Daily editionFriday, May 23rd, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of May.
Community
The community gathered Thursday to honor fallen Butler County paramedic Justin Lauppe, who suffered cardiac arrest on May 16 and died on May 17 while on duty — after 14 years of dedicated service.
A memorial service was held at Park City Arena followed by a procession to Sunset Lawns Cemetery in El Dorado — and Governor Laura Kelly ordered flags flown at half-staff to mark his sacrifice.
KWCHRead more
Derby Public Schools and the Derby Rotary Club are hosting a city-wide garage sale that benefits the community assistance lunch program to help ensure no child goes hungry—items are being dropped off now with the next drop-offs scheduled for June 3-4 and the sale set for June 5-7.
KWCHRead more
The Century II spire will be lit for the first time in nearly 10 years on Sunday, June 1 during Riverfest’s I Choose Wichita evening events.
City officials said many people have long asked when the spire would shine again—this relighting marks a welcome change for the community.
KSNRead more
Health
During Better Sleep Month, Wichita sleep expert Dr. Efrat Lamandre advises residents to keep a fixed sleep schedule and avoid caffeine after 1 p.m. while limiting screen time to help the body relax—tips designed to improve sleep quality for those who struggle to rest.
KWCHRead more
Accidents
Early Thursday, a private plane that fueled in Wichita crashed into a San Diego military housing neighborhood in thick fog—killing several people on board and damaging 10 homes while no one on the ground was hurt, and investigators will check if it hit a power line.
KNSSRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Goodwill Industries Cajun Food Fest
Thursday, June 5th, 2025 · 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.
Flatland Cavalry Concert
Friday, June 6th, 2025 · 7-9:30 p.m. — WAVE — $75-$211 — Catch the Americana sounds of Flatland Cavalry live at Wave in Wichita.
RMHC Wichita Annual Gala Masquerade Ball
Saturday, June 7th, 2025 · 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.
Booch & Blooms Market
Sunday, June 8th, 2025 · 12 AM - 5 PM — Apollo Fermentations — Free entry — Explore a vibrant market featuring dried wildflowers, house plants, and handmade pottery.