🌱 Upgrades Coming To The Topeka Zoo + ArtsConnect Wins $100,000 Grant

Hello again, neighbors. Nicole Fallon-Peek here with your fresh copy of the Topeka Patch newsletter, filled with all the community news you need to know right now.

But first, your local weather:

• Friday: Partly sunny. High: 84 Low: 55.
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High: 84 Low: 55.

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Here are the top three stories in Topeka today:

1. The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center is set for major improvements this summer. The zoo's Director of Development, Cynthia McCarval, said that two exhibits are being upgraded to make improvements for both animals and visitors. The black bear exhibit will receive a new climbing structure, and the golden lion tamarins are receiving a new outdoor exhibit with viewing glass for visitors. The black bears and golden lion tamarins will be temporarily unavailable for viewing while their respective exhibits are under construction. (KSNT)
2. ArtsConnect, a Topeka nonprofit organization, has been selected to receive a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. ArtsConnect expects to receive a $100,000 grant which will be matched by Visit Topeka Inc. and fundraising from ArtsConnect for a total of $300,000. The funds will support a community-based art series led by award-winning artist Vanessa German. The series will include workshops on storytelling and writing. (WIBW)
3. Lewis Automotive in Topeka recently held its second free lunch for first responders. Brad Lewis, the owner of Lewis Automotive, said the event is a way to give back to the community and contribute to Topeka's growth. The lunch event is a chance for first responders to relax, socialize, and connect with local residents. (KSNT)

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Today and tomorrow in Topeka:

Friday, May 26

• Topeka's Backyard Music Fest At Truckhenge (12:00 PM)
• Live Music: The Unfit Wives At Dirty Girl Adventures Compass Point (6:00 PM)

Saturday, May 27

• Family Fun Paint Day At Studio 62 (12:00 PM)
• Know Your Neighbors Block Party At East Topeka Renaissance District (5:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The City of Topeka shared a list of upcoming Juneteenth events and celebrations. On Jun. 17, the Hillcrest Community Center is hosting a Juneteenth Celebration at 12:00 p.m., and on Jun. 19, there will be a collaborative community event held at Kings Court. Visit this link to see more Juneteenth events. (City of Topeka Government via Facebook)
• It's almost time for the splash pad and fountain shows at Evergy Plaza! The splash pad will open on Monday, May 29, and fountain shows will resume on Tuesday, Jun. 6. (Evergy Plaza via Facebook)
• Shawnee County Parks and Recreation announced an upcoming event for National Go Skateboard Day. On Jun. 21, skateboarders and members of the community are invited to Mouse Trap Skate Park from 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. for food, prizes, and plenty of skating. Registration is available at this link. (Shawnee County Parks + Recreation via Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. See you all soon for 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.