Good morning, Topeka.

Northeast Kansans gathered at Washburn University’s Lee Arena on April 30 to urge city leaders to add clear funding for affordable housing, food aid, and violence reduction in the planned sales tax measure on the ballot later this year.

At the Nehemiah Action Assembly at Lee Arena, Topeka JUMP announced a new grocery delivery program for residents in food deserts after a HungerFree Kansas study revealed high food insecurity rates in central Topeka — a service that will partner with local nonprofits and a grocery retailer.

Topeka's Helping Hands Humane Society took in more than 70 cats and kittens from an animal neglect case today, which quadrupled its workload.

The shelter is arranging adoptions and seeking foster homes + volunteer support as kitten season approaches.

Shawnee Co. Extension Master Gardeners will host their annual plant sale tomorrow, May 2, from 9 a.m. to noon at Agriculture Hall on SW 17th & Topeka Blvd. Volunteers will offer a wide selection of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and patio plants.

Hardee’s in central Topeka re-opened on Thursday, Apr.

30 at 2424 West 6th St after remodeling with new ceiling tiles and digital menu boards + held a ribbon-cutting celebration with a prize wheel event and now offers job openings.

Motorists along the Polk-Quincy Viaduct project face new traffic patterns starting Tuesday, May 5, as Topeka Boulevard reopens partially and access to I-70 changes.

A full I-70 closure is planned for mid-May to early June and KDOT advises drivers to review detour routes + traffic updates.

Shawnee County leaders are asking Parks and Rec. to seek design bids for a new Cypress Ridge Golf clubhouse, which may add a new 21st St entrance and reconfigure the course layout; officials aim to fund the project mainly with private dollars.

Kathy Ray of The Crisis Center + Sarah Bariya of the Sexual Trauma Abuse CARE Center explained at Eye on NE Kansas how holding perpetrators accountable and empowering survivors shifts focus from self-protection to community support during Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

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.

Through The Darkness Tour

7-11 p.m. — 6th & Polk Music & Event Space — Tickets available — Experience raw emotions and new music as Hollow Like Her debuts tracks from their upcoming EP.

Hairball Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Last-minute tickets available — Experience a unique tribute to rock music with Hairball.

HME Fabrication Facility Tour

12-1 p.m. — HME, Inc. — Free entry — Explore the structural steel and miscellaneous metals fabrication facility and learn about the Haas Group's specialized companies.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an epic concert breathing dark energy into legendary Rock & Metal.

Evans United Carnival 2026

May 21-31 — Stormont Vail Events Center — $18.30 General Admission, $10.05 Child (3-11) — A vibrant carnival featuring parking lot exhibitions and festivals for family fun.

Party with The BASH

8-11 p.m. — Thunderbirds Grille — Cost info not provided — Dance the night away with live music at Thunderbirds Grille.

Doggie Date Night

6-8 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a fun evening bonding with your pup in the heart of Topeka.