Good morning, Lansing.

Celebrate Meridian Festival will take place this weekend in Okemos starting Friday, July 24 with Teen Night at Marketplace on the Green and Saturday's Block Party featuring live music, vendors, and a drone finale.

Some events have fees and Central Park Drive closes Saturday (11:00 am–11:00 pm) for staging.

Farmers report gas is above $4 a gallon and diesel costs have risen 20 to 30 percent from last year, straining operations at Reese Farms (DeWitt Township) during the peak growing season as the war in Iran disrupts supply chains; these cost hikes may soon affect grocery prices.

Triple-A Michigan said the state’s gas price jumped 20¢ in a week to $4.15, with Lansing showing the highest at $4.20.

A fill-up for 15 gallons now costs about $62, and prices vary by county.

Construction crews across Lansing are continuing work on major projects today despite hazardous wildfire smoke causing poor air quality — leaders report extra measures like supplying masks and adjusting for workers with respiratory conditions.

Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget is searching for a spruce or fir over 60 foot tall to serve as the 2026 Official State of Michigan Christmas Tree for Silver Bells in the City.

The department will waive the tree removal fee for the chosen tree.

Marie Noon, a local disabled resident, was denied Medicaid last year because Michigan’s benefits system incorrectly assessed her income and disability status.

Advocates warn that upcoming federal changes may further strain the system + lead to additional wrongful denials.

Michigan health officials reported over 6,000 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases (102 hospitalizations) as of Monday morning, and they advised residents to wash, peel, or cook fresh lettuce and greens to reduce risk.

The MSU College of Veterinary Medicine launched its mobile vet clinic last month to offer free spay-and-neuter services for 14 shelters within a two-hour drive (helping veterinary students gain hands-on experience).

The program will expand to serve more high-need areas soon.

Kristin Haynie, a Mason native who starred at MSU with a national runner-up finish, was drafted by the Sacramento Monarchs and won a championship as a rookie; the Lansing State Journal now features her as one of Greater Lansing’s top basketball legends.

K.J. Torbert, the 2026 Mr. Basketball winner from East Lansing, debuted at the Moneyball Pro-Am last week scoring 20 points and playing with top teammates — he now prepares for his freshman season at Bowling Green as the event continues today at Holt High School at 6 p.m.

Michigan State coach Tom Izzo selected longtime student manager Matthew Watkins as a walk-on for the men’s basketball team — filling a roster spot after transfer center Anton Bonke was signed.

Watkins, who devoted three years to team support, now steps onto the active roster in East Lansing.

Mid-America Coins Tradeshow

Buy, Sell, Trade collectible coins — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Lansing Center — Admission fee varies — Discover rare coins and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

The Dangling Participles Duo Performance

7-10 p.m. — Side Bar East Lansing — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxed evening with live music from The Dangling Participles Duo in an intimate setting.

Brotherkenzie Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Green Door — Buy tickets online — Experience the enchanting indie pop melodies of Brotherkenzie in an intimate Lansing venue.

Rock Lansing 2026 @ Jackson Field

Jul 31 – Aug 2 — Jackson Field — Check back for ticket pricing — Experience an electrifying weekend of rock music featuring Blacktop Mojo.

Detroit Lions Youth Football: Lansing Fundamentals Mini-Camp

8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — Hope Sports Complex — Registration fee applies — Enhance your child’s football skills with expert coaching and fun scrimmages.

Slow Joy Concert

7:30 p.m. — The Green Door — Ticket prices vary — Experience the I Love You So Much I Could Die Tour in a cozy Lansing venue.

Integrated Neuromuscular & Myofascial Release

Aug 7-9 — College of Osteopathic Medicine — 20.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ — Enhance your skills in pain management and osteopathic medicine.