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Battle Creek Buzz: Events, Weather, Real Estate & More!
Smiling Stu Sutherland
Aug 20, 2025
Plumeria Botanical Boutique in Battle Creek is much more than a flower shop—it's a vibrant space where art, community, and nature meet.
Owned by Elisha Hodge since 2015, Plumeria has become a beloved local destination, offering custom floral arrangements, rare houseplants, and one-of-a-kind gifts crafted with care and creativity.
Visitors find thoughtful touches inside, from a unique Propagation Station for plant swaps to a Plant ICU that helps troubled greenery thrive.
Community ties run deep, as the boutique supports local families through flower drives and nonprofit fundraisers.
Now, Plumeria is growing with The Gallery at Plumeria—a new event venue ideal for intimate celebrations and gatherings.
Glowing customer reviews praise both the beautiful designs and the shop’s welcoming atmosphere, making Plumeria a true Battle Creek gem. Read More... |
Trivia Question❓In the late 19th century, Battle Creek, Michigan was home to a controversial social experiment known as the "House of David." What was the House of David, and what impact did it have on the local community? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
The Battle Creek City Commission has unanimously selected Amanda Zimmerlin to become the city’s next manager, offering her the position following a national search triggered by Rebecca Fleury’s retirement last November.
Zimmerlin, who currently leads Clayton, Ohio, emerged as the standout candidate after commission interviews and a public forum.
With previous roles in both Clayton and Springdale, Ohio, and advanced degrees from the University of Dayton, Zimmerlin brings tested experience in city administration.
She outlined priorities for Battle Creek, highlighting improved housing and revised zoning codes, as well as seeking federal and state funds to bolster small businesses.
Mayor Mark Behnke lauded her collaborative style and strong public engagement.
Contract talks and a background check remain before Zimmerlin’s appointment becomes official, with approval targeted for September.
The post pays between $180,000 and $222,000. Read More... |
Over sixty years ago, construction of a concrete channel along the Kalamazoo River promised protection from downtown Battle Creek flooding but brought lasting consequences.
The project displaced The Bottoms, a culturally rich Black and working-class neighborhood, forever reshaping the city's landscape.
Now, city leaders are launching an ambitious plan to remove the channel, aiming to restore the river’s natural flow and heal ecological damage.
Plans include demolishing the Monroe Street Dam and replacing concrete with flood-tolerant vegetation, creating a new river corridor for recreation and community gathering.
Partnerships with engineers and city surveys invite resident feedback to make the project responsive and inclusive.
While some recall the pain of past urban renewal, leaders like Pastor Monique French express cautious hope that the process will foster both neighborhood revival and economic opportunity.
This local movement mirrors broader efforts across Michigan and the U.S. to restore lost neighborhoods and rivers, seeking to balance history, equity, and growth for a more vibrant Battle Creek. Read More... |
Riverside Golf Course, a longtime Battle Creek landmark, faces major changes as redevelopment plans stir local debate.
The 134-acre site at 245 E Columbia Avenue is for sale at $1.899 million, with Interstate Capital Investments (ICI) eyeing its transformation into mixed residential, commercial, and industrial zones.
Community members voiced concerns at a recent meeting, especially about the industrial aspect, fearing negative effects on property values, small businesses, and neighborhood character.
Some residents questioned whether local infrastructure and the city’s long-term plan could support such a large project.
ICI partner Todd Krajniak stressed the need for public input, saying their goal is to adjust plans and minimize conflict.
Potential changes include more green spaces and parks.
The city’s planning division will review the proposal before it goes to the commission, with public hearings set for the coming months.
The final decision will be made by the city commission. Read More... |
On August 12, 2025, heavy rain led to major flooding on Yale Street in Battle Creek, Michigan, stalling vehicles and stranding residents.
Emmett Street was also submerged, disrupting traffic and daily life.
Amid rising waters, four neighbors took action, clearing debris from storm drains after being inspired by a helpful pickup truck driver.
This "street family" emphasized their belief in serving the community, drawing on personal values and a deep sense of local pride.
