Lawrence News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Lawrence, Kansas, prepares for potential World Cup team base camp, with a unified command of local organizations ready to welcome international fans. A new website provides updates on the citys readiness for the global event.

Federal funding cuts have significantly impacted Kansass Navigator program, leaving many residents with fewer resources to navigate health care options. The program, which provided expert guidance on Medicaid and ACA marketplace eligibility, has seen its funding drop from $1.5 million to $150,000, leading to a reduction in services and increased uninsured rates. With changes in law requiring reapplication for Medicaid twice a year, the loss of support could lead to a churning effect, making it harder for people to access health care and increasing the burden on local clinics and hospitals.

Todd Schulte, a Kansas City culinary icon, transforms ordinary spaces into beloved eateries like Happy Gillis and Genessee Royale Bistro. Known for his obsessive sourcing and neighborhood-first approach, Schulte shares his love for red-eyed tree frogs, a needlepoint ornament, and the underrated hake fish. His dream girl groups for restaurant performances are Destinys Child, The Supremes, and TLC.

Melissa Clover, a fourth-grade teacher at Deerfield Elementary, was honored with the 2025 Dedication to Education Award for her exceptional commitment to students and education. The award, presented by the Lawrence Schools Foundation, included a $5,000 check and was celebrated with a surprise assembly attended by family, friends, colleagues, and students. Melissas peers praised her ability to connect with every student, especially those needing extra care. The annual award recognizes educators who embody the districts goals of Excellence, Equity, and Engagement, and Melissa exemplifies these values.

Authorities in Providence, Rhode Island, are urgently seeking a gunman responsible for a deadly shooting at Brown University, leaving two students dead and nine wounded. Despite a person of interest being detained, the suspect remains at large, causing unease among students and residents. New video shows a person in black near the scene, but the face is not visible. The investigation continues as authorities search for evidence and trace the suspects movements.

In a Douglas County workshop, participants discussed supporting low-income and single-parent families, focusing on ALICE households (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) who earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle. The goal is to move families from surviving to thriving. Survey results highlighted the need for direct resources and peer support. Attendees proposed action steps, including a guaranteed income pilot program for low-income single mothers, which county commissioners are exploring.

Lawrence city commissioners are set to discuss funding options for a new affordable housing project, Nine Del Lofts Two, which aims to create live-work units and affordable one-bedroom apartments. The developer, Tony Krsnich, seeks an eighty thousand dollar fee waiver to secure state low-income housing tax credits, as the competition for funding has become tougher due to changes in the states tax credit landscape. City staff have explored several ways to fund the fee waiver, including using the fund balance from the Affordable Housing Sales Tax Fund, which currently holds two hundred sixty-one thousand six hundred fifty dollars. The City Commission will meet Tuesday night at five PM to discuss these options further.

Ring in 2026 with a song: Local music scene offers diverse New Years Eve options