As the holiday season nears, anticipation is building for the Crafters Collective Holiday Showcase Edition, set to debut the week of Thanksgiving.

This special event spotlights the most talented local artisans and exceptional handmade gifts, offering shoppers across Battle Creek and neighboring areas a trusted source for unique, meaningful holiday finds.

The Showcase will be delivered directly to inboxes, giving crafters prime exposure just before Christmas—without the hassle of markets, cold weather, or travel.

Spots are limited and filled on a first come, first featured basis, ensuring early registrants receive the best visibility.

Whether your craft is jewelry, candles, woodwork, textiles, or art, this is a chance to highlight Southwest Michigan’s incredible creative spirit and make holiday shopping more local than ever.

Let’s make this season shine together.

Every business will receive:

⭐ One week in our Featured Business Spotlight.

⭐ A full month of banner ad visibility in The Buzz.

This is your opportunity to showcase your business to thousands of local readers—just in time for the holiday rush!

📩 Email cerealcitybuzz@battlecreeknewsandevents.com — spots are limited and fill quickly!

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Battle Creek’s own Jack Austin made his final appearance on NBC’s The Voice Monday, capping an inspiring run that united and stirred the local community.

The Lakeview High alumnus and current Western Michigan University student competed as part of Michael Bublé’s team, having first started with Niall Horan before being “stolen.”

Although Austin’s Knockout Round moment never aired, his exit left many residents disappointed yet proud.

The city rallied behind him with energetic watch parties and an outpouring of support through social media.

Austin’s impact reaches far beyond television.

He’s earned awards like Pop Vocalist of the Year and Rock Song of the Year, founded the Unity Theatre Company, and mentored young artists in Battle Creek.

While his time on The Voice ends, Austin’s journey as a hometown hero is far from over, fueling local pride and hope for more to come.

The Franke Center for the Arts will bring big laughs to Marshall on November 22, as renowned comedians Yassir Lester and Henrik Blix take the mainstage for an unforgettable night of stand-up.

Yassir Lester, celebrated for his work on "Black Monday" and "Making History," arrives with credits as a writer, actor, and director, and is currently involved in Marvel’s upcoming “Armor Wars.”

Henrik Blix, known for his sharp wit on “The Problem with Jon Stewart” and Chicago’s Second City, continues to impress audiences in New York and beyond.

Executive Director Jacob Gates says the community’s passion for comedy makes this event especially exciting as The Franke Center builds on a strong year of live entertainment.

New businesses like Viking Warriors axe-throwing and the proposal of a downtown social district reflect Marshall’s growing energy and commitment to lively local experiences.

Calhoun County Land Bank Authority is seeking applicants for an at-large seat on its Board of Directors, inviting passionate community members to participate in a four-year volunteer term.

The role requires attending in-person board meetings every other month in Marshall, each lasting around 1.5 hours, with additional responsibilities possible as new projects arise.

Applications are due by December 1, before midnight, through the county’s official website.

The Land Bank is dedicated to transforming vacant and underused properties to foster local development.

It recently launched its first new home builds—two energy-efficient houses on Greenwood Avenue in Battle Creek, aimed at making affordable housing available to buyers at or below 60% of the area’s median income.

A $1.5 million EPA grant will further support environmental planning efforts, especially in Battle Creek and Albion.

Residents interested in revitalization and redevelopment are encouraged to apply and help shape the community’s future.

Battle Creek kicks off the holiday season with food, crafts, and community spirit.  

From Nov. 12–25, grab lunch at the HDI Federal Center Food Truck gatherings, running weekdays from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Champion St Parking Lot.  

On Fri, Nov. 14, psychic medium Theresa Caputo brings her live show to FireKeepers Casino Hotel.  

Saturday, Nov. 15 features A Handmade Holiday craft market on Beckley Rd, spotlighting local makers and vendors.  

MHSAA Volleyball State Championships dominate Kellogg Arena from Nov. 20–22, bringing top-tier high-school action.  

The beloved Battle Creek Christmas Parade rolls downtown on Sat, Nov. 22 at 5:30 PM, promising festive floats along Washington Ave and Michigan Ave.  

Wrap up your weekend with comedy as Yassir Lester headlines at The Franke Center in Marshall, ensuring lots of laughs for the local crowd.

Secret Little Hack

One little-known local tip for winter in Battle Creek is to check out the annual Christmas parade downtown.

While many people are usually familiar with the parade itself, not many know about the hot chocolate giveaway that takes place at a local café along the parade route.

Just stop by the café during the parade and mention the secret phrase "Jingle Bells" to receive a free cup of hot chocolate to enjoy as you watch the festivities go by.

It's a great way to stay warm and cozy while enjoying the holiday spirit with the community.

Steve’s Pizza in Battle Creek delivered a delightful first impression after years of local buzz.

Ordering was smooth and welcoming, thanks to prompt, friendly service on the phone.

A funny mix-up occurred at pickup when two customers shared the same name, but the staff handled it with humor and efficiency.

Back home, the wait paid off.

The Hawaiian pizza stood out with melty cheese, plentiful ham, and generous pineapple chunks.

Another pie loaded with pepperoni, sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, and fresh-cut jalapeños wowed with bold flavors and a kick of heat.

Buttery cheesy breadsticks and sweet cinnamon sticks made for a standout meal.

It’s clear why Steve’s Pizza enjoys such a strong local following: quality, portions, and neighborly service shine through.

Five stars for taste, freshness, and friendliness.

