Discover Montcalm Podcast

Quick answer: Superintendent Ryan Biller, leading Tri-County Area Schools since January 2024, provides updates on the district. Formed in the early 1960s, Tri-County has seen major campus improvements from a 2019 bond, including a new elementary school and modern science classrooms. Future plans include repurposing properties, transforming McNaughton Elementary into an Early Learning Center, and u...

Quick answer: Episode 145 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast introduces its new “Chatting Local” segment, featuring Chris Jane, host of “What’s Up Big Rapids.” This infotainment-style podcast, co-hosted with Pat Brooks, explores local stories, culture, and community insights in Mecosta County, aiming to connect with and understand the people behind local happenings. Key Takea...

Quick answer: Jennifer Radtke is the new Executive Director of the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce, a role announced in June 2025. She is featured in Episode 144 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, discussing her professional background and passion for local business. The Chamber, established in 1924 and incorporated in 1947, is Montcalm County’s only fully staffed Chamber, supporting economic g...

Quick answer: Michael’s Pizzeria, located at 11468 Pine St. in Gowen, Michigan, is a new pizza spot owned by Michael Ward. Featured in Episode 143 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, it’s gaining buzz for its delicious, handcrafted sauce and fresh, bold-flavored pizzas. It’s considered a great option for pizza in Montcalm County. Key Takeaways Michael’s Pizzeria is a new pizza establishm...

Quick answer: Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th, commemorates the official adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. While the vote for independence occurred on July 2nd, the 4th became the recognized holiday as it was the day the final document was approved and made public. It serves as a time for reflection on the evolving ideas of freedom, equality, and America’s continu...

Quick answer: The Discover Montcalm Podcast episode “Montcalm Events – Markets – Stories” features host Duane Weed and Kara exploring Montcalm County life. They discuss local events like Sheridan Spring Fest and Tri Greenville Triathlon, farmers markets, artisan vendors, and agricultural traditions. The episode highlights local history, museums, scenic trails, and upcoming events such...

Quick answer: The Lakeview Festivals Committee, featuring Joe Sweet, organizes family-focused events in Lakeview, Montcalm County, to promote community and give back through service. Guided by values like Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, Respect, and Teamwork, they coordinate annual events such as Summerfest, FallFest, Christmas in Lakeview, and a Halloween Decorating Contest, fostering small-to...

Quick answer: MAISD (Montcalm Area Intermediate School District) is a critical support system for local school districts in Montcalm County, Michigan. It provides services like career and technical education at the Montcalm Area Career Center, special education, early childhood services, and professional development for educators. Led by Katie Flynn, MAISD aims to ensure equity, innovation, and op...

Quick answer: The Montcalm Area Career Center (MACC) positively impacts students by fostering career readiness, communication skills, and teamwork through programs like digital arts and ag science. Host Duane Weed shares how MACC prepares students for real-world success, boosting confidence and connecting them with industry, as highlighted in a special Discover Montcalm podcast episode. Key Takeaw...

Quick answer: Episode 137 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, hosted by Duane Weed, features Volunteers in Action (VIA) at The Gathering Place in Montcalm County. VIA is a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit supporting critical programs like Basics & Beyond, Community Connections, and Life Literacy, focusing on giving back through financial contributions or time to help the community. Key Takeaways...

Quick answer: Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May, dedicated to honoring U.S. armed forces members who gave their lives in service. Its origins trace back to the Civil War’s aftermath, when communities held ‘Decoration Day’ tributes. After World War I, it expanded to honor all military dead, becoming a federal holiday in 1971. Key Takeaways Memori...

Quick answer: In Home Technologies, based in Six Lakes, Michigan, provides customized entertainment, information, and communication systems for homes and businesses. Since 2005, owner Brent Wilcox and his team, with over 25 years of industry experience, deliver solutions like TV mounts, surveillance, Wi-Fi, and home automation, distinguished by their personal touch in guiding customers through sys...

Quick answer: Michigan’s $6 billion fresh produce industry is in danger due to soaring labor costs, driven by the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for H-2A guestworkers, which has increased over 50% in a decade. This unpredictability makes farming unsustainable, leading to the loss of 16,000 acres of fruits and vegetables. This crisis impacts 40,000 jobs and over $350 million in annual payrol...

