Good morning, Lawrence.

Just Food is stretched thin as more local residents depend on its services—new federal SNAP cuts expected in 2028 will worsen food insecurity challenges.

The organization served 5,752 households last year and added 730 new households over the past seven months amid rising living costs.

Kiba, a 7 1/2-year-old English bulldog, has spent 18 months at the Lawrence Humane Society after being first surrendered in December 2023 due to housing issues and later returned when a KU student's landlord did not allow his 77-pound frame—he is friendly, well-behaved with kids, and available for adoption with a $25 fee.

Bar K—a popular spot for pet owners—closed permanently on July 29 due to area construction and rising inflation complaints, leaving local customers without their favorite meeting place.

The Lawrence school board approved two new communications hires Monday—Jake Potter as executive director and Summer Workman as coordinator.

Potter, who worked in Leavenworth, will start on Aug. 21 and Workman, a Lawrence native, will begin on Aug. 11.

Governor Laura Kelly announced 30 road projects that will receive part of $25m from KDOT’s City Connecting Link Improvement Program to upgrade highways in several cities including Lawrence.

The projects focus on surface preservation, pavement restoration and roadway geometry and use local funds to bring the total value above $39m — enhancements aimed at improving safety and longevity.

A KU study found that communities with more social, human and cultural capital have better health outcomes.

The research, published on July 29th, used local health data—showing that places with stronger social infrastructure report fewer cases of fair or poor health.

Douglas County Fair Demolition Derby

7:30 p.m. — Douglas County Fairgrounds — $15 single night, $25 for both nights — Experience the thrilling excitement of car crashes and competition at the annual Derby.

Art Guild Office Hours

9-11 a.m. — Art Emergency — Free entry — Meet the Guild President, bring questions, or share ideas for the Lawrence Art Guild.

2025 Construction Safety Conference

8 AM – 9 PM — Burge Union — Join experts in discussing vital safety practices and trends in construction.

Initial Meetup at the Library

12-1 p.m. — Lawrence Public Library — Free entry — Explore fun tabletop games in a welcoming environment.

KU English Meeting

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM — Cider Gallery — Free entry — Engage in discussions and activities centered around English literature and language.

Tabletop Gaming at The Dragon's Hoard

12:30-3:30 p.m. — The Dragon's Hoard — Free entry — Dive into a variety of fun and easy-to-learn tabletop games with fellow enthusiasts.

Guild Members’ Meeting

6:30-8:30 p.m. — ART EMERGENCY — Free entry — Engage with local artists and discuss community projects in a creative space.

Pasta Night: Cacio e Pepe

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required for dinner service — Enjoy house-made pasta with a classic Roman cheese and pepper sauce.

Native Lands - Elderberry Class

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Merc Co+op — Proceeds support a local cause — Discover the culinary and ecological benefits of Kansas native plants with local expert Courtney Masterson.

Pop-Up Dinner & Wine Experience

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations requested for parties of 4 or more — Enjoy a special pop-up dinner with wine pairings and a curated tasting experience.