Ron Baker Montcalm County District 7 Commissioner

When asked what Howard City was like back in the day Ron states, "Downtown was bustling with three grocery stores, two hardware stores hardware's and and drugstore. It was busy all the time." Today it is a nice rural area with many lakes. We are close to the cultural areas of Big Rapids and Grand Rapids just a few minutes down the expressway. It's the perfect mix for someone who doesn't want to live right in the bigger city, but commutes."

Biography
Ron Baker has served as a commissioner for Montcalm County since January 14, 1998. Ron serves as the Chairman of the Collective Bargaining Committee and on the following committees: ASCET Board of Directors alternate, Brownfield Authority, Commission on Aging Executive Board, MTA Representative as an alternate, and Winfield Lake. District 7 covers all of Reynolds Townships and Winfield Township west of Amble Road. SOURCE: https://www.montcalm.us/directory.aspx?eid=52

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The Greenville Area Corvette Club was founded in September of 2008. We go on road tours, host and attend car shows in the area and sponsor charitable events in the community. The Greenville Area Corvette Club is involved in our communities with two annual food drives and supports homeless shelters.
We hold an Spring Corvette Show with admission being non-perishable food donations.
We hold a Photos with Santa program at Christmas time with admission being non-perishable food donations or Toys for area children. The toys are distributed by the Lions Club.
The food items are dispersed to the local towns and communities to area food pantries.
We greatly appreciate the support we receive from all the area businesses.
We also are involved in the Adopt A Highway program cleaning a 2 mile stretch of M-57 west of Greenville.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/Greenville-Area-Corvette-Club-Michigan-434817093345577

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Jake VanBoxel accepted the position of city manager in Stanton hoping that he could make a difference in the community.  The City Manager position is the chief administrative officer. Appointed by the Stanton City Commission, the City Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the city.  A graduate of Ferris State University Jake enjoys small town living and chatting with local businesses and community members.

Since taking office he has worked on day to day issues of running the city.  Jake oversaw a sewer issue to make residents' lives better. And worked on a new park, with connection to the Heartland Trail, with plans to add a veterans memorial, splash park, ball fields and Disc Golf Course.  

According to an excerpt from Greenville Daily News article written by Brandon Schreur, January 12, 2021:  Jacob VanBoxel accepted the position of city manager in Stanton with the goal to make a difference in the community.  In December 2020, the Stanton City Commission unanimously accepted a city manager employment agreement with VanBoxel, who is originally from Newaygo. He follows former city manager Vester Davis Jr., who resigned in October for a position in Springfield. VanBoxel was previously manager in the village of Kingsley until his resignation in 2017.
“I’d say I probably learned the most about the public works infrastructure aspect of city management (which is what I believe to be the most important aspect),” VanBoxel said of his time in Kingsley. “I also spent a lot of time focusing on economic/community development.”

On September 22 2022 on the Stanton Rotary Club Facebook page: The Big Chuck Disc Golf Course was officially opened. Thank you to everyone for coming out for the ribbon cutting ceremony and helping us to celebrate Chuck Miel and his many contributions to this community!

About Stanton Michigan

Nestled between small lakes and public recreation areas in west-central lower Michigan, the city of Stanton offers a small town environment with agricultural roots, a low cost of living and a high quality of life. Conveniently located within an hour drive of more populated areas (Grand Rapids, Lansing, Mt. Pleasant, Big Rapids) and two major airports (Lansing and Grand Rapids), the city also serves as a gateway to northern lower Michigan via M-66.   As the county seat of Montcalm County, Stanton has several county facilities and office buildings within its boundaries, which adds to the vitality of the business community. Its classic downtown hosts parades and an annual festival each year.  Source https://stantononline.com/community/about/ 

History of Stanton

Stanton was organized in 1860 when the people of Montcalm County voted to move the county seat here from Greenville, which had been the original county seat since 1840. At that time, the County Board purchased 40 acres (160,000 m2) from Fred Hall of Ionia and named the city “Fred” in his honor. The family of Levi Camburn was the first to settle here and he became its first postmaster on March 10, 1862. The city was renamed for Secretary of War, Edwin M. Stanton in 1863. Stanton was platted in 1865, incorporated as a village in 1869, and as a city in 1881.

