News Summary
The MSU Surplus Store in East Lansing has issued a recall for multipurpose pens given out during a recent Teacher Sale after some were found to conceal hidden knives. This precautionary measure aims to ensure the safety of community members who may have received these dangerous items. Shoppers are advised to inspect any pens obtained and return them if they are hazardous. The store, a community staple for 40 years, has urged those affected to contact them via email for further action.
East Lansing, Michigan – MSU Surplus Store Issues Recall for Free Pens with Hidden Knives
Michigan State University’s (MSU) Surplus Store and Recycling Center has issued a recall for multipurpose pens given away during a Teacher Sale on July 8, 2025, after it was discovered that some of the pens concealed hidden knives. This decision comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of patrons who may have taken the potentially hazardous items.
The store, which has been a community staple for approximately 40 years, provides a variety of new and used items that are no longer needed by the university. Often, the store sells unique items and occasionally gives away free products. During the recent Teacher Sale, attendees were encouraged to take the free multipurpose pens, which feature a flashlight on one end and a writing pen on the other.
On July 11, the surplus store alerted the public through a Facebook post, advising anyone who obtained one of the pens to carefully inspect the item. The post detailed how the pens, designed to pull apart in the middle, could reveal a hidden knife blade. This alarming discovery has raised concerns regarding the safety of items distributed at the store.
A shopper, identified only as Mary, expressed shock upon learning about the dangerous nature of the pens, noting that she regularly visits the store for both personal items and to support her community work through volunteering at the Cristo Rey Community Center. Residents who have supported the surplus store in the past have been surprised by this incident, as it marks the first negative occurrence in the store’s lengthy history.
In light of this finding, the MSU Surplus Store has requested that anyone in possession of a multipurpose pen with a hidden knife contact them via email at [email protected]. However, reports indicate that the store has not responded to various requests for comments following the recall announcement.
The MSU Surplus Store is located at 468 Green Way in East Lansing. It primarily serves as an outlet for surplus items that the university no longer requires, promoting recycling and sustainability within the community. The incident with the hidden knives in the pens has raised awareness about the importance of careful scrutiny regarding the safety of free items provided in such settings.
The community is advised to stay vigilant about the products they receive, especially during promotional events. As the store continues to handle this issue, customers are encouraged to return any pens that may be deemed hazardous, ensuring both individual and public safety.
This analysis of the situation emphasizes the crucial need for safety measures in retail and promotional environments, especially when distributing items without prior vetting. As the surplus store navigates this situation, further communication with the public is anticipated to clarify the next steps for those affected.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Michigan State University
- WLIX News
- Google Search: MSU surplus store hidden knives
- WZZM 13 News
- Google Scholar: hidden knives in pens Michigan State University
- MLive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michigan State University
- WLNS News
- Google News: MSU Surplus Store
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
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