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As an independent, locally owned business we're proud of our community involvement and sponsorship of events and educational programs. This page summarizes highlights of our coverage by the media. We're also delighted by the recognition and awards we've received. | |||
 Here are a few of our most recent press clippings; links to articles published prior to 2005 can be found at bottom of page. |
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 Squirrel feeder classGrand
Blanc View Joseph Volker, naturalist at J. J. Cardinal’s Wild Bird & Nature Store, helps Aren S., 5 of Grand Blanc, make a squirrel feeder on April 9 at the shop. About six area children participated in the squirrel feeder class, which allowed the children to create a feeder out of three pieces of wood, four screws and half of a dried corn cob. During the week of spring break, the store offered a different class each day. Normally, the store, 12830 S. Saginaw St., offers about five classes a month, Volker said.
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Big Brother Project at JJ Cardinal's
Broadcast Date: Monday 03/23/08 In the event you missed it the short story is available online: |
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 Adopt-A-Pet
Gala & Silent Auction Your Magazine Vol. VI, No. 1 November 15, 2008 Camp Copneconic [the Gala & Silent Auction was a benefit for Fenton's Adopt-A-Pet] |
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Going
green: Businesses ride wave of environmentalism with flood of products The
Flint Journal Looks like going green isn't just good for the environment. It may also be good for business. Retailers and businesses across the area and nation are rolling out new eco-friendly initiatives and hoping to see some greenbacks in return... J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store in Grand Blanc is aiming to go bagless by Earth Day this week and is selling special totes to replace both paper and plastic ... The go-green message is firmly rooted at J.J. Cardinal's, where natural canvas totes sell for $9.95 each to replace disposable bags. Those totes can carry 30 pounds of bird seed, said Bob Worley, a naturalist at the store. [the above is a condensed version of Ms. Burden's article - the complete text is available at Flint Journal's website: http://www.mlive.com/flintjournal/business/index.ssf/2008/04/going_green_businesses_ride_wa.html] |
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Treasure awaits on a trail near town once called 'Grumlaw' FLINT
JOURNAL COLUMN GRAND BLANC - I doubt it's any secret that I cherish the Commons. A magnificent Grand Blanc treasure, it hopefully will be there for generations, a tribute to those who worked to secure it in perpetuity. I don't know their names, but I breathe a silent "Thank you" with every hike. There's something very special about this little piece of our pioneer history. With trees, meadows, trails and a stream, it's easy to slip back a century or so, and wonder what feet have trod similar paths, or maybe even some of the very same ones. In her 1973 booklet, "A Town Called Grumlaw," Ellen Venos put it this way: "As thousands of people daily drive, walk or cycle through Grand Blanc, it is difficult to imagine the territory as it was nearly one hundred and fifty years ago when only one 'white' family lived in the town called 'Grumlaw.'" On a recent Saturday, I pulled into a parking spot at McFarlen Library (another favorite destination) and met my much-admired friend, Louise Dawson of J.J. Cardinal's. Louise leads a hike in the Grand Blanc Commons at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month, an event I'm always eager to join.
As we walked toward the bridge over the creek, several spotted a pair of ducks swimming upstream, and it only got better as our little coterie moved along the footpath. This was a great game, and the high level of interest and questions continued to energize Louise. "What are these upside down Ds in this tree?" "What kind of a tree is this?" "Look at this funny insect with the red mark on its back - what is it? "What bird made that sound?" The questions came at a steady pace, and our well-informed guide had ready answers for virtually every one. I've been trekking those same paths with Louise and her varied groups since one bitter cold February morning several years ago. I quickly learned to dress more warmly for winter walks, and I now make probably 60 or 70 percent of these healthy and educational trips. I'm happiest when I see the younger set there, because they are the future protectors of this priceless natural habitat, and I am very thankful for Louise Dawson and the invaluable contributions she makes to our community. Jack Blosser can be reached at jablos@sbcglobal.net. |
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[screen prints above & right: Jonathan builds a bird house - captured from WJRT-ABC12 website]
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 ABC12 - WJRT TV Visits J.J. Cardinal'sTV news reporters were in Grand Blanc recently to capture a video story of Jonathan, a local 10-year old, building a bluebird nesting box with Louise Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinal's. The story aired on WJRT's Monday's Child, a regular news feature which ABC12 broadcasts to help promote the local Big Brother Big Sister program. Broadcast Date: Monday 03/31/08 |
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Louise Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature
Store of S. Saginaw Street, models the cotton tote the store is selling a |
Nature store nixing use of disposable bags GRAND
BLANC THE GRAND BLANC NEWS GRAND BLANC - When you buy something at J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store, you'll want to bring your own bag or tote. The progressive backyard and bird feed store is phasing out disposable paper and plastic bags by April 22. which is celebrated as Earth Day. Like grocery retailer Whole Foods, J.J. Cardinal's is joining a long list of environmentally conscious retailers abandoning throw-away bags. "We, along with thousands of other merchants. will keep roughly 100 million plastic bags out of the environment between that date (April 22) and the end of 2008, alone," owners Louise and Michael Dawson wrote to customers in a recent newsletter. Instead, the store will offer a natural 10-ounce cotton canvas tote at a discounted price of $9.95. The totes are shaped much like a traditional paper grocery sack. There will be a backup for customers who aren't aware of the change. "We'll always keep a small supply on hand for people who don't have their bag with them or didn't think they were going to go shopping," Louise Dawson said. They also have boxes