To learn more about Stanton contact:
Jacob VanBoxel, City Manager
Phone: (989) 831-4440
Fax: (989) 831-5756
Email: citymanager@stantononline.com

City Manager’s Office
225 S. Camburn
P.O. Box 449
Stanton, MI 48888

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Ralph Hauenstein first came to the area after his neighbor in Grand Rapids, Lee Olsen (purchased the knife company changing the name to Olsen Knife). Lee invited Ralph to fish the Tamarack where he caught a 5 pound brown.  Deciding to move to the area, Ralph's father purchased the farm and 80 acres.  Later Ralph and his wife moved into the farmhouse while they built the home he now lives in, this was about 1970. During this time he went to school to learn about being an assessor and soon became the supervisor of Reynolds Township.
In this interview we cover the biggest challenges at the time, like there was no zoning. A couple businesses that were "dumping junk in here" and we quote. When asked about his biggest accomplishment he goes over how the value of the township grew.  From business to community growth the interview that was conducted in 2018 is a wonderful look through Ralphs eyes and wonderful for the Howard City and Panhandle area of Montcalm County.  Was involved in the county's involvement of mental health for the area.  
Duane asked Ralph to recap and he talks about the growth area he sees that we are in.  Want to know more, check out this wonderful interview with Ralph Hauenstein, former Reynolds Township Supervisor.

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Dr. Don Burns President Emeritus-Montcalm Community College looks back at Montcalm County History

Dr. Don Burns President Emeritus-MCC since 2009. Started as a Counselor in 1971, an Administrator in 1973 before becoming President of the College in 1984.

Dr. Don Burns President Emeritus from Montcalm Community College since 2009.  Don started at MCC as a Counselor in 1971, then an Administrator in 1073 before becoming President of the College in 1984 until 2009. In this episode we jump in our way back machine to an interview Duane did with Dr. Burns in 2018.

Growing up Montcalm and the surrounding area

Going back to the early years my father talked a great deal about his grandfather who came in to Hubbardston Michigan not in Montcalm County but almost.  In 1870 with 4 boys and his wife, he would spend the winters working at what they called the Northwoods, Montcalm County.  Don does not know for certain where but at the time it was driven by the economy.   His Grandfather had a cabin as was beginning a farm and to be productive in the winter time he'd go North, (Montcalm County) and work in the woods.  

Now bringing it forward quite a few years, as a youngster on the farm we milked 30 cows.  We would grow corn, hay and crops that was really surrounding the dairy farm.  He had been living and in working with was education during the 1960's where he taught and then spent time at the American school.   In 1970-71 Dr. Burns was contacted by a Dean of students at Montcalm Community College indicating that there might be a position for him at the college, so he came back to the farm and then the process of applying for that position began.

Don was very happy with the growth of MCC during his time there.  Shortly after becoming President he was part of starting a union that helped with the growth of the college.  In the 1990's they had a growth spurt, in the buildings and staff and built the Dozer building and more updates to the facility.  Then built the M-tech building in Greenville.  In 2003 Electrolux moved out of Greenville with over 5000 locals jobs were lost.  MCC and the community stepped up to offer training for these out of work people.  MCC doubled enrollment and meet the needs of what these people needed.

Always looking at how can improve, know who is Montcalm County.  Rural, Ag County, a place bless with lakes and trees and green.  A place with small rural communities.  Have wonderful access to healthcare and education.  A place where people are able to work, live and compete in a global economy.

Montcalm Community College Mission
Transforming lives through quality education. Montcalm Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to earn credits for degrees, certificates, job training programs or transfer to gain skills leading to jobs in high-demand, high-wage career fields.

