Daily editionThursday, March 26th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of March.
Community
Animal shelters and local rescues in Wichita are nearly full with 200 dogs available for adoption, leaving little room for more, especially adult dogs.
The Kansas Humane Society has lowered fees for dogs 1 year and older and urges residents to adopt & foster to ease overcrowding.
KWCHRead more
Jersey Mike’s in Wichita donated 100% of its profits on Mar. 25 to Special Olympics & helped support local athletes in their training and events.
KWCHRead more
Education
Wichita State’s Student Senate passed the student fees budget on March 25 by removing the requirement for Student Health Services to repay $75,000 (allowing Counseling and Psychological Services to charge $10 per session).
The budget now awaits approval from the university president and Kansas Board of Regents.
The SunflowerRead more
Government
State lawmakers passed Senate Bill 20 today in both chambers and sent it to Governor Kelly for review; the legislation targets pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to boost transparency and reduce hidden fees for Kansas families.
KWCHRead more
Former legislator Melody McCray-Miller was honored in the Kansas House on Wednesday, where lawmakers presented her family a certificate and state flag.
The Wichita native served eight years as state representative (89th District), county commissioner and school board member before passing away last month at age 69.
KWCHRead more
Kansas lawmakers passed House Bill 2602 to let companies fund portable benefit accounts for gig workers and independent contractors, allowing workers to take their benefits between jobs.
The bill now awaits Gov. Kelly’s signature.
The VoiceRead more
Health
Ascension Via Christi held its groundbreaking on Mar. 25 in west Wichita for a new emergency room that will boost local emergency care, with construction expected to begin soon.
KWCHRead more
YMCA in Wichita is launching exercise programs to help cancer survivors regain strength.
Sessions will soon begin at its local facility (check schedule for details) to support recovery efforts.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Wichita State men's basketball rallied from a 24 point deficit Tuesday at the Reynolds Center but lost 83 to 79 to Tulsa.
Coach Paul Mills said the contest, which came down to the final moments, moved the needle for the program.
FOX KansasRead more
Wichita is set to host the 2027 U.S. Figure Skating Sectional Championship; city officials say the event will bring top skaters and local fans to area rinks next year.
KWCHRead more
U.S. Figure Skating announced that the national championship will return to Wichita in 2027 + offering local fans the chance to see world-class skating.
KWCHRead more
Accidents
Firefighters contained a blaze yesterday at the former Joyland site as crews secured the area - investigations into the cause continue and no injuries have been reported.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Chair Yoga at Park City Senior Center
Friday, March 27th, 2026 · 9:30-10:15 a.m. — Park City Senior Center — Free for members — Experience supportive chair yoga that enhances strength, mobility, and community spirit.
Fittest In Wichita
Saturday, March 28th, 2026 · 9 a.m. — Station 0 — $50 to compete, free to watch — A community-driven fitness competition featuring local gyms, activities for all ages, and supporting mental health programs for firefighters.
2026 Women's Basketball Invitation Tournament
Monday, March 30th, 2026 · 1:30-6 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — $40+ — Watch the best of women's basketball compete for the WBIT crown in Wichita's exciting final games.
Elmo's Got The Moves
Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Tickets required — Dance and play along with Elmo and his Sesame Street friends in a magical live experience.
That Arena Rock Show
Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — $28.14 — Experience a high-energy tribute to classic rock anthems of the 70s and 80s.
Zero 9:36 Live Performance
Friday, April 3rd, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — WAVE — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-octane energy of Zero 9:36’s unique sound blending trap-metal and rap-rock.
Easter Sunday Buffet
Sunday, April 5th, 2026 · Apr 5 — Chisholm's American Beef & Ale House — $31 to $50 — Indulge in a festive buffet featuring prime rib, glazed ham, and seasonal delights.
Bored Teachers Comedy Night
Thursday, April 9th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Crown Uptown Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Bored Teachers as they share their hilarious tales from the classroom.
Kansas City Mavericks vs. Wichita Thunder
Friday, April 10th, 2026 · 7:05-10:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Complimentary tickets available — Experience the excitement of this rivalry match with a special ticket promotion.
Aries Spears Comedy Show
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — Reserved seating — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Aries Spears, with concessions and full bars available.