East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi on Impact 89FM

East Lansing City Budget

East Lansing Info — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400

This week on East Lansing Insider Deputy Editor of East Landing Info Anna Liz Nichols talks with East Lansing Info’s Managing Editor Lucas Day about budget discussions that happened recently during an East Lansing City Council meeting.

Flooding in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400

East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols and Managing Editor Lucas Day talk about the recent heavy rainfall in East Lansing and the flooding that has occurred. They talk about solutions to flooding problems the city is considering and what residents have been dealing with.

April is Autism Acceptance Month: A Conversation with Acorn Health

East Lansing Info — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400

On this week’s episode of East Lansing Insider, East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks about autism awareness and acceptance with Paul Doher, National Director of Clinical Quality for Acorn Health, which has ABA autism therapy centers in several states including here in the Capital area.

Mental Health in College and East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400

Conversations about mental health have been on the rise in recent years. This week on the East Lansing Insider podcast, East Lansing Info Reporter Dustin DuFort Petty spoke with Michigan State University student Andelina Storm Grossi who recently published her first book, Sanity in the Storm: Faith, Healing, and Hope for the Anxious Soul. He also spoke with City Councilmember Kerry Ebersole Singh about what has spurred an increase in mental health issues in our communities.

A conversation with MSU Hillel about the impact of the Temple Israel attack

East Lansing Info — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400

On this week’s episode of East Lansing Insider, East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks about the widespread impact of the March 12 attack on Temple Israel in Metro Detroit. She is joined by Robyn Hughey and Jonathon Koenigsberg of MSU Hillel in East Lansing who share their perspectives on the incident and offer insight on how communities can respond to incidents of anti semitism.

Housing and development in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400

East Lansing Info’s Managing Editor Lucas Day joins East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols on this week’s episode of East Lansing Insider to talk about recent development proposals in East Lansing and what challenges developers face in the city.

East Lansing perspective on Iran

East Lansing Info — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:55:22 -0400

On this week’s episode of East Lansing Insider, East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols takes a closer look at the rapidly escalating conflict in Iran following recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes.

To better understand what this moment means for people here in mid-Michigan, this week’s episode features two local voices with personal and community ties to Iran. Michigan State University graduate student Farzaneh Holasu reflects on how the conflict is being experienced by Iranians and members of the Iranian diaspora. Thasin Sardar, a leader at the Islamic Center of East Lansing, shares another perspective on how the local Muslim community is processing the news and discusses the global implications of the strikes.

Ramadan in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0500

East Lansing Info Reporter Dustin DuFort Petty hosts a special Ramadan episode of East Lansing Insider, talking about the importance of the holy month for East Lansing Muslims.

Consideration for proposed camping and loitering bans continues with East Lansing City Council

East Lansing Info — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This week, ELi Managing Editor Lucas Day and Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols continue discussion surrounding camping and loitering bans being considered by East Lansing City Council. The bans have drawn considerable controversy as some residents, researchers and housing advocates say the bans would unfairly target homeless people and perpetuate cycles of poverty.

Love in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

East Lansing Info Reporter Dustin DuFort Petty hosts a special Valentine’s Day episode of East Lansing Insider

East Lansing proposed camping and loitering bans

East Lansing Info — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This week on East Lansing Insider East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks with Mid-Michigan Tenant Resource Center Executive Director Khadja Erickson about bans on loitering in parking areas and camping housing advocates are saying would criminalize poverty and ensure individuals remain unhoused.

A conversation about Black History Month and the NAACP

East Lansing Info — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

East Lansing Info Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks with the president of the NAACP Lansing Branch Harold A. Pope about Black History Month and the NAACP’s history and how it operates today.

East Lansing, Michigan’s last sanctuary city

East Lansing Info — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 21:00:00 -0500

East Lansing is the only remaining Michigan jurisdiction on President Donald Trump’s administration’s list of sanctuary cities the Department of Justice says violates federal immigration laws. This week on East Lansing Insider East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks with staff attorney for ACLU of Michigan Jay Kaplan about the state of immigration enforcement in Michigan in the aftermath of the killing of American citizen Renee Good by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, agents in Minneapolis earlier this month, which has sparked outrage across the country.

Flu season in Michigan

East Lansing Info — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500

This week, ELi Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols discusses Michigan’s severe flu season with Chief Medical Executive for the State of Michigan Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian and the impact of national conversations surrounding vaccines on Michigan’s health care system.

East Lansing Info 2025 year in review and 2026 lookahead

East Lansing Info — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500

East Lansing Info Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols and Managing Editor Lucas Day talk about the biggest stories of 2025 and what readers can look forward to in 2026.

