Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 18th of November.
Good morning, Lawrence.
🎓 Education
Google Earth co-founder Brian McClendon and his wife, Beth Ellyn made a $4 million gift to KU Engineering to create endowed professorships and support the KUEST program that helps high school students prepare for college.
The donation will help KU attract top engineering talent—ensuring students benefit from expert teaching and a strong future in engineering.
Lawrence school board members and administrators explained that enrollment is shrinking due to fewer births, rising living costs — and a lack of affordable housing.
They noted that total enrollment dropped about 2.1% from last year to 10,148 students while certain preschool programs saw growth as the district plans its next steps.
🏛️ Government
About 200 North Lawrence residents gathered Monday to share ideas and concerns about a corridor study that will focus on transportation, basic services, and industrial development.
City officials say community feedback will guide the $399,650 phase one study and an open house is scheduled for Dec. 10 at the Union Pacific Depot—residents will have a chance to review plans and offer further input.
A University of Kansas study found Kansas journalists felt shared press distress after a police raid on Marion County Record in 2023—reporters worried the incident might force them to curb their critical coverage to avoid costly legal battles.
Interviews done with 19 local reporters about six months after the raid show that the event has had a lasting effect on how journalists approach their work.
🎉 Lawrence Events
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Pasta Night: Pici al fumo
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required — Enjoy hand-made pici pasta with fumo sauce along with a variety of Italian dishes and a full wine list.
Pop-Up Dinner & Wine Experience
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations requested — Enjoy a unique pop-up dining experience featuring rotating dishes paired with exceptional wines.
Pasta Night: Orecchiette Pugliese
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required — Enjoy hand-made orecchiette with sausage and broccoli in a cozy wine bar setting.
Final Friday at Cider Gallery
5-9 p.m. — Cider Gallery — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant local art scene with a showcase of creativity and craftsmanship.
Lawrence Festival of Trees Public Viewing
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Maceli's Banquet Hall & Catering — $5 suggested donation — Experience the beauty of the season with festive trees and family-friendly activities.
Lawrence Public Library Event
6:30-8:00 p.m. — Lawrence Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy an evening in coordination with The Raven Book Store featuring local guests.
Champagne Wine Dinner with Ken Baker
6:30-9:30 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — $85 per person plus wine costs — Explore the versatility of Champagne through a curated dinner menu featuring unique pairings.
Pop-Up Dinner & Wine Experience
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Walk-ins welcome — Enjoy a rotating dish and explore discounted wine flights in a lively atmosphere.
Pasta Night: Spaghetti alla Chitarra
4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required — Enjoy house-made spaghetti with a spicy tomato sauce and polpettini at this weekly Italian culinary showcase.
Holiday Art Fair
10 AM – 6 PM — Cider Gallery — Free entry — Explore unique, handcrafted holiday gifts from local artists at this beloved annual tradition.
🏠 Lawrence Real Estate
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💼 Lawrence Job Board
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📣 Lawrence Announcements
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