onthetown Magazine Volume 3 Issue 3

Vol. III No. III

EVENTS:McLarENCruise for a Cause WhaLEy’S chiLdrEN cENTErTux & TenniesGraNd BLaNcDanCing wiTh LoCaL sTars

MaTEEN cLEaVES:fLinTsTone

phiLaNThropya key pieCe of The coMMuNiTy

on the town 3

Dear on the town Magazine Reader:

You will notice that my letter is a little shorter this time. My co-publishers

wanted to have a little space for messages to our readers. I hope you are all

looking forward to this summer. There is a whole lot going on: art and music

festivals, races and car shows. Genesee County is really the place to be.

I also wanted to mention that Flint has lost a great jazz musician – Sherman

Mitchell. He entertained, taught, mentored and inspired a generation or two

of musicians and jazz lovers. He will be missed.

We are also missing – in a different way—Steve and Tiffany Flynn, who have

moved to Florida. They have been stalwarts of this community forever and

their absence will be felt by many.

I also want to give a shout out to Chelsie from INC Systems, who has received her Certified Emergency

Disaster Training and is using her vacation time to travel to Oklahoma to help those affected by the

tornadoes. Her organization, Neighbor-to-Neighbor, is collecting funds and donations of toiletries,

flashlights, batteries, baby wipes and diapers, hand sanitizers, toilet paper, towels, pillows, blankets,

and sheets. If you can help, contact Chelsie at (810) 771-8718.

We hope you enjoy this issue. We feature the top four philanthropic organizations in the Flint and a

few of the smaller ones. This community would be hard-pressed to function without the United Way,

the Ruth Mott Foundation, the C.S. Mott Foundation and the Community Foundation.

As always, thanks to our readers for your support, suggestions and kind words. We are motivated to

bring you news of the wonderful people and organizations in the community.

Have a wonderful summer.

Marcia McGee

Editor

Note from the co-Publishers

Kimberly Gray: I would like to take this moment to introduce myself as the

new co-publisher of on the town Magazine. I am looking forward to this

new venture and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be involved with

such a reputable publication. Being a proud resident of Genesee County my

entire life, this magazine makes it possible for me to give something back

to our community.

As supporters and advertisers you can look forward to great changes in the

future, including a page dedicated solely to non-profits in Genesee County.

Our staff has made the magazine a success by making it our top priority to focus on delivering the

highest quality content possible each and every day.

To our advertisers and readers, your loyalty means so much and I hope to continue to serve you well

in the coming years.

Karen smith: I hope this issue finds everyone well and enjoying the

summer. I would like to thank you all for your support for on the town now

and through the years.

We will be posting some old events for you to check out on our Facebook

page from the on the town archives. The first one will be the 25th anniversary

of on the town. We strive to continue Harry McVey’s legacy of realizing the

positives in Flint and Genesee County. On the town has been published for

35 years minus a short hiatus after Harry’s passing.

I have been in this business since the early 80s, mostly with on the town

and have covered Flint and Genesee County. This community has been and

always will be my passion. We have been educating, entertaining, and sharing the great businesses

and people of our community for years. We hope you will continue to support us as we tell the stories

of what’s happening in on the town. I would also like to thank Kim Gray for joining us with our efforts,

she brings us many new ideas and we have some great plans for the future. Stay tuned………….

Correction:

The correct web site for the Flint Diaper Bank is www.theflintdiaperbank.org.

PUBLISHED BY:Global Network Publishers LLC

Co-Publishers:Kimberly GrayKaren Smith

EDITOR: Marcia McGee

DIRECTOR: Michelle Blaisdell

OFFICE MANAGER: Laura Ulman

SALES ASSOCIATES:Karen Smith

Debby Molina

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Cindy FicorelliDale Keipart

Therese LeytonMarcia McGee

Laurie ProchazkaAmber L. SaboYvonne Sova

Michael Thodoroff

DESIGNED BY: The Office Place

PHOTOGRAPHY:Debby MolinaZackary Scott

Crichton CreationsRynelle Walker Photography

Matt Schlinker

MISSION STATEMENT

“on the town” Magazine captures

the positive way our community lives

and breathes. Dynamic in scope and

editorially eclectic, it reflects the

people, community and lifestyle of

Genesee County and its’ surrounding

areas on a grand scale. All rights

reserved. No part of this publication

may be reproduced without expressed

written consent of the publisher.

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S. Saginaw St. Ste. 3 Grand Blanc, MI 48439. Make checks payable to Global Network Publishers.

Vol. III No. III

4 on the town

5

2060

2434

50

42

edItorIal

05 Cover: PhilanthroPy - a Key PieCe of the Community

16 real estate now By luCy ham

18 the Best ProjeCt

20 Genesys Charity ClassiC

22 journalist Chooses award winninG joint rePlaCement ProGram

26 see what's PossiBle in flint & Genesee County

30 toastmasters international

34 mateen Cleaves: flintstone

38 Community Profile: eriC PatriCK thomas

40 Birds of a feather desiGn toGether

42 fandanGles - a flushinG deliGht

46 ediBle flint - alive, well and GrowinG

52 less is more

58 walethia aquil: my dreams do Come true

60 fresh fruits & veGetaBles - miChiGan's festivals

eVeNt spreads

19 tux & tennies Gala

24 tea Party at the durant

28 danCinG with loCal stars

36 over the moon

44 team easton Gives BaCK

50 Cruise for a Cause

54 united way

56 hollywood niGhts

40

volume three issue three

For Good – ForeVer:Community foundationBy michael G. thodoroff

In the heart of downtown Flint the trendy

501 Bar & Grill is serving dishes of culinary

excellence. In that same building just

above the restaurant, another organization

is serving another kind of excellence – and

that is distinctive plans of perpetuity for the

purpose of insuring the preservation of our

community.

This is recognizably a tall order of

mission for the Community Foundation

of Greater Flint and an essential element

to the sustainability and preservation of

our municipality. Celebrating their 25th

anniversary, the Community Foundation

of Greater Flint essentially serves the

common good in Genesee County. That is

by building a strong community, engaging

people in philanthropy and developing

our community’s permanent endowment

– now and for generations to come. This

translates into one of their primary goals by

ensuring our community has a collaborative

infrastructure that promotes and supports

civic engagement throughout the entire

community.

“We have a special niche,” Kathi

Horton, foundation president, said,

“because typically, many foundations are

built by the wealth of one person or one

family. Our Community Foundation is

fostered for the common citizen so they

can leave a legacy gift. "We like to point out

that people from ‘modest to magnificent’

means can leave a gift that will benefit their

community forever – and that’s a formidable

distinguishing feature.”

The Community Foundation of Greater

Flint was established in 1988 when the Flint

Area Health Foundation merged

with the Flint Public Trust to form

the Community Foundation of

Greater Flint. This was actually the

brainchild of William S. White of the

renowned C.S. Mott Foundation and

Dr. Arthur L. Tuuri as new tax laws at

the time made it more advantageous

for donors to make gifts. As a result,

community foundations across

the country became an effective

vehicle for growing community

philanthropy.

Dr. Tuuri, M.D., a trusted leader

and advocate for quality health

care, served as the first president of the

Community Foundation. As president of

the foundation today, Kathi Horton works

diligently with the Board of Trustees who are

responsible for the policy-making, oversight

of the Community Foundation's operations

and makes final decisions on grants. They

are all volunteers broadly representing

the Genesee County area who provide

the vision and leadership that enables the

Community Foundation to fulfill its mission.

This Board is led by Dr. Bobby Mukkamala,

a dynamic community advocate and

according to Horton, an amazing pro-active

individual who loves this community and

wants to do whatever he can to improve the

lives of everybody here.

While the Community Foundation

distinctly operates according to their mission

and values, Horton emphasizes they partner

and collaborate with the other local prime

foundations through joint initiatives. One

such example is through the Flint Area

Reinvestment Office (FARO). The

purpose here is to help identify

federal and state dollars

that can be directed to

the community. “That

way we can do a

better job of going

after the competitive grants that exist in

government,” Kathi clarified. “And because

we meet on regular basis we have developed

really strong positive relationships.”

She went on to further explain the

distinguishing feature of the foundation’s

gifts as they are meant to be permanently

endowed gifts. Typically, the gifts and

donations are not from a payroll deduction

nor discretionary in nature but are planned

gifts as part and parcel of estate planning –

simply put, an eternal gift.

“We make sure that we never 'spend

down' the value of that gift,” she emphatically

stated. In principal, the Community

Foundation offers a variety of charitable

funds with a common purpose of making

a lasting difference in our community.

With over 400 different funds currently

"we liKe to Point out

that PeoPle from

‘modest to maGnifiCent’

means Can leave a Gift

that will Benefit their

Community forever –

and that’s a formidaBle

distinGuishinG feature.”

on the town 5

CommuNIty partNershIps:a formula for sustained suCCess

On the corner of First and Saginaw

Steets stands the structure still considered

by some citizens to be the epicenter of Flint.

After all, it was the emerging industrial city’s

first “skyscraper” when it was opened to the

public in November 1930 as the United

Industrial Building. Its “Art Deco” style

today still retains the classic legacy of that

period’s architecture.

One of the early tenants was Charles

Stewart Mott. After he formed the C.S. Mott

it means we have

to be in a constant

mode of bringing in that next

generation. That way, everybody knows they

can be a philanthropist in the Community

Foundation of Greater Flint.”

established by individuals or organizations,

a prospective donor can virtually satisfy

any benevolent wish through a myriad

of purposes or causes such as poverty,

beautification or environmental energy

efficiency. A donor also has the flexibility

to designate their gift as “unrestricted.” In

this case the board will help to determine

the priorities and a strategic planning cycle

–basically creating direction for those

resources.

Adding to effectively determine the

direction of resources are the foundation’s

five select committees. A unique feature is

their youth philanthropy component which

consists of four youth advisory committees

(YAC). They each have a special fund and

are empowered to make all the grant-

making decisions. These committees (based

in Fenton, Linden, Grand Blanc and Clio

School Districts) are populated exclusively

with high school aged individuals who are

studying community needs as part of their

overall curriculum. “This is our future,”

Horton said with enthusiasm, “our youth

are making important decisions and being

schooled in the benefits of philanthropy

right now!” She was proud to note that two

students have recently been invited to serve

on the Board of Trustees – a first.

Furthermore, she mentioned they are

in the process of launching a “giving circle”

program. The idea here is that people who

want to do charitable things can come

together and determine collectively how

much each person will raise each year

and subsequently decide what and how

to disperse those funds. Designated as the

Give Forward Network, this platform is

exclusively for the 20, 30 and 40 year old

citizen segment. After deciding through a

democratic process, they hope to announce

their first recipient by the end of this year.

“We certainly have all the demographics

covered,” Kathi Horton noted as a matter of

fact. “These youth and young adult programs

are very empowering and they help us

keep in tune with the mindset of the next

generation. Our Community Foundation

is all about generation after generation.

I feel we have a wonderful asset base but

Foundation in

1926, he established

the foundation’s operational offices

in this venerable building. This charitable

organization was launched in response to

his deep concern about the welfare of “his”

city as well as his abiding affection for his

adopted community.

