Good morning, Topeka.

Capitol Federal will sponsor the Spirit of Kansas fireworks display on July 4 at Lake Shawnee — marking its 23rd year of support — after presenting a $35,000 check to Shawnee County officials at Monday's meeting near Topeka.

A small grill fire on May 3 led North Star Steakhouse at 1100 N.W.

25th to close temporarily for kitchen equipment repairs — firefighters contained the blaze to the grill area with no injuries reported. The restaurant is expected to reopen today.

MercyMe, a Christian band with 10 Platinum albums, will perform live on Saturday, Nov.

8 at Stormont Vail Events Center in Topeka as part of their MercyMe Live 2025 tour—guest singers Natalie Grant and newcomer Sam Wesley will join the band, with pre-sale tickets starting today at 10 a.m. and public on-sale on May 9 at 10 a.m.

John Lee Hooker, a beloved radio personality, died early Monday morning after battling cancer for over a year.

He hosted the Majic Morning Show on KMAJ for 33 years — and his daughter Abby said she is planning a memorial service in a few weeks.

Kansas builders say tariffs are raising hardware and fastener prices by 15—25% while lumber remains low.

They warned that rising costs for imported steel and other materials and supply chain issues may push up prices for new home projects.

Washburn Tech is hosting its 35th Recycled Ride event today at 9:30 a.m. in Building K where a refurbished 2020 Mazda CX-30 will be awarded to a driver in need selected by a committee of students and United Way leaders — the program pairs auto service students with industry mentors to help local families.

Efforts are underway to bring commercial airlines to Topeka as the Metropolitan Topeka Airport Authority seeks funding for its Get There From Here program that will add flights to Orlando, Phoenix, and Las Vegas—Shawnee County has set aside $500,000 in reserve funds to match expenditures while the authority pursues additional state and city funding.

AMR therapy dog Stryker, a seven-year-old goldendoodle who joined Global Medical Response’s Therapy Dog Team at 8 weeks old, has comforted first responders in Kansas and nearby states by providing calm during debriefings, disaster responses and community visits—he supports EMS professionals when stress is high.

Topeka’s new professional hockey team was named the Scarecrows on May 5—chosen by vote from five finalists—and recalls the city’s first hockey team.

The team will play in the Federal Prospects Hockey League at Landon Arena and begin its season in October—games set for the fall.

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.

2025 Heartland Classic Peruvian Horse Show

1:00 PM – 12:59 PM — Stormont Vail Events Center — Entry fee varies — Experience the elegance and competition of Peruvian horses in Topeka's premier equine event.

Envista Eats & Beats

6-9 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Experience vibrant live music and local flavors every Thursday evening in downtown Topeka.

2025 GermanFest Brat Trot

8-9 a.m. — Santa Fe Park — $30 — Celebrate German culture while fundraising for local schools with a fun 5K Brat Trot run.

Aldersgate Village On-Site Tour

9 AM - 7 PM — Aldersgate Village Life Plan Community — Free entry — Explore a faith-based retirement community focused on quality living and care.