Good morning, Topeka.

Topeka food pantries are experiencing a surge in demand as SNAP cuts and temporary pantry closures increase community need.

Doorstep saw a 50% rise in food distribution while Harvesters recorded nearly 380 cars at one event + local officials note the challenge of restocking supplies.

On Tuesday, when 90° heat warmed the day, local residents cooled off with ice cream from The Ultimate Scoop (which recently added its food truck) at 4140 Huntoon St. The treat helps beat the heat while supporting a key local business.

Helping Hands Humane Society is adding a living plant wall to its dog kennel area to reduce noise and improve comfort for dogs and visitors.

Donations of mulch, potted plants, and sprouts are accepted at the shelter (community support is vital).

A new Dollar General is being built at 37th and Gage Blvd with construction scheduled to finish by Sept.

24 (the store is expected to open in early October).

Blue jeans and country dreams are the theme at the Wabaunsee Co. Fair, running July 24-28 at the fairgrounds in Alma.

Saturday features a 5 p.m. parade, 6 p.m. King and Queen crowning and a 7 p.m. ranch rodeo while Tuesday offers Barnyard Olympics and a 7 p.m. livestock sale.

Kansas Empire District Electric Co. will raise bills $28 over two years when new rates take effect Aug.

1 + the Kansas Corporation Commission approved a plan that increases rates by $14.73 the first year + $12.98 the second year for customers using about 1,000 kWh a month.

Officials from Topeka Public Schools urged the city council Tuesday night to maintain funding for student resource officers because the cost-share program is vital for school safety (SROs build strong ties with law enforcement) and the district is exploring grant options for support.

Topeka's Top City Interns program through Forge welcomed 200+ young professionals this summer who are partnering with local companies to gain career skills and explore community life; program director Caleb Soliday said the experience will help launch their careers.

Teresa Taylor, an ER nurse + trauma prevention specialist, shared her journey coping with her younger brother's suicide in the latest episode of the Hear me.

See me. podcast released on Jul. 21.

Former KU men’s basketball players Jamari Traylor & Billy Preston suited up for JHX Hoops on Tuesday night after two players were ruled out.

They faced K-State's Purple Reign at Bramlage Coliseum, with tip-off at 8 p.m. on FS1.

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.