Good morning, Topeka.

The Topeka Rescue Mission says that demand for food assistance continues in July, with over 200 new families seeking help as rising costs burden local budgets.

John Roberts (TRM spokesman) said support remains critical as efforts adjust following Catholic Charities’ recent transition.

The Topeka Zoo opened the new Mark and Bette Morris Family Tiger Trails and Den Academy on July 15, giving Sumatran tigers Misha and Thomas a refreshed space with interactive displays for children.

Shawnee County Fair runs from July 23 to 26 at Stormont Vail Events Center.

It opens with a horse show this weekend and features a Run for the Hs 5K plus a 4-H Pancake Feed on July 25, with recognition and King and Queen ceremonies on July 26.

Tune in today at 8 a.m. on WIBW.com and Roku for the half-hour livestream A.M.

Extra, which features Thrifty Thursday deals and local updates. Hosts Jared Broyles and Reina Flores deliver current news, weather, and trending topics.

Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014—the world's largest operating steam locomotive—will roll into Topeka on Thursday, July 23, arriving at Great Overland Station at 12:15 p.m. A watch party starts at 10 a.m. with food trucks and admission of $3 for adults and $1 for kids.

Topeka Public Schools assistant principal Eric Rodriguez has DJed at the World Cup fan experience in Kansas City, mixing well-researched sets that energized thousands of fans as the tournament nears its close — he hopes to return if the Women’s World Cup comes to town.

A Microsoft study shows Kansas counties are rapidly adopting AI, with Douglas County reaching a 57.2% user share that places it among the nation’s top 0.25%.

University of Kansas professor Sean Seyer said the fast pace builds on extensive existing tech and has changed local usage trends.

Topeka Public Schools partnered with Honey and Milk Coffee Co. on Thursday morning for a Listening and Learning Tour where community members shared feedback to shape school improvements.

The district will continue the tour on Aug. 5 at Dillons on 29th + California.

Local health officials report a rise in cyclosporiasis cases since June.

A Topeka doctor explained that the illness may take up to two weeks to show symptoms and advised that washing and cooking fresh produce (which kills the parasite) can help prevent infection.

Ray Bechard, a longtime volleyball coach at the University of Kansas with 27 seasons and 13 NCAA tournaments, will be honored in the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame this summer, marking a milestone in his journey from Grinnell to Lawrence (he once coached boys basketball).

Former K-State stars Jacob Pullen and Michael Beasley join Purple Reign while KU alum Mario Chalmers and Darnell Jackson add experience to JHX Hoops for the TBT Sunflower Showdown; the best-of-three series will start Tuesday at Bramlage Coliseum and move to Lee Arena in Topeka on Wednesday.

Local Division II coaches say the proposed 5‐for‐5 eligibility rule may be adopted if emergency legislation is introduced, with officials expecting a vote as soon as August.

They believe the change will simplify recruiting and adjust eligibility for student-athletes (similar to Division I).

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.

Willow Rose's Country for the Pets

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Northside Social — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night of live music with Ryan Manuel, a passionate singer-songwriter from Lawrence, Kansas.

Full Band Performance at Evergy Plaza

7-11 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a lively full band set from MNB, who play over 100 shows a year.