Good morning, Topeka.

Panasonic said its Kansas EV battery plant in De Soto will convert some lines to make batteries for data centers as part of a $3 billion plan for AI and digital support.

Mass production is expected to begin in mid to late 2028 or early 2029 (EV production continues).

Kansans gathered at the statehouse on June 17 for the annual Juneteenth Heritage Luncheon; community leaders were honored while organizers celebrated the diverse history that helped shape the state and inspire future generations.

AAA forecasts 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home for the Independence Day holiday between Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, July 5 (with 85% expected to drive despite higher gas prices).

Residents in Hi-Crest expressed flooding concerns after heavy spring rains submerged homes along 37th Street and Kansas Ave. City leaders, including city manager (Dr. Robert Perez), inspected damage on June 17 and plan a community meeting soon to review long-term fixes.

Junction City middle school baseball star McKenzie Jackson was the only girl selected from Kansas for the Maria Pepe Little League Baseball Legacy Series in Williamsport earlier this month — she will join the national 'Baseball For All' tournament in Rockford next month after her boys team won in Wichita.

Country Dance Night with Pinhole

8-11 p.m. — Happy Basset Brewing Co — $5 Cover — Experience a night of hard-hitting honky tonk sounds and prairie vibes with Pinhole.

Howard Mahan Band & The Old No. 5's Live Music

6-10 p.m. — Compass Point: Home of Dirty Girl Adventures — Ticket info available — Enjoy a night of blues rock with the electrifying Howard Mahan Band and The Old No. 5's.

Envista Eats & Beats

6-9 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of food, drinks, and live music in a vibrant community atmosphere.

The Harvey Brothers Band Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Kick Start Saloon — Free entry — The Harvey Brothers Band plays live in Topeka for the first time, inviting everyone to ride their bikes over.

Boys Volleyball Training Camp

8:45 AM – 3:30 PM — Horejsi Family Volleyball Arena — Training fee required — Improve your volleyball skills with focused training for young male athletes.

Topeka Job Fair

12:30-3:00 p.m. — Crestview Community Center — Free entry — Explore a variety of job opportunities and connect with local employers in a vibrant setting.

Topeka Blues Society Summertime Blues Concert

6 p.m. — Gage Park Amphitheater — Free entry — Experience a night of blues music with live performances by local bands in a scenic park setting.

Live Country Music Night with Steel Skarecrow

7-11 p.m. — Saddle Up Bar and Grill — Free entry — Experience a blend of nineties country and southern soul that tells a story through modern music.