The stories about this pioneering

benefactor are many. Essentially as a private

citizen Mott founded a camp as well as

medical and dental clinics for Flint's children

while additionally helping to establish a

number of nonprofit organizations that still

exist today, including the Whaley Children's

Center, the Boy Scouts and the Greater Flint

YMCA.

From its earliest origins, the foundation's

major concern reflects its founder’s personal

beliefs and has been the well-being of

communities and all that they encompass

- individuals, families, neighborhoods and

civic organizations. Today this interest

continues to play out through grant making

in Flint as well as communities far beyond

the foundation's home city.

It would be easy to describe the

staggering but impressive facts and figures

regarding this foundation’s ledger sheet.

But when talking to Neal Hegarty and Ann

Richards, vice president of programs and

continued on page 86 on the town

Flint Women and Girls Fund

senior communications officer respectively,

you realize that among the staff there is

much more to the fabric of the C.S. Mott

Foundation.

It is Hegarty’s perception that a different

sense of the history is expressed by different

people. “My sense is that Mr. Mott had

an extremely strong charitable impulse

to help the community and the world,”

Neal reflected. “He was very successful in

business and wanted to pass along some of

his success by helping others.”

He goes on to point out that Mr. Mott

was very taken by the plight of children in

the community and believed they should

have access to health care, education and

recreational opportunities. Children were a

strong motivating factor for him as he was in

a position to provide them with opportunities

to succeed in life. Mott believed money

should not be a determining factor on

whether a child achieves or fails in life.

Another critical element of Mott’s

fundamental beliefs was the notion of

community. Hegarty advocates this was

embedded from “day one” in Mott’s vision.

“Every person is in a partnership with

their community,” Mott was quoted as

saying frequently. Essentially, he believed

the central part of your life story is your

community, no matter who you are, and

thus everybody is partnered and connected

with community.

“He lived it!” Ann highlighted. “The

foundation was a formalization of what he

was already doing.”

The driving force in creating

partnerships was through the Community

Education program. It started in the summer

of 1935 as a collaborative effort with Flint

school administrator Frank Manley by

opening six of the city’s schools under the

designation known as the Mott Program

for Flint Schools. That summer education

program was received so well they decided

to expand it in the winter months by

conducting classes during after school

hours. With the increasing acceptance and

demand, this innovative curriculum for

its time just kept growing and eventually

became the national model for community

education programs.

Hegarty added that the nature of

education and communities have changed

over time but that thread of work still exists

for support of after school programs - the

Mott Foundation’s largest single portfolio of

work. He mentioned, “We view after school

learning as the modern day embodiment of

a lot of the principles of what community

education offered in its time.”

Another unique element of the

foundation is the notion of making grants

in the context of community. This element

transcends to all of the program areas no

matter where.

Hegarty reasons that one of the

challenges in telling the foundation’s history

is that since it is a long-standing family

foundation different views and different

windows of history exists. He characterizes

it as an evolution. Mott lived a long time

and over the course of his life, his interests

changed and evolved as did the foundation.

He had a clear vision that things would

change over time and envisioned a

foundation that would embrace change

while remaining true to core values.

In the 1950s the foundation expanded

on a national level and by the 80s, on a

global level. Today, in addition to main

offices in Flint and Troy, the Mott Foundation

has offices located in London, England and

Johannesburg, South Africa.

Regardless of the location, there has

always been a core focus on Flint through

any evolution process. In fact, one-quarter

to one-third of all funding is still slated for

Flint. “The operative term is evolved but we

remain consistent to the core elements of

what we do,” Hegarty said with emphasis,

“every Person is

in a PartnershiP

with their

Community.”

“and that’s something that the foundation

staunchly believes.”

He maintains, “Our vision is to be

consistent and continue our evolution in the

way we’ve been working. We will continue

to function locally, nationally and, in select

cases, where internationally relevant. And

to a point, we’re not interested in chasing

innovation for innovation’s sake. We view

the greatest innovations are how to deal

with the changes in government, the shift in

public sector, and the dramatically shrinking

population base - those are the kinds of

innovations we’re interested in chasing. And

I am certain nobody here would force a

vision that is a departure from our 87 years.

We’ve been remarkably consistent and that’s

great testament to the Mott family, the board

and the organization.”

a BeautIFul foundation

Beautiful is not a category typically

used for charitable foundations. However,

in the case of the Ruth Mott Foundation

(RMF) it does focus on the arts, culture

and beautification for the people of Flint

and Genesee County. Its mission has been

quite clear since its inception in March of

2001 and that is to advocate, stimulate, and

support community vitality. The Foundation

envisions communities of hope and pride

where neighborhood environments and

urban core are safe, attractive, and healthy,

enriched by cultural diversity and engaged

citizens.

Ruth Mott came to Flint in 1934 when

she married Charles Stewart Mott and settled

into their Applewood estate where she

became a mother, an active partner with her

husband in the community and prominent

in her own right as a local leader, foundation

trustee, and national philanthropist. Mrs.

Mott established the Ruth Mott Foundation

as a means of extending the reach of her continued on page 10

8 on the town

philanthropy beyond her

lifetime with a continued presence in Flint.

Her own values and conduct inspire the

Foundation to be inclusive, welcoming, and

egalitarian. Moreover and in the spirit of

Ruth Mott, her foundation seeks to act with

kindness and good humor, treat all people

with respect and dignity while encouraging

personal responsibility.

Understanding the foundation’s place

in this community has come about by

building relationships that both define and

strengthen the foundation’s role here. Their

relationships enable them to understand

the challenges faced by thousands in this

community and thus, help to identify

solutions that will have maximum impact

with sustainable outcomes. And to make the

most of those relationships the foundation

staff and leadership pledge to be visible and

accessible, insuring their grant guidelines

and outreach programs are communicated

clearly.

To assure the foundation’s relevance,

they continually evaluate their efforts in light

of the needs of the community - especially

through the lens of diversity and inclusion.

By connecting to community, the

foundation translates Ruth Mott’s personal

love of her adopted Flint into a legacy of

action.

Current RMF president Sara Ríos added,

“We need to know how to hear the voices in

the community—not just read the statistics;

not to hear about people, but from them.”

There are four areas of funding priorities

for available grants. First: Community driven

programs, projects or activities that is led by

skilled local artists, engages the residents,

addresses the issues of local concern and

reflect and honor local culture. Second:

Arts and culture, the Ruth Mott Foundation

broadly includes all forms of arts and

cultural expression. Third: Beautification,

dedicated to initiatives that help create safe,

attractive and livable communities. Fourth:

Activities centered around neighborhoods,

land use along with parks and public spaces

that generally involve residents in planning

the kind of community they want to live in.

Supporting health promotion is another

priority which creates the conditions and

reinforces the behaviors necessary to

achieve good health including supporting a

healthy food system. For clarification and as

an important note, the foundation does not

make grants focused on treating illness.

The bottom line in RMF’s funding

values that guide their decisions is

they seek partners who want to build

an effective collaborative while

increasing a community engagement

that demonstrates diversity and

inclusion. Additionally, they

are looking for programs that

inspire hope and pride while also

establishing a plan for continuous

improvement and learning.

Just as the grant-making arm is

an integral part of the mission of RMF,

the Applewood Estate is significant

to the preservation of the Mott family's

philanthropic and farming past. The

foundation persists in building on that

legacy in an effort to inspire hope and pride

for our community's future.

The Applewood Estate, which is listed

the National Register of Historic Places, was

named after the apple orchard on the front

lawn that contains 29 antique varieties.

It was built for Charles Stewart Mott in

1916, and basically was constructed as a

gentleman's farm. Upon Mr. Mott's passing

in 1973, Ruth Mott was left to consider the

future of the estate which at that time was

a shadow of its former beauty. After careful

thought she hired a landscape architecture

firm to develop a master plan to return the

estate's original elegance and beauty, while

considering the possibilities of a public

visitor program in the near future.

That horticulture department is still

in existence today. Applewood eventually

became an entity in the Ruth Mott

Foundation, which continues today and will

continue as her legacy to the community.

The estate's beautifully landscaped 18 acres

artistically weave together the Mott family's

past and present dedication to serving the

needs of the community through convening

and public programs. In that spirit, the RMF

utilizes Applewood to promote community

vitality and renewal.

The Ruth Mott Foundation is a member

of the Flint Funder’s Collaborative which


When

meansgetting aWay

PERRYSBURGO H I O

v i s i t p e r r y s b u r g . c o m

here’s a place where time slows down and you can leave the rush of

life behind. A place to rediscover why you fell in love in the first place.

A place where you spend more time enjoying and less time getting around.

The place: Perrysburg, Ohio.

From its quaint downtown to its rich history, Perrysburg has the shops,

restaurants and hotels to make a perfect weekend getaway. Go to

visitperrysburg.com to find out all the area has to offer.

getting CLOseR.

includes the three other local major

philanthropic organizations covered in this

issue and communicates diligently with those

groups in the development, improvement,

beautification and preservation of Flint and

Genesee County.

The eternal flame of Ruth Mott’s spirit

is alive and well and is firmly positioned

for the future. Sara Ríos enthusiastically

expressed, “Our challenge is . . . how does

a small place-based family foundation bring

expression to the community voice, and

how do we make sure the residents here are

treated with dignity and that they feel their

own power. I am delighted to be working

with our board on strategic planning as we

work to answer these big questions, and

I’m very excited. I know it’s going to be

powerful.”

“we need to Know how

to hear the voiCes in the

Community—not just

read the statistiCs; not

to hear aBout PeoPle,

But from them.”

We staNd uNIteda way of GivinG

The next time you’re at a family or local

social function, mention the name “United

Way.” There is a good chance that most – if

not, all – will say that they are not only well

aware of this philanthropic organization

but likely have been a beneficiary of their

services as well. After all, the United Way

of Genesee County has been around Flint

and Genesee County for 92 years and has

unofficially served thousands of people.

They have perpetually been at the forefront

of uniting people, developing resources

and creating solutions to build a better

community. Even though there are now

many local agencies who work

to address specific problems in

Genesee County, the United Way

operates in a unique role as an

umbrella agency focusing on a

broad range of community issues.

The United Way of Genesee

County has proven over the years

to be a positive agent for change

bringing together the people of the

community, building on strengths

and solving problems together while

adhering to their long-standing mission of

uniting people, developing resources and

creating solutions.

This principle has roots back to United

Way’s origin when a group of key community

leaders headed by A. G. Bishop created an

organization in 1922 that would "…solidify,

collect, and disburse funds for patriotic,

war, charitable, philanthropic

and benevolent purposes.”

Under the sponsorship

of the Chamber of

Commerce, the fundraising organization

was branded the Flint Community Chest and

with it a legacy focused on safeguarding the

welfare of Genesee County residents from

all walks of life.

During its 92 years, the United Way

has been known by a variety of monikers

such as the Red Feather Fund, United Fund

and finally the present name, United Way

of Genesee County. However, no matter the

name, the purpose of the organization never

changed.

Whether it was the Great Depression,

World War II, the Civil Rights movement

or the eventual decline of the domestic

automotive industry, the United Way and its

predecessors conducted annual campaigns

to raise funds from companies, organizations

and individuals.

United Way CEO Jamie Gaskin

explained that their history is uniquely

intertwined with labor in general - both the

company and the employees (for example,


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General Motors and the United Auto

Workers) – through a payroll deduction

program. “The labor family has always

been a strong supporter,” Gaskin stated.

