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From Free Ribs to New Restaurants—Let’s Dig Into This Week in Battle Creek
From Free Ribs to New Restaurants—Let’s Dig Into This Week in Battle Creek
From Free Ribs to New Restaurants—Let’s Dig Into This Week in Battle Creek
Crafting joy, cooking up kindness, and catching all the hometown highlights.
Smiling Stu Sutherland
Jul 23, 2025
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Howard’s Ceramics & Gifts on East Columbia Avenue in Battle Creek is a creative hub and much-loved local gem.
For decades, Howard’s has charmed residents with ready-made ceramics, paint-your-own pottery events, and engaging crafting classes for all ages.
Families, including children’s clubs like 4H, regularly gather here to paint figurines and craft unique seasonal décor, making every visit special.
The dedicated owner and friendly staff foster a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring new faces and returning guests alike feel right at home.
In today's fast-paced, digital world, Howard’s stands out by offering hands-on fun, laughter, and genuine hometown charm.
Planning a visit? Remember, it's cash or check only—so come prepared.
Find Howard’s at 1512 E Columbia Ave in Battle Creek and experience a local tradition for yourself. Read More... |
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Trivia Question❓What famous Dutch artist spent a year studying at the Ox-Bow School of Art in Saugatuck, Michigan, approximately 45 miles west of Battle Creek, where he painted several pieces influenced by the local landscape and community? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Over 100 community members gathered at Irving Park in Battle Creek to honor Daelnn Roark, a much-loved Calhoun Community High School student who lost his life in a reckless driving crash.
Grieving friends, family, and neighbors held a candlelight vigil, shared memories, and left messages for the teen known as 'Bug.'
His grandmother, Linda Roark, expressed gratitude for the community’s heartfelt support and the vigil’s touching turnout.
Fundraising efforts—including food, red shirt, and decal sales—raised $3,000 to help with funeral costs.
Daelnn, who loved fishing and had just gotten his first tattoo, passed away July 14 as a passenger in a car that flipped during reckless driving, leaving a 17-year-old girl critically hurt.
Calhoun educators praised Daelnn’s positivity and ambition, announcing plans to award his family an honorary diploma this year.
A memorial service is set for July 30, with ongoing community support through a dedicated GoFundMe campaign.
Recent and upcoming events like the Day of Hope Carnival and Battle Creek Pride Festival highlight the city’s spirit of togetherness and resilience. Read More... |
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upcoming events in Battle Creek and Calhoun County during the two‑week period starting July 23, 2025 |
Battle Creek Farmers’ MarketDate & Time: Wednesdays, July 23 & 30 • 9 AM–1 PM Location: Festival Park (25 McCamly St S, Battle Creek, MI) Details: Fresh local produce, artisan vendors, and live music. Info/Tickets: downtownbcfarmersmarket.com Truckin’ TuesdaysDate & Time: Tuesday, July 22 • 11 AM–1 PM Location: Gould Street, next to McCamly Park Details: A rotating lineup of food trucks serving lunch. Info: Free and family-friendly. https://bcparks.org/calendar
Post Community Band SeriesDate & Time: Thursday, July 24 • 7 PM–8 PM Location: Festival Market Square, downtown Battle Creek Details: Free concert by local Post Community Band in the heart of town. https://bcparks.org/calendar
Vibe @ 5 Concert SeriesDates & Times: Friday, July 25 • 5 PM–7:30 PM & Friday, August 1 • 5–7:30 PM Location: Friendship Park, Downtown Battle Creek Social District Details: Free live music to kick off the weekend—bring friends! Info: kelloggarena.com
Woodlawn Preschool Open HouseDate & Time: Wednesday, July 30 • 10 AM–2 PM Location: Woodlawn Preschool (Battle Creek) Details: Tour the preschool, meet staff—ideal for families considering enrollment. https://bcparks.org/calendar |
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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.
