Good morning, Lansing.

MSU staff, a Spartan parent, and an educational psychologist have released a guide to help parents support their students during the transition to college life — they recommend setting clear communication expectations like asking for a proof of life message to help students feel independent. The advice helps families learn to balance staying involved with giving their students room to grow.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer said Monday she is optimistic Michigan will avoid a government shutdown despite the legislature missing a self-imposed July 1 budget deadline — meetings in Lansing continue to address funding concerns for schools and road repairs before the state’s fiscal year ends in September.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will open over 4,000 miles of trails for Free Off-Road Vehicle Weekend from Aug.

16th to 17th — both residents and visitors may ride with their own vehicles without needing a license or permit — while current ORV rules remain in effect.

Lansing officials and state leaders met Monday at City Hall to urge continued federal support for FEMA as storm damage cost over $450,000 and caused widespread food loss.

Mayor Andy Schor said that if federal cuts occur, local lawmakers will plan new emergency steps — a move meant to ease taxpayer burdens.

Michigan officials warn that Target’s sugar cookies may have wood fragments after Give and Go Prepared Foods Corp issued a voluntary recall on July 22—803 cases of the Favorite Day Bakery Frosted Sugar Cookies were distributed in Michigan and 20 other states for potential contamination. The recall remains in effect as customers are urged to check their purchases and follow FDA guidelines for spoiled food.

Michigan officials reported 149 cases of the deadly fungus Candida auris—first detected in May 2021—that is still spreading in the state and remains a serious health threat, prompting state experts to closely monitor its impact.

Megha Ganne defeated former MSU star Brooke Biermann 4 and 3 in the U.S. Women's Amateur final on Sunday at Bandon Dunes (a noted golf course on the Oregon coast).

She built her lead with birdies (including on the closing par-3) to secure her first USGA title.

High school football practices began Monday, August 11 in Greater Lansing as teams prepared for league title play - voters can choose winners for the CAAC Blue, Red, White and CMAC leagues through Friday, August 15.

DeWitt, Mason, Portland and Fowler are the current champions.

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.