Good morning, Lansing.

Barry County teacher Nicole Shipley was honored by the Michigan Lottery when she received an Excellence in Education award—she earned a $2,000 prize and was entered in the Educator of the Year contest.

She was nominated by a former student and has taught special education at Page Elementary for 13 years.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said low-income families will receive their delayed Young Child Supplement by December 8 after a federal shutdown stalled funding, and the state is using its own money until federal dollars come+ eligible families receive about $1,380 for each child under 6 and $440 for children ages 6 to 13.

The Bissel Pet Foundation is hosting a reduced-fee pet adoption event from Dec.

1 to Dec. 15 at over 40 Michigan shelters including the Ingham County Animal Shelter in Mason, where adoptive families pay $50+75 for fully vaccinated, microchipped and spayed or neutered pets. Shelters in Ionia, Jackson and Livingston counties are also participating.

MSU punter Ryan Eckley declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on Tuesday afternoon via Instagram and forwent his final season at Michigan State—he becomes the second consecutive starting punter to take this NFL leap following former teammate Bryce Baringer.

MSU’s women’s soccer team had four players earn All-Region honors—senior Maggie Illig and juniors Kennedy Bell, Kayla Briggs and Emerson Sargeant—with six players receiving College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honors for their academic success.

Michigan State University announced a $1 billion plan called FOR SPARTA to upgrade athletic facilities such as Spartan Stadium and the Breslin Center, pending Board of Trustees approval, with nearly $250 million already raised to complete upgrades by 2032 — part of its Uncommon Will, Far Better World campaign.

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.

World Ballet Company - The Nutcracker

7-9 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical ballet adaptation of The Nutcracker with enchanting performances and a classic holiday tale.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue Cafe — Free entry — Enjoy a lively night of karaoke with friends and great food from Ruckus Ramen.

Board Game Social at Summit Comics & Games

2-9 p.m. — Summit Comics & Games — Free entry — Enjoy casual gaming sessions and meet fellow gamers in a friendly environment.

Board Game Day at Evolution Games

2-11 p.m. — Evolution Games — Free gaming — Enjoy a day of board gaming and connect with fellow gamers in a welcoming environment.

Threads and Bread Dinner

8 p.m. — 900 West Apartments and Townhomes — Free meal — Providing food and personal bags to support underprivileged community members.