Arts & Cultures
How to Celebrate Halloween During the Pandemic
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Want to celebrate Halloween while keeping safe during the pandemic? ELi’s Adan Tomas Quan provides you with some ideas (including a Glencairn parade) and safety precautions.
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.
Arts & Cultures
Local Musician Jonathan Townley Releases Debut Album
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Local musician Jonathan Townley released his first album yesterday. Sarah Spohn tells us what inspired him and where to find his music.
Development
UPDATE: DDA Follows Council’s OK for 95-Day Extension of Exclusive Redevelopment Contract
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What’s going on with the Evergreen Ave. properties? ELi’s Alice Dreger brings you an update.
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.
Arts & Cultures
Multiple Public Art Projects Coming to East Lansing
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What images best represent East Lansing? The Arts Commission weighed in as they finalize plans for a “Greetings from East Lansing” mural and other public art projects. ELi’s Heather Brothers reports.
Arts & Cultures
Absolute Chamber Music Series Hosting Their First Virtual Concert Tomorrow
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Live music brings people together, so what do you do when physical distancing is a necessity? ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports.
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.
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.
Government
School Board Cancelled Due to Supreme Court Ruling – Is City Council Next?
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How come the School Board meeting was cancelled, but the City Manger held an East Lansing government meeting last night? ELi’s Alice Dreger explains what’s been happening.
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.
Development
Big Week of Meetings Coming for East Lansing
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ELi’s Alice Dreger gives you a fast rundown of what’s coming in public meetings in East Lansing this week. Check it out.
Government
Now’s Your Chance to Suggest Changes to East Lansing’s Ordinances
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Ever felt frustrated by some error, injustice, or silliness in East Lansing’s Code of Ordinances? Now’s a good time to act! And ELi offers you an easy way to do it.
General News
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.
COVID-19
Confusion Reigns about What’s Legal Where with Covid, as Council Renews Emergency Orders
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“The Supreme court didn’t eradicate Covid,” new City Attorney Mike Homier said last night. He explained some of the regulatory confusion, as Council voted to extend a special mask-mandatory zone.
Government
New City Attorney (and Lots of Business) at East Lansing’s Council Meeting
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Mike Homier, the new City Attorney, explained the Supreme Court coronavirus decision, while Council took actions on tasers, Walgreens, clean energy, Patriarche Park, the fire code, and more.
Environment
Volunteers Remove Invasive Buckthorn Shrub, One Saturday at a Time
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East Lansing Environmental Stewardship Program is planning a volunteer workday on Saturday. We provide the details and revisit an article about a previous volunteer work day.
Ask ELi to Investigate
More Student Apartments on the Northern Tier? Plus Answers to Other Reader Questions!
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What are they building just south of the Aquatic Center? When will Coolidge Road lose a car lane and gain two bike lanes? And what about Harbor Bay and the federal law? All in this week’s Ask ELi grab bag!
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.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: How is East Lansing’s recycling handled now? Is a recycling sorting center coming to the area?
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Has recycling in East Lansing changed recently? No, but it may soon change for the better. Heather Brothers brings us the answers to your questions.
General News
ELi’s Summer Youth Journalism Program Wrote On this Summer
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ELi held its Sumer Youth Journalism Program in a virtual format this summer. What did the participants gain from the experience?
Arts & Cultures
Singing the Blues, Live But Socially-Distanced
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Looking to hear some live music? The Coffeehouse at All Saints provides you with some options: in-person while socially distanced and online.
Ask ELi to Investigate
This Week’s “Ask ELi” Grab Bag
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What happened to the motorcycle parking on Albert Ave.? Is Breugger’s Bagels reopening? And what’s action that on Trowbridge Road? You ask. We answer.
East Lansing Policing
Choice of New Police Chief Could Be Announced Tomorrow at East Lansing Council
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Four candidates for the job were interviewed by a panel last Tuesday and then by City Manager George Lahanas on Thursday. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
Arts & Cultures
“Parklets” and Outdoor Art Installations Coming to Downtown East Lansing
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Winter is just around the corner, but the Arts Commission is looking to engage residents outdoors in the colder months. Find out what’s in store.
Government
Big Governmental Decisions Coming in East Lansing
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Contract through 2024 for the City Manager? Pave over more of Sharp Park for bike parking? Reduce car lanes further on Abbot? ELi’s Alice Dreger tells you what’s up this week and how you can weigh in.
Center City District
Council Members Stunned to Learn Harbor Bay Is Illegally Renting to Non-Seniors at Newman Lofts
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Mark Bell and Steve Willobee confirmed to Council on Tuesday night that they have rented four units to people under the 55+ age restriction. This violates local law, the development agreement made with Council, and the building’s permit.
