Lawrence, KS May 2024

PROFESSIONAL

Celebrating Women

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make each day richer and more beautiful. And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms.

I’m lucky to call my mom Roomie! After we were both widowed in the same year, she bravely made the move from our Missouri hometown across the border to my Kansas home. (The photo is of her enjoying pizza at Minsky's.) She has always been my big gest champion and dear friend, and now we support and encourage each other every day. (And I can keep my eye on her!)

But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

I get a lot of inspiration from authors who create the cozy worlds I escape to each day. I’m also a sports fanatic who admires the accomplishments of dedicated athletes and those who lead them. That’s one reason I was thrilled to interview KU softball coach Jennifer McFalls for this issue. She won an Olympic gold medal playing softball on Team USA in 2000, and now she’s leading the KU team to new heights.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities, such as Eccentricity and Mass St. Fish House downtown. In this issue, we also highlight local businesswomen who share their knowledge and support by mentoring other women to success. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Lawrence women.

This month, we take you back to the 1970s with a new exhibit at The Dole Institute of Politics titled “ERA in the Heartland.” A brilliant KU student curated the display to show the debate from both sides when Kansas ratified the Equal Rights Amendment and then saw a movement to repeal that decision. The exhibit also highlights the changes in women’s lives from that time to today.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call, or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

Thanks,

LINDA DITCH, EDITOR

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Denise DeTommaso denise.detommaso@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Linda Ditch | linda.ditch@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Meredithe McCormick meredithe.mccormick@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nathan Hutchcraft | nathan@fabuluxmedia.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda Ditch, Denise DeTommaso

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anthony Fergola, Kristol Kumar, Missy Minear-Director of Photography for Kansas Athletics

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Laura Paige

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

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Lobby • 940 New Hampshire

ARTICLE BY DENISE DETOMMASO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

Kelly Loneker

Importance of Women Mentoring Women

LAWRENCE BUSINESSWOMEN SHARE SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT

A network of women helping women in business is the driving force of Elevate in Lawrence. Founded in 2023, the organization’s goal is to create networking opportunities where women can share their talents, ideas, gifts, and knowledge to lift one another up.  It is also a group that understands the importance of mentorship for women as they start businesses, raise their children, and give back to the community.

Kelly Loneker, Regional Business Development Associate at Silver Lake Bank and founder of Elevate, and Tiffany Hall, Vice President of Membership, Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, both agree that the significance of women mentoring other women in professional settings and beyond cannot be overstated. It is fundamental in shaping a more inclusive and equitable workforce, fostering personal and professional growth, and breaking down the barriers that women often face in various fields.

“It is important to provide women and minorities access to both the resources and capital that they need to start and establish their business and impact on the community.”

ELEVATE WAS STARTED HELP:

1. Empowerment and Confidence Building: Mentors empower their mentees by sharing insights and guidance tailored to navigating the unique challenges women face in the workplace. This encouragement helps mentees assert themselves more confidently, take on leadership roles, and strive for higher achievements.

2. Role Modeling and Visibility: Having a mentor who has navigated the complexities of being a woman in a professional setting offers a tangible example of what is possible. It is critical to inspire the next generation of women to pursue their goals with determination.

3. Networking Tools: Loneker says the goal is to “introduce tools used to build business and relationships critical to improving daily success.” Hall agrees, “It is important to provide women and minorities access to both the resources and capital that they need to start and establish their business and impact on the community.  This access to opportunities is vital for career advancement and breaking through the glass ceiling that many women encounter.”

1. Personal Growth for Mentors: The benefits are not one-sided; mentors also gain significantly from the relationship. Through mentoring, women leaders can refine their leadership and communication skills, gain new perspectives, and find fulfillment in contributing to someone else’s growth.

For more information about Elevate and their upcoming networking event in June, contact Loneker at kellyloneker@gmail.com or visit elevate-lawrence.square.site to join the email group.

These entrepreneurs in Lawrence are examples of women who support others while running their own businesses.

