Daily editionFriday, December 12th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 12th of December.
Community
Wichita broke ground on Wednesday on Park Landing, a new homeless shelter on North Main in partnership with Second Light.
The project will offer year-round housing, food, medical care, mental health treatment, and substance abuse support (with city funding for its first two years).
KNSSRead more
Emberhope and Foster ICT partnered to bring Christmas cheer to hundreds of foster families in Sedgwick County by providing festive gifts and activities.
KSNRead more
On Dec. 11, 2025, Habitat for Humanity dedicated a new home for Bijoux and her family in northeast Wichita as part of the Rock the Block Piatt revitalization.
Textron Aviation partnered on the project, and homeowners must complete 40 hours of classes + 250 hours of sweat equity.
KSNRead more
Volunteers gathered in Wichita yesterday for a food packing event aimed at assembling food packages for local families in need.
Organizers reported a strong turnout and said the event supports ongoing efforts to boost community food supplies.
KWCHRead more
Business
Boeing returned to Wichita yesterday, Dec. 11, with new company signage added to its campus, signaling the firm's renewed local presence and commitment to the community.
KWCHRead more
Culture
On December 20, Gifted Hands will perform at Villa Boxing Gym in Wichita.
The event offers family activities (costumed characters, food trucks, exclusive merch) and supports local holiday outreach.
The VoiceRead more
Declared legally blind, Alisa DePontier began exploring her artistic side with Envision.
The program empowers people losing vision to embrace creativity & self-expression.
KSNRead more
Education
Student Senate approved $100,000 from SGA’s Special Projects Fund to support Campus Recreation’s renovation of the 30-year-old separation nets at Heskett Center’s gym — ATHCO from Lenexa will tailor the replacement, with work set to start in May.
The SunflowerRead more
Yesterday the Kansas Board of Regents appointed Matt Bieker, Ph.D., as the 19th president of Emporia State University, replacing retiring President Ken Hush.
Bieker, formerly vice president of student affairs at Northwest Missouri State University, brings experience in boosting enrollment and retention (K-State, UA-Fayetteville, and UM-Columbia degrees).
KSNRead more
Government
The state Board of Education announced plans to propose rules that will ban vehicles from driving around stopped school buses to boost student safety.
Officials say the proposal is under review and more details will be shared soon.
KWCHRead more
Wichita held a retirement celebration for City Manager Robert Layton at the Wichita Art Museum on Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. after his service since 2009, and the City Council hired Dennis Marstall as his successor.
KSNRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Grinchy Heart Holiday Party
Monday, December 22nd, 2025 · 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Cost Not Specified — Celebrate the holiday spirit with fun activities for kids aged 7-12.