Daily editionThursday, January 15th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 15th of January.
Business
Paul and Shauntel Stovall took over ICTea on North Rock Road in August 2024 (the popular boba tea shop known for quality drinks) and rehired its longtime staff to preserve a family-friendly community space.
The VoiceRead more
Education
Wichita Public Schools will start a new program to fill vacant mental health roles + the initiative will train local professionals to support students and staff at school sites.
KWCHRead more
Government
The Wild Horse Program at Hutchinson Correctional Facility will end this February, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.
The program, which has helped inmates gain skills by training wild horses for adoption since 2001, will see staff reassigned to different roles.
KWCHRead more
Kansas schools can apply for state grants to install artificial intelligence gun detection systems as part of the Safe and Secure Firearm Program, a $10 million initiative by the Kansas Attorney General.
Wichita Public Schools is exploring flexible funding options+ details on grant usage are still pending.
KWCHRead more
The Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office raised the US flag for Flag Sojourn 250 on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at its facility.
Officials said the ceremony celebrated national heritage and community unity.
KWCHRead more
Officials announced that the Wild Horse Program at Hutchinson Correctional Facility will end in February, with the program (which allowed inmates to work with wild horses) being discontinued.
The change marks a planned shift in the facility’s inmate programs.
KWCHRead more
Health
A state report shows that Kansas' 988 crisis centers face staffing shortages that leave 40% of crisis counselor positions unfilled and text responses at only 57% versus an 80% target (data from last year).
COMCARE in Sedgwick County is one of five centers answering nearly 90% of calls quickly.
KWCHRead more
Fairfield School District cancelled classes today after a rise in illness spread across schools, and parents are advised to check district updates for guidance.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Wind Surge announced its coaching staff yesterday in Wichita, naming Nico Giarratano as the new manager after he led the FCL Twins to a 39+20 record and division title last season.
He replaces Brian Dinkelman, who advanced to manage the St Paul Saints.
KWCHRead more
Wichita native L.J. Phillips broke records in 2025 with over 1,900 rushing yards as a backup for South Dakota and has signed with Iowa to compete in the Big 10 next fall (his career rebounded after an ACL injury).
KWCHRead more
Villa Boxing Gym in South Wichita has reopened after seven months of repairs following a severe storm in June 2025, and it now welcomes kids and athletes with renewed energy and community spirit.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
R&B Night with Lizzen
Saturday, January 31st, 2026 · 9 p.m. — Elisabeth’s Lounge — General Admission & VIP available — Enjoy a night of smooth sounds and classy energy with R&B sensation Lizzen.