Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInTOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Around 10:25 p.m. Friday night, Topeka Police Officers responded to SW 13th and SW Boswell on reports of gunshots in the area officers found a person suffering from life-threatening injuries Medical personnel pronounced Treveon Carrington was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections Mitchell was arrested for murder in the 1st degree This is the city’s 6th homicide investigation of 2025 Anyone with information can email telltpd@topeka.org or submit an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at 783-234-0007 was found fatally shot late May 2 in the area of S.W May 3 in connection with first-degree murder in the case into the Shawnee County Jail where he was being held that evening without bond Boswell runs north and south and is located four blocks west of S.W where they found Carrington suffering from life-threatening injuries Carrington was subsequently pronounced dead at the scene The homicide became Topeka's sixth this year Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934 Kansas education officials are promising President Donald Trump's administration that state government and local schools will comply with federal civil rights law The April 24 announcement by the Kansas State Department of Education follows an April 3 letter from the U.S Department of Education requiring certifications of compliance with antidiscrimination obligations The KSDE letter was obtained April 30 by The Capital-Journal through a public records request "As public stewards of education in Kansas we take seriously our responsibility to follow the law and maintain the trust of our communities," said Randy Watson "Our agency remains committed to ensuring that federal laws are respected and that all Kansas schools operate within the legal framework." The certification that the federal government wanted states to sign warns that diversity equity and inclusion programs may be impermissible Any "continued use of illegal DEI practices" risks loss of federal education funding and legal action "Federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right," said Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for civil rights, in an April 3 statement "When state education commissioners accept federal funds they agree to abide by federal antidiscrimination requirements we have seen too many schools flout or outright violate these obligations including by using DEI programs to discriminate against one group of Americans to favor another based on identity characteristics in clear violation of Title VI." The letter did not define what constitutes an illegal DEI program which contributed to the judges' rulings on it being unconstitutionally vague Kansas State Board of Education member Beryl New previously noted the lack of a definition for DEI "I just get concerned about that because diversity that's a part of every human's everyday life," New said at an April 8 meeting While that state has regularly had to certify it complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act — meaning no discrimination based on race national origin or ethnicity — the Trump administration also wants the state to abide by its interpretation of a Supreme Court ruling Department of Education also wanted the state to collect certifications from local school districts which the state has not previously had to do KSDE will comply with all federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination," including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act The state also said it requires local school to submit assurances of compliance annually The press release made no mention of whether or not the state is complying with the Trump administration's interpretation of the Supreme Court decision but the actual letter does vaguely allude to court decisions Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights Watson said he was assuring "KSDE's commitment to comply with all Federal statutes and all binding court cases interpreting federal laws regarding nondiscrimination." The Supreme Court decision cited by the Trump administration is binding on affirmative action initiatives but not directly on DEI programs more broadly Watson said the state was not aware of any compliance issues at local schools "that have not already been investigated and resolved by the Office of Civil Rights." "Should additional information be needed or requested KSDE will coordinate and respond to ensure continued compliance," Watson wrote "I look forward to continuing to work with the U.S Department of Education to ensure each student receives quality educational opportunities." Jason Alatidd is a Statehouse reporter for The Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jalatidd@gannett.com. Follow him on X @Jason_Alatidd Shawnee County Courthouse renovations are complete which would be responsible for design and construction work linked to the renovation in December 2022 The project was funded by the American Rescue Plan with the rest coming from the budgets of different courthouse departments according to December 2022 Shawnee County Commission documents said he's happy to see the project completed because we never did shut down the courthouse," said Riphahn "People had to be moved around and shuffled around but I'd like to thank all the staff for putting up with the inconvenience Amanda Monhollon said the completed work at the Shawnee County Courthouse include the following: Replacement of the entire mechanical system and associated pumpsA complete overhaul of the HVAC systemInstallation of a new window system with energy-efficient glazing throughoutConversion of all fluorescent lighting to energy-efficient LED fixturesA modernized fire alarm system upgraded to current code standardsUpgrades to building security and video