on the town 1

Vol. II No. III

Woodhaven Senior CommunityDavid Dixner

Executive Director

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Dear on the town Reader:

Summer has finally arrived in Michigan. Didn’t it seem like it would never get here? Especially after that beautiful week of weather that Mother Nature sent to tease us. It’s time to get outdoors and enjoy everything Genesee County has to offer: parks, pools, tennis courts, art fairs, and a myriad of other fun things to do. With gas prices the way they are, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get that “Up North” feeling. Check out www.geneseecountyparks.org for some ideas for the whole family.

Of course, the beginning of summer is always busy, with kids finishing school or graduating, college students coming home for the summer, end of school recitals, June weddings and the like. It’s fun, but sometimes pretty taxing -- mentally, physically and financially. Make sure you take some time to recharge your batteries by spending some time outdoors or just relaxing at home.

Summer is also time to enjoy some healthy eating. Make your way to one of the area Farmers’ Markets for fresh fruits and vegetables. Therese Leyton provides some good ideas for using grilled onions with your summer meals. And, if you haven’t seen our last issue, check out the article Therese wrote on asparagus on our web site, www.onthetownmagazine.com. I also get a lot of good ideas for using fresh food from www.foodnetwork.com. Two of my new favorites are grilled romaine or bok choy with either blue cheese or feta. It really is delicious and healthy.

Most of us feel healthier in the summer when the weather is nice and we can get outside. Actually, we THINK we look healthier with a tan, at least I do. However, tanning is the fastest way to age your skin, so be sure to use a good sunscreen when in the sun. Another important thing is to stay well hydrated when exercising in the hot weather. And no, beer doesn’t help you hydrate, and wine makes you hotter. So drink plenty of water.

As always, we welcome your comments, suggestions or (gasp) criticisms. We strive to make each issue better than the one before. Please send me an email at marciamcgee@msn.com. Downtown development will be the theme of our next issue, so if you have any special ideas, please let me know.

Marcia McGee, editor

on the town

PUBLISHED BY:Link Publishing Group

EDITOR: Marcia McGee

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Edith Campbell

Jeffrey FickLucy Ham

Debra HawleyJanice HenryDale Keipert

Michael KellyCharlene Kowalski

Sue LauberTherese LeytonMarcia McGee

Laurie ProchazkaRachel Rolph

Carolyn SniderMel Serow

Vagios Young

DESIGNED BY: The Office PlaceCOVER PHOTO: Zackary Scott

PHOTOGRAPHY:Debby Molina & Zackary Scott

MANAGED AND OPERATED BY:Global Marketing and

Advertising LLCDIRECTOR: Karen SmithASSISTANT DIRECTOR:

Michelle BlaisdellOFFICE MANAGER: Laura Ulman

SALES ASSOCIATES:Karen Smith

Debby Molina

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.

P.O. BOX 320275 FLINT, MI 48532O:810-407-6828 F:810-407-6831

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL:

810-407-6828 or 810-407-0305

V O L U M E I I N O . I I I

To subscribe to “on the town” Magazine: Mail a check or money order for $24.99 for six issues to P.O. Box 320275, Flint, MI 48532. Make checks payable to Global Marketing and Advertising.

editor’s letter

R6332FL

Our number one focus is helping you prepare for a new career in the shortest possible time. 97% of our available graduates are employed.

Call us today at: (810) 766-4000 or (800) 964-4299 1050 W. Bristol Rd., Flint, MI 48507

An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Institution.

YOUR BEST CHANCE FOR ABETTER CAREER.

baker.edu

100 YEARS of successfully preparing people for new careers.

4 on the town

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cover06 Woodhaven Senior CommunityLiving at its best!education08 BaKer CoLLeGe oF FLint

Addresses engineering shortage issue

10 neW L.e.d LiGhtinG Saving the planet and energy costs at University of Michigan-Flint12 northWood univerSity

14 mott Community CoLLeGeBreaking new ground in high tech education16 are you an e-reader?

restaurant18 the FrenCh LaundryHas a Brand New Addition Crust

business20 Grand JeWeLerSExceptional Craftsmanship22 a reLaxinG CoupLe’S maSSaGe

26 FiCK LandSCape SuppLieS

medical29 tranSForminG men’S heaLth inmid-miChiGanHurley Medical Center Men’s Health Initiative30 mCLaren LaunCheS area’S FirSt neurointerventionaL radioLoGy proGram

31 mCLaren doCtorS CaLL Brain aneurySm patient a miraCLe

community33 pLenty oF anGeLSUnited Way finds new ways to surpass $2.8 million goal

culture38 the GoLden aGe oF paintinG

sports36 Jim aBBottIMPERFECT: An Improbable Life

design40 KeepinG an “eye on deSiGn”

real estate

44 heLpFuL hintS For SeLLinG your home

social marketing49 SoCiaL marKetinG For BuSineSS

environment54 mta: WorKinG to Create aGreener Future For FLint

nutrition60 hoW SWeet it iSVidalia onions are so sweet and are sold by the Shrine organization as a fundraiser

photo spreads35 yWCa WaLK a miLe in her ShoeS

43 aFter hourS under the StarS

46 FLint inStitute oF muSiC

50 KitetaiLS & CoCKtaiLS

57 CooL City art auCtion

59 13th annuaL FormaL tea

contentsvolume I I no. I I I

The story of how the concept of Woodhaven Senior Community came to be is an interesting one. David Dixner’s father, J. Kenneth Dixner (Ken), owner of 136 apartments in Lapeer, noticed many years ago how often residents ages 80 – 88 loved to gather and socialize. He noticed a need for fellowship and senior type activities. Friends of Ken’s, Chuck and Gail Mandeville, sold their nursing home in Fenton and partnered with the Dixner family to buy land in Flint Township, known today as Woodhaven Senior Community. The first phase was built in 1989 on a picturesque 40-acre woodland campus. Soon, doors opened to Genesee County’s first independent 55 and older senior residential community. As David explained, this type of senior residential community living had long been popular in one-climate areas like Arizona and Florida, and his family thought it might work in Genesee County.

Shortly thereafter, J. Kenneth Dixner bought the Mandeville’s interest in the business and he became the general partner and co-owner. Phase one was completed, with seventy-three one-and-two-bedroom rental apartments, three daily meals, housekeeping, 24 hour security and other activities in a congregate setting. During this time, thirty individual, spacious 1500 square foot

two bedroom, two bath villas complete with attached garages, for independent seniors to reside were being planned.

In 1995, David and his brother Phillip joined the family business. Soon, phase three was completed, with thirty additional villas; however, at that time a growing need for barrier-free apartments was in high demand. Commencing in 1998, the Dixner family built a newly designed fifty one-and two bedroom building to meet all of their current and new residents’ needs. Also, unique to the campus was the ability to have an on-site 24 hour independent home health care agency to satisfy all of the residents’ daily needs.

Currently, 17 acres of the complex are undeveloped. Plans are underway to build in 2013 a community center for the Woodhaven family to enjoy. This building will set the stage for additional independent and congregate living as well as a large clubhouse room for semi-weekly dining options, physical therapy, wellness center, community chapel and additional office and administrative space. David stated, “A key reason for our continued growth is the 100 percent daily effort of our staff. They make it all happen for our residents to thrive.”

Since Woodhaven is a community of many different and exciting

6 on the town

coV er storY

Woodhaven Senior CommunityLiving at its best! By marCia mCGee

“Spoiling our

residents is a must.

They have lived nice

quality lives and have

worked very hard to

not have any worries.

It is time for us to give

back to them.”choices, activities play a major role each day of the week. Some options include: woodcarving, arts and crafts, walking club, bingo, high tea, raised vegetable gardening, daily movies and pet therapy just to name a few. Some favorite events are monthly themed galas, Mother’s and Father’s Day celebrations and the ever popular traditional Fall Fest attracting well over 600 friends and family.

Transportation provided three times a week takes care of doctor appointments, shopping and banking in Genesee County. In addition, the 25-passenger bus will take residents to FIA and FIM events as well as trips to the Lansing Lugnuts and Soaring Eagle Casino.

A native of Fenton, David is a graduate of Fenton High School and Norwich University, a private military school in Vermont. He will be the 2013 president of the Fenton Rotary Club and is a member of Spring Meadows Country Club since 1995. Currently he is serving on the McLaren Regional Medical Center Hospitality House committee. McLaren’s Hospitality House will be the residence for families of cancer patients in treatment at the newly constructed McLaren Proton Center.

“Whatever I am involved in, I have to be able to give 100 percent.

So, recently I have been curtailing my outside activities to spend more time with our residents and families at Woodhaven.” He added, “I was raised to stay close to what got us here: Woodhaven.”

“Woodhaven is an all-inclusive, very much family-oriented community.” He said, “I believe that the key to our success is customer service. After all, we are in the hospitality business and we have raised the bar.”

David took over as executive director from his father in 2009, although his dad is still involved. He wants to thank his father and brother for their constant support and dedication to make Woodhaven the success that it is. “Woodhaven is also a success because of the friends and families of residents who volunteer to participate when called upon.”

David further stated that, “the community of Flint Township has been welcoming and excited about our growth plans, consisting of 183 apartment and villas.”

When asked of his business philosophy, he stated, “spoiling our residents is a must. They have lived nice quality lives and have worked very hard to not have any worries. It is time for us to give back to them.”

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8 on the town

education

BAKER COLLEGEOF FLiNTAddresses Engineering ShortageBy CaroLyn Snider

According to an article in the Detroit Free Press, at a recent job fair sponsored by the Engineering Society of Detroit, the number of open jobs outnumbered job seekers nearly six to one and 51 companies, from Bosch to Hyundai to DTE Energy, sought to fill approximately 3,500 positions.

