Discover Montcalm Podcast

Quick answer: Farm Country Cheese House, a Montcalm County establishment in Lakeview, Michigan, has crafted high-quality cheeses since 1984, utilizing fresh, hormone-free milk from local Amish farms. Cheese making involves foundational steps such as milk selection, acidification, coagulation, cutting and cooking curds, draining whey, salting, shaping, pressing, and aging to develop distinct flavor...

Quick answer: Farm Country Cheese, located near Lakeview, Michigan, has produced fresh, antibiotic-free, artisanal cheeses since 1984. Featured on the Discover Montcalm Podcast, it’s known for supporting Michigan family dairy farms, using natural milk, and offering specialty cheeses like “Michigan Jack” and unique curds. Owned by Andrew and Nicki Arens since 2018, the company prides itself o...

Quick answer: Smiling Acres Music Festival, located outside Trufant, is a family-friendly community event that showcases musical talent and positively impacts its county. It boosts the local economy by attracting visitors and supporting local businesses, provides a platform for local musicians, strengthens community bonds, and promotes the area as a tourist destination, offering entertainment for...

Quick answer: Next Generation Bull Riding (NGBR) is coming to the Montcalm County Fairgrounds on June 22 for an adrenaline-pumping event. This showcase features top pro and youth bull riders, Jr. American Freestyle Bull Fighting with real Spanish fighting cattle, and fast-paced barrel racing, promising two hours of non-stop action and community entertainment for families. Key Takeaways Next Genera...

Quick answer: Kelton Blaser, a rising bull riding star from Greenville High School, competes with Next Generation Bull Riding (NGBR). NGBR provides comprehensive, safe, and mentored training for young rodeo athletes in all aspects of the sport. Kelton will showcase his talents at the Montcalm County Fairgrounds, demonstrating NGBR’s commitment to fostering young talent and ensuring the sport...

Quick answer: Memorial Day in Montcalm County is a time for deep reflection and gratitude, honoring brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. It brings communities together through parades, flag displays, and visits to local cemeteries like those in Greenville and Stanton, fostering remembrance, unity, and appreciation for veterans’ stories and the freedoms they se...

Quick answer: Exploring Creativity in Montcalm County highlights local talents Makenna Weber, a photographer, videographer, and graphic designer, and Seth Thomas Sutton, an Arts and Humanities instructor at Montcalm Community College. The county’s picturesque landscapes inspire artists, while the college’s Digital Arts program offers pathways for students to pursue careers in commercia...

Quick answer: Montcalm County 4-H empowers youth by instilling valuable life skills such as responsibility, teamwork, perseverance, adaptability, problem-solving, and leadership through hands-on experiences. The Montcalm County Fairgrounds serves as a vital hub, hosting the annual 4-H Fair and other community events, providing a platform for members to showcase their talents and fostering communit...

Quick answer: Valerie VanderMark has significantly enriched Montcalm County’s arts scene through her lifelong dedication to performing arts. She spent 34 years as Performing Arts Coordinator at Montcalm Community College and now directs the MCC Alumni & Friends Choir, inspiring community members. Her work fosters unity and cultural enrichment, uplifting the community through music and pe...

Quick answer: Mark Lavengood, through Bear Mark Productions in Coral, Michigan, is a renowned musician, singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and multi-instrumentalist enriching Montcalm County’s music scene. Known as “Huggy Bear” for his optimism, he dedicates decades of experience to enhancing performances and spreading joy, love, and inspiration, significantly contributing to the...

Quick answer: The Community Business Expo episode 84 features the first annual expo sponsored by the Howard City Area Chamber of Commerce. Host Duane Weed, producer of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, delves into the event, spotlighting local chamber members and the benefits of membership for the area’s growth and community unity. Key Takeaways The Community Business Expo is the first annual e...

Quick answer: Kara Stevens of M106.3FM and Duane Weed, host and producer of Discover Montcalm Podcast, are collaborating to spotlight the people, businesses, and attractions of Montcalm County, Michigan, and its surrounding areas. They aim to uncover local gems and vibrant spirits through captivating interviews with community members, offering unique perspectives on the region. Key Takeaways Kara...

