Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Walling Farner and a Key

Rock legend Mark Farner to greet local fans and receive key to the city
by Scott Atkinson The Flint Journal
Tuesday August 11, 2009, 5:20 PM
FLINT, Michigan — Attention rock fans: Grab your Grand Funk gear.
Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Flint Native and former Grand Funk guitarist Mark Farner will be at PD's Pub in Grand Blanc Township to sign autographs and just hang out with fans.
"I encourage people to come out and bring their old memorabilia and things like that," co-owner of PD's, Dave Donahue, said.
The event, which Donahue describes as a "meet and greet" won't be the last chance for fans to see the rock star -- who will be receiving a special honor while he's here.
At 5 p.m. on Friday, Farner will be at the new 501 Bar & Grill in downtown Flint to receive the key to the city, presented by Flint Mayor Dayne Walling.
Farner was originally scheduled to receive the key on Thursday at PD's, but Flint Revival, Inc. President Lynn Sorenson, who is organizing the concert, said Walling wanted to present the key in within the city.
"I wanted to do something to recognize his contribution to the city," Walling said. "It's important for today's kids to see that people from Flint have gone on to do great things all about the country and the world."
The Saturday concert at Atwood Stadium begins at 10 a.m. and will feature a new local band every hour until 7 p.m., when Farner will take the stage.


see
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/rock_legend_mark_farner_to_gre.html

Farner at the PUB

Grand Funk Railroad's Mark Farner comes home, greeted by crowds at autograph signing
by Ebony Franklin The Flint Journal
Thursday August 13, 2009, 9:19 PM
Ryan Garza The Flint JournalDawn Gray, 39, of Swartz Creek, rests on the bar as her husband Dell takes a picture while musician Mark Farner signs her shirt on Thursday at PD's Pub in Flint during a meet and greet to promote his concert this Saturday at Atwood Stadium in Flint. 'It was awesome. I can't believe he signed my shirt,' said Gray. 'I'm going to get home, take it off and probably frame it.'
GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Michigan -- Grand Funk Railroad's lead guitarist, Mark Farner, signed autographs at PD's Pub in Grand Blanc Township Thursday night as fans mingled and celebrated his return home.
The parking lot was packed before the 6 p.m. start time as more than 100 fans showed up to show their support to the rock legend. For many, meeting Farner was a dream come true.
"My favorite song (Inside Looking Out) was released on the day I was born and I wish I was old enough to have seen them when they first started out," said Dawn Gary, 39, of Swartz Creek. Fans enjoyed music by Grand Funk Railroad, snapped pictures, and sipped drinks while waiting for their turn to meet Farner. The Pub was littered with people wearing Grand Funk Railroad T-shirts and holding original 8 track records.

"This is a historic time. It may be better than the time his billboard was in Times Square," said Darla Pierson-Harvey, 54, of Goodrich. Harvey has been a fan since she was a little girl and was there to get a 1970 album autographed. "That's a great man. We follow Mark all the time," said Debbie Wilson, 55, of Otter Lake. She got a copy of Farner's first record autographed. Farner put his signature on everything from notebook paper to guitars and old T-shirts. Many fans described him as a down-to-earth guy who's really nice. "This is like a family reunion. There's so many people I haven't seen for years and the love of music always brings us back together," said Farner. "In almost 61 years of living I've found that love is unconditional. And that's the only thing that is."One T-shirt, bought by Garth Barcey, 58, of Grand Blanc, had turned a light tan and was a little tattered. But it was worth holding on to."He's just a blue collar guy," said Barcey, who use to wear Flint, MI on his helmet during Vietnam. "Back then all the guys (soldiers) knew Grand Funk Railroad was from Flint and use to ask me questions about it."Not all of Farner's fans were in their 50s. Rachel Fogelsonger, 22, of Flushing and Robert Jackson, 21, of Flint Township wanted autographs too."I sing his songs at karoke," said Fogelsonger. "It's pretty cool that he comes to a small place like Flint to do this."
Farner is celebrating 40 years of funk this year. He will receive the key to the city Friday at 501 Bar and Grill in downtown Flint and perform at Atwood stadium on Saturday. Flint Revival Inc. President Lynn Sorenson, organizer of Saturday's concert, said Farner "came to town early for family, but he was nice enough to commit to this."



see
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/grand_funk_railroads_mark_farn.html

Farner on WKUF

Last weekend, Mark Farner completed one of his personal career goals. Farner, former Grand Funk Railroad front man, played to his hometown crowd at Atwood Stadium on Saturday. The homecoming started on Friday when he was given the key to the city by the Mayor. He then went to his sound check and then went to Kettering University for his interview on the WKUF LP 94.3 show, The Butcher Shop.
The Butcher Brothers, RT and Metal Mike, presented Mr. Farner with his “honorary” meat cleaver while Mr. Farner graciously signed autographs for several of the staff and visitors to the station. This Rock Patriot presented some of his merchandise for the radio staff. As he told RT, “I do not put my name on anything that is not made and assembled in America”. With CDs like “For the People” and “Red, White, & Blue”, Mark practices what he preaches.
There were approximately 3,000 in attendance at the stadium on Saturday. Mark Farner was joined by guests Bobby Jean Colwell, Curtis Johnson, Dennis Bellinger, and Craig Frost. He was also supported by his band keyboardist Karl Propst, bassist Lawrence Buckner and drummer Hubert Crawford. The event was all ages with many Mark Farner fans bringing their grandchildren to the event.
Fans enjoyed some of the local bands earlier in the afternoon such as Last Warning, Lil’ Miss Dangerous, Forte, and Dr. Payne. The response was especially positive to a community that needed to enjoy the success of their home grown talent.
“This was the biggest gig of my career”, said Tom Ginter, drummer for Forte. “This was also the biggest venue I have ever played.”
It was an incredible weekend for everyone that was involved. I would especially like to thank Mark and Lesia Farner for one of the best interviews so far for WKUF LP. You were the highlight of our year and I don’t think my sister in law has let go of her signed yellow vinyl record of “An American Band” since Friday night!
For more information about Mark Farner’s music, please check out www.markfarner.com.
The entire interview will be posted on www.myspace.com/butchershopshow.
For more information about Forte: check out www.myspace.com/forteclassicrock.


