Author: Sarah Spohn

Sarah Spohn is an Arts & Cultures reporter for ELi, reporting on happenings around town. Click here to read more about our staff.
Documentary Looks at Heroism of a US Muslim on 9/11

Documentary Looks at Heroism of a US Muslim on 9/11

The film, which tells the story of Salman Hamdani, will be screened at the WKAR Studios on Thursday. Two of the documentary’s creators are East Lansing natives.

Two Small Businesses are Thriving and Surviving

Two Small Businesses are Thriving and Surviving

Despite the challenges of East Lansing during the pandemic and post-pandemic. Risky Studios and Campbell’s Market Basket are growing endeavors.

Blue Owl Pops Back to its Roots as it Gears Up for Move

Blue Owl Pops Back to its Roots as it Gears Up for Move

The downtown EL coffee shop will move to a new Trowbridge Road location after its lease expires in November.

Jaslene – Spunky and Full of Life – Inspires Fundraising Campaign for Accessible Bathroom

Jaslene – Spunky and Full of Life – Inspires Fundraising Campaign for Accessible Bathroom

Retired teacher helps launch GoFundMe for her former student. Girl’s family encourages advocacy and awareness for those with disabilities.

It’s ‘Business as Usual’ For Annual East Lansing Art Festival

It’s ‘Business as Usual’ For Annual East Lansing Art Festival

In its 60th year, the festival will again fill Albert Avenue with a wide variety of art, music, food and activities.

Beggars Banquet: 50 Years as an East Lansing Staple

Beggars Banquet: 50 Years as an East Lansing Staple

Established in 1973, the restaurant is known as a place to build memories and enjoy good food and a unique atmosphere.

Time For Some Fresh Air Albert EL Fresco Style

Time For Some Fresh Air Albert EL Fresco Style

For the fourth year, a portion of Albert Avenue will be set up as an outdoor social space for young and old.

Two Men and a Truck Helps Local Organizations in Honor of Mother’s Day

Two Men and a Truck Helps Local Organizations in Honor of Mother’s Day

The annual drive, Movers for Moms, is dedicated to collecting necessities for mothers in need.

Photographers Bring Enthusiasm and Passion to Studio 34

Photographers Bring Enthusiasm and Passion to Studio 34

New downtown EL business will allow creative duo to share their artistic skills.

ELPL’s Maker Studio and STEAM Programming Let Community Tinker With, Try Out Technologies

ELPL’s Maker Studio and STEAM Programming Let Community Tinker With, Try Out Technologies

Not everyone has a 3D printer, a laser cutter, vinyl cutter or even a sewing machine in their home. But the East Lansing Public Library (ELPL) has made all of these devices available to the community. As part of the library’s Maker Studio, community members are welcome to tinker with technologies and gadgets they might otherwise not have the…

The GOAT on Grand River Will Be a Culinary Experience

The GOAT on Grand River Will Be a Culinary Experience

Owners hope the speakeasy-themed restaurant becomes a dining destination.

‘Conscious Conversations’ Series Invites Open Minds to Discuss Big Life Topics

‘Conscious Conversations’ Series Invites Open Minds to Discuss Big Life Topics

Young adults (including college students) are invited to join this monthly event at East Lansing’s Public Library.

Today in East Lansing: Vigils, Support Systems, Closures

Today in East Lansing: Vigils, Support Systems, Closures

ELi brings you this rundown of what is happening today, to keep you informed about delays and closures along with opportunities for public grieving and private support.

Community Urged to Reach Out for Support During This Time of Tragedy
|

Community Urged to Reach Out for Support During This Time of Tragedy

Greater Lansing is coming together to help students, staff and residents navigate the unfathomable.

“Song of Welcome” Event to Feature Stories from Refugees

“Song of Welcome” Event to Feature Stories from Refugees

On Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m., residents are invited to hear and see firsthand accounts, poems, songs and artwork from refugees who now call the Greater Lansing-area home. The free program at Haslett Community Church is for all-ages and open to the public.

Grammy-Winning Duo Bring Holiday Show to Pump House Concerts
|

Grammy-Winning Duo Bring Holiday Show to Pump House Concerts

Nashville, Tennessee’s The DonJuans will perform a holiday-themed show in the intimate East Lansing venue.

