Battle Creek clears the runway for drones and autonomous flight
Battle Creek is becoming a national hub for drones and autonomous flight by building the digital infrastructure needed for safe, long-distance operations and future aviation jobs.
On the Ground
On the Ground helps to tell the stories of the people, projects, and innovations that are creating “what’s next” for Southwest Michigan.
Published by Southwest Michigan Second Wave, the mission of On the Ground is to connect readers to the area's most visionary and active people, businesses, and organizations — elevating a wide diversity of voices and contributing to the community conversation about what it means to call Southwest Michigan home.
Our journalists engage residents through regular listening sessions, events, and conversations to build trusted relationships that shape the community’s unique, solutions-oriented stories. We want to know what you think because what you think matters.
The On the Ground Battle Creek team includes Project Editor Jane Parikh and Photographer John Grap. The On the Ground Kalamazoo team includes Project Editor Al Jones and Photographer Fran Dwight. The Managing Editor for both series is Theresa Coty O'Neil.
HAVE A STORY IDEA?
We’re always looking for story content. Send your Battle Creek or Calhoun County ideas to otgreporter18@gmail.com. Send your Kalamazoo or Kalamazoo County ideas to editor@swmichigan.secondwavemedia.com.
As visa barriers tighten, a Battle Creek violist’s international career hangs in the balance
As national debates over visa access intensify, the career of Mexican-born violist Sarai Aboites-Nunez, Operations Manager of Battle Creek's Music Center, highlights how U.S. immigration policy affects internationally trained artists who contribute to American cultural life.
Through stories, song, and dance, Battle Creek Celebrates ‘The Rhythm of Community’
Nearly 400 community members braved frigid temperatures to gather in downtown Battle Creek on January 20, uniting through music, reflection, and shared stories to celebrate the National Day of Racial Healing.
Congressman James Clyburn to keynote Battle Creek MLK Community Prayer Brunch
Battle Creek will host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Prayer Brunch, bringing residents together in fellowship to honor Dr. King’s legacy of nonviolence, justice, and unity while reflecting on its relevance today.
National Day of Racial Healing event focuses on hope, resilience, and community in Battle Creek
Battle Creek community members will gather for a free National Day of Racial Healing event celebrating joy, connection, and shared humanity through reflection, conversation, and cultural expression
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.
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.
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.
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.
Susan Balbaugh passes the baton as executive director of Battle Creek’s The Music Center
After 12 years of guiding The Music Center through growth and sustainability, Executive Director Susan Balbaugh will retire in January, transitioning to a part-time donor relations role as Teri Noaeill steps in as the organization’s new leader.
