Good morning, Topeka.

The Salvation Army helped kids in Topeka prepare for the new school year by handing out hygiene products—deodorant, shampoo and toothpaste—and providing haircuts and clothing at its Back-to-School Bash held Friday.

The event also gave parents resources like educational support and health screenings.

Topeka’s Boys and Girls Club broke ground on the new Adventure Oasis playground at the Adams Club on Friday — the facility will include climbing nets, sensory areas and accessible zones as part of a plan to modernize the club’s space for children.

Fundraising efforts for the project are ongoing.

The City of Topeka said the property owner of the Mott House is responsible for damage from police efforts after 51-year-old Carlos Slaughter barricaded himself inside on July 29 and was later found dead on July 30—although the owner may file a claim that the city will review under Kansas law.

A Topeka man named Bradley Sutton, 32, was arrested at 3:50 p.m. on July 31 on the 1700 block of Fair Lane in Manhattan for three motorcycle thefts valued between $1,500—$25,000—he is held on a $16,000 bond in Riley County Jail.

The Tall Corn Festival will return to Rossville from August 8-10 with three days of fun, food, and music (including corn eating contests and sporting events) that will mark the start of harvest season.

Residents will join free activities and parades (a kids' parade at 9:45 a.m. and a grand parade at 10 a.m. on August 9) to reconnect with local traditions as the town celebrates its heritage.

The USPS is searching for a new site for the Berryton post office because the current 115-year-old building at 7049 SE Berryton Road does not have enough space.

The agency plans to lease or build a new facility within three miles and invites public comments by mail until Aug. 27 — this feedback will help decide the best location.

KDOT warned residents Friday morning that a text message scam falsely claimed to be from KDOT or the DMV and demanded payment for unpaid traffic tickets.

Officials advised people not to click links in these texts + to delete any suspicious messages they receive.

Kansas transportation workers will shut down the westbound I-70 flyover ramp to I-470 for pavement patching work from 7:30 p.m. on Aug.

4 until 6 a.m. on Aug. 5 and drivers will detour using K-4/Auburn Road.

In January 2024, Shawnee County commissioners considered a $48 million industrial revenue bond request from West Ridge Mall to finance renovations that would provide tax exemptions for labor, materials and interest on bonds—part of Advisors Excel's plan to upgrade the mall for its headquarters and enhanced retail space.

Get Down in T-Town

4-9 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Experience a vibrant evening of live music, dance, and local flavors in Topeka.

KCECA Varsity Football Game

7-9 p.m. — Cornerstone Family Schools Inc — Free entry — Cheer on the Cornerstone Family as they host Kansas City East Christian Academy in a thrilling home conference football game.