While such neighborly acts are celebrated, officials urge caution and recommend contacting authorities during hazardous flooding.
After a severe storm in May, the city expanded cleanup efforts, working diligently to clear blocked streets like Merwood Drive and Grand Boulevard.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert to weather advisories and city updates to help protect their families and neighborhoods. Read More... |
7‑day weather outlook for Battle Creek, MI, starting Wednesday, August 20, 2025: |
Upcoming events in Battle Creek and Calhoun County, Michigan, for the two‑week span starting Wednesday, Aug 20–Sep 2, 2025 |
Battle Creek Farmers Market — Open-air market (produce, baked goods, flowers, artisans)
BCCF 2nd Annual Block Party — Free downtown community block party by Battle Creek Community Foundation
Friday Nite Beats & Bites: Retro Night — Evening market with food trucks, drinks, vendors & music Fri, Aug 22 · 6:00–9:00 PM · Festival Market Square, Battle Creek. (Event page includes promo image.) kelloggarena.com
Michigan Metal Fest — All-day heavy music festival (multiple stages, vendors) Sat, Aug 23 · Gates 10:30 AM; Music 11:00 AM–11:00 PM · Leila Arboretum, Battle Creek. Tickets via Ticketmaster.
Backyard Burgers & Brews Fest — Downtown food & craft beverage festival with live entertainment
Truckin’ Tuesdays — Food Trucks & Live Music — Lunchtime rally with live music Notes & sourcesCity of Battle Creek Special Events Calendar (master list for downtown events). battlecreekmi.gov Kellogg Arena event pages (Farmers Market, Beats & Bites, Backyard Burgers & Brews). kelloggarena.combattlecreekmi.gov Michigan Metal Fest official site & Ticketmaster listing (date, gates, tickets). events.michiganmetalfest.netmichiganmetalfest.net Walk The Beat Albion official + Visit Battle Creek + Facebook event (festival hours & after party). walkthebeatalbion.orgbattlecreekvisitors.orgFacebook Swingin’ at the Shell official site and corroborating listings; use the official site for the latest lineup. Swingin at the Shellhighlandreign.comWilcox Newspapers
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The Battle Creek Community Foundation will host its annual Block Party on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 4 to 6 PM at 32 W Michigan Avenue, right in the heart of downtown Battle Creek.
This lively, free event runs alongside the foundation’s annual meeting, offering residents a chance to connect with local nonprofits, discover community programs, and support important causes making an impact in the city.
Visitors can enjoy live music, tasty bites from food trucks, hands-on activities, and engaging booths—all designed to spotlight the organizations and people improving Battle Creek every day.
The Block Party welcomes all ages, making it a great way to meet local changemakers, celebrate recent achievements, and get inspired to give back.
Mark your calendar for an uplifting evening downtown, where community pride is front and center. Read More... |
Battle Creek Farmers’ MarketDate & Time: Every Wednesday—June 11 & June 18, 9 AM–1 PM Location: Festival Market Square, 25 McCamly St S, Downtown Battle Creek Details: Open-air market with fresh produce, artisan vendors & live music. It's a staple weekly event through October smallbusinessbattlecreek.com6. |
Michigan's rivers and streams are grappling with rising contamination from neonicotinoid pesticides, or "neonics," which threaten both aquatic life and human health.
High levels of chemicals like imidacloprid, clothianidin, and thiamethoxam have been found in water systems from farmland to city neighborhoods.
A comprehensive 2025 report reveals that neonic concentrations in Michigan’s surface waters often surpass safety thresholds, especially in waterways feeding into the Great Lakes, including the Saginaw and Grand Rivers.
Neonics persist in the environment, affecting vital aquatic insects such as mayflies and midges—key food for local fish like bass and trout.
Despite clear environmental concerns, proposed bans on neonics have stalled in state government. Ongoing advocacy stresses the urgent need for policy action to safeguard Michigan’s water and wildlife.
Read More... |
Michigan State Police and local agencies are ramping up enforcement against impaired driving as Labor Day weekend approaches.
