Good morning, Lansing.

South Asian American communities across Michigan are celebrating Diwali—the five-day festival of lights that marks the victory of good over evil—with prayers, lamps and shared meals.

In Lansing, officials are hosting a Diwali event at the State Capitol Heritage Hall today from 9:30 a.m. to noon as part of the statewide celebrations.

On Sunday, Michigan gas prices fell to their lowest in years, averaging $2.79 a gallon for regular unleaded—drivers in Lansing paid around $2.72 a gallon—and analysts attributed the drop to falling oil prices and increased OPEC+ output, with prices expected to decline further.

Food Rescue U.S. from Lansing rescues perishable food from retailers and restaurants to help counties reduce food waste and lower landfill methane emissions.

The group plans to partner with counties—boosting donations to local food banks while meeting state goals on solid waste reduction.

Michigan is hosting its first Microplastics Awareness Week to help residents protect local waters—state Environment director Phil Roos said.

A virtual Great Lakes Microplastics Summit is set for October 22nd and experts estimate that 10,000 metric tons of plastic enter the Great Lakes annually.

The new state budget includes language that pushes for state employees to work in person with an 80% office occupancy target— the Lansing Regional Chamber has asked state officials for a clear timeline.

Local business owners are divided on the change as they plan ahead.

At Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Lego play sets help children feel less anxious during MRI scans—part of a national program by the Starlight Foundation and Lego—that has reduced sedation use by about 50%.

More than 50 Michigan hospitals are now using the playful approach to prepare young patients for the procedure.

The LSJ boys high school athlete of week candidates come from Eastern, Portland, Lansing Catholic and Williamston—voting is open until noon Wednesday, Oct.

22—to choose who will be featured in the LSJ. This poll highlights key performances from football, cross country and soccer across the district.

Michigan State football will face Minnesota at 3:30 p.m. on Nov.

1 in Minneapolis; the game will be televised on the Big Ten Network.

In Greater Lansing high school football Week 8, Kenyatta Gee led Eastern to a 50-44 win with 29 carries for 326 yards and five rushing touchdowns — breaking a six-game losing streak.

The Portland Raiders won 49-7 over Charlotte and secured a fourth straight CAAC White title with 27 consecutive league wins.

Sara Tolfree, a junior on Lansing Catholic’s volleyball team, reached 1,000 career digs as a sophomore and helped her travel club win the 16U Elite national championship in Orlando, Fla — a milestone that coaches praise for showing her hard work and promise.

She plans to build her skills further as she continues to play and lead her team in future competitions.

Coach Jonathan Smith in East Lansing said his first experience with the intense rivalry against Michigan last year has given him fuel to help his team compete and change the tide in their game Saturday at 7:30 p.m. on NBC—despite a four-game Big Ten losing streak.

Okemos Learning Center Sensory-Friendly Trunk-or-Treat

3-6 p.m. — Okemos Professional Building — Free entry — Celebrate Halloween with crafts, games, and candy in a sensory-friendly environment.

Fourth Saturday Game Day

2-11 p.m. — Evolution Games — Free gaming — Connect with fellow gamers and enjoy free gaming at the local family game store.

Lansing Career Fair

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Connect with top employers in various fields at this comprehensive career fair.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — A lively karaoke experience with music, socializing, and delicious offerings from Ruckus Ramen.

Board Game Night at The Gaming Cantina

1-10 p.m. — The Gaming Cantina Game Room — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of free gaming and networking with fellow board game enthusiasts.

Wuzee Concert

7-9 p.m. — Grewal Hall at 224 — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy popular tracks from Wuzee and discover new music while immersing in the hip-hop scene.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Enjoy a lively night of karaoke fun at a local favorite hangout while indulging in tasty ramen.

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Michigan State Spartans Basketball

2-8:30 p.m. — Breslin Center — Tickets available online — Experience the thrilling college basketball rivalry as the Razorbacks take on the Spartans.

Laboratory Practices Seminar: Water Quality Testing

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Eagle Eye Golf Club — $195 for members, $300 for non-members — Enhance your laboratory skills at this essential seminar for water quality professionals.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Experience a vibrant atmosphere with karaoke fun and delicious food from Ruckus Ramen.