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.
“We have had generations of people who have emigrated from their native countries and established themselves here (in Battle Creek). It’s a safe and embracing community.”
“There is an experience going to an HBCU that you just can’t compare. It’s the camaraderie, the cultural experience, and the emphasis on the heritage. You’re able to see how people of color in those days were able to create an institution with so little.”
“How many people along the way saw warning signs with Ethan (Crumbley) and felt like it was not their place to say anything? We need to support each other in this thing called parenting. Parenting is hard and we all need each other to get through it.”
While other communities experienced riots and destruction during the aftermath of MLK's assassination, Battle Creek didn't — thanks to the coordinating efforts of local folks and the NAACP. A new documentary features the story of civil rights in the city.
“A lot of our leadership is in the 55-plus age range and a lot of times we’re missing the youth voice because that’s what not what we’re actively seeking out. . . We’re making sure that we’re listening to our youth because they have great experiences.”
“I’ve always been the kid who if something gets said by an adult, I’m always the one to question it. It’s more so with extended family that racism is more of an issue and a controversial subject. It’s important to communicate. A lot of it is thought about but never said. It’s like the elephant in the room.”
“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."
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.
“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.”
“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."
Our Sponsors
Our Media Partners
Common Ground Is Brewing
Support local stories and receive our signatureroast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).