Community Matters Calhoun County
A community interview series focused on Calhoun County, Michigan, featuring voices from Battle Creek, Marshall, Albion and all around the county. Join host Richard Piet to discuss local events, non-profits, local schools, government and community leaders.Underwritten by Lakeview Ford-Lincoln, Community Matters also airs as a radio program Saturday mornings on 95.3 FM in Battle Creek.
(Community Matters 211) Candidate Interview: Fourth District Candidate McCann Believes His Policy Approach Benefits a Purple District
Michigan’s 4th District U.S. House Candidate Sean McCann breaks down why this race is one of the closest in the country, what he would push in Washington, and how he thinks bipartisan work can still deliver results for Southwest Michigan.Â
Episode Resources
Sean McCann's Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and PM Eastern on...
(Community Matters 211) How to Vote with Confidence in Michigan
Calhoun County Clerk Kim Hinkley clears up the most common points of voting confusion to help you choose an option that fits your life and still meet every deadline. From absentee ballots to early voting to Election Day, plus the exact tools that help you verify your ballot gets counted, Hinkley explains how you can vote in Michigan with confidence and without stress.
Episode Resources
Track Your Ballot
Check Your Voter RegistrationÂ
Calhoun County Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
F...
(Community Matters 211) Candidate Interview: Incumbent Congressman Huizenga Explains What a Toss Up Race Means for Michigan
Incumbent Congressman Bill Huizenga explains why Michigan’s 4th District is getting national attention and what he thinks voters are prioritizing right now as they decide where to cast their vote this election season. Â
Episode Resources
Bill Huizenga's Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and PM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at batt...
(Community Matters 210) Candidate Interview: Frisbie's Plan to Deliver Tax Relief in Michigan
State Representative Steve Frisbie explains what he’s delivered in Lansing and what he wants to tackle next, from roads to tax relief, if re-elected to represent District 44.
Episode Resources
Steve Frisbie's Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and PM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.
Community Matters is sponsored by La...
(Community Matters 210) Candidate Interview: Former Representative Haadsma's Plan to Regain the District 44 House Seat
Former State Repesentative Jim Haadsma discusses his pursuit to reclaim the District 44 seat he lost by a razor-thin margin last election. He explains the specific tax and school policies he backs, and where he draws hard lines on data centers and a constitutional convention.
Episode Resources
Jim Haadsma's Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and...
(Community Matters 210) Wiggly Tail: Kip, The Dog Voted Most Energetic and Why Halloween Can Be Spooky for Your Pets
Kip is a one-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix with big energy and a sharp brain. Jessica Gilbert, Executive Director at the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, explains who's a good fit for him and offers advice on how to make Halloween less spooky and more safe for your pets.
Episode Resources
Humane Society of South Central Michigan Website
Kip on Petfinder
More Wiggly Tail episodes
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014...
(Community Matters 209) Candidate Interview: Vice Mayor Sofia Seeks Re-Election To Continue Progress for Battle Creek
Vice Mayor Sherry Sofia explains why she’s running again and what she wants to finish in Battle Creek as big projects move from planning to reality.Â
Episode Resources
City of Battle Creek website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and PM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.
Com...
(Community Matters 209) Candidate Interview: Ward 2 Candidate Hatcher Seeks to Build 'Cornerstones' for Community Connection
Ward 2 City Commission candidate Rochelle Hatcher discusses what she thinks neighborhoods are really asking for in Battle Creek and why housing, local history, and a real neighborhood grocery store matter to day-to-day life in a community.Â
Episode Resources
City of Battle Creek Website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays a...
(Community Matters 209) Candidate Interview: At-Large Candidate Davenport Wants to 'Build Neighborhoods with Dignity'
Battle Creek City Commission at-large candidate Carole Davenport talks about her vision to rebuild a city without leaving neighborhoods behind and how the choices made at the local level can shape whether working families can live with stability and dignity.
Episode Resources
City of Battle Creek Website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community...
(Community Matters 208) Candidate Interview: Write-In Candidate Diop Harris Shifts his 'Big Issues' Focus to Battle Creek Commission
Battle Creek City Commission Ward 3 write-in candidate Diop Harris talks about why he's running after a previous, unsuccessful primary run for Congress earlier in 2026. Harris talks about why he sees local office as the place where the “everyday” issues that shape a neighborhood can finally get consistent attention.