Tiffany Hall (right) with Governor Laura Kelly

Dr. Pasas-Farmer's leadership and vision have been instrumental in the company’s growth and success...she has become a key player in the drug development industry.

Dr. Stephanie Pasas-Farmer Biodata Solutions

Founded in 2015, Biodata Solutions has emerged as a formidable player in the drug development industry, particularly in the bioanalytical consulting sector. Dr. Pasas-Farmer’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in the company’s growth and success. With over 13 years of experience in bioanalytical chemistry, drug metabolism, and pharmacokinetics (DMPK), she has led the company to become a key player in the drug development industry.

The company’s involvement in a diverse range of drug development programs, including those focusing on oncology and potentially life-saving treatments like an HIV vaccine, underscores its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs. Their expertise extends across a broad spectrum of drug development processes, including operational program management, method development, and validation, as well as market planning and development for new perspective drugs around the world that can change lives.

One of Biodata Solutions’ most significant advancements was the incorporation of software Red Thread®, also founded by Dr. Pasas-Farmer and renowned for its innovative AI-driven solutions, which automates specific preclinical and clinical bioanalytical processes. This automation reduces time and costs associated with trials and enhances consistency in results, improving the overall efficiency of drug development projects.

Dr. Pasas-Farmer also mentors KU chemistry students working on their Masters and Ph.D degrees. BdataSolutions.com

Baker has a talent for showcasing the beauty and confidence of those she photographs, helping individuals and businesses alike to narrate their unique stories...

Trina Baker Trina Baker Photography

In our picturesque city of Lawrence, Baker is a photographer and mixed media artist known for capturing her subjects’ essence and strength. Specializing in boudoir and personal branding photography, Baker has a talent for showcasing the beauty and confidence of those she photographs, helping individuals and businesses alike to narrate their unique stories through captivating images.

Baker mentioned three groups that have been important to her as she develops and hones her business: The Chamber of Commerce, Elevate, and the Boss Lady Project. These groups allow her to share ideas with other business owners, network, and gain inspiration.

Trina Baker Photography is dedicated to elevating the professional image of female entrepreneurs and professionals through personal branding photography. This specialized service aims to capture the individuality and essence of a brand, offering high-resolution images that enhance online presence and credibility. Baker’s personalized approach starts with a detailed consultation to understand the brand, its goals, and its vision. She ensures the photoshoot aligns perfectly with the client’s brand identity. TrinaBaker.net

William's practice is built on a foundation of fun and effective therapy strategies that cater to children of various ages... creating connections between therapists, patients, families...

Kimberly Williams Sound Speech Therapy

Williams has created a nurturing environment for children requiring speech therapy. With over 17 years of experience, she and her dedicated team offer specialized services, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, orofacial myofunctional therapy, and feeding therapy. The practice is built on a foundation of fun and effective therapy strategies that cater to children of various ages, emphasizing the importance of creating personal connections between therapists, patients, families, and community professionals.

Sound Speech Therapy’s approach is tailored to meet each client’s individual needs, fostering trust and building on prior successes to encourage a solid foundation of skills that will last a lifetime. The goal is to address immediate communication concerns and develop robust, motivating, and enjoyable therapy activities that support each child’s unique developmental journey. From the initial contact to assessment and through to creating an individualized treatment plan, Sound Speech Therapy guides families through each step, offering in-person and teletherapy services to accommodate different needs.

Kim has her own family and spoke of the importance of her family’s support and her engagement in women’s networks here in Lawrence, particularly Elevate and the Chamber. She appreciates the opportunity to engage with other women and business owners for support and help as her business and team practice grow.  Soundspeechks.com

Shaw is experienced in both individual and team coaching to transform organizations through cultural transformation, retreats, panel discussions, and stress management workshops...

Kelly Shaw Kelly Shaw Consulting

Shaw has a rich background in corporate leadership and a passion for empowering individuals and teams. She gained experience partnering with managers to help develop their leadership abilities. Through her experience in working with teams and mentorship, initially via the International Women’s Forum, she grew her knowledge, which led to her current consulting business.  Kelly’s business focuses on individual coaching, team building, and motivational speaking.