“At issue is the rebirth of manufacturing and the resultant shortage of skilled engineers and other qualified technicians, including trained CNC operators,” said Dr. Anca Sala, Baker College of Flint dean of engineering and computer technology. “At Baker College of Flint, we are well-positioned to help the industry with graduates who have the desired skills.”

Case in point is the new Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operator certificate program at Baker’s Flint campus that trains people in advanced manufacturing methods.

“As our CNC program takes only three quarters to complete, this is a great opportunity for people to learn a trade in a relatively short period of time,” said Sala. “As the current skilled labor force retires, there will be more and more of a demand for new highly trained CNC operators. In addition, these jobs are well paid.”

Entry-level CNC operators can make between $10 and $14 an hour, while individuals with ten or more years of experience are paid between $15 and $21. Plus, there are benefits and overtime opportunities for both groups.

The first class of Baker College of Flint students going through the CNC certificate program will graduate this fall. Upon graduation, these students will be prepared to apply technical knowledge and skills to CNC machine tools, including lathes, mills and precision measuring tools in order to perform machining functions such as cutting, drilling, shaping and finishing products and component parts.

“We also hope to offer a two-year program in the near future that will afford students the opportunity to gain more advanced skills, such as programming CNC machines,” said Sala.

At the other end of the spectrum, Baker College of Flint recently expanded its portfolio of engineering programs by adding Bachelor of Science degrees in electrical engineering and civil engineering to its roster. The campus also offers bachelor’s degrees in mechanical and industrial engineering.

“All four engineering programs cover areas in demand in Michigan and are in the top 15 best-paid occupations for graduates with a bachelor’s degree,” said Sala. “Payscale.com reports a starting median pay of $61,300 for electrical engineers, $53,100 for civil engineers, with compensation for mechanical and industrial engineers falling in between the two ranges. Engineers with experience can make close to or more than $100,000 per year.”

The employment outlook is bright for engineers. “According to the Department of Energy Labor & Economic

Growth’s employment forecast, the civil engineering sector is expected to experience a 20 percent increase in employment growth between 2008 and 2018,” said Sala. “Spurred by an increase in the general population and the related need to improve our nation’s infrastructure, more civil engineers will be needed to design, construct or expand transportation, buildings, water supply, and pollution control systems.”

Baker College of Flint also offers associate degree programs in electronic, mechanical and computer-aided design (CAD) technology for individuals interested in technician careers.

“We provide a full range of high quality educational opportunities to people interested in engineering and technology,” said Sala. “And, almost all of our programs are held in the evening, which allows full-time working adults to complete a program without giving up their day jobs.”

Baker College of Flint helps future engineers gain hands-on experience and exposure to the field through a variety of events and sponsorships.

“Our mechanical engineering students recently participated in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Student Leadership Conference at the University of Toledo,” said Sala. “This was a wonderful opportunity to compete against other engineering students and meet potential future employers. For K-12 students, we hosted ‘Robofest’ and sponsored a team in the First Robotics Competition. And, for the past several years we’ve held summer robotics camps for middle and high school students. We feel that accessibility at an early age is vital to the engineering field and the resurgence of the manufacturing industry.”

According to Sala, President Obama has called for the training of 10,000 new engineers annually.

“Our president says that although we’ve made incredible progress on education, we still don’t have enough engineers,” said Sala. “At Baker College of Flint, we provide the training and education that will prepare our students to enter this exciting and high-demand field and that will enable our graduates to pursue challenging and rewarding engineering careers.”

Wellness Services We believe in treating the whole person. That means the mind and the body. Our focus is to bring individuals total wellness.• How to take control of your life•Test your health knowledge•InSHAPE Program•Community Gardens

Crisis and Access ServicesPeople sometimes need a little extra assistance. Genesee County Community Mental Health has trained, professional staff available to assist individuals and families with understanding their treatment options, and to help during a mental health, substance abuse, or family crisis.

• In crisis now? Trained professional staff available to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.•Access Center can help you with questions, referrals to community resources, and routine screenings.

Mental Health Services Support for adults, children, and families. Helping people live a full life in the community.

Substance Use Disorder ServicesGenesee County Community Mental Health ( GCCMH) provides both prevention and treatment services.Those seeking treatment for substance use disorders can access a number of providers and services with and near Genesee County.

5050Behavioral health is essential to health.Preventive works.Treatment is effective.People recover.

Years of providing Genesee County w

ith p

ublic

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vice

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420 W. Fifth Avenue Flint, Michigan 48503

Help is just a phone call away

Visit our website to see all of our services • www.gencmh.org

Toll Free: (877) 346-3648 / TTY: (810) 232-6310(810)257-3740

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10 on the town

Besides the energy savings of over 50 percent, Jagielo expects much less need for maintenance over the next ten years.

The old lighting has also been replaced in the University Pavilion (UPAV) parking ramp as well.

The estimated savings for lighting McKinnon Plaza is about $6,000 per year, and total $18,000 per year for the UPAV ramp. Another proposed project of replacing library lighting would mean an additional $22,000 in annual savings. Consumers Energy is also offering financial incentives to switch to energy-efficient lighting.

According to Tim Barden, Facilities and Operations assistant director, Parking Lot A and the surrounding sidewalks will be the next areas on campus to get updated lighting.

The University of Michigan – Flint is investing in cost-savings and energy efficiency by replacing more campus lighting with L.E.D. (light-emitting diode) lights. An evening visit to the campus will give you an appreciation of what can be achieved with modern lighting technology that also cuts energy bills.

This past fall, students expressed a desire to see better lighting around campus. That has been accomplished with the recent replacement of lights on 26 poles. The improved lighting area covers the sidewalk that runs through campus from Harrison Street along the Flint River. Also updated is the walking bridge across the Flint River, and the sidewalk between the river and the William S. White Building.

L.E.D. lights were also used to update

Willson Park and the Kearsley Street extension through campus. Twenty of the tall 250-watt incandescent lighting units were replaced with 100-watt L.E.D. units. Six smaller 175-watt lights were replaced with 60-watt L.E.D.s. Facilities Management estimates yearly savings of about $1,600. The manufacturer claims they will last seven to ten years without replacing.

In addition, the large glass sphere lights in McKinnon Plaza were replaced with new bell-shaped L.E.D. lights. The plaza has six double lights and nine single light poles.

“The new lights are dark-sky compliant. They provide all down lighting, and no light pollution,” said Tim Jagielo, UM-Flint Facilities and Operations electrician.

New L.E.D LightingSaving the planet and energy costs at University of Michigan-Flint

By meL SeroW

education

on the town 11

12 on the town

education

on September 11, 2008 my wife passed away from a rare and aggressive cancer called Synovial Sarcoma, which left me raising our three-year-old daughter on my own. Being a single father and a police officer I felt the need to not only better myself financially but to mitigate the possibility of being seriously hurt, something I wasn’t concerned with until then. I was now more self-conscious of working the streets and dealing with criminals than I ever was in the past. I felt I needed to either get into the administration part of law enforcement or find a new career.

In the fall of 2008, I started looking to further my education and started looking into a college to finish my bachelor’s degree. After interviews with several different universities I knew Northwood University was for me. Northwood took time to sit down with me and made me feel they were there for me and me alone. Things all around us were busy but that never deterred my counselor or took away from my time. A professional educational assessment was done and a schedule was written out of what exactly I needed to obtain my final goal. I was given the opportunity to get distant learning credits towards my degree after submitting a portfolio. Another key factor that attracted me to Northwood was its reputation and the fact that the school’s core competency is business. I wanted to graduate from a university where the main concentration was business and being an entrepreneur - all which Northwood provided.

After following my detailed schedule I graduated with high honors with my bachelor’s degree in business administration. Shortly after graduation a professional opportunity for advancement presented itself. I tested for the position and was promoted over all the other candidates from a patrol officer to a lieutenant. The BBA was a huge cause of getting promoted but more important it was the skills I obtained during the course of getting my degree which really facilitated my success.

I am very happy and impressed with Northwood University, the skills I learned, and the professors who taught me these skills. I decided to enroll in the DeVos Graduate School of Management to obtain my MBA. I am also a candidate for Sheriff of Lapeer County running against a 31-year incumbent. Being enrolled at Northwood has allowed me to not only utilize my skills but pull from my different professors’ talents as well. One of my professors even attended a sheriff debate I took part in recently.

Why pick Northwood University? Because they will not only give you the tools needed to succeed but they care about you and your success.

Northwood University“My name is Jeff Fick; this is my

story of how Northwood University

helped me change my professional

life, as I knew it, forever!”

By JeFFrey FiCK

Cell-a-bratingthe future today

Cell-a-bratingthe future today!

810-767-0100 • www.mtaflint.org

We’re proud to introduce the firsthydrogen fuel cell vehicle

in the Midwest. As we work toward replacing our fleet with these more cost-efficient vehicles, you’ll

begin to experience cleaner air and healthier, quieter neighborhoods—and that’s worth celebrating.

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2

One of the happy meeting places between economic development and new technology is to be found at Mott Community College’s award-winning Regional Technology Center where MCC has opened the area’s first Digital Fabrication Laboratory (known as the FABLAB).

“Many people have ideas for new products or improvements but have a hard time getting their idea into a concrete form to demonstrate its value,” explained Tom Crampton, MCC Executive Dean of Regional Technology Initiatives, “Now they have access to the state-of-the-art advanced digital fabrication laboratory.”

The MCC FABLAB, a dream-come true for inventors of all ages, is a hands-on laboratory that provides the technology and modern fabrication tools to let people build their own creations and products for personal or commercial use. The FABLAB allows a person to essentially take an idea and discover how to turn it into a physical object. FABLABs are also uniquely designed to allow local communities to foster and support innovation that can lead to sustainable solutions for small businesses.

