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.
The Southwestern Michigan Urban League has launched a new financial literacy initiative in Battle Creek and Calhoun County aimed at equipping underserved families — particularly People of Color — with the knowledge and tools needed to build wealth and achieve homeownership.
The Nottawaseppi Band of the Huron Potawatomi received a $900,000 federal grant to combat human trafficking in Indian Country through undercover operations, victim-centered interventions, and collaborative efforts with local law enforcement along Michigan's I-94 corridor.
Calhoun County is investing $3 million in foreclosure funds through a partnership with Independent Bank to generate down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible homebuyers, turning past foreclosures into new opportunities for homeownership.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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