Daily editionThursday, July 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of July.
Community
Fireworks sales and displays are underway in Wichita until Sunday, with non-aerial types allowed from June 27 to July 5 and aerial fireworks only permitted Friday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and midnight.
Officials advise residents to follow safety measures and keep pets indoors to prevent injuries.
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Sedgwick County Zoo announced that elephant Simunye is halfway through her 22-month pregnancy and her calf is expected next summer; the zoo said she remains healthy + continues to guide the herd.
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Culture
Artist Kamilla Sims will create a 16 x 45 ft chalk mural tribute to the Declaration of Independence outside the Truman Presidential Library in Independence, Missouri on Saturday for the Fourth of July celebration 'Red, White and Tru,' featuring wagon rides and cowboy concert from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Veterans at the Wichita VA Medical Center celebrated America’s 250th birthday Wednesday during an event organized by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
The gathering featured cake, tea, patriotic treats and a George Washington pop-up display for photos.
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Education
Newman University launched a new institute to advance AI education across Kansas while addressing a noted training gap, based on national and regional surveys.
The school is partnering with industry leaders and local colleges (including Garden City Community College) to help the community use AI responsibly.
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Newman University launched an AI institute today to help close the education and workforce gap — the new center will offer research and training programs designed to boost local job opportunities.
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Environment
Flooding at Cheney Lake has closed four campsites — leaving the rest fully booked — ahead of the Fourth of July weekend as water levels rise four feet above normal.
Visitors planning to camp there are advised to choose another lake.
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Health
CMS approved Kansas' expanded Health Care Access Improvement Program today, which will add $72 million a year in Medicaid funding to rural hospitals (including Critical Access and Rural Emergency Hospitals).
Sen. Jerry Moran said the move will help low-income Kansans get vital care.
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Sports
Wichita's Kansas Select 2030, a team of incoming freshmen, qualified after winning four games at the JR EYBL Open and will compete at JR EYBL Peach Jam in Augusta from July 14 to 19.
The young athletes are ready to show off their talent on a big stage.
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Wichita State will raise the AfterShocks banner honoring the 2025 TBT Championship at Charles Koch Arena on July 20 — the ceremony occurs before their opening round game against The Enchantment in the 2026 TBT tournament.
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Kansas native Dean Wade signed a four-year, $39 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, adding his dependable play after seven NBA seasons that included 342 games with the Cleveland Cavaliers and an impressive career at Kansas State.
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Wichita Events
Rodney Branigan Live Performance
Friday, July 3rd, 2026 · 5:30-11:30 p.m. — Public at the Brickyard — Tickets available — Enjoy fantastic food and drinks while experiencing the innovative musical talents of Texas-born, London-based multi-instrumentalist Rodney Branigan.
Clay Camp: Christmas in July
Monday, July 6th, 2026 · All day — The Art Park — Pricing not specified — Create festive clay ornaments and a cheerful diorama for the holiday season.
Little Cruisers Bike Program
Tuesday, July 7th, 2026 · 8-8:30 a.m. — Winfield Recreation Commission — Registration required — Kids ages 3-5 learn to balance and ride a bike while having fun.
Tom Keifer with John Corabi Band
Thursday, July 9th, 2026 · 8-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $46.58 — Enjoy a rock night featuring Tom Keifer and special guest John Corabi Band.
Los Huracanes del Norte Concert
Friday, July 10th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — $73.35 — Experience the vibrant music of Los Huracanes del Norte in a lively atmosphere.
AMERIFLOYD: Pink Floyd Tribute Show
Saturday, July 11th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — The Cotillion — $39 to $59 — Experience an immersive tribute to Pink Floyd with live performances of their iconic albums.
Stranger Things Art Workshop
Monday, July 13th, 2026 · 1-3 p.m. — The Art Park — Check website for pricing — Get creative by crafting demodogs and more while jamming to classic eighties tunes.
Build and Fly with STEMusic
Tuesday, July 14th, 2026 · 2:30 – 3:15 PM — Wichita Public Library - Walters Branch — Free entry — Explore the intersection of music and aviation through hands-on building activities and educational songs.
Automobilia Moonlight Charity Car Show
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 · 4-11 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Supporting local charities — Celebrate 30 years of automotive passion in Wichita with classic cars and a community street party.
Lego Brick by Brick Camp
Monday, July 20th, 2026 · 1-3 p.m. — The Art Park — Pricing details not specified — Explore exciting Lego themes like Formula 1 and dinosaurs in a hands-on camp experience.