MCC’s FABLAB has attracted students, inventors, entrepreneurs and business leaders as well as political leaders. Visitors to the innovative facility include U.S. Senator Carl Levin, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow and U.S. Congressman Dale Kildee.

Touring the facility, Congressman Kildee was enthusiastic.

“The FABLAB is a great educational and economic asset for this community,” Kildee stated. “This just sets us apart. People can come here and get sophisticated training, in a highly-sophisticated facility.” He told FABLAB staff, “I’m very impressed. This is a great center and you’ve assembled a great team here.”

After his tour the facility, Sen. Levin stated, “I’m impressed by what I’ve seen here. The technology available at MCC’s FABLAB will strengthen Michigan’s economy.”

“MCC seeks to better prepare students and our community for the knowledge-based economy driving the 21st century,” added Tom Crampton. “As a product development and prototyping lab, the FABLAB offers opportunities to students, faculty, staff, individuals in workforce development programs, displaced/dislocated workers, inventors/entrepreneurs and small business owners – the entire community.”

“We want to be a key resource to help people configure their ideas and begin the process of creating products,” added Joseph M. Pakkala, Senior Program Manager with Regional Technology Initiatives at MCC, who has coordinated efforts toward setting up MCC’s FABLAB. “Once you think of something, we can help with the process. We can help the person looking for an everyday solution to a problem, and we can also help the entrepreneur with a more sophisticated project that they hope to commercialize.”

With national recognition pouring on for Mott Community College – from the Association of

Community College Trustees naming MCC President Dick Shaink the best CEO in North America to

the Aspen Institute designating MCC one of the ten best community colleges in the nation to MCC’s

men’s basketball team winning its fourth national championship – the reputation of Flint and Genesee

County’s largest college continues to rise, especially in the field of high technology.

MottCommunity

Breaking New Ground inCollege

By Michael Kelly

High Tech Education

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The FABLAB is supporting the overall efforts of the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurship Team (e-TEAM) and its partners to support both individuals and companies interested in expanding or creating new businesses.

2

1. MCC’S Joe Pakkala demonstrates part of the Rapid Prototyping System at the FABLAB.2. Tom Crampton explains FABLAB operations to US Sen. Carl Levin as Dr. Shaink observes.3. MCC President Dick Shaink shows US Sen. Debbie Stabenow a moving part built at the FABLAB as William Denton (left) and Doug Prehoda look on.4. MCC students are not just learning Digital Simulation Manufacturing at MCC, they are actually building new products in the FABLAB.5. Tom Crampton shows Congressman Dale Kildee a new invention built at the FABLAB.

5

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1

3

The college makes the FABLAB available through two models: a college credit course for current students and a variety of non-credit workshops for individuals from the community. Costs for the college credit course will align with MCC’s published tuition/fees rates while the non-credit workshops start at $59 and increase according to the amount of access time needed and product development support required to interact with FABLAB software and equipment. Those who don’t have the time or inclination to learn how to operate the advanced equipment in the FABLAB can arrange to have an experienced MCC student work with them.

Congressman Kildee summed it up when he said, “Educationally and fiscally, this is an incredible asset to our community. This goes way beyond our dreams. MCC has done a marvelous job here.”

The community is welcome to visit the FABLAB to see for themselves what it can do and how it might be part of successfully realizing their business plans. For more information, please call (810) 232-4553.

16 on the town

810-232-0626

Home of the Torch

BurgerTARGET FREE SATURDAYS

May 5 – August 19

Flint Institute of Arts1120 E. Kearsley St.Flint, MI 48503810.234.1695flintarts.org

This exhibition is organized by the Speed Art Museum, Louisville, KY and supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities.

Sponsored by

The Golden Age of Painting, 1600–1800, from the Speed Art Museum

Adélaïde Labille-GuiardPortrait of Madame Adélaïde, 1787Speed Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Berry Stoll, 1982.21

education

Are You An E-Reader?By marCia mCGee

The Flint Public Library (FPL) and the Genesee District Library (GDL) now offer e-books for the Kindle, Nook, and other eReaders, including iPods.

Library patrons can now download classic eBooks to an eReader or any other mobile device. The free downloads are available to cardholders. If you are not in the GDL service area, an annual fee allows you to access the library.

The GDL also offers eBooks and audio books for use on a PC or Mac computer and popular mobile devices such as a Smartphone and MP3 player.

Not all books, especially best sellers are available for download. The most popular books have waiting lists. The libraries list what books are available and most libraries allow you to put your name on a waiting list for up to ten titles.

At the Flint Public Library, you can put up to five books in your shopping basket before checking out and they will remain there for 45 minutes. You can download books using a Kindle from Amazon and for other readers, a USB cord.

Books are available for loan for between seven and 14 days, depending on the title. When the loan period expires, the book disappears from your device.

To get started, visit the GDL’s Digital Branch at www.thegdl.org. For members of the Flint Public Library, visit www.flint.lib.mi.us/. FPL also offers classes in how to download eBooks. For Nook owners, Barnes and Noble branches also offer classes and on-line assistance.

This is a great way to read for free! Just like going to the library, only from the comfort of your home.

on the town 17

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As the principal in-charge of the firm’s business valuation practice, Dave has experienced many successes with his clients. To him, success is when he can help clients achieve their goals and aspirations. Providing professional guidance for gifting and estate planning, sales, acquisitions, estate tax returns and buy/sell agreements is rewarding to Dave, but it’s having the opportunity to be there every step of the way that really matters. He not only serves as an advisor for his clients, but a partner in their successes.

For professional accounting and valuation services you can count on, call Dave Page at 810-238-4617.

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BEST SEATSon the

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Our front patio is open.Greatview!Great food!Great Great

drinks!

11518 South Saginaw StreetGrand Blanc, Michigan

810-694-8391www.littlejoesrestaurant.com

18 on the town

Tucked in-between the old Victorian homes

in downtown Fenton, is an eatery with just as

much charm and character as the homes that

surround it. The French Laundry has been a

staple of downtown Fenton for more than 14

years. While the exterior holds true to the

quaint old-time charm of the community, inside

you feel as if you’re in an eclectic upscale

restaurant/bar that could easily be found in

New York City or Chicago. Owners Mark

Hamel and Chad Brennan say that was their

goal when creating the restaurant.

“This restaurant is beautiful, just like the houses,” said Brennan, “and we don’t want to take away from that. Our goal is to not mess with the character of the buildings, but to inject the inside with technology so we can create quality food in a great atmosphere.”

The French Laundry’s menu offers vegan and gluten-free options, more than 70 different sandwiches, breakfast, lunch and dinner options, and more. Head chef Jody Brunori has been with the restaurant since it opened and said creating new menu items is her creative outlet.

“When we started we only had five sandwiches, now we have more than ten times that many.” Brunori said she knows that it’s not very often people go home and are excited to get back to work. “I’m one of the luckiest people in the world. I work with great products and great people.”

By great products, Brunori means that she works with breads and desserts that are handcrafted in yet another of the owners’ entrepreneurial ventures. Not to sound cliché, but Crust is quickly becoming the “bread and butter” of their operation.

Located only two blocks away from The French Laundry, Crust is a foodie’s dream. The bakery offers delights such as traditional French pastries, gourmet cookies, cakes and pies. They bake fresh bread, scones and rolls daily.

“The idea behind Crust was to initially supply The Laundry with all of its needs,” said Brennan, “But we knew we wanted the end result to be a bakery that supplied wholesale and retail goods and products. We want people to think of Crust when they think of great breads.”

restau rant

The French LaundryHas a Brand New Addition Crust By raCheL roLph

on the town 19

Crust is still in its early stages of operation: it just opened to the public in February. However, you would never guess it by walking inside. The dichotomy is a wonderful one. While I was taking pictures I heard a few of the regulars come in to pick up their weekly bread and I was transported to a simpler time when personal service was the norm. The girl behind the counter asked “Same as last week?” and the customer responded with “Yes, but I want to try something new as well. What do you have for me?”

However, once I rounded the corner I could see right into the kitchen, which was full of the latest technology and finest equipment. So, while the bakery itself has the old-time feel, it is anything but old behind the scenes. In fact, both ovens are supplied from Verona, Italy, the only place in the world you can find artisan style ovens.

Behind the scenes at Crust and The French Laundry are also some of the most talented bakers and chefs, many of them trained in culinary schools across the United States.

“We hired people with very specific backgrounds,” said Brennan “We want to be at the forefront of what’s going on and to do that you need to hire the most talented people possible.”

The owner himself, Mark Hamel, studied in France while attending college; subsequently this is what spawned the name of The French Laundry. Mark knew he wanted the word ‘French’ in the name of his restaurant and the building used to be a Laundromat and thus “The French Laundry” was born. Mark’s head baker, Mike Green, is also classically trained. He studied at the French Culinary Institute in New York City and is a certified artisan bread baker. So, whether you’re enjoying a lunch out with the family, selecting your bread for the week or picking up sweet treats for party, you will be enjoying some quality products made by very talented chefs and bakers.

Both The French Laundry and Crust offer catering and hold cooking/baking classes. If you would like to visit The French Laundry, they are located in downtown Fenton at the corner of W. Shiawassee and Adelaide. For menus and more information on classes and catering you can visit them online at www.lunchandbeyond.com. Crust is located just two streets over at 124 W. Caroline Street and can be visited online at www.crustandbeyond.com.

20 on the town

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Grand JewelersExceptional Craftsmanship By marCia mCGee

Grand JeWeLerS iS KnoWn in the Grand BLanC area for unique and exclusive jewelry designs by jeweler Harry Kzirian. His father, a lifelong jeweler in his native Armenia and in the United States, taught Harry the craftsmanship needed in creating superior pieces of jewelry.

