Parking garages upgrade system

In the next few months, drivers coming to East Lansing's downtown parking facilities are going to be greeted with an electronic computer rather than a parking attendant. More than $1 million worth of computerized parking equipment has been ordered to replace the city's existing technology by July. The new equipment will offer drivers the option of paying with credit cards and city-issued debit cards, along with more options for short-term permits. "It's just the way the industry's going," East Lansing Parking Administrator Dan O'Connor said.

MSU group plans to raise LBGT awareness

The MSU Stonewall Democrats hope a reorganization of the group will create awareness for the lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender community on campus. Last semester, the group worked with the MSU College Democrats to get people to vote during the November elections. Now, the group has shifted its efforts back to activism, said Kate Lester, president of the Stonewall Democrats. In today's reorganizational meeting, Lester said she plans to set times and dates for group meetings, try to put together goals and establish an executive board.

Community faces housing bias

Lansing — Same-sex couples are not given the same opportunities as heterosexual couples when renting or owning property, a report released Tuesday by the Fair Housing Center of Southeastern Michigan concluded. The study examined 120 cases throughout various parts of the state, beginning in May 2005 and ending in February 2006. "Sexual orientation is not always covered in Michigan legislation," said Kristen Cuhran, coordinator of investigations for the housing center.

City Council posts videos of meetings online

The East Lansing City Council made an earth-shattering decision at a meeting — chances are, you weren't there to see how it went down. Well, now you have a second chance.

Group's first black leader from MSU

Patricia Edwards first attended the National Reading Conference in 1983. In 2006, she organized the conference that took place in Los Angeles.

City offers trees to combat harmful bug

To combat the emerald ash borer's effects in Mid-Michigan, East Lansing residents can reserve a tree to plant in their yards, beginning Thursday. As part of the Restoration of Our Trees program, sponsored by the city of East Lansing, 200 trees are available for purchase by residents.

Police briefs 01/30/07

University students to offer education about climate changes, future impact

ECO, a student "sustainability organization" on campus, is hosting a "Week of Action" to inform the MSU community of the effects of climate change and how people can make a difference. Today, the group will be roving across campus to interview students about their thoughts on global warming.

Bridge celebrates 50th year

Lansing — Fifty years have passed since Richard "Dick" DeMara was a black-haired iron worker. He was paid $3.50 an hour and "a nickel for fringe benefits" in 1957 as a cable inspector during the construction of the Mackinac Bridge. DeMara, who now has gray hair, shared photos and jocular stories of his experience Saturday at the Michigan Historical Museum, 702 W.

Project analyzes Internet security

With every keystroke, computer hackers try to work their way into your computer. But not if Robert LaRose and Nora Rifon, two MSU professors, can help it. Last year, the duo conducted a national survey of 557 home Internet users.

Students unsure of liaison's progress

In the four months and 18 days that Rachelle Woodbury has been East Lansing's community-student liaison, the MSU employee has met with dozens of people and has begun developing a new Web site — but that's about it. Woodbury's position was created by MSU President Lou Anna K.

Centennial artwork causes community concern

A sculpture in East Lansing will cost the city the same price as a new car or a year at MSU for an in-state student.

MSU accelerated nursing degree program helps create new jobs

MSU and William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak have teamed up to create an accelerated nursing degree program for college graduates. Linda Kruso, a Beaumont spokeswoman, said experts project a national nursing shortage in the future.

Police briefs 01/29/07

Police briefs 01/26/07

Inspectors audit E.L. homes

Even though Rob Ryan and his roommates prepared for their annual housing inspection at the New Community cooperative house, he still was surprised his house passed the test. "They're always nit-picking," the advertising senior said of the city's housing inspectors.

WEB EXTRA: Local Applebee's helps to support Greater Lansing Food Bank

In the past 26 years, the Greater Lansing Food Bank has filled more than one million stomachs. Today, Applebee's and the organization are teaming up to fill your own. The Lansing Applebee's, 5400 W.

TIME poll: Clinton has support of Democrats

Democratic Sen. Hillary Clinton used to stand by her husband as he made crucial decisions for the United States. Now, she's vying for the opportunity to make those same calls. Does she have a chance? According to a TIME Magazine poll that ran from Jan.

MSU may expand other med program

One MSU faculty member expressed concern that university officials are spreading resources too thin in terms of expanding medical colleges throughout the state. As administrators seal the deal with the College of Human Medicine's expansion into Grand Rapids, their attention now is focused on creating a "satellite campus" for the College of Osteopathic Medicine in eastern Michigan. However, the university must preserve its local clinical operation, said Jim Potchen, Executive Committee of Academic Council chairman. "This is an expansion and not a move," Potchen said.

Students, provost address issues in Chicano/Latino studies

Broken promises and a list of demands for on support and funding for the Chicano/Latino studies specialization program were discussed Thursday morning when 10 students met with university administrators. In fall 2005, students from the discipline met with Provost Kim Wilcox to voice concerns about the program's budget and future.