Are tha Franklin as one of her greatest influences, as well as Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, Billie Holiday, Etta James and many others. On stage, she sings selections from R&B, theater, gospel and of course, jazz. “There was a time when I only sang gospel songs,” she laughs, “but soon enough,

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Continued on pg. 75

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DREAM MACHINE CURRENTLY OFFERS SIX SMALL-BATCH SPIRITS: BTL RCKT VODKA, TWO WRIGHT’S RUM (SILVER), FLYING BAT RUM (BLACK) , SWIFTWALKER GIN (CITRUSY) , HOT ROD GIN (PEPPERY) AND AGAVE SPIRIT (AKA TEQUILA WHEN MADE IN MEXICO) .

named after the first bicycle, the Swift Walker. With the names, one objective was to make people feel something and have the potential to tell a greater story. “Dream Machine is where scientific rigor and artistic expression converge,”Matt explains. “It’s where stories and spirits are only as good as the people we share them with. We engineer small-batch spirits for spirited people.” Making craft beverages at FWB is a full-time endeav or; Matt oversees a five-member production staff. “We have an outstanding team!” Ginny exclaims, “our Dream Team.” Joe Sirl, who handles sales and marketing, took the reins opening the Cocktail Bar, including creating “‘Dream’” is the artistic expression of the distillery and ‘Machine’ is the scientific aspect of the name.” Ginny Sherrow

spirits. “It’s state-of-the-art technology,” Ginny adds. For their barrel-aging program, there are twenty 30-gallon oak barrels onsite, and each can produce up to 150 bot tles of brandy, rum, whiskey, bourbon and other spirits to be released in the coming months and years. A lot of thought and care was put into creating the Dream Machine Distillery logo and branding. “We spent a lot of time researching and educating ourselves,” Ginny says, adding that they went with a professional company to design the branding and logos. “We wanted the distill ery to have its own brand, one that really resonated with us,”Matt noted. How did Dream Machine get its name? According to Ginny, everything starts with an idea, what they call a moonshot. “Dream” is the artistic expression of the dis tillery and “Machine” is the scientific aspect of the name, she explains.The Dream Machine logo features a hot air balloon (the original “flying machine”), representing the simplest machine making the simplest spirits.They also have a logo featuring an airplane which will identify their aged spirits, and the Distillery’s Swiftwalker Gin was

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“We engineer small-batch spirits for spirited people.” Matt Sherrow

recipes and training the service team. One of the cock tails on the menu is called Blood, Sweat & Tears: Hot Rod Gin and FWB’s zesty house-made Bloody Mary mix served over rocks and garnished with a charcuterie skewer (available Saturdays and Sundays only). Flying Solo is Btl Rckt Vodka, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, house-made rosemary syrup, Solo Blackberry Merlot and a splash of tonic. Only the freshest juices and produce are used, and many cocktail ingredients are grown onsite in their indoor and outdoor gardens or locally sourced.The creative libations were tested and approved by the team and regular FWB guests. According to Matt, the first barrel-aged spirit to be released will be either brandy or rum. All barrel-aged products will feature an airplane label, representing ad vancement and complexity, he reports.The offerings will soon include a white (un-aged) whiskey, as well.Their first rye whiskey went into a barrel on April 7 of this year. Federal regulations require whiskies (bourbon) to be aged in an oak barrel for not less than two years.

The idea for FWB came about for the Sherrows back in 2007 when the couple decided they wanted to open a business closer to their home. “It started as a crazy dream!” Ginny exclaims. And their mission was to be part of their customers’, team members’ and community’s story. Originally a small winery located on Leroy St. in the City of Fenton, it has grown to include a microbrew ery and now, a distillery.The award-winning business is located in Fenton Township on North Long Lake Rd. The property includes a public taproom, a dog-friendly outdoor seating area and a separate, full-service wedding and banquet venue. “We host over 100 weddings a year!” Ginny exclaims. Both Ginny and Matt are very excited about the con tinued evolution of FWB and have enjoyed the distillery project, alluding to more “moonshots” for them in the future. “Customers tell us stories about how they first met here and later got married,” Ginny states. “That’s why we go to work every day – we want to be a part of your story.”