Shaw mentioned mentors such as Heather Hoy from the Douglas County Community Foundation and other local women through Central Rotary, Leadership Lawernce, and the Chamber of Commerce as instrumental to establishing ties to the local community.

Creating this network of mentors and thought leaders has had a great impact on identifying opportunities for her business and creating avenues for service back to the community.

With her corporate experience coupled with a deep understanding of the non-profit sector, Shaw is prepared and experienced in both individual and team coaching to transform organizations through cultural transformation, retreats, panel discussions, and stress management workshops targeted to the goals of the team and organization. Kelly also loves to mentor individuals in the community as they establish their businesses locally or internationally. KellyShawConsulting.com

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Our Executive Chef, Chef Mark, trained at the esteemed Le Cordon Bleu, insists on sourcing only the freshest and finest organic farm-to-table ingredients for a truly rewarding experience. Reserve a table today!

A GOLD MEDAL OLYMPIAN LEADS KU SOFTBALL

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

COACH JENNIFER MCFALLS

Since Coach Jennifer McFalls took the helm of the KU Softball program, the team’s success has continued upward. So far, in 2024 (as of April 8th), the Jayhawks have a record of 25-12-1 overall, with a Big 12 Conference record of 10-5. For a time, they ranked among the top 25 teams in the US.

Coach McFalls was a member of Team USA’s gold-medal-winning softball team at the 2000 Olympics. She came to Lawrence in August 2018 following previous stints as an assistant coach at Texas, Oklahoma and Texas A&M. She was a first-team AllAmerican shortstop as a senior at Texas A&M in 1993 and was inducted into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame in 2001.

Lawrence City Lifestyle talked with McFalls about her career and thoughts on women’s sports.

LCL: WHAT GOT YOU INTO WANTING TO PLAY SOFTBALL?

McFalls: I grew up in a family that was just really involved in athletics, so I was around sports a lot. I was in the neighborhood playing with mostly all the boys. I think I was a pretty tough kid, and fortunately, I was blessed with a lot of athleticism. I loved sports, I loved competing, and I loved winning.

I played everything growing up, and softball just happened to be a family thing. Everybody in my family played on our church softball team and played baseball. I was just around it all the time. I was the bat girl for my dad’s slow-pitch team. I was the bat girl for the women’s team when I was too little to play. So I think it was just something that I was just kind of raised with.

And then you know, as I got older into high school, I had the opportunity to play other sports. But softball just became my true passion. I don’t know if my family would have been able to afford to send me off to a really big school without the help of a scholarship. I went to Texas A&M University. I was really, really blessed to have that opportunity, and then just one door kept opening after another.

LCL: AND NEXT THING YOU KNOW, YOU’RE GETTING A GOLD MEDAL IN THE OLYMPICS!

McFalls: It’s kind of crazy how fast it happened during a time when I was trying to figure out what my life would look like. Somebody asked me if I would try out for the 96 Olympic team. I was finishing college in 1994 and thought, “Well, I don’t know. I’m probably going to have a job.” Things fortunately kept falling in my lap.

Coach Jennifer McFalls Played on Team USA and Now Teaches Players to Succeed in the Sport

(Photo credit to Missy Minear, Director of Photography for Kansas Athletics)

LCL: WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO COACHING?

McFalls: I think I always had a little passion for it. I was always a relationship builder. Once I started doing camps and clinics in college and connecting with young kids, seeing them succeed at doing something they’re good at was so rewarding to me. When I finished playing college at Texas A&M in 1994, I was still trying to finish my degree, and my coach offered me a position to stay as a student coach. Then coaching just kind of became natural for me. I started connecting and loved helping other players do things they didn’t think they could do.

LCL: IS THERE A BENEFIT TO A WOMEN’S TEAM HAVING A WOMAN COACH?

