Controversial Updates: Michigan's Progressive Labor Laws, Fish Stocking Plans, & Exciting New Business in Battle Creek! 🎉

Trivia Question❓

In the late 19th century, Battle Creek, Michigan became known as the "Health City" due to its association with which famous health reformer and inventor?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Here are some events scheduled in and around Battle Creek, Michigan, during the two weeks starting January 13, 2025:

Historic District Commission Steering Committee Meeting
Date & Time: Monday, January 13, 2025, 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM Location: City Hall Commission Chambers, 10 N Division, Battle Creek, MI 49014 Description: A meeting to discuss design guidelines and other matters related to the Historic District.

Historic District Commission Meeting
Date & Time: Monday, January 13, 2025, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM Location: City Hall Commission Chambers, 10 N Division, Battle Creek, MI 49014 Description: A meeting to discuss matters related to the Historic District.

Board of Appeals Meeting
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Location: City Hall Commission Chambers, 10 N Division, Battle Creek, MI 49014 Description: A public meeting to review and decide on appeals related to city regulations.

City Commission Regular Meeting
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 21, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Location: City Hall Commission Chambers, 10 N Division, Battle Creek, MI 49014 Description: A regular meeting of the Battle Creek City Commission to discuss city matters.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Service Changes
Date & Time: Monday, January 20, 2025, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location: City Hall, 10 N Division, Battle Creek, MI 49014 Description: Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with potential changes to city services.

Downtown Development Authority Meeting
Date & Time: Monday, January 27, 2025, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM Location: City Hall Room 302A, 10 N Division, Battle Creek, MI 49014 Description: A meeting to discuss development initiatives in downtown Battle Creek.

For more details and the latest updates, please visit the City of Battle Creek's official calendar.

Please note that event details are subject to change. It's advisable to check the provided links or contact the event organizers directly for the most current information.

Business Owners and Service Providers

Coming January 15th

A Fresh Opportunity for Calhoun County Businesses!

Battle Creek

As our local Calhoun RBB leader, I invite you to join us. We have great plans to do live local events and I'm counting on the insights from amazing entrepreneurs like you. Join us - Stu Sutherland

A Fresh Opportunity for Calhoun County Businesses!

Exciting news, Calhoun County! 🚀 Referral Business Builders (RBB) is launching right here, and we’re inviting YOU to be part of the kickoff online meeting at 11 AM, January 15th, 2025.

What is RBB?

RBB is your ultimate business growth network, connecting local entrepreneurs to share ideas, gain referrals, and grow together. Say goodbye to stiff networking—this is about real relationships that lead to real results.

Why Join the Kickoff?

Meet fellow business owners who understand the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Discover what makes RBB a game-changer for businesses nationwide.
Be part of future local live events designed to strengthen our community.

Ready to grow your business?
👉 Click here to learn more and register now!

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, grow, and succeed. Your next big breakthrough starts here!

Tip of The Day

Tip of the Day: Looking for a unique dining experience in Battle Creek?

Head to the Historic Adventist Village for Food Truck Fridays!

Enjoy delicious food from local vendors while exploring the charming historic district.

Don't miss out on this tasty and fun event!

Crafters Corner

🎉 Big Opportunities for Crafters – Watch the Replay + Share Your Thoughts!

We’re off to an amazing start with our Crafters Corner Zoom Meeting, and I couldn’t be more excited about the ideas and energy we shared! If you missed it, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. The full meeting replay is available at the bottom of this email, so you won’t miss a thing.

But that’s not all – I’ve got something BIG to share, and I need your input!

Learn to Build Your Own Website

Starting this Wednesday night, I’ll be teaching crafters how to create their very own website using a simple $25 tool. Imagine having a beautiful online space to showcase your unique creations 24/7. Sound exciting? Be sure to register for the training sessions – this is a game-changer for your business! Check out the $25 Business here.

I know your mind Is telling you that you can't do it but trust me, if you can place an order on Amazon you can do this!

A NEW IDEA: Virtual Craft Show!

Now here’s the idea that got me buzzing the other night: What if we hosted a Virtual Craft Show?

Think about it – it’s just like a traditional craft show, but entirely online. Here’s how it would work:
🎥 A Live Event on the Battle Creek News and Events Page
🛍️ Each crafter gets a 10-minute slot to showcase their "booth" and products. (Just like walking from booth to booth at a craft show but they can't skip your booth)
📞 Share your contact info so customers can buy directly from you!
💡 Reach an even bigger audience without ever leaving your home!

Does this excite you?

If the idea of a Virtual Craft Show resonates with you, just hit Reply to this email and say:
"YES, I’m interested!"

