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Your Battle Creek Buzz: Big Events, Bold Businesses & Hot Local Happenings
Your Battle Creek Buzz: Big Events, Bold Businesses & Hot Local Happenings
Your Battle Creek Buzz: Big Events, Bold Businesses & Hot Local Happenings
This week’s issue is packed with passion, purpose, and plenty of party!
Smiling Stu Sutherland
Jul 16, 2025
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The Cricket, nestled at 36 W. Michigan Avenue in downtown Battle Creek, has evolved into a cherished local landmark known for its rich history and energetic vibe.
Founded in 2009 by Jeff Adams, its name pays tribute to both his father and the beloved dart game, reflecting family legacy and local roots.
Patrons are drawn to the welcoming atmosphere and the impressive 90-foot cherrywood bar—one of Michigan’s longest—alongside craft cocktails, 30+ beers on tap, and six regulation dart boards.
Now under the care of Jeremy Kanaga and family, The Cricket continues to thrive as a vibrant community hub, hosting live music, comedy nights, themed celebrations, and fundraisers.
With two expansive floors and a private upstairs lounge, The Cricket stands out as a cornerstone for Battle Creek nightlife and authentic local connection.
Read More... |
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Trivia Question❓In 1874, Battle Creek was home to a groundbreaking social experiment led by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg at the Battle Creek Sanitarium.
However, less known is the fascinating history of the D.C. Evered House, located in nearby Albion, Michigan.
Built in the 1880s, this historic mansion played a pivotal role in shaping the education system of Battle Creek.
What significant contribution did the D.C. Evered House make to Battle Creek's educational history? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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WK Kellogg in Battle Creek has been sold to Italian candy giant Ferrero for $3.1 billion, with the announcement made Thursday to over 300 union-represented employees during a morning town hall.
CEO Gary Pilnick outlined details of the transition, reassuring staff about the change in ownership.
Trevor Bidelman, president of BCTGM Local 3G, expressed appreciation for the transparency shown throughout the process and noted that Ferrero plans to honor the current union contract, which remains in place until October 2026.
Bidelman, a fourth-generation Kellogg employee with deep family ties to the company, welcomed the sale and emphasized his optimism for the future.
He stated that as long as contracts are respected, staff do not anticipate disruptions, but collective bargaining could have become contentious if the agreement hadn’t been upheld.
The acquisition deal is expected to close by year’s end, marking a significant change for the historic Battle Creek operation. Read More... |
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Upcoming events in Battle Creek & Calhoun County from July 9 to July 22, 2025 |
Wednesday, July 16
Battle Creek Farmers’ Market 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Thursday, July 17
Post Community Band Concert
John Fogerty – The Celebration Tour
Friday, July 18
Vibe @ 5 Concert – Toppermost (Beatles Tribute)
Battle Creek Pride Parade
Saturday, July 19
Cereal City Triathlon & Duathlon
Battle Creek Pride Festival
Taco & Tequila Festival (21+)
Battle Creek Garden Tour – Day 1
Tuesday, July 22
Truckin’ Tuesdays
Wednesday, July 23
Battle Creek Farmers’ Market
Thursday, July 24
Post Community Band Concert (2nd performance)
Friday, July 25
Vibe @ 5 Concert – Allie Garland Band
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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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Battle Creek Battle Jacks home schedule at C.O. Brown Stadium
Battle Jacks vs. Madison MallardsDate: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 Time: 6:35 PM Location: C.O. Brown Stadium, Battle Creek, MI Admission: Single-game tickets available Details: The Battle Jacks kick off this stretch of games at home facing off against the Madison Mallards. Expect a summer-night matchup with bean bags, snacks, and ballpark fun. Battle Jacks vs. Kenosha KingfishDate: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 Time: 6:35 PM Location: C.O. Brown Stadium, Battle Creek, MI Admission: Tickets on sale (promotions may apply) Details: Home opener of the Kingfish series—an exciting primetime matchup with local fan promotions likely.
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.
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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 to visit the Leila Arboretum during peak bloom season.
This hidden gem is a beautiful botanical garden filled with various plant species, sculptures, and walking trails. |
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Ford confirmed its $3 billion electric vehicle battery plant in Marshall, Michigan, is moving forward as planned and remains eligible for key federal tax credits.
The facility, about 60% finished and aiming for a 2026 opening, will employ around 1,700 people and use technology from China’s CATL to produce battery cells.
Though recent tax legislation initially threatened the project’s eligibility due to its Chinese partnership, the final law allows Ford’s plant to collect tax incentives, a move the automaker says benefits customers and boosts American manufacturing.
The Alliance for Automobile Manufacturers and other industry groups have praised the updated rules for supporting U.S. auto jobs while restricting direct benefits to Chinese companies.
Despite receiving reduced state incentives last year after lowering production goals, Ford insists the plant is vital to its future. The new federal tax bill also phases out consumer EV tax credits and eases some regulatory penalties for automakers. Read More... |
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Brews & Beats invites you to experience Battle Creek in a whole new way — combining refreshing drinks, lively music, and community spirit on a party-ready pedal pub.
Whether you’re out with friends or joining in solo, every ride is filled with high energy and opportunities to make lasting memories.
Brews N Beats of Battle Creek stands for more than just getting around — it’s about celebrating life’s moments. From birthdays and bachelorette parties to spontaneous nights out, each tour transforms into a rolling celebration where every stop is a snapshot-worthy event.