Harry and his wife Tanya opened the Grand Blanc store in 2000. By keeping up on the latest trends through conferences and seminars, the Kzirians are able to create fresh and fashionable designs. Bring in your old pieces of jewelry or just a drawing of an item you love and Harry can turn it into a work of art destined to become a family heirloom.

When entering the store you will be amazed with the huge selection of various precious and semi-precious stones in unique and unusual settings. Grand Jewelers is capable of diamond grading, written appraisals and certification. Grand Jewelers prides itself with carrying the highest quality of diamonds in the area, including the popular Hearts and Arrows diamond. Thinking of purchasing a new diamond? Bring in your old diamond and trade it in or trade it up to a new stone and get the full value toward your new diamond.

Among the services provided by Grand Jewelers are repairs. These services include a variety of repairs such as: restringing of pearls, retipping, sizing, remounting and cleaning – just to name a few. All of these services are done on site.

Everyone knows the price of gold has sky rocketed to an all-time high, from $250 an ounce years ago to $1700 an ounce. If you are interested in selling your gold Grand

Jewelers will offer you top dollar.And if that’s not enough to entice you to

stop by, Grand Jewelers is the only certified Pandora dealer in the Grand Blanc area carrying a large assortment of their beads and jewelry. Harry and Tanya also have an extensive display of Swarovski crystal including jewelry. Lladro is among the other brand names you will find at Grand Jewelers.

Harry and Tanya have two daughters and a son. You will find Rita and Andre beside their Mom and Dad helping in the family business. The store’s mission statement – Fine Jewelry with a Personal Touch – is definitely a familiar affair and has given them a loyal clientele.

Stop in to see what the personal touch is all about!

on the town 21

Comprehensive Eye Exams

Specializing in Contact Lenses

Family Eye CareWe Accept

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Timothy R. Harris O.D.PLC

1016 S. State Rd. • Davison MI

810.653.3206

We carry the Latest Designers

www.harriseyecareofdavison.com

a couple’s massage allows partners to experience massage together in the same area as one therapist works on each person. At Summerset, the beautiful room set aside for couples is decorated in peaceful, soothing blues and grays. In the background, a tape is playing with the sounds of nature.

Spa-goers can share a pampering experience with a significant other, but a couple’s massage isn’t just for romantics – mother-daughter duos and best friends may also enjoy side-by-side services.

For couples, this form of massage can offer a double dose of benefits. The tandem treatment invites couples to get a bit closer and reconnect, and it can enhance intimacy and teach each partner how to take care of the other.

At Summerset, the couple’s massage is Swedish, which is the default Western massage. The ultimate goal is relaxation. This classical method consists mainly of long strokes over oiled skin and kneading of the outer layers of muscle tissue to reduce stress and sooth sore joints and muscles. Swedish massage relaxes the nervous system, aids circulation, and helps with detoxification.

Other couple’s treatments can be arranged as well. Pedicures, manicures, and facials are the most popular accompaniments to massages. A perfect way to celebrate an anniversary or any special occasion would be a day of pampering for couples.

This elegant salon was established in 1994. There is a team of over 70 ready to cater to your every whim. The salon offers a variety of body, skin, hair and nail treatments.

Summerset Salon Day

Spa offers a private

room for a couple’s

retreat, including

pedicures and

massages.

22 on the town

Enjoy A Relaxing Couple’s MassageBy marCia mCGee

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on the town 23

5201 Woodhaven Court • Flint, Michigan 48532 • (810) 230-1070www.woodhavensenior.com

Senior Community

• Family Owned & Operated• Senior Independent Living • On-site Home Health Care with Assisted Living Services• Spacious One & Two Bedroom Apartments and Two Bedroom Villas• 24 Hour Security

• Emergency Call System• 20 Acre Campus with Pond, Exercise Path, & Community Vegetable Garden • Extensive Activities• Complimentary Transportation• Concierge Services

Mission Statement:“Our mission is to provide quality housing and supportive services in a serene, natural setting. Seldom will you find a more comparable selection of amenities housed under state-of-art facilities than at Woodhaven.”

24 on the town

GREATER LANSING

McLaren Regional Medical Center is now McLaren–Flint.

401 S. Ballenger Highway, Flint, MI 48532 | (810) 342 2000 | mclaren.org

The new name of leading-edge health care

For years, McLaren Regional Medical Center has been the name you and your family have trusted for leading-edge health care. Now, we’re proud to announce our new name.

At McLaren–Flint, our new name strengthens our bond with one of Michigan’s largest health care systems—McLaren Health Care. As part of McLaren, we offer you more, including:

> Advanced technology and state-of-the-art medical treatment

> More than 200 locations and 10 medical centers across the state

> Access to cutting-edge clinical research trials

> More than 17,000 employees and 11,000 network physicians

Though our name has changed, our priorities certainly haven’t. You can still count on us for the same exceptional care and the same commitment to building healthier individuals and stronger communities.

on the town 25

GREATER LANSING

McLaren Regional Medical Center is now McLaren–Flint.

401 S. Ballenger Highway, Flint, MI 48532 | (810) 342 2000 | mclaren.org

The new name of leading-edge health care

For years, McLaren Regional Medical Center has been the name you and your family have trusted for leading-edge health care. Now, we’re proud to announce our new name.

At McLaren–Flint, our new name strengthens our bond with one of Michigan’s largest health care systems—McLaren Health Care. As part of McLaren, we offer you more, including:

> Advanced technology and state-of-the-art medical treatment

> More than 200 locations and 10 medical centers across the state

> Access to cutting-edge clinical research trials

> More than 17,000 employees and 11,000 network physicians

Though our name has changed, our priorities certainly haven’t. You can still count on us for the same exceptional care and the same commitment to building healthier individuals and stronger communities.

26 on the town

5

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on the town 27

Fick Landscape SuppliesBy marCia mCGee

Need a new driveway? A fire pit? Fick Landscape Supplies can answer the needs of homeowners and contractors.

In business since Spring of 2009, brother and sister John and Daneen Fick believe in offering customers a quality product at a fair price. John says, “We simply treat people the way we want to be treated.”

The company offers screened topsoil, mulch, many kinds of decorative stone including large boulders, driveway materials, fire pit rings, retaining wall blocks and patio pavers. They are open year round for dry screened topsoil and driveway materials. Customers can pick up their own materials or Fick’s will deliver any size load from one to 42 yards.

Fall cleanup? Fick’s rents leaf vacuums.John and Daneen got into the landscaping business for a pretty great reason.

Their father, John Sr., started an excavating business 42 years ago with a backhoe, dump truck and a bulldozer. Four years ago when the economy went south, they were faced with the possibility of laying off people. In order to avoid that, they opened the stone business on some land they owned at the corner of Elms and Corunna Roads. Their good reputation and word of mouth has kept them in business when other landscaping and excavating companies have failed in the past few years.

John and Daneen run both businesses. In addition, John owns Bubba O‘Malley’s restaurant in Burton.

busin ess

“We simply treat people the way we want to be treated.”

~John Fick

28 on the town

©2012 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO

Donation includes $5,000 for every walk-off in select 2012 professional baseball games and 5¢/case of Budweiser sold, 5/20-7/7 with a maximum donation of $2,500,000. For details, visit www.facebook.com/budweiser

Ad Name: Folds of HonorItem #:PBW201210343

Job/Order #:240832

Trim:8.5x11

Bleed: 8.75x11.25

Live: 7.5x10

Closing Date: 5/18/12

QC: CS

Pub: On The Town

Fabiano Brothers Established 1885 - 1885 Bevanda Court Bay City, MI 48705 989-509-0200

on the town 29

Transforming Men’s Health in Mid-MichiganHurley Medical Center Men’s Health initiative By marCia mCGee

heLpFuL WeBSiteS• Hurley Health and Fitness Center

www.hurleyfitnow.com Hurley’s medically-based health and fitness center

• Men’s Health Network www.menshealthnetwork.org Very useful health information and education for men and boys

• MyFitnessPal www.myfitnesspal.com Tools and support to achieve weight loss goals

• Commit to Fit! www.commit-2-fit.org 3-Ton Healthy Weight Loss Challenge and other programs that promote healthy lifestyles in the Flint Community

• Weight Watchers for Men www.weightwatchers.com/men A flexible men’s weight loss plan

dateS to rememBerJune 16 Hurley Men’s Expo at Atwood Stadium. Mark Ingram, keynote speaker. September 8 Pancakes and Prostates. November 17 Testosterone Tune-up.

The folks at Hurley Medical Center ask a great question: Is a man’s car more important than his health? Pointing out that men change their oil every 3,000 miles, when it comes to their own health, for many reasons they are reluctant to get a health tune-up.A large percentage of men have only limited contact with a physician and the health care system as a whole. Men not only fail to get routine checkups or pre-ventative care, but often ignore symptoms or delay seeking medical attention when sick or in pain.

Hurley Medical Center wants to change that. The Hurley Men’s Health Initiative is an outreach and educational program created to offer a series of events that take place throughout the year. (see sidebar)

On average, American men live sicker and die younger than American women, mostly from preventable diseases and unmanaged chronic illnesses. Stroke, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and accidents (the most common causes of death) kill men at a much higher rate than women – even more so for African-American men.

Hurley is determined to raise awareness of the health crisis and turn the tide by implementing an innovative Men’s Health Initiative designed to educate men and their families on the importance of men taking charge of their own health. Established this year, the initiative consists of free physician seminars, health screenings, an annual men’s health expo, and websites devoted solely to men’s health. By bringing men back into the health system, Hurley is helping them overcome one of their biggest health risks: just being a man.

National statistics reveal that:• Men have a 50 percent chance of

being diagnosed with cancer• Men on average live seven years

less than women• Men die from nine of the top ten

causes of death at a higher rate than women

• One in ten men in Flint have been diagnosed with diabetes

• 14 percent of men in Flint have been diagnosed with heart disease

• Only 60 percent of men have personal doctors, compared to 90 percent of women.