see
http://www.examiner.com/x-16692-Detroit-Underground-Scene-Examiner~y2009m8d18-Mark-Farner-comes-home-in-memorable-weekend

comments


mamalu says:
The best night ever. I was able to meet a rock legend. I was also able to observe the professional staff at the radio station.Very impressed.....
August 18, 7:42 PM
Cruizinsuezin says:
The Mark Farner "Inner-View" was definitely the most defining I've ever heard!I don't know if it was Mark being at home or what. Very personal stuff was shared, very cool.Great job!

Day-long car show and concert culminates Flint's 'Bricks' festivities

Day-long car show and concert culminates Flint's 'Bricks' festivities

By Joel Feick
FLINT (WJRT) -- (08/15/09) -- On the fifth and final night of Back to the Bricks in downtown Flint, music filled the air around the city's most historic stadium.
A day-long concert at Atwood Stadium started at 11 a.m. and culminated with a concert by 60-year-old Flint native Mark Farner.
Farner gained fame as the lead singer for Grand Funk Railroad and later went onto perform as a contemporary Christian artist.
But before Farner took the stage, ten other bands rocked the historic stadium that's been rOf course, classic cars were also on display all day as organizers saved the biggest and best for last. Saturday was a day-long classic car show on the bricks. Hundreds of cars lined up along Saginaw Street in downtown Flint, presenting the opportunity to get up close and personal with plenty of classic rides.
There was also lots of food, shopping and free music to enjoy.
With massive crowds and traffic downtown, plenty of police officers were also on hand to help with crowd control. Turnout was so big this year that the Burton Police Department stepped in to help move things along.
Flint Police say 50,000 people walked through downtown Flint just on Saturday. Officers say there have been a few disturbances to report, but they're mostly playing it safe. They asked the crowds to do the same. ecently refurbished, giving music lovers a perfect way to end the automobile event

see

http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/story?section=news/local&id=6966966

Farner delights hometown crowd

REVIEW (WJRT) -- Though he grew up just blocks away from Flint's historic Atwood Stadium, "The Rock Patriot" Mark Farner and his Grand Funk comrades never played a concert at the 11,000-seat local football haven.
Of course, it wasn't for lack of desire on Farner's part.
"I've always wanted to play Atwood Stadium," he said. "I told the guys back in the day we need to go back to Flint and Grand Funk needs to play Atwood Stadium. But it just never happened."
Farner never forgot his roots, however, and was more than happy to serve as the grand finale of Back to the Bricks and the city's newly titled Flint Revival Celebration. A day-long classic car show and concert set had all of downtown Flint in full party mode and the carnival-like While some concerts are known as much for their overpriced concessions as their musical experience, vendors at Atwood were mindful of their community's current economic climate. Bottles of water were priced at $1, Little Caesar's offered slices of pie for $1.25, and of course, hot dogs, french fries and cotton candy could be had for reasonable prices as well.
Local restaurants used the opportunity to drum up some business too. Mike's Triple Grille and Flushing's Roaring 20's Ice Cream Parlor were just a sampling of businesses who jumped at the chance to put their name front-and-center at a true rock 'n roll legend's concert.
And though Farner has played to much larger crowds, including a sold-out Shea Stadium in 1971, he seemed somewhat giddy and anxious before his gig in downtown Flint, proclaiming that "this is going to be the best concert of my life."
After letting his bandmates get settled, Farner ran onto the stage at Atwood shortly after his scheduled start time and jumped right into the aptly named "Are You Ready" while making sure to blow kisses to his hometown crowd. His purple and blue tie-dyed, sleeveless tank and snug blue jeans were a welcome sight to Farner's funky fans, which included Flint Mayor Dayne Walling, who found himself a seat in the second row.
Walling, who presented Farner with a key to the city on Friday, said before the show that he was dedicated to changing Flint's tarnished image. While Farner is almost certainly in favor of returning Flint to its glory days, he made it clear that there is no changing necessary when it comes to its musical effigy.
"It's good to be home," he told the crowd. "The city of Flint is really...the city of funk."
While the crowd was still buzzing from his opening number, Farner made sure to keep up the pace with "Rock & Roll Soul" and "Footstompin' Music." The crowd followed suit and amped up their excitement as the rhythm of the beating drums and pulsing bass took hold of the entire stadium. You know you are at a rock show when your heartbeat abandons its normal pulsation and instead takes on the beat of the bass line.
Farner continued to play to the crowd, tossing his wristband and his guitar pick to random, lucky fans. Though it was unclear if he was sweating more from the lights or Saturday's uncomfortable heat and humidity, Farner never broke stride. And as the sun went down, the lights shone brighter while he made sure to hit on all the Grand Funk classics.
"We're An American Band" was early on the playlist, with Farner adding "We're an American band from Flint, Michigan." And as the show went on, his crowd grew livelier. Though some were happy with their seats in the bleachers at the 50-yard-line, much of the crowd realized that was prime real estate only at football games, and chose instead to pack the AstroTurf between the 20s.
Farner made sure to bear witness to the crowd by mentioning his faith in God -- he's a "cussin' Christian" -- which seemed appropriate given his foray into contemporary Christian music. He also let his fans know that he believes in the power of prayer, confiding in them that he asked his Lord, "God, please don't let us suck," before the show.
With God and everyone else on his side, Farner and his bandmates continued belting out hit after hit. Even former Grand Funk mate Craig Frost made some appearances to help out, and tunes like "Shinin' On" and "Mean Mistreater" got fans ready for a stretch run that was sure to leave everyone wanting more.
The 1975 mega-hit "Bad Time" got the crowd moving and swaying, which is where you could really tell that this wasn't Farner's first rock show. While the audience still had their dancing shoes on, he urged them to do "The Loco-Motion." And of course, they responded in kind.
The train winded its way through the crowd in front of the stage, and while I'm not saying some took advantage of the dance to gain a better vantage point, I will say that the VIP section was noticeably fuller once the song ended.
"Some Kind of Wonderful" followed and included the biggest audience participation moment of the night so far, with the crowd nearly drowning Farner out with the lyrics "Can I get a witness?" at the song's bridge.
Farner then thanked his hometown crowd and called it a night, though very few fans made their way to the exits. Shouts of "encore" began almost immediately, so Farner wasted no time appeasing them. It's not like we didn't know he had one more song left in him. Were they really going to sell T-shirts with "I'm Your Captain" printed on them and not play the song?
It turned out to be the perfect choice for an encore as Farner and his crowd -- which had a fascinating rapport throughout the night -- brought the evening to a climax as they both eased into the song's soothing "I'm getting closer to my home" lyrics. It sounded so flawless that you would swear Farner practiced it with the crowd before the show.
Fans who showed up at Atwood Stadium on Saturday night hoping little had changed in Farner's act or his funky rhythms did not leave disappointed. This was not a farewell tour, and if you wished to be so bold, you might even say it was just an opening act. Farner and his loyal crowd together showed that this homecoming could certainly work as a yearly event.
It may not have been 185,000 at Shea, and promoters may have actually expected a bigger crowd than they received, but the hometown feel is what was truly special -- and what is truly worth repeating. atmosphere at Atwood seemed perfect for Farner's homecoming.


