Good morning, Topeka.

Topeka neighborhoods started Independence Day celebrations early with a parade featuring the Topeka High School drumline, Santa guiding the Fire Department, and a drill team in red, white, and blue — a block party later brought neighbors together.

Shawnee County Parks and Recreation will host an event at the Great Overland Station later this month to discuss the 1951 flood that killed 24 people and forced thousands to leave their homes—flooding North Topeka with eight feet of water.

The event will review how the flood changed the area and led the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to build levees and floodwalls.

KBI data shows Kansas’ crime rate dropped from 27 to 23.3 per 1,000 people in 2024—its lowest in over 20 years—as violent and property crimes fell while law enforcement numbers nearly rose from 3.44 to 3.69 per 1,000 people; Attorney General Kris Kobach credited his law and order approach for the decline.

The Kansas Supreme Court reversed a lower court ruling in Geary County after Brian Beck was arrested for meth when his traffic stop showed his license plate was partly covered— the decision said the law does not require plates to fully display the state name and sent the case back for a new hearing.

Grace Episcopal Cathedral held a patriotic celebration on Friday morning as the congregation gathered in red, white, and blue — 2nd Lt. Brenden Armstrong, his mother, Reverend Jody Carroll, and Kansas Poet Laureate Eric McHenry recognized service members, teachers, elected officials, and emergency workers while the event concluded with an ice cream social.

The Kansas Department of Commerce assumed control of the Kansas Community Empowerment program on July 1—shifting administration from K-State Research and Extension and setting the stage for community certification and enhanced grant opportunities.

Local communities will soon learn more about training and leadership development options as part of the new phase.

The Shawnee County Health Department is now accepting nominations for its annual Public Health Champion awards—seeking to honor one person and one organization for work in advancing health equity in Topeka and Shawnee County through efforts like supporting local health policies or volunteering. Award recipients will be announced at the Annual Shawnee County Community Conversation on August 15 at the local public library.

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.

Sporting KC Summer Soccer Camp

July 21-24 — Bettis Sports Complex — Not specified — Develop soccer skills and enjoy a fun-filled camp for young players aged 5-14.

Kansas Ballet - The Wizard of Oz

7-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Tickets $15 — Experience the magic of dance in this enchanting ballet adaptation of The Wizard of Oz.

PBR Shawnee County Fair Professional Bull Riding

7-8:30 p.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling bull riding action with top riders competing for victory.

99s-2000s Skate Party

11 p.m.-2 a.m. — Sk8away Inc. — Refunds available up to 7 days before event — Relive the nostalgia of the 90s and 2000s while skating to throwback hits.