McFalls: I don’t know that there’s necessarily a benefit. I think that some players probably feel differently. Maybe they grew up with their dads or a friend’s dad coaching them. So that’s all they’re used to. I really haven’t personally run into that issue.

What I love the most about my staff is we are very diverse. It takes a strong personality to be in the head seat, regardless of whether it’s a man or a woman. But I think sometimes men probably coach a little differently than women do at times. That’s just the nature of the beast. I don’t believe that one way is better than the other. A lot of it just depends on what the athlete feels like. I haven’t run into players who have ever told me they’d rather play for a man than a female, but I think it’s nice having diversity on my staff, specifically having both men and women.

LCL: HAVE YOU SEEN A CHANGE IN WOMEN’S SPORTS SINCE YOU STARTED PLAYING?

McFalls: I have, just even in the last few years. The growth of women’s sports has been so fast and exciting. To start seeing people’s passion for women’s sports and the level of athleticism people get to watch, like what you see in the Caitlin Clarks of women’s basketball or the Oklahoma Sooners softball team.

LCL: YOU SOLD OUT ALL THREE GAMES AGAINST THEM!

McFalls: It was an exciting opportunity for our team, even though we obviously didn’t get the wins. Being in that environment is so rewarding for an athlete because, at the end of the day, I don’t think people realize how much time they put in and what a grind it is. The discipline you must have now to be not just an athlete but to be at the top and in the spotlight, and they’re great students. That takes a whole other level of discipline to add to being a great athlete.

KU Softball’s final season series is at Arrocha Ballpark against BYU on May 2-3. Then they’ll play in the Phillips 66 Big 12 Softball Championship in Oklahoma City. For the complete schedule and ticket information, go to KUAthletics.com/sports/softball

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A NEW EXHIBIT AT THE DOLE INSTITUTE OF POLITICS

ERA In The Heartland

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR

Institute archivist Sarah Gard goes over materials for the exhibit with Alexandra Haggar

University of Kansas History and Journalism student Alexandra Haggar works on the exhibit.

A lot of these women weren’t involved in politics before, but this mobilized them.

University of Kansas History and Journalism student Alexandra Haggar has curated “ERA in the Heartland,” a new exhibit in the Elizabeth Dole Gallery and Reading Room at The Dole Institute of Politics. It is based on her honors thesis, “Rescind ERA: The Failed Efforts in Kansas to Rescind Ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment, 1973-1980.” This display will take visitors back to the early 1970s and is part of the Institute’s efforts to highlight work from KU students.

Haggar’s interest in the topic was sparked by a project she did as a Nebraska high school student. She was intrigued by her home state being the first to rescind its approval. “Then, when I started writing my thesis, I wanted to incorporate that aspect of it, but I also knew we have a lot of archives here on campus at the Dole Institute and the [Kenneth Spencer Research Library.] So, I ended up narrowing in on Kansas,” she says.

Sarah Gard, Senior Archivist and Head of Collections at the Institute, helped Haggar gather the items for the exhibit from the Dole archives and other sources. She explains, “From an archivist’s perspective, studying the ERA is gaining in popularity. We just recently had the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage, and there are more scholars coming to do work in our collections on the 1970s.”

Here’s a refresher on the ERA: First proposed to Congress in 1923, three years after women obtained the right to vote, the amendment notes, “…equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.”

The amendment passed both houses of Congress in 1972 but failed to obtain the requisite 38 state ratifications by Congress’ deadline of June 30, 1982. However, in January 2020, Virginia became the 38th state to ratify the ERA. On the flip side, five states--Nebraska, Tennessee, Idaho, Kentucky, and South Dakota—have since voted to rescind their ratifications. So now the amendment’s future is in the hands of the courts.

The Dole Institute is home to the career papers of Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole. While Haggar used collections from all over the Midwest for her research, the exhibit features Senator Bob Dole’s press releases in support of the ERA and letters and information from constituents and organizations lobbying their positions.

