Daily editionWednesday, April 1st, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 1st of April.
Business
DJ Engineering—an Augusta firm—is providing parts for the Artemis II rocket today as one of seven local companies supporting the historic launch.
The mission begins at 5:24 p.m. Central time and lasts for two hours.
KWCHRead more
The popular sandwich shop Solly & Jude’s at 400 S. Emporia will close in April after drawing locals with its sandwiches, cocktails, hot dogs, and tots.
Visitors are encouraged to stop in and enjoy its signature fare before it closes.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
A Wichita-area company supplied parts for the Artemis II rocket and is preparing for the upcoming launch—a key step in a historic space mission.
Their work helps drive the project forward as plans continue to unfold.
KWCHRead more
A data center town hall (at 21st and Ridge) is planned to bring together local industry experts and community members to discuss Wichita’s growing technology sector.
The event will offer insights on how data centers are fueling local innovation.
KWCHRead more
Education
Former New England Patriot Malcolm Mitchell visited Griffith Elementary School yesterday to speak with students about youth literacy and his new book A World Within Reach, which shows the power of the internet and highlights his nonprofit efforts.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Public Schools is considering a bond proposal for November that could fund facility upgrades — board members will review the plan in upcoming meetings.
KWCHRead more
Andover Central High School has dedicated its softball field in honor of coach Rita Frakes, who spent 40 years teaching and coaching and touched many student lives.
Surviving wife Susan Eckel and former players see the dedication as a heartfelt tribute to her lasting legacy.
KWCHRead more
A Patriots Super Bowl champion visited a Wichita elementary school yesterday where he met with students.
KWCHRead more
Government
Wichita’s Eisenhower Airport recently installed new tracking equipment on the tarmac after a LaGuardia crash raised questions about runway safety, and officials said they will soon add transmitters on ground vehicles to boost controller awareness.
FOX KansasRead more
Health
Derby resident Jessica Spore recalls her kidney transplant journey after years on dialysis when her best friend donated a kidney (transplant in Sept. 2020) during National Kidney Month, and she now feels healthy while urging patients facing kidney disease to speak up early.
KWCHRead more
Sports
WSU and Friends University cheer teams are training for College Nationals, with practice sessions at each campus as they fine-tune their routines for the upcoming contest.
KWCHRead more
Accidents
About 40 cars burned in a fire at a local auto auction lot on Mar. 31, and emergency crews responded promptly while investigators work to determine the cause.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
KSAPT 2026 Conference Featuring Dr. Eliana Gil
Thursday, April 16th, 2026 · 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Aloft Wichita — Registration required — Explore play-based assessments and the impact of childhood trauma with expert guidance.
Bingo Loco Party
Friday, April 17th, 2026 · 6:00-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $44.27 — Join the ultimate bingo party featuring crazy prizes, hilarious hosts, and a night of dancing and laughter.
Super Saturday: Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Wichita at Old Town — Free entry — Discover how to turn your passion for travel into a professional entrepreneurial venture.
Open Streets ICT: WSU & Shocker Neighborhood
Sunday, April 19th, 2026 · 12-4 p.m. — Wichita State University — Free entry — Experience a vibrant community event transforming streets into spaces for connection and wellness.