Good morning, Topeka.

The Topeka Zoo offers free admission Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for Gage Park Founders Fest—guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations as part of the event and enjoy other free activities in Gage Park.

Travelers for Labor Day weekend may face higher gas prices as AAA reported that the national average for unleaded fuel is $3.20 per gallon—rising 7 cents since last week—while Kansas prices have reached $2.86 per gallon, up 3 cents from last week.

Pauline Central Primary School and Pauline South Intermediate in the Auburn-Washburn district entered secure campus conditions Wednesday after police activity was noted on Briarmeade Lane—students remained in class while officials responded and promised to update once the situation ended.

Topeka Public Schools started the school year with every classroom filled by licensed teachers—recording the lowest vacancy rate in 5 years.

Leaders credited the recruitment of over 60 international teachers and a new teacher apprentice program for the improved staffing levels.

The Kansas legislative budget committee reviewed the one big, beautiful bill act and found that agriculture may benefit while state programs like SNAP and health care face extra costs — state officials are checking funds to track available resources.

The report shows that federal grants will change and agencies will work with legislators to confirm which programs gain and which lose.

A recent opinion piece criticizes Kansas’ child welfare system—showing that children are removed from families at rates triple the national average, often due to minor neglect linked to poverty instead of serious abuse.

Expert Richard Wexler recommends adding poverty relief and stronger legal defense for families to help prevent future tragedies like the death of Zoey Felix.

Rep. Derek Schmidt visited Eye on NE Kansas yesterday to update budget discussions and answer concerns over potential spending cuts.

He addressed public safety issues — stressing the impact on families as Congress prepares to return to session next week.

Washburn Athletics announced its 2025 Hall of Fame Class by naming four inductees including a current head coach and the 2007 volleyball team—the new members will be honored on Oct.

18 at a brunch ceremony ahead of the Ichabod football game against Central Missouri at 2 p.m. in Yager Stadium.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Tap That Topeka Beer Festival

5:30-11:30 p.m. — The Celtic Fox — Tickets starting at $50 — Experience over 400 craft beers, delicious food trucks, and live music in downtown Topeka.

Highland Park vs. Sumner Academy Girls Varsity Volleyball Match

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Highland Park High School — Check local listings — Come cheer for the Highland Park and Sumner Academy volleyball teams in a thrilling conference match.

Highland Park vs. East Football Game

7-9 p.m. — Highland Park High School — Admission Fee Required — Cheer on the Highland Park varsity football team as they take on East from Wichita in this exciting non-conference matchup.