Whether driving, walking or cycling, nearly everyone appreciates the beauty of an artfully painted mural on the side of a building. Murals, especially those with bright colors, are said to improve mood, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. They can nurture a positive image of a neighborhood and promote a sense of community pride. They can be a powerful tool to raise awareness about social issues and inspire creativity. Not to mention that in cities throughout the country and world, murals have become tourist attractions leading to many economic benefits.
In a significant step toward enhancing emergency medical services, the City of Flint recently introduced its own dedicated ambulance fleet. This initiative aims to address a pressing issue that has long plagued Flint residents: the countywide shortage of ambulances and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, which has led to lengthy wait times for emergency care.
Elation overcomes Patric Parker whenever he pulls into the parking lot at Blondie’s Food & Spirits.
With the goal of enhancing security measures, Grand Blanc Community Schools have recently added a new member to their safety team: Ace, a specially trained K9 officer. Ace’s presence at Grand Blanc High School is a proactive step aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. The initiative is a collaboration between the school district and the City of Grand Blanc Police Department, reflecting a shared commitment to creating a secure educational environment.
For over two decades, the Flint Police Activities League (formerly the Flint Police Athletic League) has been a cornerstone of community engagement. Initiated by the City of Flint, this program follows the National PAL model, offering local youth a variety of athletic and educational opportunities, while enhancing their relationships with local law enforcement.
Steven Spielberg once said, “You shouldn’t dream your film, you should make it.” And he should know – one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, Spielberg has made many of his dreams a reality. They include award-winning favorites such as “Jaws”, “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, “Schindler’s List”, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”, “Jurassic Park”, “The Color Purple”, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”, “Saving Private Ryan” and many more.
Dr. Jeffrey S. Rohr, a retired local physician renowned for his expertise in LASIK laser vision correction and cataract surgery, served the Grand Blanc community and its surroundings for over 20 years before retiring from his ophthalmology practice in 2022. “I loved my patients and staff,” said Rohr. “I was incredibly proud of my medical practice and surgical results. It was an amazing journey and I wouldn’t have changed a thing!”
There will be one less familiar face at Grand Blanc West Middle School this year, now that Resource Officer Dan Wolschleger, affectionately known as “Officer Dan,” has retired. But his legacy will live on through programs in which he was active and he will remain a major player in the Genesee County community.
Established in 1984, this annual community-building campaign promotes police-community partnerships and camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. In Michigan, 68 cities – including Flint and Grand Blanc – provide a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Following a ten-month national search and Board of Regents approval in May, Dr. Laurence Alexander took the helm at the University of Michigan-Flint on July 1.
The Powers Catholic High School Chargers finished with a school-record 37 wins and just six losses, winning 19 of their final 20 games, including a victory over eventual Division 1 State Champion, Northville. Coach Tom Dutkowski (far left) was named the 2024 Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association Coach of the Year.
What’s up in Downtown Flint, you ask? Just ask Jerin Sage, Director of Placemaking, who is charged with overseeing all operations and functions of the What’s Up Downtown Project (WUDP).
