FLINT

Our Community Our Voice FLINT NEIGHBORHOODS UNITED: Standing Together For Positive Change

Wishing You and Your Extended Families a Happy & Safe Holiday Season!

December 2016

Flint Neighborhoods United @FNUFlint www.flintneighborhoodsunited.org

FLINT Editorial Board Donna Calvin, Bill Hammond, Jane Richardson, Sandra E. Robinson, Carma Lewis, Chris Frye

L a yo u t an d D e si gn Christopher Frye [email protected]

Letters, Email & Telephone FLINT Our Community Our Voice 3216 M.L. King Ave. Flint, MI 48505 (810) 348-5332 [email protected] FOCOV Published bi-monthly the first week of the month

Subscription Rates $10 year (6 issues) contact: 810-348-5332 PDF available by request at [email protected]

Follow Flint Neighborhoods United on the web at www.flintneighborhoodsunited.org/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ FlintNeighborhoodsUnited Editorial Policy This newspaper is the voice of our neighborhoods. We will share the views of our neighbors, groups and leaders for your evaluation and edification. We welcome articles from any community member. We also reserve the right to refuse articles. While we welcome your contributions, we ask that they be constructive. All articles should contribute positively to the welfare of our community and its residents. We will accept a thoughtful discussion of all related issues and reserve the right to reply to those that seem to reflect a misunderstanding of our views of Our Community. We look forward to hearing from you. FLINT Our Community Our Voice You may also email your information to [email protected] Thank You in Advance FOCOV Staff of Volunteers

The placement of any political or other advertisement in FOCOV does not indicate nor imply an endorsement of any candidate, service or product whatsoever.

What I learned while studying Flint’s Municipal Takeover: An Introduction By Ashley E. Nickels Assistant Professor of Political Science Kent State University In the summer of 2015, months before the city of Flint made national, rather international, headlines for the water crisis, I began my fieldwork in Flint. I was there to conduct research on the state’s takeover of Flint, under the now infamous “PA 4”. I wanted to understand the political impact of the takeover. At the time, I was a PhD candidate at Rutgers University in Camden, New Jersey studying public policy and administration with a focus on community development and urban politics. During my time in Flint, I met (and interviewed) many Flint residents. I rented rooms and apartments in different Flint neighborhoods. I ate at local restaurants and shopped at the Flint Farmers market. By spending time in the city and attending community events, I began to build connections with members of the Flint community. When my interviews ended and my dissertation was complete, I did not cut ties. Instead, I made a personal and professional commitment to stay involved. I made a commitment to share what I learned with whomever will listen and advocate for policy change wherever I can. This is how I came to writing this article for Our Community, Our Voice. In fact, this is the first in a series of pieces about what I learned. First, why Flint? It is a question that I am asked often. First, let me start off by saying that I am originally from Michigan- Grand Rapids to be exact. I studied at Grand Valley State University (first focusing on psychology and gender studies and then public and nonprofit administration). While my roots were in Grand Rapids, I sat on state-wide boards and therefore became interested in state politics and policy. The “why Flint?” question also has roots in my experiences in Camden, New Jersey. I moved to Camden with my family to study in 2011. Although the cities are 640 miles apart and differ in very real and meaningful ways, the cities have one very important thing in common: both have experienced municipal takeovers. Both cities have seen their elected officials stripped of their powers, at least temporarily. Both cities have borne witness to the power of the local “community development regime”: high-capacity community-based nonprofits, philanthropic institutions, and anchor institutions (hospitals and universities). And, of particular import to me, both cities provide evidence that communities, when threatened, will organize against these powerful interests! So, what is a Municipal Takeover? Across the United States, states mandate different approaches to local fiscal crises. Some allow local governments to file for bankruptcy, taking a handsoff approach as in California. Nineteen states 2

