This is The State for Wednesday, March 19th where we bring you the headlines that matter. I'm Rachel Fulton.
For our first story of the day focusing on campus news,
In a troubling development at Michigan State University, a practitioner at the Olin Health Center is facing new allegations after a training on sexual violence in December 2022. Witnesses report that the employee bragged about avoiding previous investigations into assault claims and demonstrated questionable behavior during the training, which included discussing how to arouse someone through touch. The practitioner allegedly performed this demonstration on another attendee, though that person later denied it.
This incident is just the latest in a series of accusations against the practitioner, who has been the subject of three prior Title IX reports, one of which is part of an ongoing federal investigation into MSU's handling of such cases. Despite the new allegations, MSU closed its inquiry after the purported victim declined to participate and denied any misconduct occurred.
The case remains unresolved, as it's unclear if the federal probe will influence the university's handling of the situation. Critics argue that the university's approach, and the victim's reluctance to engage, highlight the complexities of investigating sexual misconduct. Michigan State continues to face scrutiny over its handling of Title IX investigations, with many unanswered questions still lingering about the future of these claims.
For our second story focusing on city news,
Quark!, a science-inspired gift shop that became a staple on Grand River Avenue in East Lansing, has officially moved to an online-only model. After four years in its brick-and-mortar location, owner Renee Leone decided to close the store to focus on the online platform, which she'd been managing alongside the physical store.
Renee, who founded Quark! with a passion for science, art, and travel, explained that the decision came down to work-life balance. "Running both was pretty challenging," she said, noting that managing a small business alone took a toll. Though financials were a factor, she emphasized her goal was always to inspire curiosity and celebrate science in everyday life.
While Renee will miss the community connection of the physical store, she's excited to reach a broader audience online. Her products, which blend science with art, reflect her personal experiences and passion for discovery. She hopes to bring the same personal touch to her online store, adding videos and content to share the stories behind the items.
She's optimistic about the future and excited to continue sharing her love of science with a wider audience.
Before we end our episode, today's weather forecast is predicting cloudy skies with a possible stray shower or thunderstorm with a high of 69 degrees and a low of 40 degrees.
Thank you for joining us for The State... Produced by The State News and Impact eighty-nine F-M. You can find us online at State News dot com and Impact eight-nine F-M dot org. We'll be back tomorrow with more.
