Good morning, Lansing.

During Christmas break, Michigan parents must check if their child is mature enough to stay home alone while they work since state law sets no minimum age and experts advise a trial period (with clear safety rules).

During the final weekend before Christmas, downtown Lansing small businesses experienced a surge in customer visits as foot traffic increased 3-4 times with locals rushing to grab last-minute gifts — a sign of strong community support.

Many retailers including Walmart, Target, and Best Buy will operate on Christmas Eve with set hours starting early in the morning; some stores will close early so last-minute shoppers in Michigan should verify local schedules.

Consumers Energy is requesting a $240 million annual rate increase that may raise gas bills by nearly 10% before state regulators decide.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel will review the filing today to ensure costs benefit customers.

Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources collected over 16 million fish eggs this fall — including 6 million coho eggs from the Platte River Weir — to boost next year’s trout and salmon restocking in our lakes and support neighboring states.

The effort sets the stage for a stronger fishing season.

Travel blogs offer travel hacks for families traveling during the December holidays, including packing mini sound machines and hourly surprise bags (Local Passport Family included these tips) to keep kids comfortable on long car rides and flights.

The advice aims to ease travel stress for busy families.

During Saturday's game at Little Caesars Arena, longtime coaches Izzo and Kampe celebrated their enduring friendship by wearing matching sweaters amid spirited comments on the transfer portal.

Their conversation highlighted a decades-long rivalry and mutual respect that extends beyond the court + affirmed a player-first coaching style.

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.