Good morning, Lansing.

Lansing still lacks a dump-and-go bottle return machine like those in Oregon—residents instead can find faster manual returns at Meijer in West, South, or East Lansing, with weekday mornings suggested to avoid crowds.

YaYa's Flame Broiled Chicken will open a company-owned location at 716 N.

Clippert Ave., near the Frandor Shopping Center, by the end of January. The Flint-based chain is returning after local residents pushed for its comeback following the closure of its former franchise in June 2023.

Old Town General Store in Lansing will close at the end of March as owner Rhea Van Atta retires after 13 years in business, and the store building at 408 E.

Cesar Chavez Ave will become the Old Town Cultural Center.

The U.S. Mint unveiled new coin designs for America’s 250th anniversary, including a quarter featuring the Mayflower Compact.

Michigan residents can purchase collectible coins and dimes throughout 2026 on the Mint’s website+ a chance to hold a piece of history.

Lansing Community College’s women’s basketball team beat Jackson College 67-62 last night at home after a slow start turned around by key bench energy—crucial for their NJCAA tourney hopes—and now prepares for conference play with a home game against Glen Oaks Saturday at 1 p.m.

Following a Bridge investigation that found neglect and abuse in nursing homes, two gubernatorial candidates and a state lawmaker have promised to propose new bills to enforce staffing and improve care; the changes will aim to hold operators accountable for substandard conditions.

Michigan child care providers are concerned after the federal government announced (Dec.

31) a nationwide freeze on child care funds that will require extra documentation. MiLEAP said today that providers have not been impacted yet as they await further details.

The federal government unveiled new dietary guidelines on Wednesday, Jan.

7 that call for increased beef, pork and chicken (2025-2030) along with full-fat dairy; local ranchers welcomed the focus on high-quality protein that may shape food choices nationwide.

Juliann Woodard returned from last year’s ACL tear to play a key role when she hit a clutch 3-pointer for MSU during a Jan.

4 win over Illinois, helping the Spartans extend their winning streak ahead of a Jan. 8 road game at Washington.

Lansing Community College men's basketball coach Mike Ingram adjusted the lineup Wednesday to improve ball movement and share scoring in a 100-70 win over Mott Community College.

Zander Woodruff scored 32 points as the Stars closed a 10-4 non-conference season ahead of Saturday's conference opener.

Michigan State fans keep traditions alive as the celebrated Izzone student section (a longtime force behind the home-court advantage) readies for upcoming basketball games at Breslin Center.

Students continue to bond during pregame campouts while securing coveted seats and supporting the team.

Michigan State added center Trent Fraley (son of Lions coach Hank) and transfer running back Cam Edwards on Jan.

7 to boost its run game before the portal window closes on Jan. 16; the moves come after last season’s low rushing totals.

Former Michigan State cornerback Charles Brantley transferred from Miami and will return for his final season eligibility—he saw limited play and injuries with the Hurricanes.

He will rejoin the Spartan program in East Lansing where his past play is expected to boost the football roster.

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.

Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo 2026

12 PM – 4 PM — Lansing Center — Ticketed entry — Shop from hundreds of exhibits while enjoying presentations and prize giveaways at this women-oriented expo.