Davison Index
This is the local newspaper I grew up with, and any paper I read from now on has to live up to the high standard it set. The Davison Index covers all the news that's important to residents of the Davison area from local elections to town festivals to high school sports. The paper devotes at least two pages in every issue to editorials and letters to the editor, setting a great example for openness and communication between the readers and the creators of the paper. They also offer reasonable classified and display ad rates and create special publications for the community such as business directories. I believe they also offer wedding invitations and other printing services at their offices.
St Johns Reminder
The St. Johns Reminder is purely a classified and business ads publication. It does its job well, but I guess I just expect a little more from a community paper, even a free one. Every once in a while they'll toss in some local news or a page on NASCAR, but they just tease you with content and then take it away the next week. But I still pick one up to see if there are any good coupons or ads from local businesses. And if I had to sell something, I'm sure I'd turn to their classified ads.
Sunshine Center
If you want to do your laundry in St. Johns, this is pretty much your only option, and it's conveniently located on US 27. Like many places in the city of St. Johns, I wish they were open later, but I'm just a night owl. Their washer and dryer costs seem slightly more expensive than other laundromats I've visited, but when you come right down to it, it probably only equals a few extra quarters over the course of a visit. In the past few years, they've become a much cleaner and overall more inviting place. They could use a few more large-load washers.
Michigan State University
I attended MSU, choosing it over schools like the University of Michigan, and I never regretted my decision. The campus is huge and there are tens of thousands of students, so if you want a small-college feel, then this probably isn't the school for you. Although specialized programs like Lymann Briggs and James Madison do offer a small liberal arts college atmosphere within a specific major. MSU's campus is beautiful, with lots of green areas and picturesque historical buildings. There are hundreds of student organizations and organized campus activities every weekend to keep you busy. I enjoyed my time in the dorms, and found MSU to offer much more student housing than many other schools. On the negative side, if you don't schedule carefully, you could face impossible treks across campus to get to your classes, and introductory classes, especially in the sciences, can be huge and impersonal. The school has a bit of a party reputation, exacerbated by past riots and similar situations. Their study abroad program is highly regarded and offers numerous opportunities to expand your world knowledge while also completing your education requirements. Overall, I just can't say enough good things about my time at MSU.
Impression Five Science Museum
This is a great spot for the young or the young at heart. Bring science to life at Lansing's only hands-on science museum. This was a staple of elementary school field trips, and it was always the best field trip of the year. I've since revisited it while doing some college volunteer work, and it was just as fun as ever, although some of the more kid-sized effects were lost to me. Special programs are offered throughout the year, or you can just drop by for a bit of exploration.
St John's Church
While I love the church I grew up in, nothing could compare to the experiences I had while attending St. Johns Student Parish while I was a student at Michigan State University. The priests are friendly and accessible and the parish is made up mainly of students, but with a devoted local resident core. There are numerous opportunities for fellowship and stewardship. But the best part of any mass is the music, as the predominantly student choirs bring the service to life.
Auntie Ms
Doll shops of this sort are really rare in the greater Flint area, and Auntie M's delivers. They specialize in collectible dolls, especially porcelain dolls, so the prices are expensive, but that's to be expected. The shop is conveniently located in downtown Davison and even stays open for special events like Friday car cruises so that more people have a chance to visit. The store is well-stocked without being overcrowded and the staff has always been friendly. They also carry stuffed animals like Beanie Babies.
St Johns City Library
The Briggs Public Library is one of the best libraries I've ever visited with friendly staff, pleasant decor and a great selection of books and magazines. While I'm not a part of the intended audience for these books, I've always been particularly impressed with their selection of the latest young adult/teen new releases. They also offer audio books and video rentals, as well as genealogical resources, book discussion groups, story times, and a used book sale the first Saturday of each month. When they have reading programs and contests, they always include something for adults (but I have to add the disclaimer that I probably like that aspect of the library because I've won prizes a few times). I just really can't say enough good things about this library.
Fantastic Sams
My husband always gets his hair cut here and they do a good job. I usually go with him, and the only time he's ever had to wait more than a few minutes for a stylist has been when a whole family got there right in front of us. They have a decent selection of magazines and coloring books for those left waiting and kids can get a sucker on the way out. The price is reasonable and includes a shampoo with any cut.
Potter Park Zoological Garden
I visited the Potter Park Zoo for the first time as an adult recently. It's not as impressive as somewhere like the Detroit Zoo, but I found it to be a great local zoo. They did a good job of maintaining the park atmosphere with ponds and shaded walkways while still housing a large selection of animals. The zoo offers animals from across the globe and even houses a small "petting zoo" area where you can get up close and personal with a tortoise and some goats. Prices were reasonable, although food and drinks were expensive like at most attractions of this sort, so just bring your own snacks. Would make a great field trip or family day.