Episode Resources
Diop Harris Campaign
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Satu...
(Community Matters 208) Candidate Interview: Former Commissioner Herring Revisits Commission Race to Continue 'Impactful Change'
Battle Creek City Commission at-large candidate Boonikka Herring talks about what pulled her back into the race after serving as Ward 3 commissioner during the pandemic and the issues she believes are priorities.
Episode Resources
City of Battle Creek Website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM...
(Community Matters 208) DBCZ October Events Update
Nick Buckley from the Downtown Battle Creek Zine highlights the festive and spooky fun to be had in Battle Creek this October. From local cemetery history exhibits to costume pub crawls, there's something for everyone in Battle Creek this fall.Â
Episode Resources
Follow DBCZ on Facebook
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WBCK-FM (95.3) and a...
(Community Matters 208) Candidate Interview: Ward 3 Incumbent O'Donnell Touts Successes, Plan for 'Positive Progress'
Incumbent Patrick O'Donnell discusses what he's learned as a Battle Creek City Commissioner, talks about what he views as a big success, and priorities if re-elected to represent Ward 3.Â
Episode Resources
City of Battle Creek Website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and PM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) a...
(Community Matters 207) Candidate Interview: Lynn Ward Gray Makes Another Run for Battle Creek Mayor’s Office
Former vice-mayor and commissioner Lynn Ward Gray joins Community Matters amid her most recent drive to become Battle Creek mayor.
Gray discusses her view on leadership with integrity, transparency, and what real access looks like day to day. From affordable housing and entrepreneurship to privacy, policing, she explains what accountability should mean in city government.Â
Episode Resources
City of Battle Creek Website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns t...
(Community Matters 207) Candidate Interview: Journalist, City Critic Wants to Affect Change as At-Large Commissioner
Community Matters candidate interviews continue with at-large city commission candidate Autumn Smith. Smith, a frequent critic of the city administration and commission, talks about why she believes local government must enforce policy, follow the law, and, in her view, stop treating transparency as optional. Stemming from her journalistic history of questioning city government, Smith discusses her priorities around police oversight, the ethics ordinance, and how she thinks the city should handle surveillance tech and major development pressure.
Episode Resources
Autumn Smith Campaign Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY...
(Community Matters 207) Candidate Interview: Joe Harris Brings Investigative Experience to Commission Race
Battle Creek City Commission at-large candidate Joe Harris joins Community Matters to talk about why he’s running and how an investigative mindset can change the way city decisions get made. He explains his views on listening, transparency, and accountability, plus where he draws lines on surveillance tech, development, and oversight of policing.
Episode Resources
Joe Harris Campaign Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in an...
(Community Matters 206) Candidate Interview: Dr. Tino Smith Wants to be A Mayoral Voice for the 'Unheard' in Battle Creek
Battle Creek mayoral candidate Dr. Tino Smith talks about why he’s running and how he wants to reconnect residents who feel shut out of City Hall. Smith discusses talk transparency in government, neighborhood voice, public safety tech, housing pressure, and the personal loss that shapes his drive to serve.
Episode Resources
Dr. Tino Smith's Website
Battle Creek Mayor Website
City of Battle Creek Website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Mat...
(Community Matters 205) Candidate Interview: Battle Creek Mayor Mark Behnke Seeks Another Term
Battle Creek Mayor Mark Behnke discusses his bid for re-election and explains why he sees housing, public safety, and tax relief as the city’s most urgent priorities.Â
Episode Resources
Battle Creek Mayor website
City of Battle Creek website
Battle Creek City Clerk Elections website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays aqt 8:00 AM and PM Eastern on W...
(Community Matters 205) What To Do to Halt Surging Car Theft in Battle Creek
Battle Creek Police Department Sergeant Corey Champlin talks about a recent spike in vehicle thefts and why certain cars are getting targeted right now. He walks through practical car theft prevention steps you can take today to reduce your risk.Â
Episode Resources
Battle Creek Police Department Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WBCK-FM (95.3) a...
(Community Matters 205) A Community Stroll that Funds Dementia Support Returns to Battle Creek
Miles for Memories founder Sherii Sherban talks about their annual Community Stroll and why Calhoun County keeps showing up to build Dementia awareness, reduce risk through movement, and fund programs that help families. She digs into the real community impact events like support, like preventing wandering emergencies to helping caregivers who need someone to pick up the phone when it feels hardest.Â
Episode Resources
Miles for Memories Website
Miles for Memories technology
Sherii Sherban talks to Community Matters about MFM technology
More C...
