Transforming the Kalamazoo River into a Whitewater Haven: A Game-Changer for Battle Creek

Battle Creek is taking bold steps to reconnect with the Kalamazoo River by removing concrete barriers and restoring the river’s natural flow downtown.

This revitalization project, called the Kalamazoo River Naturalization, aims to turn the area into a dynamic whitewater destination and introduce native plants along the banks to better manage stormwater and potential flooding.

The city is partnering with engineers to develop a plan, including the removal of the Monroe Street dam, with inspiration drawn from thriving riverfronts in places like South Bend and Oklahoma City.

If successful, downtown Battle Creek could soon see families and thrill-seekers enjoying rafting and kayaking while crowds gather on nearby walkways, boosting local businesses and tourism.

Federal support through the Water Resources Development Act and engineering innovations make flood control a central focus, ensuring safety alongside recreation and economic growth.

This transformation promises a vibrant new identity for Battle Creek’s heart, benefiting residents and visitors alike.

Create In Me LLC has quickly established itself as a creative heartbeat in downtown Battle Creek.

Founded in December 2024 by self-taught artist Rachel Miller, the studio welcomes all ages and skill levels for hands-on classes and art events.

From family paint nights to vibrant stained glass workshops, Rachel nurtures an environment that prizes encouragement and fun over perfection.

Notably, the Stained Glass Crafting Party events, inspired by Michigan’s natural beauty, have drawn rave reviews and repeat crowds for their modern twist on timeless techniques.

Located at 46 W. Michigan Ave, this inviting space hosts custom group events—ideal for birthdays, team building, or fundraisers—fueling both creativity and connection across the community.

The studio’s energy, captured in joyful event photos, reflects its growing positive impact on Battle Creek, making it a must-visit hub for anyone seeking inspiration and artistic joy.

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The search for Battle Creek’s next city manager has entered its final stages after Larry Burks withdrew his candidacy, leaving three experienced contenders.

Carl Geffken, former city manager of Fort Smith, Arkansas; Matt Harline, previous village manager in Villa Park, Illinois; and Amanda Zimmerlin, current city manager of Clayton, Ohio, now remain in consideration.

Mayor Mark Behnke remains optimistic about the process, despite the change in finalists.

The city commission expects to vote and make their decision by August 19.

Residents are encouraged to engage with the finalists at a public meet-and-greet on August 6, hosted at the DoubleTree by Hilton from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Community feedback will help shape the city’s next era of leadership as Ted Dearing continues serving as interim manager since Rebecca Fleury’s retirement.

7‑day weather outlook for Battle Creek, MI, starting Wednesday, August 6, 2025:

Upcoming events in Battle Creek and Calhoun County, Michigan, for the two‑week span starting Wednesday, August 6, 2025:

Battle Creek Events

Battle Creek Farmers’ Market

Date: Wed, August 6, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: Festival Park, downtown Battle Creek

Description: Weekly outdoor market featuring fresh produce, artisans, vendors, and local food. Great for family strolling and community atmosphere.

More Info: Battle Creek city calendar Farmers Marketcalhouncountyfairgrounds.com+battlecreek

Community Meet & Greet: City Manager Finalists

• Date: August 6, 2025 (Wednesday)

• Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

• Location: Civic building—Battle Creek Parks & Rec coordinated

• Description: Public opportunity to meet the finalists for the city manager position in an informal setting. Calendar

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

• Date: Friday, August 8, 2025

• Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM

• Location: Likely Festival Park downtown (city series area)

• Description: Outdoor live music event featuring local bands, relaxed open-air environment.

• More Info: Battle Creek events calendar

20th Annual CPCU Battle Creek Classic Car Cruise‑In

• Date: Friday, August 8, 2025

• Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: (Vehicle show at a central downtown or park location)

• Description: Classic car enthusiasts showcase vintage and restored vehicles.

• More Info: Small Business Battle Creek events site

Teach a Kid to Fish (4th Annual)

• Date: Sunday, August 10, 2025

• Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Location: Local lakeside area (organized by local recreation or fishing nonprofit)

• Description: Free family event teaching kids basic fishing skills, rod rental, bait provided.