“You can’t consider United Way’s history

without understanding that impact because

the commitment to have collective action

in addressing the bigger problem is very

significant.” He describes this in simple

terms as “teaspoon philanthropy” where

many people give a little, all the time.

According to Gaskin, the heart of United

Way is its collective response in addressing

the needs of the community on an on-going

basis. The needs are continually revisited

and examined as they have volunteer base

as their decision-making board. Gaskin

mentioned when they allocate resources

in the community, it’s a group of regular

community people identifying the greatest

need and thus helps to invest those dollars

where they are needed the most. “We feel

like we’re the voice of the larger community

where we are the vehicle for which a group

in need can rely on us,” he said.

When an agency makes a request for

funds to the United Way, their Community

Impact Cabinet goes to the site for a first-

hand visit along with a rigorous review of

what they will be doing with the funds,

how they will spend the funds, and what

are the expected outcomes. With this

knowledge, the professional staff gathers

and organizes the information so when

decisions are made by the Board of

Trustees, they have the data to make an

appropriate decision.

Gaskin points out, however, there is a

need for them to continuously look at the

way they do things especially in terms of

how they invest their funding. “After sincere

thought, we are in the process of adapting

to a new model,” he said. “We are moving

from our long-standing focus of older adults,

youth, families and basic needs to categories

of education, health, income, and basic

needs. This new model is significant for us.”

Even though he is moving the United

Way toward a new focus, Gaskin is proud

to be a member of the area’s

philanthropic community and explains they

all have a desire to compliment one another

as they each have unique “space” to support

the broader community. They talk about

what they are all doing both formally and

informally. “We all see the same community

in general and even though our own boards

make their own decisions, we inform each

other as to how we’re operating and actually

do some things together,” he explained.

A great example is the collaborative

BEST project (Building, Excellence,

Sustainability, Trust). Focusing on the

nonprofit sector of Flint and Genesee County,

it provides capacity building support by way

of development workshops, peer learning

sessions and technical assistance in the

spirit of sustainability.

Gaskin admits the United Way has

struggled just like everyone else in their

recent past as he recognizes the community

is changing but refuses to make excuses. “It

is not a matter of what we don’t have; it’s all

about making the best of the resources we

do have. We have to establish once again the

United Way is a recognizable, identifiable

central place where if you provide the funds,

you will get the most return on your dollar.”

He also understands the foundation

of their success. “We never would have

been able to address the problems in the

community without the cooperation of

General Motors and the UAW. We are

honored to continue to have them as

partners. And anybody who gives to United

Way can be assured it is my solemn duty to

ensure those dollars are invested in the most

meaningful way.”

“we feel liKe we’re the

voiCe of the larGer

Community where we

are the vehiCle for

whiCh a GrouP in need

Can rely on us,”

14 on the town

1. underestimatinG CleaninG uP:

It may seem obvious, but inviting potential buyers in to see an unkept

home is like going on a job interview without freshening up after you cleaned

your garage. How you show your home tells the buyer what type of care you,

the seller, have put into the home. Take the time to wipe the grime off the

refrigerator doors, tidy up the kid’s rooms, take out the messy diapers, put away the food and take the dogs out of the house

for a while so buyers will not move on to the next home on their list.

2. linGerinG durinG showinGs:

Yes, we all want to know how the open house or showing went, but hanging around during either of those events is

not a good idea. Sellers who tend to linger during showings often make the buyers uncomfortable. Buyers like to have

time to explore the home at their own pace and without feeling any pressure. Sometimes buyers want to sit on the porch

or out in the backyard as they discuss the home’s possibilities. And if buyers are willing to sit for a bit and talk about the

home, that’s a great sign. However, the chance of their doing that with the seller present is unlikely. Many times buyers

will say, “Let’s skip the home if the sellers are there.”

3. for sale By owner (fsBo) traP:

Some people are convinced that they can do it on their own. Maybe they can sell their own home, but it likely won’t

happen without some headaches. Trained specialists are called “experts” for a reason. An expert real estate agent knows

the market, has connections, guides you through the process, negotiates on your behalf, and will make the process of

selling your home simpler.

One potential land mine that For Sale By Owners face is the flood of people popping in to see their home. It sounds

great that there’s so much traffic, but the problem is that many times the people who pop into FSBO properties aren’t

actually qualified for a mortgage or may not be serious buyers. Instead they’re just looking and satisfying their curiosity at

your expense. Agents know to ask the right questions to make certain the lookers are truly potential home buyers.

4. PriCinG a home inCorreCtly:

This could be the worst mistake sellers make. Yet, this is where so much help can be found. Real estate agents see

homes every single day. They know the neighborhoods and the comps. They are there to help you understand what

homes have sold for in the recent past and what they’ll likely sell for during the current market conditions. Get a market

evaluation from your agent and understand what is a fair price for your home in today’s market. Call us for your free market

analysis.

top Four mIstaKessellers maKeit Can Be a touGh marKet for sellinG a home, But those

Conditions Can Get even worse if sellers aren’t Careful.

while a seller doesn’t Control the real estate marKet, his

aCtions Can siGnifiCantly ContriBute to how lonG and

how muCh their home is sold for.

Advertorial

real estate Now By luCy ham

16 on the town

Complete multi purpose 20,000 sq ft office building plus 6 car garage, storage basement and complete living quarters. All on 5 acres near

busy I-475, Grand Traverse, S. Saginaw interchange.

Bristol rd. Burton $599,000

Corner prime location w/ 50 asphalt parking (2012). Approx 10450 sq ft. Beautiful church with registered stained glass windows. 1998 new roof, AC, furnaces, I beams, plumbing, electrical, 2008 south

roof replaced.

Beech st. Flushing $199,900

Refurbished offices of THA Architects (formerly Walker School) Lease vacant suites at $9/$12 sq ft. plus utilities. (3 yrs.) or will sell. Sellers

interested in lease back from new owner.Corner of Kearsley , I-475/Chavez. Approx sq ft 23315.

Kearsley st. Flint $950,000

4 beds, 4 baths, beautiful, freshly renovated with open floor plan and sits on 11.7 acres. Additional 28 x 30 garage with second floor finished knotty pine studio. Enjoy wildlife in paradise while relaxing on the new Azek deck overlooking the pond, volleyball court and

water fall.

deneens rolling acres, Flushing $329,0004 beds, 4 baths. Enjoy the serenity and walking trail overlooking a meandering stream in the woods. Bridge and zipline over creek. Master suite w/ his & hers walkin closets. Walkout LL has radiant

heat floor w/kitchen, bath, theatre room and game room plus built in Murphy bed. Hurry!

Whispering pines oF grand Blanc $319,9005 beds, 4 baths on a fabulous private lake. Maple Kraftmade island

kitchen w/granite countertops, wood floors and appliances. Anderson windows galore for great views from every room. The serenity of living

on the water w/o the business of a large lake. Some call it paradise on the water w/o the busyness of a large lake.

hidden laKe, Flushing $319,900

4 beds, 3 bath, all brick on private setting. Gourmet kitchen and main floor master suite and laundry. Walkout basement w/day windows,

patio and huge composite deck. Your dream come true!

2 acres in cul de sac, goodrich $324,9003beds, 4 baths, in popular Krystal Creek sub. Remarkable brick

ranch, finished LL with 2nd kitchen, cedar closet and office, bath, exercise room and of course a large rec room. Hickory living area

floors. Quality, quality, quality. A must see!

Krystal creeK, Flushing $399,0005 beds, 5 baths, wonderful ambiance antd quality combination of new

and old. Covered front porch plus paver patios. Main floor master suite w/whirlpool bath. Gourmet kitchen, inground pool with 2012 liner. 3 car garage w/ drive thru door, ceiling speakers and heated

floor. Ready to relax?

over 2 acres country setting, oWosso $334,900

The Lucy ham Group Inc. Is proud To announce The openInG of

there are 800 nonProfits in Genesee County so it is diffiCult

for any one of those to stand out. in a sea that larGe,

a nonProfit must stand out as BeinG the Best PlaCe to

volunteer or donate. that’s the Bad news. the Good news is the

Best ProjeCt exists to helP nonProfits BeCome suCCessful.

Best: BuildinG exCellenCe sustainaBility trust.

What this means is strengthening the nonprofit sector of Flint and Genesee County

by providing capacity building support and technical assistance.

Jennifer Acree, executive director of BEST (until June when she moves to the Mott

Foundation), emphasized that BEST is not in the business of creating new nonprofits

but is the business of making them stronger by working with process and outcome to

create maximum effectiveness.

Acree said, “BEST works on the business side, teaching groups how to form

effective boards, sound financial systems and how not to rely on one foundation.”

BEST is a program of the United Way of Genesee County and was created and

is supported by the Flint Funders Collaborative which includes: Charles Stewart Mott

Foundation, Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Ruth Mott Foundation and the

United Way of Genesee County.

Since the launch of BEST in 2003, the BEST Project has served well over seventy

Genesee County nonprofits. More than 30 of these participated in a three-year

comprehensive assessment and capacity building program.

The BEST Project offers a variety of organizational development services to an

organization including assessment, technical assistance grants, capacity building

awards, professional development and events and nonprofit management information

and referral. In addition to formal grants and programs, BEST does a lot of coaching of

nonprofits. Recently, Acree noted, “Board development and governance is where we

have spent the most time.”

This year BEST will fund forty organizations and work with seventy. Acree said BEST

will do a lot more outreach to work with more churches and grass roots organizations.

“We need grass roots programs that are mobile and agile,” she explained. However, she

said, it is just as important to have a broad spectrum of sizes of organizations. “While

nonprofits are getting more strategic, we still have more in the community that can be

supported."

Another important program is the BEST Nonprofit Leadership Institute. It is a

year-long program specifically designed for people who are committed to developing

their professional skills and applying them to nonprofits. This could include anyone:

volunteers, board members, executive directors, staff members or community members

at large. “This is not Management 101,” said Acree.

“It’s about the individual. How do I be a better

leader? What are my goals and how do I reach

them?”

The program is designed to enhance and

build specific leadership characteristics connected

to a 360 leadership effectiveness analysis. It also

includes coaching, six group sessions and nonprofit

management education. Acree said, “We intend to

fill the pipeline with people who are qualified and

interested in furthering the work of this sector in a

meaningful way.”

Sheila Smith, convention sales manager, Flint

Genesee Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau,

said "As a student in the BEST Nonprofit Leadership

Institute, I am developing intelligent leadership

competency through a program with outstanding

staff, instructors/coaches and materials. By

strategically improving my skills and awareness

of how to positively impact individuals, business

and our community, I am visibly increasing

various areas of my effectiveness while striving for

leadership excellence. What a great opportunity!”

