Good morning, Battle Creek.

Calhoun County is hosting free scrap tire collection events for residents who can dispose of up to 10 passenger tires (Marshall event on Sept.

25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. requires registration while Tekonsha event is on Oct. 26 from noon to 5 p.m.).

Climate researchers warn that longer, drier spells in Michigan could soon increase wildfire risks similar to those seen out west, and rising temperatures plus shifting storm patterns hint at an arid trend in the region.

Michigan SSI payments will be sent early on Friday, July 31, as Aug.

1 falls on a weekend, and Social Security checks are scheduled for Wed. Aug. 12, 19, and 26 (Aug. 1-10, Aug. 11-20, Aug. 21-31). The Senior Citizens League forecasts a 3.8% COLA rise.

Gov. Whitmer signed the Michigan Tri-Share Childcare Program into law on Tuesday to help early childhood centers retain staff by splitting daycare costs among the state, employers, and teachers.

The new law aims to ease high daycare expenses for workers in West Michigan who earn about $2,220 a month.

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy regional performers playing popular live tunes in a festive community atmosphere.

Leilapalooza Music Festival

All day — Leila Arboretum Society — $5 parking — Experience a vibrant one-day festival with 60+ bands across 6 stages set in a beautiful arboretum.

Vibe @ 5 Concert Series

5-7:30 p.m. — Friendship Park — Free entry — Enjoy regional performers playing live tunes in this vibrant community concert series.

New Wave Festival: Music, Art & Mystics

12 PM-12 AM — Leila Arboretum Society — Kids 12 & Under Free with Paid Adult — Experience a vibrant festival filled with music, art, mystics, and 100+ vendors at the Leila Arboretum.