From August 15 to September 1, the 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign will bring heightened patrols and sobriety checkpoints statewide.
Last year, almost 41% of Michigan’s traffic fatalities were linked to alcohol or drugs, with 297 deaths from alcohol-related crashes and 256 from drug-involved incidents.
Over recent Labor Day weekends, impaired drivers accounted for more than 43% of traffic-related deaths.
Alicia Sledge of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning stresses the importance of choosing a sober ride.
State law prohibits driving with a BAC of 0.08 or higher, but officers can arrest at any level if impairment is apparent.
A public awareness campaign, supported by federal funds, urges residents to plan ahead and prevent needless tragedies.
Making responsible choices this holiday will help keep Michigan’s roads safe for all. Read More... |
GAYLORD, MI — Michigan’s Natural Resources Commission (NRC) has unanimously pledged to restore year-round coyote hunting statewide, intensifying an issue that has divided hunters and animal advocates.
The NRC announced its intention to amend rules and allow coyote hunting year-round on public and private land, responding to sustained pushback from hunting organizations.
This move reverses a 2024 decision that had temporarily closed coyote season from mid-April to mid-July, aiming to protect vulnerable pups.
Key figures like Commissioner David Nyberg and Michigan United Conservation Clubs’ Justin Tomei stress the importance of expanded hunting rights, while animal welfare groups argue such changes are inhumane and threaten ecological stability.
Although the NRC’s stance is clear, official changes are pending and expected before the 2026 furbearer regulation cycle.
The debate continues as both supporters and critics closely monitor the evolving policy landscape for Michigan’s coyote management. Read More... |
Love can be uplifting, but it sometimes pushes people to the brink, blurring the line between passion and tragedy.
TV One's 'Fatal Attraction' returns with an intense look at a real-life Kalamazoo case, highlighting how love’s dark side can end in devastation.
The upcoming episode, "Controlled by Love," airing at 9 p.m. on Monday, August 11, explores the chilling events surrounding the 2019 death of Nikkole Riojas.
Her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Anthony Ozomaro, faced trial for her murder, eventually receiving a 100-year sentence.
This local case, filled with heartbreak and loss, attracted significant attention in the courtroom and beyond.
The episode can be seen on DIRECTV channel 328, the TV One app, and other streaming platforms, including complimentary access via philo.com.
While love is essential, it must never lead to pain or tragedy. Read More... |
📢 Introducing the Battle Creek Buzz Newsfeed: Your New Source for Local Happenings! |
Here at The Battle Creek Buzz, we love shining a spotlight on the good stuff—community events, fun happenings, and the people and places that make our city shine. We’re all about sharing the positive pulse of Battle Creek! But we also know that sometimes, you want to stay in the loop on all the local news—like police reports, fire department activity, and other real-time updates. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our brand-new Battle Creek Buzz Newsfeed! 📰✨ You’ll find the newsfeed tucked conveniently in the upper right corner of your newsletter. It's easy to access and constantly updated with the latest information around town—so you can always stay informed. 👉 We recommend bookmarking it so you can quickly check in anytime you’re curious about what’s happening in our corner of Michigan. |
Secret Little Hack |
One little-known local tip about Battle Creek is that there is a hidden gem of a park called Leila Arboretum. This beautiful park features a variety of unique gardens, sculptures, and nature trails to explore. |
Marshall High School has unveiled its new artificial turf field, marking a remarkable milestone for local athletes and students.
This state-of-the-art surface ensures reliable play and minimizes the upkeep challenges of natural grass, offering a year-round, resilient field for all sports and activities.
The vibrant red and black “M” at midfield and bold “Marshall” lettering in the end zones capture school pride and energy.
Major financial support came from the Marshall Community Credit Union with a generous $650,000 pledge, joined by Ford’s $150,000 contribution, demonstrating deep community investment in youth programs.
The project not only benefits football and soccer, but also marching band and cheerleading, fostering a dynamic hub for local engagement.
The upgraded field is part of a larger commitment to improving school facilities, reflecting Marshall’s dedication to future generations of student athletes.