Winter Fest Will Be Wonderland of Family Fun
|

Winter Fest Will Be Wonderland of Family Fun

The annual event formerly known as Winter Glow will be held outdoors and indoors at the Hannah Community Center.

Artist Brings Vibrant Background to EL Public Library Mural
|

Artist Brings Vibrant Background to EL Public Library Mural

Bright, bold colors of the mural on the west-facing wall of the library honors the colorful history and ongoing work for civil rights.

EL Women in the Arts Festival Returns for 37th Year
|

EL Women in the Arts Festival Returns for 37th Year

The annual festival at Edgewood United Church will be back in full force Nov. 11-12 after two years being scaled back because of pandemic precautions.

East Lansing Film Festival Celebrates 25 Years
|

East Lansing Film Festival Celebrates 25 Years

Organizers are excited for the high quality films to be shown during the Nov. 3-10, 2022, festival.

Will ‘The Poet’ Langford Brings One-Night-Only-Performance of Original Poems to EL
|

Will ‘The Poet’ Langford Brings One-Night-Only-Performance of Original Poems to EL

MSU doctoral student and Detroit native hopes his poetry inspires others to create something beautiful.

Peanut Barrel Gets New Owner, but He’s a Familiar Face to EL Restaurant Scene
|

Peanut Barrel Gets New Owner, but He’s a Familiar Face to EL Restaurant Scene

Mike Krueger was nervous going into ownership of the Peanut Barrel while also owning Crunchy’s, but is excited to lead the diverse businesses.

More Than Vintage Hosts First Vintage Festival
|

More Than Vintage Hosts First Vintage Festival

Vintage vendors, live music, food trucks and more will be featured at this Saturday’s downtown East Lansing mini street festival.

East Lansing Art Festival Poster Showcases Symbolic Beaver as Unsung Ecosystem Hero
| |

East Lansing Art Festival Poster Showcases Symbolic Beaver as Unsung Ecosystem Hero

The upcoming East Lansing Art Festival features local artwork and artists. Sarah Spohn spoke with artist Sara Pulver to learn more about her work for the festival.

East Lansing Reveals Mental Health Murals Years in the Making
|

East Lansing Reveals Mental Health Murals Years in the Making

New artwork in downtown East Lansing aims to prioritize mental health awareness. Sarah Spohn reports.

Blue Owl Mic Drop Features Big Talent, Including Hamilton Cast Member

Blue Owl Mic Drop Features Big Talent, Including Hamilton Cast Member

Meecah, a singer, dancer, and actress who is currently part of the Hamilton cast, will perform at Blue Owl on Monday, April 4. Sarah Spohn reports on that and Blue Owl’s Mic Drop series.

Graduate Rock Bar Serves Cocktails and the Community
|

Graduate Rock Bar Serves Cocktails and the Community

The Graduate Rock Bar opened up last July, and to some, the rooftop bar is a hidden gem. Sarah Spohn reports on the location and an exciting upcoming event.

New Weekly Comedy Open Mic Night Launches at Beggar’s Banquet

New Weekly Comedy Open Mic Night Launches at Beggar’s Banquet

Looking for something to do this evening or any Thursday? Check out the new comedy series “Beggars Can’t Be Choosers” at Beggar’s Banquet from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Broad Art Lab Closes Its Doors

Broad Art Lab Closes Its Doors

The MSU Broad Art Lab’s collaborative space that once welcomed makers, innovators, and lifelong learners, has shut its doors. Sarah Spohn reports. 

Spark in the Dark Group Encourages People to Help Others

Spark in the Dark Group Encourages People to Help Others

Nonprofit Spark in the Dark is a network that connects people in need to neighbors that can help. Sarah Spohn spoke to Executive Director and Founder Abagail McKiernan to learn more.

Slew of New Exhibits Coming to MSU This Spring
|

Slew of New Exhibits Coming to MSU This Spring

A whole host of upcoming local exhibits are coming to East Lansing this spring. Sarah Spohn gives you the info on what’s out there!

Multimedia Production Studio Hopes to Be a Starting Point for Community Creativity
|

Multimedia Production Studio Hopes to Be a Starting Point for Community Creativity

Alicia and Joshua Southern, owners of Risky Studios, share what motivated them to open a creative, co-working, multimedia production studio, featuring 775-square-feet of equipment rentals for all types of dreamers, doers, and thinkers.