(Community Matters 204) How to Keep Your SNAP Benefits When Work Requirements Change in Michigan
Jen Hsu-Bishop with the United Way of South Central Michigan breaks down what Michigan’s SNAP work requirements mean right now and what Medicaid work requirements could mean starting in January 2027. She offers some simple things you can do to prevent benefit loss, plus the local navigation help available in Battle Creek and across Calhoun County.Â
Episode Resources
United Way of South Central Michigan Website
MI Bridges Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Mat...
(Community Matters 204) Msaga Shamba at the Binder Park Zoo
Allie Stoddard from Binder Park Zoo talks about Maaga Shamba, a complete reimagining of the former Forest Farm space that will soon feature a redesigned cheetah habitat plus new species. She explains how exhibit decisions get made, what fall looks like at the zoo, and how community support keeps the doors open.
Episode Resources
Binder Park Zoo Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around...
(Community Matters 204) DBCZ September Events Update
Annie Kelly from the Downtown Battle Creek Zine bringing list of fun-filled events around Battle Creek this September. Everything from Battle of the Bands, fiestas, and Fantasia!
Episode Resources
Follow DBCZ on Facebook
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.
Community Matters is sponsored by ...
(Community Matters 204) Last Chance This Year to Recycle Hazardous Waste in Calhoun County
Sarah Lundy from the Calhoun County Household Hazardous Waste Department discusses what you can and can not bring to the county's last household hazaradout waste collection pick up for 2026, on September 14. Lundy offers tips on how you can make the disposal of your items safe for you, the workers and your vehicle.Â
For more information on items you can recycle, call 269-781-0700 or check out the department's website.Â
Episode Resources
Calhoun County Household Hazardous Waste Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show ho...
(Community Matters 203) Back to School at BCPS with Literacy and Attendance Priorities
Battle Creek Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kim Carter talks about what it really takes to start the year strong, from daily attendance to student well-being. She shares the district’s biggest moves for reducing chronic absenteeism, improving literacy, and helping students build real pathways to college, careers, and community life.Â
Episode Resources
Battle Creek Public Schools Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
 Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Cree...
(Community Matters 203) Kellogg Community College Marks 70th Anniversary
Eric Greene at Kellogg Community College talks about KCC's big 70 year anniversary serving Battle Creek and the region. He digs into what community college does best right now: affordable access, job-ready programs, smoother transfer paths, and a new partnership with Western Michigan University.Â
Episode Resources
Kellogg Community College WebsiteÂ
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM an...
(Community Matters 202) Calhoun County Seeking Applications for New Programs Benefiting Seniors
Rod Auton talks about how Calhoun County’s Senior Services Millage turns local tax dollars into real support that helps older adults stay at home. Auton also discusses new “incubator” ideas that fight loneliness, build tech confidence, and connect generations through practical help as well as the upcoming deadline for applications to build new programs benefiting seniors.
Episode Resources
Calhoun County Senior Services WebsiteÂ
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program...
(Community Matters 202) Wiggly Tail: Mutt Market In Battle Creek
Thirty vendors. A dog-friendly market. Free crafts for kids and even paw painting for your pup. Executive Director Jessica Gilbert, explains what you'll see at the Mutt Market at the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.
Episode Resources
Humane Society of South Central Michigan Website
More Wiggly Tail episodes
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters...
(Community Matters 202) Your Comments Can Still Change Battle Creek’s Housing Plan
The clock is ticking on a decision that will shape what Battle Creek looks like for years: how the city grows housing that people can actually find, afford, and live in. Darcy Schmitt, Planning Supervisor for the City of Battle Creek, talks through the city’s draft Housing Strategy and the final window for public comments before the September 15 deadline.
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Sa...
(Community Matters 201) Calhoun County Roads Update: From Summer Paving to Winter Plows
Christine Parsons from the Calhoun County Road Department talks about where summer road work stands, what projects are finishing up, and why planning and partnerships matter as much as asphalt. She explains bridge replacement realities, how they prep for winter, and the simple things drivers can do to keep road crews safe.Â
Episode Resources
Calhoun County Roads Department Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and n...