Any Genesee County nonprofit can apply for

help or grants. They must go through a rigorous

assessment before being accepted into the

program. Some of the qualities that BEST is looking

at include: openness to learning and change,

transparency, and leadership and boards that will

own and follow through on the changes.

the Best projeCt:BuildinG exCellenCe sustainaBility trust

By marCia mCGee

18 on the town

Whaley Children's Center

Tux & Tennies GalaMay 2013

1. Sara Pettit, Jim & Pam Murdock, Katrina Khouri, Brook Adams, DeAndra McCain 2. Kevin Roach, Linda & Walter Barkey 3. Tracy & Fred Hensler 4. Mona & Samasandra Dalya Kiran 5. Josie Isbell, Mike Selleck 6. Susana Wight, David Gaines 7. Lou & Katy Caschera 8. Janet & Robert Pickell, Della Newsome, Robert Hough 9. Kowal & Kasha Richard 10. Danny & Asmahan Zerka, Ronny & Paula Medawar, Jeffrey & Carrie Irvin, Matt & Chelsea Mills, Jennifer & John Wentworth

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on the town 19

GeNesys CharIty ClassICraises funds for roBotiC surGeryBy Cindy fiCorelli

the 21st annual Genesys Charity

ClassiC Promises to Be the "Party of

the summer" with Great food, fun

and friends!

The fundraising event features a golf outing Monday, July 15

and the Classic party, Saturday, July 20. Both events take place at

Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club in Grand Blanc. You will have

an opportunity to play on one of southeastern Michigan's premier

golf courses with a Joe Lee-designed par 72 championship layout.

All golf enthusiasts - from the avid athlete to the leisurely weekend

golfer - will enjoy this true gem with lush, green fairways and bent

grass greens.

You can choose a morning or afternoon tee time. Morning

includes a continental breakfast, lunch and morning round awards.

An afternoon tee time features hors d'oeuvres and afternoon round

awards. The Classic party will take place Saturday, July 20 from 6 pm

to 11 pm. The great food portion of the evening Includes cocktails,

hors d'oeuvres and the finest culinary specialties from Chef Larry

Werner: a carving station, a grill station, a southwest fare station, a

pasta station and dessert served on the patio. A silent auction auction

features sports memorabilia, framed artwork, gift certificates, and

dozens of spectacular items. Musical entertainment, dancing and

golf challenges round out an evening to enjoy with friends.

"The Charity Classic is a fantastic opportunity for the community

to join together for some great food and fun - all to improve the

quality of care for our patients," reports Nick Evans, Genesys vice

president of business, Development and Chief Development Officer.

"Since its inception, the Genesys Charity Classic event has raised

nearly $2 million, thanks to the generosity of our community."

Charity Classic proceeds initially were used for Healthy

Students 2000, a 10-year, $1 million commitment to improve the

health of Genesee County students through health education and

immunization awareness programs.

Funds also were raised to establish an ongoing scholarship

program for areas students entering health care undergraduate and

graduate programs. The most recent Charity Classic endeavor was

to raise funds for a Level II B Special Care Nursery, which provides

Genesys with the capabilities to care for higher risk babies - those

born at more than 32 weeks gestation and weighing more than 1500

grams, those needing mechanical ventilation, and those needing

continuous positive airway pressure.

For the next three years, proceeds from the Charity Classic will

be earmarked for robotic surgery technology.

Tickets are $100 each and only 1,000 will be sold. Winning

tickets will be drawn at the Classic party. As part of the Charity Classic

fundraising event, Genesys will sponsor a raffle with a chance to win

your choice of three grand prizes:

2013 Harley Davidson Fat Boy motorcycle or

2011 (new) Arctic Cat Prowler or

$10,000 cash;

Second prize: $2,500;

Third prize: $1,000

You do not have to attend the Charity Classic events to be eligible

to win. For more information on the Genesys Charity Classic, or to

purchase tickets for the raffle, call the Genesys Health Foundation at

810-606-7909, or go online to: www.genesyshealthfoundation.org/

charityclassic.

20 on the town

In 2011 he slipped off a boat dock ladder and ripped his left knee cap loose. His

right knee was bone-on-bone. In 2012 he decided he could no longer withstand the

pain or the limitations his knees were putting on his activities. In January 2012 he

had his left knee replaced at McLaren Flint and in November 2012 his right knee was

replaced.

“My knees really hurt the last 10 years before I had my surgeries,” states Graham.

“The surgeries went well, and my nurses, Paul and Debbie, were very kind…even when

I accidently pulled out my I.V. and made quite a mess for Paul to clean up.”

Following each surgery Graham had outpatient physical therapy at McLaren’s

Therapy Services and Sports Medicine Center on Elms Road in Flushing Township.

“I had a wonderful experience both times with my physical therapist Heidi,” states

Graham. “She was very nice and sensitive; she really helped me get through it. Therapy

starts right after surgery and it can be painful at first. She was expecting me to do things

that I could not imagine, but you have to do it. I have older friends who did not stick

with the therapy and now their new knees are stiff and not working well. I still go to the

center to exercise through McLaren’s Wellness program.”

This year is looking up for Graham and his desire to stay active. In early April, he

and his wife, Susan, traveled to Texas for a hunting trip with their youngest son. He is

also currently painting his historic farm house, something he was unable to do for the

past eight years due to the pain he would experience in his knees when going up and

down the ladder and standing on it for long periods of time. In June he will take part for

the third time as an instructor in a special fly fishing adventure for male cancer survivors

called Reel Recovery.

“I like to do stuff,” says Graham. “I don’t like to sit around. Now that I am pain free

I can do even more.”

Graham also continues his love of writing through Michigan Outdoor News. With

his new knees to lead the way who knows what outdoor adventures he has yet to

experience and share with his readers?

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has named McLaren Flint as a Blue Distinction

Center+ in the areas of Spine Surgery and Hip and Knee Replacement. The Blue

Distinction Centers for Specialty Care® program is a national designation awarded

by Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies to medical facilities that have demonstrated

expertise in delivering quality specialty care – and has recently been expanded to

include more robust quality measures focused on improved patient health and safety as

well as new cost-efficiency measures.

McLaren Flint is one of only 14 hospitals in Michigan to receive both prestigious

designations. The selection criteria used to evaluate

facilities were developed with input from the

medical community and include general quality

and safety metrics as well as program specific

metrics.

“McLaren Flint is proud to have met the

rigorous selection criteria that has been set by

the Blue Distinction Centers for Specialty Care

program,” states Donald Kooy, president and

CEO of McLaren Flint. “These designations help

reinforce that we are staying on course in our

commitment to provide high quality and efficient

care to our patients.”

Research confirms that the newly designated

Blue Distinction Centers+ demonstrate better

quality and improved outcomes for patients, with

lower rates of complications and readmissions

than their peers. Blue Distinction Centers+ also are

more than 20 percent more cost-efficient.

McLaren Flint has a special patient care unit

dedicated to both hip and knee replacement and

spine surgery patients. A comprehensive education

class and printed and online materials are made

available to patients and their caregivers prior to

surgery. Board certified surgeons and a dedicated

nursing and therapy staff provide a team approach

to care on the day of surgery and during the

recovery process.

David Graham is becoming more active again after having both knees replaced at McLaren Flint in 2012. He is pictured here repainting his historic farm house in Flushing.

aWard WINNING jourNalIst Choosesaward winninG joint rePlaCement ProGramBy laurie ProChazKa

after 41 years as an award winninG rePorter and PhotoGraPher with the

flint journal, david Graham, 65, of flushinG, has a wealth of memories

and stories to share. althouGh he enjoyed his entire rePortinG Career, his

26 years as outdoor writer were the hiGhliGht. sPendinG time outdoors

was, and Continues to Be, Graham’s Passion. you name an outdoor sPort

and, Graham has done it, inCludinG hiKinG, snow sKiinG, water sKiinG,

CamPinG, BoatinG, fishinG and huntinG. all that aCtivity and arthritis

wore his Knees riGht out.

22 on the town

Insurance subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Insurance Company. Life insurance and annuities issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE, Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL, and American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Jacksonville, FL. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.

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1949

4

(248) 284-1201Ortonville

(810) 720-0500Flushing

(810) 606-1100Grand Blanc

Quota CluB of flint

Tea ParTy aT The duranTapril 2013

1. Cathy Moore & Lori Marran 2. Sherry Dodge Schlinker, Valentyna Freeman, Carol Carlson, & Casey Mayne 3. Patti Dill & Carolyn Boegner 4. Shannon Ash & Heather Burnash 5. Adriennne Burnash & Lisa Benjamin 6. Chef Besh 7. Elaine Kaye, Kay Kelly & Wendy Jamrog 8. Pat Forcier & Sherry Dodge Schlinker 9.Ginny Thorpe, Roseanne Heddy, Valentyna Freeman 10. Suzette Stephens & Carol Carlson 11. Front Row: Kay Kelly, Carol Carlson, Sherry Dodge Schlinker, Rosanne Heddy Back Row: Stephany Diana, Casey Mayne, Pamela Flores, Shelly Hoffman

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Photography by Matt Schlinker

24 on the town

Nearly one year ago, the Flint & Genesee Chamber of

Commerce, formerly the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce,

was tapped to lead tourism efforts in Flint and Genesee County and

shape the image of the area. The name change was the first step in a

branding effort. Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Chamber

of Commerce, explained the name change: “We have a new name

and a new logo; but we’re the same great business partner. As we set

out to brand and market Flint and Genesee County, it’s the right time

for us to align our own identity.”

In addition to the name change, a new branding campaign

was launched. The announcement marked the culmination of

the Chamber’s efforts to build a brand partnership between Flint

& Genesee and create a campaign

to market the region as a desirable

destination for events, vacation or

business.

See what’s possible is a rallying

cry that invites travelers to see various

attractions that the county has to offer.

The campaign plays off the word “see”

and features iconic destinations and

human moments through compelling

imagery. The idea is to get travelers to

see a more complete representation of

Flint and Genesee County.

“The destination branding will help

to bridge the gap between our strengths

and potential visitors’ perceptions,”

said Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint

& Genesee Chamber of Commerce.

“There are millions of Americans who

have limited or no knowledge of our

rich culture and arts, our innovative

spirit, our heritage, emerging status as

a college town, rebirth of downtown

Flint, our county parks or other assets that make Flint and Genesee

County a great place. The brand and new campaign gives us a great

platform to introduce ourselves.”

The campaign was produced in partnership with branding

consultant Mark Lantz, who was one of the creators of the award-

winning Pure Michigan brand and campaign; Fenton firm Shift Reset,

which provided original music and radio production; and Jamie

and Carrie Shaltz, who handled photography, cinematography and

videography for the project, and are also based in Fenton.

Together they produced TV and radio spots, print ads, billboards,

see What’s possIBlein flint & Genesee CountyBy elaine redd

signage and video. In addition to local and statewide ads, the

campaign will be supported by social media, Canadian newspapers,

and billboards appearing in southern Ontario, northern Ohio and

southeastern Michigan along the I-75 north corridor.

Jamie Curtis, chairman of the Genesee County Board of

Commissioners, emphasized that although the Chamber led the

marketing initiative, See what’s possible is a community brand versus

a Chamber brand.

“I want to congratulate the Chamber on developing an exciting

campaign,” said Curtis. “Now that we have a brand supported by an

advertising campaign, we need everyone to get behind it. This is a

campaign that has to be embraced by the public and private sectors

as well as citizens for it to work.”

The new identity represents the

community in its entirety bringing the two

names – Flint and Genesee -- together to

form a single identity.

“The branding initiative does a great

job of reflecting the important linkage

between the City of Flint and Genesee

County,” said Dayne Walling, Flint mayor.

“There’s no doubt that together, we are very

powerful.” Walling added, “The timing of

the campaign launch could not be better.

