Good morning, Lawrence.

Costco Wholesale is building a 160,000 sqft store at The Mercato development in Lawrence at the northeast corner of Sixth Street & Highway 10, set to open just ahead of Thanksgiving 2026 to offer shoppers a gas station, tire center and bakery.

Smallcakes, a locally owned bakery in west Lawrence, will close on Sunday, March 1 at its Bauer Farm Drive location due to its lease ending; owner Candice McCall said she is seeking a new space and urged residents to visit its sister store in Topeka for treats.

Developers announced that Costco will open this fall as the anchor for a mixed-use development in west Lawrence — at the northwest corner of Entrada and Mercato Drives, with new Truity Credit Union and Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy store coming soon.

The Lawrence Arts Center and the City of Lawrence are hosting a connection fair and film screening Friday, Feb.

27 at Free State High School commons from 6:30 to 7 p.m. — groups will share opportunities as Join or Die starts at 7 p.m. and lasts 30 minutes.

The Commons at KU will host mycologist Patricia Ononiwu Kaishian for the annual Kenneth Spencer Lecture on April 7 at 7 p.m. at Liberty Hall (downtown Lawrence) with Raven Book Store on site and additional events at Haskell Wetlands and Baldwin Woods where guests must email for registration.

Spring brings the annual hummingbird migration to the area as birds begin their journey, drawing local nature enthusiasts.

Residents may soon spot these tiny travelers gathering in parks as the season unfolds.

Dr. Kirsten Watkins was named permanent CEO of Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center after serving eight months as interim leader, as announced Tuesday morning.

The center will soon begin hiring a new clinical director (aiming to strengthen long-term service plans).

Kansas defeated Houston 69-56 at home on Feb.

20 with White scoring 23 points to keep the team from consecutive home losses since 1988-89. The win boosts their momentum as they continue the season.

Pasta Night: Lasagne

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required — Savor a special lasagne and enjoy house-made pasta with an array of authentic Italian sauces each week.

Just Food Benefit Concert

5:30-9 p.m. — Cider Gallery — Tickets at the door — Enjoy live music with Aud Whitson and Tori Brooks & The Meltdowns while supporting a local cause.

Spring Break Soccer Camp

9 a.m.-12 p.m. — Sports Pavilion Lawrence — $130-$225 — A fun-filled youth soccer camp designed to develop skills and confidence for ages 5-14.

P/V Burger & Wine Experience

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — $25 — Relish a gourmet burger and wine flight at this unique pop-up dining experience.

LAG Members’ Monthly Critique Coffee Hour

9:30-11 a.m. — Art Emergency — Free entry — Share your artwork for feedback while enjoying coffee and donuts in a supportive setting.

Minnesota United FC 2 at Sporting Kansas City II

7-9 p.m. — Rock Chalk Park — Ticket prices vary — An exciting MLS Next Pro match featuring local favorites Sporting KC II and Minnesota United II.

Pasta Night: Pici alla Carbonara

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required for dinner service — Enjoy authentic Pici alla carbonara made with house-made pasta and local ingredients.

Jack Shaw Live Stand-Up Comedy

7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Comedy Club of Lawrence — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with Kill Tony's Golden Ticket winner Jack Shaw.

The Warped Tour Band Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Bottleneck — Tickets from $36 — Experience the energetic live performance of The Warped Tour Band and celebrate local music.