ELi is here to provide reporting and editing help as well as online space (at no charge) for East Lansing obituaries and death notices. Our publisher explains more.
General News
East Lansing Info (ELi) Begins Search for Managing Editor
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East Lansing Info’s recently formed Task Force makes its first recommendation: to begin an immediate search for a new Managing Editor.
General News
Board launches team to address recent Interim Executive Director appointment
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An update from ELi’s Board.
General News
East Lansing Info (ELi) Announces Convening of Task Force
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On Saturday, June 25, East Lansing Info (ELi) formally convened a special Task Force to research and make recommendations to help the Board of Directors chart a path forward for ELi’s future. After almost eight years of successful news production, due to loss of key staff and other challenges, the board has put a pause on ELi’s news reporting to form the task force to help chart a path for ELi’s future sustainability. We would like to acknowledge all that Dr. Alice Dreger has done over the years to create and operate a local news organization that is transparent and operates with the utmost integrity. She has been on sabbatical from ELi, working on research, writing, and speaking projects that had been put on hold for years because of ELi’s needs and dealing with family concerns. This sabbatical is being interrupted so she can lead this task force.
General News
East Lansing Info (ELi) Announces New Board Members
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The Board of Directors of East Lansing Info (ELi) is pleased to announce that Cody Harrell, Chuck Grigsby and Anne Hill have been unanimously approved and installed to serve on the Board. We believe that each of these individuals brings experience, skills, and insights that will enhance the future development of ELi. Cody Harrell is an East Lansing High School Journalism and English Teacher. He earned his undergraduate degree in English and Journalism in secondary education from Michigan State University in 2016. He has experience as a media consultant and has been the director of ELi’s Summer Youth program for five years.
General News
ELi Board to Convene Task Force to Examine Best Course for Our Future Operations
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For nearly eight years, ELi has brought the community the news. Now, it would like to examine how it can best serve the community in the future.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: Taxes, Sewers, Social Workers, Parking Tickets
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In this edition of Ask ELi, we bring you answers on tax assessments, the sewer system, ELPD social workers, and unpaid parking tickets.
General News
EL Fresco Set to Return May 12 in Same Location with New Amenities
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With EL Fresco set to return on May 12, ELi’s Clay Oppenhuizen speaks to the project’s organizer, Adam Cummins, about what to expect the second time around.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Art Festival Poster Showcases Symbolic Beaver as Unsung Ecosystem Hero
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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.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Reveals Mental Health Murals Years in the Making
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New artwork in downtown East Lansing aims to prioritize mental health awareness. Sarah Spohn reports.
General News
‘Prime Time,’ A Staple Among EL Seniors, Turns 50 This Year
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The seniors program, which started as a joint venture between the City and East Lansing Public Schools, offers a bevy of services and programs for local seniors. Emily Joan Elliott reports as the program turns 50.
General News
ELi Begins Search for New Executive Director and Managing Editor. Are You Interested in Applying?
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ELi is seeking an individual who will serve as the CEO of our nonprofit corporation and oversee content production. Are you interested in applying for this position? Here’s what you need to know.
General News
ELi Wants to Hear From You as We Envision Our Future Together
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As East Lansing Info considers how to best serve the community, we are asking for your help. Do you mind sharing your thoughts with us?
General News
East Lansing Insider: What To Know With The Albert EL Fresco Returning
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Andrew Graham sits down with Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the imminent return of the Albert EL Fresco. Give a listen!
Your ELi
ELi Takes a Reporting Pause to Assess Next Steps
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ELi’s Founder Alice Dreger explains what this two-week pause will entail, including conversations with ELi staff and the community.
Development
East Lansing Insider: An East Lansing Development Roundup with Alice Dreger
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Andrew is joined by ELi’s Founder, Alice Dreger, for a discussion about various projects going on downtown and around town, plus what can be done to boost a downtown. Check it out!
Arts & Cultures
Graduate Rock Bar Serves Cocktails and the Community
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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.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: How Does East Lansing’s Geography Affect Home Maintenance?
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In the latest Ask ELi to Investigate, Emily Joan Elliott explores how the marshy environment of East Lansing can affect local homes.
Development
Construction On River Trail Extension To Meridian Set To Begin Soon
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Construction was originally set to begin in 2020, but was delayed due to the pandemic. Clay Oppenhuizen reports for ELi that construction is now set to get going this year.
General News
A Letter from ELi’s Board President
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Sam Hosey, the President of ELi’s Board of Directors, announces an upcoming transition at ELi.
City Attorney
East Lansing Insider: A Review of the City Attorney Hiring Process
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After a more than six-month-long process, the City of East Lansing finally has new City Attorneys. Some of the ELi team recaps the process in this episode of the pod and discusses the changes in how the City will be represented.
DDA
About A Month From Opening, Key Parts Of The Albert EL Fresco Are Still In Flux
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The Albert EL Fresco is set to reopen later this spring, but the City is still looking for someone to provide outdoor seating, shade, and lighting infrastructure for the space. Andrew Graham reports.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: A Fence on Campus, Basketball Hoops Unlocked, and Construction On Burcham Drive [UPDATED]
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ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings a few pieces of news and a noteworthy PSA about construction on Burcham Drive.
General News
How Can You Apply for an East Lansing Board or Commission?
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Find out how you can be more involved in the City of East Lansing by applying to a board or commission. Clay Oppenhuizen reports.
General News
More Women Among City’s Highest Paid Employees Due to Promotions, Retirements of Men
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A series of Freedom of Information Act requests from ELi show how some changes in the City’s workforce mean women are more represented as the highest earners. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Community Disparities
Spark in the Dark Group Encourages People to Help Others
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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.
Development
East Lansing Insider: What’s All This Discussion About The Northern Tier?
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In this episode of The Insider, Andrew and Emily go in-depth on the recent discussions at City Council and Planning Commission regarding the Northern Tier. It’s a discussion ranging from land use to town-gown relations, so give it a listen!
General News
Council Approves Contract for City Prosecutor in 4-1 Vote As The Mayor Called Out A Bungled Process
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The contract approval comes after a months-long search for new legal representation for the City of East Lansing. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
General News
Discussion of Complaints and Use of Force Pushed Again as Police Oversight Commission Focuses on Data Collection, Administrative Tasks
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The Commission decided to delve into complaints and use of force reports beginning in April. Heather Brothers reports for ELi.
East Lansing Schools
ELHS Students Recognized for Representing Ukraine at Model UN Conference
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Several ELHS students recently attended the Mid-American Model UN Conference in Kalamazoo. How did they do?
COVID-19
City Lessens Masking Requirements Starting Mar. 14
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The City announced yesterday that beginning on Mar. 14, masks would be optional inside City-owned buildings with some exceptions, including public meetings.
General News
Small Number of East Lansing Residents Have Special Election Coming in May
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The election applies to the small number of East Lansing residents who live within the boundaries of the Lansing School District. Emily Joan Elliott reports on that and the bond proposal they’ll be voting on.
Arts & Cultures
Slew of New Exhibits Coming to MSU This Spring
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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!
Arts & Cultures
What Artspace’s Feasibility Report Tells Us About Downtown East Lansing
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One of the proposed locations for a development of affordable housing geared toward creatives is Valley Court Park. Emily Joan Elliott digs in to what else is in the feasibility report and what we can learn.
Obituaries
Remembering Rob Nichols (1960-2021)
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Rob Nichols was known to many ELi readers as “Captain Carnivore” through his wife’s “Ann About Town” columns. But he was a lot more than an eater of “impossibly hot dishes.”
Development
East Lansing Insider: Talking Town-Gown Relations As MSU Moves Ahead with the Sophomores-On Rule
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Andrew is joined by ELi’s Alice Dreger to talk about where things stand regarding MSU’s sophomores-on-campus housing rule and other related issues. Listen in!
Arts & Cultures
Multimedia Production Studio Hopes to Be a Starting Point for Community Creativity
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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.
finances and taxes
A Refresher On East Lansing’s Income Tax As Returns Are Due in May
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Returns are due on or before May 2, 2022. If you worked in the City of East Lansing in 2021, you’ll likely be required to file. Find out how and more from reporter Clay Oppenhuizen.
General News
Located: East Lansing Teen Missing [UPDATED]
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Seventeen-year-old Aireona Alexis Smith has been located.
City Council
Council Approves Evaluation Form In Preliminary Step To Assess the City Manager’s Job Performance
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The evaluation is supposed to occur prior to May 31, 2022, according to the contract. Al Hargrave reports on the first steps in City Manager George Lahanas’ coming evaluation.
General News
East Lansing Insider: Where Do We Stand As The Omicron Variant Recedes?
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Andrew is joined by Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the current stages of the pandemic, how different things are now from early 2020, and where things might be headed next. Listen in!
East Lansing Schools
Concerning Social Media Post Results in Police Presence at ELHS Today
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A letter sent to East Lansing High School families, staff, and students from the administration notified families that local law enforcement would be present at the school this morning, Feb. 25, following a concerning social media post made last evening.
Development
Planning Commission Talks Northern Tier, Handles 3 Frat Applications and A Marijuana Approval in First Meeting of 2022
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At its first meeting of 2022, the Commission dealt with three frats, an application for a Special Use Permit for a dispensary to sell recreational marijuana, and discussed plans for a City lot on the Northern Tier and the near-term housing action plan.
Transportation
Michigan Flyer, Expanding Connections in Mid-Michigan, Turns 15
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A local business that many East Lansing residents see cruising across town recently celebrated its fifteenth anniversary in November 2021. Clay Oppenhuizen reports on the regional growth of the Michigan Flyer.
Arts & Cultures
First-of-its-kind Autism Museum Opens in Okemos
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The Xavier DeGroat Autism Foundation unveiled the Meridian Mall Autism Museum this month, making it the first museum of its kind. Sarah Spohn reports.
General News
Parks & Rec Advisory Commission Talks New Trails, More Food Trucks, and a Grant For Placemaking
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As it was the first meeting of 2022 for the Commission, they elected a new chair and vice chair. Al Hargrave reports.
east lansing police
East Lansing Insider: After Covid Pause, City of East Lansing Gets Back To Meetings
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The City of East Lansing resumed public meetings this week after pausing meetings outside of City Council during the omicron surge. On this episode of the Insider, the ELi team digs into what some of the boards and commissions have been up to as the City gets back to action.
Arts & Cultures
Local East Lansing Band Releases Full-Length Album
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A local alternative rock band made up of ELHS students recently released a full-length album. Sarah Spohn reports.
Environment
What Did ELi Learn from Its Snow Removal Survey?
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Following the winter storm on Feb. 2, 2022, ELi created a survey to gauge how well streets had been cleared after several reader questions. What did we find out?
City Attorney
What Does the Attorney General’s Opinion On the Open Meetings Act Mean for East Lansing’s Public Bodies? [UPDATED]
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The ELPS School Board weighed the benefits and setbacks of increasing options for public comment at its Feb. 14 meeting.
east lansing police
Police Oversight Commission Moves To Ensure Public Access To Police Oversight Information
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The commission unanimously approved a motion that directs City Staff and the police to ensure information that the Oversight Commission will be working with is available to the public. Heather Brothers reports.
COVID-19
Ask ELi: How are local daycares implementing Covid protocols?
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Why is there so much variation in how daycares are implementing Covid-19 protocols and handling exposures? Clay Oppenhuizen reports for ELi.
General News
Andrew Wells, East Lansing High School Principal and Longtime Educator set to Retire After 33 Years
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Wells started working in the district as a lunchroom monitor and paraprofessional, serving in a multitude of roles before eventually being named the principal at ELHS. Al Hargrave reports.
General News
East Lansing Insider: A Closer Look At EL’s Responsible Hospitality Council
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How do a group of downtown East Lansing liquor license holders work to promote safe, responsible fun? Andrew talks to two EL bar and restaurant owners about the RHC and what it does. Listen in!