Grief during the holidays: A conversation with Ele's Place

East Lansing Info — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

The holiday season can be a particularly hard time emotionally for those navigating grief. This week, ELi Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks to Kelly Koerner, Program Director of Ele’s Place Place, a healing center in the Capital area aimed at supporting children and families through the death of a loved one.

East Lansing City Council considers camping and loitering ban

East Lansing Info — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

This week, ELi Managing Editor Lucas Day and Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talk about a camping and loitering ban East Lansing City Council is considering which has raised mixed reactions from residents. During a recent city council meeting some members of the public shared their concerns over the implications the bans would have for unhoused individuals while other community members implored council to take up the bans in the interest of public safety.

A conversation with City Rescue Mission

East Lansing Info — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

This week on East Lansing Insider East Lansing Info’s Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks with Laura Grimwood, the community outreach director of City Rescue Mission over in Lansing about the organization’s recent relocation and emerging needs in the Capital area’s unhoused population.

A conversation with East Lansing’s new mayor, Erik Altmann

East Lansing Info — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Earlier this month after East Lansing residents voted to install two new members into the city council, the council selected Erik Altmann as the city’s mayor for the next two years. In this week’s episode of East Lansing Info Reporter Dustin DuFort Petty talks with Altmann about his time on city council and his hopes for the future of the city.

The Power of Gratitude

East Lansing Info — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

With Thanksgiving coming up East Lansing Info Reporter Dustin DuFort Petty talks with Michigan State University Extension Health Educator Dr. Nicole Persing-Wethington about the impact of gratitude and several prominent names in East Lansing share what they’re thankful for this time of year on this week’s episode of East Lansing Insider

The new East Lansing City Council and public safety recommendations

East Lansing Info — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

This week, ELi Managing Editor Lucas Day and Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols discuss what to expect as two new council members begin their term on East Lansing’s City Council. East lansing Police Chief Jen Brown said earlier this month that she would present a series of public safety recommendations on Tuesday for the downtown and Anna and Lucas discuss the feasibility of some of the recommendations on the East Lansing Insider podcast.

Post Election Day Conversation with new East Lansing City Council Members

East Lansing Info — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

On Election Day East Lansing voters elected Steve Whelan and Chuck Grigsby to serve on the City Council. ELi Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talks with both council members elect about their experiences on election night and what they would like to see in the city’s future on the latest episode of the East Lansing Insider podcast.

East Lansing City Council Election

East Lansing Info — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

This Tuesday East Lansing residents will vote on who will take the two available seats on the East Lansing City Council. Before Election Day, ELi Managing Editor Lucas Day and Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols talk what’s at stake this election and what the future of the council may look like on the latest episode of the East Lansing Insider podcast.

East Lansing Police use of force data analysis

East Lansing Info — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

This week, the East Lansing Insider podcast looks at East Lansing Police use of force data as ELi Managing Editor Lucas Day and Managing Editor Anna Liz Nichols speak with sociologist Cedrick Heraux

Deer Management in Meridian Township

East Lansing Info — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

This week, the East Lansing Insider podcast looks beyond the city's boundaries at the Meridian Township deer management program.

ELi Managing Editor Lucas Day speaks with Meridian Township Land Stewardship and Deer Management Coordinator Emma Campbell about the township's unique program that leverages local sportsmen to keep the deer population in check.

Body cam vs. surveillance footage: Seemingly conflicting video accounts of an incident raise questions over police narrative

East Lansing Info — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

The East Lansing Police Department has been raising red flags for violence in the city’s downtown, but after publically releasing the names of two men charged for engaging in an altercation police say took place during Michigan State University’s welcome week, newly released surveillance footage paints a different picture. Managing Editor Luke Day and Deputy Editor Anna Nichols outline the timeline of events and decisions made by ELPD.

Housing affordability in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Managing Editor Luke Day and Deputy Editor Anna Nichols unpack East Lansing’s housing landscape, including what local leaders are proposing to develop the downtown area and various issues renters are facing.

Downtown Safety and the Debate Over Police Oversight Commission

East Lansing Info — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Deputy Editor Anna Liz Nichols and City Government Reporter Ayah Imran examine two pressing issues in East Lansing: A series of recent public safety incidents downtown and proposed changes to the city’s Independent Police Oversight Commission. They break down what community members and commissioners are saying about revisions to the ordinance that outlines the authority of the oversight commission, including concerns that it may deplete accountability for law enforcement.