“You can see the process a member of Congress goes through to educate themselves on an issue,” Gard says.

Haggar continues, “Senator Dole supported the amendment the whole time, and you see this from a lot of the papers in the archives. He believed Kansas had a strong history with women’s rights and that this amendment would strengthen that.”

Though Kansas did ratify the ERA, Haggar’s research also shows a lot of pushback in Kansas against it. From 1973 to 1980, there were consistent attempts to rescind the state’s ratification. She notes a lot of the backlash came from women, which is why it was successful in other states.

“It wasn’t just men saying, ‘No, you should stay home,’” Haggar says. “It was women saying we want a say in how things are. A lot of these women weren’t involved in politics before, but this mobilized them. A lot of them thought they wouldn’t be allowed to be homemakers. They thought the amendment would require them to go out and provide fifty percent of their household income. That’s how they interpreted it. It’s interesting to see how they had these different interpretations and how these arguments spread. I think it’s very important to highlight these local voices.”

“ERA in the Heartland” can be viewed in the Elizabeth Dole Gallery and Reading Room during the Dole Institute’s visiting hours Tuesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. To learn more about this exhibit, visit the Dole Institute’s website, DoleInstitute.org.

ARTICLE BY DENISE DETOMMASO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

A VISIT TO ECCENTRICITY TO VIEW THE LATEST FASHIONS

EMBRACE THE SEASON

THE VISION IS TO PROVIDE CLOTHING THAT IS FUN, FUNKY, AND PRACTICAL.

As the vibrant hues of spring burst forth and the warm embrace of summer approaches, it’s time to revamp wardrobes and embrace the latest trends in spring and summer clothing. Step into Eccentricity, where fashion meets innovation, and discover the key styles that will elevate your look this season. Eccentricity has been in Lawrence since 2007 and offers fun and funky clothes, accessories, and gift items you won’t find anywhere else in Lawrence. Owner Morgan Mattison explains, “The vision is to provide clothing that is fun, funky, and practical.”

At Eccentricity, the essence of spring and summer fashion is captured in every stitch, every fabric, and every design. From playful florals to bold prints and statement silhouettes, there’s something for every fashion enthusiast. One trend that continues to reign supreme is retro-inspired pieces. Think nostalgic prints, vintage cuts, and a nod to the past with modern twists. From flowy midi dresses adorned with polka dots to high-waisted denim paired with cropped

Eccentricity owner Morgan Mattison (center in blue Local t-shirt) is surrounded by models showing off the latest fashions for the season.

tops, Eccentricity brings retro-chic to the fashion forefront.

Of course, no warm-season wardrobe would be complete without vibrant colors and patterns. The shop offers an eclectic mix of hues, including electric neons, soft pastels and eye-catching florals. Mix and match bold prints with solid staples for a playful and sophisticated look.

For those who prefer a more understated approach, minimalist styles are also making. Clean lines, sleek silhouettes, and neutral tones create a sense of effortless elegance that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Elevate your look with tailored blazers, crisp white shirts, and tailored trousers for a modern take on classic sophistication.

Accessories play a crucial role in completing any spring and summer ensemble. The store has a stunning selection of statement jewelry, chic sunglasses, stylish handbags, hats, shoes, and the most delightful options for the pickleball enthusiast.

If you’re looking for someplace to host a private party, girls’ night out, birthday celebration, shower, and retreat, Eccentricity is a fun and unique location. Guests can sip wine while trying on the latest fashion. For more information or a preview of the available styles, visit ShopEccentricityKansas.com or stop at 716 Massachusetts St. to try what’s new for spring and summer.

Girls NIGHT OUT

AT THE MASS ST. FISH HOUSE

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

May is the perfect month for a fun evening out on Massachusetts Street. Not too hot. Not too cool. And summer’s sweltering heat typically hasn’t arrived quite yet.

One tasty spot to gather with your girlfriends is the Mass St. Fish House. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed. It’s a lovely mix of lively and cozy, and the outdoor seating is an excellent place to kick back after a long day at work or a busy afternoon of shopping.

