From the Publisher December 2021

Dear Readers,

We’re excited to reveal our 2021 Cityzen of the Year, ELGA Credit Union CEO, Karen Church. Her reputation as a successful businesswoman and dedicated community servant made our choice an easy one. On behalf of Team MCM, our sincerest congratulations! Karen’s 45-year career has such a great story.

Even after nearly nine years of highlighting the outstanding people of Greater Flint, we always find new stories to tell. We have profiles of Genesee Literacy Network, working to improve lives by raising literacy levels (p.12) and The Disability Network, helping the disabled community in so many ways – the importance of both missions cannot be overstated.

We’ve always highlighted Flint’s robust arts community, and truly enjoy sharing the variety of unique opportunities right here in our city. We caught up with Tracee Glab, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions for the Flint Institute of Arts, to get a peek inside her role at FIA and some highlights of their upcoming offerings. And in the “My Music” spot is a piece featuring three of the many gifted artists who will perform with the Flint Symphony Orchestra on December 18 at The Whiting, as the “Holiday Pops” concert returns to bring Christmas spirit to Greater Flint – a joyous occasion, indeed!

This time of year can be especially hard on people who can’t be with their loved ones, such as those serving overseas in the military. For 20 years, Louise Downs Blain and her organization, Desert Angels, Inc. have provided a little bit of comfort and joy to soldiers all over the world with her “Miracle Box” care packages.

Our history features are always so popular, and we’re honored to have one written by guest contributor, Judge Duncan M. Beagle: “My Affection for Atwood.” Judge Beagle has been instrumental in preserving Atwood Stadium and making it a vibrant part of the community; he offers a look at his favorite moments throughout Atwood’s rich history.

The holidays mean different things to different people, and we have an interesting piece that takes a look at the “Season of Holidays” and 16 observances occurring between November 28 and January 1. I’ll bet there are a few you didn’t know about.

Whatever holiday you celebrate, I wish you all a season filled with the love of family and friends.

Thanks for reading,

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