Government
You Get a Car? Depends on Who You Are in the City of East Lansing.
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Following up on a tip from a City employee who thinks East Lansing’s vehicle policies waste tax dollars, ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott provides a look at the spending.
East Lansing Policing
In a Land of “Celebratory” Couch-Burning, How to Reform the Disorderly Conduct Code?
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Reform of East Lansing’s disorderly conduct laws involve a tangled web of concerns regarding policing, civil rights, and crowd control in a university town where students have a penchant for burning couches after big games. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Your ELi
ELi Restarts Posting at Facebook
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A total of 256 people took our survey about ELi posting at Facebook. We bring you the results.
Arts & Cultures
RetroDuck Launches Retro T-Shirt Line to Support Local Businesses
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Luke Hackney of RetroDuck has launched a new retro T-shirt line to promote pride in East Lansing while supporting local businesses and nonprofits. ELi’s Sarah Spohn provides the details.
COVID-19
News Analysis: The Cultural Challenges of Covid-19 in East Lansing
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East Lansing has got young people desiring freedom, police who have been told generally to back-off enforcement, public health experts who are wary of using sticks instead of carrots, a relatively new university administration, and a very new City Council. And numbers that are rising. ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
COVID-19
More Small Business Relief Now Available in East Lansing
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East Lansing businesses with low-income employees can now apply to receive up to $10,000 in grant assistance.
Ask ELi to Investigate
PSA: Park at the Old Biggby’s, Risk Getting Towed
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It’s true: if you park in the old Biggby’s lot without permission, you may not find your car there when you come back.
Arts & Cultures
Local “Voices” YouTube Series Features Perspectives from Marginalized Community Members
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A new take on the old coffee house favorite: the open mic. Sarah Spohn brings us the story.
Development
ELi Board of Directors Responds to Harbor Bay’s “Ethics Complaint”
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“We will continue to operate under the conviction that extraordinary actors in our city require extraordinary scrutiny. Especially when they are seeking the taxpayers’ money.”
General News
Remembering the “Godfather” of the Region: East Lansing’s James Butler III
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“He was the conscience of our board,” recalls Dr. Peter Graham “We get jaded. He never did. He never took ‘oh well’ as an answer.”
Government
Four Firms Selected for City Attorney Interviews
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East Lansing will soon engage a new City Attorney. What are Council members hoping for?
General News
Your ELi: Organizational Regrouping
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ELi undergoes a transition (which may temporarily impact our news production) and asks you to consider taking a couple of steps to help us stay connected to you.
Development
East Lansing Loses a Giant of Redevelopment: David Krause
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Those who knew David Krause remember him not only for his many significant three-dimensional contributions, but also for his constant work boosting East Lansing and its town-gown connections.
General News
Why Did ELi Just Wish Courtney a Happy Birthday?
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Want to send a happy message about a person or institution at the top of our daily mailer? You now can!
COVID-19
And It’s Off: MSU Goes Remote for Fall Undergraduate Classes
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MSU announced late Tuesday afternoon that it is suspending in-person learning for undergraduate courses for the fall semester. The impact on East Lansing will be significant.
Ask ELi to Investigate
The Day Jobs of Your City Council Members
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What other jobs do your East Lansing City Council members hold? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Arts & Cultures
Prime Time Seniors Staying Connected During Pandemic
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“We’ve always including reducing isolation and loneliness among the older population in our annual goals,” Prime Time Seniors Director Kelly Arndt told ELi’s Ann Kammerer. “The pandemic really pushed it to the forefront.”
COVID-19
Recycling Center Back Open; Yard Waste Stickers Available Online
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East Lansing’s recycling center on State Road is back open, and residents can now buy yard waste stickers online. Amalia Medina reports for ELi.
Government
Mandatory Mask Area in Downtown Made Official
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Wear a mask in the Downtown Development Authority district or face a polite ambassador. Persist in not wearing a mask and face a $25 fine from the police.
Government
UPDATE: Council Puts Off Question of Adding 2 Seats to East Lansing’s City Council
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City Council is putting off possibly asking voters whether to add 2 seats to the Council, bringing the total seats from 5 to 7.
Government
What Happened at City Council Last Night?
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Wearing matching t-shirts saying “good trouble,” the new City Council met for the first time last night. We give you a rundown of what happened during those five hours.
COVID-19
ELPS School Board Approves Remote Instruction Plan. One Member Voted No.
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“I don’t see plan for bringing students back, just a plan to make a plan later,” said School Board member Chris Martin. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports from the meeting.
