SperlingViews - McBain, Michigan

McBain is an extremely conservative agricultural community. While there has been some influx of new residents in recent years, the population is still largely descended from Dutch settlers who arrived in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Naturally, family and/or business networking is recommended for social and financial success. Pros: beautiful countryside, terrific soil for gardening (anything will grow there!), well-maintained houses and yards (much better than surrounding communities of similar size), safe/secure environment for raising children; local convenience store sells general merchandise, groceries, tobacco, pkg. liquor, and provides movie rentals; city has bank, pharmacy, coffee shop, and 2 very decent restaurants. Cons: nearly all businesses closed Sundays and evenings; some people may be uncomfortable with lack of personal privacy inherent in small town; commuting out of town for work necessary for most people; city lacks dedicated grocery store; prevalence of dairy farming leads to unsavory air quality; travel delays likely [due to farm equipment on main roads]. [read more...]