http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/story?section=news/entertainment&id=6967365
REVIEW (WJRT) -- Though he grew up just blocks away from Flint's historic Atwood Stadium, "The Rock Patriot" Mark Farner and his Grand Funk comrades never played a concert at the 11,000-seat local football haven.
Of course, it wasn't for lack of desire on Farner's part.
"I've always wanted to play Atwood Stadium," he said. "I told the guys back in the day we need to go back to Flint and Grand Funk needs to play Atwood Stadium. But it just never happened."
Farner never forgot his roots, however, and was more than happy to serve as the grand finale of Back to the Bricks and the city's newly titled Flint Revival Celebration. A day-long classic car show and concert set had all of downtown Flint in full party mode and the carnival-like atmosphere at Atwood seemed perfect for Farner's homecoming.

Mark Farner eager to Play Flint

By Marc Jacobson
FLINT (WJRT) -- (08/14/09) -- Flint native Mark Farner is back where it all began. Saturday night, he'll play his first hometown concert since the mid 1990's.
"We're going to rock this place. This is going to be the best concert of my life, I'm telling you right now," Farner predicted.
That's a pretty bold statement for a guy who's played for a single crowd of 185,000 with Grand Funk Railroad. But to Farner, that can't compare to playing Atwood Stadium on Saturday for the first time.
"This is a dream come true. I've always wanted to play Atwood Stadium, and I told the guys back in the day we need to go back to Flint and Grand Funk needs to play Atwood Stadium, but it just never happened."
Grand Funk did play at the old IMA Sports Arena back in 1981. It was a show that will live on in infamy. "I was doing this....and didn't see the monitor and fell right on my ass, but I popped back up and made like it was part of the show."
Farner grew up only a few blocks away from Atwood, and still has family in Flint. Just taking a stroll through the neighborhood gives him chills. "My sister, Diane, and I used to go down to the armory here in Flint and dance, and we won a few contests. This is bringing back memories to me."
Over the last couple of days, he's had a chance to take in Back to the Bricks and catch up with fans both old and new.
"They say 'my mom and dad turned me on to you guys,' and they're really into my music. I think that's part of going full circle and coming back to my roots, just like Back to the Bricks," Farner said.
Saturday's concert is part of a ten-band music festival -- the first-ever Flint Revival Celebration.
"I'd like to see it succeed, and I'd like to see this as a yearly thing. I'd like to have it as something that I do every year," Farner told ABC12's Marc Jacobson.
Farner says this Saturday's concert will feature a collection of Grand Funk classics picked by Farmer's fans on his Web site. "We're doing "Some kind of Wonderful," "Locomotion," and all of the hits. But we're also doing some of the stuff they gotta hear."


see
http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/story?section=news/local&id=6965281

