Daily
Topeka
Friday, July 18th, 2025
Good morning, Topeka. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of July.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ AAA of Topeka is collecting school supplies for children in foster care through Aug. 22 at its office on 1223 S.W. Wanamaker Road + donations are welcome from all residents during regular business hours. WIBW
- ➤ Topeka Rescue Mission is collecting donations of school supplies to help 400 students get ready for school. Donations can be dropped off at the distribution center (401 NW Norris) from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday through Friday and families can register for supplies starting July 21. WIBW
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Fireworks-related injuries rose to 165 during the 17-day season from June 20 to July 7 as Topeka-area residents and others suffered severe burns and, in some cases, permanent disabilities—officials noted most injuries did not require hospitalization. WIBW
- ➤ A Shawnee County man lost his hand and forearm in a fireworks explosion while dismantling consumer firework mortar shells during the Fourth of July season — the Kansas State Fire Marshal reported 165 injuries and over 300 safety violations after inspecting temporary businesses. KSNT
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Ollie’s Bargain Outlet will open a new store at 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 24 at 5121 Southwest 29th Street to offer bargain deals on books, toys, and housewares — the store will also hire 50 to 60 local workers and provide shoppers with brand name items at up to 70% off regular prices. KSNT
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Crews responded early Thursday to reports of downed trees blocking roads in Topeka neighborhoods after overnight storms — the city’s forestry department also assisted with tree removal and power line issues while hundreds experienced power outages. WIBW
- ➤ A Leavenworth judge blocked CoreCivic from using its closed facility to house ICE prisoners today after rejecting the company's appeal and insisting it follow the city's development process — the ruling remains until the dispute is resolved. This decision comes amid concerns that bypassing city rules could harm the community. Kansas Reflector
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ At a Tuesday hearing in Topeka, advocates warned that budget cuts may force waitlists for Medicaid brain injury, technology assistance and frail elderly waiver programs — putting over 30,000 people at risk of delayed care. Legislators noted that millions in funding have been cut from these programs, raising concerns about continued access to necessary services. Kansas Reflector
- ➤ Kansas researchers are monitoring an invasive tick from Asia that may be in Kansas and is linked to a blood parasite that harms cattle. Ranchers are advised to check cattle purchased from out of state since the parasite can cause anemia and sudden death — a threat to livestock. KSNT
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
One is not born, but rather becomes, oneself.
~ Simone de Beauvoir
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