General News
More Than 1,000 East Lansing BWL Customers Without Power, Including Two Elementary Schools
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Robert L. Green and Glencairn Elementary schools are without power and heat, and parents have been asked to call and release their children from school early. Andrew Graham reports on the outage.
Arts & Cultures
Local Girl Scouts at ELHS Working to Improve Community
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Each troop has its own personality and interests, but all give back to their communities in meaningful ways. Al Hargrave reports.
Caring for Each Other
One Pint is Worth Three Lives
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During the ongoing national blood shortage, ELi revisits a story about giving blood during the pandemic. Here’s why it’s still important.
General News
Remembering Kathleen “Kathy” Corkin Boyle, Dedicated East Lansing Public Servant
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Kathleen “Kathy” Corkin Boyle, an attorney and clear-eyed public servant, died on Feb. 3 and will be remembered at a service on Saturday at All Saints Episcopal Church.
City Attorney
Council Enters Contract Negotiations With Two Firms for Municipal Counsel and Prosecutor Roles, Respectively
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Council delegated the negotiating duties to City Manager George Lahanas, who will come back to Council for final approval on the respective contracts after negotiations. Andrew Graham reports.
General News
Has Your Street Been Plowed?
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After the record snowfall last week, some East Lansing residents are still waiting for their streets to be plowed. Take ELi’s survey on the progress of the snow removal and learn more!
Deer
East Lansing Insider: MSU’s Dr. Alexa Warwick Goes In-Depth On East Lansing’s Deer Cull
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Andrew is joined by Dr. Warwick, from MSU’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Dr. Warwick has worked with the City on the deer culls — specifically working with the community and learning their tolerances for deer. Listen about that and more!
public safety
No Street Parking Until Friday, ELPS Closed Again on Thursday: Winter Storm Updates
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ELPS will remain closed on Thursday. ELPL will not open until 12 p.m. tomorrow.
Your ELi
East Lansing Info’s Annual Report for 2021
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Get the inside scoop on ELi’s revenue, expenses, and accomplishments for the calendar year 2021 in our latest annual report to readers.
COVID-19
Unions Renew Push For ARPA Hazard Pay To City Employees Who Risked Covid Exposure [UPDATED]
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Despite City Council approving “retention bonuses” for employees, some unions are pushing for employees who endured more Covid risks to get bonuses for that work. Al Hargrave reports.
Deer
City Says Cull Complete, 79 Deer Removed
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The City of East Lansing’s deer cull has come to an end, resulting in the removal of 79 deer over the course of four evenings in January, according to a press release from the City.
Arts & Cultures
Lansing Art Gallery Reopens with Strong Commitment to Art Accessibility
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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.
General News
ELi Board Approves Sabbatical for Founder Alice Dreger, Names Emily Joan Elliott as Acting Executive Director and Publisher
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After nearly a year of preparation, the ELi team is shifting some top roles – and expressing excitement about the changes. Karessa Wheeler reports for ELi.
General News
East Lansing Insider: Recapping the East Lansing City Attorney Search To Date
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Andrew and Al Hargrave talk through what has happened in the search for a new City Attorney, to date, and get into what the Council might be looking for in their new counsel. Take a listen!
General News
ELPS Bus Driver on Administrative Leave Following Incident Yesterday
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A 911 call was placed yesterday concerning the behavior of a school bus driver. Here is what ELi found out from ELPS, ELPD, and Dean Transportation.
General News
Slipping, Sliding, Sweeping: A Photo Story From The Lansing Curling Club’s Open House
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The Lansing Curling Club held an open house and ELi’s Andrew Graham tagged along with his camera — plus some sure footing — to capture the fun.
Development
What’s Happening Now with Downtown East Lansing Development?
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Catch up with ELi on the latest in downtown East Lansing redevelopment, including potentially in Valley Court Park.
City Council
East Lansing Government Won’t Say Who Keeps Canceling All These Public Meetings
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While other local municipalities continue with business as normal, East Lansing’s own government is nearly halted, supposedly over Covid concerns. But who made that decision? ELi’s Alice Dreger reports that we don’t know, still.
Deer
Ask ELi: What’s Going on With the Deer Cull?
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What safety precautions are being taken for using rifles? What metrics are being used to determine if the cull was successful? We bring you answers to those questions and more.
COVID-19
Federal Medical Team to Help Sparrow with Covid Staffing
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The team of up to 25 medical staff will arrive on Feb. 7, making Sparrow the sixth Michigan hospital to receive such assistance. The news comes as Ingham County reports some if its highest daily case counts, over 200 people hospitalized, and 18 deaths last week.
Center City District
East Lansing Insider: Ali Haider Discusses the Ins and Outs of Running 7-Elevens in East Lansing
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When one thinks local business, 7-Eleven doesn’t readily come to mind. This week, ELi’s Andrew Graham hopes to change that thinking with an interview with Ali Haider, who has owned and operated the downtown 7-Eleven for more than five years. Listen in!
General News
Body Believed to Be That of Brendan Santo Recovered from Red Cedar River (Updated)
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Santo has been missing since last October. A recent petition had called for damming the river to look for his body. Police have notified the family and expressed their own grief at the outcome.
General News
UPDATED: ELPD Seeks Information Regarding Incident on West Road
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UPDATED: ELPD identified the individual who died on West Road early Tuesday morning. The incident is still under investigation.
General News
This Week’s “East Lansing News We Don’t Know Where to Put”
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Food trucks and a continued suspension of meetings for the City of East Lansing’s boards and commissions: we bring you a quick rundown of some things we’re keeping an eye on.
Arts & Cultures
‘Kahlo without Borders’ Exhibit Provides Intimate Look Into Frida Kahlo’s Life, Health Issues
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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.
Podcast
East Lansing Insider: Digging Into The Covid Realities At East Lansing High School
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ELi’s Andrew Graham interviews a teacher and two students from East Lansing High School about their in-the-halls experiences with Covid-19. Listen in.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Sparrow’s Own Stats Show Hospitalization Risk Among the Covid-Vaccinated Is Relatively Low
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Why are public health analysts and officials here and elsewhere starting to talk about Covid-19 as akin to the long-familiar seasonal flu among the vaccinated?
Schools
EL School Board Addresses Covid Challenges With New President
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The ELPS School Board unanimously voted to make Kate Powers president in 2022, as the district faces high numbers of absenteeism at ELHS and challenges from the more transmissible Omicron variant.
City Council
‘First Come, First Served’ Check Valve Reimbursements Approved: Sign Up ASAP (UPDATED)
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East Lansing’s City Council approved the use of $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to reimburse property owners for the cost of installing check valves. More information on how to obtain the reimbursement has now been issued by the City.
General News
Girl Scout Hopes to Sweeten the Semester for ELPS Employees
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The article that had appeared at this url, about a sale of Girl Scout cookies, has been unpublished
This year, one Girl Scout in East Lansing is working to keep alive a tradition started last year by a Girl Scout Troop from Whitehills Elementary School: collecting enough donations to give a free box of Girl Scout cookies to each member of faculty and staff at East Lansing Public Schools. Last year, a troop from Whitehills collected enough donations to give 230 boxes of cookies to ELPS staff, enough to make sure everyone employed by the district went home with a box of cookies. While that troop is now working to give the same gift to nurses at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, one Girl Scout at East Lansing High School plans to make sure ELPS faculty and staff are not forgotten. Emmerson Davis, older sister of a member of the Whitehills troop, wants every member of faculty and staff at each of the eight buildings that make up ELPS to be given a box of cookies again this year.
Davis wants to ensure that not just teachers but every worker of ELPS is thanked and cheered up again this year by receiving a free box of cookies from Girl Scouts. When asked why she chose to take on this endeavor, Davis told ELi she is doing it because she believes the teachers and staff in East Lansing’s community have been through so much, and that “cookies make everything better.”
Davis’ Girl Scout troop consists of herself only.
Your ELi
Raising Over $160,000, ELi’s 2022 Sustainability Campaign Was the Most Successful Yet!
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We want to give a big thank you for all the moral and financial support we received so we can keep bringing the news in 2022!
COVID-19
East Lansing Insider: Taking Stock As The Covid-19 Pandemic Hits Year 3
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On this episode, Andrew and Chuck are joined by Emily Joan Elliott to delve into the current state of the pandemic. Give a listen!
COVID-19
As Pandemic Drags Out, ELPS Grapples with Balancing Student Emotional Wellbeing and Physical Health
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With the arrival of Omicron, how will the district balance protecting students from both Omicron and the detrimental effects of social isolation, just as students were adjusting to in-person learning?
Arts & Cultures
UKirk at MSU Students Taking on Issue of Book Deserts
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Students from UKirk at MSU are setting out to end book deserts in the Greater Lansing area, and the East Lansing community is able to help them in this effort. Adan Tomas Quan reports.
Podcast
East Lansing Insider: Taking A Look At What’s To Come in 2022
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Andrew and Chuck are joined by Emily Joan Elliott and Alice Dreger to talk about the stories that the ELi reporting team expects to follow in 2022. Give it a listen!
Government
East Lansing Stories We Expect to Be Big in 2022
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ELi’s mission is to bring East Lansing the news. Here’s a look at what we think we’ll be helping you to know about and understand in context in 2022.
General News
The 10 Stories That Meant the Most to ELi Reporters in 2021
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We asked our reporters which stories that they wrote meant the most to them in 2021. They answered, passing along a varied collection of stories for this year in review.
General News
Thank You! Your Support Has Brought Us 76% Toward our Goal!
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Your donations and monthly commitments will allow us to rely on local people to bring meaningful news to our community. There is still time to donate to our Sustainability Campaign!
General News
Yet-To-Be-Installed Security Cameras Provide a Glimpse into East Lansing’s Politics and Policy
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The DDA recently approved spending up to $40,000 of public money to install security cameras downtown. But even before installation, these cameras offer a look into the current state of East Lansing politics and policy on a number of issues. Alice Dreger reports.
Podcast
East Lansing Insider: Revisiting and Recapping News from 2021
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As an intense local news year comes to a close, Andrew, Chuck, and Emily come together on this week’s ELi podcast to talk about some of the big East Lansing stories of 2021. Have a listen!
Development
DDA Votes to Evict the Bats and Stay the Course on Office Dream for Evergreen Properties
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Yet again, the publicly-owned Evergreen Properties and their possible redevelopment formed the main topic of discussion at the latest meeting of East Lansing’s Downtown Development Authority. What happened? Only ELi brings this news.
Your ELi
Direct Your IRA Distribution to ELi: Save on Taxes and Support Local News!
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Wrote a reader who contributed via his IRA, “The folks at ELi provide something of real value that almost NO other places have – honest investigative reporting for the people. I’m grateful and want to keep them going.” Learn how to help!
General News
Ding, Ding, Ding! We Have Hit TWO-THIRDS of Our Goal!
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We are SUPER excited to bring you this fundraising update and to thank the 24 new donors who stepped up this week to unlock a $1,000 bonus for ELi!
General News
East Lansing Insider: Delving Into The Hagadorn Railroad Crossing Accident
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Andrew and Chuck recap last Saturday’s accident involving a Canadian National train running through some downed power lines and resulting in power outages. Andrew interviews a witness to the event and a Comcast representative.
General News
MSU to Require Covid Booster Shots While Parks & Rec Chair “Irritated” by City’s Lack of Mandate
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MSU announced today that it will require students, faculty, and staff to get a Covid booster for the upcoming semester. On Wednesday, the Parks and Rec Commission drafted a letter to the City Manager and Council, asking for the City, which has no plans for a vaccine mandate of its own, to change course on the issue.
