Xceptional Heroes is a group of friends, family members and individuals who are passionate about supporting young adults who have intellectual disabilities (ID). The group was founded in 2016 by Jen Silverton and Teresa White – two moms raising sons Aidan and Tyler – who realized the socialization and relationship void left in their sons’ lives after graduation. The organization began as a private social group to provide a variety of life-enrichment opportunities for young adults with ID.
Being a teenager is tough enough – but when you add attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to the mix, the typical challenges can become even more daunting. ADHD, formerly known as ADD, is a condition that makes it exceptionally difficult for both children and adults to concentrate on tasks, pay attention, sit still, and control impulsive behavior.
On a clear, sunny day in Downtown Flint, a crowd over 200,000 strong had gathered along the length of Saginaw St. They covered the sidewalks, hung out of windows and stood on rooftops in anticipation of celebrating one of Vehicle City’s biggest achievements. They came to witness history. That day, November 23, 1954, the 50-millionth General Motors car was completed in Flint at 9:50 AM, signaling the start of GM’s nationwide “Golden CARnival” celebration. At approximately 10:10 AM, GM opened 125 GM plants and training centers across the country to the public and hosted luncheons for business leaders in 65 cities.
Since 2001, the Genesee District Library has celebrated Black History Month by recognizing community leaders at the Annual Black History Month Brunch. This year, the selection committee chose to highlight three individuals and one place of worship for their contributions to the lives of their fellow citizens and Flint at large.
On January 1, 2024 Dr. Christopher Townsend stepped into the role of Executive Director of Carriage Town Ministries, succeeding Dr. Dallas Gatlin who retired after over 14 years. He is only the sixth person to hold the position in the organization’s 74-year history.
For artists in the world of country music, the Grand Ole Opry House represents the pinnacle of success. It is a right of passage; a moment of becoming. Only the best grace its stage and Jessie Jordan is determined to stand where the legends have stood, take in the atmosphere, pick up her guitar and share her music with the audience. She’s ready. “Someday, I will achieve my Grand Ole Opry debut,” she says matter-of-factly. “Sooner, if possible.” With a growing Nashville fan base and cherished new songs such as “Mending Fences”, “Damage Done”, and “Wildflower Honey”, she’s on her way to that stage – a journey that has taken over a decade with lessons learned at each step.
Since she was a child, Nicole Stilson, DVM of Linden has loved horses and did anything she could to be around them. It was that passion and love of horses that inspired the founding of Carousel of Hope Miniature Horse Therapy in May 2022. The organization’s purpose is to provide mobile equine-assisted therapy and activities to children and adults of all ages and abilities.
When My City visited the Flint Development Center recently, the halls were quiet. And at its current location – the renovated Bunche Elementary at 4121 Martin Luther King Ave. in the city’s north end – quiet is a rare thing. “At 4pm, it gets loud around here,” says FDC Program Manager Tamika Boxley. “Once the basketballs start bouncing, the drums start going and the kids show up, it can get a little crazy!”
In the classic ‘60s animated TV series, “The Jetsons”, the year was 2062 and everyday life was one of computer screens, buttons, robots and flying cars. In the future, when someone gets sick, the doctor is just a button away. No travel needed, prescriptions are issued electronically and then delivered to your door. Healthcare is quick, efficient and accessible. With technology, anything is possible.
GRAND BLANC, MI – On January 25, 2024, Ascension Genesys Hospital Foundation honored Michael J. Danic, DO, FASA, FASAM as the recipient of the Spirit of St. Joseph Award at the annual Oak Tree Gala held at Genesys Conference & Banquet Center. The award is presented annually to a physician in recognition of their dedication and commitment to excellent medical care, and their service at Ascension Genesys Hospital.
It’s been said, “Always listen to your heart” – and that’s good advice, not only when making an important decision but also concerning when, what and how to eat. For many years, February has been observed as American Heart Month; therefore, it’s a time to make sure our self care includes taking extra care of our hearts.
In late 2022, the Friends of Berston (FOB) Board of Directors appointed Valorie Horton its interim executive director, following the sudden death of beloved former executive director Bryant “BB” Nolden. An FOB member since 2015, Horton is currently board president and charged with helping the plans move forward with the $30 million Berston Field House expansion project.
