Daily
Wichita
Thursday, May 22nd, 2025
Good morning, Wichita. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Wichita Festivals Inc. announced that Riverfest 2025 will host a Family Fun Day on Sunday, June 1 where kids 12 and under can enjoy free admission when accompanied by an adult wearing a Riverfest button. The event will feature paddle boats, games, crafts, and a movie at Kennedy Plaza — a day designed to give local families a fun, affordable outing. Wichita By E.B.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ A 33-year-old Russell County man pleaded guilty to felony child abuse last summer when he threw a 5-month-old baby into her crib and struck her forehead with his open hand, causing life-threatening injuries that led to hospitalization in Wichita, and he now faces 41 months in prison. KWCH
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Bishop Carroll Catholic High School asked its 2025 valedictorian, Austin Tran, to return his medal after he delivered an unapproved, heartfelt graduation speech that moved many attendees. Thousands signed an online petition and some alumni returned their medals — a gesture of support for Tran and a criticism of the school's decision that could affect his scholarships. KWCH
- ➤ Starting May 28, Wichita Public Schools will offer free breakfasts and lunches at 33 locations through July 25—and the meals are available for all children ages 1 to 18. Most sites will serve meals on site while Southeast High School will offer a grab-and-go option—online registration is required each week for up to 3,000 children. KWCH
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ City residents will help shape downtown Wichita’s look for the next 10 years as Phase 2 of the Downtown Wichita Action Plan begins this summer, and public events on June 1 at Riverfest Pop-Up from 1 to 6 and June 2 at Wichita Scottish Rite from 5 to 8 will invite their input—feedback that will guide future design plans. KSN
- ➤ Today, downtown Wichita Main Street reopens as a two way street to slow traffic and improve pedestrian safety (local businesses will get better access). The city will soon convert Market Street and update traffic signals on Emporia, Topeka and English Streets. KWCH
- ➤ Governor Laura Kelly directed flags to fly at half-staff today across Kansas to honor Butler County paramedic Justin Lauppe, who died last week after going into cardiac arrest during an emergency call. A memorial service is held today at Park City Arena—public viewing is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. before the service begins. KNSS
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Andover High School teen Lad Oborny raised more than $220K in nine weeks for the American Heart Association during National Heart Health Month—he broke a fundraising record, earned the National Teen of Impact award, and helped buy blood pressure kits for local libraries. KWCH
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Wichita Asian Night Market
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.
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Beginner Chair Yoga
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.
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Wichita Riverfest
All Day — Downtown Wichita — Free entry — Kansas’ biggest outdoor party featuring activities, contests, shows, food, and cultural experiences.
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AJ Harvey with Makayla Brownlee
8 PM — Brickyard — Cost not specified — Experience soulful originals and covers with AJ Harvey and a special acoustic set by Makayla Brownlee.
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Riverfest Concert: Flo Rida, Sir Charles III, DJ Cadence
6:30-11 p.m. — Kennedy Plaza Stage — Ticket required — Experience live music from Flo Rida and more at this festive outdoor concert.
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Summer Computer Science Camp
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.
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Goodwill Industries Cajun Food Fest
5-8:30 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — $15 admission — Enjoy a delicious array of traditional Louisiana favorites at this annual Cajun celebration.
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Flatland Cavalry Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — WAVE — $75-$211 — Catch the Americana sounds of Flatland Cavalry live at Wave in Wichita.
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RMHC Wichita Annual Gala Masquerade Ball
6:30-11 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — $150 — Experience an enchanting evening of elegance with live music, auctions, and the chance to support families in need.
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Booch & Blooms Market
12 AM - 5 PM — Apollo Fermentations — Free entry — Explore a vibrant market featuring dried wildflowers, house plants, and handmade pottery.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Wichita
Daily Wichita is a community newsletter sharing current events in Wichita, Kansas. Our mission is to make local news more accessible, highlight extraordinary people across the Wichita community, and support local organizations. If you like Daily Wichita, you can support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Wichita.
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