Previewing the Slate of City Council Candidates

East Lansing Info — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

East Lansing Insider is back! Lucas Day and Anna Nichols break down East Lansing’s upcoming City Council election with two open seats and six candidates competing for four-year terms. They discuss what is at stake for the city, including budget fixes, development decisions, public safety, charter changes, and the Parks and Recreation millage, while introducing listeners to each candidate’s priorities and background.

Two Years of DEI Efforts and Covid at ELPS

East Lansing Info — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode, Emily Joan Elliott and Al Hargrave Jackson, who both report on East Lansing Public Schools recap the last two years of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts as well as Covid-19 mitigation efforts in the district. The two issues have often overlapped, as the duo discuss, and Al points to what is expected next on both topics. Al also provides information on a new contract for teachers and a visit to East Lansing by Mark Wood, an original member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

What Can We Learn From ELPD Use Of Force Reports

East Lansing Info — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 14:00:00 -0400

Andrew is joined by ELi's Heather Brothers on this episode of the Insider, where the duo discuss the use of force reports that the ELPD has been giving the Independent Police Oversight Commission and dig into what we can learn from them, what the Commission might make of them, and the long term goals of this level of police accountability. Listen in!

Why Did City Council Discuss A Moratorium On New Greek Houses?

East Lansing Info — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew and Emily recap a discussion from the Tuesday, April 12, City Council discussion-only meeting where the five members of Council discussed potentially putting a moratorium on issuing new Special Use Permits for off-campus group housing for MSU students — namely, Greek houses. To help aid the discussion, two representatives from MSU — Su Webster and Dr. Erin Carter — were also in attendance and shared new information about the sophomores-on rule. Listen in!

What To Know With The Albert EL Fresco Returning

East Lansing Info — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 23:52:33 -0400

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew sits down with Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the imminent return of the Albert EL Fresco, an open-air dining, seating and recreation area in downtown East Lansing. With the EL Fresco slated to reopen on May 10, the duo cover what it will look like in year two, some of the challenges faced by the City in pulling it off, and touch on how popular it might really be. Take a listen!

An East Lansing Development Roundup with Alice Dreger

East Lansing Info — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew is in studio with ELi's founder, Alice Dreger, to talk about a number of various redevelopment projects — or potential projects — going on in East Lansing. Plus, the duo talks about a document from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) that highlights good strategies for growing downtowns. Give it a listen!

A Review of the East Lansing City Attorney Hiring Process

East Lansing Info — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew is joined by ELi's Emily Joan Elliott and Al Jackson to go back over the months-long process of hiring the two new City Attorneys. From moving on from Foster Swift to deciding to split the role in municipal advisor and prosecutor, right up to contract issues, we cover it all in this episode. Check it out!

What's All This Discussion About The Northern Tier?

East Lansing Info — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew is joined by ELi's Emily Joan Elliott, who interviews him about the ongoing discussions in the City about what might be done with the Northern Tier. The two also assess the potential that a committee to study the planning, zoning and future land uses will be formed. Give it a listen!

A Discussion with Dan Bollman about Zoning, Housing and Affordability

East Lansing Info — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew is joined by Dan Bollman, an architect and current chair of the East Lansing Planning Commission. Dan and Andrew discuss the state of housing in East Lansing and delve into some of the various ways the City could alter zoning or other laws to, potentially, make housing more affordable and accessible in East Lansing. Listen in!

Talking Town-Gown Relations As MSU Moves Ahead with the Sophomores-On Rule

East Lansing Info — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew is joined by ELi's founder, Alice Dreger, to talk about the latest on town-gown relations in East Lansing. The duo discuss the sophomores-on-campus housing rule that MSU is planning to enforce beginning in the fall, the growing glut of student-oriented housing, and what the future might hold in light of these, and other, developments. Give it a listen!

Where Do We Stand As The Omicron Variant Recedes

East Lansing Info — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of the Insider, Andrew is joined by ELi's acting executive director, Emily Joan Elliott, to discuss the current state of Covid-19 as the omicron variant is apparently receding and things around East Lansing potentially get back to "normal." You'll also fear briefly from Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail in this episode, talking about the same thing during her regular media briefing. And lastly, it closes out with a news roundup. Give it a listen!

After Covid Pause, City of East Lansing Gets Back To Meetings

East Lansing Info — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0500

After pausing most City meetings in January and early February due to the surge of the Omicron Covid variant, the City of East Lansing's board and commissions got back to work this week and dealt with a bevy of issues. On this week's edition of the Insider, Andrew is joined by ELi reporters Heather Brothers and Al Hargrave to discuss their coverage of the Independent Police Oversight Commission and School Board, respectively. Listen in to get caught up on some of what the City is up to!

