Daily editionThursday, October 23rd, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 23rd of October.
Business
Toys’R’Us announced plans to open a new flagship store at Towne East Square in Wichita in time for the holiday season—its return follows the closure of its previous location in Eastgate Plaza after a 2018 bankruptcy.
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Environment
The Kansas Wildlife Exhibit at Riverside Park announced that one-eyed eastern screech owl Odin died from congestive heart failure complications — he had served as an educational ambassador.
A memorial to honor Odin will be held during Owl-o-ween on Sunday from 12 to 3 p.m.
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Government
Wichita City Council approved $2M to renovate the old Central Library into a venue for weddings, banquets, and meetings; the project will upgrade the main level (including accessibility, heating, and electrical improvements) and is set to finish by the second half of 2027.
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The Kansas Department for Children and Families delayed November SNAP benefits because a USDA memo indicated payments would not be sent if the government shutdown continues until October 28 — the delay will affect 188,000 people and roughly $34.4 million in food assistance until Congress acts. DCF said it could resume distributing funds within 72 hours once funding is in place.
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Wichita City Council approved $60M in bonds to help fund a new emergency department for Ascension Via Christi at 119th and West Kellogg—set to open in 2027—while nurses warned that staffing shortages could worsen wait times at nearby hospitals.
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Wichita City Council commissioners approved a four-way stop at West 29th Street and North 135th Street—installation is planned soon to reduce dangerous traffic conditions.
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The City of Wichita approved a plan on Tuesday to let Union Pacific lease public property+ to build facilities that will treat contaminated soil and clean groundwater affected by chemical spills, which have raised concerns about cancer risk in nearby neighborhoods.
Construction on the treatment facilities will begin next year.
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Health
Wichita residents will join the free 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s tomorrow at the Wichita WaterWalk—where the venue opens at 5 p.m. and the Promise Garden ceremony starts at 6 p.m.—to raise funds and support research and free programs for Alzheimer’s care; over $191,000 has been raised toward the $225,000 goal so far. Participants can register online or upon arrival to walk in memory of loved ones or support those living with the disease.
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Sports
At Men's Basketball Media Day, KU and K-State introduced key newcomers they believe will boost their play this season.
K-State coach Jerome Tang highlighted coveted transfer PJ Haggerty—while KU counted on top freshman Darryn Peterson and returning center Flory Bidunga to help the teams exceed preseason predictions.
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Accidents
On Oct 23, 1945, Wichita pilot Capt. Fred McConnell died when his 1931 blue-and-yellow biplane hit a power line west of Garden Plain while flying with his wife to deliver linens for their new home—he was not wearing his seat belt.
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Wichita Events
Anthony Gomes Live Concert
Friday, October 24th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — WAVE — Starting at $28 — Experience the electrifying blues and rock of Anthony Gomes with a flair that ignites the stage.
Haunted Bookstore Day
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 · 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Watermark Books & Cafe — Varies by event — Celebrate the spooky season with fun activities including a scavenger hunt and horror trivia.
In Store Author Event with Caryn Mirriam-Goldberg
Sunday, October 26th, 2025 · 2-3 p.m. — Watermark Books & Cafe — Free entry — Celebrate the new memoir 'The Magic Eye' with a former Kansas Poet Laureate as she shares her journey and insights.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Monday, October 27th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the rejuvenating benefits of Chair Yoga designed for all mobility levels.
Wichita Career Fair
Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 · 9:30 AM-12:30 PM — Wichita Marriott — Free entry — Connect with recruiters from local and Fortune 500 companies to explore new career opportunities.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation
Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Experience a supportive and community-focused yoga session designed for all mobility levels.
Asleep at the Wheel Concert
Thursday, October 30th, 2025 · 7:30-9 p.m. — The Cotillion — Reserved table seating tickets plus general admission dance floor — Celebrate over 50 years of Texas and Western Swing music with Asleep At The Wheel.
Spooky Splash & Treats Party
Friday, October 31st, 2025 · 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Check the website for costs — Dive into a Halloween-themed day of fun and treats for kids aged 7-12.
Super Saturday: Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop
Saturday, November 1st, 2025 · 11 AM – 2 PM — Courtyard by Marriott Wichita at Old Town — Free entry — Explore turning your travel passion into a profitable business opportunity.
Youth Basketball Clinic - Session I
Monday, November 3rd, 2025 · 6:30-7:15 p.m. — Newton Recreation Center — Registration closed — A fun and instructional basketball clinic for kids ages 5-6.