Good morning, Battle Creek.

Battle Creek received statewide recognition at the Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism held April 15–17 when three local professionals, including Linda Freybler of the Calhoun County Visitors Bureau, were honored for their work boosting tourism and economic development.

Under her leadership, the bureau invested over $2 million in local projects such as trails, a children’s museum, a splash pad and pickleball courts to improve the community's appeal.

Michigan students who complete their first FAFSA for the 2025-26 school year can join the Ticket to Tuition sweepstakes—texting CASH to 855-505-8425 before 11:59 p.m. on May 16 for a chance to win one of 10 $50,000 awards or one of 40 $10,000 prizes—with more than 17,000 students already entered.

Representative Steve Frisbie, a former paramedic and volunteer firefighter, is co-sponsoring bills that would offer a $2,500—refundable state income tax credit to volunteer firefighters and EMS workers.

The bills have been sent to committee for review as lawmakers work to support emergency responders.

The Michigan Department of Transportation will begin closing the M-311 bridge over I-94 and two ramps for deck repairs on Monday, May 12—this $150,000 project is set to improve the bridge until the interchange replacement project is completed.

Drivers will face detours on Michigan Avenue, Columbia Avenue and Beadle Lake Road and will experience nighttime single-lane closures on I-94 during ramp work—requiring extra caution.

Crews placed the final steel beam on the Joan Secchia Children's Rehabilitation Hospital in Battle Creek on Thursday, marking a major milestone in the $70 million project.

Construction will continue for over a year until the facility opens in fall 2026 — it is set to serve about 2,500 children annually with specialized rehabilitation services.

The Enquirer is expanding its Best Of Battle Creek series to name the top high school catcher in baseball from teams including Lakeview, Harper, and Pennfield — area coaches have submitted nominations highlighting players' skills and leadership.

Voters will choose the best catcher when online polls close at noon on Tuesday.

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.

Isaiah 117 Red Door Dash 5K

1-4 p.m. — 7290 B Dr N, Battle Creek, MI — Entry fee applies — Lace up your shoes and help support children in foster care in the local community.

Virtual Senior Living Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Beadle Lake Afc Home — Free entry — Explore exceptional senior living options with nutritious meals and engaging activities.

FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship

June 6-8 — Battle Creek Country Club — Admission details TBA — Experience thrilling golf action at the FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship featuring rising stars from the Epson Tour.

Clint Black Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — FireKeepers Casino Hotel — Tickets starting at $47 — Experience the country music icon Clint Black live in concert.