available for larger items. Some bird seed will continue to come in 100 percent recycled plastic bags. Worldwatch Institute estimates Americans throw away about 100 billion plastic bags each year. The group says less than one percent are recycled. The bags can take up to 1,000 years to break down in a landfill, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Dawson kept an eye on a black plastic bag stuck in a large tree near the Grand Mall across the street from her store on Saginaw Street. "At first I thought it was crows up in the trees," she said. But a closer look through binoculars showed otherwise. Dawson said she kept noticing the bag for 10 years -- the amount of time it took for it to disintegrate and blow away. J.J. Cardinal's typically uses up to 200 bags a week, an assortment of plastic and paper. "But mostly the dreaded plastic bags," Louise Dawson said. The store's regular customers tend to be environmentally conscious consumers. Many have brought in their own recycled bags or totes for years. Shoppers will get a 5-cent discount for each bag they reuse - the same amount it would cost to provide a disposable bag. *** |
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Cure winter blues with nature
activities By Natalie Blythe VIEW Staff Writer GRAND BLANC — Ever wanted to learn how to build a bat house? Itching to take a nature hike through The Commons? J.J. Cardinal’s Wild Bird and Nature Store in Grand Blanc has just the answers for those questions with its upcoming schedule of events and workshops designed for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Store naturalists host two, one-hour nature hikes in February and March. Both hikes begin at 10 a.m. with the first on Feb. 2 and the second on March 1. Participants will meet in the parking lot behind McFarlen Public Library on Perry Road. Hikers will look for wintering birds, skeletons from last year’s plant life and other wildlife during the hike through The Commons Nature Preserve. Participants of all ages are invited to attend and dress for the weather. Bring field guides, binoculars and a friend. Warm refreshments will follow at J.J. Cardinal’s. Cost is $1 per person, which is donated to the preserve’s trail maintenance. On Feb. 4, the shop hosts a bluebird house building event at 4:30 p.m. Open to ages eight and up, the event teaches participants all about bluebirds and also allows them to construct a wooden bluebird house. Cost is $24.95 for the kit. Reservations are required. For people wanting to attract bats, J.J. Cardinal’s will teach participants how to build a bat house at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 8. The workshop will teach those ages six and up all about bats and how to attract them. Cost is $24.95 for the kit and registration is required in advance. A workshop all about dinosaurs will be held at 3:30 p.m. Feb. 13. [A video] Hosted by Martin Sheen, the event will touch on the history of dinosaurs and participants will make a dinosaur out of Crayola’s Model Magic. Cost is $5 per child and the event is open to children ages four and up. Reservations are required. To aid hikers on long trips, the store will host a workshop on making a rustic hiking stick at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 16. J.J. Cardinal Naturalist Bob Worley will discuss the origins of the hiking stick use and participants will be able to participate in the construction and decoration of a functional, rustic hiking stick. Cost is $10 each and open to ages eight and up. Registration is required. For more information or to register for any event, call J.J. Cardinal’s at 810-695-8733. J.J. Cardinal’s Wild Bird and Nature Store is located at 12830 S. Saginaw St. Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and noon-4 p.m. Sunday. |
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Nature hike eye-opening experience for
all By Jack Blosser Grand Blanc News Columnist
Arriving first, I enjoyed the quiet beauty and blue sky as I waited for my learned leader, who drove up moments later. Exchanging small talk, we were about to head out when a white SUV pulled in, and one very familiar little figure popped out. Even though it had been a year since we'd had the pleasure, we recognized the star of that show, Brody Rosol. Dad Marty, and sister Mandy, came with him. To say that we were delighted would be an understatement. It's always more interesting and enjoyable walking the trail with a group, especially if there are young people involved. Adding to the pleasure was the return of their beautiful and well-behaved black schnauzer, Chevy. Last November, Brody, Marty and oldest sister Courtney, brightened our morning hike with good questions, sharp comments and savvy observations. Louise always has insightful conversation as we walk along, adjusting to the grasp of the group while making a fun and educational experience. Together, we hit the trail for what was to be one of the most enjoyable and interesting strolls in some time. Brody was even more engaged and curious than last year. Everything, and I mean everything, was a question, and our guide not only rose to the occasion, she exceeded it. More energized than ever, she had a full response to every query. Louise always has a field book with her, instantly identifying the numerous bird sounds, showing a picture and demonstrating the whistle or call for her hikers. She's equally good with trees and grasses, which was especially helpful on this trek. Barely into the short journey, our perceptive little hiker spotted the red "X" spray-painted on a number of the trees. Louise explained about the invasion of the emerald ash borer, which killed the trees, and that the scarlet letter was there to mark their pending removal. Near the bridge, Marty spotted the moon, still visible at 10:30 a.m. With binoculars, we all got to see the craters on our satellite, surprisingly clear on this beautiful morn. I was impressed last year with how much our little 3-year old got out of the hike, but it paled beside his great curiosity about everything this day. Ever alert, Brody spotted a pair of cardinals, and then a small dead tree with seven holes neatly arranged near the top, one above the other. Louise told him it was probably the work of Downy Woodpeckers. He missed precious little else along the way. Our young pupil never ran out of steam, but Louise had to get back to her store. The enthusiasm and alertness one small hiker showed on this experience, and the information gained tells me he's going to be a good student. I sincerely hope he and his family return; we really need another generation caring for our irreplaceable Commons. Jack Blosser is a columnist for The Grand Blanc News and a
retiree who lives in Grand Blanc. He can be reached at jablos@sbcglobal.net.