Quick answer: To protect your internet privacy, ensure devices have up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software, and regularly update operating systems and applications. Use strong, unique passwords with a password manager, and enable two-factor authentication. Be cautious of unfamiliar links and attachments, avoid oversharing personal details on social media, and never provide sensitive inform...

Quick answer: Promoting Montcalm episode 81 outlines the vision for the Discover Montcalm Podcast, introducing two new series. ‘If This Barn Could Talk’ explores Montcalm County’s agricultural heritage through stories of old barns and farming families. ‘People Behind the Sign’ highlights individuals from local businesses, organizations, and schools, celebrating their...

Quick answer: “Backwoods Sugar Shack episode 80” features Cody Rockafellow, who started the Backwoods Sugar Shack in Six Lakes, Michigan, in 2016, building on a family tradition of maple syrup production since 2008. The business now taps over 4000 maple trees, requiring approximately 45-48 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of Michigan-made maple syrup. Key Takeaways Backwoods Sugar...

Quick answer: The Howard City Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its first year as a 100% volunteer organization. Led by President Bruce Williams, the chamber focuses on building its foundation, attracting members, and addressing community needs in Howard City, Michigan. Initiatives include fostering networking opportunities, promoting economic growth, and planning events like the return of t...

Quick answer: Jim Aaron is the owner and DJ of WGLM 106.3 FM, a local radio station in Greenville, Michigan, serving Montcalm County. Episode 78 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast explores Jim’s role and the importance of local radio, which connects residents, businesses, and organizations by providing news, music, community events, and a platform for local voices. Key Takeaways Jim Aaron is t...

Quick answer: Howard City Small Business Saturday empowers the community by encouraging local purchases, which supports small businesses throughout Montcalm County. This annual event, originating in 2010, strengthens local enterprises, creates jobs, and fosters a thriving community by highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses year-round in Howard City, Michigan. Key Takeaways Smal...

Quick answer: The MCC Tech Fest is a drop-in community technology festival designed to inspire and engage high school and college students, parents, and community members. It showcases self-paced, hands-on stations led by students and industry professionals, covering various technological aspects. The event aims to foster innovation, provide valuable skills, and ignite a passion for technology, mo...

Quick answer: “Beyond the Business Sign” is a segment of the Discover Montcalm Podcast exploring the stories, passions, and inspirations of individuals behind businesses, organizations, and entities in Montcalm County, Michigan. Host Duane aims to foster community connection, build trust, support local initiatives, and celebrate diversity by highlighting the human side of local success...

Quick answer: Job shadowing is crucial for students in Montcalm County, providing real-world exposure to various professions and industries. It aids career exploration, skill development, and networking, helping students clarify goals and make informed decisions about their future. This experience also enhances resumes and builds confidence for success in the workforce. Key Takeaways Job shadowing...

Quick answer: Bill Smith is a Howard City, Michigan resident and author. He co-wrote “Fred Meijer: Stories of His Life” and authored “Just Call Me Fred,” a collection of Fred Meijer quotes. Smith graduated from Howard City in 1958, worked for the Meijer Corporation for over four decades, and his parents owned Smith’s IGA in Howard City. Key Takeaways Bill Smith is an...

Quick answer: Marcus Mooney, owner of Mooney’s Autobody Experts, was featured on episode 72 of the Discover Montcalm Podcast. Located at 1337 Ensley Street in Howard City, MI, Mooney’s offers auto body repair and detailing. The episode highlights the benefits of choosing a local shop, emphasizing quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and community support. Key Takeaways Marcus M...

Quick answer: Meijer, one of America’s prominent retail giants, originated in Greenville, Michigan. In 1934, Hendrik Meijer and his son Frederik opened their first store there, pioneering the supercenter concept that combined groceries, clothing, and household goods, and establishing a legacy of community commitment and sustainability from its local roots. Key Takeaways Meijer was founded in...

Quick answer: Meijer actively engages with local organizations, charities, and nonprofits across the Midwest, including Greenville, Michigan, to address community needs. The company supports education through investments in local schools and programs, contributes to regional economies by sourcing from local farmers and producers, and fosters community vibrancy through local events, demonstrating i...