surveillance systems10 refreshed and modernized courtrooms now equipped with advanced audio/visual technology to support remote and video testimonyAccessibility improvements including ADA-compliant public restroomsLandscaping and irrigation enhancements valued at $125,000"These improvements address longstanding facility challenges and reflect the county’s ongoing investment in safety In 2023, Topeka saw $101.2 million in private and public construction costs for the top 10 largest building projects, The Capital-Journal previously reported The courthouse was the second largest project with a cost of $10 million to fund "These types of capital expenditures not only represent a commitment by local employers to invest in Shawnee County," said GO Topeka President Molley Howey said they also mean jobs for contractors and residents of our community who have worked and will contribute to bring these projects to life." Howey said bags and more are some of the items you can find at Mingus Leather Mingus said he closed his storefront due to insufficient sales to cover overhead and salary Mingus Leather had been open in downtown Topeka since December 2022 "The potential of downtown is great until they get some of those larger businesses that are holding some of those properties to actually invest and develop them and then figure out parking a little better I think it's going to continue to struggle," said Mingus "They really probably also need something like a grocery store down there to really draw people there instead of people having to going away from there for their shopping if they could figure out those things Mingus Leather at Breadbasket Farmer's MarketMingus told The Capital-Journal the largest lesson he learned is to slow down when it comes to being a business owner and understand things more But he has also learned the love and admiration that small businesses have for one another in Topeka look out for one another and love to champion one another And that was a wonderful part to be in and to see But being a part of the tight-knit small business community has continued for Mingus The Breadbasket Farmers Market began April 5 at the south parking lot of West Ridge Mall and that's where those interested can now find Mingus Leather More: New home decor store Urban Meadow offers natural pieces in Topeka's NOTO district The Breadbasket Farmers Market will be open 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Saturday through Nov. 22, its website said. Mingus said his main focus for his business is to catch up on debt that was created while being consistent at the Breadbasket market and picking up on online sales. All of Mingus's leather products are online at mingusleather.com. "Hopefully turn some sales in to just catch up and get ahead a little bit and we'll reassess and see what is possible for the future," said Mingus I have some friends I've been talking to about that." The leather business started as a hobby about 8 years ago and then became a full-time venture when Mingus's previous job ended due to pandemic-related financial issues "I just remembered my little league glove way back as a kid and loving that leather and said 'I wonder what it takes to get started (with) leather,'" said Mingus "And that kind of started of the journey and I loved it All of the handcrafted items typically take 45 minutes or up to 15 hours As items like bags and different styled purses are more complex He said he encourages people to support small businesses in the community "Try to think local and small first and go from there we'll all be filled with a lot more joy and smiles and success and that's good for the city," said Mingus Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInTOPEKA (WIBW) - Two road projects are set to happen in Topeka on Monday The eastbound lane on SE 37th at Massachusetts Ave will be closed for pavement repairs from a waterline break starting on Monday The lane will reopen to traffic in 2 weeks The detour route is Eastbound 37th to northbound Adams to eastbound 29th to southbound California to eastbound 37th Westbound traffic on 8th can yield to oncoming traffic and drive around the work zone The closure is to replace storm sewer inlets and pipes Topeka police said they seized 28 animals May 1 while arresting a man in East Topeka in connection with crimes that included conducting cockfighting Police weren't saying how many roosters were among the animals seized at the scene in the 200 block of S.E Shawnee County Jail records identified the man in custody as Israel Hernandez-Zavala Swygart runs north and south and is located about five blocks west of S.E Members of the Topeka police narcotics unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant related to an ongoing investigation at the scene drug paraphernalia and signs of potential cruelty to animals Records showed Hernandez-Zavala was booked at 10:45 a.m where he was being held without bond May 2 in connection with: Unlawful conduct of cockfighting involving cause a gamecock to fight or injure another.Unlawful possession of cockfighting paraphernalia with intent to use.Cruelty to animals.Drug crimes which included distributing marijuana and possessing cocaine.Unlawful discharge of a firearm within city limits.Outstanding Shawnee County and Topeka Municipal Court warrants charging him with misdemeanors.Formal charges hadn't been filed A man being held by Shawnee County Department of Corrections was later turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement Corrections booking records show that Emmanuel Rodriguez-Maldonado Fur harvesting." His booking is also labeled “Hold for Immigration and Customs Enforcement." Lalo Muñoz, who is executive director of El Centro of Topeka said he hasn't heard any reports of ICE agents in Topeka nor received called with concerns patients and students safe no matter legal status More: $1,000 to