Good morning, Battle Creek.

Purple martins have returned to Michigan after wintering in South America, with the first scout bird recorded in St. Johns on March 13 and later sightings in Jackson, Vicksburg, and Adrian.

Local groups ask residents to help the birds by putting up proper housing (set at least 40 feet from trees or buildings) as conservation efforts continue.

The Michigan House approved a bill Tuesday to lower the state income tax rate from 4.25% to 4.05% this year (returning to 2023 levels) and save about $130 per household on median income.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where it will face review that could reduce state revenue by about $2 billion over the next few fiscal years.

Governor Whitmer’s 2026 state budget proposal would raise more than $208 million in revenue by increasing tax and fee costs—raising prices for hunting, fishing, boat licenses and landfill tipping fees to fund environmental and public service programs.

The fee hikes include a jump in small game hunting licenses from $11 to $17 for residents and other costs that have not increased in decades.

Governor Whitmer’s proposed state budget for fiscal year 2026 will increase DNR fees for hunting, fishing and boating licenses — resident small game hunting fees will rise from $11 to $17 and all-species fishing licenses from $26 to $40 with nonresident fees also increasing.

Outdoorsmen at a local pro shop say the fee hikes will help fund maintenance for outdoor areas — though they worry about higher costs for long-time users.

TSAP will host a volleyball camp for high school players featuring University of Michigan standout Allison Jacobs on Sunday from 1—4 p.m. at the Battle Creek YMCA; players from Midwest Select Volleyball, Redline Volleyball, Lakeview, and Battle Creek Central are invited, and a similar camp for middle school athletes will follow in April as TSAP works to provide equal recreational opportunities.

The Battle Creek Enquirer worked with area coaches to name the 2025 All-Area Wrestling Team of top high school athletes from the 2024-25 season, honoring standout wrestlers from schools such as Union City, Harper Creek, and Climax-Scotts/Martin.

Coach Jason Counterman earned Coach of the Year and Jordan Herman was named Assistant Coach of the Year—honors based on votes and state meet results.

Open House at 25 Orchard Place

1-3 p.m. — 25 Orchard Place — $459,900 — Explore a charming Tudor home with endless possibilities for personal or workspaces.

Sunflower Painting Party

6-9 p.m. — New Holland Brewing - Battle Creek Brewpub — $38.00 — Paint and sip in a relaxed atmosphere while creating a beautiful sunflower masterpiece.

Calhoun County Financial Coaching Workshop

10 AM – 12 PM — Michigan Works! Southwest Calhoun County Service Center — Free — Learn to manage your finances like a pro and create a sound household budget.