Friday, January 30th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 30th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ United Way completed its annual homeless count on Thursday, Jan. 29 — gathering updated data to help plan services for local residents in Wichita. KWCH
- ➤ Ron McEwen was named (52nd Admiral Windwagon Smith) of Wichita Riverfest at the Drury Hotel on Thursday. The ceremony included a ceremonial sword handover from former Admiral Alan Howarter's daughters and honored his longstanding community service. KWCH
- ➤ More than 100 Wichita residents gathered at City Hall on Thursday for an interfaith memorial service commemorating those who lost their lives in last year's American Airlines Flight 5342 midair collision (including two Wichita State alumni), with Mayor Lily Wu and local faith leaders guiding prayers and tributes. The Sunflower
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Officials updated federal safety protocols after last year's deadly flight collision that originated at Eisenhower National Airport, while Wichita held a community prayer service and renamed the Shocker Support Locker to honor victim Kiah Duggins; a memorial remains at the airport until Feb. 2. The Sunflower
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ As part of Kansas Day celebrations, Wichita rapper XV released a hip-hop reinterpretation of 'Home on the Range' (a commission by Kansas Tourism) that blends modern music with familiar local scenes. The video shows everyday Wichita streets and highlights the evolving spirit of our traditions. The Voice
- ➤ Kansas Day celebrates the state’s 165th anniversary since its admission on Jan. 29 — a milestone that recalls the turbulent pre-statehood conflicts and honors the journey that shaped today’s heritage. KNSS
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Butler Community College campuses held a moment of silence on Thursday to honor instructor Lindsey Fields, one of the fatalities on Flight 5342 that claimed 67 lives last year. The Andover campus also named its biology lab after her. KWCH
- ➤ The Wichita State Student Senate approved a $56,000 funding plan for a Ford T250 to help the Kiah Duggins Shocker Support Locker deliver free supplies to students, with matching funds from an alumnus while the state covers insurance and only gas costs remain. The Sunflower
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Local registered nurses held a vigil on Thursday, Jan. 29 in Wichita to honor Alex Pretti — a respected member of the nursing community whose work made a lasting impact on local healthcare. KWCH
- ➤ Medical professionals in Wichita advise residents to use safe walking techniques and fall on their bottoms to reduce weather-related injuries today, recommending a 'penguin walk' and proper cold-weather precautions (including bundling up and staying hydrated). KWCH
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Cater set a record last night as the Shocker women's team secured back-to-back wins at their home court — the win boosts team momentum for upcoming contests. KWCH
- ➤ Figure skater Max Naumov qualified for Team USA after competing in Wichita and recalling his final moments with his late parents, who died in a midair collision last January. He will represent the nation at the Olympics next week in Italy + honor their legacy. KWCH
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R&B Night with Lizzen
9 p.m. — Elisabeth’s Lounge — General Admission & VIP available — Enjoy a night of smooth sounds and classy energy with R&B sensation Lizzen.
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Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Engage in gentle chair yoga to improve strength, flexibility, and mindfulness in a supportive community environment.
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Chair Yoga Class at Maize Recreation
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Embrace gentle movements and mindfulness with Chair Yoga suitable for all mobility levels.
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Author Event with Jenna Blum
5-6 p.m. — Watermark Books & Cafe — Free admission — Celebrate the launch of Jenna Blum's new book, Murder Your Darlings!
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Super Bowl 4-Mile Race
2-4 p.m. — Linwood Park South — Entry fee applies — Kick off Super Bowl Sunday with a thrilling 4-mile run in a fun, community tradition.
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Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Experience the benefits of Chair Yoga for improved strength, flexibility, and community connection.
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Elise Trouw Live Performance
8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets starting at $78 — Experience an unforgettable musical event with Elise Trouw.
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Resilient Gemstones Ladies Conference 2026
7 p.m. — Hyatt Regency Wichita — Registration Fee Required — A faith-centered conference providing hope and healing for women impacted by trauma.
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Valentine's Day Prix Fixe Dinner
Evening — Wine Dive + Kitchen — $75 per person — Celebrate love with a curated multi-course dining experience that will elevate your night together.
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Chair Yoga Class
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in — Engage in empowering chair yoga to enhance strength, flexibility, and community connection.
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
To find yourself, think for yourself.
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