Mark farner gets Key to the City in Flint

Better than getting into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, says Grand Funk Railroad's Mark Farner
by Ebony Franklin The Flint Journal
FLINT, Michigan -- Flint's way better than Cleveland.After getting the key to the city from Flint Mayor Dayne Walling, rock legend Mark Farner said: "It's better than being in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. To think that the people of my hometown thinks that much of me means a lot."
The key also proclaimed Farner, the former lead guitarist for Grand Funk Railroad, is "Flint's Rock Patriot." During the brief ceremony Friday outside the newly-opened 501 Bar & Grill in downtown Flint, Farner stood side by side with Walling on what resembled a red carpet as fans gathered around."We're having him because of what his music helped define and his commitment to the city. We're trying to define the future so it's a great honor to look back and see what he's accomplished with his music," said Walling.Farner lifted the black box that held the gold key representing the city above his head and smiled as the audience cheered, snapped pictures, and clapped their hands. "He deserves it because he's been here all his life -- in heart anyway -- even though he's been traveling," said Ralph Newton, 53, of Mt. Morris. Newton attended Farner's meet and greet yesterday at PD's Pub and plans to attend his concert tomorrow.
"He gave us free VIP tickets when we met him at Blackstones on Wednesday," said Newton's wife, Mary, 48Farner and Walling stood side-by-side smiling and greeting fans as they signed autographs.
Farner will perform at Atwood Stadium at 7 p.m. Saturday.Walling plans to continue to support Farner by attending the concert with his family Friday August 14, 2009, 8:03 PM


see
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/better_than_getting_into_the_r.html

comments


Posted by civilityho on 08/14/09 at 11:53PM
Tell me one thing he's done for this city.
He gave you free tickets? They didn't cost him.
Inappropriate?
successMsg = "";
Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by turbotaxtim on 08/15/09 at 12:16AM
The VIP section provides armed security that are conservatives that believe in defending ones property and personal rights.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by k72 on 08/15/09 at 9:35AM
welcome back MARK,ican see one thing that seperates you from ELVIS PRESSLEY AND MICHAEL JACKSON,YOU ARE NOT A DRUG ADDICT,YOU HAVE A SECOND CHANCE TO WIN OVER THE HEARTS OF THE PEOPLE IN FLINT MICHIGAN,THANKS AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by citytourist on 08/15/09 at 12:58PM
Civility, why are you so hostile? On another note, Welcome back, Mark! And thanks for helping to make Back to the Bricks another great weekend for the city!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by Civilityboy on 08/15/09 at 6:02PM
Hey, CivilityHo...what have YOU done for the city lately? The original, the one and only Civilityboy is willing to bet you've done zippo. Your negativity denotes a suburbanite who just can't stand the idea of Flint folks having (safe) fun. Well, continue your "Ho" life and do us all a big favor: stay out of our town.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by speedybeede on 08/15/09 at 6:22PM
He's Our Captian

Back to the Bricks helps Flints economy

Classic automobile faithful have come from all across North America including Ohio, California, and even Ontario, Canada as marked by the license plates in Downtown Flint. All have come to the 5th Annual Back to the Bricks classic car festival; a head turner with beautiful rides, and a shot in the arm for the local economy.
“This is unreal,” said Dave Lurvey, owner of the new Blackstone’s Pub and Grill downtown. His restaurant is packed every day of the big event. He does not mind that at all.
"It's been a long time coming here in Downtown Flint. The economic impact of this and The Crim and the Bikes on the Bricks; these festivals downtown tend to help businesses turn the corner. Without this the summer run is going to be a tad slow,” Lurvey said.
In a region hit hard by automotive job losses, plant closures, and people moving out, having a projected 250,000 people in Flint over the course of five days is great economic news to Jerry Preston, president of the Flint Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.
"People come from all over,” he said. “We have groups of car clubs that come to stay in hotels and we know what the impact is when people come from outside the community. The greatest economic impact is when someone comes from far enough away they have to stay in a hotel,” Preston said.
Preston estimates the Bricks bring in $10-20 million for Flint and Genesee County each year. Having the event the same weekend as Detroit’s Woodward Dream Cruise has only attracted more people, Preston said.
“It works very well. People come here that go down to Woodward and Woodward comes up here. It works very well for both communities,” he said.

see
http://www.connectmidmichigan.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=337505

Classic Car owners hit downtown Flint

Classic car owners, enthusiasts to hit downtown Flint streets today during final day of Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend
by Melissa Burden The Flint Journal
Saturday August 15, 2009, 5:00 AM

FLINT, Michigan -- Expect to compete for a parking spot in downtown today.
The big day of the now five-day Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend has arrived. On tap are sunny skies, temperatures expected near 90 degrees and lots of cars.
Last year's event drew an estimated 20,000 cars and 125,000 people over a four days and organizers are expecting a bigger crowd this year.
"We'll have entertainment throughout the day, special displays, you name it," said Al Hatch, chairman of Back to the Bricks.
The free car show actually starts at 10 a.m. and runs through 10 p.m., but parking for the show starts early.
Several downtown streets, such as Saginaw from Court Street up to Fifth Avenue, will be shut down beginning at 6:30 a.m.
"They'll be people here earlier than that," Hatch said.
Look for an unveiling of Hurst's performance-enhanced edition of the 2010 Dodge Challenger at 11 a.m. in the flat lot at Saginaw and First streets.
There's also a Women's Marketplace in the University of Michigan-Flint Pavilion and sounds from several performers on different stages.
The Woodward Dream Cruise also runs 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Woodward Avenue between Ferndale and Pontiac.
For a schedule of today's Back to the Bricks events, log onto www.backtothebricks.org.