Experts at Hurley note if men are aware of just two numbers – their blood pressure and cholesterol level – and take active steps to lower them if either reaches and unhealthy range, it can make a huge difference in the length and quality of their lives.

Men, get with the program and take charge of your own tune-ups.

Contact Hurley for more information on the Initiative or to find out how to find a doctor. For the Men’s Health Initiative, call

Dwayne Parker at 810-262-9886 or dparker1@hurleymc.com. To find a doctor, call 800-336-8999 and the folks at Hurley

will help you find one. For helpful websites, see sidebar.

medica l

©2012 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO

Donation includes $5,000 for every walk-off in select 2012 professional baseball games and 5¢/case of Budweiser sold, 5/20-7/7 with a maximum donation of $2,500,000. For details, visit www.facebook.com/budweiser

Ad Name: Folds of HonorItem #:PBW201210343

Job/Order #:240832

Trim:8.5x11

Bleed: 8.75x11.25

Live: 7.5x10

Closing Date: 5/18/12

QC: CS

Pub: On The Town

30 on the town

mCLaren-FLint mediCaL Center is setting the standard in advanced stroke care with its groundbreaking Interventional Neurology program.

“We’re able to offer treatments to the appropriate stroke patients that aren’t available at other hospitals in the Flint region,” said neurointerventionalist and board certified neurologist Luis Arangua, MD.

Mclaren-Flint is one of only 10-15% of all hospitals in the United States that offers neurointerventional services. Among the services offered are acute intra-arterial stroke interventions. These treatments are available to patients who aren’t able to receive intravenous clot-busting medication known as tissue type plasminogen activator, or tPA, due to medical reasons, fall outside the time-window for tPA, or have had insufficient clinical benefit from IV tPA.

“By making a tiny 1-2 mm incision in the skin we can go through the arteries, either from the leg or arm directly into the site of clot in the neck or brain,” said Dr. Arangua. “We then use mechanical devices and lytic medications to break up and remove clots that are preventing blood flow to the brain. These services can lead to life-changing and lifesaving results.”

neW phySiCianS BrinG SpeCiaLized SKiLLSDr. Arangua and Andrew Xavier, M.D., who is also an Interventional Neurologist and

board certified in Neurology and Vascular neurology, joined McLaren-Flint in the fall of 2011.

Under the guidance of Dr. Arangua and Dr. Xavier, McLaren Medical Center staff is able to help more patients recover from stroke. The physicians also use minimally invasive techniques to treat aneurysms, arterial venous malformations, Dural arterial venous fistulas, intracranial and extracranial stenosis with angioplasty and stenting,

embolizations of head and neck tumors and spinal vascular malformations or fistulas, and vertebral body compression fractures with vertebropalsty or kyphoplasty. Diagnostic services include cerebral and spinal angiography.

“We’re delighted to be able to offer these minimally invasive treatment options with reduced morbidity and mortality, and improved clinical outcomes compared to previous treatment strategies,” Dr Arangua says “Our staff plays a crucial role in giving our patients the best available and leading edge treatment options.”

The Interventional Neurology program is available for emergency services, urgent and routine consultations and referrals. The neurointerventionalists at McLaren see patients for urgent referrals within the day in clinic offices. Routine clinic referrals are seen within one to two weeks on Tuesdays and Wednesday clinic days. To reach the Interventional neurology program, call 810-342-5700.

McLaren Launches Area’s FirstNeurointerventional Radiology Program

Advanced Procedures Offer Lifesaving Options for Stroke PatientsBy Laurie proChazKa

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on the town 31

McLaren Doctors Call BrainAneurysm Patient a Miracle

Heather Stewart, age 32 of Flint, embraces her designation as a “miracle patient” at McLaren-Flint.

By Laurie proChazKa

She still gets emotional when she talks about all she went through in the first two months of 2012; especially when she has no memory of several weeks during that timeframe.

It all began on January 9, 2012 while she was trying to get her daughter ready to go to the doctor for a bad earache. Heather experienced a sudden headache, trouble walking, and felt very nauseated.

“It came on in the snap of a finger,” states Heather. “I was trying to get ready but I had to lie down. I thought it was a migraine headache.”

Heather and her two young daughters were staying at her mother’s at the time. Heather’s condition was serious enough to prompt her mother to call 911 for an ambulance. Heather remembers putting her shoes on, walking down the stairs, and lying on the stretcher.

The ambulance took Heather to the Emergency Department at McLaren-Flint. From that point on, her memory goes dark.

Heather’s signs and symptoms triggered a stroke alert evaluation which included a CT scan (computed tomography) and a

CT angiogram of her brain. The CT scan showed that a blood vessel in her brain had ruptured. She had blood surrounding the surface of the brain and within the substance of the brain in the left frontal lobe. The CTA also showed that the bleeding may have been caused by an aneurysm, which is a weakening in the blood vessel that causes the arterial wall to bulge. Heather underwent a catheter angiogram of the brain. An angiogram is an x-ray study that uses a special radiopaque dye to take pictures of the blood flow in arteries. Heather indeed had an aneurysm in her left middle cerebral artery which needed to be dealt with emergently. McLaren’s interventional neurology medical team decided to perform a neuro coiling of the aneurysm.

To accomplish this, a catheter (hollow plastic tube) was inserted into an artery located in her groin and threaded through the vascular system up to the aneurysm. Using angiography, her doctors were able to continue to view the blood vessels in her brain. The x-ray imaging provides an outline of the artery for her Interventional Neurologists Luis Arangua, M.D., and Andrew Xavier, M.D., to view in real time. Next, a guidewire with detachable spirals of platinum wire coils are passed through the catheter and released into the aneurysm. The multiple coils fill the aneurysm blocking it from circulating blood flow, which causes the aneurysm to clot off. The coils are made of platinum so they can be visible via the x-ray and be flexible enough to conform to the shape of the aneurysm. With this accomplished, there was still more treatment to be done.

Neurosurgeon Jawad Shah, M.D., chose not to evacuate the blood that leaked into Heather’s brain before the neuro coiling

clotted the aneurysm. Instead, he performed a hemicraniectomy. This is the temporary removal of a portion of the skull in order to allow the swollen brain to expand beyond the confines of the skull bone, which relieves pressure on the brain. Dr. Shah then put Heather into a medically-induced coma, in which she remained for a month in order to reduce the metabolic needs of the brain, to prevent her from experiencing pain and to enable her body to rest. During this time she was cared for in McLaren-Flint’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

“Heather’s doctors told me they did not think she would survive,” states Esther Stewart, Heather’s mother. “They said if she did, her memory would be foggy, her speech affected and she would probably have paralysis on her right side. I just started praying, and the ICU nurses prayed with me.”

The day finally arrived in early February when Heather was brought out of her coma and the doctors could what effects the aneurysm rupture had on her brain and body.

“I do not remember opening my eyes or the exact day I woke up,” Heather said, “but I do remember my mom and brother telling me about everything that had happened to me and why I was in the hospital.”

Heather could speak, move her right arm and leg and recognize her family members. This was the day her doctors called her a “miracle patient.” Because her body had been at rest for so long, she still needed to spend a few weeks in McLaren-Flint’s inpatient rehabilitation unit. This allowed Heather to build up her strength and work on her speech and memory before she went home.

“I still get tired easily and sometimes my memory is slow when it comes to simple things but I remember all the important things,” she said. “I am so happy to be alive and be here with my family and my girls. If something would have happened to me, my little girls would probably not even have remembered me because they are only one and two years old. I appreciate all of the wonderful care from my doctors and nurses. I just cannot believe this happened to me, but I am so grateful with how well I am doing.”

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32 on the town

on the town 33

comm u nitY

Plenty of AngelsUnited Way Finds New People to Surpass

$2.8 Million Goal By edith CampBeLL

More people will be helped this year through United Way efforts despite local economy woes, thanks to a new director, more volunteers and an ambitious fund-raising strategy. To be exact, there are 600 new individuals and 46 new companies that heard the LIVE UNITED message and responded via a variety of mediums. This means more help for over 35, 000 area residents.

“Raising $2.8 million is an incredible accomplishment thanks to the generosity of residents, businesses organizations and staff,” said Jerry W. Leman, interim executive director of the United Way of Genesee County. “In recent years there has been a drop in fundraising and last year we raised $2.6 million. The extra $200,000 will provide a boost to programs that have seen a funding drop.”

Leman began his career at Cadillac Motor Division and spent 38 years with General Motors holding several key executive positions in engineering, quality, purchasing and manufacturing management leadership. He served as plant manager at three different General Motors Sheet Metal Fabricating Plants including Grand Blanc and Flint Metal Center. During that time he served on the United Way Board of Trustees and was chair for the 2001 Campaign. Since retiring in 2001 he has volunteered considerable time with United Way and was appointed interim director in May of 2011.

This year, Leman’s job was to convince contributors WHY United Way giving was the best way to help. He outlined the following:

• Dollars stay in Genesee County, finding solutions to local problems.• United Way-funded programs can match monies from state, federal, corporate or

foundation grants to impact more people. • Decisions for spending United Way dollars are made by local volunteers with first-

hand knowledge of community needs.• United Way focuses its dollars on the critical needs in Genesee County --- older

adults, child/youth development and basic needs/strengthening families.

Finding new ways to raise funds for United Way meant talking to more people and finding new ways to reach them – despite a 50% reduction in United Way staff. Four massive direct-mail projects were initiated to inform, convince, and thank prospective donors, and ask them to advocate the need to others. Statistics were convincing:

• 155,557 meals were served to nearly 900 hungry people daily.• 469 near homeless people received services through the One Stop Housing Center• 1,045 survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault received 8,952 unique

services.• 54,051 hours of in-home care was given to 898 elderly neighbors.• Over $663,000 of United Way dollars were leveraged to add an additional $5.2

million.