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Finding common ground By
Kelly Skarritt Grand Blanc VIEW Staff Writer GRAND BLANC — As development continues to encroach on areas that once provided vast natural habitats, one parcel of land has been protected from the urban sprawl to become a tranquil sanctuary for all those who want a brief escape. No, residents don’t have to drive five hours north to achieve this state of peace — only a short jaunt to the library. Don’t go inside — this is not a place where only one’s imagination can travel. At the rear of the McFarlen Library complex off Perry Road, there’s a picturesque place that people might mistake for something they’ve read about in a book. The Commons of Grand Blanc, the city’s own nature preserve, was acquired in 1981 by the City of Grand Blanc. With the help of the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources and the Nature Conservancy, the city bought the 137 acres to be preserved forever in its natural state. “So many things are over-built today,” said City Manager Randall Byrne. He says he is happy that Grand Blanc residents have this natural haven to go to when the chaos of technology begins to get out-of-hand. “I think it is going to be even more important in the future.” Although many people enjoy the preserve’s five miles of nature paths, the park generally remains untouched, which allows the habitat to grow and flourish as it pleases. The wildness of the Commons also encourages many species to make their homes there. Louise Dawson, generally known as Grand Blanc’s resident naturalist, makes great use of the Commons. She’s likely its most frequent visitor, which has given her a respectful sense of ownership, prompting her to give names to most of the trails that wind throughout the preserve. “Over the years, people have come to call them those names,” said Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinals Wild Bird & Nature Store in Grand Blanc. Dawson said the city had considered placing permanent markers to mark each path’s name, but feared that the signs would become vandalized. Visitors to the preserve should first stop inside the library for a copy of a map that Dawson created, complete with trail names and the different sights nature buffs will encounter along the paths. Poison Ivy Trail is aptly named for the three-leaf nuisance that grows along the way. Teasel Down Trail not only highlights the plant from which it get its name, but also plays host to the creatures that find teasel down so alluring. “It’s always a highlight we look for — it (teasel down) attracts all sorts of interesting insects.” Thread Creek runs through the preserve, and some years ago a bridge was built to span the creek and separate the Commons’ two halves. Wooden benches also were built, but have fallen into disrepair over the years. The Dept. of Public Works performs light maintenance at the Commons, but for the most part the preserve is left to flourish as it pleases. “You don’t want to disturb anything; you don’t want to pick anything,” said Dawson, who reminds visitors to take only pictures and leave only footprints. For more information about J.J. Cardinals and its Commons-oriented activities, call Dawson at 810-695-8733. J.J. Cardinal’s staffers regularly host trail walks through the Commons. |
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Stephanie B., 14, an eighth-grader at Grand Blanc West Middle
School, smiles as a fledgling house sparrow she helped nurse back to health flies atop her
head. A short time later, the bird named Package took flight for good.