seek asylum? House Republicans propose new immigration fees Rodriguez-Maldonado was booked into Shawnee County Corrections at 4:10 p.m Deputy director Shawnee County Department of Corrections Tim Phelps confirmed that Rodriguez-Maldonado was released into ICE custody at 9 a.m The Kansas City ICE office didn't respond for comment Shawnee County Corrections didn't respond for comment Topeka Mayor Mike Padilla wants to set the record straight about Cinco de Mayo "Everybody thinks May 5 is Mexican Independence Day talked about Cinco de Mayo at the news conference in which he appears monthly with city manager Robert Perez Mexican Independence Day is actually observed Sept 16 to commemorate the beginning in 1810 of the war in which Mexico won its independence from Spain Cinco de Mayo is held May 5 to celebrate the anniversary of an outnumbered Mexican Army's victory in 1862 at the Battle of Puebla over the Second French Empire The French were in the early stages of what ultimately became an unsuccessful attempt to gain permanent control of Mexico Mayor thinks Topekans generally embrace eventTopeka retailers have historically recognized May 5 as being important to some of the city's population I think Topeka embraces that day," he said "It's something to celebrate just if you want to get together with friends and family." Padilla encouraged Topeka residents to make it a point to spend some time on Cinco de Mayo at local businesses He noted that a Cinco de Mayo Market would be offered May 3 and 4 at the West Ridge Mall The lone Fiesta Topeka queen candidate, Milagro Alvarado, will kick off Mexican food sales May 5 at Marlo Cuevas-Balandran Activity Center Alvarado and her supporters will then sell food from 11 a.m Mondays through Fridays at that site every other week Chipotle, which has a Topeka location at 2040 S.W. Wanamaker Road, on May 5 will launch a Roblox gaming experience that will give the public a chance to win free food May 5 margarita deals have been advertised on Facebook by the following Topeka restaurants: • El Ranchito will celebrate with 10% off food from 11 a.m Eighteen-ounce lime margaritas will cost $6.99 buckets of domestic beer $15.99 and lime margarita pitchers $22.99 with house tequila shots costing $2.99 and premium tequila shots costing $4.99 The Fairlawn location will feature music from Mariachi Habanero from 6 to 7 p.m and patrones de la cima from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m Patrones de la cima will play from 6 to 7 p.m and Mariachi Habanero from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m Holton and Osage City locations will offer Karaoke from 6 to 9 p.m • 785 Beer Company on May 5 will offer $5 margaritas of any flavor $5 Cantina Driveway beers and $2 hard or soft tacos • Happy Basset Barrel House on May 5 will offer $5 margaritas of any flavor as well as $1 off 13-ounce and 16-ounce drafts of Happy Basset craft beers Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934 How different would my life have been if only… Great fiction often presents its characters with a choice How much can one simple decision change the course of someone’s life These new releases explore this question in profound or reflective ways Here are five novels I anticipate readers will be talking about this summer The Names by Florence Knapp “The Names is a truly gorgeous, heart-opening novel. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m grateful to have Cora and her children living inside my heart now. What a wonderful book!” — Ann Napolitano, New York Times bestselling author of Hello Beautiful 32 Days in May by Betty Corrello After a shocking lupus diagnosis turns her life upside down Nadia wants to lose herself in the Jersey Shore town where she grew up vacationing with her family She plans on keeping her life small and boring while continuing to ignore her sister’s relentless questioning When her rheumatologist not-so-subtly sets her up with his former-actor cousin But Marco is gorgeous—despite carrying his own baggage from a very public burnout they decide a May-long fling could be just what the doctor ordered: no commitment Their undeniable chemistry starts to feel a lot like something more While Marco pulls Nadia deeper into his life she is determined to keep her diagnosis from him But there are only so many days in May and only so much pretending she can do As the stress of their whirlwind romance takes its toll on Nadia’s health she’s must decide if a chance at love is worth the risk of trusting someone new “Betty Corrello flawlessly weaves the struggles of chronic illness with the magic of falling in love in her absolute terrific and captivating sophomore novel. Corrello’s combination of charm, wit, and vulnerability is truly unmatched.”  — B.K. Borison, author of Lovelight Farms The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong “The Emperor of Gladness is a poetic the novel also handles intimacy and love with delicacy and deep originality Hai and Grazina are taken from the margins of American life by Ocean Vuong and by dint of great sympathy and imaginative genius placed at the very center of our world.” —Colm Tóibín The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei Old School Indian by Aaron John Curtis Forty-three-year-old Abe Jacobs has been told by his doctors that he’s dying— and fast Having exhausted his doctors’ regimens he begins to contemplate the one path he thought he’d never pursue — a healing at the hands of his great uncle Budge His uncle still lives on the Ahkwesáhsne reservation where Abe was raised More than two decades after leaving Abe reluctantly returns home is not the least bit sentimental about his gift This satisfies Abe as his last-ditch attempt to be healed is just that: a fragile hope Abe will need to confront how leaving the reservation at 18 affected him and the loves and fears that kept him far from home ever since