Good morning, Lansing.

UM Health-Sparrow was named Corporate Partner of the Year by Habitat for Humanity Capital Region—its 2024 donation of properties was used to renovate nine homes that opened in August to meet local housing needs.

Yesterday, NOAA forecast that the northern lights might be visible in parts of Michigan, including West Branch, Cadillac and Manistee — local weather offices noted mostly clear skies with a slight chance of showers in some areas.

The forecast came after two nights of strong aurora displays and experts advised viewers to find dark, open skies for the best experience.

Lansing drivers will soon see changes as MDOT plans to reopen the southbound lanes on US-127 late the week of Nov.

17 due to a long roadwork project that altered traffic flows and caused accidents since March. The reopening will happen gradually with extra lane and ramp closures to remove temporary barriers.

Michigan ended its free birth control program that delivered over 460,000 contraceptives to community centers — the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing no longer received free emergency contraceptives for those without insurance.

State officials said the initiative helped raise awareness for Medicaid and Plan First and noted funding may resume in the future.

Lansing hospitals received unchanged safety grades in the Leapfrog Group’s report released Nov.

13, with University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Lansing and McLaren Greater Lansing both earning C marks, while Michigan’s percentage of A grades dropped from 29.6% in spring to 21.5%—lowering the state’s national ranking.

Michigan State football coach Jonathan Smith said the team must finish drives and games better as they prepare to face Penn State at 3:30 p.m. this Saturday at Spartan Stadium — both teams are 3‑6 and need three wins to earn a bowl game appearance.

Michigan State basketball beat San Jose State 79-60 at Breslin Center yesterday—the Spartans built an early lead and controlled the game in the paint.

They will play No. 8 Kentucky Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in New York in the Champions Classic.

No. 1 MSU hockey faces unranked Notre Dame today at 7 p.m. in its first Big Ten road test; a second game is scheduled for Nov 15 at 6 p.m. The Spartans are coming off a 2-0 start and a seven-game win streak—aiming to carry their momentum into the series.

Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch and Detroit Free Press writer Chris Solari are discussing the NCAA probation imposed on the Michigan State football team on this week's Spartan Speak podcast—reviewing the violations under Mel Tucker, comparing the penalties to those received by Michigan, and mentioning the Connor Stalions/CMU game.

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.

Breakfast with Santa 2025

9 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Lansing — $10+ — Experience a magical morning filled with breakfast, games, and a visit with Santa Claus.

60th Anniversary Reunion Celebration

2-5 p.m. — Lansing Center — $60.00 + fees — Celebrate six decades of memories with dinner, entertainment, and historical reflections.

The Wiz Musical Revival

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience the Tony Award-winning musical with a fresh twist on a classic tale.