Beyond the Bus

It's no secret that CATA is proud of our community’s library system. We have profiled the Capital Area District Libraries’ services during the COVID-19 pandemic and their special Library of Things, where adult cardholders can check out unique hands-on items from ghost-hunting kits to bus passes.

We are turning the page to another chapter in our partnership with CADL, as we proudly join their Summer Reading Challenge. You do not have to be a library member to get involved, and it is free to join.

But why would you want to read as much as you can between now and the challenge’s August 8 deadline? We’ll give you five good reasons to crack open a good book for the Summer Reading Challenge.

1. It can be tailored toward any age.

The Summer Reading Challenge offers four separate tracks, depending on your age group. Babies, toddlers, kids, teens and adults can all be part of the challenge.

2. You could win a computer, iPad, Chromebook, or other piece of tech gear.

Kids and teens who complete all levels of the Summer Reading Challenge can enter to win one of (at least) 20 tech devices. CADL is giving away these devices to close the digital divide between kids with easy computer access and reliable Internet, and kids without.

Click here for the official rules and entry form.

3. You can pay back library fines.

Kids and teens can earn a $5 coupon to help pay back any library fines. They can earn this coupon just by reaching the second level of CADL’s Summer Reading Challenge.

4. It’s a way to beat the summer slide.

When school is out for summer, children can lose many of their academic gains from the school year. Reading levels, spelling skills, and vocabulary can take a hit.

Click here to learn more about the summer slide and how the Summer Reading Challenge can help fend it off.

5. There are opportunities to win new experiences and prizes.

Read and be rewarded! Participants could win gift cards to the MSU Dairy Store, Traverse City Pie Company, Meijer, Target, Biggby and more. For kids up to age 13, the grand prize is a family getaway to the Bavarian Inn Waterpark in Frankenmuth. Teens have a chance to win a 10-pack of one-hour passes to Launch Trampoline Park.

For a full list of prizes by age group, click here.

In addition to the Summer Reading Challenge, CADL is also hosting community scavenger hunts, online escape room challenges, virtual storytimes, craft corners and more. View their catalog of summer activities and join us in extending a huge “Thank you!” to CADL for creating innovative ways to make summer learning fun.

How often do you wish for an extra day? 

In 2020, that wish has been granted. February 29 is your day to do something you’ve always wanted to do. And best of all, it’s a Saturday! Here are some fun ways to enjoy your Leap Day Lansing-style:

1. Eat Izzo-themed ice cream while watching MSU basketball.

Cheer on the Spartans against Maryland with a large scoop of Izzo’s Malted Madness – with hot fudge and sprinkles, of course. Take routes 24, 25 or 36 to check out other themed flavors at the MSU Dairy Store, all made at the university with Michigan ingredients! For homemade perfection, you’ve got to check this place out. 

2. Smell the bacon.

Kermit the Frog, a Christmas tree, a sombrero and clogs – what do all of these things have in common? They’re mounted on the walls of Golden Harvest, one of the most eclectic and identifiable food spots in Lansing. This restaurant’s amazing breakfasts and unique decor have drawn crowds since 1951. Hop on Route 14 to this Old Town gem.

To support Golden Harvest’s restoration initiative, visit http://bit.ly/SaveGolden.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Potter Park Zoo (@potterparkzoo) on Feb 4, 2020 at 5:01pm PST

3. Join the stampede.

Have you heard about Potter Park Zoo’s baby rhino, Jaali? He is the first black rhino to be born at the Potter Park Zoo! This milestone was recognized worldwide, as black rhinos are a critically endangered species. While Jaali won’t be out in public until spring, the zoo is still an amazing place to be in the winter. We’re talking less crowds, and plenty of animals – jump on route 8! 

Check zoo hours here.

4. Contest your ‘stache.

Do you have a rad mustache or beard you’ve always wanted to show off? Here’s your chance. On Leap Day, Old Town is hosting Brrs, Beards, and Brews: A Lumberjack Festival, complete with a facial hair competition. For all those with bare faces, the festival also offers a Feats of Strength contest, food and activities. Routes 14 or 16 will take you to this event!

5. Join a cause.

Have you always wanted to get involved in your community, but never had the time to get started? Today is your day! There are so many opportunities in the Lansing area to get involved in a good cause, from helping people to animals to the environment.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Cosmos Wood-Fired (@thecosmospizza) on Jan 6, 2020 at 12:36pm PST

6. Kick it back. 

Whether you take time with family and friends, or focus on self care, give yourself permission to relax and enjoy this day! Find a local yoga studio to focus on yourself or indulge in a slice and turn on the game. Remember this is your day – your EXTRA day – to do what you’d like.

How will you be spending your Leap Day this year?

Freezing temperatures and icy roads can make Michigan winters a drag sometimes, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t fun things to do in the Lansing area during the cold months. We’ve made a list of five things to do in Greater Lansing to help you enjoy the winter season.

1. Art & Craft BeerFest              

This indoor festival on the main strip of REO Town will take place on Saturday, January 27. Check out art, music and short films as you sample craft beer. There will also be food trucks on site, along with eats from Saddleback BBQ and Good Truckin’ Diner. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the gate. Take Route 2 to REO Town for this festival that you don’t want to miss.

2. Ice Skating at Suburban Ice

Ice skating is a fun winter activity for adults and children alike. Suburban Ice in East Lansing has public skate hours every day in the month of January. Check out their calendar for public skating times. Public Skate is $5 for adults, $3 for children, and only $2 for skate rental. Take Route 1 to Hannah Plaza to have some fun on the ice!

3. Check out a local coffee shop

Escape the cold of winter by cozying up at a local coffee shop with a hot drink. The Lansing area has several charming cafes to choose from. Take Route 1 to Strange Matter Coffee on Michigan Avenue, or take Route 14 to Old Town to grab a drink at Bloom Coffee Roasters. Headed to REO Town? Hop on Route 2 to check out Blue Owl Coffee.

4. Winter sports at Michigan State University

Take advantage of having a Big Ten school in your hometown and check out an MSU sporting event! Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams have home games at the Breslin Center through February. Take Route 20 to the Breslin Center, or park in Ramp 5 and use the game day shuttle to get you to the door. The hockey team will also have home games throughout the winter season. Go to the MSU Official Athletic Site for schedules and tickets.

5. Snow Tubing at Hawk Island Park

You’ve gone sledding, but have you ever gone snow tubing? For $10 per person, or $8 for groups of 4 or more, enjoy a day of snow tubing at Hawk Island Park. Check out their hours before heading out. Ride a tube down the groomed course that extends over 500 feet, and then hop on the conveyor belt to take you back to the top of the hill. Take Route 8 and you’ll only be a short walk from the park entrance.