This could be an incredible opportunity to connect with new customers, promote your craft business, and even make sales right from your living room. But before I dive into planning, I want to know what YOU think.

Let’s make something amazing together. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see how we can make this Virtual Craft Show a reality.

Don’t Miss the Replay!

Catch all the amazing ideas and strategies we shared in the first meeting: 👇

Michigan DNR Reveals Extensive Fish Stocking Plans for 2024, Emphasizing Conservation and Recreational Opportunities.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released its fish stocking plans for 2024, focusing on trout, salmon, walleye, and muskie.

The stocking will take place across various lakes and rivers in the state, with an emphasis on maintaining a healthy fish population and supporting recreational fishing opportunities.

The DNR aims to stock over 21 million fish of various species, including brown trout, steelhead, Chinook salmon, walleye, and muskie.

These stockings play a crucial role in maintaining Michigan's diverse fisheries and provide opportunities for anglers to enjoy a wide range of fishing experiences.

The DNR's fish stocking efforts are part of their ongoing commitment to conservation and sustainability, ensuring the long-term health of Michigan's aquatic ecosystems and the communities that rely on them for recreation and economic benefits.

Anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to stay informed about the DNR's stocking efforts and take advantage of the abundant fishing opportunities available throughout the state.

The article discusses Michigan's annual snowmobile race, the I-500, and the safety measures being taken to ensure a successful event.

The race, which covers 500 miles over three days, will take place in Sault Ste.

Marie this year.

Safety preparations include grooming the trails, providing training for race officials, and implementing new rules to ensure the safety of both participants and spectators.

The event is a significant economic driver for the area, bringing in thousands of visitors each year.

In addition to the race itself, there will be a Safety Week leading up to the event, featuring educational programs and clinics for snowmobilers to improve their skills and awareness.

The article emphasizes the importance of safety in snowmobiling, given the speed and potential dangers associated with the sport.

Local officials are working closely with race organizers to make sure all necessary precautions are in place for a successful and incident-free event.

Overall, the focus is on promoting safe and responsible snowmobiling practices to ensure a successful I-500 race in Michigan.

In 2025, Oreo has released two new flavors inspired by game day and golden dunk clubs.

The new Game Day Oreos feature a chocolate cookie with a red and blue filling, while the Golden Dunk Club Oreos have a vanilla cookie with a golden filling.

These flavors were created with input from consumers in Michigan who provided feedback on what they wanted in a new Oreo flavor.

The Game Day Oreos are designed to capture the excitement and energy of game day events, while the Golden Dunk Club Oreos are meant to evoke a feeling of luxury and indulgence.

Both flavors are available for a limited time and can be found in stores across Michigan.

Oreo continues to innovate and create new flavors based on consumer preferences and feedback, ensuring that fans of the iconic cookie will always have something new and exciting to try.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that Battle Creek, Michigan, was once known as the "Health Mecca of the World"? In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city gained international fame as a health destination thanks to its natural mineral springs and pioneering health institutes. Leading figures like John Harvey Kellogg, who founded the Kellogg Company, promoted a holistic approach to wellness that influenced millions worldwide. This legacy of health and wellness continues to shape Battle Creek's culture and identity to this day.

Battle Creek is home to the first-ever airfield established by an African American aviator, the historic Taylor Field. In 1929, Willa Brown, a trailblazing pilot and activist, founded the airfield to provide aviation training for African Americans at a time when opportunities were scarce due to racial discrimination. Brown's contributions to aviation history are often overlooked, but her legacy lives on in Battle Creek as a testament to her pioneering spirit and dedication to breaking barriers in the field of aviation.

The beautiful Leila Arboretum in Battle Creek is not your average botanical garden – it is home to the largest outdoor kaleidoscope in the world! Standing at an impressive 28 feet tall, the kaleidoscope offers a mesmerizing visual experience, with ever-changing patterns and colors created by natural light. Visitors can step inside and see the world through a kaleidoscopic lens, making for a unique and memorable visit to this hidden gem in Battle Creek. Come discover the magic of this one-of-a-kind attraction right in your own backyard!

Local Sports

Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions Game Highlights | NFL 2024 Season Week 18

Lions CLINCH NFC North title in Primetime Thriller | Lions vs. Vikings: 2024 NFL Season Highlights

Battle Creek Enquirer's Athlete of the Week Poll Highlights Local High School Talent and Dedication

The article discusses the Battle Creek Enquirer's Athlete of the Week poll for January 4th, featuring standout high school athletes from the local area.

The poll allows readers to vote for the athlete they believe deserves recognition for their achievements in sports.

The nominees for this week include a variety of athletes from different sports, showcasing the talent and dedication of the local high school sports community.

