With an economic development organization that is the envy of many communities, Battle Creek is a city building on its food industry roots and the land that makes it the state’s third largest city. For fun, each year the Cereal City, world headquarters to the Kellogg Co., celebrates the significance of the most important meal of the day with the World’s Longest Breakfast table. Bikers, cyclers and joggers take in the parks, forests and streams linked by a 24-mile linear park. Campers and outdoor lovers visit Fort Custer Recreation area for fishing, hiking, cross country skiing and boating. For animal lovers, African creatures, like giraffes, and Asian animals, like snow leopards, make the Binder Park Zoo a must. The Battle Creek Art Center and Battle Creek Symphony stoke the city’s cultural offerings and the new Firekeepers Casino adds to the city’s fun side. B.C’s Math and Science Center is acclaimed and secondary education needs are accommodated by Kellogg Community College, Robert B. Miller College and a branch of Western Michigan University. And Sojourner Truth, who lived here, watches over downtown from the memorial in her honor.
“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.”
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."
"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."
The Centers for Disease Control recommends adolescents avoid energy drinks due to risks of dehydration, heart complications, anxiety, and insomnia. Yet up to 40% of adolescents report consuming them. Why? VoY Writer Sophia Pell set to find out.
“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."
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