One example of the leverage advantage was realized by the BEST Project (Building Excellence, Sustainability and Trust). It is an organization that helps non-profits become more effective and sustainable. They provide training in leadership, technology, fund-raising strategy, and how to evaluate strength and weaknesses of their respective non-profit organizations. “We have been able to leverage United Way money to get additional funding to help other non-profits stabilize their futures and have more impact in their service area,” said Jennifer Acree, project director for BEST. Information on their services can be obtained at www.bestprojectonline.org

In addition to its 22 funded agencies, United Way has special programs and initiatives such as a handicapped ramp program, bone marrow recruitment, and SKIP (Successful

Kids-Involved Parents). It has also assumed fiscal sponsorship for ten grass-roots agencies. Examples are: Keep Genesee County Beautiful, Creative Corral Art Project and Harvesting Earth Educational Farm.

United Way can form special partnerships with its funded agencies. In the case of Boys and Girls Club of Greater Flint, the agency contracts United Way to handle their bookkeeping and accounting support services. “It’s a trust relationship,” says BGCGF Director Jamie Gaskin. “Their help enables us to direct more funds into kids’ program and services rather than administration. It’s invaluable because it makes United Way dollars stretch so much farther.”

United Way came into existence in 1922 as the Flint Community Chest under the local Chamber of Commerce and became an entity of its own in 1928. It functioned through the Great Depression and the 1937 Sit-Down Strike, becoming the Flint Community Association in 1938 and combined funds with The Flint War Chest in 1942. When C. S. Mott purchased the post office building at Harrison and Kearsley in 1944 it became home to the new Community Chest. In 1949, the famous “Red Feather Agency” campaign was started, acting as an umbrella over community giving; in 1964 it embraced both Genesee and Lapeer Counties.

In 1966, The Red Feather Headquarters opened in a building next to the main Flint Post Office on Boulevard Drive and in the 70’s was transformed into United Fund, then United Way of Genesee County. This was a familiar and bustling site until 2002 when it moved to its present location in the downtown Citizens Bank Building.

the 90th anniversary Campaign is in full swing and donations can be made as follows:maiL: United Way of Genesee County, P.O. Box 949, Flint, MI 48501onLine: Click the DONATE button in the upper left corner onwww.unitedwaygenesee.org moBiLe: Text UWGC to 27722 to give $10

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on the town 35

36 on the town

Jim AbbottiMPERFECT: An improbable Life By vaGioS younG

It really doesn’t matter what your reason is for reading “on the town” magazine, but just the fact that you have an interest in our area makes Jim Abbott’s new book “Imperfect” a must read.

It’s a compelling and inspirational coming- of- age story of one of Flint’s most extraordinary and unique athletes. Once again highlighting the playgrounds of Flint as a productive caldron that tempers our young athletes for the rigors of competition, Just ask Mateen Cleaves, Mark Ingram, Chris Byrd, Ricky Leach, Charly Bell and scores of others who went on to success in amateur and professional sports.

Co-authors Jim Abbott and Tim Brown skillfully interweave Jimmy’s up-bringing in Flint with his rise and fall in baseball focusing on his most outstanding achievement, the no-hitter he pitched for the New York Yankees .

They begin by recreating the morning of the no-hitter and segueing to the day of Jimmy’s birth and introduce us to Jimmy’s parents, Michael and Kathy Abbott, who never coddled him and told him his lack of a hand was an opportunity not a handicap. His father Mike, many times when Jimmy was discouraged by the comments of bullies, sent him back to the playgrounds to show his stuff and to be impervious to the taunts. Mike had excelled on the playgrounds in Flint and knew there was no self-pity in Flint and acceptance came with effort, perseverance and hard work.

It is clear to any who know the Abbotts that Jimmy gets his stubbornness and athletic genes from Mike, and of course his poise, humility and graciousness from Kathy. Oh, and obviously his story-telling skills come from Mike.

Mike had an outstanding high school athletic career at St. Matthews. He was overshadowed by two greats, John Sperla and Paul Staroba, but he had his moments. Many still say the game where he gained over 250 rushing yards against Holy Rosary was the best individual performance of that championship era at St. Matt’s.

Tim and Jim continue by alternating very personal narratives of the early struggles of his parents with Jim’s recall of his youth and his achievements in baseball: he had an outstanding athletic career at Flint Central high school, became an All American at the University of Michigan, he won an Olympic Gold Medal and won the prestigious Sullivan Award as an amateur. These recollections are inter-mixed with an inning- by- inning rehash of his no-hitter.

The no-hitter! It was the icing on the cake of his professional career, too bad it was a farewell cake. Jimmy never matched his previous accomplishments after that game. He lost his fastball and was out of baseball by the time he was 30.

As far as I’m concerned this is where the real story begins. Abbott was seen as a reluctant and self-deprecating athlete, always hesitant to accept the role of handicapped hero. It wasn’t the hero role he had a problem with it was the handicapped part. He wanted to be seen as a complete athlete without an asterisk. It wasn’t until late in his career that he started to appreciate what an inspiration

he was to others. As he tells it, “I didn’t see them coming, not in the numbers they did: they were shy and beautiful; they were loud and funny and like me they had parents nearby, parents who willed themselves to believe that this accident of circumstance or nature was not a life sentence and that the spirit inside these tiny bodies was greater than sum of their hands and feet.”

He embraced this role as a handicapped hero with an appreciation not often found in our athletes of today. He was inspired to give back in appreciation for his gift. Gift? Yes, misfortune can be a gift. Jimmy quotes Cormac McCarthy: “Those that have endured some misfortune will always be set apart but it is just that misfortune which is their gift and which is their strength and they must make their way back into the common enterprise of man for without to do so it cannot go forward and they will wither into bitterness.”

It was evident at the book signing at the Flint Public Library that you had made it back, Jimmy, and there was no bitterness. Respect and affection flowed both ways that day and it seems that life after baseball is just as rewarding as your sports career to you and your fans. You had to be a world-class cynic not to be affected by it. It was inspirational and uplifting. You were a hit and your pitch was perfect.

In summation, this narrative is sports storytelling at its best and then Jim elevates it to a championship level with his candor, honesty and insightful self-examination. It will bring a tear to your eye, a smile to your lips and a tug at your heart. Early in life Jimmy would hide his hand in embarrassment; no more hiding for Jim. Here he exposes his life and thoughts to his fans.

sports

DebraHawley

• Furniture, Space Planing & Layout• Custom Window Treatments• New Home or Remodeling Selections Tile • Countertops • Lighting, etc.• Artwork, Accessories, Rugs• Closet Organization• Color Consultant• Home Sale Staging

DESIGNING QUALITY

SINCE 1981

design consultant

See us on FACEBOOKDebra Hawley Interior Designs

810.577.4609www.dhawleydesign.info

decoratordeb@comcast.net

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cu ltu re

By JaniCe henry

Even the 17th and 18th centuries had their version of “rock stars,” notably the painters: Rembrandt, Rubens and Ruisdael. These Old Masters are just some of the acclaimed artists of the period from across the European continent represented in the exhibition “The Golden Age of Painting, 1600-1800” opened on May 5th at the Flint Institute of Arts, the show’s only Midwest venue.

The paintings in the exhibition chronicle the tremendous changes that swept Europe over this 200-year time span. Religious upheavals, advances in the sciences, exploration and the establishment of trade routes to new lands transformed long held views on the way the universe worked and the place of humans within that universe.

The Golden Age of Painting

Jan Brueghel the Elder, Hendrik van Balen I Flemish, 1568 - 1625, 1575 - 1632

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Rembrandt van RijnDutch, 1606 - 1669

Portrait of a Forty-Year Old Woman

Adélaïde Labille-GuiardFrench, 1749 - 1803

Portrait of Madame Adélaïde

The treasures on loan from the permanent collection of the Speed Art Museum of Louisville, Kentucky, include works by artists from The Netherlands, Flanders, France, Spain, Italy, Germany and England. Highlighted in the show are paintings that illustrate the popular subjects of that age, such as: landscapes, portraits, religious paintings, interpretations of classical antiquity and scenes from every day life. The images rendered by many of the greatest artists of that era offer viewers a glimpse into this rich cultural period of history.

Featured in the exhibit are Rembrandt van Rijn’s “Portrait of a Forty-Year-Old Woman” dated 1634, and one of the earliest examples from a pair of husband and wife portraits by the artist known to exist. Visitors to the exhibition will see works by the celebrated Flemish painters, Anthony van Dyck, represented with “Portrait of a Woman” from 1635 and Peter Paul Rubens “The Princes of the Church Adoring the Eucharist.” (It should be noted that the FIA has in its own permanent collection a painting by Rubens that is located in the Bray Gallery.)

The artist William Hogarth, an engraver and portraitist best known for satirizing English society, depicts an interior genre scene of a conversation between two gentlemen in a painting from 1730. Other important artists featured in the exhibition include: Thomas Gainsborough, founder of the English landscape tradition and the great portrait artist, Thomas Lawrence; Italian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo; German painter, Adam Elsheimer; and 18th century French painter Jean Francois de Troy.

“The Golden Age of Painting, 1600-1800,” sponsored by Citizen’s Bank and supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities, will continue through August 19. Museum hours are Mon-Wed & Fri, 12p-5p; Thu, 12p-9p, Sat 10a-5p and Sun, 1p-5p. Admission to the exhibit is free for members, adults $7.00, seniors $5.00, students with ID and children 12 and under free. Saturdays are Target Free and as a Blue Star Museum, military families will receive free admission from Memorial Day through Labor Day, For more information visit www.flintarts.org. or call (810) 234-1695.

