Good morning, Topeka.

Living the Dream Inc. is hosting its second annual So Soul Summer fundraiser with a luau theme — featuring the new So Soul Swag dance.

The event runs from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at The Foundry Event Center, 400 SW 33rd St.

The 45th annual Cider Days Fall Festival will be held on Sept.

19 and 20 at Stormont Vail Events Center—tickets cost $8 in advance or $10 at the door and vendor applications are still being accepted.

GO Topeka and Washburn University School of Business are hosting the 2026 Economic Outlook Conference on Thursday, Oct.

8 from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Washburn University + experts will share insights on local trends, federal outlook, workforce jobs and emerging technology affecting housing.

Jefferson West USD 340 is testing a new way to use AI in class—teachers use a stoplight system to show what work is allowed and the district received a $7,000 grant from KU’s Center for Reimagining Education.

The plan will update learning methods.

Dr. Katie Collier, the new superintendent in the Auburn-Washburn district, visited Eye on NE Kansas on the first day of school to share her impressions and outline future plans (emphasizing a focus on easing transitions) as classes began.

Strong, straight-line winds damaged homes in Shawnee County Friday night, blowing off roofs and downing trees and power lines.

A Topeka National Weather Service meteorologist said the storm did not meet tornado criteria even though winds reached EF-1 strength — residents are urged to use weather alert apps for updates.

I-70 near S.E. California Avenue in Topeka will close both eastbound & westbound starting Monday for a bridge replacement project.

Drivers must follow a marked detour to exit and re-enter the highway until December, officials said.

Washburn volleyball — ranked No.8 nationally in the AVCA preseason poll — will start the season at the Washburn Invitational on Aug.

27 at Lee Arena facing Oklahoma Christian.