have some form of intervention laws. Some states, such as North Carolina, monitor local fiscal conditions and step in with monetary or technical assistance, if needed. Others may place the local government under the supervision of a state agency or state appointed fiscal oversight board, as happened in New York City, Philadelphia, and Cleveland for example. Only eight states—including Michigan—have adopted municipal takeover policies that give a state -appointed manager broad authority. Depending on the state, these managers have sweeping powers to negotiate debt, supervise local finances, approve budgets, renegotiate contracts, restructure government, terminate employees, nullify collective bargaining agreements, consolidate government departments, or dissolve municipal charters. Local elected officials lose all or most of their authority. From my experience, most people in Michigan refer to Michigan’s state intervention policy as the “Emergency Manager Laws.” Here, I use the term municipal takeover. There is no consensus as to what these policies should be called. The term municipal takeover is used to define the state-directed policy of declaring a municipality to be in a state of fiscal emergency and intervening by: 1. placing the municipality (local government) under state receivership; 2. handing over control of most or all local government decision-making to a state-appointed manager, effectively relieving local elected officials of their governing authority; and, 3. implementing a combination of tools to stabilize the local government’s fiscal condition. As noted above, few states have laws that allow for municipal takeovers under this definition. They are intended to be a policy of last resort, used when both local government and the local economy are unstable and crisis-prone. However, Michigan’s “Emergency Manager Law” and the use of municipal takeover is arguably to the most aggressive— and most used. What next? In the coming issues of Our Community, Our Voice I will continue to highlight what I have learned about municipal takeovers, the specifics of what I found in Flint, and policy recommendations. In the meantime, if you have questions for me, please contact me at [email protected]. The above commentary is the work of Professor Nickels and is the first of a series that will appear in coming issues of FOCOV.

South Flint Plan Taking Shape Kristin Stevenson As the South Flint Community planning process nears the end, there is excitement around the implementation work that comes next. With a housing developer selected and 50+ project ideas for neighborhood improvement including partners in place to see them through, the Choice team and engaged community are excited about the prospects for South Flint. The team will be releasing a revised draft plan in December as well as holding the final communit y-wide meeting. The final meeting will be an opportunity for the team to share what the two years of planning have brought as well as introduce the housing development team to the community. Any final comments on the plan will be accepted up until and during the final community meeting. Please visit ImagineFlint.com for updates on the date and location of the final community meeting, it will be a fun event you won’t want to miss! If you are interested in viewing the proposed projects for neighborhood and service improvements on the plan visit the website or contact Kristin Stevenson. The team and community partners are going to be doing a lot of work to ensure key components of the plan move forward. Focusing on things such as access to recreation, access to fresh food, financial literacy, improved transportation options, access to jobs and much more are central elements of projects that will be happening in South Flint. It will require the work of not only community partners, the City, and the Flint Housing Commission but also interest and dedication from residents. All of the projects will only be successful if the community takes part and supports the work. As we have said all along, JOIN US!

Come Play at Flint Public Library! Did you know that creative play is an important part of helping young children become ready to read? Playing helps children learn to put thoughts into words. It also helps t hem l ear n about how spoken and written words can stand for real objects and experience. The Friends of the Flint Public Library and individual donors recently gave generous gifts to our “Tinker Table for Tots” campaign.

On the Calendar... Cultural Center In his description of the Art Institute’s mission, Executive Director, John B Henry, stated … “the institute’s mission is to create life-changing moments by presenting the achievements of some of the world’s greatest artists. Visit www.flintarts.org to see opportunities for these experiences.                  

December 6, 5:30-8:00pm, Holiday Walk/Tree Lighting (5:15pm), Flint Cultural Center, Free December 6, 13, 20, 27, 12:15pm, Armchair Traveler, Free December 9-December 10, 7:30pm, Sounds of the Season Concert, St. Paul’s Episcopal church, $5 December 9, January 13, 6:00pm-8:00pm, Second Friday Artwalk, Downtown Flint, Free December 10, 11:00am, Every Child Ready to Read Super Saturday Holiday Story December 10, 10:00 am, Tuba Christmas, , Flint Farmers’ Market, Holiday selections December 10, December 12, 8:00pm, The Hip Hop Nutcracker, Whiting, a dozen all-star dancers, DJ and violinist December 10, 2:00pm, LittleBits Workshops, Flint Public Library December 17, 11:00am, Flint Farmers’ Market, First Presbyterian Church Concert Bell Choir, Free December 17, 7:00 pm, December 18, 3:00 pm, Whiting. Holiday Pops, Flint Symphony Orchestra and Friends December 18, various times, Flint Youth Theater, Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, $12-$16 December 23-26, Friday – Monday, Flint Public Library - Closed December 28, 1:00pm, Drop-in Craft, Edible Stick Snowman, December 28, 2:00pm, Flint Public Library, LittleBits Design Challenge December 31, 8:00pm-1am, Flint Farmers’ Market, New Year’s Eve Party, $35-VIP-$50 December 31, 8:00pm-1:00am, The Whiting, Ring in the new year, $125-$150, RSVP by December 16 January 6, 11:00am, UM Flint, Honors Recital, $5 January 12, 5:30pm, Flint Institute of Arts Theater, Jean of the Joneses, music, food, film, $2

