Calhoun County

Inner City Music Proving Arts Can Teach makes huge IMPACT in Battle Creek

Battle Creek IMPACT is a free music education program that features the Sojourner Truth Choir, along with drums and piano instruction. About 85 percent of the students represent the area’s African American, Burmese, and Latinx communities. "We train kids and give them the opportunity to go out in the community to share their gifts and talents."

Dr. Tino Smith
Planned closure of overnight Battle Creek Shelter has local faith leader looking for solutions

After three years in operation, the Battle Creek Shelter is slated to close. Dr. Tino Smith of Kingdom Builders Worldwide, the current operator of the shelter, is seeking funding.

Voices of Youth: Student-athletes need mental health support, too

It's not uncommon to take the mental health of student-athletes for granted. Studies suggest that although most teens develop improved resilience through athletics, others experience stress, anxiety, mood disorders, and more that may be less visible due to the stress-related impacts of training and competition.

Voices of Youth: Self-driving vehicles are coming to Calhoun County — ready or not

While the technology is still developing, it's only a matter of time before driverless cars come to Battle Creek — and to other cities across the state. Three larger cities already have robotaxies. What are some advantages to self-driving vehicles and how do we prepare?

Battle Creek’s Washington Heights reaching new heights with affordable housing stock

“We have demonstrated that we’ll do what we say we’re going to do. Some of the barriers we’ve had to overcome we’ve looked at as opportunities. These new homes will be an opportunity for residents to create generational wealth and go from renter-ship to homeownership.”

BC’s Early Childhood Education poised to flourish — and save a church at the same time

“The preschool is one of the most important and vital options at the church. It has a waiting list that continues to expand. One possible future option is that Garden of Dreams would expand to occupy more of our building or an additional childcare center could come in here.”

Voices of Youth: Financial literacy required for Michigan students by 2028

Student debt, living expenses, credit card interest. Many students graduate from high school with little or no financial understanding. By 2028, all Michigan high schoolers will be required to take a financial literacy course. Ahead of the pack, Olivet High School plans to implement the requirement next year.

Calling attention to nail cancer, an overlooked form of melanoma — one woman shares her story

April is Melanoma Awareness Month. While nail cancer is rare, it is most prevalent among People of Color who tend not to get other melanomas. One Battle Creek woman who was diagnosed with nail cancer is raising awareness of the issue and its symptoms.

Love and Joy: How a Battle Creek nonprofit leader evolved into business owner and coach

“It takes courage to leave what people would consider as safe to go out on my own. I revert back to my spirituality. I recognize that God is my source and my businesses are resources. I’m staying grounded in that and I don’t worry.”

Journey home eclipsed by eclipse and West Michigan Nice

On the Ground's Jane Parikh wasn't quite in Southwest Michigan when she witnessed the eclipse. Nevertheless, she had an eclipse moment in the middle of a crowded airport and was reminded of the power of nature to bring us together.

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