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Nature walk made more memorable by natural flight THE
GRAND BLANC NEWS
GRAND BLANC - Is it just me, or has 2007 been one of the most contradictory years for weather on record? Wasn't much of a winter (I loved it!), but spring has been playing hide-and-seek ever since March, and summer charged in at the last moment, about three weeks early. Hey, no complaints; a winter fan I'm definitely not, but last Saturday was a midsummer morn's dream (I think I owe someone an apology for theft and mutilation of a line!). I met J.J. Cardinal's Louise Dawson for her customary first Saturday Grand Blanc Commons nature hike. Granted, it was hot, even at our 10 a.m. start, and maybe that's why there were only the two of us. Too bad - few will ever top this one! The initial stop is always the meadow at the trail head, and Louise picks up on birdcalls too high-pitched for my ears. Just before I arrived, she'd spotted a bluebird, but I wasn't fortunate enough to add it to my list. Just sauntering, we took the long route to the bridge, enjoying a stand of beautiful yellow Goatsbeard flowers along the trail. In the distance, a red-bellied woodpecker's distinctive "kwirr" welcomed us to his (or her) domain. Not to be outdone, a little downy woodpecker chimed in with a rapid shinny of notes. Louise kept her Peterson Field Guide open so I could add picture to voice, always a big help to a novice. Just then, a remarkable happenstance turned a delightful morning into something most memorable. A lady and her two daughters appeared on the trail, one of the girls carrying a small wooden box topped by a piece of wide mesh screen. "Flight time?" asked a smiling Louise, who obviously knew their story. "Yes!" responded the young lady holding the container. Louise suggested I go take a peek, and the picture became very clear. The relaxed inhabitant was a fledgling house sparrow that had been rescued by the grandmother after falling from the nest at a mall in Birch Run. Nursed to its present state of robust health, Package, so named because of his travel mode, was now ready to fulfill his destiny. The only remaining barrier was lifted, and the little gathering waited expectantly for liftoff. Not surprisingly, our tiny feathered friend was in no particular hurry to abandon his comfortable life with a warm abode and all the worms he could eat. Finally, with just a little coaxing, off he flew - straight to the top of his host's head, seemingly quite content to stay. Persuaded to mount a finger, and jump-started once more, back he flitted to the same spot. Shortly, however, the little fellow did fly to a nearby tree, soon testing his wings by heading to a higher perch. Last seen, he was setting a new speed record with a strong flight toward more distant horizons. The balance of the morning may not have measured up to witnessing this coming of age, but it certainly wasn't anticlimactic. Gwen, a J.J. Cardinal's customer, had joined us just before the "launch," bringing her additional experience and familiarity to our hike. Other than our freedom trio, we met only a young man walking his bulldog on the trail. The day was fabulous, and with Louise's knowledge of flora and fauna, I found myself immersed in the lush beauty of the Commons. The magic of the surroundings created an unforgettable memory. Jack Blosser can be reached at jablos@sbcglobal.net. *** |
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New seed touted as better for birds THE GRAND BLANC
NEWS GRAND BLANC - Bird watchers may be amused to know that bird seed is subjected to side-by-side taste comparisons in much the same way humans are asked to do blind comparisons of Pepsi or Coke. Recent tests show that birds prefer a newly developed organic seed called NutraSaff 2-to-1 over traditional safflower seed, according to the seed's producer, Safflower Technologies International of Sidney, Mont. Mike Dawson, seed specialist at J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store, 12830 S. Saginaw Road, has been impressed with the new seed, which has been on the market for only two years. So he did his own test at home. Setting up two identical areas - one with regular safflower seeds, which are bright white and have a shell that birds leave behind, the other with NutraSaff - Dawson tracked feeding patterns. NutraSaff has a very thin outer hull and a higher oil, protein and fat content than traditional safflower seed. The manufacturer said it's easier for birds to eat and digest. Like people, birds are creatures of habit. Dawson said that initially, the birds ate the traditional seed. But after a couple of days, they were ignoring the old seed and eating NutraSaff twice as fast. "It's beak-smacking good," Dawson said. As an added bonus, squirrels don't like the new seed, and larger birds such as grackles and starlings, which some consider a nuisance, also don't care for it. Like gas prices, the price of bird seed can rise and fall significantly. NutraSaff sells at J.J. Cardinals for $7.40 for a 10-pound bag. "A store in Grand Rapids gets three times that (price)," Dawson said. He said the store makes every effort to keep its birdseed prices constant. But as food manufacturers look for alternatives to reduce trans fats, a new safflower oil could quickly be in high demand, and humans could be taste-testing NutraSaff as well. *** Grand
Blanc News is a weekly publication of the Flint Journal |
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Springtime Storytime
photo by Flint Journal, Grand Blanc News -- Sunday April 22, 2007 Louise Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinal's in Grand Blanc, reads a book
about bears to Dominique and her sister Gabrielle. |
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Nature Hike participants 11/04/06 [photo by Louise Dawson] |
Little guy makes big impact during nature walk
through Commons Flint Journal - Grand Blanc News Sunday, November 12, 2006 By Jack Blosser, Community Columnist
