Good morning, Lansing.

McLaren Greater Lansing welcomed the first baby of 2026, Terell Couthen Jr, at 8:30 a.m. on Jan.

1 + he was born to Antonett and Terrell Couthen at the hospital, marking a bright start to the new year.

More than 50 eateries opened in 2025 across the area, including new coffee shops in East Lansing and sit-down restaurants in Old Town.

This food boom expanded dining options—helping reshape our local culinary scene.

Fidler’s on the Grand in Lansing will have a soft reopening on Jan.

28 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday for take-out only (after a three-year closure following a family tragedy).

Michigan's 24% cannabis wholesale tax took effect Jan.

1 and has local retailers worried that higher costs may force closures and push customers toward the black market, while nearly all $420 million in revenue is earmarked for road repairs — though many doubt the funds will truly fix them.

Social Security benefits now include a 2.8% cost-of-living increase applied Dec.

31 (an average boost of about $56 per month). Checks will be sent on Jan. 14, Jan. 21, or Jan. 28 based on beneficiaries' birth dates.

East Lansing Parking Division has introduced a Discount Multi-Use Voucher program offering 50% off hourly parking vouchers for downtown gated facilities.

Residents can purchase a $100 voucher for $50 or a $50 voucher for $25 and can get monthly permits at City Hall (410 Abbot Road).

Michigan hospitals, including University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Lansing, saw a sharp increase in flu cases that strained emergency rooms since early January.

Health officials urged residents to use urgent care clinics and get vaccinated (CDC data shows high positivity rates).

LSJ photographer Nick King recapped his top five Lansing parks from 2025, highlighting spots like Red Cedar Glen Land Preserve, Bunker Nature Preserve, Fletcher-Robson Nature Area, River Point Park, Sanford Natural Area and Keegan Park.

His Walk in the Park series (one-hour explorations) offers local families new outdoor adventures.

Michigan State basketball faced No. 13 Nebraska on Friday at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln—the first game in 13 years featuring two ranked teams—while coach Izzo noted players are recovering from illness as they fought hard on the road.

Michigan State lost to Nebraska 58 to 56 on Friday, Jan.

2 — turnovers hurt the Spartans despite efforts by Carson Cooper and teammates. The team will host USC Monday at Breslin Center in a three game homestand.

MSU women's basketball coach said Isa Alexander will miss the rest of the season after suffering an injury on Dec.

28 — the Spartans are also waiting for details on guard Theryn Hallock’s injury ahead of their Jan. 4 home game.

Nick Sheridan, Alabama's former co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, has been hired as MSU's new offensive coordinator.

He brings Big Ten experience and local ties to East Lansing as the Spartans look to boost their offense.

Michigan State football coach Pat Fitzgerald is addressing key roster needs—offensive line, pass rush and receiving units—after several players entered the transfer portal on Friday, Jan.

2. He plans to rebuild his team ahead of the upcoming season in East Lansing.

November BOTM: One Dark Window

7-9 p.m. — Foster Community Center — Light snacks and beverages provided — Engage in a mystical discussion about Elspeth's journey in the eerie kingdom of Blunder.

Verdi, Miller, and Brahms Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic compositions by Verdi and Brahms alongside contemporary work by Miller.

Comedy and Music Night with Johnny Hamcheck

7-8:30 p.m. — Macs Bar — $10 — Experience a unique blend of stand-up comedy and music from the quirky social media sensation Johnny Hamcheck.

USC Trojans vs. Michigan State Spartans Women's Basketball

8-11 p.m. — Breslin Center — Tickets start at fair pricing — Catch a thrilling women's basketball matchup in East Lansing.

Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Michigan State Spartans Men's Hockey

6-9 p.m. — Munn Ice Arena — Tickets starting at $77 — Watch a thrilling college hockey matchup between two fierce rivals.