When winter weather hits Battle Creek, Michigan, it’s tempting to stay in.

But a visit to Friends & Co on Columbia Ave. proved well worth braving the cold.

Despite the snowy Monday night, the restaurant buzzed with energy and sports fans, thanks to over a dozen TVs showing games from every corner.

Service was impressively quick and friendly, highlighted by standout server Bergie, who kept drinks refreshed and tables cleared efficiently.

The meal started strong with signature Friends Chips—crispy, seasoned, and paired with spicy nacho cheese.

Main courses like the Build-Your-Own Burger and The Cuban sandwich impressed with quality and flavor.

The coleslaw delivered a creamy, tangy kick, especially recommended for slaw enthusiasts.

With fast food and top-notch hospitality, Friends & Co firmly earns its spot among Battle Creek favorites.

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Girls Night Out at Earthly Goods Market promises one of the season’s most exciting evenings in downtown Battle Creek on Friday, February 6, from 6–8 PM.

Ladies are invited to unwind, shop local, and celebrate friendship with exclusive experiences and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Enjoy stylish finds from Out on a Whim Boutique, relaxing chair massages by Sinergie Bodyworks, plus the unique chance to craft your own candle.

Mingle with friends while savoring complimentary mocktails and hors d’oeuvres, filling the market with inviting energy and connection.

No special reason is needed—this event is the perfect excuse for a mom’s night out, sister date, or simply some “me time.”

Mark your calendar, grab your friends, and join the fun at 95 W Michigan Ave for an evening of shopping, relaxation, and laughter.

The cost of renting in Battle Creek has officially crossed a significant new threshold, with the median price for an apartment now at $1,000 per month.

This represents a 4% jump from the same time last year and a 3% increase from just last month, signaling a tightening local rental market.

One-bedroom units are holding at a median of $875, while two-bedrooms are listing for $1,035 — both reflecting modest year-over-year increases.

This upward trend is putting new pressure on the local cost of living for many in Calhoun County.

Despite the recent price hikes, Battle Creek remains a pocket of relative affordability.

The city's typical rent is still 29% below the Michigan state median and a staggering 47% below the national average.

For now, living here is still a bargain, but the question is for how much longer.

An arctic blast is descending on West Michigan, creating an urgent risk of frozen and bursting pipes for local homeowners.

This silent threat often leads to catastrophic flooding with little to no warning.

Local plumbing professionals stress taking immediate action to protect your home.

Start outside by disconnecting and draining all garden hoses.

Seal any foundation cracks or gaps where cold air can reach pipes, and wrap exposed plumbing in basements or crawl spaces with foam insulation.

Inside, never set your thermostat below 55 degrees, even when away.

Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.

Experts in Kalamazoo advise that during extreme cold, you should let a single faucet run with a steady, pencil-width stream of water, which is more effective than a slow drip.

Know where your main water shutoff is in case of an emergency.

Battle Creek is bracing for another stretch of intense winter weather as January ends and February begins.

The city’s familiar short days and biting cold remain, keeping residents in survival mode.

Midweek brings persistent snow showers Wednesday and Thursday, with sub-freezing temperatures ensuring even minor flurries make the roads slick, complicating the morning commute.

Friday stands out—the sun is set to appear, but temperatures struggle, reaching only 9°F by day and plunging to -5°F overnight.

Saturday offers lighter winds and sunshine, and by Sunday, a modest warm-up sees highs near 22°F.

But as Monday arrives, steady clouds and fresh snow signal winter’s firm hold, with flurries persisting into Tuesday.

Residents are advised to keep ice scrapers close and extend support to neighbors as the chill tightens its grip on the Cereal City.

Cereal City is buzzing with winter events from January 28 to February 11, offering everything from icy art to roaring monster trucks.

Marshall’s downtown transforms into a wintry art walk during the Ice, Wine, Beer & Blues Festival, capped by blues star Albert Cummings.

Kellogg Arena heats up with the region’s top dancers at the ID Dance Competition, then gets loud as Monster Truck Wars brings thrills for kids and adults alike.

Albion’s Bohm Theatre offers movies, plus Shawn Holt & The Teardrops’ high-energy Chicago blues for a memorable Monday.

Super Bowl Sunday is Feb 8, so plan ahead—local favorites like Griffin Grill and Moonraker fill up quick for takeout.

For those interested in city business, the next City Commission Meeting opens to the public on Feb 10.

Looking ahead, circle Feb 13 for pro rodeo, and Feb 14 for a one-of-a-kind violin concert at the Bohm.

Relief may finally be on the horizon for Michigan drivers tired of crumbling roads.

State officials in Lansing have confirmed a major financial boost for 2026, with 30% more funding dedicated to local road repair.

This increase means an additional $408.8 million for county road commissions and $220 million for cities and villages across the state.

The new money comes from a 20-cent fuel tax increase and a controversial new 24% wholesale marijuana tax.

These revenues will flow into a new Neighborhood Roads Fund, specifically designed to fix lower-volume subdivision and residential streets.

Critically, this fund does not require a local match, making it easier for smaller communities to complete much-needed repairs.

With only 46% of local roads currently in good or fair condition, this investment represents significant hope for smoother and safer drives close to home.

Michigan's craft beer boom has come to a sobering halt after more than a decade of explosive growth.

Breweries in cities like Grand Rapids are now scrambling to adapt to a saturated market, economic strain, and changing consumer habits.

A major new challenge is competition from legal cannabis and ready-to-drink cocktails, which are vying for the same discretionary dollars, especially among younger customers.

