For many people, the work they do is a defining factor of their character. But having a job means even more to the most vulnerable of us – it means independence. The Vocational Independence Program (VIP) Work Center, located on Van Slyke Road in Flint, is a place where adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities receive vocational training, help with social and living skills and securing employment through one of many work programs. Max Gelanter has been the Executive Director of the non-profit organization since 1974. The organization itself has been around since 1954, and is funded primarily by the Genesee Health System through Medicaid dollars.
There are plenty of sun-filled days left in September – it’s not too late to capture the beauty of late summer weather with a picnic in the park. Since we’re between seasons, it’s a great time to mix up the menu! The Flint Farmers’ Market has an amazing variety of food ready to fill your basket – several vendors graciously shared some of their yummiest dishes with MCM for our Wilson Park picnic photo shoot. Pick up some down-home, succulent BBQ ribs and corn muffins from Charlie’s, or try the more sophisticated Bulgogi from Chubby Duck – you can celebrate fall with a truly unique and totally tasty spread … enjoy!
American Machining, Inc. (AMI) was founded in Flint, MI nearly four decades ago. Now located in Fenton, AMI is one of the largest manufacturers of stainless steel containers (IBC totes) for handling liquid chemicals. They also produce mixing and agitation products for blending liquid solutions, as well as replacement parts for these products. George Stolzenfeld is also President and CEO of sister corporation, Cygnet, a provider of cleaning, restoration, and recertification for IBC containers. AMI manufacturers all of their products at its Fenton facility and ships them to customers all over the world.
Twelve local community leaders took a stand against breast cancer on Thursday August 25, in the first Real Men Wear Pink of Flint Campaign, an event that kicks off the fundraising efforts of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Those participating are Ed Benning, Brandon Carr, Pat Clark, Kent Elliott, Matt Franklin, Dr. Randy Hicks, Mark Hoffman, Ronny Medawar, Chuckii Montgomery, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, Morris Peterson, Jr., and Wade Pyles. According to the American Cancer Society, the men will raise funds for the fight against breast cancer and will also wear pink throughout the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society is determined to save lives from breast cancer by promoting early detection and prevention, funding groundbreaking research, and giving patients support wherever and whenever they need it.
Genesee County Parks has announced its custom-built public treehouse For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum.
Last Tuesday, August 23, My City Magazine was able to join in welcoming home Flint’s two-time Olympic Gold Medalist for boxing, Claressa Shields. Claressa was welcomed home at Bishop International Airport and was able to greet fans, sign autographs, and pose for pictures. Congratulations, Claressa!
The Flint Cultural Center Corporation is hosting a fundraiser that will help fund the Campus Wide Wi-Fi Project, allowing for all of the center’s green space to be on the same Wi-Fi network. The Tailgate fundraiser is set for Friday, September 16, from 5:30pm-8:30pm at the Flint Cultural Center Corporation headquarters, 601 E. Second Street. Tickets can be purchased for $50, which will be used to help fund the project.
Wine tours and wine tasting have become popular ways to spend a lazy, summer afternoon. My city visited some local wineries and found fantastic wines and beers. Aficionados, get ready to sniff, swirl and sip … in your own backyard.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint is a non-profit organization dedicated to “help all children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with volunteer mentors.” Raul Garcia, a longtime Flint resident, had never considered being a Big Brother. But one day while working as a firefighter for the Flint Fire Department, Channel 12 filmed a segment of “Monday’s Child” at the fire station. “Monday’s Child” is a weekly feature in which a reporter interviews a child looking for a Big Brother or Big Sister. Santino Guerra, a spunky, excitable, 12-year-old boy was interviewed that day. His father in prison, Santino was being raised by a single mom. Raul thought to himself, I think I like that kid. “When I saw him, I knew he was someone I would like to be around,” he says now. And before he knew it, Raul was officially a Big Brother to Santino and the two began to spend time together.
This year marks the 40th year of the Health Plus Crim Festival of Races – an event that brings thousands of runners and walkers to hit the bricks on Saginaw Street for Flint’s premier event. And in that sea of runners, you will find the race’s founder and namesake, Bobby Crim, at the starting gate for the 10-mile run.