General News
ELi and Dreger Move to Get Costs Paid Back In Now-Dismissed Defamation Suit; Chappelle Files For Appeal (Updated)
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While ELi and its Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger move to ask the court to recoup costs incurred by the now-dismissed defamation lawsuit against them, real estate developer Scott Chappelle — who filed the suit — has filed a claim of appeal. Dreger and attorney Brian Wassom, who represents Dreger and ELi, explain what this means for ELi.
General News
A Thousand Dollars in Support Rests on Us Finding 13 More NEW ELi Donors!
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A local donor has stepped up to maintain a fundraising bonus ELi received in years past. Now, ELi Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott shares her gratitude to those who have given already and explains ELi’s newest mini-goal: a total of 100 new donors for this campaign! Reach it, and we unlock a $1,000 bonus!
Your ELi
Is Bugging Comcast What a Local News Service Should Be Doing?
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When thousands of East Lansing residents were going on three days without Comcast service, ELi’s Alice Dreger pushed for answers. Why does ELi believe this is in keeping with our public service mission?
General News
UPDATED: Electrical Poles Snapped in Half along Hagadorn Road Because of Train “Caught Up” in Downed Lines
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A train caught in wires took down a series of electrical poles along Hagadorn Road, leading to “a mess” according to the Ingham County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management. The sign at Hannah Plaza was destroyed as a result. See contributed photos and learn more in this update.
Your ELi
Chappelle Is Filing an Appeal – And Our Team Will Keep Working for You
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We bring you an update and tell you about our Weekend Warrior campaign to keep ELi going throughout 2022!
Development
East Lansing Insider: A News Grab Bag With ELi Reporter Al Hargrave
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With a number of stories worth catching up on, Andrew and Chuck are joined by Al Hargrave to discuss some of the recent news. Give it a listen!
Arts & Cultures
Join Us at ELi’s Fun Spelling Bee and Gift Auction!
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Mark your calendars and get your tickets! ELi will be holding its first ever Spelling Bee and Gift Auction this Thursday, Dec. 9, starting at 7 p.m. at FieldHouse!
General News
Why I Report for ELi
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Adan joined ELi after completing our 2020 Summer Youth Journalism Program. Why did Adan continue to report for us? What has he learned along the way?
General News
Where Does ELi Stand in Its 2022 Sustainability Campaign?
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Thank you to everyone who has made Giving Tuesday and our entire campaign a success! Consider coming to our spelling bee and gift auction on Dec. 9!
Caring for Each Other
Spartan Ninja Warrior Hosting Open Gym, Fundraiser On Sunday
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As part of International Ninja Day on Sunday, daughter and mother Tristin and Nichole Martin are hoping to introduce more kids to the sport of “ninja” while also fundraising for a meaningful cause to them. Andrew Graham reports.
General News
East Lansing Insider: The Uphill Climb For Transparency In East Lansing
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Andrew and Chuck are joined by ELi’s Executive Director and Publisher Alice Dreger to delve into the overall issues of transparency in the City of East Lansing. Listen in!
General News
ELi to Hold Spelling Bee and Auction Fundraiser
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Mark your calendars! ELi will be holding its first ever spelling bee and gift auction on Thursday, Dec. 9, starting at 7 p.m. at FieldHouse, located at 213 Ann St. in downtown East Lansing. Buy a ticket or sponsor a word!
public safety
MSU Police Say Divers Continue to Search for Brendan Santo’s Body
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The search continues for the missing 18-year-old Grand Valley State student, contrary to circulating rumors today of a body being found. Police divers are searching the Red Cedar River near Sparty.
General News
Support ELi on Giving Tuesday and We Will Give You Our All
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Today is Giving Tuesday, and ELi can double any gift you give us! Did you know that ELi is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit public service organization, which means your financial contribution to support our work is tax deductible?
Your ELi
ELi Becomes History (But in a Good Way!)
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Why would we be happy that ELi has become history? Find out!
General News
Why I Report for ELi
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Christopher A. Wardell is drawn to East Lansing’s music scene and delivers articles on upcoming concerts and events. Why else does he report for ELi?
Environment
The Wild Turkeys of East Lansing
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You may know turkey as that bird on your Thanksgiving table, but ELi’s Aron Sousa tells you more about our famous feathered neighbor, including where to take your visiting relatives to see rafters around East Lansing.
COVID-19
Covid Is Surging, Flu Is Spreading, and Alarmed Sparrow Hospital Nurses Are Voting on a Possible Strike (UPDATED)
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The local healthcare infrastructure is showing signs of extraordinary stress, as Covid numbers here are surging upward, the flu is spreading, and Sparrow Hospital healthcare professionals –exhausted by the pandemic experience – are seeking better working conditions. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Your ELi
Why Would Someone Donate Stock to ELi?
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Publisher Alice Dreger explains ELi’s new policy regarding stock donations and how it will help ELi during our 2022 Sustainability Campaign. We also bring you a campaign update!
Your ELi
Why I Report for ELi
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Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott reflects on how ELi has grown as a community institution, including a four-fold growth of “Ask ELi to Investigate” in just one year.
public safety
Alcohol Suspected of Contributing to MSU Student Death This Morning
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ELPD and ELFD responded to a call to a house this morning where four people were unconscious. One died at the scene, and the three others were taken to Sparrow Hospital.
COVID-19
Council to Discuss Usage of Federal ARPA Funds, as ELi Readers Tell Us What They Want
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East Lansing’s City Council is set tonight to discuss the possible use of federal Covid relief dollars to help homeowners prevent basement flooding, but an ELi survey shows that community members have various ideas for how to use these funds.
General News
Can You Fill These Buckets for ELi?
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ELi is your local 501(c)3 nonprofit “news brigade.” Like an old-fashioned bucket brigade, we put out fires by making sure our community remains informed and connected. Can you help us make that possible?
General News
Why I Report for ELi
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Why does City Desk Reporter Andrew Graham report for ELi? It’s the people at the root of it all – our readers, our supporters, our community.
Policing
East Lansing Insider: Discussing The Police Oversight Commission, Student Perspective On Couch Burnings
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ELi reporters Andrew Graham, Heather Brothers, and Jack Timothy Harrison dive in to some recent ELi reporting on couch burnings and policing. Give it a listen!
Policing
Mayor Bacon Joins Gregg’s Push for Culture Change on MSU “Celebrations”
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Alcohol cases at Sparrow’s ER surged, as officers faced a “more destructive” than usual crowd. Newly installed Mayor Ron Bacon is backing Jessy Gregg’s call, saying what’s needed is “a united front against destructive, malicious and dangerous actions.”
finance and taxes
City to Hold Webinar on Water, Sewer Infrastructure as Residents Still Recover from Summer Flooding
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Residents are still expressing concern over the aftermath of severe flooding in August and are skeptical that massive flooding will not happen again, based on conversations at a flooding town hall. The City will hold a webinar on Nov. 18 to address some concerns.
finance and taxes
How Do You Want EL City Government to Spend Covid Relief Money?
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The City of East Lansing has already received half of its $12.2 million in Covid relief funds through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, but how will it spend that money? Fill out our survey to provide your input.
Policing
Man Seen with Gun and Gunshot Noise Leads to Emergency Alerts In East Lansing
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Alerts sent out by MSU tonight indicated a man with a gun in the area of Woodmere and Grand River Avenues downtown. ELi brings you the latest and reviews the recent spate of violence in East Lansing.
General News
An Update on ELi’s Health from Our Publisher
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One reader calls ELi “a minor miracle and greatly appreciated.” So, what is the state of this local public news service? Our publisher brings you an update.
General News
East Lansing Insider: Attorney Brian Wassom Discusses The Now-Dismissed Lawsuit Against ELi
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ELi’s Andrew Graham is joined by attorney Brian Wassom, who successfully defended ELi in a recent defamation case. The duo discuss why the claims against ELi fell short of being capable of defamation and touch on how an anti-SLAPP law could’ve protected ELi from such a suit.
General News
Why I Report for ELi
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Amalia Medina discovered her love of journalism while working at ELi as a high school student. Why does she find reporting for ELi so important?
Arts & Cultures
Broad Art Lab Artist Residency Showcases Creative Upcycling
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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.
Arts & Cultures
Beloved Local Radio Station Impact 89 FM Wins National Award
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Impact 89FM | WDBM-FM has won the 2021 College Media Association Four-Year College Radio Station of the Year Pinnacle Award. Impact produces ELi’s podcast among other quality work.
Policing
ELPD Investigates Separate Weekend Shootings That Left 2 Dead And Another in the Hospital
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Officers found two people dead from apparent gunshot wounds after responding to a call on Saturday evening, according to ELPD Deputy Chief Steve Gonzalez. Later that evening, a shooting near the downtown CVS left someone hospitalized.
MSU
Students, MSU Officials Weigh in on Couch Burnings, Property Destruction in East Lansing
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While ELPD and MSU officials promise repercussions for burning couches and vandalism, MSU students tell ELi’s Jack Timothy Harrison how they view Saturday’s postgame events. The gap is clear.
MSU
Search Continues for Missing 18-Year-Old Brendan Santo
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Police have searched by helicopter, foot, drone, boat, and using advanced tracking technology and specialized canines. They are also asking the public to help.
Development
The Latest in Big East Lansing Redevelopment
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What’s happening with that public land sold on eBay? Where might we see commercial redevelopment replace houses on Lake Lansing Road? And what’s happening downtown and north on Abbot Road?
Policing
After a Weekend of Mayhem, ELPD Moving to ID and Arrest Those Who Set Fires, Flipped Cars (UPDATED)
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ELPD is looking to identify, arrest, and prosecute those who set fires and destroyed property over the weekend. The scene became “a very serious safety issue for our emergency responders,” according to ELPD Chief Kim Johnson.
General News
ELi Launches Campaign with Largest Match Fund in Its History
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We have $50,000 in matching funds available right now so you can double your donation today. Read on to have your questions about our fundraiser answered.
General News
We Are SO Close to Having $50,000 In the ELi Tanker!
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We are just $1,540 away from our weekend goal for our 2022 Sustainability Campaign! If you can commit a donation of $250 or more to our match fund, help us out now?
Policing
Young People in Spartan Garb Set Fires, Commit Destruction after MSU Beats UM
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Young people mostly in Spartan garb set fires in EL neighborhoods after MSU beat UM in football. Police and fire officers were well outnumbered. ELi brings you video.
City Council
East Lansing Insider: A Final Discussion About the City Council Election
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Just ahead of the Nov. 2 general election, ELi’s Andrew Graham and Alice Dreger take to the pod and look back at the 2021 City Council race to date. Give it a listen!
General News
Mayor Gregg Implores “Don’t Be An Idiot,” as Sparrow ER Is Already Packed
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Local officials fear that big parties related to football and Halloween will add additional stress to an already strained hospital system. Alice Dreger reports.
General News
How Do Local Bars Deal with the College Town Problem of Underage Drinking?
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“In March 2020, we turned in over 4,000 confiscated IDs to the ELPD that we collected from the school year, just September to March,” said Pat Riley, the owner of Harper’s Restaurant and Brew Pub and the Responsible Hospitality Council’s president.
Development
Case Dismissed: Judge Throws Out Chappelle’s Lawsuit Against ELi
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Ingham County Judge Joyce Draganchuk agreed with ELi’s attorney Brian Wassom that real estate developer Scott Chappelle had no case for defamation against ELi or its publisher Alice Dreger.
General News
ELHS Temporarily Sheltered In Place Today
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ELHS temporarily sheltered in place this morning due to a medical emergency. The shelter in place order has ended.
General News
Candidate Financial Reports Show Big Differences in Raising, Spending Money
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ELi looked through 118 pages of financial reports from candidates for the East Lansing City Council so you don’t have to. What do they reveal?