Quick answer: Montcalm Vibe, founded by Joe Knight, is a “Live & Local” 24/7 streaming service and local media platform for Montcalm County, Michigan. It broadcasts upbeat music from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s, while spotlighting local events, businesses, and community stories. Joe Knight aims to foster connections and amplify local voices through innovative broadcastin...

Quick answer: Discover Montcalm Podcast Episode 132 features the Ionia Montcalm Secure and Friendly Environment (SAFE) Child Advocacy Center, which protects children aged 2 to 17 in Ionia and Montcalm Counties. The center provides multi-disciplinary investigations, assessment, and treatment for child abuse, including sexual abuse, severe physical abuse, human trafficking, and internet exploitation...

Quick answer: Montcalm Road Commission episode 131 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast delves into the rich history and essential role of the Montcalm Road Commission. It covers its founding in 1919, the evolution of its leadership, and its current mission to maintain over 1,500 miles of roads in Montcalm County. Managing Director Rob Putnam shares valuable insights on infrastructure and road safety....

Quick answer: Discover Montcalm Podcast Episode 130 spotlights Ann’s Styling Salon, known as the ‘Home of the $5 Haircut!’ in Stanton, Michigan, offering flexible appointments. It also features American Legion Post 452, a Stanton community cornerstone established in 2011, which supports local veterans and their families, operating as a lodge and hosting community events like all-you-ca...

Quick answer: The Discover Montcalm Podcast episode 129 features Amanda Sturm, the Agriscience Instructor at Montcalm Area Career Center (MACC) and leader of the Montcalm FFA program. She is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in agriscience, agribusiness, and natural resources, fostering leadership and practical skills through hands-on experiences and comprehensive agricultural...

Quick answer: Unlocking Economic Growth ep 128 highlights the collaborative efforts of the Montcalm Economic Alliance (MEA) and The Right Place to foster business growth and community development in Montcalm County. This partnership strengthens local businesses, attracts new opportunities, and promotes the region as an ideal location for work, play, and entrepreneurship, leveraging its strong manu...

Quick answer: Business Growth Engine helps businesses unlock potential by consolidating 16 different software solutions into one easy-to-use platform. This eliminates software clutter, multiple logins, and wasted spending, enabling streamlined client data management, simplified team training, enhanced email marketing, and automated project tasks to boost efficiency and growth. Key Takeaways Busine...

Quick answer: According to Village Manager Mike Falcon, Howard City, Michigan, located in Montcalm County, is a growing community offering small-town charm with significant opportunities. He highlights its easy access to the US-131 Expressway and the scenic White Pine Trail, making it an ideal place for families, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts to live, work, and play. Key Takeaways Howard Cit...

Quick answer: “Stanton Glass episode 125” of the Discover Montcalm Podcast features Dan VanderVlucht, owner of Stanton Glass, discussing his life and career journey in Montcalm County. He shares his dedication to the community, from his roots at Carson City-Crystal High School to coaching and eventually purchasing Stanton Glass, a business providing comprehensive glass services for aut...

Quick answer: Supporting local businesses like DW Video & Multimedia, LLC in Howard City, Michigan, fuels the local economy and creates jobs, making a significant difference beyond a simple purchase. While no community can be 100% local due to reliance on external sources for certain goods, prioritizing local purchases whenever possible ensures more money stays within the community, helping i...

Quick answer: The MAISD Education Memorial Tribute, featured on Episode 123 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, honors the lives and legacies of Kyle Hamlin and Steve Foster. These individuals significantly impacted Montcalm County through their contributions to education, leadership, and community support, with their full stories available in previous podcast episodes. Key Takeaways The MAISD Educa...

Quick answer: Continuous Miracle WGLM 106.3FM is a radio program hosted by Mike White, airing Sundays from 11 AM to noon on WGLM 106.3FM. The show focuses on sobriety, personal transformation, and the journey to recovery, aiming to educate the public about addiction, reduce stigma, and offer hope to those battling substance use disorders through real stories and expert perspectives. Key Takeaways...