Good morning, Lansing.

A AAA study reveals that almost all drivers in Michigan have experienced road rage, showing behaviors such as honking and tailgating.

The research reports that Michigan recorded 7.7% of fatal crashes from aggressive driving—an improvement of seven spots since last year.

Eaton County educator Erik Smith from Eaton Rapids High School was honored with a Michigan Lottery Excellence in Education award and received a $2,000 prize; he will later be considered for a $10,000 Educator of the Year award — his father's legacy inspired his commitment to student success.

EGLE denied IPF’s permit request for a river restoration project along the erosion-prone Red Cedar River—experts worry that the decision may risk MSU’s sidewalks and river trail safety.

The U.S. Department of Justice said Governor Whitmer does not have power to cancel Enbridge Energy’s permit for the Line 5 pipeline on the Straits of Mackinac—where Enbridge reached an agreement with former Governor Snyder to build a tunnel under the straits.

State budget talks in Lansing continue as officials work to avoid a government shutdown beginning October 1.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer remains confident a deal will be reached — though essential services may be affected — as unions and school districts warn of policy impacts if no agreement is secured.

Mayoral candidate Kelsea Hector is challenging two-term Mayor Andy Schor and said she will use Housing Trust Fund money and a Tenants Bill of Rights to keep housing safe as absentee ballots are sent out this week for the November 4 election.

She criticized the recent clearing of a homeless camp near Dietrich Park — calling for an immediate review — and said her years in education and nonprofit work will help her lead Lansing with practical solutions.

The Lansing City Clerk office will mail the first batch of absentee ballots Friday with a secrecy sleeve, return envelope, and instructions — residents can request their ballot until October 31 at 4 p.m.

Election officials in Michigan face challenges recruiting poll workers as pay ranges jump over $100 in a short drive—poll workers in some areas earn $300 a day while others start at $170.

Local departments offer extra perks like free meals and same-day pay to keep experienced workers from moving to nearby cities.

A state credit — the Home Heating Credit — helps low-income families pay for heating bills this winter, and eligible residents must apply by September 30 either by mail or online with support from Central Michigan 2-1-1.

Lansing launched its Pathways to Wellness campaign to raise awareness about opioid misuse and help people in recovery using $120,000 from a national settlement.

The campaign works with local groups like Wellness InX—50 opioid-related deaths in Ingham County in 2024 show the deep need for support.

Costco recalled Kirkland Signature Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke in Michigan after tests found Listeria in green onions—more than 3,000 pounds of the product with a sell-by date of 9/22 are affected—and customers are advised to return or discard the item.

Michigan State University has joined a Big Ten blood drive to help fight a critical blood shortage and win $1 million, and it is hosting a donation drive today at the Breslin Center from 10:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m. where each donation can save up to three lives.

As autumn settles in, local trails like the Lansing River Trail and Sleepy Hollow State Park burst with red, orange, and gold leaves — drawing visitors for scenic hikes.

Nick Nerbonne from Pure Michigan said the fall color map will help local hikers plan trips to see peak colors.

Stroller Walk at Frances Park

10-11 a.m. — Frances Park — Free — Enjoy a lively stroller walk with bikes and scooters welcome in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Dam Jam Music Festival

5:01-11 p.m. — Brenke Fish Ladder — Free entry — Celebrate local music with a vibrant lineup and food options along Lansing's riverfront.

Sportscards & Memorabilia Show

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Lansing Mall — Free admission — Explore sports memorabilia and cards with free parking.

Run 2 Recovery

2-5 p.m. — Lansing Center — Registration fee applies — A family-friendly 5K walk/run supporting addiction recovery and homelessness relief.

Rio Da Yung OG Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Grewal Hall at 224 — Tickets from $67 — Experience an evening of live music with Rio Da Yung OG in Lansing.

Board Game Night at The Gaming Cantina

1-10 p.m. — The Gaming Cantina — Free gaming — Enjoy an evening of in-person board gaming and networking with fellow gamers.

Avatar the Last Airbender in Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Ticketed event — Experience the music of Avatar in a captivating concert performance.

Extremity Adjusting Workshop

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Comfort Inn Lansing West — $0 for members, $289 for non-members — Enhance your skills in extremity adjustments for effective patient care.

Talib Kweli Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Grewal Hall — Tickets available — Experience the thought-provoking hip hop of Talib Kweli live in Lansing.

Friday Karaoke

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Enjoy a night of singing, socializing, and delicious ramen at a beloved local venue.