No passport needed—just good vibes, irie tunes, and delicious Caribbean cuisine!
3905 W. Dickman Rd, Springfield, MI |
The article discusses an upcoming golf outing fundraiser in Battle Creek, Michigan that aims to support a heating assistance program in the state. The event is organized by Consumers Energy and will raise funds to help low-income families and individuals with their heating bills. The fundraiser will feature golfing, food, drinks, and opportunities to win prizes. The program provides essential assistance to residents who may struggle to afford their heating costs during the colder months. The organizers hope to generate significant support for this important cause through the golf outing. Read More... |
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God’s Kitchen of Michigan welcomes the community to enjoy two free barbecue dinners this week in Battle Creek and Oshtemo Township.
The first dinner takes place Wednesday, July 23, at the First United Methodist Church at 111 E. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek.
The second is set for Thursday, July 24, at Flesher Field, 3664 S. Ninth St., Oshtemo Township, just west of Kalamazoo.
Both meals run from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., serving barbecue chicken or ribs, baked beans, macaroni salad, corn-on-the-cob, dessert, and bottled water.
No income or religious requirements apply—everyone is invited.
Meals are first-come, first-served, reflecting the nonprofit’s ongoing commitment to combating hunger locally with dignity and compassion.
For details, call 269-615-8080. Read More... |
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Battle Creek Battle Jacks home schedule at C.O. Brown Stadium
Battle Jacks vs. Kenosha Kingfish (Matinee)Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Time: 12:05 PM (afternoon game) Location: C.O. Brown Stadium, Battle Creek, MI Admission: Tickets Available, often family-friendly pricing Details: Midweek matinee with Kenosha—a great opportunity for families, early shade seating, and ballpark snacks.
Battle Jacks vs. Royal Oak LeprechaunsDate: Thursday, July 24, 2025 Time: 6:35 PM Location: C.O. Brown Stadium, Battle Creek, MI Admission: Ticket specials likely for State Fair-themed promotions Details: State Fair Night vs. Royal Oak Leprechauns—likely a themed evening with fair‑style treats, music, and more.
Battle Jacks vs. Royal Oak LeprechaunsDate: Friday, July 25, 2025 Time: 6:35 PM Location: C.O. Brown Stadium, Battle Creek, MI Admission: Tickets - Admission likely includes Hometown Heroes Night promotions Details: Hometown Heroes Night to honor local veterans—with special ticket packages and community recognition.
Thursday, July 31 – 6:35 PMOpponent: Rockford Rivets
Friday, August 1 – 6:35 PMOpponent: Rockford Rivets
Saturday, August 2 – 6:35 PMOpponent: Traverse City Pit Spitters
Sunday, August 3 – 1:35 PMOpponent: Traverse City Pit Spitters
Location InfoAll games are played at MCCU Field (C.O. Brown Stadium) in Bailey Park, Battle Creek, MI. It's a fan-friendly stadium with shaded seating, a kid zone, and affordable food and drinks. |
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Battle Creek Farmers’ Market
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📢 Introducing the Battle Creek Buzz Newsfeed: Your New Source for Local Happenings! |
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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. |
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Secret Little Hack |
One little-known local tip about Battle Creek is that there is a hidden gem of a hiking spot called Ott Biological Preserve. This beautiful nature preserve offers scenic trails, peaceful surroundings, and a chance to spot local wildlife. |
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Timekeeping has always shaped human civilization, inspiring ingenious inventions across centuries.
Ancient Greeks used water clocks, while Chinese candle clocks signaled hours with falling nails.
Medieval monks relied on water-driven clocks and bells for their strict prayer schedules, giving rise to the word “clock”—from the Latin “clocca,” meaning bell.
The 13th century saw the rise of mechanical timepieces—first in church towers, then as luxury household items.
In 1787, Levi Hutchins of New Hampshire crafted one of the earliest American alarm clocks, ringing at 4 a.m., though it lacked adjustability or mass appeal.
