Daily editionFriday, January 30th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 30th of January.
Community
United Way completed its annual homeless count on Thursday, Jan. 29 — gathering updated data to help plan services for local residents in Wichita.
KWCHRead more
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 SunflowerRead more
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.
KWCHRead more
Culture
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.
KNSSRead more
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 VoiceRead more
Education
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 SunflowerRead more
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.
KWCHRead more
Health
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.
KWCHRead more
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).
KWCHRead more
Sports
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.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation
Monday, February 2nd, 2026 · 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.
Chair Yoga Class at Maize Recreation
Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Embrace gentle movements and mindfulness with Chair Yoga suitable for all mobility levels.
2026 Annual Wichita Cat Fancy Cat Show
Saturday, February 7th, 2026 · 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — The Cotillion — $5-$31.97 — Celebrate feline beauty with contests and community at this annual cat showcase.
2026 Annual Wichita Cat Fancy Cat Show
Sunday, February 8th, 2026 · 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — The Cotillion — $5-$31.97 — Celebrate feline elegance at this cat show featuring various breeds and educational insights.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation
Monday, February 9th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Experience the benefits of Chair Yoga for improved strength, flexibility, and community connection.
Beginner Chair Yoga at Club Hope
Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 · 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Club Hope Fitness — Free for cancer survivors, $10 drop-in — Gentle chair yoga class fostering wellness and self-compassion.
Resilient Gemstones Ladies Conference 2026
Friday, February 13th, 2026 · 7 p.m. — Hyatt Regency Wichita — Registration Fee Required — A faith-centered conference providing hope and healing for women impacted by trauma.
Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Saturday, February 14th, 2026 · 6:30-7:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — $45.69 — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed by a string quartet in a candlelit atmosphere.
Chair Yoga Class
Monday, February 16th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in — Engage in empowering chair yoga to enhance strength, flexibility, and community connection.