Today’s weather forecast is predicting a nice, warm, sunny day with a high of 78 and a low of 52.

East Lansing-area farmer’s markets: Finding community on a budget

Even if you aren’t on ‘cottagecore’ TikTok or someone with an NPR tote bag, making the switch to shopping at a local farmers market can be a fun, healthy change – and it doesn’t have to break the bank.

The East Lansing area has several options for people looking to add sustainable or organic food to their shopping routine.

East Lansing Farmers Market manager Karla Forrest-Hewitt said deciding to go to the farmers market over supermarkets like Meijer or Target can bring people closer to their community.

Both Forrest-Hewitt and Jenny Wagemann, director of the Allen Farmers Market, said the idea that farmers markets are inherently pricier than shopping at a big box store is a common misconception.

Think that this sounds like a good option for you? Here’s a few tools for making the most of your next farmers market trip while staying budget-friendly.

One of the easiest ways to make any shopping trip more cost-effective is to make a list of what you need before leaving the house. Treat the farmers market like any other grocery store and make a physical list before you go to prevent overspending.

While sticker prices for produce might be higher at some farmers markets, it’s important to keep in mind you’re paying for a fresher product. Wagemann said that the longevity you’ll get from farmers market produce makes it worth the extra cents you might pay.

The East Lansing Farmers Market runs on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Oct. 30. The Allen Farmers Market is open Wednesdays year-round from 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a change in October from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

MSU announces Rebecca Barber, VP of financial planning and analysis

MSU released a press release announcing the new Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis Rebecca Barber on Sept. 8

Barber will directly oversee the Office of Financial Planning and Budget and Office of Treasury and Financial Management and reports to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Lisa Frace.

Barber received her bachelor’s degree from Excelsior College, holds a master’s in social and philosophical foundation of education, an MBA and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies from Arizona State University.

“It’s a great pleasure to welcome Dr. Barber to the MSU community,” MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr. said in the press release. “Planning and analysis are critical functions in support of the mission of an R1 research institution and play a key role in developing a long-term financial model that aligns resources with our strategic priorities.”

Barber said, “I look forward to joining the Spartan community at such an exciting time.”

MSU students reflect on their mental health upon returning to school

As another summer dwindles to a close, the Spartans of Michigan State University find their way back to campus. After the initial excitement of move-in weekend, Sparticipation and the start of a new football season, students begin to prepare for the highs and lows of a new school year.

The beginning of fall semester means a fresh start for some students, while others struggle with the pressure to succeed.

Not only is there the time commitment of classes, but most instructors will require additional work to be done outside of class. This causes growing pressure on students.

For students entering the final stages of their degree, this fall means a feeling of anxiety for their future.

“The stark realization that I am expected to be a fully functioning, working member of society, in only two years, has placed a large sense of dread over my head,” said computer science junior Alex Fortsch.

But the start of a new school year can also bring an influx of positive emotions as well.

Freshman Grace Low said school brings both the opportunity to learn as well as connect socially – helping students reach outside their comfort zone.

Ultimately, MSU students agree that a balance can be found to manage stress. Acts of self-care can help you achieve that balance.

Despite all of the stresses that come with heading back to East Lansing, junior Katelyn DiGasbarro still thinks the MSU experience is a net positive. You just have to take care of yourself.

Based on original reporting by Lily Guiney, Ashley Zhou, and Maggie George.