Good morning, Battle Creek.

A 35-year-old Kalamazoo man died after an altercation in Pennfield Township when he suffered a medical emergency in a patrol vehicle following reports of shots fired on July 6; deputies arrested a 45-year-old Battle Creek man for firing a weapon—detectives are still investigating the cause of death.

Gas prices dropped 11¢ a gallon in Michigan this week; the average is now $3.15 while metro Detroit costs $3.20 and Calhoun County is among the cheapest at $3.02 — drivers in Battle Creek may enjoy lower fill-up bills.

W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary will host free monthly Birds and Coffee chats on Zoom at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays, where locals can share bird sightings and learn about bird topics.

Upcoming sessions are July 9 on wading birds, Aug. 13 on raptors, and Sept. 10 on bird-friendly backyard habitats + registration is required to get meeting details.

Health officials in Michigan have identified the COVID variant NB.1.8.1 that causes severe throat pain known as razor blade throat—making swallowing very difficult.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recorded 371 cases with one death last week, and experts say current vaccines remain effective.

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music in Downtown Battle Creek's vibrant social scene.

Vibe@5 – Toppermost Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music in Downtown Battle Creek's lively social district.

Taco and Tequila Festival

3-8 p.m. — Festival Market Square — Cost varies — Michigan's Original Taco & Tequila Festival returns with larger festivities and flavors.

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of live music in Downtown Battle Creek's Social District.

PAWS Classic Golf Outing

8 AM – 4 PM — Binder Park Golf Course — Fundraiser — Come Par-Tee to support Paws With A Cause and enjoy meeting wonderful dogs raised by volunteers.

Battle Creek Scavenger Hunt Adventure

12-9 p.m. — Downtown Battle Creek — Ticket required — Embark on a quirky scavenger hunt uncovering the hidden gems of Cereal City.

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music in a vibrant social setting at Downtown Battle Creek's Friendship Park.

Whack For Warmth Golf Outing Fundraiser

7 AM – 4 PM — Cedar Creek Golf Course — Fundraiser details available — Play golf to support heating assistance for local households.