General News
What We Know About The Montgomery Drain Project
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In the weeks and months following torrential rains that flooded portions of East Lansing and numerous basements, ELi has had several readers inquire about the ongoing Montgomery Drain Project and its potential future impact in mitigating local flooding. What do we know?
General News
ELPD Searching for Missing Woman (UPDATE: Located)
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Ashana Lamise Smith was last seen on Oct. 17 on the 100 block of North Harrison Road. She was wearing a red jacket, blue jeans, and blue Tommy Hilfiger sandals.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Person Hospitalized After Fall from Parking Garage on Albert Avenue
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The person who was injured “had either fallen or purposely jumped from the first floor” of the parking garage in East Lansing’s downtown, according to Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez.
General News
ELi’s Financial Resources Are Very Low. What Are We Doing to Sustain This Service for 2022?
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With very little money left in the bank, ELi needs to raise $200,000 to function next year. Can you help us meet that goal by becoming a core donor?
Arts & Cultures
Singer-Songwriter May Erlewine Takes On Pandemic and Upcoming EL Concert with Love, Music, and Gratitude
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Singer-Songwriter May Erlewine will perform a solo show as part of the Ten Pound Fiddle Concert and Dance Series. Christopher A. Wardell spoke to Erlewine about the pandemic and her future plans.
General News
As Chappelle’s Lawsuit Against ELi Proceeds, Judge Issues Two Rulings in ELi’s Favor
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Judge Joyce Draganchuk told real estate developer Scott Chappelle’s attorneys that their actions “smack of judge shopping.” She’s keeping the case in her court.
General News
Maps from City of East Lansing of Flooding in August and September 2021
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FloodingAug2021Download
FloodingSept2021Download
General News
Dawn Carson, East Lansing’s First Woman Fire Chief, Is Sworn In
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Carson told ELi she’s looking forward to being Chief of the “outstanding group of paramedics and firefighters who provide excellent emergency medical services and fire protection to the community.”
Ask ELi to Investigate
Caught Between Local Governments, Flooded Homeowners Struggle for Answers
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On the eastern edge of East Lansing, five homeowners have spent weeks trying to figure out why the Aug. 12 rains flooded their basements with sewage. Weeks later, like most residents, they still haven’t gotten satisfying answers. Andrew Graham reports.
Community Disparities
EL Honors Civil Rights Leader Dr. Robert Green with School Renaming, Historical Marker
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On Friday, Sept. 24, the City of East Lansing and East Lansing Public Schools honored Dr. Robert L. Green, a nationally-recognized civil rights leader and one of the first Black homeowners in East Lansing.
Policing
Downtown East Lansing Stabbing Victim Suffers “Significant” Injuries; Suspect in Custody
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Another violent crime hit the Ann Street Plaza-area of East Lansing’s downtown this weekend after a fight broke out early Sunday morning. Here is what ELi has learned about the incident.
General News
Local Events to Help Refugees from Afghanistan and Elsewhere
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Local faith leaders, artists, and charitable organizations are offering many ways area residents can help refugees from Afghanistan.
City Council
City Council Says ‘No’ To Signing Off On Sheriff’s Rebuke of Prosecutor
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Ingham County Sheriff Scott Wriggelsworth has been canvassing municipalities in an attempt to get local leaders to sign onto his statement opposing County Prosecutor Carol Siemon’s reforms. Heather Brothers reports on his failure to convince East Lansing City Council to sign.
Government
New District 54B Judge Introduces Herself to the Community
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Judge Molly Hennessey Greenwalt expressed her excitement about serving her community, particularly in her capacity overseeing District 54B’s sobriety and drug courts.
Your ELi
Your ELi: An Update on the Lawsuit Against ELi
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ELi’s Executive Director and Publisher brings you an update on the alleged-defamation lawsuit launched against ELi and her by real estate developer Scott Chappelle.
General News
Additional PDF material
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Repairing-the-Breach-article-ELiDownload
This page includes attached PDFs. ELi Guidance Document Mar 25 2022Download
Mask.letter.2.15.22Download
Web_Filing_Memo_on_JAN_25_2022_746543_7Download
Press Release_Chris Martin 54B District CourtDownload
Memo-from-Lahanas-about-BonusesDownload
Repairing-the-Breach-position-paperDownload
Cataldo-PDIG-CCII-legal-complaint-Cuyahoga-Cty-6-18-15Download
Park-District-Public-Areas-Visioning-DO-9-14-21Download
Ingham-County-Sheriff-Wriggelsworth-statement-Sept-17-2021Download
Statement-from-Carol-A-Siemon-Ingahm-County-Prosecutor-Sept-17-2021Download
John-and-Lois-Porter-1551-Snyder-Road-East-Lansing-deedDownload
John-and-Lois-Porter-1551-Snyder-Road-East-Lansing-mortgageDownload
ARPA-Draft-plans-compared-Sheet1Download
Letter-from-DDA-Mayor-supporting-CITADEL-draggedDownload
Coalition-of-Unions-Letter-Download
General News
Your ELi: All the ELi News Facebook Shows You
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A significant portion of ELi’s readership uses Facebook to access the news we bring the community, but there is something we want to tell you about that.
Development
East Lansing Insider: What We’ve Learned about The Big Flood of Aug. 11-12
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On this episode, Alice Dreger and Andrew Graham discuss the aftermath of the heavy rains on Aug. 11-12, and resulting floods. How are the residents who were hardest hit doing? What else did the duo discuss?
General News
Video: City of East Lansing Welcomes Back MSU Students With ‘Moonlight ExtravaGRANDza’
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The placemaking event brought droves of students to downtown East Lansing and included a mobile vaccine clinic from the Ingham County Health Department. Andrew Graham brings more.
Development
Developer Scott Chappelle Headed to Federal Criminal Trial, With New Lawyers
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Chappelle will be back in court on Sept. 22, when Judge Hala Y. Jarbou will set a trial date. Andrew Graham reports from federal court in Lansing.
General News
Why Doesn’t ELi Publish Letters to the Editor?
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ELi’s Publisher Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott explain why we don’t post letters to the editor, even though we do carefully read what you send us!
Policing
ELPD Reports Shooting at Whitehills Residence
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According to ELPD’s press release, “officers do not believe this was a random incident and there is no ongoing threat to the public.”
Policing
Who applied to be on the Independent Police Oversight Commission?
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The applications are in, and applicants are varied in background, area of expertise, and reasons for applying. What do we know about the applicant pool?
finance and taxes
As East Lansing’s Unfunded Pension Debt Hits $100 Million, Meadows Calls for Making Income Tax Permanent
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New figures show that, despite the income tax, East Lansing’s unfunded pension liability is continuing to get bigger every year. But City Manager George Lahanas called the latest report “a very positive move in the right direction.” Why? Alice Dreger reports.
East Lansing Public Library
Why were those trees cut down in front of the ELPL?
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On Tuesday, Aug. 17, several readers wrote to ELi to ask why three mature honey locust trees in front of ELPL were about to be cut down. What were the readers’ concerns? Why did ELPL move forward with the removal?
Policing
A Closer Look At Why The ‘Albert EL Fresco’ Is On Hiatus
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The Albert EL Fresco was dismantled on Sunday, and some readers wrote in to express their sadness to see it go. Why has it been paused? When might we see it again?
Environment
Massive EL Rain Caused Sewer Backups Especially in Glencairn, Bailey, Shaw Estates
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Following the record-setting rain on the night of August 11-12, ELi surveyed readers to try to get a sense of where problems might have been grouped. What did we learn? Alice Dreger and Nathan Andrus report.
Arts & Cultures
PeaceQuest 2021 Set for September
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PeaceQuest Greater Lansing, the Lansing-area’s annual celebration of peace and justice, will take place this September. What will the month-long celebration entail?
General News
Report on ELi’s Income and Expenses in the Last Fiscal Year
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You may be hearing about local news operations closing all over America. How come we are still here, 7 years in? Find out in our report on ELi’s income and expenses.
News by the Numbers
The 2020 Census Shows East Lansing’s Population Fell – and That’s Bad News for the City
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2020 U.S. Census data shows that the City’s population fell by about 1.7 percent since the 2010 census, dropping from 48,579 down to 47,741. What does that mean for East Lansing?
General News
East Lansing Neighborhood Associations Map
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This is the “Neighborhood Associations Map” of East Lansing as provided by the City of East Lansing as of Aug. 6, 2021. East-Lansing-Neighborhood-Association-map-downloaded-Aug-6-2021Download
General News
Debates Over Renaming Pinecrest and Covid Policies at School Board
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The ELPS Board of Education held a public hearing about changing the name of Pinecrest Elementary to honor Dr. Robert L. Green, a local civil rights leader. Others called in to voice concerns over possible Covid-19 protocols. We bring you the meeting roundup.
General News
“Thank You, Pandemic”?
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More places to relax outdoors, convenient pink parking spots, MSU disciplining problematic off-campus behavior, more people participating in government. Maybe the pandemic hasn’t been all bad?
Little Joys
Flowers Brighten Up a Triangle
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An ELi reader wrote in to say he finally figured out who was planting flowers at Lake Lansing Road and Towar Avenue, brightening the spot. We share his take in our “Little Local Joys” series.
General News
List of Tags for Reporters
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Tags
The Managing Editor is currently working to tag all stories that have been published on our new domain (eastlansinginfo.news), which came into being in April 2020. Make sure to search terms on our website to find all relevant work we’ve published, including older articles from our old domain, eastlansinginfo.org, September 2014-April 2020. Some stories may not yet be tagged, and the list of tags may grow. If you cannot find a back story that you think you need, let your editor know. These are currently our tags:
East Lansing Policing (related to ELPD)Investigative Reporting (e.g., background research into public records, conducting multiple interviews)Center City District (Landmark/Newman Lofts development project in Downtown East Lansing)obitsFinances and Taxes (governmental budgets, millages, TIF, taxes)News by the Numbers (data analysis)Interactive MapBicycles (bikes, bike paths, trails, road conversions)Explainers (more for-all-time than “Ask ELi”)Ask ELi (questions from readers that we answer)East Lansing Public LibraryCaring for Each Other (food banks, community etc.)Parks & Rec (parks, Parks & Rec Commission, trails)Infrastructure (pipes, sewers, gas lines, roads)FOIA (stories that use documents obtained through Freedom of Information Act)Annual Report (updates from the publisher)Transportation (buses, trains, cars, roads, pedestrian issues)Human Interest (focuses in-depth on a specific person, often a feel-good story)Evergreen Properties (DDA’s properties on Evergreen Ave.
General News
Reporters’ Documents
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Checklist-for-ELi-reporters_072121Download
1_Onboarding-Checklist-for-Reporters-1Download
2_List-of-ExpectationsDownload
3_Tips-for-Success-and-Other-PointersDownload
4_Flow-Chart-of-Story-DevelopmentDownload
5_Tips-for-Covering-a-City-MeetingDownload
FOIA
Judge Throws Out ELi’s FOIA Case Against City of East Lansing
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The Honorable Wanda M. Stokes sided with the City Attorney’s argument that the request was too broad but encouraged ELi to file a new request with more specific language. What else did Stokes have to say about the case?
Obituaries
Julie Bishop, Local Activist and Beloved Community Member, to be Remembered Saturday
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Julie Bishop, a local activist for peace, social justice, and the environment and longtime member of Edgewood United Church, will be remembered at a memorial service on Saturday.
Arts & Cultures
As Summer Events Return to EL, Here Is an Overview
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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.
City Council
East Lansing City Council Will Tackle Action-Packed Agenda This Week
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Big policing issues, parking for the Graduate Hotel, lawsuits involving the City of East Lansing, a new outdoor design for Harper’s – all this and MUCH more coming to Council this week. ELi tells you what’s on the agenda…and what’s missing.