COVID-19
Health Officer: Confusion Surrounding Executive Orders Contributed to Harper’s Outbreak
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Confusion over complex and rapidly-changing Executive Orders from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office contributed to the Covid-19 outbreak at Harper’s. What else has been learned?
COVID-19
UPDATE: Requirement for Mask-Wearing in Downtown East Lansing
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Starting Monday, Aug. 10, masks will be required in all public spaces in the DDA district under a new order by Mayor Aaron Stephens.
Arts & Cultures
NPR’s Fresh Air Talks about ELi as a Local News Model
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ELi readers are excited to hear our work mentioned on Fresh Air this week. Want to know the backstory?
Government
Significant Vacancies on East Lansing Government Commissions
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Council will likely soon name new members of the Planning Commission, DDA, BRA, and Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.
Schools
ELHS Student Body President Encourages Her Peers to Seize the Moment
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“We live in a system and a culture that encourages us to only think about ourselves,” Bacon said in her speech. “Fight that powerful urge.”
Arts & Cultures
After Two Years, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza is Back on Grand River Avenue
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After months of delay, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza will reopen a location on Grand River Ave. on Tuesday, Aug. 4. ELi’s Sarah Spohn brings the story.
Government
Dana Watson and Ron Bacon Named to East Lansing City Council
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Mayor Aaron Stephens noted that this is apparently the first time East Lansing’s Council will be majority persons of color.
Schools
At Socially Distanced Ceremony, Andrel Anthony Jr. Commits to Michigan
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Yesterday saw a moment of joy and celebration at East Lansing’s high school football stadium, with Andrel Anthony Jr.’s family there to share the big moment.
COVID-19
Parents and Experts Bring Many Suggestions about ELPS Draft Plan
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During public comment and the board’s discussion, the stress of the situation was often palpable. Emily Joan Elliott reports for ELi.
Schools
ELPS Will Start Year With No In-Person Classes; Board Meets Tonight
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Superintendent Dori Leyko will offically tell the East Lansing Public Schools Board tonight that classes need to start remotely for the next school year. ELi brings the details.
General News
East Lansing Seeks Lawyers, and More Lawyers, and a Financial Advisor
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The City Council is seeking a new city attorney, and the DDA and BRA are looking for an attorney and a financial advisor. What’s up?
Arts & Cultures
Hand Sanitizer and Outdoor Seating: How Ellison Brewing and Red Cedar Spirits Have Adapted during the Pandemic
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From expanding outdoor seating to making hand sanitizer, ELi’s Sarah Spohn describes how two local spots are contending with COVID-19.
General News
Check Out ELi’s Chatty Newsletter!
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Did you know the Center City mural is finished and the Jolly Pumpkin sign is up? Want quick East Lansing Info news updates in your mailbox? ELi has launched a “chatty” newsletter. Read our latest and sign up!
Arts & Cultures
Splash of Color Reopens With Plethora of New Safety Procedures
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Splash of Color Tattoo & Piercing Studio has reopened. Sarah Spohn gives the details on the massive studio overhaul, new appointment protocol, investment in PPE, and why they’re happy to be back.
Arts & Cultures
Haven House Receives $14K in Donations, But Needs More to Keep Helping Families
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Haven House received a donation exceeding $14,000 from Buddy’s Pizza grand opening in Lansing. ELi’s Sarah Spohn reports how Haven House is using the donation to help families.
East Lansing Policing
Policing “Realignment” Announced, as Police Oversight Study Committee Named
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The plan will create a new branch within ELPD to respond to things like mental health crises, neighbor conflict resolution, and quality of life complaints.
Development
eBay-Related Marijuana Project Appears Stalled, But Three Others Are Moving
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At Planning Commission, the eBay auction winners asked for more time on their approvals, and owners of three already-built locations asked for permission to sell recreational marijuana. What happened?
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing May Consider Regulation of Grubhub, Uber Eats, Other Food Delivery Services
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Could municipal regulation of food delivery services help local restaurants survive?
Arts & Cultures
The View of Our Downtown Barbers
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East Lansing’s downtown barbers are working to keep it all safe. “I lost some family due to COVID-19,” one local barbershop employee tells ELi’s Aaron Applebey. “It’s definitely been an eye-opener.”
Arts & Cultures
Library Eliminates Fines, Aiming for Equity and Accessibility
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The East Lansing Public Library has a new fine-free policy, eliminating fines for late returns. ELi’s Amalia Medina explains the new policy’s philosophy and practice.
Development
Over Neighbors’ Objections, Planning Commission Unanimously Supports Strip Mall Sunday Hours
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Coolidge Court is the only strip mall in the City that is prohibited from having businesses open on Sundays, a restriction the developer agreed to in 1986. Now Council will take up the matter.
