Tourism & Rural Business: A Barton County couple, Jim and Katie Homolka, received a Kansas Department of Commerce Tourism Office BARN grant to restore their 1900 limestone barn and turn it into an events venue, part of the state’s push to revive historic agritourism sites. Local Leadership: The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce named Christina Hayes its next president and CEO, starting Oct. 1, 2026, as the chamber looks to strengthen partnerships and support local business growth. Public Safety: Topeka police are investigating a double homicide in the NOTO Arts District and are asking the public for help identifying a person of interest. Agriculture: K-State Research and Extension released the Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2026, updating variety profiles and disease/insect resistance ratings to help growers make fall planting decisions. Education & Facilities: Hays USD 489 voted to close the Rockwell Administration Center and move administration to the former Wilson Elementary building, with renovations planned in phases. Politics: Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall defended his view that social media has fueled anger and division, while also highlighting his media strategy ahead of the midterms. Energy Costs: Diesel prices are pushing toward $6 a gallon, and Kansas farmers say the higher fuel costs are squeezing already-stressed budgets after drought impacts. Sports Business: Kansas City approved up to $185 million in public financing for CPKC Stadium expansion and surrounding development, including a larger Current stadium and infrastructure upgrades.