Michigan families are facing higher costs for Thanksgiving dinner staples, with key ingredients like turkey and beef seeing notable price hikes due to ongoing food inflation.

Avian influenza has driven turkey prices up by 40% compared to last year, making the average 20-pound bird in Flint soar from $18.80 to $45.80.

Beef roast costs have also climbed over 18%, pushed by limited cattle supplies and strong demand, adding strain for meat lovers planning their holiday meals.

On a brighter note, fresh vegetables like potatoes and squash have only seen moderate inflation, but canned options are pricier due to increased tariffs on packaging materials.

Dessert lovers can breathe easy, as pie prices hold steady with less than a 1% rise.

Retailers like Walmart and ALDI are responding with budget meal baskets, while Michigan Farm Bureau reports an average Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people at $58.10.

Smart shopping and planning ahead can help stretch holiday budgets this season.

West Michigan has emerged as a hotspot for data center projects, fueling debates over economic growth versus environmental concerns.

Pavilion Township near Kalamazoo recently saw fierce public debate after a developer, Franklin Partners, proposed a 265-acre data center.

The plan sparked backlash over unknown ownership and worries about water and electricity usage.

Mounting resident opposition led to the proposal’s withdrawal, yet vigilance remains high against future attempts.

Elsewhere, some towns have embraced such projects for their revival potential.

In Dowagiac, Hyperscale Data transformed an old factory into a thriving facility, fueling optimism about economic renewal and future expansion.

Similarly, Gaines Township became home to the Switch Pyramid Campus, drawing praise for boosting business infrastructure and attracting new industries.

Communities across the region now face the challenge of balancing economic opportunity with environmental stewardship as more data centers seek a home in West Michigan.

Tip of The Day

Tip of the Day: Did you know that Battle Creek is known as the "Cereal City" for being the birthplace of Kellogg's and Post cereals?

Take a trip back in time and visit the historic Kellogg Manor House to learn about the cereal industry's fascinating history in Battle Creek! Remember to check out the monthly Art Hop event in downtown Battle Creek, where you can explore local art galleries, enjoy live music, and sample delicious food from food trucks.

It's a fun way to support local artists and businesses while experiencing the vibrant arts scene in the city! Looking for a unique outdoor adventure?

Experience stunning mid-century modern living at 8 Hiawatha Dr, set in Battle Creek’s sought-after Westlake Prairieview community.

This remarkable property, priced at $625,000, features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and boasts over 3,000 square feet of living space with exceptional lakefront value.

Enjoy 80 feet of direct Goguac Lake frontage, picturesque sunsets, and a relaxed waterfront lifestyle.

An inviting kitchen with granite counters and a spacious Electrolux fridge anchors the main level, complemented by open dining and living areas, hardwood floors, and panoramic views.

Downstairs, a walkout family room, kitchenette, and third bedroom offer flexibility, leading to a deck with a hot tub area and fire pit.

The property includes a dock, seawall, and lush outdoor spaces, all located within the Lakeview School District.

Contact Mark Miller for a private tour and embrace modern lakefront elegance.

This holiday season, three special rescue pets are waiting for a loving home in South Central Michigan.  

Paisley is a gentle, three-year-old female shepherd mix with soulful eyes and a calm nature, hoping for a second chance after a rocky start.  

Parker, a playful six-month-old shepherd mix puppy, is full of energy and always ready to brighten your days with his goofiness and affection.  

Bagel is a resilient, one-year-old tabby cat who overcame injury and now just wants a peaceful place to play and nap, especially suited for older children or life as your only furry friend.  

All three pets are available for adoption at the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.  

Give Paisley, Parker, or Bagel the gift of a forever home, and help make their Christmas wish come true.  

Every pet deserves the magic of finally belonging.

📣 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!

Tickets Nov 14

Tickets Nov 15

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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 to cerealcitybuzz@battlecreeknewsandevents.com 

let's spread some positivity together!

Interesting Facts

This week marks the conclusion of our Big Leap journey, as Gay Hendricks urges us to embrace continuous growth in our Zone of Genius.

Hendricks teaches that real change comes from ongoing expansion—consciously choosing personal growth even as old patterns try to pull us back.

He suggests recognizing subtle warning signs like tension or procrastination, then intentionally shifting your mindset toward greater love, creativity, and ease.

The challenge is to build a lifestyle where your genius thrives: set boundaries, prioritize what energizes you, and say “no” to obligations that drain you.

This approach brings a deeper sense of fulfillment than external success alone ever could.

Next up, we begin How Successful People Think by John C. Maxwell, exploring the habits and mindsets that empower leaders to see opportunities and find creative solutions.

Quote Of The Week

"The only way to achieve success is to cultivate the habits of success." - Brian Tracy

Battle Creek’s job market is bustling with new opportunities across manufacturing, retail, and public service.

In manufacturing and production, companies like Flex-N-Gate are hiring for second and third shift press operator or packer roles, while Musashi Auto Parts seeks candidates for general production positions.

Post Consumer Brands is offering production support roles, highlighting demand for skilled hands in the local industry.

Retail and customer service positions are abundant too—Menards has openings for part-time sales and management trainees, and Sam’s Club needs merchandise or stocking associates.

CVS Health is also recruiting store associates, offering a steady entry point for those eager to work in retail.

In education and public service, Battle Creek Public Schools are posting educator and support staff positions, while the city government is hiring for administrative and public works roles, reflecting a strong need for dedicated public servants.

Does your business have a list of engaged customers that you email on a regular basis?