Government
Disability Rights Milestone to be Celebrated by Human Relations Commission
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The HRC is also working on advocating for people with Down Syndrome who may be denied organ transplants on the basis of having a developmental disability.
Amelia Arnold: Trojan Senior Ends Softball Career With All-Star Berth
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Amelia Arnold, starting catcher for the ELHS softball team and 2020 graduate, will play one more game on July 8. Read more about the talented and dedicated athlete.
General News
ELi Will Hold the Fourth Annual Summer Youth Journalism Program
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ELi will hold our Summer Youth Journalism Program online this July and August. Read on for details and the program application.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Restaurants and Bars Prioritize Safety in Response to Harper’s Outbreak
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Managers of East Lansing restaurants and bars tell ELi they’re doing what they can to keep their employees and customers safe.
Development
Businesses Opening and Closing Along East Lansing’s Main Corridor
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What’s closed, what’s opening, what’s happening along East Lansing’s main strip? The latest from ELi.
Arts & Cultures
Longtime East Lansing Record Store’s Re-Opening Brings Relief and Joy
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Beloved East Lansing record store Flat, Black & Circular has reopened and is bringing relief and joy with fresh tunes. Chris Wardell brings the story of what’s been happening.
Arts & Cultures
Income Tax and Other Sources Being Used to Improve East Lansing Parks
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In the midst of plunging public revenues, East Lansing Parks & Rec is moving forward with various projects by pulling together funds from various sources. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Your ELi
ELi Is Taking a Break from Facebook
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This decision has been a long time coming. It’s made in the service of our core mission: bringing accurate and timely news of East Lansing.
Arts & Cultures
Traveling Artist to Paint Mural in Downtown East Lansing
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Aaron Applebey brings ELi readers the news of muralist, street artist, illustrator, and self-identified doodle dame Laura Asta coming to East Lansing.
Government
Elaine Hardy Is Ready to Build a More Inclusive and Equitable East Lansing
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Elaine Hardy tells ELi she’s ready to speak truth to power in City Hall when it comes to issues of diversity, inclusion, and equity. “Otherwise, the position is unnecessary.”
Schools
Protest from ELPD to MSU Focuses on Racism, Militarized Policing
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“The March Against Fear” started at East Lansing’s City Hall and Police Department and ended at the MSU President’s house. Andrew Graham reports, with photos from Gary Caldwell.
Arts & Cultures
High Caliber Karting Art Contest Enters Voting Stage
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Now’s your chance to take a break from everything and cast your vote in an art contest sponsored by a local business.
Development
East Lansing Development Updates (Spoiler Alert: The Abbot Opens Late August)
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News on The Abbot, The Graduate, affordable housing, Coleman Road, the new elementary schools, MSUFCU’s downtown project, and marijuana sales locations. We also tell you where in East Lansing the state’s wetland protection agency plans a new office building that would disturb a wetland.
Government
Big Issues at East Lansing Meetings This Week
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Here come requests to sell recreational marijuana, the superintendent’s (closed door) review, teacher and police retirements, and so much more. ELi keeps you informed before the decisions are made.
Arts & Cultures
Adopted and Foster Pets Bring Comfort and Companionship During Time of Coronavirus
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Some local residents used the recent time at home to bring new pets into their families. ELi’s Ann Kammerer brings the story of three pet adoptions.
General News
Pinecrest Neighborhood to Hold Juneteenth Demonstration and Celebration
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Tomorrow, in recognition of Juneteenth and ongoing calls for racial justice, East Lansing’s Pinecrest Neighborhood Association is hosting a march. Sarah Spohn reports for ELi.
Arts & Cultures
Many East Lansing Businesses Are Back Open (and Need Customers to Survive)
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The weather is beautiful for strolling downtown, and lots of businesses are back open. ELi’s Amalia Medina reports.
Arts & Cultures
Virtual Poet Event to Raise Funds for Local Refugee Shelter
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This Thursday night, “Where I’m From,” a virtual poetry event open to all, is raising funds to aid refugees in the local community. ELi’s Sarah Spohn provides the details.
Arts & Cultures
Farmers Market Open Today 10 am – 2 pm
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What delights can you expect to find at the market on this beautiful day in East Lansing?
Arts & Cultures
Albert Ave. Converted to Outdoor Dine-and-Drink Space
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Tables will be available 11 am to 10 pm for people who want to sit and enjoy food and drink purchased from restaurants within a 3-block radius.
Arts & Cultures
DDA Debates How to Balance Safety with Downtown Business Revival
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The DDA supported the idea of live entertainment downtown geared towards families with kids. They also discussed the issue of noise coming from some bars.