Delivered with crackling wit, Old School Indian is a striking exploration of the power and secrets of family and the ripple effects of history and culture Chris has been with the library since 2007 so it's not uncommon to see him helping with library writing events Chris holds an MFA in Writing from the University of Nebraska and dabbles with graphic design when time allows The contents of this website are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License families and dignitaries remembered officers who have been killed in the line of duty as part of an annual memorial ceremony in Topeka The May 2 ceremony at the Statehouse included a prayer Those followed a candlelight vigil the night before Officials said the state is fortunate to have not had any law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty last year we gather here to honor Kansas law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice," said Gov we are not mourning any new line-of-duty deaths in Kansas But it does not change the solemn responsibility we have to remember those who did give their lives — and to support those who still serve." Kansas did add two names to the memorial at the northeast corner of the Capitol grounds died in 1976 after highway collision where the other driver crossed the center line of the Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office died in 1924 after he was shot during a struggle with a bank robber it is one too many," said Kansas Bureau of Investigation director Tony Mattivi very fortunate that neither of those lives were lost in the line of duty in 2024 We are very blessed that both are historic names It's all too often we have to add names of officers that were just lost." Premium Content is available to subscribers only. Please login here to access content or go here to purchase a subscription Read Ponca City News Raising Cane's is opening its first location in Topeka the fast-food chain asked permission on March 27 to demolish the former Steak N Shake location at 1415 SW Wanamaker Road The building was condemned by city of Topeka code official on Dec Steak N Shake closed its doors in late 2023 "Raising Cane’s is slated to bring our ONE LOVE® – craveable Chicken Finger meals – to Topeka opening early 2026," a Raising Cane's representative told The Capital-Journal More: These Topeka restaurants passed food safety inspections last month Raising Cane's has six other locations in Kansas (WIBW) - A 40-year-old man is in custody after officers allegedly seized 28 animals and located drugs Thursday in Topeka According to the Topeka Police Department (TPD) officers served a search warrant in the 200 block of SE Swygart St The TPD stated that it had discovered signs of animal cruelty occurring A total of 28 animals were seized by law enforcement was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for the following: • Unlawful possession of cockfighting paraphernalia • Unlawful discharge of firearms in the city limits • Distribute or possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia • Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction A draft of the May 5 City Council agenda showed a consideration to remove all DEI related positions and city ordinances Longtime Topeka activist Curtis Pitts said the conversation of DEI is unique for Topeka given its historic connections to trailblazers for human rights "We have to remember Topeka has been the point person for change for everybody and for us to do anything different would punish our history the freedom fighters who came here and said We've got to do what's right for our city." He also said the city shouldn't give in to national pressure if it will not be beneficial for the overall Topeka community "We've always been the change makers for everyone," Pitts said We should never respond to what's happening nationally unless it's really good for the City of Topeka If we're doing something that's not good for the citizens just because that's what's happening across the country Topeka communications director Daniel Garrett said the city intends to follow federal guidelines "The City of Topeka remains committed to staying in compliance with federal guidelines and requirements to ensure we remain in good standing for future grant opportunities and federal initiatives as these are a critical source of funding for important initiatives in our community," Garrett said in a written comment Garrett said the drafted agenda listing the DEI item was removed from the website and a final draft would be reuploaded "The preliminary agendas are removed from the website on Wednesdays and the finalized versions are posted by the end of business day on Thursdays," Garrett said in his email response When The Capital-Journal asked for the previously posted draft Garrett had the city file an open records request for a copy The request has not been fulfilled but the city has three business days to respond Marcus Miller and Neil Dobler did not immediately respond for comment Mayor Michael Padilla and deputy mayor Brett Kell also did not immediately respond to a request for comment Councilwoman Christina Valdivia-Alcalá declined to comment Councilwoman Michelle Hoefer said the city has not someone working on DEI efforts since Ernestor De La Rosa left his position She was unsure when De La Rosa left the position but estimated it was around January 2024 Hoefer said considerations to strip DEI have been on the table for a while I did because we had talked about it when Ernestor left I don't know how many months ago," Hoefer said "We left his position unfilled because we didn't know what we were going to do yet Then all the stuff came out with (President Donald) Trump we just did not fill that position and because of everything the DEI position is essentially going away." She went on to say former Interim City Manager Richard Nienstadt chose to leave the