Daily editionThursday, June 5th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of June.
Community
City officials unveiled renovated Clapp Park on June 4 with new walking trails, an adaptive playground and a dog park whose opening was delayed by flooding.
The park also features a sculpture called Voxel Clouds from a New York artist—installed by local fabricators—and community feedback helped shape its design.
KMUWRead more
The Sedgwick County Zoo welcomed a new African elephant calf on June 3rd after a 651-day gestation by its mother Arusi—marking the third calf born in two months.
Visitors can see at least one calf daily in the outdoor habitat unless weather or herd dynamics keep the animals indoors.
KWCHRead more
Residents along Bleckley Drive said Tuesday’s heavy rain caused the worst flood in 15 years—with water rising over cars and nearly covering roofs—while neighbors expressed frustration that the long-promised repairs have not been fixed as the city plans nearly $14 million in sewer improvements to begin soon.
KWCHRead more
Education
Southeast High School replaced its principal, Claudia Cooper, last week after district officials found less than 10 altered student records that may have boosted graduation rates—Connie Redic will serve as principal this coming school year while investigators look into the grade changes.
KWCHRead more
Environment
On Wednesday morning, after rare flooding in south-central Kansas, floodgates at El Dorado Lake were kept closed as officials monitored high water levels downstream near Winfield and Arkansas City.
The lake's flood pool was at (56%) and is expected to peak at (73%) before forecasted rain may push levels higher, with the gates set to open once downstream areas crest.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Vendor Registration Workshop with the City of Wichita
Tuesday, June 10th, 2025 · 3-4 p.m. — Wichita's WSU Eugene M. Hughes Metropolitan Complex — Free entry — Learn how to become a vendor and understand the City's bidding process and certification.
Braxton Keith Concert
Thursday, June 12th, 2025 · 7:00-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — Limited admission — Experience Braxton Keith's dynamic honky tonk sound with special guest Krislyn Arthurs.
Somewhere Fest 2025
Friday, June 13th, 2025 · June 13-14 — Somewhere Works — All ages — Experience a vibrant lineup of artists and a unique festival atmosphere in Wichita.
Bodybar Pilates and Acai Bowls Collaboration
Saturday, June 14th, 2025 · 10 AM – 12 PM — Hopping Gnome Brewing Company — Entry fee required — Enjoy a refreshing acai bowl and a craft beer while participating in a fun mat pilates class.
Father's Day Car Show
Sunday, June 15th, 2025 · 9 AM – 4 PM — Sedgwick County Zoo — Dads admitted free with paid admission — Cruise over to see classic, antique, and modern cars while enjoying the zoo's animal exhibits.
Waitress
Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 · 7:00 PM — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — $25-$77 — Experience the delightful tale of baking dreams with humor and soul.
Wichita Open Golf Tournament
Thursday, June 19th, 2025 · 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Crestview Country Club — Admission varies — Experience a renowned golf tournament with a festive atmosphere at the iconic 17th green.