Good morning, Lansing.

A new report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition shows Michiganders need to earn $24.46 an hour for a two-bedroom rental and $19.66 an hour for a one-bedroom unit while the average renter makes $18.89 and the minimum wage is $12.48.

Nearly half of renters pay more than 30% of their income on housing and utilities.

A recent report warns that hikers may encounter seven poisonous plants on Michigan trails and in gardens.

The report explains that poison ivy—Michigan’s most common poison weed—can cause severe rashes and serves as a reminder to stay alert when outdoors.

Michigan's high court ruled Thursday that police must specify exactly what data they want to search for on a cell phone — the case now returns to the appeals court for further review.

A program called Rx Kids gives new mothers cash in Flint to help pay for baby needs and is seen as a potential model for other areas.

It provides up to $7,500 with no income limits+ it has expanded to Pontiac, Kalamazoo, the Upper Peninsula and plans to add more sites as lawmakers consider further growth.

Mayor Andy Schor worked with state officials, local representatives and legal teams to develop temporary solutions for moving residents from a homeless encampment on private property into available shelters—recent complaints and repeated emergency calls for safety led to a lawsuit against the businesses that allowed the camp to grow. City spokesperson Scott Bean said the plan follows a study on homelessness and efforts to improve conditions while long-term housing options are explored.

Michigan law states that the left lane must only be used to pass slower vehicles on roads with two or more lanes — driving slowly in that lane may lead to a citation and trucks must stay in the right lanes unless turning left — any road with three or more lanes permits left lane travel if drivers do not impede the flow of traffic.

Social Security and SSI payments in August follow the normal schedule with SSI and benefits for those who started before May 1997 arriving today and retirement benefits for others set for Aug.

13, Aug. 20, and Aug. 27. Some recipients may see smaller checks if overpayments are recouped later — the agency has not yet begun withholding 50% of benefits — which may result in lower payment amounts.

On July 31, the Lansing City Council unanimously passed an ordinance requiring landlords to either obtain a tenant relocation insurance policy or reimburse the city up to $2,550 when a property is declared unsafe.

The measure, designed to protect tenants and avoid litigation following incidents such as the Holmes Apartments red-tagging in 2023—when tenants needed temporary housing, takes effect immediately.

Canadian wildfire smoke triggered an air quality advisory across Michigan on July 31 as cities like Lansing and Marquette reported unhealthy readings — officials advised residents, especially sensitive groups, to limit outdoor activities.

Conditions remain a health concern while winds continue to carry smoke from Canada — monitoring efforts are underway.

Jesse McCulloch rejoined MSU basketball workouts on July 29 after a six-week rehab for a stress fracture in his right foot, and team officials expect his improved post scoring + defense to boost the team as the season starts in November.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Sing your heart out at this lively local favorite with friends and great food from Ruckus Ramen.

Board Game Meetup at Summit Comics & Games

2-9 p.m. — Summit Comics & Games — Free entry — Enjoy free gaming and connect with fellow board game enthusiasts in Lansing's local game store.

Capital Region Owner2Owner Networking Event

4-6 p.m. — Pickleball Barn — Free entry — Connect with local small business owners while enjoying pickleball and community updates.

Friday Karaoke

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Enjoy a fun night of karaoke with friends at this lively local favorite.

Fourth Saturday Game Day

2-11 p.m. — Evolution Games — Free gaming — Enjoy an evening of board games in a friendly environment with fellow gamers.

Western Michigan Broncos vs. Michigan State Spartans Football

7-8:30 p.m. — Spartan Stadium — Tickets from $52 — Experience college football action as the Broncos take on the Spartans in East Lansing.

2025 Michigan Chicken Wing Festival

2 PM – 9 PM — Adado Riverfront Park — Admission details not specified — Indulge in various chicken wing flavors and enjoy live music and family activities.

5th Annual Meridian Motorfest

8 AM – 5 PM — High Caliber Karting and Entertainment — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled day of sensory-friendly go-kart racing and arcade excitement for all ages.