position open "I believe the position was left open by Richard Nienstadt so the next city manager could determine his organizational structure," Hoefer said in an email to The Capital-Journal Most CM's like the flexibility to make adjustments Then with the projected budget shortfalls the position was left open longer until it was determined to eliminate it The necessary functions of the job were absorbed by other employees." The internet trending Dubai Chocolate has been making its rounds around social media feeds since late 2024 But the this pistachio filled sweet treat hasn't decreased yet in its demand Nick Xidis said they began to see the high demand pick up in summer of 2024 but since him and his wife and co-owner Terry Xidis come from a Greek family background those are all kind of standard Mediterranean desserts ingredients," said Nick Xidis "We didn't just go buy off the shelf pistachio butter because it just didn't taste right Dubai Bar at Hazel Hill available for purchase onlineHazel Hill offers their Dubai Bar online for $10. They also offer a thicker bar for $30 Nick Xidis said they create their bars thinner because they believe the balance of chocolate to filling is better when it's evenly proportioned amongst each other The Dubai Bars are the first Mediterranean based treat that Hazel Hill has began to offer to clientele The Hazel Hill Dubai Bar is a mixture of butter browned phyllo and homemade pistachio butter Terry Xidis said they make up to 50 bars a week so the demand is very high and it's been high since they began The Xidis's said they appreciate the younger clientele that the Dubai Bars have brought to their business We have people waiting for them," said Nick Xidis but this one seems to be sticking around." pistachio and chocolate has since inspired countless other desserts with similar flavor profiles those who enjoy the overall taste of the candy bar can find inspired treats at Sweet Bites food truck Dubai Strawberry Cups which are filled with strawberries drizzled with homemade pistachio dream and chocolate drizzle and crushed with pistachios and kataifi Dubai crepes and mini pancakes are also available for purchase at Sweet Bites The Capital-Journal visited Toot Sweet at 919 N Teagan Biber said the shop no longer sold the Dubai Bar due to such a high demand and not being able to have orders in as quickly as needed A new food truck is rolling its wheels in Topeka and surrounding areas Twisted Treats is a new food truck offering pretzels topped with a variety of different flavors The truck is owned by Aaron and Lauren Parrish who are also the owners of Topeka's longtime lemonade and kettle corn truck The couple began making pretzels as a hobby in their at-home kitchen in the winter then later decided to give it a try as a business and we opened this trailer the 1st of April," said Aaron Parrish "I believe this is our fourth week in operation now and we've had a great response from the community." Twisted Treats pretzels menu are a classic pretzel garlic parmesan and a cinnamon sugar pretzel The truck also offers $2 sauce cups that include cheddar cheese brown spicy mustard and vanilla butter crème icing Also available for purchase are $3 craft sodas and $1 bottled waters Aaron Parrish said most customers enjoy just a classic pretzel but there are flavors that are definitely runner ups for customers Since the pretzel truck is still fairly new Parrish said he's still learning and understanding what customers enjoy But we have a couple different ideas on some flavor options we can add down the road," said Parrish They've continued to make an appearance every year at the Downtown Topeka Farmer's Market and various events around town daily More: Owner of El Rey Mexican Restaurant in downtown Topeka feels 'great responsibility' "It's been fun to be able to kind of be there towards the start of this new food truck wave that's come through It's been fun to be there and see a lot of growth in the city specifically with the Evergy Plaza downtown and different events that help promote food trucks," said Aaron we've all become friends and help each other out when we can." Those interested can find the Twisted Treat truck at the following upcoming events: (WIBW) - A popular fast-food chain restaurant is in the works of coming to Topeka According to the City of Topeka building permit map, a permit was issued on Thursday, April 24, to Raising Cane’s for a new building at the site that was formerly home to Steak and Shake Permits from the City of Topeka state that the old building will undergo a full demolition The demolition date has not been released at this time The Raising Cane’s location will be the first in the City of Topeka According to a Raising Cane’s Representative the new location is expected to open in early 2026 The downtown Topeka Farmers Market is celebrating its 95th year in the capital city said the market prides itself in offering a wide variety of products including many of those from long term vendors as well as always having new vendors and products to try every Saturday until the last weekend of October "Aside from just the consistent return of the market is what keeps people coming back," said Langston "We receive so many compliments and thanks every week from our customers that just talk about how much they love the people and the downtown atmosphere." Langston said the market is currently working towards becoming a not for profit organization which will allow for the market team to find and accept more funding and donations to better serve its customers so customers can just take a load off and relax and enjoy the atmosphere with their friends and families," Langston told The Capital-Journal "We are also trying to stay on top of our website so it always has the most recent information and vendor list the Farmers Market averages 55 to 60 vendors on a "primetime" weekend but there