Author

Jane Parikh

Jane Simos
Jane Parikh is a freelance reporter and writer with more than 20 years of experience and also is the owner of In So Many Words based in Battle Creek. She is the Project Editor for On the Ground Battle Creek.

Jane Parikh's Latest Articles

Day Tripper: Children’s play museum draws families to Albion

“Kids ‘N’ Stuff is special because it’s something families can do in the winter inside. . .We want people to come to Kids ‘N’ Stuff and get cookies at the local bakery or a burger at Albion Malleable Brewing. There’s enough to do here that you could make it a day trip or an overnight staycation."

Behind closed screens: Unveiling the hidden dangers of sexting and sextortion in Southwest Michigan

Many are not aware that victims of sextortion are typically males between the ages of 14 to 17, according to the FBI. And due to shame and fear, a vast number of incidents are underreported. Local experts raise awareness about what to look for and who not to trust.

Cereal City Concert Band hits a high note with invitation to perform at Austrian music festival

“As we have progressed over the years, we get better and better and that’s because we have really good musicians joining us. They have a commitment to the band. I keep saying that this is the band I always hoped it would be.”

Community comes together to envision a Battle Creek free of racism

“We have to have more safe places like this where we can enjoy each other's company and food. We are human, we have feelings and we need to support each other to provide a better living for our community."

Kingdom Builders Worldwide takes over management of the Battle Creek Shelter

"We really don’t say ‘No’. We’re talking about not having a lot of rules and regulations. That’s exactly what this shelter is. You can come in intoxicated and we’ll take care of you."

A vehicle in the fleet operated by BC Transit.
Battle Creek Transit looks for bus drivers so brakes can be released on service cuts

“I don’t want a car. They’re isolating for one thing. I can’t tell you how much fun it is to ride a bus and talk to people. It’s just so calming to be taken somewhere."

Hope blooms in Battle Creek: Reflections on 2024

"One of my greatest hopes for the coming year is that the Latino community shows up to vote this year. According to census data our community continues to grow at a rapid speed and our vote is our voices."

Building community, raising funds for Battle Creek’s most vulnerable

The SHARE Center of Battle Creek feeds 100 people a day and offers a variety of free services through its drop-in center. But some people still don't know it exists. Enter Friends of the SHARE Center who are raising money and spreading the word.

Battle Creek nonprofits share in $35 million in relief funds

A total of 15 Battle Creek area nonprofits are among 1,373 nonprofits throughout Michigan that are sharing in a $35 million pool of funds administered by the Michigan Nonprofit Association. These funds are aimed at nonprofits affected by COVID-19, especially those who work with underserved populations.

Pictured from left to right: Joddie Noblit, Emilie Cummins, Jeane Grabe, Conor Caswell, Schellie Caswell, Deacon Trish Harris. Seated is Bev Chase.
Laundry Love: Finding community and dignity at a Battle Creek laundromat

St. Thomas' Laundry Love is focused on those who are “struggling to make ends meet,” says Deacon Trish Harris. “There are people who have asked me, ‘How do you know if I meet the qualifications?’ We have no qualifications. We want them to know that we see you as an important person and we’re coming to you with love."

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