Block Club, Neighborhood Association and Crime Watch Meetings      

December 15, Flint Our Community Our Voice articles and ads due to: [email protected] January 7, 9:00 -11:00am, Flint Neighborhoods United, Neighborhood Engagement Hub Glendale Hills Neighborhood Association, December 15, 6:30pm, @ Court Street Church of God, 2920 W. Court St. (third Thursday) King Avenue Plus, December 13, 6:00pm, (second Tuesday) Friends of Max Brandon, January 5, 5:00pm (first Thursday) Circle Drive Neighborhood Association, January 5, 6:00pm (first Thursday)

One top allows children to explore with Tinker Toys; one with lights; and one with Legos. This table is wildly popular with the little ones who visit! They’re learning colors, shapes, eye-hand coordination, and how to play nicely with others, among other things. Parents and caregivers are the single most important influence on a child’s readiness for reading. If there’s a child age 0-5 in your life, please bring him or her to the library. We can show you simple daily activities that will make a big difference in that child’s skills by the time he or she enters kindergarten. In addition to the Tinker Table, we have books, music, games and other take-home goodies that can make learning simple and fun. Stop in today! Library hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 11a-8p; Friday – Saturday 9:00a-6:00p. 3

UT SHO OUT THANK YOU! With this final issue of 2016 we would be failing in our due diligence if we were not to bid a fond and heartfelt thanks to our outgoing President, Joe King, and Secretary, LaVerne McGowan. Each has been an integral part in the workings of FNU for the past 2 years and their dedication to their positions and to the betterment of Flint and their individual neighborhoods cannot be underestimated. Their knowledge & counsel will be missed in leadership roles but, fortunately, they will remain as trusted advisors to the group. Thank You, Joe and LaVerne!

Local Brothers Develop Technology to Bring Healthy Food to Flint By Robert Barkin For five years, Epic Technology Solutions of Flint, MI and Double Up Food Bucks have teamed together to produce the software needed to add more fresh produce to the diet of the city’s residents through Michigan’s statewide healthy food incentive program. “We did not have to go to Silicon Valley for this tech innovation; we found local talent in Flint,” said Oran Hesterman, CEO of Fair Food Network which expanded Double Up in Flint response to the city’s water crisis. “They had exactly what we needed.” With the Double Up program powered by Epic Technology software, Flint residents can earn and redeem credits to bring home more fruits and vegetables when they spend their SNAP benefits at the Flint farmers markets and other participating grocery store sites in the community. (SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program formerly known as food stamps.) For example, if a shopper buys any fruit, veggies, or milk with their SNAP benefits at a participating site, they get a dollar-for-dollar match of free Double Up Food Bucks (up to $20 per day) to spend on any fresh fruits or vegetables at that store or another participating Double Up site in Flint. Recent statistics show that the amount spent with Double Up Food Bucks has increased by 60 percent in the past year.

We like working with a program that promotes healthy eating and is good for Flint residents,” said Paul Knific, 30, who along with his brother Eric, 27, are the founding partners of Epic Technology Solutions. The Knifics grew up in Flushing, MI, about 15 miles outside of Flint, and graduated from the University of Michigan’s Flint campus in Computer Science. Since they began Epic in 2008, their goal has been for Epic to be an ethically responsible IT company that could help Flint become a beacon of technology innovation.

Epic and Fair Food Network first connected back in 2011 when Double Up launched in Flint. The electronic processing system debuted at the Flint Farmers Market was the first time benefits were electronically distributed of any incentive program in the country. When Fair Food Network decided to expand and enhance the program in the wake of the water crisis, it turned again to Epic to enhance the technology at the market and make a system that would allow shoppers to carry their benefits between any participating site in the city. Now, vendors can use iPads to record sales and purchasers will soon be able to check their balances on their cellphones. Epic is committed to staying and building the company in Flint, Knific said. The water crisis that befell Flint, when lead entered the water system due to government negligence, bothers him. “It was very unfortunate what happened with the crisis,” he said. “We felt before the crisis that we were rebuilding a post-industrial economy.”Although the crisis is “depressing,” he said, the effort with Double Up Food Bucks to improve the health of the city’s residents is encouraging.

