John Grap News Today

“We have to have more safe places like this where we can enjoy each others company and food. We are human, we have feelings and we need to support each other to provide a better living for our community.

Southwest Michigan Second Wave is a team of local writers and photographers who love where they live. The stories they cover impact them and strengthen their sense of community. Read some of their reflections on 2023 stories here.

Fluffy Butt Farm, 25 acres in Bedford Township, is home to a lot of fluffy butts (100 chickens, 30 goats, seven cows, four breeding pigs, dogs, cats, and kittens). Owned by pilot Chris Wolters and his flight attendant wife Tawney who sell their meat

Artist and muralist Jamari Taylor, inspired by her own Battle Creek Central High School art teacher, is paying it forward through classes and one-on-one art instruction through the Arts and Culture Collective of Battle Creek.

“The type of job we do and the stress we have is a culmination of years within the profession,

Battle Creeks Outdoor Education Center (Clear Lake Camp) is celebrating 90 years of outdoor learning and generational memories with an Open House on Oct. 14.

“I think there’s a negative aura around youth and detention facilities and youth who commit crimes... They aren’t bad kids, they’ve just made a poor choice,” says Tori Benden, Calhoun County Youth Center Director.

In its 8th year, Battle Creeks Color the Creek is a much-anticipated event each year, transforming the city into vibrant color.

For over 10 years, Marshalls Great Escape Stage Company has been putting on stage hits in a small space. With no more than 80 in the audience sitting 15 feet from the performers, a unique., theatrical bond is formed.

As behavioral health moves toward recovery-oriented models of care focused on trust-building and mutual respect, peer support work can prove to be a vital part of guiding clients through their recovery. Here are some local examples of this vital work