Good morning, Topeka.

Local fundraiser supports Dawn Montgomery, a longtime waitress battling a rare neuroendocrine tumor after extensive treatments.

The community has launched a fund called (Dollars for Dawn) at Silver Lake Bank and will host an April dub in at Kickstart Saloon on April 18 to raise funds for her care.

The Topeka Mustang Club will host its second annual Wounded Warrior Family Support Car Show on Saturday, April 25 at Fairlawn Plaza from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cars of all makes are welcome; entry is $20 per vehicle+awards go to the top 20, with proceeds aiding veterans.

The Greater Topeka Partnership hosted its Mission: Possible annual meeting on April 2 at Stormont Vail Events Centre where local leaders celebrated community improvements and presented Awards of Excellence.

Former mayor Michael Padilla received the Wolgast Award and a panel discussed the Momentum 2027 development plan.

Local groups and downtown businesses today are helping Coast Guard employees who have not been paid due to the government shutdown by offering 20% discounts (with valid ID) and a catered lunch at the federal building; the effort is led by the Chamber's MRC and Downtown Topeka Inc.

Topeka Metro will park its bus today outside Dillons at Fairlawn Plaza to collect canned goods and other non-perishable donations for Project Topeka.

The annual food drive — started in 1986 in partnership with Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1360 — aims to beat previous records.

Topeka Fire Department crews responded early Friday at Topeka Presbyterian Manor (reported at 1:48 a.m.) to an electrical fire; the sprinkler system suppressed the blaze while some residents were relocated to limit damage.

Topeka-area churches will celebrate Easter services on Sunday, April 5—offering multiple service times from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at locations including First Assembly of God Church, First Baptist Church, and Grace Episcopal Cathedral.

Easter Sunday is observed as a day for celebrating Jesus’ resurrection, yet many traditions such as egg hunts and the Easter bunny trace back to ancient pagan customs celebrating spring (a sign of renewal).

On Friday, Apr. 3, KDOL released the January Labor Report showing the unemployment rate rising to 3.9% from 3.8% in December and January 2025 while nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 1,900 — with private and government sectors adding jobs.

The February report will be released on Friday, Apr. 17.

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran visited K-State on April 3 and announced a $4.9 million federal investment for the College of Veterinary Medicine.

The funding will support equipment purchases + technology upgrades to improve training, education, and outreach statewide.

USD 501 Board approved a one-year intermittent leave for superintendent Tiffany Anderson starting March 1 until March 1, 2027 so she can care for her mother with Alzheimer’s.

Anderson said she will still lead the district and adjust her schedule for her mother's appointments.

Kansas ended March with tax collections of $577.1 million, falling $68.9 million (10.7%) short of estimates; Governor Kelly called on the Legislature to improve budgeting as revenue from key taxes lagged behind last year's figures.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office is holding meetings throughout April for fire service, local officials and community members to review plans for the 2026 Fire Prevention Code (meeting cities include McPherson, Garden City, Colby, Hays, Augusta, Iola, Ottawa, Abilene, Topeka and Oskaloosa).

2026 Spring Topeka Market Days

April 10-11 — Hotel Topeka At City Center — Entry varies — Explore over 100 unique vendors while enjoying live music and delicious food options.

Jefferson Starship Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Prairie Band Casino & Resort — Cost info not provided — Experience iconic arena rock with Jefferson Starship's legendary hits.

Switch In Time Rocks The Barrelhouse

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Happy Basset Brewing Co — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of legendary rock music with a favorite setlist to keep you dancing.

Damien Gunn Band Live at Kickstart Saloon

7-11 p.m. — Kickstart Saloon — Ticket Info Not Provided — Enjoy an evening of live music with Damien Gunn Band in a vibrant local venue.

Live Music with Big Rick Soul Band

6-10 p.m. — Compass Point: Home of Dirty Girl Adventures — Free entry — Celebrate the courtyard grand opening with great music, dancing, and fun.

Steps for Stegman 5K

1:30-5 p.m. — Jardine Elementary — Support a worthy cause — Participate in a 5K walk/run to honor Dr. Bridget Stegman and raise funds for ALS research.

Auditions for Shrek The Musical

6-9 p.m. — Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy — Free entry — Showcase your talent in this exciting audition for the beloved fairy tale musical.