The most recent master planning session

concluded that addressing our public

image was one of the top priorities. The

City of Flint will partner with the Chamber

and others to leverage the new community

identity to attract new businesses, students

and visitors.”

The Chamber unveiled a newly

designed website, flintandgenesee.org, in

conjunction with the campaign. The new

site features an interactive map to locate

businesses across the county; a Visitors Guide for travelers looking

for things to see and do; an e-commerce portal that will offer tourists

the opportunity to book Flint and Genesee hotel stays online and

purchase tickets to various attractions and create customized

packages. The site also includes an event registration and payment

tool, and is mobile and tablet friendly.

Troy-based Basso Design Group was tapped to create the newly

designed website.

To see the ads, download a web badge or for information on

the brand and marketing campaign, visit flintandgenesee.org.

Information can also be found on Chamber’s name change. 26 on the town

LocaL chambers of commerce Present

Grand Blanc Dancing With Local StarsJeweL of Grand bLanc teddy bear PatroL benefit | aPriL 2013

rynelle walker Photography

28 on the town

LocaL chambers of commerce Present

Grand Blanc Dancing With Local StarsJeweL of Grand bLanc teddy bear PatroL benefit | aPriL 2013

rynelle walker Photography

on the town 29

Imagine: You are being interviewed for your dream job and are

desperate to be hired. The person behind the desk asks “What can

you contribute to the company?” Your eyes roll to the ceiling as if

looking for divine guidance, your heart pounds, your mouth is dry.

You stammer “Well, uh, I can, um, you know, work hard and, uh, do

the best I can…” End of interview.

Imagine: 7 am. You receive a phone call from the company

CEO. The plane is delayed and you will have to deliver the 9 am

presentation to the company managers assembled for the annual

meeting to implement projects, procedures, goals and deadlines.

Outline is on a power-point which he assumes you know how to

operate, right?

To be successful in anything the basics of education and practice

are essential. Too many people rely on OTM – Inspiration Of The

Moment. No plan, take what comes. There may be circumstances

preventing higher education beyond high school - finances or family

obligations - but there is an abundance of opportunity to rise above

mediocrity,

Toastmasters offers the most effective and least expensive

method of learning communication and leadership skills, gaining

self-confidence and improving abilities regardless of your level of

education, profession or experience.

One man, one idea, one small group of young boys and lives

changed, the world changed. Ralph Smedley understood the need

for guidance in developing personal achievement in any field and

every area of life. He also knew that people learn better in a relaxed

atmosphere and in a spirit of enjoyment. After graduating from Illinois

Wesleyan University he became Educational Director of the YMCA in

Bloomington, IL. He outlined a plan for group learning by helping

people develop their abilities with positive reinforcement from each

other. The club he started was publicized as a social club which

received more interest than a public speaking class. They met in a

basement room of the YMCA. The seed was planted and nourished.

alIVe aNd VIBraNt IN GeNesee CouNtyBy yvonne sova

Little did he realize the immensity and far reaching effects his efforts

would have.

The year was 1924. Calvin Coolidge was President. IBM was

organized. First class postage was $.02. Walt Disney created his first

cartoon. The first official Toastmasters club was formed.

Results prove the worth of any idea. From one club in a local

town, Toastmasters International has expanded to 13,500 clubs,

with 280,000 members in 116 countries. From a basic instructional

manual the training has expanded to advanced specialty learning

emphasizing both communication skills and leadership training.

There is an abundance of information available for every step

of the way. Manuals outline how to prepare, deliver and evaluate

a speech. Leadership is learned by participating as an officer in the

club plus expanding to area, division, district and national levels.

A person advances in the direction and at the pace they choose.

Members never have to feel obligated to do something they do not

want to do or feel they are not ready to do. Each step is a learning

experience and the more you learn the more you are capable of

learning and the more the desire to learn grows.

visit any toastmasters club in the world and the basic meeting

structure is the same: prepared speeches, topic sessions and

evaluations. members take turns performing the meeting roles:

• toastmaster – introduces the participants and keeps the

meeting running on time.

• topicmaster – presents a question to members who stand

and respond with their views in 2two minutes. Great

practice in extemporaneous speaking which is what most of

our daily conversation entails.

• General evaluator – directs the evaluation portion of the

meeting. every step of the meeting is evaluated and timed:

speeches, topics and reports. Participation in each job

develops good listening skills.

from club meetings to the semi-annual contests, conventions,

workshops, the monthly toastmasters magazine and online

websites, the learning opportunities are endless. there are six

clubs in Genesee County with different days, locations and either

morning, noon or evening meetings. you will find the perfect

one for your needs.

CheCK out toastmasters.orG and Geneseetoastmasters.orG

30 on the town

810-235-3263 810-239-5000

Rob Veenhuis, Mark Eneix, and Doug Graham Patrick Hodge

Locations in Clarkston and Flint | mclaren.org/metabolic

No moreweight-related Type 2 diabetes

For John, being overweight was posing serious health issues, including Type 2 diabetes, kidney problems and high cholesterol. John finally decided to say “no more”—and to lose weight with metabolic surgery.

Just two days after surgery, he no longer needed his daily diabetes medication, and now, his Type 2 diabetes and weight-related conditions are resolved. Today, he has more energy than ever, and he’s saving nearly $3,000 per year in medications.

One of the first in Michigan to offer a metabolic surgery program, McLaren provides experienced surgeons and a comprehensive approach that can help resolve your weight-related Type 2 diabetes and other conditions.

To know more about metabolic surgery, call (888) 342-5470.

Join John. Say “no more.”

MEET OUR SURGEONS.

Michael Kia, DOBariatric/metabolic surgeon Co-medical director

Harris Dabideen, MDBariatric/metabolic surgeon Co-medical director

John M., FlintLost: 140 lbs.

Flintstone. That’s the first word that comes to mind when thinking

of Mateen Cleaves.

Flintstone. The memorable nickname derived for the four Flint

natives that took the Michigan State basketball program by storm

in 1996. Cleaves career achievements are too numerous to cite but

include MSU’s only three-time all-American basketball player, three-

time captain, 2000 Final Four Most Outstanding Player and former

professional NBA player for six seasons.

Yet despite all his success he still chooses to live in Flint and give

back to the community in every way he can.

Growing up in the inner city of Flint wasn’t easy for Mateen but

he speaks very highly of his childhood, “There was always something

to do,” he said. Even though he saw drugs and violence, Mateen

chose to gravitate toward the Berston Field House. With an amazing

director, Mr. Metcalf, Mateen and his buddies were forced to master

not so common sports such as shuffle board and table tennis as well

as their more comfortable game of basketball. By making the kids

learn to play every sport, Mr. Metcalf created a group of athletes.

Having a heart for the local teams has always meant a lot to

Mateen, “I’m always a homer.” He looked up to and admired Flint

athletes such as football star Andre Rison, and basketball star Jeff

Grayer. After interacting with Jeff at a local summer camp Mateen

remembers thinking, if he can make it so can I.

The youngest of five, Mateen admits to being spoiled but says

“my brothers and sisters kept me in check and made me a better

athlete by constantly making me play against them.”

Mateen’s mother always taught him to be a good person and

to work for what he wanted. She set a prime example by constantly

caring about the kids in the community. He says all the kids in the

neighborhood would gather at his house, “The door was always open

for anyone who needed to come in.” He is disheartened for his kids

because the community isn’t like it was. “The whole community

helped raise the kids, we were all a family. That kind of support just

doesn’t exist anymore."

School was not easy for Mateen and he doesn’t hide that when

speaking to children. “I didn’t like school but I was smart enough to

know I needed it to get where I wanted to go.” He struggled with

reading and had to get help from tutors. This is one reason he is so set

on helping children with reading. He says the most important thing

he wants to give them is knowledge.

In 2009, Cleaves was quoted after doing charity work in

California, and he realized “We have got to do that in Flint! So, we’re

just getting started,” he said.

"We're going to start doing things here first. We have got to take

care of home first." He started his initiative by founding the Mateen

Cleaves Community Outreach Foundation to help rehabilitate

community facilities and programs for Flint's youth. He now works

very closely with the Boys and Girls Club of Flint to encourage a

positive and structured place for kids to go and learn in a fun

environment.

Tom Izzo spoke about Mateen Cleaves at a Boys and Girls Club

dinner a few years ago. He said, “I was talking to Jud Heathcote

about the passion and the heart that Mateen had. How that passion

fed all the other players. The team thrived off it. I’m afraid I’ll never

see that in any player again.” Heathcote responded, “That kind of

player only comes around once every twenty years or so. You’re

lucky to have experienced that once in your coaching career. First

there was Magic Johnson, then Mateen and in another twenty years

we might be lucky enough to see another.”

This type of charisma carries over into his desire to improve the

Flint community. Mateen attempts to support every event he can

and continues to participate in the outreach foundation he started.

“There’s a lot of work to be done but you have to start in your own

backyard and plant the seeds there.”

mateen Cleaves: FlINtstoNeBy amBer l. saBo

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AMERICA’S BEERSUPPORTS AMERICA’S HEROES

*Donation of 2¢/case of Budweiser sold, May 5, 2013 - July 4, 2013 with a maximum donation of $1.5 million.

BUDWEISER IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH FOLDS OF HONOR FOUNDATION TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO

FAMILIES OF AMERICA’S INJURED OR FALLEN SOLDIERS. THIS SUMMER, WITH EVERY PURCHASE OF

BUDWEISER, WE’LL MAKE A DONATION TO SUPPORT OUR COUNTRY’S HEROIC FAMILIES.

©2013 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO

Brand: Budweiser RWB Print Item #: PBW201310446 Job/Order #: 250955

Trim: 8.5x11Bleed: 8.75x11.25 Live: 7.5x10

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34 on the town

kin

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rs

AMERICA’S BEERSUPPORTS AMERICA’S HEROES

*Donation of 2¢/case of Budweiser sold, May 5, 2013 - July 4, 2013 with a maximum donation of $1.5 million.

BUDWEISER IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH FOLDS OF HONOR FOUNDATION TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO

FAMILIES OF AMERICA’S INJURED OR FALLEN SOLDIERS. THIS SUMMER, WITH EVERY PURCHASE OF

BUDWEISER, WE’LL MAKE A DONATION TO SUPPORT OUR COUNTRY’S HEROIC FAMILIES.