French inventor Antoine Redier’s 1847 patent made alarms settable, paving the way for mass production by companies like the Seth Thomas Clock Company.
Today, smart alarm clocks offer features like sunrise simulation, voice controls, and health monitoring—highlighting our evolving quest to master time and mornings. Read More... |
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Battle Creek is moving forward with ambitious plans to upgrade its fire stations, now reworked to fit a $25 million budget.
City officials trimmed the original renovation proposal after estimates came in $3 million over budget.
Major changes include smaller updates at Station 1, new builds for Stations 2 and 3, and a full overhaul of Station 6.
Renovations for Station 5 and minor work at the recently updated Station 4 have been dropped.
Stations 2 and 3, both over 100 years old, will be rebuilt on nearby sites to better serve residents.
Key updates include ADA compliance and gender-neutral facilities, with safety standards as a priority.
Bidding results and contractor selection are set for August 5. If approved, work could start later this year, continuing through 2028.
Read More... |
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Excitement is brewing in Battle Creek as Omurice Ramen & Boba prepares to open its doors at 5420 Beckley Road, Suite G.
This upcoming eatery brings a fusion of Japanese and Taiwanese comfort food, featuring fluffy omurice, handcrafted ramen, and a vibrant lineup of boba teas.
Omurice—a Japanese-style omelet over savory fried rice with rich sauces—offers a truly comforting meal.
Ramen lovers can look forward to bowls filled with hearty broth, springy noodles, and flavorful toppings like marinated eggs or pork belly.
The colorful boba tea menu provides the perfect sweet finish, with options from creamy milk teas to fruity refreshers topped with chewy pearls or popping boba.
With signage up and anticipation growing, Omurice Ramen & Boba promises to become a beloved go-to dining spot for local food lovers. Read More... |
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Oil Diffuser with Essential Oils Set |
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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 |
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McGonigle’s Pub & Grill on E. Emmett St. remains a beloved spot for Battle Creek locals, known for its welcoming atmosphere and consistently excellent food.
During a recent Saturday night visit, guests appreciated the laid-back, seat-yourself policy—even as the staff tidied up after a busy dinner rush.
Though service lagged briefly, Sara quickly turned things around with her attentive and friendly care, reflecting why she’s a favorite among regulars.
The menu satisfied on all fronts: the chicken sandwich on ciabatta and a New York strip steak both earned high praise for generous portions and standout flavor.
Fresh, loaded house salads started the meal off right.
McGonigle’s continues to impress with quality, service, and value, making it a top spot for a relaxing meal or a laid-back night out in Battle Creek. Read More... |
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Real Estate Snapshot for Battle Creek, MI (July 2025) |
Median Home Price (Sold)
$182,000 (June 2025) – an increase of +4.0% year-over-year June's median sold price rose from $175,000 in June 2024 Homes in Battle Creek continue to appreciate steadily, showing consistent growth compared to last year.
Inventory & Market Activity
407 homes listed for sale in June (up ~13.5% from May) 71 homes sold or pending in June (+44.9% month-over-month) The market is increasingly active—more listings and a big jump in closed/pending transactions.
Days on Market / Speed
Average sale time: 23 days in June (up 23.5% vs last year) Still, 54 of 71 homes sold within 30 days (76%) Although homes are staying slightly longer, most are still moving quickly once listed.
Price per Square Foot & Deal Trends
$124/sq ft median in June (up 4%) 40.8% of homes sold below asking, ~27% at asking, ~32% above asking Buyers still find opportunities to negotiate, but competition remains healthy.
Bottom Line
Battle Creek remains a seller’s market—prices are gradually rising, homes are selling quickly, and inventory is increasing. It's a favorable environment for sellers, yet buyers can still snag deals below asking price. If you’re buying, be ready: act fast and negotiate. If you’re selling, now is a strong time to list. |
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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 |
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Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport has secured a significant $14.1 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration, empowering a major runway upgrade for southwest Michigan.