This isn't the column I intended to write, but that was before I met a very special little gentleman named Brody. I know that because when the introductions were made, he stepped right up and stated, "My name is Brody, and I'm 3 years old!" It was the first Saturday of the month, that special day when I'm excused from chores and get to take an educational and entertaining one-hour walk in our magnificent Grand Blanc Commons behind McFarlen Library. I didn't know just how memorable this day was going to be. Obviously well prepared for an adventure, Brody was properly attired for our crisp fall stroll. He very thoughtfully had brought along his dad, older sister and a beautiful black giant schnauzer. A few words of instruction from our peerless leader, Louise Dawson of J.J. Cardinal's, and we were off to explore the wonders of nature. Now, I have a good time on every one of those sorties, be it spring, summer, winter or fall, though some seasons are better than others. We're often joined by younger hikers from children's groups, some of whom quickly lose interest in flora and fauna, and start running hither and yon, totally ignoring the admonition to walk and remain on the footpath. Not Brody, however. Our little trekker stayed the course like a pro, with questions and comments that surprised the adults. Dad had to be awfully proud - not just of his youngest but also of his daughter, who earned extra credit for a school project on the outing. Hiking buddy Cliff and I brought up the rear, stopping to pick up flotsam and jetsam dropped along the trail by some of the less concerned. The muttering those hikers might hear is just an ancient curse we call down upon their carelessness. There's a stark beauty to the area as winter slowly tightens its chilly grip on the landscape. For example, you can now see from one trail to the next since the leaves have released their hold on the branches. It lends a whole new perspective to the walk - Mother Nature has dropped her green curtain, and many a previously hidden nest is visible among the bare branches. Toppled trees dot the now-exposed inner sanctum, giving rise to the age-old question, "Do falling trees make a sound if there's no one around to hear?" Brody didn't have an answer, but he had lots of queries of his own, most beginning with "Why?" The little guy was an absolute delight, and his presence and curiosity impressed Louise. He found a lonely caterpillar, joyfully showing everyone as it explored his mitten, before being gently returned to a weed. It was such fun rolling back the years to child-raising days, hearing again the sound of small voices, eager to learn. Most assuredly, we've got a real treasure in our magnificent preserve. I always enjoy the opportunity to visit the ever-changing landscape, but never as much as seeing it through the eyes of a little one. Thanks for coming, Brody. Here's to the next time! Jack Blosser can be reached at jablos@sbcglobal.net. |
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| Pounding
Flowers photo by Theresa Kelly, Grand Blanc View -- Thursday July 6, 2006 |
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| J.J. Cardinal's
had several people turn out for a craft activity last week. Attendees made shirts using
designs from flower petals and leafs. To transfer these designs they used a process
affectionately referred to as: "pounding flowers" - the plants are carefully
arranged on plain white t-shirts, covered with a board, and pounded with a hammer.
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Sighting photo by Cindy Bruett, Grand Blanc View -- Thursday January 19, 2006. Participants for the monthly bird walk and nature hike sponsored by Louise Dawson and J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store of Grand Blanc gather at the Commons in Grand Blanc.
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| Store
gives glimpse at local natural world by Cindy Bruett, Grand Blanc View -- Thursday January 12, 2006 |
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Avis Bowen helps Bridget and Brendan S. |
Grand
Blanc - For the past 15 years, Grand Blanc residents have had the opportunity to enjoy the
local flora and fauna and discover new information about the natural environment. On the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m., Louise Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinal's, leads nature enthusiasts through the Grand Blanc Commons located behind the McFarlen Library in search of new discoveries and learning adventures. One of the benefits of the nature hike is "to slow down just long enough to feel a connectedness with one's neighbors, with the earth, with the sounds of nature and the smells of life," Dawson said. The hikers learn about various seasonal observations, including Michigan's state birds, animal tracks, bird songs, plants, various vegetation and bats. In addition, Dawson may discuss shrub insect damage and the history of the Commons Nature Preserve. Each hike weekend unveils different discoveries based on the day's observations. Dawson suggests bringing binoculars to closely observe birds, nests and other findings. Participants may wish to bring a notepad, water and a friend. The one-hour guided hikes are free, but voluntary contributions are accepted and go toward the maintenance of the Commons. "After the walk (this Saturday) everyone came back to the store for hot cocoa and a cookie. We pulled books off the shelf and looked up plants we saw that we didn't know the name of," said Dawson. J.J. Cardinals also hosts several children's workshops. Upcoming events include Dinosaur Days, Activity Hour, Beetles and Bugs and Birdseed Mosaics. Call 810-695-8733 for reservations and fees. [more info: events calendar, Commons map] |
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. a photo story from Flint
Journal's |
 Debbie M. of Grand Blanc works with granddaughter Katie W. of Flushing on a Thanksgiving turkey centerpiece they made at a program at JJ Cardinal's in Grand Blanc.
