Good morning, Battle Creek.

Willard Library will host its Summer Reading Program kickoff on Tuesday, June 10 at the Helen Warner Branch where families can enjoy yard games, face painting, bounce houses, and music from DJ Cory Boedecker between 5:30 and 7 p.m.—local community organizations will also be on hand to share details about upcoming programs.

Wildfire smoke from 77 uncontrolled Canadian wildfires has darkened Michigan skies this summer—experts say that climate change and stressed forests will lead to more frequent smoky days.

Researchers warn that local households may need to adapt to reduce health risks from the increased exposure.

State Representative Matt Longjohn of Texas Township and two other lawmakers proposed bills to ban ghost guns, which are firearms with no serial numbers that can be bought online without a background check.

The proposals aim to help law enforcement and echo similar moves in 15 other states — and Representative Kara Hope also urged tougher rules for gun dealers.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel asked a judge to reconsider an earlier ruling and strike down a law that requires clinics to screen if patients face pressure to end a pregnancy.

She said the screening requirement unfairly intrudes on the consent process compared to other medical procedures.

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.

Cereal City Classic 5k/10k Run/Walk

8:00-10:30 a.m. — Battle Creek Family YMCA — $25-$45 — Compete in a fun run/walk and earn a t-shirt by registering early!

Summer 2025 Communities of Practice

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Battle Creek Adult Education — Free entry — Enhance best practices in youth development for the upcoming summer season.

Oaklawn Pink Out the Park Night

6:35 – 9:00 p.m. — MCCU Field — $20 ticket package — Enjoy a night of baseball while supporting women's health initiatives with a special promotional package.

Cheetah Chase 5K

6:30-10 a.m. — Binder Park Zoo — Registration required — Experience a thrilling 5K race through scenic zoo paths alongside exotic animals.

Beach Day Painting Party

6:00-8:30 p.m. — New Holland Brewing - Battle Creek Brewpub — $38.00 — Enjoy a fun paint and sip session under the guidance of a local artist.

Michigan State Armwrestling Championships 2025

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Kellogg Arena — Weigh-ins on Friday and Saturday — Watch the best arm wrestlers in Michigan face off in an exciting competition.

City Kids Day

12-5 p.m. — Kellogg Arena — Free admission — A fun-filled event for families featuring games, music, and activities for kids in Battle Creek.

Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival

8 p.m. – 1:29 a.m. — Battle Creek Executive Airport — Tickets available now — Experience aerial thrills with spectacular pyrotechnics and stunning night shows at North America’s largest air and balloon festival.