Daily editionWednesday, April 15th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 15th of April.
Community
Cathy McElroy was named this week's Pay It Forward recipient by DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers for her volunteer work at the Wichita Sedgwick County Historical Museum, which educates the public on local history.
FOX KansasRead more
Business
DISH Network pulled KWCH from its service more than a month ago after DISH rejected all proposals + added more demanding terms following important events, and Gray Media said such disputes were rare.
Viewers can still watch via antenna or the free streaming app.
KWCHRead more
Governor Laura Kelly signed a bill banning kratom, classifying it as a Schedule I substance effective July 1.
Wichita shop owners warn the move will hurt business + limit choices for those who use the herb for pain and anxiety management.
FOX KansasRead more
Education
Gov. Kelly vetoed budget items to change student assessment tests today, April 15, to maintain current cut scores for steady performance data.
The Senate did not override the veto (preserving the existing testing guidelines).
KMUWRead more
Angie Linder retired from her 25-year career at Wichita State’s financial aid office earlier this month after a March 31 reception celebrated her contributions.
Her work on the Shocker Promise Scholarship and support for military students has made an impact while she plans to relax with family in South Carolina.
The SunflowerRead more
Jake Steel was named the next education commissioner by the Kansas State Board of Education on Tuesday and will start his term in June + he will oversee public school operations, finances and legislative efforts in Topeka.
KMUWRead more
The FAA is inviting gamers to apply for air traffic controller positions by highlighting skills honed in video games—WSU esports players like senior Brooks Valdez see it as a chance to turn passion into a career.
Applicants must be US citizens under 31 with fluent English.
KWCHRead more
Government
Wichita City Council extended funding today for the ICT-1 behavioral health response team to support mental health services.
The decision ensures continued crisis response across the local community.
KWCHRead more
Real Estate
Habitat for Humanity announced Pope Leo Village, a new housing community for local families, on April 14.
The nonprofit said construction will begin soon (location details pending).
KWCHRead more
Sports
Joey Chestnut, a champion competitive eater with 17 Nathan's titles, discussed his training and career ahead of a Friday visit to Equity Bank Park where he will challenge fans in a chili bun-eating contest.
He recounted his early win (his first unexpected championship food) during a recent interview.
KWCHRead more
Wichita State is set to add veteran transfer Jahari Long from George Mason—he averaged 12 points and 4 assists last season, and his arrival will boost the Shockers’ backcourt after losing sharpshooter Kenyon Giles.
Long will join the team for the 2026-27 season.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Wichita Gem, Fossil and Mineral Show
Friday, April 24th, 2026 · 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun — Cessna Activity Center — Adults $5, kids under 12 free — Explore a vibrant showcase of gems, fossils, and engaging lapidary demonstrations.
Outdoor Vintage Market at Paramount Marketplace Antiques
Saturday, April 25th, 2026 · 9 AM – 3 PM — Paramount Marketplace Antiques — Free admission — Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at this vibrant outdoor market.
Lorna Shore Concert
Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 · 6-8:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $61.85 — Experience an electrifying show with Lorna Shore and special guests Paleface Swiss and Signs of the Swarm.
Sevendust ONE Tour
Monday, May 4th, 2026 · 6:00 – 8:20 PM — The Cotillion — Ticket prices vary — Experience hard rock legends Sevendust with special guests Atreyu, Fire From The Gods, and American Adrenalin.
Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Saturday, May 9th, 2026 · 8:45-9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticketed event — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed by the Listeso String Quartet under candlelight.
Fit For A King Concert
Wednesday, May 13th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $36-$111 — Enjoy a night of heavy music with Fit For A King in Wichita.