see
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/cars_and_cruisers_to_hit_downt.html


comments


Posted by TURBOTAXTIM on 08/15/09 at 9:16AM
This is one cool event! Why is it the same week as the Woodward Cruise?
Inappropriate?
successMsg = "";
Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by Grime on 08/15/09 at 9:51AM
I usually go to these shows (last year was great), but since I think the parking situation will be terrible will not be going this year. It would be nice if some type of shuttle system existed to take us from out-lying parking lots.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by flintmiusa on 08/15/09 at 12:20PM
There is plenty of parking throughout the downtown area...may have to walk some more.
Turnouts have been great, people enjoying themselves and everyone having a good time.
My one big question is - did anyone really anticipate this event getting this big, this quick in Flint? And FREE? Inner cities are a great place to see friends, coworkers, mingle, etc.
I was down there with friends last night and seen old classmates whom I have not seen in many, many years.
Thank you Flint for coming alive!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by Grannyno on 08/15/09 at 1:26PM
There is shuttle parking. Unfortunately, the information was not made widely available to the general public.

Back to the Bricks Draws record crowds

Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend draws record turnout
by Melissa Burden The Flint Journal
Saturday August 15, 2009, 3:31 PM

FLINT, Michigan -- Chris and Beth Knieper of Chesaning came to Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend finale Saturday ready to show off their 1972 Chevy Nova.
Instead, a much smaller vehicle was getting the attention.
"Where did you get that?" asked one woman, while another snapped a photo, as the couple strolled on Saginaw Street's bricks, glancing at classic cars.

A handmade Model A Ford roadster stroller for their 14-month-old daughter Alexandra, complete with an upholstery job, seat belt and red painted flames, drew lots of questions and praise.
Chris Knieper, 37, said they used to hit the Woodward Dream Cruise, but have been coming to the Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend on Saturday the past few years.
"This is nice," Chris Knieper said. "I can walk down the streets and talk to people."
Officials and spectators agreed that this year's main event was busier than the past.
"It seems way bigger," said Renee Aurand, 32, of Swartz Creek, who was enjoying some free popcorn with her husband Tom and three children as they toured their second Back to the Bricks.
"We've got a record turnout," said Back to the Bricks Chairman Al Hatch, who added there were reports that traffic was backed up onto I-69 Saturday morning to get into the show.
"People were down here at 2 o'clock in the morning parking," Hatch added.
Sunny weather in the mid 80s drew in thousands of people and an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 vehicles on display along Saginaw Street, surrounding roads and parking lots.
"We were anticipating 25,000 (vehicles) for the entire weekend," Hatch said, adding total attendance could reach a quarter of a million for the five-day event. "We think we've probably succeeded that."
Business was brisk at Brown Sugar Cafe, which opened at 4:30 a.m., and was going through a lot of frozen coffee drinks and fruit smoothies by midday.
"It's great seeing all these people out here," said Julie Prince, an owner of the cafe on Saginaw Street.
From Model As to roaring loud muscle car engines and Chevy Corvettes and Camaros spanning decades, there was something for most car enthusiasts to enjoy.
Three-time breast cancer survivor Karen Borton's multi-colored pink 1969 Buick Skylark convertible was hard to miss.
Borton, 63, of Richfield Township was at the show in part to promote the Breast Cancer Awareness For Life charity that raises money to help breast cancer patients pay for things such as wigs and treatments.
The organization that she and three-time cancer survivor Norma Santerre, 64, of Lapeer, run has collected $27,000 in just a few months to help women.
John Hunt, 63 and Tammy Hunt, 45, of Flint Township brought their award-winning, red 1954 Chevy truck for show. They arrived at 4:40 a.m. to find Saginaw Street fairly packed with cars.
John Hunt, who works as a courier for McLaren Regional Medical Center, said he's owned the truck for about 16 years. He said he's spent about $20,000 restoring it from brown into a shiny red ride with a new engine, transmission, interior and oak truck bed.
"It's come a long way," he said, sharing photos of the restoration and wiping the truck with a cloth as he walked around it.
New Flint Mayor Dayne Walling helped officials reveal the Hurst Performance Vehicles' 2010 Dodge Challenger, which drew claps and whistles from a crowd gathered Saturday morning in a parking lot near Saginaw and First streets.
The silver and black Challenger, featuring 572 horsepower, had an Illinois license plate reading "Only 1."
"It's a great place to unveil, being it basically is the birthplace of the whole car industry," said Joe Spagnoli, 45, a suburban Chicago area resident, who owns a couple dozen Hurst vehicles.
"Never before have we had a non-GM car unveiled in Flint," said Jerry Preston, president of the Flint Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

see
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/back_to_the_bricks_cruise_week.html


