Good morning, Lansing.

Downtown East Lansing will host the Great Pumpkin Walk on Oct.

26 from 1-4 p.m., featuring a 26-foot-tall inflatable pumpkin on Ann Street Plaza and over 30 trick-or-treat stops at local businesses. The event will also offer free pumpkins, two decorating stations, and live entertainment—ensuring a festive start to Halloween.

St. Johns families who rely on SNAP benefits worry about not getting enough food as the government shutdown puts the program at risk.

Local food pantries are getting ready for more demand in November—neighbors fear shortages during the busy holiday season.

Bob and Alissa Sweet opened their expanded Sweet Custom Jewelry store in the historic former bank building in Old Town on Oct.

16, moving from a smaller Turner Street space to a shop four times larger that now features added workbenches and a new purse section — the renovation was supported by a $25,000 grant and celebrated with a ribbon-cutting that included a diamond dig for Capital Area Humane Society.

Marijuana dispensary owners in Lansing oppose a bipartisan proposal that would limit stores to one per 10,000 residents and add a 24% wholesale tax — they warn it may force closures and push customers to the illegal market.

State lawmakers say the changes aim to improve industry rules and fund neighborhood roads — discussions on the measure continue.

Mike Sherman—known as Big Sherm—said Lansing’s electronic music scene is in a golden era as veteran DJs perform alongside new talent at regular events like MELT Thursdays at UrbanBeat.

He added that the growing scene honors local roots and now attracts artists from nearby areas.

Michigan State University cut 99 faculty, staff, and managerial positions on Oct.

14 due to a 9% budget reduction—83 more positions were terminated because of federal funding cuts. The layoffs, which total 1.3% of employees, have led to larger class sizes and canceled student positions.

City Pulse’s 2024 Top of the Town contest voted five local spots for their beer lists, including BAD Brewing Co., Crunchy’s, EagleMonk Pub and Brewery, HopCat, and Lansing Brewing Co. These restaurants offer rotating draft beers + full menus that draw diners from Mason, East Lansing and Lansing.

Lansing area high school football teams have a projected playoff path that shows 21 teams entering the state playoffs as the regular season ends & top seeds like DeWitt, Portland, Williamston, and Pewamo-Westphalia are highlighted.

The projections outline seeding details for 10 divisions, with Division 4 featuring the most local teams.

Lansing Christian junior Stephen Gollapalli won the Division 4 state tennis finals on Oct.

21 at the Midland Tennis Center by beating top-seeded Noah West in three sets—he was the No. 3 seed and secured the state title after winning his earlier matches in straight sets. Okemos senior Kai Minamisono ended his high school tennis career as Division 1 runner-up after a three-set semifinal win and a final loss.

MSU forward Isa Alexander returned to basketball after two seasons sidelined by foot and ACL injuries — she said support from coaches, teammates and her family helped her rediscover her passion.

Coach Robyn Fralick said her size and defense will add needed versatility as the Spartans build on last season's 22 wins.

MSU will host U of M at Spartan Stadium on Saturday night as both teams prepare for the annual clash for the Paul Bunyan Trophy.

BetMGM favors the Wolverines by two touchdowns—parking opens at 11:00 a.m. and events including tailgate and fanFest lead up to the 7:45 p.m. kickoff.

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.