Daily editionFriday, May 16th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of May.
Community
Watson Park in south Wichita marked 60 years when it opened on May 15 and now spans 119 acres with a 42-acre lake made from old sand pits; the park offers a miniature train, pony rides, pedal boats and a miniature golf course.
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Culture
On May 22, 12 News will air 'Without Warning: The Untold Stories of Udall and Blackwell'—a look back at the 70th anniversary of the tornado that killed nearly 100 people after striking Udall from Oklahoma, keeping the town’s history alive.
KWCHRead more
Education
Five of Kansas’ six state universities, including Wichita State, Kansas State, University of Kansas, Pittsburg State, and Fort Hays State, will seek tuition hikes for next fiscal year — the increases range from 2.5% to 4% as they work to cover funding shortages and falling international enrollment, while Emporia State will not ask for any change.
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Families planning for college costs face steep tuition as private colleges average more than $43,000 for a four-year program and public out-of-state tuition rises above $30,000 — experts advise exploring scholarships, grants, and budgeting for living expenses before choosing student loans.
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Government
On May 14, the Excellence in Public Service Award winners were honored at a reception in Lotus Hall at Botanica, and the winners (Julie Stimson, Shanna Zimmerman, and Detective Robert K. Chisholm Jr) were recognized for their leadership in public service.
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Health
Lad Oborny, a student at Andover High School, raised over $220,000 for the American Heart Association and broke a national record—his campaign, inspired by family heart health struggles, earned him the National Teen of Impact Winner title, a $10,000 scholarship, and a college recommendation.
KWCHRead more
Sports
PJ Couisnard, a former Shocker star who helped Wichita State reach the Sweet 16 nearly 20 years ago, has returned as an assistant coach on Paul Mills’ staff.
He said joining his alma mater was a dream come true — and he plans to revive the program while his son prepares to join the team next season.
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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.