comments

Posted by HenryHard on 08/15/09 at 5:59PM
Funny...that photo doesn't look like the downtown Flint I know.
Inappropriate?
successMsg = "";
Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by flintmiusa on 08/15/09 at 6:40PM
Interestingly and thankfully, it is a photo of HOPE - it truly shows that when people want to make good things happen...with hard work, persistence, dedication it can be done.
Great job Flint - makes me proud to be from Flint, MI USA!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by glenvl on 08/15/09 at 7:21PM
very cool scene.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by bywc on 08/15/09 at 9:15PM
We need to see more of events like this in Flint, it has been a great 5 day and that is good to hear.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by wrongwayron on 08/16/09 at 1:36PM
It was a great weekend ...
Except traffic control people were extreme rude to my walking daughter-in-law with her cane. Seem to think they we there for cars ONLY and people were to be rushed out of way.And most of the crowd at the FSO concert Friday night were so concerned with getting their friends attention and holding loud conversations we were unable to hear the music.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by doinit4me on 08/16/09 at 1:58PM
This event was an absolute success. When was the last time that many people came together for a common attraction in Flint?
It was a "win-win" for the businesses and patrons.
Hopefully everyone reading this attended. It gave me a feeling of unity and revealed the true spirit of Flint.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by harrp on 08/16/09 at 2:51PM
What a great event.It was fantastic to walk the bricks getting awsome photo's. The free music also enjoyed. I had a great time and plan on being back next year. I do have a couple of suggestions that might make next years event even better. If the stage for Friday nights concert where turned 180 degrees and placed at the high point of the bridge it would overlook Saginaw Street being visable all the way to Court Street allowing participants to keep an eye on their cars and enjoy the live performances. Also it seemed like some of parking decks where underutilized due to the way traffic was routed.Continued great success on a fantastic car show.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by rich1028 on 08/16/09 at 4:34PM
Was A Great Time!!I was down there on Thursaday for the Cruise,and back on Saturday for the Show.here are a few pictures I took.
http://rides.webshots.com/album/574094978RajACA?vhost=rides
or to View in Slideshowhttp://rides.webshots.com/slideshow/574094978RajACA
www.saginawstreetandstrip.com
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by cyadaily on 08/16/09 at 7:46PM
GREAT WEEK, GREAT EVENT, GREAT WEATHER....
BACK TO THE BRICKS....BACK TO DOWNTOWN.....DOWNTOWN FLINT ROCKS....
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by willy48529 on 08/16/09 at 7:57PM
Isn't it Great that a Few private citizen of Genesee county can organize such a Great FREE event' If this had been put together By our County Commissioners , There would have been Toll Booths and Ticket booths set up on all Roads Entering into Genesee county.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by jeepfreak81 on 08/17/09 at 8:27AM
Outstanding show, I was there most of Friday night, and 7-5 on Saturday. Traffic control for cruisers was definitely routed funny on Friday and Saturday. It made it EXTREMELY difficult to navigate around if you do not know Flint. More signage would have helped (or a specific club entrance on Saturday). I am definitely not complaining though, I knew Flint the best and was able to route our club members to the easiest way to our reserved spot.
Excellent show, and ALL the restaurants were packed. I was happy to see it!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by pamhowe on 08/17/09 at 9:52AM
HenryHard on 08/15/09 at 5:59PM
Funny...that photo doesn't look like the downtown Flint I know.
-That's right. This is no longer the Flint from the 80's and 90's when the city was barren and striped of any character. I was there Friday and Saturday night and with everyone downtown it felt like events that I have been to in GR and Chicago. This city can be something again, not the same as it was before- but reborn into a better more beautiful city. Although we are hardly "there" Flint is trying hard to over come the perceptions that everyone has of her. Next time someone makes disparaging comments about Flint, maybe we should remember that image above and say, "Now wait just a second..." It's time we, the residents of Flint stop being our biggest detractors.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by tonyroadp on 08/17/09 at 9:24PM
I think it's Great. Flint in the good spot light for change.

Flint Revival Celebration

Flint Revival Celebration featuring Flint's Mark Farner in concert expected to draw about 8,000 fans
by Melissa Burden The Flint Journal
Saturday August 15, 2009, 5:40 PM
FLINT, Michigan -- Atwood Stadium was rocking today and later this evening was expected to be packed with thousands of classic rock fans for Flint native Mark Farner's first official concert here since 1975.
The Flint Revival Celebration featuring Farner, Grand Funk Railroad's lead singer and guitarist, had sold nearly 8,000 tickets, with more people expected to show up at the gate, said Lynn Sorenson of Flint and president of the celebration.
By about 4:30 p.m., some fans wearing Mark Farner T-shirts and others carrying folding chairs and umbrellas to block the sun, were beginning to filter into the stadium on University Avenue.
Some fans sat in lawn chairs around the stage on Atwood's turf facing the scoreboard, to listen to bands such as Forte perform.
"We had a lot of people come and go," Sorenson said.
The festival features headliner Farner and 11 other bands who are performing throughout the day, Sorenson said.
Farner was expected to take the stage around 7 p.m. and would sign autographs for any fan who wanted one afterward, Sorenson said.
Concert-goers such as Kim Ackley, 41, of Flint traveled between Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend in downtown Flint and the concert.
Farner fans such as Emie Goold, 38, of Flint, were enjoying the daylong concert and were looking forward to seeing Farner perform live.
"It's nice to see them doing something with Atwood Stadium," Goold said.

see
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/flint_revivial_celebration_fea_1.html
comments