©2013 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO

Brand: Budweiser RWB Print Item #: PBW201310446 Job/Order #: 250955

Trim: 8.5x11Bleed: 8.75x11.25 Live: 7.5x10

Closing Date 5/14/13 QC: CSPublication: On the Town

Fabiano Brothers

13. Ruth Persons, Kevin & Carol Kean 14. Dan & Lou Ann Gaydo, Lynne Hurand, Kathi Horton15. Jim Kettler, Janice Cotont 16. Lynn Hurand 17. Sixto Olivo, Beverly Shromsky 18. Woodrow and Rota Stanley 19. Dr. Saed & Mona Sahouri, Manal & Ghasaan Saab 20. Davin & Paul Torre 21. Dr. Jullianne & Thomas Princinsky 22. David & Therese Leyton 23. Penny Krutsch, Mark & Kathi Horton, Matthew & Jessica McClanahan

1. Ardele Shaltz, Debra Golden Steinman 2. Steve and Roseann Heddy 3. Youth Advisory Committee Members Andrew Bennett, Yeonjung Park, Cameron Simmington, Riley Simmington 4. Dr. Samuel Dismond, Dr. Nita Kulkarni, Mrs.Janice Dismond 5. Arnell Taylor and Helen Philpott 6. Dr. Nita Kulkarni, Dr.Bobby Mukkumala 7. Nicholas, Paige LaPeen 8. Brian Bates, Sherry Lafave 9. Dylan & Diana Page 10. Helen Phillpott & Carroll Baker 11. Melvin & Anne Grey, Nina & Billie Lewis 12. Lucy & Dave Ham

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The CommuniTy FoundaTion

Over the mOOn25Th anniversary

36 on the town

13. Ruth Persons, Kevin & Carol Kean 14. Dan & Lou Ann Gaydo, Lynne Hurand, Kathi Horton15. Jim Kettler, Janice Cotont 16. Lynn Hurand 17. Sixto Olivo, Beverly Shromsky 18. Woodrow and Rota Stanley 19. Dr. Saed & Mona Sahouri, Manal & Ghasaan Saab 20. Davin & Paul Torre 21. Dr. Jullianne & Thomas Princinsky 22. David & Therese Leyton 23. Penny Krutsch, Mark & Kathi Horton, Matthew & Jessica McClanahan

1. Ardele Shaltz, Debra Golden Steinman 2. Steve and Roseann Heddy 3. Youth Advisory Committee Members Andrew Bennett, Yeonjung Park, Cameron Simmington, Riley Simmington 4. Dr. Samuel Dismond, Dr. Nita Kulkarni, Mrs.Janice Dismond 5. Arnell Taylor and Helen Philpott 6. Dr. Nita Kulkarni, Dr.Bobby Mukkumala 7. Nicholas, Paige LaPeen 8. Brian Bates, Sherry Lafave 9. Dylan & Diana Page 10. Helen Phillpott & Carroll Baker 11. Melvin & Anne Grey, Nina & Billie Lewis 12. Lucy & Dave Ham

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Over the mOOn25Th anniversary

on the town 37

On the night of September 20, 1997, a young man with dreams

of a career in music had all of his hopes taken from him in one brief

moment. A random and malicious act of violence that to this day has

no one to hold accountable. A bullet to the third vertebrate that left

him totally paralyzed. Anyone else in his shoes would have thrown

in the towel within days. I know I would have.

That in itself sounds bad enough. Now imagine the months in

the hospital and rehabilitation. How nice it would have been to be

working for the possibility of total recovery. No, Eric Patrick Thomas

was painstakingly working towards just living, as he still does to this

day over fifteen years later.

Expecting to see someone struggling in more ways than one, I

was surprised and eventually succumbed to tears by this amazing

individual. Eric Patrick Thomas has more hopes, dreams and

motivation than any able bodied person I have ever met.

Transitioning from a totally debilitating bullet wound to an

independent business owner, public speaker and philanthropist,

Eric’s resume of charitable works is beyond imagination. He has been

involved in everything from Toys for Tots, Relay for Life, American

Heart Association, the MQCCC Board and president of the Flint Film

Festival and this list goes on. He is also an ambassador for the D

Man Foundation, co-founder of Wheels 4 Wheels, a local leader for

Michigan Partners for Freedom, and a peer mentor and advocate.

Goodwill Industries has provided Eric with affordable space for

his business located at 501 S. Averill Avenue in Flint. Eric is the owner

of EZ Awareness By Design. His company specializes in signage,

graphic design, printing, silk screening and embroidery.

Eric said his goal is to make as much money as possible in order

to help other people in need. Even when questioned about his own

needs, Eric replies with total sincerity, “This isn’t about me. I have

transitioned. They are so many people out there who need help and

someone to show them how to do it for themselves.”

Some of Eric’s biggest moments have been testifying at both

House and Senate hearings on self determination.

With the help of Genesee Health Systems (previously CMH),

supportive employment, and a Self Determination Living Arrangement

Eric is able to have his own house, own his own business, have

friends over, go on dates, and access to quality of care that provides

him with the independence to be responsible for his own destiny.

Some upcoming events Eric is involved in include speaking

at the Abilities Expo in Chicago in June about “Life After A Serious

Injury: Asking the Questions and Finding Answers.” He is having a

fundraiser on June 22, 7:00 pm at the Clio Bowling Alley to raise

money to cover the costs for his Chicago appearance. Any help given

to Eric or any of his foundations are appreciated by everyone blessed

by Eric’s touch in the community.

For more information call (810) 600-6339 or e-mail

[email protected].

CommuNIty proFIle:eriC PatriCK thomasBusiness owner, PuBliC sPeaKer, volunteer & advoCate.By amBer l. saBo

38 on the town

Two Birds is a brand new, gorgeous 3,000 square foot store in Flushing specializing in country chic furniture, lighting,

artwork, mirrors, tabletop accessories, table and bed linens, dish and hand towels, candles and ladies’ personal accessories. A few of the

brands include Steven Shell, Caldrea natural cleaning products, Dash and Albert rugs, Pine Cone Hill, and Michael Stars tee shirts. Full-

service interior design is also available, including everything from full-scale new construction projects to freshening a room in your home,

creating custom window treatments, bedding, or choosing fabulous fabrics to reupholster an existing piece of furniture. Some glassware and

barware is also available. It is a great place for a gift for yourself or others. Two Birds also has a bridal registry.

The store itself is a tribute to the design talents of Sarah and Caroline. The walls are a dark navy blue with crisp white trim and high

ceilings. The selections of products are displayed beautifully. The displays range from beautifully designed tablescapes to stacks of chevron

napkins, Ikat pillows and cashmere throws in an antique armoire.

Frankly, I wanted to go home and get rid of everything and start over with the designs and products from Two Birds.

They carry Steven Shell, Four Hands + Bramble furniture, very well-constructed solid mahogany hand painted pieces that come in 40

colors and finishes. There are also a lot of reinvented vintage pieces such as a 1920s armoire and a hand painted dining table.

The selection of personal accessories includes scarves, pajamas, jewelry, hats, totes and makeup bags. The selection of merchandise is

large but extremely well curated.

“It is important to know that when we shopped for our store product, we tried hard to find things that can’t be found anywhere else in

this area,” said Goggins. “We are higher-end, but reasonably priced for the value and quality of our products.”

VonWeyher has extensive design experience. She studied art and interior design in college, and is former owner of Von Haus, a

Birmingham Interior Design firm. While in Birmingham, she designed the new 6,000 square gpp Birmingham Wellness Center, a center

Birds of a FeatherdesiGn toGetherBy marCia mCGee

sarah GoGGins and Caroline vonweyher met when

Caroline was worKinG with sarah’s Brother-in-law on

desiGninG his 5000 sf home. sara was so imPressed with

Caroline’s amazinG desiGn aesthetiC, that she hired her

to redesiGn her entire house. a friendshiP develoPed

and from that, a PartnershiP.

40 on the town

two Birds desiGn and deCor hIddeN paradIse plaza(formerly Speakeasy Plaza)

1551 e. Pierson rd.flushinG, miChiGan 48433810-487-2089twoBirdsdesignanddecor.comhours: tues – sat, 9:00 to 6:00

for acupuncture, and many private residences. von Weyher also made several

design appearances on FOX 2 Detroit. A Farmington Hills native, she spent 15

years in Los Angeles as executive producer with three large film companies and

was very involved with set design and all the creative aspects of film production.

“I have always wanted to own a cool, hip home furnishings store, and I

think Sarah and I have created it here.” vonWeyherr is currently working on

a kitchen remodel in Grand Blanc, and several homes in Fenton, Canton and

Bloomfield Hills.

Goggins, a Flushing native, co-owned a temp service and has an extensive

background in running a busy company. She is married and a mom, and has

wanted to be involved in a “creative, feel-good, energetic, getting people

together kind of thing.”

”Sarah has a really good eye for design,” said vonWeyher. She added, “We

wanted to give people in Genesee County a creative place to shop for home

furnishings and gifts, I don’t think there is anything in the area quite like us.”

I certainly agree. Just being in the store made me happy.

“We are higher-end, but reasonably priced for the value

and quality of our products.”

on the town 41

You wouldn’t expect to find such an elegant restaurant in a strip mall, The

Marketplace, on Pierson Road. But there it is. Tucked into the middle of the strip of

stores, it could be easy to miss. But don’t. Owners Tom Price and Chef Steve Lowry

have created an amazing, romantic spot. Not only that, but Fandangles’ boasts 16

consecutive years as a recipient of Wine Spectator magazine’s Award of Excellence.

In addition, the Genesee County Health Department has awarded Fandangles’ the

Healthy Lifestyle Award and the Award of Excellence in food sanitation for several

years running.

First, when my friend and I met there for lunch, I didn’t expect the friendly

welcome I got from Kelli Rodgers, the hostess and our server. She greeted each

guest like a member of her family or a regular customer, neither of which was I.

Kelli seated us at a table for two that was dressed with crisp white linens and fresh

flowers in a bud vase.

The décor at Fandangles’ is stunningly designed to highlight local art that

changes often. The dark brown walls are accented with bright white trim and a

beautiful crystal chandelier hangs in the middle of the room. The chandelier

lighting is enhanced by wall sconces. The music in the background was (I believe)

either Frank Sinatra or Michael Bublé. I think the latter. Whichever, it was totally

appropriate to the décor.

The day I was there, the art was a combination of photos and paintings done by

Carol Fabrizzio and Matt Melott. Carol happened to be seated at the next table and

she was kind enough to walk me through her exhibit. It’s just that kind of place. The

art, by the way, is generally for sale.

On to the food. I have been to several events catered by Fandangles’ and

have always enjoyed their food. However, I was not prepared for the extensive and

eclectic menu. According to Chef Lowry, “Every attempt is made to use all natural,

organic ingredients.”

Lunch can be anything from a spinach salad to sandwiches to homemade soups

and crab cakes, salmon or swordfish. I had That Nutty Chicken: diced chicken

breast, golden raisins, walnuts and dill dressing in a butter croissant. Delicious.

My lunch companion had the Tuna Melt Panini with white albacore tuna, onion,

Velveeta cheese grilled between organic whole grain bread. She loved it. Each

sandwich was served with a small house salad of fresh greens.

If you wanted to eat a little lighter, there is a large collection of yummy salads

that you won’t find elsewhere. They are served with quite a selection of dressings,

many of them gluten-free.

Hot sandwiches range from Angus burgers to Reubens to French Turkey dip.

Soups are all home made and include butternut squash bisque, wild mushroom,

Italian tomato and the chef’s creation of the day.

Selections also include mac and cheese and crepes.

Desserts are varied but usually include lemon cake, chocolate volcano cake

and carrot cake.

Dinner selections can vary by the

availability of fresh fish and by the whim of the chef.

Some of the recent selections were rack of lamb,

salmon, crusted tuna steak, and breast of duck. There

is always a vegetarian selection for lunch and dinner.

Dinner appetizers are wonderful and range from a

homemade chicken liver pate to a shellfish sampler.

For their full menu, go to their web site at www.

fandanglesmi.com.

The restaurant has a full bar and a nice selection

of red and white wines.

