Lights, Camera, Great Lakes: Wolf Tree Film Festival returns bigger and bolder

The Wolf Tree Film Festival returns to Marshall for its 8th year this spring, highlighting Great Lakes filmmakers and fostering community through accessible, regional storytelling.

Small batches, big ambitions — how a Kalamazoo company became a go-to for beverage startups nationwide

From cold brew to dog water, Kalamazoo's Good Trade Depot, a small batch canning company, is redefining contract manufacturing.

Could Battle Creek become Candy City? A look at 2026 through the eyes of residents

As Kellogg enters a new era under Ferrero ownership, Battle Creek residents reflect on whether the city’s identity will remain rooted in its legacy as Cereal City or evolve into something sweeter.

Lifelong dream realized with opening of catering and takeout business in Battle Creek

Mitts 2 Pits Catering is the latest tenant in a building at 78 Calhoun Street that has incubated dreams for several restaurateurs in Battle Creek. Owned by the husband-and-wife team of Benjamin and Denise Young, the catering and take-out business opened its first brick-and-mortar location in April. Here's their story.

The stories that stayed with us: A year of Second Wave journalism

Through bikes, poetry, wetlands, old theaters, and everyday helpers, Second Wave writers and photographers revisit the stories that defined their year.

Ford’s $1.3M gift empowers three Calhoun County community foundations to fuel local projects

Ford Motor Co. is investing $1.3 million in a collaborative effort with three Calhoun County community foundations to deliver immediate impact and long-term support across the region.

Metro Transit boosts service on busy routes during holiday shopping season

Metro Transit is adding extra weekday bus service on three high-ridership routes from Dec. 15 through 28 to improve reliability during icy conditions and meet increased holiday shopping demand in Kalamazoo.

It’s scholarship season at the Battle Creek Community Foundation

Battle Creek Community Foundation scholarships help local students like Nylayiaha Smith afford college and inspire them to give back to their community.

The Villas: Reach Sober Living expands to offer independent living for men in recovery

Reach Sober Living, Inc. is expanding its sober home options, building more bridges for those crossing from addiction to recovery and a new sober life.

Voices of Youth: A safe haven for children entering foster care comes to Battle Creek

Battle Creek’s Isaiah 117 House, set to open in March of 2026, seeks to reduce trauma for children entering foster care by providing a safe and supportive place during removal and placement.

Our Sponsors

Gilmore Foundation

Our Media Partners

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Enna Foundation
BINDA Foundation
Southwest Journalism Media Collaborative
Southwest Michigan First
Milestone Senior Services
Consumers Energy

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Southwest Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.