Posted by 45guy on 08/15/09 at 5:50PM
Lynn Sorenson, wife of Attorney Terry Bankert, he of www.dumpyourspouse.com fame.
Inappropriate?
successMsg = "";
Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by Civilityboy on 08/15/09 at 5:56PM
And the point of the above posting? On a more positive note: The Atwood Stadium gig, along with yesterday's downtown concert, have put all the naysayer's on notice...Flint Rocks! The new mayor made his debut at the concert and it was enjoyable to actually have a mayor who could articulate a big welcome to the thousands gathered. Despite the unemployment and the plant closings, Flint's people are as tough as ever. And they know how to have a good time!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by flintmiusa on 08/15/09 at 7:56PM
Civility - well stated. People are having a good ole time.
I was down there last three nights and alot of smiles, expressions of hope and people spending money on food, drinks, etc.
Flint, MI has a reputation of persistence...we will continue that pursuit of revival.
Good job Flint!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by SteveMyers on 08/15/09 at 9:37PM
Congrdulations to Terry and Lynn! They did a fine job putting the event together.Atwood Stadium ROCKS! It was great to see so many people turn out for the local bands!! Mark Did a hell of job!! For an old guy he still has the moves!lol
I know we are going to see more events at Atwood, people are already talking about next year.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by SteveMyers on 08/15/09 at 9:41PM
Congratulations to Terry and Lynn! They did a fine job putting the event together.
Atwood Stadium ROCKS! It was great to see so many people turn out for the local bands!! Mark Did a hell of job!! For an old guy he still has the moves!lol
I know we are going to see more events at Atwood, people are already talking about next year.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by flint13 on 08/16/09 at 12:45AM
so much for 8,000 people...next article says 3,000....ooops!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by kgitch on 08/16/09 at 1:20AM
flint13...I wondered the same thing. This says 8k sold, the next article says about 3k in attendance. Did 5k just decide to not show?
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by sallycaster on 08/16/09 at 9:17AM
The Back to bricks celebration and the Farner concert were both great things for Flint and Genesee County,,,However, it might have been better if the concert promoter had used one of the local sound companies to do the production, instead of bringing in a company from the west side of the state. Kind of defeats the whole "Flint Revival" idea doesn't it?
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by cretin on 08/16/09 at 11:37AM
I totally agree Sally. Hopefully these first time promoters have learned a lesson or two-Flint First!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by farnerupdate on 08/16/09 at 9:31PM
Thanks to all that attended the Mark Farner Concert at Atwood Stadium! What a day! I wished I could have personally thanked each person in attendance . From every possible perspective of Atwood Stadium it looked like everyone was having a great time. Rhonda from Grand Blanc brought her air guitar and jammed with Mark’s every song. Go girl! Locomotion- how can anyone take that sitting down? Great performance by everyone! I appreciate all your positive comments! This was an incredible feat.
Thanks to everyone for all the help. Sponsors, vendors, VIP caterer, thanks. Security, CSSI from Grand Blanc did an outstanding job!
A local company was initially contacted to provide the sound and stage for this event. However, per Mark Farner’s contract it could not be met locally. But, to set the record straight, that attempt was made. There is much more to planning an event like this than the poster has knowledge.We have already been contacted regarding making this an annual event. Who should be the next performer at Atwood 2010?
Lynn M SorensonPresident Flint Revival Inc.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by cretin on 08/17/09 at 9:04AM
It was Soooo funny when Mark Farner turned his back on that Karen Smith when she tried to hug him-left her standing there on stage with her arms all outstretched-Ba-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Mark Farner Brings Funk to Atwood

Mark Farner Brings the Funk to Atwood Stadium in Flint
by Ed Davis The Flint Journal
Saturday August 15, 2009, 11:18 PM
The crowd of approximately 3,000 Saturday at Atwood Stadium, gave Mark Farner the hometown welcome he's been waiting 40 years to get.
Despite Farner's Flint roots, Grand Funk Railroad never played Atwood Stadium.
When Farner took the stage, he looked and played like it truly was a dream come true, as he kicked off the show with the Grand Funk classic "Are You Ready." The crowd clearly was.
But the evening was just getting started as he and his band jumped into the rave-up "Rock & Roll Soul" and rocked it right into "Footstompin' Music," where Farner handled vocal, guitar and organ duties.
The band, made up of keyboardist Karl Propst, bassist Lawrence Buckner and drummer Hubert Crawford is tight and sounds like they've been playing Grand Funk songs all their lives.
"It's good to be home!" Farner said. "The city of Flint is really the city of funk!"
And the crowd, made up mostly of Grand Funk Railroad fans from the early days -- many of whom brought not just their children but their grandchildren -- definitely agreed.
Dennis Bellinger, who played bass with Grand Funk in the '80s, sang back-up vocals on many of the tunes.
Farner still works the fret board with such blistering ease that many up-and-comers would do well to get their hands on some Grand Funk records to learn a lick or two.
Keyboardist Karl Propst ably handled lead vocals on "We're an American Band," as Farner danced around the stage, having the time of his life and never missing a note.
When Farner asked the audience if these songs were bringing back memories, the crowd answered with an enthusiastic "Yes!
The heady days of Grand Funk were illustrated in fan favorite "Mr. Limousine Driver."
Farner said it was "a night for friends" as welcomed old friend and former Grand Funk keyboardist Craig Frost to take over the keyboards on an epic version of "The Railroad."
As Farner tuned up for a beautiful version of "Bad Time," he mentioned that it won the BMI Award for most radio airplay in 1975. "It didn't get to No. 1," Farner joked, "but it got played more than the number one song."
Bobby Jean Colwell and Curtis Johnson, both veterans of The Pack, a Flint band led at times by Terry Knight, came onstage as Farner announced that he hoped everyone brought their dancing shoes. It's a good thing that everyone had because "The Loco-Motion" got everyone up and dancing around on the stadium's turf.
Colwell and Johnson stayed onstage for an extended version of "Some Kind of Wonderful" that kept the crowd on their feet and singing along. After which, Farner and the band said good night.
Farner dedicated the encore "I'm Your Captain/Closer to Home" to all of U.S. troops serving everywhere, but especially to Vietnam vets, because, as "The Rock Patriot" reminded everyone, "They're somebody's brother." The song led to an extended sing-along, which lit up the entire stadium as the memories flowed back.
The hour-and-a-half performance of Grand Funk favorites garnered a standing ovation from the appreciative crowd. Farner stayed on afterwards to sign autographs.
The day-long event at Atwood Stadium also featured a full day of local bands. Many of Flint's finest were on-hand to honor Farner and showcase their best material. Hypyr, Lil' Miss Dangerous, Forte and Dr. Payne played half-hour sets of mostly classic rock covers, with some originals mixed in for good measure.
A particular standout was Pac-O-Mojo, which features Curt Johnson and Dennis Bellinger. Lead vocalist Eric Gentry thanked the crowd for the positive response to "songs you've probably never heard before." Pac-O-Mojo, a rock, soul and blues band from Byron, has been working on an album of original material for over a year and hopes to release it soon.
On their way out, many fans expressed hope that there would be more concerts at Atwood Stadium, a plan that the Stadium's new team of organizers and promoters hopes to bring to fruition.


