Good morning, Topeka.

At Helping Hands Humane Society in Topeka, dogs five months and older are offered for $0 until Jan.

4, while kittens like three-month-old Cinder cost $100 (including spay/neuter and vaccinations). Cinder and his sibling arrived from a foster program at Topeka Correctional Facility.

New Mount Zion Baptist Church is starting a monthly support group for residents to connect, with the first meeting set for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan.

6 (focused on grief) at 2801 SE Indiana.

ArtsConnect hosted the first First Friday Artwalk in NOTO on Jan.

2, celebrating 20 years of local art in Topeka. The event featured local artists and businesses — and organizers previewed new projects including an art directory for 2026.

State leaders approved a $4 billion public-private deal to build a domed stadium and entertainment district for the Chiefs near Wyandotte and Johnson counties; local experts (including council members) warn that relying on STAR bonds funded by sales tax may limit future revenue growth.

Shawnee Co. Sheriff’s Office mourns K-9 officer Sixx—a 10-year-old German Shepherd whose health worsened over the week and passed under veterinary care today—who served in the unit’s narcotics division.

Kansas ended December 2025 with tax collections of $1.07 billion, which fell 5.2% below estimates as individual and corporate incomes dropped.

Governor Kelly noted that retail tax receipts slightly beat forecasts and overall collections were lower compared to December 2024.

Topeka’s Valeo Behavioral Health Care and FSGC merged to form Astra Mental Health and Recovery this week to offer more streamlined care—patients can visit same-day between 8-11:30 a.m. or 1-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday at two local sites.

David Schmitt, immediate past board president for NAMI Kansas, urged locals to add mental health to their New Year resolutions and suggested professional help if needed—he emphasized regular self-checks to keep a balanced life.

Kansas was raised from low to high on the CDC flu surveillance report for the week ending Dec.

20 as more residents showed symptoms after holiday travel, and local clinics advised residents to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene (including hand washing and rest).

CKF Addiction Treatment acquired Sims-Kemper Clinical Counseling and Recovery Services and introduced a new outpatient service at 2942 SW Wanamaker Dr., Ste.

100 to expand addiction care in Topeka. The expansion will help individuals and families access person-centered recovery support.

Yung Bleu Live Concert

8 PM - 12 AM — The Woodshed Event Center — $30 general admission, $200 VIP options available — Experience an electrifying performance by Yung Bleu in Topeka.

The Calm Oasis Sessions

8:30 p.m. — McFarland Farm — Free entry — Engage in soothing group sessions designed to foster relaxation and community connection.

The Band Perry Concert

7-10 p.m. — Prairie Band Casino & Resort — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night with the GRAMMY-winning trio known for their genre-defying sound.

Friday Night Comedy Showcase

8-9:30 p.m. — Cosmos Court Comedy Club — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of laughs with top comedians from the Midwest and beyond.