Co-sponsored by Dort Financial Credit Union and General Motors with 50 others lending support, the 9th annual family-friendly event was themed “Shake, Rattle & Roll” a tribute to the 1950s. The three-day event showcased a collection of 122 classic and custom vehicles – sports cars, muscle cars, hot rods, trucks, and a handful of custom motorcycles filling the two arenas, hallways and mezzanine of the Dort Financial Center. In the lobby, a variety of vintage cars, gas pumps and neon were displayed, with a collection of GTOs taking center stage on the ice.
Presented by the Flint Institute of Arts and Communities First, Inc. this event gathered patrons of the arts to celebrate the exhibition opening for Revolutionary Times. Following an informative talk by the artist – Detroit native Mario Moore – attendees enjoyed viewing the exhibit during a cocktail reception featuring hors d’oeuvre and live entertainment. Revolutionary Times draws from three bodies of work by Moore; paintings, silverpoint drawings and works on paper that focus on American history and current connections to the past. There are currently 37 works on view through April 14 in the FIA Hodge & Henry Galleries.
For the past 25 years, this event has been vital in raising funds for the Flint School of Performing Arts tuition assistance program, ensuring that students can study music, dance and theater regardless of their ability to pay. Last year alone, the Seeing Stars! tuition assistance program awarded $230,000 to local FSPA performing arts students and their families. Sixty percent of the FSPA’s enrolled families receive support.
On the date of the civil rights leader’s 95th birthday, community members braved the frigid weather and gathered to honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Themed “Momentum versus Regression – Striving for a Level Playing Field,” the 45th annual event included an inspiring keynote address by 67th District Court Judge Tabitha Marsh. Elected in 2020, Judge Marsh is the only female currently serving on the City of Flint District Court bench and the only African American female serving on the Genesee County District Court bench. Another uplifting speech was offered by MLK Essay Contest winner, Joshua Tewolde, a 16-year-old junior at Grand Blanc High School and two-time recipient of the Presidential Service Award. He received a $500 prize for his essay entry written on the theme.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flint and Genesee County continued a longstanding tradition of celebrating Dr. King’s legacy and message as well as highlighting service, volunteerism and mentoring around the community. Food and fellowship were enjoyed at this inclusive event attended by Little Brothers and Sisters, volunteers, community groups, and civic and political leaders. BBBS Chairman of the Board James Washington addressed the crowd and introduced keynote speaker Shon Hart, Executive Director of InvolvedDad. Also delivering remarks were Lisa Humphrey, BBBS President/CEO and Flint Mayor, Sheldon Neeley.
For over 40 years, the GFASHOF has recognized and celebrated the unsurpassed history of athletic achievement and community service that has been so much a part of the Flint area.
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.
This community favorite fall fundraiser featured sampling of many local craft beers and bourbons. Dressed for the chilly weather, attendees enjoyed live music provided by Rodeo Drive, a pottery demonstration, giant games, a barbecue buffet and donut bar, plus many prize drawings.
On September 23, 1923, the first group of students began taking courses at Flint Junior College (now MCC) in the still small, but rapidly growing City of Flint. One hundred years later, MCC is still changing lives for the better by providing high quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities to what is now the Greater Flint community and well beyond.
The FIM Capitol Theatre was lit up pink in celebration of this fancy and fabulous “Party with a Purpose.” For the past 15 years, Hurley Medical Center and Financial Plus Credit Union have co-hosted a one-of-a-kind fundraiser to help local breast cancer patients pay bills, keep food on their tables and much more. Themed “Your Fight is Our Fight,” the event included food & drinks, a live/online auction, the always popular Br-Artistry Fashion Show, prizes and much more!