A Closer Look At EL's Responsible Hospitality Council

East Lansing Info — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0500

The convergence of a young student population and downtown bars could be a recipe for problems. On this episode of the Insider, Andrew talks to Scott Rolen (Lou & Harry's) and Mike Krueger (Crunchys) about the Responsible Hospitality Council, essentially a consortium of downtown liquor license holders working together to promote what their name says: responsible hospitality. So how do these bar and restaurant owners work together — and with the City — to promote a safe, controlled environment? Listen in to find out!

MSU's Dr. Alexa Warwick Goes In-Depth On East Lansing's Deer Cull

East Lansing Info — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew is joined by Dr. Alexa Warwick from Michigan State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. While Dr. Warwick is not an expert in deer biology, she has worked with the City of East Lansing on gauging community tolerances for deer and different management practices. East Lansing's 2022 deer cull ended recently, with 79 deer being removed from the City — and the cull was met with pushback and praise from the community along the way, which Andrew and Dr. Warwick dive into, as well. Listen in!

Recapping the East Lansing City Attorney Search To Date

East Lansing Info — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew is joined by ELi reporter Al Hargrave to discuss the ongoing search for a new City Attorney in East Lansing. From splitting up the roles of municipal advisor and prosecutor to marathon interview sessions and the winnowing down of choices, Andrew and Al dive in. Give it a listen!

Ali Haider Discusses the Ins and Outs of Running 7-Elevens in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 14:00:00 -0500

When one thinks local business, 7-Eleven doesn't readily come to mind. This week, Andrew 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. Haider, who is from the area and now resides near Grand Rapids, talks about the challenges of Covid and students being gone, the growth of downtown EL and his dislike of how the Albert EL Fresco was executed. Listen in!

Digging Into The Covid Realities At East Lansing High School

East Lansing Info — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew interviews ELHS teacher Mark Pontoni, along with two upperclassmen: junior Elke Schrenk and senior Marie Adele Grosso. The three each join Andrew to share their experiences dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic in the halls of East Lansing High School, from the fatigue of entering Year 3 to the challenges of masking in the building, it's discussed in this episode. Take a listen!

Taking Stock As The Covid-19 Pandemic Hits Year 3

East Lansing Info — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew and Chuck are again joined by ELi's Emily Joan Elliott — this time to delve into the current state of the Covid-19 pandemic. With the Omicron variant causing another wave and renewed concerns, the trio dive into issues facing Michigan State University, East Lansing Public Schools, and the City at-large. Give it a listen!

Revisiting and Recapping News from 2021

East Lansing Info — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew and Chuck are joined by ELi's Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott. Together, the trio talks about some of the bigger, noteworthy topics from 2021, from the evolution of the Covid-19 pandemic to the return of in-person learning at MSU and East Lansing Public Schools, to the newly-formed East Lansing City Council, plus plenty more. Give it a listen!

Delving Into The Hagadorn Railroad Crossing Accident

East Lansing Info — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew talks to a number of folks about the Saturday accident involving a Canadian National train running through some downed power lines, leading to widespread outages of service. Andrew talks to Keith Ivkovich, who witnessed the accident firsthand, plus Mike Wilson from Comcast about how outages get repaired. Lastly, of course, Andrew and Chuck dive into what went down. Give it a listen!

A News Grabbag With ELi Reporter Al Hargrave

East Lansing Info — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Andrew and Chuck are joined by Al Hargrave, a newer ELi reporter, to discuss some of her recent reporting on East Lansing's City Attorney, the American Rescue Plan Act, plus East Lansing High School students being recognized for their smarts. The trio also dive into a couple other stories — about cameras downtown and a proposed medical marijuana dispensary. Listen in!

The Uphill Climb For Transparency In East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew and Chuck are joined by ELi Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger to highlight and discuss the various transparency roadblocks they've encountered in East Lansing, plus what changes could fix it. Give it a listen!

What's Next For East Lansing's Water Infrastructure?

East Lansing Info — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

After multiple presentations to the public from the City about water infrastructure, Chuck Grigsby joins ELi's Andrew Graham to talk about the ongoing sanitary and storm sewer debate in the City of East Lansing. They also delve into what the future might hold in terms of solving the flooding problems the City faces. Take a listen!

