Discover Montcalm Podcast

Howard City History: South Main Street Stories & Downtown Life Howard City History: The story of Howard City, Michigan continues as the Discover Montcalm Podcast wraps up its three-part series exploring the rich history of this small but vibrant Montcalm County community. Hosted by Duane Weed, this episode features local historian Don Bauman, whose firsthand knowledge and family history bring the south side of downtown Howard City to life—one building, one business, and one story at a time. Howard City History: A Walk Down South Main Street In this final installment, the focus shifts to the south side of Main Street, where buildings served not just as businesses—but as the heartbeat of the community. One of the earliest landmarks was the Congregational Church, which stood as more than a place of worship. Before Howard City had a gymnasium or auditorium, this church hosted high school graduations until 1934. Over time, it transitioned into a Seventh-day Adventist church, and even temporarily served multiple congregations after a fire destroyed the Methodist church in the 1940s. Downtown Businesses That Defined a Generation As Howard City grew, so did its downtown: A new post office built in the 1950s marked progress and expansion Appliance stores brought radios and televisions into homes for the first time A tailor shop and dry goods store served everyday needs The local bank building anchored financial activity A Chevrolet dealership once stood proudly on Main Street Across the street, grocery stores, hardware shops, and small retailers formed a tightly connected business district where everyone knew everyone. Howard City history: A Community Connected by Wartime Letters One of the most remarkable stories shared in this episode is about Ralph Jennings, who kept Howard City connected during World War II. From his office, he created and mailed a monthly newsletter to over 300 local servicemen and women stationed around the world. These letters didn’t just share updates—they connected soldiers to each other, sometimes leading to unexpected reunions overseas. It’s a powerful reminder of how a small town like Howard City made a global impact during a critical time in history. Saturday Nights in Howard City Downtown Howard City wasn’t just about business—it was about community life. Saturday nights were the highlight of the week: Families gathered to shop and socialize Kids watched free movies projected on buildings Crowds filled sidewalks and benches Locals gathered around storefront TVs—some of the first in town It was simple. It was local. And it was unforgettable. The Stories That Stay With Us – Howard City history From barber shops and bakeries to theaters and bowling alleys, every building had a story—and every story adds to the identity of Howard City, Michigan. These stories remind us why preserving local history matters. They connect generations and give meaning to the places we pass every day. More episodes with Don Bauman and Howard City history: Exploring Howard City’s History with Don Bauman Howard City History-Downtown Stories with Don Bauman Discover Montcalm Podcast This episode is part of an ongoing mission to document and share the stories that define Montcalm County. If you have a story, a memory, or know someone who does—reach out. These local voices are what make Discover Montcalm a true community resource. Discover Montcalm PodcastProduced by Duane Weed of DW Video & Multimedia LLCCelebrating over 40 years of storytelling and media production in Montcalm County. Contact Call 231-250-9624 Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or [email protected]. Together, let’s showcase the heart of Montcalm County, one story at a time. Check out this video! Love stories that celebrate local people, places, and progress?Subscribe to the Discover Montcalm Podcast and explore the voices that shape Montcalm County and beyond. Have a story to share? Contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or [email protected] to be featured in a future episode — whether at your location or in-studio. Catch up on all episodes and discover the soul of small-town Michigan:discovermontcalmpodcast.com/category/podcast Follow us and be part of a growing community of storytellers. Produced by: https://www.dwvideo.com #DiscoverMontcalm #DiscoverMontcalmPodcast #MontcalmCounty #LocalVoices #MichiganPodcasts #CommunityMatters #SupportLocalStories Discover Howard City Michigan History: Local Stories from Downtown Main Street episode 178 by Discover Montcalm Podcast https://discovermontcalmpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Howard-City-History-South-side-of-downtown.mp3 Discover Montcalm Audio Podcast Check out the podcast all about Montcalm County Michigan.   The post Howard City History: Downtown Stories & Main Street first appeared on Discover Montcalm Podcast.

Howard City History | Downtown Stories from Montcalm County Howard City History: The rich history of Howard City comes alive through the voices of those who lived it. In this episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host Duane Weed sits down with longtime local historian Don Bauman to explore the buildings, businesses, and stories that shaped downtown Howard City. A Walk Through Historic Downtown Howard City – northside of West Edgerton Street Howard City has long been a hub of activity in Montcalm County, with its downtown serving as the center of commerce, community, and connection. One of the most notable buildings in town dates back to around 1900—the former Golden Hotel, now known by many through its modern identity as Latitudes. Before that stood the Coburn Exchange, a three-story wooden hotel once considered one of the finest north of Grand Rapids, complete with a ballroom and dining hall. Like many historic towns, fire played a role in reshaping the landscape. Several original buildings were lost, only to be rebuilt and repurposed over time. Howard City History: Industry, Innovation, and Everyday Life Howard City wasn’t just about small shops—it was also a place of industry and innovation. The Wolverine factory brought manufacturing jobs to the area, while appliance stores introduced new technology like televisions during the 1950s boom. Local newspapers were printed right in town, including the Howard City Record, keeping residents informed and connected. Even healthcare had its place in downtown, with doctors’ offices located above storefronts—sometimes requiring patients to climb long staircases for care. A Community Shaped by Service One of the most powerful parts of Howard City’s history is its connection to military service. During World War II, nearly every home along Main Street had a family member serving in the military. From pilots witnessing historic battles like Midway to families with multiple children in service, the sacrifices made by this small community reflect a deep sense of duty and patriotism. Education and Community Roots – Howard City History Howard City has long valued education. Early graduation ceremonies were held in local churches before larger school facilities were built. Class sizes were small, often between 12 and 20 students, reflecting the close-knit nature of the community. Today, those roots continue to shape the identity of the area. Preserving Montcalm County History Stories like these are exactly why the Discover Montcalm Podcast exists—to preserve local history and share it with future generations. From buildings that have stood for over a century to businesses that have come and gone, Howard City’s story is a vital part of Montcalm County’s heritage. Discover Montcalm PodcastProduced by Duane Weed of DW Video & Multimedia LLCCelebrating over 40 years of storytelling and media production in Montcalm County. Contact Call 231-250-9624Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or [email protected]. Together, let’s showcase the heart of Montcalm County, one story at a time. Check out this video! Love stories that celebrate local people, places, and progress?Subscribe to the Discover Montcalm Podcast and explore the voices that shape Montcalm County and beyond. Have a story to share? Contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or [email protected] to be featured in a future episode — whether at your location or in-studio. Catch up on all episodes and discover the soul of small-town Michigan:discovermontcalmpodcast.com/category/podcast Follow us and be part of a growing community of storytellers. Produced by: https://www.dwvideo.com #DiscoverMontcalm #DiscoverMontcalmPodcast #MontcalmCounty #LocalVoices #MichiganPodcasts #CommunityMatters #SupportLocalStories Howard City Michigan History | Downtown Stories from Montcalm County episode 177 by Discover Montcalm Podcast https://discovermontcalmpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Downtown-Howard-City-History-north-side-of-Edgerton-Street.mp3 Discover Montcalm Audio Podcast Check out the podcast all about Montcalm County Michigan.   The post Howard City History-Downtown Stories first appeared on Discover Montcalm Podcast.