Fandangles’ caters as well. They can

accommodate anything from two to 500. It is even

possible to rent out the restaurant for the evening.

They can also provide a variety of services including

a sous-chef to prepare a special menu in your home

accompanied by wait staff.

It’s important to note that owners Price and Lowry

believe in building a better community by contributing

time and money to institutions improving the quality

of life in this area. They have supported numerous arts,

schools and community institutions.

In case you think I have described a “ladies

lunch” restaurant, you couldn’t be more mistaken.

There were many tables accompanied by gentleman

the day I was there. Don’t skip an opportunity dine

there. Make it a point. You won’t be sorry.

a FlushING delIGhtBy marCia mCGee

fandanGles’

the marketplace at flushing

G-6429 west Pierson road

flushing, mi 48433

Phone: 810-659-2700

www.fandanglesmi.com

lunch monday thru friday | 11:00am - 2:00pm

Closed monday during june, july & august.

dinner: wednesday - saturday reservation only

42 on the town

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Team easTon gives back dinner & aucTionWarWick Hills | May 2013

1. Ardele & Phil Shaltz 2. Rick Warmbold, Amy & Aladdin Rahman 3.Gary Schenkel, Cheryl Sclater4.Terra Garrett, Dr. Alamy 5. Sheila Zorn, Tom & Kate James 6. Richard Warmbold, Andrew & Melony Gavulie 7. Debbie & Ron Crank 8. Michelle, Andrew, & Sammy Randazzo 9. Susan & Robert Derthich 10. Dr. Dayne & Heather Rogers 11. Diego & Tara Gomez, Terry & Paul Matlock, Mathew, Easton, & Lindsay Clark, Barb & Dennis Clark

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44 on the town

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Proceeds go to Hurley cHildren's HosPital nicu

Team easTon gives back dinner & aucTionWarWick Hills | May 2013

1. Ardele & Phil Shaltz 2. Rick Warmbold, Amy & Aladdin Rahman 3.Gary Schenkel, Cheryl Sclater4.Terra Garrett, Dr. Alamy 5. Sheila Zorn, Tom & Kate James 6. Richard Warmbold, Andrew & Melony Gavulie 7. Debbie & Ron Crank 8. Michelle, Andrew, & Sammy Randazzo 9. Susan & Robert Derthich 10. Dr. Dayne & Heather Rogers 11. Diego & Tara Gomez, Terry & Paul Matlock, Mathew, Easton, & Lindsay Clark, Barb & Dennis Clark

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Flint has a rich history of growing gardens by many generations. My grandparents

lived in neighboring Shiawasee County where they annually planted a vegetable

garden and tended fruit trees. My father always planted a garden for our family full of

tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, radishes, broccoli, cauliflower, and much more. I have

tried to follow suit planting a garden for my family.

Families have enjoyed planting and growing their own gardens in Flint and

Genesee County over the years. Ruth Rawlings Mott was a renowned gardener planting

at Applewood, the Mott Family estate near downtown Flint. Our city has a rich tradition

in growing gardens and now we have Edible Flint.

Edible Flint supports residents in growing and accessing healthy food in order to

reconnect with the land and each other. Edible Flint was formed to help people get

started with their own gardens. It is a collaboration of volunteers, MSU Extension, and

community organizations. Its purpose is to help people organize and start a garden

and offer advice and share ideas of gardening all the while reconnecting with the land

previously used for far different purposes.

I had the pleasure of meeting Terry McLean from MSU Extension. Terry has a

degree from MSU in Horticulture and organizes monthly meetings at the MSU

Extension office. Monthly meetings are the first Thursday of the month and anyone

interested is welcome. Terry said that Edible Flint is “About growing healthy, fresh fruits

and vegetables.”

Volunteers and gardeners come together to

share ideas about what to plant, how to till the soil

and water the plants and when to harvest. Also, she

explained that studies show community gardens

“provide a safety factor where people come

together and watch out for each other”.

Edible Flint was established in 2009. As

part of a kick off to summer, Edible Flint hosts a

community garden event that includes distribution

of Garden Starter Kits. Kits are designed for a 1500

square foot garden and include 24 kinds of seeds

and 11 kinds of transplants. Kits are available on

a first come, first serve basis and are available only

for gardens to be planted in Genesee County.

Edible Flint also offers garden starter services

ediBle flintalIVe, Well aNd GroWING By therese leyton

46 on the town

to gardens located within the city of Flint. Services are provided to new gardens (within

the first three years) and include soil testing, compost delivery, and tilling. Garden kits and

starter services are offered at a reduced cost and help to support Edible Flint’s mission to

share knowledge and provide training and assistance to produce healthy garden.

Many entities have come together to make Edible Flint a success. The Ruth Mott

Foundation and USDA have given generously to help keep gardens growing in Flint

and Genesee County. The Genesee County Land Bank has also assisted many people

by providing crew and machinery to overturn the earth for a garden. Tilling services are

available in the city of Flint only. GCARD (Genesee County Community Action Resource

Department) provides MSU Extension with office space. The Salem Housing Development

Corporation provides garden starter kits and loans gardening tools. Extra seeds and

compost will be available for sale $1/seed packet and $5/bag of compost. Starter kits are

available for $15.00 each. A maximum of two kits may be ordered while supplies last.

Garden Starter Kits now include a majority of organic seeds, leeks, and seed potatoes

for 2013. The retail value of an organic kit is $70.00.

There is also an Edible Flint Co-op formed out of the production and distribution

workgroup of Edible Flint. The Co-op sells its produce at the Flint Farmer’s Market. The

Co-op is comprised of urban gardeners and farmers who collectively grow fruits and

vegetables. The Co-op’s many members collectively sell and distribute their home-grown

products.

Another long time Flint nonprofit entity, Catholic Charities, is also involved with

Edible Flint. The director of Mr. Roger’s Say No Program from Catholic Charities, Greg

Gaines, supervises many of our youth to show them a productive way of community, unity,

and organization by growing gardens. It is a wonderful

program aimed at keeping our youth focused

and working together to produce healthy food

gardens.

Gaines has shown these youth that eating

healthy can also be productive because, in

addition to eating the food they grow, they also

sell their fruits and vegetables at the Farmers’

Market. The program helps many young people

stay focused, improve their diets and earn

money too. Mr. Roger’s Say No Program has

helped many city youth learn about business,

eating healthy, and being productive through

gardening.

Gardening offers family fun. Caring for

plants develops individual responsibility. It

builds self- esteem and it’s fun to see what you

can grow. Grow a family garden and contact

Edible Flint to assist with whatever you need.

According to Terry McLean, there are over 300

gardens in Genesee County. No garden is too

big or small and everyone is encouraged to get

involved. There is a lot of available land in Flint

for gardens.

Call Terry McLean at MSU Extension

for more information (810) 244-8530.

Let’s have a wonderful summer 2013

and eat from your garden!

on the town 47

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RegiStRation noW open!Fall Classes Start

September 3

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On the Town Full Page June_13.indd 1 5/8/13 11:41 AM

1. Ted Lang , Terry Crews 2. Mike Soboleski, Laurie Prochazka, Jayne Soboleski 3. Krista Weaver, Mike Kerner 4. Bridget Brown, Keith Kirby, Tammy Bruening 5. Sharon & Dan Baker 6. Joe & Roxanne Caine, Mark Williams, Aftyn Williams 7. Shelly & Kala Gibson 8. Carlo DallOlmo, Teresa Williams 9. Sam & Gracie Harris 10. Pat & Tom Reynolds, Laurie Prochazka 11. Deb & Rob Collins 12. Diamond, Alena Kourkouliotis 13. Amanda Shook, Terri DuVall 14. Patrick Wittbrodt, Clay Jones, Todd Scheving 15. Island Fun Band: Mambo Marci, Terrence Lester16. Dr. Trevor & Jan Singh 17. Dr. Michael Mueller, Anessa Kertesz 18. Sam & Gracie Harris, Terry Crews

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Cruise �or a Cause was organized to

help fund The McLaren Hospitality House and

Nights of Hope fund. It will provide patients

and their families a place to stay at little or

no cost during a time when they need it most.

The Hospitality House will offer a home-away-

from-home experience with access to a kitchen,

laundry room, healing garden and many other

amenities to help support healing and hope.

The Master of ceremonies was Flint native Terry

Crews, Hollywood actor and former NFL player.

Television star, Ted Lang was a special guest.

The event was underwritten by the Art Van

organization and donated the use of their

showroom so all proceeds of the event could go

to the McLaren Hospitality House.

50 on the town

1. Ted Lang , Terry Crews 2. Mike Soboleski, Laurie Prochazka, Jayne Soboleski 3. Krista Weaver, Mike Kerner 4. Bridget Brown, Keith Kirby, Tammy Bruening 5. Sharon & Dan Baker 6. Joe & Roxanne Caine, Mark Williams, Aftyn Williams 7. Shelly & Kala Gibson 8. Carlo DallOlmo, Teresa Williams 9. Sam & Gracie Harris 10. Pat & Tom Reynolds, Laurie Prochazka 11. Deb & Rob Collins 12. Diamond, Alena Kourkouliotis 13. Amanda Shook, Terri DuVall 14. Patrick Wittbrodt, Clay Jones, Todd Scheving 15. Island Fun Band: Mambo Marci, Terrence Lester16. Dr. Trevor & Jan Singh 17. Dr. Michael Mueller, Anessa Kertesz 18. Sam & Gracie Harris, Terry Crews

1 2 3

4 5 6

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13 14 15

7 8 9

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10 11 12

Cruise �or a Cause was organized to

help fund The McLaren Hospitality House and

Nights of Hope fund. It will provide patients

and their families a place to stay at little or

no cost during a time when they need it most.

The Hospitality House will offer a home-away-

from-home experience with access to a kitchen,

laundry room, healing garden and many other

amenities to help support healing and hope.

The Master of ceremonies was Flint native Terry

Crews, Hollywood actor and former NFL player.

Television star, Ted Lang was a special guest.

The event was underwritten by the Art Van

organization and donated the use of their

showroom so all proceeds of the event could go

to the McLaren Hospitality House.

on the town 51

Everywhere you look everyone is talking about more traffic, more

traffic. As a business owner or marketer it is important to remember

that traffic is coming at a price. You are either paying for your online

ads or you’re paying someone (either a team member or an agency)

to deliver that traffic. But not all traffic has a value

Let’s look at this the same way that we view our offline lead

generation efforts. We all know how important it is to qualify leads in

our offline sales process. We ask questions to qualify our prospects,

we identify budgets, the problems that we can solve, etc. But when

it comes to online lead generation (traffic) all too often we forget all

about qualifying and just go for sheer volume.

As an experiment to show the difference between quality traffic

and non quality, we ran a campaign on a site that did not match up

with the goal of the campaign in the terms of the type of traffic that

the site would generate. The platform that we chose provided a very

high level of visibility.

The result was that we increased traffic to the site by 74.55

percent in one week. This is an amazing increase in traffic, and many

people would consider this campaign a success. However, more to

the point, this traffic also generated a 100 percent bounce rate. In

other words, every person that came to the site from this campaign

left as soon as they arrived. No conversion, no lead, no opportunity.