The Golden Age of Painting

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design

Keeping An “Eye on Design”By deBra haWLey

One thing we can depend on in Michigan is not being bored with the weather! Spring is on its way out on the calendar but the temperatures fluctuate enough to keep us all guessing. The ever-changing blooming patterns of the flowers and foliage set a delightful stage for our emotional lifts this time of year. After colder and grayer days of winter, all are excited to see the rich beautiful colors of Mother Nature in spring and summer. It drives us to be more active, to entertain changes in our personal spaces, and affects our moods and emotions in a big way.

Spring has a way of putting things in perspective. Things can appear barren in cold temperatures, and allow us to dig under and cozy up. Unfortunately, it is also an excuse to do no changing or updating. Spring then, is an opportunity to revisit what we live with in our homes and evaluate how it affects us and prepare to make a change if needed.

Classic Traditional, while never ‘out of style’ has taken a demure backseat in recent years for the stronger speaking Modern Design. Modern hasn’t seen a heyday like this in decades, and it poses some ideas for the very traditional client to explore, while not leaving their cherished Traditional behind.

Some of the most exciting interior design is accomplished by using a very discriminating mix. Certainly, a key ingredient for the traditionally- minded client, is a noteworthy wood piece. Nothing says elegance like a beautifully shaped Bombay chest or foyer table made of expertly finished wood—it seems to set the standard of what is to follow. Well appointed and uncluttered rooms that intrigue the eye, and frosty colors like mother nature herself has given, such as soft, clear aqua, butter, and dusty lavender are rich partners to contrast with white woodwork and a cherry finished foyer table or deep honey colored Bombay chest.

Upholstery in multiple shades of neutral with cleaner lines and less bulk in the frame will give the confident style of Classic Traditional. The mix can now begin with a fabulous patterned rug and perhaps a more modern minded piece of art. Window treatments, light and breezy, will bring a less formal feel, while more structured and complex treatments or white shutters decidedly say “formal.” Either way, it is in the mix of things that your own personal style will evolve. Regardless of the age or generation of the homeowner, this mix guarantees an easy elegance that transfers easily to Formal or Uptown Chic with a few specific choices in the

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art and rugs.A key question to be answered as you evaluate your home in

anticipation of a change in décor is, “Am I Loving My Home?” A series of honest questions will quickly identify some of the areas. Do I like the style I have used or do I even have a style yet? Perhaps I buy on impulse what I like that day, and only later figure out it doesn’t really reflect how my family and I live in that home. Possibly I followed on the heels of a good friend or my mom’s house, while very beautiful for them---doesn’t reflect me or my way of life very well at all.

These are some of the areas where a professional designer can help. Loving your home happens when these things are identified and you start to feel more at home in your own space. Moving your furniture often is (not always) but one of the indicators that things aren’t working as well as they should for you. A sister, best friend or family member, while they may have great taste—is too close to you usually to give honest helpful direction. Ask any designer if they reach for another designer to bounce things off when working on their own home, and you will get the same answer. Our peers in the business are not attached to us. In a professional capacity, they can be objective.

Our homes provide shelter for us; they protect us; they excite and stimulate us; and offer great peace and comfort from the busy lives and world we live in today.

As for “Loving Your Home,” this designer’s Eye on Design celebrates the home as your own private sanctuary. It has been my distinctive pleasure to be a part of the process with so many wonderful clients for so many years.

Debra Hawley has done professional interior design for 28 years. She has worked in the Genesee County area for all these years while also working on design drojects in Florida and South Carolina. Her studio is in Flushing.She can be reached at 810-577-4609. Email: decorator deb@comcast.net; and on Facebook at DebraHawley Design

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After Hours under tHe stArsBenefit for LongwAy PLAne tArium

1. Jose Ramirez, Reem Bathish, and Sara Johnson 2. Tinsi Koske-Olds and Keith Kline 3. Jeremy and Liana Shaw4. Mark Hoffman and Meghan Downing 5. Michele Fairley, DeMarcus Smith, Rhonda and Matt Adams 6. Elizabeth Brady Marasco, Rosanne and Steve Heddy. 7. David and Laurie Prchazka, Al and Sally Rohde 8. Linda and Guy Moxam 9. Kitty Vomvolakis, Terry Mack, Maria Vomvolakis and Brian Mills 10. Joanne and Mel Kipp, Vicki and Don Laney 11. Helene Streich and Nancy Cronin

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Advertorial

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rea l estate

Helpful HintsFor Selling Your Home By LuCy ham

maKe your home Shine• Clean upholstery and polish wood

surfaces• Clean Carpets, walls, floors and

woodwork• Clean windows inside and out -

glass, frames and ledges; clean draperies

• Clean bathrooms thoroughly - floors, walls, fixtures and tiles

• Clean kitchen ceiling, cabinets, appliances and fixtures

• Clean attic, garage and other storage areas

• Clean closets and hang clothes neatly

• Have slow running drains cleaned• Inspect cold and hot water supply

hoses for cracks and deterioration

inCreaSe your CurB appeaL• Mow and edge your lawn regularly,

prune and trim trees and shrubs• Rake leaves-pick up fallen limbs,

replace dead or diseased plants and shrubs

• Cover beds and gardens with 1-4 inches of mulch to conserve moisture, reduce weed growth and maintain uniform temperature

• Clean out flower beds and plant seasonal flowers to enhance the beauty of your yard

• Re-paint or re-stain lawn furniture, repair and re-paint fences, decks, steps, and porches

appearanCe iS everythinG• Use 75-watt light bulbs to brighten

rooms• Arrange furniture to make rooms

appear larger and provide maximum walk space

• Repair or re-finish damaged doors, molding and paneling

• Remove ashes and soot from fireplace

• Sell or store extra furniture so that the house looks open and spacious

• Seal cracks and holes in the exterior of the home

There’s No Place Like The Neighborhoodsm

Try the Unbelievable Great Tasting & Under 550 CaloriesTM Menu!

All the taste. None of the trade-offs.

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1. Tanya & Harry Kzirian2. Patty Fuller & Dr. Timothy Harris3. Sheila Zorn & Dr. Gary Wease4. Rosanne & Steve Heddy5. Susan & Scott Wagner, Joe & Yvette Marks6. Jonathan & Stacie Tate7. Davin & Paul Torre8. Tina & Kevin Immink9. Stephanie K & Annie Vizanko10. Ira & Camilla Gilbert, Connie & Ron Robbins11. Steve & Cheryl Ellegood, Laurie & David Prochazka, Mike & Jackie Jablonski12. Jan & Sam Desmond13. Michelle Telliga, Diana Page, Ann Hobbs14. Linda & Guy Moxam15. Mark Lemon, John & Jean Montooth, Jennifer Tremaine16. Jeremy Winchester, Janet Haley, Barb & Dale Ehrhart17. Jeff & Suzanne Johnson18. Joyce & Frank Timmons19. Kathryn Koegel & Ed Rosser20. Joy Scott, Jody Maddock & Gizmo, Dan Stall21. Joe & Julie Serra, Carrie & Mayor Dayne Walling22. Jeannie Winter, Steve & Tiffany Flynn, Chris Anderson &Sherry Dodge

tanya & harry Kzirian

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Flint Institute of MusicannuaL FundraiSinG auCtion

Friday May 11, 2012 Riverfront Banquet Center “An Evening at the French Quarter”

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socia l m arketing

Social Marketing For BusinessBy daLe Keipert

Why engage followers and fans?

Social media is all about a conversation.

Whether it is on Facebook, Twitter, blogs

or any of the countless other social outlets,

marketing through social media allows you to

interact with and engage current and future

customers.

One of the greatest benefits of social media is that it provides a direct line of communication between you and your target audience. Even without overtly selling to your clients through social media, your presence and interaction, coupled with your other online marketing, helps to build relationships with your customers and build your brand online.

Having a voice that reflects the personality of your business and industry is key, but overall, people want to follow accounts that are fun. Use social media to show a different side of your business than what a customer sees on your website. For example, upload some pictures onto Facebook of your workspace, your employees or photos from events you organize. Or maybe start a video blog with some of your employees to give your customers a backstage pass into your business. Get creative, show some personality and have fun with it!

Take look at how Old Spice turned their traditional marketing into a conversation (and took the cyber world by storm) by utilizing social media in addition to traditional marketing. Social media helps to humanize your company and build trust with your customers.

Here are a few guidelines to get you started or help you along the way.

You Have Two Ears and One MouthWhen you are engaging on the social

platforms, especially when you’re first starting, it is very important that you begin

by listening more than talking. When you find a group, as an example, that is made up of people that you would like to do business with take a couple of weeks to listen to the conversation. You will gain a lot of valuable insights about the group simply by listening. You’ll be able to find out who the leaders of the group are, you’ll be able to pick up on the “personality” of the group, and most importantly you will find out what the issues that the group is concerned about. Imagine how much better you can form your communications when you have this type of background information.

Promote…sparingly.When it comes to promotion on social

media, balance is key.While you should definitely use your

accounts to promote your business and services, make sure that not all of your content reads like ad copy. No one will want to hear what you have to say if you’re all take and no give.

Your customers see social media as a cyber community of interaction and information sharing. Be sure to vary your posts between promotion, commentary, conversation and information sharing. Also, it’s important not to post too many times per day. The quickest way to lose followers, fans or readers is by flooding their news feeds. Try to post consistently, at least once per day. Be careful to never post more than five times per day on Facebook or ten times per day on Twitter.

Share.Lots of fantastic information is posted

on Twitter and Facebook daily. Share it! As long as you make sure to give credit to the original source, sharing information is a great way to develop a community and to interact with others in your industry.