“We are two brothers who decided to remain in Flint and help solve problems in the community,” he said.

“The program is a glimmer of light that we can still make a difference,” he said.

Epic got a boost from the University of MichiganFlint’s Innovation Incubator, which has helped Epic incubate its innovative ideas by providing an office space, professional advice and assisting Epic in reaching out to the community.

Holiday Cooking Safety As you plan your Holiday menu don’t forget about fire safety. Did you know Holidays are the peak days for home cooking fires? The number of home fires double on Holidays. So, let’s add a pinch of fire safety to the menu. Camera ready copy/art is preferred. Photo pixels should be consistent with the size of the photo image required in the layout. Cell phone photos don’t have the same crisp clarity as camera photos, especially if the photo is to be enlarged. For additional information: Contact Neighborhood Engagement Hub (810) 785-5340, or Jane Richardson, [email protected]. Letters, email and telephone: Flint: Our Community, Our Voice, 3216 M. L. King Avenue, Flint, MI 48505. (810) 785-5340. Email: [email protected]. Checks: Flint Neighborhoods United, 3216 M. L. King Avenue, Flint, MI 48505. 4

Keep these safety tips in mind as you prepare your meal. Turkey:  If you're roasting your turkey, make sure you set a timer. This way, you won’t forget about the bird as you watch a Holiday Special or a football game. See COOKING, page 5

COOKING from page 4 

Thaw your turkey completely. Ice on the bird will cause the oil to splatter.

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Don’t overfill the pot with oil. If you do, the oil will overflow when you add the turkey causing a fire hazard.

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Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the fryer.

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Also, always use the fryer outdoors.

Stuffing and Potatoes: Stand by your stove when you're boiling your potatoes or frying onions for stuffing. It is best to stay in the kitchen when you're frying, boiling or broiling. If you're in the kitchen, it is easier to catch spills or hazardous conditions before they become a fire.

Flint’s Iconic Berston Field House Receives Significant Donation Amid Water Crisis FLINT, Mich. – Berston Field House received a huge boost last month after members of a national fraternal organization generously donated in response to the Flint water crisis. Berston, a historic Flint athletic facility and neighborhood hub, received $25,500 from the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Michigan, part of the network of the Free & Accepted Masons of the World.

“The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Michigan has spearheaded the effort to raise money for the Flint Water Crisis since it began and many of our fellow Masons from around the country have made contributions toward our donation,” said Most Worshipful Grand Master Adrian L. Green. “We are blessed, humbled and honored to help the people of Flint through this effort.” Berston is home to some of Flint’s greatest and world-renowned athletes, including two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields, a female boxer who got her start by training at Berston. The facility opened in 1923 and was the first community center in Flint to allow African Americans entry.

Vegetables: 

Keep the area around the stove clear of packaging, paper towels, and dish cloths; anything that can burn.

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Be sure to clean up any spills as they happen.

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Be prepared. Keep a large pan lid or baking sheet handy in case you need to smother a pan fire.

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Turn pot handles towards the back of the stove so you don’t bump them.

By following these safety tips, you will have a delicious and fire safe Thanksgiving. Let the firefighters have dinner with their families, not yours.

BEST Sugar Cookies Soft cut out sugar cookie recipe that keeps its shape and dough does not need to be chilled before baking- perfect edges every time!

INGREDIENTS:

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1 Cup unsalted butter, softened 1 Cup granulated white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1 egg 2 teaspoons baking powder 3 cups all purpose flour

DIRECTIONS:    

Preheat oven to 350° F. In the bowl of your mixer cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in extracts and egg. In a separate bowl combine baking powder with flour and add a little at a time to the wet ingredients. The dough will be very stiff. If it becomes too stiff for your mixer turn out the dough onto a countertop surface. Wet your hands and finish off kneading the dough by hand. See COOKIES column 3

Organizers said many Masons from around the country contributed toward the donation for Berston, which has assisted residents with hand wipes and other community resources amid the ongoing Flint water crisis. Bryant Nolden, executive director of Friends of Berston Field House, said he was stunned by the donation, especially because it represents people all over the country who are reaching out to help Flint.