“We’re always playing great music, and our staff is really fun,” says owner Laura Klein. “We definitely see a lot of girls’ night happy hours pretty regularly.”

Klein also notes many guests make the restaurant part of a Mass. Street progressive dinner. They visit the restaurant for happy hour and then go to one of the neighboring spots for dinner. Or they might come in after their meal for dessert.

“Honestly, I love the killer happy hour specials like Bubbles and Oysters,” Klein says. “How can you have a bad time with a dozen oysters and a bottle of sparkling wine for $30?

That’s the recipe for girls’ night success!”

Here are some Mass St. Fish House cocktail favorites to add to your drink recipe repertoire.

FUTURE LOVERS

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce Bison Grass Vodka

• 1 ounce Giffard Pêche De Vigne

• 2 dashes orange bitters

• 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters

Directions:

Add ingredients to a champagne flute and top with sparkling rosé.

DAYTIME EMMY

Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounce lemon and cardamom infused vodka (see note)

• .5 ounce simple syrup

• .5 ounce fresh lemon juice

• .5 ounce Giffard Pêche De Vigne

• .25 ounce Cocchi Rosa

Directions:

Shake ingredients and strain into a sugar-rimmed martini glass.

To make the lemon and cardamom-infused vodka, Combine 1 quart of vodka, 6 green cardamom pods, and 1 whole lemon peel. Let sit for at least 12 hours.

Owner Laura Klein

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SATURDAYS

Lawrence Farmer's Market

824 New Hampshire Street | 7:30 AM

The LFM is a producer-only market.  All of the products available are grown, raised, made, and crafted by the individual in the booth. This encourages a connection between the consumer and the producer. All the vendors are located within 50 miles of Lawrence. LawrenceFarmersMarket.org

MAY 4TH

Spring Crafts Festival

Holcom Park Rec Center | 9:00 AM

Celebrate the season! For the first time ever, the Spring Arts and Crafts Fair will be held at Holcom Park Recreation Center, 2700 W 27th St., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring handmade and commercial goods such as jewelry, paintings, textiles, pottery, home décor, and much more from local artists and entrepreneurs!  LawrenceKS.org/lprd

MAY 11TH

Enchanted Tea Party

Prairie Park Nature Center | 10:00 AM

Join woodland animals for an enchanted tea party. Wear your favorite princess dress, fairy outfit, or whatever makes you feel magical! We will provide the enchanted animals, cookies, tea, and other yummy snacks. It's the perfect thing to do with your little ones this Mother's Day weekend. Admission is $15. Children under the age of 2 are free. LawrenceKS.org/lprd

events

MAY 11TH

Monarch Watch Spring Open House & Plant Fundraiser

Monarch Watch--KU West Campus | 8:00 AM

Monarch Watch will have thousands of plants available, all of which are ideal for starting butterfly gardens or adding to established gardens and can contribute to the health of monarch and pollinator populations. There will be tours of the gardens, games, activities, monarch butterflies, caterpillars, and lots of plants for your own garden! MonarchWatch.org/OpenHouse

MAY 18TH

Poster Sale

Watkins Museum of History | 10:00 AM

The museum is selling deaccessioned duplicate copies of posters and other archival materials already in its collections, and several posters unrelated to Douglas County history. All proceeds will go toward the Watkins Acquisitions and Conservation Fund. Watkins Museum members are invited to a soft opening of the Poster Sale from 9 to 10 a.m. on May 18. WatkinsMuseum.org

MAY 24TH

Lawrence Busker Festival

5:00 PM

It's the once-a-year-get-weird weekend where you enjoy unusual entertainment all over historic downtown Lawrence. Magicians, jugglers, musicians, acrobats, and more will perform. There is also food, libations, and fun around every corner. The first day is Friday from 5 to 11 p.m. and continues on Saturday from noon to 11 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.  LawrenceBuskerFest.com

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