COVID-19
Parks & Rec Reverses Course; Will Open Playgrounds and Dog Park
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A day after ELi’s Patty Bonito reported it’d be a long time before playgrounds and the dog park would reopen, the Parks & Rec Director changed his mind.
Ask ELi to Investigate
East Lansing Parks & Rec Is Keeping the Playgrounds and Dog Park Closed
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East Lansing playgrounds will remain off-limits until at least July 13, and the dog park until August 3 according to Tim McCaffrey, Parks & Rec Director.
Arts & Cultures
Little Local Joys: Friendship Grows In a Backyard Garden
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Joe Natoli and Greg Bonito share a garden in the Oakwood neighborhood of East Lansing. There, the friendship grows.
East Lansing Policing
Residents Along Route Join Peaceful Protest March on Sunday
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Rane, the leader of yesterday’s event, told those assembled the conflict “is not Black versus White. Let us be clear about that. It is racism against America. It is inequality against America.”
Arts & Cultures
The Farmers Market Opens Sunday, Pandemic Style. Here’s What to Expect.
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Expect fresh eggs, bread, herbs, spring onions, rhubarb, honey, syrup, greens, cheeses and meat, mushrooms, jams, fermentations, and more.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Public Library to Purchase Outdoor Lockers for Contactless Pickup, Making Plans for Reopening
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Outdoor lockers will help with 24/7 contactless delivery. What else will be changing at the library?
General News
ELPD Seeks Information on Bananas Left on Sidewalks with Racist Messaging
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ELi has been made aware of at least three cases of this, and East Lansing Police detectives are now seeking more information from community members.
Development
Outdoor Dining in East Lansing Next Week? At Least in Some Places.
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The filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy by HopCat’s parent company speaks to the level of distress in the bar and restaurant industry. The City of East Lansing is trying to help out.
Government
Ask ELi: What’s the Jurisdiction of MSU Police?
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A reader asked: What’s the jurisdiction of ELPD versus MSUPD?
Sports
Leading by Supporting, Kelsey Mongoven Is ELi’s Trojan of the Week
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“We tried to create an environment that worked for everyone,” Kelsey Mongoven explains. A junior at MSU, Mongoven has taken on the responsibility of head coach for the Trojans’ varsity gymnastics team.
Highlight Right
MacDonald Middle School Hero Mr. Watson Retires After 47 Years of Service
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Vincent Watson has been a true hero through his 47 years of service in East Lansing Public Schools, positively influencing the lives of thousands of children and young adults.
Arts & Cultures
Little Local Joys: The Puzzle Exchange
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“We didn’t realize how much puzzles were in demand until we needed more.”
Schools
MSU Will Bring Students Back in September
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The reopening of MSU has major implications for East Lansing in terms of the economy, public health, business survival, housing, neighborhood cultures, policing, and more.
Arts & Cultures
Foster Coffee Reopens on East Lansing’s Albert Ave.
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ELi’s Sarah Spohn talks with Foster Coffee co-owner Nicholas Pidek about how that company is managing reopening.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Don’t Go Hungry: Food Banks Are Here to Help
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Various local organizations are stepping up to help people who need no-cost food to live without hunger.
General News
ELi Is Awarded Two National Grants for COVID-19 Reporting
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The public health emergency has caused ELi’s reporting rate to surge 60 percent over the same period last year. Fortunately, we’ve secured extra funding to meet the increased costs.
Sports
Ed Outslay, Trojan of the Week, Remains in the Hearts of Those Who Knew Him
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This week, ELi’s Mark Meyer brings a remembrance of baseball coach Ed Outslay, who passed away a year ago doing what he loved.
COVID-19
East Lansing’s Housing Study Never Did Start, and Now the Plan Is On Hold
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Housing Administrator Annette Irwin told a city commission last night that all bets are off in terms of when we might see that long-awaited housing study.
Arts & Cultures
Little Local Joys: Modern Meets Medieval in Basement Build
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In our continuing series on small joys during the stay-at-home orders, we bring you the story of one teenager’s basement quest to build a pipe organ from scratch.
Environment
Area Composters Share the Dirt on Their Dirt
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Want to reduce your household carbon footprint? Here’s an easy way.
Environment
The Red Cedar River Is Flooding
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The Red Cedar River is up over its banks. ELi’s Gary Caldwell brings us photos.
Arts & Cultures
Get Ready for More Outdoor Dining, East Lansing
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City staff are looking into ways to enable people to enjoy food and drink (including beer and wine) from local restaurants outside, in public spaces set up with picnic tables.
Highlight Right
Trojan of the Week Andrel Anthony Jr. Has Risen to the Head of His Class
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Plenty of big-time college football coaches are eager to add Trojan of the Week Andrel Anthony Jr. to their lineups.