Year-round programming is currently offered through Creative Expressions Dance Studio, Chosen Few Arts Council, Berston Bicycle Club and FWC Berston Boxing. It is also home to Tapology, which uses the facility for its classes and rehearsals. Earlier this year, the Ruth Mott Foundation gave a three-year, $280,000 grant to United Way for Friends of Berston Field House to operate the facility as a north Flint neighborhood hub offering youth development programs and community activities and services for youth and families

“I’m just blown away by the generosity,” said Nolden, who is also a Genesee County commissioner. “This is really going to help us serve the residents of Flint.” The Prince Hall Community Service Network presented a $24,000 check and the Prince Hall Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star–Michigan Jurisdiction presented a $1,500 check to Berston on Nov. 5. Dozens of members attended a ceremonial event to celebrate the gift. “We have supported water drives but so much more assistance is needed,” said Grand Worthy Matron Roslyn L. Banks. As part of her community service focus, Banks said she is making assisting Flint a focus for Order of the Eastern Star chapters throughout Michigan.

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COOKIES from column 1 

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DO NOT CHILL THE DOUGH. Divide into workable batches, roll out onto a floured surface and cut. You want these cookies to be on the thicker side (closer to 1/4 inch rather than 1/8). Bake at 350 for 6-8 minutes. Let cool on the cookie sheet until firm enough to transfer to a cooling rack. Keep in mind that the recipe yield will vary according to how thick you roll your cookies and how large or small your cutters are. Bake for 6 minutes to test. They should be soft. Leave them on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to cool completely. If you reach 7-8 minutes and the edges turn brown your cookie will be crisper.

Voices from the Youth What are they thinking? What are their goals and aspirations? How is their environment affecting them? What do they need from their elders? Getting answers to these and questions not considered is the mission of this section of the newspaper. Each month we hope to have submissions from children and young adults. Their articles can be based on the prompts listed below or their personal thoughts, observations or suggestions. We will work with school administrators on ways to recognize their student writers.. Everyone, however, who submits will get a lapel pin to recognize their participation.

VOICES OF YOUTH PROMPTS

January (Happy New Year!)  

What were you and your family doing during the countdown to the New Year? New Year Resolutions. What are some of the things you want to accomplish this year? (good grades, being the line leader, learning something new, etc.)

February (Black History Month) 

Why is Black History Month important in general and/or to you personally?

March (Season of Change) 

If you could run the world and change one thing, what would it be? Explain why.

April (Silly Stories) Use your imagination Go wild! Write a SUPER silly story. Your story can be about you, your friends, your family, or your classroom. 

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May (Forward to the Future) 

 What do you want to be when you grow up and why? Write a story about the future you. As a adult what do you see yourself doing? Where do you see yourself working? What will you have accomplished?

POTENTIAL INCENTIVES

SUBMISSIONS

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Having a monthly Wall of Fame (Bulletin Board) Displayed in the Hallway with names, pictures and article of students that have been in the month’s issue.

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Gift Cards to Participants Treasure Box-Having a hamper, or a bag of treats for participants (candy, writing supplies, etc.)

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Dedicating a FREE DRESS DAY for students where they don’t have to wear their uniforms.

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Students are encouraged to submit articles to the Flint: Our Community, Our Voice newspaper. The newspaper is the voice of our neighborhoods and we invite students to submit articles to give their insight regarding their community, neighborhood, school friends and family. All articles should contribute positively to the welfare of our community and citizens. Articles are due the 15th of each month. Email to: [email protected] and always use the “cc” window to share with your teacher.

My Birthday is on Thanksgiving by Saniya Pea My Birthday is on Thanksgiving and my Birthday is Thursday. It is Fun and cold air, Not Hot air. I said what, no it’s cold. My mom said yes. I Said No, NO, NO, NO, it’s not cold for Thanksgiving Dinner. I hope I get a dollar. 6

More stories on page 10

New Resource for Flint Police Dept. What IS Compstat? by; Emanuel Taylor Crime Analyst, Wayne State University I am a Crime Analyst with Wayne State University in Detroit. As a Crime Analyst, I am assigned to work out of the Flint Police Department. I assist the FPD in identifying crime patterns & trends in Flint. However, my main duty is to lead compstat efforts for Flint. Compstat is short for "computer statistics" and is a data driven approach to crime fighting. WSU and the FPD have been collaborating over the past several months in putting on compstat meetings in which I present information to community stakeholders. During the meeting, we review crime statistics from the compstat books I’ve created. Right now, we are focused on crime occurring in the 1st ward, which is why compstat meetings are being held at the Hallwood Service Center on Clio Rd. If anyone is interested in participating in these meetings, I will alert you as to when the next meeting will be.