• More Info: Small Business Battle Creek event calendar

Calhoun County Events

• Calhoun County Fair (Marshall, MI)

  • Dates: Sunday, August 10 – Saturday, August 16, 2025

  • Times: Fair begins morning (likely ~9 AM or constant entry), ending evenings

  • Location: Marshall Fairgrounds (Calhoun County Fairgrounds)

  • Description: Michigan’s oldest continuous fair with rides, livestock exhibits, grandstand entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, contests, and evening music shows.

  • More Info / Schedule: Fair week schedule available online

The 176th Annual Calhoun County Fair will light up Marshall’s historic fairgrounds from August 10 to 16, 2025, promising a vibrant celebration of local traditions.

Since 1848, this beloved event has united the community with its deep agricultural roots and lively spirit.

Expect thrilling carnival rides, spirited livestock competitions, and a lively entertainment schedule perfect for the whole family.

Food lovers can indulge in classic fair treats—from cotton candy to savory fries—ensuring a tasty visit for everyone.

Special themed days will recognize community heroes, including a day of free admission for veterans and first responders, and a Kids Day packed with superheroes and fun activities.

Grandstand events such as the TK Pro Rodeo and Demo Derby are crowd favorites, with discounted Mega Passes available online.

Admission is $10, while children 9 and under enter free, and parking is complimentary.

Join neighbors for a week of unforgettable summer memories and celebration.

Tickets

Battle Creek Caribbean Festival – August 16, 2025

Celebrate island vibes at the 10th Annual Battle Creek Caribbean Festival at The Base Bar & Grill! Enjoy live performances from

Hurricane Reggae Band, King Mellowman, and Roots Vibrations, plus food from Jamaican Spice, Xav's Fusion, Ko Ko’s Kitchen, and more. Emcee Assane Dia brings the energy from 6 PM to 1 AM.

Presale: $7 | Door: $10 | VIP Tables: $80–$125

No passport needed—just good vibes, irie tunes, and delicious Caribbean cuisine!

3905 W. Dickman Rd, Springfield, MI
Sponsored by KCC, MCCU, and Captain Morgan.

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.

Battle Creek Farmers’ Market

• Date & 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.

• Info: downtownbcfarmersmarket.com

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has issued an executive directive to assess how federal tariffs are impacting Michigan’s economy, zeroing in on key areas like manufacturing, agriculture, and especially the auto sector.

This move comes as the Trump administration’s August 1 deadline looms for nations to renegotiate tariff rates, or face taxes up to 50%.

Whitmer voiced concern that tariffs have already driven up prices and disrupted supply chains, straining local families and businesses.

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist warned the auto industry is already feeling the pinch, with major firms losing money and supply chains—employing tens of thousands—under threat.

While economists caution these tariffs could escalate costs for consumers, President Donald Trump maintains they will boost American jobs and industry.

Regional business leaders, like Clarence Lloyd of Southwest Michigan First, fear prolonged uncertainty could force some thin-margin companies to shut down.

Negotiations continue, as the administration recently granted a 90-day reprieve for Mexico, delaying certain new tariffs.

Michigan is making history as Holtec International works to restart the Palisades Nuclear Plant, which has been offline since 2022.

This marks the first-ever attempt to revive a decommissioned U.S. nuclear plant, following initial approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for fuel loading—though more reviews are pending.

Holtec also plans to install two small modular reactors at the site, each able to supply 300 megawatts of scalable, clean energy.

With Hyundai Engineering & Construction as a partner and robust financial backing—including a $1.52 billion federal loan guarantee—the project aims to protect 600 skilled jobs and power 800,000 homes.

Significant repairs are underway after inspections found corrosion in steam generator tubes, but regulators say environmental risks are minimal.

Public opinion remains divided between safety concerns and enthusiasm for economic and energy benefits as Holtec eyes a late 2025 restart.

This bold effort could redefine Michigan’s energy future and set a precedent nationwide.

📢 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 the Leila Arboretum is a hidden gem in the city.

This 72-acre botanical garden features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and unique sculptures, making it a peaceful spot to explore and enjoy nature.

Additionally, the arboretum often hosts events, workshops, and concerts throughout the year, providing fun and free entertainment for locals.

It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in a serene environment.

