Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 31st of July.
Good morning, Wichita.
Brandon Ivy is holding a backpack drive at Madrocks Sports Bar and Grill in Derby to honor his daughter Harper’s memory after she died in a vehicle fire at Derby Quick Trip in 2023—donations and new backpacks are accepted until August 1 to help Wichita’s Littlest Heroes and the Wichita Children’s Home.
PBS Kansas is holding a 24-hour emergency pledge drive to cover a $1.2 million shortfall due to federal funding cuts; the station must now raise 98% of its annual budget instead of 74%.
President and CEO Victor Hogstrom said the drive—aimed at keeping local, children’s and national programming—will end today at 8 a.m.
An unknown person stole one air conditioning unit and stripped copper from two others at La Familia Senior Center in north Wichita, leaving it too hot for the seniors.
The center will buy three new units and seek temporary relief for dozens of seniors — steps being taken as rising temperatures continue.
Yesterday, the NTSB began a hearing at 8 a.m. to probe the causes of Flight 5342 crash that killed 67 people when it collided with an Army helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River—panels reviewed air data systems and Reagan Airport airspace, and the session will end Friday morning.
Hatman Jack’s is a beloved hat shop in the historic Delano District where owner Jack Kellogg has worked in hats for 52 years.
The store opened in 1976 and is nearing its 50th anniversary, using old-fashioned tools to craft custom hats—a tradition that makes it a local gem.
Maize police say thefts from vehicles and open garages have increased at night—residents are urged to keep vehicles locked and garages closed while considering extra security measures.
On July 24th, multiple body cam angles captured tense moments before a Wichita officer shot 19-year-old Nehemiah Flemming after he pointed his loaded gun at the officer—he was killed despite not firing his weapon.
The Kansas Highway Patrol inspected school buses and other vehicles in south Wichita on Wednesday to check lights, brakes, and other safety features for the new school year—buses with issues were sent for repairs and not marked until fixed—ensuring safe rides for students.
Wichita’s Via Christi St. Francis and Via Christi St. Teresa hospitals have been named 'High Performing' by U.S. News & World Report for quality treatment of hip fractures, blood cancers, and lung cancer surgery at St. Francis and for pneumonia care at St. Teresa—U.S. News evaluated over 4,400 hospitals in 15 specialties and 22 conditions for its 2025—2026 list.
Midwest Catholic Family Conference
August 1-3 — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Check website for cost — Experience spiritual growth with opportunities for Mass, Confession, and a children's program.
Disney's Newsies by Music Theatre Wichita
2-4:30 p.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Rated PG — Experience the uplifting tale of young newsboys seizing the day with song and dance.
Austin Meade Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — WAVE — Starting at $24.59 — Experience the soulful rock sounds of Austin Meade, blending classics with fresh new tunes.
Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
10:00–10:45 a.m. — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Enjoy a supportive chair yoga session aimed at enhancing strength and flexibility in a community setting.
Super Saturday - Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop
11 AM – 2 PM — Courtyard Wichita at Old Town — Free entry — Explore how to turn your passion for travel into a rewarding career.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in — Engage in supportive chair yoga to enhance strength and flexibility while fostering community.
Foundations of Yoga
5-6 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Engage in gentle yoga practices designed for all skill levels while enhancing strength and mindfulness.
Water Lantern Festival
5:30-9:30 p.m. — O J Watson Park — Ticket required — Experience a beautiful evening filled with peace and creativity as you light up the water with lanterns.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Accessible yoga practice using chairs for improved strength and flexibility.
Culinary Arts: Asian Market Visit
6-8 p.m. — Mark Arts — $65 — Explore an Asian market and master delicious recipes like pad thai and spring rolls.
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