General News
Hey, 517! Playmakers Has a Run/Walk for Just for Us
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Marcy Gillespie Kinzer of the Playmakers team updates us on the store’s “fit at home” and virtual injury clinic help. And this Sunday, you can move to share the 517 love.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: What’s With the Rented Garbage Trucks?
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Did a City worker really roll a recycling truck? Is the hybrid truck too expensive to fix? We asked.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: Can We Get More Curbside Recycling Pick-Ups?
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East Lansing’s Environmental Services Administrator Cathy DeShambo has some suggestions about what to do while your house is overflowing with recyclables.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: How’s the Mask-Sewing Crew Doing?
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We bring news on how the Peppermint Creek fundraiser did for the local volunteer sewing army and also provide a general update on the homemade production of masks.
Schools
Epitome of a Team Player, Zoe Morse is Our Trojan of the Week
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Former Trojan Zoe Morse has elevated her soccer-playing career to the professional level. Mark Meyer speaks with her as she prepares to join the Chicago Red Stars.
Ann About Town
Ann About Town: Campbell’s for Groceries
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“It is really the grocery store in East Lansing that many of us have wanted for years. The owners are local, the service is excellent.”
General News
ELi Obtains Support Through a New Spartan-Invented Donation System
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ELi Publisher Natalie Rose explains why we have been using Omella to fundraise for East Lansing Info during our Stimulate ELi’s Reporting campaign.
COVID-19
Where to Get Help for Stress, Depression, and Anxiety in the East Lansing Area
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Stressed out in the midst of all this? Lonely? Feeling down? Here is what you need to know about people who can help in our area.
General News
Kelli Ellsworth Etchison Recognized as Community Service Leader
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East Lansing resident Kelli Ellsworth Etchison centers her life on helping people feel that they belong. She has some advice for those who want to provide community service.
General News
Natalie Rose Named New Publisher and Executive Director of ELi
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Natalie Rose is taking over the role ELi founder Alice Dreger has played until now. The changes come with unanimous support of ELi’s Board.
Sports
Life in the Fast Lane: Trojan of the Week Andrew Lane Knows No Other Way
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Andrew Lane trains as hard as he competes (if that’s possible). He also leaves a large footprint as one of the top distance runners in ELHS history.
Government
DPW Gears Up for Bulk Pickup, Next Round of No-Fee Yard Waste Collection
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An advance request and payment is still required to get large items hauled away. But that’s available, too.
Little Joys
Little Local Joys: Silly Walks Zone
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Kit Carlson describes herself as “a total Monty Python fan” and someone in need of a little fun. Who isn’t?
COVID-19
Amid Pandemic Challenges, MSU Safe Place Is Still Addressing Relationship Abuse
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Advocacy coordinator Erica Schmittdiel tells ELi what’s happening amid the Stay-at-Home orders for relationship abuse and sexual assault survivors.
Arts & Cultures
Van Atta’s Nursery and Hammond Farms Reopen with Precautions
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Customers can come back to Van Atta’s starting today, and can call Hammond Farms for delivery. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.
COVID-19
Long-Time Owner of Curious Book Shop Is Hoping the Community Will Help
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Ray Walsh has owned and operated Curious Book Shop for fifty years. He’s hoping the community will help his employees.
Sports
ELi’s Trojan of the Week, Nikki Norris, Has Devoted Her Career to Athletics
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Nikki Norris believes lessons learned on the field can bring a lifetime of value. She’s lived that ideal in her career.
Arts & Cultures
Bar and Restaurant Owners Group Helps School District Solve Lunch Debt
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When the Responsible Hospitality Council learned of the ELPS need, its members quickly took action.
Environment
Ask ELi: How Is East Lansing Handling Recyclable Material Now?
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A reader asked if East Lansing’s recycling is being treated as trash during the pandemic. We bring the answer.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Jazz Festival Is Cancelled, and Art Festival Will Provide Virtual Fare
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East Lansing’s Summer Solstice Jazz Festival has been added to list of coronavirus casualties.
Ann About Town
Ann About Town: Harvest Boxes and Family Meals from Red Haven
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In her latest column, Ann Nichols explores the cooking options enabled by one farm-to-table restaurant’s inventive approach.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Library Teen Programming Continues in Online Format
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East Lansing Library Teen Services Specialist Beth Scanlon is not letting the pandemic get in the way of her work supporting area youth.
Arts & Cultures
High Caliber Karting Expansion Inspires Community Art Contest
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Love working with paint, carving, vinyl decal, wood burning, stain, or some other application? Apply now to participate in an art contest being held by High Caliber Karting.
