Good morning, Topeka.

Michael J. Ullman, 65, of Topeka was identified as the man found dead in a burning home at 419 S.E.

Rodgers St. on April 18; firefighters reported the blaze just after 5:50 a.m. and quickly put it out while investigators noted there were no working smoke detectors in the house.

Fire officials said that Terri K.

Dones, 51, died Tuesday after suffering severe injuries in an apartment fire on Monday caused by careless smoking — firefighters rescued another resident as some occupants evacuated safely.

Terri L. Dones, 51, died after an apartment fire on April 21 that was sparked by careless smoking — firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze and rescued another resident from the building.

Dan Decker, the new President and CEO of the Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy, joined the 27 News morning show to discuss his volunteer experience and plans to continue the theater's strong culture—he will take over when Vickie Brokke retires on June 3.

On Tuesday, April 22, Lieutenant Governor David Toland announced that the Kansas Department of Commerce awarded $758,250 in CDBG funding to Burlingame, Lyon County, and Overbrook to support commercial revitalization efforts — part of a $2.5 million program aimed at rehabilitating blighted properties. Approximately $2.05 million remains available for additional projects.

During Kansas Corporation Commission hearings, opponents sharply criticized Evergy’s plan to build two new natural gas plants in Kansas+ they argued the nearly $2 billion project will raise rates for retail customers.

Evergy representatives and staff maintained the projects, expected to add 705 megawatts each in 2029 and 2030+ will improve power reliability during extreme weather.

Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt released data showing that 56,778 storm damage claims in 2024 cost $612,069,643.50—Johnson County reported the highest payout and Greeley County the lowest, with claims covering hail, wind, and water damage on property and casualty policies. This information was collected from companies offering property and casualty insurance statewide.

The Greater Topeka Partnership has invited community leaders and citizens to join a City Swap trip to Lincoln on July 30—31 that will include tours, innovation sessions and other activities to build a deeper connection between the two cities; Lincoln locals will visit Topeka on June 17—18. City spokesman Dan Garrett said City Manager Robert Perez will not attend while council members' participation remains uncertain.

Topeka police officer Lt. Eddie Stanley died after a medical emergency at his home on April 21—he had served since December 2001 and Chief Chris Vallejo offered condolences to his family and colleagues.

Residents in Topeka attended a forum at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library to share how Medicaid helped their families receive essential care—participants voiced concerns over federal proposals to save $880 billion in cuts that may reduce funding for the program.

A limited group of U.S. lawmakers attended and may soon vote on legislation that could impact healthcare for vulnerable Kansans.

BUILD My Future

9 a.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Free entry — An engaging hands-on showcase for students to explore career opportunities in the construction industry.

Hairball: A Rock Revival Celebration

— Time not specified — Stormont Vail Events Center — Tickets available now — Experience the electrifying performances of iconic rock bands in one unforgettable night.

A Taste of Ireland

7:30-9 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Tickets starting at $51 — Experience the rich culture of Ireland through an engaging theatrical performance.

TopCity Half Marathon

7:30-11:30 a.m. — Evergy Plaza — Registration required — Lace up for the 6th Annual TopCity Half Marathon and 5k as participants race through the heart of Topeka.

Second Annual Mother's Day Brunch

10 AM – 1 PM — Townsite Plaza — Cost info not provided — Celebrate Mother's Day with a brunch fit for royalty.

Mother's Day Ballroom Brunch Buffet

10:30 a.m. — The Weather Room — Adults $49, Children $14.99 — Celebrate Mother's Day with a delightful brunch buffet featuring a variety of delicious dishes and a spacious ballroom setting.

RMHC Charity Golf Classic

11:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Cypress Ridge Golf Course — Entry fee required — Enjoy a day of golfing while supporting a great cause.

Boxing Event

5-6 p.m. — GreatLIFE Performance Center — Cost info not provided — Experience the thrill of boxing at this local venue.