Good morning, Topeka.

Shawnee County’s Extension Master Gardeners finished two new gardens in Topeka to teach about Kansas native plants and sustainable gardening practices—one at Washburn University near Robert J.

Dole Hall and the other at the former Stout Elementary School now serving as the Community Resource Council Care Center. The gardens also donate produce to local organizations and offer hands-on lessons in environmental education.

The Topeka Daylily Club will host its annual flower show at Fairlawn Plaza Mall on Saturday June 21 from 1pm to 4pm—attendees can view daylilies in full bloom, vote for their favorites, and receive free plants while supplies last.

The Sunflower Summer program for Kansas students will run from July 12 to Aug.

3 and offers free admission to over 200 attractions such as museums, art centers, zoos, and parks. One free adult ticket is provided per student — letting families visit these local sites together.

Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay announced charges against Pearson Carter III for the June 3rd, 2023 shooting death of Ian A.

Mwanki (29) in Topeka, and Carter III (held on a $1 million bond after being taken into custody on June 12th) faces charges including second-degree murder, criminal carrying of an automatic weapon and criminal discharge of a firearm within city limits.

The Topeka City Council voted on Tuesday to cut DEI language in the city code but sent the changes back to committee for further review—officials say the move was needed to keep $45 million in federal funds, with updates required by June 30.

City Attorney Amanda Stanley warned that rent assistance funds will be cut starting July 1 if the changes are not made.

Gov. Kelly declared a state disaster emergency for central Kansas after heavy rains and flooding on June 16—17 and submitted a federal request for FEMA aid to fix public roads and bridges damaged by storms on May 18—19.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management is monitoring recovery efforts in areas like Plevna and Grinnell.

Kansas finished 33rd in the Commonwealth Fund’s 2025 Scorecard on State Health System Performance, with uninsured rates dropping from 17.5% in 2013 to 11.9% in 2023.

Experts warned that planned federal changes (including premium tax credit expirations and Medicaid limits) could reverse these gains and may leave 66,000 Kansans without coverage in the next decade.

Tricia McCourt visited Eye on Northeast Kansas to share details about SENT Topeka's support programs that help with both mental and physical parts of substance use disorder.

These programs offer local residents needed help to manage substance use challenges.

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.

An Unforgettable Evening with Eddie Wakes

7-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Ticket sales start May 6 — Experience the remarkable voice of Topeka native Eddie Wakes in a night of music and excitement.

Live at Lunch Featuring Justwynnmore

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy live music, local food trucks, and family fun in the heart of downtown Topeka.

Craig Morgan Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Prairie Band Casino & Resort — $60 — Experience the hits of Craig Morgan in a vibrant country setting.

HAYSTAK Live Performance

9 p.m. — The Woodshed Event Center — General admission $20, meet & greet options available — Enjoy an electrifying live show by HAYSTAK with early doors opening for an all-age experience.