I sure hope everyone is enjoying this Michigan summer as much as I am. As I write this column, we’re just past the Fourth of July celebrations and appreciating the fact that this beautiful country is now 250 years old. My husband and I were fortunate to be invited to two get-togethers on Lake Fenton on July 4. One party was filled with young families and children enjoying the lake, while the other reunited old friends. Both were equally wonderful. We ended the evening on our patio, taking in the fireworks all around us. We’re especially grateful that our dog doesn’t pay attention to the loud booms.

Last month My City celebrated its 13th year as your local magazine, focused on covering all of the creative, artistic, successful, positive individuals and events of the greater Flint area. This month, I am celebrating one year with My City. The previous publisher and editor, Vince Lorraine and Sherron Barden, created a fantastic local magazine that was filled from cover to cover with interesting stories, and reputable businesses ready to take care of all of your needs. After leaving the newspaper business after more than 20 years, I stepped into this role with the new publisher, Laura Constable, knowing that we didn’t want to mess with a good thing. We, however, added a few new features that allowed us to showcase even more local people.