Featured photo: Jason Crutchfield, left, receives a community service award from Omar Batson, right, executive director of Chosen Few Arts Council. Photo by L. M. Land
Written by L. M. Land
In 1923, Berston Field House was built on land donated by the children of Flint land developer and philanthropist, Neil J. Berston.
One hundred years later, on July 22, 2023, this centennial anniversary was celebrated.
The 100th birthday party was given by the Chosen Few Arts Council and began with a parade. It featured water slides and other children’s activities, food trucks, The Black Rose Band and the Smooth Steppers dance group.
Valorie Horton, interim director of Berston, explained that most programs are free at Berston, such as after school programming, summer camp, line dance, tai chi, yoga, acupuncture and an attorney and a notary come twice a month. There are also sports, of course: basketball, boxing and other sports. If there is a charge, it is minimal.
Layana Batson, age 10, spoke about the history of Berston Field House. She spoke fondly of BB Bryant Nolden and how he helped people.
This sentiment was echoed by Vanessa Pringle, who grew up coming to Berston. Pringle represented the mayor’s office.
Omar Batson, executive director of Chosen Few Arts Council (and father of Layana) thanked everyone for coming. He also presented an award to Jason Crutchfield, boxing coach. The award is given annually in recognition of dedicated community service by a person in the city who has not yet been recognized.
Crutchfield was Clarissa Shield’s coach.
Crutchfield has been coaching steadily since 2003, and assisted Mr. Fielder before that. His coaching time is all donated, after working a full day at work. Coaching is available five days a week from 6-9 p.m.
“It keeps kids off the street; they’re here with me” Crutchfield explained. “Ten to 20 kids come every day.”
Berston Field House has a bold vision for the next 100 years. The addition of a brand-new, state-of-the art gymnasium and renovation of the existing historic facility is planned. They are creating a comprehensive indoor and outdoor sports and community center complex. Additional amenities and services for the Flint community will include new sports fields, a dedicated boxing gym, art and music rooms, dance studios, a bike room, a community room, an outdoor amphitheater and a splash pad.
Community projects include access to fresh fruits and vegetables through partnerships with community gardens, serving as a Genesee County Senior Center, engaging with entrepreneurial service providers to support economic development, and partnering with local health care providers for access to physical and mental health and wellness services.
Donations are appreciated to help build a better Berston Field House for the next 100 years. It is a 30-million-dollar project, Berston Field House is embarking on a capital campaign to raise funds. To donate to Berston Field House, go to https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=P6VWA9W2GEYE2 or https://berstonnext.org
