Good morning, Lansing.

Holt Public Schools is accepting non-expired food and monetary donations at its administration building on 5780 W.

Holt Road and at school offices to support 300 families with holiday meals. Contact the school at (517) 699-7075.

The 2025 annual Festival of Trees fills the historic Turner-Dodge House in Old Town Lansing with holiday cheer.

The event is open now through December 31 from noon to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Sundays, with proceeds benefiting the mansion's restoration & preservation.

Potter Park Zoo has halted its planned $10 million upgrade for the nearly 95-year-old feline and primate building after losing state funding- zoo officials will now seek alternative financing to repair a failing roof, update HVAC, and meet ADA standards.

The funding cut leaves the project in limbo.

Naing Myanmar Family Restaurant reopened its dine-in area on Monday, Dec.

15 after a month and a half of remodeling. The family-owned eatery quickly drew large crowds for its first dine-in service since the pandemic.

Potter Park Zoo is hosting Zoo Nights with Lights, an adults-only event this week in Lansing where visitors 21 and older can stroll under festive lights and sip holiday drinks (ID required at entry).

U.S. News and World Report ranked four mid-Michigan elementary schools in the top 10 percent, including Okemos Montessori, Murphy Elementary in Haslett, David Scot School in DeWitt, and Whitehills in East Lansing.

The report reviewed over 2,600 schools by measuring test scores and support for all students.

Most Lansing schools begin winter break (Dec.

22 to Jan. 2) while a few follow different schedules with some students finishing on Dec. 18 due to teacher development days. Families should check individual school calendars for details.

Residents of the Fallen Angels encampment in Lansing must vacate by Dec.

22 following a settlement with JAJ Properties. The city will offer six weeks of temporary shelter and transportation to aid their relocation.

Michigan will boost its maximum unemployment benefits from $446 to $530 starting January 1, raising claims by $84 per week for claims filed after that date; the law signed in December 2024 also increases dependent payments to $19.33 each & keeps benefits duration at 26 weeks.

Judge Rosemarie Aquilina finalized an agreement between the City of Lansing and JAJ Property LLC so residents of the Dietrich Park encampment will move to the Causeway Bay Hotel for at least six weeks, with the city covering transportation and estimated costs of $25,000 to $40,000. Residents must vacate the camp by Tuesday, Dec. 23+ the court retains oversight for any issues.

With one week until Christmas, local pet experts urge neighbors to plan carefully before gifting a pet — advising that household agreement and financial readiness for food and vet visits are essential for a long-term commitment.

MSU hockey coach Adam Nightingale’s team has risen to national prominence with standout goalie Trey Augustine and freshman Porter Martone helping carry a 12-4 record as the Spartans build holiday momentum.

The team will resume Big Ten play on Dec. 28 at the Great Lakes Invitational.

Michigan State basketball is off to its best start in eight years, having won 10 of 11 games.

The ninth-ranked Spartans face Oakland on Dec. 20 at Little Caesars Arena and will take Christmas off before hosting Cornell on Dec. 29 — key games ahead.

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.

November BOTM: One Dark Window

7-9 p.m. — Foster Community Center — Light snacks and beverages provided — Engage in a mystical discussion about Elspeth's journey in the eerie kingdom of Blunder.

Verdi, Miller, and Brahms Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic compositions by Verdi and Brahms alongside contemporary work by Miller.

Comedy and Music Night with Johnny Hamcheck

7-8:30 p.m. — Macs Bar — $10 — Experience a unique blend of stand-up comedy and music from the quirky social media sensation Johnny Hamcheck.