Daily editionThursday, July 23rd, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 23rd of July.
Community
Rising pet costs pressure Wichita animal shelters as high gas and veterinary fees force transporters like Linda Ruzich to drive extra miles to help overwhelmed rescues—advocates say limited low-cost spay and neuter services and increased adoption fees are straining animal welfare resources.
KMUWRead more
A baby giraffe at Tanganyika Wildlife Park passed key milestones Wednesday, including breathing independently and standing without help.
Caretakers are focused on proper nutrition as the calf prepares to join the herd.
KWCHRead more
Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters is running its annual Cash for Kids’ Sake campaign—selling raffle tickets at $50 each or three for $125 with a chance to win a $25,000 prize while seeking new mentors as its waitlist remains full, highlighting inspiring matches like Vandana and Alexsa.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Polly Windham, a Wichita native with a varied musical career (from punk tours to Army service), will perform at 2 p.m. Sunday at Central Standard Brewing.
She will share her love for music with the local community in an event that connects her storied background with today’s stage.
KMUWRead more
In early July, the Vatican excommunicated SSPX members, including local priest Michael Goldade, after they consecrated new bishops without papal approval.
The 66,400 sqft Immaculata in St. Marys has influenced local policies—like banning certain books—and investigations into past abuse allegations continue.
KMUWRead more
Economy
Kansas State University released a new durum wheat variety for pasta production that may boost profits as wheat acreage declines — early tests in southwest Kansas show it has higher protein to help farmers shift crops.
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Government
The Kansas Board of Regents approved definitions for DEI and CRT to secure $12 million for six universities tied to a budget bill passed yesterday — university leaders worry that the vague terms may confuse classroom discussions on civil rights.
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Health
An Indiana woman returned to Wichita on Wednesday to thank Wesley Medical Center nurses for saving her life after sustaining injuries in a March 2025 I-70 dust storm crash near Goodland — a heartfelt visit following the loss of her sister.
Her visit offered a step toward closure.
KWCHRead more
KDHE data show that a cyclosporiasis outbreak has led to nearly 300 cases across Kansas, including 30 in Sedgwick County, over a short period.
State and federal health officials are investigating produce links & advising those with symptoms to seek care.
KWCHRead more
Sports
Cooper Schultz, an Andover Central graduate with a strong K-State golf career, qualified for his PGA Tour debut after scoring seven under par on Monday.
The 24-year-old will tee off at 8:46 a.m. today at the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minn.
KWCHRead more
Mo Udeze returns to Koch Arena to play with Shocker alumni as part of the Aftershocks (a team aiming for a $2 mil prize) in the TBT alumni bracket.
They compete today at 8 p.m. against The Enchantment.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Outdoor Market at Generations of Wichita
Saturday, August 8th, 2026 · 9 a.m. — Generations of Wichita — Free entry — Immerse yourself in an open-air market filled with giveaways and exciting sales.