‘The Magical Toyshop’ comes to Hannah Community Center

‘The Magical Toyshop’ comes to Hannah Community Center

The Magical Toyshop has a performance on Friday, March 4 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 5 at 2 p.m. at Hannah Community Center. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the door 30 minutes prior to showtime. ELi’s Sarah Spohn spoke with the director to learn more.

First-of-its-kind Autism Museum Opens in Okemos
|

First-of-its-kind Autism Museum Opens in Okemos

The Xavier DeGroat Autism Foundation unveiled the Meridian Mall Autism Museum this month, making it the first museum of its kind. Sarah Spohn reports.

Local East Lansing Band Releases Full-Length Album
|

Local East Lansing Band Releases Full-Length Album

A local alternative rock band made up of ELHS students recently released a full-length album. Sarah Spohn reports.

Lansing Art Gallery Reopens with Strong Commitment to Art Accessibility
|

Lansing Art Gallery Reopens with Strong Commitment to Art Accessibility

The Lansing Art Gallery is poised to be even more accessible with the Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center space at Knapp’s Centre at 300 S. Washington Sq. in downtown Lansing. Sarah Spohn reports on its East Lansing connection.

Sparrow Hospital Workers Get Heartfelt Surprise From Local Elementary Students

Sparrow Hospital Workers Get Heartfelt Surprise From Local Elementary Students

First-graders from Robert L. Green Elementary expressed their thanks for Sparrow’s healthcare workers through handwritten cards. Sarah Spohn reports.

‘Kahlo without Borders’ Exhibit Provides Intimate Look Into Frida Kahlo’s Life, Health Issues
|

‘Kahlo without Borders’ Exhibit Provides Intimate Look Into Frida Kahlo’s Life, Health Issues

Including never-before-seen artifacts, a new Frida Kahlo exhibit at the Broad Museum in East Lansing provides an extraordinary compilation of items connected to artist Frida Kahlo. Sarah Spohn reports for ELi.

Two MSU Professors to Open Bookstore, Wine Bar, Coffee Shop Combo

Two MSU Professors to Open Bookstore, Wine Bar, Coffee Shop Combo

Do you need to purchase a last minute holiday gift? Make sure to check out the online offerings from Hooked, a new bookstore and cafe coming to our area. Sarah Spohn reports on the new addition.

Green Friday and Winter Glow Coming to Downtown EL This Weekend

Green Friday and Winter Glow Coming to Downtown EL This Weekend

Kick off the arrival of the holiday season and wintry weather with Green Friday and Winter Glow. Sarah Spohn brings the details on the two events this weekend.

Your Neighbors Are Counting on You to Support Small Businesses This Holiday Season

Your Neighbors Are Counting on You to Support Small Businesses This Holiday Season

Do you want to make sure your gifts arrive on time? Do you like having a vibrant downtown? Do you want to support your neighbors? ELi’s Sarah Spohn has some advice this Black Friday: Spend locally!

Women in the Arts Festival Celebrates Local Artists and Makers

Women in the Arts Festival Celebrates Local Artists and Makers

Saturday, Nov. 13, marks the 36th annual Women in the Arts Festival, held at Edgewood United Church. Stop in to hear some great music and purchase unique paintings, jewelry, pottery, books, and more!

Broad Art Lab Artist Residency Showcases Creative Upcycling
| |

Broad Art Lab Artist Residency Showcases Creative Upcycling

The MSU Broad Art Lab is a collaborative space that welcomes and features makers, innovators, and lifelong learners. Don’t miss out on their upcycling events or seeing the work of Detroit-based artist Megan Heeres.

Aloha Cookin’ Brings Hawaiian and Korean Dishes to East Lansing

Aloha Cookin’ Brings Hawaiian and Korean Dishes to East Lansing

Aloha Cookin’ expands downtown East Lansing’s dining options for a fresh, local meal. Honolulu native Chris Hong spoke to ELi’s Sarah Spohn about how he brought the new Hawaiian restaurant to the area.

Halloween Events Around Town You Don’t Want to Miss!

Halloween Events Around Town You Don’t Want to Miss!

