Daily editionThursday, September 11th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 11th of September.
Community
The Kansas Food Bank is asking for volunteers to help pack and distribute donations at the Kansas State Fair—local residents will work alongside organizers to support hunger relief.
Organizers expect hands-on help to make a direct impact in feeding those in need.
KWCHRead more
Business
Wichita’s Koch family has reportedly agreed to purchase a 10 percent stake in the New York Giants pending NFL owners’ approval at next month’s meeting—this follows last year’s purchase of a 15 percent stake in a company that owns the Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Kansas job seekers will be able to join a weekend virtual job fair hosted by KANSASWORKS from 8 a.m. Friday, Sept 26 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept 28 — the event will offer live chats, virtual interviews and online job applications as Lt. Gov. and Commerce Secretary David Toland noted it will expand career opportunities for all.
KSNRead more
Education
Six Wichita East High students were named National Merit semifinalists yesterday for their strong test scores and academic performance—an honor that highlights their academic excellence and sets them up for further review.
KWCHRead more
Kansas Education Commissioner Randy Watson announced his retirement on September 10th — he will remain in his post until his successor is chosen.
As commissioner since 2014, he urged Kansas schools to raise graduation rates and boost post-secondary credentials.
KMUWRead more
Government
Wichita Fire Department contract talks focus on adding paid parental leave after other local services recently received the benefit—firefighter Marci Pearson explained that using almost all her accrued leave for post-childbirth recovery shows the need for a fair policy.
The union contract ends in December and negotiations will address this requirement for better support.
KSNRead more
City of Wichita hired Candy Taylor as the new executive director of the Mid-America All-Indian Museum located next to the Keeper of the Plains Plaza.
Taylor brings 17 years of museum experience — including her work at the Comanche Nation Museum and Cultural Center — and will start her role on Oct 13.
KSNRead more
Today, the National Nuclear Security Administration removed cesium 137 irradiators used in blood treatment and cancer research from Kansas after concerns they could be used in dirty bombs.
The last device was taken from the University of Kansas Medical Center and will be replaced with safer nonradioisotopic X ray machines as part of a nationwide program that will finish by 2027—making Kansas one of 11 states free of such devices.
KSNRead more
Wichita residents are invited to share their priorities in an online survey as the search for a new city manager continues, with longtime manager Robert Layton set to retire Dec. 31.
The anonymous survey by the City Manager Selection Advisory Committee + CPS HR Consulting remains open through Oct. 8.
KSNRead more
Health
A University of Kansas study finds that Kansans lack access to high-quality opioid addiction treatment—specifically, medical detox programs that ease withdrawal symptoms with medication—due to funding issues, provider shortages, and stigma.
The report, which surveyed over 2,000 people, shows nearly 1 in 5 adults struggle with substance use disorder.
KMUWRead more
During a recent Sedgwick County Commission meeting, officials reported that 92 residents took their lives in 2024, marking the lowest suicide rate in 10 years and a slight decrease from 2023.
Most deaths were among men, and half had a history of mental illness (typically depression) while crisis responders handled about 39,000 calls; Dr. Nicole Klaus urged those in need to call (988) for help.
KNSSRead more
Sports
City league rivals East High and Northwest High both hold 1-0 records and will face off soon as both teams show a strong running game and disciplined play.
The matchup will test each school’s skill on the field.
KSNRead more
Wichita officials are preparing for the upcoming World Cup as teams and fans will soon visit nearby cities — they are focused on improving transport and lodging to help the event run smoothly.
KWCHRead more
The Big 12 suspended the officiating crew from the Kansas-Mizzou game last weekend for failing to enforce a kickoff rule—so they will not work their assignment on Friday.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
Attack Attack! Live Concert
Saturday, September 13th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — WAVE — Tickets starting at $54 — Experience the electrifying performance of Attack Attack! in Wichita.
Tyler Hubbard Concert Featuring Drew Baldridge
Sunday, September 14th, 2025 · 8:00 – 9:30 PM — Equity Bank Park — Starting at $67.65 — Experience a night of country music with Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line and special guest Drew Baldridge.
Monthly Restorative Yoga at Club Hope
Tuesday, September 16th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Club Hope Fitness — $20 cash or $22 online — Embrace relaxation with gentle poses and supportive props in this soothing restorative yoga class.
Chair Yoga Session
Wednesday, September 17th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Strengthen your body and mind with accessible chair yoga designed for all mobility levels.
Kolby Cooper Live Concert
Thursday, September 18th, 2025 · 7-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — All ages welcome — Enjoy an evening of live music from Kolby Cooper and special guest Luke Borchelt on the Love You, Goodnight Tour.
Kids Club Professional Development Day for Grades 1-6
Friday, September 19th, 2025 · 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Wichita Collegiate School — $14 per hour — An engaging day for students offering care, activities, and socializing opportunities during professional development.
Pretend Friend Live at Walnut Valley Festival
Saturday, September 20th, 2025 · 4-8 p.m. — Winfield Fairgrounds — Check event page for pricing — Enjoy a lively performance from the progressive bluegrass band Pretend Friend.
Wichita Flea Market
Sunday, September 21st, 2025 · 10 a.m. — Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center — Check for entry details — Explore unique finds and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere at this local flea market.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation
Monday, September 22nd, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Engage in a gentle yoga practice designed to enhance flexibility and promote community well-being.
Alchemised Book Release Celebration
Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Watermark Books & Cafe — $40 includes hardcover book — Celebrate the dark fantasy debut of ALCHEMISED with raffles, trivia, and games.