Daily
Topeka
Tuesday, December 16th, 2025
Good morning, Topeka. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 16th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Silver Lake student Steven Ijams will attend a Chiefs game on Christmas Day after Dream Factory granted his wish, giving his family a special holiday memory following his health challenges. WIBW
- ➤ Wellness trainer Alissa Platz celebrated her birthday Monday, Dec. 15 by donating her tips and proceeds to Topeka High freshman Carson, who is battling bone cancer after surgery last month; the support came from her shop, Soul Fire Nutrition, at Brookwood Shopping Center. WIBW
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Chabad of Kansas hosted its annual Hanukkah ceremony at the Capitol Celebration Monday, Dec. 15 in Topeka. Gov. Kelly and Rabbi Tiechtel stressed that community light in the wake of recent tragedies inspires change—an enduring message as the holiday runs through Dec. 22. WIBW
- ➤ The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library displays Up From the Roots, a nature-themed exhibit at the Alice C. Sabatini Gallery through mid-February. Visitors can engage with interactive stations such as haiku writing and scavenger hunts (activities that bring spring indoors). WIBW
- ➤ The Topeka Symphony will perform the Capitol Federal Holiday Concert (The Snowman) at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17 at Washburn’s White Concert Hall, offering a live soundtrack of the animated film and festive sing-along with the Kansas Youth Chorale and a young artist winner. WIBW
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Emporia State University has named Matthew Baker as its new president. The Kansas native (with 30 years of experience in higher ed at Northwest Missouri State) will begin in March and launch a listening tour to address student needs. Kansas Reflector
- ➤ Kansas State University will name Alex Wimmer as its new director of bands on June 7, 2026 & he brings 13 years of service in roles from assistant to associate director, solidifying his reputation as a dedicated educator. WIBW
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Topeka Public Schools approved a resolution to transfer Boswell Park to Shawnee County pending final vote by county commissioners. The neighborhood park has served local families since the 1980s, and residents expect better upkeep after years of county investment. WIBW
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Lori Yocum (RN, BSN) from A Helping Hand Home Health Care advises that holiday visits are a good time for adult children to check if aging parents have enough groceries, proper medication counts, and clean clothing in their home. WIBW
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ TopCity Half Marathon announced Monday, Dec. 15 that future 5k and half marathon events are suspended because of unforeseen circumstances – organizers said they may resume the races later. WIBW
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Yung Bleu Live Concert
8 PM - 12 AM — The Woodshed Event Center — $30 general admission, $200 VIP options available — Experience an electrifying performance by Yung Bleu in Topeka.
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The Calm Oasis Sessions
8:30 p.m. — McFarland Farm — Free entry — Engage in soothing group sessions designed to foster relaxation and community connection.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches but to reveal to him his own.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Topeka
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