see
http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/flint/index.ssf/2009/08/mark_farner_brings_the_funk_to.html



comments


Posted by Lazybones921 on 08/16/09 at 8:31AM
We went down and really enjoyed ourselves. Thanks to all who worked hard to bring this together.
That being said, there were two things that irked me.
One was the parking. It was 10.00 to park in the lot at Atwood. That's a steep price considering our tickets were only $15.00. Thank you to the Shelton family for providing affordable parking.
Also, walking up on the north side of the stadium, the sidewalks were littered with broken glass. The city should have sent a crew down to spruce the place up, especially in light of the fact that there were many out of towners that attended the concert.
Inappropriate?
successMsg = "";
Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by behindblueye on 08/16/09 at 11:33AM
This was an awesome concert, had a great time - thanks so much to the organizers - Flint needs more of this!!! And thanks to Mark Farner for coming home and doing this, he embraced the fans like we were all his personal friends. I'm sorry more people did not come out for this, but on the other hand, the smaller crowd created a more intimate setting. The renovated Atwood looks great, which makes me think that this could be a GREAT summer concert venue, like Clio used to be. Would be nice not to have to drive to DTE. Thanks again for this special event.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by kearsley72 on 08/16/09 at 3:44PM
What a wonderful night for old friends to unite to greet and welcome our home town brother Mark Farner. It was like a Kearsley high school reunion backstage in the V.I.P. room!!!! Mark is still so humble and gracious, greeting all his friends/fans with a hug!!!!!He STILL has it....."Rock and Roll SOUL"!!!!!! We love you Mark!! Thanks for coming home!!!!God Bless you, brother!!!!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by JustMy2Bits on 08/16/09 at 6:34PM
Ah, it was great to be part of a party in Downtown Flint again, a wonderful time was had by all. Kudos to the organizers / sponsors for bringing a home town guy to this venue and seeing him enjoy one of his lifelong dreams, to play Atwood Stadium! The renovations, so far, are good, please fix the lower steps to make it easier getting down to the field and back up into the stands again. It was awesome feeling the music reverberate through the evening air and move the crowd to join in singing and dancing the night away. The event was very enjoyable, and I echo thanks to the Shelton family for safe parking at a reasonable price.Let's utilize this facility and keep bringing the people back...wasn't that a party!?! Excellent, rock on!
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by farnerupdate on 08/16/09 at 10:13PM
Thanks to all that attended the Mark Farner Concert at Atwood Stadium! What a day! I wished I could have personally thanked each person in attendance . From every possible perspective of Atwood Stadium it looked like everyone was having a great time. Rhonda from Grand Blanc brought her air guitar and jammed with Mark’s every song. Go girl! Locomotion- how can anyone take that sitting down? Great performance by everyone! I appreciate all your positive comments! This was an incredible feat. Thanks to everyone for all the help. Sponsors, vendors, VIP caterer, thanks. Security, CSSI from Grand Blanc did an outstanding job!
A local company was initially contacted to provide the sound and stage for this event. However, per Mark Farner’s contract it could not be met locally. But, to set the record straight, that attempt was made. There is much more to planning an event like this than the poster has knowledge.We have already been contacted regarding making this an annual event. Who should be the next performer at Atwood 2010?
Lynn M SorensonPresident Flint Revival Inc.
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by bobjgumby on 08/16/09 at 10:58PM
Loved the concert and had a great time. Didn't pay the ridiculous price for parking because I walked from downtown. Could have done without the armed security guard warning us not to take anymore pictures. If you don't want pictures taken you should have posted it at the entrance. Stadium is looking great can't wait to see how it looks completed. I think there would be a lot more people there if you didn'y do it on the final day of Back to the Bricks. Perhaps you could do it the weekend between Back to the Bricks and the Crim. Why not keep the party going?
Inappropriate? Alert us.
Post a comment

Posted by cretin on 08/17/09 at 8:56AM
It was Soooo funny when Mark Farner turned his back on that Karen Smith when she tried to hug him-left her standing there on stage with her arms all outstretched-Ba-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Flint Revival Inc.

Lynn M Sorenson
President