Elections
Your ELi: How We’re Handling a Twist in the 2021 Council Race
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Our Publisher Alice Dreger explains in detail what we’re doing to manage a conflict-of-interest problem in the City Council elections.
Your ELi
Thank you! We have reached our fundraising goal!
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With your help, we did it! Two days before the deadline, we reached the fundraising goal for our 2021-22 Youth Journalism Programming. Thank you!
General News
UPDATE: Why are your neighbors donating to this fundraiser?
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Read on to find out why! You can join them by donating today!
Your ELi
How is ELi Doing at This Point?
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As news organizations all around us keep closing, here’s the reality of where ELi stands.
Arts & Cultures
Peanut Barrel, Andy Wells, Diana Tarpoff, and Maureen McCabe-Power Are This Year’s Crystal Awardees
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Joe and Jennifer Bell of The Peanut Barrel, East Lansing High School Principal Andy Wells, education-energizer Diana Tarpoff, and extraordinary friend of the East Lansing Public Library Maureen McCabe-Power have all been honored this year.
Development
East Lansing Insider: Neighbors and Noise in East Lansing
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ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott discuss complaints made to East Lansing’s City Council about noise created by cars and motorcycles. Elliott also interviews ELPD’s Neighborhood Resource Specialist Tonya Williams.
Arts & Cultures
Spend Locally: Constellation Cat Cafe
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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.
Development
Judge Moves Developer Scott Chappelle’s Lawsuit Against ELi to Ingham County Courts
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Chappelle’s civil case against ELi will continue now in Ingham County courts, while in Chappelle’s criminal fraud case, a federal judge has ordered that a doctor determine whether Chappelle is competent to stand trial. Andrew Graham reports for ELi.
General News
ELi’s Youth Journalists Generate the News You Read – And We Can MATCH Your Support for Them If You Act TODAY!
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To put it bluntly, ELi could not deliver the quality news you rely on without the work of our youngest reporters. Help us reach our youth journalism fundraising goal today!
General News
Remembering An Expectation-Setting 2021 East Lansing Boys Lacrosse Season
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The ELHS Boys Lacrosse team went to a regional final for the first time in more than a decade. The team, which hadn’t played together since 2019 due to the pandemic, had a benchmark-setting season. Andrew Graham takes a look back.
General News
Now YOU Can Help Support East Lansing’s Own Youth Journalists!
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If you give now to support ELi’s Youth Journalism Programs, we will see your gift DOUBLE thanks to matching funds! It’s easy to help our area young people engage with factual local journalism!
General News
ELi Invites Applicants to Fifth Annual Summer Youth Journalism Program
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ELi is now accepting applications for its 5th annual Summer Youth Journalism Program to be held in August 2021. Read on to find out more about the two courses offered and how to apply.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing at Home: 946 N. Harrison Road
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In this installment, Carrie Sampson takes a look at the home of Diana Farmer and Charlie Richardson, located in the Glencairn neighborhood.
Elections
East Lansing Insider: Who Is Running for City Council?
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East Lansing Insider is available online and airs at 9 a.m. on Sundays on 88.9 FM. This week, Alice Dreger and Jack Timothy Harrison discuss the 2021 East Lansing City Council elections.
Caring for Each Other
EL School Board Round Up: Reflecting on the Year Past and the Year Ahead
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Will Pinecrest get a new name? Will school be in-person or virtual in the fall? When will food distribution happen? Is the track open to the public? Find the answers to these questions – and more – in the School Board round up.
Obituaries
Samuel James Hosey, Sr., Barrier-Breaking Pharmacist and Man of Faith and Family, Is Remembered
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Hosey was among the area’s first Black pharmacists and one of East Lansing’s first Black homeowners. His family remembers his perseverance and dedication.
Arts & Cultures
Pinecrest Neighborhood Association to Hold Juneteenth Celebration
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After holding its first Juneteenth celebration in 2020, the Pinecrest Neighborhood Association will do the same this year on Saturday at 2 p.m. What will the event include? What is its significance to the community?
Development
East Lansing Insider: Apartment Leasing in East Lansing
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East Lansing Insider is available online and airs at 9 a.m. on Sundays on 88.9 FM.
Policing
Neighborhood Resource Specialists Assist ELPD in Resolving Civil and Long-Term Issues
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Since December 2020, ELPD has had a Community Engagement Team that consists of three neighborhood resource specialists and two social workers. Ann Kammerer speaks to Tonya Williams, the lead Neighborhood Resource Specialist for ELPD, to find out more about the work the specialists are doing in East Lansing.
Investigative Reporting
Emails Reveal Prosecutors and Police Struggled With Technology and Schedules as Now-Exonerated Man Sat in Jail
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East Lansing Council member Lisa Babcock says she obtained the same set of emails via FOIA and “found them deeply disturbing.” What do they show? ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
finance and taxes
Two Long Time Directors for the City Retire: Randy Talifarro and Tim McCaffrey
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Talifarro served as ELFD Fire Chief since 2001 and McCaffrey as Parks and Rec Director since 1999. ELi provides a look back at the tenure of the two directors.
General News
ELi Now Broadcasting on Impact Radio on Sunday Mornings
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Starting today, you can catch ELi’s weekly East Lansing Insider podcast on The Impact, 88.9 FM!
General News
Gas Line Rupture Led to Emergency Evacuations in Oakwood on Thursday
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A contractor was laying cable for Zayo when a gas line was ruptured. The leak was significant, with the scent added to the gas easily detectable a block away. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
Development
Developer Scott Chappelle Sues ELi for Reporting on His Criminal Indictment, Business Practices
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According to ELi’s attorney Brian Wassom, “Plaintiff Chappelle is one more in a long line of disgruntled criminal defendants using state defamation and tort law as a weapon to retaliate against journalists doing their duty to keep the public informed on matters of public concern.” Andrew Graham reports.
Arts & Cultures
Summer Solstice Jazz Festival Returns in Hybrid Format
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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!
Policing
54B Court To Hold Conviction Expungement Clinic; Several Resources Offered to Formerly Incarcerated
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Expungement allows those convicted of crimes to remove the offense from their records. Free financial help seminars are also being made available to those who have criminal records. Learn more from ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott.
Policing
A Deeper Look at the East Lansing Police Department Budget
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City Council expressed interest in the ELPD budget, but then passed what had been presented. What can we discern in that budget about ELPD policing for East Lansing? Nick Sly reports for ELi.
General News
One-Car Crash in East Lansing Causing Outages
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The accident occurred at the intersection of Saginaw St. and Harrison Rd. Metronet service is down in the area, and other services are also likely affected. ELPD asks people to avoid the area.
Community Disparities
ELi Hears from Readers about Big Medical Bills – and Investigates Help for Those Suffering
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MSU switched the insurance it provides for its retirees, causing some to face serious billing issues. International students are left to navigate a healthcare system very different from the ones that they are familiar with. What can those in our area do if they are facing large medical bills?
Policing
Additional Victim Comes Forward After Recent Mass Shooting in East Lansing
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ELPD Deputy Chief Steve Gonzalez provided ELi with a brief update on how the investigation is going after readers asked ELi for the latest information.
Community Disparities
“Breach of Research Ethics” in East Lansing Survey on Policing Perspectives
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A recent study of East Lansing residents’ attitudes on policing said it included 51 African American and/or Black respondents, but Dr. Cedrick Heraux discovered discrepancies after looking at the raw data. What did he find in his deep dive into the numbers?
Elections
Who Is Running for City Council – and Who Knows About It?
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When the City Clerk’s office declined to provide a list of people who pulled applications to run for City Council, ELi filed a FOIA request. What did we find out in addition to who might be running for Council?
Ann About Town
Ann About Town: When the Moon Hits Your Eye Like a Big Pizza Pie, That’s The Cosmos
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Ann and the Captain share some of their favorite dishes from The Cosmos. Whether getting Takeout, dining in, or dining outside, what do they recommend?
Policing
Islamic Center Trustee and Others React to ELi Report, While Deputy Police Chief Promises More Reforms
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Thasin Sardar, an Islamic Center Trustee, and Kelli Ellsworth-Etchison, a member of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission, responded to ELi’s report, while ELPD Deputy Chief Steve Gonzalez promised some reform.
Policing
UPDATED: Missing Woman, Shirley Baughan, Found
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ELPD announced that Shirley Baughan has been located and thanks volunteers for their help with the search.
Investigative Reporting
Council Member Babcock Demanded ELPD Investigate “News Release That Condemned a Resident as a Rapist”
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After prosecutors dropped all the charges, Babcock questioned the “truthfulness” of one police officer’s report, the press release, and whether racial, ethnic, religious, or other biases played a role in this case. ELPD investigation found her complaint to be “sustained.” ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
Caring for Each Other
Resources for Mental Health
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Resources for mental health are available in our community:
Community Mental Health Crisis Services: (800) 372-84600
The Listening Ear Crisis Hotline (2pm to 2am): (517) 337-1717
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK (8255)
Trojan Mental Health Matters provides a list of local resources, particularly for children and youth.
Caring for Each Other
Resources For Those Who Experienced Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence
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For those who have experienced sexual assault or relationship violence, the following resources are available in our community:
MSU Center for Survivors 24-Hour Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline: (517) 372-6666
End Violent Encounters (EVE) 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (517) 372-5572
MSU Safe Place offers shelter and other services: (517) 355-1100 or noabuse@msu.edu.
National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline: (800) 656-HOPE (4673)
Policing
Multiple People Injured in Shooting at Abbot Road Apartments
|
According to a press release from ELPD, “This act of violence does not appear to be random in nature, and there is no ongoing threat in the area.”
General News
The Senior Ambassador Program Connects East Lansing’s Students and Seniors
|
The program has paired MSU students and local senior citizens for both one-on-one meetings and larger group classes online. What have students and seniors enjoyed? How might the program evolve in fall 2021?
COVID-19
Protection Now Available to Area Children Aged 12-15 via Pfizer Covid Vaccine
|
Vaccination of this age group helps protect people who come into contact with them, including those at much higher risk of illness and death, such as pregnant women. No appointment is necessary at some sites. Find out more from ELi.
Caring for Each Other
Islamic Center of East Lansing Holding Vaccine Clinic for Community on Friday
|
The clinic is open to everyone in the community, age 18 and older, at no cost to recipients. Stop by with your photo ID, consent form, and insurance card (if applicable.)
Arts & Cultures
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?
Caring for Each Other
Get Vaccinated, Plead Sparrow Hospital Doctor and Former Patient
|
A former patient shares his experience of being hospitalized for Covid, and a Sparrow physician shares what it’s like to work with Covid patients. Both want to see more people get vaccinated.
Center City District
Close Part of Albert Ave. Again? The Debate Continues.
|
Ali Haider, the owner of East Lansing’s downtown 7-Eleven store, explains what his business has gone through with all of the street closures. Plus, two residents of Newman Lofts weigh in.
Environment
Two Congregations Partner to Go Green
|
The Islamic Center of East Lansing and University Lutheran Church partnered to install solar panels. What motivated them to do so? How did they mark the occasion?
General News
ELPS Administrators Call Assignment on Slavery a “Collective Failure”
|
The assignment asked students to imagine themselves as enslaved persons. How did ELPS teachers come to this assignment? What is the district doing to address the issue?
Community Disparities
Group Seeks to Honor Civil Rights Icon with Historical Markers, Renaming of Pinecrest Elementary School
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In 1964, Dr. Robert L. Green was an East Lansing resident and MSU faculty member who made a complaint to the federal government in a case related to a house he wanted to buy in the Glencairn neighborhood. Green was also a national leader in civil rights. Now, a local group is seeking to honor his legacy of local and national leadership.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Health Department and Sparrow Announce Open Vaccine Appointments and Increased Capacity
|
Anyone over age 16 in Michigan can now make an appointment directly with the Ingham County Health Department for a vaccine. Sparrow has walk-in hours for vaccines, and we provide you with information on other local vaccine providers.