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Giving Tree Benefits the Humane Society Grand Blanc View -- Thursday October 20, 2005 |
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Grand Blanc - JJ Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store
is again hosting its holiday "Giving Trees" event to benefit the Humane Society
of Genesee County. On Oct. 1, JJ Cardinal's began decorating two trees with Christmas ornaments and other various items for sale, with 20% of the proceeds from the sale going to the Humane Society. The store offers, among other items, science, nature, discovery and gardening supplies and gifts and is located at 12830 Saginaw Street. Call 810-695-8733. To donate to the Humane Society of Genesee County, drop off or mail checks to the Humane Society at P.O. Box 190138, G-3325 S. Dort Hwy., Burton, MI 48519. ### |
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| Giving tree decorators: Avis, Andrea and Louise GBView Photo by Jim Newell |
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Memories of moon gazing will eclipse
gloom of winter Flint Journal - Grand Blanc News Sunday, September 18, 2005 By Jack Blosser, Community Columnist
I went to a star party the other evening. The guests of honor were out in force, but I recognized very few. Clint Eastwood was nowhere to be seen, and Tom Hanks was another absentee, but the promised headliner did offer a glowing reception to each new arrival. McFarlen Library's parking lot already had a pretty fair number of visitors when the Lovely Alice Mary and I pulled in just after 8 o'clock a couple of Saturday nights ago. Moon viewing through powerful telescopes was the advertised lure, with the added hint of a possible peek later on at mysterious Mars should the weather cooperate. It didn't. The storied Red Planet will have to wait another month or two for more favorable conditions, but Lady Luna posed quite brightly for an enthusiastic crowd of admirers, craters and all. Richard Walker, Longway Planetarium director, brought along the biggest and most powerful portable telescope I've ever seen, and our host, Louise Dawson of J.J. Cardinals, had a mighty-mite bird-watching scope that wasn't all that far behind for one so small in comparison. It was a truly delightful and educational adventure. People came and went during the peak of the evening, some 80 enthusiastic sky watchers in all, most of them school-age. Richard maintained an enlightening patter, pointing out constellations, stars and galaxies, along with mind-boggling facts about celestial ages, times and distances. I'm reminded once again how fortunate we are to have a magnificent facility such as Longway just 10 miles away. An incredible computer-driven Digistar 2 has replaced the original Spitz Model B planetarium, state-of-the-art half a century ago. The unique shows are more than worth the short drive! Most visitors brought lawn chairs, and Louise furnished refreshments for the stargazers. Everyone, including the little folk, was polite and respectful of the delicate (and expensive!) equipment providing the drama. The evening was a Michigan masterpiece. Shirtsleeves worked for some, others found light jackets or sweaters more in order. Unfortunately, conditions for sky watching were a little less than perfect, but so great was the interest many were still looking and learning until after 10 p.m. A number of stimulating activities are happening all around the area, several of them outdoors. Following our soggy spring, it seems we've been blessed with an extended summer that might be one for the record books. The first Saturday in September was during the Labor Day weekend, so it wasn't surprising that only one other regular, Pam Atwell, showed up for Louise's monthly Grand Blanc Commons hike. I didn't get to see the Monarch butterfly migration that often blankets its flourishing meadows there as I'd hoped, but I did observe bees loading up on pollen from the vibrant wildflowers. The memory of that beautiful morning will help sustain me until spring. These are golden days, an absolute bonus, and even for snow enthusiasts, it can't get any better than an autumn's splendor. You all know how I regard Old Man Winter, so my heartfelt suggestion is to get outside and soak up the best that Michigan has to offer while it lasts. ### Jack Blosser can be reached at jablos@worldnet.att.net |
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| a photo story
from Flint Journal's Grand Blanc News Community section 09/11/05; photos by Flint Journal photographer Keith King |
top left: Louise
Dawson (left) of Grand Blanc and Pam Atwell of Flint Township
search the sky for a cedar waxwing bird at the Grand Blanc Commons nature preserve.
Dawson coordinates a nature hike on the first Saturday of each month for people to
identify and enjoy plants, birds and other facets of nature. above left: A bee gathers pollen on a goldenrod plant at the nature preserve. above right: Atwell searches for birds with her binoculars at the nature preserve. |
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 above: TerraServer.com aerial image of Commons & surrounding area (8/1/03) |
Nothing is quite as
refreshing as a morning walk in the woods Flint
Journal column - The Grand Blanc News Sunday, July 17, 2005
The first Saturday of July was one of those incredibly picturesque mornings. A walk in the woods was my initial thought, immediately followed by the realization that Louise Dawson normally led a group for an hour on the Grand Blanc Commons trail that day every month. Would she be doing it this holiday weekend? A quick call to J.J. Cardinal's verified my hope, and a glance at the clock suggested I double-hustle. John, a gentleman somewhat near my generation, and his delightful grandson, Conner, 7, were waiting at the trailhead when I arrived. Shortly after, Louise pulled up, followed directly by regulars Pam and Cliff. An application of bug spray and we were off, six seekers of elusive flora, fauna and fowl. The meadow at the edge of this priceless area is still pristine, allowed to flourish at nature's whim. Benches have been provided just off the path to facilitate observation. With binoculars, a good ear and a sharp eye, there are nearly always things to see and hear. Of course, a well-timed prompt from a trained guide or an experienced outdoorsman helps us rookies immensely. Pam's good company; she's a studier and carries on an educated discourse with Louise. Cliff is no slouch, either, with a keen instinct for nature, but I get my jollies from his quick and sometimes slightly irreverent wit. John was armed with a bird field guide, and young Conner was remarkably interested and connected for one of such tender years. Once again, I brought up the rear, but I still had a fun time. Entering the forest, I was struck by the lush fullness of the foliage. It's like a green jungle - the tops of the trees appeared to have grown together, forming a verdant canopy.
