Good morning, Wichita.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Rodney Branigan Live Performance

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.

My First Cooking Camp

1-3 p.m. — The Art Park — Age group: 4-7 — A hands-on cooking camp focusing on basic kitchen skills and fun recipes for young children.

Little Cruisers Bike Program

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

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

8-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — $73.35 — Experience the vibrant music of Los Huracanes del Norte in a lively atmosphere.

Wichita Benefit Concert with AmeriFloyd

6-11 p.m. — The Cotillion — Ticket prices vary — Experience a memorable night with AmeriFloyd benefiting the American Cancer Society.

Nike Volleyball Camp at Wichita Sports Forum

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — Wichita Sports Forum — $399 — Elevate your volleyball skills and mindset in this highly-rated camp for young athletes.

Build and Fly with STEMusic

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.

Air Capital Bacon Bourbon and Brews Festival

3-6 p.m. — Park City Arena — $40-$68 — Indulge in over 18,000 bacon samples and exceptional brews at this flavorful annual festival.

Lego Brick by Brick Camp

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.