Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 21st of May.
Good morning, Lansing.
A new mobile security unit from LVT was installed near Kroger in the Frandor parking lot to deter crime — the unit features solar panels, cameras on a tall mast, and loudspeakers that can stream live video and archive footage.
On May 15, an EF-1 tornado struck Potterville and severely damaged Jordyn Brazee's home as her family took cover in the basement after hearing the sirens—emergency crews later evacuated them due to hazards from power lines and debris, and repair work is expected to take four to six months.
A new study compared the Greater Lansing area with 11 similar communities and found that Lansing had strong venture capital investments — along with a high Gen Z population and high-tech job growth — but also low incomes, slow population growth, and limited housing.
Commissioned by local economic groups, the report was released on May 20 and has prompted calls for strategic investments to boost local economic competitiveness.
Local chamber and economic leaders released the State of the Region report that shows a 16% increase in business startups and strong Gen Z appeal—findings that come amid challenges with growing population and foot traffic.
The groups plan to encourage more local and large businesses to boost the region's competitiveness—actions aimed at driving further growth.
MSU assistant professor Jeremy Johnson received a $500,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to study assisted tree migration—testing tree species like red pine for their ability to thrive under changing climates.
He will plant six conifer species and American chestnut in nine common gardens across Michigan and measure their growth and survival over several years to guide future forest practices.
Lansing Board of Water and Light restored power to nearly 97+ of its customers after a severe storm disrupted service to 24,000 homes last week, leaving about 700 without electricity as crews focused on the Wood Street area.
Crews work around the clock to fix stoplights and restore power to the remaining customers.
Lansing City Council unanimously voted to object to a liquor license transfer on East Kalamazoo Street because the location is too close to a school and surrounded by other alcohol retailers—this decision will be reviewed by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
On Monday, Lansing City Council voted 6—2 to add a sustainability specialist and a legislative analyst to the budget; the specialist will implement the Climate Action Plan and write grants while the analyst will help draft legislation and study other cities’ approaches.
The council also allocated funding for two additional firefighters and Mayor Andy Schor will soon decide whether to sign the budget changes.
Live Music on the Patio with Mark Collins
7-9 p.m. — Pins & Pints — Free entry — Enjoy local artists under the lights on a brand new patio while savoring great food and drink specials.
Miles for Moms 5K Run/Walk
10 AM – 12 PM — Hawk Island Park — Fundraiser for Hannah's House — Participate in a 5K for a great cause supporting homeless pregnant women and their infants.
May Real Estate Investor Meetup
6-8 p.m. — Achieve Real Estate Headquarters — Free entry — Connect with fellow real estate investors and learn from industry experts.
Lansing Match Play Championship
May 31 - June 1 — Groesbeck Golf Course — Entry fee required — Compete in a two-day individual match play tournament with multiple divisions.
Father’s Day Pottery Painting
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Playing Picasso — $45 per piece — Create a special pottery frame to celebrate Dad while enjoying a fun morning of art and snacks.
On-Site Tour of Senior Living Community
9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — 2205 Jolly Rd, Okemos, MI — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living amenities and experience top-rated care services.
MATS Annual Clinical Symposium
7 AM – 5 PM — Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center — Registrations start at $22.50 — A full day of professional development for athletic trainers and sports professionals.
Play Board Games at The Gaming Cantina
1-10 p.m. — The Gaming Cantina — Free gaming — Enjoy a night of board games and meet fellow gamers in East Lansing.
Splash Pad Play Date at Jaycee Park
10-11 a.m. — Jaycee Park — Free — A delightful meetup for families to cool off and enjoy playtime at the splash pad.
Latin Nights Salsa Concert Fundraiser
6:30-11 p.m. — East Lansing Hannah Community Center — Donation-based entry — Celebrate Latin Caribbean culture with live salsa music and dance while supporting local artists.
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