Our trek took us along a ridge, then back beside the creek toward the bridge. Conner spotted what he thought were butterflies. He learned that if the wings are flat out each side at rest, the insect is a dragonfly, and if they are held upward together, it's a damselfly. Standing on the bridge, it was clear that the famed Press on Regardless canoe race was held at the right time. The big rock just south of the span now sits in about an inch of water, and fallen trees once again block the creek. Today, the contest would be less about skill and more about strength. Our guide had taken all the time she could from a busy enterprise and had to return to the store. She collects a dollar from each hiker for the upkeep of the Commons. This magnificent haven is certainly one that must be preserved for future generations. I appreciate the time, effort and knowledge Louise Dawson gives to the community, but a
couple of times a year, we need many more hands to really maintain our local treasure. |
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Commons' use most uncommon THE FLINT JOURNAL • Monday, June 13, 2005 By Bob Wheaton bwheaton@flintjournal.com • 810.766.6375 GRAND BLANC - Lynn Garner is glad she lives next to the Grand Blanc Commons so her children can check out the wildlife on its nature trails. "The Commons are pretty much straight out our back yard, so the kids kind of go back and explore the area," she said. "We have a raccoon that lives in a tree behind our house and a possum that comes out frequently."
Access to the nature trail is at an out-of-the-way location - the back of the McFarlen Library parking lot, 515 Perry Road. "I think a lot of people don't know where the access might be," Garner said. "Around in this neighborhood, certainly everyone knows about it." Dawson, owner of J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird and Nature Store in Grand Blanc, said people who walk the trail can spot all the typical backyard birds and 18 varieties of warblers. If you're lucky, you might see deer, foxes, raccoons, muskrats, beavers or wild turkeys. A bridge crosses Thread Creek. The 137-acre Grand Blanc Commons is owned by the city of Grand Blanc. It's not as well-known as two other community parks - Creasey Bicentennial Park in Grand Blanc Township, where people flock to play softball and baseball, and Physicians Park in Grand Blanc, the site of summer concerts and many picnics. "The majority of the use is people taking their dogs for a walk," said Kae Eidson, director of Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation. "They do some birdwatching there. When you don't have a lot of scheduled activities at a place, I think sometimes people tend to forget that it's there." In 1978, the city asked the nonprofit Nature Conservancy to buy the land that would become the Commons from owner Elizabeth McFarlen, Eidson said. Two year later, the city used grant funds to buy the park, she said. J.J. Cardinal's conducts guided tours of the trails at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of every month. People who go there "definitely want to bring bug spray," Dawson said. © 2005 Flint Journal |
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| photo by Emily
Dudderar - caption by Flint Journal: Keith R. of Grand Blanc and his dog, Luther, take their daily walk Saturday along the Grand Blanc Commons nature trail behind McFarlen Library. |
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Little-known gem LOCATION: Off Perry Road behind the McFarlen Library in Grand Blanc. WHAT IT IS: 137 acres of nature trails padded with wood chips. There are picnic tables near the start of the trails. OWNER: City of Grand Blanc. MAPS AVAILABLE: www.jjcardinal.com/commons.htm |
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above: this glass feeder has three bright, glass, hibiscus blooms
that are inserted into nectar in the body of the feeder. |
 THE FLINT JOURNAL Sunday, April 24,
2005
According to www.hummingbirds.net, the first ruby-throated hummingbirds, the only ones normally seen in Michigan, arrived April 16. So how do you get them to your yard? "Put a red ribbon on the feeder," said Daniel Cruz, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Store in Flint Township. "They love the waving red and they'll come around faster." Cruz likes feeders that have perches, so the birds will sit and rest a bit, offering a closer look in the bargain. Louise Dawson, owner of JJ Cardinal's Wild Bird and Nature Store in Grand Blanc, said the birds are attracted to a device that continuously sprays a very fine mist of water that the birds can bathe in.
