Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of April.
Good morning, Battle Creek.
💼 Business
Big Lots stores closed after bankruptcy will reopen in Michigan this spring under new ownership by Variety Wholesalers.
Specific Michigan locations — including those in Burton, Flint, Port Huron, Southgate and Shelby Township — will reopen in phases as the company prepares for a fall grand opening celebration.
🎓 Education
Governor Whitmer announced a sweepstakes on Wednesday that will award up to $50,000 to winners who complete their FAFSA, with 10 winners receiving $50,000 and 40 winners receiving $10,000 for a total of $1,000,000 in education savings (Ticket to Tuition Sweepstakes).
Residents must complete the FAFSA and text 855-50K-TICKET by 11:59 p.m. Friday, May 16 to enter the contest.
The Kellogg Community College Marketing and Communications Department won five national awards from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations on March 27th, recognizing its design and communication efforts during the 2024 academic year—tying for the most honors given to one organization in the competition.
🏛️ Government
Tina Callender, an Appellate Court Coordinator at Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office, was chosen by the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan for the Frances A.
Smith Prosecutor Staff Achievement Award as recognition for her long service and contributions. She will receive the award at a ceremony on April 24 + she is the first recipient from Calhoun County to earn the honor.
Battle Creek said there is a conflict with a $52,000 HOME-ARP grant given to Gracious Homes Inc because HUD found the grant broke rules by requiring a residency.
The city is asking for an exception so that Gracious Homes Inc can keep providing recovery services to women.
🎉 Battle Creek Events
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Big Cheese Mac and Cheese Festival
3-7 p.m. — Kellogg Arena — Cost TBD — Savor the best mac and cheese from local vendors at Michigan's cheesiest event.
Pathfinder Bible Experience
8 AM – 5 PM — Kellogg Arena — Free entry — A team challenge immersing participants in the Word of God through engaging activities.
Great Lakes IFT 2025 Suppliers' Day
3-7 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Battle Creek — Check website for details — Celebrate the senses at the annual expo and enjoy an after party with cocktails and dinner.
4th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
4-7 p.m. — Festival Market Square — Free entry — Celebrate culture with food, music, and activities that honor Cinco de Mayo traditions.
Tom Segura Live Comedy Show
8:00 – 9:30 PM — FireKeepers Casino Hotel — Tickets available from $104 — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Tom Segura at a top-rated venue.
Battle Creek Farmers' Market
9 AM – 1 PM — Festival Market Square — Free entry — Discover fresh local produce and enjoy live music from talented musicians every Wednesday.
2025 Brass Band of Battle Creek Spring Concert
7:30 p.m. — WK Kellogg Auditorium — $25-$65 — Lydia returns for a delightful evening of brass band music that the community won't want to miss.
🏠 Battle Creek Real Estate
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💼 Battle Creek Job Board
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📣 Battle Creek Announcements
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