Sarah Spohn provides a list of events for people of all ages. Some events are taking place today, so you don’t want to put off checking this out!

MSU Museum Exhibits Examine Technology’s Tracking, Tracing of People

MSU Museum Exhibits Examine Technology’s Tracking, Tracing of People

From now until Dec. 11, the MSU Science Gallery presents Tracked & Traced at the Michigan State University Museum. The 15 exhibits collectively examine user data, personal information, surveillance, and ethics in today’s technological world. Sarah Spohn reports.

First Fashion Fiber Festival Comes to EL This Saturday

First Fashion Fiber Festival Comes to EL This Saturday

Calling all crafters, sewists, and fashionistas! This event is for you. What vendors will be there? What else can you expect to see and do? ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports.

Sweet Potato Delights’ Mission to Promote Healthy Living Comes to EL

Sweet Potato Delights’ Mission to Promote Healthy Living Comes to EL

Are you heading to the East Lansing Farmers’ Market today? Sarah Spohn provides the scoop on Sweet Potato Delights and its owner and founder, Velonda Anderson.

New Certified Organic Juice Bar Opens Downtown

New Certified Organic Juice Bar Opens Downtown

After visiting a Clean Juice location elsewhere, Mary Hargrove immediately knew she wanted to open one of her own. What does the new place have to offer?

MSU Broad Exhibits & Events Highlight Incarceration
|

MSU Broad Exhibits & Events Highlight Incarceration

The latest fall 2021 exhibitions at the Broad focus on the issue of mass incarceration in the U.S. Sarah Spohn reports on what the exhibits include, associated events, and the meaning behind the installations.

Students Finish Installment of Groovy Opportunity Mural Under Hamster Cage Garage
| |

Students Finish Installment of Groovy Opportunity Mural Under Hamster Cage Garage

Have you noticed the large mural on the Division Street Garage while walking or driving down Albert Ave.? ELi’s Sarah Spohn provides the backstory and inspirations for this artwork.

New Store Offers Gifts at the Intersection of Science, Art, and Curiosity

New Store Offers Gifts at the Intersection of Science, Art, and Curiosity

Quark! – a store that opened at 549 E. Grand River Ave., on Aug. 4, sells gifts “at the intersection of science, art and everyday.”

EL Roller Derby Hosts Basic Skills Boot Camp and Learn-to-Skate Sessions
|

EL Roller Derby Hosts Basic Skills Boot Camp and Learn-to-Skate Sessions

Are you interested in roller derby or maybe just learning to skate? East Lansing Roller Derby is holding a virtual orientation tomorrow night for its upcoming boot camp and learn-to-skate sessions!

Local Artist Opens Doors to More Bright, Bold, Colorful Community

Local Artist Opens Doors to More Bright, Bold, Colorful Community

If you see brightly colored front doors and botanical murals while driving through East Lansing, it just might be the handy work of fellow East Lansing resident and artist Adrienne Gelardi. Sarah Spohn reports on the artist and her work.

East Lansing Art Festival Returns With Features Aimed at Easing Concerns

East Lansing Art Festival Returns With Features Aimed at Easing Concerns

ELi’s Sarah Spohn gives you the scoop on the return of the East Lansing Art Festival and other fun activities happening around town!

As Summer Events Return to EL, Here Is an Overview
| |

As Summer Events Return to EL, Here Is an Overview

Looking for outdoor concerts and movies? Want to know what else is going on at the newly renovated Patriarche Park? Sarah Spohn describes all that and more.

Poké Fresh Offers Fresh, Healthy Hawaiian and Japanese Options

Poké Fresh Offers Fresh, Healthy Hawaiian and Japanese Options

Poké Fresh is a new family-owned, fast-casual restaurant in downtown East Lansing. What did co-owner Kylie Bachuwa tell ELi’s Sarah Spohn about the restaurant?

Spend Locally: Constellation Cat Cafe
|

Spend Locally: Constellation Cat Cafe

Constellation Cat Cafe is celebrating its 700th adoption! We share the news and a look back at Sarah Spohn’s 2020 piece on the cafe.

Library on the Go Coming to a Park Near You

Library on the Go Coming to a Park Near You

Equipped with books, movies, and technology, the Library on the Go van is set to visit different parks, retirement centers, schools, farmers’ markets, and more this summer. Sarah Spohn reports.

