Community Matters

First Aired January 14, 2023 Battle Creek Police Chief Jim Blocker announced his retirement in late 2022, with his last day on the job January 31, 2023. In this episode, Chief Blocker discusses whether his initial goals for the department have been met, what led to...

First Aired January 7, 2023 MDOT spokesperson Nick Schirripa discusses the I-94/Capital Avenue bridge replacement scheduled for summer 2023, including special accommodations being made for pedestrians during the project. He also discusses several other bridge projects...

First Aired January 7, 2023 With a significant Burmese American population settled in the Battle Creek area, the Burma Center initially helped support folks in their process to get settled in a new country, culture and community. Now, Burma Center Executive Director...

First Aired December 31, 2022 Calhoun County Board Chair Steve Frisbie discusses the panel's accomplishments in 2022 and priorities for 2023. He also talks about the commission's first meeting January 5, 2023 - and whether or not he may continue as chair....

First Aired December 31, 2022 in his first interview with Community Matters, Calhoun County Sheriff Steve Hinkley takes the opportunity to encourage safety on New Year's Eve - and while ice fishing. As well, he discusses the effects of the mental health crisis on...

First Aired December 24, 2022 Battle Creek Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Robert Phillips notes the organizations accomplishments in 2022 as well as a look at what is to come. Episode Resources Battle Creek Habitat websiteBattle Creek Habitat ReStoreBattle...

First Aired December 24, 2022 Battle Creek Mayor Mark Behnke discusses the new city commission and vice-mayor, now officially sworn in and ready to focus on 2023 priorities. Episode Resources City of Battle Creek websiteBattle Creek Mayor and Commission websiteMayor...

First Aired December 17, 2022 Battle Creek's Charitable Union Director Teresa Allen talks about the three ways the organization offers clothing and other essentials to those in need in Battle Creek. She notes that in 2022, there has never been a higher demand for...

First Aired December 17, 2022 Battle Creek Community Foundation President and CEO Brenda Hunt discusses the concept of the "enterprise zone" in the Foundation building in Battle Creek. The entrepreneurial concept paves the way for new social enterprises. Episode...

While The Haven of Rest in Battle Creek has been providing helpful services for the homeless since 1956, Executive Director Daniel Jones tells Community Matters the COVID-19 pandemic helped pave the way to adapt and expand. Click to hear him also provide an...