Good morning, Lansing.

On Nov. 6th, BWL workers decorated the traffic circle on East Michigan Avenue and South Washington Square with the iconic Big Red Balls — they also placed lights on the state Christmas tree on Nov.

5th to kick off the holiday season. City leaders including Mayor Andy Schor were seen during the event.

Michigan schools face a crisis with chronic absenteeism as nearly 28% of students missed at least 18 school days last year, affecting learning and test scores.

Educators and experts blame factors like poverty, lack of transportation and family priorities while a retired superintendent calls for Lansing to step in as new state projects pilot a data system for better tracking—lawmakers have yet to pass major attendance reforms.

Michigan State University partly reversed the unisex bathroom setup in Campbell Hall after a formal complaint and survey showed many honors dorm residents felt uneasy following a $37.1 million renovation.

Trustees praised the change—saying it gives students more options as the university adjusts to shifting needs.

MSU approved spending over $340 million to build a new Engineering and Digital Innovation Center at the southwest corner of Red Cedar Road and West Shaw Lane near the College of Engineering and STEM facilities.

The center will offer digital learning spaces, research labs and a home for e-sports and is expected to be finished by summer 2028—alumni Mary and Michael Lamach donated $10 million for the project.

The Lansing Planning Commission delayed its vote on rezoning a downtown parking lot for an England-based firm’s energy-efficient data center project—community members raised concerns about the lack of public input and potential impacts, and the commission will vote on Dec.

2nd.

The Michigan Supreme Court heard oral arguments on November 6th in the AG's case against insulin maker Eli Lilly as part of an investigation into its pricing practices.

The court will decide if Eli Lilly wrongly used its legal exemption—disputing past rulings—and whether the pricing practices violated the law.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said partial SNAP benefits will be issued starting Saturday, with debit card payments arriving on November 8 for those who usually get benefits on the third, fifth, or seventh.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture—ordered by a court decision—will reduce payments to 50% for 1.4 million eligible residents because of a government shutdown.

Häagen-Dazs is recalling its Chocolate Dark Chocolate Mini Bars 6-count with batch code LLA519501 from Michigan Kroger stores because the label did not list wheat—posing an allergy risk for consumers who may need to return the product for a refund.

Mason’s volleyball team swept Okemos on Nov.

6 to win the Division 1 district title as junior hitter Delaney Cutter—previously a softball player—played a key role in the match. Coach Elisa Zwick said the Bulldogs will play in a regional tournament at their home gym on Tuesday, Nov. 11.

Local high school football teams in Greater Lansing will play rematches in district finals this weekend, and LSJ reporters plus a WVFN commentator have predicted winners—Midland Dow, DeWitt, Williamston, Portland, Pewamo-Westphalia, Ithaca, and Portland St. Patrick are favored to win their matchups.

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.

Healthy Drinks & Mixology Class

12:30-1:30 p.m. — Bradly's HG — Cost varies — Craft healthy mocktails and explore spirit pairings in a fun, hands-on environment.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Belting out your favorite tunes with friends at this local karaoke hotspot.

Fourth Saturday Game Day

2-11 p.m. — Evolution Games — Free gaming — Engage with fellow gamers at this community-focused game day filled with fun!

5th Annual Downtown DeWitt Turkey Trot

8 AM - 2 PM — 3 legged dog yoga + strength studio — Registration required — Kick off Thanksgiving with a family-friendly 5k fun run through Downtown DeWitt.

Friday Karaoke

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Engage in a vibrant evening of music and fun at a beloved local karaoke night with great food and drinks.

TUNE IN: December Music Showcase

7:30 PM - 1:30 AM — The Robin Theatre — Donations encouraged — An inclusive showcase for local performers and songwriters of all styles.

Friday Karaoke at The Avenue

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Experience a lively karaoke night while enjoying delicious food and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.