Good morning, Battle Creek.

Businesses in downtown Battle Creek held steady as the government shutdown reached its 15th day and federal workers remained unpaid at the Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center—local owners reported that foot traffic and sales have not declined, though they worry a continued shutdown could affect holiday business.

The Better Business Bureau warns Michiganders about online romance and crypto scams that ask for money after a federal bust seized $15 billion in crypto.

The agency advised people not to send money to strangers—reminding victims of median losses around $5,000 and $6,100 for crypto and romance scams, respectively.

Governor Whitmer declared Oct.

19-26 as Microplastics Awareness Week and EGLE will host events to educate the public on reducing plastic waste—such as summits and cleanups. The department will also use a $2 million appropriation to study microplastics in public drinking water supplies.

Michigan stargazers can enjoy three meteor showers—Orionids peaking October 22–23, Southern Taurids peaking November 3–4, and Northern Taurids peaking November 8–9—that continue into early November, while comets SWAN and Lemmon make close approaches on October 21 and are best seen with binoculars after sunset.

Bronson Battle Creek Hospital earned Primary Stroke Center certification from The Joint Commission — a change that expands stroke care in Calhoun County.

The certification followed a July 18 survey that noted the hospital surpassed national benchmarks while treating 180 stroke patients in 2024.

A recent online survey by LiveSportsonTV ranked Detroit-style coney dogs as the favorite tailgate food for Detroit Lions fans while Michigan State fans favored pasties and University of Michigan supporters chose whitefish dip at 79—a result based on responses from 3,045 football fans that highlights regional tastes at game days.

Two local athletes were named Athlete of the Week by Bronson Battle Creek Hospital for the week of October 6 to 11.

Brady Conley of Pennfield scored four goals in a postseason win over Onsted—while Jocelyn Rolston of Olivet became the school's first regional champion in girls golf with a round of 90.

The Enquirer's Best of Battle Creek series is back for high school football linebackers with nominations from local teams + readers can cast their vote online before Monday's 5 p.m. deadline.

Glizzy Festival 2025

3-7 p.m. — Kellogg Arena — $7 general admission, children 12 and under are free — Celebrate hot dogs with diverse vendors, activities, and a fun eating competition.

PENN PRES HOL-i-DAY ARTS & CRAFT SHOW

1 PM — Ott Biological Preserve — Spots available for vendors — Showcase your holiday arts and crafts this season.

Trinity World of Wizards Weekend

5-8 p.m. — Pine Knoll Apartments — Family-friendly fun — Experience magical adventures with wizards and enchanting activities.

Sensory Friend Sundays at the Air Zoo

10 AM – 12 PM — Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Center — $18 for adults, $16 for children — Experience a sensory-friendly environment with reduced noise and special activities.