The project will extend Runway 17/35 by 450 feet, expanding its new length to 6,952 feet and supporting larger aircraft operations.
Additional upgrades include enhancements to the parallel taxiway, a complete blast pad reconstruction, and improved lighting and navigation systems.
These planned improvements aim to elevate safety standards and reduce the risk of flight disruptions for travelers and airlines alike.
Airport Director Craig Williams says the expansion will help minimize delays, cancellations, and weight restrictions.
Construction will launch in spring 2026, with work set to wrap up by fall.
Congressman Bill Huizenga’s continued advocacy was crucial in advancing this investment for the region’s future growth. Read More... |
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Hydroponics Growing System Indoor Garden |
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Herb Garden Kit Indoor with LED Grow Light Quiet Smart Water Pump Automatic Timer Healthy Fresh Herbs Vegetables - Hydroponic Planter for Home Kitchen Office |
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Kellogg Community College has opened applications for its free Kellogg Kickstart program, aimed at helping new students prepare for college-level work.
The program targets those planning to enroll in Fall 2025 classes who need support in English or math, requiring a high school diploma or GED to participate.
Running July 8 through August 14 at the Battle Creek campus, sessions take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m.
Participants receive academic advising, free course materials, meals, Visa gift card stipends, and laptop access.
KCC also offers fast-track job training through its iACT and MiLEAP initiatives, providing rapid skills for jobs in manufacturing, health care, and office work.
The college has expanded advanced manufacturing and EV programs, becoming the first in the U.S. to train students with FANUC CRX-5iA Collaborative Robots, emphasizing Battle Creek’s growing high-tech workforce. Read More... |
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📣 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! |
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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! |
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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 — let's spread some positivity together! |
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YnM 15lbs Weighted Blanket for Adults |
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Breathable Heavy Bed Throw Blanket with Cooling Glass Beads for All Season Use, Ideal for ~140lbs (48x72 Inches, Twin/Full, Dark Grey) |
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The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is set to lower Hall Lake’s water level in Barry County’s Yankee Springs Recreation Area, citing urgent safety risks linked to the old dam.
Inspections found severe damage in the dam’s embankment and culvert, prompting state officials to label it a significant hazard. Park manager Joseph Jandernoa confirmed decommissioning the Hall Lake Dam as the only real solution.
The plan involves gradually reducing the lake’s level—first by three feet in July 2025, then another three feet in June 2026—while limiting drawdown to six inches per week to safeguard local wildlife.
Many residents oppose the move, and the Yankee Springs Township Board unanimously rejected it. Still, authorities stress that action is required to avoid downstream environmental risks.
After the project, Hall Lake will return to a smaller footprint, with other area lakes remaining open for recreation.
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Interesting Facts |
Battle Creek, Michigan, and Calhoun County are home to the historical landmark of the Binder Park Zoo, which is unique in that it features a world-renowned African savannah exhibit where visitors can see animals such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roaming together in a habitat that closely mimics their natural environment. Another lesser-known fact about Battle Creek is that it was the birthplace of the famous breakfast cereal industry. |
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Breaking the Spell: Education, Religion, and Self-Discipline |
Chapters 7–9 of Outwitting the Devil This week, Outwitting the Devil takes a bold turn as Napoleon Hill dives deep into how the systems we trust—like education and organized religion—can unknowingly serve the Devil’s agenda.
In Chapter 7, Hill questions traditional schooling, suggesting it often teaches memorization over imagination and obedience over originality. The Devil reveals that when young minds are trained to fear mistakes and follow rigid systems, they grow into adults who drift through life, never thinking for themselves.
Chapter 8 explores how fear-based religion reinforces this drift. Instead of empowering believers, many doctrines use guilt, shame, and fear of punishment to maintain control.
The Devil claims this approach keeps minds submissive and easily influenced.
But there’s hope in Chapter 9, where Hill begins unpacking the power of self-discipline.
