The Famous Vernor’s Mural
In 1932, General Signs workers John Gonsowski and Keith Martin painted a three-story mural to advertise Vernor’s Ginger Ale on the building across from the
In early November we found ourselves, once again, in the car on our way toward another mini-adventure. Because my fiancé is a recent transplant to Texas from Michigan, I feel a tremendous duty to familiarize him with his new home. The only problem is that Texas is gigantic and there are lots of places to see. Add in a five-year-old boy who doesn’t like all of the same vacation activities that two adults prefer … and you have a scheduling nightmare that is almost guaranteed to leave someone less than enthused.
Commonly known as the “winter blues,” Seasonal Affective Disorder – or SAD – is a regular depression disorder with symptoms that begin in the fall and continue into winter months. Sometimes, SAD symptoms appear in the spring or early summer and cause an unhappy mood with low energy. Those most likely to have it are younger females and those with family histories of depression, bipolar disorder or SAD. Sufferers experience increased appetite and needing to sleep for longer periods.
A celebration of faith, tradition, generational connections and community, this multifaceted event featured classes in all levels of tap dancing, as well as African drumming with Baba Kevin Collins, and Afro-Caribbean and African dance classes led by many of Tapology’s teaching and performing artists including Tapology CEO, Bruce Bradley. The annual Living Legend Luncheon honored Emmy and Gregory Hines Award-winning tap dancer, teacher, choreographer and humanitarian Jason Samuels Smith. On Saturday, participants had an opportunity to showcase their tap skills and creativity during the tap competition at FIM Dort Music Center and on Sunday, Tapology and FIM presented the “Embodied Experiences: A Spiritual Dimension of Sound” concert.
Following an elegant champagne reception and silent auction, attendees enjoyed a buffet dinner and sparkling conversation while bidding on live auction items including a Mackinaw City getaway and breakfast with giraffes at the Detroit Zoo. Each year’s reverse auction donations are earmarked for a specific need at the shelter. This year, they will help establish an emergency medical fund in honor of retired veterinarian Dr. John Snell who provided care for HSGC animals at his Flint clinic, many times free of charge, for over 50 years.
Just over 200 individuals gathered for this evening of food and fun that included a bourbon tasting and silent auction. The spotlight was on 15 one-of-a-kind chairs created by local artists and volunteers that were auctioned, both live and live-online. The event raised nearly $81,000 to support many Catholic Charities programs that make a significant difference in the lives of community members in need. The newly-renovated St. Michael’s Conference Center is available for bookings; call 810.232.9950 X111.
In 1932, General Signs workers John Gonsowski and Keith Martin painted a three-story mural to advertise Vernor’s Ginger Ale on the building across from the
My City Magazine is excited to present various historical series that will capture both the whole and the details of eras past. These features will
It takes a creative mind to look out over the empty lots on which several General Motors plants once stood and think, “I could see
After thousands of nominations and ballots cast, we’re proud to present this year’s City’s Choice Awards winners—your favorite local eateries, standout professionals and community favorites across more than 100 categories.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY WILDFLOWER PHOTOGRAPHY AND MCINCHAK FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

What was once an empty, uninhabitable property in Flint has been transformed into a thriving space filled with color, creativity and community, thanks to the vision of local entrepreneur Janie Case Beuthin.
In spite of April showers, spring, and the promise of warmer months ahead, fuels this edition of My Style. After a long Michigan winter, the urge to break hibernation and head outdoors is real. Whether you gravitate toward a well-manicured formal garden or the overflowing bounty of edible and cutting beds, your garden, like your home, should bring you joy. Choosing what you love makes it a place you want to linger, whether that means puttering with pruners, reconnecting with nature, or gathering with family and friends.
There is no doubt in my mind that this has been a long, cold winter. We’ve all felt it. We’ve all complained. I like to stay active throughout the year, and I love being outside soaking up the fresh air and vitamin D that Michigan offers. For the past few years, my husband and I have taken early morning walks in our neighborhood with our dog. Using my fitness app, we measured that walking the entire neighborhood equals 3.1 miles. That’s perfect when the weather is great—but not so much when the roads are snow-covered and the cold wind stings your face.
I know it really doesn’t mean much in the long run, but I’m glad February is a short calendar month. It follows January, which can feel dreadfully long and cold with its 31 days here in Mid-Michigan. Now that our kids are grown and we’re no longer following our travel hockey-playing sons to winter tournaments across the Midwest and Canada, my husband and I have taken the opportunity to travel south during the coldest weeks of the year when we can. I mentioned in my January column that we started the year with a Caribbean cruise alongside some of our closest friends. We even squeezed in a few nights in our favorite beach town, New Smyrna Beach, Florida. It was the perfect getaway, and we all returned home with more cherished memories.
At Whaley Children’s Center in Flint, meeting the needs of children who have experienced abuse and neglect takes more than professional care; it takes a community. One of the most meaningful ways local businesses, congregations, and community groups can step into that mission is through the Center’s year-round Giving Tree Program.
Whiskey Glasses Saloon is a country-inspired lakeside saloon on Lake Ponemah built around good food, great drinks, and a welcoming, high-energy atmosphere. It’s a place where guests can come by boat or car, enjoy a meal, listen to music, and feel comfortable staying awhile — whether they’re stopping in for a quick drink or spending the evening with friends. It opened in November 2024.