Local Girl Scout Troop Celebrating Community and Artwork

Local Girl Scout Troop Celebrating Community and Artwork

During the pandemic, East Lansing Girl Scout Brownie Troop 30215 adapted to Zoom meetings and outdoor hikes. Now, their artwork made during the pandemic is on display at the East Lansing Public Library. Sarah Spohn reports.

Summer Solstice Jazz Festival Returns in Hybrid Format
|

Summer Solstice Jazz Festival Returns in Hybrid Format

The festival will run June 25-27. Sarah Spohn reports on this year’s format and the lineup, and we provide a link telling you where you can gather with friends!

East Lansing Barre Code Offers Community and Variety of Classes

East Lansing Barre Code Offers Community and Variety of Classes

Looking for a sense of community and empowerment? The Barre Code has been working hard to provide this to women in the area throughout the pandemic. Sarah Spohn reports.

Artists to Visit EL Next Week to Paint “Welcome to East Lansing” Mural

Artists to Visit EL Next Week to Paint “Welcome to East Lansing” Mural

Artist Victor Ving and photographer Lisa Beggs are on their way to East Lansing to install a new mural that highlights unique sights in our city. Sarah Spohn reports.

Local Musician Releases Solo Project Record
|

Local Musician Releases Solo Project Record

Kevin Ream, who is also a member of the local band From Big Sur, just dropped a new solo album “Hemlock.” What inspired him? What was it like recording during a pandemic?

Are Food Trucks Coming to East Lansing This Summer?
|

Are Food Trucks Coming to East Lansing This Summer?

The idea was addressed at the Parks and Rec Advisory Commission meeting last Wednesday. Where might you find some new grub options this summer?

Broad Brings Art to MSU Science Festival STEAM Virtual Events

Broad Brings Art to MSU Science Festival STEAM Virtual Events

What is the relationship between art and science, technology, engineering, and math? Sarah Spohn reports on how you can find out this upcoming week.

Wild Birds Unlimited New Owner Excited to Work with Loyal Customers

Wild Birds Unlimited New Owner Excited to Work with Loyal Customers

What’s new at Wild Birds Unlimited?

City Council Considers Feasibility Study of Affordable Housing for Artists
| |

City Council Considers Feasibility Study of Affordable Housing for Artists

Should the East Lansing government spend $30,000 on a feasibility study for an affordable-housing project aimed at “creatives”? Some are enthused, others hesitant. Find out why.

For Crêpe Sake Opens in East Lansing Today

For Crêpe Sake Opens in East Lansing Today

East Lansing native Gina Mudrey speaks to Sarah Spohn about the grand opening of For Crêpe Sake. What does the owner recommend?

Local Meal Prep Delivery Service Makes Healthy Eating More Accessible

Local Meal Prep Delivery Service Makes Healthy Eating More Accessible

East Lansing resident Rueben Hewitt is working to make healthy meals affordable and accessible through his business, MenuBubble. Sarah Spohn reports on how the service works and what motivated Hewitt to get it running.

East Lansing Seeks Artists to Complete Massive Downtown Mural
|

East Lansing Seeks Artists to Complete Massive Downtown Mural

Interested artists have until March 30, by 5 p.m. to submit their qualifications. Sarah Spohn reports on the details.

Spend Locally: Massage & Wellness

Spend Locally: Massage & Wellness

Massage & Wellness offers many spa and wellness services for pampering and promoting health and well-being. Their gift shop also allows you to bring these joys home. Sarah Spohn reports.

Groovy Donuts Prepares for Fat Tuesday

Groovy Donuts Prepares for Fat Tuesday

Place your orders by Sunday night! Groovy Donuts will have apple, blueberry, cherry, chocolate cream, cream, custard, lemon, prune, raspberry, and un-filled paczki. Sarah Spohn spoke to Groovy Donuts’ owner to deliver this sweet report.

UPDATED: Ideas for Celebrating Love During the Pandemic

UPDATED: Ideas for Celebrating Love During the Pandemic

Looking to celebrate this weekend? ELi’s Sarah Spohn brings you a variety of ideas from delicious takeout meals to sweet treats to painting to yoga.