Donald C. Burns Presidential Scholarship

The Montcalm Community College Foundation Presidential Scholarship was established during Donald Burns’ presidency at the college. When Dr. Burns retired in 2009 after serving in that capacity for 25 years, the MCCF renamed the scholarship in his honor. The MCCF Donald C. Burns Presidential Scholarship helps continue Dr. Burns’ longtime work to ensure MCC’s students’ success.  Awards a Student $1,000 per semester, totaling $2,000    Source: https://montcalm.academicworks.com/donors/donald-c-burns-presidential-scholarship

DOCTORATE IN COMMUNITY COLLEGE LEADERSHIP Advisory Board

Don is active with Ferris State Universities DCCL program.  The Ferris doctor of education (Ed.D.) program was created for leaders of mission-driven, 21st-century community colleges.  Courses are taught by experienced college leaders, including current and recent community college presidents, vice presidents, and deans.  This program is designed to prepare leaders for the changing environments in education.  This inquiry-based, problem-solving, action-oriented approach is designed to develop the essential skills that will lead to success, regardless of the level from which graduates will lead.   Source: https://www.ferris.edu/administration/academicaffairs/extendedinternational/ccleadership/talent/advisory/index.htm

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Kyle Hamlin-Montcalm Area ISD Superintendent joined Duane for this episode of Discover Montcalm.

Kyle started at the MAISD as the Superintendent in 2020 after being the Superintendent of the Lakeview Community Schools .

The Montcalm Area ISD includes the school districts of Carson City-Crystal, Central Montcalm, Greenville, Lakeview, Montabella, Tri County, and Vestaburg, public school academies and private schools, MAISD coordinates and delivers services and programs designed to improve education in Montcalm County.

Kyle brings with him an unwavering dedication to Montcalm County students and community with his ability to promote the philosophy of the school programs. provides team building with staff members, parents, and the community.
Source: https://www.maisd.com/about/superintendent/

According to a Daily News article when Hamlin was voted in,
“I believe Mr. Hamlin provides us the best opportunity to continue to move forward,” Steve Foster, MAISD Board President said of the decision. “Our board looks forward to the leadership Mr. Hamlin will provide. I would also like to thank the community and staff for the input we have received throughout this process. After all, this is about all the children the MAISD helps to serve.”
Source: https://www.thedailynews.cc/articles/just-in-lakeview-superintendent-kyle-hamlin-selected-as-next-maisd-superintendent/
Kyle Hamlin
Superintendent
Phone: 616-225-6148, ext. 6148

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Jason Teegardin, Owner 180 Designs from Carson City Michigan joins us to share about his full on graphics shop.

As the owner and designer at 180 Designs Jason's crew wraps on just about everything including: Vehicles, boats, bikes, golf carts and much more. In addition he and the team produce Custom Signs, Banners, Magnets, Window Graphics, Logo Design, Special Requests, Yard Signs and more. Basically, you have an idea, they can probably do it.

Located in Carson City, Michigan, on the east side of Montcalm County, One Eighty Designs has grown from a small town sign shop to the region’s premier vehicle wrap destination.

Founded in 2011 by graphic designer Jason Teegardin, 180 Designs specializes in corporate, municipal, and recreational vehicle wraps.

Whether you have a fleet of trucks or a store front sign, one eighty design will put their expertise to work for you.

Congratulations Top Gun Jason Teegardin and to the team at One Eighty Designs!
SOURCE: https://countyadvisoryboard.com/jason-teegardin-one-eighty-designs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jason-teegardin-one-eighty-designs

Jason Teegardin recently received recognition as a Top Gun Montcalm County Vehicle wrapping company by the County Advisory Board.

Top Guns are recognized as someone whose skills and services go above and beyond the call of duty to make their local communities and counties a better place to call home.

According to Top Gun Montcalm County, "The cities, towns and communities of Montcalm County are expanded by commerce. Some individuals leap into entrepreneurship taking on risks, working long hours, and adding their creativity. Business owners, like Jason, are responsible for their business success, staff and customer satisfaction."

Services at one eighty design https://www.oneeightydesigns.com/what-we-offer

FLEET BRANDING: Have a single vehicle or an entire fleet? Check out the benefits from a vinyl wrap.

COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT: Have a food truck, excavating equipment or anything that is the centerpiece to your business, Check out the strategic branding options Jason offers!

VEHICLE CUSTOMIZATION: 180 Designs has been designing and wrapping some of the most iconic cars in the state and even across the country! Check out their website and Facebook page for examples.

They also do a lot in the RECREATIONAL and EXTERIOR & INTERIOR markets where their work looks amazing.

