Good morning, Lansing.

MSU alum Brittany Slater released her debut novel that tells the story of her journey through single parenthood, homelessness, and dead-end jobs after graduating.

The book uses her personal struggles as a guide to finding strength and resilience — blending hardship and hope — so that readers, including her nine-year-old son, can see how challenges can be overcome.

Wildlife advocates from Wildside Rehabilitation and Education Center worked with Lansing police earlier this week to try to rescue a snowy owl with an injured leg and left eye near downtown Lansing (the bird was seen near Interstate 496 between the US 127 interchange and Clemens Avenue and is believed to be eating despite its injuries).

State Senate Majority Floor Leader Sam Singh said he is disappointed by a budget standoff with Governor Whitmer and urged House Speaker Matt Hall to set targets so lawmakers can meet soon.

Lawmakers must reach an agreement quickly - a government shutdown will occur on October 1 if no budget is approved.

Lue Yang, a Hmong immigrant from St. Johns who came as an infant and was convicted of a home invasion in his youth, was detained by ICE on July 15 at his workplace and now faces the risk of deportation to Laos.

His family and advocates say he built a stable life here and warn that returning could endanger him + exposing limits of Michigan’s Clean Slate law.

Starting Aug11, road work will begin on the M-99 ramp to westbound I-96 — it will be closed for resurfacing until Sept26 as drivers follow a detour via eastbound I-96.

South Meridian Road at M-43 will close from Aug11 to Sept14 — crews will rebuild the intersection as part of the bridge replacement project over the Red Cedar River.

Ingham County 911 dispatchers ratified a three-year contract with pay raises and a signing bonus but still face high overtime and turnover—county officials will vote on the deal on Aug.

26 and may approve a six-month temporary staffing contract to ease the shortage.

On Tuesday, the Department of Justice released a list of twenty places with policies that override federal immigration laws—East Lansing was the only Michigan city named.

The department said these sanctuary policies hinder law enforcement—East Lansing’s mayor declined to comment.

Locals in Lansing are flocking to Nip N Sip Drive-In, a cash-only spot with no website that lets customers order by pressing a button at the parking lot — serving meals like turkey subs, fries, and coneys quickly from their cars or nearby picnic tables.

The review praised the tasty food and prompt service while promising a return visit to try more items — reinforcing the drive-in’s unique, no-frills style.

Michigan State hockey filled two roster gaps for the upcoming season by signing forward Cole Burke from Trenton and defenseman Sean Barnhill after an NHL departure and an injury.

The team also secured commitments from three future prospects—Gavin Burcar, Tyler Martyniuk, and Brooks Rogowski—to join in later seasons.

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.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Enjoy a lively karaoke night with friends at a local favorite spot in Lansing.

Play Board Games at The Gaming Cantina

1-10 p.m. — The Gaming Cantina — Free gaming — Engage with fellow gamers in a welcoming environment with food and drinks nearby.