Downtown Underground Market Opens This Sunday

Downtown Underground Market Opens This Sunday

Residents will have the opportunity to buy from local vendors at the M.A.C. Ave. Garage on Feb. 14, Feb. 28, March 14, March 28, April 11, April 25, and May 9. Sarah Spohn reports on what to expect.

East Lansing Art Festival Postponed to August
|

East Lansing Art Festival Postponed to August

The City believed May was too soon for an in-person event. The August festival will most likely be held in person, and the festival is still accepting artist applications until Feb. 15.

B/A Florist Recommends Early Orders This Valentine’s Day

B/A Florist Recommends Early Orders This Valentine’s Day

Looking for that perfect Valentine’s gift? B/A Florist is offering flowers and more, but make sure to place your order sooner rather than later.

Downtown Placemaking, Yard Signs, Art Exhibits All Aim to Bring People Downtown
|

Downtown Placemaking, Yard Signs, Art Exhibits All Aim to Bring People Downtown

The City has launched a series of projects to support local businesses, particularly downtown ones. Sarah Spohn reports on these efforts and how you can participate.

“Seeds of Resistance” Exhibit Connects Local and Global
|

“Seeds of Resistance” Exhibit Connects Local and Global

The new exhibit opened at the Broad last Friday. It examines the work of Dr. William J. Beal and addresses global environmental issues. Sarah Spohn brings us the story.

Spend Locally: Creative Wellness

Spend Locally: Creative Wellness

Creative Wellness has offered massage therapy and other services since 1990. They still are now, with safety precautions during the pandemic. Sarah Spohn reports.

Local Yoga Studio Looks to GoFundMe to Avoid Bankruptcy

Local Yoga Studio Looks to GoFundMe to Avoid Bankruptcy

Grab your mats! Yoga State is offering a class through Zoom tonight, but you can also support the local business through it’s GoFundMe.

Photo Contest Shares Reasons Why Residents Mask Up
|

Photo Contest Shares Reasons Why Residents Mask Up

The City hopes the photo contest will both foster a sense of community and support local businesses. Sarah Spohn reports on that and the prizes for winners.

ELHS Student and Musician Releases New Single

ELHS Student and Musician Releases New Single

Wes Millhouse, singer and songwriter for the local band Cross Eyed Strangers, released a solo single. Sarah Spohn reports on the song’s production and meaning.

Local Arcade Hoping to Avoid Game Over With Help From GoFundMe
|

Local Arcade Hoping to Avoid Game Over With Help From GoFundMe

Pinball Pete’s has felt the impact of the pandemic and is looking for support through a GoFundMe page. Sarah Spohn reports.

UPDATED: Holiday Events to Enjoy During the Pandemic
|

UPDATED: Holiday Events to Enjoy During the Pandemic

Sarah Spohn brings an update about a virtual concert available for streaming, beginning today.

Stone from Biggby Coffee Shop Gets New Home

Stone from Biggby Coffee Shop Gets New Home

Sad to see the Biggby on Grand River Ave. close and later be demolished? Sarah Spohn tells us about the building’s afterlife.

Spend Locally: Mi Sushi & Noodles

Spend Locally: Mi Sushi & Noodles

Want to try a sushi burrito or volcano ramen? Sarah Spohn recommends you drop by Mi Sushi & Noodles then!

Downtown Management Board Encourages Local Shopping with eGift Card Program

Downtown Management Board Encourages Local Shopping with eGift Card Program

The Downtown Management Board just made spending locally a bit easier with their eGift Card Program. Sarah Spohn provides the details, including which stores are participating.

Spend Locally: Yum Yum Bento

Spend Locally: Yum Yum Bento

Yum Yum Bento is run by husband and wife duo, Shan Shan Xu and Eddy Liang. Sarah Spohn reports on the Japanese, Korean, and Thai food the couple serves.

Pandemic Brings Band Together Despite Distance

Pandemic Brings Band Together Despite Distance

Area band From Big Sur released its fifth album, recorded here in East Lansing, titled “Infinite Morning.” Sarah Spohn reports on the new album and how distance during the pandemic brought the band together.

Spend Locally: Foods for Living

Spend Locally: Foods for Living

Foods for Living offers Michigan-made products and great Christmas gift ideas. Sarah Spohn reports.