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Stepping inside Clara’s on the River in downtown Battle Creek brings a sense of nostalgia and charm.

The restaurant is set in the beautifully renovated Michigan Central Railroad Depot, built in 1888, with inviting ambiance perfect for special gatherings.

An attentive host welcomed our group to an intimate side room—once the train station’s original ticket office—offering quiet space to reconnect.

Details like waters ready at the table showcased the team’s thoughtful hospitality.

Our server, James, delivered gracious, attentive service throughout, especially when accommodating unique guest needs.

The menu impressed: the Chicken Marsala was rich and tender, Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas outstanding, and the Reuben sandwich drew high praise for authenticity.

After dinner, the lush outdoor patio and riverside walk created a peaceful, memorable close.

Clara’s on the River remains a top choice in Battle Creek for those seeking warm service, excellent food, and a touch of history.

Real Estate Snapshot for Battle Creek, MI (August 2025)

Real Estate Snapshot

Median Home Price

• June 2025 median sale price: $188,000, down ‑0.53% year‑over‑yeaRealtoZillow estimate: average value around $178,010–$184,814, up 2.4%–3.5% year‑over‑year as of June 30, 2025 Zillow

Market Activity & Pace

• Buyers' market heat: Redfin reports a highly competitive market, with homes going pending in roughly 17 days (vs. 9 days last year) Redfin+66

• Growing number of home sales: 72 homes sold in June (vs. 62 last year; +16.1%)

Neighborhood Snapshot

• Central Battle Creek: Median sale price $156,500 in June; up a whopping +27.2% year‑over‑year, average time on market ~20 days Rocket+5Redfin+5Redfin+5

• Zip code 49015: Median price $224,470, up +5.4% y‑o‑y, market sells in 20 days; Zip 49017 list price down ‑18.7% y‑o‑y ($189.9K) Redfin+

Broader Calhoun County Context

• County‑wide median price: $210,000 in June, up 5.0% year‑over‑year; average days on market ~18 Rocket

• Market heat:

  • ~27% sales above list price

  • ~97.9% sale‑to‑list price ratio Rocket

Risk & Opportunity Indicators

• Property distress: Very low – only ~40 pre‑foreclosures and 2,278 involuntary liens among ~31,300 homes; around 73% of homes have over 50% equity propertyfocus.com

Summary & Trends

• The median home price in Battle Creek is hovering around $180K–$190K, relatively stable or slightly down year‑over‑year.

• Inventory remains tight and competition fierce—homes often go under contract in about 2–3 weeks, sometimes faster in hot neighborhoods like 49015 or Central Battle Creek.

• Certain areas like Central and 49015 are seeing stronger-than-average price appreciation, even as the broader city market cools.

• County-level data shows modest growth, while the local distressed property count remains very low—highlighting a stable market landscape.

Takeaway for Buyers & Sellers

• Buyers: Expect a competitive market; lean fast and be prepared to act quickly—especially in neighborhoods trending upward.

• Sellers: Even with slight overall price dips or plateaus, well-priced homes—especially in high-demand zip codes—are still moving fast and often near asking.

• Investors: Neighborhoods like 49015 and Central Battle Creek showing strong year-over-year growth may offer opportunities for appreciation.

Experience rustic elegance in this stunning log-style home nestled on a scenic 5-acre property in Pennfield Township.

Set at 21254 Swafford Rd, Battle Creek, this spacious 2,856-square-foot retreat features four bedrooms and three bathrooms, all for $429,000.

The home’s remodeled kitchen, highlighted by polished concrete counters and a central island, is perfect for both daily living and entertaining.

Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with a wrap-around deck and the versatility of a walk-out basement, complete with its own bed, bath, and kitchen—ideal for guests or additional income.

Extras include a 36x48 pole barn, over a mile of trails, dog kennel, chicken coop, and an attached 2.5-car garage.

The main floor laundry, generous storage, included appliances, and cozy fireplaces ensure comfort and convenience throughout.

Contact Geno Armanini at 269-986-3031 for a tour of this rare Pennfield Township gem.

