Daily editionWednesday, May 14th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 14th of May.
Community
Members of Wichita Fire Department and Sedgwick County EMS were honored yesterday for saving a newborn's life—an act that shows their swift response and bravery.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Public Library now offers free Experience Passes so families can visit Botanica, Sedgwick County Zoo, Exploration Place, and local museums.
The passes may be checked out for 7 days with up to two renewals—library officials urge planning ahead because demand is high.
KWCHRead more
Business
A new downtown hotel is set to open July 16 when the historic Broadway Plaza Building is remodeled into an 118-room boutique hotel—featuring 2,000 square feet of meeting space and a large fitness center.
The AC Hotel Wichita Downtown is the first AC Hotel by Marriott in Kansas and is near Intrust Bank Arena, Century II, The Orpheum Theatre and Exploration Place.
KSNRead more
Culture
Gary Pendergrass’s quirky Steampunk Village began its final run at auction Tuesday, May 13 when the online sale opened for metal sculptures, moving gadgets and fire-breathing dragons.
An in-person preview is scheduled for May 20 at 3819 W 17th St. N in Wichita—McCurdy Real Estate and Auction is handling the sale as he retires his creative work.
KSNRead more
Government
Governor Laura Kelly placed Sedgwick, Harvey and Reno counties under emergency status as drought conditions persisted across Kansas.
The updated declaration allows counties to use water from state lakes and federal reservoirs - with 39 counties on drought warning and 63 on drought watch.
KWCHRead more
Wichita will spend $1.2 million on a study to examine using the 25 million gallons of treated wastewater discharged daily to the Arkansas River that meets roughly half the city's water demand.
The study will review state regulations, potential funding, and pilot projects with engineering work led by CDM Smith and a five-year timeline that may affect water rates.
KNSSRead more
Today, Sedgwick County Commission will approve proclamations including End the Stigma Day, EMS Week — and National Public Works Week while it discusses an Addiction Intervention Coalition to advise on spending about 14 million dollars from opioid settlement money.
The commission will also receive an update on solid waste management and on maintaining over 600 road miles and 600 bridges, according to Commission Chair Ryan Baty.
KNSSRead more
Wichita Events
Conquer the Campus 2025
Saturday, May 17th, 2025 · 2-5 p.m. — Wichita Campus — Registration required — Experience the thrill of a 1-mile and 5k run, walk, and kids fun run for all ages.
VEDO Concert
Sunday, May 18th, 2025 · 7:30-11:30 p.m. — WAVE — Check event page for ticket prices — Experience the smooth sounds of R&B and Soul with VEDO live in Wichita.
Beginner Chair Yoga at Club Hope
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 · 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Club Hope Fitness — Free for cancer survivors, $10 for others — Experience gentle strength-building and mindfulness in a supportive environment.
Christone Kingfish Ingram Concert
Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — Tickets from $54 — Catch the electrifying blues sounds of Kingfish in Wichita's famed venue.
Wichita Asian Night Market
Saturday, May 24th, 2025 · 5-11 p.m. — Equity Bank Park — $8-12 — Experience vibrant flavors and cultural celebrations at this family-friendly night market featuring food, crafts, and live performances.
Beginner Chair Yoga
Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 · 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Club Hope Fitness — Free for cancer survivors, $10 for others — Engage in a soothing chair yoga class designed to enhance wellness and resilience.
Wichita Riverfest
Thursday, May 29th, 2025 · All Day — Downtown Wichita — Free entry — Kansas’ biggest outdoor party featuring activities, contests, shows, food, and cultural experiences.
AJ Harvey with Makayla Brownlee
Friday, May 30th, 2025 · 8 PM — Brickyard — Cost not specified — Experience soulful originals and covers with AJ Harvey and a special acoustic set by Makayla Brownlee.
Riverfest Concert: Flo Rida, Sir Charles III, DJ Cadence
Saturday, May 31st, 2025 · 6:30-11 p.m. — Kennedy Plaza Stage — Ticket required — Experience live music from Flo Rida and more at this festive outdoor concert.
Summer Computer Science Camp
Monday, June 2nd, 2025 · 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — WSU Tech South — Check website for cost — Learn the basics of coding with hands-on activities designed for grades K-12.