Good morning, Lawrence.

The Blank family will celebrate the life of Rob Blank, known as Peace Man for spreading kindness in our town, on July 20 at Liberty Hall in downtown Lawrence from 1 to 4 p.m. They will host an open mic at 2 p.m.—attendees may view a photo slideshow and donate for a downtown memorial.

Lawrence police are seeking community help to find a shooter who damaged vehicles outside The Connections apartment complex on June 7 — officers reported no injuries and described the suspect as a black male between 5-foot-5 and 5-foot-8 wearing dark clothing and a red backpack.

Lawrence has begun accepting nominations for the 25th Phoenix Awards to honor local artists, educators, and community groups; the competition includes 10 award categories (up to five winners per category) plus a Creative Spaces Award.

Entries must be submitted online by Tuesday, September 30 at 4:00 p.m. (the Lawrence Cultural Arts Commission oversees the process).

A study by Lightcast found that KU drove a $7.8 billion economic impact in Kansas and supported nearly 88,000 jobs statewide.

The report showed that spending on operations, construction, research and visitor activities generated strong returns for taxpayers & boosted local economic growth.

Kids Cooking Camp 1

9 a.m. — Cookshop on 8th — $ — Explore the science of cooking with pancakes, pizza, and homemade ravioli under the guidance of a culinary chemist.

Summer Cozy Cottages Workshop

1-4 p.m. — ART EMERGENCY — Class fee applies — Create personalized gift boxes and mini-villages of tiny houses using various materials.

Orchard Nights

6-8 p.m. — 830 Garfield St, Lawrence, KS — Free entry — Volunteer at the orchard and discover the joys of early season fruits.

Country Stampede 2025

7 PM – 6 PM — Azura Amphitheater — Ticket information TBA — Experience the vibrant sounds of country music in a festival that celebrates community and entertainment.

Pop-Up Dinner & Wine Experience

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations recommended — Savor a unique dish with wine flights featuring a guided tasting experience.

Bright Lights Summer Nights Fashion Show

7-9 p.m. — Maceli's Banquet Hall & Catering — Cash bar available — Experience a dazzling evening of fashion, live entertainment, and support future talent.

Discover, Learn, Grow Cutting Class

10:00 a.m. — Paisley & Stripe West — In-person attendance — Experience three versatile haircuts that showcase modern techniques and trend-driven styles.

Orchard Nights Volunteering

6-8 p.m. — 830 Garfield St, Lawrence, KS — Free entry — Volunteer to help harvest early season fruits while learning about the orchard's offerings.

Pasta Night: Gnocchi al ragú bianco

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required for dinner service — Indulge in hand-made potato gnocchi with a rich three-meat ragú in a cozy setting.

Beach Vacation in a Jar Workshop

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Jungle House — $15 — Create a mini beach scene with terrariums and baby palms while enjoying a tropical vibe right in Lawrence.