Good morning, Lawrence.

Curator Sydney Pursel has organized two fall exhibitions at the Spencer Museum of Art: one show titled 'My Mother's Tongue Ties Me Together' opens Aug.

26 featuring three regional artists selected by the Charlotte Street Visual Artist Awards, and the other—'Iⁿ‘zhúje‘waxóbe: Return of the Sacred Red Rock'—opens Sept. 9 to display the historic rock’s journey from a local park to a Kaw Nation site with multimedia presentations. Pursel, appointed in 2022, has led community collaborations that bring together local talent and Kaw Nation contributions.

Lawrence's Parks and Rec director Luis Ruiz will leave his position on Oct.

3 as he returns to Mesa to lead arts and culture — Lindsay Hart will serve as the interim director.

Luis Ruiz, who has led Parks, Recreation and Culture since May 2024, will leave his role to return to Mesa as Director of Arts and Culture on Friday, October 3—Lindsay Hart will serve as Interim Director starting Saturday, October 4.

HUD verified that Lawrence achieved a 63% drop in unsheltered homelessness from January 2024 to January 2025 with nearly 100 residents moved into shelter or housing — one of the largest reductions in a community of over 100,000.

City officials credit strong partnerships and coordinated outreach teams for improving access to healthcare, behavioral services, and housing as the community advances toward functional zero homelessness.

At a work session on Wednesday, Douglas County commissioners reviewed eviction prevention methods and heard calls for better public education on tenant-landlord issues—Lawrence Tenants pressed for a tenant right to counsel ordinance.

Presenters noted that few renters attend answer hearings, leaving many without needed legal support.

Meteorologist Warren Sears reviewed the weather forecast for KU and K-State season openers—indicating that game conditions could be impacted by changing weather patterns.

His analysis, released yesterday, helps local fans plan ahead for the contests.

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.

Articulated Figures Workshop

1-4 p.m. — ART EMERGENCY — Class fee required — Create unique posable figures using die-cut components and unleash your creativity.

Pasta Night: Gnocchi al Cacciatore

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required — Enjoy delicious house-made pasta with an authentic Italian sauce weekly.

Crew Network at Cider Gallery

8 AM – 5 PM — Cider Gallery — Free entry — Engage with local professionals in a dynamic networking event.

Niontay Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Bottleneck — Tickets available — Experience an engaging evening with live music at a local venue.

Burned-edge Organza Flower Accessories Workshop

1-4 p.m. — ART EMERGENCY — Materials provided — Create luxurious organza flowers for unique accessories in a fun, supportive environment.

56th Annual Edsel Owner's Club Convention

September 2-7 — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lawrence — Registration required — Celebrate the classic Edsel experience with fellow enthusiasts in Lawrence, Kansas.

Strings & Heart Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Bottleneck — Tickets from $51 — Experience the vibrant sounds of Strings and Heart in a local concert setting.

Cider Gallery Event

8:00-11:30 a.m. — Cider Gallery — Free entry — Enjoy a creative gathering in a unique office and event space.

The Hawk 100 Trail Races

6 AM - 8 AM — Hawk Trail Race — $95-$120 — Tackle a challenging 100M, 50M, or Marathon on scenic rolling trails.