In response, breweries are innovating to stay afloat.

Many are diversifying by adding spirits, creating their own hard seltzers, and enhancing their food menus to become versatile hospitality destinations.

The business model is shifting away from wide distribution and toward creating engaging taproom experiences with live music and events to build a loyal local following.

This difficult pivot is compounded by post-pandemic inflation, which is squeezing profits and customer spending.

For Michigan breweries, survival now depends on creativity and community.

A major change is coming to Michigan schools, as lawmakers in Lansing have passed legislation to ban cellphone use in classrooms during instructional time.

The bills are now on their way to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s desk, where she is expected to sign them into law for the upcoming school year.

This decisive, bipartisan effort aims to reduce student distractions, improve mental health, and increase classroom engagement across the state.

While the new law sets a statewide standard, individual school districts will retain the flexibility to create their own specific enforcement policies.

Importantly, exceptions will be made for emergencies and for students who need devices for medical or educational reasons.

Schools like Avondale Middle School in Auburn Hills have already seen dramatic success with similar bans, reporting a significant drop in disciplinary issues and higher student participation.

Michigan’s cannabis industry is reeling from a controversial 24% wholesale tax that took effect on January 1, 2026.

The economic impact was immediate, fueling layoffs and marking the market’s first-ever sales decline last year.

Local businesses are already feeling the strain.

Higher Love, a cannabis company in the Upper Peninsula, laid off approximately 60 employees in direct response to the new financial pressure.

Consumers should also brace for change, as major retailers like Lume Cannabis Co. have confirmed that price increases are unavoidable.

While companies navigate the fallout, the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association is fighting the tax in a Lansing courtroom, arguing it is unconstitutional.

This new tax creates immense uncertainty for an industry previously defined by rapid growth, forcing businesses and customers into an expensive new reality.

For the first time in 40 years, a cherished family home at 5755 Crandall Rd in Battle Creek is on the market.

Nestled on three private acres in Bedford Township, this property offers serene country living within the highly-regarded Pennfield School District.

The meticulously kept home features over 3,100 square feet, a dream kitchen with a large center island, and three bedrooms with potential for more.

A major highlight for hobbyists is the massive 30x56 pole barn, complete with electricity, water, and an insulated wood shop.

Significant recent investments provide total peace of mind, including a whole-house Generac generator installed in 2022 and a new furnace and central air system from late 2024.

With a newer roof and hot water heater, this isn't just a house; it's a turnkey legacy waiting for its next chapter.

Now is an ideal time for local families to welcome a new cat or kitten from the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.

The shelter’s recent update spotlights a charming range of adoptable cats, from gentle older felines to playful kittens, all hoping to find loving homes in Battle Creek.

Each cat brings a unique personality—whether you’re dreaming of a cozy companion or a spirited furball to brighten your day, HSSCM has a match waiting for you on Watkins Road.

By adopting, you not only add happiness to your household, but also open doors for more animals in need right here in our community.

Don’t miss your chance to meet these wonderful cats—visit the shelter or check Facebook for the latest candidates.

Let’s give these Battle Creek kitties the warm, loving homes they deserve.

The Calhoun County Animal Center has issued an urgent plea to the community as it faces a severe overcrowding crisis.

Every single kennel is currently full, pushing shelter resources and staff to their breaking point.

This critical situation is fueled by a recent surge in animals from large-scale hoarding cases and an increase in abandoned pets due to harsh weather.

More than thirty dogs are now waiting for loving homes after being rescued from neglect and the freezing cold.

The center is calling on local residents to help solve this heartbreaking problem.

If you have been considering a pet, now is the time to adopt.

Even temporarily fostering an animal can provide a crucial lifeline by freeing up space for another pet in desperate need.

Sharing this story online can also make a vital difference in connecting these deserving animals with their forever families.

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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!

David J. Schwartz’s classic closes with a focus on goal setting and leadership.

Schwartz views goals as dreams in action—without a clear purpose, we drift aimlessly.

He recommends crafting a bold 10-year vision, then breaking it down into smaller, achievable milestones, like 30-day improvement plans that build lasting growth.

Leadership, Schwartz argues, is grounded in thinking big.

He urges leaders to empathize, always act humanely, promote progress, and regularly make time for reflection.

Belief fuels power, action conquers fear, and our surroundings shape our path to success.

Next month, the spotlight shifts to Michael Gerber’s influential book, The E-Myth Revisited, which explains the difference between working in your business and building a sustainable company.

Ready to turn mindset into strategy? Start building systems that work as hard as you do.

Quote Of The Week

"The secret of your success is determined by your daily agenda." - John C. Maxwell

Battle Creek’s Weekly Hiring Update highlights urgent opportunities across the region for the week of January 28, 2026.

This Wednesday, Sunstates Security will host an immediate hiring event in the Marshall area, with starting pay at $18.50/hour for flex security officers.

Education employers are focused on both current openings and advance recruitment for next fall. Battle Creek Public Schools, Lakeview, and Harper Creek are hiring teachers, paraeducators, drivers, coaches, and food service staff—some with sign-on bonuses.

Local manufacturers like Denso and WK Kellogg Co are searching for skilled workers, including engineers and operators. The City of Battle Creek also seeks laborers and transit drivers.

In healthcare, Bronson and Grace Health offer roles from nursing to behavioral health, supporting the community’s vital needs.

Find the right fit, act quickly, and take advantage of a strong local job market this week.

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