are currently over 100 vendors on the vendors list Some vendors are annual while others also pay per Saturday that don't want to attend every week Our next big event will be Mother’s Day weekend when we always have great donations from our vendors that we give away as door prizes to our moms," said Langston "We are also always trying to come up with new fun and creative events to build on a true family atmosphere and make it a great place to make memories with your loved ones," said Langston "We are also offering several sample Saturdays this year where customers can try more items before they buy." More: How a Munch Market is bringing new food options to First Fridays at Topeka's NOTO co-owner of American Expressions has been participating in the Downtown Market for two years Rickerson said he used to be a consistent visitor but since he's presented his hand-crafted charcuterie boards some days aren't but you always meet nice people and see some really nice vendors It's a good place to be on a Saturday morning," said Robinson Langston said a lot of vendors start out at the market as a hobby sometimes but then it turns into something larger than they imagined for the better "Many of them are surprised at how well they do and then start thinking bigger and better I often hear that they never dreamed our market would help them become so successful The customers’ desires to have the products available all year also helps attribute to that success and desire to have those full time businesses," said Langston 'In charge of our stories': What Topeka's Black American BluePrint Collective aims for owner of Buns and Bliss is participating in the downtown Farmer's Market for the first time this year and said she's enjoying the experience so far it's a whole different view but it's exciting," said Rickerson She said she hopes to expand her small bakery to other markets in town as time progresses owner of Essentially Quenched which offers body and beauty care products has been participating in the Downtown market for three years "It's really great to be apart of the market," said McDonald "It gives you that sense of community and like a little family It's really neat to see all of the new stuff that people have every year and when you get that customer base every year they begin to search for you so that makes it special." A fourth Topeka mayoral candidate has entered the race the main goal for most people is to move out of Topeka," Killman said They're worried about getting stuck here or living here most of their life I definitely want to bring enjoyment back to Topeka." arm wrestling enthusiast and the youngest mayoral candidate Topeka has ever seen He said he gained his interest in politics from long talks with his father growing up "I've definitely tried to become more partisan in all of my ideas but it's just something me and him connected to when I was younger and it's something that's always kind of stuck with me," Killman said "Then seeing how politics can actually affect people's day-to-day lives While he hasn't had much experience in city government because of his age Killman said it gives him a way to appeal to younger residents while still getting along with older Topekans "I'm up to date on current events because I am on social media," Killman said "I know how to connect with the younger generations and the older generations local medical professional Chad Fay and local property developer Henry McClure Killman said he wants the city to better communicate with the public and be more accessible "There's so much you could improve on (in Topeka)," Killman said I'd want members in the community to know what's going on here Looking up things for being mayor was very difficult Killman went on to say that with more open communication it would lead to better voter registration and community participation He said Topeka's second main issue is a lack of term limits "Probably my second biggest issue would be term limits," Killman said "I would definitely like for the City Council and the mayor both to have term limits It keeps people working on time and on a schedule I think candidates that have been in for four terms would be much easier to get fifth term than somebody who's new and running just because people are comfortable with that Killman said road conditions are a main issue in Topeka "Most people can just tell by driving day to day that the roads aren't that good," Killman said "(You're) hitting potholes and messing with your suspension." He said he'd like to be more efficient with road repairs "Getting the City of Topeka fixing roads quicker and maybe spreading out the jobs you're doing instead of just one area where people have to take massive detours," Killman said Killman went on to say he also would like Topeka to take more responsibility for sidewalk repair Topeka offers to pay half of the repair costs for sidewalks on people's properties "It's a city-owned sidewalk," Killman said and you can be held viable for something you don't own I'd like for that cost to brought back to the city Killman said Topekan's should vote for him "I think the community of Topeka should vote for me because I will make things cleaner," Killman said I'll make us feel like a community again." Getting a sweet treat with this business has been an option for a few years but it's now a new option to the food truck scene in Topeka began as at-home business in 2022 offering customers mini pancakes she knew it was time for a fresh start in a new space That's when Nunez began serving sweet bites in her white- and wood-trimmed concession trailer but then she quickly outgrew that space too Now you can find her serving sweet and savory treats out of a new light pink food truck with black trim around Topeka and surrounding cities "I've always had a passion for baking and creating delicious desserts It all comes down to my mom being the main one