Daily editionTuesday, December 9th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 9th of December.
Community
KNSS will launch its new morning show 'Woodward and Whit' on January 5 with co-hosts Ted Woodward and John Whitmer who replaces retiring host Steve McIntosh.
Whitmer, a veteran in Kansas politics, will join Woodward on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. CST.
KNSSRead more
Wichita wrestlers hosted a Sunday fundraiser at East High School to honor coach Kenneth Taylor, Jr., who died by suicide on November 21.
Attendees shared that the event united friends & community members in a heartfelt tribute to his life.
FOX KansasRead more
City officials hosted pop-up events at parks on Monday to gather community feedback on park improvements; they will use the responses to plan future upgrades.
KWCHRead more
Business
Boeing completed its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems on Monday, Dec. 8 in a deal that marks a new chapter for Wichita’s aerospace industry.
Local experts say the move is expected to support shifts in production.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Boeing returns to Wichita bringing stability for production workers—even as some management roles may face layoffs or relocations, according to Wichita State economists.
The move boosts local manufacturing amid lower labor costs while positioning the city for future Boeing production.
KWCHRead more
Education
At Wichita State, the Student Senate passed unanimous resolutions on Dec. 4 recommending class syllabi include detailed language on FERPA rights and the academic appeals process.
Senators Josh Mallard and Andrew Beam led the initiative to help students understand their rights.
The SunflowerRead more
Finance
Rock Regional Hospital in Derby filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Monday to allow leaders time to restructure assets and plan to stay open despite an eviction notice for Wednesday, Dec. 10.
KWCHRead more
Government
Gov. Laura Kelly announced Monday that the NTIA approved a $166.6 million plan to expand broadband to over 26,000 homes and businesses using 67% fixed wireless, 30% fiber-optic and 3% satellite (new guidelines applied) across the state.
KSNRead more
Health
The Sedgwick County Zoo closes the Tropics building today after learning of a potential bird flu case in the county to protect its animals.
Officials said the zoo will update visitors on the reopening while following strict safety protocols.
KWCHRead more
The 31st annual Battle of the Badges blood drive launched Monday morning with first responders from the Wichita PD, FD, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, FD & EMS competing to boost blood donations.
Centers accept donations until Dec. 31 but close on Dec. 11, 16 & 25.
KSNRead more
Sports
Mary Bunker, a dedicated fan (20-year regular), is traveling to Arrowhead for the Chiefs versus Texans game Sunday at 7:15 p.m. and hopes her team will rally in the critical matchup.
KSNRead more
Wichita Events
Chair Yoga Class
Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — Drop-in fee $5 — Experience the benefits of Chair Yoga with a focus on strength, mobility, and community.
Foundations of Yoga Class
Thursday, December 11th, 2025 · 5-6 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Explore yoga fundamentals with practices that enhance strength, flexibility, and well-being.
Idaho Steelheads at Wichita Thunder
Friday, December 12th, 2025 · 7:05 – 8:35 PM — INTRUST Bank Arena — Starting at $26 — Watch the thrilling hockey matchup as the Wichita Thunder takes on the Idaho Steelheads.
2025 Jingle Bell Run
Saturday, December 13th, 2025 · 9 AM – 12 PM — Botanica, The Wichita Gardens — Charity event — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a festive race supporting the Arthritis Foundation.
Wichita Thunder vs. Idaho Steelheads
Sunday, December 14th, 2025 · 2:05 – 3:35 PM — INTRUST Bank Arena — Starting at $26 — Watch an exciting hockey match as the Wichita Thunder take on the Idaho Steelheads.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Monday, December 15th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Embrace gentle movements and mindfulness to boost strength, flexibility, and community spirit.
Merry & Bright Christmas Ornament Activity
Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 · 10:00-10:45 a.m. — Newton Recreation Center — Cost TBA — Create festive ornaments in a fun and engaging environment for young children.
Wichita State vs. Wofford Basketball Game
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 · 6:30-8 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — $10 for dog collar combo — Cheer on the Shockers and support the Kansas Humane Society with an exclusive dog collar for your furry friend.
Historic Wichita Cowtown Christmas Soirée Fundraiser
Thursday, December 18th, 2025 · 6:30-9:30 p.m. — Old Cowtown Museum — $75 per ticket — Experience a magical evening with a Victorian dinner and enchanting entertainment while supporting a local museum.
Chair Yoga at Park City Senior Center
Friday, December 19th, 2025 · 9:30-10:15 a.m. — Park City Senior Center — Free for members — Experience joy and community through adaptable chair yoga practices.