COVID-19
Racist Slurs Thrown at East Lansing Public Library Board by Zoombombers
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The City of East Lansing is working on how to hold public meetings without allowing disruptions that are seen as inappropriate.
Highlight Right
ELi’s Trojan of the Week: Swimmer Matias Jimenez
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Senior swimmer Matias Jimenez, ELi’s Trojan of the Week, was set to join his teammates for one last lap. Then reality set in.
Arts & Cultures
Sundance Jewelers’ Attempt to Reach Customers Is Blocked at Worst Time
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Bad time to have a communication to loyal customers go to spam! But Audrey Yonkus shares beautiful photos with ELi.
General News
Here Comes the Free Yard-Waste Pick-Up
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Yard waste pick-up counts as “essential.” It also stops the storm drains from getting clogged.
General News
One Pint is Worth Three Lives
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Blood is needed to help people facing emergency surgeries and birthing mothers. Find out how you can help.
Development
Harrison Road Project Reducing Four Car Lanes to Three, Adding Bike Lanes
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The City can undertake the work in spite of the lockdown because it has designated it “essential.” What’s involved?
General News
Little Local Joys: The Migrating Birds
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“We’re just stepping back and listening, and hearing the sounds of spring.”
COVID-19
City of East Lansing Is Resuming Meetings
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Which City of East Lansing government meetings are starting up again, and which have yet to resume?
Highlight Right
ELi’s Trojan of the Week: Senior Standout Aaliyah Nye
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In the first of a new series celebrating Trojan athletes, ELi’s Mark Meyer features the skills and record of senior Aaliyah Nye.
Arts & Cultures
Little Local Joys: The Ephemerals in Bloom
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“All that’s been perfected over a billion years is right in your own backyard,” says Peter Carrington, the curator of Beal Garden.
General News
Eleven Thousand Masks Later, the Requests Haven’t Stopped
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The need and the challenges are high, but this ever-growing community of sewists keeps making masks, headbands, gowns, and more.
COVID-19
Trail Etiquette During a Pandemic: Some Reminders to Us All
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Trail usage is way up as people get out for mental and physical health. So what should we be remembering as we (and our dogs) travel along?
COVID-19
Playmakers Hosting a Space Race This Saturday
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This Saturday, Playmakers’ race participants will spread out to run, walk, and roll worldwide at three different distances.
Arts & Cultures
Drop-In on Blue Owl’s Mic Drop Tonight – Digitally!
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Good news: you can continue to enjoy the work of local artists who gather around Blue Owl Coffee’s open mic night. And if you are an artist, you can join in.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing’s Library Has Treasure Trove Online, Open to All
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The East Lansing Public Library’s doors are closed but its online treasure chest is open! Find out what’s available and how things are going financially.
COVID-19
City of East Lansing Looking to Help Prevent Homelessness
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In an effort to prevent homelessness, the Cities of East Lansing and Lansing are making extraordinary contributions to Haven House and other charities.
General News
ELi Has a New Website!
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ELi’s Publisher explains why the ELi team decided to create a whole new website for our readers.
COVID-19
Trojan Coaching Staff Laments Shutdown of Seasons, Expresses Concern for Student Athletes
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When word of the season cancellations became known, athletic director Nikki Norris was thankful to be able to immediately connect with her staff. ELi’s Mark Meyer files this report.
Little Joys
Little Local Joys: Look Through Any Window
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The latest in the Little Local Joys series – stories shared by ELi readers and contributors about little things and positive moments that bring us joy and hope during the coronavirus outbreak.
COVID-19
East Lansing High Students Taking Varied Paths During School Closure
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ELi reporter and ELHS student Alex Hosey reports on what East Lansing High students have been experiencing in the last few weeks. What have been our teens’ activities and concerns?
Little Joys
Little Local Joys: Uniting with Light
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For our continuing “Little Local Joys” series, ELi’s Ann Kammerer spoke with East Lansing resident Nancy Cuddeback about the movement to honor medical professionals with candles tonight.
Arts & Cultures
ELHS Black Student Union Promotes Fellowship
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ELi’s Anaiis Rios-Kasoga reports on what the Black Student Union at East Lansing High School has been doing to promote self-love, insight, and community.
Arts & Cultures
A Little Joy from Afar: A Note from the Family of Charlie Kang
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Last week’s “Ann About Town” column on Charlie Kang’s brought a heartwarming letter from Mr. Kang’s daughter, Yuni Yi. We share her note with you.
