Author

Owen Howard

Owen Howard is an Isabella County native with a deep appreciation for all it has to offer, in both people and places. He is an alumni of Central Michigan University, having received both a bachelor's and a master's degree. In his free time, Owen could be described as 'chronically outdoors.' Owen has a passion for telling stories and for listening to other people tell theirs. He loves getting the chance to allow people to share their passions and stories with a larger audience.

Owen Howard's Latest Articles

For her family, for all families: Anna Reetz’s work in community health

By Owen Howard

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Economic Development

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December 19, 2024

Anna Reetz’s journey in Isabella County exemplifies the power of combining professional purpose with personal passion. As a mother and community health advocate, Reetz works tirelessly to improve lives through harm reduction programming and substance misuse prevention. Read this profile about 40 Under 40 awardee Anna Reetz, whose goal to improve her community means not only creating a better place for her own family, but ensuring all families have the chance to succeed.

Disc golf’s rising star: Isabella County’s Luke Taylor eyes the top

By Owen Howard

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Economic Development

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November 7, 2024

Luke Taylor, an 18-year-old from Isabella County and Sacred Heart Academy graduate, is turning heads in the professional disc golf world. Skipping collegiate competition, Taylor is one of few athletes to go straight from high school to the pros, where he currently ranks 27th in the Disc Golf Pro Tour’s world rankings. This season, Taylor tied for fourth at the Professional Disc Golf World Championships—a career-defining achievement that’s pushing him to set even higher goals.

Meet Dylan Banagis: A leader in building conversations and community in Mt. Pleasant

By Owen Howard

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Community Development

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September 26, 2024

Dylan Banagis, founder of Life Unplugged in Mt. Pleasant, saw a need for intentional public conversations and offline connections. In 2024, he opened his brick-and-mortar store downtown, offering a welcoming space for people to unwind, connect, and enjoy a positive environment. Discover Banagis’s belief in the growth of downtown, while he strives to make it a vibrant hub of activity and connection, in Epicenter’s Top 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders series.

Art and outdoors unite at Deerfield Park

By Owen Howard

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Arts & Culture

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September 19, 2024

Co-hosted by Isabella County Parks & Recreation and Art Reach of Mid Michigan, the Art From Our Park free community event aims to foster collaboration between artists and the community, offering a space to celebrate creativity in the great outdoors.

From CEO to Stay-at-Home Mom: Alysha Pasquali’s New Chapter in Mt. Pleasant

By Owen Howard

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Economic Development

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August 14, 2024

Named as one of Isabella County’s Top 40 Under 40 recipients this past year, we continue our Emerging Leaders series—this time highlighting Mt. Pleasant’s Alysha Pasquali. Pasquali, former CEO of the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation, has recently transitioned to being a stay-at-home mother, a decision that reflects her deep commitment to family and community. Her story underscores the profound impact that character and personal choices can have on a community, proving that meaningful contributions aren't limited to professional roles.

Staying true to her roots: Lindsey Lintjer’s community service journey in Mt. Pleasant

By Owen Howard

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Community Development

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July 25, 2024

As part of Epicenter’s Emerging Leaders series, discover how Lindsey Lintjer's commitment to her roots and passion for service illuminates the path for a more connected and compassionate community in her beloved hometown of Mt. Pleasant.

Meet Amanda Eccleston: From professional runner to influential coach and community advocate

By Owen Howard

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Economic Development

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June 20, 2024

As part of Epicenter’s Emerging Leaders series, meet Amanda Eccleston, a former professional runner and current assistant coach at Central Michigan University. She enriches the Mt. Pleasant community by fostering diversity and nurturing athletic and personal growth among her athletes, all while cultivating a sense of community and belonging into Mt. Pleasant’s local culture.

Meet Hannah Martin: Empowering community through passionate advocacy

By Owen Howard

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Economic Development

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May 23, 2024

As part of Epicenter’s Emerging Leaders series, Hannah Martin, a passionate advocate for Mt Pleasant, utilizes her influence to foster community connections and address local challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and engagement for a thriving community.

Meet Danny McQuarters Jr.: A catalyst for community change

By Owen Howard

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Arts & Culture

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April 25, 2024

As part of Epicenter’s Emerging Leaders series, dive into the inspiring journey of Danny McQuarters Jr., whose passion for diversity and inclusion drives transformative initiatives—from Club Create to community events—shaping a more cohesive Mt. Pleasant.

Diane and Richard Fleming receive Mt. Pleasant Chamber “Outstanding Citizens of the Year” award

By Owen Howard

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Community Development

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March 7, 2024

The Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated members of the Mt. Pleasant community at their annual awards Saturday, March 2. Diane and Richard Fleming were announced as 2023’s Outstanding Citizens of the Year—a special tribute as there have been only four other couples recognized in the 67-year history.