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BLACKSTONE’S PUB & GRILL GRAND OPENING

(FLINT, MICHIGAN, April 17, 2009) -- A press conference and ribbon cutting ceremony this morning at 10:00 a.m. at Blackstone’s Pub & Grill welcomed the newest and what’s sure to be one of downtown Flint’s favorite eateries. The grand opening is impressive, to say the least, considering it is just seven months after the announcement that the former Blackstone’s Clothier, located between the Wade Trim and the Mott Foundation Buildings on S. Saginaw St, would be turned into a pub and grill with an Irish American motif. Read the articles from The Flint Journal and ABC 12.

“In these times I believe people would like to get back to the basics, and I think that we are offering that type of atmosphere,” explained Dave Lurvey, co-partner of Blackstone’s and Vice President of Siwek Construction. “My hope is that Blackstone’s generates great enthusiasm and fun, as well as continued rejuvenation and opportunities for good food and entertainment in downtown Flint.”

The project was developed by Lurvey and partner Keith Green, an advisor for LPL Financial. Lurvey and Green managed the construction and renovation of the former men’s clothing store, turning the 6,600 sq. ft. space that had been vacant for many years into an environment that caters to downtown business people and students of area universities. The architect for the project was Gazall, Lewis & Associates, Architects, Inc. Blackstone’s is another in a series of projects brought to downtown Flint by Uptown Reinvestment Corporation. To view other downtown projects visit www.uptownreinvestment.org.

Rich colors, inlaid panels and cultured-stone walls, a wood bar, and an exposed steel ceiling make up the fundamental décor and maintain the building’s authenticity. Seven plasma TVs are strategically located throughout the pub for easy viewing of entertainment, news and sporting events. Plus, for even more fun, there is music, two pool tables, and an overhead projector that will be used for, among others things, Nintendo Wii and Guitar Hero.

Complimenting the interior, the exterior façade features cultured stone, inlaid panels, and a restoration of the original Blackstone’s sign. Open air seating will be accessible during warmer weather, with the doors opening to the sidewalk for participation in summer festivals like Back to the Bricks and The Crim.

Upscale food at a reasonable price is what the menu offers, including Shepherd’s pie, Guinness stew, salads and burgers. The restaurant accommodates more than 120 people and employs over 50 staff members. Hours of operation are:

• Monday through Wednesday – 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
• Thursday through Saturday – 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
• Sunday – 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

“It is so exciting to see downtown Flint continue to grow at a rapid rate,” noted Tim Herman, Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO. “Blackstone’s Pub & Grill is a prime example of that rapid growth. From inception to completion in seven months is extraordinary in this economy. I applaud Dave Lurvey and Keith Green for their diligence and hard work, and I look forward to other projects the downtown community will see come to fruition."

For more information, to view the menu or to complete an application check out Blackstone’s web site at www.blackstonesgrill.com.