Good morning, Lansing.

Downtown shops kick off Small Business Week this Sunday as local owners say neighbors' support keeps money circulating to fix road repairs and meet community needs.

Local spending fuels economic health across the area.

Record-high gas prices near $5 per gallon are straining local delivery drivers in Lansing as one veteran worker reported fill-up costs rising from $40 to $60; some residents have stopped driving (to reduce expenses) amid broader affordability challenges.

United Airlines announced on May 1 that its new nonstop service from Lansing’s Capital Region International Airport to Chicago is delayed due to FAA flight caps at O'Hare.

Nonstop flights will resume on Oct. 25 (travelers should contact United for alternative options).

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reports that the state has 18 snake species, with just one venomous type; most snakes steer clear of humans while keeping rodent numbers down (they serve as natural pest control).

Delta Township resident Lavetta Bennett became the first woman named major general in the Michigan National Guard, joining only two other generals in the state's force.

She thanked her family at a March promotion ceremony in Delta Township.

Okemos High School alumnus Caleb Bonemer is impressing at the Winston — Salem Dash with a .289 average and 11 homers in 26 games this spring.

The 20-year-old prospect aims to improve his game while awaiting a call-up to Double-A and a shot at the big leagues.

Voting to pick LSJ's girls high school athlete of the week is open until noon Wednesday, May 6 for nominees from DeWitt, Eaton Rapids and Lansing Catholic (including Kennedie Crow, Leila Eyde and Jillian Randolph), with the winner to be featured soon.

Voting remains open until noon Wednesday, May 6 for the LSJ boys high school athlete of the week, where standout candidates like Jackson Fossitt, Raymond Herek, and Gertit Koot are in the running to be featured.

Local prep teams shined on Monday, May 4 as Laingsburg swept Bath in baseball & softball while Okemos extended its CAAC Blue win streak, and standout girls tennis performances boosted the sports roundup for Greater Lansing.

Swift Night Out: Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Smith Floral & Greenhouses — Free entry — Witness hundreds of Chimney Swifts swirling before their evening roost in a magical urban wildlife spectacle.

Imagine National Dance Challenge

All day — Lansing Center — Entry fee varies — Experience a dance competition prioritizing student success and satisfaction.

Swift Night Out

8-9:30 p.m. — Smith Floral & Greenhouses — Free entry — Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with a mesmerizing display of Chimney Swifts in flight.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue Cafe — Free entry — Enjoy a fun night of singing and socializing in Lansing's lively karaoke scene.

JCW Wrestling Showdown

6 PM – 12 AM — Grewal Hall at 224 — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of JCW Wrestling live in Lansing.

Cirque Italia - Water Circus

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Lansing Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable aquatic spectacle with breathtaking aerial performances that captivate the audience.

CCOCC Benefit Car Show for VETLIFE

9 AM – 3 PM — Lansing Community College — Admission details may vary — Celebrate car culture while supporting veteran life organizations at this community-focused car show.

Paper Chase 5K

2 PM — 325 Riverfront Dr, Lansing, MI — Cost not specified — Celebrate the 11th Anniversary with a fun run hosted by the Ingham County Bar Association Young Lawyers Section.

Citizen Soldier Concert

6-10 p.m. — Grewal Hall at 224 — $59-$64 — Experience the electrifying sounds of Citizen Soldier live in Lansing.

Grand Concert Series

6-8 p.m. — Lansing Center, Riverfront Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a variety of musical genres while soaking up the summer vibes along the Grand River.