we've always shared that passion together," said Nunez Working and helping alongside Nunez in the Sweet Bites truck is her husband Sweet Bites inspired by home state traditionsOriginally from California but in her 25 years of living in the capital city she said she's still inspired by California "Growing up in California ― and constantly being inspired by the street vendors ― everywhere you turn pretty much there's street vendors with unique and special food and desserts," Nunez said "We try to visit our hometown every year and grabbing a crepe and a mini pancake is definitely a must every time we go I wish we had this in Topeka and everyone could try the different types of desserts that they have out here." making that wish come true is what she did Sweet Bites offers a few different flavored pancake mini bites and crepes Berry Cheesecake rolls and 'Dubai Strawberry Cups' can also be found on the menu Nunez said the Dubai Strawberry Cups are a top seller right now since the viral trend of Dubai chocolate recently began on TikTok The Dubai Strawberry Cups are filled with strawberries drizzled with Nunez's homemade pistachio cream and chocolate drizzle and crushed with pistachios and kataifi Dubai Crepes and mini pancakes are also available for purchase "We want to continue to expand our menu and just bring unique things to the Topeka community when we bring something new to our food truck or new flavors to our crepes or our mini pancakes," said Nunez She said she brings new flavors all the time especially around each new season of the year Sweet Bites can normally be found from 6:30 p.m every Friday and Saturdayin front of King's Auto Glass Alvarado said he likes that the food truck community is growing in Topeka and they get to be apart of it “I expected really good things for Sweet Bites That really speaks a lot about our products," said Alvarado And can’t wait to keep growing even more." we're open to go ahead and take the ride because we do like to put ourselves out there and grow," said Nunez (WIBW) - Police arrested a 34-year-old man following a served search warrant in Central Topeka on Thursday it and patrol bureaus served the warrant in the 1300 block of SW 16th St drug paraphernalia and an explosive device were located was arrested and booked into the Shawnee Co (WIBW) - One person was killed in a shooting early Thursday in the Oakland neighborhood of northeast Topeka Thursday at the Kwik Shop gas station at 746 N.E Topeka police officers found a person with life-threatening injuries who was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel The Kwik Shop convenience store is located on the southeast corner of N.E A gas station is located on the west side of the store The capital city also had four homicides as of April 17 in 2024 before finishing the year with 22 slayings Anyone with information on Thursday’s shooting may call Topeka police detectives at 785-368-9400 or Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 Check wibw.com later for more information as it becomes available Stacker compiled a list of the most expensive homes in Topeka listed for sale on realtor.com Homes are ranked by price with ties broken by price per square foot Fifteen children from group homes operated in Lawrence and Topeka by The Villages Inc. have been sent to another facility in New York to comply with a removal order issued by the federal Office of Refugee Resettlement president of the board of directors for the Villages said the action was taken in response to alleged code of conduct violations Executive director Judette Padilla and five other employees of The Villages are no longer employed there The release didn't say whether they resigned or were fired the Office of Refugee Resettlement suspended the placement of children at The Villages after citing code of conduct violations The Villages sent five children from Lawrence and 10 children from Topeka to another facility in New York after receiving a removal order from the ORR," she said Kansas District Judge Penny Moylan issued an order to stop the ORR from moving one child who remains with The Villages." Chief compliance officer Mark Burenheide has been named interim executive director of The Villages “We are reorganizing our management team and developing corrective action plans with the ORR to ensure the safety of our children at The Villages," she said “We hope to preserve our federal contract with the ORR and retain all the jobs of our employees We have a long history of taking care of children.” The Villages is a nonprofit children's group home organization based on 400 acres in a rural setting west of S.W "Our mission is to empower children by providing a safe nurturing environment that fosters personal growth," the organization's website says "Led by a team of experienced professionals we are dedicated to creating positive outcomes for every child in our care." The Villages revealed in 2018 that it was housing children in the care of the U.S government's Office of Refugee Resettlement including minors separated from their parents at the Mexican border The Villages operates five houses in Topeka and two in Lawrence, according to its website. The Villages serves 60 minors and has about 95 employees including part-time and full-time employees Padilla had been executive director since August 2021 at The Villages, where she had been employed since August 2012, according to her LinkedIn page A former employee of the Topeka plant for Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company said in a lawsuit filed last week that after he was injured working there it cut his pay from $20 an hour to $7.25 an hour It alleges one count each of discrimination on the basis of disability and retaliation for engaging in protected activity and suffering a work-related injury The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages totaling $300,000 as well