Chambers Powder Coating Spotlight – Powder Coating Services Near Montcalm County In Montcalm County and the surrounding communities, small businesses are the backbone of local growth—and the Discover Montcalm Podcast continues to highlight the people making it happen. In this episode, host Duane Weed sits down with young entrepreneur Cody Chambers, owner of Chambers Powder Coating, to share his journey into the world of powder coating and custom finishing services. A Young Entrepreneur with a Vision Based near Greenville Michigan and operating out of the Ionia area, Cody Chambers represents the next generation of skilled trades and entrepreneurship in West Michigan. What started as a simple idea—wanting to own a business—quickly turned into a hands-on operation with real customers, real projects, and real growth. With support from family and inspiration from his late grandfather, Cody took the leap into business ownership and hasn’t looked back. What is Powder Coating? Powder coating is a durable, baked-on finish that outperforms traditional paint in many ways. Instead of liquid paint, a dry powder is: Applied electrostatically Heated (typically around 400°F) Bonded to the surface The result? ✔ Stronger durability ✔ Resistance to chipping and scratching ✔ Long-lasting color and finish ✔ Professional-grade appearance From automotive parts to custom drinkware, powder coating offers both protection and style. Custom Powder Coating Services-Chambers Powder Coating At Chambers Powder Coating, customization is the name of the game. Cody specializes in: Custom powder coated cups Automotive wheels and parts Unique color finishes (2,000+ options) Specialty designs like marbling and camouflage Small custom jobs and one-of-a-kind pieces Every project is different—and that’s exactly how he likes it. “I like the odd jobs. Bring me something different,” Cody says. Built for Creativity and Durability-Chambers Powder Coating One of the standout features of powder coating is its toughness. Unlike traditional paint: It won’t easily chip It handles wear and tear better It’s built to last Cody even encourages customers to use their products hard—just like they would with top-tier brands. Chambers Powder Coating: More Than Powder Coating In addition to powder coating, Cody is expanding into: Sandblasting Cerakote (high-temperature ceramic coating) This allows him to work on a wider range of materials and applications, including high-heat components. Local Roots, Local Impact Even though his business is based just outside Montcalm County, Cody’s work and connections span across: Belding Greenville Ionia That regional connection is exactly what the Discover Montcalm Podcast is all about—supporting and promoting local businesses that serve the Montcalm County community. Support Local. Build Local. Stories like Cody’s are what make Montcalm County and West Michigan special. Young entrepreneurs stepping up, learning through experience, and building something from the ground up. If you’re looking for powder coating services near Montcalm County, or want a custom project done, Chambers Powder Coating is a business to watch. The Discover Montcalm Podcast continues to highlight the people, businesses, and opportunities that make this region thrive. Remember: Buy local. Shop local. Support local. Discover More About Montcalm County The Discover Montcalm Podcast highlights the people, businesses, programs, and events that make Montcalm County a vibrant place to live and work. This episode not only showcases the CAD and Engineering program but also demonstrates how local educators are preparing the next generation of innovators right here at home. And remember the message that helps keep Montcalm County strong: Buy local. Shop local. Support local. Discover Montcalm PodcastProduced by Duane Weed of DW Video & Multimedia LLCCelebrating over 40 years of storytelling and media production in Montcalm County. Contact Call 231-250-9624Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or [email protected]. Together, let’s showcase the heart of Montcalm County, one story at a time. Check out this video! Love stories that celebrate local people, places, and progress?Subscribe to the Discover Montcalm Podcast and explore the voices that shape Montcalm County and beyond. Have a story to share? Contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or [email protected] to be featured in a future episode — whether at your location or in-studio. Catch up on all episodes and discover the soul of small-town Michigan:discovermontcalmpodcast.com/category/podcast Follow us and be part of a growing community of storytellers. Produced by: https://www.dwvideo.com #DiscoverMontcalm #DiscoverMontcalmPodcast #MontcalmCounty #LocalVoices #MichiganPodcasts #CommunityMatters #SupportLocalStories Meet Cody Chambers - Chambers Powder Coating episode 176 by Discover Montcalm Podcast https://discovermontcalmpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cody-Chambers-Chambers-Powder-Coatings-episode-176.mp