Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 31st of October.
Good morning, Wichita.
Local organizations are preparing to help Wichita residents as over 180,000 people in Kansas face a loss of SNAP benefits on Nov.
1. College Hill United Methodist Church and local food pantries are stepping up to support growing needs—using tools like the Flashfood app and urging donations to fight food insecurity.
Hope in the Valley Equine Rescue will celebrate 20 years on November 1 after rescuing and caring for many horses in need.
Founded by Andy Armstrong in 2004, the nonprofit relies on dedicated volunteers—ensuring each horse gets proper care until it finds a new home.
Wichita’s 46th annual Toy Run will happen on Nov.
2 starting at 9 a.m. at McLean and Douglas in downtown Wichita — at 1 p.m. the motorcycle procession will move from Douglas and McLean to Broadway and then north to Park City Arena while the route is closed to traffic. Participants must bring a new unwrapped toy or cash donation to benefit the Salvation Army, USMC Toys for Tots and Kansas Food Bank.
Reverie Roasters on E.
Douglas Ave. has been voted one of USA Today's 10 Best Independent Coffee Shops in the country and is praised for its sustainable, direct-trade sourcing and inviting atmosphere—its unique menu and cozy vibe set it apart. The shop is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Kent Winter—a fifth-generation farmer in Sedgwick County—said his strong soybean harvest was overshadowed by uncertainty from ongoing U.S. China trade discussions.
Farmers await a finalized deal that will have China purchase 12 million metric tons of soybeans—an unsigned agreement that leaves the market unstable.
A Kansas couple was stranded in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa led to a cancelled flight and over 30 deaths, as Paula and Michael Johnston recounted their harrowing experience — they had attempted to leave before the storm hit.
Officials continued monitoring the situation as the island coped with severe weather.
Sedgwick County Public Works changed the dangerous intersection at 29th Street North and 135th Street West into a four-way stop to help prevent deadly crashes like the one in August that claimed deputy Sidnee Carter’s life—drivers are reminded to follow the rule that the first vehicle to arrive goes first and the vehicle on the right goes next.
U.S. Highway 77 will be closed at the railroad crossing south of Augusta beginning November 2 for one week as BNSF Railroad crews work on repairs (drivers will follow detours via Santa Fe Lake Road, SW 210th Street and U.S. Highway 54) (weather permitting, repairs finish November 9).
Via Christi St. Joseph in Wichita is sharing photos of 15 NICU babies dressed in Halloween costumes—each baby is shown in a creative outfit that celebrates the holiday.
A Wichita organ transplant recipient shared a personal account on Oct.
30 that explained how the transplant changed their life – the story detailed both the challenges faced and the hope gained during recovery.
At Via Christi St. Francis, NICU babies celebrated Halloween as nurses and nurse techs hand-crafted costumes for them.
The care team dressed the little ones in themes like Disney Princesses, a cow, a dragon, a cupcake, and a Ninja Turtle (twins wore Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion) to share joy with families.
Visit Wichita announced Thursday that the city was selected to host the 2026 USA Judo Youth Nationals—this championship will take place on March 14 and 15 at Century II Convention Center in the Bob Brown Expo Hall.
Super Saturday: Travel Entrepreneurship Workshop
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
6:30-7:15 p.m. — Newton Recreation Center — Registration closed — A fun and instructional basketball clinic for kids ages 5-6.
Marc Rebillet Live Performance
7-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — Ticket prices vary — Experience the improvised meltdown of Marc Rebillet with special guest Capyac in an all-ages show.
Pre-School Exploratory Art & Sensory Class
10-11 AM — Newton Recreation Center — Cost not listed — A creative art and sensory exploration session for children aged 1-5.
Wichita Thunder vs. Utah Grizzlies
7:05-8:35 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Starting at $26 — Catch the thrilling puck drop as Wichita Thunder faces off against Utah Grizzlies.
Vintage Market Days of Wichita
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Wichita Sports Forum — Admission for children under 12 is free — Explore upscale vintage finds from art to home décor and enjoy a weekend of treasures.
Uncle Zep: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin
7-8:30 p.m. — Crown Uptown Theatre — Admission starting at $23 — Experience the polished perfection and passion of Uncle Zep as they pay tribute to the legendary Led Zeppelin.
Vintage Market Days of Wichita
10 AM – 4 PM — Wichita Sports Forum — Admission for children under 12 is free — Explore an upscale vintage market filled with art, antiques, and handmade treasures.
Chair Yoga Class
1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Enhance your strength, flexibility, and mindfulness with supportive chair yoga sessions.
Through Their Lenses Conference
9 AM - 4 PM — Holiday Inn Wichita East I-35 — Free parking — Engage with diverse perspectives and insights from professionals in child welfare at this enriching conference.
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