Daily editionThursday, April 30th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 30th of April.
Community
A North Wichita gun buyback on March 30 surpassed expectations as residents turned in four weapons that were dismantled on site near 17th and Poplar.
Hosted by the Holy Kingdom of Judah, the event provided mental health resources and spiritual counseling to support violence prevention and community healing.
The VoiceRead more
The Wichita Kansas Temple, the state’s first for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is under construction and will open later this year.
A community open house will provide local members a chance to learn about its design featuring sunflowers and wheat stalks.
KMUWRead more
Veterans' grave markers in Hesston cemetery will be replaced ahead of Memorial Day after 60 markers were stolen this winter.
Community members received over $4,000 in donations from Senator Jerry Moran’s office & help from Eagle Scout Alexander Gale, who installed the new markers with epoxy to keep them secure.
KWCHRead more
Wichita students who will join the military were honored at a first-of-its-kind event held recently + local leaders praised their resolve to serve.
The ceremony showed strong community support as they begin their military journey.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Minisa Bridge in North Riverside was added to the National Register of Historic Places after a two-year effort led by Susie Cunningham of the Little Arkansas Community Coalition; renovations will start this summer to preserve the 1932 bridge with its unique Carthalite design plus Native American busts and buffalo portraits.
KMUWRead more
Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014, the world's largest operating steam locomotive, will stop in Kansas from July 23 to 27 as part of a coast-to-coast tour celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary.
The engine will visit Topeka, Salina, Wilson, Hays — and Grainfield before leaving at Sharon Springs.
KWCHRead more
A special presentation at the Kansas African American Museum highlighted 12 African American women involved in Brown v.
Board (a landmark case) as presenter Donna Rae Pearson stressed every contribution matters. The Humanities Kansas Speakers Bureau hosted the event.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Insurance companies in Wichita may raise rates after hail storms cause damage in nearby areas, even if residents did not file a claim.
An insurance expert said that replacing roofs can help keep premiums down when loss ratios increase.
KWCHRead more
Education
Wichita high school seniors preparing to join the military took an oath on Tuesday at a first-of-its-kind ceremony.
About 130 students were honored by Our Community Salutes (recognizing enlistments in the Air Force, Marines, Army, and Navy).
KWCHRead more
Students from The Independent School raced cardboard boats built with only cardboard and duct tape at Wichita Swim Club today, with lower and upper school teams showing teamwork and engineering skills as winners emerged.
KWCHRead more
Matthew Phan was sworn in as speaker of the Student Senate at WSU during the April 29 meeting, and he will lead his first senate meeting on May 6.
The unopposed nominee brings years of SGA experience, having sponsored 56 pieces and co-sponsored 257 bills.
The SunflowerRead more
Government
Local planning commissioners deferred a decision on the nearly 1,500-acre Galena Solar project after a Tuesday meeting in the Reagan Building — community members and company representatives discussed energy needs and concerns, with a vote set for June 11.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
PokeKon Fest
Saturday, May 16th, 2026 · 10 AM – 5 PM — Holiday Inn Wichita East I-35 by IHG — Ticketed event — A haven for Pokemon collectors featuring trade opportunities and fandoms across genres.
Shinedown Live Concert
Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying performance of Shinedown with special guests Coheed and Cambria & Black Stone Cherry.
Free Alzheimer’s Educational Conference
Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita — Free entry — Gain insights on Alzheimer’s disease and connect with experts and the community.
Mac Saturn Live Performance
Friday, May 22nd, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — WAVE — Ticketed event — Experience a dynamic live show with Mac Saturn bringing fresh grooves to Wichita.
Outdoor Vintage Market at Paramount Marketplace Antiques
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 · 9 AM – 3 PM — Paramount Marketplace Antiques — Free admission — Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at this lively outdoor market.
Love Norteñas and Huapangos Concert
Sunday, May 24th, 2026 · 9:00 p.m. — El Basurero Sports Bar — Age 18+ — Experience a night of adrenaline with Retoños Del Río and the electrifying beats of los Últimos Del Topo Chico.