This experiment gives us insight into quality traffic and why high

traffic does not always result in conversions. It also proves that not

everyone is a prospect. You cannot assume that everybody visiting

your website is going to convert and you can’t assume that because

there is an opportunity to advertise on a website or a web network

that you will get a return on investment for those advertising dollars.

This experiment also demonstrates the need to measure all of your

online advertising campaigns inside of your analytics account.

If, instead, you target your advertising to online areas that your

customers are most likely to be, your online advertising will be shown

to people that are most likely able to become a customer.

Here’s an example. The latest demographic information about

the social platforms (Facebook, Twitter, etc) tell us that only 15

percent of all female Internet users are active on Twitter and only

two percent of all Internet users that are 65+ years old are active on

Twitter. Based on this example, if your customer is a mature female,

the vast majority of advertising dollars you would spend for ads on

Twitter would be wasted.

Now, this may seem obvious, but this example can be applied

to all of your online advertising. The beauty of online marketing is

the ability to stop wasting advertising dollars by spending them in

an area that your customer doesn’t frequent and there is no better

place to get that focus than online. By focusing on your best customer

segment you don’t necessarily need more traffic, just better traffic...

Less Is More.

lessis moreBy dale KeiPert

you may not need more traffiC to

your weBsite! i Know that seems liKe

a stranGe statement CominG from

someone at a diGital aGenCy, But

hear me out on this one.

aBout 3sixty interaCtive

3sixty interactive is a professional online marketing agency with

over ten years of experience in the digital world. they offer a

variety of digital marketing solutions that include search engine

optimization, digital advertising, email marketing, social media,

customized strategy reports, analytics and maintenance of your

marketing plan.

learn more about 3sixty interactive at www.3sixtyinteractive.com

or by calling us at 1-877-43sixty.

52 on the town

A Per�ect 10!Top of the line quality from beginning

to end! Granite and Maple flooring,

Sub Zero and Viking appliances,

Kohler generator, cove moldings,

granite counter tops.

Three large bedroom suites complete

with private baths and extensive walk

in closets. Finished lower level walk

out boast stone fireplace, wet bar, full

bath, cedar closet, hurricane shutters.

Beautiful custom landscaping,

perfectly located with views of the

Captains Club course plus the private

pond! A Must See!

Custom Built Home-Goodrich Schools 10079 Golfside Dr. | Grand Blanc, MI | $675,000

Celebrating 50 Yearsof Quality and Service

~ Jewelry Repair on Premises ~

810-230-2727 | G-3310 Beecher Rd. | Flint(Next to Diplomat Pharmacy)

www.GainesJewelry.com

1. Jerry Leman, Jamie Gaskin 2. Jamie Gaskin, Mark Reuss 3.Mike Varner, Suzanne Kayser, Larry White4. Neal Hegarty, Reta Stanley, Elizabeth Marasco 5. Lindsey Younger, Kasie White, Vicky Schulltz6. Elizabeth Wise, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala 7. Jamie Gaskin, Julianne Princinsky 8. Mirium Marks-McKeown, Corp. Thomas Yonan, Staff Sgt. Jamiee McClelland, Spec. Thomas Clark 9. Dale & Dianne Larson 10. Wendy & Todd Monty 11. Billy Hopewell, Ron Pouncil, Kelley Drake, Joy Terry 12. Mark Miller, Michelle Slieff, Ericka Martin, Phillip Miller Photography by Crichton Creations

1

7

4

10

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United Wayat the FIa | May 2013

54 on the town

13. Tiffany Stolzenfeld & Kimberly Gray 14. Sheree Duff & Alan Katz 15. Richard King , Lisa & James Anderson 16. David & Lonnie Rae Vallie 17. Chris Hamilton & Joyce Hamilton 18. Vince Lorraine, Tina Immink, Dr. Gary Wease and Elizabeth Brady Marasco 19. Craig Ryan & Amber Sabo 20.Santa Claus & Michelle Blaisdell 21. Tom & Kate James 22. Dr. C. Patrick Grey, Patrick Mannor, Missy Dreisbach 23. Steve & Roseanne Heddy, Sam & Gracie Harris 24. Eric and & Marie Vanduyne, Al Mansour

1. Davin Pierson Torre & Judy Nakdimen 2. Julie Yonan, Santa Claus , Mark Yonan 3. Tangie Hale & Dr. Gary Wease 4. Lisa Howe & Corine Roberts 5. Wendell & Paula Jennings 6. Frankie Hardy & Sheila Zorn7. Jeff Price & Ina Yoon 8. Elizabeth Brady Marasco, Brian Johnson, Michelle Blaisdell 9. Alex Javanovski & Brooke Martin 10. Sue & William Shaheen 11. Param and Puri Neelam 12. Beth Silvernail, Kati Krueger, Kim Delaney

131

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164

2210

142

208

175

23 2411

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186

12

FIM AnnuAl FundrAIsIng AuctIon

Hollywood NigHtsMAy 2013

56 on the town

13. Tiffany Stolzenfeld & Kimberly Gray 14. Sheree Duff & Alan Katz 15. Richard King , Lisa & James Anderson 16. David & Lonnie Rae Vallie 17. Chris Hamilton & Joyce Hamilton 18. Vince Lorraine, Tina Immink, Dr. Gary Wease and Elizabeth Brady Marasco 19. Craig Ryan & Amber Sabo 20.Santa Claus & Michelle Blaisdell 21. Tom & Kate James 22. Dr. C. Patrick Grey, Patrick Mannor, Missy Dreisbach 23. Steve & Roseanne Heddy, Sam & Gracie Harris 24. Eric and & Marie Vanduyne, Al Mansour

1. Davin Pierson Torre & Judy Nakdimen 2. Julie Yonan, Santa Claus , Mark Yonan 3. Tangie Hale & Dr. Gary Wease 4. Lisa Howe & Corine Roberts 5. Wendell & Paula Jennings 6. Frankie Hardy & Sheila Zorn7. Jeff Price & Ina Yoon 8. Elizabeth Brady Marasco, Brian Johnson, Michelle Blaisdell 9. Alex Javanovski & Brooke Martin 10. Sue & William Shaheen 11. Param and Puri Neelam 12. Beth Silvernail, Kati Krueger, Kim Delaney

131

197

164

2210

142

208

175

23 2411

153

219

186

12

FIM AnnuAl FundrAIsIng AuctIon

Hollywood NigHtsMAy 2013

on the town 57

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Multiple program options available

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walethia aquil: my dreams do Come trueWalethia Aquil, a lifelong resident of Flint, saw a need and

acted on it. She saw that many girls in our community and mid-

Michigan could not afford to buy a dress and accessories to go to

the prom, Sweet 16 parties, formals or quinceaňeras. So she created

My Dreams Do Come True, a nonprofit organization to offer donated

new and gently used formal gowns to high school girls who could

not otherwise afford to attend special events. The program is modeled

after the national program, Donate My Dress.

According to Walethia, “It’s not just about the dress. We work

to promote the value of education, character development and

strength. We want them [the girls] to know that they are never bound

by temporary personal or financial handicaps.”

My Dreams Do Come True has provided over 300 formal, gowns,

shoes and accessories to area high school girls and other community

organizations.

To donate call Walethia Aquil at: 810-232-4810

email: [email protected]

John P. O’SullivanDistributing, Inc.

Michigan is known for Great Lakes and Festivals. It’s a treat

to eat fresh blueberries, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, apples,

peaches, grapes, pears, corn, tomatoes, asparagus, potatoes and

morel mushrooms. The flavors and pretty colors of fruits and

vegetables score high in antioxidants and are grown all over our

Water Wonderland State.

Spring in Michigan offers delicious asparagus: raw, cooked,

steamed, baked, or grilled, fresh asparagus is a treat. Local markets

and grocery stores carry fresh asparagus which is readily available

in May. Oceana County, located along Michigan’s western shore

grows more asparagus than any other place in the nation. It hosts an

annual asparagus festival, which is always the second weekend in

May. There is a parade with a Ms. Asparagus Pageant, a local arts and

crafts show, and lots of asparagus foods.

Morel mushrooms are very popular and grow in Northern

Michigan. Boyne City hosts a big Morel Mushroom Festival May 16th-

19th. Boyne Mountain has a Wine and Dine with morel appetizers.

There are organized group hunts and many local restaurants make

tasty morel mushroom meals and delicacies. The festival also has a

5-K run, and a carnival for family fun.

Blueberries grow well in Michigan andparticularly in South

Haven, the self - proclaimed Blueberry Capital of the world asstated

in “Pure Michigan Travel Guide.” South Haven’s Blueberry Festival is

August 8th-August 11th. And who doesn’t like to pick blueberries?

Many farms offer blueberrypicking. In Fennville there is a “signature”

Blueberry Pie at Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant and Bakery.

Locally, Montrose has a Blueberry Festival August 15-18th. It is

wonderful and I think the blueberry pancakes and blueberry syrup

are the very best I have ever eaten. The festival offers arts and crafts, a

parade, carnival, music, and many blueberry foods and pies for sale.

Beyond the bridge, Paradise hosts a Wild Blueberry Festival

located south of White Fish Point on Lake Superior, August 16th-18th

with wagon rides, an arts and crafts fair, and of course many fresh

blueberries, jams, jellies and pies.

Cherries are grown in Traverse City to Harbor Springs and it is

quite a treat. The National Cherry Festival is June 29th-July 6th in

Traverse City. Many cherry products are produced: mustards, jams,

salsas, pies, vinegars, fritters, scones, muffins, and cherry popcorn.

Anything your heart desires.

Glen Arbor is the home of “Cherry Republic,” which produces

200 cherry products. They even have cherry ginger ale, barbecue

sauce and cherry toppings for deserts and ice cream. Many tourists

can pick fresh cherries at many Farm Markets in Traverse City and

Traverse Bay area.

Fruitful wines are plentiful in Traverse City Bay Area, which

has 180 miles of shore line. My husband and I have enjoyed wine

tasting at many of the wineries in the area. Grape vines are flowing

everywhere. There are tours offered daily and places where people

can get on tour buses from Southwest Michigan in New Buffalo and

St Joseph to Traverse City. Customers shop for artifacts, posters, oven

mitts and taste the locally grown wines from Michigan grapes, and

other Michigan berries.

Flint Farmer’s Market is our jewel on the Flint River. It is open

year round: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and includes bakeries,

wines, eateries and an art gallery upstairs. It’s a thrill to buy local

Michigan fruits and vegetables.

Fruit pairs well on pizza and add a great nutritional boost in

salads and compliments eggs, chicken, fish, and beef. Fruit Salsas

are popping up everywhere for a healthy alternative to heavy creams

and dips. Nothing tastes better than Michigan’s Cherry Salsa, which

is delicious and natural.

There are many ways to enjoy Michigan’s festivals and there are

many festivals on all shores, with fresh fruits and vegetables for healthy

families to eat. And that’s not all!!! Ice Cream for snacks and deserts

are still popular with our residents. Michigan makes wonderful ice

creams with lots of chunks of fresh cherries, blueberries, peaches,

and other Michigan fruits! It’s Natural and it’s Pure Michigan!

Fresh FruIts & VeGetaBles miChiGan’s festivals

therese leyton

60 on the town

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onthetown Magazine Volume 3 Issue 3

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Transcript of onthetown Magazine Volume 3 Issue 3