School Rankings & Academic Performance

Harper Creek High School (Harper Creek Community Schools)

• Niche rating: 3.9/5 for district overall; high school grade ~3.5/5, Niche grade B‑

• Ranked 537th out of 743 Michigan public high schools (SchoolDigger)
• GreatSchools rating: 4/10, academically below average
• District proficiency: ~29% math, 39% reading are proficient

Lakeview High School (Lakeview School District)

• Niche rank: #146 Best Public High Schools in Michigan, grade B+, rating ~3.6/5

• SchoolDigger rank: 305th of 743 Michigan high schools (~top 40%)
• District Niche rating: 3.75/5 overall

Battle Creek Central High School (Battle Creek Public Schools)

-Schoo lDigger rank: 685th of 743 Michigan public high schools (~bottom 10%)

• Niche grade: C+, rating ~3.6/5
• GreatSchools/SAT info: average SAT ~1020, ratio ~18:1, grade C+

Pennfield Senior High School (Pennfield Schools)

• SchoolDigger rank: 496th of 743 Michigan high schools (~mid‑range)

• Overall Testing Rank (PublicSchoolReview): Pennfield ~#2031/3069 vs. Harper Creek ~#1810 (both bottom 50%)
• Math proficiency: Pennfield (~15–19%), Harper Creek (~22%)
• Reading proficiency: Pennfield (~40–44%), Harper Creek (~45%)
• US News: #7 in Battle Creek metro area; national ranking ~#13,077

Families in Calhoun County are gearing up for the 2025-2026 school year, with start dates varying by district.

Bellevue Community Schools open on August 18; Olivet follows on August 19.

Athens, Battle Creek, Harper Creek, Homer, Lakeview, and Tekonsha begin on August 20.

Pennfield and Union City start August 25, while Marshall welcomes students back on September 2.

Districts starting early will take a short break August 29 and September 1 for Labor Day.

Thanksgiving break runs November 26-28 for most, with Lakeview and Marshall out November 24-28.

All districts hold winter break from December 22 to January 2.

Spring breaks differ: Marshall breaks March 23-27, Athens March 27-April 7, and most others from March 27-April 6.

The school year wraps up as early as May 22 in Homer and extends to June 5 in other districts.

Checking each school’s calendar ensures families don’t miss a beat.

Each week, we team up with local shelters to feature adoptable pets from Calhoun County Animal Center and the Humane Society of South Central Michigan. Help us find these furry friends a forever home!

Click on Picture to learn more

Hydroponics Growing System Indoor Garden

The Franke Center’s Youth Theater invites local students entering kindergarten through fifth grade to audition for its colorful fall production, ‘Finding Nemo Jr.’, held at 214 E. Mansion St. in Marshall.

Auditions will take place Wednesday, August 13, and Thursday, August 14, with specific times by grade.

Parents or guardians must accompany young performers, who should arrive 30 minutes early for registration, pay a $10 fee, and bring a recent photo.

Directed by Angela Gerten and music directed by Marge Smith, the show will run October 16–19, bringing to life Marlin’s ocean adventure to find his son, Nemo, with memorable friends and uplifting lessons.

Cast members will pay a $110 participation fee, with scholarships and sibling discounts available.

An optional audition workshop is set for August 9, offering audition and stage skills for a $25 fee.

Visit The Franke Center’s website for more details and registration.

📣 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: Looking for a fun outdoor activity in Battle Creek?

Check out the Willard Beach Park for a relaxing day by the water!

Pack a picnic, grab a good book, and soak up the sun at this local gem.

Don't forget your sunscreen and beach towels!

Federal budget cuts have forced the cancellation of the Local Food for Schools program, disrupting vital ties between Michigan farmers and food banks.

Without this funding, farms like Of The Land in Battle Creek have lost guaranteed income and can no longer supply the South Michigan Food Bank with their annual 30,000-pound tomato harvest.

Director Lori Sunie says the loss has made sourcing affordable, local produce far more difficult, forcing reliance on contracted growers.

Farm owner Bridgett Blough now shifts focus to a wedding venue on her property in hopes of financial stability, but regrets that providing fresh food to the community has taken a back seat.

With over 500 Michigan farmers impacted and more than $1.7 million in payments delayed, food banks statewide are struggling to maintain access to fresh, nutritious options for families in need.

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Do you know someone in Battle Creek who’s making a difference?