Policing
“It’s Wrong”: Emails Show Why City Council Nixed ELPD Awards Ceremony
|
Council members were mainly opposed to ELPD honoring Officer Andrew Stephenson, the central figure in two alleged incidents of excessive use of force. Andrew Graham reports.
Environment
East Lansing Trees, Including Majestic Oaks, Threatened by Diseases and Pests
|
Oak wilt, spruce decline, and insect pests are challenging our arboreal environment. ELi’s Patty Bonito consulted local arborist Alex Ellis and MSU Extension to bring this report, which includes information about what you can do to help your trees.
Policing
ELPD Seeking Information To Identify SUV in Vehicle-Bicycle Hit-and-Run
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ELPD is requesting that any witnesses of the accident, or anyone with information about the SUV or its driver, contact the police. The ELPD main desk phone number is 517-319-6897.
COVID-19
ELPS Considers Lifting Pause on Sports, as Area Sees Covid Situation Worsen
|
Our area is a national Covid-19 hotspot. How are schools and local government responding? How is the vaccine rollout going?
Ann About Town
Ann About Town: Curb Your Dog, Bring Your Enthusiasm to the Dog Park
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Following comments from readers, Ann explains how to be both a great human to your furry friend and a good neighbor. To summarize, please make sure your dog is on a leash, pick up poop, and dispose of it in your own trash can. For fun unleashed play, consider visiting the Northern Tail Dog Park.
Your ELi
Expect ELi to Be Quiet Until April 12
|
We will be taking a much needed publishing break that coincides with a week of ELPS Spring Break and fewer governmental meetings.
Community Disparities
East Lansing Council Responds to Survey Showing African American Residents Have Relatively Lower Trust of ELPD
|
Despite paying nearly $20,000 for the survey conducted by a private firm, the City did not receive the raw data collected. Council expressed concern over the way survey results were analyzed and presented. What were the issues? How might the results be used moving forward?
General News
Andrea Larkin Retiring as First and Only Woman Judge for East Lansing Court; Governor to Appoint Replacement
|
Her colleagues shared with ELi their appreciation for her work. What will happen after Larkin’s retirement?
Spend Locally
Wild Birds Unlimited New Owner Excited to Work with Loyal Customers
|
What’s new at Wild Birds Unlimited?
General News
Town Hall and Vigil at MSU to Respond to Anti-Asian Acts
|
Anti-Asian violence has been on the rise in some of the nation’s largest cities, but Asian and Asian-American students at MSU reported an uptick in anti-Asian sentiment in February 2020, associated with the spread of Covid-19. A town hall and vigil on Thursday will provide space for discussion and support.
COVID-19
ELHS Model UN Club Takes Home Multiple Awards
|
The event was held online, but that did not stop a group of ELHS students from doing their best. How did the event go? What awards did they take home?
Policing
ELPD Investigating Shots Fired on St. Patrick’s Day
|
The incident occurred on Abbot Road between Lake Lansing Road and Saginaw Street. Andrew Graham reports.
COVID-19
Retrospective: A Year of Covid in East Lansing
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Covid-19 has been present in East Lansing for over a year. How has it changed our community? Where does our community stand now in terms of the virus?
Sports
No. 2 Trojans Begin Their Championship March with 65-50 Win Against Holt
|
“We have enough things in place where we’re prepared to compete any style of game,” Coach Rob Smith tells ELi. Read all about the Trojans’ latest win.
General News
Why Is ELi Trying a Paper Edition?
|
News delivered on paper? How retro! Why would ELi consider such a move? Our founder/publisher explains.
COVID-19
Sparrow Opens Vaccine Registration to All 16 and Older; U.K Variant Now on Campus
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You can make appointments through the MySparrow portal now. Read on for more information about that and the arrival of the U.K. variant on campus.
COVID-19
MSU Is Working to Make On-Campus Housing More Attractive
|
After announcing that second-year students will be required to live on-campus, MSU is upgrading its infrastructure and making other changes. What will this entail?
COVID-19
UPDATED: New Options for Getting a Vaccine Announced
|
MDHHS announced on Friday that all Michiganders 16 and older with underlying conditions will be eligible for vaccine beginning Mar. 22. All Michiganders will be eligible on April 5.
General News
Your ELi: We Want to Know What YOU Value in a Local News Service [UPDATED]
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We have a date: Mar. 10 at 7 p.m. on Zoom! Take our survey and get ready to join us in a public discussion of what we should value as we work for you at ELi.
General News
We Need a Little Break
|
It’s Emily’s birthday, and Alice is away, so you’ll see a little less from us for a few days. We hope it makes you appreciate the work of ELi’s team even more!
Your ELi
Your ELi: The Context of Today’s Report on EHOP
|
ELi’s reporting team looked into the City’s Employee Homeownership Program to understand how one relatively unusual benefit has been disbursed.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi Grab Bag: Deer, Playgrounds, and Parking
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Did the deer cull result in meat being delivered to local food banks? What’s up with parking at Bailey Park? What will happen with the Biggby lot on Grand River Ave? We bring some updates.
General News
As ELPS Approaches a Return to School, What Are People Thinking About It?
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The plan for bringing students back changed in January. Some look forward to the return, particularly as students feel the effects of isolation. But some families feel frustrated with communication and fear increased community spread. Emily Joan Elliott takes a look at what various stakeholders have to say.
Spend Locally
Weekend Warrior Event Brings Residents Downtown
|
Looking to enjoy what downtown East Lansing has to offer? Check out the Weekend Warriors project, which is funding through the Place Project. ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports.
COVID-19
ELPS Gears Up for Return to In-Person Learning, Discusses Racial Equity Training
|
Some ELPS students will return to in-person learning on Mar. 1. The Board provides some details on safety protocols, and Curriculum Director Glenn Mitcham reviewed the district’s professional development focused on social and racial justice.
bicycles
Proceed with Caution as Young Pedestrians and Bicyclists Make Their Way to School
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Aislinn Callahan-Brandt tells ELi the problem is twofold: drivers aren’t used to seeing kids, and kids aren’t used to walking or biking to school. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
COVID-19
ELPS Return to In-Person Learning Pushed Back; Now Mar. 1 for All Students
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Elementary school children were set to return on Feb. 22 and middle and high school students on Mar. 1. Vaccine distribution delays due to snow have reset the start date to Mar. 1 for all students returning to school.
COVID-19
ICHD to Reschedule Canceled Vaccine Appointments Due to Snow
|
The Ingham County Health Department canceled vaccination appointments today due to the snowstorm overnight. Those with appointments on Feb. 16 will be contacted by either phone or email to reschedule over the next three days.
Caring for Each Other
“Like Hollering Down the Well”: Local Seniors Frustrated While Trying to Get Vaccines
|
Checking for appointments and waiting for emails has begun to feel like a full-time job, filled with anxiety and confusion. Emily Joan Elliott reports on what seniors have to say what has caused some of the confusion.
Policing
School Board Member Calls East Lansing “A Sundown Town” as New Data Shows High Use of Force by Police Against Blacks
|
In the last four years, ELPD has used force against more Black people than white people, while whites in the population well outnumber Blacks. The City Manager’s call for expert analysis was met with harsh criticism Monday night.
Arts & Cultures
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.
finance and taxes
How is the City of East Lansing Spending Money?
|
East Lansing Info is making publicly available the register of all payments made by the City of East Lansing in fiscal years 2019 ad 2020. Tell us what you would like us to examine further.
Caring for Each Other
“Since this year has been crummy, let’s give them something sweet and yummy!”
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A Girl Scout troop from Whitehills Elementary is asking the community for help to give ELPS teachers and staff cookies.
General News
Lake Lansing Road-Towar Avenue Intersection to be Redone This Summer
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The changes come as part of improvements to White Park and the Northern Tier Trail and have pedestrian safety in mind. Andrew Graham provides the details.
COVID-19
Learn about the Science of Covid-19 and the Vaccines in Today’s East Lansing Insider
|
Our latest East Lansing Insider podcast, recorded today, focuses on the science of Covid-19, including the vaccines and variants. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott interviews Dr. Aron Sousa of MSU’s College of Human Medicine.
COVID-19
Seeing Rapid Positivity Increase, MSU Orders Students to Stay in Their Dorm Rooms
|
Starting at midnight, on-campus MSU students will be required to stay in their dorm rooms with few exceptions for at least two weeks. What’s the context for the new decision?
COVID-19
Health Officer Linda Vail Speaks on ELi’s Podcast
|
Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott sits down with Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail, discussing the pandemic and more. Listen on.
General News
ICHD Will Begin Vaccinating Seniors Age 65-69
|
Those eligible may soon receive links to register for appointments in February, but vaccine supply is still low. ELi provides details on the process.
East Lansing Public Library
Rundown of Meetings from This Past Week
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The City and school district held several important meetings this week. The ELi team brings you the updates.
General News
UPDATED: The Latest on East Lansing’s Deer Cull – It’s Been Completed
|
The City announced that the cull has been completed, resulting in the removal of 65 deer over the course of two evenings.
Your ELi
East Lansing Info’s Annual Report for 2020
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Our Executive Director and Publisher brings you ELi’s 2020 Annual Report so you can see what we brought in, what we spent, and what we achieved for East Lansing.
Caring for Each Other
Sparrow Begins Vaccinating Phase 1B
|
We bring information on how you can register and what the vaccination process through Sparrow will look like.
General News
Interfaith Organization Promoting Healing and Unity on Inauguration Day
|
The Interfaith Clergy Association of Greater Lansing will be releasing a video on Inauguration Day. Adan Tomas Quan reports.
Policing
Your ELi: It’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in East Lansing
|
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan will host an event on television this evening. This morning, ELi reflects on covering news related to racial equity and justice.
General News
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.
General News
In Letters to City Council, Some Pinecrest Residents Ask Deer Cull Be Halted In Henry Fine Park
|
City Council members discussed the issue at their Tuesday meeting. They didn’t take any action on the cull, but asked City Manager George Lahanas to push out information to address questions and concerns.
Caring for Each Other
Vaccine Supply a Problem, Not Staffing or Organization, Says Ingham County Health Officer
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Ingham County Health Department is vaccinating 2,000 people a week and could increase this number if it were to receive more vaccines. Emily Joan Elliott reports on the initial rollout of vaccinating Phase 1B and what to expect next.
Obituaries
Obituary: George Cooke Landon, PhD (1933-2021)
|
George Cook Landon, Ph.D., was Professor of American Thought and Language at MSU from 1964 – 1998. He died peacefully in East Lansing, where had had lived since 1964.
Policing
Police Action in Area of Loree Drive Explained (and Updated)
|
What’s been going on with police activity on Loree Drive? ELPD has provided some information and more is expected soon.
Caring for Each Other
UPDATED: Ingham County to Begin Vaccinating Seniors, Essential Workers Including Teachers
|
Here is how you can sign up to receive the vaccine through the Ingham County Health Department.
General News
Pandemic Leads SBS and Collegeville, Normally Competitors, to Collaborate
|
The two locally-owned bookstores will be collaborating to offer MSU students course materials this semester. Collegeville’s Tom Muth explains why.
Obituaries
Obituary: Javier Jerez (1999-2020)
|
Javier was an MSU student from Connecticut and died in East Lansing last month at the age of 21, leaving his family in deep sorrow.
Environment
Nighttime Deer Culls Set to Start, with Park Closures Running through Early March (More Info)
|
From January 11 to March 1, people should lookout for barricades and notices at park entrances giving altered hours as contracted sharpshooters do their work. ELi’s Andrew Graham has the story from City Council.
