Good morning, Topeka.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers held its grand opening Thursday morning at 10 a.m. at its new location on 1415 S.W.

Wanamaker Road in west Topeka, where a high school band, cheerleaders, and early campers celebrated plus the restaurant donated $1,000 to Astra Mental Health and Recovery Center.

Fleming Place Wine & Spirits in downtown Topeka now features a front display of non-alcoholic beverages for Dry January — a response to locals embracing wellness; owner Bryan McDonald said customers can choose from IPAs, seltzers, beer, spirits and wine.

Shawnee County transportation officials previewed a road project that will expand lanes, add roundabouts + sidewalks from Seaman High School to Soldier Creek.

The plan, revealed at a meeting on Thursday, is set to begin in 2029 and will be completed in phases with temporary roads provided.

A nurse’s life-threatening illness shows the critical need for blood donations, and Community Blood Center and Stormont Vail are hosting a drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan.

21 at the hospital Centennial Room (appointments available using code TPKS).

University of Kansas Health System St. Francis held a press conference on Thursday, Jan.

8 to report a nationwide surge in flu cases and urge residents to practice good hygiene, stay home when sick, and get vaccinated, especially those at high risk.

Gov. Kelly proclaimed January as National Blood Donor Month and opened the statehouse for a blood drive on Thursday, joining community and hospital officials who noted that winter weather and holidays often lower blood donations (a vital reminder to help save lives).

The Kansas council recommended raising funding for the 988 suicide and crisis hotline network to $13 million annually as monthly call volumes increased in 2025.

State lawmakers will review alternative revenue sources (such as lottery and telecommunications fees) to secure stable funding.

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.

CNA Refresher Course in Topeka

Feb 3-9 — Homestead Assisted Living & Memory Care — Course fee required — Complete essential CNA training with both online and hands-on clinical components.