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Local Eats & Drinks Andiamo Fenton 102 W. Silver Lake Rd., Fenton 810.354.8446 Beale St. Smokehouse BBQ NEW LOCATION 1492 N. Leroy St., Fenton 810.750.0507

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. ompson Rd., Fenton 810.208.7297 Gillie’s Coney Island G-6524 N. Dort Hwy., Mt Morris 810.686.1200 Jersey Mike’s Subs 3409 Owen Rd., Fenton 810.208.7281 5011 Miller Rd., Flint 810.820.6286 1048 E. Hill Rd., Grand Blanc 810.407.6018 810.629.8882 810.750.9463

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

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Mega Classic Diner 4462 Corunna Rd., Flint Twp

810.732.9700

Open 24 hours

Redwood Steakhouse Brewery & Grill 5304 Gateway Center, Flint

810.233.8000

FENTON WINERY & BREWERY

The Laundry 125 W. Shiawassee Ave., Fenton 810.629.8852 Timothy’s Pub 2890 Robert T. Longway, Flint 810.239.0972 We’reDough 4215 Miller Rd., Flint 810.410.8122

FENTON HOTEL TAVERN & GRILL

P ROMOT I ONAL

MYSTYLE

Ink + Alloy Black Gold Luxe Earrings

Time to SHINE! HINE!

BY SHANNON WHITE I t’s that time of year again ... twinkling lights, holiday music, a feeling of goodwill in the air.There’s so much excitement that comes along with the holiday season – and maybe that includes the arrival of holiday party invitations. While you’re out shopping for others, save some time to pick up something great to wear to that party! SHIFT in Downtown Flint has all your holiday fashion needs covered. One of our favorite looks for a holiday party is the red dress – the color alone guarantees heads will turn your way! For a simple look, try the Duffield Lane Radcliffe Dress. You can dress it up, but it also would be appropriate for a more casual work party.The long sleeves will keep you from getting chilly, while the ruffle details are on-trend. If demure isn’t your preferred look,

Net 153 Wrap Dress

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you might like the fun and flirty Bella Dress by The Clothing Com pany.The short, ruffled skirt and belted waist make this red dress a holiday winner. But nothing says “holiday dress” more perfectly than the Gretchen Scott Duke of York Dress.This simple sheath silhou ette is livened up by a tartan plaid and ruffled collar. If red’s not your favorite, you’re in luck – it comes in green, too! Typically shy away from bold colors? Don’t worry.The LBD is still a classic, no matter the season! If you choose to wear black, keep it not-so-basic with a fun style like the Lily Dress by Harper Wren.

The halter neckline will show off your shoulders and the asymmet rical hem is perfect for dancing. The Net 153 Wrap Dress is one that could pull double-duty, going from workday to holiday party. Just add some shimmering new accessories, like the Black Gold Luxe mixed metallic earrings from Ink + Alloy and the Golden Stella Ball Bracelet set.

Duffield Lane Red Radcliff Dress

Fabulous Furs Swing Coat

So, you’ve got your party dress and your accessories but, Baby – it’s cold outside! Holiday season in Michigan calls for a cozy yet glamorous coat for making a fashionable arrival. A staff fa vorite at SHIFT is the Patty Kim Sap phire Chevron Faux Fur Coat. Warm and stylish, it’s the perfect topper. Or, try the Black Mink Faux Fur Knee Length Swing Coat by Fabulous Furs. It will go with everything you own! This holiday season, don’t forget to spoil yourself, too! Stop in at SHIFT and we can help you enjoy the festivi ties while looking fabulous!

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.

Gretchen Scott Duke of York Dress

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MYSPORTS

PASSION AND POISE KATE BRODY Golf Champion

BY MARK SPEZIA

D ressed in layers, including a team hoodie and stocking cap to combat a chilly, autumn breeze, the Grand Blanc senior was a two-foot putt away from capturing a second Division 1 State Championship. Brody had begun the day one shot off the lead following the first of two rounds before pulling in front. However, East Kentwood’s Elise Fennell, who carded leaves lining up what she hoped would be the final shot of an unforgettable high school career. As the crisp coolness of a mid-October afternoon settled over Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Kate Brody stood on a green dotted with colorful fallen

KATE WILL CONTINUE HER GOLF CAREER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN.

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the second round’s top score (70) was closing fast, hoping to at least force a playoff. Times like these are when Brody’s greatest golf attributes take over. From an early age, she has

“I feel like I accomplished everything I could have hoped for in my high school career. I had an amazing coach and an amazing team every year.”

been unflappable, focused and composed on the golf course, no matter the situation. Against a backdrop of towering orange and green trees, Brody stepped forward and drained the putt to put the finishing touch on a 145 total for 36 holes and a one stroke victory.