Arts & Cultures
Threat of Coronavirus Forces Peace Corps Volunteer to Leave Dominican Republic
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Caitlin Hegg is concerned about the community she left behind two weeks ago when Peace Corps officials told her she had to return to the U.S. Amalia Medina files this report for ELi.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Couple Share View of Pandemic from Taiwan
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Smitty Smith, known to folks in East Lansing from the Pump House Concert series, shares a view of the pandemic from Taiwan, where he currently resides with his wife.
General News
Like to Write and Need Money for College? Here’s a Chance to Earn $2,500
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Lansing Area Fedral Credit Union (LAFCU) will award two high school seniors $2,500 each for their essays on the impact that technology has on their lives. ELi’s Noa Kuszai provides the details.
Little Joys
Little Local Joys: My Aunt’s 100th Birthday
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A milestone in life amid emergency conditions: a time to celebrate, albeit a bit more quietly.
General News
Local Citizens Unite to 3D Print Face Masks – And You Can Help
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A tech-savvy team is running a 3-D printing operation out of East Lansing High School to supply emergency face masks. Marie Adele Grosso reports for ELi on how you can help.
Development
The Slow Movement Toward Marijuana Sales in East Lansing
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What will the Skymint operation on Coolidge Road be like, and what is more generally the status of retail marijuana sales in East Lansing? ELi’s Chris Gray reports.
Ann About Town
Ann (Not) About Town: Charlie Kang’s, ‘A Truly Local Old Standby’
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When sheltering in place and staying safe, one must rely on the tried-and-true. For ELi’s Ann Nichols, that means a hearty helping of Korean and Chinese cuisine delivered from Charlie Kang’s.
General News
Playgrounds Close, but Recreation Opportunities Await at Area Parks
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There are plenty of outdoor paths and exercise opportunities to explore in East Lansing, Meridian Township and throughout the tri-county area — while still practicing social distancing. ELi’s Chris Gray brings us this tour.
Little Joys
Stories of Joy. Tales of Hope. We Want Yours.
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What’s keeping you positive during the pandemic? We want your little stories of joy, hope, and kindness.
Little Joys
Little Local Joys: My Milk Door
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A milk door in the Bailey neighborhood brings a resident joy — and now candles from Massage and Wellness, too!
COVID-19
Downtown, Campbell’s Adjusts Daily During Extraordinary Time for Grocers
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In downtown East Lansing, Campbell’s Market Basket is keeping its shelves stocked with groceries. ELi’s Noa Kuszai files this report.
Development
Burcham Solar Park Blooming Soon
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The second phase of the renewable energy project involves planting native perennial grasses and flowers. This should reduce maintenance and benefit pollinators. ELi’s Patty Bonito provides an update.
Arts & Cultures
Break Out the Chalk, Take a Walk and Reconnect (at a Safe Distance, Of Course)
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A virtual group effort is creating a community healing event for the whole family. Amalia Medina files this report for ELi.
General News
East Lansing City Council Meets Under New Rules to Extend State of Emergency
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City Council met today to extend East Lansing’s State of Emergency. ELi’s Alice Dreger donned a mask to attend and report for you what happened.
COVID-19
Senior Citizens Facing Unique Set of Circumstances, Especially in Nursing Homes
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At Burcham Hills, elimination of communal activities is one of the protections in place during the coronavirus emergency. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke to residents about their concerns.
Sports
One Week Later: Trojan Sports Family Regroups, Waits Patiently for Games to Return
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When will the high school athletic seasons — winter and spring — resume, and in what format? ELi’s Mark Meyer files this report.
COVID-19
MSU Epidemiologist Urges More Awareness: ‘This is an under-reaction.’
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An MSU epidemiologist and resident of East Lansing tells ELi he has never seen such a public health threat in his life. And he’s worked in public health for over 40 years. Read why Dr. Nigel Paneth is alarmed.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Neighbors Are Crowdsourcing Take-Out/Delivery Info to Help Restaurants
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There’s a new resource to help people in East Lansing figure out which restaurants are doing take-out and delivery. ELi’s Natalie Rose reports.
General News
Everything is up in the air’: ELHS Students React to School Closure
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ELHS students were caught off guard with all the uncertainties facing them as Michigan schools were closed. Amalia Medina brings ELi the story.
Development
East Lansing Bar and Restaurant Owners Now Making Tough Choices
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Even before Ingham County Health issued a new order, some East Lansing bars and restaurants were moving to help “flatten the curve.” All face grave economic uncertainty.
General News
Your ELi: Covering COVID-19 for East Lansing
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An update from ELi leadership on how we plan to cover all facets of East Lansing news during this unprecedented public health crisis.
Ann About Town
Ann About Town: Woven Art
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Eli’s Ann Nichols has a yarn for you about a fiber arts store in East Lansing, and what makes it a community-within-a-community.