Tuesday, August 19th, 2025

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Good morning, Topeka. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 19th of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Topeka Police Department held a Community Safety Forum Monday night where local residents met with officers who shared advice on staying safe amid a recent rise in crime. Police leaders stressed that open communication helps address neighborhood concerns. WIBW
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Katie VanBlaricum from Topeka uses valid U.S. Fish and Wildlife permits to bring tropical insects from abroad and transform them into jewelry and nail polish—she has worked in her craft for 19 years to show that bugs have a unique value in art and design. KSNT
- ➤ A new Hispanic grocery store called Supermercado Nuestra Familia will open in November at S.E. 29th Street and California Avenue in southeast Topeka—bringing a full-service market with fresh produce, meats, and homemade treats to local neighborhoods. WIBW
DRINK NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR Optimal hydration isn’t just about water. LMNT’s zero-sugar electrolyte mix is formulated with sodium levels aligned with new hydration research without added sugars or fillers. A favorite among athletes and intermittent fasters, each sip supports better performance, energy, and recovery. Try it risk-free with LMNT’s no-questions-asked refund policy and get a free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase.* LMNT
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Topeka.
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Angel Zimmerman and Daisy Karimi from Topeka United spoke on the 27 News morning show about their Teen Mosaic Program—explaining leadership skills, community building, and how to register. Applications remain open for the program that will run from September to May 2026. KSNT
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Work crews will close part of Southwest Fairlawn Road from Monday, August 18 until October 2026 for street, waterline, stormwater, and sewer improvements—forcing drivers to detour via Gage Boulevard as locals report long delays. Many residents say the extended closure will add extra time to their daily commutes. KSNT
- ➤ Shawnee County Election Commissioners met Monday morning to certify early primary results that show Spencer Duncan and Henry McClure are set to vie for Topeka’s mayor while Karen Hiller and William Naeger will run for City Council District 1. Officials said low turnout and fewer than 100 provisional ballots did not change the counts—officials noted the general election is scheduled for Nov. 4. WIBW
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas unveiled a new mural on Monday morning near S.W. 11th and Tyler streets in downtown Topeka—designed by local artist and retired Coast Guard veteran Zandra Sneed-Dawkins, the artwork shows scenes of Kansas life that include children playing, farmers market visits, and a graduation celebration. Employees chose the mural's name in a company-wide vote to reflect the health plan's focus on community and connection. WIBW
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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.
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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.
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TRAPT Live in Topeka
7-8 p.m. — Jessie's Bar Outdoor Stage — General Admission $20 ($25 at the door) — Rock out with TRAPT as they perform hits from their new album!
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Holy Smokin' Jamboree 2025
8 a.m. - 10 p.m. — 2014 NW 46th St, Topeka, KS — $2 wristband for kid games — Enjoy BBQ, live music, and family-friendly activities at this annual jamboree.
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Tim Hawkins Comedy Show
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — $65-$86 — Enjoy a night of laughter with renowned comedian Tim Hawkins.
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Highland Park vs. Sumner Academy Varsity Football
2-4 a.m. — Highland Park High School — Free entry — Catch the exciting matchup between Highland Park and Sumner Academy's varsity football teams.
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12th Annual Dueling Pianos Fundraiser
6-10 p.m. — The Townsite Avenue Ballroom — Various ticket prices — Enjoy a night filled with music, laughter, and support for kids in need.
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Sumner Academy Boys Varsity Soccer Match
2:00 – 3:45 AM — Highland Park High School — Free entry — Watch the competitive showdown as Highland Park faces Sumner Academy in this conference soccer match.
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