As cheering erupted from her supporters, Brody joined Powers Catholic’s Katie Strawser (Divi sion 3 in 2003 and 2004) as the only Genesee County girls golfers with more than one state title. “That weekend (October 14-15) at the state tournament was everything I had ever hoped for and the feeling after I won was indescribable,” says Brody, also a state titlist in 2020. “I felt so much joy, happiness and a feeling of accom plishment. It meant so much to have so many people there supporting me and sharing the moment.” Sharing not only the moment with Brody, but also that “championship feeling’’ was her mother Jennifer, a three time Upper Peninsula State Champion (1990-92) while playing for L’Anse High School, who later became an All-Big Ten performer at Michigan State, Michigan Open winner and LPGA Tour player. These days, Jennifer manages Brody’s Pro Shop at War wick Hills Golf & Country Club with husband Doug, a Linden native who also serves as Warwick’s head golf pro. Jennifer provides lessons, as well. “We were certainly confident Kate could win because of how she had played all season; but with golf, so much can happen on any given day,” Jennifer said. “Kate played well all weekend, but it came down to the wire. She held her composure and made shots.” Along with steely nerves, unmatched consistency was crucial for Brody as she opened with a 73 and followed with

GLEN BAUER, GRAND BLANC GIRLS VARSITY GOLF COACH

a 72.The two first-round leaders followed 72s with 77s, and all other players finishing in the top five had at least a three stroke difference between their rounds. “Because of the weather and conditions, I knew that shooting pars was going to win it,” Brody says. “It was cold, windy and somewhat wet, so the course wasn’t playing super-easy. Staying calm, steady and consistent was the key because I was a little nervous on the last two holes. Playing the course three times before in non-high school events really helped, too.” She started strongly and was three-under-par at one point in round one before a bogey and double-bogey stalled her momentum, but she remained in a good position. After the opening round, Grand Blanc Coach Glen Bauer and Brody discussed strategy as they traveled to the course for round two.

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to Embrace the Holiday S eason Ways 15 MYFUN

BY PETER HINTERMAN

W ell, here we are again ... leaves have fallen, the air is crisp, apples are ready for picking and the hol iday season is nearly upon us. It’s this time of year when we start reaching out to family, searching for the perfect Christmas gifts and planning the most scrumptious Thanksgiving dinner the world has yet to taste. Many of us are chomping at the bit to start enjoying the holidays (as best we can). With all of the negativity and angst

flying around, a good holiday season can be a blessing. Let’s all make an effort to really jump into the festivities this year with love and good will. You never know, maybe you will start a new family tradition or experience that lost child-like wonder again. If you’re feeling a bit “hum-buggy” this year, why not experience a few of these ideas with the family to help jumpstart the spirit.

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Make a Leaf Album I know it’s a bit old school, but making a colorful leaf album can be a fun family treasure hunt. Grab the kiddies, throw on a hoodie and get looking. How many different leaves can you find? How many different colors? Set a realistic goal to find certain leaves in certain colors and see what you can do in an afternoon. Have some cider when you’re done; there’s no reason not to! Build a Scarecrow Build him, name him and display him prominently. Grab one of dad’s old flannels (everybody has one sitting in the back of the closet) and grab a pair of Suzie’s discarded jeans and start packing

It’s Chili Time! Fall is the very best time for making chili. Set the slow-cooker in the morning and when early evening rolls around, it’ll be ready to enjoy. Pull on a warm sweatshirt and sit out on the porch or in the backyard with your bowl of spicy goodness and watch the beauty of the falling leaves. Be content in the moment.

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Knit a Scarf or a Sweater

5 venture that could easily become a yearly tradition. Head out to your local orchard (Greater Flint has some beautiful ones), pick a basket of apples, and then head home to start the process. It’s remarkably simple and immediately rewarding. Remember to set aside enough ap ples to bake a scrumptious apple pie. Make Your Own Candied or Caramel Apples One caveat: You have to pick your own apples! This is a family ad

Knitting is a hobby for everyone: man, woman or child. If you don’t know how, take a local class or teach yourself via the internet. If you could, what would you make? What color or pattern would it be? You could knit your own Christ mas stockings to hang over the fireplace, make a small but warm (and cute) hat, or go full-on sweat er. Once you have imagined your final product, go make it happen!

them with straw, leaves, etc. What does your family’s scarecrow look like? Is it scary or fun? Let the kids decide. Hmmm …what is the best name for a scarecrow?

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MYHISTORY

PODUNK HOUSE WAS BUILT IN 1836 BY THE AREA’S FIRST SETTLER, GEORGE JUDSON. THE HOUSE IS COMPLETELY FURNISHED WITH ITEMS DONATED BY AREA FAMILIES.

Podunk House &PioneerMuseum “Preserve Yesterday, Honor Today, Plan Tomorrow” BY CHERYL DENNISON

H ewett Judson, a longtime teacher at Lake Fenton High School, along with his sister Phyllis Judson Heusted, has worked hard to preserve the Judson family’s history. He is the treasurer for the Pioneer Memorial Association of Fenton & Mundy Townships and Heusted is the secretary/editor. e group’s goal is to preserve the history of both townships. And it all started in 1836 when Podunk House was built by Judson’s great-great grandfather, George Judson. After purchasing acreage in Mundy Township,

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he was the rst to settle in that area and then founded a village called Podunk, which was located east of Torrey Rd. between Ray and Baldwin Rds. “He diverted water from Lake Fenton (then called Long Lake) and built a gristmill,” Judson informs. It was believed to have been named Podunk after Chippewa Indians in the area heard the mill wheel hitting the water and making a “po-dunk … po-dunk” sound. Also, the word podunk was historically used to describe a place that was in “the middle of nowhere.”