Social Media Cross Promotion and GrowthHang in there! Social media can be

frustrating and overwhelming at first. You’re not going to beat out Oprah in Twitter follower numbers your first week (or probably ever). Whether you’re first starting out on social media or are trying to maintain your account and grow your following, it takes some work to really benefit from everything that social has to offer. Just like radio, print and TV ads are built to work together as part of a traditional marketing plan within their individual mediums, social media accounts and campaigns should promote a similar messages in varying ways. The Old Spice campaign is a perfect example of different social outlets for different specific purposes. Many accounts let you post one place and have that post be automatically sent to all your other accounts at the same time. Although that may be easier, it’s defeating the purpose of social. What you post on Twitter should be different than what you post on Facebook which should be different than what’s on your website. Automatic postings can annoy your audience and they don’t help to humanize your online voice.

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Kite tails and CoCK tails 20121. Tiffany Fynn, Ed Fletcher, Kathleen Gazall, and Sherry Dodge Schlinker2. Sheriff Robert Pickell, Prosecutor David Leyton, and Chief Alvern Lock3. Dr. Prasad and Jay Kommareddi4. Dani West, Sheila Powell, and Gertie Covey5. Julie Cauley, Pat Killian, and Kathy Cauley6. Tiffany Flynn, Representative Dale Kildee, and Deb Cherry7. Diona McLaughlin and Lanice Lawson8. Chief Mike and Marsha Powers, Senator John and Karen Gleason9. Kay and Peter Doerr and Sally Shaheen Joseph10. Tim and Sandy Bograkos and Helen Philpott and Reese Stipes

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“Personal Service with Integrity” Since 1963

G-3310 Beecher Rd. Flint

810-230-2727www.gainesjewelry.com

(Next to Diplomat Pharmacy)

Jewelry Repair on Premises

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Mott Community College is the #1 college choice for graduates of every high school in

Genesee County.

810-762-0200

Summer semester starts July 2, 2012.Fall semester starts Sept. 4, 2012.

Register online at www.mcc.edu

Mott Community College has been named one of the Top Ten community colleges in America, yet Mott College is still the least expensive college

in the area, costing half or even a third of other area colleges.

Registration Open Now!

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The Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) recently unveiled its new hydrogen fuel cell bus and opened their alternative fuel facility in Grand Blanc Township. The MTA is the first transportation agency in the Midwest with a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.

“Hydrogen as an alternative fuel for the public transit industry is environmentally friendly, reduces the carbon footprint and technically feasible for a sustainable future,” said Ed Benning, MTA General Manager.

A fuel cell running on pure hydrogen emits zero emissions at the source. In fact, the only thing coming out of the tailpipe is water.

Fuel cells do not burn the fuel they use. Instead, they combine hydrogen with oxygen from the air electrochemically to produce electricity and emit only water vapor. MTA’s new fuel cell bus is hybrid-electric, zero emission and powered by a 120 kW UTC Power PureMotion fuel cell system. When compared to a diesel version, every bus equipped with a PureMotion system reduces nitrogen oxide emissions equivalent to removing 77 cars from the road per year and achieves the same carbon dioxide reductions as planting 31 acres of forest.

The MTA will be procuring additional hydrogen vehicles in the near future. The Grand Blanc service center garage will be expanded to provide storage for hydrogen and CNG vehicles and provide a work bay for MTA maintenance.

The fuel facility will be cutting edge technology in all aspects and the first of its kind in Michigan. The facility will generate sufficient hydrogen for the fuel cell buses. Modeled on a facility in Toronto, it will also serve as an educational training ground for Kettering University students and the larger community. The

station will also be designed to generate compressed natural gas (CNG). Natural gas is a resource that will be readily available in the United States for decades. The CNG electric hybrid vehicles will be a clean running improvement over diesel. There will be five CNG vehicles purchased for MTA’s regional transportation. A storage and maintenance facility will be built to address these new vehicles in the 2013-2014 time frame.

During the second phase of construction (fall of 2013), the MTA plans include an educational research facility and a public fuel station operated by the private sector. The MTA will work with local colleges to further develop alternative fuels. The site will provide a classroom in which area students can be involved in the research of alternative fuel sources.

During the third phase, plans include the use of solar power capable of generating the electricity necessary to fulfill the needs of the proton electrolyzer, a unit that is used to provide a mix of electricity and water to generate hydrogen. The MTA will build a new alternative fuel maintenance facility which will include the installation of a static fuel cell that will generate both electricity at the fueling facility as well as hot water heat for the site.

To Benning, this project is the beginning of a road with a greener future for the community at large. “We are in a position to help ourselves. With gas and diesel prices all over the map, we can save money and be more environmentally friendly,” he said. In addition, he added, “the use of alternative fuels helps us free ourselves from dependence on foreign fuel, since we will be in a position to buy domestically, which is a better fit for the community.”

en Vironment

MTAWorking to Create A Greener Future for Flint By CharLene KoWaLSKi

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Built on Family, Innovation and Results

call me...(810)252-3827

Need Real Estate Options?

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1oCool Cit y Art AuC tion1. Lakisha Larkin, Stephanie Bowie, Franiqua Brooks, and

Glen Johnson2. Jill Reno, Greg Feidler, and Mary Guzak3. Verlon and Janet Burt & George and Christy Jones4. Laura Gibson, Kirestin Curth, Gina Pearce, Sarah Hugo, and

Christine Hugo5. Fred and Terri Cross

7. Sabrina Russell, Sheryl Champine, Krista Mayhew,Mary Kramer, and DaNell Davison8. Krista Mayhew, Sheryl Champine, Scarlett Smith, and Debbe Campbell9. Amanda, Aaron, and Piper Broadworth10. Greg Fiedler and The Financial Plus Team11. Julietta Chevalier and Kitty Toal12. Megan Dietrich and Jessica Neuman on the town 57

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PRINTING• Business Cards • Brochures• Calendars • Flyers• Posters • Postcards• Presentation Folders • Tent Cards• T-Shirts• Signs VINYL• Banners • Posters (Wide) • Window Decals• Yard SignsAnd Much More

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We are located in downtown Flint, Michigan at 134 W. Second Street

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Great Members • Great Services

(810) 715-3542 • www.ELGACU.com

Business Partners ProgramServices To Benefit Your Employees

Providing financial education to the community is part of our mission as a not-for-profit financial institution. OurBusiness Services departmentoffers “Lunch-and-Learns” –free on-site financial seminars that provide timely financial information to your employees.

Enhance thebenefits package you offer your employees

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To learn more contact: Cheryl Sclater - (810) 600-2529

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Quota International’s

13th AnnuAl formal TeaAt the DurAntSaturday, May 5th 2012

1. Labon McNeil, Delores Roberts, Jennifer Bryson,

Shawn Bryson, and Renee Keswick

2. Tracey Whelpley and Kathleen Gazall

3. Kathleen Hut and Carolyn Boegner

4. Barbara Rumbel and Renee Keswick

5. Mary Suski, Lori Tomlinson, and Kate James

6. Chef Besh and Kate James

7. Sonya Warren, Caitlin English, and Holly Huestis

8. Ellen Brothers, Darlene Brothers, and Reem Batish

9. Roseanna Heddy, Kathy Weisgerber, Sherrie Krug,

and Amy Krug.

10. Diana Maul, Kathy Mora, and Jamie Meehleder

11. Marcie Maybry, Shelly Spivack, and Lori Riggs

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n utrition

How Sweet it isVidalia onions are so sweet and are sold by the Shrine organization as a fundraiser

By thereSe Leyton

Vidalia onions are so sweet and are sold by the Shrine organization

as a fundraiser. My mother, Mrs. Estelle Kaufman, buys them from local

Shriner John Starnes and his lovely wife Rachel. John drives down to

Folsom Farms in Glennville, Georgia and brings home many bags of

delicious Vidalia onions for Shrine promotions. My Mother gives out

bags to her friends as Mother’s Day presents and it helps the Shriners

raise money for the Shrine Hospitals.

Summer is here so have fun with Vidalia onions on the grill or just diced and sliced or fried. Diced up and added to a summer salad gives salads a sweet touch. Vidalia onions are unusually sweet and you won’t cry as much when you cut them. They are also good raw. Vidalia onions tend to get REALLY sweet when cooked. Like regular onions, they are VERY good with potatoes (potato salad, oven-roasted potatoes, etc.) Grilled onions are so tasty and added to kabobs makes summer dining pleasurable.

It is so easy and simple to grill onions. Just slice and put right on the grill or marinate in your favorite marinade. It’s also very nutritious to eat vegetables, and combining vegetables with onions when grilling kabobs is fun. The whole family can help and it cuts down on stress when entertaining.

Whether you combine Vidalia onions with beef, chicken, or fish or eat them alone, they add a special touch. And veggies hardly have any fat. Frequently eaten with Vidalia onions are green peppers and mushrooms. Onions, peppers, and mushrooms are also delicious sautéed and mix well with rice which is also easy to make and low fat.

These grilled onions are good with everything and combined with green or a red pepper adds a nice flavor on a grilled hamburger or chicken fillet on a bun. Grilled peppers

and onions are good on a hot dog too. To grill peppers and onions just place on a piece of tinfoil and drizzle with olive oil or dressing. Fold tinfoil to make a packet and grill for 15 minutes. Grill the hot dog for about 10 minutes and turn the packet and the frank a bit. Place the grilled hot dog in a bun, top with your grilled mixture, and enjoy.

Vidalia onions are so sweet, good to eat, nutritious, and delicious. Enjoy Summer 2012 and enjoy Vidalia onions.

nutrition Facts for a

medium onion

serving size:

One Medium Onion (150g)

amount per serving

Calories 60

Calories from Fat 0.0

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 0g 0%

Saturated Fat 0%

Cholesterol 0mg 0%

Sodium 10mg 0%

Total Carbohydrate 14g 4%

Dietary Fiber 2.8g 11%

Sugars

Protein 1g

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