Good morning, Topeka.

Local celebrities served dinner as waiters at the annual Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas fundraiser that featured a special drink, an auction, and live music.

CEO Sarah Elsen said the funds raised will support local child care centers as they face challenges from COVID—Jared Broyles and David Oliver were among those who competed for tips.

On Saturday, Oct. 4, kids with disabilities attended the Rise of Heroes fair at Westridge Mall — hosted by the Shawnee County Community Development Disabilities Organization.

They filled out hero passports at booths that offered useful local resources.

Taylor Swift fans in Topeka are celebrating her new album 'The Life of a Showgirl' with a listening party at Evergy Plaza that lasted until 9 p.m. and a movie screening at B and B Theaters all weekend — fans say the album's upbeat tone may be linked to her engagement to Travis Kelce.

Today, a local family hosted Schirmerstock—an event inspired by the diagnosis of a grandson with Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome—to raise funds and spread awareness for the rare disorder.

The gathering grew beyond family and friends to include many community members who supported the cause.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks invites residents to join the Kansas Outdoor Recreation Challenge to help celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday next year.

Participants must log 10 outdoor activities, such as hiking or visiting historic sites, before July 4 to earn a certificate and win prizes—special surprises while supplies last.

On October 3, Northeast Kansas played exciting football games—Washburn Rural beat Topeka High 35—6 in a game of the week while several schools competed in close contests.

Scores ranged widely as players delivered big plays and tight finishes.

On Sunday, October 5th, Baylor blocked a 56‐yard field goal with five seconds left to give a 35—34 win over K-State, leaving the Wildcats at 2‐4 in Big 12 play.

Avery Johnson, Jayce Brown, and Garrett Oakley made key plays, and K-State will host TCU on Oct. 11 at 2:30 p.m.

KU overcame a 14-point deficit to win 27-20 over UCF in a road game with running back Leshon Williams scoring three touchdowns while Jalon Daniels passed for 235 yards—improving the team's record to 4-2 overall and 2-1 in Big 12 play.

Silver Lake won a decisive football game against Baldwin by pulling away in the second half to win 47 to 7 after leading 13 to 7 at halftime — the home crowd cheered the team's strong performance.

Killer Queen - A Tribute to Queen

7:30-9 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the magic of Queen through a captivating tribute performance.

Bingo Loco at Topeka Social

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Topeka Social — $33 — Experience a night of laughter, dance, and bingo fun with exciting prizes.

Atomic Cowboyz Pop Up Concert

5-7 p.m. — Evergy Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant outdoor concert featuring the Atomic Cowboyz along with food from local vendors.

Object Oriented Analysis and Design Using UML Training

All day — Orion Education & Training - Topeka — $2250 — Enhance your software development skills with this comprehensive UML training class.

All Hallows Festival

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — The Woodshed Event Center — Ticket info coming soon — Celebrate fall with jousting, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities at a vibrant Renaissance Festival.

Topeka Pumpkin Run and Trunk-or-Treat

5-8 p.m. — Felker Park Softball — $12 and up, Trunk-or-Treat is free — Enjoy a festive evening run and a lively trunk-or-treat experience with family-friendly fun.

West Ridge LIVE

7:30-9:30 p.m. — West Ridge Mall — Various tickets available — Experience an exciting event with special seating options and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Help Stock the Ronald McDonald House Pantry

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Seabrook Apple Market — Donations welcome — Support local families in need by replenishing vital pantry supplies.

2025 Kansas Environmental Education Conference

4-4:30 p.m. — Sunflower Nonprofit Center — Registration fees apply — Explore critical environmental education themes and network with community leaders.