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According to Judson, Podunk House was the sec ond oldest dwelling in Genesee County. In the 1850s, Podunk residents tried to have the railroad come through their village, but it was routed through Fenton instead. “I think Colonel Fenton had something to do with where the train was going through,” Judson notes. “In 1875, Podunk became a ghost town when the water supply was cut o ,” Heusted adds. e house was then relocated to property at the corner of Torrey and Ray Rds. and was the home of John and Frances Judson for many years. Mr. and Mrs.William Watson then purchased the property from the Judson heirs and lived in it for many years. After the Watson family built a new home, Podunk House was deeded to Clarence Miller, Russell Judson and Harvey Swanebeck. In 1967, George H. Judson (Hewett’s father) estab lished the Pioneer Memorial Association of Fenton & Mundy Townships (a non-pro t organization) to preserve Podunk House and save it from demolition. In 1968, the house was moved to its current site at 2436 N. Long Lake Rd. in Fenton Township after a great deal of fundraising that included hosting bu alo dinners held at the Mun dy Township Hall. “My dad (George) traveled to South

Dakota to get the bu alo meat and bring it back for the din ners,” Judson remembers. Hewett Judson became involved in the Association in 1970 and Heusted has been part of the e orts since 1967. “I have always been interested in history,” she says. In 1970, the Pioneer Association hosted the rst Pioneer Day Picnic & Festival, their largest fundrais er, which always takes place in September on the rst Saturday after Labor Day. On Pioneer Day, visitors enjoy tours of the house – which is also a museum – as well as a bake sale, children’s games and musical entertainment. Local Boy Scout troops perform the ag-raising and lowering. e event typically attracts 150-200 attend ees. “We saw a lot more new people this year,” Heusted reports, “they never even realized it was here.” ß

LEAH DUMAS LOOKS AT A SCRAPBOOK IN THE PIONEER MUSEUM.

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“Wewant to preserve the history of the area for future generations.” Hewett Judson

According to Heusted, a new building was construct ed in 1975 next to the Podunk House where additional artifacts are stored, such as items from the old passenger boat “City of Flint” including the steering wheel, a life buoy and a foghorn. Families in the area have donated farm tools, photos from one-room school houses and other antiquities. e Association recently started a collection from Lake Fenton Schools that includes year books, a megaphone, school pictures and books. ere is also a collection of Native American artifacts donated by Ed Whalen who was descended from Indians and very proud of his heritage. e Podunk House, itself, is completely furnished with donated items and still has the original wood plank oor. In the parlor, you will see an antique pump organ and harp guitar. Also located on the property is an old cemetery and in 1977, the Long Branch Cemetery Monument was installed that displays the names of 14 people believed to be buried there, according to Judson. Heusted says fundraising e orts have allowed for other improvements to the historic site: a large pavilion for square dancers and picnic tables, a stage for musical entertainers, installation of a working windmill, a storage building, new sidewalks, o cial ag retirement area and a cupola that was once part of the original one-room Mundy School House. e Pioneer Association is funded by membership fees, donations and fundraising projects. e Fenton Township

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(TOP, L-R) GEORGE HULET JUDSON AND HEWITT RUSSELL JUDSON ARE FOURTH-GENERATION DESCENDANTS OF PODUNK FOUNDER, GEORGE JUDSON. ABOVE: MARY JANE PINKSTON - PRESIDENT OF THE PIONEER MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION OF FENTON & MUNDY TOWNSHIPS AND HER HUSBAND, BILL PINKSTON.

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(L-R) RUSSELL AND BILL PINKSTON ARE FOURTH GENERATION DESCENDANTS OF GEORGE JUDSON.

Board of Trustees provides lawn care and maintenance of the buildings, which will soon have running water, elec tricity and sewer paid for by Fenton Township. “Fenton Township Supervisor Vince Lorraine and Operations Manager Tom Broecker have been very helpful about taking care of the grounds.” e Association also received a generous grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, and VG’s Grocery donates a stipend to purchase food for the annual Pioneer Day event. e Podunk House & Museum has survived many decades with the help of volunteers, the Fenton Township Board, three Eagle Scout projects, funding from proceeds of Pioneer Day, grant monies and Association member ships, Heusted notes. It has remained true to its mission of preserving the history of Fenton and Mundy Townships including the lake, the farm, the school, the local church and the people who settled there. “We want to preserve the history of the area for future generations,” says Judson. u