As you can readily see this map graphically shows and describes a high number of crimes in a certain area. The goal is to recognize the patterns and trends in order to determine a plan to deal with and, hopefully, eradicate them.

Generally, they are held every 3rd Tuesday in the month. I already have a group email list. If you have any questions about anything I have said, or wish to be added to this list, do not hesitate to ask. I can be reached at my email address: [email protected]. During each compstat meeting, there is a time set aside when everyone is asked if they can identify any crime hotspots that can be analyzed within the 1st ward. If any of you represent the 1st ward and know of any particular crime hotspots, you can send them to me so that I can analyze those locations for the next compstat meeting. There is the possibility to come up with action plans to help combat crime issues in those areas. I am originally from Flint, so I am very willing to get your input so that we can work together to help reduce crime in the city. Hope to hear from you! Emanuel Taylor Center for Urban Studies Wayne State University-Detroit

Flint BRAND to Help Create Positive Improvements in Flint Genesee County Habitat for Humanity with support from Charles Stewart Mott Foundation is implementing a new program designed to help resident neighborhood associations, block clubs and other resident-led groups create visible, positive improvements in Flint neighborhoods. Flint BRAND (Building Resident Action by Neighborhood Design) provides an opportunity to implement high-impact, neighborhood designed projects that create positive, lasting and visible change in the physical landscape of Flint neighborhoods. This could include creating a neighborhood garden, improving park conditions, building a picnic pavilion or other projects that build on the strengths and assets of the community. Flint BRAND allows groups to explore opportunities to obtain financial resources—up to $10,000—to launch projects that make their neighborhoods home. All projects should have a minimum 10% of the project cost covered through in kind contributions such as volunteer labor, donated materials, additional fundraising or grant funding. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be evaluated by an independent grant committee based on a project’s ability to improve neighborhood conditions. Interested applicants can get started by contacting Habitat’s Neighborhood Services Director, Vincent Slocum, at (810) 766- 9089 ext. 208 or [email protected]. Visit our website for more information! www.geneseehabitat.org/flintbrand 7

Join Us for the 2nd Annual African American Film Series Communities First, Inc. has partnered with the Flint Institute of Arts to host an African American Film Series at the Flint Institute of Arts, located at 1120 East Kearsley Street, Flint. The series is designed to inspire, inform, empower and entertain attendees. The series kicks off on November 10 at 5:30pm. “Our Culture Shock program has been instrumental in providing unique opportunities for area residents to engage in arts and culture. We are committed to offering low cost, high quality experiences for residents. Most people are not familiar with independent films and this series is a great way to promote the industry, while educating, inspiring and entertaining our guests,” said Glenn Wilson, President/CEO. The series takes place on the 2nd Thursday of the month from November to February. The schedule for the film series is: 

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Thursday, December 8 – City of Trees, Reception & live entertainment, 5:30pm. A complex tale of social justice, urban forestry and community politics portrays the struggles of a Washington D.C. nonprofit to challenge the cycle of poverty and violence in blighted urban areas by implementing an ambitious “green jobs” program. Film not rated. Thursday, January 12 – Jean of the Joneses, 5:30pm Death has a funny way of bringing people together, and after the sudden demise of the estranged patriarch of a high-spirited family, a 911 call sparks old memories. Film not rated, recommended PG-13 for language and some adult themes.

“We are happy to be partnering with Communities First to be bringing quality cinema on a variety of themes and issues to the Flint community,” said Ed Bradley. associate curator of film at the Flint Institute of Arts. Doors open at 5:30pm and the films begin at 7:00pm. Seating is limited to the first 300 guests and a donation of $2 is suggested for the films in December and February. Each film will feature a brief discussion about the themes in the films.

Moving Forward…. Together. Sancia Tutt So, what now? Our schools, safety, economy, health, and infrastructure have all been jeopardized from the many harsh blows we have endured as a city over the past few decades. Our sense of community has not only suffered; it has dwindled. So, where do we go from here?

ASK KIA (For Sound Solutions)

When we were kids, no one had to worry too much about acts of violence or crime. We could go to the corner store, buy bread and milk for our parents, come home and run through the sprinklers, then grab a drink of water from the hose when we got fussed at for going in and out of the house too much. There was a time when it was safe to be outside at night, catch fireflies, and look up at the stars. There was a time when no one had to jump up out of their sleep, in the middle of the night, to hit the floor and protect themselves from gunshots. We could leave school on a Friday and not have to worry about who's seat would be empty on Monday. We could have an extended summer vacation without having to go to remedial classes or stress about the possibility of losing another friend to violence before the first day of school.

