Good morning, Topeka.

Law enforcement agencies in northeast Kansas host Tip-A-Cop events today to benefit Special Olympics Kansas.

RCPD will join patrons at Texas Roadhouse in Manhattan from 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Topeka PD at Red Robin from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.—all donations support the upcoming sports season.

Charles Norman Shay, a 101-year-old World War II veteran who saved many soldiers during the D-Day landing plus earned several honors, died last Wednesday at his home in Normandy, leaving a legacy celebrated by Fort Riley.

Supermercado Nuestra Familia held its soft opening on Wednesday at SE 29th and California, inviting locals to shop for fresh produce, meat and traditional Hispanic offerings; the store promises appealing prices and a unique shopping experience.

Helen Hocker Theater will host 'Dear Mrs. Claus', a family-friendly Christmas comedy featuring a local mentoring project, with performances at 7 p.m. on Dec.

5, 6, 12, and 13 plus at 2 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 14 next to the Topeka Zoo in Gage Park.

Washburn Rural High School’s choir performs at First Presbyterian Church’s Noon Noel concert series, serving a warm lunch + inviting community sing-alongs every Wednesday at noon until Dec.

17.

USD 475 superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston was named Kansas Superintendent of the Year in October and spoke about the honor during his visit to WIBW’s Eye on NE Kansas.

He leads 17 schools and more than 7,000 students (including some on Fort Riley).

The Solid Waste Management Department warns that string Christmas lights tossed in recycling can jam machines and create hazards.

Residents should bring lights to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility or drop them off at the Topeka Zoo’s parking lot, which will recycle them and fund conservation until Jan. 15.

A new 2026 Roadmap to Safety report from Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety finds Kansas roads could be safer by strengthening impaired driving laws — legislators supporting measures like the End DWI Act hope to reduce alcohol-related crashes and injuries ahead of the holiday season.

Officials announced a $72.5 million grant — shared with Illinois and Michigan — to boost behavioral health care by expanding community clinics that offer crisis care, counseling, and outpatient services.

The funds will be administered over three years to build on the state's recent improvements.

Reports said that K-State head coach Chris Klieman was considering retirement, and a news conference was held at 4 p.m. Wednesday to cover Signing Day details.

Sources noted former quarterback Collin Klein as a potential replacement.

10th Annual Wing Fling

2-3:30 p.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Ticket prices not available yet — Enjoy a fun-filled festival featuring Topeka's only chicken wing competition with great food, drinks, and live music.

Python for Scientists Training/Class

Dec 8-12 — Heston's Gladiator Academy — $2250 — Enhance your Python skills with expert-led classes designed for scientific applications.

Holiday Fling Topeka

9:00-10:30 a.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Entry fee may apply — Experience a festive holiday extravaganza with shopping, gourmet tastings, and family-friendly fun.

The Snowman Concert

Evening — Washburn University — Ticket info not provided — Experience holiday magic with a symphony and Kansas Youth Chorale performance of beloved seasonal favorites.

Kansas Ballet Presents The Nutcracker Featuring The Topeka Symphony

7-8:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Tickets available now — Experience the enchanting holiday classic with over 150 dancers and live music from the Topeka Symphony.

Ballet Midwest Presents: The Nutcracker

1-2:30 p.m. — Topeka Performing Arts Center — Tickets available at the box office — Experience the magic of Kansas Ballet's holiday classic with stunning choreography and live music.

PRCA New Year's Eve Xtreme Bulls

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Stormont Vail Events Center — Tickets from $38 — Celebrate New Year's Eve with thrilling bull riding and compete against the top bulls in the country.