Daily editionWednesday, December 17th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 17th of December.
Community
Wichita Police Department is hosting its annual Shop with a Cop event to help families safely shop for holiday gifts in Wichita — local officers invite community participation.
KWCHRead more
Culture
Ballet Wichita will perform its 51st annual Nutcracker Ballet on Friday, Dec. 19 and Saturday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. with an additional show on Sunday at 2 p.m.
KSNRead more
Jack Wilson is a Wichita maker in assisted living who was diagnosed with ALS in 2011 and now adapts his creative methods by restoring photos and critiquing art + his wife Rhonda supports his work.
He calls his unique pieces 'my junk' instead of traditional art.
KMUWRead more
Gilley's opened in Park City after businessman Phil Ruffin, Sr. turned the former Greyhound Park into an entertainment center that offers games, axe throwing, music venues, restaurants, pickle ball + bowling.
FOX KansasRead more
Education
Wichita high school students completed building Tango Flight Van’s RV-12 at the Future Ready Center on Tuesday using guidance from the manufacturing pathway and aerospace engineering program at North High School.
The plane was set to be tested and put up for sale while another kit was delivered for work next semester.
KSNRead more
Government
A Wichita financial expert shared his analysis on a proposed sales tax plan released Tuesday, Dec. 16, explaining how it might impact local spending and revenue.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Eisenhower National Airport is preparing for a busy travel season as TSA advises travelers to bring REAL IDs to avoid delays; starting in February, those without a REAL ID will pay a $45 fee for a 10-day verification period.
KSNRead more
Kenneth Woodard’s neighborhood experienced confusion as large blue pipes were left in yards on Old Manor Road with no prior notice; the city confirmed the materials are part of a water main replacement project that disrupted Woodard’s accessible exit.
KWCHRead more
Health
Heart transplant recipient Diana Schunn said every day feels like a gift after she received a lifesaving heart, while Joe Rodriguez recalled his son’s donation saved four lives.
The experience underlines the need for organ donors with over 500 Kansans waiting.
KSNRead more
Sports
Wichita State Men's Basketball team is 6-5 (after a close 58-61 loss to DePaul) and will start conference play on New Year's Day.
Coach Paul Mills shared insights about the current lineup during his morning interview on 98.7 and 1330 KNSS.
KNSSRead more
Local fans cheered as the Shockers scored 67 points in Tuesday’s game that excited children in the stands at their home venue.
KWCHRead more
Wichita State University partnered with Ignite K-96 to build a six-acre tennis facility for the Shockers approved by Wichita City Council + the facility includes 12 outdoor courts, six indoor courts and seating for 1,500 spectators.
KSNRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Christmas Eve & Christmas Night Celebration at Dockum
Wednesday, December 24th, 2025 · December 24-25 — Dockum — Seasonal cocktails available — Celebrate Christmas in a cozy speakeasy with crafted spirits and holiday charm.
La Petite Pause at The French Tearoom
Thursday, December 25th, 2025 · 12:30-1:30 p.m. — The French Tearoom — Pricing varies — Enjoy warm scones and carefully poured tea in a tranquil midday escape.
Wichita Thunder vs. Allen Americans
Friday, December 26th, 2025 · 7:05-8:35 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Tickets starting at $26 — Cheer on the Wichita Thunder as they face off against the Allen Americans in an exciting hockey match.
Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
Monday, December 29th, 2025 · 10:00 – 10:45 AM — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience gentle chair yoga to enhance strength and flexibility while building community.
Paramount 80's Rock Night
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 · 8:30-10:00 PM — The Cotillion — All Ages — Celebrate New Year's Eve with a night of 80's rock featuring special guest Monterey Jack.