Q. Kia, I am having problems with my youngest son. He just turned thirteen and has started hanging out with the wrong crowd, skipping school, and may even be using drugs. I am a single parent, and I have to work two jobs to make ends meet. My other two children have tried to keep the youngest in line while I work, but he ignores them and goes his way. What can I do to change my son’s behavior and avoid his ending up either in jail or dead?

The children of our city have very few opportunities to experience some of the most blissful moments we treasure from our childhood memories. While there are many of us that are doing our best to create new initiatives, programs, facilities, and an improved environment in our city, we often hit speed bumps and sometimes complete road blocks in our progress.

A. First you need to talk openly with your daughter and let her know that a relationship with your neighbor is not an option by any means. Then, you must inform your neighbor of your suspicions, and let him know the same. You might want to also insure him that to pursue you daughter is illegal, and would without question, land him in jail. If he is intelligent that will be enough said.

The lack of resources, manpower, and connections can cause a great community organization to completely shut down. There are many of us that are employed by or own a nonprofit organization focused on enhancing the community in some way. The possibility of reduced or removed grant funding is a nearly constant fear. There are churches, schools, and individuals all trying to make a difference. We are all moving toward the same goal: to improve our community and make it great. We are making progress in so many ways, but there is one question that seems to continuously loom overhead for all of usSee LOVE, page 10 8

A. Your son has apparently chosen a self very self -destructive path. You must sit down with him and explain the inevitable consequences if he refuses to change his course. Your ultimate option is to petition the court to declare your son incorrigible, with a request that he be placed in juvenile detention due to his illegal activities. Time spent away from his environment may very well open your son’s eyes and initiate changes in his choices and behaviors. Q. My seventeen year old daughter is obsessed with a young man in our neighborhood who is much older and mature that she. I’m sure he is approaching thirty in spite of the fact that he could pass of twenty one. Although he has not actively engaged my daughter, I can see that he is attracted to her as well. What can I do to intervene in this situation before it goes too far?

Q. Kia, I am approaching my sixtieth birthday and finding myself attracted to a man who is in his late forties. I know that he is attracted to me also, but I’m skeptical because of the age difference. Should I throw precautions to the wind and follow my heart, or just dismiss it all and move on? A. Because this man is fully grown, and I’m assuming unmarried, your decision is completely up to you. There are no laws, rules, or restrictions against the coming together of adults over the age of twenty one. Your choices are up to you.

Other Upcoming Flint Public Library Events Presents a GREAT Opportunity for Your Child or Grandchild Absolutely FREE!

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Saturday, December 10 Every Child Ready to Read: Super Saturday Holiday Story Time, Polar Express, 11:00am Thursday, December 15 Tendaji Talks, 6:00pm Saturday, December 17 Chess for Everyone, 3-5:30pm Tuesday, December 20 Teens/Tweens Writers Workshop 4:30-6:00pm Tuesday, December 27 Drop-In Craft, Kwanzaa Bracelet, 1:00pm Wednesday, December 28 littleBits DESIGN CHALLENGE Invent an elf trap, 2:00pm (registration requested)

Teens/Tweens Coding ClubHoliday Meet-up, 3:00-5:00pm Hoffman’s Chop Shop Savannah Lee

Enroll Your Child or Grandchild TODAY!

In 2008, Mark Hoffman saw a need for hearty, wholesome, and quality foods and opened Hoffman’s Chop Shop. He moved his business to the Flint Farmers’ Market 2014 because he wanted to make local beef, pork, lamb more available to his community. Currently, his favorite part of his business is that he gets the opportunity to work with local farmers to source his products. Mark hopes to be able to expand his business in the future. But, for now, he’ll take a beautiful day at the Market! Come see Mark and the rest of his crew Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at the Flint Farmers’ Market.

READING IS FUNDAMENTAL! 9

Open Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays

LOVE from page 8

How can we get more people involved?

3rd Grade, Holmes STEM Academy My Thanksgiving by Janiyah Brown

The answer is simple. Spread love. Show love.

