Daily editionWednesday, January 7th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 7th of January.
Community
Retired DC Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone will visit Wichita from Feb. 26 to March 1 to lead community conversations on civic responsibility and leadership during challenges.
His visit concludes on Feb. 28 with a free public discussion at Metroplex Lowe Auditorium at WSU.
KWCHRead more
Education
Lawmakers from both parties introduced a proposal on Jan. 6 to ban cell phones in Kansas schools - a move aimed at reducing distractions and boosting learning.
They say the measure, if passed, could reshape classroom behavior.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Public Library launched the ReadICT 2026 challenge to encourage community members to read 12 books in 12 months.
The initiative promotes lifelong learning and literacy as it unfolds this year.
KAKERead more
Government
Wichita's new water treatment plant opening is delayed another year (city council expressed disappointment) and officials plan to review project timelines.
KAKERead more
On Jan.6, a judge ruled that Rock Regional Hospital can be evicted from its current site, prompting legal actions over its lease arrangements.
KWCHRead more
City officials said QuikTrip donated funds to support local projects in Wichita (the donation was made Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 7:09 p.m. CST), providing a timely boost to civic initiatives.
KWCHRead more
Local officials report the water treatment plant will not open until at least 2027 due to project delays & funding challenges that have pushed back its planned improvements.
KWCHRead more
Health
Health officials in Sedgwick County said that record-high flu cases and ongoing Covid spread are stressing local health systems as CDC data from last week placed Kansas in the second highest range nationwide — residents are urged to take precautions and get vaccinated.
FOX KansasRead more
Sports
Jayce Brown, Kansas State's top pass catcher during the 2025 season, committed to LSU after entering the transfer portal on Dec. 16.
He recorded 115 receptions and 13 touchdowns in three seasons and will join Coach Lane Kiffin and the Tigers in the SEC.
KWCHRead more
No. 22 Kansas rallied from a sixteen point deficit to beat TCU 104-100 in overtime on Tuesday night.
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No. 22 Kansas beat TCU 104-100 in overtime Tuesday night as Darryn Peterson scored 32 points (including three free throws that tied the game in regulation) to overcome a 16-point deficit.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the calming benefits of Chair Yoga in a supportive community setting.
Tahoe Knight Monsters vs Wichita Thunder
Friday, January 16th, 2026 · 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.
Concert by Tay Money
Saturday, January 17th, 2026 · 8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets available — Enjoy a live performance by Tay Money featuring her hit song 'Hood Still the Same'.
Time Travel Half-Marathon and 5k/10k
Sunday, January 18th, 2026 · 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.
Safe Sitter Baby-Sitting Course
Monday, January 19th, 2026 · 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Bring your own lunch — Learn essential babysitting skills in a fun and engaging environment.
East Carolina Pirates vs. Wichita State Shockers Men's Basketball
Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 · 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.
Air Capital Hoopfest
Friday, January 23rd, 2026 · 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.
Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
Monday, January 26th, 2026 · 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience a gentle yoga practice that enhances strength, balance, and community spirit.
Chair Yoga Class
Wednesday, January 28th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 for drop-ins — Experience the benefits of Chair Yoga in a welcoming community atmosphere.
Alternative & Holistic Fair 2026
Friday, January 30th, 2026 · 3-7 p.m. — Wichita Kansas Events - Holiday Inn — $3-$5 entry — Explore growth opportunities and connect with uplifting vendors and lectures.