Daily editionThursday, July 31st, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 31st of July.
Community
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.
KWCHRead more
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.
FOX KansasRead more
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.
KSNRead more
Business
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.
KWCHRead more
Government
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.
KSNRead more
Health
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.
KSNRead more
Wichita Events
Midwest Catholic Family Conference
Friday, August 1st, 2025 · 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
Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 · 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
Sunday, August 3rd, 2025 · 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
Monday, August 4th, 2025 · 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
Saturday, August 9th, 2025 · 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
Wednesday, August 13th, 2025 · 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
Thursday, August 14th, 2025 · 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
Saturday, August 16th, 2025 · 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
Monday, August 18th, 2025 · 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
Tuesday, August 19th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Mark Arts — $65 — Explore an Asian market and master delicious recipes like pad thai and spring rolls.