Enjoy local brews, personalize your playlist, and turn heads as your crew leads the way — lights flashing, music pumping, and laughter flowing.
Gather your friends, hop aboard, and get ready to roll deep. Discover the ultimate way to pedal, party, and play in Battle Creek! Read More... |
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Battle Creek welcomes the arrival of Savvy Sliders to its vibrant food scene. The popular Michigan-based chain has opened at 1180 W Columbia Avenue, bringing creative flavors and a modern spin on classic sliders to the area.
Known for its tasty Angus beef sliders, hand-breaded chicken tenders, loaded crinkle fries, and creamy custard shakes, Savvy Sliders promises something for every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for their signature sliders, spicy falafel, or crispy English cod, each meal is made fresh and served late into the evening.
Their presence on Columbia Avenue brings new variety for locals and families on the go, adding another option to the local dining landscape. With top-notch service and crowd-pleasing combos, it’s easy to see why Savvy Sliders is growing across Michigan.
Battle Creek just got a little more savvy—and a whole lot more delicious. 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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Core Bistro, located at 311 W. Michigan Ave. in Battle Creek, offers a cozy dining experience in Level Park/Urbandale.
If you’re craving flavorful food in a relaxed, inviting setting, this neighborhood spot is worth exploring.
On a pleasant Saturday evening, diners can enjoy the beautiful outdoor patio, warmed by fire pits and heaters—ideal for lingering well into fall.
Sara, a friendly and attentive server, ensures guests feel welcome and looked after.
The cheese sticks appetizer stands out—crispy, massive, and satisfying enough to share or savor solo.
Main dishes like the club sandwich and the shaved steak sandwich showcase fresh, flavorful ingredients, leaving plenty for leftovers.
Don’t miss the walk-up ice cream window and the charming park-like gazebo area—perfect for unwinding after a meal.
Highly recommended for food, service, and atmosphere, Core Bistro is a true local favorite. 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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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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📣 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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Interesting Facts |
In Calhoun County, MI, there is a hidden gem known as the Historic Bridge Park.
Another interesting fact about Battle Creek and Calhoun County is their rich connection to the Underground Railroad.
Overall, Battle Creek and Calhoun County are not only known for their delicious cereals and beautiful bridges but also for their significant contributions to the abolitionist movement and the preservation of history. |
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Exposing the Enemy: Chapters 4–6 of Outwitting the Devil |
Fear, Control, and the Art of Drifting
As we move into Chapters 4 through 6 of Outwitting the Devil, Napoleon Hill’s fictional “interview” with the Devil gets even more intense—and revealing.
Hill begins to uncover the tools the Devil uses to keep people trapped in mediocrity, and the most powerful one of all is fear.
The Devil explains that by instilling fear—especially fear of poverty, criticism, ill health, loss of love, old age, and death—he keeps people from thinking independently.
These fears prevent action, cloud judgment, and lead people to settle for “just getting by.”
Next, we learn more about drifting, the Devil’s favorite method of control. A drifter is someone who avoids decisions, lacks purpose, and lets outside influences dictate their direction.
According to the Devil, once someone becomes a drifter, he no longer needs to do anything—they’re already on autopilot.
Finally, Hill begins pressing the Devil on education and influence, questioning how young people are taught and how schools often encourage conformity rather than creative, critical thinking.
These chapters are a wake-up call: If we don’t take control of our thoughts and direction, something—or someone—else will. Keep Reading With Us:
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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Now Hiring in the Creek
Meijer – Battle CreekPosition: Cashier & Stocking Associate Status: Full-time & Part-time Pay: Starting at $15.50/hr Perks: Employee discount, flexible hours Apply: meijer.com/careers
Burger King – Columbia Ave LocationPosition: Crew Member & Shift Manager Status: Part-time, Evening/Weekends Pay: $14–$18/hr Bonus: $200 sign-on bonus Apply in-store or visit bkcareers.com
Kellogg’s – Manufacturing PlantPosition: Machine Operator / Maintenance Tech Status: Full-time, rotating shifts Pay: $22–$29/hr Perks: Benefits, 401k, paid training Apply: careers.kelloggs.com SmartStyle Hair Salon – Inside WalmartPosition: Licensed Hairstylist Status: Full-time or booth rental Perks: Walk-in traffic, commission + tips Apply: Drop in with resume or call (269) 555-HAIR
FedEx Ground – Battle Creek TerminalPosition: Package Handler Status: Part-time, early morning shifts Pay: $17.25/hr Apply: GroundWarehouseJobs.fedex.com
Nova Body Care – Local Natural Products CompanyPosition: Packaging Assistant (Entry Level)Status: Part-time (15–25 hrs/week)Pay: $13/hrFun Job Perks: Discounts on body care products, chill work environmen Apply: Email resume to denise@novabodycare.com
Bronson Battle CreekPosition: CNA, LPN, Housekeeping Status: Full-time & part-time available Pay: Based on position and experience Apply: bronsonhealth.com/careers |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The D.C. Evered House in Albion, Michigan served as the original location of the Battle Creek College, a prominent educational institution founded in 1873. The college was instrumental in providing higher education opportunities to the residents of Battle Creek and surrounding areas, offering a wide range of programs in liberal arts and sciences. It eventually evolved into what is now known as Andrews University, a Seventh-day Adventist university located in Berrien Springs, Michigan. The D.C. Evered House's role in establishing this educational institution highlights its lasting impact on the intellectual and cultural development of Battle Creek and its residents. |
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