Read More... |
Oil Diffuser with Essential Oils Set |
Aromatherapy Oil Diffuser 150ml with 6 Essential Oils Set, Cool Mist Diffusers for Essential Oils, Waterless Auto Shut-Off,7 Colors Night Light, Gifts for Mom |
Battle Creek Burger in Urbandale stands out as a local favorite, drawing a steady flow of takeout and delivery orders even with just a handful of tables inside.
Its cozy size doesn’t limit the bold flavors — the A1 Burger and Garlic Parmesan Burger shine with juicy, fresh ingredients.
No wonder it’s been named Best Burger in Battle Creek two years running.
Generous sides, like the hand-cut French fries and onion rings, easily feed two, offering excellent value even after a small price increase.
The service is equally outstanding, with friendly staff making sure every detail is right.
Battle Creek Burger proves that great taste, hearty portions, and genuine hospitality make it worth a special trip — a hidden gem locals already cherish and newcomers will soon love. Read More... |
Real Estate Snapshot for Battle Creek, MI (August 2025) |
Real Estate Snapshot
Median Home Price
Market Activity & Pace
Neighborhood Snapshot
Broader Calhoun County Context
Risk & Opportunity Indicators
Summary & Trends
Takeaway for Buyers & Sellers
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Step into luxury at 119 Kingsbury Ct, an executive residence in the peaceful Westlake Prairieview neighborhood of Battle Creek, MI.
Now listed at $483,900, this remarkable home spans 5,792 square feet and features five bedrooms plus three and a half bathrooms.
Enjoy privacy on a scenic 0.77-acre wooded lot at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac.
The home marries classic architecture with modern comforts—vaulted ceilings, wood floors, and an inviting deck.
The open-concept main floor connects the kitchen, dining, and family areas, while a formal dining and living room add elegance.
The spacious upstairs includes a primary suite with ensuite bath and dual closets.
A finished basement and three-car garage provide extra space and convenience.
Recent upgrades ensure peace of mind, and the low $11/month HOA adds affordability.
This home stands out in the thriving Battle Creek market—see it today with Michael Pelton of Epique Realty. Read More... |
School Rankings & Academic Performance |
Harper Creek High School (Harper Creek Community Schools)
Lakeview High School (Lakeview School District)
Battle Creek Central High School (Battle Creek Public Schools)-Schoo lDigger rank: 685th of 743 Michigan public high schools (~bottom 10%)
Pennfield Senior High School (Pennfield Schools)
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August 9 brought joy to Battle Creek as both the Calhoun County Animal Center and Humane Society of South Central Michigan hosted heartwarming adoption events.
Dogs and cats, including long-time residents like Snickers, Ed, and Tillie, finally found their families, while newcomers swiftly captured the hearts of attendees.
These events showcased not only the dedication of local shelters but also the remarkable compassion shining throughout our community.
Support poured in as residents connected with pets and vendors, giving many animals the fresh start they deserve.
The Battle Creek Buzz continues to highlight local adoptions in our Homeward Bound section, and we’re now seeking a sponsor to uplift this feature.
Instead of traditional payments, the sponsor’s donation will go directly to both shelters—receiving recognition and a lasting thank you from Battle Creek.
Together, we can keep tails wagging across our city. Read More... |
The Humane Society of South Central Michigan is introducing four lively Aussie/Terrier mix puppies looking for loving homes: Parker, Paige, Payton, and Paxton.
Born June 2025, these pups are brimming with personality and affection.
Parker adores people and seeks attention, while shy Paige quickly blossoms into a playful ball of energy once she’s settled in.
Payton balances fierce independence with sweet affection, and Paxton, the most vocal, never goes unnoticed.
All are quick learners and continue to gain confidence with the help of the shelter’s dedicated volunteers.
To thrive, these medium-sized dogs need a physically fenced yard and are not suited for apartment living.
This adorable group does well with kids and may adjust to other pets.