Welcoming Chuck Grigsby As A Regular On The Pod With A Police Transparency Discussion

East Lansing Info — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Andrew Graham is joined by Chuck Grigsby, who will be a more regular guest/co-host on the show moving forward. Chuck serves on the East Lansing Human Rights Commission, and chaired the study committee that crafted the recommendation for East Lansing's current Police Oversight Commission. In this episode, Andrew and Chuck delve into the issues that the group might face in getting information from the police — an issue Chuck is highly familiar with. Listen in!

Discussing The Police Oversight Commission, Student Perspective Of Couch Burnings

East Lansing Info — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

On this edition of the East Lansing Insider, brought to you by East Lansing Info and Impact 89FM, policing, generally, is the topic and ELi reporters Andrew Graham, Heather Brothers and Jack Timothy Harrison dive in. First, Andrew interviews Heather about her coverage of the first meeting of the East Lansing Independent Police Oversight Commission. Then, Jack talks about his reporting on the MSU student perspective of the Oct. 30 couch burnings and such. Listen in!

Attorney Brian Wassom Discusses The Now-Dismissed Lawsuit Against ELi

East Lansing Info — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the East Lansing Insider, brought to you by East Lansing Info and Impact 89FM, 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. At the end, Graham runs through some recent local news.

A Final Discussion About the City Council Election

East Lansing Info — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 21:15:08 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi reporter Andrew Graham is joined by ELi Founder and Executive Director Alice Dreger to talk about the 2021 race for three East Lansing City Council seats, the issues the new council will face, and how the civic landscape has changed in the city. The duo also talks about some recent City Council races and how this year has been a more lowkey competition for the available seats.

Council and Policing Round Up

East Lansing Info — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott sits down with Reporter Heather Brothers to discuss what happened at City Council on Oct. 19, including a discussion on a police labor contract. The two then provide a news roundup, introducing the new Ingham County Commissioner, reviewing some Ask ELi questions, and discussing how the City might use some of its federal Covid relief money.

Superintendent Talks Pandemic, Equity in Schools

East Lansing Info — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Managing Editor talks with East Lansing Public Schools Superintendent Dori Leyko. Leyko shares the most rewarding and challenging aspects of leading the district during the pandemic. She also reflects on what the district has done in terms of equity and social justice, including hiring Director of Equity and Social Justice Klaudia Burton, and what she hopes to see achieved this year. You can see all ELi’s reporting on ELPS here.

Flooding and Sewers in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott talks with City Desk Reporter Andrew Graham about his recent reports on flooding following heavy rains in East Lansing, particularly after heavy rains on Aug. 12. The two discuss the issues that residents on Timberlane Drive face in seeking solutions to prevent further flooding some residents are in East Lansing and others in Meridian Township. Andrew also provides an update from City Council on how the City of East Lansing is investigating significant flooding in the Glencairn neighborhood

East Lansing’s Evergreen Development Problem

East Lansing Info — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger chats with Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott about the history of the Evergreen Properties, which the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) purchased in 2009. Over the years, the DDA had hoped to sell the properties to several developers, but nothing so far has panned out as planned. Dreger explains the long history up to the present, including a possible deal between the DDA and River Caddis and the construction of MSUFCU’s downtown office building.

Ask ELi to Investigate

East Lansing Info — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Alice Dreger, Emily Joan Elliott, and Andrew Graham visit some recent Ask ELi to Investigate questions that they sought answers to and helpful tidbits that they have received. The trio discusses recent flooding in East Lansing, equity and inclusion, upcoming plans for Burcham Road and at Valley Court Park, and several other questions related to East Lansing Public Schools. Since Jan. 1, 2021, ELi has received 137 distinct inquiries and is working to answer all of them. You can submit your questions related to East Lansing here!

An Interview With ELHS Aquatics Coach Madi Zink

East Lansing Info — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On the latest episode of ELi’s podcast, Andrew Graham is joined by Madi Zink, an East Lansing High School math teacher and the coach of all the Trojans high school aquatics teams — boys and girls. Right now, it's girls swim and dive season and the duo discusses the progress of that team, plus get into the state of the whole program and where Zink hopes to take it. Also, Graham provides a quick news update from around the City of East Lansing.

What Voters Want from City Council Candidates

East Lansing Info — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this week’s episode of the East Lansing Insider podcast, ELi government reporters Andrew Graham and Alice Dreger bring you the results from ELi’s survey of voters related to this November’s East Lansing City Council elections. Andrew and Alice read from and discuss what voters say are their big issues and questions for candidates. Topics include housing, downtown development, transparency, government waste, the climate crisis, and taxes, taxes, taxes — perhaps a surprise for a town that appears to lean so blue? Our weekly “Weird Thing This Week” relates to a strange response received by ELi from the City of East Lansing under a Freedom of Information Act request.