It’s the first major weapon we have against drifting. By taking control of our daily habits, thoughts, and decisions, we start to break free from outside manipulation—and reclaim authorship over our lives.
If you’ve ever felt like you were just going through the motions, these chapters might hit close to home—and that’s the point. Stay with the Journey:
Amazon Book Link for Outwitting the Devil
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Quote Of The Week |
"The secret of your success is determined by your daily agenda." - John C. Maxwell |
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Doris Doyon will step in as the new director of the Cereal City Concert Band on August 1, infusing Battle Creek’s beloved group with her extensive experience and passion for music education.
With a distinguished background in band leadership at college and high school levels, Doyon most recently directed ensembles at Mt. San Antonio College in California and taught Music Appreciation.
Her earlier achievements include transforming the Norwalk High School music program in Los Angeles County into a Grammy Signature School and expanding its ensembles.
As an active conductor, clinician, and author, Doyon co-wrote “In Pursuit of Great Conducting,” and her expertise has been featured at national conferences. She holds a DMA in Wind Conducting from UCLA and is pursuing further graduate work at the University of Michigan.
The Cereal City Concert Band looks forward to Doyon’s innovative leadership and inspiring performances in their new season.
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Battle Creek residents are facing a sharp uptick in urban deer sightings, raising worries about property damage and public safety.
Longtime community member Michael Ross has spotted herds of up to 15 deer near his home, illustrating just how common these animals have become in local neighborhoods.
City Commissioner Christopher Simmons has reported a surge in complaints, including incidents where deer damaged landscapes and even tore through a resident’s pool cover.
To address the issue, the city invited wildlife biologist Randy Hines from Michigan’s DNR to discuss solutions.
Hines advised using barriers, careful plant selection, and controlled hunting—noting that relocation is costly and stressful for deer.
Opinions remain split among locals—some enjoy the wildlife, while others support population control to protect homes and health.
Battle Creek now looks to examples like Farmington Hills and Big Rapids, both of which launched managed culls, as it weighs its own path forward. Read More... |
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Now Hiring in the Creek
Meijer – Battle CreekPositions: Cashier, Overnight Stocking Clerk, Curbside/Gas Station Clerk Status: Part-time & Full-time Pay: $14.25–16.75/hr depending on role IndeedIndeed+ Perks: Employee discounts, paid parental leave, flexible scheduling Apply: Visit Meijer careers (e.g., Curbside Clerk, Produce Overnight Clerk)
Burger King – Battle Creek (multiple locations) Positions: Team Member, Shift Manager, Breakfast Coordinator, Assistant Manager, Restaurant General Manager Status: Mostly part-time, some full-time leadership roles Pay: Team Member $11.25–14.75/hr; Shift Manager $14.25–18/hr; managers up to ~$51K–70K/yr careers.bk.com+2ZipRecruiter Bonus: Likely benefits and advancement paths Apply: In-store or via BK Careers site Strategic Government ResourceGovernment Job Flex‑N‑Gate – Battle CreekPositions: Press Packer (2nd Shift), Machine Operator/Assembly, Forklift Operator Status: Full-time, shift-based Pay: Around $20.05/hr for Press Packer; $16.50–18.75/hr for other roles Indeed Waco Classic Aircraft – Battle Creek
🧪 United Way of South Central Michigan – Battle Creek
🩺 Grace Health – Battle Creek
🧼 Ace Hardware – Battle Creek
🚚 U‑Haul – Battle Creek
🧹 Perfection Commercial Services – Battle Creek
🛠️ Maintenance Technicians & More
✅ How to Apply
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Vincent van Gogh. In the summer of 1886, van Gogh spent time at the Ox-Bow School of Art in Saugatuck, Michigan, where he created several paintings inspired by the rural surroundings and local people. This lesser-known period in van Gogh's life showcases his appreciation for American art and laid the groundwork for some of his later works in Europe. |
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