Daily editionWednesday, September 17th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 17th of September.
Community
The Kansas State Fair drew 300,784 people in 2025—a drop of about 28,000 from 2024—as rain flooded parking lots and organizers set up shuttles from nearby locations.
They will use this experience to build a weather contingency plan while preparing for next year's fair scheduled for Sept 11–20.
KSNRead more
A 101,000-piece LEGO mural celebrating Wichita's seven public high schools was completed and is now on display at the USD 259 office.
The project started in August and brought together contributions from every school to show unity.
KWCHRead more
Business
The Kansas Chamber and Kansas Manufacturing Council said voting is now open for the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas contest featuring 10 products made by Kansas companies—votes must be cast online until Oct 3 and final results will be shared at the Kansas Manufacturing Summit on Oct 28 at Hyatt Regency Wichita.
KSNRead more
Culture
Producers Deontae Hayden and Daley Gunter are staging Keys to My Heart, a faith-based drama about love, betrayal and redemption, which will run on September 26 and 27 at Century II’s Mary Jane Teall Theater—showcasing local talent and real community stories.
KMUWRead more
Farmer and artist Jack Baumgartner from Rose Hill sold his latest painting, The Fourth Vision of Zecharia, to a private collection, showing his blend of farm life and spiritual art—he said the work reflects his deep bond with the land.
KMUWRead more
Sedgwick County Zoo will host Wild Lights from Oct. 15 to Dec. 21, running 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays.
The exhibit will feature over 60 lighted scenes of familiar and mythical plants, animals and creatures—tickets start at $14 with VIP cart tours available for a private ride and festive drink and snack.
Wichita By E.B.Read more
Government
Wichita will apply for a $7.295 million state grant to fund the Botanica water reclamation and education project, which may start in 2026.
The city council also approved a one-year contract for false alarm ordinance management, finalized designs for three public art projects along the river, trail, and gateway, and selected RDG Planning & Design to create a new park master plan.
KNSSRead more
The five largest counties said they lacked state support for running local license tag offices; Sedgwick County Commission Chair Ryan Baty said a meeting in Wichita last Friday showed counties needed more control to fix inefficiencies and outdated equipment—efforts for improvement are under discussion.
KNSSRead more
Health
Kansas hospitals will receive nearly $1 billion extra each year after the state doubled its provider tax from 3% to 6%—Senator Marshall announced the change during a Tuesday virtual press briefing.
The extra funds will go into a Medicaid account, matched by federal dollars, to help keep struggling hospitals open.
KWCHRead more
This year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl raised $140,000 for Shriners Children’s from its football game and wrestling event, with the donation supporting Kansas children and families who receive care.
Organizers said more than 500 student-athletes and musicians met with patient ambassadors—showing strong community involvement.
KSNRead more
A heart attack survivor who was once declared dead has reunited with his care team after receiving life-saving treatment.
Doctors say the patient is stable—he now begins recovery under careful monitoring.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Survivor 49 Wichita Premiere Watch Party
Wednesday, September 24th, 2025 · 6-11 p.m. — Club Vaudeville — General Admission and VIP Packages available — Celebrate the Survivor 49 premiere with fun, games, and former players at the ultimate watch party.
Charles Wesley Godwin Concert
Thursday, September 25th, 2025 · 7-9 p.m. — The Cotillion — All ages welcome — Experience the mesmerizing sounds of Charles Wesley Godwin and special guests in a lively atmosphere.
Chair Yoga at Park City Senior Center
Friday, September 26th, 2025 · 9:30-10:15 a.m. — Park City Senior Center — Free for members — Enjoy accessible chair yoga that enhances strength, balance, and community spirit.
Kustomville USA: Artshow and Carshow
Saturday, September 27th, 2025 · 10 AM-11 PM — The Cotillion — $10 admission — Experience a vibrant day of kustom cars, art, and live music from various bands.