Spend Locally: Grand Traverse Pie Company

Spend Locally: Grand Traverse Pie Company

Grand Traverse Pie Company believes in the power of pie. Pie means a celebration of traditions, family, and comfort food. Sarah Spohn tells how the celebration continues through the pandemic.

Spend Locally: Ellison Brewing + Spirits

Spend Locally: Ellison Brewing + Spirits

Need a cold brew or some cool merch? Check out Ellison Brewing + Spirits in East Lansing. Sarah Spohn reports on what they have to offer.

Spend Locally: Red Cedar Spirits

Spend Locally: Red Cedar Spirits

Red Cedar Spirits has your holly, your jolly, and all the spirits on the menu. Puns intended. Sarah Spohn explains.

Spend Locally: Groovy Donuts

Spend Locally: Groovy Donuts

Have a sweet tooth? Sarah Spohn tells us about the grooviest place in town to fix that problem.

Spend Locally: Foster Coffee Company
|

Spend Locally: Foster Coffee Company

Foster Coffee Company prides itself on using local products. Sarah Spohn explains what the shop offers patrons and the community.

Spend Locally: Blue Owl Coffee
|

Spend Locally: Blue Owl Coffee

Need a caffeine fix? ELi’s Sarah Spohn tells you what Blue Owl has to offer.

Spend Locally: Saper Galleries and Custom Framing
|

Spend Locally: Saper Galleries and Custom Framing

Need to frame that favorite picture? Want unique art work from around the world? Find that and more at Saper Galleries and Custom Framing.

Spend Locally: Curious Book Shop and Archives Book Shop

Spend Locally: Curious Book Shop and Archives Book Shop

Searching for a gift for the bookworm in your life? Sarah Spohn brings you details on two local used book shops.

Local History Hits the Road at MSU Broad

Local History Hits the Road at MSU Broad

Hit the road without leaving East Lansing? ELi’s Sarah Spohn previews the MSU Broad’s new exhibit, “InterStates of Mind: Rewriting the Map of the United States in the Age of the Automobile.”

Local Musician Jonathan Townley Releases Debut Album

Local Musician Jonathan Townley Releases Debut Album

Local musician Jonathan Townley released his first album yesterday. Sarah Spohn tells us what inspired him and where to find his music.

Absolute Chamber Music Series Hosting Their First Virtual Concert Tomorrow

Absolute Chamber Music Series Hosting Their First Virtual Concert Tomorrow

Live music brings people together, so what do you do when physical distancing is a necessity? ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports.

An East Lansing Sunday Tailgate for Book-Lovers

An East Lansing Sunday Tailgate for Book-Lovers

The Friends of the East Lansing Public Library is continuing its mission of supporting the East Lansing Public Library. Sarah Spohn explains how you can join in this Sunday.

Singing the Blues, Live But Socially-Distanced

Singing the Blues, Live But Socially-Distanced

Looking to hear some live music? The Coffeehouse at All Saints provides you with some options: in-person while socially distanced and online.

RetroDuck Launches Retro T-Shirt Line to Support Local Businesses

RetroDuck Launches Retro T-Shirt Line to Support Local Businesses

Luke Hackney of RetroDuck has launched a new retro T-shirt line to promote pride in East Lansing while supporting local businesses and nonprofits. ELi’s Sarah Spohn provides the details.

Local “Voices” YouTube Series Features Perspectives from Marginalized Community Members

Local “Voices” YouTube Series Features Perspectives from Marginalized Community Members

A new take on the old coffee house favorite: the open mic. Sarah Spohn brings us the story.

Last Day to Register for Broad Art Lab Embroidery Workshop
|

Last Day to Register for Broad Art Lab Embroidery Workshop

Sign up to have all the virtual workshop materials delivered to your door from the MSU Broad Art Lab.

After Two Years, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza is Back on Grand River Avenue

After Two Years, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza is Back on Grand River Avenue

After months of delay, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza will reopen a location on Grand River Ave. on Tuesday, Aug. 4. ELi’s Sarah Spohn brings the story.

Hand Sanitizer and Outdoor Seating: How Ellison Brewing and Red Cedar Spirits Have Adapted during the Pandemic

Hand Sanitizer and Outdoor Seating: How Ellison Brewing and Red Cedar Spirits Have Adapted during the Pandemic

From expanding outdoor seating to making hand sanitizer, ELi’s Sarah Spohn describes how two local spots are contending with COVID-19.