Submit a brief story and their name — let's spread some positivity together!

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Interesting Facts

Breaking Free from Fear and Embracing Definiteness

Chapters 13 & 14 of Outwitting the Devil

As we conclude Napoleon Hill’s provocative Outwitting the Devil, Chapters 13 and 14 drive home two life-changing truths: fear is the Devil’s greatest weapon, and definiteness of purpose is our greatest defense.

In Chapter 13, the Devil admits that his favorite tool is fear—especially the fear of poverty, criticism, ill health, loss of love, old age, and death.

These fears paralyze action, drain confidence, and keep people stuck in the status quo.

But Hill argues that awareness is the first step to freedom. Once we recognize fear for what it is—a tool of control—we can choose to act in spite of it.

Chapter 14 brings the book to a powerful conclusion, emphasizing that those who develop definiteness of purpose, self-discipline, and independent thought become “non-drifters” who are immune to manipulation.

Hill challenges us to take full responsibility for our lives and decisions, no longer blaming outside forces or waiting for permission to succeed.

This wraps up a powerful and eye-opening journey. If you’ve been reading along, well done! If you’re behind—there’s still time to finish strong.

Next Month's Book: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy

We’ll begin next week with a new kind of mindset shift—less about doing it all yourself, more about finding the right people to help you succeed.

Who Not How is a game-changer for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone ready to scale their life without burning out.

Amazon Book Link for Outwitting the Devil
Audible Link for Outwitting the Devil

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

 Now Hiring in the Creek

Top Employers Posting Jobs Now

Flex‑N‑Gate

Hiring multiple positions including Press Operator/Packer (2nd shift, ~$20–20.50/hr), Assembly (1st shift, ~$20.50/hr), and Maintenance Technician ($32–44/hr) IndeedIndeed

State of Michigan / Calhoun County

Roles like Department of State Aide, and Assistance Payments Worker offering $48k–70k/year, with benefits including loan forgiveness and 401(k) matching Indeed

Omni Community Credit Union & Kellogg Community Credit Union

Positions including Document Specialist (≈$17–21/hr), Payments Manager (≈$65k–85k/year), Teller ($17–23/hr), and Full-Time Personal Advisor Teller roles with full benefits Indeed

Prairie Farms Dairy

Night‐shift positions such as UHT Production Worker (~$21–29/hr) and Maintenance Technician ($32–44/hr) 

Indeed+

Kellogg Community College

Administrative roles like Records & Registration Assistant (~$19–24/hr) governmentjobs.com+10Glassdoor+10Snagajob

Battle Creek Public Schools / Communities in Schools Michigan

Bearcat Watch Edustaff positions (~$17/hr), Coordinator roles, information systems specialists ($20–24/hr) Glassdoor.

Grace Health

Patient Services Assistant (~$17.50/hr), Medical Assistant / CCMA Apprentice ($17–19.60/hr) Indeed

Bronson Healthcare

Hiring Medical Assistants ($16–20.50/hr) and Culinary & Hospitality Associates (part-time/shift pay) Glassdoor.

U‑Haul

Customer Service Representative ($15–20.50/hr) and CDL Driver ($15.75–19.75/hr) ziprecruiter.com

Best Buy

Retail Sales Associate ($14.25–16.25/hr) in Battle Creek store ziprecruiter.com

U‑Haul & Sam’s Club

Additional roles like Personal Shopper ($17–24/hr) and retail staff frequently listed as “urgently hiring” Indeedziprecruiter.com.

City of Battle Creek

Openings in municipal roles (e.g. General Labor – Streets, Planner, Fire Department positions) with hourly pay ranging up to ~$28/hr; recruitment through its public-sector careers portal Glassdoorgovernmentjobs.combattlecreekmi.gov.

Staffing Agencies (e.g. OnStaff USA)

Listings in manufacturing, general labor, assembly, food prep and logistics positions (hourly-pay varies broadly) onstaffusa.com

Retail & Service Employers (via Snagajob)

Meijer, Red Lobster, Pilot, T‑Mobile, Denny’s, 115 Restaurant, Discount Tire, etc. – positions such as cashier, dishwasher, and retail associate in the $12–15/hr range Snagajob

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