(Community Matters 201) Michigan Road Work Updates and What's Ahead for Next Year
Road construction season always tests your patience, especially when you don’t know what’s changing day to day. Nick Schirripa from the Michigan Department of Transportation gives an update on the 2026 Michigan construction season and what drivers in Battle Creek, Marshall, and Calhoun County should expect next.Â
Episode Resources
Michigan Department of Transportation Website
MI Drive Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and ne...
(Community Matters 200) How A Local Breast Cancer Walk Turns Into Real Localized Support
Columbia Avenue filled with pink is hard to ignore, and that is exactly the point. Angela Myers from the Battle Creek Community Foundation and Stephen Titus from Lucky Rooster Kitchen and One Nation talk about Walk The Walk for Breast Cancer and why this event has become a powerful annual tradition in Battle Creek.
Episode Resources
Battle Creek Community Foundation Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and...
(Community Matters 200) Transitional Housing for Pregnant Women Facing Homelessness
Daniel Jones from The Haven of Rest shares how the new Haven Maternity Housing program gives homeless pregnant women a safe home, life skills, and support through pregnancy and early parenting.Â
Episode Resources
The Haven of Rest Ministries Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays, 8:00 AM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.
(Community Matters 199) Presidential Portraits Built From Their Own Words
Battle Creek artist Dick Schlatter talks about his “U.S. Presidents In Their Own Words” exhibit at the Battle Creek Regional History Museum. Schlatter discusses his process and how he turns inaugural addresses into striking typographic presidential portraits.Â
Episode Resources
Battle Creek Regional History Museum WebsiteÂ
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WBC...
(Community Matters 198) Improving Pregnancy Outcomes with Rx Kids
Leaders from the Battle Creek Community Foundation, the United Way of South Central Michigan, Grace Health and Rx Kids statewide explain how no-strings cash support during pregnancy and early infancy can improve newborn health and reduce long-term costs. They discuss the impact Rx Kids has had in just a few years in Flint and what it could mean for families in Calhoun County. Â
Episode Resources
Rx Kids Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on c...
(Community Matters 198) DBCZ August Events Update: Color the Creek and More Local Festivals
Annie Kelly from the Downtown Battle Creek Zine bringing a tight list of can’t-miss events around Battle Creek. Everything from murals, music, fair food, and even a dog-centered mini fair.Â
Episode Resources
Follow DBCZ on Facebook
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays at 8:00 AM on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at battlecreekpodcast.com.
Community Matters is...
(Community Matters 197) First Home First Teacher Brings Stability To Early Educators
Kathy Szenda Wilson from Pulse talks about First Home First Teacher, a Battle Creek pilot program that provides free housing plus ongoing support for early childhood educators who are struggling to keep a roof over their heads.Â
Episode Resources
Pulse Roadmap Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and around Battle Creek. Community Matters is heard Saturdays, 8:00 AM Eastern on WBCK-FM (95.3) and anytime at b...
(Community Matters 197) The Wall That Heals Returns to Battle Creek
The Wall That Heals returns to Battle Creek. Colonel Frank Walker and Dave Morgan from Calhoun County Red White Blue Foundation explain how they got it to come back to Battle Creek and how it moves people so deeply.Â
Episode Resources
The Wall That Heals Website
Calhoun County Red White Blue Foundation Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers i...
(Community Matters 196) B Squared Foundation Brings Pro Level Coaching to Local Kids
Brittney Dowdy returns to talk about two summer opportunities that put kids first: a free community flag football game and a Pistons Academy basketball clinic built to be affordable and high impact. Brittney shares how the B Squared Foundation raises money, sponsors kids, and uses sports to build confidence and better teamwork on and off the court.Â
For more information on sponsoring a child, call 269-358-8383
Episode Resources
B Squared Foundation Facebook PageÂ
B Squared Foundation Website
Pistons Academy ...
(Community Matters 196) How Using AI Helps Achieve Quicker Emergency Response in Calhoun County
Michael Armitage with the Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority talks about “Callie,” a virtual assistant now answering Calhoun County’s non-emergency dispatch lines so telecommunicators can stay focused on urgent calls. He breaks down how "Callie" detects emergencies, gets monitored and tuned so public safety outcomes improve without replacing people.
Episode Resources
Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority Website
ABOUT COMMUNITY MATTERS
Former WBCK Morning Show host Richard Piet (2014-2017) returns to host Community Matters, an interview program focused on community leaders and newsmakers in and ar...
