Calhoun County

Voices of Youth: Calhoun County students gather at Youth Summit to envision a future without racism

“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.”

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."

Voices of Youth: Why do so many teens reach for energy drinks?

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.

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."

Voices of Youth: Breaking free from the mirror and understanding body dysmorphic disorder

Hangups about our bodies are common, especially in teens who identify as female. Sometimes, these dislikes evolve into obsessions and distortions. VOY Writer Lila McCarthy talks to a Battle Creek therapist about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) — what it is and how to address it.

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.

Our Sponsors

Gilmore Foundation

Our Media Partners

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

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