"The hummingbirds just love to fly in the mist - it's like a fine summer rain. They get their wings wet, then preen and get clean." If arranged over a bird bath, Dawson said the mister will create light reflection on the water surface that will attract birds too. Besides feeders, ribbons and misters, flowers in red and other bright colors attract hummingbirds. Some of Cruz's favorites are impatiens, fuchsia and petunias. Flowers that are tubular in shape work well, Dawson said. Red and other bright colors attract the birds. She is partial to trumpet creeper. "I think that's their number one favorite," she said. Other flowers that Dawson recommends include cardinal flower, phlox, coral bells, summersweet, lantana and bee balm (bergamot). Dawson said she learned from a botanist that attraction to red is a learned response, not an instinct for hummingbirds. "The reason is that red flowers tend to have the biggest nectar pots, so the birds learn to go there," she said. "So they learn that red is what they want, and other bright colors just follow." Where should dinner be served? If the feeder is close to or attached to a window, placing decals or sun catchers on the glass is a good idea so the birds don't fly into it. What's on the menu? "Take a cup of sugar, four cups of water and boil it until the sugar dissolves," Cruz said. "It's not necessary to color the water, because if the feeder is red or there are red ribbons on it, they'll find it." Purchased nectar generally does not need to be boiled; follow the package directions, though. Unwanted guests As for bees and wasps, some feeders have a mechanism that the insects can't penetrate, but that hummingbirds easily can poke their beaks through. Clean up is important "If it gets 'sludgy' inside, you can put some raw rice in with hot water and shake it around," Dawson said. "That keeps it nice and shiny clean." Buffet is set, but no one eats "If you don't have mature trees or shrubs, you're probably not going to see them. I tell people not to waste their money buying feeders if they don't have the vegetation that hummingbirds like." Where'd they go? "The eggs are the size of a Tic-Tac, and the babies even tinier," Dawson said. "It's special when the mother brings the babies to the feeder where we can see them." Finding the birds in their natural habitat, other than at flowers, is difficult at best, Cruz said, so it's best to stick to feeders and flowers. "It's very rare to see a nest," he said. "They're tiny and usually are in tree branches that hang away from the tree." Spider webbing is used along with other natural fibers. The webbing gives the nest elasticity, so it can contract around eggs to keep them warm when mom is off the nest. Don't stop feeding too early "Their migration is triggered by length of daylight," Dawson said. "Some people are afraid that continuing to feed will keep them from going, but that's not the case. The light drives their desire to leave." Helen S. Bas (810) 766-6244 or hbas@flintjournal.com © 2005 Flint Journal |
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below: a feeder attached to a window provides a close view of dining
hummingbirds. (All feeders on this page, and others, are available at J.J.
Cardinal's in Grand Blanc.)
captions from Flint Journal; |
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Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce Business Index
newsletter - March 2005 Chairman's Award
Dinner Thursday, March 10, Warwick Hills Country Club
This event would not be possible without the help of our sponsors who share with us the excitement and appreciation of the unselfish efforts of the people we will be honoring March 10. With that, the Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank the following sponsors: Al Serra Auto Plaza, Dukes Communications, Blessings Plumbing and Heating, Mott Community College, University of Michigan-Flint, Bank One, SAM'S Club, HealthPlus of Michigan, Woodfield Golf & Country Club, Kettering University, and Remax Grande. [for more info visit the GB Chamber website: www.grandblancchamber.org] |
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Learning about nature Flint Journal - Grand Blanc
News [above] Amber, 5, of Flint cuts out the wooly bear she created while taking part in the learning craft activity at J.J. Cardinal's in Grand Blanc. Amber came to the event, overseen by Kelly Nelson of J.J. Cardinal's, with her grandmother Mary VanDyne of Grand Blanc. |
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AMERICASMART celebrate Home
Accents Today magazine (photo story) [photo and text by Home Accents Today; Louise and Avis were in Atlanta for an annual nature and gift tradeshow, business-expo and seminars. Bovano of Cheshire creates exquisite enameled art, which continues to be enormously popular at J.J.'s] |
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| J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store ® |
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12830 S. Saginaw St., Grand Blanc, MI 48439 810-695-8733 |
updated 05/02/09 illustrations, text & fun © J.J.
Cardinal's 1992-2009
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This one got a special "page" in my memory
book. Several fellow travelers already were waiting, and even more showed up before we
headed down the trail. Along with some adults, we had children of all ages, well behaved
and very curious, with lots of questions. All the lads and lasses were alert to the sights
and sounds of nature. 
Ever
had a delightful experience that was so much fun you'd love to do it again, and then got
the chance? Well, it happened to me a couple weeks ago at my favorite stomping grounds,
the Grand Blanc Commons. A perfect morning welcomed me as I headed for my First Saturday
nature walk with admired friend, Louise Dawson, owner of J.J.
Cardinals. 
Following the law of the
trail - "anything hanging over the path can be picked" - our peerless leader
held out a piece of Indian Bed Straw for Conner so he could discover something unique
about the plant: a square stem. She then carefully folded the foliage to show us how it
earned its name: a primitive, but effective mattress cover stuffing. Its crackling brought
back old memories - I briefly worked for a Port Huron farmer and heard that sound every
time I moved in bed. 
Many people aren't so
familiar with the nature trail. "Out of five visits, I might run into somebody
once," said Louise Dawson, who leads guided tours of the Commons.
"It's pretty low-use, but it's safe. I don't think people know about it,
frankly." 
