Friday, March 15 — For the second year in a row, local PBS affiliate WKAR-TV (Channel 23 in East Lansing) was named Public Television Station of the Year by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters. WKAR was honored at the 2012 Broadcast Excellence Awards on Wednesday. This is the fifth time it has been honored with the award, which is more than any other station in Michigan. WKAR broadcasts from the College of Communication Arts and Sciences building on the campus of Michigan State University.

Tuesday, Jan. 15 — The Old Town Commercial Association’s Art Initiative project was realized recently with the installation of two metal sculptures and six poetry-inscribed benches throughout the sidewalks of Old Town. Louise Gradwohl, executive director of the OTCA, said her organization had the idea of installing local artwork throughout the city for years, but budgetary restrictions have always kept that idea just outside of the realm of possibility. But thanks largely to the donations from the City of Lansing and Downtown Lansing Inc., the OTCA has moved forward with its initiative.

Friday, Feb. 15 — Think of the Lansing City Market’s mini chili cook-off as an opportunity to get to Lansing’s flagship chili competition — and to see which merchant can hold the flag for best chili in the market. On Saturday, the City Market hosts its first Mini Chili Cook-Off, a competition among seven market merchants for the best chili and salsa. The winner of a popular vote earns a chance to compete in the Lansing Board of Water and Light’s annual chili cook-off in May.

Friday, Jan. 18 — The voting for Celebration! Cinema’s second annual Celebrated Service Award starts today, which lets the community vote for local companies that have outstanding customer service.

Friday, March 1 — Lansing’s Celebration! Cinema is shaking things up with some new technology debuting today. The theater unveiled 26 D-BOX seats to enhance the moviegoing experience for its customers.