What We’ve Learned about The Big Flood of Aug. 11-12

East Lansing Info — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

This week’s East Lansing Insider podcast focuses primarily on the flooding of East Lansing homes that occurred after the monumental rain on the night of Aug. 11-12, 2021. Many East Lansing residents ended up with raw sewage in their basements. ELi’s Andrew Graham speaks with Shaw Estates resident Dr. Rubén Martinez about his experience and Andrew also tells us what he’s learned from speaking with residents in the Glencairn neighborhood. Our Publisher Alice Dreger joins Andrew to talk about what the ELi team has learned from mapping reports of flooding and Alice explains why she bought flood insurance from FEMA for her Oakwood house a few years ago. Andrew also gives us a run-down of what’s coming in East Lansing Public Schools Sports, and we briefly cover the “weird thing” we reported this week – the story of an odd real estate listing in Whitehills.

Lisa Babcock Names Her “Biggest Regret on Council”

East Lansing Info — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this week’s East Lansing Insider podcast, East Lansing Council member Lisa Babcock talks with ELi’s Andrew Graham and Alice Dreger about why she has voted against the rest of the Council on some issues like the Harbor Bay Newman Lofts rentals, who she is endorsing for City Council (Ron Bacon, Dan Bollman, and no third candidate), and what she’s hoping for out of the next City Attorney. Babcock also talks about her “biggest regret on Council,” referring to the early renewal of the City Manager’s contract. We also hear from ELi Managing Editor Emily Elliott about the weirdest thing she’s researched for our readers recently — a local foodie controversy over the Quality Dairy French Onion Chip Dip.

The Scenes Change Again at East Lansing’s Council and Downtown

East Lansing Info — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this week’s edition of the East Lansing Insider podcast, three members of ELi's government reporting team talk about the latest switches on East Lansing’s City Council, the dismantling of the Albert EL Fresco downtown play space, the sudden disappearance of a law meant to protect student renters, and the consistent reappearance of Mark Meadows who quit City Council but can’t seem to stay away from East Lansing government. Hear Andrew Graham, Heather Brothers, and Alice Dreger cover this and more as they catch you up on the latest East Lansing news.

ELHS Black Student Union Leaders Share Their Experiences

East Lansing Info — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

ELi’s Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott talks with Anaiis Rios-Kasoga, Laila Lloyd, and Liyu Mesay, three young Black women who recently graduated from East Lansing High School. The trio discussed their work with Black Student Union at ELHS, how the 2016 presidential election shaped their high school years, and what ELHS could do – and in some cases, has already done – to build a more inclusive environment.

Interview with Incoming East Lansing Mayor Jessy Gregg

East Lansing Info — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, Reporter Andrew Graham is joined by East Lansing Mayor Pro Tem Jessy Gregg, who is set to become Mayor on August 11 when Aaron Stephens (the current Mayor) formally resigns. Gregg discussed the issues she thinks East Lansing faces, why she is supporting fellow Council Members Ron Bacon and Dana Watson in the upcoming City Council elections (she also indicated Dan Bollman was her third candidate of choice), and the City's parking system.

Alex Hosey Talks Civil Rights

East Lansing Info — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Managing Editor talks to Alex Hosey, a local civil rights activist and youth reporter for ELi. Hosey spoke about his decision to sit for the national anthem during a basketball game several years ago, his experience as a Black young man in East Lansing, and his future plans, which include attending Michigan State University in the fall.

Hear ELi’s Exit Interview with Mayor Aaron Stephens

East Lansing Info — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and reporter Jack Timothy Harrison talk with outgoing Mayor Aaron Stephens as he prepares to leave the City to pursue a master’s degree in public policy at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. Stephens talks about what he will miss and not miss about being mayor of East Lansing, what he regrets and what he’s most proud of, and what it was like to become mayor with virtually no warning.

Overseeing Policing in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and reporter Heather Brothers speak with Cedrick Heraux, Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Adrian College and a member of East Lansing’s special Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission. This week, City Council passed the ordinance establishing an oversight commission for the East Lansing Police Department, and we asked Prof. Heraux about whether he sees that new commission as having been adequately empowered, what he sees as important about policing culture in East Lansing, and more.

Meeting Mark Meadows

East Lansing Info — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott sit down with Mark Meadows, former Mayor and Council member for the City of East Lansing. Meadows shares what he sees as the most important issues facing the city and who he is endorsing in the City Council elections to be held in November 2021. He also explains why he resigned and how he views his role in the community and local government now.

