Daily editionFriday, June 12th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 12th of June.
Community
United Way will donate $1 million to Second Light to boost community services — the announcement made on June 11 details plans to enhance local programs.
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Aaron Novinger, an accounting firm owner, biked through Wichita on his third annual ride from Dallas to Washington D.C.—a journey meant to raise awareness for silent Ponzi scheme victims.
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Culture
Director Matt Crow produced a documentary on the legacy of Symphony in the Flint Hills, which ended its 20-year run at the Evans family ranch in Chase County last June, while jazz artist Skinny Hightower (Billboard-chart favorite) will release his new song 'Summer Anthem' from Wichita studio as summer nears.
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At his home in southeast Wichita, jazz artist Skinny Hightower recorded a new single, 'Summer Anthem,' in less than a day that captures a funky summer vibe.
The song was released today via *CastOver Records* and his Edify Sound Enterprises, LLC.
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Education
A nonprofit is hosting a free teen driver safety course this weekend just outside Wichita to teach handling dangerous driving through five drills led by professional instructors.
The three-hour class offers 70 seats for teens with a valid permit and requires a parent to attend.
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The Wichita school district is hosting open houses every Tuesday until Aug. 4, starting Tuesday, June 16 at Truesdell Middle School — to explain school needs before a November bond issue.
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Wichita State opened its new advanced manufacturing research hub yesterday on campus.
The facility is designed to boost local innovation & build industry partnerships through cutting-edge research and practical training opportunities.
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Environment
Wichita officials say spring water use has dropped even as hot weather returns, partly because of rain.
Residents must follow watering schedules— even addresses on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and odd addresses on Wednesday, Friday, Sunday—while the city has issued 19 warning letters and focuses on education.
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Health
A study finds 69 of Kansas’ 100 hospitals face closure risk—including 28 with threat from rising costs and insurance issues.
In El Dorado, Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital CEO Melissa Hall has asked lawmakers for support before an Aug. 4 vote on a 1-cent sales tax to aid rural care.
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Sports
Wichita residents gathered at local venues today for World Cup watch parties—uniting fans to enjoy the tournament and celebrate community spirit.
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Wichita Events
Wicked City Roller Derby vs RockTown
Saturday, June 13th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — The Cotillion — Kids 12 and under free with a paying adult — Enjoy an exciting roller derby match featuring local talent and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Minecraft Creative Workshop
Monday, June 15th, 2026 · 1-3 p.m. — The Art Park — Cost info not provided — Unleash your creativity making Minecraft-themed crafts and drawings.
Jr Rocket Basketball Camp for 1st and 2nd Graders
Wednesday, June 17th, 2026 · All day — Rose Hill Recreation Commission — Camp registration required — Enhance skills and build confidence on the basketball court with the RHHS Boys Basketball team.
K-POP Superstars Live
Friday, June 19th, 2026 · 5:15-8:15 p.m. — The Cotillion — All sales final — Experience a dazzling K-Pop adventure full of music, visuals, and interactive performances.
Wichita Taco Fest
Saturday, June 20th, 2026 · 3-9 p.m. — Fountains at WaterWalk — VIP upgrades available — Celebrate all things tacos with live music, competitions, and family-friendly fun.
The Wallflowers 30th Anniversary Tour
Sunday, June 21st, 2026 · 8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Cotillion — General Admission PIT and Reserved Seating available — Celebrate 30 years of Bringing Down the Horse with a live performance of the iconic album in sequence.
Sporting KC Summer Soccer Camp
Monday, June 22nd, 2026 · 5-8 p.m. — Stryker Sports Complex — $130 for 5-7 years old, $225 for 8-14 years old — Develop your soccer skills with fun activities led by professional coaches at this youth summer camp.
Wyatt Flores w/Special Guest Shelby Stone
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026 · 7-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $46.48 to $50.83 — Enjoy an evening with Wyatt Flores and special guest Shelby Stone while supporting music health initiatives.
Beginner Chair Yoga at Club Hope
Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 · 10:30–11:30 a.m. — Club Hope Fitness — Free for cancer survivors, $10 drop-in — Gentle yoga class focusing on strength, balance, and inner wellness.
Emily Hollingshed Live in Concert
Thursday, June 25th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets from $45 — Experience an unforgettable performance by Emily Hollingshed in Wichita.