General News
ELi Contributors Raise Over $132K for 2021 Reporting
|
We bring you preliminary numbers on our 2021 Sustainability Campaign and tell you what some donors said as they helped last night!
General News
Last Chance at a 2020 Tax Deduction for a Donation that Helps ELi Survive
|
Here’s an update as of 8:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
General News
What Will Be the Big East Lansing Stories of 2021?
|
Our staff compiles the top stories we expect to cover in 2021. But we can never know all that will happen — like, a pandemic — and that’s why we need your financial support.
General News
Fan of NPR’s Peter Sagal? Well, We Have a Special ELi Campaign for You!
|
Hear Peter Sagal of “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me!” explain why YOU should donate to keep ELi running! And, if you donate $50 to this special campaign, you’ll get an autographed copy of Peter’s memoir about running!
Arts & Cultures
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.
General News
The ELi Telethon Goes Live!
|
Here’s the much-anticipated schedule for ELi’s first ever telethon! Check out the amazing line-up of guests!
Your ELi
Top Off a Bucket to Help ELi Keep Reporting!
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We just need a little more money to top off three special-match buckets, all of them captained by people who love East Lansing neighborhoods!
Arts & Cultures
The Top Ten East Lansing Stories of 2020
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What were the biggest stories in East Lansing for 2020? ELi’s Publisher and Managing Editor bring you the top 10 list.
General News
ELPD Issues Alert for Missing Teenager (UPDATED: Teen Located)
|
This story has an update indicating the missing teen has been located.
General News
ELi Hosts Telethon with Actual Famous People
|
ELi is doing a telethon! Join us on Wednesday to hear from local newsmakers and nationally renown journalists and media commentators, including Dan Savage of “It Gets Better,” John Schwartz of The New York Times, Emily Yoffe of The Atlantic, Emily Nussbaum of The New Yorker, and NPR’s Peter Sagal! No kidding!
General News
FAQ on ELi Fundraising, Including about Facebook
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ELi is only halfway to its fundraising goal, and we are struggling to get the word out on Facebook. Alice Dreger explains this and answers fundraising-related questions.
Your ELi
The Ten Stories That Meant the Most to Your ELi Reporters in 2020
|
From ELHS closing due to Covid-19, to volunteers sewing masks to donate, to the Harbor Bay dealings, our reporters highlight stories they enjoyed bringing you in 2020. At this page, you can click on “play” buttons to hear individual recordings of the articles read by their own reporters!
General News
The Good that East Lansing Brings
|
The unexpected joy obtained through ELi is providing a place for us to witness and amplify the good of this exceptional community.
General News
Important Feedback ELi Is Getting During Fundraising, As ASMSU Gives a Big Boost
|
ELi is nearly halfway to meeting its fundraising goal for its 2021 Sustainability Campaign. Alice Dreger updates you on that and the feedback we are receiving from our readers.
Arts & Cultures
UPDATED: Holiday Events to Enjoy During the Pandemic
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Sarah Spohn brings an update about a virtual concert available for streaming, beginning today.
General News
City Announces Additional Collection Days for Holidays
|
Adan Tomas Quan provides the details on additional refuse collection days this holiday season.
Your ELi
Why Have ELi’s Expenses Gone Up “So Much”?
|
Get an inside look at ELi’s expenses to see where donated dollars go and to understand why, this year, our Sustainability Campaign goal is higher than last.
Development
A Lot of East Lansing City News You Might Want to Know
|
Quick hits on the various stories Alice Dreger has been keeping tabs on, from the Center City District bonds to a mysterious public hearing. Read on.
COVID-19
East Lansing Continues to See Covid Deaths, as Local Hospitals Deal with Case Surge
|
East Lansing is averaging three deaths a week from Covid-19 as the number of individuals needing ventilators seems to be rising. Emily Joan Elliott reports on this and the arrival of vaccines in the area.
Development
Catch Up on What’s Going On With the Latest ‘East Lansing Insider’
|
Andrew Graham and Emily Joan Elliott are joined by ELi reporter Heather Brothers to discuss the work of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.
Policing
‘Police Policing the Police’: Study Committee Frets Over Limits of Oversight
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Committee members were concerned about the ultimate powers the Oversight Commission might hold and if the community would view it as independent. Heather Brothers reports.
Policing
Alleged Sexual and Felonious Assault at Deerpath Leads to Arrest (Updated)
|
ELPD sent the media release on Monday, after the suspect was arraigned on several charges. Andrew Graham reports.
COVID-19
School Board Majority Approves Some In-Person Learning This Winter; Teachers’ Union President Resigns Following Controversy
|
The School Board voted 5-2 to approve a plan that will permit elementary school kids to return in February and middle and high school students in March. But space may be limited. Emily Joan Elliott explains.
General News
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.
Development
Planning Commission is Reviewing New ‘Shaping the Avenue’ Draft, a Plan with Potentially Huge Implications
|
Planning Commission is currently reviewing the latest draft of a plan that would create a new zoning district, with a form-based code, called the Avenue Form District. Andrew Graham explains.
Caring for Each Other
That Shrieking CO Detector Means GET. THE. HECK. OUT. NOW.
|
Your carbon monoxide detector goes off. What do you do? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott walks you through how you can prepare in advance after her own recent experience.
General News
ELi’s 2021 Fundraising: Worrisome Status and Outlook
|
The thought of having our city, East Lansing, be in the dark or be misled when it comes to facts is just too awful a thought. But we are far short of our fundraising need.
Arts & Cultures
School Board to Vote on Reopening Plan, and Council on Corporate Tax Exemptions
|
Along with School Board and City Council, there are meetings of Planning Commission, Arts Commission, Downtown Development Authority and Police Study Committee. Andrew Graham unpacks it.
Environment
East Lansing Historic District Commission Approves Residential Solar Panels
|
The Commission also denied two separate applications seeking replace exterior wood with vinyl. Andrew Graham reports.
General News
ELi’s Board Secretary Awarded Prestigious Mitchell Scholarship
|
Maysa Sitar, Secretary of ELi’s Board of Directors, won a Mitchell Scholarship to study at Queen’s University Belfast. We explain why Maysa is so deserving of this honor.
General News
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.
COVID-19
Ingham Hits 10,000 Covid-19 Cases; 48823 Now Leads Case and Death Counts
|
Ingham County now has more than 10,000 recorded cases of Covid-19. How is the pandemic playing out in East Lansing? What might we expect in the upcoming weeks?
Center City District
Episode 8 and A Special Edition of The ‘East Lansing Insider’ Are Now Live
|
The team at ELi brings you the regular weekly pod and a special edition from Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott on the refinancing of the Center City District bonds. Listen on.
Policing
Presentations to Police Study Committee Outline ELPD Complaints, ‘Uphill Struggle’ for Transparency
|
Presentations from Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez and Human Rights Commissioner Liz Miller helped the Study Committee get a better grasp on the challenges ahead. Heather Brothers reports.
Obituaries
Elaine Natoli, “A Jewel” of East Lansing, Has Died at Age 72 of Cancer
|
Elaine will be remembered for her egoless kindness, her infectious laugh, her visible devotion to those she loved, her love of music, her great cooking, and her solid elegance.
General News
Great News: Now You Can Help Local Restaurants and ELPS at the Same Time
|
Want to support local families and local businesses at the same time? ELPS is putting out a call for donations of food and gift cards to local businesses to help some district families over winter break.
Policing
ELi Has No Office. So Why Did We Just Run an Emergency Drill?
|
We ran through how to deal with a mass shooting, a series of gas explosions, and a tornado. Our Executive Director and Publisher explains why.
Arts & Cultures
SBS Offers Lots of Fun Gift Options (Now at 30% Off)
|
Art supplies, delights for writers, stocking-stuffers, and Spartan-branded everything. That’s why SBS makes a surprisingly great option for gift shopping.
Arts & Cultures
Campbell’s Needs Us – and They Have Great Groceries AND Gifts
|
Free delivery on all local grocery orders makes Campbell’s a great choice for staying safe and spending locally.
Arts & Cultures
Spend Locally: Moosejaw
|
Gloves, hats, flannel shirts, long underwear, wool socks, backpacks, and way cool gear for social distancing . . . or camping. Find it all at Moosejaw in East Lansing.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: When, Exactly, is the Deer Cull?
|
Following questions from readers about when the deer cull begins, if it hasn’t already, Andrew Graham got back in touch with the City to find out the precise dates.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: Will a Cell Tower Be Built Near Kedzie Street?
|
An ELi reader shared a legal notice indicating that a cell tower is proposed to be built on the south end of the Bailey Neighborhood. So what would be going where, exactly? Andrew Graham finds out.
General News
MSU Says Student Housing Policy Change Will Mean 2,000 More Living On Campus
|
MSU Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education and Dean of Undergraduate Studies Mark Largent tells ELi that the move will help students “persist” in college and not drop out. Andrew Graham brings an update.
Development
Episode 7 of the ‘Insider’ is Live
|
Andrew Graham, Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott talk shop and decompress while discussing a whirlwind few days in East Lansing.
COVID-19
ELPD and ELFD Discuss Providing Essential Services During Pandemic
|
Social distancing has been a key component of keeping safe during the pandemic, but ELPD and ELFD personnel often work in groups and interact with the public. What precautions have they been taking?
Policing
Council Frees the Nipple While Amending the Disorderly Conduct Code
|
Council member Dana Watson successfully removed sexist language from part of the proposed ordinance. Andrew Graham reports on that and the rest from Council.
Arts & Cultures
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.
finance and taxes
Why Are East Lansing’s Water and Sewer Rates Higher Than Meridian Township’s?
|
Several factors contribute to the difference in costs, but one main factor is the differing ages of infrastructure. Andrew Graham explains further.
General News
#SupportELiNews TODAY for #GivingTuesday
|
Keep investigative and informative local news coming in 2021 for East Lansing! Give today and we will get a full MATCH for your donation!
Center City District
East Lansing BRA Advised to Refinance Bonds to Avoid “Considerable Headline and Reputational Risk”
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Who is the investor for the refinancing bonds? Mark Bell’s father. Again. And any chance of saving that $6 million in taxes appears to be evaporating.
Spend Locally
Spend Locally: Blue Owl Coffee
|
Need a caffeine fix? ELi’s Sarah Spohn tells you what Blue Owl has to offer.
Arts & Cultures
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.
Arts & Cultures
Spend Locally: Flat, Black & Circular
|
Have a music lover in your life? Christopher A. Wardell tells us what you can for them find at Flat, Black & Circular.
COVID-19
MSU Students Searching for Off-Campus Work After Furloughs
|
In October, Residential and Hospitality Services at MSU furloughed student employees, who then looked across Grand River Ave. for employment. Jack Timothy Harrison reports for ELi.
General News
It’s Trivia Night with the ELi Team!
|
Looking for something fun to do? Come play trivia, hosted by the ELi staff. First-place winner gets a Crunchy’s gift card courtesy of our Publisher Alice Dreger!
General News
Why I Report for ELi
|
Why should you support ELi during our 2021 Sustainability Campaign? ELi’s City Desk Editor Andrew Graham explains why ELi is important to him and the community.
Arts & Cultures
Footgear Is Closing After Four Decades in East Lansing
|
“I’m from the working class, and when you grow up with working class people, they never think of retiring,” said Richard Liscombe, owner of Footgear. But then came the pandemic.
Spend Locally
Spend Locally: Wild Birds Unlimited
|
Know someone who is tired of staring at a computer screen? Pick up some supplies from Wild Birds Unlimited to so they can observe some feathered fauna as they take a screen break.
COVID-19
Episode 6 of the ‘East Lansing Insider’ is Available Now
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The usual trio of Andrew Graham, Emily Joan Elliott and Alice Dreger break down the latest news from East Lansing and bring an interview from an ELi donor.
