Daily editionTuesday, August 4th, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 4th of August.
Community
Owner Spencer of SB Mowing appears in Chevy’s revived Heartbeat of America ad campaign as he mows lawns free for residents in need – his work, filmed with a drone and featuring his literal heartbeat in the campaign song, has boosted his viral following to nearly 70 million.
KMUWRead more
The Kansas Food Bank’s 'Filling the Gap' program handed out 5-day meal packs on Monday for children 18 and under at five Wichita locations, with boxes running out 20 minutes after opening at Colvin Neighborhood Resource Center (Oaklawn Activity Center also quickly depleted its supply).
KWCHRead more
The board of Second Light Shelter in downtown confirmed Monday that Dan Clifford has been removed as executive director—shelter operations will remain uninterrupted as Mental Health America of Southcentral Kansas continues to manage services.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Friends of Wichita Pioneers is partnering with Wichita State researchers on a grant-funded program to document unmarked graves at Highland Cemetery today.
The project honors historical figures such as Richard Robinson, the only African American signer of the Wichita Charter + celebrates his legacy.
KWCHRead more
A rare World War II bomber is making a stop in Wichita today.
Officials say the historic aircraft will be on display at a local airfield (exact location to be confirmed).
KWCHRead more
Education
Kansas families may be eligible for free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch for the 2026-27 school year if they meet income guidelines.
Check with your student's school office to apply or see if food assistance programs will auto-notify you.
KWCHRead more
USD 259 held a two-day orientation for 340 new hires (the session began Monday at Wichita Northwest High School) as teachers learned district procedures; orientation continues today while returning teachers resume work on Wednesday ahead of the new school year.
KWCHRead more
Wichita schools are offering essential updates and resources for families as the new school year begins, including registration deadlines and schedule information.
Parents are encouraged to review the details to prepare for a smooth start.
KAKERead more
Health
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment warned on Monday, Aug. 3 that mosquito season has raised West Nile Virus risk and urged Kansas residents to use bug spray while following the three D's (drain, dress, deet) for protection.
KNSSRead more
Sedgwick County Health Department will host three free back-to-school vaccine clinics for students to update required immunizations.
Clinics are set for Saturday, Aug. 8 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at 2716 W. Central in Wichita, Thursday, Aug. 13 (2 to 4 p.m.) at the Derby Public Schools Administration Office, and Saturday, Aug. 22 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at the Health Department; call 316-660-7300 for appointments.
KNSSRead more
Sports
Meg Tilma, a Wichita Classical graduate, won the Kansas Women’s Amateur in July at Wichita Country Club and became the sixth family member to claim the title.
Today she competes at the U.S. Women’s Amateur in Ooltewah, Tenn. through August 9.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Braxton Keith Live Concert
Thursday, August 13th, 2026 · 7-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — $37.21 to $150.24 — Enjoy an evening with Braxton Keith and special guest Cole Goodwin in an all-ages concert.