Meet them soon—they could be the joy your home is waiting for. Read More... |
Hydroponics Growing System Indoor Garden |
Herb Garden Kit Indoor with LED Grow Light Quiet Smart Water Pump Automatic Timer Healthy Fresh Herbs Vegetables - Hydroponic Planter for Home Kitchen Office |
📣 Nominate Your Favorite Local Business! 📣 |
Do you have a favorite business in Battle Creek that deserves to be celebrated? We want to shine a light on the hardworking local businesses that make our community special! Whether it’s a cozy cafe, a dedicated service provider, or a unique boutique, we want to hear about it. Submit your nominations for our "Local Business Spotlight" section in The Battle Creek Buzz! Help us recognize the businesses that bring energy, creativity, and warmth to Battle Creek. Tell us what makes them exceptional and why they deserve the spotlight! Reply to this email with your nominations and a brief description to – let’s lift up local Businesses! |
Tip of The Day |
Tip of the Day: If you're looking for a tasty treat in Battle Creek, head to the historic Malia Mediterranean Bistro for a delicious meal with flavors from around the world. Their menu features dishes like falafel, shawarma, and baklava that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean without leaving town. |
The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office has achieved accredited status from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC), highlighting its dedication to professional excellence and accountability.
This extensive process evaluated policies, operations, and services, with expert reviewers ensuring the agency meets Michigan’s highest law enforcement standards.
Only 88 agencies statewide share this distinction—a testament to ongoing commitment and community trust.
Beyond policing, Calhoun County is driving progress through a $1.5 million EPA grant to revitalize brownfield sites, signaling a push towards sustainable economic growth and the transformation of underused properties.
On August 23, the Calhoun Builders Connection event in Battle Creek brought contractors together for networking and industry discussions, further strengthening the local business community.
Together, these achievements showcase Calhoun County’s unified efforts to ensure safety, opportunity, and a vibrant, thriving community for all residents. Read More... |
Do you know someone in Battle Creek who’s making a difference? |
Here’s your chance to celebrate them! Whether it’s a friend, neighbor, teacher, or local hero, we want to feature their story in the "Citizen Shout Outs" section of The Battle Creek Buzz! Submit your nominations, share inspiring stories, and help us recognize the amazing people who make our community shine.
Submit a brief story and their name — let's spread some positivity together! |
YnM 15lbs Weighted Blanket for Adults |
Breathable Heavy Bed Throw Blanket with Cooling Glass Beads for All Season Use, Ideal for ~140lbs (48x72 Inches, Twin/Full, Dark Grey) |
Interesting Facts |
- Battle Creek, Michigan is known as the "Cereal Capital of the World" because it is home to the headquarters of major cereal companies like Kellogg's and Post. |
Multiplying Your Time, Energy, and Impact |
Chapters 4–6 of Who Not How This week we continue our study of Who Not How with some powerful lessons on leverage, freedom, and exponential growth.
In Chapter 4, the authors show us how Whos multiply our time.
Every task you hand off to the right person gives you back hours you can invest in your highest-value work.
Instead of being stuck in the weeds, you gain freedom to focus on what only you can do.
Chapter 5 dives into how this mindset also multiplies your energy. When you’re surrounded by people who share your vision and enthusiasm, work becomes exciting instead of draining.
The right partnerships actually fuel you forward, creating momentum instead of burnout.
Finally, in Chapter 6, we see how Whos multiply your impact. Alone, you can only reach so far.
But with a network of skilled and motivated partners, your influence, reach, and results expand far beyond what you could achieve solo.
The message is clear: stop trying to be the hero of every story. Instead, build a team of Whos who help you multiply your time, energy, and impact.
Amazon Book Link for "Who not How" Audible Link for "Who not How" |
Quote Of The Week |
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The House of David was a religious commune founded in 1903 by Benjamin Purnell in Benton Harbor, Michigan, before relocating to nearby Benton Township and eventually expanding to establish a branch in Battle Creek. The group believed in a combination of Christianity, Judaism, and communal living, and members followed a strict set of rules, including celibacy, vegetarianism, and wearing their hair long. The House of David gained widespread attention for their skilled baseball team, known as the "House of David Clowns," which toured the country playing exhibition games against professional teams. |
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