At the dinner we were really excited about Thanksgiving. We got to eat all sorts of food and see all sorts of family. But at the dinner people were everywhere acting crazy. People on tables, Dads, Uncles, cousins, sisters, brothers, and Moms. A lot of people everywhere I couldn’t believe my eyes. But I couldn’t believe my mouth-the food was so good. But I didn’t want to eat there with crazies so I went outside. I said: “I want to get somebody to eat with me.” So I got a kid out of the house. I said: “Will you eat with me?” She said: “Yes,” so I had a really happy Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving!

Go out and support other organizations’ or people’s events. Step outside your comfort zone and do something nice for a neighbor or stranger. Donate some things you don’t need to some people that need them.

Thanksgiving Dinner Yesterday by Kevin D J Moore

Say hello. Hold the door open. Be nice on purpose. Show compassion when you don’t have to. Set an example for whoever may be watching.

I went to Thanksgiving dinner yesterday. I went to get some food yesterday at the Church. I ate some crackers and turkey and then I had went home from the church.

My Thanksgiving by Maruah Martin My Thanksgiving Day Turkey Harvest Apple pie My Thanksgiving dinner by Dei’on Wright My Thanksgiving dinner Is going to be at my cousin’s house. Turkey, Turkey, Turkey What a feast! Turkey, Turkey, Turkey on my dinner plate! Thanksgiving Story by Damontae Montgomery

Long ago there lived a turkey in a human house. And every Thanksgiving Day they would get that turkey and try to eat him! But he would always get away, he was a sneaky turkey. And the family would always chase him around the house. It took them a whole day to get him. After they got him they would lock him in the freezer for them to eat next Thanksgiving. But before they put him in they were so tired they couldn’t do it. The turkey called his friend over and they had a party. It was loud they even shook the whole entire house. They were everywhere they danced, they had ate, that was a turkey. They had made the world shake so hard the family woke up and they all ran downstairs to see what was going on when they got down the turkeys looked at them and ran away. The family tried to get some turkeys, they only caught 5. They were happy they got some turkeys.

My Thanksgiving -by Tytianna Smith My Thanksgiving My Thanksgiving dinner Turkey is ham and harvest Turkey-gobble

When we operate out of love, every move is a success. Our focus shifts from self to others. We measure our progress by smiles instead of dollars. We realize that competition doesn’t exist when we are all working for the same cause. Before long, we have healed. Then, something amazing happens. We begin to grow.

My nice poem T-urkey gobble B-lueberry pie D-ressing

Turkey You are So Good by Deandre Douglas

Turkey Turkey you are so good Turkey Turkey chop you up Turkey Turkey I put you on my plate Turkey, Turkey I eat the meat right off your face. Turkey, Turkey you are so good Turkey I chop up wood Turkey, Turkey you are so good Turkey I put you on my plate Turkey, Turkey I eat the meat right off of your face.

More Jobs… Currently the Ruth Mott Foundation has two open job positions:  Education & Events Assistant (part time)  Horticulture Technical Assistant (full time)

Resumes and cover letters should be sent to [email protected] . The positions will remain posted until filled.

On Thanksgiving

For more information on these jobs, contact the Ruth Mott Foundation at:

by Chase Liberty Hinman

On Thanksgiving, I have stuffing, potatoes, turkey. Sometime I have fruits and vegetables. Crackers and cheese and on Wednesday it is my mom’s birthday.

Be intentional. Be mindful. Be love.

(810) 396-3402 10

Need a job? Want a Job? Employment Opportunities Michigan State Police

Visit www.mitalent.org for more information on all these available job opportunities!

Other opportunities available: General Warehouse Associate: Art Van Furniture: General Labor – Warehouse from $10-$13 hour: Art Van Furniture has immediate openings for a General Warehouse Associates. This is an entry level opportunity for the career minded individual looking to be a part of company. We offer competitive wages starting from $10-$13/hour based on experience with industry leading benefit programs. SHIFTS AVAILABLE FOR BOTH DAY AND AFTERNOON OPPORTUNITIES Visit : http://bit.ly/2ficLS1 for more information.

Paint Shop Supervisor: MPS Group JOB DESCRIPTION: An immediate opening for a Paint Shop Supervisor at the GM Flint plant. The Paint Shop Supervisor is responsible for the quality of work, safety of personnel and subcontractors while performing routine and out-of-scope industrial cleaning operations at Host facility. Visit: http://bit.ly/2gvhSDI for more information. 11

Other requirements available by visiting: http://bit.ly/2boU0Q8 or contact Troopers Steve Kramer at [email protected], or Amy Belanger at [email protected], or call the Flint State Police Post at (810) 732-1111,

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