Newton Open Streets Returns Saturday on Oak Street

NEWTON, Kan. — Oak Street between 6th and 7th streets will close to traffic Saturday, June 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Newton Open Streets, a car-free community celebration. A City booth in front of City Hall will offer games, information and giveaways, and the Newton Fire/EMS inflatable fire safety house will be set up in Military Park. The tobacco-free event also features food vendors, fitness demonstrations and a free bike valet.

Meridian Event Center Marks 15 Years July 18

NEWTON, Kan. — Meridian Event Center will celebrate its 15th anniversary Saturday, July 18, from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at 1420 E. Broadway Ct. The event debuts the Grand Meridian Buffet and features live music by The George Sanders Blues Band, dancing and a champagne toast. Organizers plan to recognize employees, partners, clients and community members. Tickets are available.

Newton Police Welcome Officer Anna Wilbeck

NEWTON, Kan. — The Newton Police Department has welcomed its newest officer, Anna Wilbeck, who joins after serving as a detention deputy with Harvey County. Wilbeck was pictured with Chief Dunlavy following her badge ceremony.

Police, Fire/EMS Meet in Annual Kickball Rivalry

NEWTON, Kan. — The Newton Police Department and Newton Fire/EMS will face off in the annual Battle of the Badgez kickball game at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at Athletic Park's Kelsch Field. The matchup is part of Sand Creek Summer Daze, held June 18-20. Fire/EMS enters as the defending champion.

Rockets & Rails Sets July 3 Independence Day Schedule

NEWTON, Kan. — Newton's Independence Day celebration, Rockets & Rails, returns July 3 from 5 to 10:30 p.m. at Athletic Park. The America 250-themed event features live music by Stolen Winnebagos and The Sassanachs, a kids zone, food trucks, eating contests and a fireworks finale. An event schedule and vendor map are available online.

Newton Launches America250 Yard Decorating Contest

NEWTON, Kan. — The City of Newton is holding a yard decorating contest to mark the nation's 250th anniversary. Residents may decorate a yard or outdoor space and submit entries through June 26 at newtonkansas.com/Rockets-Rails. A volunteer panel will judge entries on creativity, patriotic theme, overall impact and community spirit, with bonus points for Newton-inspired elements. The winner will receive a prize package and recognition at Rockets & Rails and a City Commission meeting.

Newton Sets 2027 Budget Work Sessions Next Week

NEWTON, Kan. — The Newton City Commission will hold two informational work sessions to begin discussing the 2027 budget, from 8 a.m. to noon June 17 and June 18 at City Hall. The sessions are open to the public and will be livestreamed on the city's YouTube and Facebook channels. Additional sessions are planned for July, with public hearings in August.

City Desk Connects With Residents at Farmers Market

NEWTON, Kan. — Newton's City Desk set up at the Harvey County Farmers Market on Saturday to connect with residents and share information about local events and resources. Several visitors said they were unaware of the Choose Newton events calendar and the city's restaurant and shopping guides.

Newton Program Supports Neighborhood Block Parties

NEWTON, Kan. — The City of Newton's Fresh Air Connections: Block Party Edition will support up to two neighborhood block parties per month through November, providing permit guidance, event promotion and setup materials. With prior approval, neighborhoods may invite city staff, elected officials, police and fire personnel. Interested residents can complete an interest form to get started.

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