Daily
Wichita
Thursday, January 1st, 2026
Good morning, Wichita. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Wichita residents mourned firefighter Bob Thompson, who served (35 years) as battalion chief and was known for his commitment to fire safety. He died Sunday at age 76, leaving behind a legacy that unites the community in remembrance. FOX Kansas
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A Wichita woman shared her personal connection with The Green Book+ a travel guide that once helped Black travelers during segregation. Her account shows how the guide shaped her family’s story and left a mark on local history. KWCH
- ➤ Radio veteran Steve McIntosh ended his 55-year career with his final New Year's Eve show on KNSS, featuring local colleagues on his last broadcast. He hosted Steve & Ted in the Morning for nearly 28 years. KNSS
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ An economic outlook released Dec. 31, 2025 shows Wichita set for growth in 2026 — local business leaders expect increased investments and job opportunities as recovery continues. KWCH
- ➤ Boeing is set to re-integrate Spirit AeroSystems and a March sales tax vote will determine funding for city services, boosting Wichita's economic outlook. Dr. Larry Straub of Newman University said strong schools and a renewed aerospace presence support cautious optimism as new contracts and hires are expected. KWCH
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Jo Brown — the first Black woman elected to the Wichita Board of Education — died on Wednesday. She joined the board in 1971 and later helped create Wichita’s middle school program while advocating for students with local lawmakers. KWCH
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office warned drivers about the dangers of drinking and driving ahead of New Year's Eve, urging safe travel for everyone in the community. KAKE
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Wichita organizations urged residents on Dec. 31, 2025 to celebrate safely by choosing sobriety and avoiding drinking and driving, emphasizing that responsible choices during holiday festivities help protect community members. KWCH
- ➤ Gov. Kelly announced $221 million in federal funding today to support the first year of the Rural Health Transformation Program (designed to boost rural care statewide). KAKE
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Parking at Wesley is disrupted during the parking garage demolition and local officials are planning temporary alternatives to ease commuter challenges. KWCH
- ➤ Wesley Medical Center will demolish its old garage this week to start a two-year, $65 million project for a new structure with 1,359 regular and 20 motorcycle spaces + a modern lobby. Parking for visitors and staff shifts on Jan. 5 as construction begins Jan. 6 at Hillside and Murdock. KWCH
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Wichita State's men’s basketball team overcame a double-digit halftime deficit to win 75-70 in their AAC opener against UAB in Birmingham on Wednesday. Kenyon Giles led with 26 points and the Shockers stand 1-0 in conference play as they prepare to face Charlotte on Jan.-3. KWCH
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Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the calming benefits of Chair Yoga in a supportive community setting.
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Tahoe Knight Monsters vs Wichita Thunder
7:05-9:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Cost info not specified — Catch an exciting hockey match as the Tahoe Knight Monsters face off against the Wichita Thunder.
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Concert by Tay Money
8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets available — Enjoy a live performance by Tay Money featuring her hit song 'Hood Still the Same'.
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Time Travel Half-Marathon and 5k/10k
9 AM – 12 PM — Plum Shelter, 6501 W 21st St N, Wichita, KS — Unique referral code system for refunds — Lace up for a family-friendly dash through time with races for all ages.
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Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in — Enjoy chair yoga for all mobility levels with a focus on strength, balance, and community.
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East Carolina Pirates vs. Wichita State Shockers Men's Basketball
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — Free t-shirt for early fans — Witness a thrilling basketball game while supporting mental health awareness.
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Air Capital Hoopfest
7 p.m. — Newman University-Fugate Gymnasium — $15 for Adults, $8 for Kids, Students, and Seniors — Experience the excitement of top high school basketball with future stars competing for glory.
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Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
10:00 – 10:45 a.m. — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience a gentle yoga practice that enhances strength, balance, and community spirit.
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Wichita Campus Open House
3:30-5:30 p.m. — Galen College of Nursing - Wichita — Free entry — Explore the nursing programs and meet the faculty at this informative open house.
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Turnpike Tributedours Concert
8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets start at $69 — Experience an unforgettable night with Turnpike Tributedours live in Wichita.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
What you seek is seeking you.
~ Rumi
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