Contact Jason Teegardin, Owner of 180 Designs. By the way if he is not there he enjoys quality time with his family and the great outdoors.

180 Designs
989-763-2258
10722 E Carson City Rd.
Carson City, Michigan 48811
sales@180designs.net

Feature Your Business on Discover Montcalm
Learn about upcoming shows, how you can be a guest on the show and maybe even a sponsor. Contact Duane for more information.   Call Duane 231-250-9624

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Mike Scott lifelong resident Howard City shares growing up in Montcalm County 
Mike Scott a lifetime resident of Howard City, retired village council member and currently sits on the board of the Montcalm County Road Commission.  Mike joined Duane to finish an interview they started in 2018 by updating the story.  In the 1880s Mike's great grandfather raised his family here, his grandfather and three of his sisters lived here, along with Mike's dad also grew up here.   In 1940 during World War 2 when his dad went off to war and was stationed Seattle Washington where Mike was born.  Mike was about 2 months old 1945 when the family moved back to Howard City.   He has lived here every sense that time except for two years when he was in the army serving his country.
Check out this history rich interview with Mike Scott.
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The Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce joins the Discover Montcalm Podcast to share what is a chamber and why they exist.

Paul Sischo, Executive Director started in the beginning of 2022 and Katrina Snyder, Member Services Administrator came on board a few months later. Paul was from Michigan's West Coast while Katrinna states she is from 'The West Coast' of Oregon.

According to the chamber's website, "The Greenville Chamber’s mission is to contribute to a vibrant local economy by connecting people to people, people to business, business to business, and business to resources, since 1947."

WHY JOIN? source Chamber Website
WE BELIEVE EVERY BUSINESS IS IMPORTANT AND MATTERS TO OUR REGION'S FUTURE. THAT’S WHY THE GREENVILLE AREA CHAMBER WILL CONTINUE TO ADVOCATE FOR SOLUTIONS TO MAKE GREATER GREENVILLE A PLACE WHERE EACH BUSINESS AND ITS WORKFORCE CAN THRIVE. OUR MEMBERS ARE THE BUSINESSES—LARGE AND SMALL, ACROSS EVERY INDUSTRY—THAT FUEL OUR LOCAL ECONOMY.

THE GREENVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SUPPORTS OUR MEMBERS THROUGH VARIOUS NETWORKING, EDUCATIONAL AND COMMUNITY EVENTS. JOIN US AND SEE HOW YOUR BUSINESS CAN THRIVE BY UTILIZING THE OPPORTUNITIES RIGHT HERE IN OUR AREA.

This quote by Henry Ford sums up the power of being part of a chamber:
"Coming Together Is A Beginning, Staying Together Is Progress, Working Together Is Success."

"Montcalm County is a county in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 Census, the population was 66,614. The county is geographically located in the West Michigan region of the Lower Peninsula. The county seat is Stanton, and the largest city is Greenville." Wikipedia

Montcalm County is made up of many cities and villages:
Carson City
City of Greenville
City of Stanton
Village of Edmore
Village of Howard City
Village of McBride
Village of Pierson
Village of Sheridan

Townships:
Belvidere Township
Bloomer Township
Bushnell Township
Cato Township
Crystal Township
Day Township
Douglass Township
Eureka Township
Evergreen Township
Fairplain Township
Ferris Township
Home Township
Maple Valley Township
Montcalm Township
Pierson Township
Pine Township
Reynolds Township
Richland Township
Sidney Township
Winfield Township

About the chamber comes from the chamber website, "On March 1, 1924, the Greenville Chamber of Commerce was formed from the Greenville Development Association. The Chamber’s first officers included J.E. Wyckoff as President; John Christensen as Vice President; A.M. Packard as Secretary; and Peter Van Deinse as Treasurer.

In 1947, the Chamber filed articles of incorporation.

For more information
Greenville Area Chamber Of Commerce
For Chamber Info Contact:
admin@greenvillechamber.net
greenvillechamber.net
616-754-5697

Feature Your Business on Discover Montcalm
Learn about upcoming shows, how you can be a guest on the show and maybe even a sponsor. Contact Duane for more information. Call Duane 231-250-9624
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