Good morning, Topeka.

Yesterday at 2:30 p.m., fire crews fought a large grass fire west of Dover near SW 33rd and Carlson Road—Shawnee County Sheriff closed SW Carlson Road between 29th and 41st Street and SW 33rd Street between Carlson and K-4 Highway until further notice.

Northeast Kansas communities are set to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this weekend and next week with events planned across the region.

In Topeka, Irishfest features a 5K and a parade at Evergy Plaza — while other cities host bar crawls, parades and road races.

Seaman High School students Kylie Weir, Sidney Chinn and Reece Mumford won first place at the Kansas Civics Games on March 13 at the Kansas Judicial Center and earned a $1,000 scholarship each—marking their second straight win.

Their teacher Mr. Rick Rineberg led the team as they answered tests, quiz rounds and project questions on government topics.

The American Red Cross Kansas Region warns residents to prepare as extreme fire weather is forecast for Northeast Kansas this weekend and urges households to build emergency kits with water, food, and supplies+ to arrange evacuation plans.

Shawnee County issued a verbal disaster declaration on Friday, March 14 due to heavy winds and fires, and Commissioner Kevin Cook said 14 operations are underway–two of which target separate fires.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly and local leaders joined KDOT at a Friday ceremony at the Townsite Tower in downtown Topeka to start work on the $239 million project replacing the aging I-70 viaduct—construction will shut I-70 for six months in late 2026/early 2027 with completion expected in late 2027.

The Salvation Army got a $400,000 gift from Kansas to help residents pay for high utility bills during a cold winter — Attorney General Kris Kobach arranged the gift as part of a deal with an energy supplier.

Shawnee County officials postponed the NW 46th Street closure from Friday, March 14 to Monday, March 17 for an improvement project that will block the road between Camden Lane and Green Hill Road—detours are in place and Phase 1 will continue until July 4 weather permitting.

Groups met at the Capitol today for Pie Day — hosted by the Brain Injury Association of Kansas and Greater KC — to ask lawmakers for stronger support and funding for brain injury survivors.

Advocates and survivors like Heather Pilkinton and James Mcginnis shared their stories to show the need for better care.

Kansas Tourism offers budget-friendly spring break ideas with trips that let families hike trails and visit museums.

The agency highlights local getaways like Kanopolis and North Central Kansas for nature and history—giving visitors many options for a fun spring break.

World Water Day at Topeka Zoo

This event offers an opportunity to learn about water conservation and highlights ways individuals can contribute to preserving water resources.

AJ Wilkerson Live Comedy Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Regular Tickets: $25, VIP Tickets: $65 — Experience a rising star comedian in an intimate setting with gourmet dining options.

Jeni Grouws Solo Performance

6-10 p.m. — Compass Point: Home of Dirty Girl Adventures — $15 — Experience an intimate solo performance from rising star Jeni Grouws in a cozy venue.

Topeka Spirit Fair - Body & Soul Rejuvenation

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM — The Woodshed Event Center — $3 daily ($5 weekend pass) — A two-day symposium exploring holistic wellness and personal development.