Good morning, Battle Creek.

Calhoun County teens learned safe driving skills at a Ford Driving Skills for Life event hosted by the Sheriff’s Office and Ford Philanthropy.

Experts led hands-on exercises in hazard recognition, speed control and how alcohol affects reaction time — giving teens practical experience they may not get in traditional lessons.

Raymie Postema of Marshall was reappointed to Michigan’s Autism Council by Gov. Whitmer—she began her term Oct.

23 and will guide the state's Autism Spectrum Disorders State Plan until Sept. 30.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced that SNAP benefits in Michigan will be paused in November because the federal government may have limited funds during the shutdown—about 1.4 million people who rely on the program may struggle to buy food this holiday season. Lawmakers are discussing ways to offer temporary state support, but no plan has been set yet.

An analysis from Zumper shows Battle Creek apartment listings fell to $981 in September from last year's $1,050, even though they were 3% higher than last month's $950—one- and two-bedroom apartments remained steady at $875 and $1,035 respectively.

The report covered 148 active listings to reflect a clear local market trend.

Harper Creek won the Interstate 8 Conference title with a 48-16 win at Jackson Northwest on Oct.

24 and clinched its first back to back outright title since 2011/12 + Pennfield won 35-34 in overtime over Parma Western after a jump ball catch led to a blocked extra point. Other local games saw Mattawan beat Battle Creek Central 26-22 + Marshall defeated Coldwater 28-7 while Colon and Climax-Scotts secured wins in eight-player football.

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.