Good morning, Topeka.

Weather has delayed final work on Gage Park’s new playland where safety surfacing and equipment installation still need finishing; Shawnee County Parks and Recreation now expects the project to complete (late July to early August).

Saint Marys will celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a Red, White & Blue Festival at Riverside Park on Saturday, June 27.

Friday events include a softball tournament while Saturday offers an 8 a.m. pancake feed, 1 p.m. parade, music, and 10 p.m. fireworks — a full day of festivities.

The Kansas Department of Insurance announced Monday that over 20.7 million dollars was distributed to 552 local Firefighter Relief Associations from a 2% tax on fire and lightning insurance premiums written in Kansas.

The funds will help pay for firefighter insurance and safety upgrades.

Shawnee County commissioners are reviewing a drainage study at Gage Park to plan repairs for the leaking Westlake Dam on 6th Street.

The Gage Park Improvement Authority explained that the dam’s weak embankment complicates repair options, though it remains safe for public use.

Kansas state employees choosing Blue Cross Blue Shield will face a 15% health insurance rate hike starting Jan.

1 while those selecting Aetna will see no increase; officials at the Kansas State Employees Health Care Commission approved the change to encourage a switch amid low wage raises & reserve concerns.

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.

KAZHA Live Performance

8:00 – 11:59 PM — The Legendary Boobie Trap Bar — Ticket info TBA — Experience a unique blend of power rock from the Japanese band fronted by Kazuha Oda.

Bike Night Featuring Milltown

7-11 p.m. — Kickstart Saloon — Free entry — Milltown rockin it southern style on Kick’s outdoor stage for a great time.