Daily editionFriday, October 23rd, 2026
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of October.
Community
Thunderbirds have arrived at McConnell AFB for the Frontiers in Flight air show this weekend when gates open at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday and the Thunderbirds will perform starting at 3 p.m. Visitors can explore static displays (including a B-29 and F-35) and enjoy family activities at the base.
KWCHRead more
Work on 17th Street between Grove and I-135 nears completion with new pavement, sidewalks, bicycle lanes and drainage improvements — city officials expect the project to finish by year’s end, weather permitting.
The VoiceRead more
Business
Recreate Craft Store opened its second branch in Wichita today, offering a larger space for craft supplies and classes for local makers.
The expansion comes as the store meets growing neighborhood demand plus encourages creative community projects.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Denise Colborn—a seasoned coach—leads Wichita’s Miss ICT pageant that builds confidence and diversity among contestants.
The event takes place Nov. 7 to Nov. 8 at Wichita State University’s Duerksen Fine Arts Center and will crown 2027 winners.
The VoiceRead more
Education
A school bond debate took place Thursday at Rockwell Branch Library in east Wichita as voters discussed a two-part measure totaling $615M for school improvements ahead of a Nov. 3 vote—supporters argue it will update aging buildings while critics call for stronger academic focus.
KWCHRead more
The Student Senate passed a bill to launch a HIPAA compliant ride-share program that gives students free Lyft rides for health care referrals with a $100 limit per student.
The pilot program will be reviewed in March.
The SunflowerRead more
Local candidates for the State Board of Education detailed plans to boost reading proficiency & teacher retention ahead of the November election.
Their proposals call for clearer parent communication and enhanced support programs to help struggling readers and address teacher shortages statewide.
KMUWRead more
Student senate forums will be held quarterly on campus for senators to speak with members from six academic colleges, graduate students, adult learners, international students + freshmen, with the first forums expected in November following a unanimous bill passage.
The SunflowerRead more
Health
A national civic engagement group purchased and forgave $42 million in medical debt for nearly 27,000 Kansans — letters are scheduled to arrive this week.
The move aims to ease financial stress amid rising living costs in the community.
The BeaconRead more
Wichita mental health experts explain ways to cope after a recent tragedy — they urge residents to seek professional help and use local support services for recovery.
KWCHRead more