Good morning, Battle Creek.

Yesterday, residents saw Columbus Day as a federal holiday honoring 15th-century explorer Christopher Columbus, though some groups in Battle Creek recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor Native heritage + Governor Whitmer’s 2025 proclamation promoted the latter, but no new proclamation was issued for 2026.

Lakeview School District will honor four alumni during halftime of the Homecoming football game on Oct.

16+ a parade starts at 5:30 p.m. from 20th Street Plaza, recognizing Reed Perkins, Dylan Kenney, and Albert and Susan Mumford for their service in education and the community.

Michigan State professor Kevin McGraw will explain why birds display varied colors at 7 p.m. Nov.

6 at the KBS Academic Building (W.K. Kellogg Biological Station in Hickory Corners) during the free Dessert with Discussion series; in-person and online registration is required.

Brown stink bugs are moving indoors as temperatures drop, and experts warn that homeowners in Battle Creek may soon notice a rise in odor issues.

Homeowners are advised to vacuum small clusters or call a professional if infestations grow (the insects feed on plants and are harmless to people and pets).

The Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association announced that Michigan drivers choosing catastrophic auto coverage will face lower fees starting fiscal year 2027-28, with the pure premium charge dropping to $63 and the deficit recoupment charge falling to $10—lower than the current charges of $65 and $19.

Children with IBD in Michigan face delays because step therapy rules require trying less effective drugs first — a University of Michigan pediatric gastroenterologist urged Congress to pass the bipartisan Safe Step Act to speed treatment.

Battle Creek residents are invited to vote for the Girls Athlete of the Week from nominees including Gianna Burgos, Lyla Zumer, Abbi Kline, and Addi Waldorf, with ballots accepted until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.

14. The winning athlete will be featured in the Sunday edition of the Enquirer.

All five Battle Creek high school football teams lost their Week 7 games — a challenging start ahead of crucial Week 8 matchups as the regular season nears its end.

Battle Creek sports fans can vote for the top high school boy athlete from Oct.

5-10 as nominees from Marshall and Lakeview are featured. Voting ends at 5 p.m. Oct. 14 and the winner will appear in Sunday's edition.