A once-empty dealership at North Avenue and Morgan Road is buzzing again with the launch of Beast Racing, a new auto service shop by local drag racing enthusiast Chad Wolschlager.

With years of experience at area tracks like 131 Dragway, Chad brings more than just mechanical know-how—he’s created a space focused on fairness and community for Penfield and Battle Creek.

Motivated by a friend’s overpriced repair estimate, Chad and his wife set out to provide top-quality auto work at honest rates, aiming to outdo the chain stores.

Inside, customers will find a welcoming waiting area and a “wall of fame” chronicling Chad’s racing journey.

This summer, Beast Racing plans to host food truck nights, offering fresh dining options and fostering community spirit—a welcome change for locals craving more neighborhood gathering spots.

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Arlene’s Truck Stop at Exit 92 in Battle Creek has unveiled a sleek remodel, blending modern updates with heartfelt tradition.

The refreshed entrance now offers a contemporary c-store vibe, while the left-side dining area welcomes locals with its bright, diner-style café atmosphere.

Arlene’s portrait, along with cherished vintage clippings, still grace the walls, honoring decades of community history.

Long-loved classics remain the kitchen’s forte, including the 18-Wheeler Reuben and Award-Winning Chili, both crowd favorites.

Attentive service, led by staff like Misty, carries on the friendly spirit that keeps regulars coming back.

Families and pet lovers can rejoice in new menu options, including a special “For the Pooch” section.

For dessert, MiMi-Made Munchies like the Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Pie offer an indulgent finish, with portions as generous as the welcome.

Kick N Kurbz, a vibrant new food truck, has brought fresh excitement to the corner of North Avenue and Morgan Road, right beside the newly opened Beast Racing in Battle Creek.

Locals are raving about the generous portions and bold flavors on the menu.

The Philly Cheesesteak loaded with mushrooms, peppers, and seasoned fries stands out for both taste and value.

Equally impressive are the signature Pork Cheese Fries and the secret-menu favorite, the Porkito — a crispy tortilla wrapped around tender pulled pork, cream cheese, and jalapeños.

Friendly service makes the experience even better, with the staff showing real passion and hospitality.

With more food trucks expected this spring, this spot is fast becoming a local foodie destination, serving up hearty meals at reasonable prices.

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.

Battle Creek remains gripped by Arctic air as February brings a relentless dose of classic Michigan winter.

Residents are enduring single-digit overnight lows and light, lingering snow showers, keeping the city’s landscape frosty and white.

Early in the week, expect persistent cloud cover and occasional flurries through Thursday.

Friday offers a brief reprieve with temperatures rising to 34°F, but don’t be fooled—another icy blast will arrive late that night, dropping Battle Creek to a bone-chilling 4°F.

Saturday is set to be the coldest day yet, with a daytime high of just 19°F and an overnight plunge to 3°F.

Sunday brings clear skies and sunshine, though highs reach only 25°F—so bundle up if heading outdoors.

Warmer temperatures and a chance of rain may return by Tuesday, but for now, Battle Creek should prepare for another frosty week ahead.

Battle Creek, Marshall, and Albion are buzzing with activity from February 4 to February 18.

Week one brings Monster Truck Wars roaring into Kellogg Arena, while Albion’s Bohm Theatre hosts a moving screening of “Just Mercy” for Black History Month.

Food truck lunches heat up downtown, and regular city commission meetings keep civic life active.

Valentine’s weekend offers a dramatic choice—catch daredevil bull riding at Man Vs. Beast, or opt for a romantic evening as the Battle Creek Symphony performs Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake with the Grand Rapids Ballet.

For something different, try the Cozy Grown Up Book Fair in Albion, electric violin at Bohm Theatre, or a date-night dinner at Marshall’s historic Villa on Verona.

The local calendar also highlights major shows at FireKeepers Casino, government meetings, and fun events like the upcoming Mac & Cheese Fest.

The 2nd Annual Spring Craft Show at Homer Schools returns on March 14, 2026, promising an energetic showcase for local makers, vendors, and food trucks.

Last year’s debut event attracted over 110 vendors, drawing crowds and impressive sales—even for newcomers like Every Little Thing for Dolls.

Organizers are now searching for unique crafters, creative raffle donors, and food trucks to fuel the high turnout.

This year, booth spaces start at $30 for a 10' x 10' area or $15 for hall options, with proceeds supporting Homer middle school field trips.

Taking place at 403 S. Hillsdale St. in Homer, the show runs 9 AM–3 PM and welcomes both seasoned artisans and first-timers seeking local exposure.

For details or to reserve a space, contact Tamera Bagwell or Lynette Coppernoll and join in supporting a thriving community event.

Anxiety is growing across South Lake Union after Amazon confirmed another 16,000 corporate job cuts.

This brings the total workforce reduction to a staggering 30,000 employees since last fall, marking the largest layoff in the company’s history.

The move is part of a strategic pivot, reportedly codenamed “Project Dawn,” that reallocates billions from salaries toward massive investments in AI infrastructure like data centers.

While framed by CEO Andy Jassy as an efficiency drive, the shift creates a pressure-cooker environment for remaining staff, who are expected to use AI to compensate for lost headcount.

This signals a stark new reality for the Puget Sound economy, where corporate growth is no longer tied to hiring more people but to algorithmic power.

A rare opportunity has emerged in Battle Creek's desirable Woodland Hills neighborhood.

The one-owner colonial home at 6185 Willow Run Dr. is now on the market for $565,000.

This meticulously maintained property offers a generous 3,621 square feet of living space on just over an acre of private land.

It features four bedrooms, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and a convenient main-floor laundry.

A standout feature is the massive 30x40 outbuilding, a serious workshop with large overhead doors and a storage loft, perfect for hobbyists or entrepreneurs.

With no HOA restrictions, this property provides a unique blend of neighborhood charm and personal autonomy.

In a competitive 49014 housing market where homes are selling quickly, this estate represents a significant find, combining luxury, utility, and location.

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!

The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber brings insight into why so many small businesses falter, highlighting what he calls the Fatal Assumption: that being skilled technically means you can successfully run a business in that area.

Gerber introduces the idea of the “Entrepreneurial Seizure,” where technicians—like carpenters or engineers—launch businesses assuming their expertise is enough.

But, knowing the trade isn’t the same as building a thriving business.

Inside every owner is an ongoing clash between The Entrepreneur (the visionary), The Manager (the organizer), and The Technician (the doer).

Most businesses struggle because the Technician dominates, sidelining vision and strategy.

The result is chaos, lost direction, and burnout.

Reflect: Who’s truly at the wheel in your business? Success comes when you balance all three roles.

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.

Battle Creek’s job market is heating up for early February, with several standout opportunities and leadership transitions underway.

FireKeepers Casino Hotel will host open interviews on Thursday, Feb 5, with roles in hospitality, security, and facilities available.

Battle Creek Public Schools and Kellogg Community College are already recruiting teachers, consultants, and adjuncts for the 2026–2027 school year, signaling a strong focus on education.

Local industry leaders like WK Kellogg Co and TC Transcontinental seek production operators and press helpers, while the City of Battle Creek is hiring for critical positions including Fire Chief and Police Officer.

Healthcare continues to recruit, with the VA Medical Center and Bronson Battle Creek offering sign-on bonuses for medical assistants, counselors, and support staff.

These openings emphasize a fresh wave of opportunity and growth for job seekers across all sectors in Battle Creek.

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