🌱 Topeka Native ID'd After 45 Years + Topeka Flag License Plates Vote

Good morning, Topeka! I'm Nicole Fallon-Peek and I'll be your new source for all the events, news, and general happenings in your town. Here is everything you need to know today in five minutes or less.

But first, today's weather:

Cloudy with a passing shower. High: 46 Low: 37.

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Here are the top 3 stories today in Topeka:

1. The remains of a man found in Washington in 1979 have been identified as a Topeka native after nearly 45 years. Previously known as Spencer Island Doe, the man was confirmed to have been 29-year-old Gary Lee Haynie after years of forensic tests and the 2021 DNA reference testing of his half-sister. Born in Topeka, Haynie traveled the world with his mother and adoptive father who had been in the Air Force, investigators said. The circumstances of his death remain unknown as of Tuesday evening. (WIBW)
2. City officials have reversed course on a bill that would give motorists the option to choose a specialty license plate emblazoned with the Topeka flag. A similar bill was met with opposition last year, but passed the chamber vote this year 38-2. The bill must still pass the House before going to the governor, but if it does, the plates could range from $25 to $100. (The Topeka Capital-Journal)
3. A 26-year-old woman has been arrested in relation to a suspicious death investigation that began in the area of SW 3rd and Harrison Street on Monday morning. As of writing, Topeka police have not released details of the death, but have identified the victim as Rodney D. Clayton, 57, of Topeka. Serena Marie Sanchez has been charged with murder in the second degree - intentional. (WIBW)

Today in Topeka:

• Topeka Audubon Society's Tropical Manakins Presentation At Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• If you have opinions about the current utility rates, today at 5:30 p.m. is the second of three meetings where your voice can be heard. City Council signaled at their Jan. 4 meeting that a rate hike may be coming. (City of Topeka)
• Ever dream of starting a business but not sure how to start? You may want to head to the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library at 5:30 p.m. for this free informational seminar. (TSCPL)
• If you have a high schooler who is strong at math and science, they may be able to graduate two years early. At 5:30 p.m. this evening, The Kansas Academy of Mathematics & Science at Fort Hays State University will give them the details. (AllEventsIn)

You're all caught up for today! I'll see you back in your inbox soon with another update.

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.