Good morning, Lansing.

Local businesses and neighbors are working to reopen Ledge Craft Lane—an art space that closed in December due to heating issues.

They are collecting donations to fix the system so it can welcome free art programs for kids in spring.

Michigan State University is hosting a weeklong MLK Day celebration—highlighting a Community Unity Dinner on Jan.

15, a Jazz Concert at Fairchild today, and panel discussions—to honor Dr. King’s legacy and foster campus unity. Check online for registration and full event details.

On Jan. 16, state officials reported slow economic growth and expected lower tax revenues as federal cuts force tough budget choices ahead of Gov. Whitmer's early February presentation—lawmakers may tap the Rainy Day Fund while tariff changes could boost local auto production and add jobs.

Michigan lawmakers approved House Bill 4141 banning phones during class (phones are allowed during breaks, emergencies, and for medical needs).

The measure now heads to the Senate for a final vote.

Students in Greater Lansing wrote essays for the Dr. Martin Luther King Commission contest on justice and hope; winners for junior high, high school and senior scholarship were announced after the event on Jan.

17. The essays (highlighting themes of justice and personal accountability) reflect MLK’s enduring message.

MSU swept No. 2 Wisconsin in a weekend hockey series; they won 4-3 on Jan.

15 and 4-1 on Jan. 16 thanks to disciplined defense, effective penalty kills, and key scoring that boosted their conference standing.

On Saturday, Jan. 17, local basketball games saw the Waverly boys win 69-67 over Sexton, led by Derek Thomas II’s 28 points, while the Holt girls edged Portland 50-47 with Grace Gaudard scoring 19 points to deliver an exciting finish.

Girls basketball teams in our region played on Jan.

16 in competitive CAAC and Flint Metro League matchups; Portland extended its win streak while East Lansing, Olivet, and Ionia displayed strong performances, highlighting local talent.

MSU wrestling lost 31-12 to No. 11 Illinois (their third consecutive Big Ten dual at Jenison Fieldhouse) and key wins by individual wrestlers may build momentum ahead of matchups with Purdue on Jan.

23 and Indiana on Jan. 25.

Michigan State basketball began its West Coast trip with a game against Washington on Saturday at Alaska Airlines Arena in Seattle.

The Spartans will face Oregon on Tuesday after extra acclimation time, with coach Tom Izzo emphasizing youth and hustle for Big Ten play.

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.

Nermis Mieses Recital

7:30-11:30 p.m. — College of Music — Free entry — Experience an evening of love and longing through the music of Schumann and more.