Freedom of the Press

East Lansing Info — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott chat with attorney Brian Wasson about freedom of the press granted by the First Amendment, threats to those protections, and the future of the press in Michigan and the United States. Dreger and Elliott then discuss a gas leak that occurred near Dreger’s home and how Dreger reported on that story using the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Neighbors and Noise in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM, ELi’s Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott discuss Dreger's article on complaints made to East Lansing's City Council about noise created by cars and motorcycles. The two discuss the issue, responses, and possible solutions. Elliott also interviews Tonya Williams, a Neighborhood Resource Specialist East Lansing Police Department, who deals with noise issues as part of her job.

Who Is Running for City Council?

East Lansing Info — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 13:00:00 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider – brought to you by ELi in partnership with Impact 89FM – ELi’s Publisher Alice Dreger talks with ELi reporter Jack Timothy Harrison about the upcoming East Lansing City Council elections. Jack has been interviewing the candidates and writing profiles of them for ELi, and, on the pod, the two talk about what makes this year’s election unique and particularly interesting to watch. (Note: There’s one error in this episode, and that is that we said Ron Bacon earned his bachelors in Criminal Justice and Psychology, but it was in Criminal Justice and Sociology. We apologize for the error.)

Apartment Leasing in East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 16:16:40 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, Publisher and Executive Director Alice Dreger and Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott recap the City Council meeting from Tuesday, June 8. At that meeting, Council voted 3-2 to approve Ordinance 1500, which could change the process for apartment leasing in East Lansing, but it includes an important caveat. The pair also discuss the presentation given to Council by the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.

ELi Talks ELPD

East Lansing Info — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 16:21:39 -0400

On this episode of East Lansing Insider, brought to you by East Lansing Info (ELi), Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott provides an overview of what ELi is and the news it provides to the community. She and reporters Heather Brothers and Andrew Graham discuss some recent stories related to policing in East Lansing, including an investigation into a controversial press release made by ELPD and the work of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission. Elliott wraps up the conversation with a recap of the last East Lansing Public Schools Board of Education meeting in May.

Policing in East Lansing: Study Committee member Kelli Ellsworth-Etchison Joins the Pod

East Lansing Info — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In a 40-minute interview with Alice Dreger and Heather Brothers, Ellsworth-Etchison discusses the ongoing work being done by the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Study Committee. And beyond that, Ellsworth-Etchison discusses her own experiences as a Black woman in East Lansing. (Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.)

School Board President Terah Chambers Joins the Podcast for An Interview

East Lansing Info — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

New East Lansing Public School Board President Terah Chambers sits down for a discussion with ELi's Emily Joan Elliott centering around the work being done ahead of a return to in-person learning at ELPS. (Credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix for the music.)

An Interview Dr. Aron Sousa, Interim Dean of MSU's College of Human Medicine

East Lansing Info — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

ELi's Managing Editor Emily Joan Elliott sits down for a 40-minute interview with Dr. Aron Sousa, the Interim Dean of Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine. (Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.)

An Interview with Linda Vail, Ingham County Health Officer

East Lansing Info — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Emily Joan Elliott, ELi's Managing Editor, is joined by Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail for a 40-minute interview. The two discuss the vaccine rollout and Vail and the Health Department's other work during the past year. (Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.)

Architect Dan Bollman Joins ELi to Talk Form-Based Design for East Lansing

East Lansing Info — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500

On this week's edition of the East Lansing Insider, Alice Dreger talks with East Lansing Planning Chair Dan Bollman about the "Shaping the Avenue" plan, which could replace the existing zoning code with a new form-based code for the densest segment of East Lansing - downtown and beyond. (Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.)

ELPS Approves Return to In-Person Learning, A Tax Abatement for TechSmith, and a Police Oversight Update

East Lansing Info — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500

ELi reporter Heather Brothers joins Andrew Graham and Emily Joan Elliott to discuss the progress and work of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission. Also, the trio catches up on School Board, City Council, and more. Also, a word from NPR's Peter Sagal reminding you to keep ELi running. (Credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix for the music.)

Special Edition: Who Really Benefitted from the Center City Bonds' Refinancing?

East Lansing Info — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500

In this special edition of the East Lansing Insider, ELi's Executive Director and Publisher Alice Dreger brings a report on the reality of the refinancing of the Center City District bonds. According to a deeply-reported analysis by ELi, the claim that the City will save money on the refinancing is likely not true. After Dreger presents her report and accompanying analysis, she and Emily Joan Elliott dive in to discuss the situation and what comes next. (Credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix for the music.)