as costs The Capital-Journal has not heard back from Heartland Bottling after seeking a response regarding the suit by email April 28 from the person identified as the media contact for that company on its website Lawrence said he suffered a knee injury at workTopeka attorneys Bruce Alan Brumley and Chloe Elizabeth Davis filed Lawrence's lawsuit complaint as a warehouse order builder by Heartland Bottling where he was working when he became involved in an accident on Sept "Plaintiff suffered extensive injuries such as a dislocated kneecap damaged tendons and nerve damage to his left lower extremity," the lawsuit complaint stated It said that as a result of those injuries, Lawrence was found to additionally be suffering from Osgood-Schlatter disease a condition that causes pain and swelling below the knee joint Lawrence said his pay was cut from $20 an hour to $7.25 an hourLawrence returned to work Oct while facing a medical requirement that he alternate between sitting and standing as well as restrictions regarding lifting "It was understood by Plaintiff that Plaintiff's medical restrictions would lessen as Plaintiff's injuries healed but that Plaintiff would also need to continue wearing an offloading brace and other assistive devices long-term to shift weight away from Plaintiff's left lower extremity," it said that his hourly pay was being reduced from $20 an hour to $7.25 an hour and that he was being transferred from working on the company's second shift to its first shift That move was made abruptly without consulting Lawrence Lawrence's supervisors regularly assigned him tasks that fell outside his medical restrictions that the company return him to his original shift and stop regularly assigning him duties outside his medical restrictions Lawrence's manager assessed him an "attendance point" penalty after he missed work to attend a medical appointment on Oct saying she didn't care if the absence was linked to his work-related injuries that the company return him to his original shift and stop regularly giving him duties outside his medical restrictions a supervisor sent him home involuntarily and assessed him an attendance point Heartland Bottling terminated Lawrence Nov for allegedly accumulating too many attendance points "At no point during Plaintiff's employment did any employee of Defendant produce rely upon and/or inform Plaintiff of the proper policies and procedures whether those of Defendant's or related to Plaintiff's legally protected rights," it said Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934 Thousands of protestors came to the Kansas Statehouse to protest the actions of the Trump administration organized by a handful of civic organizations hosted eight speakers who spoke about state and national politics Though the protest is largely against Republican actions at the federal level "You are welcome if you agree to these things: You want to end executive overreach You want us to have people who uphold the Constitution in our government You believe in the three equal branches of government and that you believe that people are all created equal you believe in non-violent action here to fight with people," Peterson said Speakers at the makeshift podium on the Capitol lawn included elected such representatives as House Rep such candidates for office as Olathe Democrat Sherry Giebler "This is the most dangerous moment in modern American history," Schlingensiepen said "The enemies are not outside of our nation and they're staging the largest bank robbery this nation has ever seen." including two representatives with Equality Kansas a Haskell Indian Nations Student and a representative from the National 50501 movement spoke The 50501 Movement stands for 50 protests in 50 state capitals on one day The organization has already had a handful of rallies in Kansas and the April 5 protest was part of a national movement the Women's March and other advocacy groups also contributed with organizing and sponsoring the event many weren't able to hear the speakers and either marched chanted or displayed signs on the eastern and south steps of the Capitol "Keep your hands off Social Security," but that there were several reasons she decided to come A Topeka Rescue Mission staff member is in critical but stable condition after being injured in an incident April 4 outside the the mission's men's shelter TRM wasn't making public the employee's name or gender "Our entire TRM team is devastated by this event," said La Manda Cunningham "Each of our employees is precious to our team and our mission so when one of us is injured in any way it has a significant and far-reaching impact." Donna Eubanks said officers were called shortly before 11 p.m Kansas Avenue on a report that a person was on the ground and had been battered Officers arrived to find a person with life-threatening injuries caused by blunt force trauma That person was taken by American Medical Response ambulance to an area hospital in connection with one count each of attempted first-degree murder kidnapping in the flight or commission of any crime and aggravated battery involving knowingly using a weapon to cause great bodily harm Locke was being held April 7 in the Shawnee County Jail on a $1 million bond on those counts and without bond on an outstanding Shawnee County warrant charging him with a probation violation TRM provides spiritual support to those affectedTRM, a faith-based organization, since 1953 serves homeless hungry and impoverished citizens in the Topeka community TRM is working closely with and fully cooperating with Topeka police in its investigation and will continue to provide support to its injured employee and everyone else who's been affected TRM is providing spiritual support to all employees and guests who are struggling with the emotional impact of the incident Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934.