Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of October.
Good morning, Lawrence.
Haskell alum Lori Tapahonso will perform the one-woman play Native Vision at Haskell Indian Nations University to portray a Navajo woman's life linking boarding school experiences with code talkers during World War II.
The free performance will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3 in the Haskell auditorium —celebrating Haskell Thunderbird Theatre's 50th birthday— with no ticket reservation required.
Charlotte Street and the Spencer Museum of Art announced 10 recipients of the Rocket Grants awards that provided $60,000 to support community-driven art projects across the region — four projects have direct ties to Lawrence and include public art installations and documentary films. These awards were selected from a competitive pool to help showcase creative work outside traditional venues.
KU School of Music associate professor Brandon Draper recorded a blues-rock album with his father and daughter and will debut the first single 'In My Dreams' on FM 90.9 The Bridge on Oct.
3. He plans to release additional singles — with the full digital album coming out in February — to complete a series of new releases.
KU set a record-high enrollment by reaching 31,169 students—a 1.3% rise from last year's total—which included a third-largest freshman class of 5,040 students.
Record enrollments were also achieved at Lawrence and Edwards with 27,212 and at KU Medical Center with 3,957 students.
The Dole Archives awarded a record number of research and travel grants and started a new grant program for KU faculty—Course Enrichment Mini Grant applications are accepted through Dec.
1. Applications for Research Fellowship and Travel Grants will open in early 2026.
Officials have begun a streetscape makeover at 31st and Grand Boulevard that will extend curbs for wider sidewalks, raise crosswalks for pedestrians and improve driver sightlines — the project will also add new bus stops and upgrade pedestrian signals.
Douglas County commissioners have delayed the tenant right to counsel program by asking staff to research more over the next month or two—local advocates wanted a vote this month.
Commissioners also discussed if the program should be means-tested and planned to explore funding options and partnerships with local cities to help all tenants facing eviction.
Advocates testified on Sept 25 that a federal conflict of interest rule may cause major disruption for Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities and risk losing between $350 and $400 million in federal funds if changes are not made soon—KDADS says separating case management from services will require careful planning. Local providers worry that if many divest from case management, families could face longer waits for support.
The KU Debate team finished third at the JW Patterson Debate Tournament held at the University of Kentucky from Sept 26-29, with several teams advancing to elimination rounds and earning individual speaker awards.
Their run was highlighted by a semifinal loss to Michigan in a 2+1 split decision+ strong preliminary performances that underscored their competitive season.
DeafHeaven Live
7-9:30 p.m. — The Granada — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable evening with DeafHeaven's captivating soundscapes.
Pop-Up Dinner & Wine Experience
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations recommended — Indulge in a curated pop-up dish paired with exquisite wine flights.
Embroidery on Postcards and Photographs Class
1-4 p.m. — ART EMERGENCY — No refunds — Transform a black and white photograph or postcard into a one-of-a-kind work of art.
Ad Astra Running BILLY MILLS 10K
8-10 a.m. — Haskell Indian Nations University — Registration fee required — Celebrate ten years of this scenic 6.2-mile run/walk along the beautiful Billy Mills Trail.
Earthless Concert
7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Bottleneck — Tickets from $56 — Experience the psychedelic sounds of Earthless in an intimate venue.
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 featuring a classic Roman cheese and pepper sauce.
Pasta Night: Tagliatelle con Bolognese Bianco
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required for dinner service — Enjoy house-made pasta with a rotating authentic Italian sauce each week.
Pasta Night: Agnolotti del plin
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required — Enjoy house-made agnolotti and authentic Italian sauces weekly.
Tyler Halverson Live
7-9:30 p.m. — The Bottleneck — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy an evening of live music with Tyler Halverson in a vibrant local venue.
Sweet Vignette Jewelry Workshop
1-4 p.m. — ART EMERGENCY — Cost of materials included — Make a unique brooch or pendant with layers of ribbon, beads, and fabric scraps.
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