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News | Michigan

MICHIGAN

Pastor looks to empower women

Stacia Pierce was in her element as she stepped before a Wednesday night congregation at Life Changers Christian Center in Lansing. A co-pastor at the non-denominational Christian church, Pierce received cheers and hearty "Amens" as she shared her message that has gained national attention and even earned a nod from the White House last month. Pierce was invited to meet with pastors' wives from around the country and to listen to President Bush, first lady Laura Bush and former Secretary of State Colin Powell during inaugural events in Washington, she said. "One thing we all agreed upon is we need God to change things in our communities," Pierce said.

MICHIGAN

Library hosts medieval event including sword fights, crafts

By Gabrielle Russon Special For The State News Swords clashed and whips cracked during the "Dragon's Faire" at the East Lansing Public Library on Sunday afternoon. The medieval-themed event featured The Ring of Steel, a student performing troupe from the University of Michigan, who showcased their sword-fighting skills and medieval talents for about 200 people.

MICHIGAN

Beaner's to open new E.L. location

Students in the Northern Tier will soon have a new place to get their weekly caffeine boost. Construction on a new Beaner's Gourmet Coffee, located on the corners of Lake Lansing and Abbott roads, already has begun. The Beaner's store is scheduled to open in the end of February.

MICHIGAN

Building demolition approved by planning commission

A plan to demolish a Grand River Avenue building to make room for a mixed-used property is set to go before the East Lansing City Council for approval. The East Lansing Planning Commission reviewed and approved the project at this week's meeting, sending it to the City Council. According to city documents, plans for the Grand River Avenue and Bailey Street site next to Taco Bell include creating a building to house retail space in addition to upper-level apartments targeted at young professionals and families. "If someone does not want to make a long-term solution to owning, they would have the option of renting," said David Krause of Corey Partnership, the project's developer.

MICHIGAN

Local hair institute trains tomorrow's stylists

MSU isn't the only school in East Lansing - nestled along Grand River Avenue sits the Douglas J Aveda Institute, a finishing school for those who wish to pursue a career in cosmetology. Off to the left, at one of the workstations, is Erin Smith.

MICHIGAN

Stamp released in honor of deceased president

Lansing joined cities across the country in recognizing the release of a U.S. postal stamp honoring the late President Ronald Reagan. About a dozen representatives from the Lansing Post Office and state and national government representatives gathered in the Capitol's glass floor rotunda to unveil the stamp. "There is some symbolic significance to having the unveiling at a state capitol," said Mike Lee, customer relations coordinator for the Lansing Post Office. Before he became the 40th president of the United States, Reagan was governor of California. Normally, people can only be honored with a stamp once 10 years has passed since their death.

MICHIGAN

Catholic season of Lent begins

The sanctuary of St. John Student Parish was filled on Ash Wednesday as students and residents lined up to have their foreheads symbolically marked with ashes by a priest. The Catholic tradition, known formally as the Day of Ashes, is a solemn beginning to the season of Lent, said Father Mark Inglot of the parish, which is located at 327 M.A.C.

MICHIGAN

State campaign for health now online

In an effort to fight obesity in Michigan, state Surgeon General Kimberlydawn Wisdom launched a free interactive Web site last week to help residents create personal health plans. Targeted at communities, businesses and individuals, the site opened Feb.

MICHIGAN

Mich. begins $5 million project

Michigan organizations are working on a $5 million grant project to increase the safety of elderly patients at long-term care facilities by improving background checks for employees. Michigan is one of seven states that received grant money from the U.S.

MICHIGAN

Word on the street

"Bridge the gap between older residents and students. They need to make it easier for the two to work together and solve issues." Ryan Longoria | history senior "The stop lights get on my nerves - everything has a no turn on red.

MICHIGAN

Diabetes group, Izzo hold event for illness

The American Diabetes Association will be holding the Fast Break for Diabetes event on Feb. 17 at the Shaheen Chevrolet, 632 American Road, in Lansing. The event will feature a silent auction with items such as MSU basketball tickets, Lansing Lugnuts tickets and fitness gift certificates.

MICHIGAN

Holiday to boost local business

Love is in the air, and various local businesses are catering to the upcoming Valentine's Day holiday. For candy stores, florists and restaurants, major holidays bring in a lot of business, said Steve Blair, an owner of Fabiano's Homemade Candies, 1427 E.

MICHIGAN

East Village residents concerned, optimistic about area's future

As East Lansing officials work to reform the East Village, some students living in the area are wary of the city's motives and the consequences of such a large project. According to city documents, plans for the area include creating buildings to house businesses, permanent residents and renters in addition to demolishing structures in place, including the Cedar Village apartment complex. "I don't know if it goes with MSU's campus," said Heather Kerver, a zoology senior and East Village resident.

MICHIGAN

Women business owners network at expo

Hundreds of local female business owners came together to exhibit their services for thousands of women at the Mid-Michigan Women's Expo, Friday through Sunday at the Lansing Center. While women shopped from booth to booth, listened to demonstrations and learned about health issues, business owner Diane Boulet said times have changed for women in business. "It's a lot easier now for women to own businesses," Boulet said.