Readers are encouraged to participate in the poll and show their support for these athletes.

The poll serves as a way to highlight the accomplishments of these young athletes and bring attention to their hard work and success on the playing field.

The winner of the poll will be announced at the end of the week, with their achievements being celebrated by the community.

Overall, the Athlete of the Week poll provides a platform for recognizing and honoring the talented high school athletes in Battle Creek.

The article highlights the results of various boys and girls basketball games in the Battle Creek area on Tuesday night.

The Harper Creek boys defeated Lumen Christi, while the Lakeview boys and Pennfield girls also emerged victorious in their respective games.

The St.

Philip boys and girls teams both suffered losses in their matchups.

In other games, the Marshall girls team secured a dominant win over Portage Central, while the Olivet boys team emerged victorious against Leslie.

Overall, it was a competitive night of high school basketball with a mix of wins and losses for the teams in the Battle Creek area.

Q/A Questions

Q: Q: Who was the famous author born in Battle Creek that wrote the beloved fantasy series "The Chronicles of Narnia?

A: "A: C.S. Lewis, the renowned British writer and theologian, was born in Belfast, Ireland, but he spent a significant portion of his childhood in Battle Creek, Michigan. Lewis is best known for his captivating fantasy series "The Chronicles of Narnia," which has delighted readers of all ages with its magical elements and allegorical themes.

Michigan Implements Progressive Labor Laws in 2025.

In 2025, Michigan is implementing new laws related to sick time, wages, and unemployment.

The Sick Time Act will require all employers with more than 50 employees to provide paid sick leave to their workers.

This law aims to protect workers who need time off due to illness or to care for sick family members.

Additionally, the state has raised its minimum wage to $12.25 per hour, with gradual increases planned until it reaches $15 per hour in 2027.

Another new law concerns unemployment benefits, allowing part-time workers to receive benefits if they lose their job.

This change is meant to provide more support to workers with alternative work arrangements.

Overall, these new laws are aimed at improving worker rights and protections in Michigan, ensuring that employees have access to paid sick leave, fair wages, and unemployment benefits when needed.

Secret Little Hack

Hey there, fellow Battle Creek enthusiast!

Looking to spice up your time in this charming city?

Well, buckle up because I've got a secret hack that will take your Battle Creek experience to the next level. If you're a foodie like me, you're in luck because Battle Creek has a hidden gem that most people overlook.

Drumroll, please...

It's the International Food Festival!

This annual event showcases mouthwatering dishes from all around the world, right here in our own backyard.

From authentic Mexican tacos to savory Middle Eastern kebabs, you can indulge in a culinary adventure without breaking the bank.

Plus, you'll get to mingle with locals and fellow food lovers, making it a must-do for anyone looking to expand their palate. So, mark your calendar and come hungry because the International Food Festival is where you'll discover a world of flavors without ever leaving Battle Creek.

Trust me, this hack will turn your taste buds into globe-trotters in no time!

Local Business News

Coming Late January

New Business In Battle Creek:

La Loma Supermercado Grand Opening

The wait is over, Battle Creek! La Loma Supermarket is officially open and ready to serve you with the finest selection of Mexican and Latin American groceries. Located at 1791 W Columbia Ave, La Loma offers a variety of fresh products, including abarrotes (groceries), a carnicería (butcher shop), a panadería (bakery), and a taquería featuring authentic Mexican dishes made daily.

This grand opening marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the community. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted with the sights, sounds, and smells of high-quality, authentic Latin American food. Whether you're picking up your weekly groceries, grabbing fresh meats, or enjoying a delicious taco, La Loma is here to provide you with a unique shopping experience.

To celebrate, La Loma is offering exclusive Grand Opening specials! Don't miss out on the chance to enjoy great savings while discovering your new favorite supermarket in Battle Creek.

Join us today for the grand opening celebration! We’re open from 7:00 AM and can’t wait to welcome you. Be sure to like, share, and tag your friends to spread the word!

For more details, you can reach us at +1 269-399-5410 or email info@lalomasuper.com. Visit our website at lalomasuper.com for updates and more.

We look forward to serving you with pride and passion at La Loma Supermarket! 🛒✨

Spotlight on Local Businesses

📣 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!

Quote Of The Week

"The only way to achieve great things is to develop the habits of a winner. Success is not an accident, it is the result of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to constant growth." - Unknown

Citizen Shout Outs

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!

Could Your Business Benefit from a newsletter like this?

Reply to this email to learn more.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Battle Creek, Michigan was associated with famous health reformer and inventor, John Harvey Kellogg. Kellogg was the superintendent of the Battle Creek Sanitarium and is credited with inventing corn flakes as a part of his health-focused dietary regimen.