Splash of Color Reopens With Plethora of New Safety Procedures

Splash of Color Reopens With Plethora of New Safety Procedures

Splash of Color Tattoo & Piercing Studio has reopened. Sarah Spohn gives the details on the massive studio overhaul, new appointment protocol, investment in PPE, and why they’re happy to be back.

Haven House Receives $14K in Donations, But Needs More to Keep Helping Families

Haven House Receives $14K in Donations, But Needs More to Keep Helping Families

Haven House received a donation exceeding $14,000 from Buddy’s Pizza grand opening in Lansing. ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports how Haven House is using the donation to help families.

High Caliber Karting Art Contest Enters Voting Stage

High Caliber Karting Art Contest Enters Voting Stage

Now’s your chance to take a break from everything and cast your vote in an art contest sponsored by a local business.

Pinecrest Neighborhood to Hold Juneteenth Demonstration and Celebration

Pinecrest Neighborhood to Hold Juneteenth Demonstration and Celebration

Tomorrow, in recognition of Juneteenth and ongoing calls for racial justice, East Lansing’s Pinecrest Neighborhood Association is hosting a march. Sarah Spohn reports for ELi.

Virtual Poet Event to Raise Funds for Local Refugee Shelter
|

Virtual Poet Event to Raise Funds for Local Refugee Shelter

This Thursday night, “Where I’m From,” a virtual poetry event open to all, is raising funds to aid refugees in the local community. ELi’s Sarah Spohn provides the details.

Foster Coffee Reopens on East Lansing’s Albert Ave.
|

Foster Coffee Reopens on East Lansing’s Albert Ave.

ELi’s Sarah Spohn talks with Foster Coffee co-owner Nicholas Pidek about how that company is managing reopening.

East Lansing Art Festival Goes Virtual for the First Time in 57 Years
|

East Lansing Art Festival Goes Virtual for the First Time in 57 Years

While it won’t be the same without the 3-D strolling experience, the show will go on for the East Lansing Art Festival.

How to Best Support Our Local Coffee Shops, Bakeries, and Restaurants
|

How to Best Support Our Local Coffee Shops, Bakeries, and Restaurants

Here’s how you can help keep your favorite East Lansing-area coffee shops, restaurants, and bakeries alive!

Long-Time Owner of Curious Book Shop Is Hoping the Community Will Help

Long-Time Owner of Curious Book Shop Is Hoping the Community Will Help

Ray Walsh has owned and operated Curious Book Shop for fifty years. He’s hoping the community will help his employees.

East Lansing Library Teen Programming Continues in Online Format
|

East Lansing Library Teen Programming Continues in Online Format

East Lansing Library Teen Services Specialist Beth Scanlon is not letting the pandemic get in the way of her work supporting area youth.

High Caliber Karting Expansion Inspires Community Art Contest

High Caliber Karting Expansion Inspires Community Art Contest

Love working with paint, carving, vinyl decal, wood burning, stain, or some other application? Apply now to participate in an art contest being held by High Caliber Karting.

Eleven Thousand Masks Later, the Requests Haven’t Stopped
|

Eleven Thousand Masks Later, the Requests Haven’t Stopped

The need and the challenges are high, but this ever-growing community of sewists keeps making masks, headbands, gowns, and more.

Drop-In on Blue Owl’s Mic Drop Tonight – Digitally!

Drop-In on Blue Owl’s Mic Drop Tonight – Digitally!

Good news: you can continue to enjoy the work of local artists who gather around Blue Owl Coffee’s open mic night. And if you are an artist, you can join in.

Volunteer Local Crafters Hard at Work Sewing Masks
|

Volunteer Local Crafters Hard at Work Sewing Masks

Organizer Jessy Gregg calls this community of sewing volunteer ‘crisis crafters.’ They are now making fabric masks to help with the worsening COVID-19 crisis. ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports.

Entertainment Venues and Local Hangouts Close Temporarily

Entertainment Venues and Local Hangouts Close Temporarily

In observance of federal, state and local orders to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, many businesses have scaled back their hours and services. ELi’s Sarah Spohn provides the details.