COVID-19 Testing Available in Marshall
This week, Hemmingsen Drug Store in downtown Marshall began offering COVID-19 testing. Neither a doctor's order nor symptoms are required for the test, but an appointment is. Appointments are available every 10 minutes between 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday; and 9 a.m.-Noon, Saturday. The test is conducted in the patient's car behind the pharmacy, and the pharmacy says that results are typically returned in 48-72 hours.
The test is free: Individuals with health insurance will be billed and individuals without insurance can just show a drivers license and have the test covered by CARES Act funding. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit hemmingsendrug.com/covid-19. With questions, call the pharmacy directly at 269-781-3411.
Recovery Grants Distributed in Battle Creek
The Battle Creek Community Foundation has distributed more than $705,000 in recovery grants to dozens of organizations in Calhoun County, to help with personal protective equipment, reopening, lost revenue, operations, and other needs. Agencies include schools, libraries, churches, and a variety of other nonprofit organizations working to help their communities.
Grant and loan programs continue as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Contact the BCCF at 269-962-2181 for more information.
September Is...
Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the Summit Pointe Suicide Prevention Coalition invites you to join a statewide initiative to write chalk messages of hope— along with their 24-hour crisis line—outside your home or business.
Write messages like these, or get creative with your own!
- We care
- You are important
- You are worthy
- You matter
Please include Summit Pointe’s 24-hour crisis phone number as a resource, 800-632-5449.
National Preparedness Month
September is also National Preparedness Month, and this year’s theme is, “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.” This effort by the Department of Homeland Security encourages families and communities to prioritize disaster planning, especially in light of COVID-19.
There are resources available for each week of this month at ready.gov/September. Visit the website for details about making a disaster plan, building a kit of supplies in case of evacuation, and preparing for disasters that might be more possible in our area. The site also provides resources for talking to kids about preparing for emergencies.
Municipal Updates
Battle Creek Transit Reinstates Fares
Battle Creek Transit on Tuesday started collecting fares again from riders, with boarding at the front of the vehicles. Transit also is open again to customers at 339 W. Michigan Ave., from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is a new window next to the door, where riders can ask questions and purchase the new, individual ride tickets; these will replace the multi-ride passes, and anyone with punches left can exchange their pass for the new tickets at Transit or City Hall. Full Blast remains closed to the public. Call Transit with any questions at 269-966-3474.
Battle Creek City Hall and the Police Department will stay closed to the public on Fridays during September. This worked well for staff in August, to help them provide city services and catch up on work that may be behind. Staff are working, and will provide services by phone and online.
Albion City Hall is Open
The public can access Albion City Hall from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Fridays. All visitors are required to self-screen upon entrance, must wear a mask, and should maintain 6-feet separation from others.
The Finance Office, via the main front window, is open for walk-ins, and all other business should be conducted by appointment. Find contact information for Albion City departments at cityofalbionmi.gov.
