Daily editionTuesday, July 21st, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 21st of July.
Community
Wichita-area veterans received nine handmade quilts Monday through the Quilts of Valor program (Project Healing Waters), which honors their service and offers comforting memories of home.
The initiative has provided over 3,600 quilts since 2003.
KWCHRead more
Business
The Cheesecake Factory will open at Bradley Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 29 with over 250 menu items and hiring for more than 290 positions (applications are open now) as crews installed its signage today.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Culture
Tickets for Mannheim Steamroller’s Christmas show will go on sale Friday, July 24 at 10 a.m. at Century II’s box office and online—both options available.
The concert—set for Dec. 28—celebrates over 40 years of the annual tour with classic hits and multimedia effects.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Local pumps saw gas prices hit $4 a gallon Monday; energy economist Ed Hirs warns prices may climb to $6 by Labor Day if global tensions and rising crude oil costs persist (affecting fuel costs for drivers).
FOX KansasRead more
Education
A Wichita summer camp (teaching accessible game design) will hold hands-on sessions for kids starting soon.
The program aims to boost creativity and inclusive play.
KWCHRead more
Wichita-area candidates for the Kansas State Board of Education are competing in the August primary election and urge local control, strong academic expectations, and better funding in guides by the Wichita Eagle and KMUW; winners in November will serve four-year terms starting in January (aimed at improving school outcomes).
KMUWRead more
Environment
At Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Sedgwick County, staff use extra shade, fans, and water play to keep animals comfortable during extreme heat.
Guests can enjoy hydration stations and a newly air-conditioned aquarium—providing a cool retreat during busy, hot afternoons.
KWCHRead more
Government
The federal housing law passed on July 11 expands programs to build affordable housing and protect first-time buyers by setting up grants and new rules for builders and local governments.
Developers in Wichita, such as those behind Madison Avenue Apartments, may soon benefit from these new opportunities.
The VoiceRead more
Kansas leaders are overseas at the Farnborough International Air Show in the United Kingdom to boost Wichita’s aviation and defense investment.
Sen. Jerry Moran and Mayor Lily Wu join multiple CEOs at an event attended by over 600 participants.
KWCHRead more
Governor Laura Kelly signed Senate Bill 353 on Monday to set up the Kansas Railroad Hall of Fame at the Great Plains Transportation Museum in Wichita, where it will honor the state’s railroad legacy and support future fundraising and display efforts.
KWCHRead more
Health
Wichita faces the hottest summer temperatures today, so Sedgwick County EMS advises residents to drink water, wear light clothing and avoid sitting in hot cars—warning that even short exposure can be dangerous for children and pets.
KWCHRead more
Sports
On Sunday, soccer fans gathered at Naftzger Park to watch Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final, marking Spain's second title and uniting local supporters.
FOX KansasRead more
AfterShocks coach Zach Bush discussed defending his team’s crown and the upcoming 2026 TBT during an interview on KFH Radio this morning.
KNSSRead more
Aftershocks beat The Enchantment in game one of TBT at a downtown arena, boosting their standing in the ongoing local tournament.
The team now prepares for the next round as tournament play continues.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Candlelight: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 · 8:45–9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soothing magic of Fleetwood Mac's music in a candlelit setting.
Big Boogie Concert
Friday, July 24th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — The Cotillion — $53.33 to $100.43 — Enjoy an all-ages concert featuring Big Boogie and surprise support acts in a vibrant venue.
Bop To The Top Tour
Saturday, July 25th, 2026 · 9 p.m. — The Cotillion — $29.78 — Celebrate 20 years of Hannah Montana and High School Musical with a high-energy dance party featuring sing-alongs and audience participation.
Whiskey Myers Live Concert
Sunday, July 26th, 2026 · 7:00 – 8:45 PM — WAVE — $34.85 — Catch the genre-bending band Whiskey Myers as they deliver their energetic live performance.
Beginner Chair Yoga Class at Club Hope
Wednesday, July 29th, 2026 · 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Club Hope Fitness — $10 drop-in; free for survivors — Experience a gentle yoga class that enhances physical and emotional well-being while promoting resilience.
Do Or Die Concert
Friday, July 31st, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — WAVE — $38.63 — Experience hits like 'Do U' and 'Hotel Room' with Humble Greatness & Twansac.
Truck Fest
Saturday, August 1st, 2026 · 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. — Kansas International Dragway — $15/day for adults — The track is dedicated to trucks with contests and prizes galore.
Ded - Band Concert
Monday, August 3rd, 2026 · 7 p.m. — WAVE — Ticket info available — Experience an electrifying performance by Ded at the popular Wave venue in Wichita.
An Evening With Band of Horses
Tuesday, August 4th, 2026 · 8-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $44.94 to $132.08 — Celebrate the 20th anniversary of 'Everything All The Time' with a performance by Band of Horses.
Air Capital Combat
Friday, August 7th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — The Cotillion — $50.83 to $121.48 — Experience an electrifying night with 12+ fights featuring both professional and amateur MMA and kickboxing bouts.