Arts & Cultures
What Will You Do Friday?
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Black Friday is this week and local small business owners are reconsidering what the day might look like in 2020.
General News
UPDATE: Council Unanimously Passes Resolution Declaring Racism as a Public Health Crisis
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After hearing about the resolution from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Administrator Elaine Hardy, Council voted to approve the resolution. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Policing
Police Oversight Study Committee Reaches Consensus on Report Outline, Discusses Use of Force
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The Study Committee was given a presentation by Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez on use of force with ELPD, and dealt with several other matters. Andrew Graham reports.
Policing
ELPD Looking for 5 Suspects in Cell Phone Store Robbery
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The robbery took place at the 1000 block of Trowbridge Avenue just before 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020. Andrew Graham reports.
Spend Locally
Spend Locally – A New and Urgent Series from ELi
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It’s time to give up on the idea of the perfect gift and buy the gift that will save your local economy. Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott explain why ELi is launching its new series “SPEND LOCALLY”!
Policing
What’s on the Docket in East Lansing Next Week?
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Despite Thanksgiving being on Thursday, there’s a slew of meetings over the first half of the week. Andrew Graham breaks down what’s to come.
General News
More on the Cost of Living Rising in East Lansing
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How does ELi cover taxes and finances in East Lansing? Publisher Alice Dreger explains.
General News
Join the ELi Team on Sunday for “Fun with FOIA,” a Live Conversation and Workshop!
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Join the ELi staff Sunday at 7p.m. for “Fun with FOIA,” a live conversation about our work using documents provided through the Freedom on Information Act and a workshop on developing your own FOIA request.
COVID-19
Listen to ‘East Lansing Insider’ Featuring City Council Member Dana Watson
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Watson joins the podcast for an interview with Andrew Graham, where they discuss a number of pressing topics in East Lansing. Listen for more.
COVID-19
Local Moderna Vaccine Trial Participant Shares His Experience
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Retired MSUPD Police Chief Jim Dunlap spoke with ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott about his participation in the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine trial.
COVID-19
Ingham County Braces to Handle the Ongoing Covid-19 Surge
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Covid-19 cases are surging locally. What does this mean for hospital capacity, testing, and contact tracing? Who is most vulnerable? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Policing
East Lansing Says It Is an “Open Government.” The Reality Is More Challenging.
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ELi has frequently encountered issues with Freedom of Information requests, finding that requests are often incomplete and are answered at the last possible moment. Andrew Graham explains.
Development
Big Infrastructure Project Will Change Park District Area – and Peoples Church Isn’t Pleased
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A long-planned project will improve sewer infrastructure and change the amount of parking in the area, leaving some displeased. Alice Dreger reports.
Development
TechSmith Tax Exemption Request Heard, While Parking System Is Bleeding Money
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During a discussion-only meeting, Council members seemed open to the idea of a tax exemption for TechSmith and briefly workshopped parking solutions, among other things. Andrew Graham reports.
COVID-19
New Statewide Orders Issued as Covid-19 Pandemic Worsens
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New restrictions go into effect on Wednesday to curb the spread of Covid-19. Andrew Graham and Emily Joan Elliott explain what this means for East Lansing.
General News
UPDATE: FOUND Missing Child in East Lansing
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Peyton Farner has returned home safely, according to ELPD.
finance and taxes
The Rising Cost of Living in East Lansing
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The cost of living in and running a business in East Lansing has indeed been going up. Alice Dreger reviews some of the changes.
Caring for Each Other
Interfaith Effort in East Lansing to Prevent Hunger
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Local religious groups worked together on Oct. 31 to provide produce and dairy products for the community. Adan Tomas Quan tells us how it got started.
Policing
Listen to Episode 4 of the ‘East Lansing Insider’
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The trio of Alice Dreger, Emily Joan Elliott and Andrew Graham break down the latest happenings in East Lansing. Read on to listen.
Policing
Police Oversight Study Committee Forms Subcommittees, Discusses Transparency Frustrations
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The discussion about transparency comes days after the Human Rights Commission had a similar discussion about police transparency. Heather Brothers reports.
Policing
Human Rights Commissioners Frustrated About Police Transparency
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Members of the use of force subcommittee expressed their frustration with ELPD’s handling of a request for body camera footage and case reports. Andrew Graham unpacks the discussion.
General News
Why I Report for ELi
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Why should you support ELi? Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott explains why she loves working here.
Development
Many Big Issues Coming Before East Lansing’s Elected and Appointed Officials
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A stacked City Council agenda, another meeting of the Police Oversight Study Committee, School Board, and more. Alice Dreger reports.
Policing
News Recap and An Interview with Chuck Grigsby in New ‘East Lansing Insider’
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Andrew Graham, Emily Joan Elliott and Alice Dreger break down the latest news and happenings in East Lansing. Listen for more.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: How is the City Addressing Potential Lead in Service Lines?
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An ELi reader wanted to know what the City is doing about potential lead contamination in service lines. Andrew Graham brings answers.
Policing
‘Race and Ethnicity’ Reports from ELPD Concern Study Committee
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After a presentation on Oct. 26, several members of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission expressed concern about the rate at which ELPD officers interacted with African Americans. Heather Brothers reports.
Your ELi
We Can Double Your Gift to ELi Now!
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Make a donation in support of ELi today and see your tax-deductible gift DOUBLED!
COVID-19
Tracking Alleged Violations of Public Health Orders With ELi
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Curious where ELPD is issuing citations for alleged violations of public health orders? ELi’s Nathan Andrus helps you visualize it.
General News
A Deep Dive on Center City District in Latest ‘East Lansing Insider’
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ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott, Alice Dreger and Andrew Graham break down what happened over the weekend and bring an in-depth feature on the Center City District bonds disputes.
General News
Commission on the Environment Pushing for Ban of Coal Tar Sealants
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The group is going to see a proposed resolution in November after getting a presentation on coal tar sealants from EGLE’s Christie Alwin.
COVID-19
Outdoor Gatherings Restricted to 10 People in Parts of East Lansing
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Ingham County further restricted the size of outdoor gatherings to 10 in student-heavy parts of East Lansing ahead of Halloween and the MSU-UM showdown. Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Arts & Cultures
Bailey Park Open to Public Again After Renovations
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The park reopened on Friday, Oct. 23, following roughly three years of improvements. Anaiis Rios-Kasoga reports for ELi.
Policing
Police Oversight Study Committee Yet to Approve Work Plan After 2nd Meeting
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The meeting also featured a data presentation by Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez and discussion of the police union’s role in the eventual oversight commission. Heather Brothers reports.
General News
What City Laws Do ELi Readers Want Changed?
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Earlier in October, ELi asked what laws in East Lansing you, the readers, would like to see changed. Andrew Graham brings you the responses.
General News
If You Are Doing Okay, Can You Please Give ELi a Few Minutes?
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Alice has made a short video directed at people who are doing pretty okay financially and who understand the value of ELi. Now is the time.
COVID-19
Mixed Bag for MSU Game Day as Several Students Face Fines, Restorative Justice Program
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What did game day look like in East Lansing look like on Saturday? And what will happen to students who violated public health orders? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott and Heather Brothers report.
General News
A Brief News Update and Looking Ahead at Next Week
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ELi is following the happenings on game day and getting you prepped for the next week of meetings in ELPS and City of East Lansing government. Andrew Graham brings you up to speed.
Ask ELi to Investigate
This Week’s Ask ELi Grab Bag!
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Is the HUB adding more retail? Who gets the nicer side of a fence? When can I use the track at ELHS? Find the answers to all that and more in this week’s Ask ELi Grab Bag!
General News
Introducing a Podcast from ELi: ‘East Lansing Insider’
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The podcast will bring you news and analysis of the latest happenings in East Lansing by our staff each week.
General News
What Happened at City Council Last Night?
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Alice Dreger takes you through the news and notes from a (very) brief City Council meeting on Tuesday night.
General News
Greater Lansing Food Bank Mobile Distribution Coming to East Lansing Thursday
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The Greater Lansing Food Bank will be holding a drive-through mobile food distribution at the University Lutheran Church. Amalia Medina brings us the details.
Environment
“Cooped” Up Inside? These Friends Help You Get Out!
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Chickens aren’t the typical family pet, but they may have more to give your family than you think. ELi’s Heather Brothers gets the coop scoop from Dr. Marguerite Halversen.
Development
What’s on the Agenda In East Lansing Next Week?
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Several bodies, including City Council, the Downtown Development Authority, and the Commission on the Environment, meet next week. Andrew Graham takes you through the agendas.
General News
Police Oversight Study Committee Finally Meets, Begins Daunting Task
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After one meeting, it’s clear the task the group is charged with is a major one — and they have a six month period to get it done.
General News
TSB Capital Advisors’ relations with Harbor Bay Real Estate Advisors
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This page tracks materials related to the involvement of TSB Capital Advisors in East Lansing’s Center City District deal. TSB Capital Advisors took credit for having “consulted on construction financing” for this deal, indicating, “This transaction continued the firm’s successful relationship with Harbor Bay Real Estate Advisors.” The following letter from Timothy S. Bradley of TBS Capital Advisers was provided by Mark Bell of Harbor Bay as part of a packet presented for the Planning Commission meeting on March 22, 2017. (The packet included heavily redacted market studies.)
TSB-Capital-Advisors-Timothy-S.-Bradley-to-Mark-Bell-March-8-2017Download
Here is more from the Harbor Bay presentation on the project to Planning Commission at that time:
Developer-presentation-to-PC-March-22Download
Harbor Bay included TSB Capital in the list of groups it thanked in the May 2018 invitation to a celebration of the project. TSB has arranged funding for other Harbor Bay projects in Cleveland and Grand Forks (ND).
General News
For Crunchy’s and The Peanut Barrel, Fall Brings Apprehension, Optimism
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Game days are returning, even if later than usual. What does it mean for local bars and restaurants during the pandemic? Elke Schrenk reports.
Development
Documents Show Harbor Bay’s Persistent Efforts to Change Deal
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A Freedom of Information Act request from ELi yielded a cache of informative documents regarding the Center City District and Newman Lofts. Andrew Graham unpacks them.
General News
St. John Food Cupboard Serves Community During Pandemic
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The folks at St. John Food Cupboard, located in downtown East Lasing, want people to know they have supplies available for those facing hunger. Adan Tomas Quan brings us the details.
Obituaries
Your ELi: Remembering an Extraordinary Council-Watcher
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“What local news does is unite and empower the people who believe that democracy is a moral act.” ELi’s Alice Dreger remembers John Kloswick, her Council-watching partner.
General News
An East Lansing Sunday Tailgate for Book-Lovers
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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.
General News
checklists for Covid-19
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ELi-Covid-19-checklist-for-everybody-in-East-LansingDownload
ELi-Covid-19-checklist-for-businesses-in-East-LansingDownload
ELi-covid-19-info-on-gathering-limits-1Download
ELi-COVID-19-checklist-for-restaurantsDownload
Elections
How Can I Vote Before Election Day?
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Interested in voting in the Nov. 3 election ahead of time? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings you some helpful tips from poll inspectors.
COVID-19
Answers to Your Latest East Lansing-Area Coronavirus Questions
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Has the Michigan Supreme Court decision really changed COVID-19 requirements here? Are hospitalizations on the rise? Is testing down? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott turned to Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail for answers to our readers’ questions.
COVID-19
Where to Get Help for Stress, Depression, and Anxiety in the East Lansing Area
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ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reminds you where you can find mental health support and resources in the area.
General News
Drive-Thru Flu Shots Available Saturday at No Cost to Community
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MSU College of Human Medicine to offer free flu vaccines and explains the importance of the flu shot during the COVID-19 pandemic.