Marshall Public Schools are set to expand their STEM instruction capabilities thanks to $150,000 in grants awarded to Innovate Albion. The funding will support the hiring of two full-time coordinators who will work directly with students and teachers in elementary schools, enhancing science, technology, engineering, and math education across the district.

Calhoun County residents will have two opportunities this fall to dispose of scrap tires at no cost through county collection events in Marshall and Tekonsha. The program, funded by an EGLE Scrap Tire Grant, allows up to 10 passenger vehicle tires per participant. Marshall event requires registration, while Tekonsha is first-come, first-served.

Battle Creek is set to enjoy a classic stretch of midsummer weather as the week begins, with sunshine, comfortable humidity, and afternoon temperatures in the low 80s.

Wednesday and Thursday will offer some of the best outdoor conditions of the forecast, making it an ideal time for everything from backyard barbecues to evenings on the lake.

The weather pattern begins to change on Friday as clouds increase and scattered afternoon thunderstorms become possible.

While temperatures will remain near seasonal averages, rising humidity will signal the return of a more unsettled atmosphere heading into the weekend.

Saturday is expected to be the coolest day of the forecast, with highs only reaching the mid-70s under mostly cloudy skies.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is set to open Monday, creating a new connection between Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Canada. The bridge opening comes amid new 50% U.S. tariffs on Canada, highlighting the complex relationship between the two nations as they maintain critical trade and transportation links.

The wildfire smoke that blanketed Michigan in recent days cost the state's economy more than $4 billion in losses, according to a new analysis by the Anderson Economic Group. Michigan was second only to New York in economic impact from the Canadian and northern Minnesota wildfires, with outdoor industries like transportation, construction, and tourism bearing the brunt of the losses.

Weekly Featured Home: 3715 Beckley Rd, Battle Creek

Some homes offer extra space. Others offer privacy. This week’s Featured Home offers an entire lifestyle.

Located on 18.22 partially wooded acres in southwest Battle Creek, 3715 Beckley Rd is a one-of-a-kind Colonial estate that combines luxury, recreation, and tranquility in a setting that feels miles away from the city, yet is less than a mile from shopping, restaurants, schools, and easy access to I-94.

With more than 4,300 square feet of living space, this impressive home features 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and 2 half baths, providing ample room for large families, entertaining, or multi-generational living.

Mortgage rates have reached an 11-month high this week, with the 30-year fixed rate averaging 6.60%, up from 6.52% last week. The increase comes as oil prices continue to rise, creating additional economic pressure on potential homebuyers and the housing market.

This week's featured cats are Doreen, Sunday, Wendy, Cher, Road Runner, and Zoey. Each has their own unique personality, but they all share one thing in common: they're patiently waiting for someone to walk through the shelter doors and choose them.

Cats make incredible companions. Whether you're looking for a playful friend to keep you entertained, a quiet cuddle buddy to curl up beside you after a long day, or simply a warm, comforting presence in your home, there's a cat ready to fill that role. They provide companionship, reduce stress, and often become cherished members of the family for years to come.

As July comes to a close, the Battle Creek and Calhoun County job market continues to offer a wide variety of employment opportunities across nearly every major industry.

 Manufacturing remains one of the area's strongest hiring sectors, with companies such as WK Kellogg Co., Post Consumer Brands, Ford's BlueOval Battery Park, DENSO, and other regional manufacturers actively seeking production workers, maintenance technicians, engineers, and skilled trades professionals. Healthcare providers, retailers, restaurants, hotels, schools, government agencies, transportation companies, and financial institutions are also continuing to add staff to meet ongoing demand.

For job seekers, this remains an excellent time to explore local career opportunities.