How Are East Lansing Police and Fire Departments Dealing With Covid-19?

East Lansing Info — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500

Andrew Graham is joined by Emily Joan Elliott and Adan Tomas Quan, an ELi cub reporter, for the roundtable. The trio discuss Adan's story about how East Lansing's emergency services are working through Covid-19, Emily's recent reporting on the public schools and Andrew reminds listeners the deer cull is on the way. Also in this episode, Andrew interviews East Lansing Deputy Police Chief Steve Gonzalez about disaster preparedness and how you can be prepared. And Emily is joined by ELi General Manager Jodi Spicer to give an update on ELi's sustainability campaign. Oh, and Peter Sagal - of NPR's 'Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!' - reminds you to donate to keep ELi running, and you can get a copy of his new book about running.

Alice, Andrew and Emily Decompress After a Whirlwind Few Days

East Lansing Info — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500

In a more casual episode (No. 7), Andrew Graham, Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott take some time to decompress and discuss a whirlwind few days around East Lansing. Items of note in the pod: A discussion of the moves to refinance the Center City District bonds, Michigan State University changing housing requirements in 2022 and ELi's sustainability campaign for 2021. (Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.)

East Lansing Declares Racism A Public Health Crisis. What Comes Next?

East Lansing Info — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0500

In the sixth episode of East Lansing Insider, Andrew Graham, Emily Joan Elliott, and Alice Dreger come together on the day before Thanksgiving to talk turkey about the meetings that happened on Monday and Tuesday in East Lansing. The trio gets into the school board recertifying the Continuity of Learning Plan, discusses a use of force presentation given by ELPD to the Police Oversight Study Committee and make clear that a recent City audit isn't entirely indicative of a healthy financial picture. Also in this episode, Emily discusses her story on the City's supposed green fleet of vehicles, Andrew discusses his story on the Study Committee and Alice gives an update on the Center City District bonds. (Spoiler: We don't know much, yet!) And Emily does an interview with a new ELi donor about why they chose to support the work it does in the community. (Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.)

Covid, FOIA, and an Interview with City Council Member Dana Watson

East Lansing Info — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0500

For the first time ever on the East Lansing Insider, an East Lansing City Council member joins the show. On this episode, Dana Watson joins Andrew Graham for an interview about Covid, racism as a public health crisis and how East Lansing can be anti-racist. Also in the episode, Andrew hosts a roundtable with Emily Joan Elliott and Alice Dreger; Andrew and Alice talk about issues getting information under the Freedom of Information Act; and Emily brings a fundraising update with ELi general manager Jodi Spicer. Music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.

Breaking Down a Packed City Council Meeting

East Lansing Info — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0500

Emily Joan Elliott, Alice Dreger and Andrew Graham sit down for a roundtable discussion centering on the busy Nov. 10 City Council meeting. The trio discusses police transparency, the ongoing Center City District issues and upcoming infrastructure work and construction around the Evergreen Avenue properties. Also, Andrew sits down with Maysa Sitar, an ELi board member and MSU student, for an interview about life as a college student during a pandemic. (Credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix for the music.)

Policing on the Agenda, MSU Students Burning Couches, and a Fundraising Update from ELi

East Lansing Info — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0500

Host Andrew Graham is joined by Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott as the trio recaps the latest news in East Lansing. This week, they discuss the mobs of couch-burning people taking to the streets following MSU's upset win in football, recent reporting by ELi on racial and ethnic data from ELPD and more. Also in this episode is an interview with Chuck Grigsby, Chair of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission, and a fundraising update from ELi's General Manager, Jodi Spicer. As always, music credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix.

A Deep Dive on The Center City District Bonds

East Lansing Info — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 09:00:00 -0400

In the second episode of East Lansing Insider, hosted by Emily Joan Elliott, the ELi team discusses the latest news in East Lansing, brings you an interview from President of the Board, Sam Hosey, and Andrew Grapham and Alice Dreger go long (45 minutes!) on the City Center District. Credit to Audionautix and Jason Shaw for the music.

Welcome to East Lansing Insider!

East Lansing Info — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 09:00:00 -0400

In the first ever edition of East Lansing Insider, a new show from East Lansing Info (ELi), host Andrew Graham discussed the latest news from East Lansing, Michigan, with colleagues Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott. From the latest at City Council to a preview of MSU football returning, the trio digs in to the stories of the week and looks ahead to what's coming. (Credit to Jason Shaw and Audionautix for the intro/outro tunes)