Daily editionThursday, December 11th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 11th of December.
Community
Second grader Madilyn Zimmerman (7) turned a dollar into over $200 by baking cookies to support the Wichita Police and Fire Foundation; her school project concludes Friday with a report scheduled for next week.
KSNRead more
The Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office Benefit Fund hosted its annual food box drive yesterday to help 400+ local families in the area.
KSNRead more
Culture
A legally blind pianist, Ashlee Thao, brings holiday cheer in the musical comedy Dwight Christmas at Roxy’s Downtown—featuring Eisenhower figures—while the show runs until Dec. 23.
KWCHRead more
Economy
Sedgwick County has seen over $3.5B invested in the past decade, creating 14,000 jobs and a $728M payroll, while future projects totaling over $5.3B could bring 16,000 new jobs and a $924M payroll as growth in defense, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing drives demand for housing and infrastructure.
KNSSRead more
Government
City officials broke ground at Park Landing on Dec. 10 + the event marked a key step toward Wichita’s goal of functional zero homelessness.
The project is set to boost housing support for residents in need.
KWCHRead more
Sedgwick County invites public, private, and homeschooling students in grades 6—12 to design the 'I Voted' sticker and kindergarten through fifth graders to create 'Future Voter' artwork.
Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 at the Election Office in Wichita, where winning artists will be honored.
KSNRead more
Madeline Smith was named the winner of Sedgwick County’s I Voted sticker contest on Wednesday (Dec. 10) after officials announced the result at the county commission meeting.
KSNRead more
Health
A possible case of bird flu has prompted Sedgwick County Zoo to close its tropics building & several other bird enclosures.
The virus can linger for 30 days and is dangerous for birds though it poses little risk to people.
KSNRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Winter Solstice Spirit Fair
Saturday, December 20th, 2025 · 10 a.m.-7 p.m. — The Cotillion — Kids 10 and under free with paid admission — Celebrate the return of the sun with holistic vendors offering unique gifts and spiritual insights.
Candlelight Christmas Special Featuring 'The Nutcracker'
Sunday, December 21st, 2025 · 8:45-9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticketed event — Experience a magical evening of classical music inspired by the winter and holiday spirit under candlelight.