Good morning, Topeka.

Dirty Girl Adventures and Topeka United are hosting the 5th Annual Kaw River Float on June 21, where participants aged 12 and up will paddle from Seward Avenue River Access to Fool’s Landing at 10:30 a.m. — Kayaks and life jackets will be provided while the cost ranges from $55 to $65.

Harvesters will offer free food on Tuesday morning starting at 9 a.m. at the east parking lot of the Stormont Vail Events Center near S.W.

19th Street and Topeka Boulevard. Sponsored by Topeka Turnaround Inc. and Topeka Bible Church, the event will end when the food runs out and recipients only need to provide their last name, zip code, and family count — no identification is needed.

Hailey Christine Pelton, a 22-year-old woman charged with involuntary manslaughter, DUI, racing on the highway and failure to maintain a lane, was arrested on June 5 for the August 2 fatal crash that killed 36-year-old Troy L.

Fields when her car hit a home in Topeka; she remains in jail on a $250,000 bond with her next court appearance set for June 12.

KDHE and KDWP issued a blue-green algae advisory for several Northeast Kansas lakes, warning residents to avoid water contact if foam, scum, or unusual colors are seen — and to keep pets away to prevent any health issues.

Kansas Corporation Commission staff recommended a lower rate increase for Evergy by proposing a $122 million annual rise instead of the 15% residential hike as public hearings begin this week—customers will share their views before a written order is issued by Sept.

29.

Firework stands across Topeka will open earlier than usual—thanks to a new state law that allows year-round sales and extended periods for seasonal vendors.

Shawnee County vendors will sell fireworks from Friday, June 20 through Monday, July 7 while local rules still control when fireworks can be set off.

The Kansas Insurance Department advises homeowners to review their insurance each year by asking their agent about key details such as home age, claim history, bundling options, deductible, discounts, and flood coverage (and reporting any home improvements).

The agency also recommends taking photos or videos of each room to update personal home inventories.

Topeka native Joyce Parker and newcomer Tammy Willits will join the Air Race Classic, flying from Alabama to Washington State with departures scheduled on Tuesday, the 17th—continuing a Kansas legacy started by early female pilots.

Parker, on her third race, and Willits, competing for the first time, said they are eager to face a challenging course and honor the state's aviation history.

Concert for a Child Featuring Logan Mize

6-10 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a heartwarming night of country tunes at this community concert for a great cause.

Eats & Beats Featuring Dead Bettys

Thursday evenings — Evergy Plaza — Enjoy local food trucks and live music — Experience an unforgettable summer of music in Downtown Topeka.

Undercover: An 80's Experience

6-9 p.m. — Compass Point: Home of Dirty Girl Adventures — $8 cover, kids under 12 are free — Enjoy an energetic night of singing and dancing to your favorite 80's hits with local talent.

Topeka Renaissance Festival

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — The Woodshed Event Center — $14+ per day — Experience jousting, games, and entertainment at this exciting festival of medieval fun.

Country Stampede Festival 2025

June 25-28 — Topeka, Kansas — Prices vary — Celebrate country music with top artists, family-friendly fun, and delicious local cuisine.

7th Annual Sneakers & Smiles Golf Tournament

2-8 p.m. — Cypress Ridge Golf Course — $380 team entry fee — Participate in a fun-filled golf tournament benefiting Sole Reason, complete with extras like a silent auction and raffle prizes.

Summer Fireworks Extravaganza

7-10 p.m. — Avondale East Field — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of music, food, and a spectacular fireworks display.