Flushing is known for its abundance of small-town charm. Located west of Flint with easy access to the expressway, Flushing allows its citizens to enjoy the advantages of a metropolitan area while residing in a small town. “Flushing is a great place to live!” says lifelong resident Terry Bigelow. Lovely neighborhoods, good schools, an historic and vibrant downtown and eight parks are just a few of the things that make Flushing idyllic. Annual events and festivals, such as the Christmas Candlewalk and the Fall Festival contribute to Flushing’s classic, small-town-America character and sense of community.
It’s Friday evening in Downtown Flushing. Purple “Welcome” banners and baskets overflowing with pink flowers line the city’s charming Main Street as diners at Kathy’s Restaurant & Lounge gather for a meal on the outdoor patio. Sipping refreshing strawberry-pomegranate coolers and savoring avocado and basil grilled chicken … life is good!
Fandangles’ is well known in the community for its exceptional catering. But if you venture to the small Flushing eatery, you’ll discover much more than creative cuisine. Dining in-house gives patrons the opportunity to become patrons of the arts, as well. Every month, the artwork displayed on the restaurant walls changes in what co-owner Tom Price calls “a unique method for taking part in our community.”
Since 1970, The Flushing A has been the go-to place for hot dogs and refreshing root beer floats. Formerly an A&W franchise, the name was changed to Flushing A in 2000 when the franchise was given up, and now the unique drive-in/dine-in restaurant is a local landmark.
Fenton Township is home to 19 beautiful lakes, the crown jewel of which is Lake Fenton. The largest in the area, Lake Fenton is an 845-acre, natural spring-fed lake 90 feet deep. Called Long Lake until 1932, its rich history is beloved by Bonnie Mathis, Fenton Township Supervisor and a longtime riparian. “This lake means everything to me,” she smiles. Bonnie grew up in a home on Lake Fenton, raised two daughters in Fenton Township and now enjoys lake living again with her grandchildren, who will be the fifth-generation to spend their summers on Case’s Island. While Lake Fenton is now surrounded by beautiful homes, Bonnie remembers a time when it was a recreational spot that attracted visitors from all over. She recently spent an afternoon with My City Magazine sharing photographs, fond memories and information she has gathered about the lake’s history.
